HI LAYOUT 4.23.25_WEB

Theater nonprofit focuses on seniors Key

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

Retirement provides opportunities to try new things and share in new experiences. For some, that new thing could be acting.

Senior Smilez, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing cultural enrichment to folks living in memory care and assisted living facilities, is looking to expand its talent pool. In particular, the troupe is looking to bring on retired folks and seniors who have acting experience or are interested in performing.

“We’re looking for people who just want to have fun and are outgoing,” said Senior Smilez co-founder and president Susan Scannell Gilbert. “They can be

Senior Smilez | 12

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

With Annual Town Meeting approaching on Monday, May 5, residents will vote on several articles that will impact Hopkinton’s economic future at Annual Town Meeting, including the fiscal year 2026 comprehensive budget.

The warrant includes 44 articles pertaining to budget requests to cover town and school expenses as well as policy initiatives.

Unlike in recent years, voters are not facing any property tax override requests. When the Select Board kicked off the budget process requests for last October, it recommended a level-service budget, with town departments asked to make only the most necessary requests. Non-school town departments initially were asked to limit their budget requests to no more than a 1.3% increase in order to balance the budget. In January, the percentage was raised to no more than 3.34%.

After months of town departments

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Charleswood School site problem crops up

TheConservation Commission on April 8 discussed a glitch in the Charleswood School plans, as an intermittent ditch was discovered north of the site.

“I wish we were before you guys under better circumstances,” said Claire Hoogeboom, a wetlands scientist at LEC Environmental Consultants who has been involved with the school project. She and project team members appeared before the commission, which met in person at the Hopkinton Senior Center, to explain the circumstances.

About three weeks before this meeting, the development team was notified about the presence of an intermittent ditch north of the school’s eventual location at 147 Hayden Rowe Street. The ditch flows to the south and enters a 12-inch concrete pipe beneath the school site. This impacts where the school’s secondary exit is proposed.

Hoogeboom reached out to Joe Orzell, the commission’s wetlands consultant. They visited the site to determine if the intermittent ditch was impacted by the bordering vegetative wetland. While they didn’t find a connection on the surface, she noted that it is protectable under the town’s bylaw regulations as an intermittent stream.

Samiotes Consultants submitted an updated plan that demarcated the buffer zones. Proposed landscaping within the buffer zones will include native

plantings. A plan sheet was added to alert the contractor upon its selection that it would need to confirm that it could protect that area during construction.

“We just wanted to bring this to your attention as a sort of new discovery before getting into construction,” said Hoogeboom.

Because of the ditch discovery, the planting plan for abutter mitigations now is in the middle of the intermittent stream’s path. The team asked commission members if their adjustments could be handled administratively with the two abutters.

Member Jim Ciriello questioned if the ditch was at the head of Beaver Brook. Hoogeboom believed that was the case, “depending on what maps you look at.”

“I just find this incredibly troubling,” said member Ed Harrow. “I don’t see this as just a little thing. I see this as a big boo-boo.”

Chair Melissa Recos said she was glad this was discovered now instead of during construction. She proposed amending the notice of intent and order of conditions to make note of the revised plan.

She added that she did not see any issues with what the development team is proposing to do.

Hoogeboom noted that the project is out to bid, which adds a time crunch to the situation. She asked that the work on the abutters’ properties not be included in the school plans, but that a letter be added about the commission being aware of the activity.

This issue will be revisited at the next meeting on April 29.

South Street rezoning ATM article out

In a brief meeting April 7, the Planning Board voted 8-0-1 to remove an article from the May 5 Annual Town Meeting warrant that sought to rezone the corner of South Street and Hayward Street from residential lakefront to rural business.

Attorney David Click spoke on the proponent’s behalf, noting “the applicant’s not seeking to go forward.”

The proposed zoning change would have benefited Hopkinton resident Jim Marguerite, who wanted to relocate the headquarters of Marguerite Concrete to that parcel of currently forested land. The property includes seven lots, five of which were proposed for development and two that were to be preserved as open space.

On March 10, the board voted against recommending this article in a 6-2-1 decision.

This proposed article was similar to a controversial article that was unanimously voted down at the 2023 Annual Town Meeting. Resident Peter Bemis filed a citizens’ petition proposing this rezoning. He decided to withdraw it, but he failed to meet the deadline. Adamant residents of the Lake Maspenock area encouraged that a vote be taken, resulting in the article’s failure. Vice chair Matthew Wronka noted at the March 10 meeting that this version of the proposal might have been more palatable to Town Meeting members.

Land dance

South Street rezoning

Chair Rob Benson said it would be “kind of tone deaf” for the Planning Board to recommend a proposal that was unanimously voted down in 2023.

Bystander training at HCA May 10

Sometimes bystanders find it difficult to know what to do when faced with a situation that might call for intervention — big or small. Thankfully, there’s training for that.

The Hopkinton Freedom Team is hosting a free bystander intervention training on May 10 at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. The event, which is split up into performances from True Story Theater and skills training, will help attendees learn skills for responding to a number of scenarios.

Cathleen Dinsmore, founder and president of the HFT, explained the structure of the training. Members of

True Story Theater will act out a scene “of some sort of bias or harm that is done” and show the resulting reactions. In the latter half of the course, facilitators then will work with participants to break down those scenes and learn what tools bystanders can use to respond.

“It can be microaggressions from something you observe at the grocery store … to more major instances,” said HFT member Judith Weinthaler. She noted that the event is analogous to first aid training, though the audience is wider.

“It’s not a training for professionals, it’s for [anybody] to pick up skills in their personal life,” Weinthaler explained.

This event is another in a series of trainings the HFT has offered Hopkinton residents in partnership with True Story Theater. Dinsmore said the hope is that it “gives you some tools on how to talk to someone else through a difficult situation.”

“This is a skill in terms of what we see, how we react … how we stand up for vulnerable people,” Weinthaler added.

The training will begin at 10 a.m. on May 10. Registration is limited to 50 people. Those interested can sign up via hopkintonfreedomteam.org. Those with questions are encouraged to email info@ hopkintonfreedomteam.org.

Tales from a Townie: The porch rocker

By William T. Hamilton Jr. Contributing Writer

Ifirst became acquainted with the green rocker on my grandmother’s front porch at 33 Ash Street when I was about 3. I would stand there hoping someone would lift me up onto the chair, which they often did. I would rock as hard as I could. I was “king of the world.”

I would visit my grandmother often, as we lived only two houses down the street. I loved the warm days when we could sit in the rockers and visit.

After my hitch in the Navy, I got married. My grandmother sold her house, and I came into possession of one of the four porch rockers. The rocker then resided on our porch on Pleasant Street.

We then moved to Hayden Rowe, and the chair came with us. Shortly after, we became pregnant. Not knowing the sex of our child, I painted the chair white and the knobs pink on one side and light blue on the other. After our daughter,

Vickie, was born, the rocker went into heavy use in the nursery.

We moved to our first house on Maple Street Extension along with the rocker. The rocker came into full use two years later when our son, Steve, was born.

The rocker went into storage for a while, until we bought a cottage in Dennisport, on Cape Cod. The front door on the cottage was a mauve color, so the chair became mauve and sat on the front porch along with another chair.

Move ahead seven years, and we bought a home in Owls Head, Maine, and along came the chair. We painted it dark blue, and it resided in our kitchen there.

After about 20 years, we came to our present home in Hopkinton. I have my own kitchen in the basement to do my canning. The rocker resides there, still painted blue, and I am not sitting in it, timing a batch of applesauce in my canner, about 80 years after I first met the porch rocker.

Select Board gives fire, police chiefs high marks in reviews

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Select Board on April 8 voted unanimously that the town’s fire and police chiefs either met or exceeded expectations during their respective annual performance reviews.

Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty Jr. and Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett each received a score of 4 on a 5-point scale, with 5 being the highest possible mark. Members noted that each chief navigated a challenging time in his respective department’s history with shortages in command

staffs. They also said a weakness in both departments was insufficient data gathering.

Human Resources Director Jessica Lewerenz explained that each chief submitted goals to accomplish over the past year. Each Select Board member gave her their comments independently about how they felt the goals were achieved. Lewerenz compiled them into a document that included her summary and a suggested score.

Also, each chief provided a self-assessment and was evaluated on performance standards outlined in their contracts.

Fire chief adapts quickly

This is the end of Daugherty’s first contract year as chief. The deputy chief position has been vacant since his promotion from that role.

“As typical with other newly promoted employees, the expectation is that they’re going to learn their role, learn their duties, embrace them and come up to speed,” said Lewerenz.

In Daugherty’s case, she added, the fire chief extended previous goals into his elevated role.

One of Daugherty’s goals was to evaluate and update the department’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) on an ongoing basis. This included reviewing active shooter response protocols and developing policies regarding electric and hybrid vehicle fires as well as lithium-ion rechargeable battery fires. In response to the underground transformers used in the Main Street Corridor Project, a methodology had to be devised for extinguishing underground vault fires.

“Rolling out SOPs for all the different areas in one year is impressive,” the report stated, “especially for someone who took over command of the department just over one year ago.”

Emerging technologies prompted some of these policy updates. One example is that electric vehicle fires have to be contained using blankets, not water.

Daugherty said there have been no EV fires yet, but these cars have been involved in several accidents. The entire department has been trained in handling EV emergencies.

Vice chair Mary Jo LaFreniere said she would like to see Daugherty present information about using blankets to contain EV fires in the local media to educate the public. Daugherty pointed out that the blankets can only contain the fires, not extinguish them.

Collecting data about types of incidents and involvement of staff in trainings were mentioned by members Shahidul Mannan and Joe Clark as important ways to assess department performance.

The report also praised Daugherty for developing comprehensive manuals for the operation of each apparatus the department uses. Daugherty said he had to build the driver’s manual “from the ground up,” growing it from one page to more than 50. There also is a new annual driving test through an obstacle course.

The report stated Daugherty’s colleagues perceived him as “steady and calm.” The only area for improvement stressed was that “he may need to insert himself into the community more.”

“His performance this year had broad positive impact on the town, warranting recognition at the highest level,” the report concluded.

Moving forward, the fire chief said his goals include working with Bennett to develop a full-scale active shooter training exercise and developing a wellness program for firefighters.

Police chief praised for outreach

Bennett exceeded expectations in the growth of HPD’s social media engagement. The department has a social media team that puts out alerts, monthly statistics and fun features like its “Where in Hopkinton?” posts.

This effort to “humanize the badge,” the report stated, was “commendable and a model for community policing.”

“The increase in social media is really evident, and it’s a lot more engaging this year,” said member Amy Ritterbusch.

One comment the report made was that the police chief should keep track of the number of events officers participate in each month, as well as the time spent on outreach activities. More publicity and more public events like the youth pizza party would help connect new recruits with residents.

LaFreniere said she would like to see more interaction between officers and the schools to increase student comfort levels.

Chair Brian Herr said there needed to be more data gathered on the number of social media posts and events attended so that growth over future years could be measured effectively.

Bennett said the department’s efforts over the past year would be “a good baseline” for next year, but he understood the need for metrics.

Recruitment was another success for Bennett, as the department is nearly at full strength. The report described this as a “record year” for HPD, given that five officers earned promotions while nine recruits were hired.

Training officers in multiple areas, sometimes above their current rank, also helped strengthen the department and demonstrated succession planning.

Clark pointed to this growth while noting that the national trend shows fewer people desiring to become police officers.

“It takes a village,” Bennett responded, saying the support of the Select Board and town staff make Hopkinton an attractive option for officers.

Mannan said one thing he would like to see is a program for officers to promote their mental health and prevent burnout.

Bennett’s future goals include building team strategies and continuing executivelevel training for the command staff. He also wants to work more closely with the Fire Department.

Library issues raised

Nanci Hill, the director of the Hopkinton Public Library, explained that a recent executive order eliminated the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the only federal agency that provides funding for public libraries. This money funds training for library staff and other community services. She was unsure if this would lead to budget cuts.

Herr asked that this issue be placed on a future agenda for discussion.

Also, the Board of Library Trustees presented its proposed Town Meeting article. It called for special legislation to amend the Town Charter. If passed, it would change the appointing authority of the library director from the Town Manager to the Board of Library Trustees. The Board of Trustees also would oversee the director’s goal setting, since members work closely with Hill.

This proposed change reflects the organizational structure of the Board of Health and the Parks & Recreation Commission, said vice chair Warren Carter.

Meet the Candidates Night highlights contested races

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Candidates running for town government positions in the May 19 election showcased their skills during the April 16 Meet the Candidates Night at the HCAM-TV studio.

Sponsored by the Hopkinton Women’s Club, the event allowed incumbents and fresh faces to explain their reasons for running and to take questions from the public about their stances on key issues. While the candidates focused on their public service and budget concerns, at times their responses were tinged with humor.

Only two of the races this year are contested. For the Select Board, incumbent Shahidul Mannan is competing with Capital Improvement Committee chair Matthew Kizner and political newcomer Jeffrey Doyle for two seats.

The Board of Assessors race has Peter Mimmo running for reelection against Frederick Mayer. Mimmo also is running for a seat on the Planning Board.

Moderator Kathie Hebden allowed each candidate to make a two-minute opening statement. She later fielded a small number of emailed questions.

Select Board hopefuls outline views

Doyle noted that his family has lived in town for “almost 100 years,” starting when his great-grandfather moved here in the 1930s. This is Doyle’s first time running for office in town after moving back two years ago. He has worked in cybersecurity sales for the past decade and said he is “focused on the roots of the town.”

Last year, Doyle said “there was a lot of buzz” about some resident groups not feeling like they were being heard. While he noted the atmosphere has improved since then, he was motivated to run “to make sure that continues in the right direction of listening to the folks in the town.”

“I think my focus is having a Select Board that is focused on the future of the town,” he added, with his main concern being the town’s water supply.

He added that he is a supporter of Live4Evan, a charity named for one of Doyle’s childhood friends from Hopkinton, including running in the 2022 Boston Marathon as a fundraiser.

Kizner stressed his nearly six years of service on the CIC, serving for more than half of that time as its chair. He also is a former Zoning Advisory Committee member. Professionally, Kizner has worked for almost 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry.

“I like digging into data and asking questions,” he explained. “And I understand that change happens through collaboration and compromise, and not through conquest.

“What matters to me is whether your ideas and issues are relevant to Hopkinton and the things that we are discussing around our mutual kitchen tables,” added Kizner. Some of these issues include rising property taxes, supporting emergency response workers, the schools and safe drinking water.

Mannan emphasized his decade-long commitment to public service in Hopkinton. He has served on the Appropriation Committee, Planning Board, Community Preservation Committee and Select

Board, among other roles. He has an undergraduate degree in engineering and a master of business administration in finance. Professionally, he is an executive who manages data and AI strategy for major healthcare organizations.

“Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of serving our town during a time of growth, challenge and opportunity,” said Mannan. “I have worked hard alongside many of you to make progress on clean water and PFAS remediation, to support our schools and public safety teams, and to help move forward key projects like the downtown corridor, the skate park and now the new elementary school.”

Another point he stressed was his work to make Hopkinton “a more inclusive and sustainable town.” He also championed the creation of the Economic Development Advisory Board.

Added Mannan: “That’s why I’m running again: to keep listening, to keep building and to keep working for you.”

Board of Health candidate Raymond Malcolm Smith was asked by Caitlin Tirrell if he would support the policy that unvaccinated students must stay home if there is a measles outbreak. He answered affirmatively, noting that “measles is a critically dangerous disease.”

An anonymous submission — which Hebden did not read in full, calling it “a little inappropriate” — questioned Richards-Cavanaugh for running for a fourth term.

Richards-Cavanaugh noted that she is running unopposed and still has a child in the school system. She added that this will be the final time she will run.

Candidates’ skills highlighted

Mimmo and his family moved to Hopkinton in 2015. He is an attorney for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts who helps enforce the state’s civil rights laws.

“I’ve been honored to be a member of this board since 2022,” he said of his stint with the Board of Assessors.

As a member, Mimmo supported the town’s Hero Act, which helped increase the amount of tax exemptions for veterans, and resolved multiple tax appeals that were pending with the appellate tax board. He plans to advocate for more senior tax exemptions if elected to a second term.

Hebden read from the resume submitted by Mayer, who was unable to attend the event.

She said Mayer, who is better known as Ted, was on the Board of Assessors from 1986-92. He was a certified financial planner for 42 years and worked as an investment advisor for Wells Fargo before his retirement. He also served as a sergeant in the Marine Corps.

Many seats unopposed

The following people, not including those listed above, are running for uncontested positions:

Stanley Pulnik and Susan Porter for Board of Library Trustees; Gina Harper for Cemetery Commission; Susan Kurys for Commissioner of Trust Funds; Amy Groves for constable; Beth Malloy for Housing Authority; Kyle Smith for Parks & Recreation Commission; Amna Diwan for Planning Board; Connor Degan for town clerk; Zachary Kosan for town moderator.

Elegant home in the prestigious Circa 1700 neighborhood. The sprawling level yard is an entertainer’s dream. The bright eat-in kitchen overlooks the front and back yards. The home features a large ensuite bedroom and 2 other spacious bedrooms with a shared bath, and a luxurious primary suite The finished basement is perfect for movie nights, game days, and workouts.

Board of Health plans hearing on proposed nicotine regulations

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

The Board of Health voted on April 14 to move forward with a public hearing on its nicotine-free generation proposal following presentations from advocates both for and against the regulation.

The Nicotine-Free Generation (NFG) initiative is one of Health Director Shaun McAuliffe’s priorities for fiscal year 2025. Intended to reduce the use of nicotine products by children and teenagers, the rule would prohibit the sale of tobacco to individuals born after a certain date.

During a previous Board of Health meeting, McAuliffe reviewed the proposal with members and noted that, if adopted, the regulation would set the cutoff date at Jan. 1, 2005.

The April 14 meeting was a continuation of the board’s previous discussion. As part of the proceedings, members received a presentation from Maureen Buzby, a tobacco prevention program manager who has worked with several communities in the Mystic Valley region on NFG policies.

Buzby’s presentation centered around the burdens of nicotine addiction on communities, the impact of tobacco regulations and the ways in which modern nicotine products appear to be marketed toward younger consumers.

As she talked, Buzby displayed a number of vapes in the shape of guitars,

Baypath

Adoptable

Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 2-year-old Anacoco.

Here is Baypath’s description of Anacoco:

“Looking for a playful pup to brighten your days? Say hello to Anacoco — a happy, energetic girl who’s ready to bring a whole lot of fun and love into your home!

bears and other colorful designs.

“Who do you think they might be targeting?” Buzby asked the board. “I don’t think they’re targeting the adult smoker.”

Buzby argued that the marketing of nicotine products toward children and teens is a byproduct of the tobacco industry losing smokers and needing replacement customers. She went on to claim that “cute, clever products” developed by the tobacco companies are designed to target young people and get them addicted.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, age is a factor in nicotine addiction. The younger a person is, the higher the likelihood of addiction becomes once they start using nicotine products.

Buzby concluded her remarks by discussing the framework of NFG regulations. She noted that these nicotine policies have a “long runway” for local businesses with tobacco licenses to plan for reduced sales of nicotine products. She also asserted that the regulations do not cause anyone who currently can purchase tobacco to lose that purchasing privilege.

“The policy is pretty simple, once you get used to it,” she concluded. Board members asked questions and provided feedback following Buzby’s presentation. Public health nurse Simone Carter shared that local student athletes have reported nicotine

Animal of the Week

“Anacoco is housebroken and already knows her basic commands like sit and stay — what a smart cookie! She’s an absolute joy to watch as she plays, whether she’s chasing after toys or romping around with that signature goofy grin. Her tail is always wagging, and her positive energy is truly contagious.

“This social sweetheart loves her walks with our volunteers and happily greets everyone she meets — people and pups alike! She’s also done well with cats and has enjoyed meeting older children, so she may just thrive in a home with kids who understand her playful nature.

“Anacoco is the whole package: affectionate, fun-loving and full of life. If your home is missing a sweet companion who’s always up for a walk, a snuggle or a good game of fetch — Anacoco might just be your perfect match!”

For more information about Anacoco and any of the other available pets at Baypath, email adopt@baypathhumane.org or visit baypathhumane. org/adopt.

For more Adoptable Animals of the Week, check the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

Parks & Rec moves Pyne Field parking project forward

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

The Parks & Recreation Department will move forward on the second phase of the Pyne Field project after a unanimous vote on a design for the field’s parking lot by the Parks & Rec Commission at its April 8 meeting.

“Our primary focus is to zero in on an area for parking,” chair Dan Terry clarified at the beginning of the meeting.

Parks & Rec Director Jon Lewitus kicked off the discussion by reviewing the status of the Pyne Field project and

steps taken since the commission’s previous discussion on Feb. 28. During that meeting, the Parks & Rec Commission directed Lewitus to follow up with the design contractors regarding alternate options that would preserve available space and limit impact on abutters.

At that time, Gale Associates had developed two parking lot proposals. The first (referred to by the commission as Lot 1) would sit on the sand pit to the east of the cricket and baseball fields at Pyne Field and have 101 parking spaces. Lot 2 would be situated to the south in a wooded area and have 77 spots.

At the April 8 meeting, Lewitus informed the commission that he had asked Gale Associates to develop options that would “also allow room for a future field” at the sand pits.

commission dubbed as Lot 1A. This option rotated the original Lot 1 design to run east to west and sit to the north of the sand pit. O’Donnell noted her preference for Lot 2, as it would allow for full use of the sand pit should Parks & Rec need additional recreation space.

After further discussion, the commission unanimously voted to approve Lot 1A as the parking option for Pyne Field. Lewitus now will work with Gale Associates to begin Phase 2 of the project, which will include engineering, design and discussions with the Planning Board.

The best case scenario for starting construction would be around fall 2026, vice chair Amy O’Donnell estimated.

Chair calls CPC comments

‘wildly off-base’

overdoses and heart arrhythmias from using products such as nicotine pouches.

Member Mary Jo Ondrechen offered criticism of the NFG regulations, questioning whether a prohibition on nicotine was a productive approach.

“Prohibiting something just doesn’t seem to work well,” she said, mentioning past national attempts at prohibiting substances such as alcohol and marijuana.

Buzby explained that the policy allowed for a slow rollout, which would give time to work on “denormalizing” tobacco use altogether. She likened it to how smoking inside establishments such as restaurants and hospitals has been denormalized as a result of updated smoking laws.

Opponents voice concerns

During public comment, advocates representing tobacco groups spoke in opposition to the proposed NFG policy.

Jonathan Bowen-Leopold, a statewide mental health advocate, spoke briefly as a representative of Cambridge Citizens for Smokers Rights. BowenLeopold argued that smoking can be a helpful tool for people in substance abuse and mental health recovery, and that “people should be allowed to smoke at least outdoors.”

Speaking for the New England Convenience Store and Energy Marketers Association was its executive director, Peter Brennan.

Brennan argued that the NFG regulations do nothing to curb youth smoking and only target adults. He claimed that youth smoking numbers are down in record numbers as a result of effective education.

He also pointed to the economic impact the policy could have, if enacted.

“Frankly, it is bad for our retailers,” Brennan said. He went on to claim that the policy would, in effect, result in the devaluation of businesses with tobacco licenses and affect business owners’ ability to market and sell their business.

“We really feel it’s just targeting our retailers with no real health benefits associated,” said Brennan.

“It’s a well-intended policy that just has devastating financial impacts,” he added.

Following public comment and Buzby’s presentation, the Board of Health voted unanimously to move to a public hearing on the NFG regulation. A date was not yet announced.

“Their short answer was no,” he said. He explained that another full athletic field on the eastern part of the property would reduce the available parking for Lot 1 to 15 spots, with five additional spaces for adaptive parking.

Added Lewitus: “There’s not truly enough room to do both there.”

He took commission members through a number of other options Gale Associates came up with to fit a smaller athletic field on the eastern side of Pyne Field. He also shared that he had discussed the two initial lot options with both the town manager and Planning Board members, noting anxiety over the tree cutting that would be necessary to build Lot 2.

Parking option selected from updated designs

Following public comment, the commission zeroed in on which option for parking it should pursue. Terry noted that Lot 2 had issues with the number of spaces available and its location that made it a tough sell for him.

Said Terry: “I think we’re going to get more pushback on that one, and we’re more apt to get the project done sooner” with one of the Lot 1 options presented.

Member Kyle Smith said he had a “strong preference” for what the

During other commission business, Terry and Lewitus discussed updates from a recent meeting with the CPC.

At that meeting, criticism was leveled at Parks & Rec for what was perceived as a lack of progress on key projects, including Pyne Field. Terry and Lewitus defended the department, noting that five of the seven projects discussed were nearly complete.

“The conclusion that the chair of the CPC came to was that he didn’t feel as though we should seek additional CPC funding until all our projects are complete,” Terry explained to the commission.

“I spoke very, very much against that idea,” he added. “I thought that criticism was wildly off-base.”

Members acknowledged the frustration over the pace of the Pyne Field project but noted its size was a factor in its extended timeline.

“This is a giant project that we’ve not executed on this level before,” said O’Donnell, adding that the commission still is in the process of learning how to manage that execution.

Terry also took time to recognize Lewitus’ efforts in moving key Parks & Rec projects along since he took over the department in September 2023.

“I think our director’s doing a phenomenal job at moving these things

forward and building programs and building staff,” Terry said.

Position on parade explained

Terry also clarified the commission’s position on the Hopkinton Republican Town Committee’s request for sponsorship of this year’s Horribles Parade.

“We’ve decided to wait until the Select Board approves it,” said Terry. His clarification came during the public comment portion of the Parks & Rec meeting. Resident Beth Malloy spoke in opposition to the parade and questioned why the Parks & Rec Department was being considered as a sponsor for the event.

“I don’t understand why Parks & Rec would loan their insurance to a political party,” said Malloy. She went on to detail how last year’s Horribles Parade, in her opinion, had been “lame and really sad” and did more to divide the town than bring it together.

Views of the parade continue to be divided. HRTC chair Jim Mirabile said in a previous meeting with the Parks & Rec Commission that he had received only positive feedback from last year’s event.

The HRTC went to Parks & Rec in March to request sponsorship of the annual parade. The committee resurrected the event last year after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the former organizers declining to continue running it. At that meeting, the commission directed the HRTC to get approval from the Select Board first before it offered sponsorship.

Responding to Malloy’s comments, Terry said that if “the Select Board thinks that they need us to be involved so that the town is protected insurancewise, I would vote to recommend it.”

However, he expressed concern over why both the Select Board and Parks & Rec needed to give their approvals, given the parade doesn’t rent the Town Common nor relies on any other Parks & Rec property.

“I don’t see any reason why the Select Board couldn’t OK the whole permit,” said Terry.

Library responds to federal order dismantling services

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

The effects of a recent executive order reducing the size and capacity of the Institute of Museum and Library Services have yet to be felt on the local level, but staff at the Hopkinton Public Library are concerned.

“It’s fair to say the consequences are far reaching,” said Danielle Cook, HPL’s reference and technology supervisor.

“It looks bad already,” she added. “We don’t know how much worse it will get.”

Executive Order 14238, signed by President Donald Trump on March 14, called for the reduction of “elements of the Federal bureaucracy that the President has determined are unnecessary.” The IMLS was one of seven agencies affected by the executive order. All IMLS staff were placed on leave as of March 31.

Responding to these actions, the HPL published a letter on April 7 detailing the effects of the executive order and how it would impact Hopkinton residents.

“The loss of the IMLS and the funding it provides will directly and indirectly affect the quality and variety of services that you as a library patron can access, regardless of your home library,” the letter states.

While money from the IMLS, for the most part, does

not fund the library directly, the agency provides funding for grants and programs through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) that affect library patrons across the state. The program likely to see the largest impact is publicly available databases accessed in both school and public libraries.

According to the HPL’s letter, 60% of annual database use comes from school libraries. Around 9 million texts were downloaded last year from databases such as Gale, ProQuest and Britannica Online.

HPL assistant library director Jak Miller noted that the information students access from these databases is “independent and verifiable,” allowing students to think independently and find data from a wide range of sources.

“[The order] could further limit their ability to access information,” Miller explained.

Other statewide programs impacted include ComCat, which the MBLC administers. ComCat supports interlibrary loans across the state, and manages around 7,500 loans per month.

Digital loans also could be disrupted. HPL is part of the CW MARS library network, which benefits from IMLS funding. Users of Libby or other e-book and audiobook platforms supported by CW MARS could see a reduction in the number of available books, increases in wait times or other negative impacts.

The IMLS cuts additionally mean a pause on grant funding to libraries nationwide. According to the HPL’s letter, the library received a few grants last year from IMLS, the future of which remains uncertain.

A $20,000 grant from last year funded accessibility surveys, along with sensory material for the Children’s Department and sign language training for staff. Another $6,000 grant was used to complete a preservation assessment for the library’s local history collection.

“As of now, we do not know whether this funding will still be available and whether we will be able to make the necessary improvements to preserve our history,” the letter notes.

‘Difficult decisions’ could lie ahead

Cook said that the stopping of funding from the IMLS to the MBLC could result in changes to library operations in Hopkinton.

“If [MBLC] are forced to make cuts, we may have to pick up some services locally,” said Cook.

“We may be looking at a time in the future where we need to make some very difficult decisions,” added HPL director Nanci Hill.

Hill noted that the town funds library staff’s salaries and benefits “but not a ton else.” The rest of HPL’s funding comes through other sources, including trust funds, state aid and grants like those from the IMLS.

“We don’t yet know how much funding is not going to come to the state,” said Hill.

HPL staff are working to evaluate what impact that lack of funding will have on the library. Cook explained that in a worse-case scenario, it is possible the library could reduce its operating hours, stop supporting its library of things or stop purchasing things like audiobooks.

“It’s really all dependent on how funding cuts go,” Cook said, explaining that the cuts could result in states or municipalities deciding to fund libraries less over the long term.

Cook was clear that the HPL would not have to shut its doors as a result of the executive order, and credited support from the community in keeping the library running. However, she stated that residents likely could feel a range of impacts depending on how they use library resources.

HPL responds quickly

The HPL is one of the first libraries in the state to speak up about Executive Order 14238 and its impacts. Hill said the response she and the library have received since sending a letter out to news outlets and on social media has been heartwarming.

“Hopkinton loves its library,” said Hill. “We’re very fortunate for that.”

She also noted that other libraries have followed Hopkinton’s example since the letter was released. She pointed to the Rockport Public Library, which adapted the HPL letter for its own patrons.

“I think you’re going to be seeing more libraries step up,” Hill said.

As to why the HPL decided to speak out, Cook said it came down to the library’s security and support from residents and municipal leaders.

“As librarians in Hopkinton, we … have a certain amount of privilege,” said Cook, calling the advocacy effort an “opportunity to advocate for all libraries on that level.”

Cook also said that the executive order communicates a deprioritizing of libraries and the programming they offer.

“It does imply that libraries are not important and that people don’t deserve the services that libraries provide,” Cook explained.

The best outcome of these efforts is for federal funding to be restored and services to return to the same level as before, she added.

“We just want to be able to continue providing the services we were providing,” Cook said.

Efforts are underway already to combat the Trump administration’s order dismantling the IMLS. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell joined a coalition of 20 attorneys general suing the administration over the executive order. Organizations including the American Library Association and the political action platform EveryLibrary have set up resources and petitions for Americans to take direct action.

HPL staff recommend residents contact their state and federal representatives to express their support for libraries. Cook noted that elected officials “are more likely to take action on this” and other issues if constituents make their voices heard.

“It’s going to be a lot of calling your representatives, a lot of showing up,” said Cook.

“It’s a lot of work for us to stay where we are,” added Cook. “We can’t just sit and expect things not to go away.”

The letter is available to read on the HPL website, along with resources for contacting representatives and getting involved.

Radon testing, mitigation in homes

M etrowest Boston tends to have high levels of radon in many homes, because we have a lot of rock or ledge in the area. As rock and ground erode, they release a naturally occurring gas called radon into our atmosphere. You can’t see, taste nor smell it. High levels of radon can cause cancer, but this problem can be easily addressed by installing a radon mitigation system. The system is relatively reasonably priced — around $1,500 — and typically removes the radon from inside the property.

Start with testing your home

Kim Foemmel

Professional insights

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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Indoor Air Quality Program offers free radon tests by calling 800723-6695. You install the radon test in your lowest living area, let it sit for two days undisturbed, leaving doors and windows closed, then mail the radon test to the lab. You will receive an email with the results within a week. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends less than 4 picocuries (pCi) of radon per liter of air in the home, preferably under 2 pCi. If radon levels in a home are higher than what the EPA recommends, call a radon mitigation company to inspect the home and provide a price quote. For installation of a mitigation system, a company typically drills a 6-inch hole into the basement foundation and installs a 6-inch PVC pipe that runs from the foundation up the side of a home

and past the roofline. Workers then install a fan in the middle of the PVC pipe that pulls air from in and around the foundation and sends it up to the roof of the property. Typically when you install a system like this, it reduces the the radon to under 2 pCi, and some companies will guarantee or warranty the level. Newer homes already might have a passive PVC pipe installed for future use. More recent home building codes require the pipes to be installed in case of future need. However, if you test a newly constructed home for radon, it might produce a false positive, as it can take a couple years for foundations to cure, because they are made with rock aggregate.

On the side of the PVC pipe, there is a blue or red gauge that sometimes can be misconstrued as showing the radon levels in the house. This is not accurate. What the gauge is indicating is only that the fan is working, that there’s reverse air pressure in the system and that the system likely is doing its job. Just because your neighbor’s home has high levels of radon doesn’t mean that your home will. You are encouraged to retest the home periodically. Further, radon testing can be done using a handheld detector to obtain a real-time reading, or you can use an alarm that you can place in a basement or the lowestlevel living area that will continuously record the radon level in the home and alert you to elevated levels.

For more information, visit: mass. gov/info-details/fixing-radon-in-yourhome.

Kim Foemmel, Real Estate Broker Foemmel Fine Homes Hopkinton, MA

508.808.1149

kim.foemmel@gmail.com FoemmelFineHomes.com

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS in Hopkinton

Adaptive playground, Center School requests on tap at ATM

working to pare down their respective asks and streamlining and combining some services, the town produced a balanced budget of nearly $138 million. This effort also was accomplished by a higher amount of state aid than expected and a certified free cash reserve of more than $18 million (not all of which will be used).

Article 6 asks voters to accept the proposed operating budget.

Adaptive playground should spark debate

The project that likely will provoke the most discussion is the proposed construction of an adaptive playground at Marathon School anticipated to cost more than $1.2 million. Article 25 requests that $943,000 be allocated toward the project. Other than the cost, the crux of the issue has been its location on school grounds.

The Community Preservation Committee voted last December to recommend that $300,000 be allocated toward the project. This funding is contingent upon its approval and the balance being funded by another source.

When the request arose at this meeting, a suggestion was made that the School Department pay for at least half of the project because it would be located at a school and not be available for public use during the school day.

Questions have been raised over the past year as to why an adaptive playground was not part of the plans for the new Charleswood School, although its playground design has included some inclusive elements. Others thought a more central location in town would be at the Center School.

At the CPC meeting in December 2024, School Committee chair Nancy Cavanaugh explained that 198 townowned parcels were considered for the

adaptive playground before deciding on the Marathon site. A feasibility study revealed that Marathon School would be the best location because of its flat terrain and easy accessibility. Because an increasing number of students with disabilities attend the school, proponents said it would provide them with an inclusive play space both during and outside of the school day. It would also benefit the town as a whole.

The Select Board voted unanimously on April 1 to recommend funding for the adaptive playground, citing increasing demand from residents over the past few years.

Support anticipated for Center School plan

One project that appears to have garnered wide support is the potential reuse of the Center School in a proposed

public-private partnership with the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. In addition to community meeting and activity space, HCA class space and offices for the Parks & Recreation Department and the Youth & Family Services Department have been discussed. The plan is to retain and rehabilitate the 1928 structure and demolish the two additions in the rear. The entire project is expected to cost $10 million. In order for the project to go out to bid, a request for $600,000 was recommended as part of the CPC’s list of recommended projects contained in Article 27. The money would fund architectural plans and stabilization of the deteriorating building. The request stipulated that a public-private partnership be formed by the end of this project phase, which would allow the HCA to bid for it.

State legislators and Select Board members expressed enthusiasm for the project, which would help revitalize the

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

Hopkinton

This issue’s winner is Veena Guni for this photo of mid-April snow that landed on budding spring flowers. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@ hopkintonindependent. com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by BoMain. 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 BoMain.

downtown area and provide needed space for town departments.

In addition, Article 39 asks that the town transfer control of Center School to the Select Board. This article would allow the Select Board to “lease all or a portion of said building for a term not to exceed 99 years, to a non-profit arts and/or community organization based in the Town of Hopkinton, for the advancement of community and/or cultural enrichment activities, programs, and other opportunities, on such terms and conditions as the Select Board deem to be in the best interests of the Town.” The selection process is subject to a competitive bid.

CPC requests include Parks & Rec

In addition to the Center School request, Article 27 contains several CPC funding requests. The Parks & Recreation Department asked for $10,000 for a splash pad feasibility study and $24,300 for three water refill stations in town.

Requests under the CPC’s historical reserve include $100,000 for the second phase of the restoration of the Historical Society building at 168 Hayden Rowe Street. Money also was requested for restoration work at the building at Mount Auburn Cemetery and the restoration of the floor in the Library’s Ellsworth Conference Room.

Under the open space reserve, money was requested for stewardship and a conservation restriction for the town’s recently acquired Colella property. In addition, $35,000 toward the purchase and related costs to acquire the Casucci property on Saddle Hill Road was sought.

DPW seeks to replace equipment

The Department of Public Works made several capital project fund requests to replace equipment that has surpassed its lifetime. Requests were made for three Water Department vehicles and a new screen system for the Fruit Street wastewater treatment facility. Also, money was requested for the town water main flushing program and the designs for a sewer main replacement and the Grove Street water tank.

Economic development account sought

The Select Board requested that a home rule petition be filed with the state legislature to create a town economic development special revenue account. This account would hold the money generated from the meals tax for use for economic development projects. Attracting and retaining businesses and stimulating economic growth are the goals. The newly created Economic Development Advisory Board would provide advice on projects.

Saturday proposed for future ATMs

Article 35 seeks to change Town Meeting from its traditional start on the first Monday in May at 7 p.m. to a morning start on the first Saturday in May. Town Clerk Conor Degan proposed the article, noting that older residents and people with disabilities have difficulty attending weeknight meetings, which can last until midnight.

Cape Cod House Rental

Theater nonprofit Senior Smilez casts seniors, retirees

from anywhere.”

According to Gilbert, the nonprofit is limited by the number of shows it can stage in a given week. The troupe provides its services within a 50-mile radius of Hopkinton and is constrained

FENCING

by cost and logistics. Most actors Senior Smilez hires have other commitments during the week. As a result, it is limited to putting on one show a weekend during a cycle.

By bringing on between 4-8 retired actors, Senior Smilez hopes to expand its available offerings to weekdays and lengthen its production cycle.

“We’re hoping to do 40 performances and do a 10-month cycle,” Gilbert explained.

Senior Smilez is wrapping up its current run in May, but it plans on starting up with the added performers and new shows in September.

The push to expand the troupe’s talent pool and availability comes after a year-and-a-half of successful productions. Gilbert reported that the nonprofit already has done 45 performances at 27 venues across the region.

Gilbert co-founded Senior Smilez with her husband, Robert, after noticing the difficulties seniors face in accessing cultural experiences as they enter assisted living and memory care. Issues like ticket prices, mobility challenges and transportation create barriers that can be difficult to overcome.

Gilbert saw this firsthand during her time working at Reagle Music Theatre in Waltham. She described how groups from assisted living facilities would be relegated to uncomfortable seating in the rear of the theater where hearing likely was an issue.

“I just thought [the experience] could be easier,” she remarked.

Senior Smilez aims to make that experience easier by providing a no-cost show “as close to a whole theater presentation as you can get.”

During a show, the actors will perform a number of short plays no more than 10 minutes long. The sets are designed to keep even those with memory issues engaged.

“[The plays] have to capture the attention of what

might be a wandering mind, and they have to hold that attention,” said Gilbert.

“I direct a lot, and I’m very cognizant of colors when we have a set or movement,” she added.

Gilbert previously has recruited actor friends from the regional theater community and sourced plays from all over. She noted that she has connected with playwrights through groups on Facebook. Both actors and playwrights are paid a small stipend for their work.

While there are some challenges with managing productions in assisted living and memory care facilities, Gilbert says the experience for all is enjoyable.

“For the actors, it’s really a lot of fun,” she said.

Those who are interested in signing up to act can email Gilbert at SueSeniorSmilez@gmail.com or call 508-353-5529. More information about Senior Smilez can be found on its website, seniorsmilez.org.

Focus on child at Miss Tanya’s kindergarten

and two on their own. The centers offer a mix of art, language arts and math.

Straz noted most classroom activities focus on one country that students study for a month.

“The program is perfect for kids who just miss or make the cutoff for public kindergarten,” said Heather Straz, Woodland School director. “Our ageappropriate kids go to first grade, while others have ‘the gift of a year’ and move onto the public kindergarten.”

Starting in September, kindergarten runs from 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Mondays and 8:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. from Tuesdays through Fridays.

“We have two qualified teachers for the class of 18 children,” said Straz, noting the teachers have worked together for eight years. “Our teachers meet each kid where that student is at academically, like helping the child who is learning the alphabet and assisting another who can read.”

“They read books about the country, learn its foods and animals, what it makes and more,” she said. The curriculum also features author studies with students reading different books by one writer.

Continuing the individual emphasis, Straz said each kindergartener gets to be the student teacher for a day, leading the class in activities.

The curriculum includes traditional subjects interspersed with time to explore classroom centers, outside activities and field trips.

Woodland has an enclosed outside area where students play three times daily.

“In the summer, we have the hose running, and in the winter, we go sledding,” said Straz.

Students also have time each day to participate in four classroom centers, two directed by teachers

Another feature is the regular field trips and visits from outside specialists.

“We visit Teamworks for sports, host the Discovery Science Museum several times and have MassWildlife experts teach animal behaviors,” said Straz. Students also explore downtown Westborough by visiting stores and the fire and news stations.

“The kids then create their own stores and sell products to their parents,” said Straz.

Summing up the program, Straz said, “Our kindergarten is unique locally; there is nothing else like it.”

Anyone interested in more information or registration for Miss Tanya’s kindergarten program can visit MissTanya.com, email woodland@gmail. com or call 508-366-5700.

Miss Tanya’s also is taking registration for summer programs at its three Westborough nursery schools at MissTanya.com.

MONDAY to FRIDAY 9am – 4pm Extended Day

LOCATION at Quinsigamond State Park, Worcester offering Rowing Camp, Spring & Fall Crew Teams

HHS students take top honors at state science fair

Hopkinton High School seniors

Dylan Striek and Anoushkha Nair

SCHOOLS

NOTEBOOK

captured a first-place award at the Massachusetts Science and Engineering Fair on April 4 and qualified for a trip to Columbus, Ohio, to compete at the International Science Fair in May. Striek and Nair’s project was titled The GlycoCharge: A Translational

Spectrophotometric Apparatus for Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring in Type II Diabetes. They also won the Regeneron Biomedical Science Award.

Also at the state fair, Simrit Kukreja and Aryan Shah earned a second-place nod for Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Huntington’s Disease: An Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapeutic Strategy for Inhibiting Mutant Exon 1 Expression, and Miyu Hasegawa and Piyusha Majgaonkar took third place for The Effects of Terpene — a Plant Compound — on Reducing Lobaplatin-Induced Neurotoxicity.

Receiving honorable mention were Emilia Graham (Understanding the Immunomodulatory Effects of Echinacea Purpurea on the Innate Immune System of Caenorhabditis Elegans), Vaagmi Shukla (Understanding Neurotoxicity: Drosophila Melanogaster as a Model for Memory Loss), Madhav Warrier and Aarush Naik (Modeling CombustionInduced Oxidative Stress in Drosophila Melanogaster) and Kaizar Rangwala (Scientific Machine Learning and Photodynamic Therapy for Anticipation, Prevention, and Mitigation of Harmful Algal Blooms).

Shukla also won the Harvard Summer School Secondary School Program Scholarship, while Warrier and Nail received the Pauline J. LaMarche Memorial Award.

HMS Drama to perform ‘Beetlejuice’

The Hopkinton Middle School Drama Club will perform “Beetlejuice Jr.” on May 2 and 3 at the middle school auditorium.

Based on the blockbuster motion picture turned Broadway musical, “Beetlejuice Jr.” tells the story of a strange and unusual teenager named Lydia Deetz, who is grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with death. Luckily for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing a (nether)world of pandemonium.

The performance is being directed by drama teacher Michael McKeon, in his first year leading the Drama Club. Lisa Nielsen and Margarita Porzio are musical directors. Club alumnus AJ Porzio returns as the choreographer.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. More information is available at the Hopkinton Middle School Drama Club Facebook page.

Local collegians shine

Kayla McCann, a senior Army ROTC student at Northeastern University, received the George C. Marshall Award “for recognition as the overall outstanding student in military and academic studies, leadership and physical fitness for the academic year 2024-25.” …

At Tufts University, junior Matt Burdulis, sophomore Anjali Batra and freshmen Olivia Chen, Lulu Jerrett and Nicole Mousad were named to the dean’s list. …

At Washington University in St. Louis, Sahithi Pogula (College of Arts & Sciences) and Riya Sulur (Olin Business School) were named to the dean’s list. …

Kara Diune, a junior who is majoring in media arts production, was named to the dean’s list at Emerson College. …

Mirabella Paolucci recently was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, which bills itself as the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at the University of Massachusetts.

Editor’s note: Information for college honors is provided by the schools. Those interested in being included in this section should forward the official notification or request for the school to email it to editor@ hopkintonindependent.com.

ScHool

ESBC approves pre-construction property survey option

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

Vertex project manager Chris Eberly

will pursue a proposal for a risk mitigation strategy with nine neighbors closest to the Charleswood School construction site.

The Elementary School Building Committee gave the go ahead April 14 following Eberly’s description of the process, which involves conducting a pre-existing survey of properties to understand their condition at the start of construction.

Eberly said the School Committee or town could offer the survey, whereby a third party (vendor) goes into the home with a video camera and does a review “like a simplified home inspection.”

The third party would do an audio notation of things like cracks in walls and flooring, water damage areas, separations, etc. so there is a record.

“It is so we can eliminate any misconceptions about what was or what was not caused by our construction,” Eberly said.

The cost at each home would run between $500 to $750, Eberly estimated.

The project manager said Vertex has worked in communities that used this practice as well as those that did not.

He said he had no preference either way, but the mitigation strategy had been used successfully elsewhere.

The inspections are voluntary and are met with two reactions, Eberly said. “One is, ‘I don’t want any stranger let into my house,’ and the other is a town not wanting to take on liabilities in an abutter’s home upfront.

“Some communities like it, and others don’t want any part of it,” Eberly said. The inspection report can be left with the neighbors themselves or put into the town’s custody.

Eberly said the vibrations from blasting (to break up rocks) is one part of construction that can have an effect, “as noted by staff at Hopkins School” for that renovation/addition project.

He said he could not envision claims of property damage from the use of a vibration compactor. However, “It can be a little unsettling when things shake a little. It’s not driving near your house, but it can feel like it.”

Eberly said if this property survey option is not used, claims will be handled on a case-to-case basis by insurance.

ESBC member Mike Shepard said a Toll Brothers project off Blueberry Lane involves extensive excavation and compaction close to the school, and he suspected the developer did not survey the rest of the neighborhood.

“Where do you decide who did what?” Shepard asked. “I don’t see the need for it. It may cause more problems.”

Shepard added, though, that he would go along with what most of the board wanted.

ESBC chair Jon Graziano said it would be best to limit the option to the immediate neighborhood but it would be worth asking the town if this practice was done with other roadwork projects.

Adaptive playground plans move ahead

The ESBC also looked at plans from landscape architect company Traverse to make the north playground at Charleswood School handicapped accessible.

Eberly described the changes to equipment as an “upgrade” to what previously was proposed, noting the “quality of play” was enhanced to include accessibility for children with disabilities.

The plans show ground level items where all students can interact, seating areas for all and the addition of shade structures not in the original proposal.

The changes amount to an additional $100,000, Eberly said, which in the context of the entire school project is “not that much.”

“[You’ll] get much better pricing if you incorporate it into the regular bid rather than waiting until afterwards. There are complexities to building a playground,” Eberly told the board.

Graziano noted the committee takes seriously any money that is added or subtracted on the Charleswood School project.

However, Graziano said, the playground changes “feel like the right way to go and something we should be striving for at an educational facility to carry us forward for the next 30 years.”

The board agreed to possibly add a turf field to the play area, with Eberly speaking on the difficulties of keeping the field “green.”

“There are three waves of 400 kids [at recess], and the grass will take a beating,” he said.

Eberly said the turf field would add “durability and longevity” and is like the turf area around the playground at Marathon School.

Members decided to make the turf field a bid alternate, so when the price comes back, if the cost is too high, they do not have to commit to it.

Eberly noted that the project currently is $8 million under budget, so “small swaps are not as big a deal.”

•

• Bathroom and kitchen remodeling

• Window and door replacement

• Wood flooring and refinishing

• Decks, siding and roofing

• Power washing, gutter repair

• Basement refinishing

• Carpentry and painting

• Masonry, stone patios and retention walls

• Handyman work Detailed & Meticulous Reasonable Rates

School Committee addresses Hopkins School project issues

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

T

he School Committee on April 17 voted to pursue a lease agreement with a vendor for a temporary kitchen trailer to be located at Hopkins School.

Members also reached a consensus that Vertex (owner’s project manager) should seek proposals from designers for improvements to the Loop Road at the site as well as the future moving of four modulars there once the Charleswood School project is completed.

Chris Eberly, Vertex’s project manager, gave a presentation to the committee that highlighted the Hopkins School renovation/addition project to date and included these future issues.

Eberly explained that of the $52.4 million project total, $45.4 million has been entered into contracts and committed, and $11.6 million has been spent.

Speaking of contingency funds and putting aside funds for possible change orders, Eberly noted there is $3.2 million available “for other purposes” like capital needs and restoration of items that were removed from the project or as a giveback to the town.

Food services discussed

Eberly noted food service needs at Hopkins come to the forefront when the addition opens and the existing cafeteria and gym close during the final construction phase (February 2026 to June 2026).

The full budget to set up a temporary kitchen trailer and operate it for those five months is $380,000. Costs include utilities, a platform and ramp for access, water and electricity connections, sewer installation, contingency and equipment like temporary grease interceptors.

At first, School Committee chair Nancy Cavanaugh suggested the committee wait two weeks until all members were present to vote on the temporary kitchen agreement. Members Susan Stephenson and Chris Masters were not at the meeting.

Eberly responded that the issue is “time sensitive,” because it would be desirable to “lock in” the vendor with the specific temporary kitchen trailer that the school requires.

Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Susan Rothermich said this specific unit “works for the number and size that fit our needs.”

When Nancy Cavanaugh asked

about alternatives like food preparation at other schools and transporting meals, both Eberly and Rothermich said the other options “did not make a lot of sense” and would be costly.

Eberly said it would be a labor issue and that a two-bay sink would have to be installed. It also would pose a “quality of life” issue, he said. His group could not envision busing over “bagged sandwiches and chips as daily lunch for five months.”

Rothermich elaborated, saying the alternative of using another school kitchen meant preparing, packaging and transporting breakfasts and lunches to Hopkins School.

“We’d have to rent a vehicle. The amount of food and logistics did not make a lot of sense. This gives [the students] appropriate meals for breakfasts and lunches,” she said.

Eberly said the temporary trailer would be adjacent to the building, and the district would meet requirements of a covered walkway if deemed necessary by the Health Department, along with its other stipulations.

Loop Road, modulars OK’d

Eberly said the Loop Road at the site is in “rough shape” and talked about repairs like a top coat and binder on a pulverized graded base, new asphalt curbs including sidewalks, and line striping. The work would be conducted in conjunction with the project in the summer of 2026.

He said the repairs would exclude the parking lot, and it would cost $150,000 initially for the design, estimating and permitting.

A benefit, Eberly noted, would be to remove it from the 10-year capital plan and instead incorporate it into the current Hopkins project.

The Loop Road work and contingency would total an estimated $1,450,000.

Together, the temporary kitchen facility and road work would cost $1.8 million, leaving an approximate $1.4 million balance, Eberly said.

Also discussed was a plan to move four modular classrooms over to the Hopkins School to help with capacity. This move is expected to happen in the summer of 2027, following completion of the new Charleswood School.

The move is something that has been “always off in the distance,” Eberly said. He noted that the quoted estimate in 2024 was $1.2 million. With overhead and contingency, that would rise to $1.5 million.

Eberly said he thought there would be money in the Hopkins project to reallocate for this purpose. It would not involve going back to Town Meeting for another authorization or taking the money out of the Charleswood School project, he added.

The project manager said other needs that are “not immediate” but the committee might want to look at in the future include modernizing the elevator, replacing the boiler and cleaning up the existing conditions in unrenovated classrooms at Hopkins School.

Earlier, the School Committee approved $150,099 for moving logistics associated with technology. This expense includes the removal and reinstallation of projectors and telephones as well as new ones.

The committee also voted to transfer funds totaling $35,325 for the purchase of wireless access points and network switches and modules. The price was reduced via a discount from E-Rate (a universal service program for schools and libraries), according to Eberly.

The next meeting will be held May 1 and will include a school choice public hearing.

Panel chosen for student services director

During a special meeting April 9, the School Committee voted to appoint vice chair Jamie Wronka and member Kyla McSweeney to serve on the interview panel for the director of student services position.

Current director Abigail Hanscom is retiring. Her contract ends June 30, according to Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh.

The superintendent said the district received 14 applications. She described seven of those candidates as “credentialed and viable.”

Carol Cavanaugh, who is retiring on June 30 as well, said it is an interesting situation in that she is involved with the hiring process when the next superintendent, Evan Bishop, will be the administrator working with the new director of student services.

Therefore, she and Bishop are working jointly and “are under the gun a little bit” with the timing of the process.

They also are working closely with the two assistant superintendents, Rothermich and Jeff LaBroad, as well as Ashoke Ghosh, director of technology, digital learning and innovation, to narrow the field to possibly five candidates, she said.

The superintendent also described a large panel that will interview the candidates on April 17. Membership includes a representative from the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) as well as SPED educators (moderate and intensive), SPED department chair, a parent of a special needs student, the SPED curriculum director and others.

The plan is to hold a Meet the Candidates event on April 29 with various stakeholders and have feedback forms available to garner input.

Carol Cavanaugh said a recommendation would be brought to the School Committee on May 1.

The superintendent noted the position requires an administrative special education license, and the district would be “better off with someone who has done the job for some time,” although competent candidates also could be found from other special education positions “that know the drill.”

The brief meeting adjourned to an executive session regarding a collective bargaining agreement with the incoming superintendent.

Hillers baseball boasts talented roster

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

In his third season as the baseball coach at Hopkinton High School, Matt Anderson said this year’s roster is without a doubt the most talented he has seen. The Hillers are good, but they are young, meaning that they will have to gain experience quickly if they are going to hit their potential.

The Hillers showed an ability to handle big spots early in the season, winning two games over Dedham and Westwood in walk-off fashion while being walked off by King Philip in between.

“It was a wild week,” Anderson said, “but we are playing well.”

Hopkinton has three captains who are leading the way: Dylan Ruff, Mitch Simulis and Nick Pedroli.

Ruff hits in the third spot in the order and is the team’s starting shortstop. He also gets some time on the mound despite not pitching much in the years prior. The team’s gold glove winner a season ago, Ruff is a “valuable” member of the roster, according to Anderson.

Simulis was the team’s top hitter

two years ago, and Anderson is hoping the senior will see significant time despite an ongoing elbow injury.

Pedroli is a returning TriValley League All-Star in center field and the team’s top returning hitter.

“All three of them are good leaders and great kids,” Anderson said.

Hopkinton boasts a huge sophomore class, and many of those players are expected to be major factors this spring. Michael Sullivan is a starting first baseman who hits cleanup and is among the team’s top pitchers. Another sophomore, Cal Mahon, is the starting catcher and bats sixth in most games.

Morin is ranked among the top throwers in both the Tri-Valley League and Division 2 statewide. His early-season bests of 43 feet in the shot put and 131 feet in the discus, according to coach Mike Donahue, “look to be a harbinger of bigger performances to come, as his practice sessions have yielded impressive distances.” Added Donahue: “A natural leader and overall great young man, he has become the de facto captain of the throwers. … In our daily training, no one works harder than him, and he is often the last one working at practice both in the throwing circle and the weight room.”

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A two-year captain, Bouvier recorded her 100th career point in the Hillers’ opening game this season, a 19-4 rout of Holliston, and had 11 goals through the team’s first seven games. “Rachel is a strong midfielder who is a threat on either end of the field,” coach Marisa Remley shared. “Rachel has an incredible knowledge of the game and plays with a natural fluidity that is exciting to watch. She is a selfless player who prioritizes the success of the team over her own statistics but can step up and make a big play under pressure. We are so proud of all she has accomplished!”

Gabe Cafazzo, who pitched four shutout innings against King Phillip, infielder/ pitcher Travis Rych and hard-throwing pitcher Noah Krammes are among the sophomores excited to be a big part of the 2025 team. Sophomore Landon Fitzgibbon is a go-to option as a relief pitcher. Yet another sophomore, Andrew Beauchemin, had a huge hit to tie the Westwood game before his classmate, Sullivan, picked up the winner in extra innings.

“I think we have some tough kids

who are built for these moments,” Anderson said.

Zach Stacey and Christian Wheeler are both seniors who are going to see time in the outfield after playing in reserve roles last spring. Anderson also had high praise for juniors James Hayward and Ryan Lang.

“James is a kid who just finds ways to compete, he battles at the plate, makes the plays in the field and works his tail off,” Anderson said. “And Ryan played shortstop last year and, the moment he stepped into the lineup, we won 15 straight games. That was not by accident.”

Hopkinton also will look to freshman Matt Pedroli, Nick’s younger brother, who comes into the year after an allleague campaign with the hockey team.

“He has one of the most explosive bats I have ever seen as a freshman, he’s hit some of the longest balls I have seen in some of our practices and scrimmages,” Anderson said. “He also has a fastball in the low-to-mid-80s, but he is dealing with an arm injury.”

After the team won 19 games last year, Anderson said this year’s squad has the potential to be even better.

“My goal is always to be as good as we can possibly be,” he said. “This team, in terms of talent, could compete for the league, and could compete for the state.”

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SportS

Experienced attack leads HHS boys lax

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Hopkinton High School’s boys lacrosse team started the 2025 season with a deep attack that coach Dan Norton said should be a driving force behind the team’s success.

“We have a lot of returners on offense,” Norton said. “It’s kind of a tale of two ends; we have a veteran offense and a younger defense.”

But Norton said the defensive corps is improving every single day, something he has enjoyed watching. Part of that is due to the leadership of senior goalie (and captain) Nate Burns, one of 10 seniors showing the way for some of the less experienced members of the roster.

In addition to Burns, senior Brayden Jochim is back on the defensive end.

“They have taken on a huge role with us leadership wise, because we have a lot of younger guys out there,” Norton said.

The offense is a different story, with several skilled seniors seeing significant minutes. Senior captains Owen Champlin and Sam O’Brien are back in the midfield, along with fellow senior Tyler Walkiewicz, and all have shown enough versatility to be factors on the attack as well.

On the front line, seniors Cooper Goodman and Pat Dacey are back to provide depth at the attack position. Shortstick midfield is a position with a tremendous amount of experience and depth for the Hillers, with seniors Jake Garron, Anthony Nicolazzo and Quinn Keeler all returning from last year.

The group has Norton optimistic that the team will be able expand on the growth of the past several seasons and continue to compete with top programs like Dover-Sherborn, Westwood and Medfield,

among others.

“I feel like, these past few years, we really brought the program back,” Norton said. “We want to continue to take steps forward in that regard. It’s the same measuring stick this season that we have had for a while now, we are in the same ballpark with the other top teams in the area and we want to get better every day.”

Norton said he is impressed with the maturity of his squad and how the players handle themselves every day in practice and in games, whether they are playing another top team or an opponent that might not be quite as skilled.

“What we have so far is really good buy-in and really good leadership from those returners,” he said. “The guys who have been here are getting more comfortable leading the younger guys, and the younger guys are seeking feedback and looking to get better. It’s been a lot of fun to coach them and see these guys get better minute by minute.”

girls golf mixes veterans, rookies

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

The 2025 Hopkinton High School girls golf team features a blend of six returning players and six freshmen, and coach Bill Phaneuf is hopeful that the blend will jell well enough to get the team to the postseason.

“We want to make sure everyone is having fun and enjoying the game, but also understands that it’s a competitive high school sport and a sport that has championships at the end of the year,” Phaneuf said. “Our goal is to win half our matches and get to the sectionals.”

Emily Watson is the Hillers’ lone senior and is being counted on to be one of the leaders. Hopkinton also has several skilled players who should consistently factor into the team’s scoring each match, including sophomore Reese Robledo.

“She is really coming on strong this year and hitting the ball really well,” Phaneuf said of Robledo, who likely will fill the third spot. “She just needs to get her scoring game to the level of how she is striking the ball, and she is going to be a good player.”

Another top returning player for the Hillers is junior captain Leah Hong.

“From a leadership and captain perspective, she is unbelievable,” her coach said. “She is very friendly, and she gets all of the girls involved. She is a very

consistent player as well, she puts a lot of time into her game. She tries hard, and she practices a lot. I expect her to be very consistent and solid.”

Another junior, Ella Fowler, is one of Hopkinton’s most athletic players (also an accomplished field hockey player). Phaneuf has multiple exciting freshmen on his roster as well, including Gigi Linton, whose skill he extolled.

“We are really excited about her, she has a really good swing, very powerful, very athletic, and she has played some tournament golf already,” Phaneuf said. “She will start in the No. 2 slot and may move up to No. 1 when she gets a few matches under her belt. The way she hits the ball is pretty elite. When she is on, it’s up there with the best girls I have seen in the state.”

Freshman Bridget Wilk also should be among Hopkinton’s top five this spring.

“She is a very strong player, I think she is going to do very well this year,” Phaneuf said. “She is going to be a factor for us, for sure.”

While the overall roster is a bit smaller than in past years, Phaneuf said most of the girls who came out for this year’s team are competitive golfers, which should give the team an edge.

“There are always some good players in the area, but I think our girls will do well,” he said ahead of the season. “We have 15 matches, so it’s going to be a pretty busy eight weeks.”

SportS

Hasbrouck caps stellar college soccer career

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

As with many graduates in the high school class of 2020, the start of Lexi Hasbrouck’s college soccer career was anything but normal. After a Hopkinton High School career that included allleague and all-state honors, a state final appearance in 2018 and a national club championship in 2019, Hasbrouck started her time at Trinity College without a season and having to stay 6 feet away from teammates during drills.

But Hasbrouck made the most of her chance to enter the transfer portal at the end of her career, and this past season, she helped William Smith College to an appearance in the national championship game.

“I had not thought about the extra year of eligibility much until my senior year,” Hasbrouck said after helping Trinity to a spot in the NCAA tournament and earning a spot as a starter for three years.

“I loved Trinity, it was so much fun,” she added. “The atmosphere, everything about it. But, at that point, it didn’t make a lot of sense for me to stay there.”

Hasbrouck noted that Trinity did not have a graduate student program that was a great fit for her, and there figured to be a lot of roster turnover on the field.

“Change is scary, it’s intimidating,” she said. “But I entered the transfer portal.”

On the other side of the portal was William Smith and its legendary coach, Aliceann Wilber. The only coach in program history to that point (she retired after the season), Wilber won more than 600 games and two national championships. Hasbrouck had a resume that included all-NESCAC honors, but she

Team Hoyt race looks to

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

Runners and walkers of all abilities will have a chance to support the Hoyt Foundation at its road race in Hopkinton this May.

The third annual Team Hoyt Memorial Yes You Can Run Together race will be held on May 24, starting at Marathon Elementary School.

“It should be a really great day,” said Russ Hoyt, President and CEO of the Hoyt Foundation.

Racers have the option to enter the 5-mile run or the 2-mile walk. Both courses make their way past the Team Hoyt statue by the Town Common and finish at EMC Park. After the race, participants are invited to gather at EMC Park for more fun.

Post-race events this year include a beer garden hosted by Start Line Brewery, food, a race for kids and awards and prizes.

This year’s race has a goal of raising $10,000 to fund the Dick & Judy Hoyt Yes You Can Inclusion Grant program. The grant is intended to “provide the same opportunity for people with disabilities that our mother and father gave to Rick,” Russ Hoyt said.

Funds raised are used for everything from racing chairs to other equipment

people with disabilities need for competing in a wide array of sports. Hoyt mentioned examples of athletes the grant has helped, including competitive surfers and horseback riders.

The hope is to allow people with disabilities the same opportunities Rick Hoyt had to pursue their passions, according to Russ Hoyt.

Rick Hoyt and his father, Dick, began running races together in 1977. Rick, who was quadriplegic due to cerebral palsy, wanted to participate in a 5-mile benefit for a lacrosse player in town who had become paralyzed due to an accident.

knew she would have to earn a spot with the Herons, who she said were run like a Division 1 program from top to bottom.

“You have two options,” Hasbrouck said. “You either give up, or keep working hard and trust that it is going to get you somewhere.”

Hasbrouck battled through an early season injury, and the team struggled with some tough losses against powerhouse teams, but did more than enough to earn a spot in the NCAA tournament. Meanwhile, Hasbrouck became a starter at outside back. She helped the Herons to four early wins in the tournament and, eventually, a 1-0 victory over Trinity University of Texas on Nov. 24 to send William Smith to the Final Four in Las Vegas.

“That moment was crazy,” Hasbrouck said. “They brought out a huge ticket and we were going to Vegas. It was so exciting

because that was the goal, the Final Four.” It was a business trip for the Herons. Hasbrouck said they did not see the Las Vegas Strip until they were done playing. But the glitz and glam of Vegas still was on full display, right down to the fact that their games were played with the skyline and the now iconic arena known as The Sphere in full view.

“None of it felt real in the moment,” Hasbrouck said.

William Smith knocked off Emory University, 2-0, in the semifinals but ultimately fell just short of a national title, losing the final game to top-ranked Washington University in St. Louis, 3-0, on Dec. 8.

Hasbrouck bounced back from the disappointment and now is working on finishing her master’s degree and a new job with a medical device sales company that focuses on women’s health. She made an impact on the pitch right up to the end of her career, being named to the alltournament team and as the tournament’s most outstanding defensive player.

“We gave it everything we had, knowing that, no matter what, it was going to be our last game,” Hasbrouck said. “At the end of the day, they were just the better team. But I was happy to be there. It’s something I will never forget and a great way to end my college experience.”

in their 40-year career together. Dick Hoyt passed away in 2021 from a heart

Russ Hoyt is hoping for a robust turnout this year. He anticipates about 500

Although they almost finished last in their first race, they stuck with running, eventually racking up over 1,100 races

Senior SnippetS

The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, including lunch program menus as well as a newsletter, check hopkintonseniorcenter.com. Anyone with questions can call 508497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.

Classical Dance Recital

Thursday, April 24, 1 p.m.

In honor of UNESCO World Dance Day 2025, Hopkinton High School ninth grader Harini will put on a classical dance performance at the Senior Center. Light refreshments will be served.

Book Club

Wednesday, May 7, 10:30 a.m.

One of life’s pleasures is a good book. Another is the time to read it. At this monthly meeting, attendees can relax and bring refreshments, all while enjoying book reviews and socializing. This month, the club will discuss “My Stroke of Insight” by Jill Bolte Taylor.

Our Time Memory Café at the Senior Center

Thursday, May 7, 1 p.m.

other fun activity usually is offered, along with refreshments. This is a joint venture between Senior Services and the Hopkinton Public Library. For more information, call the Senior Center.

Green Tips Discussion/Q&A

May 8, 1 p.m.

The Sustainable Green Committee is back to answers questions such as: Should you leave the cap on the bottle you put into your recycling bin? Can you put a pizza box into recycling? What are some of the best ways to go greener? Individuals (who don’t have to be a senior citizen) can bring questions and leave with answers along with a few tips.

AARP Driver Safety Course

Thursday, May 15, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

This is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment, or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences and form friendships. Live music or some

For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary. org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary.

CHILDREN’S/YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS

Tween Painting

Thursday, April 24, 2-3 p.m.

Art instructor Julie Harrold will lead a step-by-step painting class for ages 8 and up. Participants will create their own koi fish painting to take Space is limited, and registration

Virtual Fortnite Tournament

Thursday, April 24, 6-8 p.m.

This tournament is run by One Up Games in collaboration with the Hopkinton Public Library and other local libraries. This is a virtual program that can be joined from home. Participants must have their own gaming platform, online connection and a copy of the game. E-mail jdyment@hopkintonma. gov to register.

Even the most experienced drivers can benefit from brushing up on their driving skills. This is the nation’s largest driver safety course designed specially for drivers 50 and older. Attendees will review current laws, defensive driving techniques and how to safely drive in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. Those interested should check with their insurance agent to see if they are eligible to receive an auto insurance discount upon completing the course. AARP membership is not mandatory, and no road tests are required to pass this course. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. There will be a break for lunch (which is not included in the cost). Advance registration is required.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, Suspense

Thursday, April 24, 7-8:30 p.m.

This virtual conversation with the highly acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz is about his Orphan X series and his life as a writer of suspenseful storytelling. Registration is required.

Chicken-Keeping

101: Raising Poultry for Exhibition

Sunday, April 27, 2:30-4 p.m.

In the last of the library’s ChickenKeeping 101 series, participants will learn about the wonderful world of showing poultry. Jak Miller will display some “fancy” breeds of exhibition poultry and explain what it takes to breed a show-quality bird, prepare a bird for show, navigate health-testing procedures, and understand adult and junior show classifications. This is a good opportunity for any children who may be interested in getting into livestock exhibitions to get information and ask questions about the showing process.

obituarieS

Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.

Stephen Brackett

Stephen Bell Brackett, 87, of Hopkinton, formerly a longtime resident of Ashland, passed away peacefully March 29. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late Theodore and Mabelle (Snow) Brackett. He is survived by two brothers, Paul Brackett and wife Carol, and Theodore Brackett Jr., as well as nieces and nephews Kristine, Kim, Kathy, Brian, Scott, Corey, Chris and Nicholas.

Stephen is predeceased by his younger brother Bryce Brackett and beloved sister-in-laws Priscilla (Spencer) Brackett and Susie (Reardon) Brackett.

Stephen was a proud Army veteran, stationed in Germany for three years. Following his service, he worked at Fenwal in Ashland. He spent 28 years in the shipping area and gathered a cherished group of friends.

After retiring, Stephen enjoyed traveling, cultivating his beautiful flowers and vegetable gardens in Ashland, summers in Truro and winters in Florida — continuing to collect friends everywhere life took him.

Stephen had a great appreciation for the arts. His most treasured pieces were created by artists for him, including lovely paintings and Jobi pottery. He was an avid photographer and found comfort in pictures of family, friends and gardens.

Stephen brought his wit and talents to family gatherings. As a beloved uncle, he patiently assembled toys, baked desserts and provided a family chronicle of photos. Stephen appreciated simple pleasures, time with friends, sitting on the

Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction

Tuesday, May 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

The Hopkinton Health Department will lead this free training on how to recognize and treat an opioid overdose with Narcan.

Coffee House: Peregrine Road

Thursday, May 1, 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Peregrine Road plays captivating acoustic music that occupies a sweet spot somewhere between chamber music and folk music, with complex arrangements and lush textures alongside raw energy and multicultural influences. Karen Axelrod and Rachel Bell have become known as a powerhouse duo capable of a huge variety of styles, in demand throughout North America and beyond for concerts, workshops, festivals, English country dances, contra dances and other events. This program has been made possible by the generous support of the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation. Registration is not required for this event.

DCF Adoption Table

Saturday, May 3, noon-5 p.m.

Attendees will learn about the importance of fostering and adopting from the Massachusetts Department of Children & Families. Staff members from the DCF will be available to answer questions, provide guidance and explain navigating the

back patio, spending time with his dear Aunt Ester, Friday night canasta games, Fenwal Quarter Century Club events, tripe night with his father and brothers, and a great lobster roll.

Stephen spent his later years in communities of love and support with caring services we are forever grateful for.

A private graveside service was to be held at Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland. Donations in Stephen’s name may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Association.

Elizabeth Ahearn

Elizabeth “Liz” Louise Ahearn, 76, a resident of Hopkinton and formerly of Framingham and Natick, died March 11 surrounded by her family, after a short, hard-fought illness. Born in Natick, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Elizabeth (McCarthy) Ahearn.

Liz grew up in Natick, where she attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School. She worked for many years as a sales associate at Sears, and later retired from TJX. Nothing made Liz happier than being a mother and grandmother. Generous to a fault, she would go without to make sure those she loved didn’t. She found joy in time spent with family, shopping, a good meal and celebrating holidays. Her cat, Smudge, came a close second to family.

Liz is survived by her sons, James and wife Denise of Blackstone, and Joseph and wife Kim of Milford, her grandchildren, James, Nicholas, Chistopher, Ember and Joey, and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Liz was predeceased by her sibllings, Charlie “Buddy,” Dorothy, Mary, Barbara and Janet.

Her funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church in Natick on March 22, followed by interment in St. Patrick Cemetery, Natick. Services were under the care of the Norton, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home, Framingham.

fostering and adoption systems to interested patrons.

Snakes of New England and the World

Thursday, May 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Patrons will get to take an up-close look at a variety of snakes, both local and exotic, at this informational and fun presentation by the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team. The presenter will talk about the lives and behaviors of various snakes during a live animal presentation. Registration is required for this program, which is appropriate for all ages.

MEETINGS/TRAININGS

Hopkinton Public Library

Foundation Monthly Meeting

Monday, May 5, 7 p.m.

This meeting will take place in the Ellsworth Room.

Friends of the Hopkinton

Public Library Monthly Meeting

Wednesday, May 7, 6:30 p.m.

This meeting will be held in the Strong Room.

Board of Library Trustees

Monthly Meeting

Monday, May 12, 7 p.m.

This meeting will be held in the Ellsworth Room.

854 Washington Street Holliston, MA 01746 508-429-2391

Antiques Purchased

Winged Foot Exhibition and Silent Auction | April 5 to 27 | Town Common

Forty talented artists will each paint a winged foot, a symbol of the true spirit of sportsmanship and athletics. The exhibition, which reflects the marathon spirit, will be installed in the Hopkinton Town Common, drawing residents and visitors alike. This year, we are thrilled to have Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, as our featured artist. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind public art exhibition and be sure to bid on your favorite!

Mike Bent’s AbraKidAbra Kids Show! April 26 | 3:30 p.m.

AbraKidAbra is a state-of-the-art magic show that is written specifically for children, that combines amazing magics, big laughs, and hilarious surprises for a completely interactive experience. The kids will become part of the show! Just how good a children’s magician is Mike Bent? Well, he is the only magician to have won the prestigious Best of Boston award from the editors of Boston Magazine. The Boston Globe calls him “Wonderfully wacky” and a “Brilliantly original talent.”

Treblemakers Spring Concert

May 3 | 7 p.m. and May 4 | 2 p.m.

Get ready for a musical adventure with the Treblemakers! From the open road of Route 66 to the heart of Africa, and soaring high to Touch the Sky, pack your bags for an unforgettable journey. Under the direction of Sharon Broadley-Martin, we guarantee a night of music you won’t forget soon. Get your tickets now!

HCA Student Pottery Show & Sale | May 4 | 2 to 5 p.m.

Get ready for some Mother’s Day shopping — join us at HCA for the Spring Student Pottery Show! Be amazed by the creations of ten incredibly talented students as they present functional and decorative pieces for purchase. Plus, a portion of your purchase will support our ceramics program. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity!

20th Annual Arts In Bloom Exhibition April 29 to May 29

The Arts In Bloom exhibition is always a highlight of the HCA’s year; this year is no exception. Over 70 artists submitted artwork from 32 towns and three states for consideration. Opening reception: Friday, May 9, at HCA from 6 to 7 p.m.

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.

Whitehall Spring Cleanup April 26

Friends of Whitehall will host its annual spring trail cleanup at Lake Whitehall on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m.-noon. Volunteers will meet at the Wood Street boat ramp parking lot, where grabbers, gloves and trash bags will be available. Coffee, hot chocolate and doughnuts will be provided. For more information, visit friendsofwhitehall.org.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day April 26

The MetroWest YMCA Outdoor Center in Hopkinton will host a Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The event is designed to promote active lifestyles and create lasting memories for families. Activities will include a family trail run, kids dash, vendors, live music and more. For more information, visit metrowestymca.org

Electric Vehicle Expo at HHS April 27

The Sustainable Green Committee will host a free electric vehicle (EV) expo at Hopkinton High School on Sunday, April 27, from 1-4 p.m. The event will feature a number of EVs, plug-in hybrids and e-bikes on display, along with information about EV ownership. For more information, visit hopgreen.org.

Trail Volunteer Day May 3

The Hopkinton Trails Committee and the Hopkinton Trails Club have created a monthly trail volunteer day on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m.-noon. The next workday is May 3, and it will be to continue clearing an overgrown stretch of the former cattle run on the Colella property at Hughes Farm. Participants will meet at 192 Hayden Rowe Street. For details, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

K of C Nite at the Races Fundraiser May 3

The Knights of Columbus is hosting a fundraising event for adults (18 and up) called A Nite at the Races on Saturday, May 3, at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Parish Hall on Church Street. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be eight virtual horse races and 10 grand prize gift drawings. All admission tickets, which are $20 each, are eligible for a door prize. Dinner, snacks and beverages will be available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bishopricekoc.org/events.

Bystander Intervention Training May 10

The Hopkinton Freedom Team is hosting a free bystander intervention training session on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m- 3 p.m. The workshop will be led by facilitators from True Story

Theater. It will feature a performance from 10-11:30 a.m., followed by a complimentary lunch, then skills training from 12:30-3 p.m. For more information and to register, check the Freedom Team website (hopkintonfreedomteam.org).

Trails Club Monthly Meeting May 14

The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub. com.

Team Hoyt Memorial Road Race May 24

The Team Hoyt Memorial Road Race will take place Saturday, May 24, at 10 a.m., starting and finishing at Marathon School. The event includes a 5-mile race, 2-mile walk and kids fun run. The event also is looking for volunteers. Proceeds benefit the Hoyt Foundation. For more information, visit TeamHoyt.com.

Touch-A-Truck/Food Truck Festival June 1

The Hopkinton Public Library Foundation will host the 11th annual Touch-a-Truck and Food Truck Festival on Sunday, June 1, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Hopkinton High School parking lot. Individuals can climb aboard construction, service and emergency vehicles, and there will be food trucks and concessions from more than a dozen vendors. For more information, including a list of vendors and ticket information, visit hplfinc.org.

Timlin Event at Hopkinton High School June 14

Registration is open for the 22nd annual Sharon Timlin Memorial Event, which will be held at Hopkinton High School on Saturday, June 14. The 5K road race and family fun day is a fundraiser for The Angel Fund for ALS Research. The 5K race begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the family fun day activities with live music, food, games, raffles, a silent auction and other activities — including a kids color run — until noon. There also is a virtual option. For more information or to register, visit sharontimlinrace.org.

MBCC Against the Tide at Hopkinton State Park June 14

The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) will host its annual Against the Tide event on Saturday, June 14, at Hopkinton State Park. The event features multiple competitions and recreational activities, including a half-mile or 1-mile swim, a 5K or 10K run and a 3-mile fitness walk. Proceeds benefit MBCC’s work toward breast cancer prevention, locally and nationally. For more information and to register, visit mbcc.org/swim.

police log

ARRESTS

Editor’s note: The Hopkinton Independent’s policy for the arrests section is not to include the names of individuals who have been arrested.

April 1

10:36 p.m. A caller reported a male passed out in his vehicle on West Main Street for about 30 minutes. Officers Nicholas Saletnik, Aline Matos, Tyler Staback and Matthew LaTour responded along with the Fire Department. A 24-year-old from Milford was arrested and charged with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle with license suspended and OUI liquor. A Spanish-speaking officer from Ashland responded to interpret. A tow truck removed the vehicle. Officer Saletnik checked the area for property damage, as the vehicle had a slashed tire and severe damage. Milford was advised in case any property damage was caused by the vehicle there.

Editor’s note: Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated version of the Police Log. For the full Police Log visit the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

April 1

9:50 a.m. A caller reported a loose dog on Hayward Street about to chase chickens. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and assisted the animal control officer, and the dog was taken into its house.

4:16 p.m. An Ash Street resident reported receiving threatening and hateful messages from her neighbor initially because she complained to the animal control officer about his dog. Officer Matthew LaTour assisted and took a report.

April 2

10:39 a.m. A walk-in reported he was contacted by an Officer Daniel and was told to visit the station with his ID. He was advised that there was no Officer Daniel and no reason for the police to want his ID, so it likely was a scam.

4:10 p.m. A caller reported she went outside to her vehicle on Main Street and found it damaged. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and took a hit-andrun motor vehicle accident report.

6:13 p.m. A caller reported he was attacked by a German shepherd while walking his dog on Hayden Rowe Street. He was not injured, but his dog was bitten. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and assisted.

April 3

6:22 a.m. Multiple callers reported a vehicle hit a deer on West Main Street. Officers Peter Lord, Sean McKeon and Benjamin Vaz responded and took a crash report. A message was left for the animal control officer to pick up the animal.

8:23 p.m. A Fruit Street caller reported a male in her garage who should not be there. The State Police reported a male carjacking suspect fled from the highway. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and checked the garage and shed and found all clear. Westborough officers responded. Sgt. Gregg DeBoer responded with a drone. Sgt. Shannon Beloin and Officer Sean McKeon responded from off duty.

A state K-9 officer responded. The State Police located the suspect and placed him in custody.

April 4

7:57 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker checked on a vehicle parked on the grass in front of a West Main Street building and found a person checking on a deceased goose. The animal control officer was notified, and the DPW was en route for pickup.

10:10 a.m. A motorist reported he backed into a telephone pole on Wilson Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and took a crash report.

4:07 p.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported her 18-year-old son was threatened by individuals known to the police. Officer Matthew LaTour responded, spoke with the teen and took a report.

April 5

7:09 a.m. A caller reported a raccoon was struck by a vehicle on West Main Street and still was alive. Officer Noah Buentello responded, and the raccoon was dead upon his arrival. He moved it off the roadway and into the woods.

4:48 p.m. Multiple callers reported a fallen tree atop sparking wires on Legacy Farms North. Sgt. Shannon Beloin and Officer Kyle Quinzani responded along with the Fire Department.

April 6

12:27 p.m. A caller reported a fallen tree across the roadway on Clinton Street. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and notified Eversource and Verizon.

April 7

8:53 a.m. A Winter Street caller reported his credit card was used fraudulently to purchase items that were delivered to Florida. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took a report of ID theft.

April 8

4:55 p.m. The school bus director reported two vehicles parked in the bus parking lot that were blocked in. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and was able to locate the vehicle owners. A bus driver on site moved a bus to let the vehicles out. Both drivers were issued verbal warnings to not park there anymore.

8:13 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle struck a deer on Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Nicholas Walker responded, located a small, deceased deer in front of Cornell’s and moved it to the side of the road. The animal control officer was contacted.

April 9

2:12 a.m. Officer Brian Ziniti reported a white Dodge Grand Caravan on South Street with an attached plate that came back as a stolen Toyota Corolla. Two people were inside the vehicle. The vehicle was towed, and Sgt. Shannon Beloin transported the individuals to the Holiday Inn in Milford.

7:36 a.m. A caller requested an officer to check the license plates on a motor vehicle that had been parked on his property for 3-4 months and might be abandoned. The caller was advised that the vehicle was not stolen, the owner might be living in the vehicle and he could choose to have it towed, as the property was his.

7:45 a.m. Sgt. Matthew Santoro and

Officer Augusto Diaz responded to a hitand-run motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street and took a report.

1:52 p.m. Multiple callers reported a motor vehicle hit a pedestrian on West Main Street. Police Chief Joseph Bennett, Sgt. William Burchard and Officers Nicholas Walker and Brian Ziniti responded along with an ambulance. The patient was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center.

April 10

2:48 p.m. Multiple callers reported a motor vehicle crash on Main Street. No personal injuries were reported. Sgt. William Burchard and Officers Noah Buentello, Justin Cappuccio and Kyle Quinzani responded to assist.

9:07 p.m. A Forest Lane resident reported a person attempted to open her back door and took off the lock. Officers Matthew LaTour, Kyle Quinzani and Robert Ekross responded, checked the area and found all OK. Officers were to follow up for possible video footage in the area.

April 11

2:25 p.m. A Main Street bank employee reported a son was attempting to gain access to his mother’s account at different branches. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took a report.

7:44 p.m. A walk-in reported his friend received a phone call from someone threatening him and stating they were going to come for him. Officer Robert Ekross called the number and spoke with a party.

April 12

6:26 a.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Aline Matos assisted multiple vehicles stuck in the snow on School Street. The DPW responded and assisted.

6:46 a.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officers Noah Buentello and Peter Lord responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street where a single car crashed into a fence. No personal injuries were reported. A written warning was issued to the driver. A tow truck removed the car.

6:59 a.m. While taking a separate crash report, Sgt. Cody Normandin noticed damage on a vehicle on West Main Street from another crash, and he took a report.

11:27 p.m. A Constitution Court caller reported a group of people were hostile toward him when he entered the apartment

lobby. A second caller requested an officer because her son was being harassed. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officers Sean McKeon and Aline Matos responded and took a report.

April 13

2:07 a.m. A motorist reported he swerved on Cedar Street to avoid an animal and crashed into a tree. He was uninjured. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Aline Matos responded and reported a no parking sign was destroyed. The DPW was notified. The vehicle was towed.

11:20 a.m. A neighbor complained about individuals at a South Mill Street house who host parties a couple of times per month, and there still were cones on one side of the street, caution tape on property that does not belong to them and trash in the street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and told the homeowner to remove the cones and tape.

12:48 p.m. A Revolutionary Way caller reported being harassed by a couple of individuals whom she had told police about the previous day. Sgt. William Burchard responded and spoke with the reporting person.

1:08 p.m. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Noah Buentello responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on West Main Street. The caller reported no injuries, but a child was in the car, and the driver wanted the minor evaluated. An ambulance responded.

3:23 p.m. A Wedgewood Drive resident reported a DoorDash driver hit his car the previous night. Officer Benjamin Vaz responded and took a report.

April 14

8:03 a.m. Sgt. Matthew Santoro responded to a motor vehicle accident at the high school on Hayden Rowe Street and took a report.

10:43 a.m. A caller reported a dog in the town library on Main Street. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Justin Cappuccio responded, took the dog to Baypath Humane Society and left a message for the animal control officer.

11:47 a.m. A caller reported three dogs in the roadway on West Main Street causing a traffic backup. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Justin Cappuccio responded. A second caller reported she had two of the dogs in her possession and was taking them to Baypath Humane Society. A message was left for the animal control officer.