The yearbook got it right: One-time Westborough High ‘class couple’ married for 42 years
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — In 1979, Bonnie (Walker) and Paul Thiesing were named Westborough High School’s Class Couple less than a year into dating. Now, the two have been together for about 48 years – and happily married for 42.
They grew up together attending Westborough Public Schools. Living only one street from each other, a 13-year-old Paul would bring his horse over to the Walker Dairy Farm and charge Bonnie’s cousins 10 cents for rides.
At Westborough High School, Bonnie was on the Color Guard, while Paul
Connected from the start, this Shrewsbury couple has been married for 31 years
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY — They were together from the beginning.
When Kym Dufault was a six-monthold infant, her mother frequently convened with a very nice – and very pregnant – stay-at-home mom friend, Mary, who lived in an apartment across the
hall. During an otherwise uneventful get-together, Mary’s water broke, and with labor forthcoming, Kym’s mother, Charron, drove her to the hospital.
There, baby Michael was born –Kym’s future husband.
Growing up, then growing apart With families connected, Kym and Mi-
Bonnie and Paul Thiesing were the ‘class couple’ in high school. They’re married today. (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
At Kym’s fourth birthday party, Michael was sat next to her. Today, the two are happily married. (Photos/Courtesy)
Shrewsbury Couple | 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
Best in the Boro: Local businesses honored with awards
WESTBOROUGH — In the 11th annual Year in Review Reception on Jan. 30, the Westborough Economic Development Committee recognized the achievements of local businesses with several awards.
Every year, this event brings together local leaders, business owners, and community members to celebrate and honor outstanding contributions to Westborough’s economic vitality over the past year.
The 2025 award for “Best Large Business” went to Big Y Foods, Craftlab Westboro was recognized as the “Best Small Business,” and BRIO 33 New England Bistro was named “Best New Downtown Business.”
The “Best Business Expansion” award went to M.A. Restoration, Inc., and Pulte Homes of New England LLC was named “Best Sustainable Business.”
The Rotary Club of Westborough received the “Civic Pride”
award, while Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
The event featured a short video presentation of each of the award winners produced by Westborough TV, showcasing why Westborough remains a premier destination for business growth and innovation.
Zenobia Moochhala, undersecretary of business strategies at the Executive Office of Economic Development for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, delivered the keynote address.
“Westborough shows how local leadership and strong business partnerships create real economic momentum,” Moochhala said. “From small startups to major employers, the companies recognized today are creating jobs, investing in the community, and strengthening the region’s competitiveness.”
She added: “The HealeyDriscoll Administration is proud to partner with municipalities like Westborough that are building vibrant, businessfriendly environments across Massachusetts.”
Added Sandra Coker, an Economic Development Committee member and the CEO of Human Power Solutions: “Each of our committee members volunteers their time to make Westborough a better place to do business. I couldn’t be more
thankful to work with such a fantastic group.”
The Committee extends its thanks to State Sen. Michael Moore; State Rep. Kate Donoghue; State Rep. Hannah Kane; the Westborough Select Board, Kim Foster, assistant town manager; and the following sponsors: Aalanco Service Corp. Community Advocate Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce
EverRise
Human Power Solutions
Inteplast Special Films
Jennifer Juliano of Keller Williams
Middlesex Savings Bank Release Well-Being Center
RH White Construction
Tatnuck Bookseller at the Westborough Shopping Center
Food Provided by Big Y Foods and Elms Catering
MARLBOROUGH HOSPITAL IS NOW A CAMPUS OF UMASS MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER
For more than 135 years, Marlborough Hospital has been relentless in providing its community with highly personalized, clinically excellent care. As of January 1, 2026, Marlborough Hospital is a campus of UMass Memorial Medical Center, and that relentless commitment now provides greater access to community-based specialty care, cutting-edge technologies, and a higher level of expert care when needed. Provided by the people you know and trust.
ummhealth.org/marlboroughFAQ | 855-UMASS-MD
(Photos/Christine McShane Creative)
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
Clean up after your dog or lose the privilege.
Northborough has a wonderful network of trails that are accessible for all manners of recreation. In fact, we are the envy of the neighborhood and I often meet people from other towns using our trails. The recent snows have only added to their bucolic beauty.
That said, I am deeply disturbed by the amount of dog waste left on the trails. It really spoils the look as well as having serious health implications. Over the last three days, I have picked up two 5-gallon buckets full along the Carney Park dam. Yes, it was so unsightly that I brought a bucket and shovel to clean it up. We can clearly do better and
we must. It would be a shame for someone who doesn’t like dogs to use this as justification to ban dog-walking altogether. Please clean up after your dog, and even pick up any other waste on our trails. With a little extra effort by everyone, we can solve this.
Respectfully,
Dennis Lindenberg, Northborough
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.
& fire
The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
Lynne
Michelina
What Northborough sidewalk is next for repairs?
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — With over $200,000 in funds allocated, Northborough officials are looking to revamp the town’s sidewalks.
Northborough has 34 miles of sidewalks — and aspires to add more to create a vibrant, walkable downtown area. According to Director of Public Works Scott Charpentier, the town has $170,000 in remaining capital funds for sidewalk and drainage improvements; the funds were approved at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting.
The town also received a $65,000 earmark for downtown sidewalk improvements.
The town’s current sidewalk management plan was developed in 2023. Now, with $235,000 in available funds, the Northborough Select Board is looking to tackle sidewalks across town.
The Select Board voted unanimously – contingent that
the funds are not needed for emergency repairs – to direct Charpentier to prioritize sidewalk design and improvements in the following areas:
Davis Street, from Lanthorn Road to Hamilton Road ($56,000)
Howard Street, from Church Street to Winter Street ($54,200)
Pinehaven Drive, from West Main Street to Lincoln Street ($70,400)
Pleasant Street and Church Street, from Lincoln Street to Howard Street ($35,600) The Select Board also emphasized that improvements to sidewalks on Maple Street are a priority, particularly given the upcoming Peaslee School project.
“To me, it wouldn’t make sense to do a major renovation or redesign of a school without a safe way to walk to it. I think it all comes together,” said board member Michael Tietjen.
THE CHARMAT METHOD
The Charmat method, or tank method, is a quick way to make sparkling wine. Instead of fermenting in individual bottles like Champagne, the wine goes through a second fermentation in a large, sealed stainless steel tank. Sugar and yeast are added, creating bubbles trapped in the wine. The process takes a few weeks or up to a few months, then the yeast is filtered out and the bubbly wine is bottled under pressure. This method keeps fruity, fresh flavors intact, with lighter, gentler bubbles, perfect for wines like Prosecco and Lambrusco. Because it skips long aging and complex steps, the Charmat method is faster and more affordable. The result is sparkling wines that are bright and full of fruit character.
A good bottle of wine can liven up any party or meal, regardless of whether it’s sealed with a cork or a cap! For more information, please call 508366-1942 or visit JULIO’S LIQUORS at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East . With a wide variety of fine wines, spirits, beer, and tobacco, we also have many other unique items that set us apart from the average liquor store.
P.S. The Charmat method of making sparkling wine was first patented in 1895 by the Italian winemaker Federico Martinotti.
If you like our Un-cork’d
Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. itstheliquortalking.com
and
Over 25,000 gallons of wastewater released into Shrewsbury’s Flint Pond
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Lake Quinsigamond has had another sewage spill.
During the Lake Quinsigamond Commission’s Jan. 28 meeting, Worcester Lakes and Ponds Program Coordinator Katie Liming detailed an
incident Jan. 24 where about 26,000 gallons of wastewater were released near Flint Pond.
According to Liming, the Worcester Department of Public Works responded to a report of liquid coming through a roadway near Sunderland Road. There was a fracture in the infrastructure, and although some of the
flow was diverted – and the break was isolated in two hours – there was a significant amount of wastewater that escaped.
Liming said the 26,000-gallon number was “a conservative estimate,” but also said some of the wastewater might’ve filtered out over the land. The discharge would’ve
entered Flint Pond near the area of Half-Moon Tavern, she said.
“One potential benefit of that area having been filled in over the decades, as this commission has noted, is that the particular area of Flint Pond is now a pretty extensive wetland system, rather than being open water. My belief is
that … the wastewater is probably being treated naturally,” she said.
The “precise cause” of the break isn’t known at this time, though Liming said it’s her “understanding that this was a pretty old pipe.”
She added: “These types of breaks are really heartbreaking, for sure.”
SHREWSBURY – Central One Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that applications are now available for its 2026 scholarship programs: the Academic Scholarship and the Student Member Academic Scholarship.
The Academic Scholarship is open to graduating seniors from Algonquin Regional, Auburn, Milford, Shrewsbury, Westborough, and Worcester Public High Schools. Central One will award six scholarships of $1,500 each, with one recipient chosen from each high school.
The Student Member Academic Scholarship will award $1,500 to one member of Central One Federal Credit Union who meets the eligibility requirements. Students must be graduating in May 2026 and entering a 4-year accredited program in Fall 2026. Selection will be based on academic merit, school and community involvement, and financial need.
All applicants must submit their applications and required documentation either in person at any Central One branch location or via email to member_support@centralfcu.com by April 11, 2026. For more information and to download the application form, please visit centralfcu.com/scholarships.
Central One Federal Credit Union is a full-service, notfor-profit, cooperative financial institution serving Massachusetts residents and businesses. Branches are in Auburn, Milford, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Westborough, and Worcester.
Southborough native earns silver for U.S. at 2026 Olympics
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH — As a 10-year-old, Korey Dropkin remembers watching the 2006 Winter Olympics and seeing the Men’s U.S. Curling Team, led by Pete Fenson, win the bronze in Italy.
Now, the Southborough native, 30, is an Olympic medalist himself.
On Feb. 10, Dropkin and his curling partner, Cory Thiesse, took home a silver medal in Curling Mixed Doubles at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Dropkin’s team – colloquially known as “Cory and Korey” –garnered national attention as it advanced through the tournament.
Raised by a family of curlers, Dropkin was obsessed with the sport from an early age. But there wasn’t much curling in Central Mass., and Dropkin and his brother were practically the only people who played.
“I was basically raised at the Broomstones Curling Club,” Dropkin said.
When he watched the Winter Olympics in front of
the TV in 2006, his dreams of one day becoming an Olympian solidified. After graduating from Algonquin Regional High School, he moved to Duluth, Minnesota – a hotbed for competitive curlers in the U.S. – and met a number of Olympians and curlers who he remembered watching.
Dropkin went to college at the University of Minnesota and embedded himself in the Minnesotan curling culture: “I always believed in order to be the best, I had to surround myself with the best,” he said.
Now, it’s come full-circle.
“It’s a very cool moment,” Dropkin said ahead of the Olympics. “My teammate and I are ready to play, and we’re going to have a blast, make a bunch of shots, focus on all our processes and routines, and enjoy the full experience.”
He added: “We know that if we play, the way we know how to play and focus on doing all the small stuff great, that we will have a great opportunity to be fighting for gold at the end of the week.”
How prescient. Congratulations, Korey Dropkin!
Excitement filled the Algonquin Regional High School gymnasium as students and staff cheered on 2013 alum Korey Dropkin, who was competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics for mixed-doubles curling. Dropkin and his partner, Cory Thiesse, won a silver medal on Tuesday, Feb. 10. (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor, Hudson residents — and our neighboring communities — should be paying close attention to the proposed expansion of the Hudson Transfer Station operated by B-P Trucking. Though legally described as a “minor modification,” the proposal would have a major impact, more than doubling the facility’s permitted daily waste intake, increasing from 350 tons to 850 tons per day. This scale of expansion carries serious implications for public health, safety, infrastructure, and the environment.
Such an increase would result in hundreds of additional diesel truck trips through Hudson and surrounding towns every day.
More heavy truck traffic means increased air pollution, noise, road damage, and heightened safety risks, particularly along residential streets and near schools and parks. A single tractortrailer causes as much pavement damage as thousands of passenger vehicles, yet no independent municipal cost
analysis has been presented to account for accelerated road deterioration, traffic enforcement, emergency response demands, or increased crash risk.
The environmental concerns are equally significant. The transfer station is located within the Assabet River watershed and near wetlands and flood-prone areas that affect not only Hudson, but also downstream communities, including Stow and Sudbury. Increasing waste volume heightens the risk of runoff, leachate, and storm-event discharges — impacts that do not stop at town borders.
Most troubling is the absence of any demonstrated public benefit to offset these risks. Surrounding communities receive no discounted waste services, no mitigation funding, and no infrastructure support. Instead, they bear the environmental, health, and safety consequences while a private operator stands to profit.
Decisions of this magnitude require transparency, independent impact analy -
sis, and meaningful regional input. Hudson and its neighboring towns deserve a full accounting of the true costs — to public health, safety, the environment, and shared infrastructure — before any expansion is approved. If you agree, please reach out to the Hudson Board of Health before 3/3/26 to share your thoughts: health@ townofhudson.org; lantonelli@townofhudson.org.
Respectfully concerned, Alicia Smith , Hudson
Dear Editor,
On behalf of the League of Women Voters, I’m writing to encourage residents to consider running for elected office.
Hudson’s form of town government depends on residents volunteering their time to serve on the boards and committees that make the policy and decisions for the Town of Hudson. These elected and appointed volunteers steer our town through challenges and set the tone for the kind of community we want
Mind, Body, Spirit
Beacon Acupuncture Expands Expertise to Better Serve
the Community
Beacon Acupuncture continues to grow—not just in reputation, but in expertise—bringing advanced, integrative care to the community one patient at a time. On February 1, 2026, Beacon Acupuncture’s own Liza Tangney completed an advanced training certification in Irvington, New York, marking an important milestone in her ongoing commitment to easing pain and restoring function for her patients.
Over the past one to two years, Tangney studied Neuro-Meridian Acupuncture under renowned educator Dr. Poney Chiang. Through this intensive training, she earned recognition as an Integrative Acupuncturist, demonstrating proficiency in blending Classical Chinese Medicine with modern understanding of the peripheral and central nervous systems. This innovative approach allows for more precise treatment of neuro-muscular pain and a wide range of neurological conditions. What sets Neuro-Meridian Acupuncture apart is its focus on how the nervous system communicates with the body. By addressing both traditional meridian pathways and neurological modulation, treatments can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support overall neurological function. Patients often seek this method for chronic pain, nerve-related conditions, and complex musculoskeletal issues
Beyond credentials, Tangney brings humility, integrity, and compassion to her practice—qualities that
Hudson to be.
If you follow local news, attend town or board meetings, or serve on committees, you’ve already developed valuable insight into local government. If your professional, volunteer, or life experience has given you skills that you believe would benefit our town, consider taking the next step and running for municipal office.
This coming May we will elect members to a number of boards and committees. The Select Board are the primary policy makers for the town and the appointing authority for many key roles. The School Committee shapes how we educate our children. The Planning Board determines how development affects our community’s character. The Board of Health protects public well-being. These aren’t symbolic positions— they’re where your understanding of local issues and your skills can directly improve residents’ lives. A full list of open positions with descriptions is available at https://www.
lwv-actonarea.org/elections-voting.
Visit the Town Clerk’s page on our town website, https://townofhudson.org, for more information on running for office. Nomination papers for this May’s election are due by March 23, 2026.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state and national government. The League develops positions on issues, but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. It has a long tradition of providing important voter information services.
Sincerely,
Jeannie Vineyard , Hudson
patients feel from the moment they walk through the door. Her ethical, patient-centered approach reflects the highest standards of healthcare, with a clear mission: to alleviate pain and suffering with care and responsibility.
For those living with neuro-muscular pain or neurological conditions, acupuncture may offer relief. Treatment plans at Beacon Acupuncture focus on reducing symptoms, increasing functionality, and helping patients reclaim a better quality of life—one treatment at a time.
One-time Westborough High ‘class couple’ married for 42 years
was a member of the marching band. That’s where he first began to “spy” on Bonnie, he joked, considering her as a potential date for the upcoming Junior Prom.
A million thoughts ran through Bonnie’s head when the question finally came, but in the end, she said “yes.” The two had a nice night at the dance, which was themed “Miracles.” They’ve been together ever since.
They had their first official date at the Worcester Center Galleria, paying $2.50 for tickets to see “The Goodbye Girl.” Bonnie recalls how awkward they were together, especially when Paul made his first attempt to hold her hand as they made their way inside.
But the awkwardness of the new love between the two 16-year-olds would soon subside as they grew closer, spending nights doing their physics homework together, and eventually winning the honor of “Class Couple.”
“At least we weren’t class clowns,” Paul remarked with a smile.
When it came time to go to the Senior Ball, Bonnie had a full leg cast after knee surgery – but that didn’t stop her from dancing. When they went to the after-party, Paul exited the car, which slowly started to roll backwards. Cast-bound Bonnie was helpless as Paul jumped back in the vehicle before anything bad happened.
After graduation, the two headed to different state schools for college. While Bonnie was down at Southern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth) studying Spanish and business, Paul was over in Lowell completing a degree in mechanical engineering. Their only forms of communication were through “lots of letters” and the phone in the hallways of their dorms.
They couldn’t bear being apart.
After returning home from a seven-week trip in Spain –with, again, no way to truly contact one another – Bonnie recalls having been awake for 24 hours from her travels. “I was just bubbling and talking up a storm and he was strangely quiet – quieter than usual,” she said.
That’s when Paul popped
the question.
The two were married on a windy August day in 1983 by Westborough’s beloved late Rev. Frederick Robert Brown at the Baptist Church right next door to Town Hall. Their reception was held at the Knights of Columbus in Shrewsbury. When they arrived, Paul’s cousin had already taken to the dance floor, and it was interesting to see how his loud Italian family mingled with the quiet, conservative Walkers.
Driving down to Virginia for their honeymoon, they visited Kings Dominion and then Busch Gardens – back when there was only one rollercoaster, which Paul rode while Bonnie stayed safely on the ground. In a carnival game, he won her a pink stuffed hippo, which still sits in the garage of their Grafton home: “We can’t seem to get rid of it,” Bonnie said with a laugh.
Heading home on the George Washington Bridge, just after the toll, Paul’s 1971 Malibu overheated, and they had to pull over. Bonnie remembers looking over at Paul and joking with him: “I guess the honeymoon’s over.”
Arriving back at their apartment in Lowell, it dawned on Bonnie that she would have to cook. Attempting to make some spaghetti, she ended up accidentally burning herself. She recalls sitting on the couch, embarrassed and hiding her face.
Paul came over to comfort her: “It was sweet,” she said.
Though they have somewhat opposite personalities, they share the same values and interests – spending time together hiking in the mountains of New Hampshire, golfing, kayaking, and now playing pickleball.
“We laugh a lot, which is one of those keys to a happy marriage,” she said. “To the point of tears sometimes.”
Though they have great memories of the many trips they’ve been on, Bonnie said that while they’re sitting outside on their porch having breakfast together, she’ll often think to herself: “Who needs to go on vacation?”
“We’ve been blessed for sure,” she added.
“Being a parent for the first time is just amazing,” Paul said. Although neither knew what they were doing, they
did it together. They now have two daughters, 38 and 36, and two granddaughters, 4 and 2, who they absolutely adore.
“We’re not the same people we were then and that’s a good thing – that you grow and learn together through the years and survive the tough times,” Bonnie said.
She added she’s appreciated Paul’s support through everything, including when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I don’t ever want to forget that because I never took it for granted that I was at the mercy of God through all that,” Bonnie said. “I would say that’s really where we’ve grown the most.”
The two continue to enjoy each other’s company, especially now that Paul is newly retired and Bonnie works from home part-time.
On the morning the couple met with the Community Advocate, Paul had stumbled upon a relic that truly demonstrated just how far back their connection was. The two had been in the same second grade class and were given small booklets to fill out with details such as their name, their teacher’s name, their favorite movie, and their “pal.”
“I didn’t remember it, but there he is,” Bonnie said, pointing to the page entitled “Somebody Nice.”
As a second-grader, Bonnie had etched Paul’s name in.
ASK THE PR
By Rick Marino Owner, Professional Automotive
Tom, good question. Most car manufacturers stretch the oil service intervals to compete with other manufacturers on the cost of ownership index. They would like to sell you a new car at 100,000 miles.
Today’s engines can withstand these kinds of intervals but only to a certain point. Some, but not at all! We find with these stretched durations, the engines can start to consume more oil, develop more costly repairs with internal moving parts, sensors, control valves and emission
Should I change
systems. Some vehicles may not even pass annual inspections as a result.
My recommendation is, if you keep vehicles beyond 100,000 miles, change the oil and filter every 5000-6000 miles. While you’re at it, rotate the tires at the same time. This prevents the tires from wearing unevenly. If you skip the rotation, you’re most likely subjecting your tires to uneven wear and you will need to replace them sooner!
Class Couple | from page 1
with Rick Marino
One Northborough neighborhood could see almost $2M
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — When
Danielle Morris drives to her house on Assabet Hill Circle, she finds herself having to avoid the dips and valleys all over the street. When she walks her dog, she’s careful to avoid the curbs that are sinking into the earth or crumbling entirely.
She’s known neighbors who have twisted ankles while walking around the neighborhood, and she said manholes have blown open multiple times in the past few years.
“Aesthetics are one thing, but at the end of the day, it’s all about safety,” Morris told the Community Advocate.
Based on a proposal from the Northborough Department of Public Works (DPW), the Assabet Hill Circle neighborhood could see nearly $2 million in repairs. The project will consist of drainage repairs, and
repairs
will involve the replacement of sidewalks, asphalt, and roadways, according to DPW Director Scott Charpentier. The subdivision was built in 1998, and the majority of the problems are a “result of poor workmanship during the original construction of the development,” Charpentier said. In 2018, the neighborhood suffered from
Stay Cool With Us!
various “Volkswagen-sized” sinkholes.
Morris, along with other neighbors, have pushed the town to make substantial repairs to the neighborhood roads. The town has patched holes and filled manholes that stick up from the road, but the temporary fixes aren’t enough to ease worries about the
underlying issues.
“We’re now burdened with it where it’s just so bad,” Morris said. “There are areas throughout this town that need attention, but I haven’t driven on a road that is this bad.”
In 2019, the town published a report that analyzed the neighborhood; it showed areas that needed significant repairs. Estimates for construction hovered around $500,000. In past years, Charpentier was able to secure some funding in hopes of beginning repairs, but after culvert failures and other emergencies, there have been no substantial repairs on Assabet Hill Circle.
“I think they’re kind of sick of hearing the same story, and it needs to be addressed,” Charpentier said.
For many neighborhood residents, the drawn-out process has led to frustration, particularly when the icy winter months exacerbate the road conditions.
“Just because some other
There are areas throughout this town that need attention, but I haven’t driven on a road that is this bad.
~Danielle Morris
places may have more traffic, doesn’t mean that this is not a hazard,” said Suneetha Hari, an Assabet Hill Circle resident. “I walk a lot when the weather is good, and I’m always looking at the ground to see if I’m going to trip and fall.”
Residents like Chrissy Haungs have filled in small sinkholes, but she continues to worry about the safety of her kids riding bikes and scooters along the uneven pavement.
“It’s feeling like [the repairs] are never going to happen,” said Haungs. “When does it become too far gone?”
The proposal for significant repairs comes at a $1.8 million price, which may come to Town Meeting in April. While the cost may seem alarming to some, residents say it’s an overdue endeavor.
“We all know the projects that got delayed in town, how they ended up costing a lot more,” Morris said. “If this was somebody else’s neighborhood in town that was like this, and people were getting injured and buses were afraid to come up, and people didn’t want to plow it, I would absolutely get behind it.”
Connected from the start, this Shrewsbury couple has been married for 31 years
chael spent their childhoods around one another. They were classmates at Happy Acres Preschool. Kym celebrated her fourth birthday among family and friends; photos, found years later, reveal that she was sitting next to Michael that day.
But as time went on, the families grew apart. Kym moved to Shrewsbury, away from Michael. Working at the old Ground Round, she’d run into Michael occasionally, always thinking of him as a nice gentleman, but the relationship they had as toddlers? That wasn’t coming back.
At least it hadn’t yet.
In the summer of 1991, the two reconnected. While Kym worked at Spag’s throughout the summer, Michael would occasionally drop by to pick up his father, who worked at the retailer for over four decades. Sometimes Michael would linger – for no reason in particular.
“He’d always end up at my cash register. Talking to me, flirting,” remembered Kym.
Kym and Michael started running into each other while hanging out with groups of friends. After a little more flirting from Michael, Kym eventually decided to ask him out. On July 19, 1991, they had their first official date, watching “The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear” at the nowclosed Lincoln Plaza movie theater.
The date also involved a trip to Baskin-Robbins, which almost ended the relationship.
“I was kind of nervous, so when it came time to get ice cream, I politely declined,” said Michael.
“So,” said Kym, “I sat there by myself eating a strawberry ice cream, feeling like a weirdo.”
They’ve been together ever since.
Saying ‘I Love You’
The relationship wasn’t without challenges. During a ride through Shrewsbury, Michael and Kym contemplated how they would stay together despite attending colleges in different parts of New England. Wanting to make it work, Michael said the words “I Love You” to Kym.
Those life-changing words were first uttered in one of the most romantic locations on Earth: a left-hand-turn lane at the intersection of Lake Street and Route 9 in Shrewsbury, where Buffalo Wild Wings stands today.
The two weathered the long-distance struggles, and got engaged shortly after graduation on July 23, 1993. On Dec. 23, 1994, they got married at St. Mary’s in Shrewsbury, holding their reception at the old Knights of Columbus building. Kym was 24, and Michael was 23.
When dating, meeting the parents can be the hardest part. Not so much here. The first time Michael “met” Kym’s mother, it was more of a reunion. She had, after all, been there for him since the first day of his life – literally.
“It’s not lost on us how cool our story is,” said Michael.
Added Kym: “I always had a feeling I knew who I was going to marry. I had a feeling it was somebody I knew. I didn’t really know him, but I just had a feeling – I can’t explain it. We were always just connected, somehow, and I knew.”
Lovers then, lovers now And 31 years later, Kym and Michael still love one another – very much. They have a 20-year-old son, enjoy jamming to rock-and-roll (U2 is a favorite), and still get excited to see one another after getting home from work.
“I love everything about her,” said Michael. “She’s attractive – inside and out – and as we became more friendly, I fell in love with the type of person she is. She’s caring, she’s creative, she’s funny, and she likes a lot of the same stuff I like.”
Said Kym: “He’s just someone I can always count on. He’s my rock. He’s always there. We laugh a lot together. We like a lot of the same music – he’s just my whole world. He’s the love of my life, and just the best guy I could ever imagine being married to.”
Shrewsbury Couple
HOMES MORE
What to Expect From a Realtor
By Gary Kelley
Whenengaging a Realtor there are some expectations needing to be set early in the relationship.
If the Realtor is acting as a buyer’s agent, they need to help review the property with complete candor recognizing they have not lived in the property either. If acting as a seller’s agent, it’s really the same. You need to be honest and open with your realtor and expect the same in exchange.
If a realtor knows something about a property they need to disclose it to you. In fairness, they may not know about a flaw in the home. But if they do know, they need to disclose it. At the same time, when they may be representing you, it is not fair to ask them not to disclose something. I once had someone selling a home with substantial mold (tested by a professional). The seller did not want me to tell anyone about the mold. I could not do that and walked away from the listing. While every house has mold, here was a documented position and while it was a big financial hit for me, it was the right thing to do. Yes, the seller subsequently sold the house.
Sue Gordon, REALTOR®
Cell: 508.333.4672
Main: 508.719.8804
Castinetti Realty Group
2 Maple Avenue
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
When you ask the realtor a question, you need to give time for a response. Obviously if it is something on realtor practices, an answer can be forthcoming. If specific about a home often requires research and it’s not fair to expect an answer immediately, I strive to provide an answer within four business hours of the question provided I can get the answer. If I can’t, I will provide an update in that timeframe. At the same time, a question asked by the realtor to you should be responded to with similar expectations. I have
Real Estate Q&A with Sue Gordon
Q: “What advice do you give clients who feel overwhelmed?”
A: First, I remind them that feeling overwhelmed is completely normal. Buying or selling a home is a big deal, and there’s a lot of information coming at you all at once. My biggest piece of advice is simple: take it one step at a time. You don’t have to have everything figured out on day one—and you definitely don’t have to do it alone.
I tell clients to start with the basics and focus on what’s immediately in front of them. For buyers, that might mean getting clear on budget and priorities before worrying about every “what if.” For sellers, it often starts with a conversation about timing, goals, and what preparation truly makes sense for their situation. Once there’s a
plan, everything else feels far more manageable.
Communication is another big piece of the puzzle. I make sure my clients know what’s coming next, what decisions they’ll need to make, and when they’ll need to make them. When there are no surprises, stress levels drop dramatically. Questions are always encouraged—there’s no such thing as asking too much when it comes to a major life decision.
At the end of the day, my role is to guide, explain, and advocate, so clients can move forward with confidence. With the right plan and the right support, the process can feel less overwhelming—and even exciting.
Thinking about buying or selling and not sure where to start? Reach out anytime for a conversation—no pressure, just honest guidance and a clear next step.
provided people with listing paperwork because they are all hot to sell, and then they disappear for days. What message do I receive from that??
It used to be all Realtors represented the seller. Most Realtors I know provided a balanced perspective. Now, you have a buyers agent and a selling agent and they represent the buyer or seller. They still must be fair to everyone and need to disclose anything they know relevant to the home.
I also think it is imperative to have a home inspection with some exceptions. An exception is you are buying the house as an investor and you’re going to RIP everything apart. Anything wrong can fix as a part of your renovation budget. If you are a first-time buyer or follow on buyer, it is important to have a second set of eye review the property. Home inspectors have a rigorous training program to get licensed. Like anything else, not all are created equally. Some are more thorough than others. I once had a home inspector sit on the couch and call out questions without walking around. I would not recommend that inspector. Then again I can’t recommend an inspector! I have to give a list of inspectors and let the buyer decide. What’s important to me is it’s a licensed home inspector not someone’s uncle who once renovated a house.
Think of the Realtor as a sherpa. Experienced but maybe just steps ahead of you.
Stay tuned for next months article, and drink your Ovaltine. If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-733-6005, or explore MoveWithGary.com.
Northborough to host ‘mock’ meetings
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — After a historic four-night Town Meeting last year, Northborough officials say they are taking additional steps to prepare residents for the Town Meeting in April.
The town will be hosting a “mock Town Meeting” event in the coming months. Residents will have a chance to see a portion of the warrant and conduct mock votes and procedures to help understand the overall process, according to Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon.
“Town meetings can be confusing, especially for first-time attendees, and unfamiliarity often discourages participation. A mock session allows residents to learn in a low-pressure setting,” Bacon told the Community Advocate.
The meeting is scheduled for April 13.
Celebrating the season of love with orchids
Orchids have captivated humans for centuries. Over the years, their elegant forms and striking beauty have inspired art and literature. They appear in giftgiving traditions and have even sparked societal upheaval. During a period known as “orchidelrium,” Victorian England went head-over-oxfords for these fascinating plants.
“It’s easy to fall in love with orchids,” says Lea Morgan, exhibitions manager at New England Botanic Garden.
Orchids are one of the most diverse plant families on the planet, with over 28,000 known species. Each February and March, the Boylstonbased botanic garden celebrates orchids with an exhibition showcasing thousands of plants. The theme of the orchid exhibition changes from year to year, and Morgan often collaborates with local artists to incorporate artwork that inspires visitors to connect with orchids in new and interesting ways. This year, Elevated, on display through March 22, features the dynamic aerial sculptures of Boston-based artist Cicely Carew.
“Whether new to orchids or a lifelong enthusiast, there is always something to discover at the orchid exhibition, from surprising varieties and immersive creative displays to the simple joy of being surrounded by these awe-inspiring plants,” Morgan adds.
During Elevated, An Or -
chid Exhibition, visitors to the Garden can learn more about orchids through a variety of educational programs, including orchidcentered art and wellness classes, and enjoy special events, like Orchids After Dark, an evening series featuring live music, drinks, light bites, and curated ambience perfect for a night out. After the exhibition closes, the Garden will also host an Orchid Sale. Scheduled for April 3, this is an opportunity for lovers of orchids to take home favorite varieties from the exhibition.
Despite their popularity, caring for orchids at home is a notoriously finicky busi -
ness — but it doesn’t have to be. First, beware of the “ice cube method.” Contrary to popular belief, no orchid wants frozen water added to its pot. In addition to weekly watering, many orchids do well with regular misting and plenty of bright, indirect light. Most also benefit from humidity. To easily create a more humid environment, place potted orchids on a tray of pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, humidity will build around the plant.
Monitoring orchid roots is one of the best ways to figure out what additional TLC a plant may need. Many of the tropical orchid varieties available in stores are epi -
phytes, species that grow by clinging to other plants, so their roots are typically exposed. Soft, plump roots are a sign of good health. With the right balance of sunlight, water, and humidity, orchids will put out new leaves and may produce spikes with flowers at least once a year. Still, every orchid is different, so it is important to know your variety’s love language.
Phalaenopsis, also known as moth orchids, are some of the most common orchids in stores and are easy to grow in most home conditions. They are often planted in containers with bark. To water, drench the plant, bark, and aerial roots with warm
water in the sink once a week. Dendrobium orchids grow well indoors because they can tolerate the lowest humidity. Varieties can be deciduous or evergreen. The stems of dendrobium orchids are thick pseudobulbs that store water and nutrients and should not be cut after blooming.
Oncidium orchids, or “dancing ladies,” boast beautiful, ruffled flowers that can look like a dress in motion. Some varieties are very fragrant. The deep purple and white flowers of Oncidium ‘Sharry Baby’ smell of chocolate. Dancing lady orchids are lightloving orchids that can live in 40 to 70 percent humidity.
Paphiopedilum, tropical lady slippers, are primarily terrestrial orchids that get their name from singular pouch-like petals that resemble ballet slippers. The pouch shape aids in pollination. When growing tropical lady slippers at home, aim for conditions that mimic the forest floor — low light and moderate humidity.
Discover these orchids and more at Elevated, An Orchid Exhibition through March 22. Learn more at nebg.org.
Fryc will not run for re-election to School Committee, ending 18-year tenure
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – A pillar of the Shrewsbury School Committee is walking away.
At the Jan. 21 meeting of the School Committee, longtime member Sandra Fryc announced that she would not be running for reelection this May. Fryc has sat on the committee for six three-year terms, dedicating 18 years to the education of Shrewsbury students.
“I just really believe in strong public education. There’s nothing more important than educating kids,” Fryc told the Community Advocate. “We have an amazing school district, and I wanted to keep that going – not only for my kids, but future generations.”
She added: “Public education is the best thing anybody could have.”
Fryc, who has lived in Shrewsbury for over 30 years, started volunteering in town in 1997, even -
It’s been such a pleasure to be part of the committee.
Sandra Fryc Srewsbury School Committee
tually becoming a Town Meeting member in 2003. Her involvement in town continued to grow. Looking to avoid future deficits and reductions in the school system, she helped form the educational advocacy group Citizens for a Better Shrewsbury.
Though her friends wanted her to run for School Committee, she was initially hesitant.
“I could never do that. I’m not a politician. I can’t speak in front of people,” she thought.
“But the more I thought about it, I thought I’d do it,”
she remembers. “It was to get involved and be somebody who could push for strong public education in town. I wanted to advocate for a budget that would keep educational services good.”
Since 2008, she’s touched practically every aspect of Shrewsbury Public Schools.
She’s been a member of the Floral School Council, Oak School Council, and Sherwood School Council, also becoming a board member on the Shrewsbury Education Foundation.
She was chair for five years, including back-toback stints during the pandemic. She was key to the opening of the new Maj. Howard W. Beal Elementary School and Sherwood Middle School, and served reliably as a judge for the district’s Spelling Bee in recent years.
She served on the committee that hired Superintendent Joe Sawyer. Eighteen years later, she’ll end her time on the School Committee as part of the subgroup interviewing candidates to become Sawyer’s successor. Talk about a fullcircle moment.
“For me, the best thing we ever did was the RISE Program,” Fryc said. “That’s just special. It’s unique. The gratification I get seeing how well it’s run and how well our students are doing – to me, in my 18 years, that’s my favorite with everything.”
Don’t expect Fryc to go too far. She intends to still be involved in “some way, shape, or form.” She plans to spend more time with family – including her two children, both Shrewsbury High graduates, and 1-yearold granddaughter Keira, who is also expected to go to Shrewsbury schools – and travel with her husband.
“It’s been such a pleasure to be part of the committee,” she said.
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COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Paying it forward
Shrewsbury family donates $5,000 to program that ‘invested so much’ in son
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – When the Love family was approached about a new Shrewsbury program, there was an air of excitement.
The RISE Program, the school district said, would provide special-education students ages 18 to 22 with real-world skills and experiences needed to become independent members of the community. These students were already provided an education, but it was through the out-of-district Assabet Valley Collaborative. This new program would be something special.
A former pharmacy building in the town center would be converted into a retail store. RISE students would learn there,
work there, and interact with customers there. The studentrun store, Maple & Main, would sell candy, candles, stickers, and Shrewsbury merchandise – with many designs crafted by the students themselves.
It was a lofty vision, but the Love family immediately embraced it. Ryan Love, a 2022 Shrewsbury High graduate, became the program’s first official member, playing a huge role in what it became in the next few years. Parents Daylene and Kevin were also consulted as Maple & Main found its footing.
“We were excited about it,” said Daylene. “For Ryan to be able to continue in the community where he lives, instead of having to be transported to Marlborough or someplace else – we were totally on board from
the beginning.”
The Love family’s unwavering faith was rewarded, as Ryan went on to have an incredible experience in the RISE Program before graduating in 2025. Ryan’s time was so fruitful that, on Jan. 21, it was officially announced that the family had donated $5,000 to the RISE Program, with another $2,500 going to Parker Road Preschool.
“They invested so much in Ryan over the years and throughout his entire time in the district. For us, it’s a way to give back to the school district and all of the great professionals – the technicians, the administrators – that helped Ryan be successful. They laid a great foundation,” Kevin Love told the Community Advocate.
In Ryan’s tenure with RISE,
WESTBOROUGH SHOPPING CENTER
the program grew from two students to nearly 20 students.
The retail store has blossomed, adding pop-up events, food truck Thursdays, and an ice cream cart that’ll help the students take frozen treats on the road. Professionally, students are getting internships and em-
ployment opportunities across Central Mass.
Said Superintendent Joe Sawyer: “We really appreciate the support, and we’ll make sure these funds are used in ways … to continue to support those students.”
As town mulls $1.4 million deficit, override debate angers residents – and divides Select Board
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – A bid to officially ask residents to consider an override floundered during the Select Board’s Feb. 3 meeting. After an overwhelming amount of public participation, with the majority of voices advocating for an override option to be presented to voters, three Select Board abstentions – Craig Dauphinais, Mark Alimo, and Ann Marie Foley –will push the debate to a future meeting.
The Select Board has spent the majority of 2026 discussing how to overcome Grafton’s expected $1.4 million budget deficit for fiscal year 2027. On Jan. 13, the School Committee, Select Board, Town Administrator, and Superintendent gathered to discuss the issue. Both boards reconvened (separately) and discussed the budget Jan. 20.
As of the publication of this article, a level-service budget
– one that maintains the quality of all of Grafton’s services – would be about $85.6 million. But the town can’t raise that much money, with only $84.1 million expected in total revenue.
Due to space constraints, a full breakdown of the Grafton budget debate could not be fit in this week’s print edition. However, since the debate is so timely, the Community Advocate has published a comprehensive article online detailing all aspects of the conversation.
Scan below, or visit our website at https://www. communityadvocate.com/ grafton/
Shrewsbury students root for New England Patriots before Super Bowl
By Kailey Flynn Contributing Photographer
SHREWSBURY — Well, Super Bowl LX didn’t turn out the way New England had hoped, but in the lead-up to the big game, Shrewsbury High School students showed their Patriots pride, participating in “Drake Maye Fri-Yay” on Feb. 6.
Students were encouraged to wear New England Patriots (or Drake Maye) merchandise. The student body voted on which team would emerge victorious. The event was arranged by Shrewsbury High School administration and the Student Council.
The New England Patriots lost Super Bowl LX, 29-13, on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Thank you to Kailey Flynn for the wonderful photos!
Neary students send message to Super Bowl-bound New England Patriots
SOUTHBOROUGH — Southborough students were ready to root for the New England Patriots!
On Feb. 2, staff at Margaret A. Neary Elementary School braved the cold to send a message to the Super Bowl1. Annual Percentage $0.00 and $24,999.99, and 0.05% above each qualification cycle the minimum requirements (12 CSB Debit Card Purchases, one Direct Deposit or ACH auto debit, receive account statements electronically (eStatements), log in to CSB Online Banking) are met. We may change the interest rate and APY at any time after the account is opened (4.05% APY effective 12/1/2025 guaranteed through 5/31/2026). Balances calculated using the Daily Balance method and interest is based on your daily average balance, compounded daily, and paid monthly. Current rate effective 12/1/2025 and guaranteed through 5/31/2026. No minimum balance required to maintain the account. Monthly service fee of $3 will apply unless enrolled in eStatements. The qualification cycle used to determine if the account requirements have been met is the first day of the current statement month through the close of the current statement month; if you do not meet the requirements for three consecutive statement cycles, the bank reserves the right to convert your account to a Basic Checking account, subject to that account's associated restrictions and fees (see Basic Checking Account details and Fee Schedule). Debit card purchases and ACH transactions must post and clear to your account during the qualification cycle. If you do not meet the requirements
ABOVE: (L-R) Sabrina Nault, Sabrina DeFalco, Elizabeth Sudnik
Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
SHREWSBURY
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING
100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
February 23, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Scott Davidson, 13 First Avenue #1, Dudley MA 01571 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.C to allow for an addition on a pre-existing non-conforming dwelling twenty eight and eight tenths feet (28.8’) from the front setback where thirty feet (30’) is required on property located at 32 Oak Street in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 27 Plot 064000.
February 23, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Roopali Agarwal, 52 Ireta Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I for an in-home residential kitchen business upon property located at 52 Ireta Road in the Rural A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 20 Plot 023050.
February 23, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Richard Ricker, 11 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for two Variances to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B-Table II to allow for the construction of a building thirty five feet (35’) from the rear setback where fifty feet (50’) is required, and seventeen feet (17’) from the side setback where fifty feet (50’) is required upon property located at 703-715 Hartford Turnpike in the Limited Industrial zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 42 Plot 022000.
February 23, 2026 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Davis Hemming, 500 Industrial Park Road. Deep River, CT 06417 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.E.5a to allow for a sign within the front yard setback upon property located at 420 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business District zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 33 Plot 079000.
David Moore, Clerk
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
HEARING NOTICE
The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 7:05PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545-5398, to accept public comment on an application submitted by OPAL Fuels Station Services LLC, located at 50 Centech Boulevard, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, requesting approval for the issuance of a new Fuel Storage Tank License. Interested residents are encouraged to attend and provide oral or written comments. Written comments may be emailed to selectboard@shrewsburyma. gov or mailed to the Office of the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
Theresa Flynn, Chairperson Office of the Select Board
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Select Board will hold a public hear-
PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545-5398, to accept public comment on an application submitted by Doright’s Steakhouse, Inc. d/b/a Willy’s Steakhouse, 2 Grafton Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, requesting approval of a Change of Manager for its All Alcohol License.
Interested residents are encouraged to attend and provide oral or written comments. Written comments may be emailed to selectboard@shrewsburyma.gov or mailed to the Office of the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, prior to the hearing date.
Theresa Flynn, Chairperson Office of the Select Board
February 5, 2026
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7:15 PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545-5398, to accept public comment on an application submitted by Massachusetts Fine Wines & Spirits LLC, d/b/a Total Wine Spirits Beer & More, located at 87–97 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, requesting approval of a Change of Manager for its All Alcohol License. Interested residents are encouraged to attend and provide oral or written comments. Written comments may be emailed to selectboard@shrewsburyma.gov or mailed to the Office of the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, prior to the hearing date.
Theresa Flynn, Chairperson Office of the Select Board
February 5, 2026
WESTBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE BOARD OF APPEALS
WESTBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS
Marcus Emery & Elizabeth Davison, 54 Chestnut Street, Westborough, MA, have applied for a Variance (G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 10). The Petitioner seeks a Variance under the Westborough Zoning Bylaws, (Section 2.3.B), for the minimum requirements for the lot frontage and allowance of a shared driveway and/or any other relief deemed necessary to allow the petition. The property is presently located on over 21 acres, and the applicant is seeking to create 2 (two) buildable lots. The petitioner seeks frontage relief to approximately 38 ft for Lot 2 and 38 ft for Lot 3 from the required frontage of 200 feet. The subject property is owned by 54 Chestnut Street Nominee Trust of 1992 and is located at 54 Chestnut Street, identified as Map 15, Parcel 178 on the Assessors’ Maps of the Town of Westborough.
The application is available for review on the Town of Westborough, Zoning Board of Appeals webpage: https://www.town. westborough.ma.us/board-appeals or a paper copy may be requested through the Town Clerk’s Office, 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581.
The public hearing will be held on March 2nd, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall, Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA at which time you, your agent or attorney may attend to present any support or objection to the above petition.
Brooke Maliff, Interim ZBA Clerk Appears February 13th and February 20th, 2026
The Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc has petitioned the Town of Westborough Select Board for permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way:
Fisher St - Install 1 JO Pole on Fisher St, beginning at a point approximately 180ft Northeast of the centerline of the intersection of Assabet Dr and Woodland Ct. National Grid is proposing to install a 50ft Class H1 Mid-span Pole between P38 and P39 on Fisher St. The Pole will be located on town property, intersected by Assabet Dr and Woodland Ct, and will be labeled P38-50.
Public Way: Fisher Street, Westborough, Ma 01518
Number of poles: 1
In accordance with the requirements of Section 22 of Chapter 166 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.) you are hereby notified that a Public Hearing will be held on the above referenced Pole Petitions by Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc. The Public Hearing will be held on February 23, 2026, at 10:00AM in Memorial Hall located in the Town Hall, 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581.
Advertisement Dates: February 13, 2026
TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS INVITATION TO BID
Westborough Public Schools Westborough High School A&B Roof Replacement & Rim Repairs Section 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT TO BID MGL c.149 Over $150K The WESTBOROUGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Westborough High School A&B Roof Replacement & Rim Repairs at Westborough High School in Westborough, Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by GORMAN RICHARDSON LEWIS ARCHITECTS. The Project consists of but not limited to: General Bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (considering all alternates) and made payable to the Awarding Authority (Westborough Public Schools). The cost for Labor & Materials Payment Bond and Contract Price Performance Bond shall be included with the Bid price and shall be for one hundred percent (100%) of Contract price. Selection of the Contractor will be based upon bidder qualifications, including evidence of past performance in similar projects, and bid price and as outlined in the Bid Documents. Installer shall be a company specializing in modified bituminous roofing with a minimum 5-years experience, completing at least 3 projects of similar size and scope in the last 5 years and certified by roofing system manufacturer as qualified to install manufacturer’s roofing materials. The General Contractor shall be DCAMM certified in the Prime Category of Roofing. The contract will be awarded to the bidder deemed by the awarding authority to be the lowest responsible and eligible bidder. The Bidder agrees that its bid shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of 60 days (Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays excluded) after the opening of the bids. The Awarding Authority reserves the right to waive any informalities, to accept or reject, in whole or in part any or all bids, or take whatever other action may be deemed to be in the best interest of the Town. The bid award will be contingent upon approval at the Town Meeting and subsequent Vote, expected to take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026. If approved, the contract will be awarded after the Vote. The work is estimated to cost $5,000,000.00. All bidding Requests for Information (RFIs) shall be submitted online by 02/17/2026 at 2:00PM EST for filed sub-bids and by 03/03/2026 at 2:00PM EST 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. Generated By BidDocs: 01/28/2026 at 5:33PM EST. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to Advertisement to Bid 00 11 13 - 1 v1.0-20250408 MGL c.149
Over $150K Westborough Public Schools Westborough High School A&B Roof Replacement & Rim Repairs register as an electronic bidder. All Bids shall be submitted online at www.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, Roofing, and must submit a current DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and signed DCAMM Prime/General Contractor Update Statement. General Bids will be received until 11 March 2026 at 2:00PM EDT and publicly opened online, forthwith. Filed Sub-bids for the trades listed below will be received until 25 February 2026 at 2:00PM EST 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 Masonry Waterproofing / Dampproofing / Caulking Plumbing Heating / Ventilating / Air-Conditioning (HVAC) 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 PUBLIC SCHOOLS. Note: A bid deposit is not required for Projects advertised under $50,000. Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at www. biddocs.com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost). PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT: Scheduled Date and Time: 02/11/2026 at 3:00PM EST Address: 90 West Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581 Instructions: Please meet at the front entrance towards West Main Street. PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT: By Appointment Contact Name: Kelly Giacopello Contact Phone: 508-871-6174 Contact Email: giacopellok@westboroughk12.org
Instructions: None Advertisement to Bid 00 11 13 - 2 v1.0-20250408 MGL c.149 Over $150K Westborough Public Schools Westborough High School A&B Roof Replacement & Rim Repairs Pre-bid Conference / Site Visit is MANDATORY for General Contractors. The hard copy Contract Documents may be seen at: Nashoba Blue Inc. 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 978-568-1167 Generated By BidDocs: 01/28/2026 at 5:33PM EST. Generated By BidDocs: 01/28/2026 at 5:33PM EST END OF SECTION Advertisement to Bid 00 11 13 - 3 v1.0-20250408 MGL c.149 Over $150K
TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
The Westborough Wastewater Treatment Plant Board (Board), acting through Darlene Domingos, Treatment Plant Board Administrator, will receive sealed Bids from qualified contractors for the FY26 Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements, until 2:00 pm local time, on March 13th, 2026 at 238 Turnpike Road, Westborough, Massachusetts, 01581, at which time and place all General Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
Sub-bids for Miscellaneous Metals and Electrical Work to be performed under this Contract will be received until 2:00 pm local time, on February 27th, 2026 at 238 Turnpike Road, Westborough, Massachusetts, 01581, at which time and place all Sub-bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
This project included prequalification for General Contractors and Filed Subbidders. Only prequalified General Contractors and Filed Subbiders can submit a bid.
The project involves various improvements at the treatment plant including
but not limited to replacement of: UV Influent Slide Gates; Grit Screws located in the Aerated Grit Chambers; Grit Classifier System; Wetwell Exhaust Fan; the existing US Filter Odor Control Unit and the Chemical Feed systems; the Headworks Area gas detection system; select odor control dampers; and relocation of the existing autosampler. Work also includes building modifications to the Headworks Motor Control Center (MCC) Control Room and replacement of the Headworks MCC and the Bar Screen Control Panel..
The total time period for completion of all Work required under this Contract is 730 consecutive calendar days.
Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available online at www.Projectdog. com, project code #872323. Contact www. projectdog.com or call 978.499.9014 with distribution questions. Each Bid shall be accompanied by a Bid security in the amount of 5% of the Bid price and in the form described in the Instructions and Information for Bidders.
This Contract is being bid under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, Sections 44A through 44J. Attention of Bidders is particularly called to the requirements as to conditions of employment to be observed, minimum wage rates to be paid and payroll submission requirements under the Contract.
The Awarding Authority reserves the right to accept any Bid, waive any informalities or minor defects, or reject any or all Bids, if in its sole judgment it is in the best interest of the Board to do so.
HUDSON
LEGAL NOTICE
The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider an application for a Class I License received from Paul Breaux of Carvana Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to engage in the principal business of buying and/or selling new and second hand Motor Vehicles at 24 Coolidge Street, Hudson, MA. The Hearing will be held at the Hudson Police Station located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 7:00PM. For more information call 978-562-9963.
LEGAL NOTICE
The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider an application for an All-Alcohol Pouring License received from Good Earth Holistic Kitchen at 43 Broad Street B101, Hudson, MA. The Hearing will be held at the Hudson Police Station located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 7:00PM. For more information call 978-562-9963.
HUDSON CONSERVATION COMMISSION LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Aaron Moore. The owner of the property is Aaron Moore. The work is located at 12 Town Line Road (Map-Parcel 36-91). The proposed project is a removable dock. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on February 19, 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.
Continued on page 23
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
Billington, Stephen of Hudson Bunnell, Galen of Westborough Costedio, John raised in Hudson Crumble, Jeffrey of Shrewsbury Dinjian, Lorraine of Shrewsbury Fitzgerald, Ryan of Westborough Galvin, Robert of Southborough Goldrick, Irene of Southborough Gonzalez, Hector of Marlborough Henley, Ruth formerly of Southborough Hogan, Karen of Shrewsbury Kennedy, Ruth formerly of Southborough LeMaire, Keith formerly of Grafton McClure, David of Grafton Nugent, Carol of Hudson Sinclair, Carol of Northborough Valentino, Peter of Hudson Valof, Joseph of Westborough Vigneau, Douglas of Westborough/Millbury Webber, Bruce of Shrewsbury Young Jr., Alexander of Northborough
John R. Costedio, 70
HUDSON, MA/COATESVILLE, PA - John “Jack” R. Costedio, 70, of Coatesville, Pennsylvania, passed away at his home on Friday, January 30, 2026. Born in Marlborough, Massachusetts on March 4, 1955, he was the son of the late John D. and Joanne E. (Roney) Costedio. He is survived by his four daughters: Rachelle Ramsey and her partner Will; Erin Barwinski and her husband Marek; Kayla Smith and her
husband Daniel; and Lauren Costedio and her partner Mitchell. He also leaves his siblings: Debra Paine and her husband Herb, Janice Connors and her husband Francis “Bud,” and James Costedio and his wife Donna. In addition, he is survived by seven grandchildren, one greatgrandchild, and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at a later date.
Ruth Kennedy, 100 SOUTHBOROUGH/KIRKSVILLE, MO - Ruth McClean Kennedy passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025. She was 100 years old, although she liked to claim that she was 33. Ruth was born in Manhattan to the late Thomas McClean and Marie (Gottschalk) McClean, and later moved with her family to Yonkers, NY. Ruth was devoted to, and is greatly missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her son Paul Kennedy of Waterford, NY, son-in-law
Richard Coughlin of Kirksville, MO, and daughter-in-law
MaryEllen O’Donohue Kennedy of New Salem, MA, as well as five grandchildren: Jennifer Kennedy, Nora Kennedy Paquin, Claire Coughlin, Christine Kennedy, Grace Coughlin, and Marie Coughlin, and two great-grandchildren: Ella Paquin and Evelyn Paquin. She is predeceased by her sister, Marie McClean Papp, son James P. Kennedy Jr. and daughter Patrice Kennedy Coughlin.
A memorial is planned for March of 2026.
Peter A. Valentino, 84
Peter was born on February 19, 1941, in Somerville, MA, the oldest son of the late Nancy J. (Lottatore) Valentino and Peter D. Valentino. Beloved husband to Mercedes Valentino and devoted father to his son, Peter J. Valentino; daughter, DawnMarie Jadul and her husband, Brian; and daughter, Stacey McGuire and her husband, David. He was a proud “Papa” to Kaelyn, Kyle, and Ava Jadul, and Makenna and Cameron McGuire. Cherished brother of Marie and Nancy Valentino and the late Jean Ward and John Valentino. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
Ruth Henley, 93
NASHUA, NH - Ruth (Ramey) Henley, 93, of Nashua, NH and formerly of Southborough, MA and Cape Coral. FL, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, at Aynsley Place in Nashua, NH.
Ruth is survived by her three children: Bonnie (Daniel) Hansberry of Nashua, NH; Bettina Schmidt of Holland, MA, and Barry Henley of Webster, MA. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Cathy (Michael) Cibotti of Nashua. NH; Michael (Karent) Hansberry of Edgewater, CO; Tyler Schmidt of Warwick, RI; and Jack and Nicholas Henley of Dudley, MA and two great-grandchildren, Parker and Carson.
The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted the family.
Galen J. Bunnell, 74
HUDSON - Peter A. Valentino, of Hudson, MA, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family and in the compassionate hands of nurses and doctors from Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln, MA.
WESTBOROUGH - Galen J. Bunnell, 74, of Westborough, died January 24, 2026 after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Born in 1951 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Andrew and Ruth Bunnell, Galen was the second of four children.
Galen is survived by his partner and companion of
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
more than twenty years, Michele Stowell; his sister Betty McDaniel, of Frisco, Texas; and sons Colin Bunnell (of Arlington), Erik Bunnell (of West Boylston), and Benjamin Bunnell (of Worcester), as well as grandchildren Eddie and Rose Bunnell, and his dear friends and partners in mischief Joe and Priscilla Desiata of Northborough. He is predeceased by siblings Sharon Norris and Gary Bunnell.
A memorial service will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. in the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main Street, Westborough, Massachusetts, followed by burial with military honors in Pine Grove Cemetery, Westborough. Friends, family and loved ones are invited to come share memories and celebrate his life.
Stephen Billington, 64
HUDSON - Stephen Billington, 64, of Hudson, MA passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 3, 1961, the son of Claire (Lagasse) Billington and John (Jack) Billington.
Stephen is survived by his devoted wife of 16 years, Lisa (Musante) Billington; his daughters, Leah Billington of Hudson, MA, and Lauren Billington of Washington State; and his beloved grandson, Stephen “Rudy” Billington. He is also remembered by his brothers, John Billington and wife Dianne of Rehoboth, MA, and Jim Billington and wife Lisa of Ocala Florida, along with his sister, Pat Ahearn and husband John of Amherst, ME. Additionally, his cherished nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends will hold his memory dear.
Stephen was preceded in death by his mother, Claire (LaGasse) Billington, whom he held in high regard and loved immensely.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
Irene J. Goldrick, 95
SOUTHBOROUGH - Irene
J. (Yuska) Goldrick, 95, a resident of Southborough and formerly Framingham, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Manor. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late Edward & Veronica Yuska.
A loving wife and mother, Irene is survived by her son, Richard P. Goldrick of Framingham, and her daughter, Jayne A Femia & her husband Paul of Southborough. She was predeceased by her dear husband, Richard T. Goldrick. Norton McKinney & Lawlor Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Framingham assisted the family.
Lorraine Dinjian, 81
SHREWSBURY - Lorraine Dinjian passed away on January 27, 2026, at the age of 81. The middle child of Frank and Eleanor Ferraro, Lorraine grew up in Watertown and was a 1962 Graduate of Watertown High, where she met her husband of 60 years, Richard Dinjian. She leaves behind her loving husband Richard, three children Rick, Randy and Scott, their wives Alyce, Tory and Basia, as well as six grandchildren that she adored: Adam, Riley, John, Kelsey, Ellie and Maddie.
Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted the family.
Keith R. LeMaire, 72
CHARLTON/GRAFTON - Keith R. LeMaire, 72, passed away at Rose Monahan Hospice Home following complications from Glioblastoma. He leaves his wife of 49 years, Barbara (Boisvert), his son Mathew LeMaire and his wife Tracy and their children Ayla and Faye and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased
Continued on page 23
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on March 20, 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 Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA.
2016 Acura TLX
VIN: 19UUB1F3XGA011435
Owned by: Casey Wright
2013 Ford F-150
VIN: 1FTFW1EF3DFC68362
Owned by: Domingos De Martin
2017 Subaru Crosstrek
VIN: JF2GPADC1HH258496
Owned by: Ricardo Johnson
SUDBURY
The U.S. Army Base Realignment and Closure Division (BRAC) is announcing the start of the sixth Five-Year Review (FYR) of remedial actions taken at the Former Fort Devens Sudbury Training Annex Superfund Site (former Sudbury Training Annex)
located in the Towns of Hudson, Stow, Maynard, and Sudbury, Massachusetts. The purpose of the FYR is to evaluate whether the cleanup methods put in place at the site are working as designed and continue to remain protective to human health and the environment as required by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). The FYR will be completed by September 2026.
The Army invites the local community to take part in the review process by participating in a community interview. To participate in the community interviews, please contact Penelope Reddy, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Project Manager, via email at penelope.w.reddy@usace.army. mil or by phone at 978 318-8160.
Background: Camp Devens was established in 1917 as a temporary training area for soldiers during World War I. In 1932 the site was named Fort Devens and made a permanent installation. The land of the former Sudbury Training Annex was purchased by the U.S. Army in 1942 and was used as a holding area for munitions awaiting shipment. After World War II, the former Sudbury Training Annex remained active for troop training, product and equipment testing, and munitions/explosives testing and disposal. Pursuant to CERCLA, the former Sudbury Training Annex was placed on the National Priorities List (NPL) in 1990 be-
cause of environmental contamination associated with historic underground storage tanks, ammunition demolition areas, fire training areas, and disposal of various laboratory waste. Since its placement on the NPL, remedial activities were completed at contaminated sites, and long-term remedial activities undertaken where necessary to ensure protectiveness. The former Sudbury Training Annex was deleted from the NPL in 2002. Continuing CERCLA activities include operation, maintenance, and monitoring at one former landfill site (Area of Concern A7) and evaluation of land use controls. The former Sudbury Training Annex was placed on the BRAC list in 1995 and in 2000, ownership of most of the site was transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge. As required by CERCLA, a review must be conducted every five years at sites with ongoing CERCLA activity to ensure human health and the environment are protected.
Information on the environmental cleanup at the former Sudbury Training Annex, including past reports, can be found on the Former Fort Devens Environmental Cleanup Website: https:// www.nae.usace.army.mil/missions/ projects-topics/former-fort-devens-environmental-cleanup/
Continued from page 21
by his brother Eugene LeMaire and sister Sandra Rourke.
Keith was born in Worcester, son of the late Elizabeth (Farrell) and Raymond LeMaire..
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted the family.
David L. McClure, 89
GRAFTON - David Louis McClure, 89, of Grafton MA, passed away at home on January 31, 2026 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family. David was born on August 28, 1936, to Mary E. McClure (Flynn) and Louis McClure.
1947, in Yauco, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, at Boston Medical Center after a period of declining health. He was the beloved son of the late Gonzalo and Crescencia (Feliciano) Gonzalez.
Hector leaves behind his two sons, Julio Gonzalez and Luis M. Gonzalez, both of New Hampshire; two daughters, Nilsa Roman and Lydia Albino, both of Marlborough; and two sisters, Ada Gonzalez Feliciano of Framingham and Elena Gonzalez Feliciano of Florida. He is also survived by an impressive lineage of love, including 20 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter.
After his service, David married his childhood friend, Constance LaVallee, in 1961, and became a loving and devoted father to his nine sons and daughters – David, Sean, Kevin, Connie Patrick, Lorraine McClure-Barth, Christopher, Theresa Grandinetti, Brian, and Bridget Webber.
David was predeceased by his beautiful granddaughter Megan McNeil, his mother and father, Mary and Louis, and his brothers, Francis and Cornelius. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Connie, nine children, 17 grandchildren, and 7 greatgrandchildren.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted the family.
Hector Gonzalez, 78
MARLBOROUGH - Hector Gonzalez, born on August 17,
Hector was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 50 years, Celina (Quinones) Gonzalez, who left this world shortly before him on January 26, 2026.
Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The
range for this position is $154,600-155,000.
Grafton PAYT trash bags to nearly double in price in July
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – Following a recommendation from the Grafton Municipal Solid Waste Advisory Committee, the Select Board on Feb. 3 voted to nearly double the cost of the town’s pay-asyou-throw bags, citing the need to make the pay-asyou-throw program selfsustaining.
Currently, a roll of small bags runs Grafton residents $8, while a roll of large bags costs $14. In July, that price will be $15 for a roll of small bags, and $24 for a roll of large bags. That’s a 75 percent (small) and 71 percent (large) increase.The price hikes mean the pay-as-youthrow program is now fully funded by bag fees. The Municipal Solid Waste Advisory Committee also said the increased fees were due
Those who use the trash system are paying a fair share.
Ann Marie Foley Select Board
to rising disposal costs – and the need to close a nearly $600,000 delta.
The new plan puts the program $130,000 in the green.
“One of the reasons we decided to stay with the pay-as-you-throw model is that it’s just about as equitable as any model out there:
You only pay for what you produce. … Staying in this program and making it selffunding, residents who don’t use this program are no longer subsidizing it,” Town Administrator Evan Brassard told the Select Board.
The pay-as-you-throw program – which directly aligns production and payment – is thought to be more friendly to the environment, since people are incentivized to throw away less. Recycling and composting are also thought to increase.
“For me, it’s more equitable. … There are folks that live in condos in town that have reached out to me. They’re paying the same taxes as everybody, and they don’t get trash service at all. For them, this is a win. Those who use the trash system are paying a fair share,” said Select Board member Ann Marie Foley.
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Southborough
Thursday, Jan. 15
12:45 a.m. Arrested , Harley L. Milhomen, of Pauline St., Randolph, for number plate missing, no inspection sticker, operate MV with registration suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, possess open container of alcohol in MV, uninsured motor vehicle, operate MV with license suspended, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.
Friday, Jan. 16
2:14 a.m. Arrested , Luisa A. Morales-Samayoa, of Kendall Ave., Framingham, for speeding/ rate of speed exceeding posted limit, possess open container of alcohol in MV, OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, resist arrest.
Dine & Discover
Warm up with a hearty chef-prepared meal and cozy conversation at our February Dine & Discover.
Discover life at SALMON at Westborough while enjoying comforting winter favorites and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Thursday, Feb. 19 12:30 PM
Please RSVP by calling (508) 321-7555
6:30 p.m. Arrested , Fouad E. Aoude, of Main St., Medway, for MV lights violation, speeding/ rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, license not in possession, operate MV with license suspended, identity fraud, trespass with motor vehicle, MV operator refusing to identify self, OUI-drugs.
Saturday, Jan. 17
2:22 a.m. Arrested , Samauri A. Godfrey, of 2nd St., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, negligent operation of motor vehicle.
Tuesday, Jan. 20
3:33 a.m. Arrested , Ilyass Nabih, of Lock St., Nashua, NH, for operate MV with license suspended, marked lanes violation, OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, receive/ possess stolen motor vehicle, use MV without authority, warrants, fugitive from justice on court warrant.
11:12 p.m. Arrested, Jeremy D. Rhodes, of Four Hills Dr., Yakima, WA, for carry loaded firearm without license, possess large capacity feeding device, possess large capacity firearm, possess ammunition without FID card, number plate violation to conceal ID, number plate violation.
Saturday, Jan. 31
1:24 a.m. Arrested , Daniel D. Avelino, of Boston Post Road East, Marlborough, for marked lanes violation, possess open container of alcohol in MV, OUIliquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-drugs, open container of marijuana in vehicle.
Shrewsbury
Monday, Feb. 2
6:44 p.m. Arrested , William J. Curtis, 38, of 53 Mahaiwe St., Great Barrington, on warrants.
Tuesday, Feb. 3
9:17 p.m. Arrested, Ryan Christopher McCabe, 40, of 2 Columbus St., Worcester, on warrant.
Wednesday, Feb. 4
4:20 p.m. Arrested , Jazmin A. Olivarez Tituana, 21, of 20 Vine St., Ashland, on warrant. 9:29 p.m. Arrested , Kayky Victor Da Silva, 21, of 35 Fairfax Rd., Apt. 1, Worcester, for operating MV with license suspended/revoked, fail to stop/ yield, warrants.
Marlborough
Friday, Jan. 30
11:36 p.m. Arrested , Henry Jose Mejia-Chojolan, 32, of 138 Broad St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for possess to distribute Class B drug.
Saturday, Jan. 31
12:51 p.m. Arrested , Brittani Lynn Sanderson, 33, of 4 Witherbee Ter., Apt. 4A, Marlborough, for shoplifting by concealing merchandise 2nd offense.
Sunday, Feb. 1
7:02 p.m. Arrested , Victor Nunes Carvalho, 20, of 24 Montanari Dr., Marlborough, on true warrant.
7:39 p.m. Arrested , Diego Duarte Silva, 36, of 79 Hildreth St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, for OUIliquor or .08%.
Monday, Feb. 2
4:51 p.m. Arrested, Ling Zhang, 63, of 25 Henry Mill Ln., Sudbury, for shoplifting by asportation.
Mugford’s Flower Shoppe readies
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — In the lead-up to Valentine’s Day one year, Mugford’s Flower Shoppe in Westborough received a box of roses not up to standards. Instead of discarding the flowers, staff decided to repurpose them. Staff freed the petals and made a path from the parking lot toward the shop.
Before long, a perplexed male customer walked into the store.
“My flowers aren’t going to do that, are they?”
Chris Bakutis looks back on the moment chuckling. It’s one small reminder how the business helps people – even the somewhat-clueless men – pick out the perfect flowers for their sweethearts.
Operating Mugford’s since 1992, Bakutis is a Valentine’s Day veteran. She’s familiar with all the chaos that comes with this time of year, and although the holiday falls on a Saturday this season – which should make things a bit easier – she still expects to be plenty busy.
Planning for Valentine’s Day starts in January at Mugford’s, when the shop picks out the flowers from a number of wholesalers. The flowers arrive just days before the 14th, “and everything has to happen in a 48-hour period,” she said.
Over a dozen employees fill the shop, taking walk-in orders and building the bouquets.
“Of course, there’s always the guys that want the red roses – it’s one of the biggest sellers,” Bakutis said. “But through the years, I’ve convinced my customers that the best thing is what we call a ‘spring mix,’”
Proverbs 27:9
which features roses and a mix of greens and other flowers. Tulips, ranunculus, and hydrangeas tend to be most abundant this time of year.
Mugford’s promises of sameday delivery, and so Bakutis always has to anticipate an abundance of requests in the hours before Valentine’s Day. Although the average day could see perhaps 15 to 20 orders, early February brings more than 150. Though the cold can create problems for home deliveries –seen as the flowers can’t be left outside if the temperature is under 30 degrees – a Saturday holiday means most people will be home to take them inside.
Bakutis can’t wait to see all the dads come in with their small kids, looking to pick out the perfect flowers for mom.
“We take a lot of care in our flowers. … I encourage people to visit small businesses like ours. We’re a part of the community. We’re just happy when we’re able to make all the sweethearts happy. It’s just rewarding to get to the end of the day.”
by Robert J. Terkanian
SPORTS
A convincing win for Westborough — and a first-time goalie steals the show
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH — When starting goalie Terrell Messam transferred out of Westborough before the start of the year, sophomore Triston Krumsiek was cast into the limelight. Krumsiek has played well all year, but his emergence left the Rangers with another problem: Who would be his back-up?
Enter Ryan Payant.
The senior — a member of the Rangers’ soccer team — had never played hockey in his entire life. He couldn’t skate, and even in his other athletic pursuits, he’d never played a position like goalie.
But he was friends with a ton of the athletes on the boys’ varsity hockey team.
Joseph Furbush, one of the team’s captains, explained the Rangers’ goalie conundrum, and Payant figured he’d give the position a shot. Head Coach David Belbin, who is also Payant’s teacher, gave him some pads.
In November, he laced up his skates for the first time. Ever.
“I’m an athletic kid — I thought that maybe I could give it a try,” he said.
As Krumsiek led the Rangers, Payant was a supporter from the bench. But during a blowout at NorthStar Ice Sports on Feb. 4, the student section began to stir. The chants started soon after: “We want Ryan! We want Ryan!”
In the final three minutes of Westborough’s convinc -
ing win over Grafton, the net was officially Payant’s. Though he didn’t face an official shot, his first-career varsity hockey appearance — and the pandemonium it unleashed in the student section — was the highlight of the Rangers’ 7-1 victory.
“I tried to not think about it, not hear [the chanting],” said Payant. “It was definitely electrifying. It was fun to be out there. Goaltending? Yeah — it’s a lot harder than I thought it was.”
“It was great to reward him with some minutes
tonight — what he’s done with this program for this year is tremendous,” Belbin told the Community Advocate. “Talk about the ultimate team-player that’s willing to sacrifice.”
Payant had never been a “hockey kid,” but he’s fit right in with the Rangers. Taking inspiration from the 2004 film “Miracle,” Westborough athletes have strived to form a “family” — even through the season’s peaks and valleys.
“We try to live by that name,” said Payant.
And just about every
member of the family had a seat at the table Feb. 4. Westborough’s Maxwell Guiod (2 goals) and Sawyer Kittredge started the scoring, with additional tallies from Alex Friedberg, Luke Miller (2 goals), and Nolan Lavery.
“The boys got going early — that just solidified things for the whole game,” said Miller.
Added Belbin: “Just a really good job all the way around, from the defense’s composure; the forwards consistently moving the puck well throughout the neutral zone, looking for each other without the puck in the offensive zone; and good goaltending. We limited them to a minimum amount of shots.”
Whether retiring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your retirement account options. There
when
Westborough had plenty to celebrate against Grafton. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
After emotional first basket, Algonquin girls’ basketball bests Grafton
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH — It’s not often that the first basket of the game ranks among the most meaningful, but that’s exactly what happened in a girls’ basketball match-up at Algonquin Regional High School on Feb. 6.
After tip-off, the ball was immediately dished to Ashlee Dameri, an Algonquin senior and co-captain who had been an instrumental member of the girls’ basketball team before suffering a season-ending injury midway through the year. On Senior Night, she found her way onto the court and scored her team’s opening basket.
The game was stopped afterward to recognize Dameri.
“It definitely meant a lot. I love having fun with my friends, playing here,” Dameri
told the Community Advocate.
“It hit me all at once — that was our last time being on the court together. It was really sad, but a sentimental moment.”
First to greet her? Fellow
co-captain Nikki Chacharone, the only other senior on Algonquin’s team. The duo, best friends since fourthgrade basketball, shared an emotional embrace after Dameri’s basket.
From freshmen champions to senior leaders Shrewsbury girls’ hockey Class of 2026 carries the torch
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – It’s 2026, but 2023 is still top-of-mind for these Shrewsbury seniors.
Three years ago, the current Colonial seniors – Lauren Albertson, Liv Argentieri, Hannah Army, Emma Mania, and manager Audrey Scheffel – were freshmen on Shrewsbury’s MIAA Division 1 championship team. In just their first year with the program, they were witnesses (and contributors) to history.
It’s an accomplishment they relish. The student-athletes said they store their medals proudly on their dressers. Their championships rings are displayed proudly – with the ring case open – and trophies, banners, and other paraphernalia are always within sight.
“The championship, I think about it at least once a day,” said Albertson.
Today, however, the Class of 2026 players are no longer the youngsters on an experienced team. As Shrewsbury’s seniors, they’re now the ones tasked with being leaders, welcoming younger players, and maintaining the Colonials’ winning tradition.
These championship holdovers are taking their responsibilities incredibly seriously.
“I think the main thing we tried to do as freshmen was supporting our teammates. Freshman year, we were really big on that. I don’t think you could hear anyone talk when someone got a goal. It was such a supportive environment,” said Army. “We’re trying to do that this year.”
“It seems like the leadership is passed down from year to year,” said 18th-year Head Coach Frank Panarelli. “They have to set a good example. Freshmen don’t talk a whole lot – they look and observe. The seniors have to lead by example. They’re upperclassmen. This is their year.”
Leadership isn’t easy, but the seniors had excellent examples to learn from. That championship-winning team’s seniors – Maddie Mrva, Rachel Bunsick, Katie Vona, and Taylor Ryder – became Panarelli’s picture of perfect leaders.
“A huge part of that was the leadership and the captains,” said Albertson. “There were four captains – the only four seniors on the team – and they were just really good. The leadership was great. They were all
very welcoming. There were never any issues.”
Added Mania: “It was really nice to have the experience of getting to skate with them. Everyone was bringing the energy that year. Everyone was so ‘in it.’ I think we worked harder that year than we have in any year since.”
Now, the seniors are looking to bring those same vibes to the Class of 2029 – and beyond.
“Winning the state championship was great,” said Argentieri, “but I don’t think we’ve been sitting on it. The state championship team isn’t
“We’ve been each other’s competition, and we’ve been each other’s friends for the longest time. It’s really sad, but it’s just so fun being with my team. It’s not even about playing, it’s about our team,” said Chacharone.
After that touching moment, the Titans took care of business against Grafton. On a night that was all about hon-
oring the seniors, Algonquin earned a convincing 69-41 win.
“[The seniors] have been instrumental in my tenure here at Algonquin. They’ve been very supportive, and they welcomed me with open arms,” said third-year Head Coach Kashawn Hampton. “They’ve been great leaders, and they impact the team in such an unbelievably positive way.”
Allie Hagen scored a teamhigh 15 points, while teammates Ali Campos (10 points) and Sophia Brooks (9 points) made important baskets. Grafton’s Addie McGrath tallied 17 points to lead the Gators.
“We have so much fun,” added Chacharone. “I think our team stands out. We hang out off-the-court, and we’re everyone’s best friends. Every single girl on this team is friends, and we all hang out after practice. It makes the games so much better.”
the same team as we are today. We’re trying to help the younger girls experience the traditions and all the joy we got when we were freshmen.”
Added Army: “This team just means so much to all of us. I feel so happy when hockey season starts. I see all
my friends again, all the new freshmen who I’m so excited to meet and play with. It’s just so fun to be here and skate with everyone.”
“That year was very special, and we were good, but things besides just skills were carried on.”
Ashlee Dameri (facing back) and Nikki Chacharone share an emotional moment. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Shrewsbury girls’ hockey Class of 2026: (L-R) Audrey Scheffel, Hannah Army, Lauren Albertson, Emma Mania, and Liv Argentieri. (Photo/Courtesy)
