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Rotary driving debate

Survey indicates lack of support for peanutshaped redesign of Westborough rotary

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The rotary in Downtown Westborough has been a topic of discussion for generations — and those talks are not stopping anytime soon.

The town continues to consider the possibility of a redesign, with Kimley-Horn — a Boston-based consulting firm — recommending a peanutshaped plan similar to what was implemented at Kelley Square in Worcester.

Though proponents of what has become known as “the peanut” say it could

Peanut | 16

Jane Lizotte, a pillar of Shrewsbury Public Schools, announces retirement

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – When Jane Lizotte graduated from Providence College, she thought about becoming a news broadcaster, writer, or lawyer. She found work as a paralegal in Boston and lived with her aunt, who had been blind since the age of 12, in Belmont. Then, on a Sunday morning in early August, Lizotte’s career trajectory changed within hours. Her aunt had called her attention to the classifieds in the Boston Globe; there were plenty of advertisements for teachers, including one for

a job opening at a parochial school down the street in Somerville.

Lizotte asked: “Why are you telling me that?”

“That’s what you’re going to do. You’re wonderful with children,” her aunt replied.

Lizotte dropped the paper, dialed a number, and arranged an interview for 2 p.m. that afternoon. She was hired on the spot, and three weeks later, she started teaching. Once she had made the call to Somerville, Lizotte realized something didn’t add up.

“You’re blind. You didn’t know there were jobs in the

Neal Aspesi becomes NFD interim fire chief

northborough | 3

Westborough native and theater star returns for hometown performance

Old prints at Grafton Fire Department turn out to be originals

westborough | 8 grafton | 15

Shrewsbury boys’ volleyball team wins first-ever match

SHREWSBURY | 30

Stay up to date with all the news!

Neal Aspesi becomes Northborough Fire Department’s interim chief

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – As of April 1, Neal Aspesi is leading the Northborough Fire Department. The deputy chief became the department’s interim leader following the retirement of David Parenti on March 31. The Select Board voted, 4-1, on March 23 to make Aspesi interim chief.

“I recommend appointing Deputy Chief Aspesi to this role,” Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon said in a March 20 memo to the Select Board. “This approach aligns with the department’s organizational structure and will provide for a smooth transition. Deputy Chief Aspesi has effectively been serving in this capacity during Chief Parenti’s recent leave and is well-positioned to continue in this role.”

John Parow Consulting Associates has posted the Fire Chief position across Massachusetts, Rhode Island,

Neal Aspesi (Photo/Courtesy)

and New Hampshire, and has also promoted the opening on social media. Select Board members discussed expanding that search nationwide.

“The ideal candidate will be an approachable and strategic leader who can effectively work with department personnel, municipal officials, the Select Board, and the community. Strong communication skills, a commitment to professional development, and the ability to lead subordinate officers in a collaborative environment are essential,” the job posting reads.

Jacob Jones, the lone

member who voted “no,” said “he had made himself clear” about how he felt about Aspesi in recent months. Jones had criticized Aspesi for giving

Out with the old, in with the new

For over a year, Shrewsbury’s Stop & Shop has sat vacant.

Not for much longer, if these plans come to fruition.

The Community Advocate can confirm that Apna Bazar, an Indian grocer with dozens of locations throughout the nation, is planning to move into the

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.

MANAGING EDITOR: Evan Walsh

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Leighah Beausoleil

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The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

information he called “misleading” to Town Meeting, an allegation Aspesi denied vociferously. The criticism created ongoing tension be -

tween the Select Board and Fire Department.

“I would support [the nomination] if [Aspesi] gave a public apology,” said Jones.

70,000-square-foot former Stop & Shop building located at 539-571 Boston Turnpike.

STILLS

The proposed Shrewsbury location would be Apna’s largest store in the U.S.

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New ‘storybook trail’ ready to come to Grafton

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

GRAFTON – A trail in Grafton is getting a major upgrade.

On March 24, 16-year-old Grafton resident Liam Lyon appeared before the Select Board to request approval to install 16 weatherproof wooden stands alongside the 0.5-mile trail behind the Grafton Public Library. Each

stand would have pages of a children’s book, allowing residents to walk along the “storybook trail” and read.

“Children can walk around the trail and read this entire children’s storybook while enjoying nature,” said Lyon, a Life Scout with Troop 107.

“It helps kids get outside, it helps kids read in a more interesting way, and it’s just a general way for kids to have

something to do.”

The initiative will not modify the trail, built by Cassie Brown, and no trees would be cut down. The majority of the work will take place between July and August, with hopes of having everything ready by the start of the school year.

… This is the future right here. Congratulations, you have my support,” Select Board member Mark Alimo told Lyon.

Added Roger Trahan, a member of the Board of Library Trustees, at a subsequent meeting where Lyon presented his plans: “What an amazing young guy. As [the Select Board said earlier], you are the future, and it’s great to

Kudos to you.”

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Jane Lizotte, a pillar of Shrewsbury Public Schools, announces retirement

paper,” she told her aunt.

Her aunt replied: “No — I didn’t. But I figured there must be. And you have to teach.”

Lizotte was indeed born to teach, and education became a passion. In February, she announced that after 30 years with Shrewsbury Public Schools, she would retire at the end of the academic year.

“I feel blessed to be here. It’s not about me — it’s about ‘we.’ And the ‘we,’ as we all know, is critical to life, to love, to happiness,” Lizotte told the Community Advocate. “I feel very, very fortunate to be surrounded by such great people. We want our children to be strong, safe, and contributing members of society.”

A Shrewsbury High School graduate, Lizotte eventually returned to the ’Bury and taught at Walter J. Paton Elementary School, later teaching at Spring Street Elementary School. She later earned the assistant principalship at Floral Street Elementary School, and later, the principalship at Spring Street.

In 2007, Lizotte left the elementary ranks and became

the principal of Sherwood Middle School. Little did she know that she would immediately become a central piece of a major campaign to construct a new school building, which was ultimately completed in 2013.

“I was thrown right in,” remembered Lizotte. “I think of John Collins, I think of my mom, and many generous community members who would hold these Sunday evening meetings in their living rooms to inform the community about the needs of the middle school. Talk about community.”

Contested race for Southborough Select Board

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – Seventeen seats are up for grabs in this year’s town election in Southborough. Candidates have officially placed their hat in the ring, and Select Board is the only contested race.

Voting will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12 at Trottier Middle School.

Two seats on the Select Board are up for re-election this year. Incumbent Marguerite Landry is seeking re-election, and with Al Hamilton announcing he will not be running to reclaim his seat, a new face will be elected to the board.

Voters will be asked to make their pick among Landry and two new candidates: Andrew Pfaff and Sam Stivers. Both seats are for three-year terms. Candidates may withdraw their names until 5 p.m. on April 5.

Lizotte was named the Assistant Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Well-Being — an innovative

role within the school administration — and spends her time finding ways to promote career education, develop relationships with Shrewsbury stakeholders, and provide social, emotional, behavioral, and physical well-being support to students (and staff).

“It’s been wonderful,” Lizotte said. “I’ve learned a great deal about the importance of listening to others, seeking to understand the needs of others and their priorities. I feel empowered and I’m able to assess a situation, short-term and long-term, to determine what the needs of the district are.”

Though she’s loved her time

in Shrewsbury Public Schools, Lizotte said the time is right to dial it back and spend more time with family.

“We work hard to make choices that will improve the people we are. No matter what we choose to do or not do each day, we ask our students to make decisions based on what they believe to be the right thing to do. Success in life means more than a score on a test. In fact, success in life depends a lot more on the choices we make along the way,” she shared.

Lizotte added: “My time in Shrewsbury has been wonderfully fulfilling and meaningful.”

WPI students rampaged Southborough hotel a century ago

By James Nichols-Worley History Columnist

SOUTHBOROUGH – In 1919, students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, including some who were World War I veterans, held a banquet at the Southborough Arms Hotel that descended into what was described as a “rampage,” a “terror,” and a “riot” by the local newspapers. It took reinforcements from the Marlborough Police Department to quell the disturbance, which resulted in 12 arrests.

from Florida, California, and Oklahoma. The American Society of Landscape Architects held its annual convention there in 1925. Parents would stay at the hotel to drop off their children at boarding school. One Harvard class

held their annual reunion at the hotel, making use of St. Mark’s facilities to play tennis and baseball. By 1927, Burnett donated the hotel to St. Mark’s, although it continued to host private events. After the hotel burnt down in

the late 1960s, it was replaced with the professional building that currently occupies the lot. Notably, in the late 1910s, the Southborough Arms Hotel twice hosted the junior class of Worcester Polytechnic Institute for their “HalfWay-Thru Banquet.” After the first, on October 25, 1916, the students predicted they would not be allowed back in Southborough due to their behavior. Nearly every speaker at the banquet was a member of WPI’s “secret” society, The Skull. (Secret inasmuch as its members were publicly listed in the yearbook.) The banquet’s toastmaster, Howard Sargent, a naval aviator in World War I, was later described in the yearbook (somewhat uncharitably) as a fat, lazy womanizer.

The second banquet, on November 19, 1919, as described earlier, was even more raucous. Having regained its veterans from the Great War, the junior class descended upon the Southborough Arms Hotel for a night of revelry. The students broke several windows, destroyed streetlights, and broke into the Pilgrim Congregational Church. The students rang the church bell for the first time since Armistice Day in 1918, after one declared he wanted to “celebrate his return to church following a long absence.”

Despite efforts to disperse the mob of students by local authorities, it took the arrival of Marlborough police to stop the students. A dozen students were arrested, although it’s unclear if any were prosecuted, or if the furious townspeople were persuaded to simply accept reimbursement for the damages. Selectman Frank Newton called the event “merely a college prank carried beyond the limits of decency and toleration.”

While the president of WPI apologized, the students took a great deal of pride in the affair. In their yearbook, they included news clippings detailing their rampage and mocked the chair of the Southborough board of selectmen for chasing them with bills. They even staged a mock trial later that year recounting the event. According to both the students and the police, the WPI men were totally sober, a point contested by Southborough witnesses to the event.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor:

“Leadership is not measured by the volume of one’s voice, but by the depth of one’s listening — and the courage to turn understanding into meaningful action.”

I’m proud to endorse Anand Sharma for the Shrewsbury Select Board. A professional at MIT, Anand brings both intellect and empathy to public service. He listens deeply — taking the time to hear and thoughtfully note the perspectives of both older and younger residents — and transforms those insights into creative, innovative actions that benefit the entire community.

As Shrewsbury grows, we need leaders who balance progress with preservation. Anand’s ability to listen, think, and act with purpose makes him exceptionally wellsuited to guide our town forward. I encourage residents to support and vote for Anand Sharma on May 5. Lyson Ludvic Shrewsbury

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my strong support for Beth Casavant for reelection to the Shrewsbury Select Board. In the five years I have known Beth, she is an always-thoughtful presence on the Board, a hard worker on behalf of the residents, and a person of great integrity, so I am looking forward to voting for her.

Beth has the temperament of a leader. The list of her accomplishments, and the responsibilities she has assumed on behalf of the residents of Shrewsbury shows her wholehearted commitment to the town. You can see Beth’s experience and honors on her website: CasavantForSelectBoard.com. She brings the necessary experience, wisdom and caring to the complex issues facing our town.

Beth listens carefully, researches topics that come before the Board, and deliberates wisely. She provides deep background on issues before voting. When competing interests come before the Board, Beth is impartial and fair as she considers what is in the best interest of the town and the residents.

Beth works collaboratively with the other Select Board members, the Town Manager, Town Boards and Committees. Beth also works collaboratively with the residents.

Beth’s year-long engagement with the DEI Task Force shows her desire to make all members of the Shrewsbury community feel welcome and appreciated for their contributions to the vitality of the town.

In her role as a member of the Select Board, Beth has consistently supported much- needed sustainability initiatives for the Town. As examples, she supported the development of a Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) for the municipal government and the creation of the Shrewsbury Sustainability Committee.

The dedication Beth brings to the Select Board is something I greatly appreciate. I encourage you to vote for Beth Casavant for reelection to the Shrewsbury Select Board on May 5th.

Gretchen Schultz-Ellison Shrewsbury

Dear Editor,

I’m writing to support Anand Sharma for Shrewsbury’s Select Board.

Like many residents, I care deeply about what’s happening in our town right now — especially the pace of development and how it’s affecting traffic, schools, and overall quality of life. That’s one of the reasons Anand’s candidacy resonates with me. He has been clear about the need for responsible, sustainable growth that protects Shrewsbury’s character while ensuring our infrastructure can keep up.

What I appreciate most is that Anand doesn’t just talk about these issues—he’s been involved. As a Town Meeting Member and active volunteer, he has consistently shown up, spoken out, and worked on behalf of residents. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in town government to strengthen public trust and engagement. Anand understands the details, but he also listens — something we need more of in local government.

He’s also focused on practical concerns that affect everyday people — supporting seniors so they can remain in their homes, being thoughtful about town spending, and encouraging economic growth in a way that strengthens the community rather than overwhelms it.

There’s a grounded, thoughtful quality to how he approaches problems. His background in en-

gineering and business shows in his analytical, long-term thinking — but he’s also clearly motivated by a genuine commitment to Shrewsbury.

We’re at a point where the decisions being made now will shape this town for years to come. I believe Anand Sharma brings the right mix of experience, perspective, and common sense to help guide those decisions in a way that reflects the needs of residents.

I hope others will take the time to learn more at www.AnandSharma.us and consider supporting his candidacy.

Naomi Halpern Shrewsbury

Dear Editor,

I am writing in support of Carlos Garcia, candidate for Select Board in Shrewsbury. Carlos knows this town well, having been raised and gone to school here, served as a Town Meeting Member and as a member of the Finance Committee. His knowledge of the law and love of this community has enabled him to serve thoughtfully and honorably on the Select Board.

During his time in service to the town, Carlos has actively worked to extend benefits in the town by helping to manage spending so that the town can continue to invest in schools and town services. He has worked to help improve public safety with new school zones, helping with the staffing and needs for both police and fire. In addition, he has worked to help establish our own ambulance service to provide more rapid and effective emergency response for all town residents.

Carlos believes in making town government more transparent and understandable and has worked to make more opportunities for residents to engage with town government. He has worked to improve town voting systems, thereby assuring accurate accounting of votes. Having attended many of the new events where residents can learn more about important issues in the town, I am happy to say Carlos has been at most of them.

Carlos is a dedicated, intelligent and caring public servant who clearly understands and cares for everyone in town, regardless of their age or background, and devotes

his skills and extensive abilities to provide opportunities for all town residents, be they young or old, wealthy or not.

Carlos is willing to face problems and help ameliorate challenges as they arise. He has my vote in 2026. Martha P. Deering Shrewsbury

Dear Editor, Transparency! The governor of our state wants an accounting from ICE of all the illegal immigrants that ICE took out of our state. Are you kidding me? You want to talk about transparency? The voters of this state wanted an audit of the state legislature. The voters even passed a mandate for the audit to happen, but was there an audit? Where is the transparency in our own state? The legislature wants to go to court to fight this voter mandate.

As far as ICE is concerned, we are talking about the safety of citizens of this state. I guess illegal immigrants have more rights than the citizens of this state. When the borders were open and millions of unvetted illegal immigrants came into our country from terrorist nations, no thought of the drugs, murders, or crimes that would follow came into the mind of President Biden and the politicians. The Democrats were thinking of possible new voters.

Americans need to wake up to the terrorism that has been unleashed in our state and nation.

ICE needs all our support to get these terrorists and criminals out of our state and nation. Most of the anti-ICE demonstrations are not just the average citizens. These demonstrations are well-organized and the organizers are well paid by people who want to destroy our democracy, our nation. Just make a note of all the professionally made signs they hold.

The radical left has taken away funding for our homeland security. Currently our country is fighting to keep our nation safe from Iran and radical Islamic terrorists who have publicly said that they want to wipe out our nation. Have you forgotten 9/11 and the Boston Marathon attack? If Iran had continued with their agenda of nuclear bombs and missiles, our country would’ve been wiped off the map. How did the Democratic party lose its love of our country? When the BidenHarris administration opened our country, they destroyed our secure nation. You would think that the Democratic party would do everything in its power to correct this unconscionable act.

Transparency! Respect the voters mandate, complete the audit, publicize the results, and let the federal government monitor ICE so they can protect our state and nation.

Carole A. David Northborough

Prayer is Essential

early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.

Some of God’s children are just too busy. Even if you are extremely busy in the service of the Lord but are not supported by the power of faithful prayer while you work, you run the risk of complete breakdown and burnout of your spiritual life. You cannot fulfill your spiritual duty without prayer.

Prayer is the encouragement and inspiration for Christian service. It gives sincerity to everything that you embark on in the Master’s name and gives you a deep satisfaction that you cannot get from any other source.

Westborough native returns to give performance for hometown

By Kate Tobiasson Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH – From the start, Trish LaRose loved the stage.

Raised in Westborough, she starred in a number of school productions and with the Westborough Players’ Club. After graduating from Westborough High School, she studied musical theatre at Boston Conservatory and pursued a career in performance. She was cast in a number of productions, including the national tour of Urban Cowboy.

LaRose has a wonderfully successful career and now resides in Cape Cod with her daughters, one of whom recently joined her in the Cape Cod Theater Company production of The Little Mermaid. In 2019, she reprised the role of Mrs. Lovett, which she had played her senior year at Westborough High School, in the Provincetown Theatre’s production of “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.” Once again, LaRose captivated audiences with her performance.

“I first met Trish when I was one of her fifth-grade teachers,” shared Reene Hatherley of the Westborough Women’s Club. “I have a house in Mashpee, and when I saw that Trish was going to be performing at the Cotuit Center for the Arts, I knew that I had to go see it.”

“Come On-A My House” is an original production written by LaRose. With her captivating spirit and warm stage presence, she utilizes both storytelling and song to share her life story. “Come On-A My House,” a Rosemary Clooney song (based on an Armenian folktale), embodies the energy and journey that LaRose has taken in her life. The playbill describes the show as “a candid, eclectic journey about life as a New Yorker, becoming a mother, and discovering her inherent connection to Puerto Rico goes deeper than she could have imagined.” Jess Andra and Anthony Teixeira join LaRose on the stage, crafting a deeply moving performance.

After viewing the show, Hatherley hoped that the Westborough Women’s Club would find a way to share the story with the community that raised LaRose. She and several other members of the WWC decided

to invite LaRose and Co. to put on the show as a fundraiser.

“We were truly blown away when Trish agreed to bring the show to Westborough,” said Hatherley. The Westborough Women’s Club will host this performance of “Come On-A My House” on April 11 at 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

“We considered using a large venue, but Trish was committed to the more intimate venue at the Knights of Columbus. She really interacts with the audience, and it is an important part of the show,” shared Jill Guimond, the programs coordinator for the Women’s Club. “We’re thrilled to be able to bring this level of performance to Westborough.”

Since debuting in 2023, there have been countless successful performances of this show across a number of venues.

As a resident artist at the Cape Rep Theatre and as an assistant to the producer at the Cape Cod Theatre Company, LaRose also performs at a number of musical venues throughout the area. This September, she will be featured at Women ROCK! The Tent at the Cape Cod Melody Tent. Women ROCK! is a musical celebration of strength, creativity, and community.

While a number of Westborough’s alumni have found success in the arts, LaRose with “Come On-A My House” offers a unique chance to watch a performance locally and to learn more about her journey. The Westborough Women’s Club is thrilled to welcome LaRose back to her hometown and share this opportunity with the community.

Tickets are on sale now for $40 and are available at www.westborough womensclub.org.

Shrewsbury won’t need override this year, but what does the fiscal future hold?

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – It’s budget season in Shrewsbury.

In February, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar unveiled his initial projection for the fis cal 2027 budget. According to preliminary figures, Shrews bury will ask Town Meeting to approve $197.5 million in expenditures, with $94 mil lion (47 percent) for education and $37.6 million for municipal operating expenses.

The budget is $5.7 million, or 3 percent, greater than fiscal 2026.

The proposed budget asks for three new full-time equivalent roles: two police captains and a fire prevention inspector. Town departments asked for about $2.2 million in requests that could not be funded due to budget constraints, according to Mizikar.

The budget is still very much a work in progress. Currently, there’s a dispute with the School Committee over whether the school budget should increase 4.25 percent or 4.75 percent. A workshop was held in March between the School Committee and Select Board.

Shrewsbury will not need to ask for an override for fiscal 2027. After the town passed a $9.5 million override in 2021, the Select Board promised residents to not ask for another override for four years. The town has stretched the funds for longer than anticipated — with the town’s Override Stabilization Fund at $10 million — but help will soon be needed again, said Mizikar.

The town expects balanced

ments when they asked voters for an override in 2021,” Mizikar told the Finance Committee on February 26. “This budget is well within the boundaries that were established, certainly exercising fiscal discipline. … We’re doing everything we can to minimize taxpayer impact.”

During the budget process last year, Mizikar said that the town could target late 2026 for an override ask. In recent meetings, town officials have referenced a future override — typically when speaking about how Shrewsbury will balance it alongside a Shrewsbury High School expansion — but have not publicly specified an exact timeline.

Part of the reason the town can delay an override? An explosive amount of growth.

Shrewsbury commercialindustrial property grew by $72 million in fiscal 2025, the most such growth in a one-year span in Shrewsbury history, according to Mizikar. Adding more commercial-industrial value allowed the town to set aside over $16 million in reserve money over the last two fiscal cycles, Mizikar told the Finance Committee.

“The business sector of the

corridors sparked a mixed-use moratorium in certain sections of Route 9 and Route 20 — places that companies had been keen on developing as of late.

Growth adds to the town’s pocketbook, and that allows overrides to last longer.

But as Shrewsbury fills out, is this a sustainable practice? Mizikar said that the key going forward may not be development, but “redevelopment.”

“Unfortunately, the incentive in our revenue system is growth. That doesn’t mean it can’t be redeveloped. If you look at the Route 20 Corridor, at a quick glance, you’d say it’s built out. But that doesn’t mean that some of the land that’s used for truck storage couldn’t evolve into much higher-revenue development. I think we could have growth in the footprint,” he said.

He added: “It is a doubleedged sword. When you have this growth in the community, it allows us to put funds away, it has allowed us to not have to ask for an override for six years. There are costs to it … but I think you can see … that this development in town is a net positive through the net tax revenue we get.”

EDC highlights Westborough’s business community

– To highlight the community’s economic strengths, share available resources, and develop relationships that support investment in Westborough, the Economic Development Committee hosted a tour of town businesses for the representatives of the Massachusetts Office of Business Development on March 23.

The day included visits to Astellas Pharma, Inc., Grimes & Company, Rakks Architectural Shelving; and Coghlin Companies. Lunch was sponsored by one of Westborough’s newest additions: AFSCME IVP.

At Grimes & Company, from right to left: Kevin Kuros, Central Mass. regional director for the Massachusetts Office of Business Development; Jenny Gingras, Westborough director of planning; Fred Lonardo, Westborough community development director; Kristi Williams, Westborough town manager; Andy Hamil, Massachusetts Office of Business Development chief operating officer; Lara Crawford, Westborough economic development coordinator; and Steve Doucet, Westborough lieutenant fire chief.

Your Money, Your Independence

The Snow Has Melted— It’s Time for Financial Spring Cleaning

After a winter spent clearing snow and managing the elements, spring brings a welcomed shift. It’s time to open things up and clear out the old. Just as melting snow reveals what’s been hidden all winter, spring is also a chance to uncover areas of your finances that need attention.

Let’s discuss five areas for review to help ensure things remain organized, efficient, and aligned with your planning.

1. Review Beneficiaries

Work benefits, retirement accounts, and life insurance policies pass according to the beneficiary listed, not your will or trust. Studies show ~30% of Americans have outdated beneficiary designations, which can lead to unintended heirs or tax consequences. Life events such as marriage, divorce, births, or deaths can change your intended beneficiaries. Even without major changes, it is wise to confirm that your accounts reflect your intentions.

2. Revisit Auto, Homeowners, & Umbrella Coverage

Homeowners coverage should reflect current replacement costs, auto liability limits should align with your assets, and umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of liability protection.

Rising property values and auto replacement costs naturally raise premiums, but some of the largest increases come after state-approved rate adjustments. While the state may approve a 3–7% increase, insurers can adjust individual policies within their pricing matrix. Examples of policyholders seeing 30–75% increases occur, even if nothing about their home, auto, coverage, or claims history has changed. Because of auto-renewal, most people simply accept and pay. Without shopping your options, you could end up paying far more than necessary.

3. Check Your Estate Plan

Estate planning is not a one-time task. Trusts, wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies should be reviewed to ensure they reflect your current wishes and family circumstances.

While the federal estate tax exemption is roughly 15 million per individual, Massachusetts has a much lower exemption of 2 million, ranking it 49th in the United States. This makes state-level planning espe cially important for residents.

Review also allows you to evaluate strategies such as lifetime gifting, trust funding, or charitable giving that may reduce state estate tax exposure. It is also essential to ensure that successor trustees, health care proxies, and other responsible parties have electronic copies of your documents, and that assets intended for a revocable trust are properly titled in the trust’s name. These steps help prevent delays, confusion, and unintended consequences.

4. Consolidate Old Retirement Accounts

Over 50% of Americans have multiple retirement plans still held at prior employers. Leaving accounts scattered can create unnecessary complexity, inconsistent investment strategies, and administrative inefficiencies.

Consolidating into a coordinated structure simplifies management, improves oversight, and makes it easier to rebalance your allocations to align with your evolving goals and risk tolerance. Fewer accounts also allow for better investment alignment, lower fees, smoother required minimum distribution planning, and a clearer view of your overall progress toward retirement.

5. Declutter Accounts and Organization Systems

Just like a closet or garage, your financial life accumulates items you no longer use. Old bank accounts, unused credit cards, dormant investment accounts, and forgotten subscriptions create unnecessary clutter. Closing or consolidating accounts simplifies your administrative burden. Many find it helpful to consolidate to one primary bank account and one primary credit card, making it easier to reconcile expenses, track spending, and perform a cash flow analysis for the year ahead.

Minor Changes with Meaningful Impact

Financial spring cleaning does not require major changes. It is about maintaining clarity, ensuring alignment, and reducing unnecessary complexity. Taking time to review these baseline areas strengthens your plan, improves organization, and provides confidence that your finances reflect your current priorities and goals.

HOMES MORE

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The Best Week To List Your House Is Just Around the Corner

Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI

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While the Spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.

Based on their analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.

And here’s why this window stands out as being particularly seller-friendly:

• Buyers Are More Active. According to the research coming out of Realtor.com, homes listed during this week typically get about 16.7% more views than in a normal week. And in a market where buyers have options, getting that extra attention can set the tone for your entire sale.

• Sales Happen Faster. Realtor.com also explains the added demand from buyers sets you up for a faster process. While homes have been taking longer to sell lately, homes up for sale this week were on the market for 17% less time than usual. And that’s a difference you’ll be able to feel.

• A Better Price for Your House. Since the number of homes for sale has grown, it’s normal for buyers to ask for credits, repairs, and price adjustments today. But, during this early Spring window, about 18.9% fewer homes do a price cut. That gives you a better chance of getting your full asking price.

• More Profit in Your Pocket. According to the study, well-prepped homes listed this week can command a price that’s about $5,300 more than the average week (and $26,000 more than homes at the start of the year).

And what seller doesn’t want more eyes on their house, getting an offer in hand sooner (rather than later), and their best shot at selling for top dollar?

What You Need To Do To Get Ready

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Q: “Multiple Offers on Your Home—How Should Sellers Decide?”

A: When a home receives multiple offers, the focus is on helping sellers make informed, thoughtful decisions. Each offer is reviewed carefully—looking at price, terms, contingencies, deposits, and timelines—so sellers can see the full picture and choose what best fits their goals. Communication with buyer agents is essential, as it helps the seller’s agent understand the buyer and the strength of their offer, keeping the process fair, organized, and transparent for everyone involved.

In our area, inventory remains relatively low compared with buyer demand. While multiple offers aren’t as widespread as they were at the peak of the pandemic, homes that are thoughtfully prepared—staged to highlight their best features, photographed

professionally, marketed strategically, and priced wisely—still attract strong interest and sometimes more than one offer in the first week.

Handling multiple offers is about perspective and guidance. Agents help sellers weigh each option carefully while also working with buyers to ensure their offers are clear and complete. Selling a home is both a significant financial decision and an emotional one, and respecting that responsibility is central to the process. Home inspections and other contingencies are still part of the journey, so understanding the full scope of each offer is key.

Sometimes a best-and-final deadline gives all buyers a fair opportunity; other times, one offer clearly stands out. The goal is to help sellers make confident, well-informed choices— so they can move forward knowing they selected a strong, secure offer with the guidance of their agent, giving them clarity and assurance in their decision.

advantage of this sweet spot, your next step is shockingly simple. Just talk to a local agent.

Their expertise on your area is going to be key over the next few weeks. Because these trends are going to vary by state, city, and even neighborhood. And your agent will use that insider knowledge to help you figure out what you need to do now to get your house ready. Including:

• What you’ll want to spruce up before listing

• How to prioritize any repairs (and contractors that can help)

• Quick wins that’ll have a big impact

• What buyers care most about today

For some sellers, that’s a few easy fixes they can knock out in the next couple of weeks. A fresh coat of paint. Some new mulch. Or some light Spring cleaning.

For others, it’s worth taking another month or so to make some minor updates before listing. And that’s okay. Because while this mid-April window may give sellers an advantage, it’s not your only opportunity to sell.

Zillow says the best time to list is in May. And that means the golden window for sellers isn’t closing after this one week. It’s open all season long.

Bottom Line

Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:

Do you know what you need to do before you can list?

Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move. If you want your house to hit the market this week (or even this season), let’s talk about what it’ll take to get it ready.

Scan the QR code or call 774.239.3842 to contact Angela for available options. Showcase your real estate expertise (and reach new customers) in our weekly Homes & More section.

March 23–March 27

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Supporting an Active Lifestyle

How Southborough is tackling post-winter potholes

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – Roads in Southborough are getting a little easier on commuters’ tires as the Department of Public Works continues to patch up potholes after the

winter season.

The freeze-thaw cycle is a major driver of potholes, explained Department of Public Works director William Cundiff. As water gets into cracks, freezes, and expands, pavement can break apart.

The department often relies on hot-mix asphalt during paving season, which generally runs during warm temperatures in the spring, summer, and fall. Dur -

ing the colder months, the department has historically relied on cold patches, which are typically temporary fixes.

However, the Southborough DPW acquired a new tool in August that allows it to work on potholes during colder months, Cundiff said. This miracle machine is known as the Falcon 3-Ton Asphalt Hot Box and Recycler.

“The primary benefit is durability and efficiency,” said Cundiff. He added: “The hot box allows us to work with hot-mix asphalt, which compacts much better and creates a longer-lasting repair compared to cold-patch.”

He added: “Additionally, the hot box allows us to keep asphalt hot throughout the day and even overnight, which reduces material waste and improves productivity.”

The new method saves the town time and money.

The department prioritizes filling potholes based on road conditions. High-traffic roads and deteriorating areas may come first, though the DPW also responds to residents when they report potholes throughout Southborough.

“This piece of equipment is really about improving service-delivery to residents,” Cundiff said. “It also helps us keep more of this work in-house, which is both costeffective and operationally beneficial for the town.”

“We do recognize that the roads in town need longoverdue attention,” Cundiff added. An article is scheduled for the April 11 Town Meeting to better address roadway conditions through a proposed 5-year, $25 million pavement management implementation plan.

“If supported, this would allow the town to make meaningful progress in addressing many of the problem areas,” said Cundiff.

Eggs galore at popular annual Algonquin National Honor Society event

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – “On your marks. Get set. Go!”

Over 300 kids swarmed the football field at Algonquin Regional High School to collect almost 4,000 eggs that National Honor Society members filled before and after school over the past month.

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt is the Honor Society’s biggest community event of the year.

“I’m really excited,” Algonquin National Honor Society president Claire Tang said ahead of the hunt. “I feel like we’ve taken a lot of time, a lot of planning, a lot of devotion — all the members have been really cooperative and we’ve all been working really hard to pull this off.”

Tang, who is also the manager of the Swim and Dive Team, said she was thankful the weather was cooperative. Though it was a bit cold, the sun was shining — and there

was no sign of the snow and rain that had impacted the event in the past.

Over the years, the event has not only grown, but “morphed into more,” explained National Honor Society advisors Eileen Cronin and Colleen Roy.

The hunt had been started by a group of moms in Northborough, but when it became

too much for them, the students took over the eggs and costumes. The group has been hosting it ever since.

Each year, different groups have gotten involved, expanding the day’s activities. Now, there are games — including tug-of-war and three-legged races — face-painting from the National Art Honor Society, and bookmarks created

by the National English Honor Society.

The event is almost entirely student-run, with the members being responsible for collecting equipment, stuffing the eggs, and donating the candy.

“They’ve been enthusi -

astic about it,” Cronin said. That enthusiasm was certainly apparent as students danced around the field and helped the kids play each of the games.

“We hope that the little kids today had a great time,” Cronin added.

Old prints at Grafton Fire Department turn

out to be originals Museums may want the artwork, but Grafton will look to restore first

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

GRAFTON – Nobody quite knows how long these pictures were hanging on the wall of the Grafton Fire Department’s second station, but Skip Currier remembers them being there when he started in 1977.

“We always used to talk about it, wondering if they were real,” he said.

It wasn’t until a quartercentury later that he really started to pay attention to the pictures. Today, they’re one of the biggest curiosities in Grafton — and the subject of an upcoming Town Meeting request.

After working for decades alongside the pictures, Currier took an interest in them around 2001. In the infancy of the internet, he tried his best to determine whether they were authentic. He eventually took the artwork to the experts.

“To ask how I actually found this person — I don’t even remember,” Currier joked.

The experts submitted their verdict — and it was outstanding news. The Fire Department’s pieces turned out to be original Currier & Ives prints. Since Currier & Ives — a New York City-based printmaking business — operated from 1835 to 1907, its products are exceptionally rare nowadays.

Said Currier: “When we took them out of the picture frames, there was no question. These are all real, all hand-colored, hand-shaded. Once you took them out of the frames, the pictures jumped out at you.”

The frames — also from the 19th century — are a little worse for wear, but considering the lack of professional preservation, the prints are in excellent shape. The location where they were hanging in the Fire Station, away from direct sunlight, had inadvertently protected them for decades.

Now, Currier is seeking $10,500 in funds from the Community Preservation Committee to fully restore the prints and potentially return them to the Fire Station.

“That’s where we’d consider their home to be,” said Currier.

That being said, with the

prints being so rare — and the fact that Grafton has almost a full collection — Currier’s experts have said that local museums might be interested in acquiring the prints.

“We want to get them done and see where we go from there,” said Currier.

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Survey indicates lack of support for peanut-shaped Westborough rotary

improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety, a Community Advocate survey distributed in January found that under 10 percent of the nearly 500 respondents were in favor of a complete redesign, with many citing the project’s potential disruption, cost, and impact to local business.

The next public information session is set to take place on April 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building.

How safe is the rotary?

Between Jan. 1, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2023, there were 236 crashes at the rotary — none of which had any reported fatalities or serious injuries. This includes three collisions with bicycles, seven with pedestrians, and 22 with parked vehicles.

Residents have pointed out design flaws that lead to apprehension when passing through the rotary. There is unclear right-of-way at particular intersections, large amounts of commercial truck traffic, an ongoing speed problem, and crosswalks that can be difficult to navigate.

But, based on the Community Ad vocate’s survey — which asked respondents to rate the rotary’s safety from 1 to 5, with the higher numbers representing a higher degree of perceived safety — nearly 50 percent of respondents indicated that they be lieved the intersection was safe. About 33.5 percent gave the intersection a score of “4” while 13.9 percent of respondents gave it a perfect score of “5.”

option onto West Main Street.

The preliminary construction cost is estimated at $5.5 million dollars.

Ultimately, the Planning Board will choose the design. Town Meeting will decide on funding — unless the project is paid for through other means, like grants. Planning Director Jenny Gingras also noted that “this is still a preliminary design and community feedback continues to shape it.”

retained,” Gingras explained. “On parking, spaces have been added back wherever safely and feasibly possible, including 25 new spaces along Union Street and Milk Street. And on [the impact to] local businesses, a safer- and more-accessible rotary means more people moving comfortably through downtown, which is good for everyone.”

If you were in charge of this decision, what would you do?

Is the projected $5 million expenditure for the redesign worth the benefits?

With his lease to be renewed at some point, he noted it will be worth taking into consideration a project “that could potentially implode my business.”

General reactions

So, what does the general public think?

Overall, survey respondents were strongly opposed to the rotary redesign.

“I think there are … lessexpensive and more-effective ways to try to alleviate the rotary traffic,” she said.

What’s the current proposal?

The proposed plan, presented in December, would transform the existing five-legged rotary into a peanut-shaped, singlelane design. Milk Street would see the biggest change. Currently, the roadway connects to the rotary through two oneway streets on either side of the Arcade Building; the existing northbound artery (near Dairy Queen) would be made into a two-way street, while the existing southern artery would be a lane that bypasses the rotary and offers a right-turn-only

Concerns about parking, and impact on downtown business

The peanut-shaped proposal would essentially eliminate all parking within the rotary, and parking on West Main Street would transition from angled to parallel spots. Parking would be added in a few places — including along Milk Street — but, in total, the plan calls for a 55-space reduction. However, after receiving feedback from residents, Gingras said the consultants plan to address parking concerns at the April meeting.

“The monument at the center is staying, and a majority of the mature, healthy trees in the center island are being

Although some argue that reducing parking could improve overall safety, many residents were vocal about the impact it could have on the downtown area.

The Community Advocate spoke with owners of downtown businesses who are skeptical of reducing parking.

Faris Casten, of Faris Farm Flowers at 15 South Street, said she was quite concerned about the proposed parking situation, adding that a lack of parking may have a disproportionate impact on the elderly and customers with mobility issues.

“If they don’t have parking in front, they don’t come in,” she said. “Who is going to come out here and carry a bouquet of flowers in a vase a mile away?”

Westborough attorney Carolyn Spring noted approximately 20 percent of the town is older than 65. “They need to have their needs met too,” she said. “There are minor things that can be done without spending millions of dollars” which could help improve the situation, she said.

Mark Verrochi, president of Red Barn Coffee Roasters at 17 South Street, said if the parking spots by his shop are eliminated, “it would have a devastating effect on [his] business.”

While he’d be the first to say changes are needed at the downtown rotary, he’s doubtful that many of his customers would be willing to walk even a short distance just to grab a coffee when there are other coffee shops nearby that would be more efficient and convenient, especially on a morning commute.

“We’re taxpayers — significant taxpayers certainly in the restaurant business,” he said.

The Community Advocate survey indicated that a majority (53 percent) preferred to leave the rotary alone, while 38 percent expressed a desire to see some tweaks. Only 8 percent of respondents were in favor of the full redesign.

Westborough resident Jay Cox, who has lived in Westborough since he was born, said the rotary works as it’s currently designed, and he said it remains a better option than any alternative, noting how many towns are currently opting to add rotaries — not remove them.

“Not to mention it’s the heart of town and is a huge part of Westborough’s New England charm,” Cox said. “I know we have to always look at different ideas to improve our town, and the board’s job is never an easy one, but this really is a bad idea and will not make our community better.”

Lauren Smith, who has lived in town and worked near the rotary for almost 40 years, said the full redesign would be a “big mistake,” believing that the problems start with the speed of approaching traffic and drivers’ failure to yield.

On a scale from 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating greater perceived safety, how would you rate the downtown rotary for vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians?

Deborah Ledoux, town clerk and a longtime resident of Westborough, said she considers herself a rotary expert. She recalls 40 years ago when there were bumper stickers in town that said “I Survived the Westborough Rotary,” so she says that “this problem is nothing new, just bigger.”

But she doesn’t agree with a full redesign. Instead, she’s in favor of tweaks that maintain safety around the rotary, encouraging people to obey stop signs, yield to oncoming traffic, and drive carefully. She also said she’d prefer reduced speed limits entering the rotary, or limiting the different side roads accessing the intersection.

Other people who preferred seeing tweaks shared similar suggestions, including a larger police presence, better striping, and more informational signs indicating the flow of traffic. More flashing beacon lights at pedestrian crossings would be helpful, respondents said.

However, residents like Jin Huang voiced full support for the peanut-like design, believing tweaks simply won’t be enough.

“The rotary was designed nearly a century ago and has been a significant bottleneck in Westborough everyday,” Huang said. “A full new design is much-needed to solve this issue. Minor updates would not fundamentally improve the situation.”

On a scale from 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating greater efficiency, how would you rate the downtown rotary’s performance handling existing traffic flow?

Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman visits Westborough to promote Post-22, Amazon partnership

WESTBOROUGH – On March

23, Boston Bruins goalie and 2026 Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Swayman visited Amazon’s same-day delivery station in Westborough. He worked alongside employees, led their daily startup, signed the exterior of packages that went out for same-day delivery to real customers, and toured the facility. Swayman, who displayed his gold medal during the event, and Marty Walsh, NHLPA executive director, addressed Post-22 participants and Amazon employees during a Q&A session.

Amazon presented a $25,000 grant to Post-22.

Post-22 is a Westborough nonprofit founded by Christine Simpson — a mom who refused to accept that her son and others like him would be forgotten after aging out of the special education system at 22.

The numbers are stark: According to Post-22, 81.5 percent of adults with autism and intellectual disabilities are unemployed. At age 22, they lose access to special education services and federal entitlements — falling off what advocates call “The Disability Cliff.”

Simpson built Post-22 to change that. For nearly two years, Post-22 participants have been interning at the Amazon Robotics facility in Westborough — just down the street from the same-day delivery station — working alongside employees every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Amazon Robotics has been Post-22’s flagship partner, and since that partnership began, 14 new community partnerships have followed.

Post-22 also runs Ben’s Beans, a Friday coffee shop in Westborough where participants build real-world skills and serve their community with pride. More than 20

Mother’s Day is May 10!

Community Advocate’s Mother’s Day Guide will be full of ideas for how to celebrate mom. Look for it starting in our May 1 issue.

Director, NHL

Association. More than 20 Post-22 participants and staff attended the event. (Photo/Renak Photography)

LEFT: Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman displays his 2026 U.S. Olympic gold medal during an employee Q&A session at Amazon’s same-day delivery station in Westborough, Mass., on March 23, 2026. (Photo/Renak Photography)

Post-22 participants and staff were in the room when Amazon presented the $25,000 grant. Post-22 will put the funding toward its adult employment and training programs.

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‘Remember how lucky you are’: Northborough resident to run Boston Marathon for mother battling ALS

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – During long training runs, there’s seemingly always a time when muscles start cramping, energy starts to run out, and legs get tired. Andy Hamilton calls it “the wall.”

But in those moments, thinking of his mother, Eileen, gives Hamilton energy to push forward. On April 20, Hamilton will run the Boston Marathon to support his mother who is affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often called Lou Gehrig’s disease.

“My mom would give anything to be able to go out on a run — she can’t do it,” Hamilton told the Community Advocate. “You have to

the Boston Marathon (unofficially) beside her husband, Joseph, in 1980 and 1981 – was diagnosed with ALS in 2017. The news was heartbreaking to family members, who felt as if they were losing the “best person they know.”

“In the moment — earthshattering, right? Total change of perspective on life. You go through life and think your parents are going to be around. You know they’ll be gone someday, you just don’t think it’s going to be soon,” said Andy Hamilton. “Having to confront that — total change of perspective in many ways. What’s important in life? That gives you a lot of clarity.”

Eileen Hamilton has handled the situation with “strength, positivity, and

cal and emotional, associated with the disease.”

Andy Hamilton will be running for the organization.

“It was always in my mind that someday I wanted to do the Boston Marathon,” he said. “Growing up in Massachusetts and having the holiday, it’s just a huge part of life in this state.”

He added: “There are definitely points in the run where you hit that wall a little bit. You’re like, ‘Oh my God, how am I going to get through this?’ You just put one foot in front of the other, and eventually you’re going to feel better again. And you do.”

RJ Services brings expertise, professionalism to every project

By Kate Tobiasson Contributing Writer

REGION – From the start, RJ Services was unique and meticulous. Richard Joseph started the business in 1990 as an independent contractor, specializing in tile, masonry, and landscaping. By 2004, his company had grown to nine employees, and Joseph increased the scope of his work.

“I have been doing these three specialties since I graduated high school and while attending college. I have always loved this type of work and the feeling of satisfaction it provides upon completion,” Joseph told the Community Advocate. “I love the fact that when a job is finished, I can look at it and know that it will be there for many decades to come, providing pleasure for everyone who sees it.”

There are very few businesses that provide Joseph’s level of attention to detail and professionalism. Alongside his wife, Mary Anne, who works

as the office manager, Joseph appreciates the quality of people and homes in the area. It makes it easy to do an excellent job, he said.

“All my customers have been so wonderful and appreciative of the quality of my jobs,” Joseph explained.

“I just completed a job that used my tile skills as well as my masonry skills. I veneered a brick fireplace with natural stone, and bluestone for the hearth and mantel in the living room. I also tiled the floor and backsplash of the adjoining kitchen. It was beautiful to see how both jobs complemented each other.”

RJ Services works with each client, encouraging them to share their design hopes. Joseph adds his decades of experience in the industry to make sure every project is both functional and beautiful, keeping customers happy for years (or decades) to come.

“We use natural stone in most of our masonry work. Walls, walkways, and water

features are a breathtaking addition to any landscape. We can also help with tile for your bathroom, kitchen floor, and backsplash. We can conquer all your tiling needs, and our workmanship is second-tonone,” said Joseph.

Choosing RJ Services means that instead of hiring multiple contractors, homeowners can trust Joseph — the lead installer on every job — to make sure that each element of the job is done correctly. Highly rated and motivated, RJ Services has won the Angi Super Service Award for the last 15 years.

To learn more, visit rjservicesinc.com or call Joseph at 508-826-9494

Boroughs Family Branch YMCA offers activities for every age group

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

REGION – It is said to be the “best kept secret” in Westborough, but the Boroughs Family Branch YMCA, a part of the YMCA of Central Mass., has been in town since 2002.

Over two decades since the nonprofit was established, the campus continues to boast activities for all ages — from infants to seniors.

Whether it’s for a morning pickleball session, a trip to the Wellness Center (open to ages 13-plus), or a dip in the indoor Olympic-sized swimming pool, the branch’s incredible recreation offerings keep its approximately 15,000 members coming back for more. Over the course of last year, 432,889 people scanned their way in, an average of about

There are so many exciting options at the Boroughs Family Branch YMCA, located in Westborough. (Photos/Courtesy)

activities — from sports to STEM learning — held on the recreation field. Campers also spend their time at the outdoor pool and splash pad, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

But campers also venture inside, giving them the full YMCA experience as they take on the rock wall, hit the basketball court, and — a favorite for the little ones — visit the Nature Adventure Zone.

“It’s a great option for those working families, so they can go to their jobs and have a safe place for their children to attend,” said Executive Director Jeff Laliberte. “We try to give them new experiences.”

Additionally, there are “Leaders in Training” and “Counselors in Training” programs for ages 11 to 12 and 12 to 14, respectively. These programs are about

1,200 visitors a day.

The YMCA, located at 4 Valente Drive, also offers a number of classes — including gymnastics, basketball, and soccer — and serves about 4,000 children annually through its life-saving swim lessons. Additionally, there are 74 group exercise classes that range in intensity and are included in the membership. There’s also 90-minute childcare available.

Every summer, the YMCA hosts summer camps, which are open to kids ages 3 to 15. This year’s camps will run June 15 to August 21 from 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with families having the option to sign up on a weekly basis.

The camp is mostly outdoors, with all sorts of

and moving forward, just get kids moving, learning, and creating healthy habits that they can continue in their out-of-school time,” Laliberte said. “It’s a great day for our families to get out and be active.”

As a nonprofit, the YMCA is always looking for ways to help support the community, which includes offering financial assistance. The branch gave out over $900,000 in assistance last year.

“We have a sliding scale for membership based on household income as well as specific discounts for programming, camp, and childcare,” Laliberte explained.

Additionally, there are an array of community impact programs, such as “Live Strong at the Y” — a group for cancer survivors and their families — and “Leaders Club,” a teen program for developing social skills and community service experience. The YMCA also offers a food pantry, which is open weekly.

For more information, to sign up for membership, or to join a summer camp, visit ymcaofcm.org/locations/ boroughs-family-branch. This is a paid advertisement

establishing friendships and building character. “There’s absolutely a focus on our core values, which are caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility,” said Laliberte.

All counselors are CPR trained and certified. Additionally, the camp is licensed by the Department of Public Health through the town of Westborough.

Just before camp season begins, the YMCA opens its doors to families for Healthy Kids Day, a national initiative that YMCAs across the nation partake in to improve the health and well-being of kids and families. This year’s event will be on April 18 from 12 to 3 p.m., offering free and open YMCA access to the public.

“The hope is to, on that day

There’s never been a better time to embrace the life you’ve earned.

At The Willows at Westborough, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle designed to help you do more every day.

And with the full SALMON continuum of care right on campus, you’ll always have the comfort of knowing support is here if ever needed.

It’s a life that’s active, secure, and rooted in Helen Salmon’s enduring belief: do more for every resident, every family, every day.

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

Shrewsbury man pleads guilty to sexually assaulting minors at his residence POLICE FIRE

SHREWSBURY – Eric Thomas

Sladen, a 46-year-old former Shrewsbury resident, pleaded guilty to several charges on March 24. Sladen was arrested in September after a criminal investigation by the Shrewsbury Police Department revealed that on several occasions since 2022 — with the most recent incident being in May 2025 — Sladen sexually abused minors at his Holman Heights Circle residence.

Sladen pleaded guilty to several counts of indecent assault and battery of a child. He was sentenced to concurrent two-and-a-half year sentences. He will spend one year at the Worcester County House of Correction, then he’ll be on probation for three years, with strict requirements to have no contact with children who are not his own.

Sladen originally pleaded

“not guilty” to all charges.

According to court documents, four of Sladen’s alleged victims were 11-year-old males, with one 9-year-old victim. Based on police interviews included in court documents, the abuse included direct, skinto-skin contact and indirect (through clothing) contact with the victims’ genitalia.

Documents allege that, in one instance, Sladen pulled down a victim’s pants to touch his bare buttocks and genitalia. The victim told police Sladen would “touch, grab, slap, and play with his buttocks and penis.” Court documents allege the victim was scared to tell his parents because Sladen was an adult, and the victim was encouraged to keep the abuse secret.

In another instance detailed in court documents, Sladen allegedly assaulted a child who

Sladen was led into Westborough District Court after his arrest in September.

LEGAL NOTICES

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was having a sleepover at Sladen’s residence between 2022 to 2023. Sladen was allegedly in the same bed as the victim while the abuse happened, according to court documents.

Some abuse reportedly occurred while the victims were playing PlayStation in Sladen’s living room, according to court documents. Police reports detail that alleged abuse would sometimes occur weekly, or nearly every time victims would enter the Sladen residence.

“I didn’t like it, but I was scared because he was an adult,” an alleged victim stated to police.

NORTHBOROUGH

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NORTHBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 7pm, in Conference Room B, 1st floor of Town Hall, 63 Main Street, Northborough, to consider the following applications: Petition submitted by William and Carolyn Hsiao for a dimensional variance pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-06-020, Table 2. Table of density and dimensional regulations, for the construction of an addition to an existing single-family home that is within the front yard setback on the property located at 34 Thaddeus Mason Road, Map 83, Parcel 42, in the Residence C District. Petition submitted by LAK Northborough Realty LLC for a special permit for horizontal mixed-use development and restaurant, including alcoholic beverages, use pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-05-030, Table 1. Table of Uses, Part B. Commercial and Industrial Districts, special permit with Site Plan Approval pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-03-050A(2), special permit for multi-family development within Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2 pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-07-010D(3)(b)[2], dimensional variance for minimum lot size within Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2 pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-07-010D(3)(b)

[2], and use variance to allow restaurant use within Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2 pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-03-030B(2) to allow construction of three mixed-use buildings totaling 18,189 square feet on the property located at 1 Church Street, Map 63, Parcels 61, 63, and 64, in the Downtown Business District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Areas 2 and 3. This meeting will also be conducted via Zoom. To participate in the public comment portion of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northborough-ma-us.zoom.us/j/83106322040 Passcode: 490677 To join via audio: +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 8310 632 2040 Passcode: 490677. Live Stream link YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/@northboroughmediaconnection This application is on file in the Planning Office and can viewed online at: https://www.town.northborough. ma.us/zoning-board-appeals/pages/ currently-under-review-zba Paul Tagliaferri, Chairman March 27, 2026 and April 3, 2026

SHREWSBURY

SHREWSBURY LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING

The Shrewsbury Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) makes the following information available to the public at Shrewsbury Fire Headquarters, 11 Church Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 during normal business hours by appointment.

• Each Emergency Response Plan • Material Safety Data Sheets or Lists as described in EPCRA Section 311 (a) (2) • Inventory Forms • Toxic Chemical Release Forms

• Follow up Emergency Notices Requests for review of Tier II inventory information shall be made in writing to the LEPC and shall be with respect to a specific facility as defined in Section 312 (e)(3)(A) of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, P.L. 99-499.

Upon request by an owner or operator subject to the requirements of Section 312, the LEPC shall withhold from disclosure the location of any specific chemical required by EPCRA Section 312 (d)(2) to be contained in an inventory form as Tier II information. Also, all information to be made available shall be consistent with EPCRA Section 322-Trade Secrets.

If a member of the public requests information on a specific facility that is not available to the LEPC, the LEPC will make such request to the specific facility as defined in EPCRA Section 311 (c)(2), 312 (e)(3)(B)(C) and respond to request by the member of the public within forty-five (45) days.

Please call or email Michael Borowiec, LEPC Coordinator at (508)841-8522 or MBorowiec@ShrewsburyMA.gov for more information.

MEETING NOTICE

April 9, 2026 at 1:00PM

The next meeting of the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will be held on April 9, 2026 at 1PM at Shrewsbury Town Hall within the Selectboard Room. The public is invited to attend. AGENDA

• Introductions

• Old Business – Review/ Approve Meet-

ing Minutes from March 16, 2023

• New Business

• Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan Updates/Review

• Incident Response Review (if applicable)

• Training Opportunities

• Other Business Not Anticipated

LEGAL NOTICES

AND SIDEWALK

ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT SHREWSBURY COUNCIL ON AGING

The Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for ADA Parking and Sidewalk Accessibility Improvements at Shrewsbury Council on Aging. All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the related documents which shall be available online at https:// shrewsburyma.gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-8418508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM-12:00 PM.

The scope of work is as follows: The replacement and installation of approximately 300 linear feet of concrete sidewalk and five (5) wheel chair ramps, along with the installation of granite curbing, ADA accessibility signage, 165 square yards of mill and overlay paving, and repainting of parking lot markings.

Work to be performed must be completed by May 28th, 2026.

All Contractors must be pre-qualified through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation with the class of work as HIGHWAY SIDEWALK AND CURBING with an estimated value of $74,207.90.

This Invitation for Bids shall be governed by the requirements of MGL Chapter 30, §39M.

Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 1:00 PM on April 21st, 2026, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

Bids must be sealed and marked “Bid for Accessibility Improvements at Shrewsbury Council on Aging” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.

A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.

The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY –PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 7:05 PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545-5398, to accept public comment on an application submitted by Linro Nanxiang Inc., 20-50 Boston Turnpike, Unit D7, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, requesting approval of a new Common Victualler License.

Interested residents are encouraged to attend and provide oral or written comments. Written comments may be emailed to selectboard@shrewsburyma. gov or mailed to the Office of the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, prior to the hearing date.

Theresa Flynn, Chairperson Office of the Select Board March 26, 2026

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION FOR BIDS

CONTRACT CLEANING SERVICES FOR PATON SCHOOL, SPRING STREET SCHOOL, DONAHUE ROWING CENTER AND 835 MAIN STREET

The Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for Contract Cleaning Services for Paton School, Spring Street School, Donahue Rowing Center and 835 Main Street. All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the related documents which shall be

available online at https://shrewsburyma. gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-841-8508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM12:00 PM.

The awarded contract shall be for a term of three (3) years. The timeframe for the work to be performed shall be as follows: year one shall cover the period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027; year two shall commence on July 1, 2027 and end on June 30, 2028; year three shall commence on July 1, 2028 and end on June 30, 2029. Years two and three shall be subject to the appropriation of funds.

The total combined bid prices for all buildings for each year shall not exceed $130,000.

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on April 22, 2026. This conference will begin at the Donahue Rowing Center at 3:15 PM.

Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 1:00 PM on May 7, 2026, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

Bids must be sealed and marked “Contract Cleaning Services for Paton School, Spring Street School, Donahue Rowing Center and 835 Main Street” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.

A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.

The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.

Town of Shrewsbury Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY BOARD OF HEALTH PUBLIC HEARING

April 23, 2026 7:00pm

The Shrewsbury Board of Health will be conducting a Public Hearing on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 7:00pm, in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545. The topic to be discussed will be a request made by the Town of Shrewsbury to consider Regulations for Mandatory Recycling and for Permitting and Operation of Municipal and Commercial Solid Waste / Recycling Collection.

A copy of the proposed regulations may be seen in the Health Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA and on the Town of Shrewsbury’s website at https://shrewsburyma.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/20113/DraftTown-of-Shrewsbury-Private-HaulerRegulations-04-23-26-PDF. Business hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8am to 4:30pm; Tuesday from 8am to 6:30pm; and Friday from 8am to Noon.

Any person wishing to be heard should appear at the time and place designated above, or should send a letter to the Board of Health in time to be read during the hearing. Please note: Individuals requiring special accommodations should contact the Health Department at 508-841-8384 at least fourteen (14) days prior to the hearing date in order to facilitate your request.

TOWN

OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION FOR BIDS

CONTRACT CLEANING SERVICES FOR SHERWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL, FLORAL STREET SCHOOL, BEAL SCHOOL AND COOLIDGE SCHOOL

The Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for Contract Cleaning Services for Sherwood Middle School, Floral Street School, Beal School and Coolidge School. All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the related documents which shall be

available online at https://shrewsburyma. gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-841-8508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM12:00 PM.

The awarded contract shall be for a term of three (3) years. The timeframe for the work to be performed shall be as follows: year one shall cover the period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027; year two shall commence on July 1, 2027 and end on June 30, 2028; year three shall commence on July 1, 2028 and end on June 30, 2029. Years two and three shall be subject to the appropriation of funds.

The total combined bid prices for all schools for each year shall not exceed $435,000.

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on April 21, 2026. This conference will begin at Sherwood Middle School at 3:30 PM.

Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 1:00 PM on May 7, 2026, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

Bids must be sealed and marked “Contract Cleaning Services for Sherwood Middle School, Floral St. School, Beal School and Coolidge School” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.

A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.

The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.

Town of Shrewsbury Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

HUDSON

TOWN OF HUDSON

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

78 MAIN STREET

HUDSON, MASSACHUSETTS 01749

TEL (978) 562-2989

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PETITION #ZSP-26-1

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025, extending the remote meeting provisions of the March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda. At this time the Zoning Board of Appeals will hear the request of White Pond Development LLC to obtain a Special Permit to extend the lawful pre-existing nonconforming use of the premises for multiple dwellings along Bruen Road and Barracks Road, pursuant to Sections 5.1.5 and 5.1.6.1 of the Town of Hudson Zoning Bylaws and MGL Ch. 40A Sec. 9. The subject property is located in the R-40 residential zoning district, Assessor Map 48, Parcel 3. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition. All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://townofhudson.community.highbond.com/Portal/ DocumentLibrary.aspx?id=320b478fefab-4e59-8d9c-62b9c966a2b8 and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org.

Antonio Mancini, Jr., Clerk Hudson Zoning Board

of Appeals

LEGAL NOTICE

Pursuant to Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2020 of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as approved by the Governor on June 5, 2020, and specifically, Section 7 thereof, notice is hereby

given that on April 13, 2026 at 7:00 pm

Hudson Select Board will conduct a meeting at the Hudson Police Department’s Community Room, 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA. 01749 to discuss an adjustment and reduction of the quorum requirement for Town Meeting scheduled for May 4, 2026.

HUDSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Public Schools will hold a Public Hearing in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71 Section 38N for the proposed annual budget for Fiscal Year 2027. This Hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 7:00 pm at Hudson High School, 69 Brigham Street, Hudson, MA 01749, Room F101

The Public Hearing will be followed by a regular School Committee meeting.

To review the FY27 Budget Proposal, please scan the QR code below. (Draft –March 23, 2026)

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given under Chapter 148, Section 13 of the MGL’s, that the Hudson Select Board will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM, in the Hudson Police Station located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on the application received from Alex Frias of A&J Realty Trust for a license to store flammables at 166 Central Street, Hudson, MA 01749 as follows: Flammable/combustible liquids, gases, solids up to the limits in accordance with NFPA 30 pursuant to 537 CMR 14.03(23).

For more information call 978-562-9963.

TOWN OF HUDSON REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS –TREASURER/COLLECTOR’S OFFICE CONSULTING SERVICES

Sealed proposals will be received at the Town Manager’s Office at the Hudson Town Hall at 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749 until 12:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026, for the purpose of providing Treasurer/Collector’s Office Consulting Services for the Town of Hudson. Each proposal shall be plainly endorsed on the outside, thereof; Proposal for Treasurer/Collector’s Office Consulting Services. Specifications and instructions to Bidders may be obtained from the Town Manager’s Office by email abeaudoin@townofhudson.org, at the above-mentioned address or by phone at (978) 562-9963.

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) IFB 26-4000

Westborough Police Department Comprehensive Staffing Assessment & Community Survey The Town of Westborough, led by its Police Department, is accepting sealed bids until 2pm on Monday May 4, 2026 at the Town Hall, Accounting Department, 34 West Main St., Westborough MA 01581 for the Westborough Police Department Comprehensive Staffing Assessment & Community Survey. This project is being Electronically Bid (E-Bid). You can register to become a bidder (free) online at www. BidNetDirect.com. For assistance, contact BidNetDirect.com at 800-835-4603. Bid Documents will be available online beginning at 9:00 AM on April 3, 2026, at https:// www.bidnetdirect.com/massachusetts/ townwestborough. All plan holders must have an active online account on www. bidnetdirect.com to acquire documents, receive project notifications, and receive addenda. It is the responsibility of prospective proposers to check www.BidNetDirect.com for new information via any addenda to this solicitation. Any addenda issued will be emailed to all plan holders

registered with BidNetDirect. Questions can be emailed to Lt. Greg Schipporeit, at gschipporeit@westboroughma.gov and will be answered via addenda posted on BidNetDirect. The Bid is being done under Chapter 30B. The Town of Westborough reserves the right to accept any bid, in whole or in part, to reject any/or all bids and to waive minor irregularities and/or informalities as it deems to be in the best interest of the Town. The Town is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages MBE/WBE/DBE participation in response to the bid process. Tina Cote Procurement Officer tcote@westboroughma.gov

The Town of Westborough, led by its DPW Department, is accepting sealed bids until 10:30am on May 12, 2026 at the DPW Office, 131 Oak St, Westborough MA 01581 for Storm Debris Removal & Disposal throughout the Town of Westborough. This project is being Electronically Bid (EBid). You can register to become a bidder (free) online at www.BidNetDirect.com. For assistance, contact BidNetDirect.com at 800-835-4603. Bid Documents will be available online beginning at 9:00 AM on April 8, 2026 at https://www.bidnetdirect. com/massachusetts/townwestborough. All plan holders must have an active online account on www.bidnetdirect.com to acquire documents, receive project notifications, submit questions and receive addenda. It is the responsibility of prospective proposers to check www.BidNetDirect.com for new information via any addenda to this solicitation. Any addenda issued will be emailed to all plan holders registered with BidNetDirect. There is no Pre-Bid Conference. Prevailing wages do apply to this contract. This Bid will be awarded to multiple contractors. The bidding and Award of this Contract will be under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 30B. The Town of Westborough reserves the right to accept any bid, in whole or in part, to reject any/or all bids and to waive minor irregularities and/or informalities as it deems to be in the best interest of the Town. The Town is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages MBE/WBE/DBE participation in response to the bid process. Tina Cote Procurement Officer tcote@westboroughma.gov

WORCESTER

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on May 1, 2026, the following vehicle(s) will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage, & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA. 2016 Ford F150 VIN: 1FTMF1E87GFB42485

Owned by: Keith Newbury

2010 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCP3F87AA028057

Owned by: A2Z Auto Sales

2013 Ford F150 VIN: 1FTFW1ET6DFB56371

Owned by: Justin Taylor

MARLBOROUGH

MAIN STREET GROUP BANCSHARES MHC 81 Granger Blvd., Marlborough, MA 01752 TO THE CORPORATORS OF MAIN STREET

MA 01581

PLM ENGINEER

Perform engineering duties in planning & designing tools for Computer Aided Design (CAD) Engineers in Automotive, Aerospace & High-Tech industries. Job based in Westborough, MA, but chance of relocation to various unanticipated client locations throughout the U.S. Send Resumes to: ashutosh@fourcolorstech.com Location: Four Colors Technology, LLC 182 Turnpike Rd, Suite 290B, Westborough, MA 01581.

TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ASSISTANT TOWN ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS *Updated February, 2026 to include hiring bonus*

The Town of Westborough seeks applications from energetic, team-oriented individuals for the full-time position of Assistant Town Engineer. Essential functions of the position include formal review of project plans and specifications, preparation of documents for competitive bidding, and development of engineering estimates associated with roadway improvements, water and sewer system design and maintenance, and stormwater management. The desired candidate will be a problem solver who offers innovative ideas and is an effective communicator.

Applicants shall possess a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least five (5) years of work experience in the design of and/or construction of public works projects. Registration as a Massachusetts Professional Engineer or Massachusetts Professional Land Surveyor required. Must have a valid driver’s license.

The salary range for the position is $86,292 - $112,375 annually, DOQ and includes a $4,000 signing bonus available to fully qualified candidates. To apply, send resume and cover letter in a single PDF via email, with subject line: Assistant Town Engineer Applicant to: jobs@westboroughma.gov. The position will remain open until filled. This posting is not meant to be inclusive of all job duties or qualification requirements; please visit our Human Resources website for a complete job description.

The Town of Westborough is an equal opportunity employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. The Town of Westborough seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of its community, and all are encouraged to apply.

Posting Updated 2.13.202

Job Title: Assistant Town Engineer Department: Public Works

Location: Public Works, 131 Oak Street

Revised:

Doing our part to support local business.

A Powerful Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit you who solve all problems who light all roads so I can attain my goals, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me, in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish you in eternal glory, thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days. After three days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted without mentioning the favor. Only your initials shall appear on the bottom. ~ F.R.

Reports To: Town Engineer

Job Code: 9 Hours per week: 40 FLSA Status: Exempt

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

Aucoin, Richard of Hudson

Blazejewski, Charles of sHrewsbury

Bonanza, Lucille of nortH Grafton, Ma/ utica, ny

Brennan, James of MarlborouGH

Carroll, Roger of sHrewsbury

Caty, Sheila of Hudson

Cerrone, Anna of sHrewsbury

Corbett, Patrick of Hudson

Cronin, Carol of soutHborouGH

DeVincent, Stephen of westborouGH

DiReda, Mary of sHrewsbury

Durning, Mary of nortHborouGH

Ellsworth, Kathleen of nortHborouGH

Gault, Carol of Hudson

Gyan, Cecilia of sHrewsbury

Hostage, Dorothy forMerly of soutHborouGH

Lawson Jr., Chester of westport

LeClair, Donna of soutHborouGH

Joyce, Diane of MarlborouGH

Robinson, Roberta of nortHborouGH

Teoste, Carol of sHrewsbury

Vilkas, Vincent of sHrewsbury, Ma/ KennebunKport, Me Weinberg, Mary Lyn of MarlborouGH

Yu, Shuxin of sHrewsbury

Charles Blazejewski, 79

SHREWSBURY – Charles

‘Charlie’ Blazejewski passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on March 21, 2026, after a courageous 8-year battle with cancer. He was 79.

He also loved spending time with his 4-legged shadow, Daisy the dog.

Charles leaves his wife of 55 years, Joey, and his children, Greg Blazejewski (Annette Rhodes) of Glendale, AZ and Mark Blazejewski (Maureen) of Dedham, MA; and his 2 beloved grandchildren, Lucy and Emma Blazejewski. He is also survived by his sister Helen Kilday of Nashua, NH and many loved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Patricia Araujo.

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.

Mary D. Durning, 81

HOPKINTON/NORTHBOROUGH – Mary (McCulley) Durning, 81, passed away March 17, 2026, in her bed.

She is survived by two siblings, Nancy Keaton of NC

and Steven McCulley of FL, two children, Leah Guzman or Worcester MA and Curt Forbes with his wife Rebecca Forbes of Townsend, MA. She has four grandchildren, Luis Guzman Jr., Nicholas Guzman, Tori Donnelly and her husband Damien Donnelly, and Evan Forbes and his wife Julia Forbes. She has four greatgrandchildren: Lorelei Frozman, Juniper Guzman, Riley Donnelly, and Levi Forbes.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.

Donna L. LeClair, 83

SOUTHBOROUGH – Donna L. LeClair of Southborough, MA, age 83, died March 20, 2026, at the UMass Memorial Medical Center University Campus in Worcester after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Peter T. LeClair, by three daughters, Susan D. Doria of Camarillo, CA and husband Thomas Doria, Helen P. Neglia of Brentwood, TN, and husband Anthony Neglia and Nancy L. LeClair of Philadelphia, PA, four grandchildren, Kevin and Douglas Doria and Salvatore and Anna Neglia, one great-granddaughter, Oona B. Doria, her sister-in-law, Lois

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

Woodmansee of Preston, CT, and husband Clark Woodmansee III, one nephew, two nieces, two grand-nephews, and two grand-nieces. She was predeceased by a grandson, Skylar A. LeClair.

Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted the family.

Diane M. Levesque Joyce, 68

MARLBOROUGH – It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Diane M. Levesque Joyce, a beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of the Marlborough community. Born on June 4, 1957, in Marlborough, Diane departed this life peacefully on March 19, 2026, at Marlborough Hospital. Her presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

Diane’s family was the core of her world. She shared a deep and loving bond with her husband, David G. Joyce, to whom she was married for 40 wonderful years. Together they nurtured their son, Dallas P. Joyce of Marlborough, who carries forward his mother’s legacy of kindness and love. Though Diane’s parents, Bert Levesque and Laura P. (Maynard) Levesque, preceded her in death, their memory lives on through her enduring spirit.

Among those who grieve her loss is her trusted canine companion, Sketchy Lincoln, whose loyal heart misses her every moment, a silent testament to the profound bond they shared.

Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Queens, NY, he was the son of the late William and Mary (Strittmatter) DeVincent and is survived by his sisters, Barbara DeVincent and Judy Cassella.

Stephen was a graduate of Anna Maria College and dedicated his career to adolescent counseling, working at Lincoln Hall, The Bridge, and Worcester South High School. He was widely recognized by the Southeast Asian community for his extensive service and commitment to supporting refugee youth.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.

Carol Cronin, 88

SOUTHBOROUGH - Carol Ann (Clough) Cronin, 88, of Southborough, Mass., and West Dennis, Mass., passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, after a prolonged (but valiantly fought!) fight against cancer. Carol wore many sparkling crowns: Mother, Nana and Aunt superseded her Angel halo.

Carol was the daughter of the late Josiah and Marguerite (Carrigan) Clough, and the beloved wife of the late Richard Cronin, who died in 2008. She was predeceased by her sister, Sarah “Sally” (Clough) Hetherton and husband John “Jack” Hetherton II, and daughter-in-law Jill (Armstead) Cronin.

Stephen T. DeVincent, 80 WESTBOROUGH - Stephen T. DeVincent, 80, of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Born in Jamaica,

Carol is survived by her son, Christopher Cronin of Punta Gorda, Fla.; her daughter, Kathleen Casamento and husband Chad of Upton, Mass., and their children Colin, Kelsey and Sydney. Carol also is survived by her nieces Johanna Hetherton; Tracy (Hetherton) Berestecky and husband Matthew, and children Brian, Kieran and Bridget; Sarah (Hetherton) Yeagle and husband Eric, and children: Marin, Quinn and Aevlin; Molly (Hetherton) Heslin and husband Jason; and her nephew John Hetherton III and wife Maria, and children Caela and Kyle.

The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted the family.

New location and capabilities for Westborough’s transfer station

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The new location for Westborough’s transfer station officially opened on March 23 at 62A Hopkinton Road — just one driveway away from its original location.

E.L. Harvey secured the permit for the relocation from the Department of Environmental Protection in November. According to Town Manager Kristi Williams, the idea was to move to a location that “might better support the safety of the users.”

Commercial vehicles are not allowed entry — only residents with valid permits from the Health Department. There are two lanes for entry and one for exiting, which the town hopes will reduce congestion. While much is the same for residents looking to drop off their waste, there is one major difference: single-stream recycling.

Residents (for the most part) no longer have to sort their recycling. Paper, cardboard, plastic, and glass can all be recycled together in the available bins. A separate container is labeled for metals, and areas for food waste,

styrofoam, light bulbs, and mercury are available at the new site. Brush disposal will remain at the original location.

Plastic bags, unmarked plastics, dishes and ceramics, foam packaging or styrofoam, aerosol cans, and recyclables containing food waste should not be included in the main recycling bins. For trash, residents must continue to use Westborough bags, and the pay-as-you-throw program remains in effect.

Hours of operation remain the same: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Kelly McCarthy, an E.L. Harvey attendant, said the transition has been going smoothly so far. “You’re going to have people who don’t like it, but a lot of people like it because it’s nice and easy now,” McCarthy said.

“I’m enthusiastic,” she added. “I’m looking forward to having it here.”

The original agreement between the town and E.L. Harvey went into effect in November 2024, with a one-year extension making the new end date June 30, 2026. In the next few weeks, the town will need to decide if it would like to extend that contract again.

Get ready to garden

alongside neighbors in Westborough

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – St. Luke’s Community Garden, an organic garden located in Westborough for over 30 years, has open patches available for anyone interested (or wanting to get into) gardening. About five patches remain. Each patch is about 20-feetby-20-feet — just the right size for a family or a beginner gardener. The Community Garden features an array of produce and flowers, and also includes two patches that help support local outreach programs like the Westborough Food Pantry.

Christine Hackett, who’s maintained a patch there for the last 12 years, said she donates some of her flowers to the Senior Center and

Food Pantry.

“For most gardeners, it’s our happy place,” Hackett said. “We love to just sit in the dirt and watch the produce or flowers grow.”

“Our community garden has really fostered a great support system,” she said, adding that people offer each other advice and assistance. Hackett advised new gardeners to not be afraid, as many get the hang of things as time goes on.

There are tools and water available on site: “So you really can just come and plant what you like,” she said.

The annual fee is $30. For those who would like to learn more, reach out to stlukesorganicgarden@gmail.com. A waitlist is available if patches have already sold out.

Cindry Hodgdon, garden facilitator, said, “Being in the

garden, taking in the peace and beauty of the surrounding land, watching the birds that visit and nest in our birdhouses – there is nothing better for the soul.”

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Algonquin post-prom party to be retired

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – In what

Principal Sean Bevan called a “shift,” the Algonquin Regional High School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is retiring the Junior Post-Prom Party. The event –which, as its name suggests, goes into the early-morning

hours after prom – had been running for at least 30 years, according to Bevan.

“Students are just not as interested in an overnight lock-in event as they were when we were younger, perhaps,” Bevan told the Regional School Committee on March 18. “Their attitudes about this event have changed, which we see in

low enrollments or late enrollments.”

The event’s purpose was to provide a drug-free environment for juniors after prom, keeping students safe on a night that has a high incidence of alcohol-related car accidents, risky behavior, and impaired decision-making among teenagers. The event was previously held at the

No backpacks at Mill Pond School

By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – “Backpack, backpack!”

The well-known “Dora the Explorer” song came over the intercom as Mill Pond Principal Peter Guellnitz highlighted the latest spirit theme: “Everything But a Backpack Day.”

Instead of carrying their

supplies for the day in their usual bags, students arrived with an array of alternatives including pizza boxes, catcarriers, laundry hampers, and even toolboxes. Students certainly got creative on March 27.

Even the staff got involved, with one participant putting all her belongings in a large shopping cart. Guellnitz

taped some cereal boxes together to carry his laptop and pencils.

For the last 17 years, Mill Pond School has celebrated its “spirit month” — as opposed to a typical week — with a series of “March Madness” themes. The final days of the month were more-traditional fun like Pajama Day and Crazy-Hair Day.

New England Sports Center and Apex Entertainment.

Last year, 60 tickets were sold 24 hours in advance of the event, with an extra 100 students registering in the last 24-hour period. It’s difficult for students to commit to a social event a month ahead of time, said Bevan, and the last-minute ticket sales make planning almost impossible,

Job change?

especially for such an expensive activity.

While last year’s event was great, “the kids who were there … were also the kids not on our radar for drug and alcohol use,” said Bevan.

After a class-wide survey established students didn’t think the model was working, the PTO will look to bring extra fun to prom.

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Northborough skater to represent Japan in international competition

By Sophia Oppedisano Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – Konon

Kurashige, 17, is set to represent Japan at Helsinki Solo Ice Dance International, a figure skating competition in Finland this April.

The Algonquin Regional High School junior is fresh off her first international competition in Épinal, France, last December, where she represented Japan. She was the first junior woman to compete for the country in the solo ice dance category.

Kurashige, a dual-citizen of Japan and the United States, said her connection to her Japanese heritage influenced her decision to skate for Japan. “I hope to inspire people — not just [in the United States], but also in Japan about solo ice dance,” she said.

Kurashige started skating when she was 5 years old, learning as a toddler at NorthStar Ice Sports in Westborough. After private lessons, she entered competitions at 7 years old.

She skated in the singles event until she was 15, when a spinal stress fracture forced her to step away from the sport. During her recovery and time off the ice, six skaters at Kurashige’s training club, The Skating Club of Boston in Norwood, lost their lives when American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a helicopter over the Potomac River in January 2025.

The crash’s impact on the skating community and the loss of her friends had Kurashige questioning her return to the

sport, but she “realized that the best way [she] could honor [her] friends was to keep skating and carry their passion forward.”

Getting back on the ice was difficult, and her injury limited her abilities, which led Kurashige to make the switch to solo ice dance.

Solo ice dance focuses “more on character, edge quality, and the technical side of skating” rather than jumps and spins, allowing Kurashige to keep competing comfortably after her injury.

Kurashige’s coach, Anne Goldberg-Baldwin, said when Kurashige came back, solo ice dance was a tool the pair used to rehab Kurashige and have a little fun while she continued trying to train for singles.

“My first priority as a coach is always the well-being of the athlete. So, if [singles] was going to hurt her, why are we doing it? That was the conclusion we ultimately got to,” Gold-

berg-Baldwin said. “So, she switched to her dance boots, and she has not looked back.”

The international competition in France was one

of Kurashige’s first competing in the solo ice dance category. “It was a life-changing competition. I got to meet a lot of new people and different competitors around the world, and it was a great time. I hope to experience those things again in Finland,” she said.

Goldberg-Baldwin said the competition in France was like “going from 0 to 100. This is the highest level that we have so far in solo dance.”

While the switch to solo ice dance has been a “steep learning curve,” Goldberg-Baldwin said

that Kurashige is “doing beautifully.”

“She just is so responsible for herself. She’s so humble,” Goldberg-Baldwin continued. “She’s made tremendous, tremendous improvements this year.”

In Finland, Goldberg-Baldwin is looking to see Kurashige start to “feel comfortable in her own skin, and to start to own her skating.”

“If she’s having fun, that’s the most important thing for me as a coach,” she said.

Kurashige said she hopes to “continue to learn more about the sport and continue working on [her] skills” in Finland.

“Konon is so good at so many things,” Goldberg-Baldwin said. “She’s balancing a full school schedule, which is not always typical of athletes who are competing internationally. She is the true definition of a scholar-athlete.”

The birth of a program New Shrewsbury boys’ volleyball team wins first-ever match

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

AYER – For Will Flynn, it was a serve four years in the making.

With his Colonials ahead, 27-26, late in the third set, the Shrewsbury senior eyed his opponents as he prepared to deliver the ball over the net. Anticipating the return, teammates Quinn Fitch and Adriano Caricchio raced to their positions, but there was nothing left to do but celebrate.

Flynn’s serve proved to be the last point in a game jam-packed with firsts. After four years of working toward fielding a team, the first-ever Shrewsbury boys’ volleyball game will go in the books as a decisive straight-set victory. The Colonials got it done against Ayer-Shirley on March 26.

“I really enjoyed taking all the excitement built up from years and years of waiting for this team and putting it on the

court,” Flynn told the Community Advocate. “Everyone was getting hype, everyone is going to be talking about this game.”

Just before the pandemic, Shrewsbury High School seemed primed to join a boys’ volleyball community in Central Mass. that includes Algonquin, Saint John’s, and Marlborough, among other teams.

But once the world was shut down, so too were the plans — at least temporarily.

Then came a group of highschoolers who showed interest in the sport. The Boys’ Volleyball Club was formed, and nearly 40 members played recreationally, sometimes organizing pick-up matches after practices for other sports were done. It was super casual, just for fun. Then it became something more.

“It just kind of stuck,” said Brett Crandall, the team’s head coach.

The club had proved there was interest in boys’ volley-

ball, and with the support of Athletic Director Jay Costa and the rest of the Shrewsbury administration, the team got off the ground. Uniforms were ordered, and tryouts were held.

its first game. With so much unfamiliarity, hiccups were only natural.

But when they came, nobody on Shrewsbury flinched.

Brett Crandall and his wife, Pam Crandall, who have turned the Shrewsbury girls’ volleyball team into a powerhouse in recent years, were natural choices to lead the program. Their son, Brayden Crandall, became captain alongside Flynn.

“It really means a lot. We’ve been playing volleyball for several years now. It means a lot to represent our school, play volleyball as seniors. We have a good girls’ program, and now we have a boys’ program as well,” Brayden Crandall said.

Even with a team formed, the program faced no shortage of challenges to start the season. Weather and scheduling conflicts limited the team to five practices prior to

“I was nervous in the beginning about how we were going to play, because obviously we’ve had only five practices. I was a little nervous in the first set, but once we started to settle in, I got really excited,” said Flynn.

Added Brett Crandall: “It’s a testament to how much they want this.”

The first point of the match — and in Shrewsbury boys’ volleyball history — went to the Colonials, with Brayden Crandall blocking a shot at the net. The program won its firstever set (25-21) and cruised to a second-set victory (25-10).

“Once we got into a rhythm and calmed down, we played a lot more as a team,” said Brayden Crandall.

After falling behind in the third set, the Colonials showed the resilience of a veteran group, clawing their way back and, with great serving from Fitch, digging deep in high-pressure situations to ultimately take the frame, 28-26. Nobody on the Shrewsbury team called it a perfect performance. But after four years of work, just five practices, and three hard-won sets, the Colonials boys’ volleyball team is officially in the win column. The first win is in the books. And there’s many, many, many more to come.

You’re witnessing the birth of a program.

“It’s unbelievable. I wanted it for them,” said Brett Crandall. “We have goals, we have goals on our whiteboard about what we want to get done by the end of the year. Winning the first game — that was top of the list.”

Westborough boys’ lacrosse handles Nashoba to open season

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – This group of Rangers is interdisciplinary when it comes to athletics.

A team stacked with twoand three-sport athletes who spent the winter competing in hockey or basketball, Westborough boys’ lacrosse had a quick turnaround heading into the spring. Though the Rangers might’ve been competing in gymnasiums and rinks throughout the state, lacrosse was never far from their minds.

“Most of my guys are threesport athletes, so they’re playing different sports, but I just ask them to keep the stick in their hands during the offseason. And they did,” said Head Coach Scott Dube. “A couple weeks before the season, they were doing some conditioning together. These guys are really close, and that’s a big part of our culture.”

The team got together in the months leading up to the season, practicing on the turf at Teamworks, away from the winter weather. Twice-a-week conditioning ensured the Rangers wouldn’t be winded after the first few quarters.

After all that preparation, the Rangers arrived ready for their first game on March 27. Westborough made quick work of Nashoba, earning a 12-3 win to start this year’s campaign on the right foot.

“A lot of ball movement. It’s a really read-and-react kind of offense,” said Dube. “I didn’t want the ball to die on anyone’s stick. If they’re holding the ball too long, we have to move it. We’re going to win or lose as a team, and luckily, today we won as a team.”

After going 6-10 in 2024, Westborough emerged as a Central Mass. lacrosse power last year, starting the season with nine consecutive victories, finishing with a record of 12-4, and winning the MidWach-B along the way.

This year’s goal? All that, and plenty more.

“We won the league last year and that is absolutely our goal to win it again this year,” Liam O’Dowd, one of the team’s senior captains, told the Community Advocate. “Last year we were able to jump out to a great start. This year, we started really

strong. This year, we have a great squad again.”

Dube has reminded his players that nothing is guaranteed.

“Every season starts at 0-0. Every game starts 0-0. We have to go out there and prove who we want to be,” he

said. “We’re playing a harder schedule this year so we can prove our character, play with the big boys.”

He added: “Last year was last year — they get to decide who they want to be this year.”

The Rangers led Nashoba

from the jump on March 27, with Chase Loban earning a hat trick within the game’s first 10 minutes. Loban (6 goals) led the scoring, while Coby Ehrlich and Jack Queenan tallied two goals apiece. On defense, senior captain Ryan Payant and his teammates kept Nashoba off-balance.

“As a defender, we’re looking at the team and we have a lot of young guys on defense this year because a lot of our defenders last year graduated,” said Payant. “Today, we were looking to clean it up, make sure we all knew how to play together.”

“Get that physicality going,” he added.

Athlete Of The Week

Alex Taupier

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

BOTTOM: Jack Queenan powers forward.

SHREWSBURY – Known for her work-ethic and knack for doing anything to help the team, senior Alex Taupier looks forward to having a great season for the Shrewsbury Colonials. Taupier is committed to play softball at Westfield State University, where she’ll major in psychology and art, eyeing a career as an art therapist.

“She’s a quiet leader. She’s a kid who does one more when nobody else is looking. Great kid. Great teammate. It doesn’t hurt that she hits the ball pretty hard, too. She’s putting in all the work. She always gives extra effort, and I’m excited to see what the year brings for her,” said Shrewsbury Head Softball Coach Jamie Millett Schaeffer.

What’s the best advice you’ve received, or a quote you like?

“The first quote that comes to mind: ‘You don’t know what you don’t know.’ I think it can be applied to so many different areas of life. Also: ‘No rain, no flowers.’ It’s remembering that softball is a game of mistakes. If you don’t have the low moments, there’s nothing to enjoy the great moments.”

What’s made your time with Shrewsbury softball so special?

“The girls, first and foremost. I’ve grown up with these girls – there’s seven seniors. I think, honestly, it’s also the fact I had to work for varsity – I was on JV for the first two years. That’s what channeled the hard work, so it makes the time on varsity more rewarding. It’s definitely self-fulfilling to work for something.”

What are you looking to accomplish this year?

“I just want to make memories. I value memories so much. I think, in today’s world, there’s so many distractions to take away from the present moment. One of the most important things I value is just being present and intentional about how you’re spending your time.”

What do you do when you’re not playing softball?

“I love hanging out with my friends – we do a lot of ‘side quests.’ I’ve been picking up guitar recently, actually. It’s fun, but it’s really hard. Listening to music, and then art is a big thing, too. I paint a lot.”

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

“Switzerland. I think it’s just so beautiful. I absolutely love places that just make your problems seem so insignificant. There are places where you look out and the world is so vast.”

Trapped on a desert island, what three things do you need?

“First, music – I don’t know what form that would come in, maybe vinyls. I already have water and food, right? Second, my dog, Max. And finally, a notebook.”