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HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 25 | No. 1 | January 10, 2024

Daugherty a unanimous pick as fire chief

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

he Select Board at its meeting Jan. 2 unanimously chose interim Fire Chief Gary Daugherty Jr. as the town’s permanent chief.

Board members interviewed Daugherty and fellow finalist John W. Ignatowicz, the current acting fire chief in Pelham, New Hampshire, for the position. While both candidates have similar histories of lengthy service to their respective departments and taking on leadership roles, Daugherty was chosen because he could hit the ground running.

Daugherty’s budgetary experience as a Select Board member in another town was seen as an asset. His grant writing skills, collaboration with other town departments and fire departments, and team approach gave him the edge. Members also cited his work with Eversource to help alleviate community concerns about the liquefied

BRANCH OUT

A worker carefully cuts a fallen tree that sits upon wires above Winter Street following a storm that caused power outages in town last month.

Fire Chief | 7

INSIDE

Town lends hand to migrants

NEWS

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

Migrants | 9

Leaders discuss future of town-owned buildings

6

POLICE PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

he Hopkinton Health Department and Project Just Because have combined their efforts to help those in need locally as well as to assist migrants who have come to the region in recent months.

Health Department Director Shaun McAuliffe has worked to help refugees entering the MetroWest region since late August, shortly after Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey declared a state of emergency regarding the overextended shelter system. He expanded upon this effort with Project Just Because, a Hopkinton nonprofit that helps struggling Massachusetts residents on a local and statewide scale.

“For the refugees, my intern and I have collected a needs list from the 18 communities in our Public Health Emergency Preparedness Group,” explained

Hopkinton nonprofit Project Just Because has distributed necessities to migrants who have settled in the region.

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Nickerson selected to fill School Committee seat

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2 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Hopkinton Independent The Hopkinton Independent is published by Hopkinton Independent, LLC, 32 South St., Westborough, MA 01581. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of the ad that was in error if notified in writing within three business days of the publication date. All material is the property of the Hopkinton Independent.

Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material. The Hopkinton Independent is delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to 100 percent of the homes and businesses in Hopkinton, reaching more than 7,700 addresses.

It’s also available for free pickup at Muffin House Café and Price Chopper as well as at many other local businesses. Hopkinton Independent, LLC is equally co-owned by Bagdon Advertising, Inc. and Susanne Odell Farber.

STAFF

Appreciation for Independent’s coverage T

hank you to the people of the Hopkinton Independent for

your tireless service to the community over the years, and in LETTERS TO THE EDITOR particular to Mary Ellen Gambon for bringing her many years of

education and expertise to the job. At a time when so many people seem to do nothing but complain about Hopkinton, I always look to the Independent for thoughtful, professional reporting that teases out our multiple perspectives. Thanks for being our rock!

Publisher: David Bagdon Dir. of Business Development: Susanne Odell Farber Founder: Sarah Lothrop Duckett Managing Editor: Jerry Spar Social Media director: David Bagdon STAFF WRITER: Mary Ellen Gambon Editorial contributors: Lyn Calkins, Chris Villani, John Cardillo, Christie Vogt, Jane Bigda, Susan Gonsalves, Courtney Cornelius

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FOR ADVERTISING: Contact Susanne Odell Farber Cell: 508-954-8148 or Email: Sales@HopkintonIndependent.com FOR MAILED SUBSCRIPTIONS, Contact the Hopkinton Independent Office: 508 435-5188 or Email: Sales@HopkintonIndependent.com EDITORIAL COMMENTS AND INQUIRIES, including Letters to the Editor should be emailed to Editor@HopkintonIndependent.com

— Amy Groves, Hopkinton

Divisiveness in town needs to stop It seems like only yesterday that a fair cross section of Hopkinton political viewpoints got together and, together, we managed to remove one divisive aspect of Hopkinton’s political, if not daily life. (Petition signers: Democrats 28%, Republicans 16%, unenrolled 56%. Town registered voters: D 22%, R 12%, U 65%.) Now, so shortly thereafter, we have others doing their best to create divisiveness within this community. One might have hoped Hopkinton had progressed way past schoolyard taunts.

— Ed Harrow, Hopkinton

Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s name, address and contact information for verification. Letters should be no more than 400 words, and the Hopkinton Independent offers no guarantee that all letters will be printed. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event or thanking volunteers and sponsors.

Main Street bike lane defies logic An excellent report [from the Dec. 13 issue] on the Main Street “bike lanes”; it’s a matter close to my heart. Thank you for your continued interest and reporting on this project.

I read the bike lane was “fully vetted by MassDOT.” I am getting older and more forgetful; I am curious, was that the very same MassDOT that approved the designed width of Main Street, a portion of which had to later be reconstructed to widen it a few feet for some reason …

And said bike lane was “designed by a VHB bicycle specialist.” Heaven help me, but I am still curious, might VHB have passing familiarity with the Massachusetts Planning and Design Guide? Where in Section 4.2.2, starting on page 58: Raised crossings are an effective strategy for reducing crashes between motorists and bicyclists … increase yielding behavior of motorists. Raised crossings should be considered for separated bike lane crossings. … Examples where this treatment may be particularly beneficial are at the following types of crossings: • Collector and local street crossings; • Crossings of driveways and alleys.

Raised crossings should have the following design: • They should be elevated 4-6 inches above the street.

• Motor vehicle approach ramps should be sloped as follows: Streets: 5-8 percent slope; Driveways and alleys: 5-15 percent slope.

While we have raised, separated bike lanes, rather than remaining raised at the 19 driveway crossings as is suggested in the above referenced Massachusetts Planning and Design Guide, ours drop to the driveway level. Why do we not have raised crossings as suggested in the Massachusetts Planning and Design Guide? Further, that guide has this to say about the driveway crossings that we feature in our “bike lane” wherein the bike lane drops to the driveway level: Too many transition ramps [in a bike lane] in close proximity can result in an uncomfortable bicycling environment.

There are 38 transition ramps over the approximately half-mile length of the bike lane. I am sure that will be a pleasant feature.

My mother’s likely comment, “If this were played upon the stage now, I would condemn it as an improbable fiction.”

— Ed Harrow, Hopkinton

Editor’s note: The opinions and comments expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Independent. Submissions should be no more than 400 words and must include the writer’s name and contact information for verification. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event. Letters may be edited by the Independent staff for space, errors or clarification, and the Independent offers no guarantee that every letter will be published. For a schedule of deadlines for letters and other submissions, check the Hopkinton Independent website (HopkintonIndependent.com) and click on the Contact header, then on Editorial Deadlines.

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The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 3

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Tales from a Townie: The ’47 Chevy and the baseball glove

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his tale takes place between the years 1957 and 1959. The main characters are my friend Jim, the ’47 Chevy and me. Unbeknownst to us, in 1957, the Chevy — more than “just a car” — would be the “magic carpet ride” that would transport us from childhood to the next stages of our lives.

Let’s start at the beginning, in the fall of 1957, when we were both sophomores and 15 years old. Jim’s uncle took him car shopping, and they returned home with the ’47 Chevy.

I will describe the Chevy: a box on four wheels — not streamlined at all. It was able to climb hills a little faster than you could trot up them, and it was painted a regular black. But it was our “ticket to ride.”

The plan was for Jim to learn to drive — back and forth Though the car never left in his driveway — and in April of 1958, when he turned 16, he the driveway, our excursions would get his driver’s license.

Until football season that on the ‘magic carpet’ had fall ended, Jim was quite busy, started. For us, at that time of and the car basically sat there in the yard. When winter came our lives, just being in the car and there wasn’t much snow, the Chevy made numerous trips up was a totally new experience and down the driveway. I was of privacy. We could discuss his passenger for many of those “excursions.” our hopes and dreams Though the car never left the driveway, our excursions on the uninterrupted. “magic carpet” had started. For us, at that time of our lives, just being in the car was a totally new experience of privacy. We could discuss our hopes and dreams uninterrupted.

In April, the second step of the odyssey took place. Jim got his driver’s license and registered the Chevy.

Our world expanded to trips around the local area. It was great! Another great thing was we could drive to gas stations. No more lugging the gas to the car in a 5-gallon container.

During the summer between our sophomore and junior years, we didn’t spend any time in the Chevy, as I worked at Boy Scout Camp and Jim worked in construction.

During the fall, Jim continued with football, and I went to work in the cemetery after school. After Thanksgiving, we continued with more rides in the Chevy. We didn’t ride around much in the winter — the tires weren’t that good.

In the spring of our junior year, we resumed our riding around until summer came, when I worked at camp and Jim in construction again.

We resumed our riding in the fall again, and we were seniors now. When winter came, Jim gave me the sad news: The Chevy was coming off the road Jan. 1. He was going to college in the fall and needed to save all the money he could.

No more rides in the Chevy! But wait. I had an idea.

I was saving for the Washington trip in April and had some cash. Jim was going to play baseball in the spring at a new position, first base, and he didn’t have a first baseman’s mitt. I had played first base in Little League and had a first baseman’s mitt. A deal was made: I would get the Chevy and register it. He got the mitt and could use the car any time he needed it.

I gave up the Washington trip and gained a car. I figured the trip was only one week, while the car would last a lot longer (I hoped).

Another time on my life travels, in May, I drove the Chevy to Boston and signed up for the Navy, taking my physical at the Fargo Building.

Alas, in June, the Chevy’s clutch went, and I sold it for $10. I bought a 1950 Ford for $35, and my journey through life continued until the end of that year of 1959.

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Van strikes 2 homes on Grove Street A

van driven by an allegedly drunk Hopkinton resident crashed houses NEWS into at 75 and BRIEFS 77 Grove Street on Jan. 4, according to Hopkinton Fire Department personnel and a press spokesperson.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:51 p.m., according to Robert Mills, a spokesperson from public relations firm JGPR. “Police and fire responded to a 911 call where a white van struck two homes — 75 and 77 Grove Crews work to shore up one of the Grove Street houses that was struck by a Street,” he said. “The vehicle Jan. 4. van fled the area, but police responded very in recent memory,” the Hopkinton Fire quickly and arrested the driver.”

Department stated in a tweet on the X He noted that the van was stopped nearby, and the operasocial media platform the morning of the tor was taken into custody. storm. “HopFD has responded to 18 calls The driver, Stephen Murphy, 52, was arrested and for service within the past 4 hours.” charged with operating under the influence of liquor (second Hopkinton Public Schools closed all offense), driving to endanger, and two counts of leaving the buildings early. The middle and high scene of a property damage crash. Murphy was to be arschools experienced power outages and raigned in Framingham District Court on Jan. 5. were running on “minimal generator “One home [77 Grove] sustained significant damage,” power.”

Mills noted, “so the family will be staying with relatives. The The Hopkinton Department of Public good news is that no one was injured.”

Works worked to clear downed trees and/ The other home was stabilized, and the residents were or wires on multiple roads. allowed to remain.

In an email at 1 p.m., DPW Director Stated Fire Chief Gary Daugherty: “We’re fortunate Kerry Reed stated that the “DPW has that no one was hurt in this incident.” responded to over a dozen calls for down Meanwhile, on the same afternoon, a teenager from trees” on Wood Street, Front Street, HayWestborough rolled over his Ford Explorer Sport SUV on ward Street, Pond Street, Winter Street, Wood Street but was able to exit the vehicle on his own and Fruit Street, Cedar Street. South Mill was not seriously injured, according to witnesses at the scene.

Street and Clinton Street.

The accident happened just after 3:30 p.m. near the De“Also, several town culverts couldn’t partment of Public Works headquarters at 83 Wood Street. handle this storm capacity, so the streams The vehicle knocked over two mailboxes and damaged a overtopped the roads,” she continued. guardrail, reported Wood Street resident Pam Campagna, “This happened at Granite Street and West who pulled out of her driveway right after the accident ocElm Street. And lastly, DPW crews have curred in front of her home. been working to clear catch basins that “He missed my light post but took out the guardrail, got clogged with leaves or other debris to pulling it with him,” Campagna said, noting that the driver keep them flowing.” likely would have hit trees and/or a telephone pole had the She added that the Water & Sewer guardrail not been there.

Department has been helping respond with “The police kept saying that guardrail saved his life,” the Fire Department to calls for flooded Campagna added. “They said that multiple times.” basements. Reed noted that for those who Through a public relations spokesman, the Hopkinton lost electricity who have sump pumps, Police Department confirmed that the driver was not serithey aren’t able to run, causing basements ously injured. to be “inundated with groundwater.”

December storm causes power outages, flooding

Fruit Street bridge reopens

A storm featuring strong winds and heavy rain struck the region on Dec. 18, leading to power outages and flooding in town.

“This morning has been one of our highest call volumes

The Fruit Street bridge that carries traffic over the MBTA/CSX Railroad and the Sudbury River in Westborough and Hopkinton was reopened to travel Dec. 15, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced.

The bridge closure had been in place since November 2021 to allow construction operations to take place as part of the $12.5 million bridge replacement project.

MassDOT noted that construction still is ongoing, and as such, lane closures will be required when work is taking place next construction season to bring the bridge to its final condition by the summer of 2024.

The second bridge on Fruit Street, which spans I-495, also is being reconstructed as part of the I-90/I-495 Inter-

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News Briefs | page 5

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 5

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’ Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

This issue’s winner is Alia Ohira for this photo of a half-moon blending in with the holiday lighting at the Town Common. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@ hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged.

Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by Bill’s Pizzeria.

Readers are encouraged to submit photos of people, places or things in Hopkinton. The Independent staff will select one winner for each issue. The winner will have their submitted photo published in the paper and will receive a $25 gift certificate to Bill’s Pizzeria.

All photos must be submitted by individuals 16 and over. The photo must be high resolution, and not submitted for use by any other media outlet. Winners will pick up their gift certificate at Bill’s Pizzeria.

Fruit Street bridge reopens News Briefs | from page 4

change Improvement Project, but it has been open to alternating one-way traffic.

Teen driver dies in I-495 crash The Massachusetts State Police announced that a 19-year-old female from Franklin died Jan. 2 after a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 495 in Hopkinton.

The accident occurred on the northbound side of the highway. Troopers responding to calls about a crash and fire arrived at the scene shortly after 1 p.m. and found a Nissan Altima in the center median in flames. Hopkinton Fire and EMS extinguished the fire.

The driver, later identified as Allison Kane, was pronounced dead on the scene, police stated.

The area was cleared shortly after 6 p.m.

The crash and its possible causes were under investigation.

CPC discusses accessible playground The Community Preservation Committee at its meeting Dec. 14 voted against a $1 million request from the School Department to design and build an accessible playground at the Mara-

thon School. Instead, the CPC unanimously approved $100,000 for further study into an accessible playground that would include a wider age range at an undesignated location.

Discussion for the proposal dominated the 90-minute meeting. Concerns were raised about community use of a playground designated for school property and lack of detail in the proposal.

Proponents spoke about the need for stressing inclusivity at an early age and allowing students with disabilities to be able to play and socialize with their peers.

The CPC made quick work of the other requests on the agenda, approving them unanimously. They included: — $5,900 from the housing reserve for the surveying of a parcel on Fruit Street; — $10,210 for the Hopkinton Area Land Trust (HALT) request for a conservation restriction on the Rice Woods property, also known as the Jenner property; — $10,000 for a conservation restriction to be placed on the Hughes property, as requested by HALT; — $20,000 requested by the Cemetery Commission for the restoration of historic headstones to come from the historical preservation reserve; — $240,897 for restoration of the Historical Society building from the historical preservation reserve; — $30,000 requested by the Parks & Recreation Commission for a permanent storage shed at the Fruit Street fields; — $60,000 requested by the Trails Committee for the second phase of the Chamberlain Trail.

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6 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Select Board discusses future of town buildings

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he Select Board at its meeting Dec. 19 heard several options for the future repurposing of four key townowned properties.

To gain more insight into the best ways to use the buildings, the Select Board unanimously Elmwood School, which will be replaced in the coming approved the issu- years, will join the vacant Center School as town properties ance of requests for for which a reuse plan must be developed. proposal (RFP) this winter for Center help reduce the tax burden when we School for private development. do capital projects.”

Members noted that once the best use Capital projects also need to align for that property is determined, they with the town’s master plan and viwill be better able to discuss how to sion statement, he added. Downtown maximize the potential of the other revitalization is a priority, as is the three sites. creation of a cultural district.

Dan McIntyre, chair of the PerOne option discussed was splitting manent Building Committee, pretown employees between Town Hall sented a facility planning update to and Center School. Another scenario the board on the potential reuse of that was deemed to be less feasible Center School, the current Elmwood was building an addition to the back School building, Town Hall and the of Town Hall. A new Town Hall could town’s Fruit Street property. Options be constructed at Center School, freefor these assets under consideration ing up Town Hall for housing or retail include building reuse, redevelopuse. Also considered was moving all ment or razing in an effort to bring town services to the current Elmwood needed space to town employees while School building. In that scenario, providing opportunities to build the Town Hall may or may not be kept as commercial tax base and provide afa municipal asset. fordable housing.

McIntyre made the point that The process began this spring Parks & Rec and Youth & Family when leaders of town departments and Services should be kept together betheir staff members were interviewed cause they serve the same population. about their space needs. An architect At this point, chair Muriel Kramer was involved in the discussions to noted the need for a recreation center determine how much room departthat would provide activities for teens ments required, forming the basis of after school. an architectural study.

“We struggled with what a youth Two community forums were center really is,” replied McIntyre. held, McIntyre noted. In addition, “What it came down to basically is discussions with the Planning Board, we need space — big open spaces or the Historical Commission, Schools spaces we can partition off.”

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh, Select Board member Amy RitterParks & Recreation Commission chair busch noted that a recreation or teen cenDan Terry and the Hopkinton Chamber ter would make more sense downtown of Commerce provided feedback. so that it would be in walkable distance The key takeaway from this effort from the middle and high schools. is that Hopkinton’s employees need The current Elmwood School site about 30% more physical space for the could be retained by the town for fucurrent staffing levels and programs. ture use, McIntyre said. Another idea The need for storage space and meetwas to have a fire station there. The ing rooms was a common thread.

Elmwood site could be rezoned for Stressed McIntyre: “We’re shy by multifamily or mixed use housing. The quite a bit of space.” building could be razed and the land A new issue that was raised dursold for development. ing this process was that Cavanaugh Potential uses for the Fruit Street would like to move the integrated site include a new gymnasium, a pre-kindergarten classrooms out of the Facilities Department building or afMarathon School to another site to free fordable housing. up classroom space. Parks & Rec also One concept McIntyre brought up brought up the need for a gymnasium, is to keep the downtown more “busiwhich the department lost when the ness oriented” by allowing developCenter School building was closed. ment of the property there and posMcIntyre described the domino sibly keeping the town’s departments effect that the need for affordable relating to finance in Town Hall. housing creates, which would in turn These concepts will be examined further stress the school system’s more closely once the RFP for the capacity. Increasing property taxes Center School site is received in the concerned residents, while the comspring. The site contains two parcels, mercial tax base that could offset of 5 and 6 acres. The back one had the impact has remained relatively been considered for affordable housstagnant. ing.

“Large capital projects are just A report from the Permanent taxing people out of town,” said McBuilding Committee will be presented Intyre. “We really need to consider at Annual Town Meeting in May. how we can use our town assets to

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 7

Daugherty selected as fire chief in unanimous vote ing the Easter morning fire, when two people died. This fire prompted him to seek and win grant funding for a smoke detector distribution program because the couple had no working smoke detectors in their home.

Fire chief | from page 1

natural gas facility on Wilson Street as important to continue.

“What has prepared me for this is being here 20 years,” said Daugherty.

Interviews reveal similarities

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Before the interviews began, Select Board chair Muriel Kramer described the process leading to the selection of the two finalists. A consultant, Community Paradigm Associates, was hired to put out the advertisement and screen initial applicants for the job.

Over the past several months, the Fire Chief Selection Committee whittled down the candidates from 11 to eight. After being interviewed by the committee, four were selected to be evaluated at an assessment center.

Daugherty and Ignatowicz were chosen as finalists.

In his interview with the Select Board, Ignatowicz stressed that he has devoted his entire career to his current department. He spoke about how he assumed leadership roles in Pelham, first as acting deputy chief and then as acting fire chief when the current chief sustained an injury on the job. While Pelham is similar in many respects, Hopkinton’s department is busier and would offer him more opportunities for growth.

Ignatowicz used the metaphor of an iceberg to describe a fire department.

While the public is aware of what happens during emergencies, its inner workings remain below the surface. He

Work as acting chief key

Gary Daughterty Jr. interviews before the Select Board on Jan. 2

stressed connection with residents and learning from colleagues in the department and town government as priorities. He described his leadership style as “adaptive” because it acknowledges individual needs and said communication often can resolve issues before they become problems.

Like Ignatowicz, Daugherty has more than two decades of experience with his department. He first served as a firefighter in the Air Force, before being honorably discharged. He said he valued communication and work-

ing collaboratively with his team and town officials.

What bolstered Daugherty’s candidacy was his extensive knowledge of Hopkinton and the issues it faces. He acknowledged the need for a second fire station to serve the town’s swelling population. This process should advance now that the town has a procurement and grants manager, he said.

Achievements he highlighted since he became acting chief included producing an LNG response program and responding to two major fires, includ-

HopkintonIndependent.com

What impressed Select Board members was not only what Daugherty has achieved during his tenure but also his knowledge of governmental and budgetary processes. Having served as a Select Board member in his town, he spoke of his familiarity with budgets and grant writing. He served during a time when an employee brought a lawsuit against the town, which has been ongoing since 2018.

In his interview, Daugherty stressed that the department thrives on teamwork and will retain employees by treating them well. He said he has served in every department role except for fire prevention, giving him a unique perspective. This is the first time the department has been fully staffed in 20 years.

He praised fellow firefighters for taking courses and said he would support any opportunities for learning that were financially feasible for them to pursue. He noted that the department received a governor’s citation for meritorious conduct from Gov. Maura Healey in November. Daugherty said a firefighter will be speaking at an upcoming national event about smoke detector systems.

Fire chief | page 8

8 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Growing pains hit Town Hall during leadership transition period

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

D

uring the past year, Hopkinton has experienced the departure of several town leaders and the announcement of Town Manager Norman Khumalo’s retirement from municipal government to pursue a private sector position.

Examples include the Department of Public Works and Parks & Recreation Department heads leaving their roles. The Finance Department remains without a chief financial officer, while the Select Board named Gary Daugherty Jr. the town’s fire chief Jan. 2.

The Hopkinton Police Department is working to recruit new officers in the wake of retired Deputy Chief John “Jay” Porter’s ongoing legal case.

There are three allegations of sexual assault against him by a woman who was a Hopkinton High School student two decades ago while Porter served as the HPD school resource officer.

Current HPD Sgt. Tim Brennan has been implicated in the case because an investigation determined that he had knowledge of these allegations but did not report them to his supervisor.

Hopkinton attracts new talent, promotes from within The transition period has highlighted an infusion of new talent and the promotion of respected community

members. Kerry Reed became the director of the Department of Public Works after serving as Conservation Commission co-vice chair. Jon Lewitus was appointed as Parks & Recreation director, and he recently implemented a successful Skateboard & BMX jam. Julia Chun was appointed to the new role of the town’s sustainability, economic development and equity project manager. The town recently was awarded a $35,000 grant from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s Accelerating Climate Resiliency grant program, to which she applied.

In a December press release, Khumalo introduced 13 people who either joined the town’s staff or were promoted to new roles within their departments. These included several positions in the Hopkinton Public Library, two new police officers, two new firefighter/paramedics, and a new assistant treasurer/collector.

Town acknowledges mistake regarding ‘fraudulent invoice’ In a Dec. 20 email to the Independent, Khumalo acknowledged that a recently hired town employee paid a “fraudulent invoice” for a committee ad from the website HopNews.

According to a HopNews article, the invoice was submitted in an attempt to expose suspected faulty practices in town government.

Khumalo attributed the situation

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to “human error.”

“Accounting Dept. was told by a Sustainable Green Committee member to expect an invoice from a news publication to publicize its EV Expo event,” Khumalo stated in the email.

“The invoice in the mail referenced advertising for this event for an amount similar to what was expected.”

A chronology provided to the Independent by Khumalo showed that the treasurer of the Sustainable Green Committee (who was not named) met with Poonam Rijhsinghani, the town’s new assistant town accountant, on Oct. 13.

“The treasurer mentioned that the Town of Hopkinton would receive an invoice for an ad placed in the newspaper for the EV Expo by the Sustainable Green Committee,” according to the email. At that point, Rijhsinghani sought guidance from her supervisor on how to process it.

An invoice from Arch Publishing, the parent company of HopNews, for $200 for an ad for this event was received by the town’s accounting office on Nov. 6. According to Khumalo’s email, two days later Rijhsinghani attempted to email the Sustainable Green Committee treasurer and copied the town accountant to verify if the invoice had been paid. Khumalo’s email stated that the town accountant did not respond to the email.

Khumalo’s email stated: “There was no response from Diane as the email was inadvertently sent to the wrong Diane H.” Diane Hendrickson is the town treasurer/collector. The town accountant position is vacant, according to the town website. Diane M. Hayward is a member of the Sustainable Green Committee. It is unclear to whom the original email from Rijhsinghani had been directed.

On Nov. 8, Rijhsinghani requested and received a vendor W-9 form from HopNews. The invoice was processed on Nov. 13 and approved on Nov. 16.

The town issued a check on Nov. 21.

On Dec. 4, the “town learns from vendor that the invoice was fraudulent,” according to the email. The Accounting Department voided the check that day, and the check was returned by the vendor on Dec. 11.

The situation was addressed by Select Board chair Muriel Kramer at the Dec. 5 Select Board meeting.

“We learned today that the Town of Hopkinton recently received a fraudulent invoice from HopNews. com that was unfortunately processed and subsequently paid,” Kramer said at the meeting. “We have taken the appropriate steps to correct for the mistake and cancel the payment; we have further taken the steps to ensure that our review processes for like payments are reinforced to protect our employees and the town from similar fraudulent activity in the future.”

In his email, Khumalo stressed that all employees in the Finance Department have been trained in the department’s protocols. Measures were taken before the Dec. 5 Select Board meeting to address the error, he noted, and nothing like this has happened in the department before, to his knowledge.

The existing protocol stating that “[a]ll invoices submitted by boards and committees must be accompanied by documentation indicating that its payment has been approved by the board/committee,” and that policy “has been reinforced” since this incident, according to Khumalo.

Stated Khumalo: “The process for verifying invoices received from boards and committees is: The committee has to fill out a request for payment form. This will be filled out with the required amount of signatures by your board and this will act as a cover sheet for the invoices. They have to submit itemized receipts, Proof of payment and include a copy of the minutes where the board voted to pay these reimbursements.”

Daugherty selected as fire chief in unanimous vote Fire chief | from page 7

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Taking the needs of female firefighters into consideration was one area where Daugherty shined. He has sought uniforms tailored for women and made of cotton when female firefighters spoke about how uncomfortable traditional uniforms are. He is supporting patch initiatives to support LGBTQ pride in June and breast cancer awareness in October after staff brought the idea to his attention.

Since the June meeting regarding the LNG facility, Daugherty said he has been working with Eversource and conducting monthly trainings with its employees to improve the lines of communication. He also has stepped up the department’s presence in the Legacy Farms neighborhood, “which did a lot to make the residents feel safe.”

Stressed Daugherty: “I just want you to know that every decision I make is for the town.”

After some discussion where both candidates were praised for their leadership abilities and poise during the interview process, Select Board mem-

HopkintonIndependent.com

bers agreed that Daugherty was the right choice for this period of growth in Hopkinton.

“I like the details that Gary provided in all the questions … especially his knowledge about our issues, our challenges,” said vice chair Shahidul Mannan. “His relationship with the community and with the key stakeholders in the community stood out.”

After the meeting, Kramer said both candidates were stellar, but Daugherty is the right choice for the town now.

“I am so excited for Chief Daugherty, the department and for Hopkinton,” she said. “He is a tremendous asset. He has conducted himself throughout this whole process with incredible professionalism. He has some good ideas, and I am really excited about the future of the Fire Department in Hopkinton.”

The vote for approval was contingent upon a successful contract negotiation, which was to be conducted by Town Manager Noman Khumalo and town counsel.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 9

Hopkinton lends hand to region during state migrant crisis Migrants | from page 1

McAuliffe. “Project Just Because became involved by offering to provide clothing, shoes, socks and toiletries to the communities of Northborough and Southborough,” according to McAuliffe, “by distributing desperately needed supplies not provided by the state agencies.”

PJB also organized a regional shoe drive during the same time frame. The nonprofit shared the shoes with other locations after meeting local needs.

PJB assists residents as well as migrants In a Dec. 14 interview with the Independent, PJB president Cherylann Lambert Walsh explained how her desire to help others blossomed from a food pantry in her basement 26 years ago into a warehouse on 77 South Street where those experiencing difficult circumstances can get resources in a compassionate environment. She previously served as an outreach worker to homeless individuals, and she has heard the chilling stories of migrants firsthand.

“Many people, because of the population turnover here, don’t even realize that there is a food pantry in Hopkinton,” she stressed, “We also serve as a state food pantry, allowing any Massachusetts resident to come and pick out what they need.”

The food pantry is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. She recently extended the Wednesday hours until 6:30 p.m. to meet community needs.

Walsh noted that Hopkinton residents may not realize that migrants are staying in town in the homes of relatives or volunteers. She described how she met a woman with four kids who was living in a donated old car, moving from parking lot to parking lot.

“She was the kindest mother,” Walsh said.

“She had been displaced and was looking for an extra blanket and some food for her kids. The only thing she knew when she was dropped off here in town was that Hopkinton is safe.”

Walsh immediately supplied pillows, blankets and food. More importantly, she said, she treated this woman — as she does all who come to PJB — with dignity and empathy.

“These people come here and wait patiently in line,” Walsh said. “I have heard stories about how hard it was where they were, and each one has a unique story. They are appreciative and kind, but they are also very scared to say anything wrong.

Privacy is our utmost concern.”

Added Walsh: “There is no judgment here. And everyone gets a hug who wants one.”

She noted that many of the migrants come wearing flip-flops, never having experienced the area’s harsh temperatures or snow. One woman didn’t have a coat as the temperature veered toward 20 degrees.

Said Walsh: “She just sat at the bus stop across the street, holding onto those gifts we gave her for dear life.

“But it goes beyond that,” Walsh stressed.

“New England has four seasons, and people need continued support. It’s not a one-time thing.”

During the holiday season, she tends to encounter more local families who have suffered domestic abuse.

Because of McAuliffe’s extensive connections with other health directors and with the state, she has been able to share resources with other communities and fill Hopkinton’s needs. She noted that she tries to individualize requests for people whom she knows need specific items.

Volunteers and donations are always welcome and “are our lifeline,” she stressed, praising the volunteers who have helped her through the years.

For more information, visit PJB’s website. People also can reach out by calling 211 if they know a family in need.

“We need volunteers every single day,” Walsh said. “We don’t have big sponsors and run on a tight budget. Even one donated item would matter.”

Project Just Because became involved by offering to provide clothing, shoes, socks and toiletries to the communities of Northborough and Southborough, by distributing desperately needed supplies not provided by the state agencies. ­— Shaun McAuliffe Health Department director

Health Department expands its effort McAuliffe subsequently reached out to the rest of the 62 communities in the PHEB group, which extends to MetroWest and the South Shore, asking them “to assist the 18 communities in any way that they can.”

“It is worth noting that these items were shipped out after the needs of the local/regional public were addressed,” stressed McAuliffe, which included people who frequent PJB on a weekly or monthly basis.

Said McAuliffe: “PJB is doing such an amazing job at securing goods and meeting the needs of the immediate region that there is surplus.”

After coats and other winter items were donated to Northborough, McAuliffe discovered that similar needs may exist in other communities that support food pantries. He is hopeful that the program he instituted in Hopkinton can spread on a regional level.

“My intern and I realized that we could develop [a program] that would facilitate the distribution of goods from the municipalities and pantries that were well stocked to those that were in need,” he stated. “We also informed the communities that they could stock their pantries with recovered foods from the free school breakfast and lunch program that had been enacted. We instructed them to reach out to their local supermarkets and large retailers to see if they could recover safe food that would otherwise be discarded.”

His next goal is to create a weekly message board so that PHEP group communities can share and solve each other’s needs.

Added McAuliffe: “We have many communities that are willing to step up and assist.”

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McAuliffe: ‘Leading by example’ McAuliffe also devoted his personal time to locating strollers after learning that there was a need in Hopkinton and surrounding communities.

“I believe in leading by example, and I will not ask of someone that I’m not willing to do myself,” McAuliffe stressed. “While watching the Patriots defeat Pittsburgh, I surveyed the Facebook Marketplace, found free strollers advertised in Framingham, picked them up and delivered them to PJB for distribution. We are encouraging other health departments and pantries to do the same, to take an active role in the support of our most vulnerable.”

Said Walsh: “Shaun has the biggest heart.”

McAuliffe also applauded the efforts of Hopkinton High School and Elmwood School students who delivered winter clothing and other items to PJB in December. Local Scouts also are assisting.

“I’d like to see the PJB model replicated across the commonwealth,” McAuliffe stressed. “Cherylann, her staff and her volunteers do an excellent job at meeting the needs of the most vulnerable in Hopkinton and the region. They should be commended for their unselfish work and supported annually.”

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10 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

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New York man charged with scamming Hopkinton resident of $10K

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

H

opkinton Police Department detectives arrested and charged a New York man who allegedly stole $10,000 from an elderly Hopkinton resident through a well-documented nationwide computer technical support scam.

Minhaj Ismam, a 21-year-old from Jamaica, New York, was arraigned Dec. 21 at Framingham District Court on charges of larceny from a person 65 or older, larceny of over $1,200 by a single scheme, attempted larceny from a 60plus or disabled person and conspiracy, the HPD announced.

The Hopkinton resident reported the alleged scam on the morning of Dec. 20. The resident said he had been contacted the previous day by a person claiming to be a representative of a company that provides computer anti-virus software. The caller allegedly told the resident that he needed to provide a courier with $10,000. The resident also reported that the scammer was able to manipulate the resident’s computer, which contained banking information.

The resident paid the courier and then was contacted again the next day with a second payment request.

Hopkinton police worked with the resident and set up a sting, and they were able to make contact with the courier, later identified as Ismam.

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Officers spoke with Ismam and the driver of the vehicle who dropped Ismam at the home. The driver was determined to be an Uber driver who was hired to take Ismam from New York to Massachusetts.

Ismam was arrested and taken to the police station for booking. After being arraigned in Framingham District Court, he was held on $1,000 cash bail and was ordered to have no contact with the victim.

“This is a great example of our patrol officers and Detective Bureau working together to arrest a criminal targeting the elderly.” Detective Sgt. Scott van Raalten stated. “The senior population can be extremely vulnerable to scams, so we ask any resident who feels they may be targeted to call the department at 508-497-3401.”

The police advise residents to not provide personal or financial information through email or over the phone, to enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, to not trust unsolicited emails, to treat email attachments with caution and never click on links in emails unless the sender has been verified, to be careful with what information is shared online or on social media, to not give in to pressure to make a decision immediately, to hang up (and not engage) if a scammer is detected on the phone, and to look up a company’s phone number (don’t use the one a potential scammer is providing) and call the company to ask if a request is legitimate.

Wednesday, Jan. 10, 1-2 p.m.

This Zoom program is for anyone confused about financial markets, wondering what Bitcoin is all about or staring blankly at retirement statements.

Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone present Women and Money Round Table: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets. Each session focuses on a different topic.

HopkintonIndependent.com

Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Register on the Red Cross website at https:// rcblood.org/3AmuYsP.

Monthly Music & Movement

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by One Up Games Friday, Jan. 26, 1-4 p.m.

One Up Games brings a variety of next-gen consoles and gaming monitors to the library, including virtual reality devices and all the popular games, along with a mixture of classic and retro games. This program is recommended for ages 8 and older.

Mass. Audubon Presents Birds of Prey Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-2 p.m.

Featuring live birds, this multimedia program explores what makes a bird of prey, the role they play in the environment, and how humans affect their ability to survive.

Audience members will be able to see the birds up close, handle touchable natural history artifacts, and ask an experienced naturalist questions. It is recommended for all ages. Due to limited space, registration is required. It is likely to fill up, so those interested are advised to register early.

Mobility and Stability Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-2 p.m.

Certified yoga and mindfulness instructor Ananya Kumar will present about the benefits of exercise as a habit to live a healthier and happier life. After the presentation, participants will have the option to try out some exercises and stretches, all of which can be done while seated in a chair.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 11

Business BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Hopkinton Shell appreciative of welcoming community Hopkinton Shell owner Cal Karam, pictured with his wife and children, are grateful to the station’s customers for their family-like welcome.

By Linda Chuss Contributing Writer

S

ince Cal Karam became the owner of Hopkinton Shell over two years ago, the town has felt like a big family to him.

“When customers come inside or bring their cars for service, they ask how we are, and we all talk together,” said Karam. “Recently, I had a minor injury. I don’t know how people heard about it, but while I was out, they asked about me, some called to wish me well, and I even received cards — like what a family would do.”

Karam helped foster that environment by treating his customers the same way. The station has competitive gas prices and service rates and is well-maintained, and employees will help anyone who needs assistance with pumping gas and more.

“I want people to feel served and treat them like they would be treated at home,” he said. “We really appreciate and value our clients, for trusting us with their cars and for continuing to come here through all the recent downtown construction.

“For people who don’t use our station, we’d like you to give us a try. If you need a second opinion, we’ll do that.

When you have service done here, we’ll explain the work and show you the parts that were replaced. When your car won’t start, just call us and we’ll come to your place in town and get it going and bring it to the station. We can give you a ride or provide a loaner if you need that.”

In addition to selling gas, Hopkinton Shell provides state vehicle inspections and performs maintenance and repairs for all car makes.

Throughout his life, Karam has been around cars. His father was a mechanic, so his learning started early. He has been in business maintaining and repairing cars for 22 years and still enjoys it.

“All of us at the station are good with cars,” he said. We’re like a family, too, eating, laughing and talking together.”

Karam has passed on his passion

to his three children, showing them pictures of cars at the station. His wife, Cynthia, is involved as well, doing the bookkeeping for the business. They all are looking forward to moving to Hopkinton from Weymouth, which will reduce Karam’s commuting time and allow them to live in the town they have all grown fond of.

Recently, Karam also became the owner of the Gulf station at 1287 Worcester Road in Framingham, on Route 9 at the corner of Temple Street.

Said Karam, “Without the support of the community of Hopkinton, I wouldn’t have been able to succeed and expand with a new location. I’m grateful and thankful for what I have, and I wish everyone a healthy and safe new year.”

Hopkinton Shell is at 60 Main Street, on the corner of Cedar Street.

The station’s hours for gas are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m.–10 p.m., and weekends from 6 a.m.–10 p.m.

Hours for service are Monday through Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Contact Hopkinton Shell at 508-435-6738.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.

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12 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

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bioscience firm with headquarters on South Street recently announced a merger.

Isto Biologics, which bills itself as “a global BUSINESS leader in regenerative BRIEFS and autologous therapies,” has partnered with Advanced Biologics, a California company known commercially as Biologica Technologies.

The companies had been working together since 2020 prior to the merger, which became official in October.

“We are delighted to welcome the entire Advanced Biologics team to Isto Biologics,” Isto CEO Donald Brown said in a company press release. “This merger brings together the best of both companies’ expertise and a shared commitment to help patients heal faster.”

According to the press release, the merger will expand Isto’s growing portfolio of bone grafts and seamlessly integrate Advanced Biologics’ proprietary products alongside Influx, Isto’s esteemed line of cortical fiber allografts.

Lykan Bioscience now RoslinCT Also on South Street, Lykan Bioscience now is known as RoslinCT. The companies entered into a business agreement in 2022 and then merged this past June, spurred by the global investment firm GHO Capital.

According to a press release, the company will be run by Peter Coleman in the United Kingdom and Patrick Lucy in the United States.

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space, resulting in 22 cGMP processing suites, enhanced expertise, resources and transatlantic cGMP manufacturing capabilities to support the development and commercialization of advanced cell and gene therapies worldwide,” stated Lucy, who had been Lyman’s president and CEO. The release also states that the manufacturing facility located in Hopkinton will remain operational under the RoslinCT brand, with plans for further capacity expansion on both sides of the Atlantic to meet the global growing demand for advanced cell and gene therapy manufacturing services.

HCCCF supports Open Table Open Table, a MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, recently announced the receipt of a grant from the Hopkinton Country Club Charitable Foundation. The generous donation will bolster Open Table’s ongoing efforts to provide essential personal care items alongside grocery and prepared meals to local families grappling with food insecurity.

Personal care items, such as shampoo, toothpaste, laundry detergent, household cleaners and diapers, often are overlooked necessities that can strain already tight budgets. These items are expensive and are not covered by public assistance programs such as SNAP or WIC, making them financially out of reach for many families. The grant from the Hopkinton Country Club Charitable Foundation enables Open Table to bridge this gap, ensuring that clients can maintain their dignity and create a healthy home environment.

Open Table Executive Director Alexandra DePalo emphasized the importance of the grant, stating, “Personal care items are essential to the wellbeing of our clients and their families.

The generous support from Hopkinton Country Club Charitable Foundation allows us to fulfill a fundamental need, creating a more comprehensive and dignified approach to combating hunger. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to building healthier communities.”

Central One boosts Baypath At the beginning of December, Central One Federal Credit Union employees and their guests came together for a special casino-themed holiday party. This year’s celebration was about more than enjoying the holiday together; it also was about giving back.

At night’s end, attendees cashed in their casino chips for raffle tickets, with 15 winners choosing a worthy 501(c)(3) organization to receive a donation of $1,000 on Central One’s behalf. Among the charities that winners selected to receive a monetary donation from Central One was Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 13

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS in Hopkinton ADDRESS

SOLD

DATE SELLER

BUYER

2 Brook Hollow Lane

$1,350,000

Dec. 6

David Clott, Giovanna Clott, Jo-Ann Clott

Mohan Boggara, Soumita Sarkar

10 Trevor Lane

$770,000

Dec. 6

Catherine Lafferty Trust, Brendan Lafferty Trust

Fnu Kumar, Pooja Kumari

4 Daniel Shays Road

$1,265,000

Dec. 7

Beth Patrick, Kenneth Patrick

Jonathan Candido, Danielle Candido

27 Whalen Road

$1,980,232

Dec. 13

Toll Northeast V Corp.

Carl Slater, Danielle Slater

74 Weston Lane

$814,000

Dec. 14

Trails LLC

Douglas Sytsma, Lisa Sytsma

3 Baldwin Lane

$1,210,000

Dec. 15

Timothy Dean, Alison Dean

Hanumanth Ramarao, Vrithi Shah

204 Wood Street

$475,000

Dec. 18

David Clooney, Nora Clooney, Michael Clooney

Tracey Jabs, Benjamin Bray

42 Ash Street

$611,000

Dec. 18

Patricia Allen

Matthew Torilli, Kelsey Klaspell

37 North Street

$890,000

Dec. 20

Gregory Kelley, Diane Kelley

Longfei Li, Xiaohan Tang

31 Whalen Road

$1,630,045

Dec. 22

Toll Northeast V Corp.

Ritu Jyoti, Atulya Jyoti

18 Turnbridge Lane

$434,000

Dec. 26

Roland Janbergs, Lynne Janbergs

Robert Kingan, Sandra Kingan

4 Forest Lane

$549,900

Dec. 27

Theresa Marcello, Joseph Marcello

Anand Ganesan, Swathilakshmi Kaliyaperumal

6 Mayhew Street

$800,000

Dec. 29

Dana Thorpe Trust, Rosalie Thorpe Trust

Bevel Realty LLC

62 Chamberlain Street

$1,770,000

Jan. 2

Toll Northeast V Corp.

Xiangcheng Wang

The above are all property sales as recorded by the state and posted in the previous four weeks.

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How to determine the right size home for you W

hen it comes to finding your ideal home, there are many factors to consider. It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the details, but don’t overlook the importance of finding a home that’s the perfect size for you.

Consider how many people will live in your new home.

Are there kids?

If so, can any of them share a bedroom? Families planning on having children in the future also Kim Foemmel need to plan for nursery space Professional and later bedrooms for those Insights children unless they’ll be sharPA I D A D VE R T I SE ME NT ing with siblings.

With the high cost of senior housing, more and more seniors are choosing to move in with their families. If this applies to you, you may want to look for homes that include in-law suites and first-floor living.

Disabled family members may also benefit from having everything they

need on the first floor as well as accommodations such as wider doors, sinks with room for a wheelchair, and ramps instead of stairs.

Do any family members work remotely? They’ll need quiet, well-lit office space. Homeschoolers will need room for lessons, and hobbyists might want space for arts and crafts, woodworking or collecting. Depending on what time of day each person needs that space, it may be possible to combine them in a multi-function room.

Don’t forget the fitness buffs in your family. Yoga mats, Peloton bikes and weight benches all take up space.

Your lifestyle also is a major factor in your home’s ideal size. If you love entertaining and frequently have guests, you’ll want larger rooms. A big living/ dining room combo might be a perfect fit, and a large deck or patio may be a must for summer parties.

Outdoor space for a pool, a garden and/or pets may be part of your vision.

If so, you will need to consider where the mower, shovels, hedge trimmers and the like will be stored.

Remember, square footage isn’t everything. The quality of your space matters. The home’s layout can also make it feel bigger or smaller. Accord-

ing to Movoto.com, the average cost per square foot for homes sold in Hopkinton during November 2023 was $337, so that sunroom or huge kitchen could make a big difference.

Like Goldilocks trying out each of the beds in the three bears’ house, some homes might feel too big, some might feel too small. Think about how you’ll

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14 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, including lunch program menus as well as a newsletter, check hopkintonseniorcenter.com. Anyone with questions can call 508-497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.

SENIOR SNIPPETS

Winter Weather Policy The Senior Center is closed to the public when the Hopkinton Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather. Play it safe; watch the news and check for school closings. When in doubt, call the Senior Center or check out the Facebook page for closing updates. Transportation assistance also could be impacted by inclement weather.

gardens. They will discuss seed purchasing, when certain seeds should be planted, and how to grow truly organic plants. Advance registration is requested.

Managing Money and Finances for Caregivers Wednesday, Jan. 31, 1 p.m.

This free program presented by the Alzheimer’s Association will help caregivers learn about the costs of caregiving, the benefits of early planning, and how to avoid financial abuse and fraud, as well as start a conversation about finances, assess financial and legal needs, and identify where to find support. Advance registration is requested.

CALENDAR

Free Exercise Classes During the month of January, all exercise classes are free at the Senior Center.

This is an excellent opportunity to get back on track or to start (and keep) a new year’s resolution. Those interested can check out the Senior Center calendar for regular class schedules or drop by any day during regular business hours to see what classes are being offered.

Meditative Coloring Fridays Fridays, 9-11 a.m.

Every Friday in January, this group will meet for some relaxing coloring. The Senior Center will provide the pictures and coloring mediums, while participants will provide their coloring expertise. Professional coloring skills are not required.

Falls and Balance Awareness Presentation Wednesday, Jan. 17, 1 p.m.

Representatives of Hopkinton Physical Therapy will discuss different factors that put people at a higher risk of falling as they age, as well as various ways to help reduce the chances of falling. They also will provide brief falls risk screenings for those who are interested. Light refreshments will be served. Advance registration is requested.

Growing From Seeds Thursday, Jan. 18, 1 p.m.

Members of the Hopkinton Garden Club will host an exciting and very informative talk about plants and how now is the time to start planning and thinking about

To submit an item for the Hopkinton Independent calendar section, email the information to editor@HopkintonIndependent.com. Submissions should be limited to 100 words and are subject to editing by the HI staff.

Hopkinton Trails Club Monthly Meeting Jan. 10 The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

Hopkinton Trails Club Walk Jan. 14 The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a group walk at the Whitehall Conservation Area on Sunday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. This will be a pretty, easy walking trail through the woods to a lookout point on Lake Whitehall. The walk will start at the parking area opposite 276 Winter Street. In the case of significant snow, the start will move to the State Park boat ramp parking area. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

HCAA Lunar New Year Gala Feb. 10 The Hopkinton Chinese American Association (HCAA) will host its Lunar New Year Gala on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 5-9 p.m. at Hopkinton High School. There will be food, music, dances and fun activities. All are welcome. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HCAAMA.org.

Veterans Breakfast first Friday of each month The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. In July, and if the first Friday of the month is a holiday or snow day, the breakfast switches to the second Friday. No registration is required. For more information, contact Amy Beck at the Senior Center, 508-497-9730.

Al-Anon weekly meetings Thursdays

Welcome the New Year in a New Home!

Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend a confidential Al-Anon meeting, which takes place every Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. at the meeting room in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (61 Wood Street).

For more information, visit al-anon.org or call 888-4AL-ANON.

Event Calendar Sponsored by

HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS HCA Members Art Exhibition Reception | Jan. 12 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Forty-five talented HCA members are participating in this years Members Exhibition that opened January 2 and runs through February 15. We invite you to join us for a public reception to celebrate our members’ creativity and hard work.

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and support our local art community.

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Sunday Jazz Jam | Jan. 14 at 11 a.m.

Grab a cup of coffee and join us in our barn loft for an hour-long concert by the MetroWest Jazz Project followed by a public jam session. The MetroWest Jazz Project is a collaboration of jazz musicians playing acoustic contemporary jazz featuring the unique sound of the vibraphone. The jam session welcomes amateurs and professionals of all ages and talents. This is a FREE event, but a donation is appreciated.

Rob Bellamy Live In Concert | Jan. 20 at 8 p.m.

Rob Bellamy is a country/rock artist with a lot of soul. Based in Boston, his musical influence is derived from artists like Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, Tom Petty, and John Mellencamp. He has played many gigs nationwide, opening for artists such as Russell Dickerson, Dylan Scott, Charlie Daniels, Phil Vassar, and Josh Turner.

When he’s not playing his gigs, you can usually find him singing on stage with his wife, Ayla Brown.

Annie Jr. The Musical | Jan. 26, 27 & 28 The irrepressible comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world’s bestloved, award-winning musicals. Featuring a cast of over 40 students grades 2nd-8th, this musical is sure to delight audiences of all ages! With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a nextto-nothing start in 1930s New York City. Annie Jr, will be performed in the Hopkinton Middle School Auditorium (88 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton).

Your Arts Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 15

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER This report contains important information about your drinking water. Please translate it or speak with someone who understands it or ask the contact listed below for a translation.

Updated information as of December 2023 Hopkinton Water Department located in Hopkinton, Massachusetts has levels of PFAS6 above the Drinking Water Standard What happened?

For all other consumers not in a sensitive subgroup

Our water system received notification of PFAS6 results showing that our system violated the 20 ng/L PFAS6 Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) drinking water standard during October through December 2023 compliance period with a quarterly average of 24 ng/L at the Fruit St. Pump Station. The quarterly average of PFAS6 has ranged between 20 to 35 ng/L since Quarter 3, 2021 to date and our system will continue to notify consumers every 3 months with updated information as required. This does not apply to residents on private wells.

Samples collected in October 2023, November 2023, and December 2023, reported levels of PFAS6 at 23.4 ng/L, 22.5 ng/L and 26.4 ng/L, respectively. Exceedance of the MCL standard has been determined from these results. Compliance with the PFAS6 MCL is calculated as a quarterly average based upon the total number of samples collected during the compliance period. The location where elevated levels of PFAS6 were reported is from our Fruit Street Blending Facility, one of five facilities (including the Ashland Interconnection) that supplies drinking water to our system.

PFAS6 levels were reported below the MCL at our other locations.

• If you are not in a sensitive subgroup, you may continue to consume the water because 20 ng/L value is applicable to a lifetime consuming the water and shorter duration exposures present less risk.

• If you have specific health concerns regarding your past exposure, you should see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) link below and consult a health professional, such as your doctor.

Steps you can take to reduce your intake - Consider taking the following steps while actions are being implemented to address this issue: • For older children and adults (not in a sensitive subgroup), the 20 ng/L value is applicable to a lifetime of consuming the water.

For these groups, shorter duration exposures present less risk.

However, if you are concerned about your exposure while steps are being taken to assess and lower the PFAS6 concentration in the drinking water, use of bottled water will reduce your exposure.

• In most situations, the water can be safely used for washing foods, brushing teeth, bathing, and showering.

Please note: Boiling the water will not destroy PFAS6 and will somewhat increase its level due to evaporation of some of the water.

What does this mean?

This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. Although this is not an emergency, as a consumer of the water, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did and are doing to correct this situation.

On October 2, 2020, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) issued a new drinking water regulation setting a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 20 nanograms per liter (ng/L) for the sum of six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (called PFAS6). PFAS6 includes perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA).

PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in the manufacturing of certain fire-fighting foams, moisture and stain resistant products, and other industrial processes. An MCL is the maximum permissible level of a contaminant in water which is delivered to any user of a public water system.

Some people who drink water containing PFAS6 in excess of the MCL may experience certain adverse effects. These could include effects on the liver, blood, immune system, thyroid, and fetal development. These PFAS6 may also elevate the risk of certain cancers. For more information on PFAS, see the links below.

What should I do?

For consumers in a sensitive subgroup (pregnant or nursing women, infants, and people diagnosed by their health care provider to have a compromised immune system) • Consumers in a sensitive subgroup are advised not to consume, drink, or cook with water when the level of PFAS6 is above 20 ng/L. • Consumers in a sensitive subgroup are advised to use bottled water for drinking and cooking of foods that absorb water (like pasta).

What is being done?

Our water system has taken the following pro-active measures: • The bid for construction of the Fruit Street filtration system was awarded and Construction is underway.

• The Southborough Town Meeting approved an article on March 25, 2023, that allows Hopkinton to pursue a connection to the MWRA water system. The design of that connection will begin soon.

• Our other sources were sampled, and those sources did not contain PFAS6 above the MCL. • We will continue to blend water at the Fruit St. Water Treatment Facility to reduce PFAS6 levels at this location.

• We will continue to sample our water sources for PFAS6.

• We offer a bottled water rebate program for people in a sensitive subgroup in the form of a $20 monthly credit off your water bill - you may apply on our DPW website at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdoImZWL-TX h4helWCVjnl6LH5vLXfmh3lqWsWyvnR2pnhw5Q/viewform • When additional information becomes available, this public notice will be updated.

Where can I get more information?

For more information, please contact the Director of Public Works, Kerry Reed, at 508-497-9740 or kreed@hopkintonma.gov, or the Water/Sewer Manager, Eric Carty, at 508-497-9765 or ericc@hopkintonma.gov, or view our website at: https://www.hopkintonma.gov/departments/department_of_public_works/ pfas.php Additional information can be found at the weblinks listed below:

• For infant formula, use bottled water or use formula that does not require adding water.

• MassDEP Fact Sheet – Questions and Answers for Consumers https://www.mass.gov/media/1854351

• Bottled water should only be used if it has been tested. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires companies licensed to sell or distribute bottled water or carbonated non-alcoholic beverages to test for PFAS. See https://www.mass.gov/info-details/water-qualitystandards-for-bottled-water-in-massachusetts#list-of-bottlers-

• CDC ATSDR Information on PFAS for consumers and health professionals https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/index.html • Massachusetts Department of Public Health information about PFAS in Drinking Water - https://www.mass.gov/service-details/per-andpolyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas-in-drinking-water

This notice is brought to you by the Town of Hopkinton HopkintonIndependent.com

16 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Schools School Committee works on Hopkins education plan

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

T

he School Committee at its Jan. 4 meeting viewed possible schedules for students in fifth and sixth grades at Hopkins School as part of a proposed education plan should an addition/ renovation project receive Town Meeting approval in May. One of the district’s capital requests is $46.7 million for the project.

Should that request pass, sixth graders would move from the middle school to Hopkins in the fall of 2027.

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh explained that the scheduling presentation was a “rough draft” to get an idea of what is possible going forward.

Hopkins School principal Matt Cotter was on hand to answer questions as well.

According to the superintendent, current conditions at the building include having four lunch shifts starting at 10:45 a.m. and ending at 1:20 p.m., using interior windowless rooms for

Experiencing Pain?

general education spaces, dividing the library to carve out new classrooms, changing conference rooms into counseling and small group instruction rooms, and administrators sharing office space.

One of the issues that arose is a discrepancy among the length of math classes, with teachers wanting to keep the pace the same for different groups of learners, said Cotter.

“Teachers handle it really well, but if we can resolve this, we’d love to,” he said.

Another discussion revolved around WINN (What I Need Now) blocks that alternate with increased amounts of related arts time during the week.

Cotter explained that during WINN blocks, students can work on enrichment activities, receive help in reading or math working with a tutor, do makeup work or “whatever the student needs.”

Cavanaugh explained that the related arts consist of physical education, general music, digital art, health, drama, studio art, library and engineering. The time students spend in these areas will increase from 270 to 450 minutes weekly in the proposed schedule.

If schedules and staffing allows, the superintendent said students in band, orchestra and chorus would benefit from having general music classes to learn the basics they could apply in performance groups.

On the academic side, classes in science, social studies, math and reading have maintained a similar amount of hours per week.

There could be flexibility in schedules. As an example, Cotter talked about a student in need of math tutoring who might also love playing violin. “We wouldn’t want to take those chances away from them. It is important to the whole child,” Cotter said.

Committee members also talked about the reduction of lunch shifts from 150 total minutes to 100 minutes. Cotter said the students eat in 10 minutes and spend the other 20 “looking for something to do.”

Under the plan, both fifth and sixth graders would have 20-minute lunch shifts and 4 minutes of transition time.

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The McBride Team congratulates award winner

Roselyn Morales

T

he McBride Team of RE/MAX Executive Realty would like to congratulate Roselyn Morales on her award for Student of the Month.

Roselyn is a junior at Hopkinton High School. Many of the staff at the high school have described Roselyn as having a growth mindset.

In addition to her incredible academic journey, she is also a peer mentor in the life skills classroom where she possesses a kind, compassionate and genuinely caring attitude. And, she is a great supporter of the Unified Basketball team.

Roselyn has a creative side and loves working with hair and makeup. In the future, she sees multiple career choices and hopes to include hairdressing, being a foster parent, and working as a paraprofessional with children. Roselyn’s hard work will shine through in whatever path she chooses.

Congratulations, Roselyn!

Katie McBride • Debbie Brosseau 508-277-9600 katie@mcbrideteam.com

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HopkintonIndependent.com

Student representative Jack Ianelli concurred it would be enough time, saying high school students never had a problem eating lunch in that time frame.

The superintendent showed the latest drawings by Perkins Eastman on the new addition project. She said the plan would address space needs by enlarging the gym/ multipurpose room, having a larger nurse’s suite and room for administrative offices, and including six science classrooms, technology-fitted digital art space, music and drama areas, additional intensive/ moderate special needs rooms and a larger cafeteria/kitchen.

“All the chiseling we’ve done in the old building can be rectified here,” Cavanaugh said.

Elmwood naming to be discussed In other business, Carol Cavanaugh noted that talks should start soon about naming the new Elmwood School, as it is then reflected in the building design.

She said that suggestions would be entertained from the community, then she would present a list and make recommendations, and the School Committee would vote.

Members said they wanted to review the policy on the criteria regarding naming a school and address the issue later in the month.

Booths added to HMS cafeteria The superintendent talked about how the district increased the number of seats in the middle school cafeteria by installing booths, including those in a serpentine shape. The booths are meant to accommodate six students, Cavanaugh said, but she has already witnessed some with eight students squeezed in.

“The flooring and walls have changed over time, and it is a nice, modern-day cafeteria,” the superintendent said, adding that students are excited by the booths and dash to claim them.

Budget presentation repeated With no changes since the last meeting, the superintendent and Rothermich repeated the budget presentation, outlining the proposal for $63,144,790 in fiscal year 2025.

The total represents an increase of $3,207,037, or 5.35 percent.

The budget features $1.5 million in contractual obligations and $701,508 in staff requests for 9.45 FTE (full-time equivalent) positions, including a second assistant principal at Hopkins School.

A public hearing on the budget will take place Jan. 11 followed by a School Committee vote Jan. 18.

Member Susan Stephenson said that she was impressed by the budget process, noting the various requests that been brought forth and how “you guys were able to finesse and say, ‘No, not right now’ sometimes. You did an amazing job to put a lid where you could.”

Member Adam Munroe said he liked how the budget process was done in a transparent way that shows how much work was put into minimizing the impact.

He said it would help townspeople as they prepare “to take that hit financially.”

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 17

Schools

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Lori Nickerson was appointed to serve on the School Committee until next May’s Annual Town Election following a joint vote of the School Committee and Select Board on Dec. 14.

The seat became vacant when Holly Morand SCHOOLS resigned to take a job with NOTEBOOK Hopkinton Youth & Family Services.

Nickerson previously served on the School Committee from 2014-17, including a stint as chair.

Employed as chief legal and compliance officer for Fortis Life Sciences, Nickerson has three children in the Hopkinton schools.

She attended the meeting along with two other candidates for the position, Ashley Fogg and Jamie Wronka.

Chris Masters and Karen Mulik also expressed interest in the role and submitted written information but did not attend the meeting.

Several board members expressed the need for someone who could “hit the ground running” during budget season, citing Nickerson’s previous tenure and experience with the process.

Other factors cited were that Nickerson previously was elected by the town to the position and had conducted superintendent evaluations, which are slated to start in January.

Select Board chair Muriel Kramer said she likes to look for people who

have been on committees in the past to fill these gap roles. Kramer said she saw Nickerson work on the board during a “contentious” time and was confident she could start on “day one” with the huge workload of the school budget.

During her remarks and in answer to questions, Nickerson talked about the importance of working collaboratively with other boards and how she could be “a voice of experience” and “lend a helping hand” in the interim position.

She said she would decide by the end of March whether she would run for the three-year term but said it is “a definite possibility.”

Nickerson noted it is also important to educate people on the mandates included in the school budget and act as a “messenger” about the drivers behind budget decisions.

All the candidates were encouraged to seek the three-year term in May. Fargiano noted that her term was up, so there would be at least two seats available.

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week

“Made You Look!”

YOU POINT. WE REMOVE.

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

E

ach week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton.

This week, we feature 5-year-old Hazel.

Here is Baypath’s description of Hazel: “Introducing Hazel, the epitome of sweetness and charm!

This delightful girl is on a quest to find her forever home, where she can be pampered like the princess she truly is.

“Hazel is not just a pretty face; she’s also incredibly friendly and adores spending quality time with her human companions. Whether it’s a lively walk, a playful session with toys, or a cozy cuddle on the couch, Hazel is up for it all. She’s accustomed to the finer things in life and has a special fondness for being allowed on furniture, especially snuggling in bed under the covers.

“This lovable pup has a fantastic medium energy level. Hazel has done well with both kids and other dogs. Her infectious smile and kisses are sure to melt your heart.”

For more information about Hazel and any of the other available pets at Baypath, email adopt@baypathhumane.org or visit baypathhumane.org/ adopt.

For more Adoptable Animals of the Week, check the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

y p p a H ! r a e N e w2 0Y2 4

HopkintonIndependent.com

508-944-6644

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18 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Sports Farrell makes mark in minor league hockey H

opkinton’s Sean Farrell, who joined the Montreal Canadiens out of Harvard University in March, playing six games with the National Hockey League team and scoring one goal, started the 2023-24 season in the minors.

T h e 2 2 - y e a r- o l d has been playing for SPORTS the American Hockey ROUNDUP League’s Laval Rocket, who are based in a suburb north of Montreal. Through 22 games, he had six goals and 10 assists with four penalty minutes.

In a preseason story in the Montreal Gazette, Farrell said he was looking forward to playing a schedule that has more than twice the number of games in college.

“I’m excited for it,” he told the Gazette’s Herb Zurkowsky. “There’s nothing better than playing in games.

The more reps you get in games, the more touches you get in those scenarios, the better you’ll get. It’s definitely going to be different. I’ll have to make sure I’m taking care of my body.

“For me my hockey sense and IQ have always been my strengths. Now I have to find a way to use it to my advantage a bit better. Try to speed up my play with the puck. Working here on making better touches and plays when I

Leighton and Darian Leo were AllStars.

In girls cross country, Bridgid Cavanaugh, Bethel Flanagan and Elyse Srodawa were All-Stars.

In field hockey, Camille Perlov, Lauren Strechay and Sanidi Waduthanthri were named All-Stars, while Reese Interrante and Kiley Locke received honorable mention.

In volleyball, Adriana Aquino, Gabby Pattie and Siena Verna were All-Stars. Abigail Hebert and Elsa Woodbury received honorable mention.

In football, Cooper Fossbender, Sam Pantera and Christian Pereira were All-Stars.

In cheer, Sophia Dellacioppa and Hailey Minka were All-Stars.

HHS also had three individuals named TVL Large Coach of the Year: Tom Skiba (girls soccer), Garrett Sawyer (boys soccer) and Laura McKenzie (boys cross country).

have the puck is something I have to do in order to play up there. Playing against men is the big step.”

Rocket coach Jean-Francois House credited Farrell for having “some compete in him” and “great vision.”

“I like his hockey sense,” House told the Gazette. “You can tell by the way he positions himself; the way he passes. He thinks the game ahead, that’s his best asset. Going forward, if he uses that, he’s got a chance.”

Fall TVL All-Stars named The Tri-Valley League recently announced its All-Stars for the fall season.

In girls soccer, Georgie Clarke and Maddie Recupero were named TVL Large MVPs. Alex Clarke, Juliana Grontzos and Nina Tzouganatos were All-Stars. Brooke Birtwistle and Jo DuPont received honorable mention.

In boys soccer, Will Bialobrzeski, Jack Ianelli and Sean McCann were All-Stars, while Jan Antvelink, Drew Bialobrzeski, Derek Hatherley, Carlos Henkle, Federico Rossi and Owen Silva received honorable mention.

In golf, Parker Winn was named TVL Large MVP. In boys cross country, Ben Scott was named TVL Large MVP. Connor Dorfman, Sean Finnegan, Stephen

Walsh stars at Union Hopkinton’s Riley Walsh got off to a strong start in her sophomore year on the women’s ice hockey team at Union College in Schenectady, New York.

Heading into the new year. Walsh had recorded 18 points in her first 20

HHS Athlete Spotlight

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games, via nine goals and nine assists.

Most notably, on Oct. 6, Walsh recorded a natural hat trick (three consecutive goals) — including the gamewinner at 3:49 of overtime — to lead her team to a 3-2 comeback win over Holy Cross.

Walsh, who prepped at Vermont Academy, had 15 goals and seven assists in 31 games as a freshman.

Free throw contest Jan. 30 The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest will be held Tuesday, Jan. 30, at Hopkinton High School at the conclusion of the Ashland-Hopkinton boys basketball game (which starts at 6:30). All boys and girls ages 9-14 can participate.

The competition is an annual event sponsored by the Ashland/Hopkinton Bishop Rice Council 4822. Trophies will be presented to children in each age group who finish first or second, and a medal for third. First-place finishers advance to the district finals. The event brings the youth of the community together for a friendly competition, and all can participate, regardless of disabilities.

For more information, contact Joe Altman at joealtman@verizon.net or 508-380-0163.

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Boys Basketball Senior

Girls Basketball Senior

A senior point guard in his third year on the varsity, Ianelli led the Hillers in recent close games vs. Milford and Medfield. “Jack fought valiantly in the two close losses,” coach Tom Keane stated, noting that Ianelli averaged 21 points, five steals, three rebounds and three assists while shooting 12-for-13 from the free throw line and 5-for-8 from the 3-point line.

Kane, a senior second-year captain, is “as selfless as they come,” coach Mike Greco shared. “She is one of the girls we can always count on to communicate, to dive on the floor, to take a charge and to energize our team.” Greco added that Kane is “one of the kindest people I’ve ever had the chance to work with as a coach or as an educator.”

Sponsored by Laura at laura@customhomerealty.com Athletes are selected after consultation with HHS coaches.

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 19

Sports Hillers girls track has league title ambitions

HHS boys hockey reloads after title game run

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

A

PHOTO/CAROLYN JOHNSON

Loryn Canty races to the finish of the dash during a recent meet in Boston.

By Chris Villani Contributing writer

T

he Hopkinton High School girls indoor track and field team had little time to ease into the 2023-24 season.

The Hillers had a dual meet within the first two weeks of starting practice and another one the week after that.

“They came at us fast and furious at the beginning,” coach Jean Cann said.

Despite the rapid-fire competitions, Hopkinton turned the page from 2023 to calendar 2024 without a loss, which Cann said is necessary for the Hillers to achieve their goals.

“We always shoot to win the TriValley League, both the regular season and the showcase meet,” Cann said.

“And, pretty much every year, that requires being undefeated.”

Cann is also hopeful that her team can have a strong showing in the competitive Division 2 statewide meet and get as many people to the all-state meet — dubbed the Meet of Champions — as possible.

The Hillers have a number of strong candidates for those distinctions after three victories to start the year against Ashland, Norwood and Medfield.

Loryn Canty was the team MVP last season, her first as a member of the track and field program. She scored earlyseason victories this year in the shot put and the dash, including a personal best in the latter event.

“She has also been great with the younger sprinters,” Cann said.

Junior Josie Hopkins is perhaps the team’s most versatile athlete.

“We can put her in anything,” Cann said. “She can do the high jump, the long jump, the dash, the 300. I think she has done six different events and she’s picked up a couple of wins and a couple of second-place finishes.”

Senior Kiley Locke has been strong in the hurdles and the high jump and is part of a winning 4x400 relay team.

Stephanie Johnson is a strong middle distance runner, and Elyse Srodawa figures to be one of the top distance runners in the TVL.

“She can pretty much take on anyone in the league,” Cann said.

Bridgid Cavanaugh is another skilled distance runner, and Hopkinton also has gotten a surprise lift with the addition of Italian exchange student Alice (pronounced uh-lee-chay) Brambati.

“She has some experience with jumps, but she had not done them for a few years,” Cann said. “She has our best mark in the long jump and is one of our best high jumpers and hurdlers already.”

In addition to all of the talented returners, Hopkinton has a group of freshmen who have come in and immediately shown dedication to the program, Cann said.

“They were at the school during winter break and staying late,” she said. “They compete with each other in a good way, they are always pushing each other to do more. We are happy to have that crew.”

They are playing great hockey. They

fter advanci n g t o t h e take a lot of pride in the program, state champion- and they want to continue the ship game a season ago and grad- winning tradition. uating a dozen — HHS coach Scott Hayes seniors from that talented team, the Hopkinton High School boys ice hockey team is right back to its winning fensive line. ways with a new cast of characters in Hayes had high praise for Steven the spotlight.

Jackson, the goaltender, labeling his “I think we want to be a consistent play during the early part of the season program, year in and year out, we want as “outstanding.” Hopkinton also has to try to avoid the ebbs and flows and gotten a boost from the improved play having down years,” said coach Scott of sophomores Jack Resnick and James Hayes. “One of the messages to the boys Hayward. is that you only get four years to play “They have taken big steps since high school hockey, and you certainly last season, and they are playing great don’t ever want to give one away.” hockey for us,” the coach said.

The Hillers started fast in 2023-24, On the ice, Hayes said the focus in and began the new calendar year with the new year will be on improving in just one loss through the first seven the defensive zone. He said he wants games of the season. Hayes said his his team to be stout defensively, and players, some of whom did not get positioning will go a long way toward significant ice time in the past, have achieving that goal. On offense, the responded to the challenge of keeping Hillers have started to click, and their the team playing at a high level. play there has been a litmus test for the “We have a handful of kids who team as a whole. have taken control of this team this “We have had success getting pucks year,” Hayes said. “They are playing deep and establishing our forecheck,” great hockey. They take a lot of pride in Hayes said. “That’s always a pretty the program, and they want to continue good indicator that things are going the winning tradition.” well for us.”

Hopkinton won 20 games last winThe offense was on display early in ter and advanced all the way to the state the season when Hopkinton scored five championship game before falling, 4-1, goals apiece in wins over Algonquin and to Canton.

Holliston and ran up a seven-goal tally Hayes said this year’s team has “a in a victory over Westwood. full reloaded roster, and, so far, the kids Hayes cited Westwood, along with have come in and done an outstanding Medfield and Norwood, as the teams to job for us.” beat in the Tri-Valley League.

Senior captain Wyatt Iantosca is “In recent years, they are always the among the team’s standouts and a reschools at the top of the league,” he said. liable scorer. Fellow captains Danny “But, if you are trying to win the TVL White, a senior, and Parker Winn, a championship, you have to be ready for junior, have been mainstays on the deeverybody.”

2024

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20 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Obituaries Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.

Robert Terry R o b e r t “Bob” Terry, 81, originally from Meriden, Connecticut, passed away Dec. 11 at St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham. Born in Willimantic, Connecticut, Bob was the son of the late Dorothy (Courtemache) and Raymond T. Terry Sr. He was the husband to the late Shirley (Ciarlelli) Terry. They were married 47 years before Shirley’s passing.

Bob attended Maloney High School and earned degrees from Becker College and the University of New Haven. Bob honorably served in the U.S. Army, assigned to the Pentagon Office of Chief of Staff during the Vietnam War era. In 1976, Bob became a Connecticut state trooper, starting his career in the major crime squad of the Detective Division.

He was promoted to sergeant and was responsible for all overall management and public safety at Bradley International Airport. Bob retired from the State Police and transitioned to the public sector, working as a claim investigator for Allstate Insurance. He also served on the board for the Foundation of Fair Contracting. Bob also proudly served many years in the Air National Guard. Bob was a Civil War buff as well as an aficionado of Charles Dickens, and he collected many rare historical volumes.

Bob was a patriot and was devoted to his country and his family.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Sherri Alicandro and husband Chris of Hopkinton, and Melissa Czerepuszko and husband Paul, also of Hopkinton.

He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Connor, Jill and Josh Czerepuszko, and Marisa Alicandro. He is predeceased by his brother, Raymond T. Terry.

Arrangements are being held privately and are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Employee Recognition Fund at St. Patrick’s Manor (863 Central Street, Framingham, MA 01701) in his honor.

The family of Bob cannot thank the staff of St. Patrick’s enough for the care they provided to him.

Rodney Perry Rodney ( R o d ) P e r r y, 75, peacefully passed away on Dec. 4 at AdviniaCare Wellesley A l z h e i m e r ’s Center following a more than decade-long battle with Al-

zheimer’s Disease.

Rod was born on Feb. 24, 1948, in Fall River, the youngest of five brothers born to Richard and Frances (Browne) Perry.

Rod is survived by his wife, Claire (Geoffroy) Perry of Franklin, who he was married to for 52 years. He also leaves his four children, Suzanne Sheehy and husband Michael of Westford, Christopher Perry and wife Renee of Millbury, Jennifer Perry and partner Scott Tidd of Blackstone, and Kimberley Perry and partner Ryan Corbin of Walcot, Vermont; eight grandchildren, Kaden and Katie Sheehy; Keely, Peyton and Ciara Perry; and Dylan and Samantha Coste and Skylar Tidd; as well as his two older brothers, Kenneth Perry and wife Ginny of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and Stanley Perry and wife Janet of Mesardis, Maine; and sister-inlaw Janet Perry-Schaeffer and husband LeRoy. He also leaves many extended family members, nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.

He is predeceased by his parents, stepmother Lois (Babbit) Perry, and older brothers David Perry and Lawrence Perry and wife Nancy.

After high school, Rod studied forestry at Paul Smith College in New York. He took an opportunity to study forestry at Aberdeen University in Scotland for one year, and finished his B.S. in forestry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The summer after graduating, Rod joined the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic control officer stationed at Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire. He also served in the Massachusetts Air National Guard. Upon completion of his military service, he went back to his love of horticulture and worked at Weston Nurseries in Hopkinton for 32 years. At Weston, he worked various positions from field worker all the way up to director of commercial operations. He was a co-founder and chair of a local chapter of the National Association of Credit Managers and also was a member of the Board of Directors of the Associated Landscape Contractors of Massachusetts.

Rod’s favorite pastime was golfing, no matter what the temperature. He even managed to get a hole-in-one at Bungay Brook in Bellingham. His other love was plants. He could often be seen moving shrubs from one location to another at any time, from spring to fall. He loved being outside.

Rod very much enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He helped them with all types of projects.

He also enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting and art events and seeing all of their accomplishments.

The family expresses deep gratitude to the staff of AdviniaCare Wellesley Alzheimer’s Center, where Rodney resided and was cared for during the last eight years.

Calling hours in the Charles F. Oteri and Son Funeral Home, Franklin, were held Dec. 16, followed by a short service at the funeral home. Interment with military honors was to be held at Fox Cemetery, Berkley. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to AdviniaCare Wellesley Alzheimer’s Center, Activities Department, 694 Worcester Street, Wellesley, MA 02482.

Thomas VanFossen Thomas Richard VanFossen Jr., 79, of Hopkinton passed away Dec. 10.

Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Helene (Cummiskey) and Thomas Richard VanFossen Sr. He was the beloved husband of 47 years to the late Ruth (Kelley) VanFossen.

Thomas Richard Van Fossen Jr. received his bachelor’s degree from Penn State and served as copilot and then aircraft commander with the 176th Assault Helicopter Company stationed in Chu Lai, Vietnam, and 61st Assault Helicopter Companies stationed in An Khe, Vietnam. He was awarded the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, a Bronze Star and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After leaving the military, he worked for a number of years for General Electric, Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky Aircraft as a subcontract manager in the aerospace industry. In retirement, he enjoyed playing bridge, watching soccer and bragging about his grandchildren.

Thomas is survived by his children, Brian Thomas VanFossen and wife Betsi of San Diego, Mary-Kate VanFossen and husband Justin Gadsby of Hopkinton, and AmyVanFossen and husband Chris Dimitri of Arlington. A beloved grandpop, he also leaves behind his grandchildren, Emily VanFossen, Braeden and Emerson Gadsby, and Anderson and Beckett Dimitri.

A private interment was to take place. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, Habitat for Humanity or Operation Delta Dog. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Freda Gardner Freda Johnson Gardner, 98, of Sharon passed away peacefully on Dec. 13 in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was born Jan. 7, 1925, in Hopkinton.

Freda was preceded in death b y h e r b e l o v e d h u s b a n d , Wi l liam B. Gardner, and her children, Kathleen Gardner and William C. Gardner and wife Paula.

Freda was a loving sister to Richard McCormack and wife Mary Lou. She was a cherished grandmother to Karen Levanson, Mark Levanson and wife Chiresse, Kelly Gardner Medeiros and husband Phil, Scott Gardner, Jill Gardner Kenney, Kerri McCormack Russo and husband Robert, and Janelle McCormack Barros and husband Jim. Freda also was a proud great-grandmother to Amanda Fontes Demers and husband Ben, Danielle Carter, Kelsey Levanson Ciucevich and husband Anthony, Kyle Russo, Reilly

HopkintonIndependent.com

Russo, Thomas McCormack, Sophia Barros and Ashley McClure. Additionally, she was a great-great-grandmother to Owen Demers. Freda also had many nieces and nephews.

In her free time, Freda enjoyed camping, gardening and hosting holidays for her entire family. She had a passion for baking and delighted in preparing delicious treats for her loved ones.

Freda will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.

A private family gathering to celebrate Freda’s life was to be held.

Daniel Mulcahy Daniel Jude Mulcahy, 62, of Summerville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Dec. 14. He was the husband of Darlene Allessio Mulcahy, formerly of Hop-

kinton.

Daniel was born on June 4, 1961, to the late Thomas G. Mulcahy and Mary Ann Messitt. He loved music and had a passion for playing the electric bass. He also was the founder of the Shamrocks Motorcycle Club. Daniel was known for his love of entertaining and making people laugh and will be deeply missed. He wants everyone to remember the good times together.

Dan was proud to serve his country and did so in a few ways. He served in the Marines in the early 1980s and the Coast Guard in the late ’80s. While stationed at the Coast Guard base in Nantucket, he met his wife, Darlene (Allessio). He then left military life and began a lifelong career with the government specializing in immigration, customs and homeland security. He happily retired in January 2021.

Daniel is survived by his loving wife, Darlene Mulcahy; daughters Shannon (Jay) of Evanston, Illinois, Keira of Summerville, South Carolina, and Megan (Logan) of Colchester, Vermont; and sister Maureen Mulcahy of Cohoes, New York.

He will be greatly missed by the Allessio family: Hank, Judi and his “Bro” Paul; also, Suzanne Allessio Senesac of Colchester, Vermont, and nephews Joshua, David and Michael.

Arrangements are being handled

by Parks Funeral Home, 130 West 1st North Street, Summerville, South Carolina 29483.

Ann Redding Ann E. Redding, 72, of Hopkinton passed away Dec. 11 at Metrowest Medical Center in Framingham.

Born in Medford, she was the daughter of the late Elizabeth (Emerson) and Andre

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 21

Obituaries Redding.

Ann was a graduate of Hopkinton High School and a lifelong resident. She enjoyed growing flowers in her garden.

She was a breeder for chihuahua dogs and loved them very much.

Ann is survived by her son, Anthony Wood of Leominster. She also leaves behind two brothers, Peter Redding of Milford and Mark Redding of Ohio, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral arrangements, under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, were to be held privately.

Ronald LeBlanc Ronald J. LeBlanc, 80, passed away Dec. 21 in Countryside Healthcare, Milford.

He was the husband of the late Jeanne M. (Sheehan) LeBlanc, who died in 2005.

Mr. LeBlanc was born in Waltham in 1943, the son of the late Zoel J. and Gertrude (Shea) LeBlanc, and was a graduate of Waltham High School. He also was a graduate of Bentley College in Waltham. He was a member of the sales/operations team with Xerox Corp. for 35-plus years.

A resident of Hopkinton for the past several years, he previously had lived in Milford for over 40 years. He loved time spent surrounded by family and friends.

He enjoyed being outdoors and took pride in maintaining his home, where the family enjoyed many great memories. He also enjoyed fishing, traveling and singing in his barbershop quartet.

He is survived by his children, Suzanne M. Smith of Hopedale, Ronald J. LeBlanc Jr. of Hopedale, and John J. and wife Laura LeBlanc of Milford; four grandchildren, Abigail M. Smith, Collin R. Smith, Nathan R. LeBlanc and Jack J. LeBlanc; a sister, Joan McCarthy of Sudbury; several nieces and nephews; and his companion, Louise Bracci of Hopkinton. He was predeceased by a sister, Constance Kelly.

Funeral services were held Jan. 3 at Buma-Sargeant Funeral Home in Milford, with a Mass of Christian burial in St. Mary’s Church, Milford.

Memorial donations may be made to Countryside Healthcare of Milford, Activities Fund, 1 Countryside Drive, Milford, MA 01757 or to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.

John Macko John Charles Macko, 80, of Hopkinton died peacefully at his home on Dec. 17 after a long battle with cancer.

He was born in Lynn on March 14, 1943.

John spent his early years growing up in Beverly and received an engineering degree from Worcester Polytechnic

Institute. He later received a master’s degree from Trinity College in Hartford.

He had a 20-year career in engineering and business at Pratt & Whitney, an aircraft manufacturer. At the age of 45, John became a registered nurse and had a 22-year career as a medical-surgical nurse at Framingham Union Hospital, retiring from nursing in 2011. He lived in Framingham for 30 years, moving to Hopkinton in 2016. John loved to travel, sail, ski and garden, and he was an avid reader, especially history. But his favorite activity was being an amazing uncle to all his nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He preferred to always be called “Uncle John” by everyone. John had a special bond with his men’s group for 33 years.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Ann, his sister, Marianne (Wally) Shwert of Framingham, and his brother, Peter (Nan) Macko of Vista, California, as well as 10 nieces and nephews, and 35 grandnieces and grandnephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215 or dana-farber.org.

Private family arrangements were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Jean Hope Jean Marie Hope, 89, passed away peacefully on Dec. 22 at the Coleman House in Northborough.

She was the beloved wife and best friend of Lee Hope, to whom she was married

for 67 years.

Born in Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Stanley F. and Lillian M. (Rutkoski) Lipski. She was educated in Glen Lyon and graduated from Newport High School in Wanamie, Pennsylvania, in 1952. She also graduated from Philadelphia General Hospital School of Nursing in 1955.

Following graduation, she worked as a registered nurse at Philadelphia General Hospital prior to staying home to raise her family.

Jean had been a resident of Hopkinton for many years and enjoyed cake decorating, baking and spending time with her family.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by four children, Theresa M. Goodwin of Upton, Larry Hope and wife Carol, Susan M. Pickering and husband David of Westborough, and Linda M. Hope of Westborough; four grandchildren, Dan Hope, Andrew Pickering and fiancée Amanda, Carson Hope and Matthew Pickering; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother, Herbert Lipski, and her sister, Norma Ressler.

Jean’s family extends their gratitude to the staffs of the Coleman House and Notre Dame hospice for their compassionate care.

Her funeral Mass was celebrated Dec. 30 in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, Westborough. Burial followed in St. Luke’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Notre Dame Hospice, 555 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605.

Sandra Wing Sandra Doris (Leppert) Wing, 83, of Framingham and Hopkinton, passed away Nov. 30.

Born in Oswego, New York, she was the daughter of the late Fred and Frances (Williamson) Leppert. She was the beloved wife of the late William Charles Wing III. Sandy received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Rochester Institute of Technology and later a certificate from Cornell University to teach art in New York.

Sandy and Bill co-owned Wing Press for 32 years, with her serving as art director.

She also enjoyed world travel planned by her husband twice a year, as well as numerous family visits.

Sandy had a lifelong commitment to support a number of charities. She served as president of the Framingham Women’s Club, supported the Channel 2 auction, was chapter chair of the American Red Cross, was a director of the Framingham Historical Society, and served for many years on the Hospital Aid Society.

Sandy is survived by her sons,

William (Beau) Frederick Wing of Hopkinton and Frederick Karl Wing; grandchildren, Karl, Jessica, Christopher and William; and a sister, Cheryl McCall of Cutchogue, New York.

A memorial service was held Jan. 8 at Plymouth Church in Framingham, followed by urn burial in Edgell Grove Cemetery, Framingham.

Ronald Babbitt Ronald G. Babbitt, 75, of Milford died Dec. 26 at the Blue Hill Alzheimer’s Care Center in Stoughton after a period of declining health. He was the beloved husband of Ellen Marie (Gulec) Babbitt.

Ronald was born in Milford, the son of the late Alvin Arnold and the late Dorothy Babbitt. He attended public schools in Hopkinton and had been a resident of Milford for most of his life.

Ronald was first employed as a young man at Benzenoid Organics Inc. located in Bellingham. He then worked at the former Porter Shoe Company, the former Archer Rubber Company and the former Foster Forbes Company, all located in Milford. Lastly, he was employed as an automotive mechanic for many years.

Ronald is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen, as well as his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and sister.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation took place. Graveside committal services were held Jan. 5 in Pine Grove Cemetery in Milford.

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22 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024

Police Log ARRESTS December 6

6:01 p.m. Officer Brennan Grimley conducted a motor vehicle stop on Prestwick Drive and requested backup and a portable breathalyzer. Officers Shannon Beloin and Brian Ziniti responded, and a 33-year-old Framingham man was arrested and charged with failure to stop/yield and OUI drugs.

6:35 p.m. Multiple callers reported an erratic operator on Grove Street driving all over the road and over the sidewalk. Officer Matthew LaTour and Sergeant William Burchard responded and subsequently arrested a 54-year-old resident of Colella Farm Road in Hopkinton and charged her with negligent operation of motor vehicle and OUI liquor.

December 12

6:12 p.m. A caller reported two homeless men asking for help and blocking the doors at a South Street business.

Sergeant William Burchard and Officers Shannon Beloin,

Editor’s note: Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated version of the Police Log. For the full Police Log visit the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

December 5

4:17 a.m. A caller reported a deceased deer in the roadway on Wilson Street. Sergeant William Burchard and Officers Matthew Santoro and Nicholas Walker responded and removed the animal.

3:28 p.m. Multiple callers reported a vehicle struck a deer on Cedar Street and it was injured. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a crash report. The deer ran off into the woods.

December 6

10:03 a.m. A walk-in reported a missing person. Officer Tyler Staback took a report and was to follow up.

4:06 p.m. A Holt Street resident requested an officer to speak with his daughter about the repercussions of stealing. Officer Brennan Grimley assisted and took a report.

December 7

9:33 p.m. A caller on West Main Street reported his coworker was screaming and yelling at him. Sergeants Aaron O’Neil and Matthew McNeil and Officer Brennan Grimley responded to the disturbance, spoke to both parties and reported it was a verbal argument only.

Brennan Grimley and Matthew LaTour responded and subsequently arrested a 40-year-old from Millbury on a default warrant and as a fugitive from justice on governor’s warrant.

chard responded, and Officer Brennan Grimley responded as backup. A 53-year-old man from Northbridge was arrested and charged with OUI liquor, second offense.

December 15

December 21

1:37 a.m. Officer Noah Buentello checked on a vehicle parked on Blueberry Lane and found the occupants unresponsive. The Fire Department responded along with Sergeant Arthur Schofield.

The female party became responsive, and the male party was breathing but still unresponsive. Field sobriety tests were performed on the female, and the male was transported to the hospital. A 25-year-old Northbridge woman was arrested and charged with OUI liquor and possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. The vehicle was towed.

5:25 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle all over the roadway on Lumber Street. Sergeant William Bur-

December 8

December 13

December 18

2:39 p.m. A caller reported finding a loaded handgun on Wood Street property. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and took possession of the gun.

11:59 p.m. A caller reported his brother’s dog was hit by a car on Grove Street, and the vehicle left the scene. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officers Noah Buentello and Cody Normandin responded to assist, and the caller took the dog to Tufts for care.

December 9

1:57 p.m. A West Main Street business employee reported someone attempted to purchase multiple phones with various fake IDs. Officers Nicholas Saletnik, Shannon Beloin and Sean McKeon responded and took a report.

3:35 p.m. A Hazel Road caller reported construction being done on his property. Officer Tyler Staback responded and reported it was a neighbor blowing leaves onto his property. He spoke to the neighbor, and all was set.

4:18 p.m. A caller reported while he was out running on South Street, two dogs aggressively ran toward him, and the owner yelled at him. The caller wanted the incident logged.

10:37 a.m. A walk-in reported her license and debit card were stolen from her car the previous day. Officer Tyler Staback took a report.

7:59 p.m. A Wood Street caller reported a neighbor cut down his trees. Officer Robert Ekross responded and took a report.

8:28 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell on wires on Cole Drive. Officer Robert Ekross responded and notified Eversource.

9:52 p.m. Officers Cody Normandin and Robert Ekross removed fallen wires on DJ Murphy Lane.

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7:06 a.m. A caller reported flooding in the roadway on Cedar Street. The DPW was advised.

11:08 a.m. A caller reported a deceased cat on the side of the road on Legacy Farms North. The animal control officer was notified.

12:09 p.m. A caller reported his wife struck an owl with her car, and she was pulling into the station for assistance. Sergeant Matthew McNeil pulled out a hawk, which was lodged in the grille of the car.

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December 24

1:56 a.m. A Hayward Street caller reported three cars in the street, and screaming and yelling taking place. Officers Noah Buentello and Matthew LaTour responded and reported the vehicles took off. Officer Buentello caught up with one vehicle, and Officer LaTour located a second car. A 20-year-old from Stoughton was arrested on a warrant.

December 10

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11:58 a.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik conducted a motor vehicle stop on Ray Street and subsequently arrested a 47-year-old resident of Aspen Way in Hopkinton for marked lanes violation and OUI-liquor.

10:50 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on South Street. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and reported no personal injuries.

9:31 p.m. A caller reported someone repeatedly calling his and his wife’s phones. Officer Shannon Beloin took a report of harassment.

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3:58 p.m. Multiple callers reported the traffic lights at the Grove Street and Main Street intersection were not cycling properly. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded and left a message with the emergency contact who was in charge of the lights during construction earlier in the day.

7:24 p.m. A caller reported her stove was on fire.

Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Matthew LaTour and Cody Normandin responded along with the Fire Department.

11:26 p.m. Multiple callers reported a transformer explosion on Chestnut Street. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and reported no fire at that time. Eversource responded, and Officer LaTour reported the power lines were out of the road and energy was restored.

December 14

8:38 a.m. A caller reported that while he was walking on the trail to go hunting on Winter Street, a jogger elbowed him. Officers Cody Normandin and Shannon Beloin checked the area and were unable to locate the suspect.

5:03 p.m. A caller reported a truck struck a tree on Saddle Hill Road, and no one exited the vehicle. Officers Matthew LaTour and Cody Normandin responded and took a report. No personal injuries were reported.

December 15

1:44 p.m. A caller reported a Sylvan Way homeowner yelling at him while he makes deliveries in the neighborhood. The caller stated it was the second time it had happened. Officer Sean McKeon responded and spoke with the homeowner.

2:50 p.m. Multiple officers responded to a rollover crash on School Street. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle, and Officer Cody Normandin took a report.

December 16

11:39 a.m. A concerned caller reported a male dressed in bright orange openly carrying on West Main Street. Officer Tyler Staback responded, and the person was gone upon his arrival.

December 17

4:20 a.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported a dog barking and crying for several days. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and spoke to a downstairs neighbor, who was letting the dog out once per day. The dog also had ripped through a screen. Officer Beloin took a report and notified the animal control officer.

7:52 p.m. A motorist reported a vehicle possibly in the water on West Main Street. Sergeant William Burchard and Officers Shannon Beloin and Brennan Grimley responded and reported no one was in the water, but the vehicle was in the marsh nearby. The Fire Department responded along with a tow truck. The operator had a permit out of Ghana and was issued a

The Hopkinton Independent • January 10, 2024 • 23 criminal application.

December 18

6:28-9:50 a.m. Multiple reports were called in regarding fallen trees and/or wires on roads around town due to the storm.

7:54 a.m. Officers Robert Ekross and Brian Ziniti responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

8:04 a.m. A caller reported a tree limb fell on Wood Street across the roadway. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and reported a tree limb fell on top of his cruiser. The DPW was contacted.

4:58 p.m. Sergeants Matthew McNeil and William Burchard responded to a motor vehicle crash onWest Main Street and subsequently provided courtesy transports. No personal injuries were reported.

December 19

3:08 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street where a car struck a wall, and two males exited the vehicle. The Milford Police Department was requested for K-9 assistance in a search. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

7:08 a.m. A Cole Drive resident reported a tree fell across the road. Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported that residents lost power. Eversource was notified.

8:32 a.m. A detail officer reported a vehicle struck his car and drove away on Fruit Street. Officers Noah Buentello and Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

4:47 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded to a motor vehicle crash involving personal injury on West Main Street. A tow truck removed both vehicles, and Officer Normandin provided a courtesy transport to the station.

December 20

10:54 a.m. A caller reported a male with green hair and dark clothes walking around and looking suspicious on Main Street.

Officer Sean McKeon responded and found the individual playing Pokémon Go in the area.

2:07 p.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

4:43 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik broke up a fight on Constitution Court and separated the juveniles.

9:48 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded to a motor vehicle accident on Whisper Way, where a vehicle slid on black ice and hit a guardrail.

December 21

12:00 p.m. Sergeants William Burchard and Matthew McNeil responded to a motor vehicle accident on Grove Street and took a report. A written warning was issued.

12:36 p.m. A caller reported attempted fraud. Someone called impersonating her son and stating he needed help. As her son was at home with her, she knew it was a scam and hung up. The incident was logged.

December 22

8:24 a.m. A caller reported he crashed his vehicle into a tree on Daniel Shays Road. Officers Cody Normandin and Tyler Staback responded and took a report. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

8:30 a.m. Officer Matthew Santoro responded to an assault on Hayden Rowe Street and took a report.

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2:54 p.m. A caller from a Lumber Street business reported a female stopped in to get checked out but became belligerent and verbally abusive and refused to leave the premises. Officers Cody Normandin and Brian Ziniti responded and removed the woman.

December 23

11:46 a.m. A caller reported an outside fire and illegal burn on Wood Street. Officers Tyler Staback and Brennan Grimley responded along with the Fire Department, extinguished a campfire and advised the group not to burn anymore.

3:16 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle hit a deer on Cedar Street, and the deer was still alive. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and reported the deer ran off. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

December 24

1:48 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell on top of wires on School Street. Officers Brian Ziniti and Robert Ekross responded and notified Eversource.

8:28 p.m. A caller reported a man in a black hoodie with a blanket wrapped around him sitting in the roadway of Whisper Way. Officers Shannon Beloin and Brennan Grimley responded, located the man and transported him to the station. His brother was contacted and arranged an Uber for him.

December 25

11:34 p.m. Multiple callers reported fallen wires on fire on East Main Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded along with the Fire Department and notified Eversource about a power outage in the area.

December 26

8:37 p.m. A caller on Hayden Rowe Street reported someone yelling threats and throwing a bottle while walking by. Sergeants Aaron O’Neil and Arthur Schofield and Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a report.

8:56 p.m. A Woodview Way caller reported someone threw eggs at her car. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded, confirmed the vandalism and took a report.

December 27

1:59 p.m. A caller reported a small white dog with brown spots wandering around on Winter Street. The caller could not get close to the dog to check its tags because it growled at her. The animal control officer was notified.

December 28

2:55 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker checked on a vehicle on Main Street, and Sergeant William Burchard responded as backup.

The State Police were speaking with the female driver over the phone as well. An ambulance and the Fire Department responded for an evaluation of the driver. All checked out OK, and an incident report was taken.

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11:43 a.m. The Northborough Police Department requested assistance identifying occupants in a vehicle registered to Golden Pond that was involved in a road rage incident. Officers Brian Ziniti and Nicholas Saletnik responded to Golden Pond on West Main Street and spoke to the manager, and the involved parties were to go to the station to speak with an officer about the incident.

January 1

11:56 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crash involving two cars on West Main Street. Officers Brian Ziniti and Shannon Beloin responded and issued a citation. No personal injuries were reported.

2:41 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crash and a car in the woods on Clinton Street. Officers Shannon Beloin and Brian Ziniti responded along with the Fire Department. Airbags were deployed.

No personal injuries were reported, and a tow truck removed the vehicle.

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7:39 a.m. A motorist reported smoke in the woods on Route 85 North before the State Park entrance. Officer Robert Ekross responded and confirmed there was a small brush fire. The Fire Department was en route.

3:04 p.m. A Reservoir Road caller reported she received an Amazon package addressed to her containing a deadbolt lock, which she never ordered. When she contacted Amazon, she was told that it was not one of its tracking numbers. Officer Grimley responded and took a report.

10:13 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell in the middle of the roadway on Pond Street. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and moved part of the tree to the side of the road, then notified the DPW.

4:38 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Tyler Staback responded to a motor vehicle accident on Lumber Street, where a vehicle struck a pole. No personal injuries were reported. An Uber picked up the operator.

6:07 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator all over the road on Main Street. Officer Brennan Grimley observed the vehicle and checked on the operator, who had a flat tire.

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December 30

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SALE ENDS 01/31/24. SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. THIS OFFER IS NOT VALID ON PRIOR SALES AND IS BASED ON THE MSRP, AND NOT COMBINABLE WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNT, PROMOTIONS, OR INCENTIVES. PRICE LISTED INCLUDES ALL APPLICABLE MANUFACTURER REBATES (NOT EVERYONE WILL QUALIFY) AND IMPERIAL DISCOUNTS INCLUDING A $1,000 IMPERIAL TRADE ASSISTANCE BONUS FOR A QUALIFYING 2014 OR NEWER TRADE. SEE US FOR DETAILS. ADVERTISED PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE TAX, TITLE, REGISTRATION, DOCUMENTATION OR ACQUISITION FEES AND CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNTS OR PROMOTIONS. WEEKLY PAYMENTS CALCULATED WITH AN ESTIMATED DOWN PAYMENT OF $2,999 CASH OR TRADE. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS. CALL 1-508-488-2382 TO SEE WHICH REBATES YOU QUALIFY FOR. TO QUALIFY FOR PROMOTION, VEHICLE MUST BE PAID IN FULL WITH DEALER SOURCED FINANCING OR CASH AND TAKE SAME DAY DELIVERY FROM DEALER STOCK. SEE DEALER FOR FULL DETAILS.

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