Submitted by Amanda Fargiano, Chair, Hopkinton School Committee after a vote by the Hopkinton School Committee on February 25, 2021. Contributed content.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Hopkinton Main Street Corridor Project Construction Advisory #1 - February 26, 2021

Onset of Construction Activities:

It is anticipated that the MassDOT contractor, A.F. Amorello will begin to mobilize in the coming weeks to begin the long-anticipated construction of improvements to enhance Hopkinton’s Main Street Corridor. The Town is working closely with MassDOT and the contractor to ensure the consistent flow of accurate and timely information about this project and its temporary construction impacts to downtown abutters, businesses, commuters, and the community at large.

What To Expect in the Coming Weeks:
• Beginning the week of Monday, March 8, 2021, the contractor, A.F Amorello will begin to mobilize on the site.

 
• Neighbors and commuters can expect this phase to include the installation of Variable Flashing Message Boards (VMBs) generally located on West Main Street, Wood Street, East Main Street, Cedar Street and Grove Street. These boards will alert neighbors and commuters of upcoming traffic impacts and construction activities.

• Also beginning on Monday, March 8th, the contractor will begin installing construction signage associated with the beginning of construction.

• Actual project work by the contractor is anticipated to begin, weather permitting, the week of March 15th at the East Main Street/Ash Street area.

• As the work commences, police details will be onsite daily to coordinate all construction activities.

• Construction is planned to take place Monday through Friday, between 7am and 3pm.

• Abutting homes and businesses will be notified directly and in advance of any work that will temporarily impact vehicular access to their properties as construction advances. The Town of Hopkinton appreciates your patience and consideration while we work to support MassDOT’s program to revitalize our Main Street Corridor. Additional information about this project is available at the Towns project website: https://hopkintonmainstreet.com . If you would like to receive regular advisories about this construction project, please sign up for construction updates here. Contributed Content.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Charity for Pets

Project Just Because has a new Pet Pantry stocked with dry and wet pet food, leashes and collars, warm pet sweaters and other supplies due to the generosity of donors.

 
We are so grateful to be surrounded by communities that care so much for our furry friends. The Pet Pantry is open to anyone struggling financially to care for their beloved animals.

Due to Covid hardships many pet owners have been struggling with providing for their family and pets. Many have had to surrender their beloved animals because of job loss, a forced move or evictions. We hope this service provides immediate assistance to help pet owners and prevents any separation.

We are open Mon - Thurs 9:00-4:00. Pet owners in need can go to our front office at 109 South Street in Hopkinton and help themselves to free pet items.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Milford Regional Welcomes New Chief Medical Officer

MILFORD – Milford Regional is pleased to announce Peter B. Smulowitz, MD, MPH, as Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Smulowitz is an experienced emergency medicine physician and proven innovative leader.

Dr. Smulowitz joined Milford Regional late last year, following the retirement of Leslie Selbovitz, MD, who served as CMO since 2017.

Dr. Smulowitz earned his bachelor’s degree from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, in 1998 and graduated from the University of California, Irvine College of Medicine in Irvine, California, in 2003 with a degree in medicine. He performed an emergency medicine residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, and earned a Masters of Public Health (Health Policy and Administration) from Harvard School of Public Health in Boston in 2006.

Prior to joining Milford Regional, Dr. Smulowitz held many leadership positions in the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital system, including Chair of Emergency Medicine at the Needham campus, co-leader of a state-funded program to manage the Plymouth campus’s Complex Patient Population and Integrated Care Initiative, and oversaw a pilot program at the hospital’s Boston campus to redesign the hospital’s response to major adverse events.

Dr. Smulowitz has also held leadership positions outside of his hospital affiliations, including a term as president of the Massachusetts College of Emergency Physicians and was once a candidate for Massachusetts State Senate. In addition, he is an assistant professor of Emergency Medicine at Harvard Medical School and has several research publications and scholarly articles to his credit.

“We welcome Dr. Smulowitz to our leadership team,” says Edward J. Kelly, president and CEO. “We are so pleased to have such an experienced physician as our Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Smulowitz’s expertise in emergency medicine and leadership skills will ensure that our medical staff continues to provide the highest-quality care to our community."

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

February/March 2021 Project Update

Daytime Work on Local Roads and
Overnight Lane Closures on I-90

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has announced that daytime work on local roads and overnight lane closures on I-90 have begun and will continue through March 2021. 

The contractor and its subcontractors will be conducting the following work on local roads, primarily between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Lane closures on local roads will be in place with alternating one-way traffic through work zones:

• At Cordaville Road: Installation of construction signage, work zone set-up, mobilization and drilling micropiles

• At Woodland Road: Installation of construction signage, implementation of temporary traffic control barriers for abutment repairs

• At Flanders Road: Installation of construction signage, construction of utility ductbank along the southbound shoulder

•  

MassDOT will also implement overnight lane closures on I-90 East between Exits 106 (old Exit 11A) and 111 (old Exit 12) and I-90 West between Exits 111 (old Exit 12) and 106 (old Exit 11A) from 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM, Sunday nights through Friday mornings. The closures are necessary for the installation of construction signage, saw cutting along the median barrier, and implementation of work zones for median barrier replacement.

MassDOT is replacing bridges on I-90 east and westbound over Flanders Road in Westborough and Parkerville Road, Cordaville Road, and Woodland Road in Southborough as part of this project. The replacement of the eight bridges (two spans per local road) will take place over eight weekends in summer 2021.

Public information meetings will be scheduled and email and website updates will be posted throughout the project. Please be sure to sign up for the email list at the website link below to receive meeting notices and project updates.

MassDOT held a public information meeting on February 9. A recording of the meeting is available to view on the event webpage and a written meeting summary will be posted soon.

For more information about the project, please visit the website at www.mass.gov/Acceler8Bridges. If you have questions or would like to report an issue or concern, please email the project team at A8@dot.state.ma.us.

MassDOT urges those traveling through the area to obey posted speed limits and use ca

ution. The schedule for this major infrastructure project is weather dependent and subject to change without notice.

Hopkinton Women’s Club

Monday, March 8, 2021

Program Topic: “Unwrapping the Gift of Creativity”

Everyone is welcome

The Hopkinton Women’s Club will be holding its monthly meeting on Monday, March 8, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. on ZOOM. Please join us. To receive a ZOOM invitation contact Judith Weinthaler, Membership Chair, at HopWCMembership@gmail.com. The program following the business meeting will be “Unwrapping the Gift of Creativity”; discovering our own creative talents with Cheryl Cohen, Mosaic artist.

Future program April 12: “Women of the FBI” by Margaret Bower, former FBI agent and club member.

Guests from Hopkinton and surrounding communities are welcome to attend our meetings or join us for the program only.

For more information about the HWC go to www.Hopkintonwomensclub.org Our Mission is to improve our community through volunteer service. Our focus is scholarships for Hopkinton students, families in need, and support for local charities.

February 22, 2021 - At 3:25 p.m. Sunday, February 21, Massachusetts State Troopers assigned to the State Police-Millbury Barracks responded to reports of a single-vehicle rollover on Route 146 northbound, north of Exit 3, in Uxbridge. The crash resulted in a fatality.

The driver, who is not believed to have been wearing a seatbelt, was ejected and was determined to be deceased at the scene. He is identified as Robert Bilodeau 3rd, 31, of Bellingham. The passenger, a 35-year-old Millville man, was belted and was extricated from the truck by Uxbridge firefighters. He was transported to UMass-Lakeville Hospital with suspected serious injuries. Troopers confirmed there were no other occupants in the truck.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) is hosting its
first Annual Bike for Prevention Bike-A-Thon!

This virtual event will take place locally and nationally from Monday, April 19th to Sunday, April 25th, 2021 and will feature honorary guest, Jennifer Hanks, a professional mountain bike athlete who has raced all over the world and is a two-time breast cancer survivor!

Participants can ride 1 mile or more on their favorite route or indoors on a stationary bike. For those interested who do not have a bike, they are invited to participate either by walking or running any distance of their choosing. Registration pricing for this virtual Bike-A-Thon is: $40 for Individuals, $150 for Families (up to 5 members), and $25 for Students. All proceeds from the event benefit MBCC’s unique mission of breast cancer prevention.

For more information, please visit the event page at  www.mbcc.org/bike .

Cheryl Osimo
Executive Director
Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition
cherylosimo@comcast.net

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Margaret (Peggy) Golden, 90

Holliston - Margaret (Peggy) Golden, 90, of Holliston, MA, formerly of Cheshire, CT, passed into eternal life on February 18th, 2021 after a brief illness; wife of the late Thomas Vincent Golden, whom she married in 1955. Peggy was born in Marion, Connecticut on February 14th,1931. Her parents were the late Theodore Fowler Dickinson and Margaret McAdam Dickinson.

She graduated from Waterbury Catholic High School in 1949 and then graduated from Larson College (Quinnipiac College) in Hamden, CT with a degree in Fashion Merchandising. She was employed as a service representative at the SNET company in New Haven, for many years. Later, when her children were grown, Peggy worked for Cheshire Management Company, attained her real estate license, and sold condominiums throughout the state of Connecticut. She was a Brownie leader, a member of the Junior Women's Club, and a member of the Ladies Guild at St. Bridget Church. Peggy was a very dedicated and spiritual person who made many lifelong friends. Peggy’s family was a source of enormous pride and joy for her, as were her very special friends. She was extremely grateful for the life that God had graced her with.

She leaves two beloved children, a daughter Mary Golden Burns and her husband, Ralph, of Hopkinton, MA and a son, Thomas Vincent Golden, Jr., and his wife, Karin of Cheshire. Also, she leaves five grandchildren whom she adored: Colleen, Kevin, Christopher, Neena and Tasman. Peggy also leaves a brother, Ted Dickinson, and his wife, Penny of Nokomis, FL and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Bridget Church, 175 Main St., Cheshire, CT on Saturday, February 27th at 12 noon. A celebration of life and burial will be held at a later date. The Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, MA is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Saint Bridget Church, 175 Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. For online condolences, or to share a photo or story, please visit www.chesmorefuneralhome.com 

Eleanor Katherine Dumais, 94

Eleanor Katherine Dumais, 94, of Marlboro and formerly Hopkinton, passed away Friday, February 12, 2021 at Marlborough Hills. Born in Newport, VT, she was the youngest daughter of the late Kate (Chaffee) and John Lunna. She was the wife of the late Emile L. Dumais, whom she married on July 3, 1948. 

Eleanor was raised and educated in the Newport Center Schools, graduating in 1944. In 1953, Eleanor and Emile moved to Hopkinton. They became members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Summit Chapter 32. OES. She presided as Worthy Matron of the Chapter from 1960-1961. Eleanor then served as Deputy Grand Matron of Massachusetts, Order of the Eastern Star from 1962-1963. The following year, the Hopkinton Order of Rainbow Assembly #108 was instituted and she was elected as the First Mother Advisor of the Assembly, having served many years in that capacity. She later worked at the Dennison Manufacturing Co. in Framingham for several years in the communication and IPD departments. She belonged to the Hopkinton Garden Club, the New England Rose Society, and the Golden Age Club. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Altar Guild and had served as Directoress of the Guild for several years. In 1993, she was appointed to serve the Hopkinton Council on Aging. A year later, she became a Board Member of the Bay Path Home and Community Services Inc., and served briefly on the home care committee. Eleanor also was an amateur radio operator and member of the American Radio Relay League for many years with the call letters WA1-GEG.

Eleanor and Emile moved to Marlboro in 2000 and enjoyed retired life until Emile’s passing in 2006. Eleanor then transitioned to Marlboro Senior Housing and eventually to Marlborough Hills Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. 

Eleanor is survived by three daughters, Katherine L. Micciche of Pelham, NH, Pauline F.Smith of Uxbridge, and Dorothy E. Merullo of Framingham. She also leaves behind 7 grandchildren, James, Jason, Jeffrey, Jinger Micciche, Jonathan, Joseph, Jameson Smith, and 10 great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her siblings, Kempton, Henry, Albert, Francis, Dr. Robert, Dr. Richard Lunna, Helen Sandretto, Grace Miner and Alice Higuera.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 23rd from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Hopkinton.

Sign-up for Main Street Corridor Project Updates Now Available on Dedicated Project Website

HOPKINTON, MA (February 19, 2021) - The Town of Hopkinton is pleased to announce the launch of a new project website for the Main Street Corridor Project designed to provide construction project updates on a regular basis. In addition, the website also includes an email signup form to receive project updates right in your inbox. The Main Street Corridor Construction Project website can be found at http://hopkintonmainstreet.com/ . 

The email signup form for updates can be found at the bottom of the front page of the website. To receive updates in your inbox, simply sign up by submitting your name and email address using the Hopkinton Main Street Corridor Project Email List Signup Form.

 “In an effort to reach as many residents, businesses and community members, we encourage everyone to sign up for the project email updates and hope that you will share the link with your family, friends, neighbors and business associates,” said Town Manager Norman Khumalo. “The town will continue to make every effort to keep the community up to date during the construction phase and signing up for the updates will help to support this effort.”

You may begin to see activity from Amorello & Sons, Inc. (Amorello), MassDOT’s contractor, as early as next month, weather dependent. As soon as the Town receives confirmation of any scheduled onsite activity a press release will go out with those specific details. More specific information will be posted to the construction project website as well as soon as it becomes available. The project contact for the Town of Hopkinton is Michelle Murdock, Professional Project Specialist who can be reached via email at mmurdock@hopkintonma.gov . Contributed.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Statement from Senate President Karen E. Spilka

“I am deeply disappointed that today so many Massachusetts residents are feeling frustration and anger on a day when we should be experiencing hope. I hear it and I feel it too. The Senate and House are holding a public, livestreamed oversight hearing on Thursday, February 25 and we expect answers from those responsible for this failure. The Administration must deliver a better experience for our residents, who have already dealt with so much anxiety and disruption.”

Legislature Announces Joint Oversight Hearings on COVID Vaccination Distribution

COVID-19 Committee to Probe Baker Administration Plans

Press release from legislature earlier, today, 2/18.2021:

(BOSTON–02/17/2021) Today, the Massachusetts Legislature announced it will hold the first in a series of oversight hearings on the state’s COVID-19 vaccination distribution plan on February 25, 2021. The House and Senate hearings will be held by the newly-created Joint Committee on Covid-19 and Emergency Preparedness and Management and will seek testimony from the Baker Administration on the state’s COVID vaccine distribution operation and plans moving forward.

“We have heard the frustration and anger of people across Massachusetts about the constantly changing and confusing vaccination roll out plan, and we are using the tools at our disposal to help people get answers, especially about what we can expect moving forward,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “It is essential that we get a greater understanding of the Baker Administration’s plans to improve our vaccination rates, especially for those communities and populations hardest hit, including persons who are medically fragile or with disabilities, teachers, and communities of color.”

“The state's COVID-19 vaccination plan was developed by experts and guided by science, but the rollout has been marked by both logistical and communications shortcomings,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano. “It is our hope that through these hearings, we will ascertain valuable information about the failures of the rollout and help contribute to solutions for the people of the Commonwealth. We are specifically focused on delivering equitable access to vaccines and increasing supports for our most vulnerable residents. While flexibility is important, it must be matched with sound operational decisions, as well as clear and consistent communications with the Legislature and the general public.”

In addition to the administration, the committee will be inviting the chairs of the Joint Committees on Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion and Healthcare Financing and Public Health to testify.

"We can't get to work fast enough. I'm pleased to be working with Chair Bill Driscoll and fellow committee members in this oversight capacity so that we can dig in together on wide-spread concerns around the vaccine roll out, the COVID-19 response thus far, and our Commonwealth's emergency preparedness status going forward. COVID-19 hit our Commonwealth, its residents, our businesses, and families like a wrecking ball and the Committee will spare no effort to deliver on its charge of oversight and preparedness," noted Senator Jo Comerford, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Covid-19 and Emergency Preparedness and Management (D-Northampton).

“The Commonwealth seems to have been underprepared for the complexities in Phase One of the vaccine roll out,” said Representative Bill Driscoll Jr., House Chair of the Joint Committee on Covid-19 and Emergency Preparedness and Management (D-Milton). “We all understand that patience is paramount in our current pandemic circumstances, but patience and public trust wear thin when there are constant pivots in the plan. It is important for us to get a deeper understanding of what the Administration’s planning and operational outlook is for the next phases of the rollout and how they intend to improve delivery now and on a going forward basis.”

The joint oversight hearing will be held remotely on Thursday, February 25, 2021. Further details will follow. Testimony will be by invitation only, but the hearing will be viewable by the public. A series of similar hearings, including one that will be open to public testimony, will be scheduled in the coming weeks.

Those seeking more information should contact Jared Freedman in Senator Comerford’s office or Summer Ordaz in Representative Driscoll’s office.

Eleanor Katherine Dumais, 94

Eleanor Katherine Dumais, 94, of Hopkinton, passed away Friday, February 12, 2021 at Marlborough Hills. Born in Newport, VT, she was the youngest daughter of the late Kate (Chaffee) and John Lunna. She was the wife of the late Emile L. Dumais, whom she married on July 3, 1948.

Mrs. Dumais’ obituary is pending at this time. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 23rd from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Hopkinton.

Hopkinton Music Association March Calendar Drawing

For more than 30 years nationwide, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) has designated March as “Music In Our Schools Month” highlighting the importance of music education for all children and reminding us that school is where all children should have access to music. 

The Hopkinton Music Association (HMA) is holding a “Calendar Drawing” throughout the month of March to raise funds which will directly benefit the Hopkinton Public School music programs. This is the HMA’s only fundraiser for the 2020-2021 school year. 

Tickets for the Calendar Drawing are $10 each. Purchase as many as you wish. Each ticket is eligible for prizes in all 31 daily drawings so multiple prizes per ticket are possible. Tickets can be purchased through February 26, 2021 from any Hopkinton Public School music student in grades 5 through 12.  If you are unable to find a music student, contact Karen Bograd at ktbograd@gmail.com. Thank you for your support!

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Care Bags

The Hopkinton Women’s Club continues its annual Valentine’s Day tradition of assembling Care Bags filled with hygiene items to be donated to a local charity. This year’s recipient is the Compassion New England organization in Milford – www.compassionne.com – that runs a thrift shop, Crisis Center, a food pantry, provides help with heat and utility expenses, a vocational training program and other services. For information about the HWC: www.hopkintonwomensclub.org .

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

MSP Troopers, US Marshals, Haverhill Police Track and Arrest Man Wanted for Virginia Shooting

February 11, 2021 -Troopers from the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (MSP VFAS), in partnership with the US Marshals Service and Haverhill Police, this morning located and arrested a man wanted for a shooting in Virginia and seized a rifle and two pistols that were in his possession.


Troopers from the MSP VFAS North Team, Deputy US Marshals, and Haverhill Police detectives recently identified an apartment on Proctor Street in Haverhill as a possible location for HECTOR JAVIER BIDO, 23. Troopers, Marshals and Officers went to the address early this morning and located BIDO in a bedroom and arrested him without incident.

During the arrest, the apprehension team observed two firearms in plain view: a Smith & Wesson SD40 .40 caliber pistol with a round in the chamber and a fully-loaded 13-round magazine, as well as a Safeside Tactical AR-15 with a fully-loaded 30-round magazine. BIDO informed Troopers that he had an additional firearm in his Dodge Challenger and provided the keys to the vehicle. Inside the Challenger, members of the apprehension team located Glock 17 9mm pistol with a round in the chamber and two fully-loaded 17-round magazines. All three firearms and the ammunition were seized.

BIDO was charged with the warrant related to the Virginia shooting, which lists the following offenses:

Use of a firearm in commission of a felony;
Malicious shooting in/at an occupied building (2 counts);
Aggravated malicious wounding;
Simple assault and battery; and
Pointing or brandishing a firearm (2 counts).
BIDO will additionally be charged in connection with the firearms seized during today’s arrest.

BIDO is one of three suspects wanted for the early morning Jan. 24 shooting in Radford, Va. The shooting occurred on the 400 block of Sanford Street in Radford and caused serious injuries to the victim. BIDO was listed as living in Dublin, Va., at the time of the shooting. According to Radford Police, two other suspects wanted in connection with the shooting remain at large. MSP content. Photo right, courtesy of MSP. Top Photo, HopNews file.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

BOSTON - As part of the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan, the Massachusetts National Guard has begun providing support of vaccination initiatives. Beginning last week, ten medically qualified Guard members are partnering with the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center (EBNHC) to administer vaccines in East Boston. Today, two teams of ten Guard members will be on site at the Springfield and Danvers mass vaccination sites to assist in administering vaccine.

Medically qualified soldiers and airmen began assisting with vaccine administration. Their assistance at EBNHC is expected to continue for at least three weeks to support four vaccination sites throughout EBNHC’s service area including East Boston, Chelsea, Revere and the South End. The mission is federally funded. The Guard will continue to make qualified personnel available to the Executive Office of Health and Human Services for deployment to facilities requesting assistance.

The National Guard has personnel with a range of applicable expertise within its ranks, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, emergency medical technicians, and medics. These individuals have already administered the vaccine to 1,000 eligible Massachusetts soldiers and airmen, and now shift their focus to assisting in clinical settings for eligible members of the public.

The Massachusetts National Guard’s first priorities are to save lives and protect property, and Guard personnel have assisted the Commonwealth since the earliest days of the crisis, providing a wide range of services to state agencies and local authorities. As a diverse and highly trained force whose members live and work in communities across the Commonwealth, the Guard has a proven track record of success supporting civilian authorities during and after state emergencies, and its units frequently train side-by-side with state and local first responders, making them well-suited for domestic operations.

Contributed content.

Unibank Donates $20,000 to Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce Gateway Upkeep

WHITINSVILLE, MA (February 10, 2021) – UniBank, Central Massachusetts’ premier community bank, today announced that they have donated $20,000 to the Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce to renew their 5-year sponsorship of the Gateway Green Beautification Site.

Peter Mezitt, Co-Chair of the Hopkinton Chamber Gateway Green Initiative and President of Weston Nurseries, said, “The Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce has created an attractively landscaped medium strip on West Main Street at the entrance to Hopkinton off route 495. This well-maintained landscape symbolizes the tightness of the businesses in our community and demonstrates the vibrant, engaged atmosphere that exists in town of Hopkinton. I am very pleased that UniBank has once again taken a lead corporate sponsorship position in support of the Gateway Green as it shows one of the many ways they have demonstrated they truly care about this town and other communities where they are located.”

Michael Welch, CEO of UniBank, said, “When we were first approached in 2016 to become a founding sponsor of the Gateway Green Beautification Site, we jumped all in for the opportunity. The Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce has been a great partner of ours and the Hopkinton Community has embraced our bank for many years. We are pleased to renew our sponsorship for an additional five years.” Contributed content.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Richard R. Brault, 95

Richard R. Brault, 95, a Hopkinton veteran who served in the battles of Okinawa, Tinian, and Saipan, died peacefully on Saturday, February 6th, 2021. He was born in New Bedford, the son of the late Dr. Norbert R. and Florence (Chartrand) Brault. After his junior year of high school, Richard joined the US Marine Corps.

Richard trained at Parris Island and Camp Lejeune before assignment to the Pacific Theater. During WWII, he served with the 10th Marine (Artillery) Regiment 2nd Battalion, Company D, 2nd Marine Division. After the war, Richard completed high school and attended Boston School of Mechanical Dentistry before starting his 32 years career with Prudential Life Insurance. In retirement, he served as Chaplain for Post 202 American Legion in Hopkinton, worked tirelessly to help pass Senate Bill 1534 for disabled veterans, served on the building committee for the Hopkinton Senior Center, was a member of the Hopkinton Board of Health, and participated in the Fiftieth Citizens’ Legislative Seminar. He was an outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, sports enthusiast, and participated in numerous veteran events in town including the monthly Veteran’s Breakfast at the Senior Center.

Later in life, Richard discovered a love for playing Santa each holiday season for Weston Nurseries, local businesses, and for St. Gabriel’s parish. His white beard and favorite red suit attire will remain in the hearts of many.

Mr. Brault is survived by his loving wife, M. Virginia Brault (Verdi) and his children, Rev. Laurence V. Brault, pastor of St. Gabriel’s Parish in Upton, Judith Brault (daughter-in-law) of Glen Rock, NJ, Richard N. and Eileen Brault of York, ME, Joseph and Denise Brault of Milford, Carolyn and Dana Baron of Whitinsville, Thomas A. and Betty Brault of Upton, and Christine Brault and Ken Mayer of Acton, along with 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Dr. Peter V. Brault (2020), a grandchild, Stephen R. Brault, and his brothers, Dr. Clement E. Brault, V. Paul Brault, Gelose G. Brault, Bernard B. Brault, Dr. Denis D. Brault, and Dr. Jerome J. Brault; and by sisters Rose A. Crossley and Pauline Brault.

He was a very proud United States Marine and veteran with a kind soul and jovial presence. Oorah, Santa! May there be clear skies for his sleigh ride to the stars.

There will be a wake in the church at St. Gabriel’s Church in Upton on Thursday, February 11th from 6:00-8:00 PM. The funeral mass and burial will be private. Donations in Richard Brault’s name may be made to the Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew St, Hopkinton, MA 01748 or to the St. Gabriel’s Building Fund, 151 Mendon St, Upton, MA 01568

All visitors to St. Gabriel Parish are required to wear a face mask. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Visitors entering the church will be limited to allow for proper distancing. Visitors may be asked to wait outside until room is available. Unfortunately no exceptions can made to this rule for inclement weather.

Condolences with the family should be kept brief so that others may enter after you.

Please exit the church immediately after condolences are given to the family to allow others to enter after you.

Please observe barriers placed to provide proper social distancing.

Please refrain from embracing with the family.

State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Marlborough

At approximately 12:45 p.m. today Troopers assigned to State Police-Millbury responded to reports of a crash involving a tractor trailer and a box truck on Route 495 southbound at mile marker 62.6 in Marlborough. The crash resulted in the fatality of the operator of the box truck.

Preliminary investigation reveals that the 2019 Volvo tractor trailer was being operated at a slow speed while the operator, a 33-year-old man from Kentwood, Mich., was looking for a safe location to stop due to a tire blowout that had occurred shortly before the crash. For reasons unknown at this time a 2018 Isuzu box truck crashed into the rear of the tractor trailer causing fatal injuries to the operator, a 42-year-old man from Chelsea. His name is not being released at this time. The operator of the Volvo was not injured in the crash.

The crash remains under investigation by Troop C of the Massachusetts State Police with assistance from the State Police Collision Analysis Reconstruction Section, State Police Crime Scene Services Section, and State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section.

Troopers were assisted on scene by MassDOT and Marlborough Police, Fire and EMS. The left and middle travel lanes were closed for 3.5 hours while a detailed investigation was conducted. No further information is available at this time.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

TOWN OF HOPKINTON
18 Main Street
Hopkinton, MA 01748
COVID-19 Updates & Precautions
Special Update - Local Vaccine Information
February 7, 2021 update
Previous updates and additional information and resources can be found here: 
https://coronavirus-hopkintonma.hub.arcgis.com/
 

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SPECIAL U PDATE AND LOCAL VACCINE INFORMATION

Patricia M. Grogan, 82

Patricia M. Grogan, 82, of Westborough, passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2021. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Francis J. Grogan.

Born in Mattapoisett, MA, she was the daughter of the late William F. and Ethel C. (Raymond) Merchant. Patricia graduated from Southborough High School and received an associates degree in business from Quinsigamond Community College.

Patricia was employed in the customer service department at Anderson Products prior to her retirement. She was also a member of the Steel Workers Union.

She was a member of the First Community Church in Southborough, volunteered at the Westborough Senior Center, and worked part-time as a receptionist at the Willows. She enjoyed traveling to Ft. Lauderdale, golfing, and playing piano. Patricia had a lively sense of humor, celebrated any occasion with ice cream, and enjoyed painting and playing cards. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

She is survived by three children, Christine (Tina) MacConnell and her husband, Jon, of Hopkinton, JoAnn Dwyer and her husband, Tom, of Westborough and Charlene Slocum and her husband, Brad, of Canton; six grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson and her husband, Andrew, Emily Dwyer, Sam MacConnell and his wife, Julie, Scott MacConnell, Bradford Slocum Jr. and Justin Slocum; one great-grandson, Zane Johnson; a step-daughter in law, Cheryl Kelley, many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was predeceased by a step-son James Kelley and her siblings, Carroll Chase,  Robert Merchant and Raymond Merchant.

Patricia’s family would like to thank the staff at Saint Vincent’s PICU for all of their care and attentiveness.

A graveside service will be held privately with burial at St John’s Cemetery in Worcester, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Westborough Council on Aging (Senior Center) (4 Rogers Road, Westborough, MA 01581).

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Hillers Pizza Back to Regular Hours

Hillers Pizza is thrilled to announce that with this next phase of the new norm, we are back to our regular hours of operation, which means more time to serve our customers with delicious food! Check out our menu at www.hillerspizzeria.com/  for some of our specialties, or build your own pizza with some of your favorite toppings. You can also call ahead at 508-435-0021 to place your order with a member of our team. We look forward to seeing you! And as always, thank you to all our valued customers for your continuous support!

*Hours of Operation*

Sunday - Wednesday: 10 am - 9 pm

Thursday - Saturday: 10 am - 10 pm

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Kevin P. Mahoney, 65, of Riverside, Rhode Island, passed away unexpectedly at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI on January 25, 2021. He is preceded in death by his wife Muriel (Lepine) Mahoney. He leaves behind his sister Doreen Garner of Upton MA, his brother Thomas Mahoney III of Martha's Vineyard, his two nieces Stefanie Garner and Maura Garner, both of Upton MA, and many cousins and friends.

Kevin was born in Cambridge, MA to Thomas F. II and Helen T. (Zaveckas) Mahoney. He attended Rindge Technical High School until moving to Hopkinton and finishing high school at Joseph P Technical High School in Framingham,. Kevin worked in residential construction. He was an outdoorsman and an avid salt water fisherman. He lived on Prudence Island, RI, for a while, married Muriel, his wife and moved to Riverside, RI. In his later years, his favorite saying was that he was living at being happily retired.

There will not be a service due to COVID but a memorial is being planned for the spring.

Morgan’s Harbor to Hill Seafood Market Officially Opens for Business

Above, Laura Connolly, John Cruz-Olivari (from the Office of Congressman Jake Auchincloss at US Congress), Dana Hanson, Direct Director (from the Office of Congressman Jake Auchincloss at US Congress),Bill Morgan,
Anne Morgan, Dennis Deneen, Brendan Tedstone, Chair of Select Board Hopkinton, Mary Jo LaFreniere, Select Board member Hopkinton,Irfan Nasrullah, Vice Chair of Select Board Hopkinton, Bruce Connolly.

February 4, 2021 — Bill and Anne Morgan announce the official opening of their seafood market, “Morgan’s Harbor to Hill” this week at 8a Lumber Street, Hopkinton, MA. Joining in today’s ribbon cutting were members of Congressman Jack Auchincloss’s office and members of the town select board.

Harbor to Hill is a dream come true for Bill Morgan who started his 40-year career at Culinary Institute of America. After being in the restaurant business for over two decades, it was time for a change. A venture that may allow him to balance family time while still doing what he loves – cooking and interacting with the community he has grown to love in Hopkinton. The idea to open a fish market was many years in the making, including frequent reassurance from property owner Paul Mastroianni that he would find the perfect place for it when he was ready.

Why does a chef want to open a fish market or anything during COVID? It not only allows people a small place with a quick shopping experience, but a decline in restaurant business did not support two owners at The Spoon restaurant any longer. Bill sold his portion of the hometown diner to start this new venture. It provided opportunity for both businesses to regroup and move forward.

“MetroWest was seriously lacking a good seafood market”, commented Bill Morgan. And with Morgan’s career history including a considerable time working for Captain Marden’s Seafoods, his knowledge of seafood and cooking experience allows for offering ready to eat seafood take out, as well as take and bake options, so product is always moving and fresh.

Morgan’s business plan for the market is to focus on offering a little something for everyone. From fresh fish, produce and breads - one stop shopping for dinner, to prepared items like seafood casserole and already prepared sides and ready to eat take out for nights when you don’t have time to cook.

The market's hours of operation are Tuesday – Saturday from 10-7pm (or until we run out of product). The community support during our soft opening has been phenomenal and are looking forward to additional market offerings with the community feedback. If you are interested in a certain type or amount of fish, please call them as generally they can accommodate requests with notice. (508) 625-1006.

Visit their website, TBA when it is live, or Facebook page Morgan’s Harbor to Hill for market offerings and specials.

Press Release by Laura Connolly

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

David J. D’Amico, 57

David J. D’Amico (57yrs old) 04/01/1963- 01/31/2021 Passed away unexpectedly at his residence in Oceanside, CA. Born in Worcester, Mass and grew up in Milford and later in Hopkinton, Massachusetts.

David is predeceased by his parents Anthony and Marie D’Amico. David leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Deanna D’Amico and his daughters Danielle Burt and her husband Lucas Burt from Danielson, CT and Denise D’Amico from Northbridge, Massachusetts. David leaves his brother Peter D’Amico of Dennisport, MA. David had 1 grandson, Brayden S. Burt who was the light of his life and 3 step-grandchildren, Connor, Logan and Kylie Burt. David has many cousins.

David graduated from Keefe Tech in 1981. David was a proud Marine Veteran and a member of the American Legion. David loved New England Sport Teams, the beach, spending time with his family and friends. David liked to play pool and throw darts. David was a member of Saint Patrick’s Church in Whitinsville, MA. David was always the life of a party, talked to anybody and never knew a stranger. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Massachusetts Health Connector extends Open Enrollment through May 23 for anyone to get health insurance

February 3, 2021 – The Massachusetts Health Connector announced today a further extension of its Open Enrollment through May 23, providing residents impacted by COVID-19 the opportunity to get access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance.

The Health Connector previously announced an extension of Open Enrollment through March 23, two additional months beyond the original Jan. 23 deadline. Open Enrollment started Nov. 1, and the new deadline of May 23 aligns the Massachusetts health insurance exchange with the new open enrollment period for the federal exchange platform, healthcare.gov, which reopens Feb. 15 and remains open through May 15, and will be accompanied by a national marketing and awareness campaign.

Many people need help applying for coverage or picking plan, and the Health Connector has 18 Navigator organizations available around the state, many with newly added capacity – including evening and weekend hours – to help those with questions. People who need help can find a local Navigator at www.MAhealthconnector.org/navigators. Tens of thousands of Health Connector members applicants are staying covered or getting covered during Open Enrollment, and people are encouraged to reach out to a Navigator as soon as possible to get the support needed to get coverage.

About the Massachusetts Health Connector

The Massachusetts Health Connector is the Commonwealth’s health insurance exchange, and currently serves more than 300,000 individuals and small-employer members with health and dental insurance. Massachusetts residents who do not have health insurance from an employer or other entity can use the exchange to gain coverage. Through the ConnectorCare program, income-qualifying residents can access coverage that includes low-cost premiums and co-pays, and no deductibles. Access to health coverage for individuals and small businesses can be found at the Health Connector’s website, www.MAhealthconnector.org   .

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Neurosurgeon Appointed to Medical Staff at Milford Regional Medical Center

Milford Regional is pleased to welcome UMass neurosurgeon Justin Slavin, MD to the active medical staff. He has joined Ziev Moses, MD at UMass Memorial Surgery at Milford located at 91 Water Street.

Dr. Slavin earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD in 2008 where he also performed a neurosurgery residency. Upon completion of a fellowship in spinal neurosurgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, Dr. Slavin was an attending physician at Greater Baltimore Medical Center. His clinical interests include degenerative spine disorders, minimally invasive spine surgery and spinal microsurgery. He is an assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

“We welcome Dr. Justin Slavin to our active medical staff,” states Edward J. Kelly, president & CEO. “We are pleased to have such a highly trained neurosurgeon join our surgery team.”

Appointments can be made with Dr. Slavin by calling UMass Memorial Surgery at Milford at 508-458-4250.

Editor's note: Dave D'Amico spent most of his school years, and well beyond, living in Hopkinton. Cookie's Corner, so named for beloved Townie, Cookie Kumlin, is inside the green circle.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Patricia Kelly

KELLY, Patricia Of Southborough, formerly of Framingham, MA, and NY, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully with family at age 89 on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at Golden Pond Assisted Living Memory Care in Hopkinton, MA.

She was born in Jackson Heights, NY on December 3, 1931 to the late James and Margaret (McLaughlin) Cullen.

She was the beloved wife of the late Donald P. Kelly and is survived by their children Brian Kelly and his wife Brenda of Hopkinton, Jean Kelly Kass and her late husband Thomas Kass of Bourne, Christopher Kelly and his wife Diane of Framingham, and Kevin Kelly and his wife Kristina of Boston. "Mimi" to her grandchildren, she leaves behind Matthew Kelly of Boston, Jacqueline Cox and her husband Joseph of Framingham, Brendan Kelly of Hopkinton, Thomas Kass and his wife Samantha of Scituate, Harrison Kelly of Arizona, Meagan Kelly of Boston and Erin Kelly of Boston, her sisters Audrey Concannon of NY, the late Margaret Cullen of Natick and her husband Martin of Ireland, and the late Kathleen Cullen of NY, her very close nieces and nephews James Duddy, Christine Cartwright, Patrick Cullen and the late Nora Cullen. In addition, she leaves behind her dearest friend, Andrew Soma of Framingham.

Pat graduated from Bishop McDonald High School and St. Johns University in Brooklyn, NY. Prior to marriage, she began her career at JP Morgan in NY. In 1961, a move from New York brought the young family to Framingham, where Pat happily raised her family with her husband, Donald. She restarted her career with a paralegal degree from Bentley University in the early seventies while working for the law firm of Hargraves, Karb, Wilcox and Galvani in Framingham, and then the Perini Corporation in Framingham, where she became the first woman Officer of the company. Upon her retirement, she launched a successful career in real estate with Coldwell Banker.

Pat was the eldest sister of four girls, growing up in Queens, NY, and took that responsibility very seriously with everything she did. She was a driving force with a bright and kind personality up until her final day, which complemented her tremendous sense of humor. She cherished time spent with family, especially the weekly Sunday dinners at her house as her family grew with grandchildren over the years. She also loved vacationing with the extended family during the summers at the Cape. She was an inspiration to many and especially to her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren.

Our family would like to send our deepest gratitude to the staff at Brookhaven Hospice and Golden Pond Assisted Living for all her loving care.

Services will be private. For online guestbook, please visit www.Duckett-Waterman.com/

REMINDER: Join Us for a Virtual Public Information Meeting on the

Acceler-8 I-90 Bridge Replacements Project 

Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at 6:00 PM

Please join us for a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, February 9, at 6:00 PM to learn more about the replacement of eight bridges on I-90 east and westbound over Flanders Road in Westborough and Parkerville Road, Cordaville Road, and Woodland Road in Southborough (two bridges per local road) that will take place over eight weekends between June 2021 and August 2021 as well as the preparatory work that will begin in February 2021. To protect the health of the project team and meeting attendees, this meeting will be hosted online, using Zoom. The meeting will allow time for Questions + Answers.

Link to Join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88423542199?pwd=OGwxZ3FhK0szVmFtY0dmSHViZzRRQT09
Webinar ID: 884 2354 2199
Or join via telephone: 929-205-6099
Password: 508076

Details on how to join and participate in the meeting can be found on the project website.

The presentation will be posted on the website in advance of the meeting to give people who can only attend by phone an opportunity to review the presentation. A recording and written summary of the meeting will be posted on the website for those who cannot attend.

Please share this information with anyone you think will be interested in the project. A project flyer is also available for download and posting. 

To receive email updates and meeting notices, please sign up for our email list.

For more information about the project, please visit the website at www.mass.gov/Acceler8Bridges. If you have questions or would like to report an issue or concern, please email the project team at A8@dot.state.ma.us.

MassDOT urges those traveling through the area to obey posted speed limits and use caution. The schedule for this major infrastructure project is weather dependent and subject to change without notice.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Milford Regional Medical Center Recognized for Higher Quality and Cost-Efficiency in Maternity Care

MILFORD – Milford Regional Medical Center is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts with a Blue Distinction^® Centers+ (BDC+) for Maternity Care designation, as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

Racial and ethnic disparities are persistent and widespread across maternal healthcare, primarily driven by socioeconomic status, geographic location, and implicit provider bias. Compared to similarly developed countries such as Canada, Germany, and Australia, the United State has the highest maternal mortality rate (MMR), at approximately 17.4 deaths per 100,000 live births, with the MMR steadily increasing since 2000¹. According to the CDC, non-Hispanic Black women are two to three times more likely to die from preventable or treatable pregnancy-related complications compared to white women².

To help address these gaps in care and to help ensure the better health of mothers, The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association enhanced its quality evaluation for the Maternity Care program to address key factors driving the United States’ maternal health crisis, such as preventable or treatable pregnancy-related conditions, high utilization of Caesarean sections, and racial and ethnic disparities in maternal healthcare.

Overall, cost of care episodes for vaginal and cesarean births at BDC+ facilities are 20% less than those at non-Blue Distinction Centers+ facilities. The rates of Episiotomies were 49% less those at Blue Distinction Centers (BDC and BDC+) than at those at non-Blue Distinction Centers (BDC and BDC+). In 2018, BDC/BDC+ facilities across the country cared for more than 40% of Blue Cross and Blue Shield commercially insured women giving birth.

Milford Regional is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts for meeting the rigorous Blue Distinction Centers+ quality selection criteria for maternity care set by the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

“Milford Regional is proud to have met the rigorous standards to receive this distinction for maternity care,” says Edward J. Kelly, president and CEO of Milford Regional.  “The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts Blue Distinction^® Centers+ for Maternity Care designation highlights our dedication to providing the highest quality care to the youngest and most vulnerable among us—newborns.  I want to congratulate our Maternity Center staff for the comprehensive, compassionate care they provide to mothers and their newborns as recognized by this esteemed award.”

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Michael Fleming, age 80

Michael Fleming, age 80, of Leicester, died Monday, January 25,2021 at UMass Memorial Medical Center from cardiac arrest.

Michael was born in Worcester, June 24, 1940 and attended St. Peter Marian High School and received his Master's Degree in History from Assumption University. For thirty-seven years, he taught at Hopkinton High school, retiring in 2004. During his teaching years, he conducted annual educational tours for the high school students, visiting the capital cities of England and Europe. Throughout his teaching years he also ran his landscaping company and decorated the church of Our Lady of the Angels for the Christmas and Easter holydays where he was a life-long congregant.

Michael was the third son of the late Lawrence and Myrtle Fleming. He leaves a daughter, Jennifer Fleming, her husband Mitja and a grandson, Liam. He is also survived by three brothers, Lawrence of Shrewsbury, Richard and wife Anna of Auburn and Timothy of Shrewsbury, as well as nephews, nieces, grand-nieces and nephews and great-grand nephews. He was pre-deceased by his sister-in-law, Barbara M. Fleming and two nephews, Joseph W. Fleming of Auburn and Jonathan D. Fleming of Worcester.

Services were held at Our Lady of the Angels Church in Worcester. He was buried in Riverside Cemetery, Grafton. Arrangements are in the care of Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester. Donations in Michael's memory may be made to Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main St. Worcester, MA 01603.

State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in North Attleborough 

At approximately 5:35 p.m. today Troopers assigned to State Police-Foxborough responded to reports of a rollover crash on Rt. 95 North approximately one half mile north of Exit 5 in North Attleborough. The crash resulted in the fatality of one of the operators. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that the crash involved two vehicles, with one, a 1996 Toyota Corolla, rolling over.  The operator of the vehicle that rolled over was transported with serious injuries to Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, where he succumbed to his injuries. He has been identified as a 27-year-old Franklin man. His name is not being released at this time. The second vehicle, a 2021 Toyota, was operated by a 33-year-old female from Seattle, Washington. She was uninjured. 

The crash remains under investigation by Troop H of the Massachusetts State Police with assistance from the State Police Collision Analysis, Reconstruction Section and the State Police Crime Scene Services Section, and the Bristol County Detective Unit. 

Troopers were assisted by MassDOT, Attleboro Fire and EMS, North Attleborough Fire and EMS, and Mansfield Fire and EMS. The right travel lane was closed for 2 hours while the investigation was being conducted. ~MSP Release

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

$53,060,000 in One-time Grants to Schools 

Earlier this month, the Legislature authorized $53,060,000 as part of the FY21 budget for one-time grants to school districts, charter schools, and educational collaboratives for additional assistance to support coronavirus prevention efforts and to maintain and increase educational quality during the pandemic.
This week, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released the list of district-specific allocations, which will be distributed in two equal payments (one in February and one in April):
Holliston: $86,850
Hopkinton: $114,225
Southborough: $37,300
Westborough: $130,325
These funds will go towards the purchase of personal protective equipment and hygienic supplies, as well as the costs associated with socially distanced onsite learning and remote learning. Much appreciation to Speaker Mariano and House Ways & Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz for prioritizing this important line item that will allow students and staff to continue to learn in a safe environment.
~Carolyn Dykema

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

WHITINSVILLE, MA (January 28, 2021) – UniBank, Central Massachusetts’ premier community bank, today announced that they have been named the “Best Bank for Business 2021” by the Worcester Business Journal.

Michael Welch, CEO of UniBank, said, “To be nominated by our loyal customers for this prestigious award for the eighth year is the true measure of our success. With their trust in our experienced professionals and the seamlessness in our processes, we establish true partnerships with business owners, of both large and small businesses, across the Central Massachusetts’ region and we’re extremely proud of that. As a $2B bank, we are large enough to serve all your personal and business banking needs and importantly, still know you by name.”

On Friday, January 15th the Hopkinton Cultural Council (HCC) hosted their virtual meeting led by Chair Ilana Casady to choose and award grants to approved applicants. “As in previous years, requests for grants exceeds funds available and choosing among many wonderful initiatives can be a challenge.” – Ilana Casady, Chair of HCC. The HCC receives grant funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to promote excellence, access, education & diversity in the arts, sciences and humanities to improve the community's economics & quality of life. The HCC prioritizes funding local artists as well as artists which reflect the diverse cultures within the town of Hopkinton. The HCC actively seeks opportunities to increase visibility to groups of different cultures to promote diverse grant opportunities within Hopkinton and our local region.

2021 Grant Recipients include: Amazing Things Art Center (atac), Discovery Museum, Sean Fullerton, Acoustic Concert for Seniors, Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA), Hopkinton Freedom Team, Hopkinton Garden Club, John Root, a nature class on Birds, Butterflies and Bees, Janet Schwartz, pastel class and the South Asian Circle of Hopkinton (SACH).

In addition, the HCC will continue the Diversity Mural project initially unveiled in fall of 2020 and revive Art on the Trail as their hosted initiatives. The mural project will be led by Ilana Casady and Art on the Trail by Darlene Hayes and Meena Kaushik. Per Casady, “In a year like no other, the mural project was a bright light in our community, when so much was canceled HCC decided to create this project with support from the Hopkinton Parks and Recreation Department. It was inspiring and already receiving interest from artists for 2021.” Contributed content.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Hopkinton Women’s Club

Monday, February 8, 2021

Program Topic: “Domestic Violence Prevention”

The Hopkinton Women’s Club will be holding its monthly meeting on Monday, February 8, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. on ZOOM. Please join us. To receive a ZOOM invitation contact Judith Weinthaler, Membership Chair, at HopWCMembership@gmail.com . The program following the business meeting will be “Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention” by Donna Shibley, President of the MA Federation of Women’s Clubs.

We welcome guests from Hopkinton and surrounding communities. For more information about the HWC go to www.Hopkintonwomensclub.org/ Our Mission is to improve our community through volunteer service. Our focus is scholarships for Hopkinton students, families in need, and support for local charities.

In February, members will be assembling our “Care Bags for Our Neighbors” and delivering them to Compassion of New England Crisis Center in Milford.