August 23, 2019 -- Christian Vidal took this
photo, coincidentally, on Christian Hill Road in Upton, of a waning
double rainbow. It had not gold, but gigantic marshmallows at its
end.
Senior Bike Ride
Thursdays, August 1,8,15,22 and 29 10:00 a.m. - before 12 noon
Location: Milford Bike Path Parking lot near the Hopkinton Border
We are introducing a series of easy 15 miles bike rides intended for
those looking for a more casual ride or just getting back into
cycling. The ride is 15 miles. We welcome all who have bike riding
experience. This is also an introduction to group riding for those
new to riding with others. The route is a back and forth on the
Milford Bike Path. The group will meet at the parking lot near the
Hopkinton border, which is three miles south of Main Street on Route
85. We travel a route which is essentially flat, but with a few
short hills. Riders should have bikes in working order with tires
inflated, and be able to maintain 10 mph on the flats. The ride
leader will keep the group together, and no one will be left
behind.. The ride leader is Eli Post, a Hopkinton resident, who has
extensive experience in organizing and leading bike rides. Helmets
are required. Feel free to email Eli
elipost@comcast.net
with questions.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
Your help is needed!
Please join theFriends
of the Libraryon
Friday, September 13, from 9:00 a.m. until noon, at St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church [61 Wood Street, Hopkinton], to help peel
apples & assemble pans of our delicious Apple Crisp. Volunteer
peelers should bring their own apron, favorite paring knife,
peeler, and cutting board on Friday.
ORyou
may help between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., on Saturday,
September 14, as we sell the tasty treat on the Common at
PolyArts. The profits provide financial support for the Friends
contributions to/for the Library.
Hard to do with only a few, so all are
welcome to join with us in this wonderfully productive and
social event!
Susan
V. Lukey, 68, of
Hopkinton, passed away unexpectedly due to medical complications on
Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at UMass Medical Center in Worcester.
Born in Orange, MA, she was the daughter of the late Marjorie
(McLaughlin) and Thomas Keller. She was the wife of 47 years to
Clarence “Skip” Lukey of Hopkinton.
A Hopkinton resident since Junior High
School, Susan had a love of horses and was the leader of Hopkinton’s
4H Clubs, The Woodville Trailbusters for over 35 years. She took
pleasure in watching children ride horses, especially for the first
time. There was also a crafts 4H Club, the Crafty Cats, for a number
of years that was a favorite of many kids. She is remembered for the
memories that she created with the 4H and love of animals.
Besides her husband Skip, Sue is survived by
her daughter, Melissa Remillard and her husband, Andrew of
Woodville; 3 sisters, Jane Leathers (Chuck) of FL, Wendy Grass
(Frank Torento) of Hopkinton, and Mary Keller of Utah. She also
leaves behind two grandchildren, Brittney and Peter Remillard.
Visitation will be held on Monday August 26th
from 4pm to 7pm at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden
Rowe St.
www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com . A funeral service will be
held at the funeral home on Tuesday August 27th at 10am. In lieu of
flowers, donations in Susan’s memory may be made to 4H Middlesex
Horse Advisory Council, c/o Dee Raftery, 267 Great Road, Shirley, MA
01464.
August 22, 2019 -- In the week
following Hopkinton Schools Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh
announcement at last Thursday’s School Committee meeting that a
record 191
new students had enrolled since June, that number has now grown to
218, with another 16 pending approval.
School officials had originally
been planning for the coming school year based on a New England
School Development Council (NESDEC) forecast of 104 new students.
Last year, 186 additional
enrolled between June and October.
Obviously, the growing number of
newly enrolled students will require hiring additional staff and
providing more classroom space.
“Architects are looking at the
cost estimates to build the six classroom addition on to the back of
the high school,” said Cavanaugh.
“The cost of that new
construction would have to be included in the Fiscal Year 2021
school budget,” she said.
Even if the budget is approved,
construction probably wouldn’t start until the fall of 2022,
Cavanaugh said.
In the area of good news, the
Massachusetts School Building Association (MSBA) coming to visit the
schools in September.
Cavanaugh is hoping Hopkinton
will be invited into the funding process for a renovation/expansion
project at Elmwood which is a big piece of addressing enrollment
increases.
In the area of funding, more
good news comes from town Chief Financial Officer Tim O'Leary, who
supplied HopNews with the following information:
“The Legacy Farms Host Community
Agreement with the Town of Hopkinton contains a provision (paragraph
22) specifying a payment of $500,000 for the benefit of the
Hopkinton Public Schools when student enrollment from the
development reaches 250 students.
“That $2,000 per student payment
was made by the developer in January, 2019.
“The agreement also calls for
additional payments to be made on an inflation-adjusted basis for
each increment of 30 additional students.
“Currently, the
inflation-adjusted rate for those payments is up to $13,855 per
student, or $415,650 for a 30-student block.
“As of April 1st the Legacy
Farms enrollment was at 342 students, 76 above the agreement’s
trigger threshold of 266 students; so the agreement calls upon the
developer to provide an additional payment of $831,300 to the
schools for the two 30-student enrollment increments that have
occurred,” according to an email from O'Leary.
However, nowhere near all of the
new enrollees are coming from Legacy Farms.
Exactly where the majority are
coming from is unclear, but local Realtor Chuck Joseph notes that
there has been some recent turnover in four bedroom homes in town.
“The overriding reality is that
Hopkinton is well known for having an excellent school system, and
families are eager to relocate here,” Joseph said in a recent
telephone interview.
Joseph, who has a degree in
Education Administration, is also a member of the town’s newly
formed Growth Study Committee.
He said be believes that the
committee should look at the school population and how to better
predict its future growth.
August 21, 2019 -- State Rep. Carolyn
Dykema's Senior Picnic was very well attended this noontime. Choose
each thumbnail to enlarge it. Above, Rep. Dykema calls out winning
numbers for raffle prizes. By the way, some attendees were
apparently not senior citizens. No one checked IDs.
Successful Party
August 21, 2019 -- State Representative
Carolyn Dykema poses with her mother, Mary Coyne, at her annual
Senior Picnic, which was held at Faith Community Church of
Hopkinton this afternoon. Rep. Dykema credited her mother with
being the greatest influence in her life. More photos will be
uploaded later tonight.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
SHAUN
MCAULIFFE
HEALTH DIRECTOR
SMCAULIFFE@hopkintonma.gov
508-497-9725
August 21, 2019 -- On Friday, August
16, 2019, a human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) was
confirmed in a young adult resident of Grafton, Massachusetts.
This was the second case of EEE in Massachusetts in 2019. In
response, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MADPH)
raised the EEE risk rating in Hopkinton and 11 surrounding
communities to Critical, and the Town of Hopkinton quickly
issued a Press Release and a Code Red general notice that same
day, with information about EEE and what the increased risk
rating meant. With the Critical Risk designation, the MADPH
Strongly Recommends that all outdoor activities from dusk to
dawn be canceled or rescheduled to reduce human exposure to
mosquitoes during their peak times of activity. To further
reduce risk, residents are urged to utilize insect repellent,
wear protective clothing, eliminate potential breeding areas
around the yard and repair screens where damaged.
To further reduce the risk of exposure, the Hopkinton Health
Department is coordinating the localized ground spraying of high
risk areas through our partner, the Central Massachusetts
Mosquito Control Project. Residents can request yard spraying of
their property at (508) 393-3055. Please note that spraying does
NOT eliminate the risk. Personal protective measures must also
be taken.
To compliment the ground spraying, the MADPH, Massachusetts
Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) are
coordinating aerial spraying of theregion. The aerial spraying
of the region is scheduled to start on Sunday, August 25th and
consecutive days, weather permitting. The Hopkinton Health
Department will share more precise scheduling information
through a news update on our homepage at www.hopkintonma.gov as
well as through social media posts at
https://twitter.com/HopkintonMA
and https://www.facebook.com/hopkintonma.gov
Please visit the DPH website at
www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito
for more information on mosquitos and EEE. For additional
questions about aerial spraying, please contact MDAR Crop and
Pest Services at (617) 626-1700. For updated info on EEE risk
and aerial spraying, contact the DPH Division of Epidemiology
(617) 983-6800. As always, please feel free to contact the
Hopkinton Health Department at (508) 497-9725.
We finally have a short 1 minute clip from
Roger's July show. (Caution, some adult humor).
Massachusetts opioid-related overdose deaths fall nearly 11
percent in the first six months of this year compared to last
year
The presence of fentanyl rises to an all-time high
BOSTON
(August 21, 2019) – Opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts
continue to decline, falling nearly 11 percent in the first six
months of 2019 compared to the first six months of 2018, according
to preliminary data released today by the Massachusetts Department
of Public Health (DPH). In the first six months of 2019, there were
938 confirmed and estimated opioid-related overdose deaths in
Massachusetts or 112 fewer than the 1,050 deaths between January and
June of 2018, the latest quarterly report shows.
The decline in opioid-related overdose deaths is occurring despite
the persistent presence of the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl. The
presence of fentanyl has risen to an all-time high. In the first
quarter of 2019, fentanyl was present in 92 percent of
opioid-related overdose deaths where there was a toxicology screen.
In 2018, fentanyl was present in 89 percent of opioid-related
overdose deaths where there was a toxicology screen.
“Despite the battle we continue to fight against fentanyl’s presence
in Massachusetts, the overall decrease in the first half of this
year marks continued progress in decreasing opioid-related overdose
deaths,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We were pleased to work with
our colleagues in the Legislature to invest more than $246 million
this year in prevention, treatment, recovery and education solutions
to the opioid epidemic and remain committed to working with all
levels of law enforcement on removing fentanyl from Massachusetts
communities.”
``Our investments across the spectrum of prevention, treatment,
intervention, and recovery are paying dividends in communities
across the Commonwealth and the data contained in DPH’s quarterly
report inform the decisions and policies that have helped lead to
better outcomes for many individuals struggling with addiction,”
said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.
The 2018 opioid-related overdose death rate also fell an estimated 4
percent from 2016 - to 29.4 per 100,000 people from 30.5 per 100,000
people.
``The data is a promising indicator that our investment in a
multi-pronged, multi-year strategy to increase access to treatment
for this complex disease and underlying co-occurring illnesses is
helping to save lives,” said Health and Human Services Secretary
Marylou Sudders. ``We must remain committed as a Commonwealth to
employing every tool we have at our disposal to reduce the impact of
opioid addiction and overdose deaths and to provide hope and
recovery.”
The latest report is accompanied by a data brief on Overdose
Education and Naloxone Distribution Programs (OEND), an important
tool in the state’s efforts to reduce overdose deaths through
prevention efforts and expanding access to naloxone. Naloxone is an
opioid antagonist that acts as an antidote, temporarily reversing
the effects of opioids when administered during an opioid overdose.
The report also suggests that there needs to be additional efforts
to promote access to Naloxone through the statewide standing order
at all Massachusetts pharmacies.
Encore Presentation of "Special Ed" band at
Woodville Rod & Gun, 2009
Throw on the headphones at work, or crank up the speakers at home
and enjoy.
Editor's Note: Above, Photo by Robert Falcione
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Time to Spray the Epoxy
August 20, 2019 -- Sculptor Jeff Buccacio,
having sand-blasted the top part of the Claflin Fountain on the
Hopkinton Common today, is seen applying an epoxy primer with a
sprayer. The third step is to apply the finished coat. Because of
the size of the fountain, each section of the fountain, part of
which Mr. Buccacio designed and sculpted from scratch, must have all
three steps completed before moving on to the next.
Stopping Traffic
August 20, 2019 -- This pea hen was tall enough to see on the side
of the road as she and her brood waited there
for traffic to stop, which it did; and then they crossed in
front of the stopped vehicles to get to the other side of the road,
in Charlton this afternoon.
Thinning Out
October 20, 2019 -- Our favorite heronry in Oxford is thinning out
as the young find their wings as well as their way. The bird above
appeared to be crying for food, although it appears to be fully
grown, today.
Georgia L. Straight, 85,
Georgia
L. Straight, 85, died Monday, August 19, 2019 in
Milford after a brief illness. She was the wife of Robert W.
Straight, to whom she was married, for 66 years, and resided with in
Hopkinton. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late
Cleveland and Ann (Eldridge) Spaulding.
Georgia was a 1953 graduate of Natick High School and was employed
for over 20 years as a Manager at Fenwal in Ashland. She also worked
as a Manager in the cafeteria at Hopkinton High School for 13 years.
Her happiest times were spent with family, hosting and cooking for
family events, gardening, and camping. Georgia will most be
remembered for her love and devotion to family, and her generosity
to all. Her beautiful smile and laugh brought happiness to all.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons Robert C.
Straight and his wife Anna, of Upton and David L. Straight and his
wife Rebecca, of Brookfield, three grandchildren , Christina
Straight of Yarmouth, Brendan Straight of Brookfield, and Samantha
Straight and her dog, Lola, of Brookline. She is also survived by
her sister Shirley Rovinelli of Westboro, her brother William
Spaulding of Natick, and her niece and godchild, Betty Dunham of
Ashland.
She was predeceased by her parents, Cleveland and Ann Spaulding of
Natick, a sister, Virginia Dunham of Ashland, and brothers Harold
Spaulding and William Spaulding, both from Natick.
A graveside service will take place Friday, August 23 at 11:00 a.m.
in Evergreen Cemetery, Route 135, Woodville. Calling hours at the
Callanan Cronin Funeral Home 34 Church Street, Hopkinton, will be
Thursday, August 22 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Donations may be made to the Hopkinton Ambulance Fund, 73 Main
Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
Hopkinton Police Incident Log > Caller complains about how traffic detail
is run
> Caller reports being followed and videotaped
> Rollover on East Street w/injuries
August 19, 2019
No new arrests this week
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Reminder
We are excited once again to announce the launch of our next
children’s illustrative book,Running Across
America. It will be held at Fenway Park
on the night of Monday, August 26that 6pm,
the same evening at the 3rdAnnual Fenway
Park Marathon! If you are in the area, we would love to see
you there...best possible venue for this book launch party!!
See link below...
UNIBANK PROMOTES SEAN J.
O’CONNELL AS DIRECTOR
OF BUSINESS & CONSUMER BANKING
WHITINSVILLE, MA – Christopher D. Foley,
President of UniBank, recently announced that Sean J. O’Connell,
Vice President, has been promoted to Director of Business &
Consumer Banking. In this role, Mr. O’Connell is responsible for
the strategic oversight and management of the consumer banking
division. In addition, his responsibilities include planning,
organizing, and directing the activities of retail, customer
contact center, branch administration, business banking, and
UniVest Investment Services.
“Sean has been an integral part of the UniBank team for the past
3 years,” commented Christopher D. Foley, UniBank President.
“His well-deserved promotion allows him to leverage his
knowledge and expertise from his 10 years of banking experience
to have a positive impact on the future of our consumer and
business banking operations.”
Mr. O’Connell has been with UniBank for 3 years and has 10 years
of banking and management experience. He holds a Bachelor of
Science in Business Management from Westfield State University.
Mr. O’Connell is also in the process of earning a Master of
Business Administration degree from Nichols College.
UniBank prides itself on community involvement and Mr. O’Connell
embraces that mission. He is a Board Member and Finance
Committee Member for The Children’s Study Home in Springfield,
MA, a member of the Worcester Young Businessmen’s Association
and he is involved in the Worcester Regional Chamber of
Commerce.
UniBank is rooted in the Blackstone Valley with assets of $1.8
billion as of June 30, 2019. A full-service, mutually owned
community bank, UniBank has branches in Central Massachusetts
and the MetroWest region of Massachusetts. UniBank newest
full-service branch is located at 193 Boston Turnpike (Route 9)
in Shrewsbury (at the former site of Spag’s). UniBank is
dedicated to contributing to the overall quality of life and
economic health of the communities it serves, while maintaining
a high level of financial soundness and integrity. UniBank is an
Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC and Member DIF. UniBank
NMLS #583135. The company website is
www.unibank.com .
Increased enrollment puts schools in 'dire straits'
by Jim Kleinkauf
August 19, 2019 --
Hopkinton schools had expected about 100 new students to enroll for
the this upcoming school year. The real number is already closer to 200 and
it’s only August.
School
officials have been planning for the coming school year based on a
New England School Development Council (NESDEC) forecast of 104 new
students.
Hopkinton Schools Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh (File photo) shared
current enrollment figures at the School Committee meeting last
Thursday.
In grades K-12, 191 new students have enrolled since June. Of
those, 22 were added last week alone.
Last year, 186 additional enrolled between June and October, so the
new figures have already surpassed last year’s unexpected spike.
“We are in dire straits,” said Cavanaugh in a telephone interview on
Saturday.
Making decisions on the current data can backfire, said Cavanaugh,
referring to what she called “the danger of August,” because numbers
have been increasing on an almost daily basis.
See
chart. Click to enlarge. ---->>>>>>
NESDEC rates Hopkinton the fastest growing school community in the
state, according to Cavanaugh.
Since current enrollment data projects about 90 more students that
expected, Cavanaugh said five new staff would be required. The
criteria for this, she said, is the ratio of 1.4 staff for every 20
students.
Hiring a number of “A Paras” (paraprofessional staff members) is
also being considered, said Cavanaugh.
Timing for adding new staff is still in flux, said Cavanaugh.“We
vowed never ever again do what we did last year,” Cavanaugh said,
recounting how bringing in new teachers in the middle of the first
term last year proved to be disruptive for students who were forced
to adjust to even more changes so soon after beginning a new year.
The best way to introduce new hires to the district is either before
school starts or In January, said Cavanaugh.
Besides the need to hire more staff, there is also a pressing need
to provide more space for additional students. When Hopkinton High
School was built almost 20 years ago, one wall was designed to be
modified for the addition of six additional classrooms, Cavanaugh
said.
“Architects are looking at the cost estimates to build the six
classroom addition on to the back of the high school.
“The cost of that new construction would have to be included in the
Fiscal Year 2021 school budget." Cavanaugh said.
Even if the budget is approved, construction probably wouldn’t start
until the fall of 2022, she said.
In the area of good news, the Massachusetts School Building
Association (MSBA) is coming to visit the schools in September.
Cavanaugh is hoping Hopkinton will be invited into the funding
process for a renovation/expansion project at Elmwood which is a big
piece of addressing enrollment increases.
To address the potential need for additional classrooms immediately,
Cavanaugh said, that in some cases existing empty rooms, which had
not been intended to be classrooms, might be used on a temporary
basis.
“Some of these rooms,” she said. “do not have windows facing
outdoors, but do have windows facing an interior corridor.”
According to the most recent enrollment data, the greatest increase
is in new first grade students. Twenty four new students are
expected, with two more pending approval.
Second grade will have the next highest number, with 23 new students
expected, and three more pending approval.
Hopkinton Police Incident Logs — Resident leaves assisted living facility
— Car snaps pole
— Resident finds chickens in backyard. Puts them in dog crate
8/16 -- 8/18
No New Arrests
Real Estate Transactions for Hopkinton
New
Transactions from August 12, 2019 -- August 18, 2019 -
Choose blue links to see town's property cards
Strong Showing
August 18, 2019 -- The Board of Health gave the green light for
tonight's Concert on the Common, which ended at 7:00 pm, before dusk
and mosquitos.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Sunset Jazz Series
August 18, 2019 -- The Hopkinton Center for the Arts, out of an
abundance of caution and warnings from the Board of Health of a
critical EEE risk, on Saturday moved their last outdoor jazz concert
of the season indoors, rather than on their usual lawn location.
The performers were from the acclaimed Claflin Hill Symphony
Orchestra of Milford.
Preening
August 17, 2019 -- At first glance, and especially from the opposite
side, this great blue heron looks like a character in a Washington
Irving novel. But its beak is simply buried under its wings,
preening itself, and is not headless, at Pout Rock yesterday on Lake
Maspenock, as seen from West Main Street.
Bee Careful
August 17, 2019 -- This bee at Lake Whitehall was very busy this
afternoon.
Happy Together
August 17, 2019 -- These turtles felt comfortable enough to stick
their necks out on Little Pond this afternoon,
and to pose for several minutes for the photographer.
Bette Davis Eyes
August 17, 2019 -- This moth on the shore of Little Pond at the
southern end of Lake Whitehall might attribute the longevity of its
species to the fact that it appears that two eyes, about a hundred
times larger than its own, are staring at any potential predator
coming from above. It would give pause to any predator that falls
for the genetic mutation that helps keep the line alive.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Bertha A. “Betty” Casey, 84, of
Hopkinton, passed away Aug. 12, 2019 at home, surrounded by her
loving family. She was the wife of the late William J.
Casey.
Born in Lawrence, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Bertha
(Walsh) Sheehan. She was raised and educated in Lawrence and North
Andover and was a graduate of Lowell University.
Betty was an elementary school teacher for over 20 years in
Hopkinton.
She was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church in
Westborough and a former communicant of St. John the Evangelist
Church in Hopkinton where she taught CCD and was an active volunteer
within the parish. She was also a former Girl Scout and Cub Scout
leader, volunteered for The Mustard Seed and was a lifelong
volunteer.
She is survived by her four children, Mary M. Casey and her husband,
Mark Caplan, of Westborough, Michael W. Casey and his wife, Cynthia,
of Canton, Martha J. Casey of Hopkinton, and James D. Casey and his
wife, Julie VonderHaar, of Charlotte, N.C.; two brothers, Edward
Sheehan and James Sheehan; one sister, Mary Duffy; and eight
grandchildren.
Her funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, Aug. 19, at 10:30 a.m.,
in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough.
Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery of Hopkinton. A calling
hour will be held from 9-10 a.m., at the Pickering and Son
Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Dana
Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02215 or at
www.dana-farber.org .
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
EEE Risk in Hopkinton Now Critical
On Friday, August
16, 2019, a human case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) was
confirmed in a young adult resident of Grafton, Massachusetts.
In response, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
(MADPH) has raised the EEE risk rating in Hopkinton,
Grafton, Northbridge, Shrewsbury, Southborough, Upton,
Westborough, Framingham, Marlborough, Millbury, Northborough and
Sutton to Critical. With the Critical Risk designation,
municipal and community leadership are recommended to cancel or
reschedule outdoor gatherings, organized sporting events, etc.
to avoid peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn). Residents are urged
to utilize insect repellent, wear protective clothing and also
reduce out of doors activities between dusk and dawn.
In response to the Critical Risk
designation, the Hopkinton Health Department, MADPH, the
Massachusetts Department of Agriculture and the Central MA
Mosquito Control Project will coordinate aerial and ground
spraying throughout the Town of Hopkinton and the affected
region. The MADPH will initiate a regional education and
awareness campaign. The Hopkinton Health Department will
manage the campaign locally. All regulatory parties will
continue to monitor the situation while the Critical Risk
designation is in place. State and local health departments
will provide regular updates to the Town Leadership and
Residents of Hopkinton.
Please feel free to contact the
Hopkinton Health Department at (508) 497-9725 with any
questions or concerns. The Central Massachusetts Mosquito
Control Project can be reached at (508) 393-3055.
Instead
of an outdoor performance, Stephen Chaplin and The Claflin Hill Jazz
Quartet will be performing 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm inside tonight in the
Delbridge Performance Center at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts
due to the CRITICAL RISK level for EEE in Hopkinton.
Saturday at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts
Saturday, Aug. 17 Stephen Chaplin and The Claflin Hill Jazz Quartet
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm The HCA is proud to partner with The Claflin
Hill Symphony Orchestra for this final sunset jazz concert.
In case of rain the concert will inside.
All Sunset Jazz Series concerts are free and open to the public.
Sponsored by the Hopkinton Local Cultural Council.
98 Hayden Rowe St. Hopkinton, MA 01748
508.435.9222.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Birds' Eye View
October 16, 2019 -- My family and I were
returning home from a vacation to Scandinavia yesterday when I
took the image above. With clear skies, I was able to get these
shots of glaciers in Iceland and Greenland with an older iPhone
5S, through a thick airplane window at nearly 37,000 feet.
The sight of glaciers breaking apart along the southeastern
coastal tip of Greenland was stunning – and disturbing. I don't
know what 'normal' is for this region in summer, but it sure
appeared to my unscientific eyes to be a significant amount of
ice crumbling into the fjords and then out to open sea. And,
I'll admit I felt a wave of
guilt knowing that the scene unfolding below our plane was, in
part due to the very air travel that was allowing me to now
witness it. ~ John Sherffius
Chelsea Man Arrested After Striking Pedestrian in Boston
This
morning, just about 2 a.m., troopers from State Police–Tunnels
arrested ADELMO RODRIGUEZ, 47, of Chelsea for several offenses,
including: Operating under the Influence of Liquor; Attempted
Murder; and Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, 2 counts.
Troopers, while on patrol on Porter Street in East Boston,
observed a gray Toyota Corolla driving in reverse and crash into
a light pole, causing the vehicle to become stuck on a utility
box. As Troopers arrived, the driver was attempting to dislodge
the vehicle by aggressively accelerating forward and backward
and in the direction of the troopers. After several verbal
commands were given, RODRIGUEZ exited his vehicle and was
ordered to the ground and placed under arrest.
Preliminary investigation indicates a pedestrian had been struck
and was located lying on the sidewalk. Boston EMS
responded and transported the pedestrian to an area hospital for
injuries. A second vehicle was also struck and located with
heavy damage rendering it inoperable. The occupants of
that vehicle were not injured.
RODRIQUEZ was transported to the Tunnels Barracks for booking
and charged with the following offenses:
1.) Assault with a Dangerous Weapon;
2.) Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle;
3.) Operating Under the Influence of Liquor;
4.) Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, 2 counts;
5.) Leave the Scene of Personal Injury;
6.) Leave the Scene of Property Damage;
7.) Resist Arrest;
8.) Threat to Commit a Crime;
9.) Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle; and
10.) Marked Lanes Violation.
RODRIGUEZ is expected to be arraigned today in East Boston
District Court. The crash remains under investigation by
troopers assigned to Troop H. No further information is
available. Please do not call the barracks direct for
information.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
DA, MSP Ask for the Public’s Help Identifying Vehicle in Fatal
Motorcycle Crash
WOBURN
– August 15, 2019 -- Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and
Massachusetts State Police are asking for the public’s help
identifying the vehicle believed to be involved in the fatal
crash that occurred around midnight on Tuesday morning on
interstate 95 North, north of the exit 35 off ramp, in the town
of Woburn.
The crash resulted in the death of a motorcycle operator Matthew
R. Carr, 23, of Woburn. The driver of the other vehicle involved
did not remain on scene following the crash.
The preliminary investigation suggests that the involved vehicle
may be red or maroon colored, multi-axle dump truck, or tractor
trailer. Based on the circumstances of the crash, the
vehicle may also have damage to the tire or wheel area.
The vehicle is believed to have been travelling northbound on
interstate 95 at the time of the crash.
Mr. Carr, the motorcycle operator, was driving a Black 2012
Suzuki GSX-R600.
Investigators are asking anyone who has information about the
crash or the vehicles involved, to please callMassachusetts
State Police-Danvers at (979) 538-6161orMassachusetts
State Police assigned to the Middlesex District Attorney’s
Office at (781) 897-6600. Tips may be anonymous.
Police are specifically seeking:
· Anyone who may
have seen either vehicle operating on Route 95 NB shortly before
midnight in the area of exit 35 in Woburn and areas to the
north, and/or Route 93 SB from beginning at exit 37A on Route 95
and areas to the south on Route 93; or
· Any area
repair shops that may have seen a vehicle matching the truck’s
description with damage to the tire or wheel areas.
This is an open and ongoing investigation being conducted by the
Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, Massachusetts State
Police, Troop A and the Massachusetts State Police Collision
Analysis and Reconstruction Section (CARS).
EEE confirmed in Hopkinton -- Spraying Begins
Tonight
Eastern
Equine Encephalitis (EEE) has been confirmed in mammal-biting
mosquitoes in Hopkinton, Westborough and Southborough.
With
the forecast including a reduction in humidity and warm
overnight temperatures, there is a high risk for human contact
with mammal-biting mosquitoes.
Consequently, the Massachusetts
Department of Public Health is proposing to increase the risk
rating for the region on Thursday and is advising the residents
within the region to utilize insect repellent, wear protective
clothing and reduce our time out of doors in the evening and
overnight hours. The Hopkinton Health Department has authorized
the Central MA Mosquito Control Project to treat the Hopkinton
neighborhoods where infected mosquitoes were identified (pending
release from MADPH). Spraying will begin Thursday 8/15/19 and
Friday 8/16/19, weather permitting.
The Health Department will provide regular
future updates on this matter.
For more information, or to opt out of
spraying, residents can call the Central Mosquito Control
Program at 508-393-3055.
Accelia Needs Another Loving Home
Can you qualify? Price Reduced to $199, includes
all
Owner looking to move, and would like to find
someone who has experience with birds to provide a new home for her.
She is a 4-5 year-old Sun Conure who loves to imitate sounds and noises.
She enjoys cuddling. This bird can be seen at pet stores for $600 or
more . $299 gets the bird, beautiful bird cage, small travel cage,
toys, bowls and food.
Text only to 774-823-7703.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
George
R. Desmond of Framingham, formerly of Sherborn,
Massachusetts passed away peacefully on August 13, 2019. He was the
husband of Alice B. Desmond to whom he was married for 59 years.
Born in Framingham in 1930 he was the son of the late George R.
Desmond, Sr. and Kathryn Orzeck Desmond. He graduated from St
Stephen School, Framingham, Boston College High School in 1947 and
Boston College in 1951. He started law school at Boston College and
then served in the U.S. Army 66th Counter Intelligence Corps in
Germany as a resident special agent in Weiden, Bavaria for two
years. After his discharge from the Army he finished law school at
Georgetown University in 1956 and worked as an attorney for the US
Department of Justice in Washington and on special assignments in
Montgomery, Alabama, New Orleans, Biloxi, Mississippi and Pensacola
Florida. While in Montgomery he met Alice Ballard whom he married in
1960.
He stayed with the
Department of Justice until 1962 when he returned to Framingham to
open a law practice. He started out in a general practice of law but
over the years the practice developed into a concentration on
bankruptcy and insolvency. He was involved in many notable reported
cases and was active in bar association activities serving as
Chairman of the Massachusetts Bar Association Committee on
Bankruptcy from 1970 to 1976 and as president of the South Middlesex
Bar Association in 1977.
He enjoyed traveling
across the country with his family, cooking and hosting friends at
his home. He served as a lay lector at St. Stephen Church in
Framingham and St. Theresa Church in Sherborn. He was especially
devoted to Boston College High School where he served as the reunion
organizer of his class.
In
addition to his wife he is survived by his daughter Mary Hooper, her
husband Sean Hooper, grandchildren Liam Hooper and Haley Hooper of
St. Charles, Illinois, his son John Desmond, his wife Cecile Desmond
and grandson James Desmond of Hopkinton, Massachusetts, his daughter
Susan Desmond of Lynn, Massachusetts, and his sister Maureen Kelly
and her husband Brian Kelly of Camden, Maine. He was predeceased by
his sister Patricia Hunter of Natick and Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.
Relatives and friends
are invited to attend his funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Saturday August
17, 2019 at St. Stephen Church, 221 Concord Street, Framingham,
Massachusetts. There will be a visitation period before the funeral
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler
Funeral Home, 11 Lincoln Street, Framingham, Massachusetts.
Irene N. (Snyer) Sands, 83, of
Winchester, NH and formerly of Hopkinton, MA passed away Monday,
August 12, 2019. Born and raised in Hopkinton, she
was
the daughter of the late Irene “Sue” (Davis) and Peter Snyer. She
was the wife of 37 years to the late Theodore “Ted” Sands.
Family was very important to Irene. She was a loving daughter and
wife, and devoted her life to taking care of others. She spent many
years caring for nieces and nephews, and then being a caretaker of
her parents and her husband, Ted. Irene had an amazing sense of
humor and loved to make people laugh. She loved to cook, loved
company, animals, taking care of her “house birds” and feeding the
wild birds, and carnations. She made beautiful decorative candles,
and loved to grow flowers. She and her husband Ted enjoyed
travelling to many places.
Irene is survived by Ted’s three children, Michelle “Shelly”
Sands-Brockway and her husband, Ed, Debra Sands-Mazzola and her
husband, Mark, and Jason Sands and his wife, Caryn. She also leaves
behind 10 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, as well as many
nieces and nephews. Her life-long devoted friend Jean (Dumas)
Arseneau will miss her terribly. She is predeceased by her siblings,
Peter Snyer, Cornelius “Neacy” Snyer, George Snyer, Betty Holden,
and Sarah Stone. Shelly, Ed, Jason, Caryn and her niece Irene
DelBono were grateful for the chance to help and care for Ted and
Irene, re-paying their love and kindness.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 17th from 10:00-10:45
a.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com
A funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 11:00
a.m. Burial will be held privately at a later time. In lieu of
flowers, donations may be made to an animal charity of ones’ choice,
or the https://monadnockhumanesociety.org
where Irene bought her little dog Sonja, when she discovered she
was going to be euthanized.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
New Police Officer, More
August 14, 2019 -- Above, newly appointed
Hopkinton Police Officer Tyler Brabham, center, poses with
Select Board members, fellow officers, superiors and family
members following his acceptance by the board, bringing the
amount of police officers to 26.
Below, Fire Chief Stephen Slaman (white
shirt) listens from the visitors' gallery as Select Board Chair
Brendan Tedstone details a recent incident.
Chief Slaman was at a charity event on
August 4, 2019, KeepSmilin4Abbie, when a man, prominent in
Hopkinton for 20 years came down with a heart attack while
playing a sport and died, explained Mr. Tedstone, who was also
present.
"Fortunately for everybody involved, our Fire Chief Steve Slaman
was there. He jumped into action with [Firefighter] Scott
Jurassic and did CPR on this person, they got a defib and
brought the this person back to life.
"I am proud to have him as a friend," said
Mr. Tedstone.
Thumbnails of other highlights
below. Choose each to enlarge.
1. Girl Scout Emily Bograd and Mallory
Peishoff Talk about their Gold Awards. 2. Boy Scouts John (Jack)
Riley, Patrick Barnes and Ethan Kramer detail their Eagle
Scout Awards. 3. Library Director Heather Bachman updates the
Select Board on the attendance successes of the library. 4. Wood
Street resident Jackie Potenzone expresses disappointment over
communication issues regarding the Downtown project. 5. Board of
Health Chair Lisa Whittemore updates the board on the "LNG
issue," and requests support for the "Futures Act."
1.2.
3.
4.
5.
Greyhound Friends Passes Inspection by Deputy Police Chief Bennett
-- Town Clerk Issues License
August 13, 2019 -- Court trials against the
former manager, cease and desist by the Mass Department of
Agriculture in 2017 and well-attended hearing on September 11,
2018 where the Select Board voted to advise Town Clerk Connor
Degan to not issue Greyhound Friends, Inc. a kennel license, all
brought the organization to a standstill (File photo, above).
In the meantime, Greyhound Friends has answered
all of the objections and violations found during the initial
inspection by Deputy Chief Joseph Bennett, who, following a
recent, thorough investigation of the premises, filed a positive
recommendation with Mr. Degan, who issued a license to the group
yesterday. The report by Deputy Chief Bennett
can be viewed
here.
Contacted by
telephone, an ebullient Terri Shepard, Kennel and Operations
Manager, said, "We're excited to relaunch." Ms. Shepard said the
group will be listing some talking points soon.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Whisper Way Hearing Withdrawn, Re-submitted
Planning Board Institutes New Hearing Procedures on a Trial Basis
by Robert Falcione
August 13, 2019 -- Planning Board Chair
Muriel Kramer began last night's meeting by explaining that
Public Hearings, [hearings in which abutters need to be notified
in writing, and posted by the Town Clerk] will no longer be
scheduled on the official agenda for specific times during a
meeting, but simply for the beginning of the meeting. Mrs.
Kramer said the Board will give the new procedure a three-month
trial. Prior to last night's meeting, Public Hearings were
scheduled on the board's agenda for a specific hard start, which
been adhered to religiously. If the time for the next hearing
had not yet arrived when the
previous business finished, the board would usually fill in the
time by selecting from a list of administrative matters on the
agenda. Instead, at last night's meeting, the board took up the
administrative matters prior to any hearings for the first 30
minutes, while those in attendance for the hearings waited for
them to be finished.
In addition, most of the subjects of the
hearings were present at the beginning of the meeting, having to
wait for their unscheduled time to come up.
The first hearing ended in a withdrawal of
the continuation of the ongoing, longstanding Public Hearing of
the Whisper Way OSLPD [Open Space Landscape Preservation
Development] plan due to not enough members, after the last
election, eligible to vote.
Coincidentally, Mrs. Kramer announced at
last night's meeting that Patrick Atwell, elected to the board
last May, has resigned due to a positive employment change,
opening a vacancy on the board. A joint meeting between the
Planning Board and the Select Board will take place on September
9, held at a trial location, the main room in the library, the
room that used to be an Episcopal church, to appoint a new
member fill the vacancy and to serve until the May, 2020
election.
The next agenda item was the opening of a
new Public Hearing on a resubmitted plan by 20th Century Homes
for the Whisper Way project that had just been withdrawn.
Architect Larry Green and 20th Century
principal Ron Nation addressed the board on behalf of the
40-acre project. Mr. Green, photo, right, said he was struck by
the uniqueness of the property, the granite outcroppings, the
undulating topography, and the existing trail system that leads
to town trails, making it perfect for an open space development.
The septic system are shared in order to
minimize land clearing. Four of the homes will have sprinkler
systems, in accordance with the wishes of Fire Chief Stephen
Slaman.
"There's nothing like this in the town of
Hopkinton," said Mr. Nation. A previous submission showed
topography that appears to be granite cliffs and steep land
whose challenges would make for impressive landscapes.
After about 30 minutes, the board continued
the hearing until the last item of the meeting, then granted
some waivers and scheduled the remainder of the hearing for
September 9, at which time all parties hope to vote on the
project.
Contest
Winner Anna Capobianco was the first to correctly
identified the location of the flowery bush of black-eyed Susans as
Weston Nurseries by the Snappy Dogs trailer. She wins $20.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
Real Estate Transactions for Hopkinton
New
Transactions from August 6, 2019 -- August 12, 2019 - Aug 2, 2019
Choose blue links to see town's property cards
Be the first to send an email to
Editor@HopNews.com with the location of this colorful shrub and
win $20.
Contest will close at 5:00 pm Monday, August 12, 2019.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Vehicle Stop
August 11, 2019 -- Hopkinton Police responded to a request from
Massachusetts State Police for assistance during a vehicle stop of a
car that was the subject of a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) earlier in
the day.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
Bee Sting
August 11, 2019 -- Firefighters rushed to an Ash Street location
where an individual was stung by a bee during a festive Muslim
celebration of
Eid al-Adha.
Music Matters
August 11, 2019 -- Music Matters presented their welcomed rock and
roll style to the gathering during the Sunday Concerts on the
Common.
Next week, Southbound Train will entertain the gathering of young
and old.
Pipeline Patrol
August 10, 2019 -- Earlier in the week, this aircraft registered in
Wilmington, Delaware, came from the area of Legacy Farms North and
the Eversource installation, and flew over the Hopkinton Reservoir
Dam area. Its purpose is apparently written on its wings.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Bug Eater
August 10, 2019 -- This bird was a welcome visitor to the back yard
today, taking care of insects, one after another.
Reminder
August 10, 2019 -- These flowers at the Res are a good reminder that
Hopkinton Family Day, which usually has fireworks, is next month.
This week, we will be doing a video with the organizers, who will
have an exciting surprise or two to share.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
Town Manager to Seek Endorsement of "The
Future Act" by Select Board
by Robert Falcione
Town Manager Norman Khumalo will be updating the
Select Board on Tuesday on two timely matters, according the the
upcoming agenda. One is the progress and challenges regarding the
Downtown Project, for which Mr. Khumalo has submitted a $2 million
Massworks grant to make up for inflation-fueled shortfalls.
The other is the "Future Act" which is inspired
by the disaster in the Merrimack Valley nearly a year ago, when
devices meant to regulate pressure of natural gas distribution to
end users apparently failed, sending high pressure gas into
residences and businesses and causing one death from a falling
chimney launched by an explosion. Dozens of structures were affected
by leaks, fires or explosions in that catastrophe. Mr. Khumalo's
request is below.
The Future Act. I am requesting the Select
Board’s approval of a resolution supporting the Future Act bill.
This bill focuses on the problems with the distribution of natural
gas in the Commonwealth and addresses the crumbling infrastructure
and immediate safety concerns in the wake of the September 2018
disaster in the Merrimack Valley. The bill includes a few provisions
that would be useful in our dealings with Eversource:
1. Reports to municipalities from a certified gas inspector that:
a. New infrastructure is free from defects
b. Shutoff valves and gate boxes are accessible and working, and
c. The work has been completed according to state and federal
regulations
2. DPU is required to send infrastructure plans submitted by a gas
company to each
municipality affected by the plans.
3. Municipalities are permitted to file a complaint with the DPU
against an electric or gas
company for breach of franchise or DPU regulations, with DPU
required to hold a
public hearing and publish its opinion.
The bill has been in committee since the end of January and a
hearing has not been scheduled. By supporting this bill, Hopkinton
will join a group of towns advocating for this bill to become law. I
recommend the Board votes in favor of a resolution supporting The
Future Act bill as the bill would give Hopkinton a few more tools to
work with.
This is also timely for Hopkinton in particular,
because a suspected leak at one of three LNG tank systems* operated
by Eversource on Wilson Street has resulted in a draw-down of the
gas in its liquid state, and the current burn-off of the remaining
gaseous product (Scroll down for photo) to enable further processes
toward emptying the tank and enabling a physical investigation of
the source of the suspected leak.
In addition, some town officials, notably Fire
Chief Stephen Slaman, have not felt duly informed regarding the
situation on Wilson Street. The Future Act appears to address those
types of concerns.
* Editor's Note: That there is a suspected leak
somewhere in the tank system, doesn't mean there is a leak in the
wall of the tank itself. There is piping connected to the tank with
welds, and that, we are informed by outside experts, are the likely
source of the problem. The inside storage tank itself, if it was in
fact constructed by the processing standards that preceded it, would
be constructed of a steel alloy bolstered by a 9.5% nickel
composition, a substance used in cryogenic storage as well as armor
plating.
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities
37 Local Firefighters Graduate State
Firefighting Academy
Career Recruit Firefighter Class #275
STOW – August 9, 2019 -- State Fire Marshal
Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA)
Director David C. Evans announced the graduation of the 275th
class of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s fifty-day
Career Recruit Firefighter Training Program on August 9, 2019.
“This rigorous professional training provides our newest
firefighters with the basic skills to perform their jobs
effectively and safely,” said State Fire Marshal Peter J.
Ostroskey. The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA), a
division of the Department of Fire Services, offers this program
tuition-free. The ceremony took place at the Department of Fire
Services in Stow, MA.
37 Graduates from 23 Fire
Departments
The 37 graduates, two women and 35 men, represent the 23 fire
departments of Beverly, Canton, Easton, Fairhaven, Foxborough,
Gloucester, Holden, Hopkinton*, Mansfield,
Medfield, Methuen, Milford, Nahant, Norwood, Reading, Saugus,
Scituate, Seekonk, Swampscott, Watertown, Westborough, Westwood
and Winchester.
Today’s Firefighters Do Far More
than Fight Fires
Today’s firefighters do far more than fight fires. They are the
first ones called to respond to chemical and environmental
emergencies, ranging from the suspected presence of carbon
monoxide to a gas leak. They may be called to rescue a child who
has fallen through the ice or who has locked himself in a
bathroom. They rescue people from stalled elevators and those
who are trapped in vehicle crashes. They test and maintain their
equipment including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA),
hydrants, hoses, power tools, and apparatus.
At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, they learn all these
skills and more from certified fire instructors who are also
experienced firefighters. Students learn all the basic skills
they need to respond to, contain and control fires. They receive
training in public fire education, hazardous material incident
mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, confined space
rescue techniques, and rappelling. The intensive, ten-week
program for municipal firefighters involves classroom
instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills
training, and live firefighting practice.
Basic Firefighter Skills
Students receive classroom training in all basic firefighter
skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then
during controlled fire conditions. To graduate, students must
demonstrate proficiency in life safety, search and rescue,
ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire
attack. Fire attack operations range from mailbox fires to
multiple-floor or multiple-room structural fires. Upon
successful completion of the Recruit Program all students have
met national standards of National Fire Protection Association
1001 and are certified to the level of Firefighter I and II, and
Hazardous Materials First Responder Operational Level by the
Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the
National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.
* Today Hopkinton Firefighter Max Israeloff
graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Recruit
Class #275. Max successfully completed 10-weeks of recruit
training and is now a Certified Firefighter I/II. Welcome back.
~ Deputy Chief William Miller
Contributed content.
A Step in the Process
by Robert Falcione
August 9, 2019 -- As reported in HopNews
on July 10, 2019 Selectmen's meeting, in 2017, Eversource, using
thermal imaging, detected what they have called a "thermal
anomaly" in Tank B (1 of 3) at their Wilson Street LNG site. In
lay terms, it is an area of temperature that varies from what it
should be.
In 2018, they informed the Town of Hopkinton, a delay not well
received by Fire Chief Stephen Slaman, who is also the
town's Emergency Management Director. Chief Slaman wrote a
letter to the state Department of Public of Public Utilities (Click for Chief
Slamans Letter)
requesting a meeting.
At that Select Board meeting of July
9, 2019, a presentation was scheduled to be given, but was not.
Instead, that presentation can be read here: Click for
Report/Presentation
The photo of the temporary
flare above, taken today, shows one step in the process of
identifying the source of the temperature anomaly. Before this,
the tank needed to be emptied of liquefied natural gas. This was
accomplished by selling off what was in the tank and not
refilling it as per usual. Now that the liquid is gone, the next
step is to burn off the remaining gas, which is apparently
happening in the photo above, which is part of the
process of purging with nitrogen, an inert gas that boils at
-324 degrees F, making its use as a refrigerant desirable. It is
neither explosive nor flammable.
Once the remaining natural
gas is replaced by nitrogen, the process of purging with
ambient air begins.
Once the tank is filled with
air, workers can enter it and investigate the cause of the
anomaly.
Win $20 Be the first to email to
Editor@HopNews.com the
address where this pump is located and win $20. Contest closes at
5:00 pm, August 9, 2019.
NOTE: HopNews has an outstanding payment for a similar contest but
the email with the winner's address is lost. If you are that person,
please resend.
Please enjoy more photos from Tuesday
night's Hopkinton Police National Night Out
Aug 24 at Hopkinton Center for Arts,
98 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton
Boston, MA August 8, 2019 -- Kyler Taustin,
Executive Artistic Director of Brown Box Theatre Project –
Massachusetts’ only travelling, free outdoor Shakespeare – announces
the tour of Measure for Measure, the troupe’s largest and most
ambitious production to date. From August 9-25, Brown Box will tour
Shakespeare’s timeless -- and timely -- tale of power and political
corruption to nine outdoor sites in Massachusetts before packing up
and continuing to perform for audiences down the east coast in
Delaware-Maryland-Virginia (Aug. 29-Sept. 21). Measure for Measure
is Directed by Kyler Taustin.
Coming to a town near you! Measure for Measure will be performed for
limited runs in Massachusetts, all starting at 7:30 pm: Allston (Aug
9,10,11), Newton Highlands (Aug 14), Webster (Aug 15), Boston (Aug
16), Fall River (Aug 17), Plymouth (Aug 18), Lowell (Aug 21), Easton
(Aug 22), Allston (Aug 23), Hopkinton (Aug 24 at Hopkinton Center
for Arts, 98 Hayden Rowe Street) and Boston (Aug 25).
All performances are open to all audiences; no tickets are needed.
Enjoy the Bard under the stars on the lawn or bring blankets and
lawn chairs. Due to mature themes this show is recommended for ages
13 and older with the advisory of a parent.
August 8, 2019 --Nayla Aoude is in the fight of her
life, battling in federal district court to save the
Hopkinton business that her family began 40 years ago.
Aoude had just returned from court Monday as we sat on
milk crates behind the 92 West Main Street Mobil gas
franchise she has managed for the last 10 years, and she
laid out the details of the lawsuit against her landlord
Global Companies LLC of Waltham.
She explained why she feels that Global is trying to
take over her franchise by raising the monthly rent from
approximately $15,000 to $80,000 as part of a
redevelopment of the property.
Global Companies LLC is a fortune 500 That owns or
leases more than 1000 gas stations in the region.
According to its website, “With the addition of our
recently acquired Alliance Energy retail division, we
have a total portfolio of approximately 1,000 owned or
supplied gas stations throughout Connecticut, Maine,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont.”
Global’s $5 million redevelopment plan (Concept drawing,
right) was approved by the town Planning Board in 2018
and the company planned to start construction in the
fall of that year.
After securing the town permit, Global executives
offered Aude a new contract which included the dramatic
500 percent rent hike to help the landlord defray costs
of the redevelopment.
“They said if I didn’t sign the contract within 30 days,
i could just hand them the keys to my business and walk
away,” Aoude said.
So last fall she filed a complaint on behalf of her
business, Hopkinton Friendly Service Inc. against Global
Companies LLC and Global Montello Group alleging
violations of the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act.
In her suit, Aoude claims she “would have to pay for the
interior layouts, equipment and products for the larger
store and those costs, according to
plaintiff’s Certified Public Accountant
(“CPA”), could exceed $120,000 in addition to the
increased rent,” according to court records.
“They want to illegally take over the business that my
family has worked so hard to build for the last 40
years.” Aoude sad.
Her lawsuit contends that, "... the sudden dramatic
increase in rent constitutes a constructive termination
of its franchise agreement in violation of the PMPA. It
argues that by undertaking a unilateral redevelopment of
the Premises which will result in a dramatically
increased monthly rent for plaintiff, Global’s purpose
was to coerce Hopkinton [Friendly Service Inc] into
terminating its lease and franchise in order to
misappropriate its goodwill without payment. Plaintiff
contends that actions of defendants constitute a
constructive termination because Hopkinton [Friendly
Service Inc] was left with the choice of either
terminating or defaulting under the Agreement as a
result of the increased rent,” according to court
records.
In addition, Aoude’s accountant estimates that her
franchise “would have to nearly double its current
revenue and sell an additional $6.4 million in product
to cover the increased rent which he believes is
unlikely despite the larger store after redevelopment,”
according to court record.
What makes Global’s demands even more unreasonable,
Aoude said, is the fact that her franchise has
consistently received awards from Global for being one
of its top performers.
“Global just wants to steal my business,” Aoude said.
“It's like if you think your neighbor's home is better
than yours, you just go next door and take it,” she
said.
Global, as a result of the
ongoing litigation, received a 6-month extension to the
statutory start of construction from the Hopkinton Board
of Appeals, Global did not respond to this reporter's
requests for comment.
EEE
Knocking on Hopkinton's Door
Eastern Equine Encephalitis
(EEE) has been confirmed in mammal-biting mosquitoes
in 2 locations in thesoutheast part
of Westboro near the Hopkinton town line. In
response to the advisory and consistent with
Massachusetts Department of Public Health policy,
the Health Department has authorized the Central MA
Mosquito Control Project to treat the abutting
Hopkinton neighborhoods. Spraying will begin on
Thursday 8/8/19 afternoon/evening, weather
permitting. A more detailed map will be released as
soon as confirmed with Central MA Mosquito Control
Project. Residents in the area and throughout
Hopkinton are advised to wear protective clothing
and utilize repellent when outdoors.
The Health Department will
provide regular future updates on this matter.
For more information, or to opt
out or spraying, residents can call the Central
Mosquito Control Program at 508-393-3055.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Lightning Strike
August 8, 2019 -- This newly pointed Elizabeth
Road chimney was blown apart by a lightning strike last night, some
of the brick and flue ending up on the roof and the lawn below.
This homeowner and others lost some appliances during the intense
lightning storm that barreled through the area. Ashland and Upton
joined Hopkinton firefighters. The building inspector determined
that there was no structural damage. Left inset is daytime pic.
Accelia Needs Another Loving Home
Can you qualify?
Owner looking to move, and would like to find
someone who has experience with birds to provide a new home for her.
She is a 4-5 year-old Conure who loves to imitate sounds and noises.
She enjoys cuddling. This bird can be seen at pet stores for $600 or
more . $299 gets the bird, beautiful bird cage, small travel cage,
toys, bowls and food.
Text only to 774-823-7703.
Come Join the Team
at Hillers Pizza
Line cooks, Full and Part Time Positions
Apply Within at 77 West Main Street, Hopkinton
Working hard for Hopkinton
Homeowners
and the surrounding
Communities.
Margaret
“Joyce” (Dempsey) DeLeo passed peacefully on August 6, 2019
at Lancaster General Hospital
at 80 years old after battling Lung
Cancer. She was born on March 16, 1939 in Quincy, MA to
Walter & Lillian (Adams) Dempsey. She grew up in Hopkinton
Massachusetts as the oldest of 4 siblings.
She married
her high school sweetheart, Robert DeLeo, on May 2, 1959 in
Hopkinton, MA. They were blessed by the birth of their only
child, Bobbi Anne DeLeo. Bob’s career moved them around the
country to Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and finally to
California, where they were actively retired for many years.
Joyce loved her pets through the years and her newest
roommate, pup Maggie, was a constant companion. Reading was
her passion. She enjoyed her book club and many friendships
made through it. Her joys in life were her grandchildren,
Adam, his wife Becky, and Daniel Cavanaugh.
She was predeceased by her parents, sister, Lilly and by her
husband, Bob.
Joyce will be greatly missed by
her daughter, Bobbi Anne, her fiancé Randy Kissinger of
Columbia, PA,
her grandchildren, her brothers,
and extended family and friends.
Condolence calls may be made at
Etzweiler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, 1111 East
Market Street,
York, PA on Sunday, August 11,
2019 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Donations may be made in her name
to York County Literacy Council, 800 E. King St, York, PA
17403
August 6, 2019 -- Tuesday night saw a
respectable turnout on Hopkinton Common of residents, who made good
bets that the the rain would hold off and who showed up to engage
the Hopkinton Police Department socially for the department's
National Night Out. The department had two bouncy structures, Sgt.
Aaron O'Neil as DJ, department employees handing out souvenirs,
cruiser tours as well as burgers and more from The Spoon. But by
far, the K-9 demonstrations held the most rapt attention from
the large gathering. Above, Officer Brian Sanchioni and his K-9
partner Titan show off their close relationship and demonstrate how
Titan can find small objects in the tall grass. Below, an officer
from the Middlesex Sherriff's Department introduces his K-9 partner
to the impressed gathering. We hope to process additional photos on
Wednesday
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Philadelphia Murder Suspect Captured Near Harvard Square
A joint operation by Cambridge Police, Massachusetts State
Police, and Harvard University Police today led to the capture
near Harvard Square of man wanted for killing his father with an
assault rifle.
SOHAN PANJROLIA,
31, is suspected of fatally shooting his father Aug. 3 in
Philadelphia.
Last night, the Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Fusion
Center was notified by the Pennsylvania Fusion Center that
PANJROLIA was possibly in the Cambridge area. The Massachusetts
State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (MSP VFAS)
began a joint investigation into the suspect’s whereabouts along
with the Cambridge Police and US Marshals in Boston and
Philadelphia. Alerts with the suspect’s description were sent to
various MSP Field Troops, Cambridge Police, and Harvard
University Police overnight.
MSP VFAS Troopers responded to Cambridge in the early morning
hours and continued to work the investigation with CPD Officers
and US Marshals. Late this morning an MSP VFAS Trooper locate a
car suspected of having been operated by the suspect parked in
the Elliott Street parking garage in Cambridge.
MSP VFAS, MSP Troop H patrols, CPD and members of a US Marshals
Task Force established positions around the vehicle and garage
while awaiting additional support from tactical weapons
units. Harvard University Police were also notified and
additional officers subsequently responded to the area.
Shortly after 12:30 p.m. a person matching PANJROLIA’s
description was observed by Cambridge and Harvard officers
at the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Store located around the corner
from the garage. They confirmed his identity and placed him
under arrest as a fugitive from justice. The suspect was
transported him to Cambridge PD for booking.
State Police and Cambridge Police detectives are
currently working with Philadelphia Police detectives in
furtherance of the investigation in Massachusetts. No further
information is being released at this time.
Representative Dykema’s Annual Senior Picnic
Come join us on August 21st for a celebration of
the senior citizens of the 8thMiddlesex
District with a barbecue lunch, DJ, games, and more! Enjoy an
afternoon of good food and great people. The picnic will run from
12PM – 2PM at the Faith Community Church in Hopkinton located at 146
E. Main St, Hopkinton.
Please RSVP to the Hopkinton Senior Center at 508-497-9730. We hope
to see you there!
HOPKINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY EXPANDS HOURS
Hopkinton
Public Library will be open for more hours this fall. Beginning
Monday, September 9, the library will be open from 10 am to 9 pm on
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; from 10 am to 6 pm on
Fridays; and from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. With the new schedule,
the library will be open a total of 58 hours per week, up from 50
hours per week under the current schedule.
The added hours are possible due to a previous increase in the
Town's appropriation to the library that has also enabled the
library to remain open on Saturdays in the summer. The library
celebrated its first summer Saturday in July 2018. Previously,
Saturday hours had only been offered during the school year. Sunday
afternoon hours will also be added later this fiscal year.
"We have seen extraordinary interest in the library since our
renovated and expanded building reopened, including requests for the
building to stay open later so that people have more time to attend
library events, hold meetings, work, browse, and relax in the new
space," said Library Director Heather Backman. "In our first year in
the new building, overall use of the library doubled. We are excited
to take this next step to better meet the needs of our community and
give people more opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful new
building and the services we offer."
Frederic
C. Bertram, 86, of Milford, was called home to be with the
Lord on Saturday, July 27, 2019 and is now in the loving arms of
Jesus. He was greeted upon arrival by his daughter, Deborah and
granddaughter, Krista.
Fred grew up in Roslindale, MA and served in the Air Force during
the Korean War. An economics graduate from Boston College, Fred
worked in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, retiring at 77 from
BJ’s Wholesale Club! Fred led his life by example. His infectious
personality, kind demeanor and charming smile drew people to a man
who was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His banter, wit,
intelligence and humor are a few of his many delightful qualities
that will be missed. His passions were antiquing, billiards,
tennis, travel and taking meticulous care of his lawn & garden. Fred
would consider himself a rich man; blessed with a wonderful family,
a deep love for life and a wonderful community of faith at Christ
the King Lutheran Church.
Besides his loving wife Christel of 61 years, Fred is survived by
his daughters, Karen (Bertram) Shell of Mt. Laurel, NJ and Heidi
Bertram of Hopkinton, MA; his sons-in-law, Steve Shell and Tim
Norton; and his three grandsons, Trevor Shell, Craig Norton, and
Christian Norton. He was pre-deceased by his daughter Deborah Ann
(Bertram) Norton and granddaughter Krista Bertram Norton. Fred also
leaves behind his loving brother-in-law, Peter Renk, his wife Diana
along with his two nieces, Stephanie Freeman and Michelle McGarvey.
Additionally, he leaves behind a multitude of treasured cousins,
many cherished colleagues, dear friends and neighbors whose company
he deeply enjoyed throughout his life.
A
celebration of Fred’s life, legacy and faith will be held on
Saturday, August 10th, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 600
Central St, Holliston, MA. Visiting hours will be at the church from
9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life and faith service is
scheduled at 11:30 a.m. in the sanctuary followed by a catered
luncheon in the church fellowship hall. A private internment will
take place at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be
made to Christ the King Lutheran Church; 600 Central Street;
Holliston, MA 01746 in honor of Frederic C. Bertram. Arrangements
are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com
His family members would like to extend their most heartfelt
appreciation and gratitude to the many wonderful people who cared
for Fred throughout his various health challenges. His dear family
friend and special nurse, Linda Barnard along with the staffs of
Preferred Transitions, Dana Farber Cancer Center and the Milford
Regional Medical Center guided him through a difficult time in his
life with patience, kindness, and lots of love. These folks were all
truly God’s angels at work in Fred’s life.
Rejoice for him; he has begun his eternal life in Heaven and is
celebrating with his beautiful daughter
Debbie, precious granddaughter Krista, and the many relatives that
have gone before him.
To our dear Fred/Dad/Grampy – Auf Wiedersehen, until we meet again!
Blackstone Police Charge Teen for Shooting and
Killing Cat with Arrow
BLACKSTONE
— Acting Chief Gregory Gilmore reports that the
Blackstone Police Department is charging a juvenile for
allegedly shooting and killing a cat with an arrow.
A 17-YEAR-OLD MALE, OF BLACKSTONE, is charged with:
Kill/Maim/Poison an Animal (Felony)
Damaging Personal Property (Felony)
Discharging a Firearm within 500 Feet of a Dwelling
(Misdemeanor)
Discharging a Firearm Near a Highway (Misdemeanor)
He will be summonsed to Milford Juvenile Court at a
later date.
On Aug. 1, Blackstone Police learned that a cat had been
shot by an arrow on Old Mendon Street. It later died due
to its injuries.
To help identify the suspect, Blackstone Police
partnered with an individual, who wishes to remain
anonymous, to provide a $500 cash reward to anyone who
could help police identify and apprehend the person
responsible.
At about 10 a.m. today, after receiving several tips
from residents, Blackstone Police executed a search
warrant at the 17-YEAR-OLD MALE’S home, which is located
not far from where the incident occurred. Police
discovered a bow and several arrows matching the one
that killed the cat.
“I want to commend Blackstone Police and the Blackstone
Valley Drug & Anti Crime Task Force for their dedication
to this case,” Chief Gilmore said. “Through the public’s
assistance, we were able to identify, locate and bring
this individual to justice.”
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Please be advised that in accordance with the
Presidential proclamation issued as a mark of respect honoring the
victims of the tragedies in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio
and as ordered by Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, the United
States of America flag and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts flag
shall be flown at half-staff at all state buildings beginning
immediately until sunset on Thursday, August 8, 2019.
This gubernatorial order applies to:
1. The main or administration building of each public institution
of the Commonwealth, e.g. town and city halls
2. Other state-owned or state-controlled buildings
3. All state military installations
Concert on the Common August 4, 2019 -- Soul Function, with
Hopkinton resident Patrick Faucher out front, brought their high
energy performance, including a full horn section, to the Hopkinton
Sunday Concert on the Common today. The band, we are told, will be
performing at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts this fall.
Next Sunday, Music Matters will perform.
.jpg)
new students had enrolled since June, that number has now grown to
218, with another 16 pending approval.
SHAUN
MCAULIFFE
Georgia
L. Straight, 85
School
officials have been planning for the coming school year based on a
New England School Development Council (NESDEC) forecast of 104 new
students.
almost 20 years ago, one wall was designed to be
modified for the addition of six additional classrooms, Cavanaugh
said.
Casey.
This
morning, just about 2 a.m., troopers from State Police–Tunnels
arrested ADELMO RODRIGUEZ, 47, of Chelsea for several offenses,
including: Operating under the Influence of Liquor; Attempted
Murder; and Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, 2 counts.
WOBURN
– August 15, 2019 -- Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and
Massachusetts State Police are asking for the public’s help
identifying the vehicle believed to be involved in the fatal
crash that occurred around midnight on Tuesday morning on
interstate 95 North, north of the exit 35 off ramp, in the town
of Woburn. 
George
R. Desmond of Framingham, formerly of Sherborn,
Massachusetts passed away peacefully on August 13, 2019. He was the
husband of Alice B. Desmond to whom he was married for 59 years.
Born in Framingham in 1930 he was the son of the late George R.
Desmond, Sr. and Kathryn Orzeck Desmond. He graduated from St
Stephen School, Framingham, Boston College High School in 1947 and
Boston College in 1951. He started law school at Boston College and
then served in the U.S. Army 66th Counter Intelligence Corps in
Germany as a resident special agent in Weiden, Bavaria for two
years. After his discharge from the Army he finished law school at
Georgetown University in 1956 and worked as an attorney for the US
Department of Justice in Washington and on special assignments in
Montgomery, Alabama, New Orleans, Biloxi, Mississippi and Pensacola
Florida. While in Montgomery he met Alice Ballard whom he married in
1960. 
was
the daughter of the late Irene “Sue” (Davis) and Peter Snyer. She
was the wife of 37 years to the late Theodore “Ted” Sands.
Margaret
“Joyce” (Dempsey) DeLeo passed peacefully on August 6, 2019
at Lancaster General Hospital 
SOHAN PANJROLIA,
31, is suspected of fatally shooting his father Aug. 3 in
Philadelphia. 
Hopkinton
Public Library will be open for more hours this fall. Beginning
Monday, September 9, the library will be open from 10 am to 9 pm on
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; from 10 am to 6 pm on
Fridays; and from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. With the new schedule,
the library will be open a total of 58 hours per week, up from 50
hours per week under the current schedule.
Frederic
C. Bertram, 86, of Milford, was called home to be with the
Lord on Saturday, July 27, 2019 and is now in the loving arms of
Jesus. He was greeted upon arrival by his daughter, Deborah and
granddaughter, Krista.
