Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Hopkinton’s Enter Stage Left Theater to Perform The Laramie Project in May

(March 1, 2020 - HOPKINTON, MA) — Enter Stage Left Theater is proud to present The Laramie Project, a 2000 play by Moisés Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project about the reaction to the 1998 murder of gay University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming.

HOPKINTON HIGH SCHOOL ALPINE SKI TEAM 

SENDING 6 ATHLETES TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP  

Hopkinton High School’s Alpine Ski Team is proud to announce that it is sending six of its athletes to the 2020 MIAA Alpine Ski State Championship, which will be held at Berkshire East Mountain on March 4^th, 2020. At the state championship, these athletes have the opportunity to compete against the top high school racers from across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The team competes in the Central Mass Conference Ski League (CMCSL) which consists of over 250 athletes from 11 high schools. Athletes are invited to the state championship based on individual skier’s results, which lead to a rank in the CMCSL. The MIAA selection criteria for the state championship is highly competitive, and the athletes selected from Hopkinton are among only the top 22 boys and 18 girls from the CMCSL who qualified to participate in this exciting event.  

For the girls, Junior captain Cate Barry finished in third place in the CMCSL. This is the third year she has qualified for the state championship.  

Senior captain Max Rodgers led the boys’ team, topping the CMCSL in first place.  He will make his third trip to the championship. Max’s twin brother Jack finished in second place and will make his second trip to the championship.  Junior Jackson Schlussel finished in fifth place and also returns to the state championship for the third year. Senior Will Hutchinson finished 16th and Junior Cameron Hanna finished 21st place, both are making their first trip to states. This season, the boys team finished in second place overall out of 11 teams.   

In its fourth year, the Hopkinton High School Alpine Ski Team fielded its largest roster to date of 25 athletes (17 boys and 8 girls).  The ski team trains and races at Ski Ward in Shrewsbury.  CMSCL holds weekly races, competing in both slalom (SL) and giant slalom (GS) events. 

Hopkinton’s Alpine Ski Team is led by Head Coach Nancy Schlussel and Assistant Coach Dan Barry. The athletes wish to thank the coaches, Athletic Director  Rich Cormier, as well as their friends and families for their support. Go Hillers!  Contributed content.

Hopkinton Music Students Earn Selection into 

Central District MMEA Senior, Junior, and All-State Concert Festivals

The Hopkinton Public Schools Music Department is pleased to announce the following students, based on their successful auditions, earned selection into the Central District Massachusetts Music Educators Association (CDMMEA) Senior and Junior Festivals and the Massachusetts Music Educators Association (MMEA) All-State Festival.

The CDMMEA Senior High School Festival held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA on January 18 included Hopkinton musicians: Advait Nene, band; Allison Chen, orchestra; Bryce Foti, chorus; Carly Ozmun, orchestra; Jacob Chastain, jazz ensemble; Jessie Franks, orchestra; Kira Sward, band; Luciano Duca, chorus; Tony Weissinger, chorus. In addition to the Senior Festival, An-Chi Huang, orchestra; Andrea Liu, orchestra; and Linnea Pappas-Byers, chorus were also selected for the MMEA All-State Festival to be held March 5-7 with the All-State Concert on March 7 at Symphony Hall, Boston, MA. The annual All-State Conference is attended by more than 800 music educators and 500 of Massachusetts' top student musicians performing band, orchestral, jazz and choral works.

The CDMME Junior High School Concert Festival takes place on May 2 at Franklin High School, Franklin, MA. Hopkinton musicians selected at early February auditions include: Abigail Baskin, orchestra; Anjana Venkatram, chorus; Brandon Fu, band; Daniel Applebaum, orchestra; Holly Thompson, band; Jeffrey Wu, orchestra; Megan Cappetta, chorus; Peter Liang, band; Saahil Minocha, orchestra; Sean Miniman, band; Tarun Prasanna, band.

2020 HHS Senior District Students. An HHS first.......with representation in all four groups: Band, Chorus, Orchestra, and Jazz Ensemble!

(photo from Facebook page @hpsperformingarts) Contributed content.

Gloria (Briglia) Webb, 95

Gloria (Briglia) Webb passed away on February 28, 2020 from natural causes. She was 95 years old. Gloria was born in Baltimore, MD. in 1924 to naturalized immigrant parents. Her father Romolo Briglia and mother Carolina (Baldi) Briglia came to the United States from Lucca, Italy. Gloria was the youngest of 4 children including her late sisters, Marion (Briglia) Braun, Lydia (Briglia) Bennett, and her late brother, Anthony Briglia. She attended school in Baltimore, and met her future husband, the late Kenneth K. Webb, prior to his deployment to the European theater in World War II. They were married shortly after his return from service in 1945. 

Gloria and Ken had the first of their 4 children, the late Jo Ann Webb, in Baltimore in 1946 prior to relocating to Ohio, where Ken pursued his higher education under the GI Bill. The family relocated to Massachusetts in 1956 to seek medical treatment for Jo Ann, who succumbed to kidney failure later that year. Gloria lived a life of service. From volunteering in classrooms and leading religious education classes to serving as a school crossing guard and cafeteria “lunch lady, Gloria loved helping children. She held a number of part-time jobs while residing in Framingham so she could be available to her family. When her husband Ken received a job transfer to Phoenix, AZ, Gloria began a 20-year career with the Southwest regional hamburger chain, Whataburger. Gloria ran the breakfast shift at the Phoenix MetroCenter Whataburger franchise for several years. Her favorite part of the job was working with new hires and younger employees, helping them understand their roles and enabling their growth in the company. Gloria and Ken relocated to West Yarmouth, MA. in 1996 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. 

True to her nature, Gloria continued to work part-time in the Children’s Department at Sears in the Cape Cod Mall. She continued to work into her 80’s. Gloria and Ken moved to Marlborough, MA. in 2009. Although Ken passed away the next year, Gloria continued to live independently until 2018. She always enjoyed visits with family and friends. 

Gloria is survived by her children, Devette Russo and her partner, Bob Pfeifer of Hopkinton, Dr. Kenneth Webb and his wife, Julie, Judith Gallagher, and her husband, Bob Gallagher. She is also survived by her grandchildren Dr. Joshua Russo and his wife, Dr. Marlene Gubata, Erin Webb, Brendan Webb and his fiancee, Shelby Hickox, Christopher Webb and his fiancee, Emily Powers, Matthew Webb, and Bryan Gallagher. Gloria is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Charles Russo. 

Private Funeral arrangements are under the care of Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  Gloria will be laid to rest at St. Stephens Cemetery in Framingham alongside her daughter Jo Ann. In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Gloria’s favorite charity, will be appreciated.  

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

George F. Gross, 86
    

George F. Gross, 86, of Hopkinton, passed away Friday, February 28, 2020. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Gertrude (Dame) and George H. Gross.

George was a graduate of Bentley University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in accounting. He was an Army Veteran who served in Japan during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Hopkinton on-call fire department for over 30 years and was a member of the Hopkinton VFW. 

George is survived by three children, Carol Ann Falk and her husband, Michael, Christopher Gross, Patrick Gross and his wife, Maria; his siblings, Gertrude Creedon, Florence Tower, and Joan Whittaker and her husband, Jack. He also leaves behind his sweetie, Shirley Barrows; 8 grandchildren, Kati, Alex, Cameron, Jordyn, Jaidyn, Agnella, Marissa and Devin, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his siblings, Frank Gross, Virginia Gross & Theresa Gillis. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com . A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4th at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Hopkinton. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Assoc. alz.org

Mother Daughter Mandala Art & Yoga

Saturday March 7th

6 - 7:30pm with Kate Lamie

Click here to sign up

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Helen Margaret Hebert, 15

Helen Margaret Hebert, 15, of Medway, passed away at her home on Tuesday, February 25, 2020. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of Sharon A. (McGrath) and Walter S. Hebert of Medway (a former longtime resident of Hopkinton).

Helen was a burst of sunshine and energy. She had an old soul with a kind and generous spirit. Her unique personality was one that left an unforgettable impression on all who knew her. She had a passion for cooking and enjoyed baking with her nana. She loved flowers and created beautiful rose gardens throughout the yard. Most of all, she had an intense bond with her big brother, sharing love of reading, history and creating fictional worlds through creative writing and drawing.

Besides her parents, Helen is survived by her brother, Walter F. Hebert of Medway, her maternal grandparents, Janice McGrath of Medway, Leo McGrath of Lynchburg, VA; her paternal grandparents, Daryl Hebert of W. Boylston, John Hebert and his wife, Cheryl of Covington, Louisiana; her special cousin, Arianna Hebert of Bellingham as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. (Rt. 16) www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Patrick’s Church in Natick. Burial will follow in Saint Patrick’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of the Medway Public Library, 26 High St. Medway, MA 02053 to help continue the programs that have helped so many children like Helen.

The Center for Pain Medicine Opens at Milford Regional

February 27, 2020 -- MILFORD- A new clinic has opened at Milford Regional Medical Center offering a comprehensive approach to pain management focused on alleviating symptoms, restoring function and encouraging emotional health.
Brigham and Women’s Center for Pain Medicine at Milford is located in the Hill Health Center, and is led by Medical Director Victor Wang, MD, PhD.
       Dr. Wang is a neurologist who specializes in pain medicine - including chronic issues such as low back, neck and joint pain - with a “whole person approach” to treating his patients. Under his direction, the Center for Pain Medicine offers a multi-disciplinary team approach that works with primary care physicians, spine surgeons and other specialists to provide a thorough and individually tailored program for patients to manage their pain.
       Dr. Wang earned a degree in animal physiology and neuroscience, and a degree in psychology from the University of California at San Diego. He later completed a combined MD/PhD in the Medical Scholars Program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He performed a neurology residency at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City and a pain medicine fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Dr. Wang is board certified in both neurology and pain medicine and holds appointment in both the anesthesiology and neurology departments at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In addition, Dr. Wang is an instructor at Harvard Medical School.
        At the Center for Pain Medicine, the team offers services that include anesthesiology, psychiatry, psychology, nursing, neurology and physical therapy to treat a variety of conditions including back pain, abdominal pain, vascular pain, headaches, neuropathic pain, neck pain, pancreatitis, pelvic pain, cancer pain, peripheral neuropathy and chronic post-surgical pain.
        While pain is personal and varies from patient to patient, Dr. Wang’s goal remains the same – to help each patient improve.
“I try to look at the whole patient, and I bring a different approach to pain – not only how the patient defines the pain, but how I interpret the symptoms. It’s about the physician’s experience and the patient’s experience in their life,” says Dr. Wang. “You always have to discuss with the patient their expectations, but my goal is to see improvement, however you may define that for yourself, so you can ultimately have a better quality of life.”
       “We are pleased to offer pain management services to our patients with the opening of Brigham and Women’s Center for Pain Management at Milford,” says Edward J. Kelly, President & CEO, Milford Regional Medical Center. “Dr. Wang is a highly respected physician whose unique approach to pain management will provide physical and emotional relief to patients across our region.”

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

BOSTON (February 26, 2020) - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced a fifth person has died of a vaping-associated lung injury. The patient, a man in his 40s from Suffolk County, reported vaping tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an ingredient found in marijuana. The case is among the 46 confirmed cases of e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) that DPH has reported to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) since September 11, 2019, when the state began requiring clinicians to report any unexplained lung injury in a patient to the department.

Since the state began mandating the report, 127 cases of EVALI have been identified, with 46 confirmed cases and 81 probable cases reported to the CDC.

“My condolences go out to the family of this patient who has died from a vaping-associated lung injury,’’ said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “This tragedy reminds us of the dangers of vaping and the reasons we strengthened our laws regarding vaping products.”

In January, DPH reported the death of a man in his 70s from Middlesex County who reported vaping THC. In November, DPH reported the death of a man in his 50s from Worcester County who reported vaping both nicotine and THC. In October, the state reported the vaping-associated lung injury deaths of a woman in her 40s from Middlesex County and a woman in her 60s from Hampshire County, both of whom vaped nicotine.

In December, the state’s Public Health Council approved new regulations that restrict the sale of nicotine vaping and flavored vaping and tobacco products. This action followed the Legislature’s passing and Governor Charlie Baker’s signing into law an Act Modernizing Tobacco Control, which provided DPH with additional authority to regulate access to tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems, including vapes.

The state’s Cannabis Control Commission has also taken steps to strengthen its regulation of marijuana vaping products. As part of an ongoing investigation to determine whether Massachusetts licensees may be connected to lung injury cases, the Commission has entered into a data-sharing agreement with DPH and continues to test samples of quarantined vaping products. So far Independent Testing Labs have not found detectable levels of vitamin E acetate in products manufactured by licensed Marijuana Establishments or Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers. The US Centers for Disease Control has identified vitamin E acetate as a chemical of concern among people with e-cigarette, or vaping, product use associated lung injury.

The Commission maintains a quarantine order on all marijuana vaporizer products, except for devices used exclusively to vape flower, that were manufactured by licensees prior to December 12, 2019. Newly manufactured vaping products are authorized to be sold only after they have passed tests for the presence of impermissible levels of toxicants or contaminants, including vitamin E acetate and heavy metals.

Of the 127 Massachusetts confirmed or probable cases that have been reported to the CDC, 65 are male and 62 are female. 56 percent are under the age of 30. Forty four percent vaped only nicotine, 43 percent vaped only THC, and 31 percent reported vaping nicotine and THC. DPH’s online dashboard provides detailed information on vaping cases that the Department has reported to the CDC.

DPH offers resources to help people quit through the Massachusetts Smoker’s Helpline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or by visiting makesmokinghistory.org or Mass.gov/QuitVaping to connect to treatment. The Helpline has doubled the availability of free over-the-counter nicotine replacement products from 4 weeks to 8 weeks, once a person receives counseling by phone.

As of January 1, 2020, Massachusetts commercial health insurance plans, plus the Group Insurance Commission and MassHealth, must cover smoking cessation counseling and FDA-approved products such as gum, lozenges, or patches without cost-sharing.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Don't Get Fooled

With recent warmer temperatures across much of Massachusetts, state officials are warning the public of the dangers associated with walking on ice over bodies of water, including lakes, ponds, reservoirs, streams, and rivers. Public safety and recreation officials from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), and the Department of Fire Services (DFS) remind residents and visitors to be conscious of the risks associated with walking on ice, particularly after warm weather, and ask that the public refrain from doing so.

The winter season offers unique outdoor recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy, including ice fishing, ice skating, and snowmobiling; unfortunately, year after year state and local officials receive and respond to reports of individuals falling through thin ice. In a short period of time, an individual who falls into icy waters can experience hypothermia like symptoms, which can become fatal if not treated immediately. Hypothermia symptoms include shivering, dizziness, hunger, nausea, accelerated breathing, difficulty speaking, lack of coordination, fatigue, and an increase in heart rate.

Ice safety tips the public should follow when near bodies of water during the winter months include:

• > Parents should supervise their children;

• > Never go onto ice alone;

• > Always keep your pets on a leash, and do not let them out off-leash near bodies of water that are covered by ice;

• > Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it from freezing. It can also hide cracks as well as other weak spots;

• Ice formed overflowing water (including springs under the surface) is generally weaker than ice over still water;

• > Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be a foot thick in one spot or an inch thick in another;

• > If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw something to them (a rope, tree branch, even jumper cables from a car, etc.). If this does not work, go or phone for help. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately;

• > If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction you came from, and place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet. Once the ice is solid enough to hold you, and you can pull yourself out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand; lying down spreads your weight across a wider area, lessening your weight on any one spot) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back the way you came, keeping your weight distributed, until you return to solid ice or ground; and,

• > As the season progresses, plan accordingly and use caution, as the conditions of older ice greatly varies and is subject to rapid changes.

> For further information regarding ice and winter safety tips, please visit the DFS and the MassWildlife websites. The Massachusetts State Police reminds individuals to call 911 in the event of an emergency, such as an individual falling through thin ice. Additionally, several state parks and facilities provide outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the winter season, some of which have DCR rangers and/or staff facilitating many programs. Please visit the DCR’s website for details.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Next Steps for Main Street Corridor Project
Press Release

HOPKINTON, MA (February 21, 2020) - In an effort to ensure that both property owners/abutters and the general public are kept up to date with the progress of the Main Street Corridor Project, a list of recently completed project tasks and next steps are outlined below. In addition, please note the Select Board will meet on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 to discuss the next steps in the easement acquisition process. At the meeting the Select Board will be asked to vote on two items; the offer letter template that will be mailed to abutters post meeting and the total amount of compensation for easements on the Project.

Recently Completed Project Tasks:
● 100% Design Plans were submitted to MassDOT on February 3, 2020.
● Held meeting with Fire and Police to discuss emergency preparedness, traffic
management, and potential schedule for construction operations.
● Reviewed various properties to lessen impacts of project: 25-35 and 77 Main.
● Reviewed new utility aerial mounts and associated property impacts.
● Continued to coordinate with utility companies on utility design.
● Reduced sign clutter by minimizing on-street parking signage (provide signs only where parking limited to 10-minutes) and placing street signs on street light poles where possible.
● Final Appraisals were delivered to MassDOT’s Community Compliance Officer on February 14, 2020. It is anticipated they will receive final approval prior to the Select Board Meeting on February 25th.

Next Steps:
● On Tuesday, February 25, 2020, the Select Board will meet to review the offer letter that will be sent to abutters. This letter includes the amount of compensation abutters will receive for easements and instructions and requirements to receive payment. Anyone with questions or seeking additional information about the project’s next steps is encouraged to attend the Select Board meeting. If unable to attend in person, the meeting will be broadcast live by HCAM-TV via Comcast and Verizon and via HCAM’s YouTube channel. Visit http://www.hcam.tv/live  for a list of upcoming live streams.
● Offer letters mailed to property owners - tentative target date of February 28, 2020. Property owners have 30-days to consider offer letters, ask questions and seek clarification. Town will actively seek out face-face contact with property owners to answer any questions.
● Next Select Board meeting when action is to be taken for the easement acquisition process is April 7th, 2020. A Press Release will be sent out prior to that meeting which will include information on the actions to be taken at that time.
For additional information or questions regarding the Main Street Corridor Project, please contact Town Engineer David Daltorio, P.E. at ddaltorio@hopkintonma.gov  or 508-497-9740. Press Release from Dave Daltorio. Photo of plan panel by HopNews. See more panels in Town Hall Lobby.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Francis J. Pyne, 80

Francis J. Pyne, 80 of Hopkinton passed away Friday Feb. 14th after a period of declining health. Born in Milford, he was the son of the late Lonnie and Mary (Kennedy) Pyne. A graduate of Hopkinton High School, he went on to serve his country honorably with the Army from 1960-66. Upon returning, he met the love of his life Phyllis Burr from W. Virginia, now married 57 years. He worked as a truck driver for 15 years and maintenance for 25 years with Eversource in Southboro, as well as serving the town of Hopkinton for over 50 years as a volunteer firefighter.

He had two great sons; the late Michael Pyne who died in 2016, and Kevin Pyne and his wife Ellen of Uxbridge; two special grandchildren; Jacob Pyne and Kelly Pyne, and one brother Arthur Pyne of Hopkinton.

Funeral services are private. Donations in his name may be made to the Hopkinton Fire Department, 73 Main St. Hopkinton, MA 01748. www.mataresefuneral.com

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Kindergarten at Fay School - The Journey Begins

We believe that nothing is more important than your child’s first school experience, and the small class size and individualized approach of Fay’s Kindergarten program helps each student to establish a strong foundation for a successful educational journey. Our classroom teachers focus on each child’s literacy, numeracy, science understanding, and social-emotional development, supported by a team of expert specialists who coordinate instruction in art, music, French, and Spanish, and P.E.

 David F. Adelman, 78
  

David F. Adelman, 78, of Hopkinton, passed away Friday, February 14, 2020. Born in Queens, New York, he was the son of the late Edith (Lindholm) and John F. Adelman. He was the husband of 23 years to Karen (Temple) Adelman of Hopkinton. 

An Army Veteran of the Korean War, David met his wife, Karen at Prime Computer where they both worked and have been together for 30 years. He enjoyed woodworking and computers. David was a member of the Upton Historical Society for many years.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, David Michael Adelman of South Carolina, Ladawn Marie Adelman of South Carolina; his step-children, Laurie Ann Miller Day and her husband, David of FL, and Betty Kaye Ellis and her husband, Steve of FL. He also leaves behind his siblings, Frederick A. Adelman and his wife, Blanche of New Jersey, Edith Kennedy and her husband, Richard of New York; grandchildren, Benjamin Clarke Adelman of South Carolina and 7 step-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his step-son, Donald Melvin Miller and two siblings.

Private family services will be held. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Legion, www.legion.org or to Upton Historical Society, PO Box 171, Upton, MA 01568 or Upton Grange 26 School St. Upton, MA 01568.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

MassBay Students and Dean to Run the 2020 Boston Marathon for Student Scholarships

    WELLESLEY HILLS, Mass. (February 13, 2020) – MassBay Community College is pleased to announce MassBay Nursing student Hannah Careway, BioTechnology student Tom Regan, and Dean of Business and Professional Studies Sue Maggioni will run the 124th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20, 2020 to raise money for student scholarships here at the College.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

Dear Voters of Hopkinton,

This is just a reminder that we have the Primary for Presidential Preference on Tuesday, March 3, 2020.  Absentee ballots are available in the Town Clerk's Office from now until 12:00 PM on March 2 and must be received back by 8:00 PM on March 3, prior to the close of the polls.

Early Voting will take place in the lower level of Town Hall, 18 Main Street, from February 24 - February 28 during the normal office Hours of the Town Clerk (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Tuesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Friday 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM).The last day to register to vote is Wednesday, February 12, 2020.  The Town Clerk's Office will be open until 8:00 PM on Wednesday night to accept affidavits of voter registration which we will have available in the office at 18 Main Street.  You may also register online at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/.

   
If you are not sure if you are already registered, please check on the website of the Secretary of the Commonwealth here:, stop in to the office, or call us at 508-497-9710.Sincerely,Connor B. Degan
Town Clerk

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners and the surrounding Communities

George A. Brown, 85,

George A. Brown, 85, of Hopkinton, passed away at home on Saturday, February 8, 2020. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late George and Laura (Fulton) Brown. He was the husband of 61 years to Mary (Henry) Brown.

One of George’s greatest passions was being a mechanic. He had the pleasure of teaching mechanics for more than 25 years at Keefe Tech; sharing his love of it with many students over the years. Even after his retirement, people would still call and ask him for trouble advice. George was also an avid bowler for many years. He proudly served in the US Army both active and in the reserve.

Besides his wife, George is survived by his son, Robert Brown of Hopkinton, and his granddaughter, Denise Powers and her husband, Patrick of Framingham. He is predeceased by his sons, George Thomas Brown and Kenneth Scott Brown.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 15th from 11a.m.-1 p.m. at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com . A service will follow in the funeral home at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of the Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew St. Hopkinton, MA 01748 or American Heart Assoc. www.heart.org .

Hopkinton’s Alpine Ski Team continues Strong Season

Hopkinton athletes take top spots in Boys & Girls races in Week 4

Hopkinton claimed both top spots for the boys and girls races at the Central Massachusetts Conference Ski League Slalom competition on Thursday February 6, 2020 at Ski Ward in Shrewsbury.

For the boys, Senior Captain Max Rodgers placed first with the fastest combined time of two runs. Max’s twin brother Jack placed second, while Junior Jackson Schlussel placed seventh, and Junior Cameron Hanna placed 22nd. The boys team claimed second place behind the formidable St. Johns High School team. 

On the girls side, Junior Captain Cate Barry also finished in first place. Freshman Elizabeth Herlihy placed 16th, and Sophomores Tori Fischer and Avery Hutchinson placed 31st and 34th respectively.  The girls' team took 5th place overall.  

In just its fourth year, the Hopkinton High School Alpine Ski Team has grown its roster to 25 athletes, consisting of 17 boys and 8 girls.  The team trains and races at Ski Ward in Shrewsbury. The team competes in the Central Massachusetts Conference Ski League (CMCSL), which consists of 11 high school teams and boasts over 250 racers.  

Head Coach Nancy Schlussel said of her team’s increasingly strong performance, “I could not be more proud of all of these athletes. They work hard, and support and encourage each other every week at practice and in competition. Every racer contributes to this team.”

The team will compete in CMCSL’s final race of the season on Thursday, February 12th.  After the final race, CMCSL will announce its selection of racers that will compete in the 2020 MIAA Alpine Ski State Championship on March 4th at Berkshire East in Charlemont, Mass. At the state championship, racers have the opportunity to compete against the top high school racers from across the state.  Go Hillers! Contributed content.

Positively Hopkinton

Hopkinton Runner Becomes Member of a Very Small Club

We have received a newsworthy note from Hopkinton resident Steve Branch that Hopkinton Marathon Runner, father, husband, Trails-keeper, health promoter Peter LaGoy has reached a milestone.

 "Peter LaGoy finished the Mesa Marathon earlier today in 2:58:33.  While that itself is exceptional (especially for a 60-year old), the even more remarkable feat is that he has now run a sub 3-hour marathon in each of six calendar decades.  His first was in the late 1970s, each decade since, and now in 2020.

 "He is among a small group of 41 who had done it across five decades, but now is part of an even smaller group who have accomplished it across six," writes Mr. Branch.

Congratulations, Pete!

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Hopkinton Health Department -- Coronavirus Notice

Dear Residents of Hopkinton:
The Health Department would like to formally address the community's concern about the risk of novel Coronavirus in the Town of Hopkinton. We acknowledge that outbreaks of new virus infections among people are always of public health concern and are working to make sure you are updated with information as it is released from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH).

Even with the identification of a Coronavirus case in Boston, the CDC and MDPH consider the transmission risk of 2019-nCoV in Hopkinton to be low at this time. Current research indicates that the novel Coronavirus is spread by droplets produced when an infected individual sneezes or coughs. Risk of transmission of this virus is directly related to contact with an individual currently infected. Flights from China are no longer permitted to land at Logan International Airport. As of 5:00 p.m. on 2/2/2020, under newly imposed Federal restrictions, passengers that have visited the Hubei province will be screened for contact with sick individuals and then quarantined for 14 days at a designated military installation. Information about this new Federal restriction is rapidly changing and will be updated on the MDPH web-site dedicated to this event and provided below. Infected individuals are not permitted to circulate amongst the general public.

The Hopkinton Health Department is in daily contact with the MDPH and updated with evolving information concerning 2019-nCoV by the CDC. Any diagnosis and/or suspicion of a communicable disease is immediately shared amongst the attending physician, theHopkinton Health Department and the MDPH. The Department is pushing this information and updates to the physicians and physician practices in Hopkinton. At this time, there are no confirmed cases or persons under investigation for 2019-nCoV in Hopkinton.

There are preventative measures you can implement to protect yourself and your family. As with any outbreak of respiratory illness, frequent hand washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is your first line of defense. Avoid touching your face or eyes and cover your mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing.

The Hopkinton Health Department is committed to keep the community informed and to reduce risk for exposure to any communicable disease. The Health Department is available to answer any questions or concerns and can be reached at (508) 497-9725.
MDPH Coronavirus Web-site: https://www.mass.gov/guides/information-on-the-outbreak-of-2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov  Contributed

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Registration for the 17^th Sharon Timlin Memorial Event opens Friday, February 7, 2020

   February 4, 2020 -- Register early, make a difference, and be a part of the fight against ALS @ www.sharontimlinrace.org

The Sharon Timlin Memorial Event will be held on Saturday, June 20^th, 2020. It starts with a Certified 5K Road Race, a Kids’ Color Fun-Run, Games, Live Music, The Red Sox Showcase Truck, Food, Silent Auction and Great Raffles. Race is limited to 1,800 participants. Be a part of this family-fun and celebrated community event.

This event will be celebrating 17 years of raising awareness to finding a cure for ALS. All proceeds benefit the Angel Fund toward ALS Research.

Register this Friday for the 5K Road Race and the Kids Color Run ! Race is limited to 1,800 participants.

Join before May 18th to get a discount on the entry fee and get ready for a fun day!

Please check out our website for all the details. www.sharontimlinrace.org.

Help the Sharon Timlin Memorial Event make an impact against this devastating disease by becoming a sponsor.  We have exciting opportunities for sponsors at all levels.  If interested in being a 2020 sponsor, please email Keiron Tumbleton at run4als@gmail.com

Changing the world always needs volunteers! Interested in volunteering at the Sharon Timlin Memorial Event?  Please sign up now at www.sharontimlinrace.org.

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Grants to be Announced

February 1, 2020 - Hopkinton Cultural Council announces 2020 grant recipients and a hosted Hopkinton “Council Program." The grants are going toward supporting local exhibits, workshops, festivals, lectures and community enrichment events. We received 26 grant applications and we able to award grants in full or part to 11 of them. There are many worthwhile applications for funding but have limited funds to be able to facilitate them all.

“In some cases we reduced the amount that we awarded in order to give grants to more applicants, it is exciting to see the enthusiasm for arts and cultural events in our community growing each year," said Sterling Worrell, Chair of Hopkinton Cultural Council.

Decisions about which activities to support are made at the community level by a board of municipally appointed volunteers. The members of the Hopkinton Cultural Council are: Sterling Worrell – Chair, Jonathan Meltzer – Treasurer, Ilana Cassidy – Secretary, Rick Jacobs – Events Coordinator, Darlene Hayes – Public Relations, Amy Groves, Meena Kaushik, Tom Phelan, Laura Stacey and Andrea Wilk.

2020 grant recipients included: Marathon Quilt Guild, Hopkinton Women’s Club, Hopkinton Garden Club, the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, Hopkinton Senior Center, South Asian Circle of Hopkinton, 26.2 Foundation and the Hopkinton Public Schools.

On April 1, 2020, the Hopkinton Cultural Council will host an invitation-only annual grantee reception.

“I look forward to meeting the grantees at the reception each year, learning about their projects and supporting the arts in the Hopkinton community," said Carolyn Dykema, MA State Representative.
 

In addition, the Hopkinton Cultural Council for 2020 has chosen to take on a Council Program as the presenting host and overseeing the return of Art on the Trail early this summer. This Council Program is being spear headed by Hopkinton Cultural Council members Darlene Hayes and Meena Kaushik who have already begun meeting with local partnering organizations including the Hopkinton Center for the Arts and the Hopkinton Trails Club.

“The Hopkinton Trails Club enthusiastically supports the return of the Art on the Trail Event. The previous iterations of the event introduced the Center Trail to many folks who would not otherwise have discovered this wonderful open space resource, and many of them have returned on their own over the years to enjoy it. It is a great use of this trail, and an effective promotion and celebration of our town, and its natural treasures. We look forward to seeing the event return,” said John Ritz, Hopkinton Trails Club member.

The Hopkinton Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 local Cultural Councils (LCC) serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides and annual appropriation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.

Kevin F. Shea

Kevin F. Shea passed away on February 2nd, 2020 after a courageous 5 year battle with oral cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family in his home.

Kevin knew how to light up a room with his presence and sense of humor. No matter where he went, he always wanted people he came in contact with to feel special and to know that they mattered.

By the time he was in high school, Kevin had lived in six states. Kevin made a close group of friends at Westfield High in New Jersey before moving to California and graduating from Laguna Beach High. In this group of NJ high school friends was Maura, who became his wife and love of his life for 35 years.

A graduate of the UCLA class of 1981, Kevin received a bachelor’s degree in economics - a springboard for an incredible 40-year career in the wine business. Kevin traveled from California to New York, Chicago to New England, Chile to Barcelona, gathering colleagues and friends with each meeting.

Along with his devoted wife, Maura, Kevin loved his three children: Caitlin (Hopkinton High class of 2006), Patrick (class 2008) and his fiancé Lanie, and Caroline (class of 2012). The consummate Dad, Kevin spent years cheering from the stands of countless ice and field hockey games and in the front row of theater productions. Summers in Boothbay Harbor, Maine and Point Pleasant Beach in New Jersey echo with fondness in the memories of his family. His adoration extended to his siblings, in-laws, nephews, and nieces, along with his beloved mother-in-law and friend “GG.”

Brady, his beloved beagle, pre-deceased him August of 2019. We know Brady welcomed him with a wagging tail and led him to the buffet where they could start eating whatever they could possibly want.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday Feb. 8th at 11:00 AM in St. Matthew’s Parish, 26 Highland St. Southborough, MA. Calling hours will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland, MA. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on Saturday, February 8th at 5:30 PM because Kevin just wanted a dance party. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Beagle Freedom Project, 4804 Laurel Canyon Blvd. #534 Valley Village, CA 91607

https://bfp.org/donate/

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Annie Marie Masters, age 6
Annie Marie Masters, age 6, of Hopkinton, went to heaven the morning of Friday, January 31, 2020. She was with Mom and Dad holding each of their hands as she became an Angel. Born in Boston, she was the daughter of Chris and Genny Masters. Annie was a cuddle bug and loved being held and cuddling with Mom and Dad. She gave the best kisses and had a belly laugh that would make any day a million times better. Annie, like her twin sister Charlotte, loved to swim especially on the beaches of Ocean City, NJ. She also enjoyed swinging, climbing, playing babies and dress up, reading books, dancing, music and doing whatever her big brother was doing.  A lover of  Minnie Mouse and Demi from Vampyrina which made her giggle the most.

Despite her many medical challenges that took many of her abilities away from her, she lived life to the fullest and never complained. She had the legs of a ballerina, always on the move and fingers that were long and beautiful and meant for creating.  Annie had a great disposition and rolled with the punches and took every challenge head on. She loved going to school, loved her teachers and therapists at both the Hopkinton Integrated Pre-School and the Boston College Campus School. She had out of this world toughness, resolve and born a fighter.

Annie was loved by so many people, but especially her twin sister, Charlotte, who passed away November 6, 2019, and her brother, Chase; her maternal grandparents, Jean and Chris Johnson of West Chester, PA; her paternal grandparents, the late Peter Masters Sr. and Karolyn Masters of Bedford, MA; her aunts and uncles, Matt Johnson of Lake Tahoe, CA, Peter and Amy Masters of Bedford, Kristine Masters of Rome, Italy, Katy and Kyle O’Connor of Bedford, as well as cousins, Jackson, Alexa, Landon, Sadie, Bridget, Kierstyn, Paige, Emma and Christian.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 4th at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Community Church, 146 East Main St. Hopkinton. There will be a reception to celebrate her life to follow at the Hopkinton Country Club. To honor Annie, the family has asked those to wear purple. In lieu of flowers, donations in Annie’s memory may be made to The Campus School at Boston College, https://www.bc.edu/bc-web/offices/alumni/giving/17×001.html
Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com 

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

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Leda Arakelian Announces for Republican State Committee

Hopkinton, MA. - January 30, 2020 -- Today Leda Arakelian of Hopkinton announced that she is running for Republican State Committee in the Second Middlesex & Norfolk Senatorial District. The election is Tuesday, March 3^rd.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Hoyts Are In!

by Dave McGillivray

What a thrill it was to induct Rick and Dick Hoyt into the 10th class of the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame last night at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. A robust crowd of about 200 triathlon luminaries and guests attended the affair.

As I was finishing up my introduction, I mentioned that unfortunately Rick could not make the trip but maybe someone out in the audience was live streaming it back home, and they were; Rick saw the entire induction. So cool!

It was also fun to “walk the red carpet” with fellow Hall of Fame members Mike Reilly, Bob Babbitt, Jim Curl and Missy LeStrange and with current inductees Dick Hoyt, Cherie Gruenfeld and Cathy Plant, wife of Mike Plant. I had fun, too, giving a presentation at the Endurance Exchange earlier in the day. Got a lot accomplished in the short 24 hours I was there!! A number of years ago, DMSE managed the Women’s Running Magazine Half Marathon in Scottsdale / Tempe. Brought back some neat memories of that race. 

Mr. McGillivray is the Race Director of the Boston Marathon.

Left, excerpt from 2006 HopNews file photo.

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Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

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BOSTON (January 23, 2020) - The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today confirmed the first influenza-associated pediatric death of this flu season in the state. The child was a teenager, lived in Worcester County and tested positive for influenza B. Last flu season, there were four confirmed pediatric (individuals under the age of 18) flu-related deaths in Massachusetts. As of Jan. 11, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had reported a total of 39 influenza-associated pediatric deaths this flu season nationwide.

DPH continues to urge people who have not received a flu shot to get vaccinated. There is no shortage of vaccine. People who think they may have the flu should call their healthcare provider for guidance and possible treatment. This is particularly important for people with pre-existing health conditions that may make them more susceptible to serious illness when they get the flu.

"I feel immense sorrow for the family of this child. This is a tragic reminder of how serious the flu can be for both children and adults,’’ said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “Every flu season is different, but January and February are typically the height of flu season. We want people to know that it’s not too late to get a flu shot.”

This season, between 2,000-3,000 Massachusetts residents have been hospitalized with the flu, and there have been 15,000 – 20,000 emergency room visits. DPH tracks flu severity in its weekly flu report published each Friday.

``Flu vaccination is our best protection against illness,” said Dr. Larry Madoff, Medical Director, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences. ``People also should remember to wash their hands, cover their cough and sneeze, and stay home when they are sick to limit the spread of disease.”

The most common symptoms of flu are fever, cough, and sore throat. Symptoms can also include body aches, headache, chills, runny nose, and feeling very tired. Some people, especially young children, may also have diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms last from a few days to up to a week or more.

To stop flu from spreading, DPH recommends that people:

•Contact their healthcare provider if they think they have the flu, especially if they have health concerns that make them more likely to develop severe illness when sick with the flu. The provider may prescribe antiviral medications, which work best when started early in the illness. If symptoms do not improve or worsen rapidly, they should seek medical attention immediately.

•Get the flu vaccine as soon as possible. Vaccine is still available, and there is likely to be flu activity for many more weeks.

•Stay home when they are sick with fever and cough or a sore throat, if possible. People should stay at home until at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, without the use of fever-reducing medications.

•Wash their hands thoroughly and regularly, or use hand sanitizer.

•Cover their coughs and sneezes.

The flu virus is spread through droplets of saliva and mucus from the nose and mouth. If you are close enough to a person with the flu (3-to-6 feet) when they cough or sneeze, you can breathe in the virus and get sick. The flu virus can also live for a short time on things you touch, such as doorknobs, phones, and toys. Adults with flu can spread the virus one day before symptoms appear to approximately one week after. Children can spread the flu even longer after they get sick.

For more information about influenza, visit www.mass.gov/flu

For questions, call your local board of health, your healthcare provider, or DPH at (617) 983-6800.

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Working hard for Hopkinton Homeowners

and the surrounding Communities

Blanche B. “Didy” Driscoll, 84

Hopkinton – Blanche B. “Didy” Driscoll, 84, passed away peacefully Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Beaumont Rehabilitation Center in Northbridge. She was the wife of the late James Driscoll. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Blanche (Monicka) Serbin.

She was employed for many years by Digital Equipment Corporation, retiring in 1992. She also worked at the Town Assessors office in Hopkinton. She enjoyed bird watching, drawing, dancing the polka, trips to the casino, trips to Philly, telling stories and spending time with family. She will be deeply missed by her family.

She is survived by her children Sandra Colonna and husband Michael of Northbridge, Anthony Sobotka Jr. of Philadephia, Christopher Sobotka and wife Joanne of Philadelphia and her step-daughter Gloria Worthington and husband Richard of Perkasie, PA. She also leaves her grandchildren Al, Matt, Kevin, Alisha, James, John and her beloved Madison who loved her so much. In addition, she leaves her great grandchildren Alexa, Ethan her partner in crime, Finley, Paige and Addison. Blanche was predeceased by her infant daughter Cynthia, step-daughter Pamela Driscoll, grandson Joseph Daigle and siblings Josephine, Rose, Anna, Mary, Frank, Stephen, Joseph and John.

Her family would like to extend a personal and warm thank you to the staff at Beaumont Rehabilitation in Northbridge, Salmon VNA & Hospice and Dr. Alderman, her cardiologist, for all those extra pill-free years.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 23, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, 34 Church St. A funeral service will take place at 1:15 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Hopkinton.

Donations may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.