By Dakota Antelman, Contributing Writer

Marlborough – The APEX Center in Marlborough was abuzz as city officials, local business owners, and area residents alike flocked to the first APEX Center Restaurant Tasting” June 27. As the event came together, organizers thanked the small army of volunteers and businesses themselves that made it possible.

The event, dubbed “Pace Yourself,” offered attendees the opportunity to buy $20 punch cards that, in turn, allowed them to taste food from each of the 11 restaurants in the sprawling APEX complex. It also featured several musical acts scattered on patios and sidewalks throughout the area and boasted door prizes to ticket buyers.

“It’s great to see the turnout,” said APEX Entertainment Center Assistant Manager Joey Slawinski. “It’s just a great opportunity to get our name out there. With Marlborough being so big, it’s nice to see what we can offer them as well.”

As organizers primarily from the Marlborough Chamber of Commerce lavished praise on the APEX center itself for hosting the event, they also frequently noted the contributions volunteers made throughout the planning process.

“It’s amazing how many volunteers have spent many, many hours to put this together,” said President and CEO of Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRCC) Susanne Morreale-Leeber. “The staff has done some of the background work putting this together, but I have to say the volunteers here are the key to this event.”

Ultimately, as those volunteers registered attendees and directed them to the tables of smiling employees of APEX Center restaurants, organizers were most thankful to the community as a whole for its support of the APEX Center since its opening and its involvement in the economic boom APEX helped bring to the city.

“It’s a booming place to be and a great place of live work and play,” said MRCC Board of Directors Chair Mary Jo Nawrocki.

Participating restaurants included: Pit Stop Tavern, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, Wendy’s, Evviva Cucina, Hot Table Panini, Protein House, Hyatt Place, Friendly’s, Qdoba, 110 Grill, and Okami Hibachi & Sushi.

Sponsors included: Community Advocate (Media); Main Street Bank (Entertainment); Catherine Dressel/New York Life (Entertainment); Atlas Travel; Avidia Bank; BB Writes; Digital Federal Credit Union; Fairfield Inn & Suites; IC Federal Credit Union; MRCC; and St. Mary’s Credit Union.

The two organizations have partnered over the past two years to help provide home repairs to veterans, seniors and families in need.

The student volunteers and a handful of Habitat for Humanity’s volunteer staff made significant progress on the home improvement work. Despite the rain, students completed a variety of projects throughout the day-long event. Improvements included removing an old cement walkway; preparing the front yard for a new walkway; removing brush, stumps and weeds; laying mulch; and clearing the back yard.

“This program will provide much needed repairs to a veterans’ home in Marlborough,” Mayor Arthur Vigeant said. “It is great to see some of Marlborough’s own volunteering their time on a rainy Saturday to help one of their neighbors.”

MHS Habitat staff advisor Jo-Anne Sawyer (who also volunteered with her students) said, “The more direct an impact the students’ can see from their work – literally down the street for some – the more lasting an impact. Something as tangible as the transformation at this veteran’s home gives the students ownership of their role in the community and something to be proud of for years to come. I look forward to each of the next projects in this partnership and the opportunity it will provide not only to the student volunteers but the residents of Marlborough.”

The Marlborough Community Development Authority and Habitat for Humanity thanked student volunteers Brandon Cavicchio, Rex Pinson, Edward Smith, Justin Bates, Lou Vigeant, Carlos Jose Ortiz Argueta, Amanda Charlwood, Madeline Stoddard, Brian Boxell, Peter Andrei, and Aarthi Gopalan for completing necessary improvements to the house.

The Marlborough High School campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity supports the volunteer efforts of the MetroWest Greater Worcester Habitat chapter whenever possible. In the past, the high school has volunteered at the ReStore, a retail store that sells second-hand furniture and discount home improvement tools and materials run by Habitat, has worked on the current build site on Main Street in Northborough, and Operation Playhouse, a project that builds play structures for military families. The club hopes to increase awareness of Habitat’s work and fundraise to hold more events here in Marlborough. The Critical Home Repair Program is a big step toward this goal.

The MCDA offers loans through a variety of programs. To learn more about the programs and loans offered and to see if you qualify, visit www.marlborough-ma.gov/mcda. If you have questions about the Critical Home Repair Program, contact the MCDA Executive Director Douglas M. Bushman at dbushman@marlborough-ma.gov or 508-624-6908, ext. 40101.

Marlborough

Monday, June 25

9:17 a.m. Apex Dr. Suspicious MV.

9:21 a.m. Arrested, Brendan W. Loveland, 30, of 365 Simsbury Rd., Bloomsfield, Conn., on warrant.

11:56 a.m. Lakeshore Dr. Larceny.

12:03 p.m. Liberty St. Larceny.

12:25 p.m. Main St. Assault.

5:19 p.m. Pheasant Hill Rd. Suspicious MV.

5:31 p.m. Hosmer St. Vandalism.

6:06 p.m. Hildreth St. MVA with injuries.

6:58 p.m. Boston Post Road East. Vandalism.

7:50 p.m. Farm Rd. Suspicious activity.

9:33 p.m. Union St. Disturbance.

11:44 p.m. Laviolette St. Disturbance.

Tuesday, June 26

11:15 a.m. Gulbankian Dr./Broadmeadow Rd. Suspicious activity.

3:08 p.m. Lakeside Ave. MVA with injuries.

3:24 p.m. Cotting Ave. Disturbance.

4:24 p.m. Florence St. Suspicious MV.

7:37 p.m. Lakeshore Dr./Wakefield Rd. Suspicious activity.

9:36 p.m. Hudson/Jefferson Sts. Suspicious MV.

Wednesday, June 27

2:07 a.m. Hager St. Suspicious MV.

3:58 a.m. Union St. Disturbance.

4:33 a.m. Westminster St. Disturbance.

7:31 a.m. Warren Ave. Auto theft.

8:09 a.m. Main St. Suspicious activity.

9:57 a.m. Essex St. B&E into MV.

1:24 p.m. Briarwood Ln. Threats.

6:17 p.m. West Main St. Disturbance.

6:34 p.m. Hildreth St. Harassment.

7:20 p.m. Lincoln St. Harassment.

7:37 p.m. Thunderbird Rd. Suspicious activity.

7:59 p.m. Broad St. Disturbance.

8:30 p.m. Arrested, Douglas Noe, 24, of 14 Mount Pleasant St., Apt. 12, Marlborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, speeding in violation special regulation.

11:35 p.m. Broad St. Disturbance.

Thursday, June 28

12:02 a.m. Arrested, Rebecca L. Pruitt, 21, homeless, Marlborough, for vandalize property, disturbing the peace, resist arrest, A&B on police officer, assault (2 cts).

8:02 a.m. Union St. Disturbance.

8:40 a.m. Davis St. Burglary/B&E past.

9:36 a.m. Warren Ave. B&E into MV.

2:11 p.m. Arrested, Andre Lester, 28, of 116 Woodside Ter., Apt. 1^st, Springfield, on warrant.

2:47 p.m. Francis St. Fraud/forgery.

10:01 p.m. Chestnut/Broad Sts. Suspicious activity.

11:11 p.m. Maple St. Suspicious activity.

Friday, June 29

12:00 a.m. Arrested, Michael David Capodilupo, 28, of 27 Nancy Ave., Peabody, on warrant, B&E vehicle/boat nighttime for felony (2 cts), malicious damage to motor vehicle (2 cts), possess burglarious instrument, possess Class A drug, larceny over $1,200, carry dangerous weapon.

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.

Marlborough – Lupe Armida (Campos) Nussbaum, 67, of Marlborough, died peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, June 30, 2018 at her home.

She was the daughter of Antonio B. and Maria Luisa (Carrillo) Campos and the wife of Alan Nussbaum, to whom she had been married for the past 37 years.

Lupe had been employed as a Data Management and Quality Assurance Specialist for the Aerospace industry working at TRW for many years before she retired in 1989.

She loved spending time with her two grandchildren, who gave her strength during her illness and always brightened her day. She was active at St. Luke’s Church of Hudson, where she was a member of the Altar Guild and occasionally sang with the choir. She had a charisma that attracted others to reach out to her and she always responded to their needs.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her daughters, Charmene Sanchez of Hudson and Marlane Nussbaum of Marietta, Ga.; her grandchildren, Jacob Apodaca of Hudson and Grace Vigeant of Marlborough: and her sisters and brothers, Martha Flores, Tony Campos, Angel Campos, Eddie Campos, Lulu Campos, and Ernie Campos. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews across the country, whom she adored, as well as many close friends.

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday, July 14, at 11 a.m., at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 5 Washington St., Hudson, MA 01749. There will be no funeral home visiting hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke’s Church, 5 Washington St., Hudson, MA 01749.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant St., Marlborough.

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer

Marlborough – Boy Scout Troop 41 in Marlborough recognized four young men for demonstrating leadership skills while performing community service projects on their way to becoming Eagle Scouts. An Eagle Scout Court of Honor took place June 11 at the First Church in Marlborough, the troop’s meeting place and sponsor. Eagle Scout is the highest rank of the Boy Scouts of America.

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) and state Rep. Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough) presented citations, and Mayor Arthur Vigeant presented proclamations. The elected officials commended the Eagle Scouts for their enhancements to the community. The ceremony was emceed by Jason Young, past scoutmaster and now an assistant scoutmaster.

“They learn the value of upfront planning with their Eagle Scout projects,” he explained. “They estimate the costs of materials and how many volunteers are needed. It does make their projects go much smoother when they’ve thought ahead about all the things you need to do. For the projects that required volunteers, being able to delegate is also a good learning experience for them.”

A passion for baseball inspired the construction-intensive Eagle project of Corey Daly, a 2017 Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School graduate and now a rising sophomore at Merrimack College. He improved the conditions for baseball players and fans at Stevens Park in the city’s French Hill neighborhood by building cubbyholes in the dugouts, repairing bleachers, as well as painting and setting up two picnic tables.

Isaac Niedzielski, a 2018 graduate of St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, realized that he could fill a void when the troop conducted its annual campout at Riverside Gun Club in Hudson. The club’s outdoor archery range didn’t have permanent markers to determine distance for competitions. He installed permanent markers at the club’s outdoor archery range as his Eagle project.

Noah Watson, a 2018 Marlborough High School (MHS) graduate, decided to restore the Sheep Falls Brook trail for his Eagle project. It’s described on the city of Marlborough’s website as “a one-mile trail that provides a wooded loop path connecting Sasseville Way and the Assabet River Rail Trail to the ARRT entrance near Boston Scientific Way.” He organized volunteers to help remove invasive plants and control erosion.

Before graduating from MHS in 2018, Alex Young, attended Immaculate Conception School from kindergarten through eighth grade. There, he saw a photograph from a few decades ago of the Mary statue that is located outside the back of IC Church. Over the years, however, the statue and grounds around it weren’t well-maintained. For his multistage Eagle project, he cleaned the statue, cleared the overgrowth, installed a bench, and then got volunteers to help with landscaping including a gravel path.

Joining the Eagle Scouts at the Court of Honor were other scouts, troop leaders including Scoutmaster Tom Wissler, mentors, family and friends. A reception catered by The Buffet Way followed the ceremony.

For more information about Boy Scout Troop 41, visit ktctroop41.org and on Facebook at facebook.com/Troop41Marlborough.

Marlborough – Members of the Marlborough Police Department recently concluded interactive, scenario-based firearms training in collaboration with the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO).

The training was completed during the week of June 11 on the MSO’s Mobile Training Center (MTC).  The MTC, purchased in 2010 with a federal grant, was first utilized by Marlborough PD in 2011 and last used in June 2016. Forty patrol officers and detectives participated in the training this year.

“The scenarios officers go through on the MTC reflect the types of situations they respond to on a daily basis, ranging from car stops to calls for suspicious activity,” said Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian.  “The interactive capability allows officers to work on their communications skills, as well as their firearms skills, and provides an opportunity for departmental instructors to provide valuable feedback.”

“The opportunity for our department to use the Middlesex Sheriff’s MTC is a great benefit to our department,” said Marlborough Police Chief David Giorgi. “In addition to our yearly training schedule, the time which officers are afforded inside the MTC, working through real life scenarios is not only invaluable, but also crucial in sharpening the essential skills needed to be effective as a present day police officer.”

This year, each Marlborough officer who participated in the MTC training also took part in one active shooter scenario.

In 2017, nearly 20 departments and some 700 officers participated in interactive, scenario-based training on the MTC.

“We’re glad to be able to support Marlborough PD and our other law enforcement partners by making this valuable and unique resource available to assist with training,” said Koutoujian.

By Ron Ayotte, Contributing Writer/Photographer

Marlborough Firefighters fought a two alarm fire at 144 Chestnut Street on the morning of July 6. The alarm was received at 2:23 a.m.., sending Car 5, Engines 1, 3, 6, Rescue 1 and Ladder 2 to the scene. Car 2 also responded. Engine 6 ( a reserve truck), stationed at the Pleasant Street Firehouse was first due. Lt. Dan Chaousis struck the second alarm for the fire right away, which recalled off duty personnel as well as mutual aid from neighboring departments.

An interior fire attack was started, but conditions inside rapidly deteriorated.  Battalion Chief David D’Amico ordered the firefighters out of the building an fire operations went defensive, with firefighters operating master streams and numerous handlines  attacking the fire from outside. The roof in the rear of the structure collapsed. The fire was so intense, the vinyl siding of the house next door began to melt.

The fire wasn’t the only thing the firefighters had to contend with. They also had to deal with the heat, humidity and low water pressure. The Department of Fire Services (DFS) Incident Rehab Unit, based at the Department of Fire Services in Stow was requested to the scene to give firefighters a place to cool down and hydrate.

The towns of Hudson, Southborough, Northborough, Berlin, Sudbury and the city of Framingham sent fire apparatus to the scene and to Marlborough’s fire stations to cover.

The Marlborough Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit is investigating.

Ron Ayotte is a former Marlborough Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief.

Marlborough

Friday, June 29

8:52 a.m. Elm St. Suspicious activity.

10:17 a.m. Bowstring Way. Fraud/forgery.

12:31 p.m. Maple St. Fraud/forgery.

1:31 p.m. West Main/Broad Sts. Suspicious activity.

2:23 p.m. Chestnut St. Disturbance.

4:17 p.m. Bolton/Union Sts. MVA with injuries.

4:49 p.m. Mohican Path. Fraud/forgery.

8:08 p.m. Exeter St. Trespassing.

9:38 p.m. Miles Standish Dr. Suspicious activity.

11:29 p.m. Central St. Disturbance.

Saturday, June 30

1:04 a.m. Chestnut/Cross Sts. Disturbance.

12:09 p.m. Arrested, Shanniely Marie Pitre, 25, of 79 Silver Leaf Way, Apt. 23, Marlborough, on warrant.

12:31 p.m. Kosmas St. Fraud/forgery.

12:33 p.m. Main St. Harassment.

3:37 p.m. Springhill Ave. Suspicious activity.

7:18 p.m. Fairmount St. Suspicious MV.

10:02 p.m. Main St. Robbery.

10:18 p.m. Newton St. Disturbance.

Sunday, July 1

12:26 a.m. Bronte Way. Suspicious activity.

11:42 a.m. Main St. Trespassing.

2:30 p.m. Royal Crest Dr. Disturbance.

3:36 p.m. Huntington Ave. Larceny.

4:20 p.m. Marlton Dr. Disturbance.

9:23 p.m. Broad St. Threats.

9:35 p.m. Boston Post Road East. Suspicious activity.

11:48 p.m. Main St. Disturbance.

Monday, July 2

8:14 a.m. Silver Leaf Way. Threats.

10:56 a.m. Union St. Disturbance.

11:14 a.m. Cross St. Suspicious activity.

12:22 p.m. Bolton St. Suspicious activity.

2:13 p.m. Farm Rd. Suspicious activity.

2:46 p.m. Boston Post Road East. Harassment.

4:29 p.m. Newton St. Suspicious MV.

5:11 p.m. Main St. Fraud/forgery.

8:54 p.m. West Main St. Larceny.

10:57 p.m. Prospect St. Suspicious MV.

Tuesday, July 3

3:02 a.m. Kirby St. Disturbance.

10:46 a.m. Chestnut/Broad Sts. Suspicious activity.

11:25 a.m. Boston Post Road East. Fraud/forgery.

1:11 p.m. Waterford Dr. Harassment.

2:21 p.m. Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Larceny.

4:25 p.m. Evelina Dr. Suspicious activity.

5:49 p.m. Arrested, Igor Blinovas, 19, of 50 Washington St., Apt. 4, Hudson, for disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct, assault, deface property.

7:52 p.m. Ewald Ave. Suspicious activity.

9:18 p.m. Williams St. Suspicious activity.

10:04 p.m. Liberty St. Suspicious activity.

10:25 p.m. Mechanic St. Suspicious activity.

11:11 p.m. East Main St. Disturbance.

Wednesday, July 4

1:31 a.m. East Main St. Disturbance.

1:55 a.m. Main St. Disturbance.

8:19 a.m. Lincoln St. Disturbance.

9:38 a.m. Arrested, Ricardo Lepe, 41, of 171 Highland St., Apt. 104, Taunton, for OUI liquor, leave scene of property damage, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

2:32 p.m. Hosmer St. Disturbance.

4:33 p.m. Arrested, Anthony W. Forte, 50, of 19 Northboro Road East, Apt. 304, Marlborough, on warrant.

5:40 p.m. Arrested, Kevin Nokes, 57, of 498 Lincoln St., Apt. 3, Marlborough, on warrant, possess Class B drug.

8:40 p.m. Ferrecchia Dr. Suspicious activity.

8:59 p.m. Tassi Dr. Suspicious activity.

9:08 p.m. Briarwood Ln. Suspicious activity.

9:24 p.m. Main St. Disturbance.

Thursday, July 5

6:49 a.m. Applewood Dr. Suspicious activity.

9:43 a.m. Bolton St. Fraud/forgery.

11:48 a.m. Main St. Disturbance.

12:43 p.m. Lakeside Ave. Disturbance.

5:54 p.m. East Main St. Suspicious MV.

9:17 p.m. Boston Post Road East. Harassment.

9:25 p.m. Maple St. Suspicious activity.

10:27 p.m. Lincoln St. Assault.

10:33 p.m. Harrison Pl. Suspicious activity.

Friday, July 6

1:15 a.m. Sawin St./Grace Ave. Suspicious MV.

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.

Marlborough – The Highland City Striders Running Club is hosting their 10th annual Running with the Wolves 10k and the new White Fang 5k Wednesday, July 18, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Both races start and finish at Kelleher Field, 45 Jefferson St., Marlborough and traverse the car-free, stroller-friendly Assabet River Rail Trail.

All race participants receive a race shirt, Wolves wine glass, SWAG bags, finish line refreshments and a ticket to the Howl at the Moon after-party with live music at the Prospector East Saloon, 520 Lincoln Street, Marlborough.

Participants can also enter to win prizes in the Wear-Wolf Costume Contest, and teams can enter to win a crystal trophy for the largest Wolf Pack.

Adult entry fee is $30 and students age 18 or younger can enter for $20. Prices go up to $35 and $30, respectively, on Monday, July 16.

Register online at www.runningwiththewolves.racewire.com. The race is proudly sponsored by St. Mary’s Credit Union, Avidia Bank, A.L. Purinton, Main Street Bank, Marlborough Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Medusa Brewing Company, The Murphy Family Foundation, PR Running and The Vin Bin.

All proceeds go to the Marlborough and Hudson food banks.

The Highland City Striders Running Club is a nonprofit 501(C)3. Since 2009, the Running with the Wolves 10K has raised over $50,000 for local charities. For more information visit  www.highlandcitystriders.org.

Marlborough – Hazel V. (Clifford) Byrnes, 96, of Marlborough, died Sunday, July 8, 2018 at Wingate at Sudbury.

Born in Brockton and raised in Waltham, she was the daughter of the late Jeremiah and Margaret (Deyoung) Clifford and the wife of the late Robert E. Byrnes, who died in 1988. She had also been the wife of the late William “Bill” Fitzsimmons.

A graduate of Waltham High School, Mrs. Byrnes had been employed as an assembler at Digital Corp.until retiring in 1985.

She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Warren and her husband Bruce E. of Northborough; her son, William M. Fitzsimmons and his wife Aldora of Virginia Beach, Va.; her sister, Lorraine Shute and her husband Robert of Marlborough; her grandchildren, Robert J. Porter Jr. and his wife Julie, Michael T. Porter, Julianne Porter, Paul Fitzsimmons, Christopher Fitzsimmons, and Scott Fitzsimmons; and her great-grandchildren, Katherine and Abby Porter.

Visiting hours will be held Monday, July 16, from 9-10:30 a.m., at the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant St., Marlborough. A funeral service will be follow at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Wilson Street, Marlborough.

Donations may be made to Pets for Vets at www.petsforvets.com/boston.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Marlborough – Tucked inside a small building located at 782 Boston Post Rd. in Marlborough, is one of the largest selections of carpeting in the surrounding area. Once one steps through the doors the volume of carpeting choices and options is immediately apparent.

Post Road Carpet has been in business for over 50 years and is women-owned and operated. The business enjoys an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

“I think this gives us an edge, particularly for customers coming in. We approach things from a female perspective, and how we target our audience is a little bit different than a male perspective,” stated Chrystal Kenney, the company’s office manager. “It’s especially useful when families come in to shop with children in tow.”

Part of the excellent service that their customers can expect include first, measuring customers’ spaces, and then installation by fully licensed and insured professionals, many of whom have been with the company for 20 years.

Their knowledgeable sales professionals are tuned into market trends through social media and online home design sites such as Houzz and Pinterest that appeal to all ages but particularly young families and the first-time home decorator who are often younger and looking for on-trend styles and advice.

Speaking of on-trend, regarding stairs and hallway runners, Kenney said, “People are going for a little bit bolder styles than they have been for the past few years and that’s kind of fun…and they are going with stronger patterns, still in neutral tones and you see a lot of geometric patterns and herringbone is very popular.”

But, for regular rooms the trend is for softer feeling rugs in subtle tonal shades that add depth and dimension, she noted.

As their name indicates, Post Road Carpet deals exclusively with carpeting, including wall to wall, runners, remnants to custom-designed and “green” carpets made from renewable resources. They also carry carpeting in natural fibers such as sisal, wool, sea grass and jute.

Their inventory includes many of the leading brands and include some that are stain-resistant (STAINMASTER®,) crush-resistant and static-free. They provide on-site binding for certain newly purchased styles and special orders can be accommodated. They also work with local Realtors to provide quality carpet, in stock, at a price point perfect for staging a home for a speedy sale.

While Post Road Carpet doesn’t clean carpets, they do provide to their clients may useful tips on how to protect and care for their carpeting.

“Pets are something that we address a lot…whether it’s pet accidents or pets slipping down the stairs,” Kenney said. She said that a lot of customers think about carpeting that is pet friendly. Innovation has kept pace with this demand.

She shared that there are solutions for people with pets and also with allergies. There are different needs and there are new carpets that address these needs and are designed to release the allergens and actually trap them, making them easier to vacuum.

Post Road Carpet is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 5088-485-2227; email info@PostRoadCarpet.com, or visit www.postroadcarpet.com.

By Janice Elizabeth Berte, Contributing Writer

Marlborough – Marlborough resident and master woodturner Louis Noborini’s love for woodworking began when he was in his seventh-grade woodworking class at the Woodward School in Southborough. After making a bowl, his fascination turned into a passion. Years later, his son came home with a handmade wooden pen that stirred his emotions to get back into this craft. Shortly after, his wife Marcia bought him his first lathe for Christmas. These machines help create and mold beautiful wood and acrylic pieces.

“I have a tremendous love affair with wood, and I want it to be fun,” Noborini said. “But I also want to have instant gratification as well. The grains of wood intrigue me and I can make stunning objects, which creates fascinating finishes.”

Two of the things he loves about this hobby are that there is instant gratification and that it is inexpensive unless you make high-end pieces.

“I can usually make a pen in less than an hour,” he explained.

For finishing, he uses super glue to give the pens some texture.

The tools that Noborini uses are various skews, chisels and detailers, some made out of carbide steel. Coco bolo wood which is only grown in Hawaii can be used for wood turning. In addition to that, he uses olive wood from Bethlehem, Israel and snake wood which comes from a small tree in the forests of Central and South America. It is also known as one of the most expensive woods in the world. A 1×9 inch piece of snake wood can cost from $30 to $40.

Noborini has created flatware, pepper mills, cheese slicers, pens, bowls, toothbrush handles, oil lamps, wine glasses and many other items. He enjoys giving these items to family and friends as gifts.

Staff Reports

Marlborough – Eight inspiring student leaders from THRIVE’S Support & Advocacy Leadership Experience and Development (LEAD) initiative recently celebrated their graduation from the program in a ceremony held at the Marlborough Senior Center.

LEAD, according to THRIVE’s website (icanthrive.org) “is a groundbreaking initiative that prepares and empowers young adults who want to learn what it takes to become a leader and better the world around them. Supported by LEAD staff and mentors, young adults (ages 17-25) gain the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to become leaders in their communities.”

This is the second class of students to graduate from the program which began in October.

“We follow the Seven Habits of Leadership curriculum and we help our leaders, all of whom have intellectual and developmental delays, learn the tools to become a successful leader,” explained Caitlin Devaney-Fortwengler, family and individual support coordinator at THRIVE. “We also help to connect them with the community and bridge the gap so that more people get to know this population. We have wonderful mentors who are present at our meetings and they share stories about what it takes to be a leader. They are great listeners and they let our leaders share. They are so positive and encouraging.”

Every Monday, the eight students, ranging in age from 17 to 25, met with their peer mentors – Izabella Vera, Megan Scott and Elle Nelson – all of whom were students from the Advanced Math & Science Academy. The mentors then helped the students, covering topics such as critical thinking, role-playing and more. In addition, business mentors from Main Street Bank, Align Credit Union, Provo Financial and GrowthCo, also met with the students.

The group brainstormed to come with ideas for the curriculum’s two required community service projects. The first was the Heroes Cup Hockey Tournament in April, which brought firefighters, police officers, EMS and military personnel together for a fun weekend while raising money and awareness for several charities. They wrote appreciation letters to the first responders, and made a basket for a raffle they held.

The students also participated in Marlborough Clean Sweep, a cleanup day around the city’s courthouse April 28.

Some of the program’s students are still in high school, while some are in college. Several now have jobs, where they are implementing the skills they have worked hard to master. Those that graduate from this curriculum are welcomed back as peer mentors for the next group.

“Matthew McCarthy was one of our peer mentors that graduated last year and came back this session,” Devaney-Fortwengler said. “He spoke at the first group meeting and explained how leadership truly changed his life. He currently works at Hannaford’s and is taking the lead on his life’s decisions, not what the service navigators tell him to do. He has found his voice, which is quite empowering.”

The most recent participants shared what the program has meant to them.

“My experience in LEAD has been great. I made friends and I’m learning to help and support people,” noted Timothy Mantalvanos.

“Leadership means helping the community, telling the truth, being serious and standing up for myself,” said Caitlyn Kline.

“These leaders really help to make a difference,” said Devaney-Fortwengler. “They have the ability and the voice. They may need extra help or support but just knowing that they can do this, well, it’s life-changing.”

Students graduating included: Paula Cezar, Kristen Camacho, Samantha Grimaldo, Caitlyn Kline, Timothy Mantalvanos, Jackie McCarthy, Ryan Ng and Gio Pascal.

For more information about Thrive, Support & Advocacy, visit icanthrive.org and facebook.com/icanthrive.org.

By Dakota Antelman, Contributing Writer

Marlborough – The Marlborough Recreation Department, nearing the midpoint of the summer, is already well into its slate of summer programming, now offering weekly concerts, a wildly popular new splash pad, and planning an end of summer outdoor movie screening.

With those three efforts, one a longtime staple of the community, another debuting this year, and the third returning for its second year respectively, department director Zach Lambert says he and his staff are continually pushing to iron out kinks and innovate.

“We’re just trying to change it up, keep it new, keep it fresh,” he said of the long running summer concert series at Union Park downtown in particular. “It’s a good time.”

A summer favorite of community members, the concert series has regularly drawn attendees to the downtown area on Thursday nights to see musical acts take to the small white stage in the park.

“The community loves it because it’s downtown,” Lambert said. “You can go listen to music. You can go get some food. So the business owners love it too because they get business as well.”

In the spirit of keeping the program fresh, the department augmented this year’s lineup of summer concert mainstays like Flash Back or the Reminiscents with newcomers like Color Killer or Black Suede.

Both are bands made up entirely of young children, with the former, Color Killer, consisting of 8-12 year old musicians building a growing following around their energetic punk rock covers and original songs.

Beyond the summer concert series, the department has spent the summer working out the opening of a new splash pad outside its Ghiloni Park office.

“It’s right in the park where we work,” Lambert said. “We’re close by to observe it and maintain it if there’s any issues or anything like that…It’s a really popular summer spot to begin with so adding a water feature to cool people off is a home run.”

Despite some issues with water quality testing and a glitch that randomly turned off water flow through the attraction, Lambert said the splash pad is now running smoothly. For community members, that’s a good sign as the pad is now receiving heavy traffic and was particularly appreciated during the recent heat wave in early July.

“People are really excited about it,” Lambert said. “A lot of people were unaware that we had it and now they know. The thing is very, very busy on a daily basis.”

Finally, as it continues hosting Thursday concerts and opening its splash pad daily, the Recreation Department plans to end its summer with an outdoor movie screening at Ward Park.

First run last year and revived in June for a second year, the outdoor movie, Lambert said, has been a smash hit with community members. It offers pre-show entertainment including a selection of bouncy houses as well as free popcorn and slushies.

After what Lambert described as a surprisingly successful debut last year, the screening now operates through a collaboration between the Recreation Department and community groups like the Lions Club.

“We wanted to add something to our summer offerings and we wanted an event that we could do on our own and see what the reaction was,” Lambert said. “People were coming out of the woodwork. They loved it but it was a lot bigger success than we thought it would be. We used that to get more organized.”

Programming will indeed continue throughout the summer. For more information on the summer concert series, the splash pad, the movie screening, and the many other efforts of the Marlborough Recreation Department, visit their website mrd.recdesk.com.

Marlborough – Ralph E. Vacca, 82, died July 13, 2018 after a long period of failing health. He was the husband of Catherine (Fialkosky) Vacca, to whom he was married for 64 years.

He was born in Brighton, the son of the late Ralph C. and Anna (Larose) Vacca.

Ralph worked in construction for many years and was a proud, longtime  member of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 4. He retired in 1999.

Besides his wife he is survived by three sons, Ralph Vacca of Ashland, Michael Vacca of Hudson, and John Vacca of Marlborough; three daughters, Carol Ann Collette of Hopkinton, Theresa Marie Mailly of Marlborough, Mary Ann Vacca, and his “baby,” Catherine of Marlborough; one sister, Joan Valente, and one brother, Edward Vacca; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, friends and others whose lives he touched. He was predeceased by a son, Robert Vacca, and his beloved dog, Heidi.

A celebration of life will be held Monday, July 23, from 5-7 p.m., in the William R. Short and Son Funeral Home (www.shortfuneral.com), 95 West Main St., Marlborough.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

City has six months to secure matching funding in order to accept grant

Marlborough – A proposal to expand the Marlborough Public Library is one step closer to fruition thanks to the news that the library has been approved for a grant of just over $10 million from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC).

Marlborough had been on a construction waiting list since July of 2017. The city will now have six months to secure local match funding in order to accept the grant.

The nonprofit Marlborough Public Library Foundation is currently planning a capital campaign to raise $2 million for the project to help defray some of the city’s cost.

Located at 35 West Main St., (with parking on Witherbee Street) the building dates to the early 1900s. The renovation would increase the footprint from 22,300 square feet to 28,206 square feet. Additional parking will also be a focus as there are currently only 23 parking spots.

According to the MBLC, construction grants help pay for major capital improvement projects, including constructing a new public library, expanding and renovating an existing library building, or adapting and reusing another building for use as a library.

In order to be eligible for a grant, applicant libraries must:

• Be a free public library located in Massachusetts
• Be certified by the MBLC as meeting the minimum state standards for public library service
• Have a current long-range plan and annual action plan on file at the MBLC
• Comply with all application requirements

Grants cover approximately 45 – 50 percent of construction and must receive matching funds from the municipality. Not covered are things such as furniture, computers, landscaping, paving, and other ineligible costs as defined in MBLC parameters. 6

Construction grants are offered on “an irregular basis,” according to the MBLC, based on a number of factors, including state bond authorizations and the availability of funds through the annual capital budget.

If authorized, projects that plan for and achieve LEED certification will receive an additional 2 – 3.5 percent of their grant amount, based on the level of LEED attained. The minimum Green Library Incentive is $100,000 and the maximum is $500,000.

To donate to the foundation’s efforts mail checks to Marlborough Public Library Foundation, 35 West Main St., Marlborough, MA 01752. For more information contact marlpublibfoundation@gmail.com.

Marlborough – Mary L. (Basinger) Geraghty, 62, of Marlborough, died Thursday, July 12, 2018 at Wingate at Sudbury.

Born in Saco, Maine, she was the daughter of the late Jewel and Eleanor (Condon) Basinger. She had been the wife of the late Shawn J. Geraghty.

Although Mary was disabled due to an accident while in high school, she always maintained a positive attitude which was supported by her strong faith. She was selfless and always found a way to help anyone in need. She enjoyed traveling and loved spending time at the beach.

Mary is survived by her son, Tobias Geraghty and his wife Sarah of Marlborough; her daughter, Bonnie Speranzo and her husband Jim of Pittsfield; her grandchildren, Cameron and Isabella Geraghty, both of Marlborough; and her brothers, Thomas and Peter Basinger, both of Saco, Maine.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.

Marlborough

Friday, July 6

9:07 a.m. DiBuono Dr. Auto theft.

10:39 a.m. Chestnut St. Disturbance.

12:38 p.m. Beaman Ln. Suspicious activity.

2:41 p.m. West Main St. Suspicious activity.

6:28 p.m. East Main/Sawin Sts. Vandalism.

7:14 p.m. Lincoln St. Suspicious activity.

8:33 p.m. Mechanic St. Robbery.

10:10 p.m. Boston Post Road East. Fraud/forgery.

Saturday, July 7

10:36 a.m. DiBuono Dr. Suspicious MV.

1:58 p.m. Mechanic St. Harassment.

3:23 p.m. Applebriar Ln. Vandalism.

8:04 p.m. Arrested, Giovanni Dio Longby, 22, of 417 Cambridge St., Worcester, for assault by dangerous weapon (2 cts), A&B with dangerous weapon.

9:21 p.m. West Main St./Granger Blvd. MVA with injuries.

10:12 p.m. West Main/Pleasant Sts. MVA with injuries.

10:26 p.m. Newton/Main Sts. Suspicious activity.

11:24 p.m. Orchard St. Disturbance.

Sunday, July 8

12:10 a.m. Dickenson Way. Disturbance.

3:42 a.m. Bolton St. Suspicious activity.

3:15 p.m. Mechanic St. Harassment.

8:58 p.m. Beaman Ln. Disturbance.

9:35 p.m. Arrested, Nanette M. Sahagian, 49, of 8 Cotting Ave., Apt. 22, Marlborough, for violation of harassment  order.

10:45 p.m. Arrested, Lea Roberge, 34, of 26 Kingston St., Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor 2^nd offense.

Monday, July 9

2:45 a.m. Lakeshore Dr. Suspicious MV.

11:15 a.m. Arrested, Bruce A. Peacock Jr., 30, of 25 Royal Crest Dr., Apt. 8, Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended.

12:07 p.m. Christie Way. Harassment.

7:11 p.m. Arrested, Loucas B. Teixeira, 22, of 15 Frye St., Marlborough, on warrant.

9:18 p.m. Maple St. Suspicious MV.

Tuesday, July 10

12:37 a.m. Witherbee Ter. Suspicious activity.

Wednesday, July 11

10:17 a.m. Arrested, Christopher Joseph Colon, 20, of 87 Howland St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, on warrant.

1:56 p.m. Bolton St. Assault.

3:44 p.m. Maple St. Disturbance.

5:12 p.m. Orchard St. Auto theft.

5:55 p.m. Arrested, Randy M. Giancola, 41, of 57 Mechanic St., Marlborough, for A&B, A&B with dangerous, disorderly conduct, and David J. Ciampo, 60, of 496 Lincoln St., Apt. 11, Marlborough, A&B, A&B with dangerous, disorderly conduct.

9:36 p.m. Clover Hill St. Harassment.

9:51 p.m. Farm Rd./Helen Dr. Suspicious MV.

10:51 p.m. Union St. Disturbance.

Thursday, July 12

12:18 a.m. Chestnut/Broad Sts. Disturbance.

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.

Marlborough – Jennie (Colecchi) Bonina, 97, died July 20, 2018. Her husband of 68 years, Biagio “John” Bonina, passed away in 2011.

Surviving family members include her daughters, Patricia Barry Roache of Grafton, Roberta Gaucher of Shrewsbury, and Nancy (Gil) Boisvert of Falmouth; her grandchildren, Ray Boisvert, Lisa Boisvert, John (Sue) Boisvert, Rick (Nadine) Barry, Mary (Greg) Lehy, Jennifer (Eddie) Dolan, Michelle Davis, Tony Boisvert, and Danielle Gaucher; her six cherished great-grandchildren, Danielle, John, Brandon, Jake, Emily and Jack. Her sister Olga Pochesci of New Jersey; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Peter and Hugo Colecchi; a sister, Mary Trombetta; grandson, Gilbert Boisvert; son-in-law, Wayne Roach; and grandson-in-law, Tim Davis.

Jennie was born in Italy, and was the daughter of the late Michele and Immaculate (Ricci) Colecchi. They immigrated to the U.S. in 1921, settling in Leominster where she was raised. After her marriage she moved to Marlborough to raise her daughters.

Jennie worked for many years as a bookkeeper at Arthur’s Department Store in Hudson until her retirement at 70 years old.

She was a member of St. Bernadette Church and belonged to St. Ann’s Church in Marlborough for many years until its closing. She loved to knit children sweaters, which she donated to the Church during the Christmas season and enjoyed playing bingo.

Our mother was a giving and loving, strong Italian woman who cherished her family and showed love and kindness to everyone. She relished every opportunity she had with her family and adored the never-ending hugs from her great-grandchildren. The love mom gave her family cannot be measured, we were her life and she was our “Rock”. We love you Mom and her reply would always be “I love you more.”

A funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, July 25, at 11 a.m., in Saint Bernadette’s Church, 266 Main St., Northborough. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Marlborough. Visiting hours will be held Wednesday morning from 9-10:30 a.m. at the William R. Short and Son Funeral Home (www.shortfuneral.com), 95 West Main St. Marlborough.

By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter

Marlborough – Residents who have recently moved to Marlborough and those who have lived there for many years all need to know trash collection scheduling, parking ban information, snow and ice removal policies, and other services provided by the Department of Public Works (DPW). A guide for this information and an outline of many projects under way and those planned to be implemented was recently sent to residents.

Also included was a message from Mayor Arthur Vigeant regarding water and sewer rates.

“Once again, water and sewer rates will remain unchanged,” he said. “We have been able to hold rates steady for a couple of years and we will evaluate our revenues closely before recommending any changes to rates next year.”

Vigeant also stressed that he is investing taxpayer dollars into rebuilding critical infrastructure – roads, water, sewer and parks.

“This year we expect another busy construction season,” he stated. “Our biggest project, funded by federal transportation funds, is a total rebuild of Maple Street. We will do our best to mitigate any travel issues, but drivers should plan for regular delays on Maple Street throughout the project.”

The city Facebook page contains a detailed map of all projects the DPW is working on this summer.