Issuu

PRST-STD U.S. Postage PAID Hopkinton, MA 01748 Permit No. 109 ECRWSS Postal Patron

HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 20 | No. 25 | December 11, 2019

Pratt’s legacy lives on By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

PHOTO/TRICIA LACASCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

aybe sometimes Mary Pratt acted like the smartest person in the room. And maybe many times she was. “Mary was absolutely brilliant,” Select Board chair Brendan Tedstone said. “She was absolutely a genius. If you gave her a project, she would drive into Boston four days a week to research at the State House or wherever she had to go. She was absolutely relentless. She used Mary Pratt was a longtime volunteer her massive inteland advocate ligence and drive for the Town of to do her job as a Hopkinton. selectman about as tenaciously as anyone I’ve ever met in my life. She took it very, very serious.” Pratt, a longtime volunteer and advocate for the town, passed away Dec. 2 at the age of 91. She had been living at

T-DAY TITLE

The Hopkinton High School football team celebrates with the winner’s trophy after defeating visiting Ashland, 26-7, in the annual Thanksgiving Day football game on Nov. 28.

Mary Pratt | 8

Growth Study Committee aims to help handle population surge

INSIDE

Public input sought as part of long-term planning effort

NEWS

Slow progress on downtown parking

By Sandy Quadros Bowles Contributing Writer

Growth Study | 10

SCHOOLS

Enrollment surge affects more budgets

SPORTS PHOTO/CHRSTINE STRICKLAND

s the town’s population grows, a new committee is working with residents to decide what Hopkinton should look like going forward. The Growth Study Committee, a subcommittee of the Planning Board, held its first workshop Nov. 20 to review town demographics and solicit input from residents about how to manage growth in the town going forward. “People feel we’re growing a lot,” said Amy Ritterbusch, Planning Board member and chair of the Growth Study Committee. “We want to shape that growth.”

New HHS swim coach Webber dives right in

Growth Study committee members talk to residents during the Nov. 20 workshop at Hopkinton High School.

Financing with Guaranteed Rate gets you on the nice list. Call Bryan to get started!

Bryan Brown Branch Manager C: (978) 870-7138 bryan.brown@rate.com Rate.com/BryanBrown

Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved. Restrictions may apply. Office: o: (617) 286-8904 | 22 South St., Suite 201, Hopkinton, MA 01748 | NMLS ID:89425, MA - MLO89425 - MC2611, NH - NH89425 - 13931-MB , NMLS ID 2611 (National Mortgage Licensing System, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) • MA - Guaranteed Rate, Inc. - Mortgage Lender & Mortgage Broker License MC 2611• NH - Guaranteed Rate, Inc. dba Guaranteed Rate of Delaware, licensed by the New Hampshire Banking Department - Lic # 13931-MB

2 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Hopkinton Independent

STAFF

Publisher: David Bagdon Dir. of Business Development: Susanne Odell Farber Founder: Sarah Lothrop Duckett Managing Editor: Jerry Spar Editorial contributors: JEAN CANN, LYN CALKINS, MICHELLE SANFORD, MELISSA ORFF, CHRIS VILLANI, DEBORAH BURKE HENDERSON, Tricia LaCascia, John Cardillo, Ed Turner, John Buday, Sandy Quadros Bowles, Christine Strickland, Gethin Coolbaugh

For advertising, contact Susanne Odell Farber at: Cell: 508-954-8148 or email: sue@sodellconsult.com Or you may call the Hopkinton Independent at: 508-435-5188 (office), 508-366-2812 (fax) Editorial comments and inquiries, including Letters to the Editor should be emailed to: editor@hopkintonindependent.com

Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s name, address and contact information for verification. Letters should be no more than 400 words, and the Hopkinton Independent offers no guarantee that all letters will be printed. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event or thanking volunteers and sponsors.

Local veteran receives Quilt of Valor

ichard Brault has never talked much about his service in the Marines during World War II. Occasionally he’ll let a few words slip. One time he shared some brief emotion at the monthly veterans breakfast in Hopkinton. “Every breakfast they come out with dates of military importance, and one of the Fridays was the anniversary of [the Battle of] Okinawa,” recalled Richard’s son, Thomas. “All he said was, ‘The horror, the horror, the horror. You have no idea.’ If INDEPENDENT you look back, you read about Okinawa, THOUGHTS he saw the Japanese JERRY SPAR women jumping off the cliffs, people taking their own lives [rather than surrender to the Americans]. “He joined the Marines [in 1944] at 17 years old back then. I can’t imagine being an 18-, 19-year-old man seeing that. … I just can’t imagine it.” On another occasion, a family whose son was stationed in Okinawa brought back some sand from the beach on the Japanese island and presented it to Richard at a veterans breakfast. Said Thomas: “He took the sand in his hands and he was just shaking his head, ‘You can’t believe what I saw.’ He just remembers and he stays quiet.” Thomas said his father has always been that way, a man of few words when it came to his military service. He said that’s not uncommon among the Greatest Generation. “Even my father-in-law, who served in the Army, he never talked about it,” Thomas said. “Talking to my wife about it, when she was growing up they never talked about them serving. It was a job they had to do, they did it, they came back and they started their families.” “Growing up they never talked

PHOTO/CHRISTINE STRICKLAND

The Hopkinton Independent is published by Hopkinton Independent, LLC, 32 South St., Westborough, MA 01581. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of the ad that was in error if notified in writing within three business days of the publication date. All material is the property of the Hopkinton Independent. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material. The Hopkinton Independent is delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to 100 percent of the homes and businesses in Hopkinton, reaching more than 7,200 addresses. It also is available at Hopkinton Public Library and Town Hall as well as dozens of other sites through town.

Sewn with respect

Richard Brault, pictured at the Hopkinton Veterans Dinner on Nov. 11, served in the Marines during World War II.

about anything. Back then it was taboo, almost — talking about what they saw.” While Richard might not be inclined to talk very much about what he did and saw, bits and pieces have come out in other ways. One time Richard took Thomas on a visit/reunion to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. A man walked up to Richard and thanked him for saving his life at Okinawa. “My father was shooting howitzers from the beachheads,” Thomas learned. “When they were coming down the hill from Okinawa, one of the Marines was bleeding out of his leg. [Richard] took off his belt, tied the tourniquet and waited for the medic — and kept on shooting the howitzer. So the Marine came up to him at Camp Lejeune and goes, ‘I want to thank you for saving my life.’ Back then it was little things like that that saved people’s lives.” Moments like that are bittersweet for Richard. “He’s honored, he’s tickled pink right away, but then it brings back a lot of memories,” Thomas said. “He sits and he stays quiet starting to remember a lot of his comrades, his fellow Marines.” One of eight children, Richard Independent thoughts | 3

‘Tis the Season at Dawn Fall Spa on Main HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, December 11th 1-7pm Join us for mini services, swag bags and tasty nibbles! Offering amazing holiday specials and gift ideas! Give the gift that keeps on giving with a gift certificate to the spa!

169 West Main Street, Hopkinton, MA 508-435-0123 www.dfspaonmain.com “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 3 Richard Brault (left) receives his Quilt of Valor from Theresa Perreault as he sits next to his wife, Virginia, at his Hopkinton home.

HOPKINTON HAS IT ALL Stately Antiques and Stunning New Construction 35 Main Street $650,000

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Independent thoughts | from page 2

grew up in New Bedford and enlisted in the Army in the middle of his senior year of high school, inspired by his six older brothers, who served in various branches. Even his sister contributed to the war effort, traveling to Europe as part of the USO. All eight of them made it back home safely. One of Richard’s final duties as a Marine was to march through Nagasaki after the atom bomb devastated the Japanese city in 1945 and effectively ended the war. At the time, it was not clear what the potential long-term effects the radiation might have. Said Thomas: “When he got back to the base, or the ship, one of his sergeants said, ‘By the way, guys, you’re all sterile.’ And he has seven kids.” Richard, now 94, has lived in Hopkinton since the early 1960s. He raised his seven children here, working primarily as an insurance agent, and remains in the same home on East Main Street with his wife, Virginia. A couple of years ago he made

acquaintances with Andy Toorock, a former Marine who is affiliated with the Westborough Veterans Advisory Committee. Toorock arranged for Brault to take part in a program called Quilts of Valor. The program, which started in 2003, presents hand-sewn quilts to “cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” On Nov. 6, Theresa Perreault, the Massachusetts Regional Coordinator for the Quilts of Valor Foundation, presented Richard with his quilt during a brief ceremony at his home. She explained that the quilt is designed to be something that he can not only admire but also put to use. A surprised Richard welcomed the gift. “It’s a fantastic program,” Thomas said. “He said it’s very beautiful.” Added Thomas: “He’s very silent about the honors that he gets. He’s very humble. He knows that he’s the last of his brothers and sisters, so he’s quiet. But he remembers quite a bit.”

2 Saddle Hill Road $1,275,000

End of year delivery

Contact Chuck for More Information Please contact me for FREE Market Analysis

Chuck Joseph 508-509-6169

ChuckJoseph@remaxexec.com

No herbicides in lake Here we go again. I will start by pointing out that our town voted against herbicides in Lake Maspenock by a two-thirds majority at full town meeting spring 2015. Also it is important to note that the Weed Committee did not vote unanimously for herbicide use. And yes, it all hinges on being unable to do an effective drawdown this year due to one shallow well. The drawdown costs $0. I hope this issue will be worked on. There seems to be two views of the situation. Those beating the drum for herbicides believe that the lake is LETTERS TO THE EDITOR like a swimming pool. They say put chemicals in and that they have a right to not have their boat props tangled in summer or catch their skate on a weed in winter. They also complain that the fishing isn’t like it was 40 years ago. You can go to HCAM YouTube to hear this (Weed Committee meeting Nov. 18). The rest of us admit that the weed growth has recently been a nuisance. I am a daily distance swimmer in the upper basin in warm weather. And no, the weeds will not pull you down or kill your grandchildren as some claim. The lake is a delicate ecosystem with all life interconnected. What might harm your grandchild is diquat. It has recently been banned by the European Union as well as many other countries. Even the EPA admits that more study is needed on mutagenic effects. It persists in lake sediment for many years. Diquat is implicated in cataract formation, skin rashes and fish kills. There are many other serious concerns that I will not address here. Your dog cannot drink from the lake for 12-14 days after it is applied. Endothal (the second proposed chemical) has a similar profile. The herbicides would cost our town $30,000 of your taxpayer money to apply. That is not once, but every other year ongoing. That money could be used for so many good things here in town. Let’s not poison our beautiful lake for the convenience of a short-sighted group. — Carol Esler, Hopkinton

#1 RE/MAX Agent in

Massachusetts in 2018

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE NOTE This issue of the Hopkinton Independent was printed prior to the Dec. 9 Special Town Meeting. We will have coverage of the Special Town Meeting in the next issue, which will have a publication date of Dec. 18. We then will break for the holidays, with the following issue scheduled to hit homes on Jan. 15. At that point we will return to our normal two-week publication cycle. The complete publication and deadline schedule for 2020 is available on the Hopkinton Independent website (HopkintonIndependent.com) under Advertising Information.

RE/MAX Executive Realty 22 South Street, Suite 203 Hopkinton / 508-509-4867

Bill Bill Gassett Gassett

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

billgassett@remaxexec.com www.maxrealestateexposure.com www.sellmyhomeinmetrowestma.com

4 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Wiggin fills big shoes

Longtime resident volunteers for variety of causes, events Among her many volunteering activities, Margie Wiggin can be found helping out at the start of the Boston Marathon every April.

Editor’s note: This is a feature in the Independent called “Hopkinton High-Five” where we salute a resident who has made contributions to the community.

• Window Replacement • Kitchen&&Door Bathroom

Remodeling • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Wood Flooring • Decks • Wood Flooring • Decks

• Siding • Roofs • Masonry

• Power Washing

• Gutter Repairs & Cleaning

• BasementFinishing Finishing • Basement Detailed&&Meticulous Meticulous Detailed ReasonableRates Rates Reasonable

Call CallMauricio Mauricio

508.202.8602 508.202.8602

MA HIC.#169427

H - FI V

• Window &• INTERIOR Door Replacement CARPENTRY & EXTERIOR PAINTING

H IG

“I’m just the kind of person who loves to help people,” Wiggin said. “If there’s someone in front of me at the grocery store and they drop something, I pick it up.” Wiggin’s volunteer work extends far beyond the local food marts. The longtime Hopkinton resident has been involved in a number of communityoriented programs over the years. As a mother of three children, Wiggin’s initial volunteering was centered around her kids. Wiggin helped out with many a school event, including as a room mother and regular chaperone, and even dressed up as “Swoops,” the eagle mascot at Elmwood Elementary School, while

Winter Services

CARPENTRY Snow Plowing & Roof Snow Removal INTERIOR & EXTERIOR Winter Services Snow Plowing & Roof Snow Removal PAINTING CARPENTRY • INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

FULLY INSURED

H - FI V

E •H

HOPKINTON HOME IMPROVEMENT

FULLY INSURED

H IG

OPKINTO •H

OPKINTO

or Margaret “Margie” Wiggin, the urge to lend a helping hand can strike at any moment. Even while doing something as mundane as standing in line at the supermarket.

By Gethin Coolbaugh Contributing Writer

working there for 10 years as a teaching assistant. She also was a leader for her two daughters’ and son’s Scouts troops, and coached in the Hopkinton Youth Soccer Association. Wiggin is a regular Boston Marathon volunteer, working at the information tent at the Town Common, and previously served on the town’s Cultural Council and Youth Commission. “I’m the oldest of four kids, so I was always helping my mom, always helping my siblings. It brings me joy to help others,” Wiggin said. Currently, Wiggin is focusing her time on a few particular efforts. She serves on the Library Board of High five | 6

Holiday Spectacular The Branches of Marlboro Presents

Featuring

Baritone James Michael

Metro West’s Leading

Heating, Plumbing & Cooling Professionals

eason wit h mu

nd ic a

$50OFF

friends!

ANY REPAIR

Valid on repairs only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Call for details. Coupon never expires.

Mon., Dec. 23, 6 – 7:30 pm

$75OFF

Enjoy holiday classics and festive refreshments!

AIR DUCT CLEANING SERVICE

Santa ’ s Workshop

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/20

PL# 15892 • Corp Lic# 3531

Thurs., Dec. 19, 4 – 7 pm

Let our elves make your holiday presents gift-ready or, take home supplies and a bottle of wine on us.

Earn up-to $3,150 in rebates on a new heating/cooling system. Call today for your Free estimate.

nicholson-hvac.com

All events are complimentary. To RSVP, call 508.449.0762 or email RSVPMarlboro@benchmarkquality.com

BranchesMarlboro.com | 421 Bolton Street | Marlboro MA

No Heat? Don’t Panic! Call for Service

508-210-1030 Assisted Living | Memory Care

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 5

Community

Q&A

Everyone in town has a story to tell and opinions to share. In this feature, we shine the spotlight on one resident to learn more about them and their connection to town.

have two state parks. I mean, the quality of the people and just I admire how connected the people that have grown up here [are]. Everyone I know tells me, ‘Oh, we’ve been friends with that person since they were 8 years old.’ It’s amazing.”

Meet Linda Di Bona Hopkinton Independent: What brought you to Hopkinton? Di Bona: “I grew up in Ashland, and then I lived in Portland, Maine, Charlotte, North Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina. My husband at the time was a DJ, and to advance [the career] you moved around. Then after the marriage, I moved back here. But I really loved the South and the weather climate. So I moved down to the DC area because I knew I could drive home. [I moved back] because of the real estate crash. I sold my house while it was still mine to sell. But I had no idea how much I’d love being back here. New England was in my roots. I just love being back here with my people.” HI: Tell us about your background and what you did for a living? Di Bona: “[My last name] in Italian means ‘from good.’ My father taught me most Italian names have a meaning, and he said ‘from good’ as if to say ‘live up to your name.’ He told me when I was, I don’t know, 12 or something. … At first, I was in the radio industry. I went to school for that, broadcast and communication, and [then] I worked in an ad agency. Then after that, I got into — everyone kept saying you should be in sales — and so I got with corporations and my career was with well-known companies, having territories and sales and accounts and quotas, so that’s what my career was.” HI: What activities do you enjoy in your free time around town? Di Bona: “Well, around town, just socializing with my friends. But in general I love to ski, I love to dance. I really loved to ski, and I did more skiing in Virginia. I moved back and I can’t find anyone who wants to ski! Well, I think they’re all too old. I used to, but I don’t ski anymore. I love the [Town Common] gazebo and that area because that’s just a typical New England [town staple].” HI: What makes Hopkinton unique in your opinion? Di Bona: “Oh, I love Hopkinton. I love living in Hopkinton. I always thought Ashland was a nice place to grow up, and it was, but Hopkinton offers a lot. For instance, we have the performing arts, and I know the quality of the schools are excellent here. We

HI: What is your favorite Hopkinton memory? Di Bona: “I think it would be the Marathon. I grew up in Ashland, and that has always been a state holiday. We always had it off. We lived on the end of Ashland that was by Framingham. My mother would take my brother and I and we would walk to the [Route] 135 and 126 intersection and watch [the runners]. I never saw the start until I moved here. To me, it’s exciting — even after I’ve stood there for a few hours watching it. [Then] I go home and watch the rest of it the whole day on TV. I just love it. It’s so different — when I grew up, the whole thing went past you in 20 minutes. It was so small.” HI: If you could change one thing about Hopkinton, what would it be? Di Bona: “There’s not really too much, because it’s a wonderful town. I guess I would’ve put a Trader Joe’s here. When wonderful Colella’s was closing up, people were speculating and I just was hoping for [a] Trader Joe’s. … I do not wish to be controversial, but I can think of one thing that I could not like to see happen that’s currently a possibility. Well, I guess I’ve given enough of a hint to anyone in Hopkinton reading this. The easements and taking land away from owners of the land. I’m in favor of bike riding and reducing emissions and all [that], but I guess I sort of don’t understand. For the few [vs.] the huge majority, it doesn’t make sense. The small businesses downtown, [the easements] will take parking away from them. Who knows what will happen to all those people living that way.” — Interview conducted by Gethin Coolbaugh

Marathon bibs awarded to local non-profits

he Boston Marathon has become a major fundraising event for Hopkinton organizations, and 38 non-profits applied for an invitational entry to the 2020 race. At its Dec. 3 meeting, the Select NEWS BRIEFS Board worked to determine which groups should receive the fundraising bibs. The Boston Athletic Association awarded 50 numbers to Hopkinton. Town Manager Norman Khumalo explained that town departments (police, fire, Senior Center, etc.) had been allocated 25 of them, but he said he would lower that number so more community organizations could get a chance to participate. “This is one of the most successful civic programs that the town has put forth,” Khumalo said. “It is turning out to be a very popular program among civic organizations in town.” After some discussion, the following organizations were allocated one bib each: Cantys Underdog Scholarship, Dignity Matters, eHop, Enter Stage Left, Friends of Hopkinton, Friends of Hopkinton Seniors, Friends of Hopkinton SPEAC, Hopkinton Boys Youth Lacrosse, Hopkinton Community Partnership, Hopkinton Education Foundation, Hopkinton Food Pantry, Hopkinton Girls Youth Lacrosse, Hopkinton High School Class of 2021, Hopkinton High School Robotics/Business Professionals of America, Hopkinton Historical Society, Hopkinton Little League, Hopkinton Lions Club, Hopkinton Middle School Desire to Inspire/Sky’s the Limit Courtyard, Hopkinton Music Association, Hopkinton Parent Teacher Association, Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, Hopkinton Public Library Friends, Hopkinton Tax Relief Committee, Hopkinton Veterans Celebration Committee, Hopkinton Women’s Club, KeepSmilin4Abbie Foundation, Live4Evan, Mental Health Collaborative, National Brain Tumor Society, Project Just Because, and the Sharon Timlin Memorial Event to Cure ALS.

Baypath offers online resources Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton is providing online resources for pet owners seeking a humane pet trainer,

behavior consultant or behaviorist. The shelter supports humane training methods that are based on redirection and positive reinforcement to shape desired behaviors in companion animals. Methods of rewards such as food, praise, petting, and play that are based on a mutual understanding, kindness and respect between the pet and the guardian have proven to be successful in managing behavior. At baypathhumane.org/trainingandbehavior, visitors can find a trainer or behaviorist, access tips for choosing a professional that’s right for an owner and their pet, get answers to frequently asked questions about training and behavior, and learn about Baypath’s approach to training and behavior. Dog trainers can help teach a dog new skills, such as sit, stay, come or loose-leash walking, while behaviorists can help with more in-depth behavioral issues such as fear, aggression, out-ofcontrol barking, destructive chewing, biting and separation anxiety. “Positive reinforcement is a scientifically-proven, humane way to teach dogs to make good decisions in their behavior,” said executive director Elizabeth Jefferis. “It is our pleasure to serve as a resource to help families access animal training and behavior professionals who abide by these core principles.”

Keep fire hydrants clear The Water Department requests residents’ assistance in maintaining accessibility to the town’s fire hydrants for the safety and protection of everyone. During the winter, hydrants can become buried by snow. Anyone with a fire hydrant that that near their home is asked to help by making it visible and accessible to the Fire Department for use in an emergency. Precious seconds can be lost searching for a hydrant or removing snow to gain access to it. Residents are asked to talk with neighbors about taking turns shoveling around the hydrant in the winter. It poses a major fire safety hazard to bury a fire hydrant by shoveling, plowing or snow blowing. It is also prohibited by Massachusetts General Law and can incur a fine.

The three most important words to remember when choosing a Realtor

Relationship, Relationship, Relationship I will guide you through every step Call me to set up a confidential marketing consultation today!

508.435.8000 HopkintonMoves.com | Trina@TrinaMacchi.com 11 GROVE STREET | HOPKINTON | MA 01748

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

6 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Downtown parking plans progress slowly By Sandy Quadros Bowles Contributing Writer

s the town grows, parking spaces downtown have become more scarce. Plans are in the works to ease the parking crunch, but it will take time, Town Manager Norman Khumalo said. In May, Town Meeting voters approved the town’s purchase of 6 Walcott St. with 32 spaces that could be used for Town Hall. Also in the works is a municipal lot with 30 spaces at 25-35 Main St. as part of a 12-condominium complex to be developed by Chuck Joseph. These moves, Khumalo said, are “an acknowledgement of the increased need for parking.” The owners of 6 Walcott St. need to find an alternative location for their business, J.D. Marquedant & Associates (land surveyors), before that property can be converted to parking. The town plan to purchase the property for parking was contingent on the owners first finding a new location for their business. No timeline has been stated for this step. Additional spaces also are set for the condo project at 2535 Main St. that would include 30 municipal parking spots. Joseph, the project’s developer, said he will be “filing soon” plans for the project. The timing of the project depends on when he can go before Planning Board and how the process moves, Joseph said. The need for parking is an important driver of the project, he added. “We wouldn’t have proposed a parking lot if we didn’t think the town has a need” for it, Joseph said. While this additional parking remains on the drawing board, Khumalo urges residents to find on-street spaces while visiting downtown. One place they shouldn’t be parking is in the lot behind Bill’s Pizzeria and Grille, located next to Town Hall and often viewed as de facto parking for Town Hall visitors. “I would like to remind people that the lot behind Bill’s Pizzeria is a private lot that is for patrons of Bill’s only,” said Zacharias Siarkos, owner of the business. “I know for many years we have allowed the town, the bank and general downtown visitors to park in our lot, but the town is much bigger and parking has become scarce.” The situation, he said, has “reached the point where our customers can’t find parking some nights.” The Select Board makes an announcement at the start of each meeting at Town Hall warning attendees to move their vehicles if they parked in the Bill’s lot, or risk being towed. Siarkos “has been a good neighbor and accommodated the town’s needs,’’ Khumalo said. “We would like that relationship to continue.” But, Khumalo said, “he has a business to run” and needs parking for his own customers.

A Quality Agent Isn’t Easy To Find

Experienced. Trustworthy. Professional.

John Szolomayer (508) 259.4788 Call me for a Confidential Market Analysis

Baldiga, Fine named Super Lawyers H

opkinton residents Joseph Baldiga and David L. Fine were selected to the 2019 Massachusetts Super Lawyers list. Each year no more than 5 percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Baldiga is a partner and co-chair of the Creditors’ Rights, Bankruptcy and Reorganization at Mirick O’Connell. He conBUSINESS BRIEFS Group centrates his practice on creditor and debtor rights, bankruptcy proceedings, out-of-court loan restructurings, and the purchase and sale of distressed businesses. Fine is a partner and chair of the Construction Law Group at Mirick O’Connell. He represents and counsels clients in the construction industry, including commercial, institutional and residential owners and developers, general contractors, construction managers, specialty subcontractors, suppliers and manufacturers. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The annual selections are made using a patented multiphase process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, an independent research evaluation of candidates and peer reviews by practice area.

Milford Regional earns another ‘A’ Milford Regional Medical Center recently received its third consecutive ‘A’ hospital safety grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national watchdog organization. “Patient safety is a top priority for everyone that works at Milford Regional,” Milford Regional president/CEO Edward J. Kelly said in a press release. “Receiving an ‘A’ grade for hospital safety by The Leapfrog Group for the third time in a row is a real testament to the diligence and hard work of our physicians, nurses and staff in their daily efforts to provide patients with care that is both high quality and safety focused. They are to be commended for their commitment to safety that continues to bring us this national recognition.”

Regional YMCA seeks input The MetroWest YMCA is seeking input as it makes plans for a new center that will serve the towns of Hopkinton, Holliston and Ashland. The facility will be built on 12.5 acres of land near the Ashland MBTA commuter rail station that was donated to the organization. The YMCA is asking area residents to share their thoughts on what they would like to see in the new center. Results from the survey will be shared during community forums in January. To participate in the survey, go to metrowestymca.org/survey by Dec. 15.

Resident volunteers for variety of causes, events High five | from page 4

Trustees, is a greeter at her church, Faith Community Church of Hopkinton, and sings with the Hopkinton Center for Arts’ Treblemakers chorus. Additionally, she hosts the HCAM-TV show “What’s Out There?” featuring the trails and natural resources in town, as well as “Character Matters,” a show targeted towards kids ages 5 to 15 to highlight positive role models and values. Wiggin insists that the love of her fellow townsfolk is reason enough for her tireless service. “I feel like the people in Hopkinton care about each other,” Wiggin said. “I think it’s that ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ kind of place. “When I walk down the street in Hopkinton, people look at each other and they say ‘Good morning’ or ‘Hello.’ In other places where I have lived, such as Newton or Boston or anywhere else, people look at the ground when they walk past another person.” That inherent helpful nature was so apparent throughout town that Wiggin was asked to run for a spot on the Select Board in 2016. She came in third place, but said she would consider running again in the future. “People know that I like to help and that I have a

Mark Underdah Remodeling Kitchens • Baths Additions • Remodels

JohnSzolomayer@gmail.com www.JohnSzolomayer.com

Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog hospital safety grade uses 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The hospital safety grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public (hospitalsafetygrade.org). … Meanwhile, on Nov. 2 Milford Regional held its 15th annual fundraising gala and live auction at a transformed Milford Middle School East. The Melange event brought in close to $800,000 in support of the hospital’s fourth-floor renovations designed to meet the healthcare needs of cancer and palliative care patients. The gala, which drew 400 guests, was hosted by Kevin and Leslie Lobisser and Joe and Suzette Ferreira of Lobisser & Ferreira Construction Corp.

508.341.1810

Insured & Licensed

Lic.# CS071977

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

pretty good brain and I speak pretty well and I really care,” Wiggin said. “Had I gotten that position, I would have worked very hard to do my best for the town of Hopkinton.” Naturally, her helping spirit translates to her professional life as well. Wiggin, who has a teaching degree and a master’s in education, worked for 11 years as a teaching assistant in Hopkinton before shifting to the same position in Hudson last year and now Upton. “I kind of got slotted into the teaching assistant role because my kids were my priority, so I didn’t want to be full-time intense focused on a job,” Wiggin said. “I wanted to be available for my children.” When she isn’t working, Wiggin enjoys singing, dancing, attending live music shows, skiing and being out in nature. She even has taken up writing children’s books, her most recent being a book released this fall titled “Changes for Cynthia, Hopkinton Library’s Squirrel” celebrating the upcoming 125th anniversary of the library. While Wiggin isn’t a native Hopkintonian, having grown up in Newton, she said it didn’t take long for her and her family to learn what makes the town tick. “We loved the nature and the water and the feel of the town, the wonderful small-town warmth of the town,” she said. “People help each other in Hopkinton. It’s not just a beautiful place to live.” If you know of a volunteer in town worthy of recognition in a High-Five feature, email editor@HopkintonIndependent.com.

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 7

Library Corner For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary.org. The library also can be found at Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on Twitter, @HopkintonPLMA. Schedule note: The library will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 11:15 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. for a town department gathering.

Basic Computer Class

Thursday, Dec. 12, 6-7:30 p.m. The library hosts a twice-monthly Basic Computers series. Each class will focus on an aspect of basic computer use, from using a mouse to keyboard shortcuts to email and Google. This month, learn about searching the internet for information. Practice googling, learn how to read a page of search results, and understand the importance of keywords.

History Book Club

Monday, Dec. 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m. The History Book Club meets once a month. This month the group is reading “The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict. Books are available at the library. New members are always welcome.

nology librarian, and get personalized one-on-one technology aid to learn basic computer skills or receive assistance with a specific task or problem. To make an appointment, call the library at 508-497-9777 and ask for the reference desk, or email dcook@hopkintonma.gov. Drop-ins are welcome, but scheduled appointments have first priority.

Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library Annual Meeting

Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m. The annual meeting of the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library will be held Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the library. All members are invited to attend. The agenda will include the election of officers, approval of the dues structure and affirmation of regular business. The annual meeting will be followed by the January board meeting.

NOW OPEN!

Grade 4/5 Book Group

Monday, Dec. 16, 3:45-4:30 p.m. Mrs. C, the children’s librarian, hosts a book discussion group for interested fourth- and fifth-graders. Kids should read “Half Magic” by Edward Eager before meeting so they can discuss it. Signup is required so that Mrs. C knows how many delicious snacks to provide.

YA Lit for Adults Book Club

Monday, Dec. 16, 7:15-8:30 p.m. This book club is for adults as well as students in Grades 11 and 12. This month the group will discuss a new YA book, “The Last True Poets of the Sea” by Julia Drake. New members are always welcome. Sign up online. Books are available at the main circulation desk. Participants are welcome to bring snacks if they wish.

28 Main Street, Hopkinton 508.589.7889 kingscornerbarbershop.com

Chat ’n’ Chew Lunchtime Book Group

Tuesday, Dec. 17, 12:30-1:30 p.m. The library hosts a lively afternoon book group where participants can have their lunch while discussing a favorite book they’ve recently read (fiction or nonfiction). The group meets the third Tuesday of every month.

OPEN Tuesday - Friday: 9am - 7pm, Saturday: 8am - 5pm

Fine-Free Wednesday

Wednesday, Dec. 18 All items returned this day will not incur any fines. This does not include past fines.

Technology Office Hours

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 4-6 p.m. Schedule a 20-minute appointment with Danielle, the reference and tech-

It’s the people we love that make a house a home.

Jeannine COBURN Consider it SOLD! EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

508.808.4120 | JeannineCoburn.com “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

8 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

There are few things that keep you warmer than Al’s Oil…

Still Locally Owned & Serving Your neighbors for Over 60 Years! Because We Care.

508-753-7221 • ALSOILSERVICE.com LOWEST PRICES • FULL-SERVICE • 24-HR EXPERT BURNER SERVICE • WE ACCEPT MOST MAJOR CREDIT CARDS

Waste Removal and Recycling

Call us for all your waste removal and recycling needs E.L. Harvey & Sons, Inc 800-321-3002 • www.elharvey.com

Mac MedSpa Holiday Wish List

q Liposuction

by Dr. Ballenas

q CoolSculpting q Hair Transplants by Dr. Ballenas

q Botox, Fillers, P.R.P, I.V. Vitamin Drip q Massage Therapy $85+ Solo or Duet!

q Laser Hair Removal Now for full body

q CureWave Laser for pain relief

q Expert Colorist & Stylist q Shellac Manicure & Pedicures q Laser Hair Removal q Brazilian Waxing

Mac MedSpa

Schedule an appointment today

(508) 478-9888 127 Main Street, Milford www.macmedspa.com

q Skin Tightening/Resurfacing Lasers, Plasma Pen, Microneedling q Microblading Eyebrows q Waxing q Eyelash Extensions q Ear Piercing q Kontor Infrared Body Slimming Wrap q IONITHERMIE Detox/ Slimming q Dermal Blading q Human Hair Extensions q Tanning

q Photo Facials q KTP for Broken Capillaries and Sunspots q Ear Candling q Makeup Application q Teeth Whitening $85 20 minute process

q Electrolysis q Colonics q Laser Tattoo Removal q Spectra Laser for Acne q Microcurrent Put the Snap Back in Your Skin

Airbrush & Mystic

ase Purch t Card Gif $100 /20 & Receive

EE FiR for ft card

by 3/1

g L ACeI!A F ) D LE 0 valu

(a $4

FACIA L MASS S OR A GE Buy 6, g et 7th F S REE! EYEBR O W WAX OR NAI Buy 9, g L SERVICE et 10th FREE!

Town mourns longtime volunteer, advocate Mary Pratt Mary Pratt | from page 1

the Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center’s assisted living facility in Natick, where she moved shortly after selling about 32 acres of her family’s Fruit Street property to the town in 2015 to be used for agriculture, wells, open space and Scouting programs. Tedstone grew up in town and was friends with two of Pratt’s children (Tom and Martha). He spent many winter days skating on the pond at Pratt Farm. And as he grew older he developed a new appreciation for Pratt, who was heavily involved in town issues well before she was elected to the Select Board. “As soon as I hit 18 and was starting to go to the Town Meetings, she and [husband] Joe were kind of fixtures,” Tedstone recalled. “Everywhere you went — if you went to Carbone’s, you’d see Mary. If you went to Brown & Smith’s [a store downtown] you’d see Mary. No matter where you went in town you’d see Mary. And she was never one to not give you an opinion, whether you asked for it or not.” Coincidentally, Tedstone was a nurse at Mary Ann Morse She was smart enough to know what when Pratt moved was really right and what was really into the facility, and he helped with her wrong for the good of the town. care for most of her Although maybe she didn’t present it time there. When Te d s t o n e d e c i d e d in a soft, gift-wrapped package, every to run for the Select decision that she made was definitely Board, Pratt offered for the good of the town, which made her support. “When she first the town a better place. came to the rehab I told her I was running — Select Board chair Brendan Tedstone, on Mary Pratt for selectman, and she voted for me with an absentee ballot,” Tedstone recalled. “She sent that in probably the day that you were allowed to. So she was my first vote as selectman.” Born in Natick, Pratt was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Devitt) O’Brien. She received her bachelor’s degree from Regis College and followed that with a master’s from Wellesley College, both in chemistry. In her early adult years she did radioisotope medical research. She began her involvement in town government in the early 1960s, working on education issues. Before special education programs were introduced, Pratt educated herself with graduate classes to find out what could be done in the public schools to meet the needs of those students who needed extra support. She was an advocate for special education as well as for programs for exceptionally gifted students. She worked successfully to get kindergarten into the regular curriculum in Hopkinton. In addition to serving on the Select Board, Pratt held a number of other elected and appointed positions, contributing her time to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, Southwest Area Planning Committee, Organization for Balanced Fiscal Future, Fire Station Building Committee, Hopkinton Housing Partnership and Open Space Committee, among others. A founder and longtime member of the board of the Hopkinton Area Land Trust (HALT), Pratt had many accomplishments, including the reconstruction work at the Whitehall Dam and the purchase and stewardship of the Lake Maspenock Dam. When Pratt stepped down from the HALT board a few years ago due to health reasons, then-director David Goldman lauded her for her contributions, writing: “Her energies were always directed toward the preservation of the town’s rural character, the open spaces and environmental education. Mary was passionate about preserving the trees, saying that they were the ‘lungs of the community.’ … To say Mary has been a dedicated public servant and a passionate conservationist seems an embarrassing understatement.” In 2012 she was honored by the town for her five decades of public service. “Mrs. Pratt loved Hopkinton,” said Select Board member Brian Herr, who served alongside Pratt during his previous stint on the board. “She was a dedicated leader in our community and great fun to work with on the Select Board. Occasionally she would slip me a funny note while others on the board were deliberating a more serious issue. The Town of Hopkinton is a wonderful place to live and raise a family in large part because of Mary Pratt and her endless energy. I miss her!” Added Tedstone: “She was smart enough to know what was really right and what was really wrong for the good of the town. Although maybe she didn’t present it in a soft, gift-wrapped package, every decision that she made was definitely for the good of the town, which made the town a better place. And it absolutely was not to benefit herself. She was very selfless.” The wife of the late Joseph William Pratt, she is survived by her children, Daniel Pratt and his wife, Kelly, of Harrison City, Pennsylvania, Maryanne Bilodeau and her husband, Thomas, of Westborough, Thomas Pratt and Susan Bush of Hopkinton, Robert Pratt and his wife, Jennifer, of Hopkinton, and Martha Pratt-Rice (and her late husband, Joel Rice) of Warwick. She also leaves behind her sister, Joanne O’Brien of Natick, as well as 11 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by two sisters, Patricia Haswell and Marjorie Laprise, and a son, Joseph Pratt, who passed away Nov. 13. A funeral mass was celebrated Dec. 5 at St. Matthew’s Parish in Southborough, followed by burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Natick. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org). Material from Mary Pratt’s obituary from Chesmore Funeral Home in Hopkinton was used in this report.

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 9

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

, n o t n i k p o Hey H

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

This issue’s winner is Kara Shipkin, for her photo of the Town Common in the early stages of the snowstorm that started in the evening on Dec. 1. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@ hopkintonindependent.com.

Get out ! s a r e m a c your The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by Bill’s Pizzeria. Readers are encouraged to submit photos of people, places or things in Hopkinton. The Independent staff will select one winner for each issue. The winner will have their submitted photo published in the paper and will receive a $25 gift certificate to Bill’s Pizzeria. All photos must be submitted by individuals 16 and over. The photo must be high resolution, and not submitted for use by any other media outlet. Winners will pick up their gift certificate at Bill’s Pizzeria.

RESILIENCE

CELEBRATING 7+ YEARS OF

JUMPSTART

FAMILY, FITNESS, & FUN

New to fitness or ready to jump back in? This 2020 JumpStart Program is for you!

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR PROGRAM OFFERINGS:

IGNITE YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY

HOME OF THE HOPKINTON RESILIENT

• JUMPSTART

(6 WEEK INTRODUCTORY PROGRAM)

Start Date:

• RUSH CLASSES

January 13th for 6 weeks

(45 MIN HIIT-STYLE GENERAL PROGRAM)

Class Times:

• CROSSFIT CLASSES

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 7am or 7:30pm (all 3 days)

(60 MIN ALL-ENCOMPASSING FITNESS)

Program Cost: $300

• KIDS CLASSES • TEEN CLASSES • TEAM TRAINING • NUTRITION COACHING • 1-ON-1 & SEMI-PRIVATE

Don’t know where to start?

For more information or to sign up, go to: www.crossﬁtresilience.com/jumpstart Registration Deadline: January 6, 2020

Schedule a 15 min No Sweat Intro here: www.crossfitresilience.com/no-sweat-intro

45R South St. Hopkinton, MA 01748 www.crossﬁtresilience.com

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

10 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Less Wait. Feel Great. Growth Study Committee pushes for public input Growth Study | from page 1

No appointments needed Open weekends & evenings High quality care Staffed by physicians & advanced practitioners Laboratory & X-ray on-site

1 Lumber Street Hopkinton, MA 508-625-3535 Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM Weekends 9AM-5PM Locations in Hopkinton, Milford, Northbridge and Franklin. For more information or to check wait times, please visit milfordregionalphysicians.org. Member of the Milford Regional Healthcare System

PHOTO/CHRSTINE STRICKLAND

We know your time is valuable. That’s why at Milford Regional Urgent Care, we provide fast, high quality care to our patients. Our Urgent Care sites are staffed with two providers at all times which allows patients to be seen in a timely manner with minimal wait. Trust Milford Regional Urgent Care to provide the care you need, when you need it.

The town’s population increased by 1,365 residents from 2015 to 2019, nearly double the increase over the five years prior to that, when 851 new residents moved to town. The project aims to proactively manage growth, enable better planning for town services, and identify parcels or zones that may have a significant impact of future growth patterns to ensure continued use in the best interest of the town. The project also aims to be proactive about maintaining the level of required affordable housing inventory in town, according to the committee. The committee’s goal is to utilize public input, analytics and objective experts to examine growth trends and development within the town and to identify and recommend actions to ensure Hopkinton can continue to support its citizens. By seeking input from statistics and public opinion. the committee could make recommendations on several potential changes, she said. One possibility is hiring an economic development officer to help fill commercial vacancies in town. Another is to increase minimum lot size. Ritterbusch stressed that these are merely possibilities and that the committee will look at input before making a recommendation. At the first workshop, committee member Chuck Joseph reviewed some overall statistics that could factor in the town’s growth. Sixteen percent of the town’s tax base is commercial/industrial, with businesses based primarily along Interstate 495 and in the downtown. Although the 16 percent is a little higher than in comparable towns, “we are a residential town,” Joseph said. Joseph added that “we need to preserve that 16 percent” commercial/ industrial tax base. He said he suspects town residents are not likely to want to increase it but he believes it should be maintained. Fifty-five percent of the town’s budget is allocated toward the schools, which is equivalent to comparable towns, he noted. Joseph said that although the public perception seems to be that “50 percent of the population must be kids,” the actual figure is 23 percent, which is “a little on the high side” vs. comparable

Growth Study committee member Chuck Joseph speaks at the Nov. 20 workshop at Hopkinton High School.

towns. “We probably skew to a little younger population,” he said. The committee will seek public input via a survey on the town website, Ritterbusch said. Public opinion is crucial, she said, because any potential zoning change must be approved by a two-thirds vote at town meeting. “It’s hard to get anything passed without the support of the people,” she said. When public input is collected, the committee will summarize the findings and present a financial impact assessment of growth, residential and commercial, over the past 10 years by zoned areas, and provide a forecast model of growth and forward-thinking financial impact by zoned areas for the next 10 years. The committee also will identify and prioritize parcels and/or zones with the highest potential for change and recommend optimal land uses or practices for each, with contingency plans for alternative uses. With these factors in mind, the committee then will create a plan of action that involves major stakeholders including other boards and town leaders to establish means of ongoing growth monitoring. The town’s characteristics are owed in part to previous planning efforts, Joseph said, which underscores the importance of forward thinking. Of Hopkinton’s 27 square miles, more than one square mile is open space, he said. Driving through the town, one can see homes, then open areas, which he said is not a coincidence. “It didn’t happen by accident,” he said. “Town Meeting made good planning decisions.”

Grow Your Business WITH LOCAL ADVERTISING For only $64 per issue your ad will reach over 17,500 people in Hopkinton!

Let us develop an advertising strategy that works within YOUR budget. Call Today! Susanne Odell Farber • 508.954.8148 • sue@sodellconsult.com

HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT www.hopkintonindependent.com

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 11

Schools HPS special ed seeks 8.1 percent budget increase Student surge affects multiple departments By Melissa Orff Contributing Writer

hree of Hopkinton Public School departments — Special Education, Buildings and Grounds, and Technology — had the chance to present their individual budgets for FY21 to the School Committee on Nov. 21. The school budget has been heavily discussed at a number of School Committee meetings over the past few months, with the rapid increase in enrollment causing a strain on district resources. Although the original budget message from the town was to keep increases to 5.5 percent, the school district is looking at a 5.1 percent increase in nonnegotiable contractual obligations for next year alone. “There is no wiggle room with these,” said superintendent Dr. Carol Cavanaugh. “And this is before we add a single general education teacher due to any of the enrollment growth.” The three departments presented their needs, which included additional staff to keep pace with the increased enrollment. Director of student services Dr. Karen Zaleski presented the needs of the Special Education Department for FY21. The department requested $11,923,923, which is an increase over FY20 of $908,755, or 8.3 percent. The increase is

based on contractual salary increases as well as a request for additional staff due to the increase in enrollment, including additional intensive and general paraprofessionals, a half-time psychologist at Marathon Elementary School, additional secretarial support, and a new pre-K teacher for a new pre-K classroom. “We have a significant anticipated enrollment of early intervention students next year,” Zaleski said. Students who quality for early intervention services can enroll in pre-K at the age of 3. The number of teachers and paraprofessionals is based on enrollment of early intervention students. “Enrollment growth has hit preschool as well,” commented Marathon principal Lauren Dubeau, speaking on the needed pre-K teacher for FY21. “Adding an additional preschool class will allow us to be able to provide additional needed supports.” Increased enrollment also equates to an increase in special education transportation costs, said Zaleski, including transportation to out-of-district placements, and transportation for homeless and foster care students. The special education department makes up more than 12 percent of the student population at Hopkinton Public Schools. “That’s important to keep in mind

when we are looking at such large numbers,” commented School Committee member Meg Tyler. “I am amazed you were able to increase the budget so little.” Director of technology Ashoke Ghosh presented the FY21 budget for the Technology Department for the district, asking for an 8.5 percent increase year over year. Ghosh said that the budget supports aligning the K-12 curriculum with the Massachusetts state standards, data privacy, support maintenance of hardware and software systems, and instructional software. The driving force behind the proposed budget increase is a new website/data position ($60,000) to maintain the new website and to support the data across the district. This is currently a stipend position of 3-5 hours per week. “Parents, students and teachers need access to information,” said School Committee member Amanda Fargiano, voicing her support for the new position. “While it seems fluffy to some … it frees up time for our administrators who it falls on now.” But not all agreed that the new position was a necessity in a challenging budget year. “We are in a place where we have many, many needs,” commented School Committee chair Meena Bharath, asking Ghosh to consider looking into recruiting volunteers in combination with the cur-

Wishing you a happy & healthy holiday season & a prosperous new year!

U n iBa n k’ s Holid a y Hou e m ploy ee s to ce le b rate wrs a llow ou r it h th ei r fa m ili es: Ch ristm

as Eve: Clos in g at 1p m Ch ristm as Day: Clos ed

800.578.4270

Member FDIC/Member DIF

rent stipend position. The final presentation from the meeting was by the director of buildings and grounds, Timothy Persson. Persson presented a preliminary increase for FY21 of $464,000, or 14 percent. A large driver of the increase is a request for salary increases from the new contract for custodians and maintenance, and for three additional night custodians throughout the district. “Our staff does a really good job cleaning the buildings and they work really hard,” said Persson, who explained that the Hopkinton maintenance staff cleans an average of 10,000-20,000 square feet more per night then facilities guidelines dictate for typical school buildings. Persson told the committee that he originally proposed six additional custodians to bring the district within the guidelines but reduced it to three after the initial round of budget presentations. The Buildings and Grounds budget also included $182,000 for maintenance items such as a preventative maintenance program for HVAC units ($81,000) and for water testing for the district ($10,000). “We know if you don’t do the maintenance it can be very costly in the future,” commented Fargiano. Other departments will be presenting their budgets at a future School Committee meeting.

N ew Y ea r’s Eve: Open R eg ul ar Hou rs N ew Y ea r’s Day: Clos ed

~Your friends at U

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

niBank

12 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Top of the Hill inductees honored in return to HHS Alumni share wisdom with current students By Melissa Orff Contributing Writer

PHOTO/HCAM

he achievements of five Hopkinton High School alumni were celebrated during the Top of the Hill event on Nov. 26. Organized by the Hopkinton Parent Teacher Association, Hopkinton Education Foundation and Hopkinton High School, the Top of the Hill program recognizes alumni who have graduated from HHS and have gone on to significantly impact the community — through volunteerism, activism or their life’s work. Nominations are gathered and reviewed by a committee of administrators, teachers, students and community members in order to choose a new group of Top of the Hill inductees. This year’s inductees were invited back to their alma mater for the day to speak to students about their path after leaving high school. “It’s hard to know when you get out of school what you want to do, but you work at it and find something that you really like and keep going,” said Jean Scarlata, Class of 1947. After graduating HHS, Scarlata worked at the Veterans Administration at the Cushing General Hospital complex in Framingham and then continued to work at the VA Medical Center when it relocated to West Roxbury. After taking time off to raise a family, Scarlata spent time volunteering in the Hopkinton Public Schools and taught religious education at St. John the Evangelist Church, for which she currently is the treasurer as a member

Members of the Top of the Hill Class of 2019 were (from left) Dr. Sam Sennott, Missy (MacDonald) Sadler, Dr. Patrick Lynch, Jean Scarlata and Matt Ellam.

of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. In inspired their passions. 1981 she went to work full-time at the Missy (MacDonald) Sadler was a Town of Hopkinton Water Department, star athlete in the Class of 2000. After from which she retired in 2015. high school, she attended Fairfield “I was so nervous,” Scarlata said University, where she graduated cum with a laugh about being chosen as an laude with a B.A. in psychology while inductee for the Top of the Hill program starting at third base on the Connecticut in an interview with HCAM TV. “But school’s Division 1 softball team. Sadler after I thought about it I knew what an worked at EMC Corporation in its sales honor it was.” training program and over the course of After spending the day in class10 years was promoted numerous times rooms, the inductees returned in the and recognized as a top sales performer evening for a ceremony honoring their in the Americas. She also served as vice accomplishments. Each honoree was Safety president of Created the EMC Field Women’s Milford Regional / Leapfrog Grade 11/11/19 introduced by a member of the student Leadership Forum, which sought to en10.25 xfemale 7.5) CMYK council, then they spoke about what (Half-Page courage -greater participation in

Hopkinton Independent

the traditionally male-dominated tech industry. Sadler currently is taking time off from her career to raise her young family while still being involved in athletics as a volunteer coach for the Medfield High School softball team. “Some of my fondest memories were made here, in these classrooms and on those athletic fields,” she told the audience during the ceremony. “I built friendships here that still exist today, and now our kids are growing up together.” Matt Ellam, inductee and graduate of the Class of 2006, enjoyed the opportunity to return to the school. “The students were great,” he said in an HCAM interview. “It was a great opportunity to hear their stories and share mine.” Ellam was the founded the Hiller Grillers, a tailgating fan club that has been grilling since 2004. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where he received a B.A. in African studies and history and continued his education at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in 2012, earning a B.S. and an M.S. in nursing to become a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Since then, Ellam has devoted his academic and clinical time to promoting access to mental health care and substance abuse treatment in underserved and compromised populations and managed nurse-run medication assisted treatment programs for opioid and alcohol use disorders in East Boston and Brockton, and provided comprehensive psychiatric care in English, Spanish and Top of the Hill | 13

Recognized as one of the nation’s safest hospitals...

three times in a row! As a nationally recognized healthcare leader, Milford Regional has just been awarded - for the third time in a row - the country’s top grade for hospital safety. Our commitment to quality care is stronger than ever, with new investments to enhance and support our team of dedicated nurses, physicians, and hospital staff in their mission to deliver the very best healthcare in our region. While national recognitions are important, continuing to deliver quality healthcare to each patient is our real reward.

14 Prospect Street • Milford, MA • milfordregional.org

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 13

Gingerbread house fundraiser to help HHS Habitat for Humanity

Pictured at last year’s Gingerbread House Decorating Fundraiser are HHS Habitat for Humanity club members (from left) Mihika Abraham, Anchi-Huang, Thrusha Puttaraju, Maria Vasington and Geetika Ravi.

By Melissa Orff Contributing Writer

Hopkinton High School club will be raising funds again this holiday season to help give families the chance to have a home for the holidays. The Habitat for Humanity club will be hosting its annual Gingerbread House Decorating Fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the HHS cafeteria. Proceeds from the event will go to help meet housing needs for those who are without. Habitat for Humanity is a global non-profit housing organization working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S. and in approximately 70 countries. Habitat’s vision is of “a world where everyone has a decent place to live.” Habitat for Humanity reaches these goals by aiding impoverished communities to build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. The HHS Habitat for Humanity club started in 2017 when Thrusha Puttaraju, now a senior, wanted to bring this volunteer opportunity that would appeal to high school students, where they could see where the money they raised was going and the impact their volunteerism would have. “There were a bunch of clubs at this high school, but I felt like this club would be a tangible way for students to give back in their community,” Puttaraju said. “It is something that we can go back 20 years later and say, ‘Wow, we helped build that.’ ” In the past few years, the HHS Habitat for Humanity club has raised more than $4,000 for the Worcester Regional Chapter. Those funds have been used for home construction costs in local towns, including Holliston and Northborough. Along with the much-needed funds, the HHS club has been able to donate many hours of time working on building homes, side by side with the families who will benefit from their service. “We live in a part of Massachusetts that is very wealthy, so at times we are sheltered from the housing inequalities and other problems that people face in other areas,” Puttaraju said. “Doing this gives use a glimpse of other struggles people face while helping others pay for home and pay their rent.” The Habitat club will be offering community members a chance to build their own houses for the day — gingerbread ones — during a fun and festive community event. “This is a community-based fundraiser. We try to involve the community as much as possible because they are our biggest supporters,” Puttaraju said. All ages are welcome to the Gingerbread House event, but children 12 and under must have a parent/guardian present with their team. Teams are limited to a maximum of eight people and a minimum of two people. It costs $5 per participant. Pizza, snacks and drinks will be available at the event for $1 each. Registration can be found on the club’s website: hopkintonhs.wixsite.com/habitat4humanityhhs.

Top of the Hill inductees honored in return to HHS Top of the Hill | from page 12

Portuguese at community health centers in Worcester, Framingham and Roxbury. Currently, Ellam sees patients at a group private practice in Brookline while focusing on the growth of various projects to support equitable mental health care for all people regardless of ability to pay or speak English. Dr. Sam Sennott, Class of 1996, said that it was a “terrific gift” to be able to reflect with the students and share the work that he does serving people with communication disabilities. “I love kids, and I leverage that with my unique way of thinking,” he said. Sennott is an assistant professor of special education at Portland State University’s Graduate School of Education. Sennott said he discovered his life’s passion after volunteering at the Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center. After graduating from HHS, Sennott attended Gordon College, where he received his B.S. in special education, elementary education and history while working a series of jobs assisting children with disabilities. He went on to earn a M.S. in assistive special education technology from Simmons College and a Ph.D. in augmentative and alternative communication, assistive technology and special education from Penn State University. In 2009 Sennott co-created and launched the original Proloquo2Go, an iPhone program that takes on-screen text and reads it electronically. The iOS application helps people who have difficulty speaking due to a range of disabilities such as autism,

Down syndrome and cerebral palsy, and has been featured on the front page of The New York Times, by ABC News and on 60 Minutes. The final inductee was Dr. Patrick Lynch, Class of 1977, who spoke to the attendees about the importance of perseverance. Lynch was paralyzed after breaking his neck playing football for the Hillers. “I remember feeling guilty in the days and hours and months [after the injury] that I let them down and wouldn’t be able to finish the season,” Lynch said. “It wasn’t so much that I was feeling sorry for myself, it was more a feeling that I was letting my team members down.” Although confined to a wheelchair, Lynch went on to graduate from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1985, completed an internship in internal medicine at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield in 1986, and concluded his education with a residency in diagnostic radiology at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University in Syracuse in 1990. Lynch has amassed an extensive knowledge and unrivaled expertise in women’s imaging, including ultrasonography, mammography and breast MRI. As a radiologist he has dedicated training and unique experience in diagnosing and treating disease and injury through the use of medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET), fusion imaging and ultrasound.

Get ready NOW fOr the spriNG market Whether you are downsizing or upsizing, prepare today

Clinical Skin Care HOLIDAY GIFT Before Plasma Pen

14 Days After Plasma Pen

CERTIFICATES Available online!

• Skin Lifting & Tightening with Plasma Pen • Anti-Aging & Acne Facials • Waxing • Tints • Laser Hair Removal • Miro-Needling & More

KATHY DRAGIN

Your #1 expert for all your real estate needs.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

kathy@hopkintonskincare.com • hopkintonskincare.com cell/text: 508-272-0168 • 17 Main Street, Hopkinton

Let’s start discussing your needs asap.

KATHY THOMAS Licensed Medical Esthetician

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

508-277-1566

14 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Sports HHS football closes with T-Day win T

he Hopkinton High School football team handed Ashland its first loss of the season on Thanksgiving morning, cruising to a 26-7 victory at David Hughes Stadium in the annual rivalry game. Ashland’s starters played just one quarter, as the Clockers wanted to ensure they would be healthy for the Division 6 Super Bowl on Dec. 7 at Gillette Stadium. Hopkinton took advantage, scoring 26 consecutive points after allowing an early touchdown. Hopkinton, which closed the season with three straight wins, finished at 5-6 and expanded its lead in the Thanksgiving Day series to 53-37-5. Senior quarterback Robby Bernardin rushed for one touchdown and passed for two others — to junior Cam Mulvaney and senior Max LaCascia — and was named the game’s Offensive MVP. Senior Andrew Saporochetz was named SPORTS ROUNDUP Defensive MVP. Senior Zach Levy was named Unsung Hero. A few days later Saporochetz picked up another honor when he was named Tri-Valley League Defensive Player of the Year. Junior Cole Salyards, who ran for Hopkinton’s first TD against Ashland, was named a TVL All-Star.

Jones competes in NYC PHOTO/TRICIA LACASCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

HHS junior Olivia Jones earned All-Northeast third-team honors after placing 27th in the Foot Locker Northeast Regional cross country race on Nov. 30 in New York City. Jones finished the challenging 3.1-mile course at Van Cortland Park in the Bronx in 18 minutes, 54 seconds. … Nine HHS student-athletes attended the MIAA Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium. Representing the Hillers were Tommy Bernardin, Caroline Connell, Angie Grabmeier, Kristin McCluskey, Tiffany Mikulis, Mirabella Paolucci, Cole Salyards, Ron Shamus and Jacob Sokol. Grabmeier and Connell were named finalists in the MIAA essay contest. … In the annual HHS girls football game on Nov. 22, the senior class rolled to a 37-0 victory over the juniors. … In the 18th annual Tom McIntyre Turkey Bowl, a football tournament featuring HHS alumni from 1994 to 2018, the Hiller Thrillers took the title.

Hopkinton High School senior Max LaCascia scores a touchdown during the Hillers’ victory over visiting Ashland on Thanksgiving Day.

In Your Neighborhood. A New Location to Serve You Better. Now accepting new patients with immediate appointments available. VISIT OUR FULL-SERVICE HOPKINTON OFFICE OFFERING MEDICAL, SURGICAL & COSMETIC SERVICES! Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jessica Boulavsky

(978) 691-5690 • 22 South Street • Hopkinton

#gift goals! 1000’s of gifts!

Something for everyone on your list. Westborough Shopping Center Route 9 & Lyman St., (508)366-4959

B u y G i f t C a r d s O n l i n e N o w a t Ta t n u c k . c o m “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 15

Webber dives right in as new HHS swim coach By Giulia Marino Contributing Writer

ew Hopkinton High School swim coach Kristen Webber was drawn to the program by the team’s sportsmanship and enthusiasm. We b b e r u s e d to work as a math teacher and assistant swim coach at Natick High School. Her team shared pool facilities with Hopkinton, and she was first impressed Kristen Webber, by how the HHS athletes presented who swam at Boston College, themselves. She nois HHS’ new ticed in the students swim coach. not only sportsmanship and honesty but also a great sense of community. She received confirmation of her impressions by the Hopkinton coaching staff, which told her how dedicated and hardworking the team was. “This seemed like a positive environment with a team who was willing to put in the work,” Webber said. Webber got the opportunity to lead the Hillers after last year’s head coach, Jeff Libby, stepped down due to a job change. Libby will remain with the team as an assistant, along with Karen Terry. Jim Brainerd coaches the divers. The swimming tradition in the Webber family does not start with Kristen, as her mother, Carolyn, was a swimmer in college at Cornell and was Kristen’s first coach. Webber, who grew up in the Western Massachusetts town of Hampden, was on the town’s rec team from ages 7-18 and remarked how important being part of that community was to her. After a standout career at Minnechaug Regional High School (three-time allleague, three school records, member of the state championship 200-meter freestyle relay team), she went on to swim at Boston College from 2012-16.

Choose a Realtor ® that... • Loves her job

Becoming a swim coach was her opportunity to be continue being part of a team. “I always felt close to my teammates and my coaches,” she said. “I wanted to become a swim coach because I wanted to be a part of a community like that again.” Webber plans on setting the expectations high for her athletes, to encourage them to challenge themselves and go beyond their limits. Her hope is to show the students that hard work pays off in the end, by guiding them toward improvement, be it in times, techniques or general fitness. Webber also points out that while every student is different, teamwork and support are key to her coaching. “The team mentality is important,” she said. “I want the team to be willing to take risks and challenge themselves. That requires support from teammates.” Being able to embrace challenges and take risks is another key aspect of Webber’s coaching style. A willingness to work hard and challenge oneself are the main characteristics that Webber looks for in an athlete. “If an athlete is willing to embrace challenges, they will find success,” she said. “It is my job to give the athletes opportunities to be challenged and see improvement.” With swim season about to start, Webber stressed how excited she is to meet the athletes and start working with them. Her hope is that the athletes will enjoy their season while finding the discipline it takes to be successful swimmers. Webber also anticipated that she will have some new workout ideas for the team to try. “I would like the Hopkinton community to know how excited I am to get to know this group of athletes and how invested I already am in each of their successes,” she said. “I will put in the effort on my end to ensure that each athlete feels valued on this team and finds personal success throughout the season.”

• Takes all the hassles out of buying or selling a home • Is dedicated to customer service CALL FOR A

FREE HOME

EVALUATION!

OF ITION D A A TR

PERSONAL SERVICE & COMMUNITY

SUPP

ORT

Since 1950

80 Main Street - Hopkinton MA 01748 HOME CONDO RENTER AUTO BUSINESS We are your reliable insurance neighbors! We Sell Promises We Believe in Performance Our Clients Seem to Agree

“Your family has been part of my family’s life for as long as I can remember and I appreciate the help and support you and your staff provide.” Susan Winters, Satisfied client for over 50 years! WE must be doing something right! BECOME AN OLD FRIEND... START NOW! We can also save you money and improve your protection.

PHOTO/CHRISTINE STRICKLAND

Why call 1-800-WHO-EVER when you can talk to: •

Julie •

OFF AND RUNNING

Brian • Letty Mike • Joanne

•

Amy

CALL: 508-435-6388

At the RE/MAX Neighbors Helping Neighbors 5K road race on Nov. 23 at Hopkinton Country Club, among those getting off to a good start were Hopkinton High School students (from left) Connor Dorfman, Cole Deisenroth, Craig Salois and eventual winner Wyatt Ruff.

www.phippsinsurance.com Open M – F 8:30am – 5:00pm

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

16 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Holiday Events Claflin Hill String Quartet Holiday Family Concert

Saturday | December 14 3:00 p.m. Hopkinton Center for the Arts Join the Claflin Hill Symphony String Quartet for a new Holiday musical event for the entire family. Enjoy a special visit with Santa Claus after the concert! Sponsored by Scott’s Landscaping

The Nutcracker

Sunday | December 22 12:30 & 4:30 p.m. Performances Ashland High School, Ashland, MA Come and join Clara on this magical journey. Directed by Jessica Wilson, HCA Director of Dance

New Year’s Eve Party Tuesday | December 31 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Hopkinton Center for the Arts Tickets Available Online HopArtsCenter.org

Ring in the New Year at the HCA with great music and dancing with local band SIGNS OF LIFE. Small bites, cash bar, and champagne toast at midnight.

9 8 H AY D E N R O W E S T R E E T | H o p A r t s C e n t e r. o r g

MAIN STREET SERVICE CENTER Complete Auto Service

Senior Snippets All activities unless otherwise noted are at the Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew St. The Senior Center is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday from 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., and Friday from 8:30 a.m.2 p.m. Call 508-497-9730 for more information or to register for a program. For a more extensive listing of programs check Ourseniorcenter.com/find/Hopkinton-council-on-aging or www.hopkintonseniorcenter.com.

Nutcracker Tea and Cookie Decorating Party

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2-4 p.m. Get festive this holiday season with a Nutcracker-themed tea party. The Senior Center will provide cookies and all the decorations for participants to take home special sweet treats. Pre-registration is required.

50-plus Job-Seekers Networking Group

Monday, Dec. 16, 1:30-3:30 p.m. If you are 50-plus and unemployed, underemployed, returning to the workforce or seeking employment, you are eligible for this program. Learn the skills needed to obtain employment in the current job market, including resume writing that works, creating an elevator pitch, confronting ageism, managing stress and locating senior friendly employers. Ed Lawrence, a career coach, will facilitate each meeting. There will be time for networking as well. The multi-month series takes place the first and third Monday of the month. For more information or to register, contact Ashley Shaheen, co-facilitator, at 508-497-9730 or visit the website at www. mcoaonline.com/50plusregistration. This program is free thanks to a grant from MCOA.

Snowman Jars

Tuesday, Dec. 17, 1-3 p.m. Bring the snow fun indoors with this snowman craft. The class is taught by Deb Robbins, COA volunteer and member of the Vintage Quilters. Pre-registration is required. Maximum of 10 participants. Cost is $5.

Holiday Singalong Computerized Diagnostics Foreign & American . Wheel Alignment Complete Air Conditioning Service Road Service . Towing Tune-ups . Brakes . Tires Massachusetts State Inspection Station

508-435-9038 96 MAIN STREET, Hopkinton (Rte 135) 36 years in business 1982-2019

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 12:30 p.m. Attendees should wear their favorite holiday attire and sing along to the music that they love. Together with the Mellowtones, the Senior Center chorus, participants will sing favorite holiday carols for this jolly event. Light refreshments will be served.

Conversation Cafe

Friday, Dec. 20, 10-11 a.m. Do you like to laugh? Do you like to discuss current events? Do you like to talk with people or do you prefer to sit back and listen? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions then the Conversation Cafe is for you. Conversations help us think differently, and the Senior Center

s ur New Year’ lf! o y f o rt a p e Let us b demic se our best aca y e b to n o ti resolu

Are bigger classes getting you down? Does your child need some extra attention? WE CAN HELP!

STARTING JANUARY 2020

Winter After School Art Classes TUESDAYS, 4 TO 5:30PM $35 / SESSION TO REGISTER VISIT: CANVASNCUP.COM & CLICK ON REGISTER FOR CLASS / EVENTS EMAIL: INFO@CANVASNCUP.COM CALL: 508-381-2360 189 Main Street, Milford

• Homework Academy – Grades 1 - 5 • Math Study Sessions – Grades 7 & 8 • Math & Writing Centers – Grades 6 - 12 • ACT/SAT Test Prep • College Process Programs • Study Skill Workshops Ask us about single class, class packs and NEW (limited) membership purchase options. 77 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Hopkinton, MA 01748 508.625.1663 educationstationhopkinton.com Helping every child achieve in school

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

challenge residents to think differently with D’Eon, outreach coordinator and facilitator of this new program. Light refreshments will be served.

Holiday Movie: ‘Elf’

Monday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m. This holiday season seniors are invited to share the Senior Center with their younger neighbors, grandchildren, nieces and/or nephews. All are welcome for a showing of “Elf” (2003). Buddy (Will Ferrell) was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York in search of his real father. Light refreshments will be served, with a hot chocolate station including hot chocolate, marshmallows and peppermint sticks!

Our Time Memory Café at the Hopkinton Public Library

Tuesday, Jan. 14, 1-3 p.m. Our Time Memory Café, which meets every second Tuesday of the month at Hopkinton Public Library, is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The monthly events are free, offering conversation and refreshments in a relaxing atmosphere. A care partner must accompany anyone who requires assistance. Registration is requested but not required. For more information, call 508-497-0108 or email info@ ourtimememorycafe.org. Our Time Memory Café is a joint venture between the Hopkinton Senior Center and the Hopkinton Public Library.

Pound Class

Wednesdays, 5 p.m. Instructor Rebecca Tredeau leads the world’s first class jam session inspired by the infectious, energizing and sweat-dripping playing of the drums. Designed for all fitness levels and any age. Pound sticks are available for 25 people, and some yoga mats will be available. Class size is limited. Seniors 55-plus take precedence. Sign up in advance. The cost $3 per class (paid monthly). No child care services are provided.

Yoga: Slow Flow

Wednesdays, 6 p.m. This class is suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, with or without yoga experience, looking to explore the asanas (l poses) through slow and clear alignment-based practice. The focus is on building strength and stability through fundamental poses from the ground up. Fundamental standing poses, sun salutations, seated poses and twists, pranayama (breath control) and meditation will be taught in each practice. The instructor is Crystal Lee. The first class is free, then it’s $5 per class for drop-ins or $3 per class if paid monthly. Call to register.

Chi Gong

Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Chi Gong combines deep breathing with whole body movements to harmonize mind and body to promote energy, prevent illness and accelerate healing. The instructor is Linda Bellefeuille. The cost is $5 per class for drop-ins or $3 per class paid monthly.

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 17

Calendar Boy Scouts Christmas tree recycling

‘NUTCRACKER’ DANCER Kara Horvath, a 9-year-old from Hopkinton, was a dancer in the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts’ annual production of “The Nutcracker.” She was one of 100 Central Massachusetts students who joined professionals from the Orlando Ballet and Ellison Ballet Company in the production, which was held at the Worcester theater Nov. 29-Dec. 1.

Hopkinton Boy Scout Troop 4 will hold its annual Christmas tree recycling fundraiser on Jan. 4 and 11. The Scouts will pick up and transport trees to community partner JB Sawmill for recycling. Pick up is available to all Hopkinton residents, and the Scouts request a donation of $15 per tree. Register at troop4hopkinton. com/tree-collection. Registration dates fill up fast, so it is recommended to reserve early. All donations directly benefit Troop 4 Scouts through support of their outdoor activities and leadership development program.

New Year’s Eve party at HCA Dec. 31

Ring in the new year with a party at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, featuring the music of Signs of Life. Tickets ($40 each) include small bites, a champagne toast at midnight, music and dancing. There will be a cash bar as well. For more information, visit hopartscenter.org.

Business Spotlight

Bringing the Best Out of Holiday Living The Residence at Valley Farm Brings Out the Best in You

E To submit an item for the Hopkinton Independent calendar section, email the information to: editor@HopkintonIndependent.com. Submissions should be limited to 100 words and are subject to editing by the HI staff.

Boy Scouts holiday tree sale

Hopkinton Boy Scout Troop 1 is selling fresh-cut Christmas trees again this year. The tree lot behind CVS opened Nov. 29, and the Scouts will be selling trees until they are gone. Hours are Wednesdays 4-7 p.m., Thursdays 4-7 p.m., Fridays 4-9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed Mondays and Tuesdays). Along with each tree comes information on how to recycle the tree at the end of the season. Read more at troop1hopkinton.org, or for more information email trees@troop1hopkinton.org.

Treblemakers holiday concert Dec. 11-12

The community chorus in residence at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts presents its winter concert, an evening of holiday favorites. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 12. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for kids and seniors (children under 5 are free). For more information, visit hopartscenter.org.

The Big Tent HCA show Dec. 12-Jan. 9

The annual Hopkinton Center for the Arts member show features artists of all ages. There will be a free reception on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the gallery. For more information, visit hopartscenter.org.

Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt Dec. 14

The Hopkinton Community Partnership presents the Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The event, for pre-kindergarten through Grade 5, starts at Hopkinton Town Common and travels throughout the downtown, where elves will be hidden among local businesses. All participants get a prize. All proceeds go to the Hopkinton Community Partnership. For more information and to register, visit hopkintoncommunitypartnership.com.

Classical holiday family concert at HCA Dec. 14

Join the Claflin Hill Symphony String Quartet and the Hopkinton Center for the Arts for a new holiday event for the entire family. Enjoy traditional classical music and holiday favorites, including music from “The Nutcracker.” Festivities include an instrument petting zoo, face painting and refreshments. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for children and seniors. For more information, visit hopartscenter.org.

Live Nativity Dec. 21

Experience the real meaning of Christmas at a Live Nativity at Hopkinton’s Community Covenant Church (2 W. Elm St.) on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 5-7 p.m. The event features real people, real animals and an outdoor creche display. Warm up afterward with hot drinks and goodies. The event is free, although donations are welcomed for Habitat for Humanity. For more information, visit comcovhop.org.

Menorah lighting Dec. 22

The annual Hannukah celebration and menorah lighting will take place on Sunday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m. at the Hopkinton Town Common. All are welcome to attend.

HCA presents ‘The Nutcracker’ Dec. 22

The Hopkinton Center for the Arts presents a full-scale ballet production of “The Nutcracker” on Sunday, Dec. 22, at Ashland High School. There will be performances at 12:30 and 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors. For more information, visit hopartscenter.org.

veryone enjoys the festive spirit of the holiday season at The Residence at Valley Farm during these cold winter months and looks forward to ringing in a new year together in this dynamic senior living community. Topping the activities’ list are the “Crazy Sweater and Latkes Social” which offers a variety of cultural foods specific to the Christmas and Hanukkah traditions, numerous holiday-themed bingo events and even an opportunity for fancy dress and hats at the High Tea Social. Resident Engagement Director Jennifer Ellis has worked hard for months planning these celebratory events and has a knack for engaging local volunteers. “We’ve been thrilled with the response to requests posted on Ashland’s online bulletin board,” Ellis stated. “I’ve been seeking individuals willing to share their gifts with our community, and the results have been phenomenal.” Last month, a local woodworker started a fun workshop for the men and women living at Valley Farm. Excitement is on the rise, this month, since Ellis announced engaging a professional poker player to visit monthly. (You can almost hear the buzz of odd coins being collected for the upcoming games!) Members of Ashland’s Girl Scout Troop 76017 have agreed to sing for the residents, students from Ashland High School will host an afternoon of singing and performing and several students from Holliston High will play their jam band on a given Friday. Several holiday outings are also planned, including a trip to Fatima Shrine in Holliston to see their spectacular light display, attending the festive lighting ceremony in Ashland’s downtown and enjoying a theatrical performance at Dean College. The culminating event is the evening holiday party for residents, their families and friends who will gather to celebrate a good year and enjoy cocktails, live entertainment and delicious foods created by Senior Culinary Director Christopher Ryan. As with their signature “Anytime Dining” program, all foods are freshly prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and all menu choices promote both physical and brain health, tying into Valley Farm’s holistic philosophy. “Our residents can’t resist the tastes, sounds and sights connected with this special season,” Ellis added, “and every activity is specifically designed to encourage and uplift the cognitive, emotional, social and physical elements of an individual, the Four Pillars of Engagement we live by here.” Whether you choose Independent, Assisted or Memory Care Living, Valley Farm is an active community full of comfort, camaraderie and meaningful activities. The team provides a life-affirming experience rooted in continuous personal growth where each resident leads a life of dignity, purpose and well-being. “We create a supportive environment to help people continue doing what they enjoy and engage them in new and interesting ways,” Ellis added. “This prolongs a person’s independence and encourages a strong sense of self-esteem and community belonging.” For those with a loved one who is leaving a hospital or rehabilitation setting but not quite ready to return home, consider the Transition to Home program. Typically lasting 30 to 60 days, Transition to Home provides 24-hour, on-site care with an array of resources, services and amenities that prepare the patient for a safe return home. Each guest enjoys a furnished apartment with private bathroom and kitchenette; three nutritious, chef-prepared meals a day; housekeeping and laundry and a full program of engagement and social opportunities. Some guests have so enjoyed their experience at Valley Farm they have permanently moved to this engaging community. The Residence at Valley Farm is conveniently located at 369 Pond Street in Ashland. Discover more at www.residencevalleyfarm.com and follow them at www.facebook. com/theresidenceatvalleyfarm. For a personal tour, contact Sales and Marketing Director Jonathan Terlaje at 508-532-3197.

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

18 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Olde Thyme Cupboard

Home & Garden Gift Store

Police Log

30% OFF *

*Excludes previously marked down items. In-stock inventory only

SIDE FOR SORE EYES

total purchase

X-MAS HOURS Wed to Sat 1-5 pm 95 Hayden Rowe, Hopkinton 508-435-4346

Hopkinton Fire Department personnel responded to a tractor-trailer rollover on the MassPike off-ramp to Interstate 495 on Dec. 3. Minor injuries were reported.

DISCOUNT HEATING OIL Call for price Same Day Delivery Senior Discounts 125 Gallon Minimum

PHOTO/HFD TWITTER

508-620-6251

WWW.SAMEDAYOIL.COM DISCOUNT HEATING OIL

Achieve Clear Skin Same Day Delivery Senior Discounts

508-620-6251

BEFORE

AFTER

Acne Clinic For All Ages

44 Front Street, 2nd Floor • Ashland WWW.SKINSMARTSALON.COM

CHRISTINE’S NAILS of Hopkinton

Thank you for voting for us!

Christine’s owner Anna and long time manager Brian Now Offering

Dipping Powder Tr y o u r i n c r e d i b l e n a i l te c h n i c i a n s ! C u sto m e r S e r v i ce is our priority! Full Service Waxing

Appointments & Walk-Ins Welcome

508-435-0222 22 South Street, Hopkinton Complimentary beverages served

ARRESTS December 2 8:23 p.m. Officer Brian Sanchioni conducted a motor vehicle stop on West Main Street, issued a parking violation to the driver and subsequently arrested the passenger, William J. Grant, 39, of 44 Winter St., Franklin, on a warrant.

November 19

10:54 a.m. A Main Street caller reported her neighbor was transported to the hospital a few days earlier and she was concerned about the dog alone in the house. The patient’s sister was contacted to take care of the dog. 2:21 p.m. A caller reported speeding vehicles on East Main Street in the 25 mph zone, including a school bus that nearly hit a dog walker. Officer Jay Deiana responded and School Resource Officer Philip Powers was to speak with the bus driver. Radar logs were to be conducted. 5:09 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle struck a deer on East Main Street. Officer Benjamin Stickney responded and notified the animal control officer. 5:23 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Derek Morton responded to a report of a two-car motor vehicle accident on West Main Street. No injuries were reported.

November 20

1:06 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Stephen Buckley checked on a motor vehicle parked on Main Street and spoke with a marathoner from Poland. All was OK. 2:47 a.m. A Davis Road walk-in reported an ongoing noise complaint about a neighbor. Officer Stephen Buckley responded and found all quiet. 7:46 a.m. An alarm company reported a Hawthorne Lane resident heard noises in her basement. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Ryan Polselli and Moira McGaffigan responded and checked the residence with a negative find on anything suspicious. 9:04 a.m. A caller reported a traffic complaint involving a school crossing guard on Hayden Rowe Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil spoke with the reporting person and advised School Resource Officer Philip Powers of the incident. 9:24 a.m. A Downey Street caller reported a neighbor’s dog was running loose in the neighborhood. The animal control officer was contacted. 5:41 p.m. A caller reported a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on West Main Street. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Tyler Brabham responded, and no injuries were reported. 7:41 p.m. Officer Tyler Brabham responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on Avenue E and took a report. “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

November 21

4:07 a.m. Sergeant William Burchard notified the DPW about freezing road conditions on West Main Street. 5:05 a.m. A motorist reported black ice on West Main Street. The DPW was notified. 9:06 a.m. A caller reported a car hit a pole on Main Street. No injuries were reported. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Tyler Brabham responded. A report was to follow. 1:16 p.m. A motorist reported hitting a deer on West Main Street. Officer Tyler Brabham responded and assisted. 5:56 p.m. Officers Brian Sanchioni and Preston Mucciarone responded to a two-car motor vehicle accident on West Main Street resulting in a possible head injury to a 61-year-old male. An ambulance was requested. Two people refused treatment. A report was to follow. 5:57 p.m. Officer Tyler Brabham responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street. No personal injuries were reported. 10:14 p.m. A caller reported a large trailer parked partially in the roadway of Priscilla Road. Officer Preston Mucciarone responded and reported the trailer was being used for a driveway paving job and was not a hazard.

November 22

1:19 p.m. A caller reported an erratic driver on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Brendon Lyver responded and checked the area with a negative find. 7:08 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officers Brian Sanchioni, Preston Mucciarone, and Robert Ekross responded to a chemical spill on South Street. A hazmat team was notified and additional ambulances from Ashland and Milford were requested. The spill was contained and the building was ventilated. 11:07 p.m. A caller reported he noticed damage to his vehicle parked on Main Street. Officer Brendon Lyver responded and took a hit-and-run report.

November 23

9:22 a.m. A Wood Street caller reported her brother was missing, and it was believed he was suicidal. The caller stated her brother left their mother’s vehicle parked at the Woodville boat landing. Police Chief Edward Lee and multiple officers responded and took command at the boat ramp. Air wing and the State Police K-9 cadaver dog were requested. The search was suspended at 3:50 p.m. 11:22 a.m. Officer Matthew Santoro assisted the Fire Department in responding to a fire alarm investigation on Westcott Drive. All was under control after a cooking mishap. 11:49 a.m. A walk-in reported a suspicious incident on Cedar Street of a man who jumped out of a vehicle, stared at a snowplow, jumped back into the vehicle and drove away. The walk-in wanted the incident logged. 12:04 p.m. A caller reported she hit a parked

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 19 vehicle on Walcott Street. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and located the owner of the vehicle. 12:33 p.m. A contractor working on a barn on Grove Street reported witnessing a male in a Hopkinton football jacket attempting to sell a bike in the back parking lot of CVS. When the other individual left, the male tossed the bike in the woods and drove off in a grey Mustang. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and investigated the incident. 8:14 p.m. A Saddle Hill Road resident reported leaves were on fire at his neighbors’ property about 30 feet from their garage. Officer Preston Mucciarone responded along with the Fire Department and the fire was extinguished.

November 24

1:37 a.m. A caller reported a noise disturbance on Mayhew Street involving four people outside. Officers Robert Ekross, Derek Morton and Brendon Lyver responded and found a man and woman in a verbal argument. The male party went on his way. 3:18 p.m. Officer Benjamin Stickney responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Main Street. No injuries were reported. 11:11 p.m. A Revolutionary Way caller complained of noise in the neighborhood for several hours. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Jay Deiana responded and were unable to make contact with the neighbor but found all quiet upon arrival. 11:42 p.m. A walk-in reported a fallen tree in the roadway of Cedar Street. Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded and moved the tree.

November 25

3:22 p.m. Officer Derek Morton responded to a civil dispute between a homeowner and contractor on Cedar Street and spoke with both parties. Extra checks of the home were requested. 4:09 p.m. An elderly Sanctuary Lane resident requested assistance with fire alarm activation. No smoke or fire was present. Sergeant Aaron O‘Neil and Officer Benjamin Stickney responded and instructed the homeowner to replace expired smoke detectors.

November 26

7:57 a.m. Officers Moira McGaffigan and Jay Deiana reported a vehicle fire on Mayhew Street. The Fire Department responded, and the fire was extinguished before their arrival. 12:18 p.m. A walk-in reported the larceny of tools by a contracting company. Officer Moira McGaffigan took a report. 2:47 p.m. An Old Farm Road caller reported he lost his blood glucose meter and insulin kit a few weeks earlier and wanted it logged. 3:21 p.m. A caller reported a stop sign was missing from Frankland Road and Cross Street. Officer Preston Mucciarone responded and contacted the DPW. 4:58 p.m. A concerned jogger reported all the exterior lights on a Pond Street house were flashing on and off. Officer Tyler Brabham responded and spoke with the homeowner, who stated there was an electrical issue and he was awaiting an electrician.

Officers Moira McGaffigan and Ryan Polselli responded and spoke with the operator, who was with a local news outlet and filming the effects of the snowstorm. All was OK. 11:24 a.m. A caller reported her son crashed his car on Spring Street earlier in the day, and the vehicle was off the roadway awaiting a tow. Officer Jay Deiana responded and took a report. 1:00 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell in to the roadway of Ash Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Ryan Polselli responded and moved the tree and notified the DPW for cleanup. 1:47 p.m. A caller reported a delivery vehicle was stuck on a hill on Hidden Brick Road. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded, but the vehicle was gone upon her arrival. 2:24 p.m. Officers Benjamin Stickney, Ryan Polselli and Jay Deiana

responded to a report of a school bus that was rear-ended on North Street. Officer Deiana took a report, and a vehicle was towed. Officer Polselli provided a courtesy transport to the driver to Westborough. 2:51 p.m. On Wood Street, a motorist reported a vehicle passed a school bus that had its flashers on. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded and checked the area with a negative find on the vehicle. 4:28 p.m. A caller reported a fallen tree was blocking the roadway of Pond Street. Officer Preston Mucciarone responded and found a car stuck in a ditch. Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded to assist along with the DPW. 8:13 p.m. A caller reported a plow truck was stuck in a Cedar Street driveway. Officer Preston Mucciarone responded, but the truck had already freed itself.

December 2

1:19 a.m. A representative from the American Automobile Association reported they cannot get in touch with a customer who called for auto assistance five hours earlier. Officer Brendon Lyver checked West Main Street and found the vehicle unoccupied and left a message for the owner. 3:25 a.m. The DPW requested assistance in moving a car that was interfering with snowplowing on Eastview Road. Officer Jay Deiana responded and contacted the owner, who moved the vehicle. 6:35 a.m. A walk-in reported a truck was off the roadway of East Main Street. The driver was OK. Officers Stephen Buckley and Brendon Lyver responded and found skid marks on the road, but the truck was gone upon their arrival. No property damage was found. 9:55 a.m. A caller reported that while her son was driving to school he slid off the roadway and hit a mailbox on Fruit Street. A private tow was on the way. Officer Jay Deiana responded and took a report. 11:11 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious vehicle on Hayden Rowe Street.

Whitcomb House... an Assisted Living and Memory Care with twenty years of caring for seniors brings stability, satisfaction & smiles. Call today to schedule a complimentary lunch and tour. We look forward to meeting you! Be sure to ask about our limited-time special pricing incentives! Visit us online for more information! WHITCOMB HOUSE

245 West Street Milford, MA 01757 tel 508-634-2440

whitcombhouse.com WHITADAssisted and Memory care 250-350 ppI (5x3.625) bw.indd 1

We’re Here to Help. Backed by a firm nearly 200 years old and a team of legal professionals, we can help with: • Estate & Retirement Planning • Residential, Commercial and Business Transactions

Framingham resident

Hopkinton resident

508.532.3506 feaster@fletchertilton.com

508.459.8048 druran@fletchertilton.com

Dani Ruran, Esq.

Faith Easter, Esq.

Attorneys at law WO RC E ST E R | F R A M I N G H A M | B OSTON FletcherTilton.com

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

1/28/16 10:30 AM

20 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

Obituaries Edmund and Margaret Dunne. She graduated from Hunter College in New York City. She married James Patrick Martineau on June 19, 1966. Arlene loved little children both as an elementary school teacher and later as an advocate for sick children. She had an unbelievable talent for making people feel loved. Arlene was an elementary school teacher in New York City and in California and a kindergarten teacher and special education teacher in Massachusetts. After her son Scott was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease, Arlene became very involved with children’s health issues. Arlene was the director of pediatric home health care for Olsten (Gentiva) Home Health Care and was awarded the first nationwide Fred Olsten Award from her company. She also was awarded numerous other honors in the pediatric home health care industry. Arlene also

Arlene Martineau Arlene Frances (Dunne) Martineau passed away peacefully at home with her loving husband, Jim, and daughter, Elizabeth, by her side on Nov. 23, after a brave and long struggle with cancer. Arlene left us just as she lived, with grace, strength and beauty, and greatly admired by all who knew her. While growing up in New York City, she didn’t know how many lives she would touch in the course of hers. Arlene was imaginative, kind, and a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and the best friend anyone could ever have. Arlene was born Feb. 9, 1945, to

CHRISTMAS DINNER TO GO

developed and brought to fruition the first pediatric health day care facility in New England, with the help of many dedicated people. Mental and social issues were a passion with Arlene. She was a board member of the Pseudo Obstruction in New England and worked with Social Services for children in crisis. Arlene also volunteered — working with abused women and with parents and children afflicted with Wilson’s disease, along with volunteering for her children in Brownies, Cub Scouts, 4H and sporting activities. After she moved to South Carolina to be close to her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, Arlene became a certified court appointed guardian ad litem. She was working on a book entitled “The Smoking Room at Boston’s Children’s Hospital” that told of the

HEAR for the Holidays

~ Announces ~

ROAST PRIME RIB OF BEEF To Go Call 508-478-0871 Let us do the work for you!

•Hearing Evaluations •Hearing Aid Repairs •Custom Earplugs •Hearing Aid Recommendations

Cooked or Ready To Cook...Your Choice.

BONELESS FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE • NOTE: PLEASE ORDER EARLY EARLY

Full Boneless PRIME RIB

Feeds approx. 14 people with Au Jus, Mashed Potatoes & Dessert

$369.99

Half Boneless PRIME RIB

Feeds approx. 7 people with Au Jus, Mashed Potatoes & Dessert

~ Delicious Extras ~

$199.99

Pumpkin Bread….$12.99 doz. Cinnamon Rolls…$12.99 doz. Onion Rolls………$12.99 doz.

SEE YOUR LOCAL AUDIOLOGIST FOR A HEARING AID CHECK OR HEARING EVALUATION

All orders must be in by Dec. 22nd and Picked up on Dec. 24th between 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Darcy Repucci, MS, CCC-A Licensed Audiologist

508.936.3277

1 Lumber Street, Hopkinton

www.baystateaudiology.com

MULCH FIREWOOD PAVERS MULCH LOAM PAVERS Seasoned • Screened

LOAM

Delivery Delivery Available Available

(508) (508) 634-3300 634-3300

Delivery Available

cookfpi.com cookfpi.com cookfpi.com

(508) 634-3300

accepting MasterCard, Visa, Discover

252 Milford Street (Rte 140), Upton

accepting accepting MasterCard, MasterCard, Visa, Visa, Discover Discover

THE NEW GENERATION OF HOME SERVICE REPAIRS

Professionally trained handyman technicians SATISFACTION GUARANTEED If We Can’t Fix It, You Don’t Pay Us!

Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist

Office: 508-305-2055 info@fixit-asap.com www.FIXIT-ASAP.com

Insured coverage up to $1 Million. Licensed - MA-CSL #104953 / MA-HIC #169636

Licensed/Insured MA-HIC #169636 • MA-CSL #104953

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

good days and bad days that parents and children face with serious illness. Arlene, a onetime Hopkinton resident, loved to cook and entertain and was a great hostess in her home in Holliston for extended family and friends. She brought everyone together for her famous Thanksgiving dinners (while everyone else was out running the Turkey Trot). She was a voracious reader, loved New York theater and dancing the night away with Jim. Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, Edmund and Margaret Dunne, beloved son, Scott Christopher Martineau, and brother, Brian Francis Dunne. She is survived by her husband, James Patrick Martineau; her daughter, Elizabeth Martineau, and her husband, James Bascio; her grandchildren, Jared, Jessica and Jonah Bascio; her sister, Ellen Welsh; her sister- in-law, Jane Dunne; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 9-10:45 a.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton (chesmorefuneralhome.com). A requiem Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Saint Matthews Church in Southborough. Private interment will be held at a later date. The family suggests that memorials may be made to the Wilson’s Disease Association, wilsonsdisease. org, or a charity of one’s choice.

Barbara O’Loughlin Barbara A. (Austin) O’Loughlin of Watertown passed away Nov. 18. She was the wife of the late Walter J. O’Loughlin, devoted mother of David J. O’Loughlin and his partner, Debbie Burke, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, James F. O’Loughlin and his wife, Helen, of Jacksonville, Florida, Kathleen M. Coburn and& her husband, Dana, of Southborough, and Stephen P. O’Loughlin and his wife, Connie, of Hopkinton. She was the sister of Maureen Hoey and Anne Palmgren of Natick and the late Herbert, Kenneth and John Austin. She also is survived by 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services were under the care of the Stanton Funeral Home in Watertown. A funeral Mass was held Nov. 23 in the Church of St. Luke in Belmont, followed by interment in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory to the charity of one’s choice are appreciated by the family.

Cheryl Morrow Cheryl P. Morrow, 72 of South Windsor, Connecticut, and formerly of Hopkinton, passed away peacefully on Nov. 21 at her home in South Windsor. She will be greatly missed by her only surviving sister, Catherine Morrow of Boca Raton, Florida, and all her friends. Cheryl was born in Hopkinton to the late Ray N. and Madeline (Colombi) Morrow. She graduated from Hopkinton High School and received her bachelor of arts from Framingham State College. Cheryl held many jobs during her school

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 21 years in retail, working at the Wayside Inn in Sudbury, yet her love focused on teaching and her students. Cheryl taught English at Ellington High School in Ellington, Connecticut, for over 30 years until she retired, and served as a private tutor when needed. She touched many lives in her own unique way. Cheryl is remembered by her friends and family as a creative, independent free spirit, talented, adventurous, fun-loving and funny. She enjoyed traveling and attended the first original Woodstock concert. She followed the “Top Chef” cooking shows and traveled on the Top Chef specialty cruise out of Miami with members of the shows. Cheryl also is remembered for her care and love of many orphaned and small animals which she saved, inside and outside, including robins, raccoons and other small creatures. Cheryl would tell us today, live your life and do not be afraid. We will always remember Cheryl’s life. A funeral service was held Nov. 30 in the Short & Rowe Funeral Home in Marlborough (shortandrowefuneralhome.com). Memorial donations may be made in Cheryl’s name to the ASPCA or local wildlife refuge.

Pauline Hutchinson Pauline M. Hutchinson, 96, of Hopkinton passed away Nov. 26. Born in Peterborough, New Hampshire, she was the daughter of the late Marguerite Bedell and Donald S. Greene. A resident of Hopkinton for 57 years, Pauline regularly worked two jobs to support her children, grandchildren and so many others in the community around her. She took pleasure in housing Boston Marathoners over the years and was known for waving and smiling at all the runners in her most elegant attire from her doorway on Hayden Rowe Street. She was a fantastic gardener and storyteller and had a personal style that was second to none. She believed in an “open door” policy to all children, veterans and any other humans or animals in need. She took care of people until she was 88 years old, providing home care to a trio of sisters in their 90s. She was affectionately called Nana by almost anyone she met, and she loved that. She is survived by her children, Sharon of Milford, and Michael and his wife, Rachel, of Upton; her siblings, Shirley, John and Bob; four grandchildren, John, Kaylyn, Michael and Randle Rae; two great-grandchildren, Zachary and Aniken Hutchinson; as well as her late daughter Cheryl’s longtime partner, Bill McGrath, and granddaughter Cassie-Leigh’s best friend and partner for life, James Stewart. She is predeceased by two children, Roland who passed away at the age of 21, and Cheryl Ann, who passed July 23, 2019, her siblings, Jigs, Bernard and Bette, and her granddaughter, Cassie-Leigh, who passed July 15, 2019. Nana knew she would be seeing them all and so many friends again. A funeral mass was held Dec. 4 at St. John the Evangelist Church of Hopkinton, followed by burial in Evergreen Cemetery in Hopkinton. Funeral services were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home (chesmorefuneralhome.com). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National League of POW/MIA Families: powmiafamilies.org.

Judith Meyers Judith Ann Meyers, 78, died Nov. 25 at Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital in Westborough. Born in Almont, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Kathryn (Neumann) Duggan. Judi worked for 42 years at Marlette Community Hospital in Marlette, Michigan. She is survived by her son, Brad Meyers, and his wife, Kathy, of Strongsville, Ohio, and her daughter, Michele Crowe, and her husband, David, of Hopkinton. She leaves her grandchildren, Faith Meyers, Derek Crowe, Keegan Crowe and Hope Meyers. She also leaves her sisters, Jan Barden and Pat Bitel, both of Michigan. Judi’s family remembers her as a loving mother, sister and grandmother. She was the sweetest, kindest and most caring person they knew.

Funeral services were to be held at a later date in Michigan. Arrangements were entrusted to the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home (callanancronin.com). Memorial tributes may be made to the National Down Syndrome Society (ndss.org).

Kanti Patel Kanti M. Patel, 73, of Hopkinton passed away Nov. 26 at home, surrounded by his family. He was born Jan. 10, 1946. Funeral services were held Nov. 29 at Callahan Fay Caswell Funeral Home (callahanfay.com) in Worcester.

Joanne DiFiore Joanne F. (Tamburo) DiFiore passed away on Nov. 20 at Harbor Point in Centerville. Joanne was born in Boston

OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE & DAY NEW YEAR’S EVE & DAY

on Nov. 28, 1936, one of four children of the late Oreste and Mary Tamburo. Raised in Brighton, Joanne graduated with high honors from Brighton High School. After graduating she worked at New England Telephone Company, where she met her husband, Herb. He was just back from his enlistment in the military. They married in January 1957, lived in Revere briefly, and then moved to Brighton where they raised their daughters. Joanne loved to entertain, travel and go out with her many friends who were as close to her as family. After Joanne retired from her cherished job at the Chestnut Hill School in 1999, she and Herb moved to the Cape full time and visited Marco Island during the winter. She enjoyed reading, taking long walks, doing puzzles and spending endless hours at the beach. Joanne had a passion for gardening, and over the years she created her dream spot in South Dennis. Joanne’s love of flowers came from her father, who would bring her cut flowers from his garden, and when her Obituaries | 22

P A N D O L F I ’ S F I N E

C H O C O L A T E S

Chinese Restaurant & Lounge

CHRISTMAS EVE & NEW YEAR’S EVE Dine In – Dinner Buffet Only Take Out – Full Menu Available SUSHI BAR OPEN

77 West Main Street, Hopkinton

508-435-8088

www.dynastyhopkinton.com

WE LOVE YOUR EYES.

Established in 1998 Traditional Handcrafted Chocolates Online Ordering Available Corporate Gifts

www.pandolfischocolates.com 508-966-9840

40 North Main St, Bellingham, MA 02019

Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours!

LET US clean out YOUR unwanted JUNK! We Take Everything!

Dr. Steven Perryman

Welcoming New Patients

• Quality/Detailed Eye Exams • Contact Lens Fitting • Optical Shop and Lab • Dry Eye Specialist • LASIK Consultations • Emergency Eye Care

___

DUMPSTERS AVAILABLE

Mention Hopkinton Independent for these great offers!

$25 off

$299

a full truck or dumpster

15 yard dumpster

not to be combined with other offers

We Beat ALL Competitor Pricing

774-287-1133

10 Cedar St., Hopkinton (across from Post Office)

www.hopkintonvision.com 508.435.4711

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

TakeAwayJunk.com

affordablejunkremoval@gmail.com

22 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 Obituaries | from page 21

South Dennis summer home was built in 1976 he brought hostas and gladiolas from his gardens to plant around her new home. But most of all Joanne was a devout Catholic, a parishioner of St. Anthony’s Parish in Allston and then St. Pius X Parish in Yarmouth. Joanne found solace and peace in her faith, she prayed for everyone, and a small prayer book, prayer cards or rosaries were always nearby. Joanne is lovingly survived by her husband, Herbert T. DiFiore, to whom she was devotedly married for almost 63 years. She was the loving mother of Judy Gallauresi and husband, Bill, of Swanzey, New Hampshire, and Cynthia Hickey and husband, Michael, of Melrose, and the beloved grandmother of Michael James and Bethany. She was the caring sister of John Tamburo of Hopkinton and the late Theresa LaMattina and Elizabeth DiSanzo. She also is survived by three sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews. A funeral Mass was held Nov. 26 at Corpus Christi Church in Sandwich.

Services were under the care of the Nickerson Bourne Funeral Home in Sandwich. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Benchmark Associate Holiday Fund, Harbor Point, 22 Richardson Road, Centerville MA 02632.

Phyllis Palitsch Phyllis Uline Palitsch, 90, a longtime resident of Hopkinton, died peacefully at home with her husband, John A. “Jack” Palitsch, by her side. He survives her, following 71 loving years of marriage. Born in Troy, New York, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Donald and Elizabeth Uline. She was the mother of the late Donna Lynn, and is survived by her son, John R. Palitsch of Vernon, Connecticut, and daughter, Suzanne Palitsch Barnes and husband, Jeffery, of Hopkinton. She also is survived by her grandchildren, Kate Palitsch Czaplinski and

Gutters Cleaned & Flushed General Repairs

PLUMBING • AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING Residential and Commercial

JOYCE

• Interior & Exterior Painting • Decks Stained & Repaired • Power Washing & Trim Repair

Joseph C. Paradis 508-846-1165 Cell

2 Hayden Rowe, Hopkinton

774-449-8298 Office

Stone Work Specialists

508.435.3911 Office/Fax

her husband, Jeffery, Jason F. Palitsch, Jacqueline P. Barnes and Elizabeth M. Barnes; and her great-grandson, Roy James Czaplinski. She also is survived by her sister, Marilyn U. Hasbrouck and her husband, Douglas, and many loving nieces and nephews. Phyllis also was a sister of the late Betty U. Engineri and Virginia U. Knippel. During World War II, Phyllis was a member of the Civil Air Patrol of Troy, trained as an aircraft identity spotter. She graduated from Troy High School, where she and Jack met. Phyllis worked for R.T. Bower CPA Accounting, and then became superintendent of United Memorial Methodist Church in Sycaway. Phyllis eventually became an officer in the family business, Otto’s Auto Parts, as well as inventory control manager. She also was secretary and treasurer of another family business, J&L Enterprise Real Estate. Phyllis was an avid swimmer; she achieved her certified swimming instructor’s license and taught swimming for 30 years at the Troy YWCA, and served as a Camp Fire Waterfront volunteer swim instructor. After moving to Hopkinton, Phyl-

FRtimEateEs

Es d& Licensreed Insu

508-497-6344

joyceplumbingandheating.com

HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Have News to Share? See it in print in your local newspaper.

Design, Maintenance & Construction

www.scottslandscaping.org

Email us at editor@hopkintonindependent.com

Attention

Runners!! Looking for rehab with professionals who understand the movement demands of your sport? Let us help you get back to the sport you love sooner!

ICE MELT DELIVERY Residential & Commercial Quick & Easy Refill Service CALL TODAY 508.944.6644. UNDERPRESSUREWASH.COM

Call to schedule an appointment today:

508-544-1540

1 Lumber Street, Suite 201, Hopkinton 196 E. Main Street (in Gold’s Gym), Milford 15 West Union Street, Ashland www.platinumptma.com “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

lis was heavily involved supporting the Hopkinton Senior Center and Friends of the Hopkinton Library. Phyllis was best known for knitting Christmas stockings and sweaters, baking amazing pies and wonderful holiday cookies and feasts for the extended family, especially the summer clam steam, and never-ending pool parties and barbecues with family and friends. A private graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery in Troy. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in honor of Phyllis to the Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew St., Hopkinton, MA 01748. Arrangements were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton (ChesmoreFuneralHome.com).

Richard Amato Richard Andrew Amato, 85, a longtime Upton resident, died at his home on Nov. 14, surrounded by his family. Mr. Amato was born in the depression era in Cambridge, the son of the late Joseph and Doris (Straw) Amato. Early childhood years in Medford and East Lexington preceded a family move to Brattleboro, Vermont, in 1946. Richard graduated Brattleboro Union High School and subsequently attended college in the ROTC program at the University of Vermont, where he graduated with a liberal arts degree in June 1958. While in Burlington at UVM, Richard met the love of his life, Cynthia (Perry) Amato of Holden. They were married in September 1957. The Air Force sent Richard with his young family to Japan for several years. During that time, he traveled to many military installations in the Asia Pacific region and proudly summited Mt Fuji during his stay. After military service, the family returned to Massachusetts, where Richard was employed as a mechanical engineer at several companies, including EG&G, Draper Corporation, Crompton & Knowles and Morgan Construction. While employed full-time and taking night classes, he earned his master’s degree in physics from Northeastern University in 1970. In the early 1970s his daily commute from Bolton to Hopedale took him past the Temple Farm on East Street in Upton and his future was set in motion. In 1975, Richard and Cynthia purchased the 140-acre farm, including the rundown farmhouse and barn. Farming and home renovations were Richard’s “hobbies” for many years. Farming was a family endeavor involving many friends and relatives laboring in the fields and farmers’ markets. In 1986 Richard retired from engineering to join his oldest son, Mark, full-time as a farmer. The Amato Farm grew many crops and was well-known for pick-your-own strawberries, the annual Harvest Celebration, and cut-your-own Christmas trees. Over the years, Richard and Cynthia fixed up the old farmhouse into a warm and welcoming family home. The Amato Farm ceased operation in 2003, the same year Cynthia passed away. Richard was always interested in history: that of his family, his community and his country. He authored a treasured book of family history that required years of research and studying Italian history and language. He was proud to be an Italian citizen and traveled to Italy with Cynthia in search of his family heritage. Richard volunteered

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019 • 23 regularly at the Upton Historical Society and enjoyed learning local history, especially that of the Rockwood Farm, which would become the Amato Farm some 200 years hence. Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Cynthia (Perry) Amato, his sister, Mary (Amato) Leone of New Paltz, New York, and his son-in-law, Mark Sylvester of Hopkinton. Survivors include his sister, Diana (Amato) Craven and her husband, Steven, of Greer, South Carolina; his children: Mark and his partner, Robin Boylen, of Hopkinton, Joe and his wife, Suzanne, of San Francisco, and Elizabeth Sylvester, also of Hopkinton. He also leaves five grandchildren: Andrew Amato and his fiancée, Christina Lombardi, Alyson (Amato) Dixon and her husband, Brooks, Alex Amato, Evan Amato and Napoleon Sylvester; and one great-grandson, Parker Amato. His memory will live on in our hearts forever. Funeral services were held Nov. 30 at the United Parish of Upton Church. Burial, with military honors, followed in Lakeview Cemetery, Upton. Funeral services were under the care of the Williams-Pedersen Funeral Home in Upton (uptonfunerals.com). In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be sent to the United Parish of Upton, P.O. Box 382, Upton, MA 01568 or to the Upton Historical Society, P.O. Box 171, Upton, MA 01568.

Susan Saunders Susan Marie (Coffin) Saunders of North Reading passed away Nov. 19. She was the beloved wife of Kenneth A. Saunders, the devoted mother of Jennifer J. Martinez and her husband Matthew of Hopkinton, the loving Mimi of Colin, Ryan and Nicholas. She was the cherished daughter of Doris M. (Favorat) Coffin of Wakefield and the late Peter T. Coffin, the cherished sister of Peter A. Coffin and his wife, Kristin, and Sandra J. Law and her husband, James, all of Londonderry, New Hampshire. Susan also is survived by many loving sisters in-law, brothers in-law, nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held Nov. 23 at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home in Reading (johnbdouglassfuneralhome.com), followed by burial at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Susan’s memory to Mass. General Cancer Center at Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington St., Newton MA 02462.

Ted Hatch Theodore “Ted” Alvin Hatch, 84, of Holliston, passed away at his home on Nov. 29. Born in Newton, he was the son of the late Frances R. (Anderson) and Willard G. Hatch. He was the husband of 60 years to Diana (French) Hatch of Holliston. Ted was a member of the Massachusetts National Guard. He had worked as a computer technician in the finance industry, and upon his retirement

he spent 19 years driving a school bus for Michael J. Connelly in the town of Hopkinton. He was an active Mason for 40 years in Mount Hollis Lodge of Holliston and a Scottish Rite 32nd Degree Mason in the Valley of Boston. He was a member of the Colonial Craftsman Club, a Masonic group reenacting 1776 On the Square, and National Camping Travelers, a Masonic camping group. He also enjoyed camping with his family and friends for many years. Besides his wife, Ted is survived by his children, Cynthia Lynch and her husband, James J., of Monson, Sharon Greenwood and her husband, Royce Jr., of Hopkinton, Rebecca Sherman and her husband, Scott, of Palmer, and Gretchen DuBois and her husband, Rick, of Natick. He also leaves behind a sister, Verna Ross-Hoyt and her husband, Allen, of Milford, New Hampshire, a sister-in-law, Jackie Hatch of Columbia, South Carolina, his brother-in-law, Donald French Jr. and his wife, Mary, of Berlin, New York, as well as 11 grandchildren, James P. Lynch, Dorothy Wegiel, Victoria Lynch, Colin Lynch, Melissa Setterlund, Royce “Chip”

Greenwood III, William Greenwood, Simon Sherman, Rachel Meacham, Benjamin Sherman and Kathryn DuBois, great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Alan Hatch. A memorial service took place at the First Congregational Church of Holliston on Dec. 7. Interment was to be held privately at a later date. Arrangements were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston (ChesmoreFuneralHome.com). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Congregational Church of Holliston, 725 Washington St., Holliston, MA 01746.

Victor Ambers Victor Ambers, a former Hopkinton resident, passed away Nov. 21, at the age of 35. Our beloved firstborn, Victor, was lost to the scourge of drug addiction — the

real biggest problem in America. Victor was a very smart, lovable person, and we will miss him terribly. He lived to fish, read, write and always wanted to “get better,” as we all hoped he would. His career goal was to help others struggling with the same mental health and addiction issues he fought for over 10 years. He loved and leaves his son, Sawyer Quigley, and his mom, Katie, his parents, Paul and Lisa Ambers of Newport, Vermont, his brother, Curtis Ambers of Grafton, his Aunt Amy and Uncle Cliff of Lunenburg, his Uncle Larry and Aunt Terry of Hampton, New Hampshire, his cousins John Paul Senio and Liz Handscom, and his Grandma Marie of Peabody, plus many friends who all hoped would someday get him back. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Nick and Genevieve Senio, and paternal grandparents, Alfred and Winifred Ambers. A service was held Nov. 26 the Kraw-Kornack Funeral Home in Norwood (kraw-kornackfuneralhome.com). In lieu of flowers, donations in Victor’s memory can be made to the addiction recovery center of one’s choice.

ASHLAND MOTORS Integrity. Reliability. Customer Service.

Foreign & Domestic Cars Complete Repair Service Specializing on Volvo

Investable Assets: $1,000,000+

508-435-7776

www.blackstonevalleywealth.com

84 Wood Street, Hopkinton

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Private Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor. Private Advisor Group and Blackstone Valley Wealth Management, LLC. are separate entities from LPL Financial.

Master Technician – Dean James

Happiness is Toasty Tootsies GREAT REBATES AND GREAT FINANCING, 0% INTEREST FOR 7 YEARS *Rebates and financing provided by and subject to Mass Save restrictions and limitations.

Gas, Oil and AC Sales & Service 888-818-2028 www.coanoil.com

“The Big Picture in a Small Town”

508-435-1281

Suburban Lifestyle Real Estate

HOMES OF THE WEEK New Listing 1 Fox Run Road Upton, $835,000

New Listing 4 Eben Street Milford, $420,000 Drop-off location for

As Seen on Boston 25 Morning News Zip Trips every Friday Morning Visit www.SellInHopkinton.com for an online home evaluation

Walpole Hopkinton Medfield (508) 668-6300 (508) 435-3100 (508) 359-5300

24 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2019

WINE

LIQUOR

GOURMET

CRAFT BEER

SMOKE SHOP

HOT SAUCES AND BBQ

Minutes from Hopkinton ... Far from Typical Tariff Buster! Dec 11- 24

$44.99

Balvenie DoubleWood 12yr 750 ml

Complete list of specials at juliosliquors.com

So much more than a liquor store.

Toys Baby Items

Activ ity Book s

Plush

Puzzles

Sports Items

Boo

Wallets

Gifts to Surprise Everyone on Your List Glov

carves

Games

140 Turnpike Rd., Westborough Route 9 at Lyman St. (508) 366-1942 juliosliquors.com

are

Tea

w Tea

Han d Bags

Body Care

Hat

Jew

elry

Journals

dles

Can

Gift Wrap

Candy le Cand s r e Hold

Cards

Townie Gear

ss Hoste t Gif s

20% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE *

52 Main Street, Hopkinton 508.435.4441 MON-FRI 8:30am – 8pm, SAT 9am – 6pm, SUN 10am – 6pm “The Big Picture in a Small Town”

MEN’S, WOMEN’S, CHILDREN’S GIFTS, CARDS & WRAPPING PAPER

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase. Valid Through December 15, 2019. * Excludes sale items, prescriptions, over the counter pharmacy, candy & snacks. Coupon may not be combined with other offers.