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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

Marlborough robotics on global stage

Hannaford faces potential lawsuit over 160 layoffs

Marlborough | 6 Marlborough | 15

Wenzel | 14 Donations, celebrations, and musical sensations

Marlborough Hudson

Condos to be built in vacant office building

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough City Council got a first look at the plan to build multifamily housing at 130 Lizotte Drive.

Brian Charville, chief operating officer of Ferris Development Group, presented an application for a special permit for the Glenford at Lake Williams in a public hearing at the City Council’s July 21 meeting. According to Charville, the plan calls for two additional buildings on the property, with a total of 187 units across the board.

There is currently a vacant 100,000-squarefoot office building on the property. The building will be renovated and turned into condominiums, Charville said. The other two structures will be built from the ground up.

A year and 1,000 volunteers later, the Marlborough community

fridge

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – Last year, Marlborough opened its first community fridge, a project spearheaded by Katelyn Massey, a recent graduate from the Advanced Mathematics and Science Academy (AMSA).

Massey wanted to find a way to combat hunger and homelessness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Then a junior at AMSA, she saw her project, called the Friends Fridge, as a way to not only give resources to those in need, but to draw the city together as a whole.

“There’s a lot of people who are struggling with the food prices that had risen in 2020 and were still on the rise,” she said.

Today, the project has over 1,500 volunteers who donate, clean the fridge, and facilitate donations from community members and local businesses. The fridge is estimated to provide food for about 100 residents per week.

Housed at the Immaculate Conception Church at 11 Prospect Street, the fridge runs on solar power. It was the first “green” community

is still stocked

‘Spooky’ business opens in Downtown Hudson

By Paul Hopkins Reporter

HUDSON – The decor in this store might shock you!

Upon entering JR’s Spooky Shack, visitors will first see an electric chair. No, it’s not real, but customers can sit there while checking out Hudson’s latest business, located at 61 Main

Street, the former home of Wright Jewelry & Design Co.

Billing itself as “Central Massachusetts’ go-to shop for horror collectibles, attire, and more,” the Spooky Shack opened in June on Friday the 13th — naturally.

Of the electric chair: “This was a piece I found online — it was made for a company

marlborough at a glance Spooky | 4

By Adri Pray Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – The Select Board unanimously awarded Brio 33 with an all-alcohol liquor license at its July 22 meeting, putting the newly established restaurant one step closer to opening.

Restaurant co-owners Abigail Winant and Kevin Sanders pledged to distribute alcohol responsibly at 33 East Main Street — the former site of Tavolino, which shuttered in March — and detailed their plans to bring “vivacity and liveliness” back to the site. Vice Chair Shelby Marshall recused herself from the vote because she is a partner member of the establishment.

“We would not be here without the support of the Westborough community,” Winant said. “As a team, we

are committed to giving back to our community by providing a welcoming environment where friends and family can gather to enjoy great food and drinks in a safe and inviting environment. We understand the utmost importance of responsible alcohol service and

Brio 33 granted liquor license by Select Board Personalized

are committed to ensuring our establishment adheres to all local laws and regulations.”

Both Winant, the restaurant’s general manager, and Sanders, its executive chef, are familiar with the space. They have a combined 25

years of restaurant experience — 20 of which have been spent at 33 East Main Street.

Applause broke out after Brio 33 was awarded the license, and Marshall returned to her seat following the vote. Chair Ian Johnson congratulated the co-owners and emphasized the responsibility that comes with having a liquor license.

“We love to give them out, and we love seeing you here tonight,” he said. “We don’t want to see you back here again because of violations.”

The board also unanimously approved a request from Release Well-Being Center at 201 Turnpike Road to extend its liquor license to 203 Turnpike Road, where it is subletting a cafe space to Tacoborough. Both establishments are now permitted to sell alcohol.

Following both hearings,

the board reprimanded two local businesses, The Coop and Mayuri Indian Cuisine, for failing an alcohol compliance check completed last month by the Westborough Police Department. The two eateries were the sole offenders of 30 businesses that were surveyed in June.

Representatives for The Coop and Mayuri appeared apologetic before the board and vowed to be more diligent about alcohol distribution at the respective establishments. The Coop was let off with a written warning because this was its first offense; Mayuri was handed a three-day liquor license suspension for its second offense within five years (its first took place in June 2022). The business must turn in its alcohol permit to the town for three consecutive Mondays: July 28, Aug. 4, and Aug. 11.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

so I may do best as the only kitty in the home. While I enjoy playtime in between relaxing and snoozing, my favorite time of day is food. I like to say treats are the way to my heart. Whether I am lounging in a sunny spot or reminding you it's snack time, I am ready for my forever home! https://shorturl.at/x3hrn

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.

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By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury’s latest restaurant is getting ready to open.

According to permits filed with the town, Wok and Flame is preparing to open at 378 Maple Avenue, the plaza otherwise known as Marketplace Shrewsbury. The restaurant describes itself as a halal Chinese spot “bringing authentic, flavorful Chinese cuisine to the community.”

“Experience authentic and delicious halal Chinese cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Our menu offers a variety of freshly prepared dishes made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring every meal is both flavorful and halal-certified. From traditional stir-fries and savory noodles to signature appetizers, we bring the best of Chinese cuisine to the Muslim community and beyond,” the company posted on Google.

A Delightful Fusion

It’s the latest restaurant slated for Marketplace, which has become quite the multicultural food center. Patrons can visit Hooters, Big Apple Restaurant, MOTW Coffee and Pastries, NOLA Cajun Kitchen, and Eggholic. The plaza may soon expand with another building.

Wine cocktails offer a delightful fusion of wine’s nuanced flavors with various spirits and mixers, creating versatile beverages that enhance the dining experience. Pairing these cocktails with complementary dishes elevates both the drink and the meal. For instance, a classic Kir, blending white wine with crème de cassis, partners well with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini, as the cassis’s berry notes accentuate the cheese’s tanginess. A Bellini, combining Prosecco and peach purée, complements brunch items such as smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels, with the cocktail’s sweetness balancing the salmon’s richness. For heartier fare, a New York Sour featuring red wine and whiskey pairs well with steak, where the wine’s tannins and whiskey’s depth mirror the meat’s robust flavors.

We invite you to stop by Julio’s Liquors at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection of wines! Our staff boasts decades of experience, bringing to the table a level of knowledge and customer service unmatched in the metrowest region. We have a gentle non-snob approach for our beginners and a confident, informative one for the seasoned wine collectors who are looking for either a special occasion bottle, or one just for kicking back at home. Call 508-366-1942

P.S. Understanding the balance between a cocktail’s profile and the dish’s characteristics is key to creating harmonious pairings that enhance the overall dining experience.

every

am

Or catch rebroadcasts on WCRN AM830 every weekday at 7 pm after Howie Carr! You can also pick and choose episodes on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. itstheliquortalking.com

Housing | from page 1 in tax revenue for the city.

The condominiums, which will be available for sale, will primarily be one- and twobedroom units, he added. In total, there will be 312 spaces between the two parking lots on the property.

According to Charville, the buildings will be worth “at least” $75 million and will generate an additional $1.25 million

“We feel strongly that it’s a vehicle for home ownership in the city,” Charville said.

The buildings will have amenities such as a fitness center and bike storage for residents.

Ferris Development Group is currently based in Southborough, though it previously occupied offices in Marlborough.

The company has been involved in development and real estate in the MetroWest area for over 20 years, said Charville.

“A project like this, the one at 130 Lizotte Drive, is right in our wheelhouse. It’s the sort of work that we’re doing every day,” Charville said.

Councilors voiced concerns over the additional stress that might be put on Marlborough’s

public services and expressed a desire to include low-income or affordable housing.

The special permit application will go before the City Council Urban Affairs Committee, and the site plans will undergo further review by the Marlborough Building Department. If all goes according to plan, the property could open in 2027.

Upcoming Events

Halloween party,” said Jesse Hikel, the “JR” the store is named after. “I’m nothing if not a showman.” As evidence, he drives a 1984 Cadillac hearse.

He is also a man who has fulfilled a dream he has had since childhood: to open a store that caters to the horror genre. Hikel used personal savings and an Indiegogo campaign for start-up costs to open on Forest Avenue a year and a half ago. But when he heard the storefront at 61 Main Street was available, he jumped at the opportunity.

Hikel said foot traffic on Main Street is “insane ... flooded with people” and that the store has attracted those interested in the genre from around New England and the immediate region. Customers range from “kids who are finding newer characters” to older people who are in search of the characters they grew up with.

The Spooky Shack is open six days a week: Tuesdays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Condominium

Groceries/dining

Monthly

Housekeeping

24-hour staffing

24-hour

Lawn care/landscaping

Home maintenance (snow removal, etc.)

Transportation (gas, auto insurance, etc.)

Trash removal

Exterior building maintenance

Plumbing/appliance repairs

Social/cultural events

Other

Three robotics students represent Marlborough on global scale

By Sara Bedigian Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH

– For the first time in Marlborough High School history, three robotics students competed at the VEX Robotics World Championship.

After winning the skills competition at the regional state tournament at Walsh Middle School in Framingham, the team qualified for the World competition, which was held in Dallas, Texas, from May 5 to May 9 and included over 800 teams across 55 countries.

The qualifying team — senior Andy Zhang and juniors Betsy Powell and Atul Modur — and two other teams make up the high school Robotics Club. Twice a week after school, students build and test robots to prepare for competitions.

Robotics has been one of the defining parts of their high school experience, students said. Competing on a global scale was surreal.

“It was my first time attending an international event of

that scale and being surrounded by so many passionate and innovative students from around the world was inspiring,” Modur said. “The level of competition was significantly higher than what we’d seen before. We had the chance to meet teams from places like New Zealand, China, and South Korea, and each match pushed us to operate at our absolute best.”

Along with the students, Kyle Mager, high school robotics adviser, and Joanne Mahoney, middle school robotics adviser and retired science teacher, attended the competition in Dallas. Mahoney said the students won six out of the 10 matches on the field, and for the skills competition, the team placed 53rd out of 402 teams, ranking in the top 7 percent.

“The kids were all wonderful. Everyone networked, interacted, and chatted with each other. There was a big practice field that was just amazing,” she said.

All three robotics teams at

the high school compete twice a month starting in late October until regionals, which are at the end of February. Mahoney said after each competition, they work to improve their robot. The robot that they start competing with at the beginning of the year looks nothing

like the robot at the end.

At the competitions, the playing field is a 12-by-12foot square arena where two alliances — red and blue — compete against each other in fast-paced matches. Since each alliance is made up of two teams, there are four robots on

the field during every match to compete. Mahoney said it takes a lot of communication skills for students to discuss strategies with their randomly selected alliances before they face competition.

“I can confidently say I’ve learned far more than just technical skills. It’s taught me how to lead under pressure, how to communicate in a fastpaced environment, and how to work as part of a close team,” Modur said. “Most importantly, it’s shown me how to learn from failure when things didn’t go right.”

Mahoney said Superintendent Mary Murphy has been a strong advocate for the robotics program. The school funded the plane and the hotel for the students in Dallas.

“Our goal for many years was to make it to Worlds, but when we got there, it was about representing our school and proving that with the right mindset, Marlborough students can compete with the best in the world,” Modur said.

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Applications must be submitted online, faxed, or postmarked no later than Friday, September 12th, 2025 Mailed to: Maloney Properties LLC , Attn: Vesa Lottery , 27 Mica Lane, Wellesley, MA 02481

Information Session: Attendance at the information session is not required. The session will be recorded and available for at-request Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 @ 12pm https://maloneyproperties.zoom.us/j/85830815308?pwd=mv5djQArzd33PjZxWfnzgyC9VUy1CQ.1

Information Session:

010790

● Selection by Lottery. Use & Occupancy Restrictions Apply

● Household Size Preference Applies

● Preference for Households with Mobility Impairments for Accessible Units

For more information, free language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for

Attendance at the information session is not required. The session will be recorded and available for at-request viewing Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 @ 12pm https://maloneyproperties.zoom.us/j/85830815308?pwd=mv5djQArzd33PjZxWfnzgyC9VUy1CQ.1 Meeting ID: 858 3081 5308 Passcode: 010790

A year and 1,000 volunteers later, the Marlborough community fridge is still giving

Fridge | from page 1

fridge on the East Coast, according to Ward 1 City Councilor Mark Vital. It receives donations from Hannaford on a weekly basis, though Massey said the fridge is looking for more community partners now that the grocery store is slated to close in September.

The fridge served as Massey’s Gold Award project for the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA). She received a $5,000 national scholarship from the GSUSA and was awarded the Bronze Patrick Henry Medal issued by The Military Order of the World Wars.

But the work was never about the rewards, Massey said.

“I just saw the amount of people using it; everyday people, mothers who were there with children,” Massey said. “It was just so impactful to see.”

Massey developed the idea in 2023, inspired by Vital, her track coach at AMSA. Vital helped Massey secure funding from the Marlborough Brigham Family Trust, the

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Depending upon your news sources and social media algorithms, the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is either the worst bill ever and people will die, or it will unleash a new era of prosperity for the US economy. The truth is that it will do neither of these things.

Glenn Brown, CFP

Marlborough Rotary Club,and the Marlborough Cultural Council to build the fridge and pantry.

“There’s a lot of people out there struggling, and the community fridge helps them out a little bit,” Vital said.

As she prepares to start her college education at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Massey said reflecting back on the project has shown the impact a community can have.

“It’s just been crazy to think about how many people have been fed and have had meals from the fridge,” she said.

The Friends Fridge accepts donations of fresh produce, dairy and eggs, beverages, frozen goods, canned goods, and other cooking essentials.

Donations are asked to be labeled with the date, contents, and allergy information.

More information on donations and how to volunteer can be found on the Friends Fridge Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/share/ g/1HBPP7AL4j/.

Like all things with Washington, OBBB has the good, the bad and the political virtue signaling (i.e. $1,000 Trump Accounts for U.S. citizen newborns).

From a financial planning perspective, let’s review the 5 areas of broadest impact.

1. Extension of 2017 Federal Tax Cuts. The current tax rate structure, including a top marginal tax rate of 37%, remains in place permanently. It was to expire this year, meaning if you’re in the current 12%, 22%, 24% tax brackets, a 3% or 4% increase would have happened. While some disagree with this act, they’d be celebrating if Massachusetts went from 5% to 1% income tax.

Also permanent is the estate tax and gift tax exemption, which prior to 2017 was $1 million. Today, it is $13.99 million per individual, adjusts for inflation and is a flat 40% tax on excess over the exemption.

2. Expanded Standard Deduction and Child Tax Credit. Recall in 2017, the standard deduction was dramatically increased while many subjective write-offs were eliminated. This resulted in 90-93% of tax filers taking the standard deduction over the last 8 years, up from 68.7% tax filers in 2016.

3. New Senior Tax Deduction. Tax on Social Security benefits was not eliminated, however through 2028 there is an additional $6,000 deduction per individual for those 65 and older. This equates to 88% of tax filers not paying a federal tax on their social security benefits.

4. State And Local Tax (SALT) Deduction Cap Raised. OBBB temporarily raises the SALT deduction cap to $40,000 from $10,000, with a 1% annual increase through 2029. Good news for deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes and sales tax. However, it’s reduced by 30% if modified adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeds certain thresholds, such as $500,000 for joint filers.

The OBBB ensures continued federal deductibility of PTET for pass-through entities, like S corporations and partnerships. These will pay state income taxes at the entity level, effectively bypassing the individual SALT deduction cap.

5. Permanent Small Business Tax Relief. This includes the 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction for pass-through businesses and 100% bonus depreciation for new capital investments. The maximum Section 179 expensing amount is increased, and immediate Research & Development (R&D) expensing is restored with a catch-up deduction option.

Other notables that caught my attention:

• Vocational and trade schools now qualify for 529 Plan expenses.

• Bronze and catastrophic insurance plans qualify as HSA expenses.

• No tax on overtime ($12,500) and qualified tips ($25,000).

• Paid leave tax credits are permanent and expanded.

• Increased childcare expense credits.

Finally, Congress got involved with student loan reform rather than defer to executive orders.

To curb the blank-check effect, OBBB has eliminated “Cost of Attendance” loan limits for graduate students and parents of undergraduate students.

Like the pre-existing caps on how much undergraduates can borrow ($12,500 annually, $57,500 aggregate), moving forward universities must deal with parents’ ability to borrow capped at $20,000 annually and $65,000 in aggregate per undergraduate. Graduate student caps are now $50,000 annually and $200,000 in aggregate.

It’s a start to address the cause and not just the effect.

More to consider beyond this limited space, talk with your Certified Financial Planner to learn how you and your family can benefit.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.

When there is nothing more you can do about a situation, turn it over to God. Put it into His hands, leave it with Him; rest it with Him confidently, expectantly, prayerfully and with faith.

He may not give you the answer you want, but he will give you the answer you should have. He will always do right by you, never wrong. Have the courage to trust Him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

COMMUNITY HISTORY

Northborough events celebrate 250th anniversary of

NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Normand Corbin History Columnist

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Revolution 250 Committee was very active this spring, organizing events that recognize Northborough’s participation in the Revolutionary War. Here are some of the events that town residents enjoyed.

Witness Houses

Northborough has 28 “Witness Houses.” A Witness House is a building that has survived from the Revolutionary War era. A kickoff event was held in the Northborough Library on April 19, where photographs of all the homes were on display. At the event, two homes — the Reverend Whitney home at 62 Whitney Street presented by Rick Nieber and the Samuel Wood home at 97 Main Street presented by Lois and Brian Smith — were highlighted. Witness House lawn signs are being installed to identify the homes. The 28 photographs are being displayed at different locations throughout town. They have been displayed at the library and the Historical Society Building; the next stop is the Senior Center. A brochure listing all homes with a short write-up and map is available both online on the REV250 website and as a hard copy. A video of the event has been produced by Northborough

Northborough reenactors at the Minutemen Departure Event on May 3. (Photo/Jie

Cable Access and is available on the Northborough REV250 website.

Historical Society program

Robert Licht and Norm Corbin presented a program at the Northborough Historical Society on April 25, highlighting some of Northborough’s efforts supporting the Revolution. The program mentions the Northborough Tea Party, British spies in Northborough, and Northborough Minutemen’s participation in the Battle of Bunker Hill. A video of this event has also been produced by Northborough Cable Access and is available on the Northborough REV250 website.

Minutemen Departure event

On May 3, a Minutemen Departure event was held on the common. This included a reenactment of the departure of

Northborough’s Minutemen as they left to join the fighting in Lexington and Concord. Opening remarks were made by Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen and Historical Society President Mike Duchesneau. We had a magnificent rendition of the national anthem and “God Bless America” by 9-yearold Northborough resident Mirabel Pan Weston. Captain Samuel Wood (Steven Smith) addressed the Minutemen prior to departure followed by a prayer by Rev. Peter Whitney (Tom Lowe). Northborough’s Minutemen reenactors, with the support of several Sudbury Militia reenactors, left the common to the sound of a beating drum. The poem “The Minute Men of Northboro” was then read by Joe Wyman. Upon return of the Minutemen, Captain Samuel Wood addressed the crowd about the role of the Minutemen in the Battle of Bunker Hill. The

program ended with Mira Denney and Maria Nagaria, two graduating seniors from Algonquin High School, singing “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” and “Yankee Doodle.” Northborough Cable prepared a video that is available on the Northborough REV250 website.

Marquis De Lafayette visit

The American Friends of Lafayette Organization is celebrating the 200th anniversary of Marquis De Lafayette‘s 18241825 tour of the United States. As the last surviving general from the American Revolution, Lafayette was invited by President Monroe to tour the United States. He traveled 6,000 miles over 13 months to visit the 24 states in the union at that time. His visit was to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our Revolution. On June 15, 1825, he came through Northborough as he was traveling from

Worcester to Boston. Exactly 200 years to the day, he (as a re-enactor) came back to greet Northborough citizens. Lafayette made a grand entrance on Northborough’s 1923 Maxim fire truck. He gave a wonderful introduction and was welcomed by Northborough Select Board Chair Julianne Hirsh acting as Lucy Allen, a prominent educator of the time, and Historical Society President Ken Bennett acting as Gov. John Davis, a prominent Northborough politician at the time. After answering some questions, he took the time for photographs and visited both the Northborough Art Guild Art Show and the Historical Society Museum. He was then off to Sudbury for an event at the Wayside Inn in Sudbury. Photos are available on the Northborough REV250 website.

Bunker Hill parade

On June 15, the Northborough Revolution 250 Committee organized seven people to represent Northborough in the Bunker Hill Parade held in Charlestown.

Future plans

The Historical Society has focused several of its 2025-2026 programs on Revolutionary War heroes, including Ben Franklin, Henry Knox, and Isaiah Thomas. The Northborough 250 Committee is planning an event on May 30, 2026, to reenact Northborough’s independence vote, which occurred one month before the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Step into the world of ballroom dance at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Westborough

By Sara Bedigian Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH – Whether you are stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking for a place to refine your technique, Fred Astaire Dance Studios offers a welcoming environment to explore and grow your ballroom dancing skills. The studio, located at 57 E. Main Street, opened in April and is one of hundreds around the world.

Named after Fred Astaire, one of the greatest dancers of all time, the studio offers ballroom and Latin dancing, from the waltz and tango to rumba and swing.

Ryan Kenner, one of the owners of the Westborough location, said there are more than 20 different dances that people can learn, and everyone has a different goal when they enter the studio. Some aspire to be competitive danc-

DA provides funding for safe post-prom and graduation celebrations

WORCESTER – For the seventh year, District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. provided funding for safe post-prom and postgraduation events at local high schools, including Algonquin Regional High School, Grafton High School, and Westborough High School, thanks to his annual grant program, which is designed to keep students from driving impaired.

“We know that life can change in the blink of an eye, and we want to do everything we can to prevent a tragedy before it occurs,” DA Early said. “We’ve been proud to help fund post-prom and post-graduation programs year after year. Prom and graduation are major milestones that deserve to be celebrated, but too often we see young people engaging in risky behavior following these events.”

This year, the District Attorney’s office awarded a total of $23,400 in grants to 20 schools across Worcester County.

ers, while others try to pick up a new hobby or spend quality time with their significant other.

One of Kenner’s goals is to make ballroom dancing accessible to everyone. “You don’t need experience. You don’t need a partner. Those are the really cool things about ballroom dancing. We have instructors that will teach you and dance with you.” Kenner, who started dancing in his senior year of college at Worces-

ter Polytechnic Institute, said you are never too old to start. “Our goal is to add something fun to people’s lives that they really enjoy doing.”

The studio offers private lessons that are tailored to the specific needs of each couple or individual. It also offers group lessons, where students interact and learn with other dancers at the same level, and practice parties, where people can spend time dancing with others in a relaxed social environment.

Each lesson is custom-tailored to each individual’s interests and needs. The studio offers an introductory special for new students, with or without dance experience, where an instructor will assess each person’s skills and recommend a program based on their goals.

If you have watched “Dancing with the Stars” on television, you might think that

ballroom dancing is just steps and music, but there is a lot more to it. In fact, it offers several health benefits such as improving physical health, reducing stress, building confidence, and strengthening cognitive ability. “It is mentally stimulating. You are constantly working your brain,” Kenner said. “You are physically active, mentally active, you are learning new patterns, and you are learning new techniques.”

The studio also offers lessons for wedding couples. According to Kenner, some wedding couples come into the studio to learn the basics so they can dance comfortably in front of a crowd, while others come to create a showstopping routine that will

be remembered for years to come.

The studio is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, offering a wide range of lesson times to fit everyone’s unique schedule. While the studio does welcome walk-ins, Kenner said scheduling in advance is ideal so teachers can prepare ahead of time. “We want people to know that we are open to the community for everyone to come in. We want everyone to experience ballroom dancing and have fun with it.”

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There are plenty of headlines these days calling for a housing market crash. But the truth is, they’re not telling the full story. Here’s what’s actually happening, and what the experts project for home prices over the next 5 years. And spoiler alert – it’s not a crash.

Yes, in some local markets, prices are flattening or even dipping slightly this year as more homes hit the market. That’s normal with rising inventory. But the bigger picture is what really matters, and it’s far less dramatic than what the doom-and-gloom headlines suggest. Here’s why.

Over 100 leading housing market experts were surveyed in the latest Home Price Expectations Survey (HPES) from Fannie Mae. Their collective forecast shows prices are projected to keep rising over the next 5 years, just at a slower, healthier pace than what we’ve seen more recently. And that kind of steady, sustainable growth should be one factor to help ease your fears about the years ahead.

And if you take a look at how the various experts responded within the survey, they fall into three main categories: those that were most optimistic about the

forecast, most pessimistic, and the overall average outlook.

Here’s what the breakdown shows:

• The average projection is about 3.3% price growth per year, through 2029.

• The optimists see growth closer to 5.0% per year.

• The pessimists still forecast about 1.3% growth per year. Do they all agree on the same number? Of course not. But here’s the key takeaway: not one expert group is calling for a major national decline or a crash. Instead, they expect home prices to rise at a steady, more sustainable pace.

That’s much healthier for the market – and for you. Yes, some areas may see prices hold relatively flat or dip a bit in the short term, especially where inventory is on the rise. Others may appreciate faster than the national average because there are still fewer homes for sale than there are buyers trying to purchase them. But overall, more moderate price growth is cooling the rapid spikes we saw during the frenzy of the past few years.

And remember, even the most conservative experts still project prices will rise over the course of the next 5 years. That’s also because foreclosures are low, lending standards are in check, and homeowners have near record equity to boost the stability of the market. Together, those factors help prevent a wave of forced sales, like the kind that could drag prices down. So, if you’re waiting for a significant crash before you buy, you might be waiting quite a long time.

Bottom Line

If you’ve been on the fence about your plans, now’s the time to get clarity. The market isn’t heading for a crash. It’s on track for steady, slow, long-term growth overall, with some regional ups and downs along the way.

Want to know what that means for our neighborhood? Because national trends set the tone, but what really matters is what’s happening in your zip code. Let’s have a quick conversation so you can see exactly what our local data means for you.

Herb Chambers properties in Westborough sold for combined $32.65M

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – After an announcement last winter, the land associated with Herb Chambers dealerships in Westborough has officially been sold.

According to the Worcester Registry of Deeds, 312 Turnpike Road (Herb Chambers INFINITI), 310 Turnpike Road (Herb Chambers Ford), and 75 Otis Street (Herb Chambers of Lincoln) were sold for a combined $32.65 million between July 22 and 23.

All three plots of land were sold to Atlanta Real Estate Holdings LLC. The INFINITI lot sold for $12.6 million, the Ford lot sold for $10.5 million, and the Lincoln lot sold for $9.55 million. The properties total about 12.1 acres.

On Feb. 18, the Herb Chambers collection of dealerships, including these three in Westborough, was sold to Asbury Automotive Group. The sale

included 33 dealerships, 52 franchises, and three collision centers.

“As I look back on the last 40 years in business, I do so with immense pride, and as I look forward, I will do so with great satisfaction knowing what we built together will be in trusted hands,” Herb

MacDonald Hotel hits market for $4M in Marlborough

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

Chambers, principal of the Herb Chambers Companies, said in a February release.

“David Hult and the Asbury Automotive Group share our customer-focused philosophy, which will remain as the foundation from which they move our great company into the future.”

MARLBOROUGH – The MacDonald Hotel Rooming House in Downtown Marlborough has hit the market for just over $4 million.

Located next door to Marlborough House of Pizza, the 44-unit property was listed by Northeast Private Client Group. The hotel currently advertises “furnished rooms for rent” on a sign on the building.

AUGUST 2 & 3

The hotel at 270 Main Street has four retail units, 37 rooms, and a few studio and one-bedroom units. Currently, the location is home to Construction Monitoring, Fame Hair Design, Emporium Brazil Coffee Shop, and a cell phone repair shop, as well as the hotel.

New trail to come to Whitney Street by end of year

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – The town will likely see a new trail added to 432 Whitney Street by the end of the year, town officials said.

Northborough purchased the 23.7-acre property north of Interstate 290 in April 2024 for $1.7 million in Community Preservation Act funds. About 21.9 acres will be used for the recreational trail, with the remaining land planned for housing.

The property was formerly owned by Santo Anza, who was convicted in 2013 on charges that he was operating an illegal solid waste dump at 429 Whitney Street.

The Select Board unanimously approved the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s purchase of a conservation restriction on the property during its June 23 meeting. The town received $200,000 from the state in exchange for the restriction.

The Northborough Trails Committee submitted its preliminary trail route to the Conservation Commission,

which approved the plans in late June. The committee is hoping to have the new trail added to the town’s trail network by the end of the year.

Now, the committee is going through various approval processes, including a Wetlands Request for Determination of Applicability, to ensure the land is suitable for the trail.

“As a committee, we’re very excited to share access to the parcel with the general public, and getting a trail on it is the best way,” Trails Committee Chair Brian Belfer said.

THE WILLOWS AT WESTBOROUGH PRESENTS:

Summer Concert Series

Celebrate summer with The Willows at Westborough! Enjoy a beautiful evening of live music in the courtyard of our vibrant, independent living community. Our concert series is open to the public, with performances from 7:00 to 8:15PM on Wednesday evenings, June through August.

JULY 16Fantasy Big World

JULY 23The Swing Legacy

JULY 30Holdn’ Back Band

AUGUST 6Dan Gabel’s Stoptime Revue

For more information and for a list of our full 2025 Summer Concert Series lineup, please call us today at 508-366-4730. Don’t miss out on a relaxing summer evening filled with great music and good company!

508-366-4730

The Willows at Westborough One Lyman Street, Westborough, MA 01581

By Derek Speed Contributing Writer

HUDSON – Located a stone’s throw from the rotary in the center of town is a building that has been the site of a lot of local history — the former Hudson National Guard Armory at 35 Washington Street. A group of dedicated local volunteers is working hard to repurpose this previously abandoned historic building into a regional performance and arts space for the community.

This summer, the Hudson Cultural Alliance (HCA) has been running a series of events at the site — now rebranded as The Armory on the Assabet — to help raise money to see its vision brought to life.

History of the Armory

Built in the early 1900s, the Armory served as the original home of the Hudson unit of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, which later became the Massachusetts National Guard. Boston architects James E. McLaughlin and John J. Mulcahy designed the Armory with the ability to house an entire military unit. They later went on to design Fenway Park.

The Armory served as the deployment point for National Guard units from Hudson during WWI, WWII, and the Iraq War. Over time, use of the Armory decreased and the National Guard stopped using it in the 1990s. It was officially deactivated as a military facility prior to 2019, at which point it was acquired by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The

journey from military use to local cultural hub In 2019, a group of local business people came together to form the HCA, with the goal of repurposing the Armory for use as a performing arts and cultural center for Hudson and surrounding communities. Over the next few years, the nonprofit group secured funding from the Massachusetts Senate for the town to purchase the building from the state for $230,000. Eventually, the HCA purchased the Armory from the town and is now the sole owner of the building.

While the building has suffered from a lack of use, it is a fundamentally structurally sound building with “good bones.” But taking it to the point it can host live performances or

be used for music, dance, or pottery studios is going to require a lot of hard work and money.

HCA President Tom Desmond and HCA Treasurer Chuck Randall described the process the group has undergone so far and what the next steps will be.

“The first step was to secure the services of a local architect to help us realize the overall vision for the space. We have been working with Ed Nunes to put together a series of architectural drawings that take into account the requirements to service a wide variety of needs from a performing arts venue for theatrical and musical productions to

spaces that can be used by artists, such as pottery makers, to rehearsal space for local dance companies,” they said.

Desmond and Randall estimated that the cost to bring the building up to code will be around $8.3 million with an additional $1.7 million needed to fulfill the vision for the performing arts space. The next major projects involve replacing windows and beginning the process of hazardous waste remediation.

Local theatre group to perform ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ as a fundraiser

In 2024, a group of community theatre artists approached the HCA with the concept of performing Shakespeare on the grounds as both a fundraiser and a way to introduce the community to the time-honored tradition of performing Shakespeare in the open air.

Last year’s performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was such a success that the group decided to reprise their efforts with a production of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” Producer Anna Lee Percuoco, a drama teacher at Quinn Middle School who spearheaded the 2024 produc-

tion, is working with director Melissa Baratta to create a version of “Much Ado” that is set in the 1970s. Baratta has assembled a cast composed of several local teachers, including Percuoco, Sarah Worrest, Brian Kubicek, and Kevin Boudreau, several of whom also were members of the 2024 cast.

“Much Ado” will be presented on Aug. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. Local restaurant Kith and Kin will serve Shakespeare-themed fare. HCA is suggesting a donation of $10 per person, with proceeds going to benefit The Armory on the Assabet’s renovation project.

By Mary Wenzel Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – Linus (van Pelt), the adorable Peanuts character created by Charles Schulz, made a recent visit to the Reservoir Center for Health and Rehabilitation as part of Project Linus: Greater Boston Area.

The cartoon character Linus is known for carrying a security blanket as a source of comfort,

outstanding

thus the organization provides handmade blankets to children in need of comfort, such as those who are seriously ill, traumatized, or in foster care.

“In coordination with the Reservoir administration,” explained Julia Lombardi, one of the founders of the local Linus

chapter. “[Residents] purchased the yarn to provide to their four avid quilters who reside at the facility with several, varied chronic comorbidities.”

The blankets will be donated at the local drop-off station in Bolton and supplied to local children in the state.

Committee, and Marlborough Mayor Christian

Sarah Hanahan, a member of the Marlborough High School Class of 2015, has been named the #1 Rising Star on the Alto Saxophone by “Downbeat Magazine.” In addition, the jazz magazine gave her a 5-star review for her debut recording, “Among Giants.”

Recently, Sarah appeared at the Marlborough Public Schools “Jazz Fest,” featuring music by the Marlborough High School Jazz Ensemble, the MHS Jazz Lab, and the Whitcomb Middle School Jazz Band.

Wenzel | 15

Wenzel | from page 14

“Honored to be back in my hometown this week as the featured guest with the Marlborough High School Jazz Band. Hard to believe it’s been 10 years since I last set foot in this building—what a full circle moment,” said Hanahan. “Had a blast talking and playing with the talented students in the Marlborough High School Music Department today. It’s wild to think I was sitting in those same seats just a decade ago.”

The Marlborough Historical Society is beginning plans for the 2026 calendar. The tentative theme is “Marlborough Celebrates the Revolution.” Among the items included in the calendar will be celebrations that will be going on all year for our country’s 250th anniversary. A monthly sponsorship for the calendar is $250. You can sponsor in your family name, in memory of someone, or in your business name.

The deadline for this is Aug. 13, 2025. Date squares remembering a birthday, anniversary, etc., can be purchased for $5 each. You can send your sponsorship and square information to Marlborough Historical Society, P.O. Box 513, Marlborough, MA 01752. You can also contact Linda Rennie at lrennie5371@ gmail.com.

The City of Marlborough celebrated its dedicated city and district employees

with an employee appreciation luncheon held behind City Hall. The end-of-theschool-year event featured a delicious spread of food catered by Zarape Restaurant and sweet treats from Dairy Queen. This event served as a wonderful opportunity to recognize the hard work and contributions of city employees throughout the year. A special thankyou to Mayor Christian Dumais and his staff for their efforts in organizing this thoughtful end-of-year celebration.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

July 15 Joanne Mahoney and Bev Hutch

July 29 Barbara Cooper

Aug. 1 Mary Rowe

Aug. 2 Barbara McGuire

Aug. 3 Bob Kays

Aug. 5 Christopher Coppola

Aug. 6 Todd Emich, Tammy Ducey, and Leslie Meyers

Aug. 8 Becca Baur, Katherine Stacy, and Ed Ducey

Aug. 9 Sue Leeber and Amelia Kinney

Aug. 13 Brianne Perdue and Christopher Hill

Aug. 16 Sean Deneen and Kate Fiore

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Aug. 3 Pauline and Max Wills

Aug. 8 Bonnie Power and Peter Weiler

Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.

Visit our website: www.cabinetrehabshop.com or call 508-791-8450

Hannaford faces potential lawsuit over 160 layoffs

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – With Hannaford set to close in September, the company will be laying off 160 employees, according to state filings.

According to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act notice filed on July 14, Hannaford will lay off the employees on Sept. 13.

The store’s final day will be Sept. 2. A Hannaford spokesperson said the company was not given the opportunity to renew its lease at the 193 Boston Post Road West location.

The spokesperson added that Hannaford is offering all Marlborough associates positions at other local stores

and will make “every effort” to transfer them.

Strauss Borrelli PLLC, a class action law firm, announced it was investigating Hannaford Bros. Co. for violating the WARN Act, which requires certain employers to notify their employees, in writing, at least 60 days before a plant closing or mass layoff takes effect.

The firm alleges Hannaford may have failed to provide at least 60 days’ notice before laying off its employees.

“We believe Hannaford Bros. Co. employees may be entitled to 60 days of severance pay and benefits,” the law firm said.

Shaw’s will be taking over the space, a spokesperson said. There isn’t an opening date set.

City Council approves marijuana lab on Cedar Hill St

By Shealagh Sullivan, Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – The City Council Urban Affairs Committee voted unanimously to approve a special permit for the operation of a marijuana testing lab on Cedar Hill Street.

Run by Green Armory Laboratory, Inc., the testing lab would share space with other businesses at 260 Cedar Hill Street. There will be no marijuana for sale at the site.

According to Green Armory Labs and the owner of the site, TV Marlborough, LLC, the site would have about seven employees and no one under 21 years of age would be allowed into the lab. Also, any waste produced by the lab would be disposed of as medical waste and incinerated.

According to the permit, the lab will operate 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week. However, if the lab gets busier, an extension of hours may be needed.

By Adri Pray Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – After years at Westborough High School (WHS), former S.T.A.R.S. psychologist Brian Provencher is going back to school himself. In the fall, Provencher will

SCHOOLS

begin a doctoral program at Springfield College to earn his PsyD, an accolade that he said will further his understanding about how best to support adolescents. It was a decision he made after six years in the district — and one that wasn’t easy.

“That role in Westborough was probably the most meaningful role that I’ve ever had,” he said. “I’ve learned everything from [my students]. I’ve learned the power of resilience, the power of connection, the power of having people understand you, and how that helps

facilitate growth. I’ve learned to be grateful for what you have.”

In Westborough, Provencher spent one-on-one time with between 18 and 25 students each year in the S.T.A.R.S. program, a support system that provides intensive academic and emotional resources for students with emotional-based disabilities. He estimates he’s worked with nearly 150 Westborough students in total.

His day-to-day consisted of meeting with students to find ways to best support them, and then with educators to advocate for his students and try to find a compromise that fit individual needs. Overall, he believes that Westborough has a supportive culture for students with additional mental health needs, and he applauds those educators who are proactive about working with him to address them. Still, he said, the job doesn’t come without its challenges.

“Sometimes you’re not met with open ears or understanding about the work itself,” said Provencher. “Working with individuals is hard, but then to be met with resistance from educators at times, for me, that is the hardest part — to get everyone on the same page when someone’s experiencing emotional difficulties.”

He recalled how most of the students that he worked with at WHS were told by someone at some point in their lives that they’d never graduate. So to watch them cross that stage each June, Provencher said, is worth it.

“I wish mental health and education weren’t seen as competing factors. Because they’re

not. They’re so intertwined,” he said.

What complicated his job, particularly at the end of his tenure, was the rise of phone usage and social media. What students are absorbing online and on their phones directly contributes to their success at school, and teaching teenagers how to separate their real lives from their online lives has proven to be difficult.

“I think it’s getting harder for individuals, especially at 14 to 18 [years old], to identify coping mechanisms that don’t involve some type of electronics,” he said.

There’s no immediate plan to fill Provencher’s role, according to Superintendent Allison Borchers. Instead, the S.T.A.R.S. program will be internally restructured and educators currently working in the program will see some shifts in responsibility.

“[Provencher] has been a remarkable advocate for students and has helped build critical programming at WHS,” Borchers wrote in a statement. “In the short time I had to observe and hear about his work, I was impressed by his capacity to build the sorts of relationships with students and families that were transformative — students struggling to feel connected at school knew they had an ally in him.”

WHS has left a lasting impression on Provencher, who didn’t rule out the possibility of returning to work in a high school setting post-grad. But while he waits for his next chapter to start, he’s opened his own private practice called Grow and Evolve Counseling.

“It was really, really, really hard to leave Westborough,” he said. “I was very emotional on my last day, but I’m really excited about the things that I have to look forward to.”

Local artists shine at Northborough Art Guild’s annual show

By Laney Halsey Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH – At the Northborough Art Guild’s annual art show, dozens of pieces that encompassed a variety of styles and techniques lined the walls of the Northborough Historical Building.

The event was a vibrant display of local art and artists. Floral arrangements created by the Northborough Garden Club complemented the paintings, creating a welcoming and community-centered atmosphere.

For Guild President Genevieve Grenier, that sense of community is one of the group’s strengths.

“I find most artists, like the ones we have here, are very willing to share their knowledge, as well as their excitement for art,” Grenier said.

Grenier has been involved with the guild since 1982, when her aunt encouraged her to join even though she lived in a different town. Each guild meeting

features a demonstration from an artist, something Grenier values.

“Go to the demonstrations,” Grenier said. “You pick something up, no matter what’s done, you never know. You can be inspired on how to set up, even how to be organized.”

Artists participating in the show had the option to sell their work, and visitors were invited to vote for their favorite piece. This flexibility and supportive environment are central to the guild’s identity.

“We’re not competitive, and that was one of the things that

I like,” Grenier said. “We’ve often been complimented by demonstrators that we’re a really friendly group. I think we all like to help each other.”

Guild member and Algonquin graduate Claire Xu, who had three pieces featured in the show, will be attending the Rhode Island School of Design this fall to pursue her passion for art. A recipient of the Northborough Art Guild Scholarship and an active member of the group, Xu reflected on one of her featured works, a painting titled “Street.”

“It’s a picture of Northborough downtown,” Xu said. “I took the picture on my way home from school and it was raining, and I just liked how it looked so I decided to paint it.”

The next show will be held during Applefest in September, and another will be at the Northborough library through the month of November. Information on upcoming shows and membership can be found on the guild’s website.

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Soup dumplings, anyone?

Based on the signage posted in a building’s windows, Nan Xiang Express will be opening in Shrewsbury shortly. The soup dumpling company will be located in White City in space that was once a Papa Gino’s. No exact opening date has been announced.

Soup dumplings are an Asian dish that have a rich, flavorful broth — and oftentimes a meat filling — enclosed within the dumpling. Nan Xiang’s menu includes dumplings of every sort, with pork, chicken, crab, beef, and vegetable options. If Shrewsbury’s location is similar to others, there will also be noodles, rice, appetizers, teas, and soups available.

“With the same level of quality, craft, and dedication that makes our soup dumplings world-famous, Nan Xiang

Express is on a mission to bring the best soup dumplings and Shanghainese comfort food to every neighborhood in the U.S.,” according to the company’s website.

This will be Nan Xiang’s

14th location, according to its website. Most of the company’s locations are in major cities like New York and Boston. The closest location to Shrewsbury is Boston’s Massachusetts Avenue restaurant.

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – Despite running into permitting issues with the state, Northborough is still on track to build its new fire station at 65 West Main Street.

Fire Chief David Parenti announced the town received a “Dig Safe” building permit from the Northborough Building Department on July 18.

“Construction is moving along,” said Timothy Alix, the associate director at Colliers Project Leaders.

A gas line break occurred during construction on May 28 due to a mismarked gas line, according to Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon. The marking was assumed to be Eversource’s responsibility,

she added.

“Fortunately, work on the new fire station was only briefly paused during the recent incident and overall progress remains on track,” Bacon said in a statement to the Community Advocate in June.

The state conducted an investigation, as the leak led to the closure of a portion of Route 20, and raised concerns that work had begun on the site without an issued driveway opening permit. The town broke ground on the project on May 21.

That permit is still pending with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, said Parenti.

The project is expected to continue to stay on target for an October 2026 completion.

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

Alachoyan Jr., George of Northbridge/Grafton Bannon, Barbara of Northborough Brooker, Lisa formerly of Marlborough

Cusumano, Diane of Hudson Haker, Khalil of Marlborough Hodgson, Dorothy of Marlborough Iuster, Fany of Shrewsbury Konetzny, Karen formerly of Shrewsbury

Leveille, Pauline of Hudson Maglione, Michael formerly of Hudson Marrino, Walter formerly of Shrewsbury

Price, David of Shrewsbury Randall, Lucille of Shrewsbury Riley, Robert of Westborough Sekuj, Violeta of Shrewsbury Sestito, Joseph of Marlborough Simoneau, Joan F. of Marlborough Whitcomb, Lydia of Marlborough

Joan F. Simoneau, 88

Beloved city resident, active community volunteer

Joan F. Simoneau, 88, of Marlborough, MA died peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Joan was born in Worcester, MA, the daughter of the late Vincent and Philomena “Fannie” (Vecchione) Cerulle. She is survived by her two daughters Kathy (Rice) Bing-

ham of Woonsocket, RI and Cindy (Rice) Tosone and her husband Jack of Charlestown, RI; her three grandchildren Stevhan Kardell of Acton, MA, Jessica Emmert and her husband Denys, of Centerville, VA, and Courtney Todman and her husband Nicholas of Rockland, MA and her three great- grandchildren Chiara Bingham, Marcellus Todman and Isabella Emmert. Joan is also survived by her Simoneau stepchildren and their families, her loving nieces, nephews and sisters-in-law.

Joan grew up in East Douglas, MA, raised in an Italian home by her loving mother and father. The strong foundation they provided was the start of Joan’s desire to give back to others.

After attending Becker College, Joan worked for the Worcester Telegram and Gazette. Settling in Marlboro, Joan became the editor of a weekly newspaper, the Marlboro City Post. She quickly became a fixture at weekly City Council and School Committee meetings and loved the thrill of the politics and all that was going on in Marlboro!

She later continued her writing career at the Middlesex News, Main Street Journal and Community Advocate.

Joan was also very active in the Marlborough Rotary Club and was able to share her love of music while participating in the Marlborough Rotary Club Musicals.

Although Joan had a long career with Digital Equipment Corporation (later HP), her love for humanitarian work and writing soon became intertwined. Joan, alongside her husband Roland, worked

on various fundraising and humanitarian events, most notably, the yearly Evening of Giving Fundraiser that supported the Roland House in Marlborough (named after her late husband) and the ARC (Addiction Referral Center), which Joan served as a board member for over 20 years.

Even though Joan was busy writing and supporting the various community-centric organizations in Marlborough, Joan still found time to enjoy your home, gardening and her family. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the center of her life.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, August 4, at 11 am in the Martha-Mary Chapel, 35 Dutton Road, Sudbury, MA. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Wilson Street, Marlborough, MA.

In Memoriam, Paul and Peter Carbone

Paul and Peter Carbone, beloved brothers, passed away after lives marked by love, family, and adventure.

Paul Carbone, born May 31, 1952, in Marlboro, MA, passed away from a heart attack on May 9, 2023. He is survived by his devoted wife, Eugenia; his daughter, Jessica Kenez and her husband Greg of New Hampshire; and his son, David and his wife Jessica of Nashua, NH. He was a proud grandfather to Owen and Harper.

Peter Carbone, born July 7, 1955, in Marlboro, MA, passed away from cancer on January

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

6, 2025, after spending the last 20 years living in Jamaica, West Indies. He is survived by his former wife, Dale Carbone of Clearwater, FL, and his stepson, Jason Toohey.

Paul and Peter were the sons of the late Eugene and Helen Carbone and shared a deep bond as brothers throughout their lives.

They leave behind a loving family: their sister Jean Brown of Fort Myers, FL, and her children Michael and Kimberly; their brother John Carbone of Marlboro, MA, and his daughters Janene and Suzanne; their brother Albert Carbone of Marlboro, MA; their sister Suzanne Carbone and her husband John Neville of Waterford, CT; and their brother Michael Carbone of Key Largo, FL, and his daughters Julie, Michelle, and Emily. They were predeceased by their sisters Barbara Thimot, who leaves behind a son, Barry Kittridge, and Helen Wagner, who is survived by her son, Jason Hayes.

A celebration of their lives will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Lafayette Club, 34 High Street, Nashua, NH, for family and friends to gather in remembrance.

Barbara A. Bannon, 91

NORTHBOROUGH - Barbara Ann Bannon, 91, of Northborough, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Barbara was born on August 4, 1933, in Leominster, Massachusetts to William and Irene O’Malley (Trimble).

Barbara is survived and deeply missed by her sons, David Derby of Yorba Linda, Cali-

fornia, Dan Derby of Northborough, Massachusetts, and Bob Derby of Martinsburg, West Virginia; their spouses, Sylvia Derby, Brenda Derby, and Mandy Derby; step-children, Thomas Bannon of Universal City, Texas, Cheryl Lilly of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Michael Bannon of Southboro, Massachusetts; their spouses, Suk Bannon, George Lilly, and Jeanne Bannon; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, and extended family and friends.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.

Violeta Sekuj, 94

SHREWSBURY - Violeta Sekuj, renowned Albanian actress and pioneering theater director, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. She was 94 years old.

Born on March 1, 1931, in Tirana, Albania, Mrs. Sekuj lived a life devoted to the arts, culture, and community. A graduate of the esteemed Artistic High School “Jordan Misja” in 1952, she went on to become a celebrated stage and film actress, starring in many of Albania’s most iconic productions throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Her expressive talent and captivating screen presence earned her a lasting place in the canon of Albanian cinema.

She is survived by her son, Gjergj Sekuj and his wife, Mirela Sekuj of Worcester, MA; her Obituaries | 20

LEGAL NOTICES

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

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 7 Brady Road Ext. (Parcel ID: 35-72-0) submitted by Srinivas Nyayapati for expansion of existing driveway and associated work within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 21 Walker Street (Parcel ID: 39-22-0) submitted by Sarah Hile for expansion of existing driveway and associated work within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for multiple locations along the MBTA Rail Line Right-of-Way submitted by Keolis Commuter Services for their proposed five-year Vegetation Management Plan within jurisdictional resource areas.

HUDSON

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Roger Kane. The owner of the property is Whitepond Development LLC. The work is located at Bruen Road (Map-Parcel 48-3). The proposed project is Resource Area Delineation. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on August 7, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Matthew MacFarland. The owner of the property is Matthew MacFarland. The work is located at 29 Woodrow Street (Map-Parcel 31-10). The

proposed project is demolition of a house and patio in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetland. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on August 7, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@ townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by W. Timothy Hess. The owner of the property is Jeremy Cao. The work is located at 3 Marychris Drive (MapParcel 21-10). The proposed project is additions to a single-family house in Riverfront Area and Buffer Zone. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on August 7, 2025 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.

SHREWSBURY

LEGAL NOTICE

On July 23, 2025, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted unanimously to approve a Request for Local Upgrade Approval (LUA) for the leach field and the septic tank for the property line and the basement at 835 Main Street, Shrewsbury. The approval is effective as of July 23, 2025. Copies of the approved septic plan is available in the office of the Board of Heath at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

LEGAL NOTICE

On July 23, 2025, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted unanimously to approve a Request for Local Upgrade Approval (LUA) for the leach field and the septic tank for the property line and the basement at 835 Main Street, Shrewsbury. The approval is effective as of July 23, 2025. Copies of the approved septic plan is available in the office of the Board of Heath at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on August 7, 2025, at 7:00

PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Applicant FD 130 Lizotte, LLC. proposes to construct a 63-unit condominium at 130 Lizotte Dr. Work is near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy

Conservation Commission Chairman

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on August 7, 2025, at 7:00

PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Applicant Charles Black proposes to build a single-family home at 4 Quinn Rd. Work is near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on August 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

The City of Marlborough’s Department of Public Works proposes to install (2) porous pavement parking lots at 175-185 Williams St., next to the Courthouse. Work is near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on August 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Applicant Greatland Realty Partners proposes to construct a new 200,000 square foot lab and office building for the Massachusetts State Police at 100 Martinangelo Dr. Work is near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on August 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Elder Garcia Fuentes proposes to construct a gravel parking area and an above ground pool at 204 Farm Rd. Work is near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

SOUTHBOROUGH

Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday August 13, 2025 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart. com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting August 1, 2025 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta. ibidsmart.com.

This is not an absolute auction we reserve

the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-4850503 for bidding instructions.

2012 Hyundai Elantra VIN: 5NPDH4AE6CH149256

Owned by Jack McGauley

2004 Ford Focus VIN : 1FAFP34Z14W152572

Owned by David Williams

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Vin: 3VWRZ71K29M063582

Owned by Marcos Dos Santos

2012 Nissan Altima Vin: 1N4AL2EP0CC126400

Owned by Kyett S Snow

2014 Honda Odyssey VIN: 5FNRL5H47EB021195

Owned by Kabs4Kids

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee VIN: 1C4RJFBG5FC854815

Owned by: Damian Patterson

daughter, Terezina Kukli and her husband, Ndoc Kukli of Tampa, FL; and her beloved grandchildren. Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home of Worcester assisted the family.

Lydia Whitcomb, 101

MARLBOROUGH - Lydia (Brazeau) Whitcomb, 101, of Marlborough, died Wednesday, July 15, 2025, at The Reservoir Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Marlborough. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Lura (Daniels) Brazeau and wife of the late Walter Whitcomb and Francis J. Thomas. She was predeceased by her son, Francis J. Thomas Jr. Lydia is survived by 4 grandchildren; Deborah Irvine and her husband Jeep; Mary Edwards and her husband Jonathan of Marlborough, Dean Thomas and his wife Jennifer of Townsend and Skip Thomas and his wife Cathy of Tallahassee, Florida, 9 great grandchildren; Eric Thomas, Amanda Michaud, Brittany Schuppel, Caitlyn Edwards, Maryssa Martin, Kayla Martin, David Edwards, Samantha Thomas and Madison Thomas and 5 great-great grandchildren; Aubree, Haylee, Justina, Ezequiel, and Ismael. The Slattery Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.

David B. Price, 66

SHREWSBURY - David B. Price died on July 14, 2025 at his home in

2012 Chrysler Town & Country VIN: 2C4RC1BG5CR278045

Owned by Christopher M Gallagher

2010 Nissan Maxima VIN: 1N4AA5APXAC810400

Owned by Stephanie Collins

2005 Nissan Titan VIN: 1N6AA06B05N512195

Owned by Nathan Couture

2001 Toyota Avalon VIN: 4T1BF28B91U193960

Owned by Leslie Hamblin

2006 BMW 525xi VIN: WBANF335X6CS37421

Owned by Eliane Paula Martins

This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.

Publication Friday July 18, 25 and August1, 2025 Community Advocate.

Shrewsbury. Born on September 8th, 1958, David was the fourth of four children had by Anna and Robert Price. David was a lifelong resident of Massachusetts and was a friend to all.

David was with his family for such a short time. During those five years, he was so in love with dogs he could barely contain himself. He called them “goggies.” It was one of the very few words he said. David may have been a man of few words, but his heart and soul touched many of the people he crossed paths with. Jackman Funeral Home assisted the family.

Diane Cusumano, 79

HUDSON - The Reverend Diane Cusumano, 79, of Hudson, died Sunday, July 20, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Anthony and Catherine (Rhoads) Cusumano.

Diane is survived by her daughter, Michelle Brownlee of Marlborough, her grandsons, Colin and Declan Kerrigan, as well as her siblings, William Cusumano and Alice Sessamen.

Diane was a Presbyterian minister who was beloved by the congregations she served in Howe and Indianapolis, Indiana, and Orleans, Cotuit and Stoneham, Massachusetts. Slattery Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.

POLICE FIRE&

Man arrested after allegedly exposing buttocks, making lewd gestures to females

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A man has been charged after allegedly wearing a thong in public, performing lewd acts in front of female bystanders, and exposing his bare buttocks.

At about 12:42 p.m. on July 15, Sergeant Watkins of the Marlborough Police Department was dispatched to 191 Boston Post Road after a report of a male getting out of his vehicle and exposing himself to the public. The caller and her daughter were witnesses to the incident, according to police documents.

The Marlborough Police Department quickly located a

white Nissan in the corner of a Longhorn Steakhouse parking lot. A man inside the car, identified as Donald Ferguson, 49, of Gardner, was reportedly not wearing pants at the time officers approached the vehicle.

As Sgt. Watkins approached the car, Ferguson allegedly grabbed a pair of gym shorts to cover himself, telling officers he had a “bathing suit cover” underneath the shorts. Police observed that the “cover” looked like a “white undergarment.” Ferguson allegedly said he was working on his laptop while he waited for his next appointment.

Sgt. Watkins spoke to a witness via phone, who stated she observed a male get out of

the Nissan a couple of times, each instance wearing “limited clothing.” While the witness did not directly see his genitalia, she said she observed him wearing a thong. The witness also allegedly saw Ferguson’s buttocks. She said Ferguson only got out of the car when female bystanders would pass.

Ferguson was arrested and charged with Open and Gross Lewdness for exposing his bare buttocks and publicly performing sexual acts that caused shock and alarm to passersby. He was arraigned on July 16 and has a pretrial hearing scheduled for August 27.

The Community Advocate reached out to Ferguson’s attorney for comment.

Several officers elbowed, kneed in confrontation following traffic stop

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Officers were elbowed and kneed in a confrontation following a traffic stop.

While on patrol at around 10:50 p.m. on July 13, Officer Galaxias Kotsaftis observed a gray Honda that was running and occupied in the Panda House parking lot on 46 Main Street. The vehicle reportedly had no front plate attached. The car began moving, and Ofc. Kotsaftis maneuvered to get behind the vehicle and pulled it over by Dairy Queen.

Ofc. Kotsaftis recognized the operator, identified as Javier E. Chacon Gutierrez, 27, of Worcester, from a traffic stop in 2024. When asked for his license and registration, Gutierrez allegedly put his hands

to his face, started shaking his head, and said “no, no, please.”

At this time, documents say Ofc. Kotsaftis noticed an open Corona bottle in plain view; Gutierrez reportedly said the bottle was not his and instead belonged to a female who had since left the vehicle.

Officers placed Gutierrez under arrest, but as he was being arrested, he allegedly “swung his body back toward [the officer] and pushed [him] hard in the chest with both hands.” According to police, Gutierrez began to run away, trying to leap a fence and going into a residence’s front yard. Police eventually caught up with Gutierrez, who allegedly forcefully kneed officers, elbowed officers, and struggled while being arrested.

Police said a stun gun was deployed and they employed

Marlborough resident indicted for selling nearly a dozen firearms

BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully residing in Marlborough was indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston for trafficking firearms.

Guilherme Fernandes-Tavares, 31, was indicted on one count of dealing firearms without a license. Fernandes-Tavares was previously charged by criminal complaint on March 7.

Between December 2023 and May 2024, FernandesTavares allegedly sold 11 pistols — some of which were privately manufactured without serial numbers and one that had an obliterated serial number — and ammunition across 10 different dates and offered others for sale.

It is further alleged that one of the firearms was sold with a large capacity magazine that could hold 28 rounds of ammunition. In addition, a package intended for Fernandes-Tavares sent from Florida was intercepted and

“approximately four closed fist strikes” to the face to stop Gutierrez, who continued to shout “I’m not going” and “no.” Pepper spray was also reportedly used; officers received treatment after the incident.

Due to possible injuries from the confrontation, Gutierrez was transported to Marlborough Hospital. En route, he continued to yell and allegedly said that because the incident was not on camera, the police wouldn’t be able to charge him.

Gutierrez faces several charges, including resisting arrest and assault, and was arraigned on July 14. He was released on personal recognizance. A pretrial hearing is set for Aug. 6.

The Community Advocate reached out to Gutierrez’s attorney for comment.

Southborough

Monday, June 23

1:31 a.m. Arrested, Patrick V. Goncalves Vieira, of Beaver Park Rd., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

5:33 a.m. Arrested, Nilton Teixeira Gomes, of Gibbon St., Marlborough, for unlicensedoperation of MV, warrant.

Saturday, June 28

1:48 a.m. Arrested, Jonathan Alves Dos Santos, of South St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or 08% 2 nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

7:56 a.m. Arrested, Alex S. Hebert, of Bernard Dr., Fitchburg, courtesy booking – Leominster.

Sunday, June 29

1:38 a.m. Arrested, Gabriel Silva Neves, of High St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%,negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, possess Class B drug, fail to signal, registration not in possession.

1:23 p.m. Arrested, Marcos Marcelino Da Costa, of Alexander St., Framingham, for operate MV with license suspended, no inspection sticker, number plate violation, fail to notify RMV ofname/address change.

allegedly found to contain an additional firearm.

The charge of dealing firearms without a license renders a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes that govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The office of U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley, among others, made the announcement on July 25. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Massachusetts State Police, and the Westborough Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

Fernandes-Tavares was arraigned in federal court on July 30.

Thursday, July 3

1:08 a.m. Arrested, Robert M. Gingras, of Water St., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%,negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

Friday, July 4

5:01 p.m. Arrested, Christopher B. Parks, of Howe St., Natick, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to wear seat belt, trespass with motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper.

9:55 p.m. Arrested, Alauriane F. Da Silva, of East Main St., B2, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in possession, fail to stop/yield.

Saturday, July 5

1:16 a.m. Arrested, Adelphie M. Mfuh, of Mellen St., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, child endangerment while OUI, speeding/ rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

3:38 a.m. Arrested, Luis P. Hernandez Cruz, of Tudor Ln., Ashland, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.

Sunday, July 6

10;11 a.m. Arrested, Maurice A. Myrie, of Madison Place, Southborough, for operate MV with license suspended.

Monday, July 7

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

Lake Chauncy temporarily closed due to heightened cyanobacteria presence

By Adri Pray Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Lake

Chauncy was temporarily closed on July 28 due to the heightened presence of cyanobacteria in the water. It remained closed at the time of publication.

Town officials are “monitor-

Maybe put a hold on those beach plans. Lake Chauncy is temporarily closed.

ing the situation closely,” according to a release, and will reopen the lake once water quality conditions are safe for public and animal use. Residents and animals should avoid the water at all costs until further notice.

Cyanobacteria, or bluegreen algae, are bacteria that produce toxins that pose extreme health risks to humans and animals. Exposure to it

Police log | from page 21

11:21 a.m. Arrested, Fouad E. Aoude, of Main St., Medway, for operate MV with license suspended.

Saturday, July 12

10:13 p.m. Arrested, Josemar A. Vieira, of Weld St., Framingham, for MV lights violation, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, OUIliquor or .08%.

Sunday, July 13

1:12 a.m. Arrested, Ronaldo A. Sales De Oliveira, of Clover Hill St., Marlborough, for MV lights violation, OUI-liquor or .08%.

9:19 a.m. Arrested, Ramon R. Do Nascimento, of Kathryn Ln., Holliston, for unlicensed operation of MV, warrant.

Monday, July 14

12:08 a.m. Arrested, Peter M. Muoria, of 18 th St., Dracut, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, warrant.

Shrewsbury

Sunday, July 20

6:11 p.m. Arrested , Dezirae Ann Mikalunas, 18, of 22 Crane Ave., Maynard, for shoplifting by asportation, conspiracy, warrants, and Jose Luis Figueroa, 36, of 40 Elliott St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for shoplifting by asportation, conspiracy.

Thursday, July 24

6:12 p.m. Arrested, Amelia B. Raymond, 36, of 143 N Quinsigamond Ave., Apt. D, Shrewsbury, for possession of Class A substance, possession of Class B substance, shoplifting by concealing

Westborough

Monday, July 14

3:15 p.m. Arrested, Margarete Lopes De Jesus, 36, of 92 Bishop Dr., Apt. 92, Framingham, for Friday, July 18

9:42 a.m. Arrested, Jeffrey R. Fleming, 43, of 24 Potter Hill Rd., Grafton, for operate MV with license suspended, operate MV without ignition interlock, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Marlborough

Friday, July 18

1:20 p.m. Arrested, Isaac E. Rivera, 26, of 200 Deer St., Apt. 2202, Milford, for OUI-drugs, negligent operation of motor vehicle, leave scene of property damage, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Saturday, July 19

9:59 a.m. Arrested, Mickel M. Simpson, 33, homeless, Marlborough, for carrying dangerous weapon, trespass, disorderly conduct.

Sunday, July 20

1:17 p.m. Arrested , Aliana Melissa Abreu, 20, of 17 S Central St., Milford, for trespass, disorderly conduct, interfere with police office (common law), resist arrest. 4:27 p.m. Arrested, William Inacio Lopes

through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation can cause skin and eye irritation, gastrointestinal illness, respiratory disease, and, in serious cases, life-threatening effects. Animals are especially highly susceptible to these toxins. For more information, residents and visitors should contact the Westborough Board of Health at (508) 366-3045.

Da Silva, 31, of 335 Plantation St., Worcester, for unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.

Monday, July 21

1:39 p.m. Arrested, Mikel M. Simpson, 33, of 102 Liberty St., Marlborough, for trespass, vandalize property, resist arrest, A&B on police officer, true warrant.

Northborough

Thursday, July 17

2:27 a.m. Arrested, Joseph Lewis Giacalone, 27, of 359 Grove St., Franklin, for speeding in violation of special regulation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor.

Friday, July 18

10:44 p.m. Arrested, Stephen P. Lombardo Jr., 64, of 2 Stacey Rd., Norfolk, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2 nd offense, possess open container of alcohol in MV, marked lanes violation.

Saturday, July 19

7:41 p.m. Arrested, Adriano Carvalho, 52, of 3213 Homestead Blvd., Westborough, for passing violation, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, operate MV with license suspended, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop for police, uninsured motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, disorderly conduct, marked lanes violation.

Monday, July 21

2:15 a.m. Arrested, Gutenberg Longchamp, 36, of 580 Cummins St., Apt. 1, Mattapan, for fail to dim headlights, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-drugs, possess open container of alcohol in MV. 6:18 p.m. Arrested , Nicholas Joseph Manos, 30, of 323 Charlestown Meadow Dr., Westborough, on warrant.

Tuesday, July 22

11:12 p.m. Arrested, Joshua T. Blood, 32, of 1 Oak St., Apt. 2, Clinton, for fail to yield at intersection, operate MV with license suspended.

Wednesday, July 23

3:00 a.m. Arrested, Zachary Evan Carter, 25, of 59 Evelyn St., Apt. 505, Worcester, for speeding in violation of special regulation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, violation of abuse prevention order (4 cts), marked lanes violation.

7:09 p.m. Arrested, Matthew J. Waters, 45, of 101 Colburn St., Northborough, for possess firearm without FID card, possess ammunition without FID card, and John P. Wilson, 57, of 101Colburn St., Northborough, for possess firearm without FID card, possess ammunition without FID card.

8:24 p.m. Arrested, Kelsie Marie Pushee, 34, of 5 Shady Ln., Oxford, for operate MV with license revoked as HTO, possess Class B drug to distribute, possess Class A drug.

Thursday, July 24

6:55 a.m. Arrested , Christopher Rodrigues, 30, of 77 Brigham St., Hudson, for possession of Class B drug.

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

QUINCY – For a while, it looked like they’d been solved. Then came the fourth inning — and with it, the breakthrough they needed.

Shrewsbury Post 397 struggled mightily against host Quincy Post 294’s pitcher, a flame-throwing righty. But Post 397 players studied every pitch, reported back to teammates, and developed a plan in the dugout. Eventually, the homework paid off.

Jackson Lucarelli’s double started a fourth-inning rally, and singles by Connor Rice, Ryan Iagallo, and Pearson Dodds kept the line moving. By the time Brayden Mercier notched a three-run double, Post 397 had pulled ahead, 7-0. After three innings of getting carved up, Shrewsbury did nothing but celebrate during the 7-run rally.

“I knew he was going break-

ing ball, and that fastball was really getting on me. I loaded early, sat fastball, and adjusted to that curveball. I saw that fastball high and up, and with two strikes, you have to battle that off,” Lucarelli told the Community Advocate postgame. “It’s about loading early, and the boys just rallied again, what can I say?”

That epic rally was more

than enough to blow the game wide open. In the first round of the double-elimination Massachusetts State Legion Baseball Tournament, Shrewsbury, the defending champion, defeated host Quincy, 8-2.

“The kid was really a good young pitcher. The kid was fantastic. The first three innings, I tip my hat to them,” said Post 397 Head Coach Frank Vac -

WESTBOROUGH SHOPPING CENTER

caro, whose team will host the Northeast Regional Tournament after the state competition. “But then, we came on, and we got the hits when we needed it. I’m proud of the group.”

Despite plating just two runs — both of which scored on errors — Quincy was all over the basepaths all night.

Seemingly caught in jam after

jam, Mercier kept his composure on the mound, limiting all damage. Over 4.1 innings, the former Saint John’s star struck out six.

Owen Mongeon and Zaid Moghrabi were strong in relief.

“I didn’t go to my go-to stuff. Usually my slider is my strikeout pitch. Today, it was my fastball, changeup — that’s what I got all my strikeouts on. I didn’t go with a lot of breaking balls, my fastball was working pretty good — I was locating it,” said Mercier. “They had some hits, but I was able to battle through.”

Knowing how hard the pitcher was working only helped inspire the Post 397 offense.

“Everyone was just confident in their at-bats. We all really wanted to get behind Mercier — he was throwing lights out on the mound. We really wanted to put some runs up for him,” said Dez Hayeck, a key part of the fourth-inning rally.

Midland-Wachusett League announces 2025 spring all-stars

REGION – Over 150 high school athletes were recognized as 2025 spring all-stars by the Midland-Wachusett League.

The Midland-Wachusett League includes Algonquin Regional High School, Shrewsbury High School, Marlborough High School, Westborough High School, Hudson High School, and 25 other schools throughout Central Massachusetts.

Due to space constraints in print, the following list does not include the athletes’ designations – first-team, secondteam, or academic honors, for example. Those awards can be found on the list on the Community Advocate website.

As for MVPs, Shrewsbury pitcher Drew Vincequere took home the Division A baseball MVP. Westborough boys lacrosse player Liam O’Dowd earned Co-MVP in Division B, and Algonquin girls lacrosse star Sadie O’Connell was named Co-MVP in Division A. Gina Hajiseyedjavady, a Westborough girls tennis player, was named the MVP in Divi-

sion A. Marlborough’s Declan

McCarthy was named the boys volleyball MVP.

BASEBALL

Algonquin (Division A)

Preston Cote

Owen Ellsworth

Cam Citro

Nick Klein

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Drew Vincequere

Joey Guidotti

Ryan Iagallo

Drew O’Connell

Brady O’Connell

Matt Raffi

Luke Harrington

Westborough (Division A)

Meebom Saring

Sawyer Kittredge

Andrew Pisciotta

Hudson (Division B)

Jake Attaway

Anthony Moura

Caelen O’Brien

Owen Nanartowich

Marlborough (Division B)

Shamus Rowe

Michael Benway

Eric Kneissier

SOFTBALL

Hudson (Division A)

Lauren O’Malley

Liv Connolly

Jillian Davis

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Julia Azzarone

Emma Ellis

Varsha Swaminathan

Maddie Bentley

Aaesha Mahurkar

Lyla Rose

Ava Lynch

Westborough (Division A)

Penelope Desjardins

Juhie Jain

Brianna Sawicki

Algonquin (Division B)

Phoebe Lefebvre

Valerie Lemont

Sophia Flynn

Betsy Bertonazzi

CHALLENGING GOLF FOR OVER 90 YEARS

Marlborough (Division B)

Shauna Bopp

Marisol Burgos

Erin Seder

BOYS LACROSSE

Algonquin (Division A)

Kyriakos Ciccone

Nate Meschisen

Ben Yosca

Declan Mulkerin

Luke Nofsinger

Sam Yosca

Vinnie Vitorino

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Tyler Barranco

Cam Moore

Luke MacRae

Thomas Senior

Westborough (Division B)

Liam O’Dowd

Thomas Cashman

Coby Ehrlich

Chase Loban

Jake Martin

Greyson Schimikowski

Sam Wickline

Nate White

Hudson (Division C)

Max Gaudette

Ben Lane

Landon Phillips

Kenny Rondeau

Patrick Haviland

GIRLS LACROSSE

Algonquin (Division A)

Sadie O’Connell

Grace Chiota

Shea Domolky

Rosie Hauck

Suzie Hauck

Lauren Staunton

Emma Thompson

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Ellory Aherne

Addison O’Connor

Paige O’Donnell

Nica Welch

Lauren Albertson

Mila Vlahos

Sophie Wilson

Tierney Daly

Westborough (Division B)

Mackenzie Cage

Regan Kittredge

Abby Watson

Taylor Payne

Lucy Petralia

Abby Ziemba

Emily Gray

Hudson (Division C)

Katie Perusse

Layne Thomason

Jillian Bradford

Bailee McNamara

Emma Rubinow

Clara Pereira

Marlborough (Division C)

Natalie Gulbankian

Ella Hobin

Maggie Horn

Kacie Horn

BOYS OUTDOOR TRACK

Algonquin (Division A)

Anthony Bessard

Max Eigen

Jonah Gould

Miles Lipka

Ben Skilton

Leonardo Deng

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Josh Castello

Noah Csank

Finn Daley

Darius Gibbons

Jesse Osafo

Christan Salvan

Derek Shimer

Westborough (Division A)

Martin Goddeau

Daniel Velez

Yujiang Zhu

Marlborough (Division B)

Michael Antwi-Ayim

Dane Garson

Andrew Naim

Hudson (Division C)

Joey Edie

Brayden Folan

Ben Hills

By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist

WESTBOROUGH – Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is more than a cosmetic issue—it’s a stubborn and often uncomfortable infection. Caused mostly by a type of mold that feeds on keratin, the fungus thrives in warm, moist environments like public showers, locker rooms, and inside tight, sweaty shoes. Those most at risk include older adults, people with diabetes or poor circulation,

swimmers, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Even minor nail injuries or wearing arti�icial nails can increase your chances of infection.

Fungus spreads easily through shared nail tools, socks, shoes, or direct contact with infected skin.

Available treatments While at-home remedies and topical creams may help in mild cases, oral medication is often more effective. For those who prefer to avoid prescriptions, Central Massa-

Thick yellow toenails? It could be fungus

chusetts Podiatry now offers Lunula laser therapy—an advanced, non-invasive treat ment with proven results. If you notice nail discolor ation or thickening, don’t wait. Call 508-757-4003 or visit www.centralmasspodia try.com to schedule your appointment today! Central Massachusetts

Andrew Klinedinst

Olivia Mello

GIRLS

Algonquin (Division A)

Jillian Belniak

Peyton Brown

Ari Gentile

Tanvi Nehta

Niamh O’Sullivan

Jane Belniak

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Hawa Fofana

Alexandra Welch

Aashi Gupta

Westborough (Division A)

Leisha Gupta

Prathana Nirmal Kumar

Rekha Palayoor

Al Regnier

Maansi Rajpoot

Marlborough (Division B)

Adelaide Johnson

Samantha Mahoney

Yanira Uribe Rosa

Ahnye Williams

Hudson (Division C)

Alessandra Burnette

Maddie Haher

Julia Klinedist

Emma Leonardo

BOYS TENNIS

Algonquin (Division A)

Michael Harmon

Jackson Stiles

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Tyson Dang (MVP)

Anay Arvind

Vedant Hotu

Sampath Katrala

Marlborough (Division A)

Sumair Singh

Keshav Kumar

Ethan Kwan

Andy Zheng

Westborough (Division A)

Zach Forjette

Hudson (Division B)

Janie Brunelle

Emma Burney

Marlborough (Division B)

Juliana Aristizabal

Lilly Murphy

Megan Finelli

BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Erik Hewardt (First Team, Algonquin)

Alex Qi (First Team, Algonquin)

Gavin Butterfield (Second Team, Algonquin)

Will Pan (Second Team, Algonquin)

Jorge Garcia

Jordan Hlawek

Sahsa Pall

GIRLS TENNIS

Algonquin (Division A)

Emmy Beauchesne

Sophie Kopstein

Shrewsbury (Division A)

Anna Wang

Westborough (Division A)

Gina Hajiseyedjavady

Diya Bhattacharya

Evelyn Wood Dunfey

Sahasra Kommineni

Aditya Tripathi (Academic, Algonquin)

Declan McCarthy (MVP, Marlborough)

Nick Andrade (First Team, Marlborough)

Calebe Pereira (First Team, Academic, Marlborough)

Reo Tanaka (First Team, Marlborough)

Maddox Gathers (Second Team, Marlborough)