Westborough – The Westborough Community Band will perform a free concert along with the Ashland Summer Band Sunday, July 29, on the bandstand at Bay State Commons. The show starts at 6 p.m. and will feature separate performances by the two bands, followed by a joint performance to close out the concert. The musical menu includes a variety of marches, show tunes, songbook standards, jazz songs, symphonic pieces and more. The Uhlman’s ice cream truck will also be on hand to serve up frozen treats.
Now in its 10th season, the Westborough Community Band is an all-volunteer concert band that includes musicians of all ages from Westborough and other area towns. The band is directed by Matthew Lefebvre, an assistant principal at Westborough High School who previously was the school’s band director. It performs four concerts each summer; in addition to the one on July 29, the band will give its final performance of the 2018 season Sunday, Aug. 12, in the Westborough High School auditorium, also starting at 6 p.m.
(l to r) Bill Strohsnitter, Joe Watts, Walter Leslie and Ron Slingerland at the Civic Club’s Christmas tree sale. Photo/submitted
Westborough – The Westborough Civic Club’s new president, Walter Leslie, likes to interact with his neighbors and to see the positive impact the club’s donations have in the town.
Leslie, a 20-year resident of Westborough, said his involvement with the club began when his sons were Scouts in Troop 4.
“We volunteered each year to unload, cut strings and price the trees arriving at the annual Civic Club Christmas tree sale,” he said.
The club’s annual Christmas tree sale is its primary fundraiser.
“Five years ago, when my youngest son went off to college, I joined the club, as I had really enjoyed helping and the club members I met,” explained Leslie, who is married with two sons and is an engineering manager.
From there, Leslie served as club secretary for three years and last year as vice president.
Leslie said the bulk of the club’s approximately 40 donations each year are voted on by membership and support a wide variety of new and ongoing programs by other nonprofit organizations. Recently, the club donated $10,000 to the Westborough High School (WHS) Rangers on Track project, a $4 million major renovation project for WHS’s stadium and track. The club also provides $1,000 scholarships to five graduating seniors at WHS and one to an Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School senior.
The club also uses the tree sale money to put on its annual Fishing Challenge held at Minuteman Park. This year’s free event, held May 12, had over 150 participants.
“I really highly recommend to others joining the Civic Club. Helping people buy a tree or wreath is a fun way to interact with our neighbors and share what is usually a joyous time.”
WCLT scholarship winner Peter Howarth Photos/submitted
Westborough – The Westborough Community Land Trust (WCLT) has awarded two $1,000 scholarships and two honorable mentions to graduating Westborough High School (WHS) seniors on the basis of essays written for WCLT’s annual Earth Day Essay Contest.
Peter Howarth was awarded a scholarship for his essay describing his work in creating a new trail at Sawink Farm and his development of a greater commitment to improving the environment. He will study pre-sport management at the University of Connecticut.
Victoria Helle won a scholarship for her essay describing her determination to tackle the problem of litter in town and the work she has done to reduce litter from plastic
WCLT scholarship winner Victoria Helle Photos/submitted
water bottles at the high school and from dog waste around town. She plans to study environmental science at the University of Rhode Island.
Katie May Howarth was recognized with an honorable mention for her essay describing her experience in persuading the town’s school system to switch from Styrofoam trays to paper boats and her ongoing awareness of the environmental problem created by Styrofoam. She plans to major in graphic design at a four-year university.
Grace Roney received an honorable mention for her essay describing her experiences with the high school beekeeping club and the environmental awareness that she developed as a result. She expects to major in history in college.
“Congratulations to the students who won scholarships and who received honorable mentions, and our thanks to all the students who shared their thoughts and stories with us in their Earth Day essays,” said Annie Reid, chair of the WCLT scholarship committee. “We commend these young people for the environmental awareness that they will take with them into the future.”
The Gavalis’s Little Free Library Photos/submitted
Westborough – There was a grand opening July 15 celebrating the newest Little Free Library located at 22 Gary Circle in Westborough. The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of the neighborhood book sharing box, as well as family-friendly activities, story time with the local children’s librarian, a book swap, crafts and refreshments.
Little Free Library is part of a worldwide nonprofit organization, which was started in 2009 and whose mission is to inspire the love of reading while building community and sparking creativity. There are currently over 70,000 libraries registered in 80 countries. The idea is to take a book and leave a book.
The creation of the newest Little Free Library was a family affair for the Gavalis family. Former elementary school teacher and mother of two young children, Meghan Gavalis said she loves kids, books and sharing her passion of books with kids.
“My own children Emma and Jack love books and visiting our local library, where their aunt is the head librarian of the Children’s Department, and are extremely excited to help run our own Little Free Library in our small community,” she said.
Meghan has always loved the idea of the Little Free Library since visiting family in Oregon.
“They are everywhere,” she said. “Each with its own quirky, unique personality.”
Creating their library was a true labor of love.
Meghan designed the library, her husband Robb constructed it, and her daughter Emma painted it a vibrant teal color.
“It’s built using recycled materials we had left over from previous projects,” Meghan said.
The library is located on her front lawn and she hopes it becomes a neighborhood destination. It is currently stocked with about 50 donated books including board books, children’s books, chapter books and even a small section of adult books. A guestbook for visitors to sign, bookmarks to share and dog treats also have a space inside the library.
About 55 people of all ages attended the grand opening ceremony.
“It was fabulous,” said Meghan. “Everyone seemed happy to be there and appreciative.”
The Gavalis’s Little Free Library is officially registered and displays the official logo and the assigned charter number 75,078, which makes it easier for anyone to find their library from the organization’s website. The family hopes that it is well visited and have books ready to keep the selection fresh and plentiful.
“It not only belongs to us,” said Meghan, “but to the neighborhood.”
Meghan Gavalis Photos/submittedStory time with a captivated audience. Photos/submittedOver 50 people attended the grand opening ceremony Photos/submittedColleen Schoeck with her two children (left) Benjamin and Molly and niece (right) Emma Gavalis. Photos/submittedEmma and Jack Gavalis posing with their Little Free Library Photos/submitted
Florida/formerly Westborough- Eleanor Lorraine (Parker) Camacho was born on August 22, 1942, in the town of Westborough, Mass. She was one of four daughters who were born to Frank W. and Carol I. (McGee) Parker, who owned Frank W. Parker’s lawnmower and bicycle business on 10 Cottage Street in the town of Westborough. On Sunday, July 1, 2018, my younger sister Eleanor, passed away at Winter Haven Regional Hospital, in Winter Haven, Fla. after a long-term illness of congested heart failure and other complications. She was predeceased, in 1975, when her first-born child, Roy John Norman, was killed in a motorcycle accident by a drunk driver just 12 days before his 16th birthday in Florida. Today, Roy is buried with his grandparents Frank and Carol Parker in Pine Grove Cemetery. The loss of our mother, Carol I. (McGee) Parker on August 28, 2014 was a turning point in Eleanor’s life. In November 2016, her niece, Rhonda Diane Johnson, a Westborough girl, predeceased her after losing her battle with cancer; Rhonda is buried in St. Luke’s Cemetery, in Westborough. Eleanor was predeceased when last year, 2017, her nephew Raymond Alan Blais, born in the town of Westborough, succumbed to cancer; then, 3.5 months later, her brother-in-law, Bradley V. Bonnell, succumbed to cancer as well.
Eleanor was well-loved and liked by everyone who knew her. She had faith and trust in the Father and Son. As her big sister, we were very close and never ran out of things to say. Eleanor was very good at memory recall of those “days gone by!” She leaves behind her husband, Mike Camacho, of 37 years; her son, Leeroy Norman and his family; her daughter, Laurie Carol (Norman) and RIck Tyler; plus, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She leaves her siblings: Doris J. (Parker) Blais Bonnell; Frances E. (Parker) and GIlbert LaPointe; Carolyn M. (Parker) Wood and Jim Wood. There are so many nieces, nephews and greats too numerous to mention. Eleanor always had such a kind heart and she was always there for anyone who needed help. She loved nature and would bring in any strays and bring them back to health. ToO know her was to love her. On July 7, 2018, my beloved sister was laid to rest in Eagle Lake, Fla., after a beautiful wake and a quiet ceremony with family and friends. She was only a few weeks away from turning 76 years of age. It is comforting to know she is no longer in pain or suffering. Rest in peace, little sister. You will be truly missed…
Ware – Matthew R. Balliett, 39, of Ware, formerly of Westborough, passed away July 23, 2018 at Dana Farber in Boston after a brief, but intense battle with cancer.
Born in Anniston, Ala., he was the son of Robert W. and Barbara R. (Prengaman) Balliett of Westborough. Matt graduated from Westborough High School in 1997 and from the University of Rhode Island in 2001, earning a bachelor’s degree in Marine Affairs/Marine Geology.
Matt was currently employed as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in the town of Palmer. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and a hard work ethic. He enjoyed off-roading, fishing, treasure hunting and creating new businesses.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his son, Kayden R. Balliett-Basak; his fiancée, Kelsey M. Basak of Ware; and two brothers, Douglas A. Balliett and Bradley R. Balliett, both of New York City.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, an account for Kayden’s education has been established. Contributions should be made by check payable to Kayden Balliett-Basak and sent to Peter Martin at Wells Fargo Advisors, 287 Turnpike Rd., Suite 250, Westborough, MA 01581.
Natick – Robert Andrew “Robbie” Skog, 50, of Natick, formerly of Westborough, passed away July 29, 2018. He was born Sept. 2, 1967 in Worcester.
Robbie is survived by his mother, Paula Skog of North Grafton; his sister, Kelli Silva and her husband Brian; and his beloved nephew and niece, Lucas and Victoria of Westborough. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Robert Skog, and his paternal grandparents, Earl and Anne Skog, and his maternal grandparents, Donald and Margery Haynes.
Robbie was born with Cerebral Palsy and severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. Despite his severe disabilities, he was able to have a wonderful quality of life because of the dedication of his mother combined with the amazing staff at Advocates Inc., Robbie’s group home at West Hill Park in Natick, and his day program, Price Rehab in Newton.
We want to thank David Thuku, and all of the wonderful staff that have cared for him over the years. A special thank you, as well, to Tony, Mike and Melissa at Price Rehab for your compassion and patience with Robbie over the years. Every single one of you who worked with Robbie is a truly caring person.
Robbie was a special person who touched everyone who knew him. He loved food of any kind, but especially butter cookies, country music, walks outdoors, the water, silly noises, and hugs. He had a beautiful smile and laugh that will be missed by all.
A calling hour will be held Saturday, Aug. 11, from 10-11 a.m., at the Pickering and Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough, with a private service and burial to follow for family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Advocates Inc., 1881 Worcester Rd., Framingham, MA 01701 (www.advocates.org) or The Price Center, 27 Christina St., Newton, MA 02461 (www.thepricecenter.org).
6:25 p.m. Lyman St./Turnpike Rd. Accident – personal injury.
7:46 p.m. E Main St. Disturbance (general).
Saturday, July 21
1:36 a.m. Arrested, Nicole R. Ekstrom, 24, of 18 Perry Rd., Boylston, for operating under the influence of liquor, marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle.
11:21 a.m. Walkup Dr. Suspicious auto.
1:34 p.m. Lyman St. Suspicious auto.
10:03 p.m. Lackey St. Disturbance (general).
10:36 p.m. Lyman/E Main Sts. Suspicious activity.
11:03 p.m. E Main St. Disturbance (general).
11:28 p.m. Otis St. Suspicious auto.
Sunday, July 22
1:18 a.m. Olde Hickory Path. Suspicious auto.
2:40 a.m. Pinecrest Dr. Suspicious auto.
11:59 a.m. Milk St. Annoying/harassing phone calls.
8:51 p.m. Beach St. Disturbance (general).
Monday, July 23
9:33 a.m. E Main St. Accident property damage.
12:33 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Accident property damage.
5:04 p.m. Computer Dr. Larceny.
10:10 p.m. Lyman St. Suspicious activity.
Tuesday, July 24
11:21 a.m. Turnpike Rd./Milk St. Accident property damage.
1:11 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Suspicious auto.
2:27 p.m. Maynard St. Larceny.
5:01 p.m. Wheeler Rd. Suspicious activity.
6:46 p.m. Lyman St. Suspicious activity.
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.
The Ravenclaw winning team. Photo/Adway S. Wadekar
Westborough – July 31 marks J.K. Rowling’s birthday. The date also marks the birthday of her world-famous and beloved fictional character, Harry Potter. To celebrate this popular character, the Westborough Public Library threw a birthday party for Harry, complete with games, scavenger hunts, challenges, activities, and food. Harry Potter series enthusiasts, mostly of middle-school and high-school age, arrived at the Westborough Public Library meeting room, and experienced a plethora of fun.
As they arrived, the participants were placed into four groups – Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin, representing the four houses at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The participants then socialized and enjoyed different activities, including “potion making,” creating mixtures of different soda products, as well as “transfiguration class,” to make custom buttons. They also sampled the Westborough Public Library’s version of Butterbeer, a staple beverage in the Harry Potter series.
As the mix-and-mingle component of the event drew to a close, the participants tested their skills at trivia. As the points were tallied, the young adults were sent out on a scavenger hunt to find eggs with little slips of paper, containing names of magical creatures. After the scavenger hunt, the party-goers enjoyed birthday cake and ice cream.
Ravenclaw won the final part of the challenge which entailed six riddles, and became the overall winners. Each member of the Ravenclaw house was sent home with a king-size Hershey’s chocolate bar.
A birthday cake in honor of Harry Potter. Photo/Adway S. Wadekar
Westborough – About a year ago, Michaela Clancy received approval to implement her final Girl Scout Gold Award project and decided to focus on mental health, the stigma that it has and ways to reach those in the surrounding community that may be affected.
Her project, titled, “Being Active with Mental Health,” has already had a positive response and is having an impact.
At the age of 11, Michaela lost her aunt to suicide. There is also a history of depression in her family. Because she has been directly affected, Michaela sought out ways to bring the topic to the community and she has created a packet along with a curriculum that is being used within the Westborough High School’s physical education wellness training.
“I worked really hard with the high school’s social worker, Stephanie Glenn, as well as my Gold Award advisor, John Badenhausen, director of Westborough Youth and Family Services,” Michaela said. “Nobody typically wants to talk about mental health but it is really important. Just having the information out there and accessible can make a difference. I am grateful for the support I have been getting.”
She designed the logo for the informational packet that she created. There is also a Girl Scout Patch for her project after girls complete mental health aid training. The curriculum includes training for both suicidal and non-suicidal crises. Michaela also made flyers and pull-tabs to place in the high school library, guidance office and restrooms. She created tri-fold boards for both her school and town library. In addition, she created a website with videos and resources, including the National Suicide Prevention hotline.
“I realized that within the Girl Scouts organization, there was no area where mental health was being addressed,” Michaela said. “I thought that by doing this project, I could introduce it to the Girl Scouts and bring about a change in the way mental health is viewed while helping many at the same time. I worked closely with social workers and psychologists to make sure the wording was correct.”
One of the things that surprised Michaela the most while working on her project was just how supportive everyone has been. She also did not expect such a strong response to the pull-tabs and has already had to replace many. After she graduates next year, the pull-tabs will continue to be replaced as needed.
“I am confident that I can truly make a difference. I am so happy that so many people were willing to talk to me about my project and get involved. I realize that it is a sensitive issue but it does affect so many, regardless of their age,” Michaela said.
Westborough – Charles “Charlie” St. John, 79, died July 27, 2018 after a short period of failing health. He was born in Pittsfield and lived many years in Marlborough before moving to Westborough almost 30 years ago.
Charlie worked all of his adult life on different farms in this area. He was a kind and gentle man that always took the time to help others whenever he could. Charlie could often be seen holding traffic, helping pedestrians cross busy streets safely.
Charlie is survived by longtime friend and care taker George Parker and his family of Westborough.
His funeral will be held Monday, Aug. 13, at 10 a.m., in the William R. Short and Son Funeral Home (www.shortfuneral.com), 95 West Main St., Marlborough. An hour of visitation will be held Monday, from 9-10 a.m., prior to the funeral.
His family would like to thank the staff of the Forbes Wing at Beaumont Healthcare in Westborough for the outstanding care Charlie was given.
Westborough – Richard Ernest Samson, 82, of Westborough, passed away Aug. 7, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Ann Marie (Kilgarriff), to whom he was married for 60 memorable years.
Born in Northampton, he was the son of the late Ernest and Stella (Cartotto). He was educated in Northampton and received his degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in Boston and member of Kappa Psi Fraternity. He served with the Army National Guard Reserves.
He had a natural ability to connect with people and had an entrepreneurial spirit. He co-owned Three S Pharmacy and Livery Service in Lincoln and Westwood for 25 years. Most recently, he worked at CVS and Reliant Medical Group.
He was a member of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and a resident of Westborough for 19 years, previously raising his family in Framingham. He was a volunteer at St. Vincent Hospital, had his private pilot’s license, enjoyed country western dancing, and spent summers in Hampton Beach, N.H. and winters in Bonita Springs, Fla. He will be remembered for his quick wit, the sparkle in his eye and his ability to make people smile.
In addition to his wife, Ann, he is survived by his four children, Gail Ann Giffen and her husband Shawn of Townsend, Maryjane Stenslie and her husband Craig of Durham, N.H., Dr. Richard Thomas Samson and his wife Susan of Waterville, Maine, and Patricia Margaret Alden and her husband Bryant of Conway, N.H.; one brother, Jeffrey Samson and his wife Joy of Rockland, Maine; and nine grandchildren, Anthony Giffen, Max Stenslie, Mikaila Horan, Christopher Samson, Eric Samson, Thomas Samson, Amy Samson, Amelya Saras and Claire Alden, along with nieces and nephews.
His funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Aug. 11, at 10 a.m., in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery of West Roxbury. Calling hours at the Britton-Summers Funeral Home, 4 Church St., Westborough, are Friday, Aug. 10, from 5-8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association.
Matthew Pano of Westborough was only 18 years old when he passed away of bacterial menigitis in 1989. Shortly after his passing, his father Bob wrote this article where he shared how his family came to believe their beloved Matt was still with them, looking over and protecting them.
Westborough – Matt was 18 when he died, one of three children in our family. We had always made it a point to do things as a family unit, even though at times it seemed as if everyone was going in different directions.
Matt and his younger brother, Rob, 21, had spent wonderful years growing up together. Like two great friends, both of the boys enjoyed identical activities. Together, they participated in sports from Little League to high school football and baseball. They always respected and complimented each other’s achievements.
Every winter, they went off to conquer the toughest ski slopes in Vermont and New Hampshire, and later they proudly displayed their bruises and bumps to prove it.
They were close buddies in the truest sense, and they loved each other’s company.
I can still see them wrestling like two playful bears on the floor or on their beds, and Matt was usually on the bottom despite his larger frame. Somehow I always got the feeling that Matt had never unleashed all his strength. Some called him, “The Gentle Bear”.
Matt’s sister, Penny, also enjoyed a special bond with him that developed even more during the summer they both visited friends in England and France. The ties between them grew even stronger as she enjoyed playing the role of big sister as well as mother. Looking ahead to the future, we seemed to have everything going for us as a family
On May 6, 1989, however, our expectations suddenly underwent a wrenching alteration. Matt had shown signs of flu several days before, but we did not pursue it until his fever became dangerously high. On the morning of the 6th, we had to hospitalize him, and it wasn’t until the very last moment that we discovered he had bacterial meningitis. Within 12 horrifying hours this strong, healthy, likeable, fun-loving young man with an impish smile was abruptly snatched from us.
Matt’s last words to my wife, Tania, and me still echo so strongly within us.
“Dad, Mom, am I going to die? I think I’m going to die…I love you.”
We were thrown in a state of shock. It was a demonic nightmare, and we weren’t waking up. As the four of us sat in the waiting room that day, in complete shock, staring into empty space, the core of our beings was totally numb. His absence has left a gaping void in our lives that can never be filled. Where were you God? How could this be happening to us?
Nearly 900 people attended the services – we were told that it was the church’s seating capacity. I never realized the impact my son had on so many people, both young and old.
As we try to live our lives without Matt, we struggle for answers. I cannot accept total detachment from my son as I ponder the questions of life and death. Something in us must survive- soul, spirit, being.
Though I knew I had to let God handle those touchy questions, I needed reassurance and some sign that Matt is in a better place.
This, I knew, would be part of my life’s quest as I struggled to try and comprehend it all.
Eventually, in my search for meaning, I came across a remarkable story of how a butterfly had spiritually transformed a grieving family. There was comfort in being reminded that coincidences are God’s way of remaining anonymous.
I was so moved, that it was with a sense of hope and excitement that I related the butterfly story to Penny one day. Now, I realize that I was desperately trying to convince myself that there are things in this life that give evidence that our loved ones still exist and want us to have faith and know that they still love us very much.
Several weeks passed after I had spoken with Penny about butterflies, and one day, she called from college.
“Dad, Dad,” she exclaimed in a voice filled with excitement and joy. “You’ll never believe what happened to me today! As I walked through a certain part of town, I was a little scared, but my attention was suddenly drawn to this particular parked car. I moved closer and there it was, a huge, Monarch butterfly. Remember that story you told me? I reached out my hand and it flew onto my finger. Suddenly, I lost any fear I had, and I felt as though Matt was comforting me.”
Not only had the butterfly perched on Penny’s finger, but it stayed with her for nearly half an hour as she continued back to her dorm. All the while, the butterfly moved from one extended finger to the other in comforting assurance that everything would be okay. It seemed to be telling Penny, “Don’t be afraid, I’m with you. I love you.”
Was this the sign I had hoped for? I was overwhelmed with joy and excitement as I told Tania and Rob about Penny’s experience.
This butterfly had begun to transform our lives. Matt, you are helping us to grow. We are reaching far beyond our wildest expectations.
Is this how God shows His compassion to those of us who grieve? Does He heighten our sensitivity to nature and all living things as a way of widening our vision of the Divine? Had we peered through a small window to see the inner workings of our Creator?
Was there more to come?
Later, I received another convincing message when Penny came home for the weekend. I was in the kitchen when I heard Penny nearly fly down the staircase from her room. In a matter of moments, I was gazing upon a miraculous sight that I now realize will impact us for the rest of our lives.
While cleaning out a desk drawer, Penny had come across a colorful photograph of a butterfly in it’s natural setting. My heart raced as I gazed at the picture.
Penny somehow sensed my anticipation that there was something more, and she anxiously said, “Now turn the picture over.”
I can’t quite describe the feeling of exhilaration that came over me as I tried to comprehend it all in that split second, but there it was in his unmistakable handwriting, “MATTHEW”.
Somehow, some way, everything had been synchronized.
Why had I selected the butterfly story? Why had I told it to Penny? How was it that Penny had come across a Monarch butterfly in a most coincidental time and way? How was it that an unlikely photograph, personally signed by my son, Matt, appeared at just the right moment? Why had Matt chosen to give Penny his picture of the butterfly?
Through these events we have come to realize that Matt is still very close to us, and he continues to love us as we love him. His message of love has given us hope and reason to continue living our lives to the fullest. Our lives will never be the same, and our wounds will never completely heal, but they shall be a reminder of our love for our son.
We have received a message of love on the wings of one of God’s creatures, and we rejoice in that.
Each day, we wake with anticipation.
Who knows, somehow, somewhere, we may hear, “Hey Dad, Mom, Penny, Rob, come on now- it’s me Matt.”
Westborough – Recent Westborough High School graduates John O’Connell and Eamonn Mazur just returned from a four-and-a-half month-long hike, completing the 1,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail. On more than one occasion, they questioned if they would actually complete what they had set out to accomplish.
They began their trek March 6 in Springer Mountain, Ga., and completed the hike July 20 in Mt. Katahdin, Maine. The boys posted a daily account with photos on their Facebook page, titled, “Eamonn & John’s AT Thru-Hike Adventure.”
Friends since fifth grade, they both graduated from Westborough High School last year and decided to take a gap year to fulfill the goal that they had talked about sophomore year. They pursued internships and other things prior to the trip.
“I have hiked the White Mountains with my family and I have always known about the Appalachian Trail,” O’Connell said. “It was my idea for us to take on this challenge and Eamonn was on board even though he had never hiked before.”
For three weeks before the trip, the boys began to feverishly prepare for the trail. They bought a lot of dehydrated ingredients and non-perishable snack items to keep their caloric intake in check.
“We actually followed recipes from a book and put all of the ingredients in Ziplock bags for eight different meals for about 150 days. This took a couple of hours each day for a few weeks leading up to our departure,” said Mazur.
Some of the towns that cross the Appalachian Trail are known as “trail towns.” The residents of these communities are used to greeting hikers and are generally knows to be embracing and very friendly. These towns offered the boys a bit of respite from the trail where they were able to restock their supplies, snacks and get hot food. They would come upon one of these towns every three to seven days or so.
“There were two towns that were especially friendly. One being Franklin, N.C., and the other was Andover, Maine,” Mazur explained. “In North Carolina, there was antique shop where the owner came out of her shop and helped us find a place to eat. The diner, Motor Cove Diner, gave out free ice cream to all hikers. The Little Red Hen in Andover allowed hikers to nap out back, charge things and just relax. We spent a half a day there. I felt very connected to the town.”
There were some frustrating moments where the boys questioned whether or not this was a good idea. One morning, leaving Franklin, the temperature was 32 degrees and proceeded to drop rapidly. The snow was falling heavily and the boys were worried about frostbite. They soon set up their tent to stay dry and warm.
“I reflected in that moment that life would be so much easier if we were home,” O’Connell said, who noted that they also came across five bears during the trip.
The boys traveled by foot with packs weighing 30 to 40 pounds. In Damascus, Va., they switched out their boots for trail runners. They went through four pairs.
While the hike was physically and mentally exhausting, both boys agree that they are more confident and their experience has been life changing.
O’Connell will attend college at the University of San Diego to study biology and Mazur will attend the University of Arizona, Tucson.
6:47 p.m. Hopkinton Rd./Morse St. Suspicious activity.
7:21 p.m. Ruggles St. Suspicious person.
11:16 p.m. Lyman St. Disturbance (general).
Thursday, Aug. 2
12:54 a.m. Oak St. Suspicious auto.
12:02 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Erratic operator.
5:20 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Suspicious auto.
5:36 p.m. Smith Pkwy. Suspicious activity.
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.
Westborough – The Hundredth Town Chorus (HTC) will begin its fall session Wednesday, Sept. 6, and is seeking new female singers to join. No auditions are required. There is a need for new voices of all ages and in all parts.
Rehearsals run from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays at Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 E. Main St., Westborough. The chorus is not affiliated with the synagogue. There are no night or weekend rehearsals or obligations. All performances are also held on Wednesday mornings. Women are invited to come to rehearsal and join right in or to observe. No fundraising or ticket selling is asked of its members.
HTC is an organization of women who enjoy singing four-part harmony in a relaxing and fun environment. The chorus was founded in 1949 by the Westborough Women’s Club, with a mission to share the joy of music by singing and entertaining at area nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and senior centers. Today’s chorus is made up of members from all over Worcester County, including Westborough, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Marlborough, Grafton, Hopkinton, Southborough, Millbury and Uxbridge. The chorus also performs at area events such as Westborough’s Arts in Common and the Westborough 300th Anniversary Celebration. Music includes holiday classics, Broadway favorites, popular music, and folk songs, as well as an occasional classical number.
HTC is supported, in part, by a grant from the Westborough Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Congregation B’nai Shalom graciously donates rehearsal space.
Westborough – Roberta, Kristina, and Susanna Di Terlizzi enjoy the concert presented by the Westborough Community Band and the Ashland Summer Band July 29, on the bandstand at Bay State Commons
Westborough – Stanley P. Manassa, 96, of Westborough, passed away peacefully Aug. 14, 2018, surrounded by his family, at his home. He was the husband of 52 years to the late Eve (Reiss) Manassa, who died in 1999.
Born in Bronx, N.Y., he was a son of the late Jerome and Estelle (Seelig) Manassa. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School and served four years in the United States Army during World War II, where he was deployed to the Pacific.
Stan took over the business founded by his grandfather, and continued as owner/ salesman of Manassa Interiors, working alongside his wife and son in Mahopac, N.Y.
When he moved to Westborough in 2000 to be near his daughter and grandchildren, Stan fell for the underdog and to the dismay of his son Bill, became an avid Red Sox fan. He also began taking piano lessons before his 90th birthday.
Stan loved to sing songs with his wife while driving in the car, but especially followed his passion for singing while living in Westborough by joining several choral groups and singing almost every Tuesday afternoon at Beaumont Nursing Center. It was not unusual for him to break out in song at restaurants, weddings, and other public gatherings.
Stan is survived by his son and daughter, William J. Manassa and his wife Jacqueline Roman of Waterbury, Conn. and Nancy A. Johnson and her husband Bruce of Westborough; three grandchildren, Brian Johnson and his wife Katherine of Franklin, Jennifer Stevens and her husband Mathew of Brewster, and Brandon Johnson and his wife Lindsey of Sterling; a step-grandchild, Manny Roman; and seven great-grandchildren and several nieces. Stanley is predeceased by his brother, Melvin Manassa, and his grandson, Kevin Johnson.
His memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 18, at 11 a.m., in the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough. A calling hour will be held prior to the service from 10-11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 1909, Framingham, MA 01701.
12:15 p.m. Willow St. Annoying/harassing phone calls.
1:45 p.m. Jacob Amsden Rd. Larceny.
2:57 p.m. Lyman St. Suspicious activity.
3:05 p.m. E Main St. Road/tree.
3:46 p.m. E Main St. Suspicious activity.
10:01 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Suspicious activity.
10:44 p.m. South St. Suspicious activity.
Saturday, Aug. 4
12:18 a.m. Connector Rd. Disturbance (general).
8:07 a.m. Canfield St. Accident – hit & run.
8:37 a.m. Arrested, Natalie Feliciano, 30, of 14 State St., Leominster, on warrant, and Adam R. Butterfield, 34, of 107 Litchfield Pines Dr., Westminster, on warrant.
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.
Florida/formerly Westborough- Eleanor Lorraine (Parker) Camacho was born on August 22, 1942, in the town of Westborough, Mass. She was one of four daughters who were born to Frank W. and Carol I. (McGee) Parker, who owned Frank W. Parker’s lawnmower and bicycle business on 10 Cottage Street in the town of Westborough. On Sunday, July 1, 2018, my younger sister Eleanor, passed away at Winter Haven Regional Hospital, in Winter Haven, Fla. after a long-term illness of congested heart failure and other complications. She was predeceased, in 1975, when her first-born child, Roy John Norman, was killed in a motorcycle accident by a drunk driver just 12 days before his 16th birthday in Florida. Today, Roy is buried with his grandparents Frank and Carol Parker in Pine Grove Cemetery. The loss of our mother, Carol I. (McGee) Parker on August 28, 2014 was a turning point in Eleanor’s life. In November 2016, her niece, Rhonda Diane Johnson, a Westborough girl, predeceased her after losing her battle with cancer; Rhonda is buried in St. Luke’s Cemetery, in Westborough. Eleanor was predeceased when last year, 2017, her nephew Raymond Alan Blais, born in the town of Westborough, succumbed to cancer; then, 3.5 months later, her brother-in-law, Bradley V. Bonnell, succumbed to cancer as well.
Ware – Matthew R. Balliett, 39, of Ware, formerly of Westborough, passed away July 23, 2018 at Dana Farber in Boston after a brief, but intense battle with cancer.
Natick – Robert Andrew “Robbie” Skog, 50, of Natick, formerly of Westborough, passed away July 29, 2018. He was born Sept. 2, 1967 in Worcester.
Westborough
Westborough – Charles “Charlie” St. John, 79, died July 27, 2018 after a short period of failing health. He was born in Pittsfield and lived many years in Marlborough before moving to Westborough almost 30 years ago.
Westborough – Richard Ernest Samson, 82, of Westborough, passed away Aug. 7, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Ann Marie (Kilgarriff), to whom he was married for 60 memorable years.
Westborough – Stanley P. Manassa, 96, of Westborough, passed away peacefully Aug. 14, 2018, surrounded by his family, at his home. He was the husband of 52 years to the late Eve (Reiss) Manassa, who died in 1999.