Church that could draw thousands targets Westborough parcel
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A sizable Christian church is looking to come to Westborough.
Three parcels totaling 28 combined acres were sold for $14.175 million to Connect United, Inc. in January, according to records from the Worcester Registry of Deeds. The currently forested parcels within Westborough Office Park — which sit adjacent to Route 9 and Interstate 495 — may be the new location for Connect Church’s new broadcast center.
For years, Connect Church has broadcast from its Ashland location, with congregation members also meeting at its second location in Framingham (purchased in 2021) to view the sermons of second-generation
Connect Church | 5
Major mixed-use project in Downtown Northborough appears before ZBA
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – A project that would transform Downtown Northborough is before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
On April 14, a two-building mixeduse project slated for 1 Church Street — formerly known as 9 Church Street, 13 Church Street, and 40 West Main Street — officially went before the board. Located in the Downtown Business Zoning District and the Groundwater
|
‘Can’t take your eyes off this kid’ Theater-minded Algonquin student selected for Kristin Chenoweth bootcamp
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – When Terri LeComte went into the CVS in Northborough to pick up a prescription, she was startled when, moments later, her son, Colton Piontkowski, came running into the store shouting.
“I thought somebody just crashed into our car,” she said.
What had actually happened was far better news. While waiting for his mom, Colton got an email without a clear subject line. So he opened it, scrolled to the bolded text, and then it hit him: He’d just been admitted to Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Bootcamp, a monumental achievement.
“I opened the door and bolted to CVS,” he said. “I just ran to tell my mom.”
The 11-day bootcamp, run by Tony Award-winning actress Kristin Chenoweth, is a prestigious program, with hundreds throughout the world audi -
tioning for around 70 spots.
With such competition, Colton, a lifelong Northborough resident and sophomore at Algonquin Regional High School, told himself not to expect anything. LeComte said he tried to “brace himself for the disappointment.”
But that disappointment never came, much to Colton’s delight.
“I thought it was such a longshot – I thought I’d never get in. I just thought that you miss 100 percent of the chances you don’t take, so I might as well do it,” he said. “Every time I think about it, my face just lights up.”
In addition to Chenoweth, the camp has welcomed guests like Idina Menzel and Kevin Chamberlin. The bootcamp will be a hands-on opportunity for Colton, already a member of the Broadway Artists Alliance, to learn first-hand from industry veterans. A groupchat among participants has already formed. Colton’s excitement is palpable.
It’s a huge accomplishment —
shrewsbury | 13
Northborough | 21
Hear from the Shrewsbury candidates Northborough BoH tables possible poultry regulations How Patrice Peris found her voice
Westborough | 31
O’Dowd siblings are pillars of Westborough lacrosse
Westborough | 39
Stay up to date with all the news!
Colton Piontkowski (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Pastor Deryck Frye
Beaver deceivers
Following years of consistent complaints that properties near Old Mill Pond and the Holden Street Culvert were being flooded, the Shrewsbury Conservation Commission on April 21 allowed so-called “beaver deceivers” to be permanently installed along the watershed. The idea is to stop the beavers from damming the waterways. It’s billed as a sustainable intervention that allows the beavers to live in the local area, while reducing the flooding risk for local residents and roadways.
TO THE EDITOR
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30-day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
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SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations (SELCO) has expanded its outreach efforts in local schools, participating in a variety of events designed to inspire students to explore meaningful careers right in their hometown.
As a municipally owned light plant (MLP), SELCO represents a unique model of public power. Unlike investor-owned utilities, MLPs are community-owned and locally controlled, allowing them to respond quickly to customer needs and deliver reliable, high-quality service. Because they operate as non-profits, MLPs prioritize people over profits, creating opportunities for employees to directly serve their neighbors.
SELCO staff recently participated in career-focused events at Shrewsbury High School, where students were introduced to careers in energy, IT, linework, engineering, and fiber broadband. SELCO also joined the Oak Middle School Career Fair, where lineworkers and fiber technicians met with
students in small breakout sessions. Students selected areas of interest and heard directly from professionals about their day-to-day responsibilities, required training, and career journeys. The interactive format provided a valuable, real-world look at careers in both electric and broadband services.
Public power utilities employ more than 100,000 people in local jobs across the country.
“Electricity and internet touch just about every home and business in Shrewsbury,” said Valerie Clemmey, marketing and communications manager at SELCO. “Working at a community-owned utility means your impact reaches your neighbors every single day. Our model is incredibly diverse; whether your passion is engineering, data analysis, or skilled trades, there’s a role for you. It’s important that we share this with the next generation so they understand they can choose a path that makes a real difference right here in their own community.”
HOW TO DRINK WHISKEY
When enjoying whiskey, start with the proper glass, preferably a tulip shaped glass, to capture its aroma. The taster should pour a small measure, gently swirl to warm the spirit, and begin by taking a light sniff with the mouth slightly open, which helps reveal subtle scents. Next, they should take a small sip, allowing the liquid to coat the tongue and cheeks, and hold it briefly to taste flavors like caramel, spice, or fruit. Adding just a few drops of water can “open up” the whiskey, releasing deeper notes without diluting it too much. Ice is optional, but it can suppress flavor while it chills the drink. Ultimately, whiskey tasting is personal, whether neat, with water, or on ice.
The easiest way to add water to whiskey to use a glass of water and a straw. Add a drop, give your whiskey a swirl, take a sip, and repeat until you find the pleasing flavors you’re looking for. Ordering a whiskey “on the rocks” may not necessarily be what you want. If you use ice, it’s best to go with a large ice cube or ice ball. The Spirits department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins. For more information, please call 508-366-1942, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East P.S. Between sips of whiskey, sipping water or eating neutral foods like bread helps cleanse the palate.
Buttonwood tree endured for century in Colleary Square
By Linda Rennie History Columnist
MARLBOROUGH – Many older Marlborough residents will remember some of the city’s tree-lined streets. So many of these trees have been taken
down to widen the roads. This is the story of the buttonwood tree that stood in the middle of Colleary Square.
Colleary Square is located at the junction of Main Street and East Main Street, what was once Fairbanks Corner.
The square was named after Sgt. John P. Colleary, a laborer, motorman, and policeman who served in the Spanish-
American War and World War I.
In 1934, the large buttonwood (or ironwood) tree was well over 100 years old. It stood as a reminder of Marlborough’s historic past.
When a truck carrying about 15 tons of merchandise crashed into the tree, it left a significant hole and decay was discovered, according to City
Forester Clifton E. Sowerby. But buttonwood trees are strong, and the damage wasn’t enough to cause a serious problem. The decay is believed to have started following a severe storm in 1921. A metal plate was placed over the hole from the crash and the tree was kept.
Attempts to remove the tree were met with protests from older city residents. It is uncertain the exact date the tree finally died, but it was thought to have fallen down in the late 1950s. It was the end of an era in Colleary Square.
Invasive
plants: What are they, and what can we do about them?
On May 17 at 1:30 p.m., join
on a walk focusing
Learn to identify common in-
and why they are a threat to local plants and
Then, find out the best ways to remove them. The walk will traverse the MacCallum Wildlife Management Area; meet off Milk Street in the MassWildlife parking lot across from 218 Milk Street. The walk will go through about 2 miles of uneven woodland terrain. This event is free and open to the public, with no reservation needed.
The buttonwood tree in Marlborough’s Colleary Square survived a collision from a 15-ton truck and lived for over a century. (Photo/Courtesy of the Marlborough Historical Society)
Oriental Bittersweet (Photo/Wikimeida Commons)
Algonquin student selected for Kristin Chenoweth theater bootcamp
especially for a kid who, until four short years ago, hardly knew what Broadway was. Colton tried every sport, looking for something he could identify with. As a sixth grader, he tried theater, and as a seventh grader, he finally found his niche.
“I fell in love with the people, the community around it,” he said.
Added LeComte: “I’ve been beaming since he found this. It was tough to watch him try to figure out what he was into — and then he found it, and it clicked. Every time he’s on stage, you can’t take your eyes
Church
off this kid.”
Colton got involved with SkyRise Theater, acting in productions such as “Les Misérables” and “Mean Girls,” all while signing himself up to learn how backstage works. At Algonquin, he’s been part of “Once Upon a Mattress” and “Little Shop of Horrors,” with “Urinetown” this spring.
“I think it’s really cool that Algonquin has so many departments. They have a lot of student-run graphic design, set design — it creates that community. My chorus teacher, Olivia Goliger, she really got me into the chorus part. I
wasn’t even going to do chorus when I got to Algonquin. I’m so glad I did. I wouldn’t have any of these opportunities,” he said.
Once hesitant to sing in choir, Colton now can’t stop talking about theater.
Chalk it up to the fact he was never afraid of putting himself out there.
“Even if you don’t think you’re going to like something, just try it — because you really never know,” said Colton. “Even if you think it’s never going to work, there’s always a way. If you really want to make it work, you will make it work.”
that could draw thousands targets Westborough parcel
Pastor Deryck Frye and his clergy.
But as the church has continued to grow, the Ashland site is said to be “bursting at the seams” with approximately 1,200 attendees across three Sunday services. Frye says it’s time to expand, hoping to regionalize the church.
So what’s the plan?
Purchasing the right land was a battle, Frye told the Community Advocate. The building is still being designed, but the church is expected to be about 80,000 square feet. The plan is to see construction start within the next three years. However, that will be dependent on the church’s ability to raise capital and build financing for a facility at that scale.
“I’m going to be doing everything I can to get in there as fast as possible just because … we could fill it right now,” Frye said, noting his church has used “every nook and cranny” of space to “try to serve the community well.”
“That’s our heart: a local pastor, a local church investing in the community – strengthening families, building something meaningful long-term,” he continued.
Frye does not want to pressure his community for money to construct the new building, so the idea is to include some businesses in addition to the “very large” auditorium space anticipated to fit 1,000 to 1,200 people.
Though he’s currently unsure what those businesses
might be, Frye said many in his congregation have young families, and he’s seen great success with serving youth. The church operates two schools, a thriving youth ministry, and what it calls “Jesus Clubs” in six different school systems. Additionally, Frye says he’s a “health and fitness guy” who believes “strong bodies produce strong minds,” so he’s considering ideas that may align with that.
Connecting with Westborough
Frye said the space in Westborough will give his church the ability to reach more people. He anticipates reaching 3,000 people on Day One. He plans to survey the area and get a sense of what people want and need in Westborough and the surrounding towns.
With his church in a healthy place, Frye, 58, said it would be
easier to just “coast,” but he feels he has a responsibility to reach more people — “connect the disconnected” — and help them establish a relationship with God. “It’s not about me, it’s about Him,” Frye said.
Frye’s sermons focus on modern topics, including the anxieties of everyday life, parenting, and managing technology. “Our message is sacred, but our methods are very, very modern and relevant,” he said.
Frye added: “We’re going to be a church that builds bridges, not barriers and walls, and I hope that they come to see that we’re going to be adding value. We’re not takers — we’re givers, and we’re going to sow a lot of good seed into the town of Westborough in the very near future.”
Multi-generation stewardship
Difficulty connecting with church is something Frye
knows all too well, having dealt with the same conflict himself growing up. Frye’s father, Ernie Frye, started Connect Church 40 years ago under a different name, holding its very first sermon at Fayville Hall in Southborough in 1979.
His father was a “broken man,” Frye said, who saw religion as a crutch for weak people. But on his quest to deny faith, he found it himself. Before his very eyes, Frye saw his father transform from abusive to peaceful.
While in high school, Frye says he had his very own “come to Jesus moment.”
He had been living a double life. As a preacher’s son, he played the role of Christian, but when it came to school and friends, he was ashamed of his faith and denied it. But the incongruence was tearing him up. Being fake was “exhausting.”
So, he decided he was done
A map showing the proposed location of this church.
denying his faith.
“Since then, I have never been the same,” he said.
He’s been a committed follower of Christ. He’s had some bumps and bruises in his faith, he admits, but church is for imperfect people. Now, Frye has been serving as a pastor for 30 years. Most of his family is involved in the church, with one daughter Morgan (Frye) Martinez serving as director of worship experience. His wife Stacy is a full-time pastor who is also principal at one of the church’s schools, and his son Devon is ready to take the leadership reins.
“[We] kind of feel like that’s our responsibility, we have to reach more people. It’s not about just being the biggest and the best,” Frye said. “We just think that healthy things grow, and so we are growing and we just need a location where we can serve more people better.”
Colton | from page 1
Connect Church | from page 1
Indoor mini golf, homemade ice cream, hundreds of plants
Trombetta’s Farm is a Marlborough destination
By Tyler Charpentier Contributing Writer
MARLBOROUGH – It started as a carnation farm in the early 1960s, and it’s now a city staple with ice cream, mini golf, and a plant nursery. Trombetta’s Farm has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind community treasure.
The farm traces its humble beginnings to its original owners, Charlie and Theresa Trombetta. Charlie first developed his expertise in carnation farming at a local farm in Sudbury. After mastering his craft, he purchased a property which has grown into the iconic local attraction it is today.
The farm has since been passed down to the third generation of Trombettas: Charlie Trombetta Jr. and his two siblings. Over the years, as the market evolved, the farm has outgrown its floral roots and revamped into a modern destination for family fun.
The farm’s first evolution
was in 1978, when it introduced a homemade ice cream stand.
This is when Tony Trombetta, began creating the company’s now-signature from-scratch
chocolate, the farm proudly serves over 50 specialty flavors, including sherberts and sorbets.
Decades of tireless thought,
ice cream.
To ensure the ice cream operation stands the test of time, Tony has been rigorously training Trombetta Jr.’s son, Alex, to one day take the reins of the ice cream stand and lead the farm into its fourth generation.
The farm’s homemade ice cream is truly in a league of its own. In addition to vanilla and
care, and creativity go into these flavors. The Trombetta family carefully crafts each one, always welcoming and incorporating feedback from customers.
to endure the trial-and-error process needed to perfect each ice cream flavor for every customer.
But that’s just part of the Trombetta’s Farm charm.
Delicious homemade ice cream has a way of drawing
“We’ve gotten a lot of vegan customers recently and we are incorporating their needs. I’ve tried commercial vegan ice cream, and it’s expensive and not the best,” said Trombetta Jr. Trombetta Jr. enthusiastically explained how he has been experimenting to create ice cream that offers his customers the most delicious dairy-free experience.
“We have tried many different bases – like almond milk, coconut milk, oatmilk, and a coconut-oatmilk combination. But some don’t whip well, some have an aftertaste, some don’t scoop well — so I just have to try different things until I get it just right,” he said.
It takes a special kind of place and a special kind of owner
crowds. This led to the farm’s recent ice cream truck endeavor. Whether you’re hosting a corporate or school event, celebrating a wedding, or planning a graduation party, Trombetta’s ice cream is always the perfect cherry on top of any occasion.
Following the addition of the ice cream stand, the farm launched its indoor mini golf course in 1985. Located inside the farm’s original greenhouse, the course allows you to compete against family and friends in a sea of green. There are numerous live species of plants and trees offering a one-of-a-kind mini golf experience.
The greenery doesn’t stop there: Trombetta’s doubles as a plant nursery. Come brighten up your space with annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, patio pots, gift plants, and seasonal
flowers.
Even if you’re new to the plant world and are buzzing with botanical questions and concerns, Trombetta’s is there to support you every step of the way. At Trombetta’s, you’ll never get sent to an automated voicemail or play a stressful game of phone tag while trying to figure out how much sun your new hydrangea needs. Trombetta Jr. takes pride in personally assisting every single one of his customers.
“I like to answer the phone and talk to people. I might miss a call once and a while, but they are always forwarded to my personal cell. This gives me the ability to shoot them a text and ask them to please let me know if they have any questions, and a majority of the time they will text back,” he said.
Few businesses let you personally text the owner with any questions. Again, it’s the little details that sets Trombetta’s Farm apart.
At Trombetta’s Farm, your experience is the top priority. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday with a round of indoor mini golf, enjoying the first day of summer with a scoop of strawberry ice cream, or searching for the perfect housewarming plant, the Trombetta’s staff is there to guide you with care.
For more information about Trombetta’s Farm please visit 655 Farm Road #2763, Marlborough. The farm is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call 508-485-6429 with any questions. This is a paid advertisement.
Demolition underway at proposed Costco site in Southborough
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – Buildings are being demolished at 32 Coslin Drive to make way for the proposed Costco Wholesale Club in Southborough.
In January, the inside of old office buildings were demolished, and lead and asbestos continue to be remediated, according to Building Commissioner Mark Robidoux. By the end of June, the site should be in shape for development.
Robidoux noted that demolition isn’t happening as quickly as anticipated. The sorting of the materials for recycling has lengthened and complicated the process, he said.
Costco’s developer, Atlantic Management, continues to work
toward the submission of what it says will be a “comprehensive” site plan for review. Those documents — which will outline the design of the Costco and its proposed 825 parking spots — have not been made available yet.
Robidoux said that once the plans are approved by the appropriate town boards, construction should be “fairly quick.” Given the Costco is a fairly simple set-up, with a basic factory shell, he feels confident that it can be “knocked out quickly.”
Costco had a second Town Meeting win with the approval of a license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages. The town is still waiting on secondary approval from the state.
Your Money, Your Independence
Grads: Don’t Pay the Comfort Tax— Invest in the “Struggle”
Glenn Brown, CFP
Every commencement season, a familiar debate plays out: move back home to save money or head to a cramped apartment on a diet of ramen and determination?
On a spreadsheet, the live-at-home option looks like a win. By eliminating rent and utilities, the theory suggests you can save $20,000 to $40,000 in your first year.
Sorry Grads, but this premise rarely becomes reality. It’s ironic: you rolled your eyes at professors steeped in abstract theory, yet here you are committing the same nonsense.
The Myth of Boomerang Savings
When the Bank of Mom and Dad subsidizes your life, psychological urgency evaporates. Without the boundary of a rent check, savings leak into high-end gyms, trips, subscriptions and tech. The justification is: “I’m suffering enough by living at home; I deserve this.” Instead of a surplus, you entrench expensive habits you can’t afford once you leave.
To build financial independence, you first need to take flight. Just as a plane needs the resistance of wind to generate lift, you need the friction of real-world expenses to get off the ground. Living at home removes headwinds and leaves you idling on the runway while your peers are taking off.
The Geography of Opportunity
High-rent brain-hubs trigger the Agglomeration Effect, forcing you into a network of mentors and peers that hometowns lack. Research shows physical proximity leads to faster promotions and better career matching. You can’t effectively network from your basement with AI; career-defining windows of opportunity open when you are present, both at work and socializing outside of it.
Furthermore, roommates are a masterclass in negotiation. Sharing a kitchen, bathroom and utility bills teaches conflict resolution and accountability. These soft skills create an independence gap between those who handle their own friction points and those who have them smoothed over by parents.
The Real Cost of Entry-Level
Manage your burn rate without suffocating your future. Aim for the 30% Rule: keep all housing costs under 30% of your gross income. In the Boston-area, this means Davis Square or Allston/Brighton, not splitting a Seaport two-bedroom.
Parents, if your graduate is complaining of costs and can’t get ahead, don’t pay their rent as it kills urgency. Instead, offer a one-time “get out of jail” card for a true crisis. This provides security without removing the daily incentive to work hard to change outcomes.
Independence is a Habit
Living at home for “just a year” often turns into three. Grads, when you live like Boomers in a cozy setup, you lose the primary engine of growth: discontent. If you aren’t bothered by your surroundings, you won’t hunt for a promotion or take a career risk. The most effective career coach is a little room you’re desperate to leave; that daily friction creates an obsession with progress and a determination to never return.
Advice to Class of 2026
To the parents: Supporting independence means letting them struggle. The best gift this May isn’t their old room back (or worse, refinishing the basement); it’s the belief that they are capable of building their own independence.
To the graduates: The money you think you’ll save at home comes at the cost of your ambition. Renting a room you can barely afford in a city that excites you is a form of aggressive investing; you are betting on your own ability to grow into future expenses.
Go find the cramped apartment. Deal with noisy roommates. The struggle of your 20’s is how you get a 2X-5X return in your 30’s. Financial independence isn’t something you’re given; it starts by choosing to outgrow the Comfort Tax.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.
Strike gold at Fresh Monkee’s two-year anniversary
WESTBOROUGH – Get ready to sip and win at the Fresh Monkee in Westborough on May 16.
The store is celebrating its two-year anniversary with the Golden Straw Challenge, and stakes are high. Get 50 percent off all shakes. Plus, the first 200 customers who purchase a shake will get the chance to pull a mystery straw from a lucky jar. If you pull one of the five Golden Straws, you’ll win the ultimate prize: free shakes for a year!
The store’s second location will be opening in June at 118 Turnpike Road in Southborough.
Fresh Monkee is giving customers a chance to win big!
Demolition in preparation for Costco is underway. (Photos/Leighah Beausoleil)
HOMES MORE
This is a paid advertisement
Rent or Buy? The Real Tradeoff Most People Don’t Talk About
Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI
Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161
www.EQRE.com
A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
You’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now? It’s a question a lot of people are asking.
With today’s home prices and mortgage rates, renting can feel like the easier path. In some cases, it might even seem like the only realistic option right now. And if that’s where you are, there’s nothing wrong with that.
But if you’re weighing the decision, there’s one part of the conversation that doesn’t get talked about enough.
What Renting Really Gets You (And What It Doesn’t)
Depending on your situation, renting does have some advantages:
• Lower upfront costs.
• Less responsibility.
• More flexibility to move when you want.
But even with those benefits, a Bank of America survey found 70% of aspiring homeowners worry about what long-term renting means for their future. And that concern comes down to one thing: you’re not building anything for your future. As Yahoo Finance explains:
“Paying rent doesn’t build equity. You get a place to live, but no ownership stake, no price appreciation, and no asset to leverage for future borrowing or investment.”
So, while renting may feel easier, the flexibility comes at a cost.
Mary Wood,
How Homeownership Builds Your Wealth Over Time
On the other hand, owning a home is one of the most consistent ways people build wealth over time. Why? When you’re a homeowner, you gain something called equity. That’s the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe.
That equity grows with every monthly payment made. It also gets a boost as home values go up through the years –adding up quicker than you may think.
Real Estate Q&A with Mary Wood
Q: “What does it really mean when a home is ‘priced right’?”
A: Pricing a home “right” isn’t about picking a number. It’s about positioning. In today’s market, that first impression matters more than ever, and price is a big part of the story your home tells from day one.
When a home is priced strategically, it attracts attention early. Buyers are watching closely, and they tend to act quickly on homes that feel aligned with the market. That early activity; showings, interest, and sometimes multiple offers can create momentum that benefits the seller. On the flip side, pricing too high can cause a home to sit, which often leads to price adjustments and less overall interest.
In our area, where inventory has remained relatively tight, buyers
are informed and paying attention to value. They’re comparing homes, watching how long properties stay on the market, and making decisions based on both emotion and data.
A well-priced home meets that moment. It feels like an opportunity, not a question mark.
There’s also a balance between market data and presentation. Thoughtful staging, strong photography, and a clear marketing plan all support the price and help tell a cohesive story.
What I always come back to is this: pricing is a strategy, not a guess. The goal is to position your home where it will generate the most interest and ultimately the strongest outcome. With the right approach, sellers can feel confident knowing their home entered the market with purpose and that makes all the difference.
Today, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) says the average homeowner’s net worth is 43X greater than that of a renter:
The dollars in the visual don’t lie. On average, here’s how net worth compares:
• Homeowners: $430k • Renters: $10k
And it’s not because homeowners make wildly different decisions day to day. It’s because over time, one path builds something, and the other doesn’t.
So sure, buying comes with some upfront costs and more responsibility. But it’s basically a savings account you can live in.
The Gap Is Growing Over Time
And here’s something else interesting. That net worth gap between renters and homeowners has been widening over time, not shrinking.
If you look back at the reports on net worth through the years, you can see the gap is growing as homeowners gain wealth and renters stay stuck in the rental trap
Even in 2025, when home prices were moderating, homeowners still gained even more ground. And that tells you something important:
When you can afford it and you’re ready for the responsibility, history shows buying is usually worth it in the long run. Because either way, you’re paying for someone’s mortgage and building someone’s net worth.
So, Should You Buy a Home Now?
The short answer is, it depends on your situation.
While the long-term benefits of buying are clear, that doesn’t mean the timing is right for everyone right now. And that’s okay. You should only buy a home once you’re ready and the numbers work for you.
They can help you run the numbers and see what’s realistic. You may find buying is closer than you thought. And if not, you’ll at least know exactly what it will take to get there.
Because the sooner you have a plan, the sooner you can decide when it makes sense, instead of wondering if it ever will.
If you want to ditch renting and start building something for your future, it starts with a simple conversation. Let’s connect, talk about your specific goals, and explore your options – so you’re ready when the time is right for you.
ASK THE PR
“Recently my Infiniti dealership closed and I’m really frustrated because thought it was necessary to bring my Infiniti to the dealership to protect the warranty.”
By Rick Marino Owner, Professional Automotive
Tom, there’s no need to worry… you absolutely do not have to go to the dealership to maintain the warranty on your Infiniti. Under the Massachusetts Right to Repair Law and the Magnussen Moss Act you are not required to go to the dealer for nonwarranty work and you can maintain and repair at the facility of your choice. In fact, working with Professional Automotive can be a better experience overall. Our technicians have many years of experience working with specialized vehicles like Infinitis, Acuras and Lexus so you should have absolutely no hesitation in dealing with us. You will get a level of personalized service that you’re not accustomed to. Our Advisors will explain all repairs and options prior to performing work…we strive to never let a vehicle go that isn’t fully up to our standards. Our team is highly trained and eager get you back on the road and enjoying your Infiniti.
Select Board prefers full Grafton Middle School roof replacement Funding request to appear on ballots
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – The fate of Grafton Middle School’s roof will be decided at the ballot box and at Town Meeting, but the Select Board on April 21 weighed in on how the project will be funded.
In spring 2025, Garland, a commercial roofing firm, studied the roof at Grafton Middle School, located at 22 Providence Road. The study revealed significant issues, with its final report determining that “catastrophic failure and other health dangers are dangerously evident [if] roof replacement is put off any further.”
In the fall, Town Meeting approved funds for further study and analysis of the roof. Superintendent James Cummings went before the Select Board earlier in April to outline options to replace the 63-year-old roof, which has received decades of patching. It is original to the 76,000-square-foot school, which opened in 1963.
A full roof repair would run
between $4.3 and $5.3 million, according to Cummings. Some areas are worse than others.
A partial replacement of the whole roof would run between $2.2 and $2.7 million. Solely replacing the most seriously damaged portions of the roof, the area of the building closest to Providence Road that houses all the classrooms, would cost between $1.5 and $1.8 million.
Grafton may be eligible for the MSBA Accelerated Repair Program, which could reimburse 50 percent of expenses. However, the application doesn’t open until January 2027, and it’s a four-year process until the project could be started.
In a memo to the Select Board, Cummings recommended the town replace the areas in most dire need of repair, which would cost approximately $2.7 million. Then, he reasoned, the town could apply for the MSBA Accelerated Repair Program in January 2027 for assistance in funding the remainder of the roof that needs replacement, with that work finishing in 2031.
The Select Board preferred to do the whole project at once.
“I’m for replacing the whole thing. I said that a couple weeks ago — that hasn’t changed,” said Select Board member Mark Alimo. “I think it’s too much of a liability, too much of a problem. It’s been going on for a really long time. You start doing partial here, partial there — you can run into a bunch of problems.”
Added Select Board member Craig Dauphinais: “For this roof … there’s some severe damage there. I think there’s some value in doing it all at once. As the amount of square feet of the roof increases, I think there’s some efficiency there, and we saw in those projected cost estimates.”
Whereas Town Administrator Evan Brassard originally anticipated using $1.5 million in free cash and $1.3 million from the Municipal Stabilization Fund (a total of $2.8M) to fund parts of the project, Dauphinais proposed another option.
Dauphinais suggested using
$1 million from free cash and $500,000 from the Municipal Stabilization Fund (a total of $1.5M) upfront, then bonding the rest of the project. He then proposed using the extra cash not spent on the roof in fiscal 2027 for other capital projects.
Those capital projects, according to the town administrator’s office, could include treatment of invasive species, a new one-ton dump truck, and roof maintenance for other schools.
Alimo and Dauphinais’ plan was questioned by Select Board Chair Andy Jefferson and Select Board member Mathew Often. The fifth member of the board, Ann Marie Foley, was absent.
Jefferson and Often seemed to prefer an option that didn’t involve borrowing, especially considering the $5 million override ask already on the ballot this spring.
“I like [Town Administrator Evan Brassard’s] plan. [His] plan doesn’t go to bond at all — now, at least — and gets the critical capital projects done, and gives an opportunity for matching
Marlborough Downtown
grants,” said Often. Added Jefferson: “I was on the fence. … I know we talk about the market of scale, doing it all at once, just getting it done and over with. But then the option to not have to bond it and [not have to] put another debt exclusion on the ballot — it’s enticing.”
It was a respectful debate. Dauphinais said he was inclined to agree with Jefferson and Often — but that the time to consider MSBA funding had passed for the failing Grafton Middle School roof. Future projects, like replacing the North Street Elementary School roof, could benefit from these discussions, he said.
“We obviously have a lot of roofs to fix. As a sidebar, I think we need to come up with a strategic plan about how we’re going to do this over the next decade. Hopefully we can take advantage of the state grant to repair these roofs going forward,” he added.
Dauphinais’ plan passed, 3-1, with Often voting “nay.”
Pop-Up Shops
Clubhouse proposal not moving forward for former Andrea Restaurant site
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – In the fall of 2024, the Community Advocate reported that after decades of abandonment, the former Andrea Restaurant on Route 9 would finally see some development. Now, the site is up for sale again.
The shuttered restaurant — and a nearby vacant office building on Parkerville Road — had been purchased by Parkhaus 214 LLC, a division of Boston-based Transatlantic Investment Management Inc., for $1.25 million in December 2021, according to the Worcester Registry of Deeds. Site plans revealed that “Parkhous,” a clubhouse for car enthusiasts, would have replaced the landmark restaurant with a climate-controlled 54,000-square-foot facility for car collectors.
While pleased the eyesore would be revitalized, Select Board members at the time had hoped more “viable”
What’s the future of this Southborough lot? (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
businesses would come to Southborough. In October 2025, a demolition permit was issued for a teardown of the whole restaurant. Today, 241 Turnpike
Road
“I did speak with the own-
ers a while ago and confirmed they were not moving forward with the project,” said Southborough Assessor Paul Cibelli. “She indicated they would be most likely selling the
vacant lot.”
The vacant site, along with the office building at 245 Turnpike Road, are now actively listed on the market for $2,150,000, Cibelli said.
To celebrate Arbor Day, SELCO hands out 500 saplings
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – At one of SELCO’s (Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations) first Arbor Day events roughly 20 years ago, Shrewsbury Media Connection Executive Director Marc Serra picked up a peach tree sapling.
It took a number of years before it grew large enough to start producing fruit, but today it’s alive and thriving, flowering annually and providing the Serra household with plenty of peaches – if the deer don’t get to them first.
It’s one of many such success stories that started at SELCO’s Arbor Day. For the last 22 years, the town-owned utility company has handed out free saplings to Shrewsbury residents. The event has turned into one many mark on their calendars, and nowadays, several other town departments join the fun.
“People will come and say that the tree they got from us back in 2004 is thriving. We love hearing stories like that,” said Valerie Clemmey, mar -
keting and communications manager for SELCO. “We’ve even gotten pictures. We had someone who had a granddaughter that was born, so he came to get a tree to plant so it could grow with her.”
On April 25, over 500 saplings of different varieties — including Northern Red Oak, Black Cherry, Pin Oak, and
Sweetbay Magnolia, which was evidently a fan-favorite — were handed out to residents.
“We keep seeing the same people year after year,” said Bob Holland, chair of the SELCO Commission.
Beyond their aesthetic value, trees help improve the environment, absorbing car-
The Grass Really Is Greener...
As a community-owned, notfor-profit public power utility, SELCO is always looking for ways to make life easier for residents.
bon dioxide, regulating the climate, and improving air quality. A properly planted tree can also provide shade in the summer, which may help reduce a household’s airconditioning bills.
SELCO holds its Arbor Day event to promote trees in Shrewsbury — but it’s also about giving back to the town.
Whether it’s lower electric rates, rebates, or responsive customer service, SELCO’s dedication to the community manifests itself in different ways. On Arbor Day, it showed up as saplings.
“We’re a community-powered organization, so we like connecting with the community,” said Clemmey. “We have so many community members that come out for this event. This year we were lucky — we have a beautiful day today.”
Hear from the Shrewsbury Select Board and School Committee candidates
SHREWSBURY – Who is running for election in Shrewsbury?
Shrewsbury residents will head to the polls on May 5 to cast votes in several key races. The Select Board and School Committee both have three candidates vying for two available three-year terms. The Community Advocate reached out to each candidate with a questionnaire asking hard-hitting questions about local issues.
Due to space constraints in print, the candidates’ responses to an additional three questions are available on the Community Advocate’s website. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Shrewsbury, and per usual, this newspaper will provide the latest results.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for Select Board?
I’m running for re-election because I believe local government matters and should serve residents of all ages, offering resources to support healthy and productive lives. I have centered my work on maintaining vibrant neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, ensuring the quality of our schools and municipal services and addressing the evolving needs of our community.
My family chose Shrewsbury because of its excellent schools, dependable services and strong sense of community. As I seek re-election, my goal is to address timely challenges such as affordability, development, and infrastructure improvements to keep Shrewsbury safe, affordable and welcoming for everyone.
I have worked to improve resident engagement, strengthen long-term financial planning, and broaden social support networks. I am committed to gathering information, listening carefully to feedback, and building consensus among stakeholders. With your support, I will continue working to ensure our town remains a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire. What’s the single biggest challenge facing the Town of Shrewsbury? How would you address it?
Maintaining aging infrastructure is the most significant challenge facing the Shrewsbury community. This issue impacts a wide range of public assets, including schools, municipal facilities, the water and sewer system, and the road network.
As the Select Board seeks to manage large-scale capital improvements, it’s necessary to find solutions that don’t overburden the operating budget. If the operating budget is stretched too thin, fewer resources remain available for school and municipal operations.
Given the considerable demand for infrastructure improvement, Select Board members are tasked with the challenge of balancing multiple priorities while considering the costs to taxpayers. Efforts to strategically spread-out approval of big-ticket projects minimize sudden increases in the tax bill and allow for more predictability.
Long-term planning and communication are key when addressing infrastructure needs. By thoroughly evaluating which projects should be prioritized, the community can better understand the impact each initiative will have on the tax bill.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for Select Board?
I am running for re-election because I believe that we need thoughtful and compassionate leadership at the table to uplift our community. I am the only sitting member and candidate in this race that grew up in town, and my personal story motivates me every day to give back to the community that shaped me. I am the first in my family to graduate high school, and I’m proud that was Shrewsbury High (2015). My passion for public service encouraged me to pursue a Psychology degree from Assumption College (2019), run for Town Meeting at the age of 21, and eventually be employed at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. At a young age I made it my mission to give back to this community, and my experiences from Town Meeting, the Finance Committee, and my first term on the Select Board have given me the skillset to do just that.
What’s the single biggest challenge facing the Town of Shrewsbury? How would you address it?
Affordability remains the top challenge for Shrewsbury. We need to continue expanding the commercial tax base to alleviate pressure from residents, and that was why the Board and I advocated for a mixed-use moratorium over Lakeway Commons and Route 20 so that we can preserve those commercial corridors. We’ve worked to find more relief for our seniors, veterans, and those with disabilities, and we’re bringing forth a proposal at Town Meeting to expand existing opportunities. As the Board’s designee to the Affordable Housing Trust, I’m leading initiatives to support our community via rental assistance and home repair programs. The home repair program is especially exciting as it will help seniors make their homes more accessible. Additionally, I’m advocating the Board develop a strategy to maintain Safe Harbor Status under Ch.40B so that we retain local control on development and to work on establishing truly affordable housing opportunities in town.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for Select Board?
My name is Anand Sharma, and I have proudly called Shrewsbury home for more than 25 years. My wife and I chose this community because of its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. We raised our family here, and like so many residents, we care deeply about the future of our town.
Professionally, I bring a strong background in problem-solving, finance, and management. I have an education in Electrical Engineering and an MBA, and I work at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, where I have spent my career solving complex technical and operational challenges. I also have experience as a small business owner and managing real estate properties, which has given me firsthand experience with budgeting, longterm planning, and accountability.
In the community, I have served as a Town Meeting Member, volunteered with the Rotary Club of Shrewsbury, helped organize local events through Spirit of Shrewsbury, and served on the Shrewsbury 300th Anniversary Celebration Committee. Those experiences have connected me directly with residents and shown me both the strengths of our town and the challenges we need to address.
I’m running for the Select Board because I believe Shrewsbury is at an important crossroads. Residents are concerned about rising taxes, traffic, infrastructure strain, school capacity, and preserving the character of our community. I believe we need stronger financial discipline, and leadership that listens carefully to residents.
What’s the single biggest challenge facing the Town of Shrewsbury? How would you address it?
The single biggest challenge facing Shrewsbury is managing sudden surge of residential projects while minimizing property tax increases and protecting the quality of life that residents value. Shrewsbury is unique in that almost 45% of its households have around 100k yearly income. The quality of life for these residents get affected when tax is increased to support increasing demand on town services.
How I would address it starts with better planning, and better financial management. This includes ensuring new growth revenue goes towards supporting the new demand, improving cost estimates, and ensuring accountability in how taxpayer dollars are spent. We need to connect every major development decision to infrastructure readiness—roads, water, public safety, and traffic capacity and schools. We must engage with the existing new apartment building owners to develop strategies for mitigating these impacts. We need to pursue balanced economic development that expands the commercial tax base and fix any zoning issues that brought us to this stage. When businesses grow here, it helps reduce pressure on homeowners. Finally, we need transparent leadership that listens to residents before decisions are made, not after.
Shrewsbury is a great town. My goal would be to make sure growth works for residents and makes their life better and not the other way around.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for School Committee?
I have called Shrewsbury home for 15 years, where my daughter attended school from kindergarten through graduation. I’ve been actively involved in the community, volunteering at all the schools and with Shrewsbury Youth Soccer.
My platform centers on student safety, partnership, and accountability. I am committed to being a strong advocate for all students and families, especially when concerns go unaddressed. Families deserve accessible leadership, and I will always be available to listen and speak directly with them. Through my experiences with the School Committee and Superintendent, I’ve seen how communication and responsiveness can fall short. That perspective drives my commitment to ensuring all families feel heard and supported.
Professionally, I bring over 30 years of financial experience, specializing in complex budgets of $2.4B and cross-functional collaboration. I believe my financial background will be an asset as we navigate a challenging FY27 budget and consider a potential high school expansion.
What’s the single biggest challenge facing Shrewsbury Public Schools? How would you address it?
Financials. This encompasses what we receive, what we spend, prioritizing needs over wants and being 100% transparent with the taxpayers. There’s a growing perception that spending lacks proper oversight and that scare tactics are used to justify increases. Too often, proposed cuts target teachers, programs, and supplies, decisions that directly harm the quality of education students receive. Meanwhile, reductions at the administrative level are not even part of the conversation. This imbalance is unacceptable.
The School Committee frequently acknowledges how difficult it is to consider reductions in teaching positions. Those same difficult conversations must apply to the administrative level also. Shared sacrifice and thoughtful prioritization are essential to ensuring resources are aligned with what matters most: student outcomes.
The district cannot continue to operate as if it has an open checkbook each budget season, it’s not fair to the taxpayers.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for School Committee?
My name is Rachel Sharifipour and I am running for re-election to the Shrewsbury School Committee. My husband, Justin, and I moved to Shrewsbury in 2015 because we were looking for a vibrant community with a strong school system to raise our (now) three daughters. In addition to serving on the School Committee since 2023 and being a Town Meeting member since 2025, I have had a long history of being an active volunteer in our community with an emphasis on the schools. I have held various PTO leadership roles at Parker Road, Paton and Beal and in 2021 I actively worked to secure the successful operational override to meet our town’s educational and municipal needs. I am running for re-election because there is still work to be done. I feel strongly that our town deserves to have great schools that benefit all students, families, staff and town residents.
What’s the single biggest challenge facing Shrewsbury Public Schools? How would you address it?
Like many other communities in Massachusetts, we have real fiscal pressure on our district and our town.
We have a looming discussion for a potential override. Shrewsbury passed an override in 2021 and, through diligent financial planning, we have been able to extend the life of that override past the original four year commitment but those funds will not last forever and we need to have a very real conversation with the community in order to maintain current service levels. Without an override, what does that mean for the schools and town services? And we need to listen and respond to feedback.
We, as leaders, also need to proactively get ahead of misinformation. We live in an age where social media can be so beneficial but it can also be a major detriment and one sided. I am committed to educating with actual facts and having difficult, even uncomfortable, conversations.
Who are you, what are your qualifications, and why are you running for School Committee?
I am a wife, a partner at a local real estate law firm, and most importantly, a mom to two children currently attending Spring Street School. I am also a Town Meeting Member, Vice Chair of the Shrewsbury 300th Anniversary Celebration Committee, and serve as a Board Member for Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services. I am running because we are at a critical juncture in Shrewsbury. We are facing significant challenges—from high school overcrowding and aging infrastructure to the rising mental health needs of our students. I’m running for School Committee because I believe our district needs a leader who combines professional experience with a parent’s perspective. I’m asking for your vote on May 5th to help maintain and continue to foster a fiscally responsible, transparent, and high-performing future for Shrewsbury Schools.
What’s the single biggest challenge facing Shrewsbury Public Schools? How would you address it?
The most critical issue facing Shrewsbury is high school overcrowding. Our current facility is significantly over capacity, impacting everything from class sizes and elective availability to lunch scheduling and hallway safety. As a real estate attorney and parent, I recognize that this isn’t just a space problem—it’s a long-term fiscal and educational risk. We must prioritize a strategic capital plan that addresses our enrollment reality while remaining responsible to taxpayers. To address high school overcrowding, I will work aggressively with the MSBA to maximize state funding and reduce the local tax burden. I’ll ensure expansion accounts for future enrollment growth while maintaining total transparency with taxpayers, delivering a modern facility that meets Shrewsbury’s needs through fiscally responsible, long-term planning.
School Committee (vote for two)
SELECT BOARD (vote for two)
SCHOOL COMMITTEE (vote for two)
BETH CASAVANT (incumbent)
CARLOS GARCIA (incumbent)
ANAND SHARMA
RACHEL SHARIFIPOUR (incumbent)
MIKE PACY
NICOLE TORRES
Must-visit local flower shop marks 27th season
Aging Gracefully
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
ELDERLY MOBILITY SCALE
Older adults often su er from mobility issues. ese can be caused by several problems, such as chronic pain, weak muscles, and neurological conditions. e elderly mobility scale, or EMS, is a standardized test used by health professionals to assess the level of mobility in older adults.
e EMS might be used to measure the success of physiotherapy or an exercise program meant to improve mobility in seniors. It can be an e ective way to track a person’s progress. e EMS consists of seven functional movement tests scored on a speci c scale. ey include scoring an older adult’s ability to go from lying to sitting, sitting to standing, administering a timed walk, standing, and checking gait, among others.
e EMS is important because it can help identify older adults who are at risk for falls and other mobility-related problems. Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults, and can lead to a loss of independence and decreased quality of life. A score of 10-13 usually suggests that the patient is right on the border of being able to move around independently and safely.
NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE
CENTER emphasizes assisted living, long term care and rehabilitation, and hospice care. You can visit our facilities at 559 Plantation Street.
PH: (508) 852-3011.
P.S. e EMS score ranges between 0 and 20, 20 being the best possible score.
Notre
Dame Health Care
Long Term Care
559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508-523-8302 · notredamehealthcare.org
REGION – Carl and Elaine Wickstrom are celebrating their 27th season as owners of the Golden Skep Flower Farm in Berlin.
The beautiful flower farm, circa 1740, boasts one of the largest selections of both new- and old-style daylily, hosta, peony, and iris cultivars in Central Massachu -
setts. There is also a very large selection of other sun- and shade-loving perennials. The farm also has a garden gift shop, garden statuary, birdbaths, and fountains. Coast of Maine organic fertilizers and other natural products are sold to help gardens thrive, and gift certificates are available for special
occasions.
The farm was also voted by Yankee Magazine (March 2019 issue) as one of the “Five Best Flower Farms in New England.”
Golden Skep Flower Farm is located at 264 Linden Street, Berlin. For more information, visit goldenskepfarm.com or call 978-838-2471.
NCOA OFFERS ONLINE RESOURCES FOR FALL-PREVENTION
Falling is NOT a normal part of aging. ere are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults, and can significantly impact an older adult’s quality of life. A fall can cause older persons to become socially isolated or fearful of leaving home and can lead to costly medical expenses.
One important first step toward staying safe is learning what aspects of your life can put you at greater risk of falling. e National Council on Aging (NCOA), a trusted national leader working to ensure that every person can age well, o ers practical steps to address this important issue on their website.
Falls Prevention for Older Adults o ers practical and proven ways to address the risks associated with falls.
For more information, please visit https://www.ncoa.org/older-adults/ health/prevention/fallsprevention, or use your smartphone to capture this QR code.
Enjoy home-cooked New England-style fare
Residents of New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough enjoy
culinary team using only the freshest ingredients.
Classic New England-style meals include roast turkey, pork tenderloin, seafood Newburg, Yankee pot roast, and much more. Residents may request “healthy,” “half,” or “hearty” portions. To add to the variety, an assortment of sandwiches and omelets is also always available.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $3,400/month for one resident.
Major mixed-use project in Downtown Northborough before ZBA
Mixed-Use Project | from page 1
Protection Overlay District, the site was formerly home to a Northborough fire station that was razed in March 2025.
Plans for multiple mixeduse buildings have been put forth for the site. Closest to West Main Street (Route 20), a small 2-story building has been proposed with commercial space on the first floor and one one-bedroom residential unit on the second floor. Closer to Church Street would be a 3-story building with several commercial spaces on the first floor and eight one-bedroom units on the top two floors.
The building closest to Church Street looks like two buildings on site plans. The buildings’ first floors are disconnected from one another, creating a tunnel-like pathway for pedestrians walking from Church Street to the courtyard-like parking area. The site would have 34 total spaces, and traffic would access it through a driveway on Church Street or an exit-only driveway onto Route 20.
Some Zoning Board of Appeals members were skeptical of traffic flow through the site. The issue is something the applicant may revisit.
“We had to choose traffic flow or safety, and we chose safety,” the developer said.
The parking situation — 34 spaces for a restaurant, nine units, and another storefront — was also questioned by ZBA members. How would the parking work during restaurant deliveries, for instance? If all the residents work from home, is there enough parking? What about the employees working at the retail businesses and
More important than where we stand on the issues of life is what we are doing with the time on Earth we’ve been given.
restaurant?
“What the code requires is what we provided,” the developer said. “We met the letter of the law.”
The site backs up onto Cold Harbor Brook, and the developer, LAK Northborough Realty LLC — run by Northborough residents Chris and Millie Milton — has previously said it tried
to embrace the waterfront as much as possible. The applicant was said to be “very adamant about making this development look like a classic New England town.” At least one of the commercial spaces would be a restaurant operated by Millie Milton, who runs fan-favorite C’est La Vie Bistro just down the street.
“I’m excited to bring a downtown feel and also an aesthetic,” Milton told the Community Advocate in July.
“We wanted to bring nature and history together,” the applicant said.
The development will need several special permits; the April hearing was the start of what will likely be a monthslong approval
process. In project documents, the developer states that “the proposed mixeduse development will greatly improve the aesthetics of the site and will help revitalize the neighborhood and the surrounding area.”
The project “will provide much-needed housing and supportive services and retail establishments that will complement the other uses in this area. It will also improve the tax base of the property, resulting in increased tax revenue to the town, as well as providing employment opportunities, both during construction and post-construction,” the application continues.
The portion of the site that was once 13 Church Street served as the Northborough Fire Station between 1926 and 1976, though it was abandoned after the fire department moved to its Pierce Street location. The building hasn’t been occupied since the mid-2000s. In 2020, residents voted at Town Meeting to allow the Select Board to dispose of the property. LAK Northborough Realty LLC was the only respondent to a request for proposals for the development and disposition of the site.
Robert J. Terkanian
Plans for this major downtown site (Photo/Dave Bagdon)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
To the Editor:
I am proud to support Anand Sharma for the Shrewsbury Select Board. Having served alongside him on the Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival committee, I witnessed firsthand his proactive leadership and his inherent persistence required to achieve vital projects to successful completion. Also, as a responsible longtime resident of Shrewsbury, I admire his unwavering commitment to our community.
He has been devoting a lot of energy and time to addressing several critical issues that came before the Select Board and other town committees. He did not hesitate to stand up when it mattered. To name just a few, he was instrumental in convincing people against overspending on the poorly planned and overpriced DPW building. He raised serious concerns about the MBTA zoning plan and the Beal Deal. The list does go on.
Anand is a dynamic advocate who does not simply identify challenges, he spearheads initiatives to resolve them. His professional background in engineering and MBA provides him with a systematic framework through which he can approach complex municipal issues with analytical precision. He can achieve desired results within budgetary constraints. He will bring a data-driven approach to our decision making.
He is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our seniors and every member of our community and committed to ensuring that every resident has the support they need to thrive and prosper. He stands with small businesses to attract new investments, increase revenue and support jobs creation.
A product of rigorous academic standards, Anand knows that a premier education is one of our town’s greatest assets. He is dedicated to not just maintaining but keep advancing the excellence of our already acclaimed school system.
I am fully convinced he possesses both the capability and the character to serve our Shrewsbury community with distinction. I am sure that the people who already know him do agree with what I am saying and the people who do not know him yet will soon come to appreciate his capabilities.
Please join me in supporting Anand Sharma. Shrewsbury deserves dedicated leadership, a fiscally responsible and a results-driven mindset to the Select Board.
Please cast your vote on Tuesday, May 5th for Anand. Suresh Gupta, Shrewsbury
To the Editor:
I am proud to endorse Carlos Garcia and Beth Casavant for re-election to the Shrewsbury Select Board. In a time when thoughtful, steady leadership matters more than ever, Carlos and Beth bring deep roots in our community and proven records of public service.
Having grown up in Shrewsbury, Carlos attended our public schools and understands firsthand what makes Shrewsbury special. That perspective has guided his work on the town’s Affordable Housing Trust, where he has approached complex issues with care and balance.
Beth’s record of solid fiscal responsibility ensures stable funding for our schools and town. Her clear communication builds trust in our town government. Both Carlos and Beth make a genuine effort to bring people together, ensuring that all voices are heard — even when perspectives differ. That kind of leadership fosters trust and leads to better outcomes for the entire community.
I strongly support their re-election to the Shrewsbury Select Board. Ann Refolo, Shrewsbury
To the Editor:
It started with a compost bin in my backyard.
Over a decade ago, what began as a small effort quietly transformed into a deeper awareness of how my everyday choices impact our planet. Composting taught me something profound: nothing in nature is truly waste. Everything has a cycle, a purpose, and a place to return.
But as the years have passed, I have come to realize that composting is just one step in a much larger journey.
Today, our world faces an even greater challenge. Single use items have become part of our daily lives, often used for mere minutes but leaving a lasting mark on our environment. Our oceans, animals, and ecosystems quietly bear the burden of our convenience.
This Earth Day, I feel called to take the next step.
I choose to be more mindful. I choose to reduce what I consume. I choose to say no to single use items as much as possible. I choose to carry my reusable essentials, a shopping bag, produce bags, water bottle, coffee mug, and a simple container, wherever I go.
Not out of obligation, but out of respect for the Earth that sustains us, for the animals that share this planet with us, and for the future generations who will inherit what we leave behind.
Change does not begin with grand gestures. It begins with small, consistent choices made every single day
This Earth Day, I invite you to take one small step. It could be composting. It could be refusing plastic. It could be simply becoming aware.
Because when many of us take small steps together, they create ripples of change that can transform the world.
Let us walk this path together, gently, mindfully, and with deep gratitude for our precious Earth, one choice at a time. Sunita Razdan, Shrewsbury
To the Editor:
Please recognize the loss of 1.5 million Armenian Martyrs.
April 24th marks the 111th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Our Armenian history is well documented, save for a select few who seem to think that having a revisionist’s view of history somehow changes it. On April 24, 1915, most Armenian doctors, educators, writers, intellectuals, lawyers and community leaders were rounded up and viciously killed, or forced into death marches. This massacre left over 1.5 million Armenian dead from the actions of Young Turk Government members.
Genocide across the world has had a profound effect, and there is no doubt that this was a horrific incident, encased in a horrid part of history. Unspeakable crimes, committed by undeserving-tomention individuals, and by a community and government who still to this day overwhelmingly denies this history. We must recognize the happenings of 111 years ago. Wounds heal, but scars certainly remain. The healing process truly begins when all involved take responsibility for their role. We will never be able to change what happened, but we can all help with continuing to educate, so that history never repeats itself.
Armenian-Americans and human rights supporters must continue to teach individuals of this history. We must take time to reflect and remember all of
our family and friends whose lives were taken. There is no mistake that we have a dark cloud hanging over our heritage due to horrific actions from others. However, we also have a ray of sunshine shining through, and that is our successes and survival.
Sincerely, Proud Armenian-American, and State Representative, David Muradian
To the Editor:
Northborough faces challenges in a number of areas including increased operating costs, tight fiscal budgets, the tax impacts from large capital projects, limited commercial and economic development and macro-economic events beyond our control.
Those that will inherit the reins in our town will need to be responsible fiduciaries of the town’s assets and resources, and be its stewards and trusted advisors through periods of change and uncertainty.
We need a Select Board that is decisive and honorable, not polarized, nor swayed by the voices of a few people. A Board that can look at the big picture issues, make good business decisions and vote for the public good, not for special interests. Sometimes, that means making tough decisions.
The Moderator is an important role in the overall town governance and is responsible for assisting in the planning of the annual town meeting, the posting of the warrant items, conducting the meeting, managing the questions and answers, motions, amendments and overseeing the actual voting process.
The Moderator is also responsible for appointing members to key boards and committees, including the Appropriations Committee, Earthworks Board, Financial Planning Committee, Municipal Code & Bylaws Committee, and the Personnel Board.
It’s time to elect Jeff Ostiguy and Leslie Rutan to the Select Board and re-elect Fred George as Moderator.
They all have stellar backgrounds that well-qualify them for public office:
Jeff has a pedigree in marketing, research, account management and consensus building within large client settings.
Leslie has been involved with town government in various board and committee capacities for over 20 years, many of which as Select Board member and as Board chair.
Fred is a member of the Massachusetts Moderators Association and frequently interacts with his counterparts from other towns. He brings considerable integrity, uncommon skills, and years of experience to this elected position.
I believe that they have the backgrounds, objectivity and grit to get the job done.
Change is needed — it’s time for fresh perspectives, common sense and integrity. Jeff, Leslie and Fred will move Northborough forward. They have my vote!
John J. Rapa, Northborough
To the Editor:
I am writing to express my support for Nicole Torres for the Shrewsbury School Committee and for Carlos Garcia’s reelection to the Shrewsbury Select Board. Shrewsbury is at a critical juncture. Our town is navigating rising demands for schools, housing, and infrastructure while maintaining a commitment to fiscal responsibility. Our schools, in particular, must continue to deliver strong academic outcomes while managing growing enrollment and financial pressures. This
calls for thoughtful, balanced leadership focused on long-term results rather than short-term reactions.
Nicole Torres brings these qualities to the School Committee. As a Shrewsbury parent, she understands that decisions directly affect students and families. She is committed to upholding high academic standards, promoting transparency, and ensuring the responsible use of resources. She recognizes that challenges such as overcrowding and resource allocation require careful planning and a forwardlooking approach. Nicole’s style is measured and collaborative, grounded in listening to the community, asking informed questions, and working toward practical solutions that serve Shrewsbury’s broader interests.
I also support Carlos Garcia’s reelection to the Select Board. His connection to Shrewsbury runs deep, as he grew up in the community, attended its public schools, and dedicated his time to public service. That perspective informs his steady, consistent approach to leadership.
During his first term, Carlos has demonstrated a strong commitment to fiscal stewardship while supporting schools, public safety, and essential town services. He has advanced initiatives to address housing affordability and food insecurity and has worked to make local government more transparent and accessible to residents.
Together, Nicole Torres and Carlos Garcia demonstrate a shared commitment to thoughtful, community-centered leadership. Their focus on long-term planning, accountability, and engagement positions Shrewsbury well to meet the challenges ahead.
I respectfully urge residents to support and vote for Nicole Torres and Carlos Garcia on May 5, 2026.
Sincerely, Rajesh Velagapudi, Shrewsbury
To the Editor:
Smart. Articulate. Compassionate. This is how I describe Nicole Torres. As a lifelong resident of our community, I am proud to support Nicole for School Committee. Since arriving in Shrewsbury, she has tried to make it a better place for all its residents. Whether it has been as a Town Meeting member, a Rotary Club member, a Board Member of the Shrewsbury Development Corporation, or her work on the 300th Anniversary Committee, her passion for this town is seemingly endless.
As an elected official, I have had the pleasure of working with Nicole firsthand and can say that she is thoughtful and inclusive.
Nicole is a parent to two elementary school children, and as such, she understands the need to balance managing the current infrastructure of the system while planning for the future of our school system and advocating for fiscal responsibility.
Additionally, as an accomplished small business owner and attorney, she will bring strong business and legal acumen to the School Committee.
I encourage you to vote for Nicole Torres for School Committee on May 5. Paul Campaniello, Shrewsbury
To the Editor:
At the April 7, 2026 Westborough Planning Board meeting, members discussed whether to include an open forum at future meetings — an opportunity for residents to openly comment, ask, questions, and raise concerns to both members and the public. This meeting can be viewed on WestboroughTV.org.
Currently, the Planning Board does not provide a regular open forum at meetings, despite being an elected body and one that plays a significant role in shaping the town’s development. While public par-
ticipation is ultimately at the discretion of the chair, the Massachusetts Attorney General encourages public bodies to allow as much participation as time permits. The alternatives offered by the Board do not fully address this gap. Requesting an agenda item requires prior approval, which limits spontaneous public input. Public hearings are restricted to specific topics and do not allow for broader community concerns. Speaking individually with board members or the town planner also lacks transparency, as those conversations are not shared publicly. In essence, the alternatives represent censorship.
An open forum is fundamentally different. It allows citizens to exercise their First Amendment Rights. It provides a designated time during a public meeting for residents to express views on non-agenda items, ensuring transparency, better communication, and public participation in local matters.
The Planning Board has stated there is little demand for an open forum. However, I and others have personally attended meetings and requested the opportunity to speak, only to be told that we cannot speak.
If the goal is to truly promote transparency and public involvement, establishing an open forum at each meeting is the right thing to do. As elected officials, Planning Board members have a responsibility to hear directly from the residents they serve. I respectfully urge the Planning Board to reconsider its position and adopt a true open forum policy.
Jo Anne Aramini, Westborough
To the Editor:
I’m writing to strongly support Rachel Sharifipour and Nicole Torres for the Shrewsbury School Committee. As a lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, I’ve been fortunate to experience Shrewsbury Public Schools as a student, parent of 2 proud graduates, and School Committee member for the past 11 years. I care deeply about our school district and its future. In my view, Rachel and Nicole are the right candidates to move our schools forward.
I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside Rachel Sharifipour for the past three years, and I’ve seen up close how seriously she takes this role. She puts in the time, comes prepared, and stays focused on what matters most, supporting students and staff. Rachel asks thoughtful questions, relies on data to guide decisions, and approaches challenges in a practical, measured way. She understands the responsibility that comes with this position and consistently follows through in a way that benefits the entire district.
Nicole Torres has also shown a strong commitment to our community through her work as a Town Meeting Member and as Vice Chair of the town’s 300th Anniversary Committee. She is someone who listens, collaborates, and works to represent the broader interests of Shrewsbury. As a parent with two young children in the district, she brings a personal perspective and a genuine investment in the future of our schools. She understands what makes Shrewsbury Public Schools strong and is committed to supporting that standard.
What stands out most to me is that both Rachel and Nicole are running for the right reasons. They are not focused on personal agendas or individual interests. They are focused on the success and well-being of all students and staff. They approach this work with a sense of responsibility, fairness, and commitment to the entire community. If you are looking for candidates who will stay grounded, do the work, and keep students at the center of every decision, I encourage you to support Rachel Sharifipour and Nicole Torres on May 5, 2026.
Jon Wensky, Shrewsbury
Prolific local artist selected to paint Northborough Town Hall mural
By Sophia Oppedisano Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Local artist Melissa Pandina was selected by the Northborough
Cultural Council to paint the “Seasons of Northborough” mural. The mural will be displayed at Northborough Town Hall in June.
Pandina is a professional muralist and studied at MassArt. Her specialty is community-engaged muralism and her work has been featured across Massachusetts, including community murals in Marlborough and at Southwick’s Zoo.
She said she’s excited to paint a mural so close to her home in Westborough.
The theme of the mural is “Seasons of Northborough,”
which Pandina interpreted through an apple tree motif and a focus on how children play through the change of the seasons.
Pandina said she’s “so excited” to see how the design comes together and how the community reacts to the mural once it’s fully installed on the Town Hall.
Northborough Cultural Council member Jennifer Tolman said after seeing Pandina’s work in Springfield and her vision for this project in Northborough, she “immediately knew she was the
Melissa Pandina has done murals in the local area. Now, her work
featured in Northborough.
ACTIVITIES GUIDE
SUMMER CAMP
PROGRAM
The furniture at “Civic Plaza” has arrived. Last year, in celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Westborough Civic Club committed to giving up to $50,000 for the space between The Coop at 32 West Main Street and Town Hall at 34 West Main Street. Phase One includes one six-seater table, four fourseater tables, planters, benches, a garbage can, and a bike rack. Two of the four-seaters are modified – one for wheelchair access and the other with a checkerboard pattern for a potential game of chess. The space will be a work in progress for the remainder of the year, with plans to fill in the planters soon. The Civic Club is awaiting feedback to determine what else residents might like to see in this newly established pocket park.
(Photos/Leighah Beausoleil)
Sustainable Grafton celebrates Earth Day with community
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – From a young age, Noah Haag was inter ested in the environment, studying marine biology in college. When he moved to Grafton, seeing the various environmentally-focused groups pushed him to get in volved with the Conservation Commission and Sustainable Grafton.
“When we moved here, we saw that a lot of people were passionate about this,” said Haag. “It was a really great way to give back to the community – enjoy something that I enjoy, sustainability.”
On April 26, Haag helped man Sustainable Grafton’s booth at its third annual Earth Day event on Grafton Common. Boasting over a dozen vendors, the event was meant to help bring awareness to different nature-focused groups throughout town.
“We want to put it out there and show people that there are ways to get involved,” Haag told the Community Advocate. Angel Hair Alpacas, based
in Grafton, brought two furry friends along, while community groups like the Grafton Land Trust, Grafton Trails Committee, Blackstone Heritage Corridor, and Raptor Tales Rescue answered questions from patrons. Grafton Achieving Independence Now (GAIN) sold fresh-cut flowers to those who attended.
The event was a boon for
Sustainable Grafton, which Ann Marie Foley started as a Facebook page approximately seven years ago. The group now meets regularly to promote sustainable efforts in the community.
“Environmentalism matters to me because it’s about protecting the systems that sustain all life — clean air, safe water, healthy soil, and a stable
climate. When we conserve our natural resources, we’re not just preserving landscapes; we’re safeguarding our own future and that of generations to come. The choices we make today — how we use energy, reduce waste, and protect ecosystems — directly impact the balance of the planet,” Foley said.
“Being passionate about
environmentalism means recognizing that small, consistent actions can collectively create meaningful change and ensure a more sustainable, resilient world. I have been committed to acting locally in this regard, hoping to have local initiatives, such as the plastic bag ban, trickle out regionally and state-wide,” she added.
Marlborough councilor deployed to active military duty Pride 5K to return to Shrewsbury
By Sophia Oppedisano Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough’s Ward 7 Councilor and Navy reservist and command-
chael Ossing said the council will be taking care of Sargent’s work during his absence. A majority vote will still require six votes, and a supermajority will require eight.
Ossing said he is confident the City Council will operate normally and noted a recent
borough’s deceased veterans. He has marked hundreds of graves for fallen Marlborough men and women.
er Matthew Sargent has been deployed to active military duty, leaving one of the City Council’s seats vacant for at least 170 days.
City Council President Mi-
13-month stretch when the council operated with only 10 members after the passing of the late City Councilor Donald Landers.
Sargent was elected to the Ward 7 seat in November 2025 and has worked for years to discover the stories of Marl-
A lifelong Marlborough resident, Sargent helped organize the Medal of Liberty Ceremony that honored residents who died during World War II and assisted with the research that led to the naming of the Goodnow Brothers School, the softball field at the High School after Richard Demers, and the baseball field at Whitcomb after Harold Cole.
During his campaign for City Council, Sargent said, “I care about the city and want to make sure the direction the city heads in is right for those folks who have and will continue to call Marlborough home like me.”
SHREWSBURY – Kick off Pride
Month this year at the second annual Shrewsbury Pride 5K. Hosted by the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury (FCCS) and Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services (SYFS), the Shrewsbury Pride 5K run/ walk is an intentionally inclusive event that brings people together to have fun, be active, and support the LGBTQIA+ community. State Rep. Hannah Kane will once again serve as the presenting sponsor.
Held on June 6 at 9 a.m., the run/walk returns to Oak Middle School and the beautiful Maple Avenue neighborhood. The registration price is $30 per person, which increases to $35 on the day of the event. Check-in will close at 8:45 a.m. that morning. Free T-shirts are available to the first 400 to register. Timing services will be provided by Presidential Timing. New this year: youth-sized T-shirts, peer-to-peer fundraising, and a slightly-altered race route with a challenging home stretch. All ages are welcome, including children in strollers. Due to insurance restrictions, dogs may not participate. Proceeds of the event will be shared by SYFS, to facilitate programs to directly support LGBTQ+ youth and families, and FCCS, to support ongoing programs of outreach to local and wider marginalized communities. For more information and to register, please go to www.shrewsburypride5k.org.
Northborough Board of Health tables possible poultry regulations
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – After months of discussion that “pitted neighbor against neighbor in a town that’s fairly small,” according to Board of Health Chair Glenn French, Northborough has decided to semi-permanently table an effort to impose restrictions on chicken owners in town. The decision, met with clapping in the audience, is a win for Northborough’s owners of poultry.
On Feb. 24, the Board of Health held a public hearing regarding the imposition of regulations for keeping poultry in town. The issue, which entered the limelight when it was reported by the Community Advocate in September, started when residents of Thaddeus Mason Road came to the Board of Health complaining about a chicken coop that was “upsetting” due to the smell.
The Board of Health drew up potential regulations.
“Everybody in this neighborhood, they really watch out for their property, they try to make everything look nice,” Joan Clementi said at the initial meeting. “This [the chicken coop] is probably upsetting to quite a few people, us the most.”
The proposed bylaws would have limited the number of chickens allowed: a maximum of four for quarteracre lots, six for half-acre lots, 12 for 3-acre lots, and 18 for 5-acre lots. Roosters wouldn’t have been allowed on properties less than three acres.
In addition, chickens must not “create nuisances,” including noise, between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., and they must be “confined to the property” – no grazing or free-range birds allowed. Any chickenrelated facilities must be 75 feet away from another dwelling, and 15 feet away from any abutting lots, according to the proposed bylaws.
But, according to French, the regulations led to “a lot of outcry from chicken owners.”
In a public meeting in February, a slew of poultry owners outlined their concerns about the proposed bylaws, taking issue with what they called overly restrictive measures.
“I love my chickens. … Our chickens are well away from
any neighbors. We keep a very clean coop that does not attract bugs. It does not smell – easy chemistry. They’re very well cared for. … Your proposal is too restrictive and clearly doesn’t understand chickens,” said Wendy Holm.
On April 14, the Board of Health decided to not impose any new regulations. Mem -
bers cited how, despite an estimated several hundred houses in Northborough with poultry, there have been only a half-dozen complaints in the last couple years. Should there be any problems with chicken in the future, the Board of Health will review them on a case-by-case basis.
“There are so many respon-
sible chicken owners. We’re overreaching as a board at this point because one couple was upset their neighbors had chickens and that their property value was going to go down. That’s just unfounded,” said Board of Health member Lisa Johnson.
Added French: “Live and let live.”
Residents of New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough enjoy a wide variety of exquisite, home-style meals prepared in our own kitchen by our talented culinary team using only the freshest ingredients.
Classic New England-style meals include roast turkey, pork tenderloin, seafood Newburg, Yankee pot roast, and much more. Residents may request “healthy,” “half,” or “hearty” portions. To add to the variety, an assortment of sandwiches and omelets is also always available.
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NORTHBOROUGH – Mental Health America is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month this May.
“This year’s theme — More Good Days, Together — encourages us all to reflect on what a ‘good’ day looks like, both for ourselves, and for our communities. Together, we can use that insight to connect people to the
& Silver
Broken Jewelry or the Sterling Flatware Set that sits in your closet! Bring in your…
right support at the right time, and shape advocacy, education, and community engagement to make more good days possible for all,” the organization’s website reads.
Northborough has an array of resources and activities to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month. Registration, when required, is available
on Northborough’s website.
Expressive Art Therapy
Join Health and Human Services
Social Worker Caitlin Mitchell at the Northborough Free Library’s Teen & Adult Program Room on May 4 from 6 to 7 p.m. to learn about what expressive art therapy is, who it helps, its therapeutic benefits, and resources to explore further.
Prior to coming to Northborough, Mitchell majored in expressive art therapy at Lesley University. She still carries the training with her, and she likes to “incorporate [it] in a lot of the work that [she does],” she said in a recent interview.
20 vendors offering a variety of opportunities — seasonal, weekly, etc. — will be ready to present. “Volunteering, especially for kids, is a huge thing to connect with your community. It gives self-esteem. It’s not all about putting it on your resume, but it’s about finding a sense of purpose as well,” said Community Outreach Coordinator Liz Nolan. “Volunteering just brings a lot to you.”
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Running on Empty
Feeling burnt out? Join Mitchell for this online “Lunch & Learn” session entitled “Running on Empty: A Discussion on Stress, Anxiety, and Burnout.” The event will run on May 5 from 12 to 12:30 p.m., and will be recorded for those who can’t make it live.
“I think we all experience stress and anxiety, especially with so much change in the world right now, and then we forget about burnout, until we’re burnt out. We’re realizing we need to figure out how to help ourselves. I always like to include all our resources,” said Mitchell.
Social Host Awareness
On May 6 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., join Det. Stephen Sullivan and attorney Richard Rafferty at Algonquin Regional High School’s library for a seminar about how to safely host social gatherings. Learn what can happen as a result of underage drinking, and how to celebrate prom, graduation, and spring events safely.
Mindful Monday
A 30-minute meditation with Erica at the Northborough Free Library will take place on May 11 at 12 p.m. The meditation will include a mindful walk around the library grounds – and offer a chance for people to disconnect from their busy lives.
Youth Volunteer Fair
Algonquin Regional High School will transform into a Youth Volunteer Fair from 6 to 8 p.m. on May 12. It will be geared toward sixth- through twelfth-grade students. Over
You’ve heard of CPR — how about QPR? On May 19 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., get free QPR Suicide Prevention training at the Northborough Free Library. QPR — often called the CPR of mental health — helps people recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis. For those curious, QPR stands for Question, Persuade, Refer.
“This is not a clinical training — nobody is going to be a clinician coming out of it, nor should they feel like it — but it’s empowering people to realize that talking about suicide is stigmatized, and people really need someone to know that they’re there,” said Mitchell.
She added: “Suicide is people trying to problem-solve a problem, but if you don’t give them other options and try to give them hope, they feel hopeless. This training is about giving a sense of hope to those people so they know there are more solutions to their problems.”
Mammography Van
From 7 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., the Dana-Farber Mammography Van will be dropping by the Northborough Free Library. It’s a convenient way to get peace of mind about your physical health, which ultimately helps your mental health.
Walk With Moms
From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., join the Moms Walk & Talk around Ellsworth-McAfee Park. The walk, which starts at the snack shack, is an opportunity for moms to get outside, move their body, and connect with other moms in a judgment-free space. Weather permitting, of course!
“Parenting is hard, and there’s a lot of focus on middle-schoolers, high-schoolers, but what about the moms of younger kids? It’s an opportunity for moms to get outside for a health walk. It’s an open forum, and just us being another resource,” said Nolan.
Blue Mountain Painting brings hometown pride to work
By John Bishop Reporter
REGION – For Jesse Loughlin, owner and founder of Blue Mountain Painting, projects run the gamut from basic touch-ups to complete exterior repaints. Although quality is the main product, trust is what it’s all about.
“People call us because they have a problem to solve,” Loughlin said. “I need to figure out what that is and offer the best solution.”
Loughlin, who grew up in Southborough and Berlin, chose to build his business in the communities he knows best. Since 2020, he has steadily expanded his customer base across the MetroWest region.
Blue Mountain Painting fields as many as six crews during its busiest seasons, handling projects that range from single-room updates to larger residential and commercial jobs. Based in Southborough, the company serves
homeowners and businesses throughout the area.
The company’s services go well beyond walls, ceilings, and trim. Blue Mountain Painting can refinish kitchen cabinets, epoxy garage floors, and do plaster and drywall repair.
Follow-through is of the utmost importance to Blue Mountain Painting.
“Customer service is not a cookie-cutter process,” said Loughlin. “We do what we say we will, and we don’t promise what we can’t deliver.”
To ensure a high-level of customer satisfaction, Loughlin points to what he calls a “360-win approach” — a system that takes into account the customer experience, the goals of the business, and the success of his team members.
“I want the customer to be fully satisfied,” he said. “I want the people who work for me to have a good experience and feel valued. And the business has to succeed, too.”
He added: “If any one part
falls short, it doesn’t work.”
Exterior painting in this region must survive a diverse set of climate challenges. Beyond the heat and humidity of New England summers, a paint job must also hold up to extended wet spells and the region’s snow-blanketed winters. In this harsh environment, choosing the right paint and the right color is key.
“Color is very subjective,” Loughlin said. “I try to guide people toward colors that will work in the real world.”
Loughlin favors highquality paints from California Paints, Benjamin Moore, and Sherwin-Williams for durability and finish, but stresses that the right solution depends on the customer’s goals. Whatever the case, Blue Mountain Painting is here to help.
“Some people care most about aesthetics, some care about function, some just want protection, and others simply want a high-end custom finish,” said Loughlin. Regardless of the service,
one thing doesn’t change — Blue Mountain’s process, rooted in honesty and integrity. The company has a relentless focus on communication and quality work.
“We take our reputation very seriously,” Loughlin said.
“This is home,” he added. “I understand what it takes to maintain property in this climate, and I know what customers expect.”
More information about Blue Mountain can be found at https://bluemtnpainting. com/. To receive an estimate, call 508-282-2284 or fill out the contact form on the website. Estimates are free and can be done in-person or remotely.
LEGAL NOTICES
Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
SHREWSBURY
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC FORUM
The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public forum on Monday, May 11th at 7 PM in the Shrewsbury Police Department Training Room, 106 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 of Shrewsbury. These findings are used to update the Community Preservation Plan.
If you are unable to attend in person, you are encouraged to complete a survey to have your voice heard, the survey can be found by following this link, https://forms. gle/Jd2247YMDZiSx9PA9. Please refer to the CPC website, www.shrewsburyma. gov/cpc, for more information.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Kevin Mizikar, on behalf of the Town of Shrewsbury, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability to conduct a geotechnical investigation that will include drilling soil borings within the project area between South Street and Green Street.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Edward Mello, 76 Lakeside Drive, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the construction of a deck and hot tub at 76 Lakeside Drive.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Thomas Jenkins, 10 Hill Street, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of an existing deck and addition of a prefabricated sunroom with helical pier foundation at 10 Hill Street.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that PGM Realty Holdings LLC, 421 Washington Street, Auburn MA 01501 has filed a Notice of Intent for the demolition of existing buildings and structures and the construction of an car dealership, service center, wetland crossing and parking area at 957 Boston Turnpike.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Trieu Nguyen, 395 South Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 1 tree, abandonment of septic system and connection to sewer at 395 S. Quinsigamond Avenue.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Zaheen Syed, 3 Deerfield Road, Shrewsbury has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of trees at 3 Deerfield Road.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Paulo Martins, 3309 Quail Creek Road, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73120, has filed an after-the-fact Request for Determination of Applicability for the abandonment of a septic system and connection to sewer at 45 Bay View Drive.
A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 12, 2026, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Shrewsbury Conservation Commission
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING 100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
May 14, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Emily Anderson, 27 North Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01571 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table III to allow for a shed five feet (5’) from the side setback where ten feet (10’) is required on property located at 27 North Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 11 Plot 043000.
May 14, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Kate Moriarty, 72 Holman Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.C-Table III to allow for an accessory structure five and nine tenths feet (5.9’) from the principal dwelling where ten feet (10’) is required on property located at 72 Holman Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 17 Plot 112000.
May 14, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Samantha Ormond, 101 Grove Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I for an inlaw apartment upon property located at 101 Grove Street in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 46 Plot 084000.
May 14, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of McCarty Engineering, INC., 42 Tucker Drive, Leominster, MA 01453 for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I for a Salesroom for Automobiles and Motor Cycles and for a garage and repair shop upon property located at 957 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 36 Plot 019000.
May 1st and May 8th
David Moore, Clerk
HUDSON
NOTICE OF DECISION FOR MINOR MODIFICATION TO SITE ASSIGNMENT HUDSON BOARD OF HEALTH
Under 310 CMR 16.20(13), notice is hereby given that on April 23, 2026, the Hudson Board of Health (“Board”) issued its decision for the application of B-P Trucking, Inc., and the Town of Hudson Department of Public Works (“Proponents”) for a minor modification of the Site Assignment for the property at 1 Municipal Drive a/k/a 300 Cox Street, Hudson, MA 01749 (“Property”). The Property has an existing Site Assignment for a Refuse Transfer Station that was issued by the Board of Health on January 7, 1986.
The application sought approval to relocate the existing transfer station operations within the Property, resulting in the construction and operation of a new Refuse Transfer Station on the siteassigned parcel. The Proponents sought a minor modification (as defined by regulation of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection) of the 1986 Site Assignment to allow the new Refuse Transfer Station to accept up to 850 tons per day of municipal solid waste (MSW) and construction and demolition debris (C&D), an increase of 500 tons per day from current facility operations.
After conducting public hearings, reviewing the evidence entered into the Administrative Record, and deliberating on the application, the Board voted unanimously to deny the application based on the standards set forth in M.G.L. c. 111, §§ 150A and 150A ½, and the implementing regulations at 310 CMR 16.00.
The Board’s full written decision has been filed with the Hudson Town Clerk, incorporated into the Administrative Record, and is available for public inspection and copying at Hudson Health Department Town of Hudson 78 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749
The decision is also available online at https://www.townofhudson.org/932/ Hudson-TransferStation-Project-MinorMo.
Any person aggrieved by the decision of the board of health may, within 30 days of publication of this Notice of Decision appeal under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 30A, § 14.
Dated: April 23, 2026 7966728.1
Conforme a 310 CMR 16.20(13), por medio del presente se le informa que el 23 de abril de 2026, la Junta de Salud de Hudson (“Junta”) emitió su decisión sobre la solicitud de B-P Trucking, Inc., y el Departamento de Obras Públicas (Department of Public Works) del Pueblo de Hudson (“Proponentes”) para una modificación menor de la Asignación del Sitio para la propiedad ubicada en 1 Municipal Drive a/k/a 300 Cox Street, Hudson, MA 01749 (“Propiedad”). La Propiedad tiene una Asignación del Sitio existente para una Estación de Transferencia de Residuos que fue emitida por la Junta de Salud el 7 de enero de 1986.
La solicitud buscaba aprobación para reubicar las operaciones existentes de la estación de transferencia dentro de la Propiedad, lo que resultaría en la construcción y operación de una nueva Estación de Transferencia de Residuos en la parcela con asignación de sitio. Los Proponentes solicitaron una modificación menor (según la definición del reglamento del Departamento de Protección Ambiental de Massachusetts [Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection]) de la Asignación del Sitio de 1986 para permitir que la nueva Estación de Transferencia de Residuos aceptara hasta 850 toneladas por día de residuos sólidos municipales (municipal solid waste, MSW) y desechos de construcción y demolición (construction and demolition, C&D), un aumento de 500 toneladas por día con respecto a las operaciones actuales de la instalación. Después de hacer audiencias públicas, revisar la evidencia ingresada en el Registro Administrativo y deliberar sobre la solicitud, la Junta votó por unanimidad denegar la solicitud con base en las normas establecidas en M.G.L. c. 111, §§ 150A y 150A ½, y los reglamentos de implementación en 310 CMR 16.00.
La decisión escrita completa de la Junta ha sido presentada ante el Secretario Municipal de Hudson, incorporada al Registro Administrativo, y está disponible para inspección pública y copias en: Hudson Health Department Town of Hudson 78 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749
La decisión también está disponible en línea en https://www.townofhudson. org/932/Hudson-Transfer-Station-ProjectMinor-Mo.
Cualquier persona afectada por la decisión de la junta de salud puede, dentro de los 30 días de la publicación de este Aviso de Decisión, presentar una apelación conforme a las disposiciones de M.G.L. c. 30A, § 14.
Fechado: 23 de abril de 2026 7966728.1
AVISO DE DECISÃO PARA MODIFICAÇÃO MENOR DA DESIGNAÇÃO DO LOCAL CONSELHO DE SAÚDE DE HUDSON
Nos termos de 310 CMR 16.20(13), fica por meio deste avisado que, em 24 de abril de 2026, o Conselho de Saúde de Hudson (“Conselho”) emitiu sua decisão sobre o pedido de B-P Trucking, Inc., e do Departamento de Obras Públicas (Department of Public Works) da Cidade de Hudson (“Proponentes”) para uma modificação menor da Designação do Local referente ao imóvel localizado em 1 Municipal Drive a/k/a 300 Cox Street, Hudson, MA 01749 (“Imóvel”). O Imóvel possui uma Designação do Local existente para uma Estação de Transferência de Resíduos que foi emitida pelo Conselho de Saúde em 7 de janeiro de 1986.
O pedido buscava aprovação para realocar as operações existentes da estação de transferência dentro do Imóvel, resultando na construção e operação de uma nova Estação de Transferência de Resíduos no lote designado. Os Proponentes solicitaram uma modificação menor (conforme definido pelos regulamentos do Departamento de Proteção Ambiental de Massachusetts [Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection]) da Designação do Local de 1986 para permitir que a nova Estação de Transferência de Resíduos recebesse até 850 toneladas por dia de resíduos sólidos municipais (municipal solid waste, MSW) e entulho de construção e demolição (construction and demolition, C&D), um aumento de 500 toneladas por
dia em relação às operações atuais da instalação.
Após realizar audiências públicas, revisar as provas incluídas no Registro Administrativo e deliberar sobre o pedido, o Conselho votou por unanimidade para negar o pedido com base nos padrões estabelecidos em M.G.L. c. 111, §§ 150A e 150A ½, e nos regulamentos de implementação em 310 CMR 16.00.
A decisão escrita completa do Conselho foi protocolada junto ao Secretário Municipal de Hudson, incorporada ao Registro Administrativo, e está disponível para inspeção pública e cópia em Hudson Health Department Town of Hudson 78 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749
A decisão também está disponível online em https://www.townofhudson.org/932/ Hudson-Transfer-Station-Project-MinorMo.
Qualquer pessoa prejudicada pela decisão do conselho de saúde poderá, dentro de 30 dias da publicação deste Aviso de Decisão, apresentar recurso nos termos de M.G.L. c. 30A, § 14. Datado em: 24 de abril de 2026 7966728.1
LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under
The Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Sean Quinlivan. The owner of the property is Town of Hudson. The work is located at Glendale Road (Map-Parcel 32-14). The proposed project is a culvert replacement and a new sidewalk. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on May 7, 2026 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-5622948.
All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under
The Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Emily Groom. The owners of the property are Emily Groom and Scott Dolesh. The work is located at 75 Hunter Ave (Map-Parcel 25-16). The proposed project is an existing dock. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on May 7, 2026 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@ townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.
All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
LEGAL NOTICE – ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS
HUDSON LIGHT AND POWER DEPARTMENT 2026 GARAGE DOOR PROJECT
Notice is hereby given that proposals for Hudson Light and Power Department 2026 Garage Door Project will be received at the office of Mr. Justin Connell, General Manager, Hudson Light and Power Department, 49 Forest Ave, Hudson, MA 01749 until 1:00 p.m., May 28, 2026. The project specifications may be obtained at HLPD between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Inquiries should be directed to Andrew McCarthy, amccarthy@hudsonlight.com. The Department reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposal received.
Justin Connell General Manager
Hudson Light and Power Department 49 Forest Ave Hudson, MA 01749 978-568-8736
Where do all the plants come from at the annual Westborough Garden Club sale?
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – In the weeks leading up to the Westborough Garden Club’s annual plant sale, club members get down in the dirt to gather a variety of vegetation from home gardens across town.
During one of these collections, which the club calls “digs,” members gained access to some “cream of the crop” plants from a garden that’s been maintained since at least the 1960s.
“It’s a win-win — it helps me and it helps them,” the owner of the garden, who did not wish to have her name shared, told the Community Advocate.
By donating some of these new plants, she is able to protect her other vegetation from crowding. Her garden includes historic dwarf irises that came from Westborough gardening legend Bee Warburton,
whose irises were known internationally.
Approximately 90 percent of all the plants sold by the club sale are donated.
“It’s really quite an effort,” said Garden Club member Ted Kolota.
Profits are then used to support the town’s 24 community gardens, which the club maintains, in addition to a number of scholarships and grants.
This year’s sale is set to take place on May 16 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Hastings Elementary School, located at 111 East Main Street. The sale will occur rain or shine.
There will be an array of plants available, including natives, perennials, annuals, herbs, flowers, veggie plants, shrubs, and more. There will also be opportunities for customers to ask questions about plant care and maintenance — including tips on how to keep rabbits and deer out of your garden.
Give your garden a boost by heading to the Westborough Garden Club’s annual sale. (Photos/Leighah Beausoleil)
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Possible compromise in Shrewsbury school budget debate
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – A budget snafu appears to be resolved in Shrewsbury. Until Town Meeting, at least.
While planning the upcoming fiscal 2027 budget, the School Committee and municipal government had a public disagreement about school funding. Superintendent of Schools Joe Sawyer recommended a 4.75 percent increase to the school budget — the maximum allowed by the 2021 override agreement — while the municipal government held the School Department’s budget at a 4.25 percent increase.
On April 15, Sawyer informed the School Committee that an agreement may have been tentatively reached. Sawyer is now proposing a 4.53 percent increase to the school budget. The $94,431,135 pro -
posed budget is an increase of $4 million over fiscal year 2026.
In his initial recommendation, Sawyer pegged the budget at $94,631,000 for the 4.75 percent increase. On April 15, Sawyer and Assistant Superintendent Christian Girardi spoke of a degree of uncertainty with forecasting costs. The fluctuation in paying for out-of-district placements for special-education students has strained the budget, they said.
For example, after a change in residency for a special-ed-
ucation student, the district will pay for them to attend a $380,000 full-time out-ofdistrict residential school. The district has 53 out-of-district placements, some of which can cost upwards of $500,000 per-student, depending on their needs.
With graduations and new enrollees, Sawyer said that — between his original budget recommendation and today — the district was forecasting an additional $330,000 in special-education-related costs. Adding onto his original
(4.75 percent) budget proposal, the costs would bring the district to a 5.12 percent budget increase, outside the scope of the town’s 2021 override agreement.
To get the budget back down to a 4.75 percent increase, Sawyer anticipated making several staff changes, reducing a fulltime instructional assistant, a part-time special education teacher, and media assistant hours. These changes would be made through attrition, he said.
To get to the 4.53 percent compromise, Sawyer is planning to reduce the curriculum budget by $200,000. Working with Town Manager Kevin Mizikar, Sawyer said that there may be an opportunity to shift some money around — reappropriating grant funding, for instance — so the reduced spending doesn’t have an impact on student experiences.
“The good news, of course,
that with the $200,000, we’d effectively still be getting the benefit of a 4.75 percent increase, but that $200,000 comes from a different source. The challenge would be the next budget cycle. That $200,000 coming in the next budget cycle would require additional investment,” Sawyer told the School Committee.
Town Meeting will have the final say over the budget. If a 4.25 percent increase is selected, Sawyer said an adjustment counselor, English Language Education teacher, and school psychologist position would be cut. Those positions in particular were put on the chopping block because there are people retiring or resigning from those roles.
“Yes, it’s a large budget. But we’ve always done more with less, and I think sometimes it becomes an expectation,” said School Committee member Sandra Fryc.
How Patrice Peris found her voice
By Sophia Oppedisano Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – On the second floor of a Westborough plaza on Main Street, the vibrancy of Patrice Peris Voice Studios is likely to catch your eye.
Midnight-blue couches, bright-yellow pillows, framed photos of stars like Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift, and the light-up “Dream” sign that invites singers of all ages into the space.
However, nothing in the studio is as vibrant as Patrice Peris herself.
In her black jumpsuit, combat boots, and bright turquoise earrings, Peris radiates energy as she works in her studio — a business she has owned for 12 years.
The Shrewsbury native has a storied signing career marked by national anthem performances at every major New England stadium. Her work was featured on Netflix, “Temptation Island,” and “The Voice.”
It took her a long time to get to this point. Peris fell in love with music and theater in high school, but she was only cast in her first lead role during her senior year.
Before landing the role of Robin in “Godspell,” Peris was unsure if the world of music and theater was the route she wanted to take with her life.
She wondered: “Am I good enough to even pursue this?”
After high school, Peris went on to study classical music at Anna Maria College before moving to UMass Amherst to study theater. College offered her training and opportunity, but Peris still questioned
whether she’d be able to sustain herself in this field.
After working at a nowdefunct theater and going on a couple of auditions, she found herself helping an artist development program in Boston. Peris was asked to work as a vocal coach.
At first, she declined the offer, worried it would take away from her own artistry. But after some thought, she took the role.
“I think a lot of people think when you teach or you coach, you’re going to lose so much, but I learned so much,” she said.
Her coaching developed at that first studio, and since then, Peris has opened her own coaching business, become a mother, started writing music, and battled cancer.
While she was sick and losing her hair, Peris thought about her industry’s standards of hair, makeup, and fashion. But nothing could faze her.
“I’m just going to rock this,” she said. “It’s OK, I’m me.”
She added: “I think anything that gives you a hardship, you can take that on with the mindset of treating it like a lesson.”
She tells her students, whom she fondly refers to as her “artists,” that once she realized not everyone was going to love her music and her voice, a weight lifted off her shoulders. She felt she could stay authentic to herself and her voice without catering to what others wanted from her.
Her “artists” don’t have to be perfect. Peris encourages them to own their mistakes and consistently reminds them that getting better is a process.
“That’s how I try to get them to break out of their shells. I use
what I’ve learned in the past for myself, and educate them in all the different realms — the voice and the performance, and even the business stuff,” she said.
Authenticity comes from “the process of just living life and being OK with being you,” Peris said. “I try really hard. I can get super excited and passionate, and I try to keep in mind what I’ve learned along the way with myself and learning, which is that things happen on a gradient.”
Smart Growth & Better Infrastructure
I believe in sustainable development that protects our town’s character while improving roads, utilities, and public spaces.
Supporting Our Seniors
I’m committed to expanding services and providing real financial relief so seniors can live comfortably and with dignity.
Growing Our Local Economy I stand with small businesses, work to attract new investment, and support job creation that keeps our community thriving.
Stronger Schools, Stronger Families
I support innovative education that helps every child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
More Public Recreational Space for Children I will work to increase more public recreational space forchildren’s overall development.
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and activity
Immediate
Rebecca is a familiar face around Westborough, known for her willingness to lend a hand wherever it’s needed. After seeing the impact COVID-19 had on local families, she became involved with the food pantry, where she now volunteers and serves on the board, helping support neighbors facing food insecurity. She is also active in her church community, teaching Sunday school, assisting with worship, and taking part in various activities. Rebecca has also been involved with the Westborough Women’s Club, where she previously served as vice president. She enjoys being part of the community and values the connections she’s made along the way.
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
Allen, Eulalie
formerly of Southborough
Amatucci, Patricia of ShrewSbury
Beaulieu Jr., Everett of hudSon
Bennett, Joseph of marlborough
Croucher, Robert of weStborough
Duval, Marilyn of grafton
Freker, Marjorie of northborough
Gao, Fengzhen of Southborough
Evelyn Grenier of northborough
Hurd, Janice
formerly of ShrewSbury
Jendrzejewski, Brian of grafton
Lambert, Mary of marlborough
Lino, Antonio of hudSon
Maher, Mary of ShrewSbury
McElman, Donald of marlborough
Melvin, Grace
raiSed in hudSon
Mitchell, Elfriede of ShrewSbury
Poirier, Amy of marlborough
Shelby, Deborah of ShrewSbury
Wenc, Mitchell of South grafton
Williams, Barbara
formerly of ShrewSbury
Wright, Ronald of hudSon
Marilyn A. Duval, 88
GRAFTON – Marilyn A. (Page) Duval, 88, of Grafton, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026. She is welcomed into heaven by her beloved husband of 60 years, Richard F. Duval. Born in Boston, MA on May 31, 1937, she was the eldest daughter of the late Ar-
thur Page and Paulita (Boucher) Page. She was predeceased by her sister, Jean (Page) Pollier, and her brother, Wayne Page. She is survived by her loving daughter, Michelle Fleming and her partner, Normand Collette of Grafton; her son, Jeffery Duval and his wife, Carmen, of Barre; her five grandchildren, Sean Fleming, Eric Fleming, Marissa Dzivasen and her husband, Chet, Matthew Duval, and Zachary Duval; and her four great-grandchildren, Hallie Dzivasen, Chase Dzivasen, Madelyn Fleming, and Quinn Fleming. Her memory will live on in their hearts for years to come.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted the family.
Patricia M. Amatucci, 82
SHREWSBURY – Patricia M. Amatucci,age 82, of Shrewsbury, passed away on April 13, 2026.
Patty, as she was known by all, is survived by her daughter, Cynthia M. Luke and husband David; by her son Vincent J. Amatucci, III and wife Linda; by four grandchildren Érin C. Blette and husband Joseph, Shawna L. Amatucci, Anthony V. Amatucci – Lopez and husband Sebas Amatucci – Lopez and Adam T. Amatucci and by two great-grandchildren Joey and Emily Blette – all whom she loved dearly.
Patty was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Clarice (Blanchette) Farr; by her husband of 42 years, Vincent J. Amatucci, Jr. (Jim) and by her only sister, Michele A. Herrick.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Robert D. Croucher, 91
WESTBOROUGH – Robert “Bob” D. Croucher, age 91, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the Rose Monahan Hospice House, surrounded by family after a brief
and unexpected illness. He was born in Richmond Hills NY, the only child of Ruth and George Croucher.
He was married to Judith, his wife of 69 years who predeceased him in 2023, and they lived Murrells Inlet SC. He retired from Gulf Oil Co. in Oceanside NY after 37 years where he and his wife resided and raised their children. He leaves a son, Dean Croucher of Sterling MA, and daughter Carol Lake of Virginia Beach VA, their spouses, four grandchildren and their spouses and five great-grandchildren.
Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden.
Marjorie A. Freker, 89
NORTHBOROUGH – Marjorie A. “Margie” (Giguere) Freker, age 89, of Northborough, MA, and formerly of Peabody, Malden, and Charlestown, MA, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025.
Margie is survived by her six devoted children: John C. “Jack” Freker Jr. and his wife Leidy Suarez Freker of Miami Beach, FL; Steve Freker of Malden; Gary Freker and his wife Lisa (Scarlett) of Lowell; Karen Freker and her partner Wendy Ziesemann of Shrewsbury; Linda Freker and her partner Eric Buzek of Conroe, TX; and Michael Freker and his wife Jennifer Stafford of Denville, NJ. She also cherished her close relationships with her sistersin-law Marjorie Giguere, Marie “Pat” Mendes, and Cheryl Freker.
Margie was lovingly known as “Nana” to John C. Freker III and his fiancée Charlotte Moore, Beau Freker and his wife Jennifer Engel-Freker, Angela Blaney and her husband Miles, Abigail Freker, Ryan Freker and his partner Caitlin Ace, Ashley Freker and her fiancé Adam Stevens, Brodie Freker and Hunter Freker. She was the proud great-grandmother of Eliza, Olympia, and Felix Freker, and leaves behind many in laws, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her former husband and the father of her children, John C. “Jack” Freker of Stuart, FL, with whom
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
she shared 33 years of marriage, as well as by her siblings - Albert D. Giguere, Barbara H. Rock, and Edward C. Giguere. Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
Barbara M. Williams, 90
SHREWSBURY – Barbara M. (Asselta) Williams, 90, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the beloved wife of the late John A. “Jack” Williams, Jr., with whom she shared 63 years of marriage.
Barbara is survived by her loving children: Dr. John A. Williams III (Judi), Thomas Williams, Kathleen Mangan (Kenneth), Deborah Williams (Sue Borden), and Wendy O’Neill (Peter).
She was the cherished grandmother of eight: Thomas Mangan (Julia), Daniel Mangan (Jess), Patrick Mangan, TJ Williams (Nikki), Joseph Williams (McKayla), Jillian O’Neill, Kerry Anne Harris (John) and Shannon Sanders (Matt). She was also the proud great-grandmother of fourteen and leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
Fengzhen Gao, 86
SOUTHBOROUGH – Fengzhen Gao, 86, a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother of Southborough, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, after an illness. She was the beloved mother of Dehui Li, Min Li, Tong Li, and Degang Li. Born in Rongcheng, Shandong, China, on January 14, 1940, she was the third child of the late Ruilin Gao (Father) and Fuzhi Chu (mother). She is survived by her loving children, Dehui Li, Min Li, Tong Li, and Degang Li; her grandchildren, Chanyuan Li, Li Wang, Shuangyuan Li, Elizabeth Wu, David Wu, Mary Li, Jim Li, Jenna Williams, and Harry Li; and her great-grandchildren, Chenxi Zhai, Yinuo
Zhai, and Luna Evangelista. The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted the family.
Amy L. Poirier, 71
BOSTON – Amy L. Poirier, a dedicated professional, passed away peacefully at her home on April 16, 2026. Born on October 21, 1954, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Amy lived a life marked by devotion to her family, career, and passions. She is survived by her brother, John F. Poirier of Atlanta; her sisters, Margaret “Meg” Pelletier and her husband Marc of Hartsville, South Carolina, and Mary Beth Poirier of Marlborough; her niece Abby Poirier and Abby’s wife Bonnie Watkins of Atlanta; and many cousins who cherished her companionship and warmth. Amy was preceded in death by her beloved parents, F. Thomas Poirier and Theresa M. (Donahue) Poirier.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough.
Joseph W. Bennett, 61
MARLBOROUGH – Joseph W. Bennett, lovingly known as Joe, passed away on April 19, 2026, at UMASS Memorial Medical Center.
Born on February 8, 1965, Joe lived a life rich with passion, generosity, and unwavering pride in his Italian heritage.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Sheila M. (Chambers) Bennett; their daughter, Stephanie M. Peterson, and her husband Eric of Marlborough; his mother, Patricia E. (Taranto) Bennett of Marlborough; his beloved grandson, Lucas Josti of Marlborough; his brother, Robert E. Bennett IV of Hudson; and stepson Robert Mann of Warren, Maine. He is also remembered fondly by many aunts and cousins. Joe was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Bennett III. Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
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NOTICES
SOUTHBOROUGH
140 Main St. on the 3 rd Floor Memorial Hall.
The applicant Scrub-A-Dub at 226 Maple St. proposes to replace six existing vacuum stalls, reconfigure landscape islands, repair curbing of parking lot, repave parking lot and install new landscaping plants. Work is near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested people are invited to the public hearing.
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday May 13, 2026 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting May 4, 2026 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com. This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-4850503 for bidding instructions.
2014 Freightliner Cascadia VIN: 1FUJGLDRXELFJ8726
Owned by AAS Trucking
2015 Jeep Cherokee VIN: 1C4PJMCB5FW582859
Owned by Jean Lubin
2019 Vanguard Box Trailer VIN : 5V8VA5323LM016748
Owned by Alpha Trucking Solutions
2016 GreatDane Box Trailer
VIN: 1GRAA0623GB710038
Owned by SamStar Trans LLC
2013 Ford Fusion
Vin: 3FA6P0H78DR138856
Owned by Hailey Stebner
2005 Ford F150
VIN: 1FTRX12W75FA63224
Owned by Martin Casey
2010 Chevrolet Impala
Vin: 2G1WB5EK9A1147816
Owned by Antonio Rodriguez
2005 GMC Envoy
VIN: 1GKDT13S752216908
Owned by Matthew Parkhurst
2004 Toyota Rav4 VIN: 2T3BF4DV8AW056818
Owned by Ashley Sanchez
2006 Honda Civic VIN: 2HGFG11896H561268
Owned by Carllos E Ribeiro Silva
2006 Subaru Outback
VIN: 4S4BP62C167310362
Owned by Mamadou Cissokho
2004 Lexus ES300
VIN: JTHBA30G545026637
Owned by Ashley St Louis/Nadia St Louis
2005 GMC Savana
Vin: 1GDGG31V951901399
Owned by Angel Montanes
2009 GMC Sierra VIN: 1GTHK59K19E155977
Owned by Steven Ciano
2010 Ford Edge Vin: 2FMDK4KC6ABB26207
Owned by Amherst Subaru
2007 Saturn LW200 VIN: 1G8JU84F42Y584066
Owned by Minnette DaVila
2007 Toyota Prius Vin: JTDKB20U477556234
Owned by Maicon D Ameida Pereira
2012 Nissan Altima VIN: 1N4AL2AP5CN566929
Owned by Merchant Auto
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Publication Friday April 17, 24 and May 1, 2026 Community Advocate.
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE
Docket No. WO26P1142EA
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Trial Court Worcester Division Probate and Family Court
Estate of: Charles Arthur Hill
Date of Death: May 14, 2023
To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner, Casey A. Hill of Southborough, MA.
Casey A. Hill of Southborough, MA. has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.
The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.
POLICE FIRE
Fatal crash on Route 20 in Shrewsbury
SHREWSBURY – On April 23 at approximately 1:57 p.m., the Shrewsbury Police Department received a 911 call reporting a motor vehicle crash in the area of 727 Hartford Turnpike (Route 20).
Multiple Shrewsbury officers responded, as well as the Shrewsbury Fire Department and Worcester EMS person -
nel. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crash involving a Hyundai Elantra and a Mercedes SUV. The operator of the Hyundai, later identified as Gina M. Lorusso, 48, of Charlton, was transported to a local hospital, where she was tragically pronounced deceased.
The operator of the Mer -
cedes was transported with minor injuries.
Hartford Turnpike was closed for several hours between South Street and Centech Boulevard due to the crash, and traffic was diverted. Several members from the CEMLEC (Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council) Crash Reconstruction
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Team responded to the scene. An investigation is underway. According to her obituary, Lorusso, a department manager at Opus Company in Shrewsbury, was a dog rescue foster parent – a role she often “failed at” by keeping them. She was described as “a bright star with a huge heart and a giant smile.”
SALEM – Over the past three months, detectives assigned to the Salem Police Criminal Investigation Division have conducted an extensive investigation into suspected human trafficking and prostitutionrelated activities at several businesses in the City of Salem advertising “bodywork,” “reflexology,” and “spa services.”
Human trafficking involves the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of individuals for the purposes of forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation. Perpetrators engage in these criminal enterprises to profit from the exploitation of victims, the Salem Police Department wrote.
On April 17, detectives, working in coordination with officers from the Community Impact Unit and the department’s Victim Services Unit, executed multiple search warrants. These included locations at 133 Boston Street, operating as “New Custom Bodywork,” and 116A Boston Street, operating as “Red Rose
Reflexology.”
As a result of the investigation, three individuals were taken into custody: Peter Leavitt, 57, of Peabody; Fang Liu, 52, of Peabody; and Barry St. Onge, 64, of Shrewsbury. Each will be charged with trafficking of a person for sexual servitude, deriving support from prostitution, and keep -
ing a house of prostitution. This investigation was conducted with the assistance of several partner agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police Human Trafficking Division within the State Attorney General’s Office, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, and the Essex County Sheriff’s Department.
WESTBOROUGH – On April 12, the Westborough Police Department responded to an alleged “Street Takeover” event, which typically involve a gathering of a large number of vehicles, in a secluded lot off of Research Drive.
About 10 to 20 vehicles were at the site upon arrival, and one vehicle allegedly accelerated toward officers,
NORTHBORO
nearly striking a cruiser, before accelerating onto a roadway at a high rate of speed. The car reportedly had no
additional ammunition, and a ski mask.
Rivera faces several charges. “The Westborough Police
OBITUARIES (CONT.)
Evelyn Grenier, 100
NORTHBOROUGH – Evelyn Marie (Bracci) Grenier, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, in her home with family by her side. She was the loving wife of the late Otis J. Grenier who predeceased her in 2011, having shared 60 years of marriage.
Evelyn, a centenarian, was born and raised in Worcester, the daughter of Gilbert and Helen (Frediani) Bracci. She grew up loving opera and sang on local radio as a teenager. Evelyn had a beautiful voice and continued to enjoy live music, and dancing with Otis (they even had a diploma in Square Dancing), Broadway theater performances, and the cinema throughout her long life. Evelyn had a keen eye for fashion and was always stylishly dressed.
Otis and Evelyn moved to Northborough in 1957, where they raised their family, and maintained the same beautiful home until passing. Evelyn was a most loving and nurturing mother and grandmother taking great pride in her children and grandchildren. Although she claimed not to enjoy cooking, she cooked large amounts of delicious food for the many family gatherings. Her call to dinner was “mangia, mangia!” She generously loved sharing her cooked goods with friends. When her children were older Evelyn worked for several years in the manufacturing industry but found her greatest joy in being a homemaker. Her motherly love was extended to the family’s many four-legged companions.
Otis and Evelyn had a wooden sailboat and sailed around Cape Cod and the Islands with family and friends. They took vacations to Florida, Cape Cod, Hawaii, Chicago, California, Texas and Italy where they had an audience with the Pope. When Evelyn retired at the age of 70 Otis and Evelyn became winter Texans and owned a home in a senior park in the Rio Grande Valley. They enjoyed making new friends there and participated in the activities the community offered. They went over the border to
Mexico and visited family in Austin frequently where they also had friends. During this time, they cruised to Bermuda and the Caribbean.
Evelyn was dearly loved and will be sorely missed by her family. She lived a simple life but had a bright spirit and remained young at heart and spontaneous. She proudly maintained her driver’s license until the age of 95. Her witty sense of humor and spunk will be missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to sincerely thank all the caregivers and aides who helped care for Evelyn.
Evelyn leaves behind her five children, John Grenier (Suzanne), Christopher Grenier, Dreanne Grenier (David Massie), Deirdre Grenier (Tom Berardi), and Renee Gersh (Stephen); and her beloved grandchildren, Walker Massie, Johnny and Ross Grenier, and Aaron and Samuel Gersh. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and sister, Elvia D. Bracci.
There will be a private family service at St. John’s Cemetery in Worcester. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
If you would like to honor Evelyn’s memory and love for the arts, please consider a donation to WICN in Worcester, NPR, or WGBH.
Assisting with arrangements was Kelly Cremation and Funeral Care in Worcester.
Donald C. McElman, 92
MARLBOROUGH – Donald C. McElman, 92 of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Barbara L. McElman, in October 2024.
Don is survived by his 2 sons, Douglas G. McElman and his wife Nancy of Marlborough, David C. McElman of Framingham, his granddaughter, Kaylee and his grandson Justin and his wife Emily, 5 great-grandchildren, Bella, Paisley, Jack, Kennedy and Ace as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He was also predeceased by his son, Stephen McElman in 1990, his brother, Wilfred, and his wife Florence McElman and sister, Rosemary Perkins. Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
Mitchell Wenc, 79
SOUTH GRAFTON – Mitchell “Mike” Wenc, 79, a lifelong resident of South Grafton, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at the Lutheran Home in Worcester following a long illness.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Susan Wenc; his son, Daniel Wenc, and daughter-in-law, Taryn; and his two cherished grandsons, who brought him immense joy. He also leaves his sister, Marilyn Klocek, and her husband Donald; along with several nieces, nephews, and many cousins. He is further survived by his step-sisters
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Ellen Peloquin and Barbara Lemoine, and step-brother Walter Zawalich. A brotherin-law, David Bumpus; and his sister-in-law, Janet Bumpus. He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Wanda (Stopyra) Wenc and his sister, Patricia Pelland.
Calling hours will be held at Roney Funeral Home in North Grafton on May 9, 2026, from 9:00 AM through 11:00 AM, with a memorial service to follow at 11am in the funeral home. All are invited to attend. Burial will be held at a later date.
Grace K. Melvin, 91
HOPKINTON – Grace K. (McCarthy) Melvin, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Framingham after a period of declining health. She was the loving wife of the late Curtis D. Melvin for 56 years. Born in Marlborough, she was the daughter of the late Francis J. and Grace C. (Shea) McCarthy.
Grace leaves her sons, Richard K. and wife Julie of Charlestown RI, and Keith F. and wife Zita of Newburyport; her grandchildren, Jennifer and husband Scott Lutterbie, Matthew and wife Krista Melvin, Christopher Melvin, and Stephanie and husband Stan Beck; her great-grandchildren Amelia and Rachel Lutterbie; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her brother, Francis J. McCarthy, Jr. Callanan Cronin Funeral
with
in
Home of Hopkinton assisted the family.
Antonio Lino, 89
HUDSON – Antonio Lino, 89, a cherished member of the Hudson community and a devoted family man, peacefully passed away, surrounded by his family, on April 19, 2026, at Coleman House in Northborough, Massachusetts.
He is survived by his devoted sons, Orlando Lino and his wife Kathryn of Hudson, Massachusetts, and Francisco Lino and his wife Ginger of Franklin, Massachusetts; his loving daughters, Ana Couto of Andover, Massachusetts, and Eugenia Manna of Cape Cod, Massachusetts; and his treasured grandchildren Sean McGann and his wife Jessica, Amanda Lino, Julianna Lino, Olivia Couto, Sophia Couto, Adam Manna, and Brendan Manna. Antonio also leaves behind his brother Fernando Lino and his wife Olympia; his sisters Rosa Cardosa, Zaira Pires, Maria Cruz and her husband Gabriel, and Olga Ferreira and her husband Antonio, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and other family members and friends.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Alcina DeJesus (Joaquim) Lino, whose memory remains deeply embedded in the hearts of all who knew them, and his son-in-law Derek Manna.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
while the sun shines, and there will be no anxiety when the storm comes.
Hat tricks abound as Shrewsbury girls’ lacrosse rolls to win COMMUNITY SPORTS
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – For practices, games, and team-bonding events, Shrewsbury girls’ lacrosse players have adopted a mantra to ensure their team stays on the up-and-up as the season progresses.
It’s something only a group
just a little bit — the rewards by the end of the season will be multiplied.
When the Colonials say that it’s only up from here, they mean it, and on the morning of April 25, Shrewsbury continued
each other up. Each goal counts and matters the same amount.”
As exponential as the team wants to become, the scoring in this game was strictly linear. The Colonials opened the contest at a furious pace and kept attacking until the final whistle. Albertson started the ambush, tallying four of her team’s first five goals.
of high-schoolers could come up with — and it’s a rallying cry straight out of the math classroom. Meet Shrewsbury lacrosse’s 2026 team mascot: the exponential function.
Though the mathematical equation lacks charisma, its message is clear. If the Colonials are to embrace this function and improve each day — even
to build momentum in a midseason showdown against Minnechaug, earning a convincing 17-7 win on April 26.
“Last year, we struggled with dipping and coming back up,” junior Paige O’Donnell told the Community Advocate. “This year, as a team, I think we’ve been pretty consistent throughout. I think we’re lifting
“I think that’s something we’ve really been working on — taking it to them and setting the tone for the rest of the game,” said Albertson. “If you come out slow, it’s a lot harder to get going later in the game.”
Added Head Coach Kathryn Terhune, who coached her team to a 17-3 record last season: “We got in their heads early. We were just on fire that first quarter — winning draws, finishing our opportunities. That gave us confidence to carry through the game, and it sent a message.”
Any high-schooler taking mathematics is taught to isolate variables. But what do you do when there are too many of them? How do you keep track of them? What do you do when many have values you can’t solve for?
It can become an incredibly confusing equation. One that mirrors the Shrewsbury attack.
With incredible depth spread throughout the roster, it’s often “pick your poison” for the opponent’s defense. Against Minnechaug, four
Shrewsbury athletes — Albertson (5), O’Donnell (3), Ellory Aherne (3), and Nica Welch (3) — registered hat tricks. Kennedy Lane, Sophie Ondovic, and Mila Vlahos also tallied goals.
“We have a lot of depth on offense. We have a lot of players that, depending on the game, will get hot. We look for each other, and I’m really proud of our offense for always finding each other,” said Terhune. “It’s anybody’s day, any day.”
“It makes it hard to scout us,” said Welch. “You could have a good game, another person could have a bad game, and you just flip-flop next time. Can’t pinpoint just one person.”
Though they played with an overwhelming lead for the majority of the game, the Colonials
showed no shortage of grit. In a chippy, physical contest that will leave several players battered and bruised in the coming days, Shrewsbury remained level-headed.
“We just had to keep a bubble in our mouth,” said Aherne. “We all talked as a team after the first half, and we all talked about not talking back to the referees. We just had to keep to ourselves.”
And so they did. And they were rewarded — exponentially.
“I’m really proud of them today for their composure,” said Terhune. “We talk a lot about controlling what we can control — and that’s themselves. I think they did a really great job focusing on themselves and focusing on how we play.”
Lauren Albertson eyes the net.
Nica Welch navigates a sea of defenders en route to the net.
(Photos/Evan Walsh)
Kennedy Lane (center) celebrates a goal alongside teammates.
Stellar pitching from Emily Ruiz leads Algonquin softball past Quabbin
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH
– With her Algonquin team nursing a one-run lead in the fifth inning, Emily Ruiz stepped into the batter’s box determined, understanding that her at-bat could be the difference for the Titans.
“It was a moment of like, ‘Oh God, I have to do this,’” she said.
After fouling the first pitch away, she lined up a fastball, zipping it past the third-baseman. Two runners scored on the single, giving Algonquin a lead it would never relinquish. On April 22, the Titans outlasted visiting Quabbin Regional, 6-2, to continue an excellent start to the season.
“I really locked in. I’d seen [the pitcher] already two or three times, so I had her timing,” said Ruiz. “I knew I’d be able to get a hit — I just had to find some sort of gap. I found it, and it was really great.”
As important as that at-bat
was, Ruiz made more of an impact in the circle, pitching the full seven innings for the Titans. Over 115 pitches, the senior captain struck out 10, allowing four hits, three walks, and two earned runs.
“I think it was focusing on my spots, hitting corners a lot, and my spin pitches help a lot, too — my changeup, my curveball. It helped get the strikeouts and keep them on their toes,” said Ruiz.
Added Head Coach Kristen Morcone: “Emily is a super hard-worker, and she wants it more than anyone, honestly. This is her first win of the season, so it was nice to see some run support, and she’s been battling.”
That “run support” didn’t look like it was coming for a bit. Isabella Dallas’ secondinning single gave the Titans a 1-0 lead, but that was all Algonquin could muster for the majority of the game, forcing Ruiz to be perfect.
Luckily, she was equal to the task. And when she needed
the run support, she stepped in the batter’s box and helped her own cause. In that fifth-inning rally, Maeve Walker and Chelsea Sainz had big RBI knocks.
“Emily was pitching so well, and we knew we needed to find a couple. Our bats went stale in the middle there, but we had faith and we just didn’t give up. We went to the plate battling and we stepped up and got a couple huge hits,” said Morcone.
After an Algonquin win, the Titans shower their coach with grass they yank from the outfield.
If things keep moving in this direction, the Titans’ field might be looking patchy by season’s end. With huge wins over Fitchburg, Groton-Dunstable, North Middlesex, Westborough, and now, Quabbin, Algonquin is off to a 5-3 start.
“I have great senior leadership, and we have a lot of up-
perclassmen that are stepping up, too,” said Morcone. “They just come ready to work every day, and they’re not afraid of anything. I’m excited to see what we accomplish this year.”
Added Walker, a junior: “I think we just have so many amazing players. This year, we’ve really connected. We’re just such an amazing team — always laughing at practice, always picking each other up.”
Emily Ruiz eyes a ground ball.
Hannah Dunleavy gets ready to bunt the ball. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Why Grafton High senior Delaney Bouvier
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – Some Tuesday nights, Delaney Bouvier finds herself listening to budget debates, analyzing capital projects, and hearing all the good happening throughout Grafton Public Schools. As the senior representative to the School Committee, she’s tasked with representing her classmates and voicing students’ perspectives on key matters.
Other Tuesday nights, her life looks quite different. She’s running around the lacrosse field, playing for Grafton High School on one of the top teams in the state this year. As a key member of the Gators’ defense, Bouvier fearlessly pressures opposing attackers.
And that’s just a glimpse of what Bouvier accomplishes on a week-to-week basis. A pillar of the Grafton High School community — and the community-at-large — she takes pride in always being busy with something, and
always being a force for good.
“I like to be busy. I like to keep my hands full,” Bouvier told the Community Advocate. “Balance is a huge thing. Having athletics — all year round with club [lacrosse], and then in the spring season at Grafton High School – that really keeps my mind quiet for a few hours a day.”
Lacrosse has been a passion for Bouvier, who has cousins playing the sport throughout the country. She picked up a stick when she was a 5-year-old, played club, and landed a huge role on longtime Grafton High School Head Coach Karl Moisan’s team.
“She’s mature, she’s evenkeeled. Not your typical high school senior — she’s very focused on academics, she gives back to the school. She’s all that and a bag of chips,” Moisan said.
Being a member of the Gators’ defense helps Bouvier do what she does best: work with others. The synergy among Bouvier and team -
is ‘all that and a bag of chips’
mates Grace Silvia, Olivia Foltz, and Alice Roney has kept Grafton strong.
“Trust is the biggest thing,” said Bouvier. “Trusting your other defenders to have your back lets you be more comfortable taking risks on the field. Knowing you have the girls behind you to support you is huge. This is by far my favorite defense I’ve played on — the four of us know each other well.”
She added: “Top to bottom, it’s the range of our team. Normally there’s a big dropoff from the best player to the worst, but this year, we’ve closed the gap. We came into the first practice and tryouts ready — our conditioning was done, so we didn’t need to waste any time.”
Bouvier brings the same work ethic to her School Committee role. After starting as the junior representative to the committee, she’s spent the year updating decision-makers on what’s important to those at Grafton High School, with meetings
SHOPPING CENTER
stretching late into the night.
It’s an opportunity few students have, and one Bouvier relishes.
“It’s given me a big insight into how local government works,” she said. “Seeing the budget cuts, seeing the realworld applications. You could see the cause-and-effect of it.”
The work doesn’t end there. Passionate about student leadership, she’s the vice-president of the senior class, a founder of the Grafton High School chapter of Morgan’s Message, and a member
of the National Honor Society. She’ll be heading to Providence College in the fall, studying marketing in the Honors Program. Her choice of major was inspired in part by an internship at the Grafton Food Bank.
Stopping shots. Ending hunger. Informing the School Committee.
Delaney Bouvier wears many hats — each as important to her as the last.
“I love to get involved. I try to be a voice to help others,” she said.
How the O’Dowd siblings have become pillars of Westborough lacrosse
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH
– The Westborough boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams have opened the season on parallel paths. Each team started incredibly strong, stacked wins, and harnessed momentum. Each team sits atop the league rankings.
And each team has an O’Dowd sibling helping lead the way.
Liam O’Dowd, a senior on the boys’ team, and Bree O’Dowd, a junior on the girls’ team, are big parts of each Westborough team’s success. A shared love of lacrosse unites the siblings, with the sport dominating the springtime for both.
Though the siblings are three-sport athletes — Liam plays football and basketball, while Bree does cross-country and gymnastics — and participate in different sports over the course of the year, they share lacrosse in common. As the older sibling, Liam started first, playing as a second-grader coached by his father, who played at Bentley.
Naturally, Bree followed suit.
“Liam played, and I think I copied almost everything that Liam did sport-wise,” she told the Community Advocate. “So I tried lacrosse because he played it, and that was cool. I just kept playing, starting as a third-grader.”
When the snow melts, lacrosse can become all-consuming in the O’Dowd household. With such busy schedules
year-round lacrosse for as long as I can remember,” said Liam.
Liam — committed to Salve Regina to play, you guessed it, lacrosse — is a two-time captain who holds the Westborough record for points in a season. He was his league’s MVP last season, leading the Rangers to their best start in recent history.
Bree is making waves across the state, becoming a member of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee, recently speaking on a panel at the organization’s annual meeting. She founded the Westborough chapter of Morgan’s Message, which brings awareness to athletes’ mental health.
Owen Mongeon Athlete Of The Week
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Owen Mongeon is the definition of “versatile.”
The Shrewsbury senior, committed to play baseball at Nichols College, is just about everywhere for the Colonials. He will major in finance. Mongeon was named MVP of the John Ahearn Memorial Tournament, held in Hudson over April Vacation.
“He’s an all-around baseball player,” said Shrewsbury Head Coach Lee Diamantopoulos. “Pitching, hitting, fielding — he’s phenomenal. He makes an impact whatever he’s doing.”
willing to play any position. Anywhere the team needs me to win the game — whether it’s pitching, fielding, hitting. Being able to do everything makes me very versatile.”
Favorite postgame meal?
“A nice steak. Some veggies, though. A filet, if I can get it.”
Favorite movie or TV show?
— and boys’ and girls’ teams sometimes playing at the same time — the O’Dowd family spends its downtime sharing how the games went. Even those conversations can be interrupted by watching college lacrosse on television.
“It’s a common dinner topic, for sure,” said Bree.
Before they could drive, the siblings would bike to play wallball during the summer months. Once they arrived, they’d turn on a speaker and practice alongside one another for hours. They have also coached kindergarten lacrosse together for the last three years.
It’s so much lacrosse. And the O’Dowd siblings wouldn’t have it any other way.
“We’ve had a lot of guys who have played since a very young age. When you get a group of guys that love the sport, it’s just fun to play with each other. Lacrosse is a passion. I’ve played
“I want to help grow the program,” said Bree. “The girls’ numbers have been dwindling over the last couple of years. I want to help reiterate that lacrosse is a great sport to be playing. It’s a good community to be in.”
Beyond being siblings, obsessed with lacrosse, and leaders of their teams, the O’Dowd siblings share something else in common: a love of Westborough, and an appreciation of what Westborough High School has to offer.
“I love Westborough High. It’s been great. When we had that conversation of whether I wanted to play college lacrosse, there’s that question of transferring, reclassing,” said Liam. “But I love my coaches, I love my friends, and I love the community here in Westborough. I couldn’t trade that.”
He added: “I’m proud to say I’m a Westborough Ranger.”
What has made your time with Shrewsbury baseball worthwhile?
“Being able to represent my town has made it really special to me. For generations, my family has been living in this town. My father played baseball here, my brother played baseball here. My dad and brother wore the same number as me — No. 16 is a tradition. Being able to wear ‘Shrewsbury’ across my chest just means something more.”
Is there a quote or saying that you live by?
“I really try to take every day and make the most of it. I only get to play sports for so long, so if I can go out there and give it 100 percent every single day and get better, that makes it worth it to me.”
What type of baseball player are you?
“A utility guy. Versatile. I’m
“Honestly, I don’t even have much time to watch TV. But movie? ‘Moneyball.’ I’ve watched it probably 25 times, and I’d watch it again.”
How excited are you for the next chapter?
“It’s such a great opportunity. Not that many people are able to play college baseball, so I’m excited to connect with all the players. It’s a business school. Everybody will be on the same wavelength and have the same goals, so I’m excited to connect with people who are like me.”
Trapped on a desert island, what are you bringing?
“Man, this is tough. I’ll bring a phone — something to do, something to keep me entertained. I’m deserted, I have nothing else with me, do I bring someone else along with me? That’s what I’ll do — I’ll bring my brother Connor. Him and a phone.”
overseeding
• Mosquito & tick service
The O’Dowd siblings (Photo/Courtesy)
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Supporting our next generation of athletes MASIS STAFFING SOLUTIONS
