By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – On Nov. 7, the Northborough Free Library held a reception marking the opening of the Gale Library exhibit, “An Historical Exhibit in Celebration of the Northborough Free Library’s 150^th Anniversary (1868 ~ 2018).”

The reception is part of a year-long celebration that kicked off April 8 with a birthday party exactly 150 years to the day of the first board meeting, held in Cyrus Gale’s home. The minutes of that first board meeting have been preserved and are included in the exhibit.

The celebration will culminate April 6, 2019, with a 150^th Jubilee at the Haven Country Club in Boylston.

“First I want to give credit where credit is due; I stand on the shoulders of Jean Langley the former library director,” said current Director Chris Lindquist. “Jean was here for 39 years…She developed a timeline and it’s on our website, starting in 1792 to where the new addition was built in 2009.”

In 1851 the commonwealth established the Free Public Library system and, in 1861, the Reverend Joseph Allen (noted Northborough resident) thought that one was needed in Northborough and raised the appeal.

The original Gale Library opened in 1895 and was named for one of its benefactors, Captain Cyrus Gale and his wife, who gifted $1,000 to establish the library. It was housed at the Old Town Hall on Main Street which has since burned down.

“Thanks to a significant donation by Cyrus Gale Jr. and Ellen M. Gale, including the land on which the original library sits, the Gale Library Building was dedicated in 1895 and opened to the public on June 12 of that year,” added Lindquist.

He noted that the library was constructed in pink granite in the neoclassical style with a Greek arch.

The exhibit features historical photographs and original documents from the collections of the Northborough Historical Society Museum, as well as from the library’s local history collection.

One such document of note included in the exhibit predates the Gale Library. The library’s 1792 “Regulations” established the rules for a group of 30 subscribers or members who formed the first known lending library in Northborough. There was a fee of $3 to belong and up to three books could be borrowed at a time. The loan period depended on the distance the member lived from the library, which had to be within one mile from the Meeting House.

“The library is indebted to the Northborough Historical Society Museum and to the Museum Curator Ellen Racine,” Lindquist said.

The exhibit is being held in the library’s main meeting room and is open to the public through Monday, Dec. 31, during the library’s normal operating hours, when the room is not in use.

For more information, available viewing times, and the 150^th Jubilee, contact Chris Lindquist at 508-393-5025. For information about the library, visit www.northboroughlibrary.org.

Northborough/Southborough – It is with sadness that the family of Kathleen Luippold (Martin), 72, announces her passing on Dec. 3, 2018.

Born in Oakland, Calif. in 1946 to Lorraine Martin (Fialho) and William Martin, she lived in California until she married and moved to Massachusetts in the late 1960s. Settling in Northborough, she raised 5 children and many others in her daycare of almost 30 years.

Kathy will forever be remembered by her children, Ronald Luippold II of Quincy, , Robert Luippold and his wife AnaLisa of Camino, Calif., Therese Blake and her husband Patrick of Douglas, and Georgiana Luippold and her partner Leslie Hubbard of Sacramento, Calif. She was predeceased by her son, Adam Luippold. She will be fondly remembered by his wife, Alissa Luippold. She will also be lovingly remembered by her many siblings who all reside in California. Kathy, lovingly referred to as Gummy, will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Christopher Blake, Kylie Blake, Andrew Luippold, Cameron Luippold, Victoria Luippold and Evelyn Luippold.

As per our mother’s request, there will be no services, as she was never one to be the center of attention.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

To leave a message for Kathleen’s family, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

Northborough – Jane W. (Bailey) Kirally, 79, a longtime Northborough resident and wife to Raymond F. Kirally Sr., passed away at the UMass Medical Center after a short illness.

Jane was born in Worcester, a daughter to Howard and Elthea (Taylor) Bailey. She worked many years in the cafeteria of Algonquin High School as well as the former Westborough State Hospital as a kitchen supervisor. She was a longtime active member and former deacon of the Trinity Church in Northborough.

In addition to her husband, Raymond, Jane is survived by one son, Raymond F. Kirally Jr.; his wife, Theresa; and two granddaughters, Shea and Amber, all of Southborough. She was predeceased by her sisters, Ardelle, Frances, and Muriel.

She loved having a bountiful flower garden, sewing, and spending time with her grandchildren and family.

A calling hour will be held Tuesday, Dec. 11, from 10-11 a.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. A funeral service in the funeral home will begin at 11 a.m.

Please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com for Jane’s complete life story and to leave a condolence.

Northborough/Wells, Maine – Jeannine A. (Vaillancourt) Seymour, of Wells, Maine and formerly of Northborough, left us at the age of 69 on Dec 6, 2018 after a brave battle against a long illness.

She grew up in Marlborough, a daughter of George and Lumina Pappas.

Jeannine is survived by her husband, Nicholas F. Seymour of Wells, Maine; Nicholas’ son, Patrick Seymour, wife Jen, and their children Ella and Finn of Andover; five children, Kathy Rowe, her husband Bob, and their children Meg, Katie, Liz, and Dan;  Michael and Ari Charbonneau, both of Worcester, and Philip and Jeffrey Charbonneau, both of Wells, Maine. Jeannine also leaves her siblings, James Vaillancourt and wife Susan of Marlborough, Stephen Pappas and wife Linda of Northborough and Cathy LaJeunesse of Marlborough, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Marie Chene.

Jeannine worked for Abu Construction in Northborough and later as property manager for Seymour Rakers. She loved the ocean and was a kind compassionate soul who will be missed by many.

All services are private. Please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com to leave a condolence.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – On Nov. 13, Michael Easler and Michael Moonan, from the engineering firm Weston & Sampson, appeared with Scott Charpentier, Department of Public Works director, and Town Planner Kathy Joubert at a public hearing regarding the next phase in the construction of a new Town Common to be built at the Civil War Monument site on West Main Street.

Charpentier said that the purpose of the evening was to discuss materials, finishes, plantings and “the look” of the Town Common, and whether they could afford a pergola.

The next step will be plan refinement based on the comments that Moonan and Easler received at the meeting.

“Last time we presented two options and we had a lot of great input,” Moonan said. “We’ve taken that input, we listened and we’ve also come back and met with the town and other key people … We’ve taken some input by email and phone calls and we’ve incorporated that into what is now what we think is the preferred plan.”

New schematics were available and were explained by Easler, who said that this new design includes seating close to the sidewalk at the entry of the park, arbor vitae to help buffer the side adjacent to the gas station, electrical capability and a potential decorative pergola. The back of the common will be more wooded, saving as many trees as possible.

There were many public comments regarding the west side of the common where the Civil War Memorial sits. Another memorial was added behind the Civil War Monument that will include flags from the five branches of the military and a large American Flag that would be continuously lit along with a POW flag.

Easler said that this space will be a place where residents can gather, sit, contemplate and reflect. It will feature darker granite in contrast to the existing monument and be graded and built a little higher so it can be seen from the street.

Charpentier informed the group that Justin Sousa, Northborough’s veterans’ agent, will be working with Gerard Bourque of the American Legion to come up with the text for the inscriptions for this memorial.

Questions and discussion from the 25 or so attendees included concerns about lighting of the park, electrical outlets and security. Additionally, details such as materials for walkways, fencing, benches and maintenance were also discussed.

“The process going forward from here is we will go before the Board of Selectmen in December, finalize bid documents and specifications in January, bid it out in February and as soon as the snow melts the contractors can get to work,” Charpentier said.

The meeting can be viewed on the Northborough YouTube Cable Channel, www.youtube.com/watch?v=52j9b-FY-4M. For more information, contact the Northborough Department of Public Works at 508-393-5030.

(l to r) Francesca Bombara, Ann Webster, Suzanne McCance and Kathleen Devericks pose for a photo at the Northborough Garden Club’s annual Holiday Enchantment event held Dec. 1 at the Marguerite E. Peaslee Elementary School.

Northborough

Sunday, Nov. 25
1:54 a.m. Hudson St. Disturbance.

1:12 p.m. West Main St. Accident: P.D.

8:03 p.m. South St. Accident: P.I.

Monday, Nov. 26

12:31 p.m. West  Main St. Fire Dept. asst.

1:28 p.m. South St. Scams.

5:02 p.m. Deacon St. Ambulance.

8:54 p.m. Patriot Dr. Ambulance.

Tuesday, Nov. 27
1:00 a.m. Arrested, Luis R. Zermeno, 21, of 3 Laprise Crt., Apt. 2, Dudley, for OUI liquor 2^nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, miscellaneous MV equipment violation.

7:16 a.m. Talbot Rd. Illegal dumping.

12:27 p.m. West Main St. Fire Dept. asst.

2:39 p.m. Bartlett St. Fire Dept. asst.

7:36 p.m. Main St. Fire Dept. asst.

Wednesday, Nov. 28

4:01 a.m. Church St. Ambulance.

8:03 p.m. West Main St. Fire Dept. asst.

8:59 p.m. Centre Dr. Ambulance.

Thursday, Nov. 29

2:34 a.m. Hamilton Rd. Disturbance.

9:06 a.m. West Main St. Ambulance.

10:30 a.m. Arrested, David W. Furbish, 28, of 206 West St., Auburn, for op MV with license suspended/revoked, speeding in violation special regulation, no inspection sticker, warrant.

3:29 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Ambulance.

6:29 p.m. Avalon Dr. Scams.

8:36 p.m. Shops Way. Disturbance.

Friday, Nov. 30

12:02 a.m. Indian Meadow Dr. Ambulance.

11:29 a.m. Maple St. Animal calls.

3:11 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Accident: P.D.

5:33 p.m. South St. Animal calls.

Saturday, Dec. 1

2:09 a.m. Centre Dr. Ambulance.

4:58 p.m. Blake St. Ambulance.

5:16 p.m. Ridge Rd. Ambulance.

8:16 p.m. Arrested, Nicholas George March, 26, of 185 Concord Rd., Chelmsford, for OUI liquor 2^nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, drink alcohol from open container in MV, speeding.

The information from the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. It contains arrests and samplings of police activity. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court-issued documentation.

By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer

Northborough – Craftworks is a hidden gem that not only unleashes creativity in its customers but honors the creativity of its crafters. The yarn and fiber shop and artisan cooperative is located at 243 West Main St., Northborough and is owned and managed by Ande Lockwood.

The successful gift shop showcases a variety of handcrafted items from over 90 crafters with appeal to everyone. Jewelry, baskets, puzzles, kids’ toys, organic based skin care products, teas, and seasonal items are among the numerous items available. Many items are priced $20 or less.

Lockwood is always looking to add local artisans to the Craftworks family. The membership application can be found on the store’s website.

“You will find things that you feel good about giving and recipients will feel good about receiving,” she said. “We are dedicated to offering customers unique, fun, and often one-of-a-kind items.”

Lockwood credits the success of the store to the loyal customer base and their support for local, small businesses.

Craftworks also is a yarn and fiber shop, which offers numerous classes to learn new skills or perfect existing skills. Nine knitting classes and three crochet classes are offered each week. The Beginner and Beyond classes typically have only 4-6 students so the instructor is able to dedicate more time with individual students. Weaving, chalk culture and seasonal craft classes are offered too.

Class schedules, most with rolling starts, can be found on the store’s website.

“We have awesome teachers who are patient and kind,” said Lockwood.

The yarn and gifts sold at Craftworks often have unique stories behind them, which makes this store even more special to explore.

One brand of yarn sold is Emma’s Yarn, founded two years ago by a 15-year-old homeschool student in Florida, who was dying a small batch of yarn for fun when learning about ratios in her math class and is now an independent dyer who continues to create yarn with beautiful color waves.

On the first Thursday of each month, Craftworks knitting and crochet instructors team up to teach new techniques to fine tune skills while benefitting a charitable organization. Last month, soft, comfy hats for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment were donated to Saint Vincent Cancer and Wellness Center in Worcester.

Earlier in the year, Knitted Knockers, soft and comfy breast prosthesis for women who have undergone mastectomies or other breast procedures, were made and donated to the oncology department at UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester.

Socks for veterans, hats for premature babies, and afghan blocks to create “lapghans” for hospice patients are just a few of the knitting and crochet projects completed. Lockwood estimates that about 1,100 items are donated each year.

For more information call 508-393-9435, visit www.craftworkscoop.com and follow Craftworks on Facebook.

Northborough – Ellen Jean (McLaughlin) Adamonis, 69, of Northborough, died Dec. 8, 2018 at her home after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma.

Born and raised in Marlborough, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Elizabeth (Stone) McLaughlin, and the wife of Robert Adamonis of Northborough. She was a graduate of Marlborough High School, class of 1966.

Following her graduation, Ellen began her career at New England Telephone as an operator, and retired as an engineer from Verizon in 1994. Along the way, she obtained an Associate Degree in Business Administration at Fischer College, graduating in 1996. After early retirement, she continued working with her brother-in-law doing electrical work.

Ellen was a very active and social lady, loved by many and missed tremendously. She enjoyed: water aerobics, yoga, knitting, hiking, cross-country as well as downhill skiing, caining, caring for her plants, traveling, rug hooking and other types of needlework. She loved to read and was never without a book in hand.

Ellen is survived by her husband, Robert, and daughter, Jennifer, both of Northborough; her sister, Mary Jerome of Marlborough, and her brother, Michael McLaughlin and his companion Edith of Wayland, as well as many nieces and nephews. Ellen joins her brothers, Mark, William, her twin, John McLaughlin, and her sister, Maureen Cimino.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Ellen’s memory to support Dr. Reardon’s Research Fund at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284. Please include Dr. Reardon’s Research Fund in the memo section of your donation.

Funeral services will be private and are under the direction of the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant St., Marlborough.

Northborough – Members of Northborough Girl Scout Troop 30652 pose for a photo with Fire Chief David Parenti at the annual Holiday Kids’ Shop held Dec. 8 at the First Parish Church of Northborough.

The young Scouts raised over $150 to benefit a Girl Scout family that lost their home in the deadly California wildfires. Several residents also donated gift cards for the scouts’ collection.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – On Nov. 7, the Northborough Free Library held a reception marking the opening of the Gale Library exhibit, “An Historical Exhibit in Celebration of the Northborough Free Library’s 150^th Anniversary (1868 ~ 2018).”

The reception is part of a year-long celebration that kicked off April 8 with a birthday party exactly 150 years to the day of the first board meeting, held in Cyrus Gale’s home. The minutes of that first board meeting have been preserved and are included in the exhibit.

The celebration will culminate April 6, 2019, with a 150^th Jubilee at the Haven Country Club in Boylston.

“First I want to give credit where credit is due; I stand on the shoulders of Jean Langley the former library director,” said current Director Chris Lindquist. “Jean was here for 39 years…She developed a timeline and it’s on our website, starting in 1792 to where the new addition was built in 2009.”

In 1851 the commonwealth established the Free Public Library system and, in 1861, the Reverend Joseph Allen (noted Northborough resident) thought that one was needed in Northborough and raised the appeal.

The original Gale Library opened in 1895 and was named for one of its benefactors, Captain Cyrus Gale and his wife, who gifted $1,000 to establish the library. It was housed at the Old Town Hall on Main Street which has since burned down.

“Thanks to a significant donation by Cyrus Gale Jr. and Ellen M. Gale, including the land on which the original library sits, the Gale Library Building was dedicated in 1895 and opened to the public on June 12 of that year,” added Lindquist.

He noted that the library was constructed in pink granite in the neoclassical style with a Greek arch.

The exhibit features historical photographs and original documents from the collections of the Northborough Historical Society Museum, as well as from the library’s local history collection.

One such document of note included in the exhibit predates the Gale Library. The library’s 1792 “Regulations” established the rules for a group of 30 subscribers or members who formed the first known lending library in Northborough. There was a fee of $3 to belong and up to three books could be borrowed at a time. The loan period depended on the distance the member lived from the library, which had to be within one mile from the Meeting House.

“The library is indebted to the Northborough Historical Society Museum and to the Museum Curator Ellen Racine,” Lindquist said.

The exhibit is being held in the library’s main meeting room and is open to the public through Monday, Dec. 31, during the library’s normal operating hours, when the room is not in use.

For more information, available viewing times, and the 150^th Jubilee, contact Chris Lindquist at 508-393-5025. For information about the library, visit www.northboroughlibrary.org.

Grafton/Northborough – Warren B. LaBaire, 91, of Grafton, formerly of Northborough, passed away Dec. 15, 2018 after a short period of declining health. His wife of 65 years, Ann P. (Gladd) LaBaire, passed away May 19 of this year.

Warren was born and raised in Worcester, the son of the late Carl and Betty (Chervinsky) LaBaire. He graduated North High School in 1945, and went on to serve in the U.S. Army. Upon his return, Warren earned his business degree from Worcester Jr. College.

Warren worked in the insurance field throughout his career. He owned and operated LaBaire Insurance Agency in Northborough during the 1970s through the 1990s.

He proudly served multiple terms as both Selectman and Chairman of the Board of Selectmen in Northborough.

In addition, Warren represented his community as Chairman for the Council of Aging and Northborough Youth Commission, and was a member of the AVCOA Board of Directors. He was involved with the State Council on Youth and served as President of the Department of Mental Health at the former Westborough State Hospital.

Warren had an appreciation for the arts, and was a member of both the Northborough Art Guild and the Grafton Art Society. He enjoyed watercolor painting, tying fishing flies and mastering the art of fly fishing. He looked forward to annual trips to Cape Cod with his family, which were always filled with laughs and relaxation. Warren loved reading and spending time outdoors, taking nature walks and bird watching.

Warren is survived by his children, Paul LaBaire and his wife Beth of Worcester, David LaBaire and his wife Doreen of Dennis, Patricia LaBaire of Kingston, Warren LaBaire Jr. of Maine, and Nancy Pollack and her husband Peter of Shrewsbury, as well as nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by a son, John LaBaire, and a sister, Carol Jamron.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, Dec. 20, from 5-7 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. His funeral will take place Friday, Dec. 21, at 10:30 a.m., at the funeral home. Warren will be laid to rest beside Ann in Howard Street Cemetery in Northborough.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Northborough/Windsor, Nova Scotia – It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Lawrence “Laurie” Hazel Dec. 10, 2018 in Hants Community Hospital, Windsor, Nova Scotia, with family by his side.

Born on the Station Road in Scotch Village, Nova Scotia, he was a son of the late Harold and Sophia (Ross) Hazel.

Laurie was quick to share fond memories of growing up in Scotch Village, playing hockey, going to card parties and local dances and adventures with cousins and friends.  He married his wife of 55 years, the late Laura (Fowler), in 1952.

He worked for 15 years at Hants Co-Op in Brooklyn/Windsor. In 1965 they moved their family to Massachusetts. They settled in Northborough where they lived until 1982, when they moved back to Windsor.

He was employed at Coan Oil, Natick, until his retirement. After enjoying a couple trips to sunny Florida, they purchased a home there, where they enjoyed many winters.  Laurie loved sun and warm weather and was able to do this right up to last year with the help of family and great friends.

He was an avid sports fan and loved gardening. He had a brilliant sense of humor, a trait he passed to his children and grandchildren. He will always be remembered with a smile.

Surviving are son Greg Hazel, his wife, Elaine (Parks), Clearwater, Fla., and their children, Michele, Eric, and Jamie (Jose Cortes), Jason, Nicholas and Eric Parks; daughter Andrea, her husband, Eric Sanders, Shrewsbury, and their children, Erica (Andrew Callahan), and Ross; daughter Dorothy of Bradenton, Fla., and her daughter, Gwendolyn; great-grandchildren, Michael and Jason; brother, Clarie Hazel, Scotch Village; sister, Janet (Lawrence) Boyd, Windsor; sisters-in-law, Fran Fowler, Dartmouth; Dorene (Fowler), Ottawa; and many truly loved nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, who passed away in 2007, and his parents, he was also predeceased by an infant brother, Harold Ross; sister and brother-in-law Shirley and Bob Hunter; sister-in-law Donna (Rainforth) Hazel; in-laws Grant and Ethel Fowler; and brothers-in-law Bud Fowler and Roland Arbour.

Greg, Andrea and Dorothy and their families wish to thank all his family and friends for all of their kindnesses, not only after the past several weeks, but over the past few years. Laurie expressed many times how grateful and truly blessed he was.

Arrangements were entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor, where a memorial service was held Dec. 15, with Rev. Garnet Parker officiating. A reception followed in the funeral home’s Elmcroft Reception Centre and then a private family interment at Maplewood Cemetery, Windsor.

Laurie requested there be no flowers; however, donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of NS, 112-2719 Gladstone St., Halifax, NS B3K 4W6; the Heart and Stroke Foundation of NS, 5657 Spring Garden Rd., Box 245, Halifax, NS B3J 3R4; or a charity of one’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – Scott Charpentier, Department of Public Works director, and Michael Easler, project landscape architect of Weston & Sampson, presented an update on the design for the Town Common project at the Board of Selectmen’s Dec. 17 meeting.

“The design has progressed to about a 75-percent design development level. Through the early design process there were a couple of public charrettes. Our first one was on Sept. 17. We presented a couple of design concepts and it was really a more macro level design review for the community to select elements that they liked and didn’t like from each design,” Charpentier explained.

He then shared that the second design charrette, which was held Nov. 13, was a bit more focused on materials, costs and to get a feel from the community on what they wanted relevant to design direction.

In between the two charrettes there was a meeting with stakeholders regarding the design element of a Gulf War Memorial which evolved from community input.

“Through the discussions we came up with a couple of general ideas through the first meeting about the form and function…It looks to create a very useful and usable New England common space,” Easler noted as he described the design in greater detail.

A large portion of the common will be dedicated to keeping the Civil War monument and adding the Gulf War Memorial.

Features of the design also include informal and semi-formal lawn spaces with several entry points, walkways and seating areas.

Selectman Leslie Rutan inquired about some of the materials that will be used for pavement surfaces and fencing discussed at the last charrette.

“A lot of it [the material] is going to be somewhat cost dependent, but we are looking to use a mix of concrete, colored concrete and bituminous asphalt depending on the formality along with the potential using, in areas of significance, brick or a concrete paver system,” Easler replied.

Regarding fencing, Easler explained that they would do a “modified post and beam” with low granite posts interspersed with wooden posts which would be very New England in style and durable as well.

Other discussion points brought up by Selectman Juliane Hirsch included whether water and electricity would be available. Charpentier assured her that both would be available.

“The next step is development of construction documents, advancing the construction cost estimates and the goal of the project is to get this out to bid this winter,” stated Charpentier. “So we can award it to a contractor in March and as soon as the construction season starts a groundbreaking can occur.”

By Matthew Dunn, Contributing Writer

Northborough – Over 200 miles away from her hometown of Northborough, Saint Michael’s college sophomore, neuroscience major, and Women’s Ice Hockey team member Elena Avradopoulos is quietly working to accomplish her goals both on and off the ice.

Tucked gently near the shore of Lake Champlain and the city of Burlington, Saint Michael’s college in Colchester, Vt. prides itself on offering its students a close-knit community of learners as well as opportunities to further athletic careers.

“I love playing for and studying at St. Mike’s. I chose to come here because the school is known for having a great science department, the people are caring and genuine, and I had been offered a spot on the hockey team,” Avradopoulos explained, enthusiastically recalling her decision to attend Saint Michael’s. “The people at St. Mike’s are incredible. Everyone is so friendly and genuine, and that isn’t always easy to find. I have the most amazing friends and teammates here and an endless amount of support.”

According to Josh Kessler, an alumnus of Saint Michael’s and current athletic communications director, “Saint Michael’s has about 2,000 students [enrolled] and 21 varsity sports that compete at the NCAA Division II level.”

For Avradopoulos, being able to play hockey at the collegiate level is a dream come true.

“I didn’t start playing hockey until I was ten, which is pretty late. I remember being infatuated with skating when I was young, so I wanted to play a sport that where I could do just that. I’m the first person in my family to play hockey, so everyone was pretty shocked that I decided to pick it up.”

Avradopoulos also credits her Northborough roots and experience at Algonquin Regional High School for getting her started in competitive hockey, as well as motivating her to reach her goals.

“Algonquin was where I really began to discover my passion for playing hockey. Whenever I faced adversity, I was determined to face it head on. I definitely learned the importance of working hard to achieve my goals, which was crucial considering I’m not naturally super-athletic. My club coach, Kevin Lane, has also definitely played a huge role in helping me fulfill my dream of playing hockey at the collegiate level. He has always been a great teacher and mentor.”

As a rising neuroscience undergraduate, Avradopoulos has plans after college both on and off the ice.

“My biggest goal is to attend medical school after I graduate and become a psychiatrist. I’ll also definitely continue to be a part of the hockey community in some way, whether it be coaching or playing recreationally.”

She appreciates her parents Dan Avradopoulos and Helen Koroniades for supporting her during a long snowy hockey season in the northwest corner of Vermont, noting “My parents are big supporters and come to every game they can.”

However, despite the support she receives, Avradopoulos recognizes the challenges that come with being a student-athlete.

“It’s definitely not easy considering I am studying such a tough major and minor (Neuroscience and Chemistry, respectively). Even though it’s tough, I absolutely love what I’m studying and the sport I’m playing, so it’s totally worth it.”

Well on her way to accomplishing the goals she has set for herself, she offers some advice to future prospective college-athletes.

“Grades are, and always be, the most important factor when it comes to applying to college. Playing a college sport is also a lot of work. You really have to love the game and be motivated to work hard in class, on the ice and in the gym. I truly encourage any young student-athlete with hopes of playing in college to go for it as long as they’re willing to put in the work required to succeed academically and athletically.”

Submitted by Normand Corbin
Chair, Northborough Historic District Commission

This is the concluding article in my series on the Wesson Summer Mansion in Northborough. This article is about the property owners after Daniel and Cynthia Wesson.

Mr. Alfred Thomas acquired the property from the Wesson family in 1910. Mr. Thomas was born in England and was a street railway vice president in Worcester. He was quoted as saying    “The place appealed to me because of its English style. An Englishman is brought up to like trees and flowers about him, and that’s just what appeals to me most on this property.” The estate was used as a summer home until 1926.

Mr. George Rousell owned the property from 1928 to 1942. I have been unable to find any information regarding his use of the property. If anyone has some information please contact me.

The property was owned by the Panepirotic Federation of America in the early 1940’. This society was founded in Worcester, Mass. in 1942. It was created to improve the economic situation and quality of life for the people living in Epirus. Epirus is a historical region now shared between Greece and Albania along the Adriatic coastline. From their website, panepirotic.org , Epirotes from all over the East Coast of the United States met for several days at an estate in Northboro, Mass. (White Cliffs Property?) and forged the first national organization in July of 1942.

Felician Rojcewicz owned it from 1945 and his son Albert from 1949 until the property was sold in 1953. The Rojcewicz family changed their name to Rogers in 1953. I was fortunate to track down Albert Rogers with the assistance of Mrs. Claire Swan. Mr. Rogers served as an Army Flyer in WWII serving three and a half years in China. Starting in May 1946, the property operated as a restaurant called the “Northboro Manor”. Mr. Rogers mentioned how challenging running the restaurant was and that he needed a second job to make ends meet. A dinner of baked lobster thermidor with French fries, dessert and coffee was $2.50. A tenderloin steak sandwich went for 60 cents with a 40 cent Pabst beer. They had bands for live music. In 1953 they incorporated “The Cliffs” and were planning a 2 million dollar renovation of the 28 acre property. It was to open as a private club. The alterations were to include a motel, swimming pool, year round ice rink, tennis courts, golf course, bowling alley and stables. Sadly the project never obtained the funding it needed and the property was sold.

Five Tomaiolo brothers purchased the property in 1953 and ran it as the White Cliffs Restaurant and Function Facility until 1985. I was able to contact Mr. Frank Tomaiolo, a nephew to the owners, for some history. In 1969 a large kitchen and the large Leonardo Room addition was added. The function room was named after the family patriarch Leonardo Tomaiolo. The expansion increased the capacity of the facility by another 325 guests. This establishment was well known for the quality of their Italian food and was a major function facility in the local area. Many of Northborough’s current residents have fond memories of the Tomaiolo years, especially those who worked there. A descendant is still in the restaurant business today and runs A.J. Tomaiolo’s in Northborough.

From 1985 to 2017 the property was owned by the LaCava family as part of their holdings under their Realty Trust businesses. They focused their operations on providing a facility for functions and stopped the daily restaurant business. White Cliffs was a great venue for many memorable events over the years including private functions, weddings and Northborough’s annual Winter Ball. During their ownership, much of the original acreage associated with the property was sold for residential and commercial development. In particular, properties along Stratton Way were once part of the White Cliffs Estate.

After more than 70 years serving the public as a combination restaurant and/or function facility, the property was put up for sale in January 2014. Due to the lack of a buyer, demolition was scheduled to start in 2016 to make room for residential house lots. At the April 2016 Northborough Town Meeting town members voted to have the town purchase the property and save it from demolition. The purchase was finalized in September 2017. A town committee has been formed to address the future reuse of the property. The goal of the committee is to work with the community and identify a long term opportunity that will keep this historic landmark as a key resource for Northborough.

To read other stories in this series, visit www.communityadvocate.com and put in “Normand Corbin” in the search bar on the top right hand of the page.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – Town Planner Kathy Joubert appeared before the Board of Selectmen at their Dec. 17 meeting to seek approval of a Conservation Restriction (CR) for 301 Bartlett St., which is the last step needed in this multi-year process.

There is a large warehouse currently under construction at the site. This restriction will permanently protect 23.2 acres of land by preventing further building on this site, which is a priority habitat area for the Blue-Spotted Salamander – an endangered species under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) which was discovered in 2008.

It is important to note that this CR is identical to one that the board signed in 2008. The state is requiring a new and updated form but the elements of the 2008 CR have not changed. It was essentially a housekeeping task.

Joubert said that this is the last step and that Town Counsel has reviewed this as well.

“This particular project falls in some of that priority habitat so what the state did was through their review process with the Natural Heritage and through the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, they worked with the developer and requested that there be an area that would have a Conservation Restriction placed on it so no building could ever happen there,” Joubert informed the board.

The Conservation Commission approved to accept and signed their portion of this restriction at their meeting held Dec. 10. The board unanimously voted to approve this acceptance Dec. 17.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – Scott Charpentier, Department of Public Works director, and Michael Easler, project landscape architect of Weston & Sampson, presented an update on the design for the Town Common project at the Board of Selectmen’s Dec. 17 meeting.

“The design has progressed to about a 75-percent design development level. Through the early design process there were a couple of public charrettes. Our first one was on Sept. 17. We presented a couple of design concepts and it was really a more macro level design review for the community to select elements that they liked and didn’t like from each design,” Charpentier explained.

He then shared that the second design charrette, which was held Nov. 13, was a bit more focused on materials, costs and to get a feel from the community on what they wanted relevant to design direction.

In between the two charrettes there was a meeting with stakeholders regarding the design element of a Gulf War Memorial which evolved from community input.

“Through the discussions we came up with a couple of general ideas through the first meeting about the form and function…It looks to create a very useful and usable New England common space,” Easler noted as he described the design in greater detail.

A large portion of the common will be dedicated to keeping the Civil War monument and adding the Gulf War Memorial.

Features of the design also include informal and semi-formal lawn spaces with several entry points, walkways and seating areas.

Selectman Leslie Rutan inquired about some of the materials that will be used for pavement surfaces and fencing discussed at the last charrette.

“A lot of it [the material] is going to be somewhat cost dependent, but we are looking to use a mix of concrete, colored concrete and bituminous asphalt depending on the formality along with the potential using, in areas of significance, brick or a concrete paver system,” Easler replied.

Regarding fencing, Easler explained that they would do a “modified post and beam” with low granite posts interspersed with wooden posts which would be very New England in style and durable as well.

Other discussion points brought up by Selectman Juliane Hirsch included whether water and electricity would be available. Charpentier assured her that both would be available.

“The next step is development of construction documents, advancing the construction cost estimates and the goal of the project is to get this out to bid this winter,” stated Charpentier. “So we can award it to a contractor in March and as soon as the construction season starts a groundbreaking can occur.”

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – The Northborough Master Plan Steering Committee met with selectmen at their Dec. 17 meeting to discuss the plan and provide an up-to-date overview.

Northborough is now in the process of updating the town-wide Master Plan. Three main issues have been identified that the public is most concerned with: the vibrancy of the downtown area, the walkability and connectivity of the town, and housing (particularly for seniors.)

The Steering Committee was represented by its chair, Fran Bakstran, and vice chair, Rick Leif. Bakstran began by describing the makeup of the 15-member committee who were appointed by selectmen or their respective committees.

“It’s a great group and there are so many diverse opinions and thoughts and a lot of cross dialogues and discussions which make this a vibrant group,” Bakstran remarked.

In September of 2017, an RFP was advertised seeking applications from consultants. VHP Consultants were selected. The committee has met six times and all meetings are open to the public. Two public forums have also been held. More are expected.

Two surveys were developed in conjunction with the two public forums which were held last June and this past October, with more than 100 people in attendance. Both surveys had tremendous response.

“As we met initially with the consultants, it became apparent that we wanted this to be the plan of Northborough… We wanted the plan to be driven by the town and have them help us implement it, and they’ve been very good that way,” noted Leif.

In a memo provided to selectmen, Bakstran and Leif shared the plan’s Vision Statement and goals relevant to Land Use; Housing, Economic Development; Natural, Cultural and Historic Resources; Open Space and Recreation; Public Facilities and Services; and Transportation.

“What we are working on now is to basically develop recommendations or action steps as to how we go about doing some of these things… The plan itself isn’t going to come up with a road map to do all this, it’s just going to outline what the next steps ought to be,” Leif said.

“We have our goals, now the action steps and recommendation to achieve those goals are more specific. The nuts and bolts as to how you get to those actions are down the road at a town staff level,” Bakstran interjected.

“As the town continues to grow and there’s a diverse group of people that comes into town, has there been any effort by the committee to reach out to people of different ethnic backgrounds to get their feedback?” inquired Selectman Tim Kaelin.

Leif replied that here had been a good cross-section of the town that has participated in the public forums.

The next meeting of the Steering Committee will take place Thursday, Jan. 3 (location TBD) and will be open to the public.

For more information, visit  http://northboromp.com.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – Town Planner Kathy Joubert appeared before the board at their Dec. 17 meeting to seek approval of a Conservation Restriction (CR) for 301 Bartlett St., which is the last step needed in this multi-year process.

There is a large warehouse currently under construction at the site. This restriction will permanently protect 23.2 acres of land by preventing further building on this site, which is a priority habitat area for the Blue-Spotted Salamander – an endangered species under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) which was discovered in 2008.

It is important to note that this CR is identical to one that the board signed in 2008. The state is requiring a new and updated form but the elements of the 2008 CR have not changed. It was essentially a housekeeping task.

Joubert said that this is the last step and that Town Counsel has reviewed this as well.

“This particular project falls in some of that priority habitat so what the state did was through their review process with the Natural Heritage and through the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, they worked with the developer and requested that there be an area that would have a Conservation Restriction placed on it so no building could ever happen there,” Joubert informed the board.

The Conservation Commission approved to accept and signed their portion of this restriction at their meeting held Dec. 10. The board unanimously voted to approve this acceptance Dec. 17.