Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Hopkinton Awarded Regional Grant from FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program

HOPKINTON, MA (August 10, 2020) - The Town of Hopkinton is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $350,000 grant from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) program. The money, awarded jointly to the Hopkinton and Ashland Fire Departments, will be used to replace obsolete portable radios, bringing both departments into compliance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards.

“Enhanced communications are the foundation of the fire service and crucial to the departments’ ability to complete their mission of preserving life and property from fire, medical, and other emergencies,” said Town Manager Norman Khumalo.

Hopkinton Fire Deputy Miller and Ashland Fire Lieutenant Boland state that the opportunity to work on a regional grant was a positive benefit to both communities and their departments.

“Having effective communications on all emergencies is a crucial part of our operations, and these new portable radios will assure that our staff has state of the art communications,” they said.

“I am thrilled that Hopkinton and Ashland were awarded a regional grant to fund critically-needed emergency response equipment, in this case portable radios to improve communication,” said Senate President Karen Spilka. “ I am very pleased that our towns worked together to secure additional resources to further protect our regions’ residents.”

The primary goal of the AFG Program is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. According to the FEMA website, since 2001 AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

As Troopers approached the vehicle they observed the operator, JOUSEPH PACHECO, 20 of New Bedford, quickly close the glove box before removing the gloves on his hands and tossed them on the floor board.

PACHECO was unable to produce a valid driver’s license and was asked to exit the Jeep. As a result of a search of the vehicle troopers located a loaded Jimenez .25 caliber handgun with two rounds of ammunition, two large clear bags of Marijuana, a digital scale and $267.00 in the glove box. PACHECO does not possess a license to carry.

PACHECO was placed under arrest and transported to State Police – Dartmouth where he was booked on the following charges:

1. Carrying a Loaded Firearm;

2. Possession / Carrying a Firearm;

3. Drug, Possess To Distribute Class D;

4. Unlicensed Operation of Motor Vehicle;

5. Holding Electronic Device, Non Hands-Free;

6. Fail to Signal; and

7. Fail Wear To Wear Seat Belt.

PACHECO was transported to the Ash Street Jail where he will be held pending his arraignment Monday in New Bedford District Court.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Town Hall Reopening Plan

Town Hall Reopening Plan - NEW (COVID-19) UPDATE On Monday August 10th, Town Hall will reopen to the public by appointment only. This is due to the state's COVID-19 limits on building occupancy. Currently, only one visitor will be allowed, per floor, at a time. Under this initial reopening, any member of the public wishing to visit Town Hall in person must schedule an appointment in advance. To make an appointment with Town Hall staff, please contact the department directly to schedule a mutually available time slot.

When arriving for your confirmed appointment, all visitors must wear a face-covering for the duration of the visit. In addition, visitors will be required to complete a COVID-19 attestation form in advance or upon arrival. Any individual who has symptoms of COVID-19 is asked to stay home and reschedule their appointment.. In order to support physical distancing, the Town has installed signage and markings to provide guidance, as well as Plexiglas barriers at customer-facing counters for protection.

Hand-sanitizers have also been installed throughout Town Hall. All Town departments continue to offer residents and businesses the ability to conduct transactions online, by mail, by phone, and via the drop-boxes located in the rear and front of Town Hall. The Town encourages residents and businesses to use online services to conduct business. Under this initial reopening phase, the Town continues to protect the health and safety of the public and its employees by following state guidelines.

Adhering to the state’s reduced capacity requirement, 50% of staff will be at Town Hall at any given time. All staff are required to complete a COVID-19 attestation form daily before entering the office and wear a face-covering in shared spaces, including corridors, lobbies and restrooms. Staff who have COVID-19 symptoms must remain at home. 1 The Facilities Department is sanitizing high touch areas frequently. Future phases of the reopening of Town Hall will depend on public health measures, state guidelines, and will be announced when they are determined.

Voters of Hopkinton,
The new election law passed by the General Court and Signed by the Governor has significantly expanded early voting, by-mail and in-person.  Due to occupancy issues at Town Hall, the Board of Registrars voted on 08/04/2020 to move early voting in person for the Primary to the Hopkinton Senior Center at 28 Mayhew Street.  Voters will not use the main entrance and will enter through the library door and will exit through the side door once they have voted.  Mask wearing as well as social distancing will be required.

• Saturday (08/22) and Sunday (08/23) - 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Monday (08/24), Wednesday (08/26), and Thursday (08/27) - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• Tuesday (08/25) - 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Friday (08/28) - 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

BOSTON – Two individuals in two separate cases have been arraigned on charges of illegally possessing firearms in connection with investigations resulting in the seizure of “ghost guns”, Attorney General Maura Healey announced today.

Tuan Nguyen, 47, of Milton, was arrested in December 2019 in connection with a joint investigation involving Homeland Security Investigations, the Massachusetts State Police, and the AG’s Office. During the execution of a search warrant at Nguyen’s Warren Avenue residence, law enforcement officers from the Massachusetts State Police recovered seven loaded firearms, including two un-serialized AR-15 style semi-automatic rifles considered “ghost guns” and five semi-automatic pistols, as well as four firearm silencers, 26 large-capacity firearm feeding devices, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, a ballistic vest carrier, and a cache of gun parts and accessories from the defendant’s residence and vehicle. During a forensic search of Nguyen’s cell phone, authorities recovered several photographs of Nguyen posing with firearms and assault rifles.

Nguyen was indicted by a Norfolk Grand Jury in July and was arraigned today in Norfolk Superior Court on the following charges:
Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm (2 Counts)
Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device (26 Counts)
Possession of a Firearm without a Firearm Identification Card (7 Counts)
Improper Storage of a Firearm (8 Counts)
Possession of a Silencer (4 Counts)
Nguyen pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment and bail was set at $10,000. He is due back in Norfolk Superior Court on October 7 for a status conference.

Victor Pagliuca, 56, of Winthrop, was arrested in January 2020 in connection with an investigation, initiated by Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations, involving shipments of illegal firearm silencers. The case was referred to the AG’s Office for further investigation. During the execution of a search warrant at Pagliuca’s Shirley Street residence, law enforcement officers from the Massachusetts State Police and Winthrop Police Department recovered two semi-automatic “ghost guns”, nearly 3,000 rounds of ammunition, eight large-capacity firearm feeding devices, a cache of gun parts and accessories, an instructional DVD on how to build an untraceable AR-15 assault rifle at home,” and a 3D mold for building “ghost guns”. Pagliuca was indicted by a Suffolk County Grand Jury in July and arraigned Tuesday in Suffolk Superior Court on the following charges:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (2 counts)
Unlawful Possession of Ammunition (1 count)
Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device (8 counts)
Bail was set at $25,000, and a status conference is scheduled for October 7 in Suffolk Superior Court.
These charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

“Ghost guns” are untraceable, privately made firearms that lack serial numbers or other identifying marks. These firearms are often manufactured from firearm parts kits that include an unfinished firearm that the buyer can complete assembly of at home, a task that can be easily accomplished with ordinary household tools. The legal purchase of these kits, whether through online retailors or at brick and mortar gun shops, can lead to the illegal possession of an untraceable firearm once the firearm manufacture process is complete.

These matters are being handled by Assistant Attorneys General Andrea Mauro and Lynn Brennan, both of the AG’s Enterprise, Cyber, and Major Crimes Division.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

State Public Health Officials Announce Season’s First Human Case of EEE in the Commonwealth

Two communities now at critical risk for EEE

BOSTON (August 3, 2020) - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that laboratory testing confirmed the first human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus infection, a male under the age of 18 who was exposed to EEE in Plymouth County. As a result, the risk level in the two communities of Carver and Middleborough in Plymouth County has been raised to critical.

In addition, Kingston, Plympton and Rochester are at high risk. Bridgewater, Halifax, Lakeville, Plymouth, and Wareham in Plymouth County, and Raynham and Taunton in Bristol County are now at moderate risk.

DPH is working with the local health departments, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, and local Mosquito Control Projects to coordinate surveillance and appropriate public health response activities.

All residents are reminded to use mosquito repellent any time they are outside, and those in high and critical risk communities are advised to schedule their outdoor activity to avoid the dusk to dawn hours to reduce exposure to the mosquitoes most likely to spread EEE.

“EEE is rare, but it is a serious disease and public health concern, and we remind residents of the need to protect themselves from mosquito bites as EEE activity increases,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “The single best prevention tool continues to be avoiding mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, weather permitting, and avoiding outdoor activity between the hours of dusk and dawn in the highest risk areas.”

EEE is a rare but potentially fatal disease that can affect people of all ages. In Massachusetts there were 12 human cases of EEE in 2019 with 6 deaths.

EEE virus has been found in 29 mosquito samples this year, including in species of mosquitoes capable of spreading the virus to people. Information about current mosquito activity will continue to be updated regularly and can be found here.

People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes. DPH recommends the preventive measures below.

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient (DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.

Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Protect Your Animals

Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to DAR, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795 and to DPH by calling 617-983-6800.

For the most up-to-date information on pesticide spraying locations, visit the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Aerial Spraying Map https://massnrc.org/spray-map/

For other updates, Q&As, and downloadable fact sheets in multiple languages visit the DPH webpage www.mass.gov/guides/aerial-mosquito-control-summer-2019.

Information including all West Nile virus and EEE positive results can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page or by calling the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800.

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

(BOSTON–7/30/2020) The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday, July 30, 2020, passed An Act concerning genocide education to educate middle and high school students on the history of genocide and to promote the teaching of human rights issues.
 
“To forge a more just future, our next generation must be educated on the tragic history of the Holocaust and other instances of genocide,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The importance of this bill cannot be overstated, and I say this as a Jewish woman and the daughter of a World War II veteran who helped liberate the victims of Nazi concentration camps. I am very thankful to Senators Rodrigues, Lewis and Creem for their advocacy on this issue and my colleagues for their unanimous support.”
 
According to a 2018 article in the New York Times, 31% of Americans and 41% of millennials believe 2 million Jews or fewer were murdered in the Holocaust while 41% of Americans and 66% of millennials do not know what Auschwitz is. This bill would establish a Genocide Education Trust Fund to promote and educate middle and high school students on the history of genocide. Funds in this trust would be used to encourage the instruction of middle and high school students on the history of genocide and ensure the development of curricular materials, as well as to provide professional development training to assist educators in the teaching of genocide.
 
“Students need to be educated about the causes of genocide if we are to ensure that history is not repeated,” said Majority Leader Senator Cynthia Stone Creem (D-Newton). “Learning about the paths that various societies and cultures have taken—from bigotry and hatred all the way to expulsion and genocide—will help future generations avoid this tragedy.”
 
“We congratulate Senate President Spilka, Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues, and our partners in government for coming together to ensure that students in our state will learn invaluable lessons about the consequences of hate and bigotry, from the most painful parts of our history,” said Aaron Agulnek, Director of Government Affairs for the Jewish Community Relations Council. “We cannot simply say ‘Never Again’ if we do not also commit to educating the next generation by giving them the resources they need to recognize and stand up to injustice before it takes root.”
 
"We appreciate the leadership of Senate President Spilka, Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues, and their legislative colleagues for taking a critical step toward ensuring that Massachusetts public school students receive Holocaust and genocide education prior to high school graduation,” said Robert Trestan, ADL New England Regional Director. “The need for Holocaust and genocide education in K-12 schools could not be more urgent. Massachusetts now has an opportunity to use the power of education to address hate through this essential initiative for Holocaust and genocide education in the Commonwealth.”
 
The bill requires each school district to annually file a description of their lesson plan and programs related to genocide education with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The bill also establishes a competitive grant program that schools and districts can apply to for additional programming support.
 
An Act concerning genocide education now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration.

Kenneth Wayne Chouinard, 84

Kenneth Wayne Chouinard, 84 of Ashland passed away Mon July 27^th after a period of declining health.  He was the son of the late Louis and Ruth (Lougee) Chouinard and husband of 48 years to Theresa (Krivicich) Chouinard.  Growing up in Hopkinton, Ken eventually moved to Ashland and was a contractor and carpenter in the area for many years until his retirement.  Beloved by his clients and subs, he prized the personal connections created through his work, as well as the craft itself.  He was generous with his expertise in his community; helping with several projects in the Town of Ashland including the construction of Kids Spot Playground.  Ken was dedicated to the happiness and support of his family, particularly his wife Theresa.  Together they enjoyed travel and in particular road trips, locally in New England and Canada, and as far away as Las Vegas.  Adventures and stories ensued.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by eight children, Christopher Chouinard & wife Yun Joo Kang of Mill Valley, CA, Sharon Chouinard of Haverill, MA, Sandra Knott of Ashland, Kenneth Chouinard & wife Kara Wojnarowski of Norton, MA, Linda Paquette of Framingham, Paul Lentoni & wife Paula of Ashland, and Phillip Lentoni of Framingham. Three brothers, Phillip, Richard, and Herbert “Ricky” Chouinard; two sisters, Thelma Pageau and Phyllis Smith; seven grandchildren, Alexander, Benjamin, Calissa, Emma, Michael, Olive, and Violet;  plus many nieces and nephews.  He was the father of the late Michelle Chouinard who died in 2008.

Funeral services are private at this time.  A memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date.  Donations in Ken’s name may be made to St. Patrick’s Manor, 863 Central St. Framingham, MA  01701

Water levels at the Hopkinton reservoir and ground water levels at our town wells have reached action trigger levels. Due to these low levels, we are cutting back on our pumping capacity and we lost the use of two wells at the Ashland treatment plant. We are now at nearly a 5” rain deficit for the year. We are required to revise the water use restriction to prohibit All Outdoor Use except watering of flowers, gardens and shrubs by handheld means or by drip irrigation before 9AM and after 5PM and that which is necessary for the following: for Health or Safety reasons; for the production of food and fiber; for the maintenance of livestock; or to meet core functions of a business.

We continue to receive very little rain to help recharge our aquifers and the long-term forecasts call for above average temperatures and below normal precipitation through the summer. It is IMPERATIVE that everyone complies with these restrictions and turn off all lawn sprinklers immediately. This is necessary to ensure a safe and adequate supply for our daily essential needs and for firefighting capabilities. These restrictions only pertain to users of the municipal water system; however, we encourage those with private wells to use water just as judiciously, to avoid your well going dry. We need everyone’s strict adherence and cooperation in this important matter to sustain the town water supply through these persistent drought conditions. Please note that if conditions continue to worsen, a ban on all outdoor water use may have to be enacted.
Updates will be provided, as necessary, through the town’s web website, www.hopkintonma.gov, local newspapers, and H-CAM TV. For instantaneous updates please go to www.hopkintonma.gov/home/about/follow and select water and sewer notices and follow us on our Twitter feed @hopkintonwater.
We thank you for your cooperation with this important matter.

Information will also be posted on the water use restriction signs located throughout town in the following locations:

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

BOSTON (July 29, 2019) - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that the risk level for eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus in the communities of Carver and Middleborough in southeastern Massachusetts has been increased from moderate to high.

This risk level increase follows additional EEE positive mosquito samples. EEE virus has been found in 16 mosquito samples this year. No human or animal cases of EEE have been detected so far this year.

“The mosquito surveillance results indicate that the virus activity has increased in one area in southeastern Massachusetts,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “We want people to be aware that the EEE virus is present in mosquitoes in the area and are encouraging residents to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.”

DPH is working with the local communities, local Mosquito Control Projects, and other mosquito control experts to coordinate surveillance and discuss appropriate public health response activities.

The EEE virus also has been confirmed this year in tested mosquito samples in Franklin County, which increased the risk level of EEE to moderate in the communities of Orange, Athol, Wendell and New Salem. The town of Plympton in Plymouth County is also at moderate risk for EEE.

Information about current mosquito activity will continue to be updated regularly and can be found here.

There were 12 human cases of EEE in Massachusetts in 2019.

“We always take EEE very seriously,” said DPH State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown. “It is important for residents to know that in communities at high risk for EEE, we encourage use of mosquito repellent and scheduling outdoor events to avoid the hours between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes most likely to spread EEE are most active.”

People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient (DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.

Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Protect Your Animals

Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to DAR, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795 and to the Department of Public Health (DPH) by calling 617-983-6800.

More information, including all West Nile virus and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page or by calling the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

U.S. News & World Report Names

Milford Regional Medical Center a High Performing Hospital

Roadwork Notice

Roadwork is scheduled to begin on Palomino Dr, Clydesdale Rd & Claflin St Thursday July 30. Work hours will be approximately 7a-5p.

Additionally work continues on Wedgewood Dr and the contractor will begin placing the binder course of Asphalt on Thursday July 30 & Friday July 31. A detour will be in place during paving operations. The detour will consist of using Greenwood Rd to Overlook Dr to Cedar St Ext.

Please expect delays and seek alternate routes when possible.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Laurie Joanne Bilodeau, 32

Laurie Joanne Bilodeau, 32, of Maynard, formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2020 with loving family by her side after a courageous battle against cancer.

Born in Framingham, she is the daughter of Thomas A. and Maryanne (Pratt) Bilodeau of Westborough. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Kelly Marie Bilodeau; her nephew Aiden David Bilodeau, who she adored; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. She was raised and educated in Westborough and was a 2006 graduate of Westborough High School. She also attended and graduated from St. Leo University in Florida with a MBA - Concentration in Marketing, where she was a sister and president of Gamma Upsilon Sorority.

Laurie was an Administrative Manager for the Neurology Foundation and Sleep Center at Boston Children’s Hospital.  Laurie was known across the hospital as a kind, selfless, and talented leader who always put her colleagues, patients and families first. Laurie was the recent recipient of the Boston Children’s Hospital “Bravo! in Excellence” award in January 2020, noting her accomplishments and contributions to the hospital’s mission.

Laurie’s motto was “living the dream”.  She lived each day to the fullest. She was one of a kind and lit up every room she walked into, as she brought life and sparkle to everything.  Laurie, also known as “Auntie RaRa”, loved the ocean, painting, crafting, and entertaining her friends and family at her home in Maynard. She was known for her quick wit, sassy personality, infectious laugh, beautiful smile, punny humor, giving heart, and her love for life.

The world lost a beautiful soul and she will be dearly missed by all.

Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 30, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Cemetery.

Calling hours are Wednesday, July 29, from 4 to 7 P.M at the Pickering & Son UPTON FUNERAL HOME, 45 Main St., Upton.

Facial coverings and social distancing required.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Boston Children’s Hospital, Neurology Foundation, 300 Longwood Avenue, Fegan 11, Boston, MA 02115 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or at stjude.org/memorial.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CALLING HOURS WILL TAKE PLACE AT OUR UPTON FUNERAL HOME.

www.uptonfunerals.com/obituary/Laurie-Bilodeau

Hopkinton Police Incident Log
Naked couple walking dog, fox overextends welcome, evicted individual asks for advice, son taking drugs,
pigeon sitting in yard...

July 27, 2020
Two New Arrests

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

JULY 31, 2020 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Come sit on the patio on a warm summer night and listen to great music! This series is FREE however donations are welcome. We are trying to support local artists and get together safely to enjoy great music at the same time!

Made up of the best college musicians in New England, Slightly Tooned is a 3-5 piece band rooted in jazz that explores jazz, funk, and RnB music. Slightly Tooned is led by saxophonist Nick Beltramini, who at the age of 18 has already performed and toured with some of the most prestigious jazz bands in the country including the 2018 All-National Jazz Band, traveling to Florida to perform with the group. Nick has shattered many records in his award winning high school music program by winning the highest music award, the Louis Armstrong Award, 3 of his 4 years of high school. Now attending Oberlin Conservatory, Nick hopes to take his saxophone playing and musicianship to the next level.Click Here For Free Tickets:

Norma Hazen Nordstrom passed into Eternal Life on Sunday, July 26, 2020, after a year-long battle with cancer. Born in Newton on December 14,1931, she was the daughter of the late Mabel (Wildman) and Lloyd Hazen. She is predeceased by her loving husband, Paul of 65 years who passed away in March 2020.

Norma was a retired elementary school teacher of 30 years in Hopkinton. Norma enjoyed her family and friends. She was an avid reader who passed her love of books on to her students. She enjoyed baking, card making, dancing with her beloved husband, and knitting afghans for family members, prayer shawls for those needing comfort, and newborn baby hats donated to area hospital nurseries. In their retirement, she and her husband travelled in their RV to every state in the U.S. She was a member of The First United Methodist Church Of Westborough, Massachusetts Retired Teachers Association, and a past member of The Red Hat Society in FL.

Norma is survived by three children, Deborah (Kevin) of Upton, Edward (Diane) of Framingham, and Eric (Michelle) of Millbury. She also leaves behind her sister, Dorothy (Eugene) Bartlett of Bellingham; seven grandchildren, Erin Haberman (Andrew), Christopher Nordstrom (Stephanie), Kevin Linehan (Jennifer), Julianne Francis (David), Gregory Nordstrom, Michael Nordstrom, and Erica Nordstrom; seven great-grandchildren, Avery, William, Emerson, Samuel, Ethan, Everett and Margaret. She is predeceased by sisters Sylvia Hitchings, Charlotte (Joseph) Marquedant, and brothers Donald (Mary Antoinette) and David Hazen, and many nieces and nephews.

Social distancing visitation will be held on Friday, July 31st from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home, 57 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  Facial coverings must be worn and social distancing must be adhered to. A funeral service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery on Wood Street, Woodville on Saturday, August 1st at 10 a.m. In the event of inclement weather, please check the Chesmore website for a rain date. Due to Covid-19, a memorial luncheon will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Norma’s name can be directed to The Multiple Sclerosis Society 101A 1st Ave, Waltham, MA 02451or Parkinson’s Association, 72 East Concord Street, Room C3 Boston, MA 02118.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Janet M. Rooney

Medfield - Rooney, Janet M. (Larkin) died Friday, July 24, 2020 after a three-week illness. Born September 8, 1927 in Norwood MA to the late Albert and Agnes Larkin. She was the sister of the late Robert (Shirley), Allan and Richard Larkin all of Medfield, and the sister-in-law of Joan Larkin. She is survived by her loving and dedicated children, Linda (George) Armstrong of So. Dennis, Allan (Patricia) Rooney of Danvers, Janet (Paul) LeDuc of Hopkinton and her daughter-in-law Cecile Rooney of New Milford, CT. She was predeceased by her son Robert M. Rooney who died in 1992. She also leaves 9 grandchildren; Nathan and Luke Devine, Christopher, Patrick and Kathleen Rooney, Erin and Daniel Clark and Colleen and Kevin Rooney and 4 great-grandchildren, Jacoby and Whitney Rooney and Charlotte and Logan Devine, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Janet was educated in Medfield Public Schools and was voted Miss Personality, Class of 1946. She went on to study at the Stratford Secretarial School in Boston and also studied at The New England Conservatory of Music. Janet was an avid singer and sang for many weddings in Medfield throughout the years.

Janet married Robert Rooney in September of 1948 and settled in Danvers where she raised her four children. Anyone who really knew Janet knew that her claim to fame was that she sang for the soon-to-be President John F. Kennedy in 1960. She was a member of the North Shore Players, The Catholic Daughters and The Couple’s Club. She was very involved with her children as a Cub Scout Den Mother and a Brownie Leader and loved her time working as a playground monitor at the Portables and Danversport School. Janet’s home was always welcoming and was the house to feel comfortable in and a place for the neighborhood children to gather.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, August 1^st, 2020 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Roberts Mitchell Caruso Funeral Home, 15 Miller Street, Medfield, MA with a Funeral service to follow at 11:30, followed by a Christian burial at Vine Lake Cemetery, Medfield.

July 25, 2020 4:00 pm

Outdoor Concert at Hopkinton Center for the Arts

This year has been different than all the rest! We are kicking off our summer concert later this year and doing it socially distantly but we are celebrating summer and the HCA none the less! Join us for the final event of our week long fundraiser in support of the HCA.

The Mike Payette Band features the great vocal and bass talents of Michael Payette, who will be performing music ranging from a cool, unplugged, coffee house atmosphere, to a full dance band experience. Joining Mike and the band will be the vocal powerhouse Cecilia Colucci. We are fortunate to have Mike, his band, and Cecilia with us to perform an outdoor concert from the parking lot! As you arrive you will be assigned a socially distant parking spot where you can set up a blanket, chairs and picnic basket to enjoy a family evening of music and fun. Each car load will receive a swag bag of goodies, we will have raffle items available and the ice cream truck will stop by. Hope to see you there!

Reserve Your FREE Tickets Here

Thank you to our Summer Concert Sponsors UNIBANK &:

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Jaqueline Marie Bowker, 55

Jaqueline Marie Bowker, 55, of Taunton, MA, formerly of Hopkinton passed away unexpectedly July 16, 2020.  Daughter of the late Francis X “Jerry” and Sarah Riordan Bowker of Hopkinton, "Jackson" was the cherished first sister of Julie Bowker (Ho-ping Wei) of Portland, OR; beloved older sister of Kelley Bowker of South Boston; devoted life partner of Paul Pineo of Taunton.  Survived also by her maternal aunts Antoiniette Newhoff and Susan Reynolds, plus dozens of really cool cousins who appreciated her dry wit and engaging personality.  She further leaves the most remarkable community of ICU nurses from Pawtucket Memorial Hospital, where she worked energetically and expertly for 30 years.   

Jackie's childhood plan and life calling was nursing.   She graduated with a BSN from University of Massachusetts in 1987.   Prior to, and outside of hospital environs, her myriad pursuits were a gleaming reflection of her intelligent and curious nature.  She studied watercolor as a teenager with Nancy Bailey, shot hoops at Hopkinton High, and for 8 long years, muddled through and jazzed-up a classical repertoire on the piano with Constance Hehn.  She took second place in the annual science fair, and answered the phone and cooked suppers at St. John's rectory.  She loved learning French and at 16 dashed around Europe with the Foreign Exchange Club.   All that under her belt, she stashed her passport, and pursued cooking and gardening with experimentation and flair. 

She was a fine and caring neighbor.  She collected antiques, rode horses and raised hens.  As she was industrious and generous, so was she frugal: coaxing her old Toyota, clearing brush, operating her own wood chipper and using a clothes line.  She stoked a wood stove and prioritized the restoration of her 19th c. barn. She loved fairs, frilly frocks, flower shows, historic homes and visits to the MFA.  Above all, she loved her dogs.  Her brother-in-law says, "She was the most humorous person I've ever met." 

Interment will be at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Stoughton,   A mass and gathering to celebrate Jackie's Wonderful Life will take place at a date to be determined.  Gifts in her honor to the Framingham Heart Study, MS Society or MSPCA-Angell.  "That best portion of a good person's life, their little nameless unremembered acts of kindness and love."  (William Wordworth)

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, Hopkinton.

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Maureen E. Ferguson, 72

Maureen E. Ferguson, 72, of Holliston, died on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 after a prolonged illness. Born in Boston, she was the daughter of the late Cornelius P. and Mary E. (Linehan) O’Brien.

 
Maureen graduated from Brighton High School and Boston City College and ultimately earned her Master’s of Arts degree in English from the University of Michigan. After university, she became an English teacher and she taught her love of the written word to children in Waltham and in Hopkinton for over 35 years. Maureen was a fierce and passionate educator, known for her fiery style and wit. She retired to her home on Cape Cod in 2009.

She was the loving mother to Ryan and his wife, Tanya Ferguson, and an adoring nana to her two grandchildren, Andrew (9) and Elise (7). Above all else, Maureen loved her family. She cherished family time playing card games, making ice cream sundaes, and having cookouts on the deck of her home in Falmouth. She is survived and mourned by several cousins and friends whom she considered to be her closest family.

Interment will be held privately. A mass in Maureen’s name will be said at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28th at St. Mary’s Church of Holliston. In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made to the National Kidney Foundation at http://www.kidney.org/support . Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com

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Art @ A Distance: Celebrating the Arts at the HCA | A Week-Long Fundraising Event

July 23, 2020 6-8:00 pm

Enjoy a replay of the last concert directed by Richard Romiti, filmed by our friends at HCAM TV. You can watch this replay of the Treblemaker's spring 2019 concert on the HCA's YouTube Channel from the comfort of your own home!

In this concert our adult chorus celebrates America. You'll enjoy songs such as What A Wonderful World, The Star Spangled Banner, God Bless the USA and a medley of songs honoring our armed forces.

Reserve your ticket for FREE or with any denomination of a donation. Thank you for supporting the Treblemakers and our week long fundraiser "Art @ a Distance"!

https://HOPARTSCENTER.networkforgood.com/events/21844-treblemakers-tribute-to-america-concert-on-line

Free

Main Street Corridor Project Bid Process Underway

HOPKINTON, MA (July 22, 2020) - Hopkinton’s Main Street Corridor Improvement Project has now entered the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) bid process.

“We are proud of the efforts by the Town’s project team that have brought the project to its next phase where it will be managed by MassDOT from bidding through construction,” said Town Manager Norman Khumalo. “On the town side, we will continue to advocate for the will of the Town Meeting that approved the project.”

The bid process began with the advertisement of the project by MassDOT on June 27, 2020. From there, VHB, the Town’s Design Consultant, will be working closely over the next month or so with the Town and MassDOT to coordinate all of the next steps in the bid process.

A tentative date for the bid opening, where proposals submitted to MassDOT by contractors will be reviewed, is currently scheduled for August 11, 2020. Once the bid process is complete, MassDOT will award the project so construction can be scheduled and a construction start date will be announced.

A press release will be sent out by the Town to announce the selected contractor and the proposed start date. At this time construction is anticipated to begin in the Spring of 2021. For more information about the Main Street Corridor Project, visit the project website here.

Margaret Agnes Nichols (nee Lynch), 81, of Bradenton, FL, went to meet the Lord on Sunday, July 19, 2020, while in Hospice care. She had suffered many years with Lupus and COPD. Margaret was born on April 20, 1939 in Brooklyn, NY to Mary and Cornelius Lynch.

She is survived by her son Kevin Riess (Cheryl), grandsons Kevin, Brian (Maadiah), and Scott (Lauren), three great granddaughters and one great grandson. Also survived by siblings Mary Bodnar of SC, C. Pat Lynch of MA, Helen LoTruglio (Joseph) of CA, and many, many nephews and nieces. Twice widowed, she was predeceased by husband Eugene Riess (1961), and husband Buddy Nichols (2007).

Also predeceased by her infant daughter, son Eugene, parents Mary & Cornelius, sister Katie and brother John. She left NY in the mid-sixties and spent many years in Hopkinton, MA, before moving to FL and then SC. She worked many years as a supervisor in accounting departments for trucking companies in MA and FL before retiring. She volunteered for the Sheriff’s Department in FL and SC. She was Treasurer of Bocce and Bowling clubs in Sun City. While living in SC she was a member of Our Lady of Grace RC Church. Margaret was always very proud of her Irish heritage and was a member of Ladies Ancient Oder of Hibernians. Due to the Covid-19 virus, a Celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at a later date.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Baker-Polito Administration Extends Moratorium on Evictions and

Foreclosures to October 17

BOSTON — Today, Governor Charlie Baker extended the pause on evictions and foreclosures for 60 days, until October 17, 2020, through the authority granted to the governor by Chapter 65 of the Acts of 2020, An Act providing for a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures during the COVID-19 Emergency, which was signed into law on April 20, 2020. This law’s limitations on evictions and foreclosures have allowed many tenants and homeowners impacted by COVID-19 to remain in their homes during the state of emergency, and this extension provides residents of the Commonwealth with continued housing security as businesses cautiously re-open, more people return to work, and the state collectively moves toward a “new normal.” The moratorium was set to expire on August 18, 2020.

Click here to read the extension letter.

Tenants are strongly encouraged to continue to pay rent, and homeowners to make their mortgage payments, to the extent they are able. To assist low-income households in making rent and mortgage payments, as well as support landlords needing these rent payments to pay expenses, the Baker-Polito Administration launched a new $20 million, statewide fund, the Emergency Rental and Mortgage Assistance (ERMA) program, on July 1st.

This funding complements the $18 million currently available through the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) homeless prevention program, which can also be used for rent or mortgage payments. In each program, landlords or mortgage lenders receive payments directly from the RAFT administering agencies. 

During this 60 day extension, the Administration will consult with the court administrators and other stakeholders regarding programs and policies to help tenants avoid eviction when proceedings resume.

The law suspends most residential and small business commercial evictions, as well as residential foreclosures. It does not relieve tenants or homeowners of their obligation to pay rent or make mortgage payments. The law also:

• Prevents landlords from sending notifications to residential tenants that threaten eviction or terminating of a lease;

• Limits court actions on non-essential evictions;

• Relieves tenants, both residents and small commercial, from late fees and negative credit reporting;

• Allows landlords to use “last month’s rent” to pay for certain expenses, though not as a replacement rent payment, and only with proper notification of tenant;

• Requires lenders to grant a forbearance for up to 180 days if a homeowner experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 submits such a request; and

• Allows for alternative payment agreements between lenders and borrowers regarding forbearance payments.

Since the beginning of the State of Emergency, the Administration has supported housing stability for households across the Commonwealth. The Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED) has drafted emergency regulations to implement the notice provisions of the eviction and foreclosure moratoriums. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) supported our state-aided public housing and affordable housing operators with guidance, and worked with stakeholders across the state to coordinate resources. Additional resources and information can be found on DHCD’s COVID-19 Resource Page.

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Katrina Hope Yip, 47

Katrina Hope Yip, 47, of Hopkinton, passed away after a 15 year war with leukemia. Born in Kittery, Maine, she was the daughter of Judith Anne (Hosmer) Lincoln of Hopkinton and Peter Souther Lincoln of Florence, MA. She was the beloved wife of 14 years to Tyler Joseph Yip of Hopkinton.

With tremendous empathy for all living creatures, Katrina had a particular soft spot for senior rescue pets, and is preceded by cats Narnia, Nora, Nikki, Whitley, Xander, and Sirius, and guinea pigs Squealie, Mal, Lennie, Pigwidgeon, Neville, Vesper, Henry, Artie, Monroe, Linus, and Miles.

Besides her husband, Katrina leaves behind her four year old twins, Annika and Owen, cats Zoe, Charlie, and Spike, Guinea Pigs Lupin, Puff, and Pumpkin Pie, her parents, three aunts, two uncles, and her grandmother. Raised in Pelham, Massachusetts, Katrina graduated from Amherst Pelham Regional High School in 1990 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Smith College leading to a 25 year career in IT.

Private family arrangements are being made and are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com/  In lieu of flowers, donations in Katrina’s memory may be made to MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844 ( www.mspca.org/  ) or to Project Just Because, 109 South St. Hopkinton, MA 01748 (  www.projectjustbecause.org/   ).

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

Today, June 16, 2020, Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito will join Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders to provide an update on Coronavirus at noon. A live stream will be available here.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

MEDFORD, Mass. – Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian is reminding residents to be alert for scams and fraud targeting people across the country, including newly emerging scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over the past several weeks, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General have all issued warnings regarding COVID-related scams.

According to the FBI, they have seen an uptick in fraudulent unemployment claims in which scammers are using stolen identities to impersonate victims. If you think you have been the victim of identity theft related to such a claim, the FBI is encouraging you to contact “law enforcement, state unemployment insurance agencies, the IRS, credit bureaus, and your employer’s human resources department.”

The IRS is also warning taxpayers to be alert for “tax fraud and other related financial scams related to COVID-19.” The IRS’ Criminal Investigation division has reported scams relative to Economic Impact Payments (EIP), as well as the selling of fake at-home test kits, vaccines and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19, according to a release issued last month.

In an effort to help members of the public protect themselves, HHS’s OIG has created a video focusing on five things people should know to protect themselves against COVID-19 health care fraud. Among other steps, HHS is encouraging people to be cautious about unsolicited requests for personal information like Social Security numbers.

Additionally, Sheriff Koutoujian is urging residents to be alert for non-COVID related scams including arrest scams in which callers pose as members of law enforcement. In these scams, callers often threaten arrest for things such as failure to perform jury duty, failure to pay taxes or Social Security-related fraud, and attempt to either extract money or personal information which they can later use to commit other crimes.

“It’s important for all residents to be aware of this type of fraud,” said Sheriff Koutoujian. “The criminals who carry out these scams target residents of all ages and economic backgrounds.”

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Please Observe the Following:
 
 1. Wait in your vehicle until your turn.
 2.Face coverings must be worn.
 3.Social Distancing of 6 ft is required.
 4.White Metal Collection is the last Saturday of each month.
 5.Hours of collection are 7a-3p.
 6.No After hours illegal dumping. Police take notice.
 

  Thank you for your cooperation.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

(July 12, 2020 – Hopkinton, MA) -- Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) excitedly announces the return of live in-person events, with Art at a Distance — a week long celebration of the arts. This event will feature two outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and online events. Tickets are available now and are required for entry to the outdoor concerts taking place at the HCA (98 Hayden Rowe St.). Limited space is available to ensure social distancing. Tickets may be reserved for free or with a donation of any amount. All funds raised will go to help support the mission and programs of the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, a non-profit community arts organization that works to create a place for people of all ages and abilities to study, enjoy, and participate in the visual and performing arts under one roof.

Saturday, July 18, 4:00 p.m. Claflin Hill Symphony Summer Winds (Outdoor Concert). Enjoy a “Pops” experience at the HCA with wind and percussion musicians of Milford’s Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra. Viewing spots will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Limited tickets available. Guests are invited to bring their own dinner and chairs for their comfort.

Tickets: https://hopartscenter.networkforgood.com/events/21644-summerwinds-concert

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Senate Passes Bill to Expand Take-Out and Delivery Options in Restaurants 

Legislation will support Public Health and Economic Recovery

BOSTON (07/10/2020) – On Friday, July 10, 2020, the Massachusetts State Senate passed bipartisan legislation that gives restaurants more flexibility, and customers more choice, while the Commonwealth continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bill, An Act to Expand Take-out/Delivery Options in Response to COVID-19, would allow restaurants to include mixed drinks with take-out and delivery orders. Restaurants were previously authorized by the legislature to sell beer and wine with take-out orders.  The bill would authorize restaurants to serve mixed-drinks to-go until the Massachusetts’ state of emergency in response to COVID-19, declared by the Governor on March 10, 2020 is lifted.

“The Senate has stood by our small business owners throughout this pandemic, and today's bill provides yet another tool to help the restaurant industry get back on their feet,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “While the work to support our small businesses impacted by COVID-19 continues, I am proud to see this measure advance today. I want to thank Senators Diana DiZoglio, Michael Rodrigues and Joe Boncore for their advocacy and collaboration on this issue.”

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BOSTON (July 9, 2020) - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year. The presence of WNV was confirmed today by the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory in two mosquito samples collected July 7 in the town of Belmont in Middlesex County. No human or animal cases of WNV or Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) have been detected so far this year. There is no elevated risk level or risk-level change associated with this finding.

“The first WNV positive mosquito sample has been identified this year in Massachusetts,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “It is important to remember that WNV can cause very serious illness, especially in individuals over 50 and those who are immune compromised.”

WNV is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. There were 5 human cases of WNV in 2019. In 2018, there were 49 human cases of WNV infection acquired in Massachusetts – the greatest number of cases the Commonwealth has ever had in a single year. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. When present, WNV symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.

“People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown. “The tools for prevention include using a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient according to the directions on the label, wearing clothing to reduce exposed skin when weather permits, draining standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and repairing window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home,” she said.

Information about current mosquito activity in Massachusetts is updated daily and can be found here..

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.

Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Protect Your Animals

Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.

More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at https://www.mass.gov/mosquitoesandticks , which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.

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