Westborough’s ‘firecracker’ finally got her fireworks
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – As Roberta Sylvester Brown gazed into the night sky, she saw more than brilliant bursts of color. Looking at the fireworks crackling high above, she reflected on the meaning behind them.
Each firework was a promise kept to her father, Robert Sylvester, a lifelong Westborough resident, graduate of Westborough
High School, U.S. Army veteran, and longtime member of the Knights of Columbus. Before his death in December 2024, Sylvester, 87, asked his community-minded daughter to bring fireworks back to town.
Standing at Bay State Commons on June 26, the glow of the sparklers reflected in Brown’s glasses as she – and thousands of others – gathered for Westborough’s Fourth of July Block Party. For Brown, each firework launched was a mission complete and a wish
City’s 250th celebration was two years in the making
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – As the parade stepped off at Main Street and processed down roads lined with excited Marlborough residents, it dawned on Steve LeDuc what he and his fellow organizers had put together. From all corners of the city, residents came and celebrated.
“We had no idea how many people were going to show up,” said LeDuc. “So we were thrilled that they all did. I’m just really proud – proud of everybody that worked on it.
I’m proud of everybody in this city coming together.”
The parade, held June 27, marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and was the culmination of two-and-ahalf years of meticulous planning by a dedicated group of forward-thinking Marlborough residents.
American history, particularly from the American Revolution, has always hit home in Marlborough. On his way to take command of the Continental Army in 1775, George Washington stopped by the city’s
A SHELL OF A RIDE
Happy 80th birthday, Harry's Restaurant! The iconic Westborough establishment celebrated eight decades of service last week. Read more on Page 6. In this cartoon, the restaurant's famous mascot recalls the good ol' days with his grandclams.
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Dear Editor, Two threats to Disability Rights occurred in recent weeks that cannot be ignored.
First, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) will move to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) will move to the Department of Justice (DOJ). These changes will only harm students with disabilities and will in no way help anyone. The removal of these offices from the Department of Education makes it easier to exclude students with disabilities from schools by making it harder to fight for their rights to be included.
Second, the Department of Justice released a memo regarding the Olmstead ruling which states that states are not obligated to provide community care to disabled individuals. This opens the door to allow for the removal of disabled people from society. The return to forced institutionalization of disabled people, with no options for community-based care.
Some may believe that both
of these are a good thing because of how it sounds on paper. One might believe that students with disabilities are better served by HHS and the DOJ. And some may believe that individuals with disabilities are better served in institutional settings. However, both of these items simply make it easier to remove disabled students and individuals in general from society. Both of these items make it harder to fight for the rights of students and individuals with disabilities.
Please read the following statements from the Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund (DREDCF), The ARC, and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD): “This Isn’t Reform, It’s Abandonment” (DREDCF); “Moving Special Education and Civil Rights Out of Education Department Risks a Patchwork of Rights for Students With Disabilities” (ARC); “DOJ Memo Is Attempting to Turn Back the Clock on Integration and Olmstead’s Promise” (AAPD); and “DOJ Opinion on Olmstead Threatens the Right of People With Disabilities to Live in the Community” (ARC).
Jen Rohrig, Shrewsbury
Construction of Beal Commons may start as soon as August Hot-button issue in Shrewsbury seems to be decided
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Beal Commons is expected to become a reality soon.
In a June taping of “Ask the Manager” co-hosted by the Community Advocate on
Shrewsbury Media Connection, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar said that Beal Commons is expected to move forward in August.
“They’re on track to meet their obligations to start construction before August, or in August. They’re in for -
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mal pre-permitting review right now, working to develop their documents and list of permits they’re going to need,” said Mizikar.
At the Select Board meeting on June 23, Mizikar said that town staff had met with the developer – Civico-Greenly – to review the demolition permit process, saying that the “process would be coming underway in the next couple weeks.”
Beal Commons – located at 1-7 Maple Avenue, at the former Maj. Howard W. Beal School – will be a mixeduse 53-unit development that includes 7,000 square feet of retail space on the first floor. Plans were originally approved in 2023; in January 2025, the Planning Board’s decision was upheld after an unsuccessful appeal.
The deed has been transferred to the developer. If the project is not started by October 2026, the land goes back to the town.
But that isn’t expected to happen, said Mizikar.
“They’re not going anywhere,” he said on “Ask the Manager.”
Westborough officer named Miss Massachusetts 2026 In week after victory,
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – In the days following June 20, Ashlyn Mercier might’ve been the most popular person in Massachusetts. News outlets were reaching out left and right, Facebook was abuzz, and just about everyone was trying to get in contact.
All for good reason. That night at the Hanover Theatre, Mercier, a 25-year-old officer with the Westborough Police Department, was named Miss Massachusetts 2026. Once she donned the tiara, Mercier made history as the first police officer to win the state crown.
She will compete to become Miss America in West Palm Beach, Florida in late August.
“My heart is so full of gratitude,” she told the Community Advocate. “So many people from all chapters of my life – elementary school teachers, people from high school and college, my dance team – have been reaching out and pouring so much love and support into me. It’s been the most incredible feeling. I just feel like the luckiest girl in the world right now.”
With support from her father Kevin – a corporal with the Oxford Police Department –and mother Traci, Mercier was always interested in criminal justice. After graduating from the University of New Haven, she started dispatching for the Westborough Fire Department and fell in love with interacting with the community at the local level. Mercier was hired by the Westborough Police Department in September 2024, graduating from the academy in February 2025, and earning her master’s degree from Boston University in 2026.
Mercier had an inkling about being a law enforcement officer from the start, but her path to pageantry wasn’t as straightforward. Encouraged by her coach on the University of New Haven Dance Team, she started to compete for titles, but she was “very hesitant.”
It wasn’t until she did more research and found Miss America’s core values – service, scholarship, sisterhood, style, and success – that she knew it’d be a good fit. She started compet-
Mercier says her ‘heart is so full’
ing for the Miss Connecticut title in 2021. She made runs at Miss Massachusetts in 2023 and 2024.
“Once I started learning about the organization and everything it stood for, I realized that it aligned so well with
behind the Westborough Police Department’s TikTok – an account that has garnered over 520,000 views – she wasn’t afraid of big crowds.
The public speaking aspect, though? That was new – but something she came to appreciate.
“What I found is how beneficial it is. In my job, I communicate with people every single day.
everything I already had going on in my life. I decided to take the leap of faith and sign up to compete,” Mercier said.
Growing up as a competitive dancer, Mercier wasn’t fazed by crowds or a high-stakes performance. As one of the brains
To have the confidence to speak publicly and those communication skills, it’s been so beneficial to my life and career as well,” Mercier said.
And so there she stood, waiting to see if she’d become Miss Massachusetts. As the crowd held its breath, Mercier said she wasn’t nervous. In that moment, she was happy and proud, no matter what the outcome would’ve been.
“I was so at peace with my
performance that night,” she said. “I felt as if I had done everything I prepared for. There’s nothing I would’ve changed. No matter what happened, crown or not, I was so happy to compete and of what I put on stage.”
The competition went her way – and she made law enforcement history with her victory. Mercier plans to remain with the Westborough Police Department, with a long-term goal of being the department’s first female supervisor. Pageantry and policing have more in common than people may think, she said.
Namely service to the community and being a positive role model.
“I hope this year of service as Miss Massachusetts serves as an inspiration to any young girl that’s watching that they can pursue their passions, whatever they may be. They don’t need to be limited to one thing,” said Mercier.
Mercier heeded her father’s advice – a phrase she’s heard since she was young.
“I cannot do all the good that the world needs, but the world needs all the good I can do.”
Ashlyn Mercier at the Westborough Police Department (Photo/Evan Walsh), and being crowned Miss Massachusetts (Photo/Courtesy).
Harry’s Restaurant celebrated after 80 incredible years
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Jon Cohen found a word to meet the moment: “verklempt.” The Yiddish word means to be so overcome with emotion that you are speechless. Cohen spent much of the afternoon on the verge of tears, he admitted.
But who could blame him?
On June 27, Cohen celebrated a momentous occasion in the company of friends, employees, and patrons – though everyone felt like family. His business, Harry’s Restaurant, celebrated its 80th anniversary.
“It’s a family place. It’s a garden-variety, family, momand-pop business with the warmth of a mom-and-pop business. We know people by name, we know what they eat. That’s what it is,” Cohen told the Community Advocate. “I’m overwhelmed. Tears in my eyes. If my father could only see it.”
Harry Cohen, the man who
opened Harry’s in 1946, was surely watching from above.
After years of brushing walls with paint for a living, he switched careers and opted to brush bread with mustard, opening Harry’s Famous Hot Pastrami near White City in Shrewsbury. In 1969, the restaurant moved to its current digs along Route 9 in Westborough, shifting to “Harry’s Restaurant and Dairy Bar.”
Jon Cohen took the reins in 1985, though it’s managed independently by Jeanine Sander and Suzanne Ryan. The spot maintains its broad appeal – offering seafood, burgers,
milkshakes, soups, and salads – and its kitschy decor, with cartoon mollusks and drawings of anthropomorphic menu items hung around the
Summer Concert Series
Celebrate the sounds that have shaped generations and the spirit of a nation.
Join us for Spirit of Sound, a concert series celebrating timeless American music, community, and connection.
Enjoy live performances in the courtyard at The Willows at Westborough. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for a relaxing summer evening.
RSVP at least one week prior to concert date
George Barrette, Director of Sales (508) 321-7555
Wednesdays 7:00–8:15 PM
Concessions starting at 6:30 PM
July 1 Hold N’ Back Band
July 8 Wolverine Jazz Band
July 15 Stomp N’ Holler
July 22 Amity Street Brass Quintet
The Willows at Westborough One Lyman Street, Westborough, MA 01581
restaurant.
Over decades, locals have come for the onion rings and stayed for the community feel.
“It’s a gathering place for all ages, it’s a community with wonderful employees and wonderful patrons who love the food and want to be here. We want to see it be successful for many, many, many years to come. It’s so popular that celebrities stop here,” said Karen Chapman, the CEO of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest. “We love Harry’s. The community loves Harry’s.”
For Select Board member Mark Silverberg – and many like-minded Central Massachusetts residents – Harry’s is more than a restaurant. It’s home.
“If you stayed with pastrami, you would’ve had me. … If they just stuck to fried clams, I would’ve been here too,” Silverberg joked. “When my kids were younger and my wife used to work late, I used
to always come down here and I would order the shepherd’s pie. I’d order it because it reminded me of my grandmother’s shepherd’s pie.”
“For so many of us, coming to Harry’s is like coming home,” he said.
State Representative Kate Donaghue, State Representative Hannah Kane, and a number of other well-wishers attended the 80th celebration, which featured a ribboncutting and a sample of Harry’s menu afterward.
Sander and Ryan thanked everyone for their support.
“We want to thank our customers, friends, neighbors, and community members. Your support over the years has meant everything to us. Many of you have been coming here for generations, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, family gatherings, and plenty of other moments. Your loyalty and friendship have made Harry’s more than a restaurant,” they said in a statement.
Joined by Governor Healey, Cummings Foundation celebrates $35 million in awarded grants
WOBURN — The Cummings Foundation is celebrating another year of meaningful giving.
Joined by Governor Maura Healey and representatives from 150 Greater Boston nonprofits on June 27 at TradeCenter 128 in Woburn, the Cummings Foundation celebrated $35 million in new grants, awarded through a highly competitive program that drew a record 959 applicants.
The festive event brought together approximately 350 guests, including nonprofit leaders, community volunteers, and Cummings Foundation founders and Giving Pledge signatories Joyce and Bill Cummings.
The Cummings Foundation was established in 1986. It has awarded more than $650 million to Greater Boston nonprofits to date. Most of its funding comes from the rental income generated by its commercial real estate portfolio,
which is managed pro bono by Cummings Properties through its “All Profits to Nonprofits” model.
At a time when many nonprofits are facing rising costs, increasing demand, and uncertainty around public funding, the Cummings Foundation is increasing its signature annual grant program from $30 million to $35 million. The foundation is also lifting restrictions on nearly all grants, allowing nonprofit recipients to direct dollars where community needs are greatest.
“It’s satisfying to [Joyce and I]. We’re doing something that’s meaningful,” Bill Cummings told GBH News in 2018. “After we’re gone, there’s something there that is going to help a lot of other people. About 90 percent of the organizations we support – probably a much higher number, actually – are small, local groups we’ve never heard of before.”
Your Money, Your Independence
Ignore At Your Peril: Why Fund a Trump Account for Your Child
Save yourself the political angst, as I’m going to educate as a fiduciary on why you should open and fund a Trump Account for your child. Let me repeat: “educate as a fiduciary.”
Building generational wealth via disciplined investment, forward-thinking tax planning, and unapologetic pragmatism shouldn’t be partisan. Parents and grandparents need to look past political branding and understand this financial opportunity starting July 4th through the U.S. Treasury via IRS Form 4547, then deployed to major institutions, including Schwab, Fidelity, and Vanguard.
Reality Beyond Reels
Media outlets and social influencers are hyper-focused on flashy elements: the narcissistic naming, Michael Dell’s $6.25 billion gift, and the one-time $1,000 newborn cash seed funded by the U.S. government for 2025–2028.
This noise has millions of parents completely ignoring the program, assuming their older children aren’t eligible or out of political disdain. What a massive financial planning error.
The truth is any U.S. citizen under 18 with an SSN qualifies for a parent or grandparent established Trump Account. The real opportunity is investing up to $5,000 annually tax-deferred, which transitions directly into a Traditional IRA in the child’s name at age 18. Free of spending restrictions, this complements a 529 plan.
Doing 10-Year-Old Math
Say you have a 10-year-old and max contribute $5,000 prior to each December 31st deadline until they turn 18. Your total out-of-pocket investment over those eight years is $40,000.
Treasury mandates require these funds to be placed in diversified, low-fee index funds mirroring benchmarks like the S&P 500 (which has averaged 10.5% historical annual return since its 1957 inception). Assuming a 10% annualized return over that eight-year window, this 10-year-old’s account grows to $62,897 by age 18—meaning $22,897 is investment growth.
The Age-18 IRA Handoff
At age 18, regulations dictate the account must transition directly into a Traditional IRA under the child’s
control. Because your original $40,000 in contributions was made with after-tax dollars, it carries over into that Traditional IRA as a non-deductible basis, meaning the principal can eventually be withdrawn tax-free. Why is this important?
The Roth Conversion Strategy
Instead of leaving this IRA to compound for a massive tax bill down the road, the optimal wealth-building move at age 18 is a full Roth IRA conversion. As a student entering adulthood with little to no earned income, they can exploit their standard deductions and baseline federal tax brackets to effectively neutralize the conversion tax.
Due to pro-rata rules governing Roth conversions, your 18-year-old will owe ordinary income taxes only on the converted growth portion ($22,897) on their own tax return, not yours.
Consider an 18-year-old Massachusetts student with zero personal income:
• Federal Tax: Standard deduction shields the first $16,100 of growth. The rest falls into the 10% bracket, resulting in a $680 tax bill.
• State Tax: Massachusetts applies its $4,400 personal exemption, then levies its flat 5% tax for a $925 obligation.
For $1,605 paid in taxes, this Massachusetts 18-year-old has converted the entire $62,897 into a Roth IRA. So, what now?
A $3.4 Million Roth IRA by Age 60 If this Roth IRA is left untouched to compound at 10% annually with $0 further added, the account will swell to over $3.44 million by age 60—entirely tax-free upon distribution.
The truth is $3.4M today isn’t the same as $3.4M in 50 years. However, by demonstrating the power of compounding through incremental investment, you lay the behavioral foundation for your child to keep saving and investing during their career.Ignore at your own peril, but be prepared in 20 years for: “Mom, Dad, what happened? Why didn’t you choose to do this?”
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 is a Holliston resident and owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. Glenn 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.
WITH GOD'S HELP we can learn to do as Paul did in the book of Acts when the serpent attached itself to his hand, he simply shook it off (Acts 28:1-5)!
If we practice dealing quickly with disappointments as they come, they will not pile up and become a mountain of devastation.
- Closer to God Each Day, (June 3) by Joyce Meyer
Chief Joseph.Robert J. Terkanian P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA
Glenn Brown, CFP
Bill Cummings, Gov. Maura Healey, and Joyce Cummings (Photo/Courtesy)
HOMES MORE
Is It Still a Seller’s Market? Here’s What the Data Says.
Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI
Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161
www.EQRE.com
Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us.
While it’s going to vary by area, more metros are slowly shifting to favor buyers, and the market is starting to look a lot more like a two-way street again.
And that balance is something we haven’t had in a while.
Whether you’re buying or selling, here’s what you need to know about what’s changing and what it means for your move.
The Most Buyer-Friendly Market in Years
The national data tells an interesting story right now. According to Realtor.com:
“The national housing market is balanced but gradually loosening as the cycle moves in a more buyer-friendly direction . . .”
That’s because, over the past few years, more and more metros have been flipping back to more buyer-friendly terms as inventory’s grown. And when you zoom in on the latest Realtor. com data for the top 50 metro markets over time, the trend becomes really clear Back in 2021, almost all major metros were seller’s markets. By the end of 2025, only 1 in 3 still favored sellers. That’s an obvious shift.
And that changes how the market is going to feel for everyone. Sellers shouldn’t still expect 2021 conditions, but neither should buyers. At least, not generally speaking.
It’s Not the Same Story Everywhere
That said, who has the power ultimately depends on where you live. While more metros are leaning buyer-friendly lately, there are still plenty of strong seller’s markets right now, too.
It really comes down to how much housing supply and demand there is in your area. And that varies enormously by region.
Sun Belt cities like Austin, Tampa, and San Antonio saw major building booms in recent years, giving buyers more options and
Mary Wood, REALTOR®
Cell: 508.958.0225
Main: 781.786.8080
Lamacchia Realty, Inc.
382 West Main St, Ste 202 Northborough MA 01532
Real Estate Q&A with Mary Wood
Q: I’m getting ready to sell my home. What’s the best way to handle showings if I have pets?
A: Many of you know I recently welcomed Oliver, my French Bulldog puppy. He’s brought a lot of joy to my home, while my cat, Bobby, is still deciding if Oliver was the best idea! As much as I love them both, when it comes to selling a home, pets require a little extra planning.
Before every showing, put away pet beds, toys, food bowls, and litter boxes. Vacuum thoroughly, eliminate pet odors, and, if possible, take dogs with you during showings. Cats usually stay
home, so let your Realtor know where they may be hiding and remind buyers to be careful not to leave doors open.
The goal is to help buyers focus on your home’s features—not your furry family members. The more neutral your home feels, the easier it is for buyers to picture themselves living there.
And one quick tip for buyers: while it’s important to consider things like a fenced yard or nearby walking trails, leave your pets at home during showings. Especially in the summer, never leave them in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
A little planning keeps everyone—people and pets— safe and comfortable.
more negotiating room. Meanwhile, cities in the Northeast and Midwest – think Rochester, Hartford, and Buffalo – didn’t see that same wave, so inventory stayed tight and competition stayed fierce. As Jeff Ostrowski, Housing Analyst at Bankrate, explains:
“The formerly hot Sun Belt markets have cooled, while the Northeast and Midwest have stayed hot. The big driver here is construction activity. The softest markets now [have] experienced big booms that spurred new building, and that has led to a large supply of new and existing homes on the market in those places.”
Practical Advice for Your Move
To find out who has the power in your local market, talk to an agent. Because knowing what’s happening locally is going to be the key to setting the right strategy for your move.
If the market is working in your favor, great. Lean in and use it to your benefit. But if it’s not, all hope isn’t lost. Your agent can help you figure out how to approach any market.
Here’s some practical advice if there’s a mismatch between your goal and local market conditions.
If you’re buying in a seller’s market:
• Get pre-approved before you start shopping. It shows sellers you’re serious.
• Be ready to act fast when the right home hits the market.
• Consider offering a quick closing date or flexible terms.
• Work closely with your agent to craft a competitive offer.
If you’re selling in a buyer’s market:
• Price it right from day one. Overpricing will cost you time and money.
• Focus on curb appeal and staging to stand out in areas with more inventory.
• Be open to offering incentives, like covering closing costs or a home warranty.
• Expect buyers to negotiate and be ready to be flexible.
Bottom Line
Right now, local markets are moving in very different directions. And your strategy as a buyer or seller should reflect yourmarket.
Want to know which way our local market is leaning and what that means for your move? Let’s connect.
Shrewsbury native wins prestigious James Beard Award
SHREWSBURY – Sarah Thompson, a 2007 graduate of Shrewsbury High School, has been named “Best Chef: Southwest” at the James Beard Awards, held in Chicago on June 15. She is the Executive Chef at Casa Playa at the Encore Las Vegas, a coastal Mexican restaurant she opened in 2021. With this achievement, Thompson becomes the first female chef on the Las Vegas Strip to earn this prestigious honor, and the first Las Vegas–based chef in 15 years to receive a James Beard Award.
After graduating from Shrewsbury High School, Thompson attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Upon completing her studies, she moved to New York City, where she spent a decade refining her craft. Her experience includes working as a line cook at the Michelin-starred Marea, serving as sous chef at Wylie
Dufresne’s Alder, and rising to executive sous chef at Cosme, the acclaimed restaurant led by chef Daniela Soto-Innes. It was at Cosme that Thompson discovered her passion for Mexican cuisine. Immersing herself in its techniques and traditions, she developed a deep appreciation that would shape her culinary identity. In 2019, she accepted an opportunity to lead a Mexican restaurant at the Encore in Las Vegas as executive chef. Although that restaurant closed during the pandemic, she soon partnered with Wynn Resorts to open Casa Playa in the same space.
Casa Playa showcases coastal Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, seasonal ingre -
dients, and a house-made masa program. The menu is designed for family-style dining, featuring interactive, large-format dishes such as pork belly al pastor and whole snapper
tempura, served with house-made tortillas.
Thompson’s passion for cooking began early — by eighth grade, she already knew she wanted to become a chef. At Shrewsbury
High School, she tailored her coursework to include as many culinary classes as possible. Through the school’s Senior X program, she gained hands-on experience at Peppers Artful Events in Northborough, where she continued working before attending culinary school.
Now an award-winning chef, Thompson remains committed to mentoring others in the industry. She actively supports her staff’s professional growth and is involved with the Women’s Hospitality Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing women in hospitality through education and mentorship.
Her parents, Michael and Kathleen Thompson, along with her brothers John and Kevin, expressed immense pride in her accomplishment and gratitude to Shrewsbury Public Schools for providing the strong foundation that helped launch her career.
Sarah Thompson (Photo/Courtesy)
City Council rejects push to limit cigarette sales in Marlborough
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – A plan to limit cigarette sales went up in smoke.
On June 22, the Marlborough City Council voted, 6-4, to reject a proposal from Councilor Mark Vital, who proposed a resolution that would have permanently prohibited individuals born after January 1, 2010, from purchasing nicotine and tobacco products.
The policy – supported by Director of Public Health Paul Dinwoodie – would have affected cigarettes, cigars, vape products and electronic nicotine delivery systems, smokeless tobacco, and nicotine pouches. Aside from prohibiting the sale of the products, the resolution “encouraged partnerships with local schools, healthcare providers, addiction recovery organizations, and community groups to educate residents about the dangers of
nicotine addiction and to promote prevention and recovery services.”
Vital, the executive director at the Marlborough-based Addiction Referral Center, said the topic was personal for him. He works with people addicted to substances every day, he said, and felt the need to express to the next generation how harmful smoking can be.
“We can keep putting our heads in the sand and saying this doesn’t matter. My parents did. … My mother passed away from cancer attributed to cigarette smoking. … We [have] to be the ones to tell our kids that smoking is not acceptable,” Vital said.
Marlborough would have been the 27th municipality in Massachusetts to impose such a restriction. A resolution, though, is merely an expression of an opinion, and the city’s Board of Health would have made the official decision.
“[Vital] couldn’t have said
it better: We’re trying to let future generations know the mistakes we made back in our generation. … I’m in support of this resolution, and hopefully the Board of Health will consider adopting it,” said Councilor Mark Oram.
Other councilors disagreed with Vital, citing personal liberty.
“This is en route to Prohibition,” said Councilor John Irish. “What’s going to happen next, we’re going to start having a resolution on diet soda? There’s a lot of data on that, information as well. I think it’s about personal liberties and personal use.”
Added Councilor Trey Fuccillo: “I’m very concerned it creates this permanent class of consumers that will not be able to purchase these products, and therefore it will fuel illicit sales. … I know Prohibition has been brought up a few times, and we saw the same thing with alcohol when it was done before.”
Grafton Select Board eyes ‘budget calendar’
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – As Grafton developed its fiscal 2027 budget, there were moments when the timing was criticized. At Select Board meetings, members felt they didn’t have enough information to make decisions. Other residents felt discussions were dragging on too long. The vote to place an override on the ballot was taken on a random Friday afternoon, outside of the normal schedule.
On June 16, the Grafton Select Board discussed adopting a “budget calendar” – a document that neatly outlines how the budget will come together over the next year. Colleen Roy, elected to the board in 2026, presented the idea, which was among her campaign promises.
“It will really help to avoid some of the things we’ve run into here – where the School Committee is meeting on the
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Mercury is an element that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly.
same night as the Select Board, or [other] hiccups. By having a schedule laid out early in the fall, it will help bring more efficiency to the process,” she told her colleagues.
The board looked at a “budget calendar” from Hopkinton as an example. The calendar has the process begin in late September, with week-byweek expectations outlined in the weeks leading up to May. Town Administrator Evan Brassard said that he’d like to work to refine the deadlines if Grafton develops a calendar, but agreed that “overall, it would be a good idea.”
Other Select Board members seemed to agree.
“I think this is a great idea. I think that having a line-by-line date lined up yearly would help eliminate a lot of confusion. … I feel like this would give us a lot more time to think and compare,” said Select Board member Victoria Duckworth.
Shrewsbury trash bag prices to increase 15 percent
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury
pay-as-you-throw trash bags will soon cost residents more.
On June 23, the Shrewsbury Select Board voted, 3-2, to increase pay-as-you-throw bag rates 15 percent. The move will bring small bags from $1.25 to $1.44 and large bags from $2.54 to $2.92. That means bundles of small bags will go from $6.25 to $7.20, and bundles of large bags from $12.70 to $14.60.
After the change, effective July 13, the average family will spend $20.52 more per year.
The fee change represents shifts in the trash program. Bag sales have been dropping – going from 750,000 in fiscal 2023 to 718,800 in fiscal 2026 – and contractual costs have been rising, with a 3 percent tipping fee increase and a 3 percent sticker cost increase.
The loss in funds has
to have the program’s cost subsidized by fees, not taxes. A reliance on taxes means that
private haulers, for example –are paying for a service they don’t use.
expense.
“Any program that’s consumption-based – meaning
said Mizikar.
make personal changes that would allow them to mitigate this increase. If I make more trash, I’m paying more,” said Select Board member Gregg Richards.
Two members – Carlos Garcia and Theresa Flynn – preferred to stay at a 10 percent increase. Though they agreed with Richards in principle, they said that they were concerned about people’s wallets and didn’t feel the extra cushion justified the extra fee.
“I question whether or not [15 percent] is really necessary,” said Flynn. “I understand the desire to mitigate a higher percentage increase next year. … How short would we have to fall to go back to Town Meeting for additional appropriation? We have enough to cover it. The difference between the 10 and 15 percent – I think we’re
what’s been seen in other towns. In March, Northborough raised its bag rates by $1 across both sizes. Pay-as-youthrow rates in Grafton nearly doubled after a vote in February. In Shrewsbury, board members said that it’s better
Pledge of Allegiance to return to Select Board meetings
By Laney Halsey Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The Pledge of Allegiance is back at Town Hall.
The Northborough Select Board voted, 4-1, on June 22 to restart the practice of saying the Pledge of Allegiance before official business. The board stopped saying the Pledge of Allegiance during the pandemic, when virtual meetings became the norm and participants didn’t always have access to a flag.
Since returning to in-person meetings, the pledge has not been reinstated.
Jeff Amberson, a Northborough resident, asked the board to resume saying the pledge at a prior meeting. Since that point, Facebook posts and a Community Advocate poll sparked community discourse, informing the Select Board’s vote.
“It’s important enough for people to participate like that, whether it’s on social
media or in a poll,” Select Board member Leslie Rutan said, noting that during her previous 18 years of service on the board, the pledge was recited at the start of every meeting without controversy.
The Community Advocate poll was split – with 53 percent arguing the board shouldn’t have to say the pledge. Discussions on Facebook, and formal public feedback submitted to the Select Board, skewed pro-pledge. The discourse divided the community, said Select Board Chair Jonathan Rea, revealing a
certain “ugliness.”
“I don’t think anyone’s going to question the patriotism of anyone that’s volunteering for this board,” Rea said. “My grandfather was in the Korean War, and
I love this country, but I also don’t like some of the xenophobia I read, some of the words I saw, and some of the accusations about people not being American. There’s an ugliness that comes from this.”
Several board members emphasized that choosing not to recite the pledge should not be viewed as a lack of patriotism. Select Board member Julianne Hirsh voted against the measure, arguing that saying the pledge before meetings isn’t necessary and that serving in an elected office is itself an overt
expression of patriotism.
“I think we have to acknowledge in this political climate there is a division, and bringing this topic forward now has obviously already divided us,” Hirsh said. “I don’t see how saying the pledge at the beginning of meetings is going to advance our business. It’s a declaration of patriotism, but aren’t I patriotic enough by volunteering to serve? And everyone else who comes to or watches the meetings?”
Board members supporting the motion countered that the pledge is a nonpartisan civic ritual intended to be a uniting force.
“The flag and the republic that it stands for belongs to everybody,” Select Board Vice-Chair Michael Tietjen said. “For people to go on social media or emails saying that it’s only for my group, or my skin color, or my religious group, that’s not what the Pledge of Allegiance is asking you to stand up and repeat.”
SELCO gives community behind-the-scenes look at headquarters
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations (SELCO) has powered the community for decades.
And, likewise, the community has powered SELCO.
As a community-owned utility provider, SELCO focuses on providing value for Shrewsbury – not shareholders. To showcase its commitment to the town, the organization held its fourth annual Open House on June 25, inviting the community to Municipal Drive to see what public power (and cable) is all about.
“We are a community-focused organization. It’s always important to let folks see the team behind the work we do. It’s building that connection with the community,” said SELCO General Manager Christopher Roy. “I think it’s that peek behind the curtain –we have really nice employees that are nice people.”
The Open House took some liberties – SELCO employees aren’t usually feasting on freshlypopped popcorn, visiting the Uhlman’s Ice Cream truck, or chasing around mascots from the Worcester Red Sox and Worcester Railers. When you factor in the bounce houses, visits from firefighters, and green screen fun from Shrewsbury Media Connection, it certainly wasn’t a normal day at work at SELCO headquarters.
All the “extra” happenings contributed to an afternoon of fun for Shrewsbury families.
“We do everything for community,” said SELCO Marketing Communications Manager Valerie Clemmey.
Celebrating our Hometown Helpers
Ed Randall will celebrate his 101st birthday on July 30, but those who know him would tell you his greatest legacy isn’t his age—it’s the quiet strength, kindness, and humility he has shared throughout his life.
A native of Bolton, Ed proudly served as an infantryman in the U.S. Army during World War II. During his service, he was captured and held as a prisoner of war, enduring unimaginable hardships with extraordinary courage and resilience.
For his heroic service, Ed was awarded the Silver Star Medal, the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster—signifying he was wounded in action twice—the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, and the World War II Victory Medal.
When the war ended, Ed returned home and built a life centered on faith, family, and community. He and his beloved wife, Lucille, have shared more than 70 years of marriage and raised three sons in Northborough, a family of whom they remain incredibly proud.
Today, Ed resides at The Residence at Orchard Grove in Shrewsbury, where his warm smile and gentle spirit continue to brighten the lives of residents, staff, and visitors alike. Though he rarely speaks of his military honors, those who know Ed recognize him as a true American hero whose character has always spoken louder than his accomplishments.
After residents enjoyed the fun stuff, they could learn more about SELCO, including the organization’s various rebates and incentives. Or they could see how fibers get spliced, tour the Johnson Substation, or get up-close to electric vehicles.
“We’re always here for Shrewsbury residents because they’re our owners. We’re community-owned. We love to touch on every aspect of our organization – customer service, engineering, electric division, fiber division – and answer people’s questions,” said Clemmey.
It’s always special to bring joy to families. But especially this time for Clemmey. After years of dedicated service to Shrewsbury residents and SELCO, Clemmey will be leaving the organization and moving to Alabama. Looking at the crowd of residents enjoying the event she helped create, Clemmey said she’ll miss the community.
“I’ve loved my time here for sure. Not only the community, but these people at SELCO –they make it worth it. There’s nobody like them, and it’s really the culture here,” she said.
Roy knows Clemmey will succeed wherever she goes.
“Val is outstanding. We’ll miss her so much,” he said.
ED RANDALL
Two potential fates presented for Northborough landmark
By Laney Halsey Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH - On June 22, the Northborough Select Board heard presentations from the two parties interested in developing 4 West Main Street, the iconic brick building in Downtown Northborough.
First, 20-year Northborough resident and businessman Ammar Alzaher displayed his vision for the property. As the owner of Top Energy Automotive and someone already invested in Northborough’s success, Alzaher said he’d be the perfect person to restore the structure.
“I am so in love with this building,” he said.
Alzaher would turn the building into “Northborough Market and Lofts.” He proposed purchasing the site for $1.005 million, putting total development costs between $1.225 and $1.355 million.
The ground floor would become a restaurant – a neighborhood eatery or bistro, he said – with retail and community space. The dentist currently operating out of the building would stay put, and Alzaher would welcome a variety of vendors.
The building’s second floor would be divided into six different units for small businesses – like offices for lawyers, accountants, physical therapists, and nail technicians – and the upper three floors would be converted into 12 apartment units total, with each unit being around 1,500 square feet.
One of Alzaher’s goals is to provide affordable housing.
“People come to me and say, ‘Hey, my son is ready to move out and he’s looking for a nice safe apartment. Do you know
anybody?’ I don’t,” Alzaher said. “Everybody knows in Northborough, nothing below $3,000 to rent. Nothing. So we’d like to keep the kids in town if we can manage to have four apartments on each floor for affordable rent.”
If selected, the project could be complete in about 14 months.
“I think the Select Board really needs to get comfortable with the feasibility and the cost of the project,” said Select Board Chair Jonathan Rea. “But I do really appreciate the vision you’re bringing and the enthusiasm you bring.”
The second presentation was from Nick Foley, a project manager for Nashoba Valley Services who grew up in town. The proposal is for a “Living, Entertainment, and Community Space.”
Foley explained the “awkward fit” of the building; it has five floors with a three-story facade, making it difficult for renovation. Therefore, his firm
would aim to have a quicker turnaround on the lower floors, looking to get them opened to the public, while upper floors would eventually become apartments and office space.
The first two floors would serve as a downtown “hub” and community center, focused on
revitalizing commercial activity. The ground floor would be home to a restaurant – specifically a microbrewery or pub – with outdoor seating to encourage pedestrian access. Additionally, the community space would have a multipurpose room, a game room, and
LOBSTER ROLLS FOR
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yoga space. It would make $0 in profit. Foley also presented plans to construct an “escape room” in the basement of the building.
The plans call for the third and fourth floors to have eight apartments total, 25 percent of which would be affordable. The fifth floor would be open to the public, with potential coworking spaces and short-term leasing offices available.
Development time is predicted at around 24 months, with the total cost at $2.668 million.
“We love our town, I think it’s the best town in the commonwealth, but at the same time, we have a downtown that certainly could use some revitalization,” Foley said. “ A little bit of effort and activity to get entertainment and other opportunities to bring people down there.”
Select Board members did not indicate which proposal they preferred. The presentations were part of the town’s evaluation process as officials mull the future of the downtown property.
Westborough’s ‘firecracker’ finally got her fireworks
fulfilled.
“I finally got my father’s wish,” she said. “This is for my dad.”
In a way, fireworks sparked something in Brown, too. As a 16-year-old at a block party in Westborough not unlike the one she stood at June 26, Brown lit off the first firework. When she did so, “something snapped” in her, she said. She’d always be a “firework girl.”
“It was so great. People were so excited. I was so happy,” Brown said.
With her love of fireworks cemented, it was no cosmic coincidence that when it came time to celebrate the town’s 300th anniversary in 2017, Brown was front and center. A member of the celebration’s steering committee, she remembers watching fireworks reflect over Lake Chauncy.
She didn’t know that those sparklers would be Westborough’s last show for nine years.
What’s life without fireworks? Brown didn’t want to find out. She missed the look on children’s faces as they looked into the air, and hearing the “oo” and “ah” of the crowd. Brown realized quickly that – aside from the bright colors – the most special thing
about fireworks was their ability to bring the community together.
In lighting up the sky, she was strengthening Westborough – and taking after her father.
“My father taught me community service when I was
really small – I mean, I was 4. My father was always into the community. I remember going with him everywhere as a kid. When I started to see the happiness on other people’s faces, it was amazing. I do everything in my power to do things like my father did,” Brown told the Community Advocate.
Brown – who chaired a spirit committee in Westborough and had funds banked for a celebration – waged a battle for fireworks in 2023, but the project couldn’t cross the finish line. When she was tapped to chair the 250th American Revolution Anniversary Committee in Westborough, just about every town official knew where her head was at.
“They knew Roberta was going to go after the damn fireworks again – so I did,” Brown laughed.
There was no rain date for the fireworks on June 26. Thunderstorms were possible – but none showed up. Brown’s committee had enough saved for only a 15-minute show, but an additional $7,000 from Quartermaster John Gallinagh and Commander Tony Pittman Sr., of VFW Post 9013, extended the spectacle to 25 minutes. The first rocket was lit at 9:15 p.m. at Rogers Field. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, and in memory of Robert Sylvester. “I want to bring people together,” said Brown. “It’s about the residents of this town.”
Marlborough’s 250th celebration was two years in the making
Williams Tavern. Washington was evidently so impressed with the tavern – which was razed in 1947 and formerly located at the intersection of Williams Street and Route 20 – that he returned in 1789.
In 1775, Henry Knox was commissioned by Washington to transport 100 cannons from New York to help break a siege in Boston. After crossing a freezing Lake George and The Berkshires, Knox came through Marlborough in 1776.
With a proud Colonial history, Marlborough started planning in 2024 for how to best celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary – well before most other efforts started. The Marlborough Revolution 250 Committee picked up momentum, collaborating with the Marlborough Historical Society and organizations throughout the city.
Through exhibits at the library, appearances at
parades, and events honoring the historic legacy of the Williams Tavern, the committee worked to educate and inspire residents. As brainstorming continued, LeDuc knew the celebration needed a final act.
A parade sounded perfect. Ready the muskets, drums, and Colonial costumes.
“This day – this time –couldn’t come and go without the city of Marlborough
doing something special,” said LeDuc. “That is this. It came together. The first day, the idea wasn’t this. But we’re here. A parade, the muster, the cannons. Nobody is walking away disappointed.”
The parade fed right into the “muster,” which featured a mock battle, re-enactments, and to top it all off, the firing of a cannon. The event took place at Ward Park, named after Shrewsbury general
Artemas Ward, who led the Continental Army in its early days.
Mayor J. Christian Dumais, dressed in Colonial attire, saw the city unite in celebration.
“Marlborough always shows up. That’s the beautiful thing about Marlborough. It’s always nice to be a part of it,” he said. “I think it’s really important for Marlborough to recognize its history, the milestones we hit back then and currently. We’re happy to be here, happy to have all the events, and happy that people came out to spend a day as a community.”
Where were you when America turned 250? These residents will have a happy story to tell.
“When an 8-year-old is asked what they did for America’s 250th anniversary, they can say they were in Downtown Marlborough watching a parade, cannons, muskets, and skirmishes,” said LeDuc. “That’s why we do it. ‘Community’ is the word.”
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Retirement living that gives you the freedom to thrive!
Your independence deserves more than a holiday — it deserves a community thoughtfully designed to support it year round. That’s why we handle the daily upkeep and maintenance, giving you the time and freedom to enjoy life to the fullest. And, with all-inclusive amenities like Freedom Dining, engaging social events, fitness classes, and more, every day is worth celebrating.
Grafton was home to ‘largest machine ever built’
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – Wyman-Gordon is a forging company with a long history in Grafton. Its North Grafton building was constructed by the U.S. Department of Defense in 1946, with heavy manufacturing capabilities to support larger, moreadvanced aircraft designs.
Wyman-Gordon was originally founded in 1883 in Worcester by H. Winfield Wyman and Lyman F. Gordon, two graduates of Worcester Polytechnic Institute. They were making parts for textile looms. The crankshaft created by the company also had a role in the boom of the automobile industry, and 35 car manufacturers used its products in their vehicles. Due to the demands of World War I, Wyman-Gordon began avia-
tion forging, producing engine parts, propellers, landing gear, and structural airframe parts. By the 1940s, the industry was changing, and there was increased demand for magnesium, and later aluminum and titanium. Around this time, Wyman-Gordon moved from Worcester to Grafton, working in an existing facility that specialized in aviation forging for the United States military.
The U.S. Air Force owned the building and contracted the work out to Wyman-Gordon.
Then came the new building, which still stands today.
Wyman-Gordon bought a 150-acre farm in 1944, immediately passing ownership to the U.S. Department of Defense.
The United States hoped to advance war programs by financing and equipping private firms. Wyman-Gordon operated the plant as a contractor.
Designed by J. R. Worcester & Company of Boston and built by the Defense Plant Corporation, the building was completed in 1946 at a cost of
over $4 million and housed the nation’s first 18,000-ton forging press. At that time, the Soviet Union possessed the world’s heaviest press, motivating the U.S. military to begin the Air Force Heavy Press Program. The building underwent a $50 million expansion in 1951 which included the installation of several smaller presses and a massive 50,000ton press.
The Wyman-Gordon employees called the massive hydraulic forging press “Major.”
The Historic American Engineering Record recognized the 50,000-ton press as the “largest machine ever built” and named it a national landmark. Wyman-Gordon continued to produce parts for aircraft, space shuttles, and other military vehicles.
In 1999, the Precision Castparts Corp. acquired WymanGordon. Today, WymanGordon owns the property, which is valued at $24.4 million, according to the Grafton Assessor’s Office.
TAKE IT EASY
• Private air-conditioned shuttle bus
• Snow removal (and ample free parking)
• Weekly light housekeeping & flat linen service
• Three delicious home-cooked meals daily
STAY ACTIVE
• Fitness & wellness programs
• Indoor 1/5-mile walking path
• Exercise classes 7 days a week
• Heated indoor lap swimming pool
PURSUE YOUR INTERESTS
• A variety of clubs
• Country kitchen for resident use
• Indoor greenhouse & outdoor gardens
• Regular Catholic, Jewish, & Protestant services
HAVE FUN
• Weekly entertainment
• Outings to restaurants and museums
• A full calendar of events and activities
• Games, crafts, lectures, movie nights, & more!
EXPERIENCE TOP-NOTCH SERVICE
• On-site maintenance team
• 24-hour front desk receptionist
• Director on duty seven days a week
• Licensed nurse scheduled 24 hours a day
ENJOY ON-SITE CONVENIENCE
• Six complimentary laundry rooms
• Primary care, podiatry, & dental care
• Banking, a pharmacy/sundry shop, & a hair/beauty salon
• Lounges, billiards room, library, theater, art studio, and game room
MAKE IT YOUR HOME
• Wide variety of floor plans
• Individually controlled heat/air conditioning
• Window treatments & wall-to-wall carpeting
• Oversized bathrooms with easy step-in shower
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Repairs on Westborough’s Otis Street are underway.
Director of Public Works Chris Payant updated the Select Board June 23 on the Otis Street Improvement Project. The effort, which will bring a variety of traffic and pedestrian improvements to the busy area, is expected to cost $7 million.
even though there’s no noticeable equipment nearby. Construction activity will commence in July on the Hocomonco side. The traffic signal should be installed next spring, according to Payant.
The intersection of Otis Street and Route 9 will get improvements, and look similar to the intersection of Lyman Street and Route 9 down the road. The intersection of Otis Street and the Target driveway will become signalized, and a 10foot shared-use path will be constructed that runs from the Arrive complex to 50 Otis Street, near Hocomonco Pond.
The project is underway,
“If you go out there right now, you’re not going to see a whole lot of activity. It’s because it’s spot work that’s happening – utility poles are being located, trees are being trimmed and removed, there’s some boring that needs to be happening,” said Payant.
The design of the project ran about $800,000. Funding came from a variety of sources, including a $4 million MassWorks grant that Atlantic Management helped the town acquire. Additionally, funding has come from MassDOT – including its Complete Streets Program – and American Rescue Plan Act funding from the town.
POLICE FIRE
One dead after wrong-way crash on I-290 in Northborough
NORTHBOROUGH — A wrongway driver led to a fatal crash in Northborough.
At 8:57 p.m. on June 24, Northborough dispatchers received multiple reports of a serious motor vehicle accident on Interstate 290 before Exit 27 (Solomon Pond Road). The Northborough Fire Department was dispatched, but all on-duty resources were already deployed to other incidents. Mutual aid was called, and help from Berlin, Marlborough, and Westborough arrived.
According to the Northborough Fire Department and the Massachusetts State Police, a car was heading the wrong way on I-290 eastbound, ultimately
crashing into another car. Video of the scene after the crash shows a car on its side engulfed in flames. There were multiple injuries and at least one trapped occupant.
The driver and sole occupant of one of the vehicles escaped and was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center with minor injuries. The wrong-way driver could not be rescued and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Firefighters worked for 30 minutes and utilized 2,000 gallons of water to extinguish the vehicle fires. Interstate 290 eastbound was closed at the Church Street exit as the accident was investigated.
SOUTHBOROUGH — The Southborough Police Department is recognizing the work of Detective Anthony Vega, whose investigation into the financial exploitation of a resident contributed to a federal case that resulted in charges against six individuals.
An 81-year-old Southborough woman reported in March 2025 that she had been defrauded by individuals posing as representatives of a well-known sweepstakes organization. She had been convinced to send checks, financial information, and other personal information to claim her winnings.
She ultimately lost approximately $85,000.
Vega led the investigation for the Southborough Police Department. He worked for more than a year alongside federal investigators to gather evidence, trace financial transactions, ex-
ecute investigative subpoenas, coordinate with law enforcement agencies in multiple states, and identify information that helped advance the federal investigation.
On June 25, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Connecticut announced federal charges against six individuals. According to federal prosecutors, the scheme defrauded seniors out of millions of dollars.
The Southborough Police Department assisted the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Postal Inspection Services during the investigation.
"We are extremely proud of Detective Vega's dedication and persistence throughout this investigation," said Chief Ryan Newell. "What began as a report from one Southborough resident ultimately became part of a much larger federal inves-
tigation. Detective Vega's work demonstrates the important role local law enforcement plays in identifying complex fraud schemes and working with our state and federal partners to hold those responsible accountable."
The Southborough Police Department would also like to urge residents, particularly older adults and their families, to remain vigilant against scams.
"No legitimate sweepstakes or organization will ever require someone to pay fees or taxes upfront to claim a prize," Newell said. "If someone contacts you claiming you've won money but first demands payment or asks for your banking information, it is a scam. We encourage anyone who receives these types of calls to end the conversation immediately and contact their local police department."
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
Bent, Dale of Grafton
Blanchard, Paul of northborouGh
Colon, Javier of ShrewSbury
Crocker, Kevin formerly of marlborouGh
Duguay, Gisele
formerly of northborouGh
Dwyer, Roxanne of South Grafton
Fitzpatrick, Mel of ShrewSbury
Gaston, Julia of SouthborouGh and wyominG
Greenlaw, Paula of Grafton
Hesseltine-Bennett, Rose of Grafton
Lola, Judith of north Grafton
Luciano, Dennis of northborouGh
McMurray, Claudette of marlborouGh
Ogilvie, Harriet of weStborouGh
Ormsbee, Conrad of northborouGh
Riggall, Margaret formerly of hudSon
Rogers, Patricia of hudSon
Russo, Catherine of hudSon
Shih, Jenny of weStborouGh
Tardy, Debbie of ShrewSbury
Vanesian, Maureen of SouthborouGh
Williams, Raemah of SouthborouGh
Margaret A. Riggall, 75
NORTH PORT, FL - Margaret
Megan (Richard) Taylor, and her granddaughter, Kendall, of North Port, Florida; her son, Adam Bell of Venice, Florida; and her sister, Judy (Larry) Moffa of Hudson. She was predeceased by her parents, Eleanor (Clark) and Walter Maguire of Hudson and Venice, and her brother, Thomas Maguire of Ashby, Massachusetts. No services are planned.
Harriet M. Ogilvie, 90
WESTBOROUGH - Harriet M. (Stewart) Ogilvie, 90, of Westborough, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026. She was the widow of Richard Ogilvie. She is survived by two sons, David R. Ogilvie and his wife, Marillee, of Hopedale and Richard Ogilvie, Jr. and his wife, Annie, of Manchester Center, VT; loving Nana to Thompson, Colin and Margaret, Christopher and Brandon, and two great-grandsons, William and Christian.
She leaves her brother Russell Stewart and is predeceased by her siblings Roberta Morin, Margaret Bennett, and Alexander Stewart.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
Rose HesseltineBennett, 74
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
his daughter Sophia and her mother Brittany Bennett. Additionally, she leaves daughter Kayla Bennett and her fiancé, TJ Sullivan, and her daughter, Autumn. Finally, she leaves her great-grandchildren, Abbey, Freya and Bennett.
She is predeceased by her mother, Florence (McCaul) Laura; the grandparents that helped raise her, Evelyn (Tufts) Klockin and Edward Klockin; her father, Russell Hesseltine; and her two halfbrothers, Charles and Russell Hesseltine.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted the family.
Paula M. Greenlaw, 77
GRAFTON - Paula M. (Lucas) Greenlaw, 77, passed away June 18, 2026, following a lengthy illness. She leaves her husband, Peter Greenlaw; her daughter, Stacey Pender, and son-in-law Michael; her son, Andrew Greenlaw, and daughter-in-law Tina; and her grandchildren Jack, Lucas, Ella, Mia, and Jaquelyn, her siblings Diane McQuesten, Pamela Lucas, Marie Balzotti and Peter Lucas. She was predeceased by her daughter, Julee Greenlaw, earlier this month her brother Bob Lucas.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted the family.
Courtney, and Neil and Todd. Claudette was the proud Memeré to Patricia and her fiancé Colby, and Ian, Quinn, Ethan and Flynn.
She was predeceased by her sister, Bea, and her daughterin-law, Robin.
Short and Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
Judith A. Lola, 79
NORTH GRAFTON – Judith A. (Jubinville) Lola, 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16th with her family by her side at UMASS Memorial Medical Center. Born in Worcester, Judy was the daughter of the late Armand and Edith (Peterson) Jubinville.
Judy married the love of her life, Joseph R. Lola and they lived their entire married life in North Grafton, where they raised their five children.
Colon, Alma Rivera and Arlene Albarran and many grandchildren.
He was born in the Bronx, NY, son of Luis Colon and Doris Quinones and attended the New England School of Accounting.
Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home of Worcester assist the family.
Roxanne L. Dwyer, 65
May 25, 1961 - Jun 11, 2026
SOUTH GRAFTON - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Roxanne Lee (Churas) Dwyer, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, nurse, and friend.
Roxanne leaves behind her loving husband, John; her devoted daughters, Michelle and Hillary; her cherished grandchildren, Hadley and Crosby; her mother, Patricia; her sister, Kathy; her brother, Chris and her sister Elizabeth ; her nieces, Jessie and Sydney; her nephews, Tyler and Ryan; her beloved dog, Luna; as well as many extended family members and countless friends who became family along the way.
The Gianaris-Gliniecki & Beauregard Funeral Home was honored to assist Roxanne’s family with funeral arrangements.
Paul M. Blanchard, 49
Claudette M. McMurray, 89
MARLBOROUGH - Claudette Marie (Charest) McMurray, 89, of Marlborough, formerly of North Andover, went to be with God on June 17, 2026. Claudette was the most faithful and we know that the angels sang when she entered Heaven.
She was the wife of James McMurray, whom she was married to for 56 years until his death in 2016.
Judy is predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Joseph R. Lola who passed away in 2021. She will lovingly be remembered by her five children, Scott Lola, Laurie Laconto, Shawn Lola, Gary Lola and his wife, Tara and Chris Lola and his wife, Kari; her five grandchildren, Stephanie, Collin and Tyler Laconto; Ivy and Dean Lola; three stepgrandchildren, Sharina and Shelley Martin and Jillian Robinson; a great-grandchild, Harley Robinson; and many nieces and nephews.
Mulhane Home for Funerals of Millbury assisted the family..
Javier Colon, 67
GRAFTON - Rose HesseltineBennett of Grafton, MA, age 74, died on June 18, 2026, following longterm declining health at home with her soulmate at her side. Rose is survived by her devoted husband, Walter, and her daughter, Heather Cargill and her husband Don Cargill, Jr.; their children Craig Cargill and his fiancé Dan Hillson, Justin Cargill and his wife Serena, Ashlea Graham and her husband Jason, and their youngest son, Donovan Cargill. She also leaves her son, Travis Bennett, his partner Heather Cowperthwaite; their son Connor and
She is survived by her four children, Mark and his wife Mary-Beth, Scott and his wife
SHREWSBURY - Javier Colon, 67, passed away Wednesday, June 24 in UMASS Medical Center. He leaves his wife, Yolanda (Rivera) Colon; his children, Merida Serrano, Elizabeth Colon Porcaro and her husband James, Javier Colon, Jr. and his wife, Cynthia, Justin Rivera, Jonathan Rivera and Robert Brooks; his siblings, Carmen
NORTHBOROUGH - It is with profound sadness that the Blanchard family shares the passing of Paul Michael Blanchard, who died peacefully at home in the early morning hours of Thursday, June 18, 2026, surrounded by the supportive love of his family. He was 49 years old.
Paul leaves behind his devoted wife of 27 years, Jody (Pierce) Blanchard; his children Marcus Blanchard and his wife Samantha, Derek Blanchard and his girlfriend Marissa Telech, Caitlyn Blanchard, and Katrina
A. (Maguire) Riggall passed away on March 6, 2026, in North Port, Florida. Born in Hudson, Massachusetts, on Memorial Day 1950, she was the former director of the Sarasota County Special Olympics. She leaves her daughter, Obituaries | 26
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
WESTBOROUGH
WESTBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY BATHROOM MODERNIZATION PROJECT #328062
SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT TO BID MGL C.149 OVER $150K
The WESTBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Bathroom Modernization at State Aided Development: Veterans (200-1) in Westborough, Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by MATZ COLLABORATIVE ARCHITECTS
tract with minority, women and veteran-owned business enterprises as certified by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). The participation benchmark reserved for such enterprises shall not be less than 6% MBE, 6.2% WBE and 3% VBE for all state and state-assisted construction projects over $150,000. Request for waivers must be sent to EOHLC (Chad.Howard@.mass. gov) 5 calendar days prior to the General Bid date. NO WAIVERS WILL BE GRANTED AFTER THE GENERAL BIDS ARE OPENED.
The Contractor and all subcontractors (collectively referred to as “the Contractor”) agree to strive to achieve minority and women workforce participation. The Workforce Participation benchmark is set at 6.9% for women and 15.3% for minorities. The Workforce benchmark percentages are a statutory requirement under MGL c. 149 § 44A(2)(G).
PRE-BID CONFERENCE/ SITE VISIT:
Scheduled Date and Time: 06/24/2026 at 10:00AM EDT
Address: 2 Rogers Rd# 37, Westborough, MA 01581
If interested or for more information, please email lawrenceejob@ gmail.com.
ARE YOU HIRING?
USCAN Cashflow Manager
for Global Life Sciences Solutions USA LLC in Marlborough, MA to prvde strtgic wkg Captl & oprtns fin lrdrshp to the rgn, mstly fcusd on the Invice to Cash (I2C) prcess, incl credit montrng & collctns process. Req.: Bach deg or for equiv in Acctg, Fin, or rel fld & 5 yrs. of exp. as FP&A Mgr, Fin Lead, or related Fin pos. Wage range: $114,000$184,000; Wage: $184,000.00/year. CV to carmelissa.rhodes@cytiva.com & ref job title.
CQV
to ensure that all critical Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) equipment and systems are validated and maintained in compliance with user requirements, process parameters and global regulatory guidelines. Rate of pay: $91,740.22 per year. Email resume to: Retained.HRSD@ astellas.com and reference job 20357.496.4. EOE: M/F/D/V
The Project consists of but not limited to: This project consists of renovation work within multiple residential buildings at the Veterans Development 200-1 complex in Westborough, Massachusetts. The work includes improvements to existing bathroom spaces, associated building systems, and related interior components. The project involves selective removal and replacement of existing finishes, fixtures, and building elements, as well as upgrades to building infrastructure that supports the renovated areas. All work shall be coordinated to minimize disruption to building occupants and maintain safe, functional conditions throughout construction.
The work is estimated to cost $946,071.00
All bidding Requests for Information (RFls) shall be submitted online by 06/29/2026 at 12:00PM EDT for filed sub-bids and by 07/14/2026 at 12:00PM EDT for general bids.
Bids are subject to M.G.L. c.149 §44A-J & to minimum wage rates as required by M.G.L. c.149 §§26 to 27H inclusive.
THIS PROJECT IS BEING ELECTRONICALLY BID AND HARD COPY BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to register as an electronic bidder. All Bids shall be submitted online at biddocs.com and received no later than the date and time specified.
General bidders must be certified by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) in the following category of work, General Building Construction, and must submit a current DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and signed DCAMM Prime/General Contractor Update Statement.
General Bids will be received until 17 July 2026 at 10:00AM EDT and publicly opened online, forthwith.
Filed Sub-bids for the trades listed below will be received until 02 July 2026 at 3:00PM EDT and publicly opened online, forthwith.
Filed sub-bidders must be DCAMM certified for the trades listed below and bidders must include a current DCAMM Sub-Bidder Certificate of Eligibility and a signed DCAMM Sub-Bidder’s Update Statement.
TRADES
Plumbing Electrical Work
General bids and sub-bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (including all alternates) and made payable to the WESTBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY. Note: A bid deposit is not required for Projects advertised under $50,000.
Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at biddocs.com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost).
General bidders must agree to con-
Instructions: We will meet at the Housing Authority office and go over to the site together.
The hard copy Contract Documents may be seen at:
Nashoba Blue Inc. 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 978-568-1167
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY WESTBOROUGH, MA
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on July 14, 2026 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 29 Olde Coach Rd. (Parcel ID: 9-111-0) submitted by Town of Westborough; Dept. of Public Works for the installation of an approximately 30 square-foot, pervious ground reinforcement walkway within jurisdictional resource areas.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE –TRANSFER OF LICENSE
The Westborough Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a transfer of an All-Alcohol Beverages Liquor License.
Applicant: Baskin LLC DBA Aavino Wine and Spirits
Location: 1300 Union Street, Suite G-104, Westborough, MA 01581
Date of Hearing: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Time: 6:10PM
The hearing will be held at the Westborough Town Hall, Memorial Hall (3rd Floor), 34 West Main Street, Westborough, Ma 01581. Any person wishing to be heard on this matter should appear at the time and place designated above.
Westborough Select Board Licensing Authority
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on July 10th, 2026, the following vehicle(s) will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage, & notices of sale. To be sold at ADR Towing 301 Maple st Marlborough MA.
COMMUNITY OBITUARIES LEGAL NOTICES
Notices | from page 25
SOUTHBOROUGH
NOTICE
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 July 29, 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 July 14, 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 508-485-0503 for bidding instructions.
2018 Hyundai Elantra
VIN: 5NPD84LFXJH236693
Owned by Tianyu Sun
2014 Jeep Cherokee
VIN: 1C4RJFAG5EC109885
Owned by Santa Rivera
2008 Toyota Rav4
VIN : JTMBK33V085050097
Owned by Jumah Harris Jordan
2011 Honda Accord
VIN: 1HGCP2F66BA103194
Owned by Agnes J Emmanuelli
2002 Toyota Highlander
Vin: JTEHF21A520096372
Owned by Eniola Liasabiodun
2003 Dodge Ram 3500
VIN: 3D7KA26DX3G718284
Owned by Carlos Fernandes
2013 Hyundai Veloster
Vin: KMHTC6AD8DU140431
Owned by Alan Firmino
2011 Toyota Camry
VIN: 4T1BK3EK0BU628422
Owned by Alfredo Brito
2008 Scion xD
VIN: JTKKU10488J016998
Owned by David O Nunes
2007 Ford F150
VIN: 1FTPX14577FB68828
Owned by Juan Guamarica
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A. Publication Friday July 3, 10 and 17, 2026 Community Advocate.
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Ortega and her husband Kyle. He is also survived by his mother, Diane Blanchard; his grandchildren Colt and Katy Ortega, along with his aunt, uncles, and cousins. Paul will be remembered by his lifelong friends, RJ and Kelly Bushey, whom he considered family; and Colleen Crawford and Michael Crane, who shared many years of adventures. In addition, Paul leaves beside his lovely chocolate Labrador retriever, Luke, who provided Paul with his unwavering presence and support.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Maureen J. Vanesian, 92
SOUTHBOROUGH - Maureen
J. Vanesian, 92, of Southborough, formerly of Newton and Revere, passed away peacefully in her home on June 19th after a brief battle with cancer.
Maureen was the beloved wife of the late Charles H. Vanesian. Their son, Charles F., predeceased her in 2013, along with her husband, Charles H. She was the loving and devoted mother of Joseph and his wife Paula of Holliston, MA. She was the proud grandmother of Joseph and his wife Lindsay of Providence, RI; Christopher and his wife Joanna of Franklin, MA; and Liam Vanesian and his fiancée Kelly Harrington of Upton, MA. She was also the cherished greatgrandmother of Isla, Charlie, Olivia, Catherine, and Callan, each of whom brought her immense joy.
Matarese Funeral Home of Ashland assisted the family.
Dennis M. Luciano, 80
NORTHBOROUGH - Dennis Luciano, 80, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s
disease.
While Dennis was deeply committed to his profession, his greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Michele Luciano; his son, Ryan Luciano, and daughterin-law, Rebecca Luciano; his daughter, Lauren Tirrell, and son-in-law, Matt Tirrell; and his four cherished grandchildren, Christian Luciano, Julian Luciano, Lucy Tirrell, and Lily Tirrell. Dennis was preceded in death by his brother, Anthony Luciano.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Mel G. Fitzpatrick, 51
SHREWSBURY - Mel G. Fitzpatrick, 51 of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully in Ireland on Friday, June 12, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mel was born in Co. Galway. He grew up in Mohill, Co. Leitrim, where he had many crazy adventures and made lifelong friends.
Mel is survived by his wife, Marisa (Ramos) Fitzpatrick; their two daughters, Ruby Kathryn Fitzpatrick and Frances Alice “Frankie” Fitzpatrick; his sister, Renee Fitzpatrick, brother Eugene Fitzpatrick, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Eugene and Nuala Fitzpatrick.
Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted the family.
Debbie M. Tardy, 69
SHREWSBURY - Deborah “Debbie” M. (Winsky) Tardy, 69, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 18, 2026, after a difficult five-month battle with Lung and Brain cancer. Debbie fought valiantly until the end.
Debbie is predeceased by her husband, Maurice “Moe” Tardy, who passed in 2025. She leaves a stepson, Robert
Tardy of Worcester; her grandchildren, Stephen Wessels of Worcester, and Courtney Tardy of Worcester; her great grandson, Troy Tardy; a sister, Donna Chapin (Bruce) of Holliston; her three nieces and nephews Eric Chapin (Julie) of Framingham, Halley Marcouillier (Ryan) of Littleton, and Ted Chapin of Warwick, RI. A great nephew, Harrison Marcouillier; a brother-in-law, Donnie Tardy and nephew, DJ of Gardner. Several special friends also need acknowledgement, her extended Shrewsbury family, include the Current family, Patty, the much-loved Matriarch, John, Caroline, Chloe, and Lylah; her Goddaughter, Linda McNulty; her Cape Cod “sister”; as well as her Francis Garden community friends who were all there for her during her Cancer fight.
Mercadante Funeral Home and Chapel of Worcester assisted the family.
Dale W. Bent, 72
GRAFTON - Dale W. Bent, long time resident of Grafton, entered into eternal rest on June 10, 2026, at age 72 due to complications following a stroke.
Dale is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda J. (Baxendale) Bent, their sons; James Bent, Christopher Bent and his wife Denise, and two grandchildren. He also leaves his sisters; Brenda Suchovshy of Florida, Cindy and her husband David Chandler of Worcester, plus nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Wayne.
On Friday, July 17, 2026, 9:00 AM, there will be a Mass at St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, followed by a celebration of life gathering in the parish center, 1 Ruggles Street, Westborough, MA.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
Patricia M. Rogers, 84
HUDSON - Patricia M. Rogers (James), 84, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and
great grandmother, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Born on November 16, 1941, in Waltham, Massachusetts, Patricia’s life was marked by deep devotion to her family, a steadfast work ethic, and a joyful, generous spirit that touched all who knew her.
She is survived by her husband, Ronald J. Rogers, Sr. of Florida; her loving children, Richard Rogers and his wife, Theresa of Marlborough, MA., Christine Rogers of Hudson, MA., and William Rogers of Florida, and her cherished grandchildren, Krista Rogers, Samantha Rogers, Tommy Rogers, John Rogers, Drew Rogers, Alyssa Rogers, Patrick Rogers, Adrian AndradeBettencourt, and Tanya Andrade-Bettencourt; her loving great grandchildren Neveah, Shayleigh, Landon, Hadley Ann, Logan, Theo, and Wade; sister Nancy Jones and her husband, Jay of Florida, along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents William H. and Elizabeth M. (Collagan) James; her son Ronald J. Rogers, Jr. and survived by Ronald’s wife, Helena Bettencourt of Hudson, MA.; and her late siblings William James, Dickie James and Barbara Mansfield.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home assisted the family.
Jenny Yuen-Tsun Shih, 62
WESTBOROUGH - Jenny YuenTsun (Chi) Shih, 87, of Westborough, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the Notre Dame Long Term Health Care Center in Worcester. She was the wife of Raymond C. Shih of 62 years. In addition to her husband she is survived by two children, Linda Shih of Dracut and Clayton Shih of Quincy; one brother, Arthur Chi of Quincy; one sister, Elsa Karlsmark of Denmark.
She was predeceased by her brother, Charles Chi. Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
State Police trooper killed in offduty motorcycle crash in Grafton
GRAFTON — Massachusetts State Police on June 29 announced the unexpected death of Trooper Jacob Mick, who died from injuries sustained in an off-duty motorcycle crash in Grafton on June 28.
Mick was a member of the 88th Recruit Training Troop assigned to the Holden Barracks. He graduated from the Massachusetts State Police Academy in 2023. A Northborough native, Mick was 31 at the time of the accident.
Superintendent of the State Police Geoffrey Noble said, “Together, we mourn Trooper Jacob Mick, and extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, their infant daughter, his family, and all who loved him. He was a proud Trooper and public servant who never hesitated to answer the call. We re -
honor Trooper Mick’s years of
The facts and the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation
was
~Bill & Belinda C.,
Jacob Mick (Photo/Courtesy) member and
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Softball players’ passion leads to field renovations
By Laney Halsey Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Sometimes all it takes is a few people speaking up.
Fifth-grader Allison Tagliaferri took the microphone during a Community Preservation Committee meeting in December, urging officials to address the deteriorating conditions at the Robert E. Melican Middle School softball and baseball fields. Now, because of her efforts and the enthusiasm of the softball community, renovations are set to move forward.
After watching older players struggle with the fields and thinking ahead to her own middle-school softball career, Tagliaferri decided to act with the support of her mother, Erin, who serves as a School Committee member.
Tagliaferri wasn’t the only player frustrated with the condition of the fields.
Seventh-grader Charlotte Innes has played softball for years and is a member of the Melican team. She noted that the fields have made practices and games difficult.
“The field is super overgrown, there’s weeds everywhere,” Innes said. “Halfway through the season, somebody took a bat [to the field] so there were massive holes throughout the whole field. Balls would get stuck and they would jump up, and it was
safety risks for players and spectators. Umpires often call “dead balls” to avoid players having to walk near the sharp metal.
“People have gotten hurt because of foul balls that hit the fence, and [other balls] have gone through,” Tagliaferri said.
Beyond the safety concerns, teams often have to be driven by parents to Marion E. Zeh Elementary School, or sometimes fields in Westborough, since rain makes the field unplayable. The conditions left the players feeling disadvantaged compared to neighboring communities.
So Tagliaferri and classmate Ava Monopoli decided to speak up during the Community Preservation Committee meeting. The renovations, approved at Town Meeting, are set to include an improved dugout, fence, and field. The baseball field will also be part
of the improvements.
The project will serve more than just the Melican teams: Recreation programs, youth leagues, and adults from across the town will have access to the facility. More than that, the fields will become a point of pride for the middle-schoolers.
“I’m excited to actually play as the home team and not be embarrassed about the field,” Tagliaferri said.
Having seen their efforts bring about change, Tagliaferri and Innes encourage others to do the same.
“I would tell them to speak up,” Innes said. “I wouldn’t just sit there and watch it happen, because it’s better [for change] to be made earlier than later.”
Seventh-grader Charlotte Innes and fifth-grader Allison Tagliaferri (Photo/Laney Halsey)
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Lucarelli and Kursonis lead Shrewsbury Post 397 past Hudson
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
HUDSON — There are no easy outs in the Shrewsbury Post 397 order.
And while everyone is a threat, two bats have proven to be especially dangerous. Batting No. 3 and No. 4 for Post 397, respectively, are Tommy Kursonis, a recent Doherty graduate, and Jackson Lucarelli, a rising senior at Saint John’s. At the plate, their power is unquestionable. Around the team, their leadership is inimitable, said Head Coach Frank Vaccaro.
“If they don’t hit, we’re not going to win. They have to drive the ball,” Vaccaro told the Community Advocate. “And I have to tell you the truth: Both of them have been terrific. They support each other. They are two great young men. They care about winning, but they care about the team.”
Lucarelli led Post 397 forward. Shrewsbury topped Hudson Post 100, 7-4, at Guidotti Field in a mid-season clash between two programs with a winning tradition. Lucarelli launched a two-out triple over the head of an outfielder in the first inning to get the party started, and during a sixth-inning rally, Kursonis’ three-run double blew the game open.
“We’re both veterans. This is my third year with Post 397, Tommy’s fourth. We’ve been to the regional. We’ve been to states. We know what the competition is like,” said Lucarelli. “We both see live arms in high school, so coming here, being in the middle of the order, being leaders — it’s really showing the younger guys what to do and how to approach an at-bat on
Post 397 — which returned just six players from last year’s zone-winning squad — is a team full of fresh faces. But everyone
made an impact against Hudson. Shrewsbury High standouts Drew O’Connell, Cam Kelly, and Finn McDonough each registered hits for Post 397, while Connor Mudd (Deerfield Academy) was 2-for-3 batting atop
After a lead-off single by Mudd, Lucarelli’s first-inning triple put Shrewsbury ahead
“I was looking for that fastball. It was a fastball middlemiddle,” said Lucarelli. “Laid off of two balls, and it was a 2-1 count after I fouled something off. I tried to drive the ball up the middle and it went over the
outfielder’s head.”
Mudd helped Post 397 keep its lead over Hudson, a team with a penchant for coming from behind. A centerfielder with plenty of range, the Skidmore commit ran across the outfield to get under three hard-hit balls that could’ve done damage.
“Connor Mudd has been tremendous. He’s one of the best centerfielders I’ve had, and I’ve had some pretty damn good ones,” said Vaccaro.
The pitching was also excellent for Shrewsbury. Joey Guidotti (Shrewsbury High) started the game with a hitless opening frame before leaving
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due to a back injury. Jake Brodeur (Governor’s Academy) was sharp in relief, hurling five innings of three-hit ball while striking out five.
The lefty took a no-hitter into the fifth frame.
“The changeup has been good. I’m pretty confident in all five of my pitches. Being able to throw any one of them in any given count is pretty nice,” Brodeur said after the game. “It also helps when you have a good defense.”
“He has done excellent,” said Vaccaro. “Excellent in every start and relief appearance.”
Hudson made a late comeback bid, making it a three-run game after a seventh-inning rally. But Post 397 emerged victorious, and with a guaranteed spot in the Northeast Regional Finals as the host, Vaccaro knows there’s plenty of growth remaining from his Shrewsbury squad.
“They’re gelling, but we’ve got a lot of wood to chop,” he said.
ABOVE: Jake Brodeur was sharp on the mound.
MIDDLE: Jackson Lucarelli hit a first-inning triple to get the game started. RIGHT: Finn McDonough throws the ball to first. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Southborough native Alex Karaban selected in NBA Draft
By Laney Halsey Reporter
SOUTHBOROUGH – “Al -
right, let’s do it.”
That’s how Southborough native Alex Karaban ended his phone call with the Sacramento Kings organization, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Surrounded by friends and family on NBA Draft night, the former University of Connecticut star learned that he was going to be drafted in the first round. Karaban was selected No. 29 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers before being traded to the Kings for the No. 34 overall pick and a future second-round selection.
“It was unbelievable,” Karaban told the Community Advocate. “I worked my entire life to reach the NBA, and to have that call and realize that my dreams were coming true and that it’s actually here now, there’s a feeling that I’ll never forget.”
Karaban played for one year at Algonquin Regional High School before transferring to New Hampton School, where he was named the 2020-21 Gatorade New Hampshire Player of the Year. A consensus top-50 recruit, Karaban attended IMG Academy (Florida) for one semester before enrolling at UConn.
Karaban became a legend in Storrs, winning the NCAA national championship in both 2023 and 2024. In February 2026, Karaban became the first men’s player to have been inducted into the Huskies of Honor while still active at UConn.
His journey started in Southborough – something Karaban will never forget.
“In Southborough, everyone’s rooting for everyone to succeed, and they all just want to see the best out of you,” Karaban said. “Southborough is truly home for me, and I always want to represent it the right way.”
Karaban makes it a point to remain involved in the community. In 2024, he returned to Algonquin to host a youth basketball camp.
“The community is a huge, huge, huge piece of
me,” Karaban said. “The support that Southborough’s given me for years, all the friends and everyone that just continually checks in on me and supports me at games, means a lot. I definitely want to thank everyone in Southborough.”
As Karaban switches out his No. 11 jersey for No. 33, he plans to take on the NBA with the same energy that defined his career at UConn.
“I’ll do whatever my role is, whatever needs to be done to help the team win,” Karaban said. “I really just try to be the best version of myself and get better every single day.”
