Carl "CJ" Harris, Jr, 27

Candia, NH - Carl "CJ" Harris, Jr, 27, an old soul who completed his journey on earth on Sunday, March 29th at Boston Children's Hospital, of complications from a Bone Marrow Transplant last May. With his parents by his side, he is finally free from pain.

Always with a smile and a kind word to all who he interacted with, he remains an example of one who is known and loved by all. Hearts are breaking all over the world.

Born January 7, 1993 in Framingham MA, CJ lived in Hopkinton MA for many years. He enjoyed little league, spending time with his cousins and grandparents and tearing up the neighborhood on his four-wheeler.

In 2004, CJ and his family moved to North Sandwich, NH. CJ enjoyed the great outdoors of New Hampshire for over 10 years. Snowmobiling, four-wheeling and riding his dirt bikes over Young Mountain were his passions. CJ played Sandwich Lot Baseball, loved the Sandwich Fair, camping in the Notch with Kyle and jumping off the RT 113A bridge into the river, along with numerous Craig’s List purchases these were just a few of his well-known shenanigans.

CJ attended Inter-Lakes High School in Meredith, NH and graduated in 2011. In the fall of 2011, CJ began his four-year college experience at Colby Sawyer College in New London, NH. Majoring in History, CJ experienced college life to the fullest. While attending college, CJ was an RA, a stage show actor, and a potter extraordinaire. Many of his college friends visited him frequently while he was hospitalized.

His working career spans many mediums. Laconia Harley Davidson, Bootleggers, Peter Christian’s Tavern, State of NH 911 Call Center and most recently St. Joseph Community Services Meals on Wheels to name a few.

CJ had many passions in his life including his RX-8, cooking, shooting guns and his many friends. But most of all he enjoyed his Harley Davidson. Riding for CJ meant freedom and he logged many miles, including countless trips to Nova Scotia, York PA, Daytona FL and many points in-between. He was a member of the Winnipesaukee HOG Chapter. CJ also enjoyed the annual “guys weekend” trip to Americade in Lake George where it is was said, “he is the only real rider of the group” He was a legend among men.

He was a co-founder of the Annual Heather's Ride out of Meredith NH. For 10 years money was raised for his sister's Patient Support Fund at Boston Children's Hospital. Over $140,000 was raised in 9 years.

His proudest moment was officiating the marriage of his sister Nichole to his best friend Kyle.

CJ leaves in sadness, his mom, Barbara (Lutz) Harris and dad, Carl D. Harris, Sr, of Candia, his loving sister Nichole Perreault and her husband Kyle of Effingham, NH, and the apple of his eye his niece, Leah Perreault. He also leaves loving grandparents, Harold Lutz of Black Rock Nova Scotia, Donald & Julia Harris of Hopkinton, MA, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Heather Siebert, "Gramma" Dorothy Lutz of Black Rock Nova Scotia, and aunt Susan Mespelli of Upton, MA.

The epitome of the word WARRIOR, he endured medical challenges too many times in his short life. He would want his doctors, nurses and all of his "friends" at Boston Children's Hospital to be remembered for their attention and commitment to helping him through his medical struggles and very lengthy hospitalizations.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations be made to the Pediatric Patient Assistance Fund, #9999052, at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Burial will be private and a Celebration of Life is planned for May 17th at Searles Castle in Windham, NH, if allowed during these uncertain times.

Online First Friday Open Mic at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts
with Host Jack Byrne

To participate:
1. Request to join our Open Mic Facebook Group at

https://www.facebook.com/groups/644247046027344/

2. Sign-up for your time slot at 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A4A62EA4F94-first17

3. Share the link to this page with friends and family, so they can watch or join in!

Each singer gets 10 minutes or 2 songs. Sing from your piano, from your couch, wherever you can!
All are welcome to join the group and enjoy the live music.

Free for all! If you can, please consider making a donation to the HCA Resiliency Fund.

First Friday Open Mic is Sponsored by UNIBANK

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Governor Baker, Lt. Governor Polito Tour Field Medical Station Site At DCU Center

 April 1, 2020 — WORCESTER – Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito today joined MEMA Director Samantha Phillips and Maj. Gen. Gary Keefe, Adjunct General of the Massachusetts National Guard, to tour the ongoing work to set up a new Field Medical Station at the DCU Center in Worcester. The field station, which can be configured to a maximum of 250 beds, is being set-up today via three tractor trailers.

The Baker-Polito Administration announced the launch of the new Field Medical Station yesterday, in anticipation of a surge in COVID-19 cases. Through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, the Administration requested and received approval for this temporary medical facility, which will be used to treat lower acuity patients who still need monitoring. The Massachusetts National Guard is supporting the logistics of the ongoing set-up process.

UMass Memorial Medical Center will manage the facility, which will be staffed by a partnership including the City of Worcester, UMass Memorial, and others. UMass Memorial will lead the day-to-day running of the facility with support by state and local partners upon set-up.

Medical Stations, like the one being deployed to Worcester, are required to set up in facilities of at least 40,000 square feet to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and include beds, supplies, and a cache of medicine for basic care. ~Contributed content

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

William A. Eddy, MD, 94

William A. Eddy, MD, age 94, of Framingham, Mass passed away on March 31, 2020. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut to the late Eva Miller Eddy and Edward George Eddy. Dr. Eddy was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Cantor Eddy. He is survived by his son, Wayne Eddy and his wife Tina of Hopkinton, his daughter, Sue Bloom and her husband Dave of Kentfield, California and his daughter Eve Swenson and her husband Matt of Spokane, Washington.

He was the proud grandfather of Max, Gianna, Bella, Kelsey, and Melissa. William was a radiologist who worked at Framingham Union (Metro West) Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester and in private practice. Dr. Eddy received his undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Vermont. He served as a radar specialist in the Navy during World War II. Dr. Eddy loved his work and practiced medicine until the age of 86. He was known for his astute radiologic diagnostics, honesty and integrity. Donations in William’s memory can be made to Meals on Wheels BayPath.

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

9 total confirmed COVID-19 cases in Hopkinton

6 Recoveries, 3 active, No deaths

As of 11:00 a.m. on 4/1/20, Hopkinton’s Health Department has 9 total confirmed COVID-19 cases; 3 of those cases are active, with 6 recoveries and zero deaths. Our most recent cases fall within the 20-29 age range. The Health Department and Board of Health want to reiterate how important it is for all of our residents to practice social distancing and avoid any unnecessary contact.

Read Many More COVID-19 Updates and statuses for 4/1/2020 Here

Milford Regional COVID-19 Drive-thru Testing Update

Due to limited COVID-19 test supplies, Milford Regional’s drive-thru testing site is temporarily limited to healthcare workers and first responders.  Other test sites that may perform the COVID-19 test are:

AFC Urgent Care                                           Marlborough, MA            508-658-0764

Bellingham Urgent Care                                 Bellingham, MA               508-488-5488

Carewell Urgent Care                                     Northborough, MA          508-466-8677

Convenient MD Urgent Care                           Plainville, MA                  774-295-4355

North Smithfield Urgent Care                         North Smithfield, RI         401-768-3400

Lincoln Urgent Care                                      Lincoln, RI                      401-333-9595

UMass Memorial Medical Center                     Worcester, MA                855-862-7763

School Busing for Students in 7th grade, 2020-2021

The deadline for applying for fee-based school busing is: May 1, 2020.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Milford Regional Urgent Care Sites and COVID-19 Testing Update 

In response to the growing community spread of COVID-19, Milford Regional’s Franklin (1280 West Central St.) and Northbridge (100 Commerce Drive) Urgent Care sites  are now designated strictly for patients exhibiting respiratory illnesses, such as  fever, cough, mild shortness of breath, wheezing, sore throat, muscle aches, or lost sense of taste or smell.

Patients with other health issues in need of urgent care should access Milford Urgent Care site located at 129 South Main St., Milford.  Milford Regional’s Hopkinton (1 Lumber St.) Urgent Care site is temporarily closed.

In addition, due to limited COVID-19 test supplies, Milford Regional Medical Center’s drive-thru testing site is temporarily suspended. Other test sites that may perform the COVID-19 test are:

AFC Urgent Care                                           Marlborough, MA            508-658-0764

Bellingham Urgent Care                                 Bellingham, MA               508-488-5488

Carewell Urgent Care                                    Northborough, MA           508-466-8677

Convenient MD Urgent Care                           Plainville, MA                  774-295-4355

North Smithfield Urgent Care                         North Smithfield, RI         401-768-3400

Lincoln Urgent Care                                      Lincoln, RI                      401-333-959

UMass Memorial Medical Center                     Worcester, MA                855-862-7763

Milford Regional encourages symptomatic patients that do not qualify for testing to self-quarantine at home until they have had no fever for 72 hours AND symptoms have improved AND at least 7 days have passed since symptom onset.  Patients should monitor their symptoms and take their temperature daily.  If you develop any worsening of your symptoms such as increasing shortness of breath, chest tightness, lethargy, periods of confusion, or worsening fever, you should contact your primary care provider or go to the emergency department for evaluation immediately.

                Milford Regional encourages you to go to our website at milfordregional.org to stay up –to-date on the Medical Center’s response to COVID-19. 

Town of Hopkinton and BAA Collaborate to Support St. Vincent’s Hospital

March 31, 2020 — Despite the postponement of the 124th Boston Marathon until September 14, 2020, Hopkinton’s relationship with the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) continues to benefit the town and the region. Hopkinton resident Carolyn Jackson, who serves as the CEO at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester, MA, reached out to members of the Hopkinton Select Board looking for emergency personal protective equipment (PPE) for her staff. The first group the Select Board considered was the BAA. Hopkinton Select Board Liaison to the BAA, John Coutinho, was confident the BAA would come through once again.

 According to Coutinho, the Boston Athletic Association always shows up for Hopkinton and our entire region. “When the town heard there was a need for more PPE, we were confident we could turn to them,” said John Coutinho. “We are thrilled that they were able to step up and help keep our medical professionals safe in these uncertain times.” In partnership with the 26.2 Foundation, Coutinho has led and coordinated efforts to strengthen the collaboration between the Town of Hopkinton, the BAA, the 26.2 Foundation and the region. As a result, the relationship between the town, the BAA, and the 26.2 Foundation has never been stronger.

“Facilitating the arrival of more safety equipment for medical professionals who are dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic is another wonderful example of how we work together,” said Coutinho. “It’s just what we do; we take care of each other.” On Tuesday, March 31, Select Board members loaded approximately 3,000 “race day” rain ponchos into a pickup truck which were delivered by Coutinho to the St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester.  — PR

March 31, 2020

Good morning, Hopkinton Families:

I hope this email finds every one of you physically and emotionally well. These have been challenging days, I’m sure, for you as families. I thank you for the patience you’ve shown during an ever-evolving, unprecedented time in public education. Today I am writing with an instructional update, which comes as a result of Governor Baker’s extension of the school closure to at least May 4, 2020.

Here is a brief outline of what has changed at the state level. In the beginning, the Commissioner of Education took a cautious approach. Perhaps, like many of us, he hoped that the return to school would come much more quickly than has happened. Initially, Commissioner Jeff Riley asked school districts not to introduce new material, but rather to meet two goals: to prevent learning regression by reviewing previously taught material and to keep in contact with students and families. When the school closure was extended to May 4, 2020, the Commissioner acknowledged that voluntary review work on a long term basis would not serve our children well. Met with differing opinions from across the Commonwealth, Commissioner Riley, on March 26th, set new guidelines, allowing each school district to determine what its own curriculum, instruction, and assessment would look like.

While we do have concerns about equity and access, the Hopkinton Public Schools are going to move ahead with the presentation of new curricula. Will we “cover” everything we would have had we been in our brick and mortar settings for six and a half hours per day, five days a week? Absolutely not. So, it is incumbent upon educators to determine what are those curriculum goals that seem most important. Yet even as we are asking ourselves that question, we do so knowing we will need to remediate next fall. It may make us feel a little better if we consider that school districts across the state are confronting the same issues. We are fortunate that Hopkinton is a school district that has been able to put devices in students' hands. And using online attendance information, we will be able to reach out to individual families to thwart any obstacles that may be preventing access to curricula.

Over the past weeks, the Schools’ Administrators and Central Office Administrators, in collaboration with the Hopkinton Teachers Association, have been working to ensure a smooth transition to this revised remote learning. The guiding principles of our work include:

Focusing on the holistic needs of the educational community
Developing and implementing remote learning strategies
Creating a viable remote learning schedule
Ensuring feedback to students about their achievement using varied assessment tools

The official start date for our new instructional model is Monday, April 6, 2020.

What is changing?

Participation in remote learning is no longer voluntary; it is now an expectation for all students.
Each school has developed its own schedule that teachers will follow. Principals and teachers will reach out to students and families to outline their schedules.

 
Some of the learning will be synchronous, which means that the teacher and students will have a scheduled time to meet “in-virtual-person,” as I like to call it. During these meetings, teachers will engage students in instruction that comes in a variety of forms: whole class instruction, small group instruction or remediation, reteaching or enrichment, student check-ins, question-answer periods, direct feedback on student work, and more.

Some of the learning will be independent learning, meaning students will be assigned learning tasks to carry out on their own.

Students will now submit work to their teachers; teachers will offer students feedback on these assessments and record the results of those assessments in PowerSchool.

At the end of the year, students will earn a rating of either “credit” or “no credit.”

Our teachers and students have always enjoyed sharing a physical classroom space, where instruction and a sense of community have thrived. With the unrest that accompanies the Coronavirus generally and the impact that unrest is having on our schools, I ask that families be patient during the transition from schoolhouse instruction to remote teaching and learning. Remember that remote instruction is new to all of us. And, just as Hopkinton families are grappling with the effects of this pandemic, many of our teachers are attending to their children and their educational needs, their elderly parents, losses to household income, feelings of unrest, and more. Yet, in only a few days’ time, Hopkinton Public Schools educators have been asked to change the paradigm of their teaching. As a result of sincere collaboration with the Hopkinton Teachers’ Association, your child’s teachers are now adjusting their curricula, instruction, and assessment to meet unprecedented challenges.

Before closing, I want to encourage families to reach out directly to your child’s teachers as questions arise. Please plan to partner with your child’s teachers. Check in with your children on their assignments. Applaud them for a job well done. We’re all in this together. Also available are building principals, Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parson, Director of Technology and Innovative Learning Ashoke Ghosh, Director of Special Education Karen Zaleski, and I. We are all here and ready to help in whatever ways possible.

I continue to be concerned for everyone’s wellness and safety. I am thinking of you and your families and looking forward to the day when our children will once again inhabit our schools.

My very best to all,

Carol Cavanaugh

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Linda (Bortz) Snape-Newberry

HOPKINTON - Linda (Bortz) Snape-Newberry (born April 18, 1945) of Hopkinton, passed away on March 29^th in the Milford Regional Medical Center.  Born in Jefferson, Iowa, she was the daughter of the late Carolyn (Rich) and Dean Bortz.  She was the wife of 23 years of Wayne Newberry of Hopkinton.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her son, Alexander Alfred Snape, his wife Denise, and their two children, Oliver and Zoe of Kittery Point, Maine; her sister Carol Sweem and her husband Don of West Des Moines, Iowa; her nephew Steve Bortz of Superior, Colorado; her nephew Jeff Bortz and his wife Kristine of Alamo, California; her niece Cindi Miller and her husband Jim of West Des Moines, Iowa; her nephew Steve Sweem and his wife Sue of Chicago, Illinois; her niece Lori Stevenson and her husband Chad of West Des Moines, Iowa, and numerous grandnieces and grandnephews. She is predeceased by her brother, Robert Wayne Bortz of Jefferson, Iowa, who passed away on April 28, 1988.

Concerns about the COVID-19 virus prohibit a wake or funeral. If you wish, send donations to cancer.org, 800-227-2345 or to the LoveShriners.com, 883-330-0071.

BOSTON (March 30, 2020) – It is imperative that the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home provide a safe environment for the veteran residents, and the dedicated staff who serve them. Superintendent Bennett Walsh has been placed on paid administrative leave effective immediately. Val Liptak, RN, currently the CEO of Western Massachusetts Hospital, will assume responsibility for the administration of the Soldiers’ Home at this time. We have also implemented an onsite clinical command team comprised of medical, epidemiological, and operational experts responsible for the comprehensive and rapid response to the outbreak of COVID-19. All of these enhancements will build upon the existing protocols and work that align with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidance. Today’s actions underscore the state’s commitment to our veterans and frontline health care employees during this unprecedented public health crisis.

-- Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Dan Tsai

NOTE: WBUR has reported the deaths of eleven veteran residents of the home.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

The Shamrock Shindig has moved online!

We are excited to announce that our canceled fundraiser is now up and running online!

Check out our auction at https://www.32auctions.com/ShamrockShindig2020
We truly appreciate the support of the sponsors and donors. We are finding new ways during these unique and challenging times to continue to provide for the steadily increasing number of people needing assistance.
This online auction showcases many fantastic auction items - event tickets, dining options, home improvements, health & beauty items, and much more! Your bid will ultimately impact the lives of families that need our help.

MILFORD – Milford Regional wants to provide our patients access to our labs without the fear of exposure to COVID-19; therefore, the following lab locations will be open for healthy patients for all routine, non-respiratory illness related lab work, including, but not limited to INR (test for those on blood thinners), blood count and prenatal labs.

Labs Designated for Healthy Patients

17 Uxbridge Road (Route 16), Mendon, MA

215 West Street, Milford, MA

Remaining Lab Sites

The labs located within Franklin, Milford and Northbridge Urgent care sites will remain open as well as the lab in the Hill Health Center at the hospital. Although all lab orders will be honored at each site, we encourage healthy, non-COVID-19 symptomatic patients to visit the Mendon or 215 West Street, Milford locations.

Lab Sites Temporarily Closed

229 East Main St., Milford

1 Lumber St., Hopkinton

117 Water St., Milford (inside McGrath Medical Associates)

74 Main St, Medway (inside Family Medicine Associates)

Milford Regional encourages you to stay up –to-date on the Medical Center’s response to COVID-19 by visiting www.milfordregional.org .

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

A RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS

by Dave McGillivray
Yesterday, my son Luke and daughter Elle and I went to Staples to pick up some at home school supplies.  As we were waiting in line, an older gentleman was at the counter finalizing a purchase.  I didn’t notice but Luke did that he was on crutches.  He purchased what seemed like a big, heavy box of paper.  

Obviously, being on crutches he wasn’t going to be able to carry the box out to his car on his own.  My kids just noticed this on their own and immediately blurted out, “sir, can we help you carry that box out to your car?”   Whoa...I almost fell on the floor.  

The gentleman smiled and said, “well, kids, that’s very kind of you...and yes!” 

So, Luke and Elle carried the heavy box together out the door and to the man’s car, while I waited in line.  I know, what a slug I am in not doing it myself but it all just caught me off guard and I was just beaming with pride at seeing this “act of kindness” my kids were displaying. 

I got up to the register and the cashier said, “Wow, you must be so proud of your children, not every kid would have thought and offered to do that.”  I was speechless.  When my kids came back into the store, I wanted to give them both a big hug but didn’t want to “embarrass” them in front the other customers.   When we got into the car, I made it clear to them that what they did was very special and very kind.  Although we ALL are going through a most difficult time right now, it’s these relatively simple acts of kindness that mean so much and can help you get through the rough times.  

I’m so proud of my children.

NOTE: Dave McGillivray is the Race Director for the BAA Boston Marathon, an author and a motivational speaker.

Hopkinton

PROPANE TANKS FILLED

Mon - Sat 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Sun 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

20# fill

STORE HOURS

M-F 5:30 am - 7:00 pm

Sat-Sun 6:00 am - 7:00 pm

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

John Stanislaw Aroian, 75

John Stanislaw Aroian, known as Jack to his many friends and relatives, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2020 at the age of 75. Born in Virginia at the end of WWII, he was the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Wilk) Aroian. He is survived by his very beloved daughter, Kate Aroian and her significant other, Trevis Singh of Charlton; also his brothers, Mick Aroian and his wife, Leslie, of Spencer and Bob Aroian and his wife, Gayle, of Barre; his friend and former wife, Beth (Claflin) Hearn and her husband, Bill, of Marstons Mills as well as 8 nieces and nephews.

 
Jack will be remembered as a loving father and for his great and quirky sense of humor and feisty attitude, his intense loyalty, and the bond he made with his friends. Those who knew him well, will also remember that he always won at Pitch and was there putting in the last jigsaw puzzle piece. After retiring from his midlife career as a house painter, Jack worked in the deli at Colella’s Market until its closing.

Jack had a lifelong interest in aircraft, was a superb model builder since his childhood in Cherry Valley. He gained his pilot’s license in Marlborough, MA at Don’s Flying Service, attended numerous airshows, including several trips to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and knew the details of every WWII plane. He graduated from Leicester High School at age 17 in 1962 and immediately joined the United States Navy. There he had his dream job as a photographer on the landing deck of the USS Enterprise until 1966. He was fortunate and thrilled to cruise the world, visit and photograph many beautiful and historic sites in Australia, South America and the Mediterranean.

After serving in the Navy, Jack returned to MA and attended Worcester State College graduating with a BS in Biology in 1971. While there he met fellow musicians and formed a band that performed locally in Middlesex and Worcester Counties. He played bass in the band ACO5 which performed 6 nights a week at the former Turtle Lounge in Hopkinton in the 70’s and early 80’s. He left a position as a research biologist in 1975, when his daughter Kathryn (Kate) Aroian was born, to stay at home as a house husband. During that time, he became an accomplished cook delighting friends and family with Chinese, Middle Eastern, Polish and other incredible dishes. Throughout his life he was an avid photographer, aircraft enthusiast, stamp collector and gardener, something he had done with his maternal grandparents as a child. It was no surprise that his diversified interests in history, geography, plants, cooking, photography, music and life, made him a wiz at Jeopardy.

 
At this time, plans for a memorial service are suspended until a later date. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home in Hopkinton, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com .

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

MassBay Classes Transition to Remote Learning

WELLESLEY HILLS, Mass. (March 27, 2020) – MassBay Community College has transitioned all courses to a remote learning format beginning on Monday, March 30, 2020, in an effort to help the Commonwealth combat the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). This distance-learning format will replace any previously scheduled face-to-face courses that were scheduled for the spring 2020 semester. MassBay faculty have been transitioning their courses this week, and students will begin their studies with the new format beginning Monday. Students are strongly encouraged to check their MassBay email accounts daily as individual faculty members will reach out with specific instructions about the new format and for any coursework changes.

“This is a rapidly-changing situation and our faculty have worked diligently to adjust their course delivery formats. Staff members are also working hard to support faculty and transition student services to a remote configuration to ensure all students are able to continue with their studies,” said MassBay President, Dr. David Podell. “We will be connecting in many different ways and formats, and we encourage all students to reach out often to faculty and staff as we are all available to help them through their educational journey.”

Remote learning will include online course assignments, WebEx conferencing, Blackboard, and other web-based tools and creative concepts that faculty have developed to help connect virtually to students to support their educational goals. All MassBay student services and offices including the career and counseling services, the advising, admissions, student accounts, financial aid offices, and the library also have moved to a virtual format to continue providing wrap-around services and support for students.

Photo courtesy Nate Principato/ MassBay Community College.

To learn more about MassBay visit www.massbay.edu

Massachusetts Public Health Department reports 10 more COVID-19 deaths, bringing statewide total to 35; more than 29,000 people have been tested

BOSTON (March 27, 2020) –For the second day in a row, 10 new deaths from COVID-19-related illness were announced by state public health officials, as the number of people tested in Massachusetts grew to over 29,000.

There were 823 new positive cases reported in the state in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of positive cases to 3,240 in Massachusetts.

The 10 new deaths were men and women who ranged in age from their 60s to their 90s and who lived in Bristol, Barnstable, Middlesex, Franklin, Berkshire, and Norfolk counties.

Thirty-five Massachusetts residents have now died from COVID-19 related illness, up from 25 deaths yesterday.

A total of 29,371 Massachusetts residents have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory, commercial and clinical labs, a jump of 5,750 tests since yesterday. The DPH daily online dashboard reflects testing results for 20 clinical and commercial labs performing testing in Massachusetts, in addition to results from the State Public Health Laboratory.

Expanded testing capacity in Massachusetts continues to be a focus of the work of the COVID-19 Response Command Center, and the effort to increase testing capacity across the state will continue.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been 85,356 cases of COVID-19 and 1,246 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Jurisdictions reporting cases include all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands.

In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

To keep updated regarding COVID-19 in Massachusetts, residents can text "COVIDMA" to 888-777 to receive COVID-19 text message alerts straight to their phone.  More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19. For general questions, a 24/7 hotline is available by calling 2-1-1.

Michael James Murphy Jr., 55

Michael James Murphy Jr., 55, of Uxbridge and formerly Hopkinton, passed away after a short illness on Friday, March 27, 2020 at Milford Regional Hospital. Born in Worcester, he was the son of Ellen (Reilly) O’Leary of Hopkinton and the late Michael James Murphy. 

Michael was a 1983 graduate of Keefe Tech in Framingham. He enjoyed fishing, especially at the canal catching stripers. He took pleasure in riding his motorcycle and attending his nieces and nephews sporting and dance events. 

Besides his mother, Michael is survived by his step-father, John O’Leary; his sisters, Amanda Kaferlein and her husband, Mark of Uxbridge, and Kelly McCracken and her husband, Patrick of Reading. He also leaves behind his Aunt Janice Davis and her husband, Ken of Lakeland, FL; his nieces and nephews, Liam, Brooklyn, Quinn, Chloe and Kate, as well as several cousins.

Massachusetts Announces State Income Tax
Filing Deadline Being Extended to July 15

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Robert DeLeo today announced an agreement to extend the 2019 state individual income tax filing and payment deadline from April 15 to July 15 due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. This income tax relief is automatic and taxpayers do not need to file any additional forms to qualify.

“Massachusetts will move the state personal income tax filing and payment deadline to July 15, consistent with the federal government, in order to provide additional flexibility to filers during this crisis,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “In partnership with our colleagues in the Legislature, we are committed to providing this flexibility to taxpayers in a way that protects the Commonwealth’s strong fiscal footing that we have all worked hard to develop over the past several years.”

“We are proud to work with the Legislature to provide meaningful relief to people throughout the Commonwealth during this public health emergency,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “This extension will afford taxpayers additional time to file their Massachusetts individual income tax returns as we carry out the historic response to the COVID-19 outbreak.”

"The top priority during this public health crisis is to address the immediate needs facing our residents,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “Our message is clear: residents should stay home and avoid social contact to be safe. Extending the tax deadline helps us accomplish that goal and provides peace of mind. I want to thank Chair Rodrigues, as well as our partners in the House and the Administration for their continued collaboration in confronting the challenges facing our Commonwealth."

“The House, in partnership with the Senate and the Administration, agreed to an extension of the state tax filing deadline to ease the burden on individuals while agreeing to borrowing measures that would protect the Commonwealth’s revenue stream,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo. “Thank you to Chair Michlewitz for his leadership in ensuring the Commonwealth’s fiscal viability while providing tax relief to those unduly effected by this crisis.”

Today’s announcement will move the state income tax filing deadline to match the July 15 deadline for filing federal individual income taxes. Legislation will be filed in the near future to finance the extension, and accompanying administrative changes will be implemented through the Department of Revenue. Specifically, the legislation will authorize the Commonwealth borrowing flexibility to manage deferred revenue this fiscal year and repay it in the next fiscal year, which starts July 1, 2020.

Individuals with questions or concerns regarding taxes can contact the Massachusetts Department of Revenue at (617) 887-6367 or send a secure e-message through MassTaxConnect.

The Commonwealth will continue to update the public on further developments and individuals are encouraged to consult both the Department of Public Health and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites for the most up to date information.

The latest information and guidance regarding COVID-19 is always available at www.mass.gov/COVID19 .

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Are your kids going a little stir crazy, looking for new things to do? I have the perfect activity – The Dream Big Marathon which consists of running 26 miles , reading 26 books and doing 26 acts of kindness. This addresses three important pillars – health and fitness, education and giving back. This can be done over any period of time – a week, a month, whatever works.

How does it work?

Simply go to http://dreambigwithdave.org/  and check it out. Hundreds of school children are currently doing the Dream Big Marathon all over the US. Download (print) the instructions and form - http://dreambigwithdave.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DreamBig_Marathon.pdf .

Once completed, mail in the form and your children will feel a huge sense of accomplishment and be sent the prestigious Dream Big Marathon medal! You can also purchase a copy of the book, Dream Big, on Amazon.com ( https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Big-Story-Courage-Determination/dp/1619306182 ). Proceeds of the book benefit the Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation (see https://www.jmbigheart.org/).

Attached are some photos of school appearances as well as a sample of a Dream Big Marathon Program which a school in Texas developed and very successfully conducted for thousands of school children! I also attached one child’s form I just received back in the mail today!

Please feel free to share this program with anyone you’d like including any local media outlets. The more we can share it, the greater the chance more kids will get the opportunity to do something unique, productive and special during this unprecedented time in our lives.

Be safe and remember “the comeback is always stronger than the setback.”

Dave McGillivray

Massachusetts Public Health Department reports 10 more COVID-19 deaths, bringing statewide total to 25; to date more than 23, 500 individuals tested

BOSTON (March 26, 2020) – State health officials today announced 10 additional deaths from COVID-19, the largest number of deaths in Massachusetts reported in a single day, as the number of tests grew by 3,827 people since yesterday.

As of 4 p.m. today, Massachusetts has 579 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 for a total of 2,417 cases.  A total of 23,621 Massachusetts residents have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory, commercial and clinical labs, a jump of more than 3,827 since yesterday. The DPH daily online dashboard reflects testing results for 20 clinical and commercial labs performing testing in Massachusetts in addition to results from the State Public Health Laboratory.

Expanded testing capacity in Massachusetts continues to be a focus of the work of the COVID-19 Response Command Center, and the effort to increase testing capacity across the state will continue.

The 25 people who have died ranged in age from 50s to 90s. They include residents from Middlesex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Worcester, Hampden, Berkshire, Essex, Barnstable, and Franklin counties.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 68,440 cases of COVID-19 and more than 994 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

To keep updated regarding COVID-19 in Massachusetts, residents can text "COVIDMA" to 888-777 to receive COVID-19 text message alerts straight to their phone.  More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19. For general questions, a 24/7 hotline is available by calling 2-1-1.

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TOWN OF HOPKINTON 18 Main Street Hopkinton, MA 01748 COVID-19 Updates & Precautions March 26, 2020 AM update Previous updates and additional resources can be found here: www.hopkintonma.gov/covid-19  The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has confirmed that COVID-19 is spreading throughout the Commonwealth.

All town buildings are closed to the public. Parks, Playgrounds and Playing Fields are closed. Town Officials and Emergency Management personnel continue to monitor the rapidly evolving COVID-19 public health emergency.

As of 11:00 a.m. on 3/26/20, Hopkinton’s Health Department has 7 total confirmed COVID-19 cases; 6 of those cases are active, and Hopkinton’s first recovered case was released from quarantine this morning.

However, as testing increases, more cases may be identified in our Town. Health Department officials are advising residents of community spread of COVID-19. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected. Read full update here.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Massachusetts Public Health Department reports four more COVID-19 deaths,

bringing total in state to 15; to date 19,794 individuals have been tested

BOSTON (March 25, 2020) – State health officials today announced four additional deaths from COVID-19. These include:

·         A male, 80s, from Norfolk County with pre-existing conditions

·         A male, 80s, from Barnstable County with pre-existing conditions

·         A male, 70s, from Worcester County with unknown pre-existing conditions

·         A woman, 70s, from Worcester County with pre-existing conditions

All four had been hospitalized. These deaths bring to 15 the total number of deaths from the novel coronavirus in Massachusetts.

As of 4 p.m. today, Massachusetts has 679 new cases of COVID-19 for a total of 1,838 cases.  A total of 19,794 Massachusetts residents have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory and commercial and clinical labs. The DPH daily online dashboard reflects testing results for all of the clinical and commercial labs performing testing in Massachusetts in addition to results from the State Public Health Laboratory.

In addition to the State Public Health Laboratory, Quest Diagnostics, and LabCorp, the online dashboard includes 10 more labs and their testing data.  Expanded testing capacity in Massachusetts continues to be a focus of the work of the COVID-19 Response Command Center, and the effort to increase testing capacity across the state will continue.

The 15 people who died ranged in age from 50s to 90s. They include residents from Middlesex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Worcester, Hampden, Berkshire, Essex, and Barnstable counties.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 54,453 cases of COVID-19 and more than 737 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

To keep updated regarding COVID-19 in Massachusetts, residents can text "COVIDMA" to 888-777 to receive COVID-19 text message alerts straight to their phone.  More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19. For general questions, a 24/7 hotline is available by calling 2-1-1.

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Hopkinton’s NEW ONLINE “Edible Book Festival”

To enter, fill in this google form: https://forms.gle/Anq3pV2V9ZAhkqzb7

   Hopkinton Girl Scouts invite book and food lovers of all ages to Hopkinton’s NEW ONLINE Edible Book Festival.

To enter, make a creation** related to a book or reading, and take a photo of it. To enter, submit the photo and attached entry form.  All entries are due by April 1st.

**Please note, for this year's competition, entries can be made with any materials, whether edible or non-edible, so long as it relates to a book or reading.
Entries fall into the following categories:

            1) Child Category: Single Baker who a child 8^th grader or younger;

2) Adult Category: Single Baker who is 9^th grade High School student or older;

3) Family Category:  Creation prepared by two or more individuals (any group, may include adults and/or children). 

Voting will take place online after April 1st. Stay tuned for more details!   

The Edible Book Festival started in 2016 as part of Girl Scout Troop #65040’s Bronze Award project to promote reading and literacy. 

Questions? Email hopgstroop65040@gmail.com .  For more information, or to view prior years entries, please visit: https://troop65040.wordpress.com/

To enter, fill in this google form: https://forms.gle/Anq3pV2V9ZAhkqzb7

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 by Robert Falcione

March 24, 2020 -- These are difficult times. I am reminded of what an individual said to me at the beginning of the popularity of the World Wide Web.

    "It is like the Dark Ages," he said, referring to that period in human history in which little was accomplished, and little history was preserved. I was stunned at his perspective, and said so. He explained.

    "Well, back then there were stories circulating about dragons and other mythical goings on that people actually believed were true. And now, anyone can put forth any story without having to go through the regular process of scrutiny by a staff or an editor, or adherence to a journalistic discipline," he explained.

       He said that about 20 years ago, even before fabrication trumped truth, as it often does now, and before unqualified people on facebook held more weight with some people, than a seasoned reporter working for an established news organization.

      In a grocery store a little over a week ago -- it seems like a lifetime ago -- the shopper in front of me exclaimed to the cashier, and the person bagging his groceries, that the entire corona virus thing was a bunch of baloney.

      "Cows have been getting a vaccine for the corona virus for decades," he claimed with rock-solid belief and unflinching certainty. Next, he said it was all drummed up by the news media.

     "It is a novel virus," I explained to him, believing that the the word is from the Latin root for "new."

     "It is COVID-19, which they just discovered in humans," I said through my mask, not knowing if his claim about a previous cow vaccine was true; even so, his claim, true or not, is irrelevant. I have read that the novel virus, now a zoonotic disease, recently migrated in Wu Han, China from an animal species to humans, and that is why humans have no immunity to it. It is reminiscent of the human migration that began with Christopher Columbus, an Italian navigator sailing for Spain who discovered the West Indies in 1492, and brought microbes and viruses to those already inhabiting the land who had no immunity. What happened to the indigenous people of the land was incredibly tragic, but we hope things are different in 2020. Our government and our science and medicine understand how this viral disease travels from person to person and have taken steps, social distancing among them, to mitigate the personal and societal effects of the spread.

        "What the media does, what we do, is to inform people with facts. We don't repeat unsubstantiated rumors," I said with conviction, while placing my toilet paper on the conveyor belt.

        "You're with the press? Where?" asked the cashier. After telling her, the person bagging said she was originally from Hopkinton. I knew her parents, for whom I cared a lot. The man ahead of me, hopefully now more informed, said goodbye and left quietly with his groceries.

         I walked out of the crowded store, made sure no one was nearby, and hearing no cough or sneeze, I removed my mask and inhaled wonderful, cool, delicious air.

         Mmm...

For those who would like to submit something for publication, please send to Editor@HopNews.com

Or, you may choose the Town Talk link above, or click here, for a less public conversation, or even to reply to the above story.

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Massachusetts Public Health Department reports four more deaths from COVID-19, bringing the total number in the state to nine

BOSTON (March 23, 2020) – Two females, both in their 70s and from Essex and Worcester counties, and two men -  one in his 60s from Suffolk County and the other in his 80s from Norfolk County - have died from COVID-19-related illness, bringing the total number of deaths from the novel coronavirus in Massachusetts to nine. All four were hospitalized and had underlying health conditions.

As of 4 p.m. today, 8,922 Massachusetts residents have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory and commercial and clinical labs, up from 6,004 residents on Sunday. Of those 8,922 people, 777 have tested positive.  For the first time, testing results for all of the clinical and commercial labs performing testing in Massachusetts is posted, in addition to results from the State Public Health Laboratory, on its COVID-19 online dashboard.

Today’s case numbers reflect additional testing being performed in Massachusetts by several additional labs. In addition to the State Public Health Laboratory, Quest Diagnostics, and LabCorp, the online dashboard includes 10 more labs and their testing data.  Expanded testing capacity in Massachusetts continues to be a focus of the work of the COVID-19 Response Command Center, and the effort to increase testing capacity across the state will continue.

The nine people who died ranged in age from 50s to 90s. Three of the six men were from Suffolk County, the other three from Norfolk, Hampden, and Berkshire counties. The three women were from Worcester, Essex, and Middlesex counties.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 33,400 cases of COVID-19 and more than 400 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19. For general questions, call 2-1-1.

1)

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Massachusetts Public Health Department reports three more deaths from COVID-19, bringing the total number in the state to five

BOSTON (March 22, 2020) – Three men - two in their 70s from Hampden and Berkshire counties and a third man in his 90s from Suffolk County– have died from COVID-19-related illness, bringing the total number of deaths from the novel coronavirus in Massachusetts to five. All three men were hospitalized. The Berkshire County man was reported to have an underlying health condition but all three men were in an age group that is more likely to experience severe disease from COVID-19 regardless of prior health status.

The confirmation of their deaths followed a weekend during which the commonwealth’s first two COVID-19 deaths were confirmed: a man in his 80s from Suffolk County who had been hospitalized and had pre-existing health conditions and a woman in her 50s from Middlesex County who had a pre-existing condition, predisposing them both to more severe disease.

As of 4 p.m. today, 6,004 residents of Massachusetts have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory and commercial labs. Of those, 646 people have tested positive.  For the first time, DPH is also providing data on the age range of COVID-19 cases to the online dashboard.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 15,219 of COVID-19 and more than 200 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19.

1)

Massachusetts Public Health Department reports state’s second death from COVID-19 

BOSTON (March 21, 2020) – A woman in her 50s from Middlesex County is the second person in Massachusetts to die from COVID-19 related illness, the Department of Public Health announced today. She had a pre-existing condition predisposing her to more severe disease.

As of today, more than 5,200 residents of Massachusetts have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory and commercial labs. Of those, 525 people have tested positive. 

Yesterday, DPH announced that a man in his 80s from Suffolk County was the first person in Massachusetts to die from COVID-19 related illness. The man had been hospitalized and had pre-existing health conditions that put him at higher risk for COVID-19.

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 15,219 of COVID-19 and more than 200 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

• We have applied to be a provider of emergency child and school age care for the children of health care workers, first responders and other needed personnel. Our thanks go to our caring and compassionate staff who are working to make this possible. 

• We are partnering with the City of Framingham and others towns in our service area to act as a collection site for a variety of items including gift cards, toiletries, over the counter medicines, diapers, wipes, toilet paper, crayons, coloring books, books, other at-home-learning tools and any other daily essentials.  

• We are also working to partner in an effort to help get food to people during this challenging time. 

BOSTON (March 20, 2020) – A man in his 80s from Suffolk County is the first person in Massachusetts to die from COVID-19 related illness, the Department of Public Health announced today. The man had been hospitalized and had pre-existing health conditions that put him at higher risk for COVID-19.

To date, 3,132 residents of Massachusetts have been tested for COVID-19 by the State Public Health Laboratory and commercial labs. Of those, 328 people have tested positive. These figures will be updated on DPH’s online coronavirus dashboard at 4 p.m. today.

“I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends who lost their loved one,” said Gov. Charlie Baker. “We are living in uncertain and challenging times, and our administration is bringing every available resource to bear in the fight against this disease, and remind everyone in our Commonwealth to continue to work together, follow social distance protocols and look after each other to keep our communities safe.”

COVID-19 activity is increasing in Massachusetts. At this time, if people are only mildly symptomatic, they should stay home. If they become more ill, they should speak to their healthcare provider about whether they need to be assessed in person. If not, they should stay at home while they are sick. Asymptomatic family members should practice social distancing and immediately self-isolate if they develop symptoms.

In the United States, there have been more than 10,400 cases of COVID-19 and more than 150 deaths, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Massachusetts and nationwide, the public is being asked to avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others, not shake hands or hug, and call/Facetime and online chat with friends and loved ones rather than meet face to face.

More information about COVID-19 can be found at www.mass.gov/covid19 .

See entire update here

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

MILFORD – As things continue to change with the coronavirus outbreak, Milford Regional Medical Center continues to respond by adjusting services as necessary. As of March 19, mammography services at Milford Regional in Franklin have been suspended, as have ultrasound services at both Milford Regional in Franklin and Milford Regional in the Blackstone Valley. All emergent studies will be performed at the hospital.

Offsite x-ray services remain open for walk-in patients at our urgent care locations in Milford, Franklin, Hopkinton and Northbridge.

Imaging services at the Women’s Pavilion, located on the fourth floor of the Hill Building, will only be open on Thursdays for emergent cases.

In addition, our patient pick-up locations have changed. All patients and day surgery patients will be discharged through the Imaging Center on the first floor, and their ride can pick them up at that entrance.

Patients that may be having urgent or diagnostic procedures in the Hill Health Center can be picked up at the Hill Health Center entrance.

Blood donations will continue to take place at The Blood Donor Center at Milford Regional located at the Imaging Center entrance.

The Red Cross is currently facing a severe blood shortage and urgently needs all blood types. Milford Regional supports the ongoing efforts of the Red Cross to ensure patients continue to have access to a safe, adequate blood supply. Anyone who has an appointment will be screened before entering the Medical Center. At each blood drive, Red Cross employees follow thorough, extensive safety protocols. More information can be found at www.redcross.org/give-blood . Appointments for blood donations at Milford Regional can be made by calling 1-800-733-2767.

Milford Regional encourages the public to visit our website, www.milfordregional.org  prior to coming the hospital for the most up-to-date information.

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker today activated the Massachusetts National Guard to support the Commonwealth’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak, representing a significant addition of supply chain resources available to the Commonwealth and its residents.

Governor Baker’s order authorizes activation of up to 2,000 National Guard members across the Commonwealth, who will be tasked with supporting requests from state agencies for equipment, logistics, warehousing, and related duties. Local cities, towns, and state agencies should submit requests for support through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

“Activating the National Guard will help support our Administration’s efforts to keep residents safe and secure during the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The expertise of the Massachusetts National Guard will benefit our communities with logistical support and other assistance as we continue to respond to this crisis.”

The activation order reflects Governor Baker’s statutory authority to activate the Massachusetts National Guard under state active duty to provide necessary assistance to state and municipal civilian authorities.

The Massachusetts National Guard is 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.

On March 10, Governor Baker declared a state of emergency, giving the Administration more flexibility to respond to the Coronavirus outbreak. The Administration will continue to update the public on further developments and residents are encouraged to consult both the Department of Health and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most up-to-date information. The latest information and guidance regarding COVID-19 is always available at www.mass.gov/COVID19  .

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Helping Hands Program

In light of the challenges created by COVID-19 for many in our community, The Knights of Columbus, in collaboration with St. John the Evangelist Parish of Hopkinton and St. Cecilia Parish of Ashland are launching a Helping Hands Program to provide assistance to those who may need a little extra help during this difficult time.

We understand that social distancing, business closures, and limitations on food, medications and other critical supplies has created severe hardships for some in our community.

The Knights of Columbus want to help.

If you are in need of assistance with tasks such as:

• Grocery shopping

• Picking up medical prescriptions

• Running local errands

• Local travel for important events (such as doctor appointments)

• Assistance with tasks at home please reach out to the Knights of Columbus.

Leave us a message at: 508-435-3313 ext. 214

or

Email us at: hopkintonhelp@gmail.com or ashlandhelp@gmail.com

Please be sure to tell us your name, what type of assistance you need, and how we can get in touch with you.

We will have volunteers checking the phone line and email several times daily and then reaching back to you to coordinate assistance. We will do our very best to reach out to you within 24 hours of your call.

Please note, this is not an emergency hotline. If you have urgent medical needs or require emergency services, please call 911. We are not able to provide any immediate emergency assistance.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities