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HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 27 | No. 19 | September 16, 2026

Flock forum draws strong public feedback By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

CLASS TRIP

Seniors make their way into Hopkinton High School the morning of Sept. 2 for the first day of classes.

Process begins to replace outgoing HPL director Nanci Hill’s last day as library director is Sept. 17.

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

t its meeting Sept. 3, the Board of Library Trustees voted unanimously on the steps it will take to hire a new director and assistant director in conjunction with the town’s Human Resources Department. Near the meeting’s end, the board also voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Nanci Hill, one week after she gave notice of her intent to resign. This has been a challenging period for the Hopkinton Public Library. Hill and assistant director Jak Miller are leaving their respective positions. Miller’s last day will be Sept. 4, while

he Select Board on Sept. 8 held a public forum to discuss the town’s recent decision to terminate its contract with Flock Safety after resident outcry about privacy concerns. It also focused more broadly on using surveillance technology responsibly in a way that balances safety concerns with civil liberty protections. The use of Flock cameras has been under scrutiny nationwide in recent months. Hopkinton on Aug. 20 became one of several Massachusetts towns to cancel contracts with Flock Safety after town counsel found “statutory deficiencies” that violated state law. Other towns making similar moves include Douglas, Bellingham and Auburn. The Stoughton Select Board voted on Sept. 8 to terminate its contract with Flock Safety. Two Flock cameras were installed by the Hopkinton Police Department about five months ago — one on Hayden Rowe Street and the other on Flock | 7

INSIDE PARKS & REC

Town begins seach for new director

POLICE FILE PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Protester alleges assault at Farmer’s Market

Library | 10

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2 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

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

Publisher: David Bagdon Dir. of Business Development: Susanne Odell Farber Founder: Sarah Lothrop Duckett Managing Editor: Jerry Spar interim Editor: Nick Schofield Social Media director: David Bagdon STAFF WRITER: Mary Ellen Gambon Editorial contributors: Chris Villani, John Cardillo, Jane Bigda, Susan Gonsalves, Audrey DeSimone 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

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Health Department continues monitoring, increases mosquito spraying By Nick Schofield Interim Editor

he Health Department announced Sept. 1 that mosquito samples taken from Hopkinton tested positive for West Nile virus. In a press release published to Facebook by Board of Health chair Nasiba Mannan, the department informed residents that a pool of positive mosquitoes was identified through routine surveillance in the northwest corner of Hopkinton, near Meadowland Drive. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project NEWS (CMMCP) have been monitoring mosquito populations in town. BRIEFS According to the press release, no human or animal cases of West Nile have been identified in Hopkinton. The Health Department has responded by asking CMMCP to enhance localized truck spraying in the affected neighborhood and surrounding area. In addition, the department is using targeted larvicide treatments and public education efforts to help further reduce the risk to residents. Risk maps from MDPH put Hopkinton at a moderate risk level for West Nile virus, meaning an infection is likely or already has occurred. Five human cases of the virus have been detected in the state in 2026 — three of them in Middlesex County. All three of those cases were in individuals 60-90 years old. While only a small number of the insects are infected with the virus at any given time, the Health Department still recommends residents take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. Recommendations from the state’s Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, and removing standing water from around the home. It also suggests repairing windows and screens to keep the insects from entering living spaces. In a message to the Independent, Health Director Shaun McAuliffe asked residents to follow state and local guidelines for reducing mosquito bites. “Residents simply need to exercise caution from dusk to dawn,” he stated. He encouraged residents to be in the sun if they’re working outside and to wear long sleeves or repellent while in shaded areas.

MWRTA revamps regional transit network The Metrowest Regional Transit Authority launched its redesigned route system Sept. 8, offering residents more frequent service and easier connections. The redesign, which began last year, will include a number of changes to the existing transit network. The MWRTA is implementing a new route numbering system, along with two-way service on many routes and expanded service in certain areas. Route 5, which services Hopkinton and extends from Blandin Avenue in Framingham to Hayward Street in Hopkinton, will be reassigned as Route 305. According to Town Manager Elaine Lazarus, the line also has picked up additional stops. She noted in an email that the route has been extended with stops at Dell/EMC and Project Just Because. She did not anticipate any impacts to the 495 Connector, which runs north to south on Route 85. That line joins eight towns spanning from Acton to Franklin and has a local pickup at the post office on Cedar Street. It was brought into service last year. Lazarus noted the town has had some input in shaping the routes through town and that it regularly communicates with the MWRTA. Select Board chair Shahidul Mannan is a representative to the transit authority’s advisory board. Other town officials have worked with the MWRTA to enhance service for residents, she stated. Director of Land Use, Planning and Permitting John Gelcich helped establish an MWRTA stop outside of Town Hall complete with signage, Lazarus explained. The town also advocated for the 495 Connector stop at the post office. The town manager recommended residents reach out to the MWRTA to provide feedback. “The MWRTA also wants to hear from the town, businesses and residents whenever people have suggestions for new routes/stops,” she stated.

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The Hopkinton Senior Center is trying something new: a resource fair for older residents. The fair will be held Sept. 17 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The goal, according to outreach coordinator Kim Carson, is to bring community resources to seniors that they may find beneficial. “We’re looking just to get the most important resources here, mostly to help our seniors live independently at home,” she said. Carson said the idea for the fair was borrowed from other communities. She recalled that she and fellow Senior Center outreach coordinator Julia Schneiderman heard about Natick running a similar event during a regional outreach meeting earlier this year. “We thought it would be a nice addition to try out here,” said Carson. No registration is required for the fair, and it is not exclusive to Hopkinton residents. Representatives from a number of town departments and groups will be in attendance, including the Hopkinton Fire Department, the Health Department and the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors. Carson highlighted areas of interest to seniors that will be represented at the event such as home modification, tax exemptions, financial assistance and transportation. Hopkinton Police will be in attendance to offer drug take-back services. State

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 3 Rep. James Arena-DeRosa also is expected to attend. A unique feature of the day will be a speaker series. It will kick off at around 10:30 a.m. and go through the remainder of the event. “It’s not normally something that’s done at a resource fair,” said Carson. Speakers will discuss topics such as pelvic floor health, rental assistance, improving sleep, Medicare and saving money on medications. The resource fair has 31 organizations, vendors and town departments signed up to participate. The event will be spread out throughout the Senior Center, with the majority of tables set up in its great room.

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The effects of a new federal rule limiting mail voting have not yet been felt by the town and might not impact Hopkinton by the time the November elections roll around, according to Town Clerk Connor Degan. “My best guess is most of this would probably be put on hold through injunction anyway,” said Degan. President Town Clerk Connor Degan (left) looks on as intern and Donald Trump Hopkinton High School junior Mahathi Manikandan feeds s i g n e d a n e x - sample ballots into a ballot box during election machine testing ecutive order in at Town Hall on Aug. 27 ahead of the Sept. 1 state primary. March that calls for ballots to have secure envelopes with unique barcodes for tracking. Following a lawsuit led by Democrats and the District of Columbia, the United States Postal Service was blocked from enforcing key requirements of the order for the midterm elections. The Trump administration filed an appeal with the Supreme Court Sept. 3 to lift the temporary restraining order. Degan recognized that some voters may not feel full confidence in the voting system, but he warned about spreading misinformation about the security of absentee/mail-in ballot voting. A report from the Brookings Institute analyzing four of the five most recent general elections (2016, 2018, 2020 and 2022) showed an average total mail voting fraud percentage of 0.000043% — about four per every 10 million mail votes. “We can discuss the merits of the program and ways to make [it] better,” Degan said. However, he shared his perspective that attempts to discredit mail-in voting are harmful. “There’s a real risk of disenfranchising voters,” he said. “We need to work to try to build support and faith and confidence in the system.” As far as the security of Hopkinton’s votes, Degan shared that his office works closely with the post office to collect mail-in ballots, and the drop-off location in front of Town Hall is monitored regularly both by police and security cameras. “We take everyone’s vote seriously,” he said. Mail-in voting is a popular choice for Hopkinton voters. Degan reported that about half of the ballots received in the Sept. 1 state primary came in before election day. More than half of voters who participated in the 2024 national election also voted prior to the polls opening. Should the Supreme Court issue a stay on the restraining order, Degan said there will be other ways for residents to get in their votes early later this fall. The Town Clerk’s Office will hold two weeks of early voting. “People will still be able to physically come into the Town Hall … and hand their ballots back to us so we can secure [them],” said Degan.

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4 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

Parks & Rec Commission searches for new director

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The goal of [the per diem] is to make sure all services continue as usual, specific to budgeting, invoicing [and] staff training.

arks & Recreation Commission chair Kyle Smith will lead the commission’s coordination with the town’s Human — Parks & Rec director Jon Lewitus Resources Department as the search begins for a new Parks & Rec director. At its meeting Sept. 8, the comRecreation is certainly bittersweet. mission discussed the finer details of I am incredibly grateful for the opdirector Jon Lewitus’ departure from portunity I have had to serve this the Parks & Rec Department. Lewitus, community and proud of what we whose last full day on the job was have been able to accomplish together Sept. 9, accepted a director role with during my time as Director. Sudbury Park and Recreation. He “When I look back on my tenure, ended his tenure with the town after I am proud of the visible accomplishbeing hired three years ago to replace ments: the new pickleball and tenJay Guelfi. nis courts at Fruit Street, the Hank Lewitus told the commission that Fredette Skate Park, improvements to while his official departure date was Sandy Beach and the Dog Park, new Sept. 9, he will remain as director on programs and events, and continued a per diem basis. “The goal of that is investment in our parks and facilities. to make sure all services continue as But what I will remember most are usual, specific to budgeting, invoicing the people and relationships behind [and] staff training,” he explained. those accomplishments. I have had The outgoing director also said his fothe opportunity to work with an incus would be the department’s capital credibly dedicated staff, Commission projects until he could hand them off members, fellow Town employees, to the new director. community organizations, volunteers, In the beginning of his shift to per coaches, families, and residents who diem, Lewitus anticipates contributgenuinely care about Hopkinton. ing about 12-14 hours a week, with “I am especially proud of the demost of those hours taking place in partment’s growth and the work we the evenings. Hours hopefully would have done to create a strong foundascale back as the transition to the new tion for the future. Parks & Recreation director took place, he noted. is about much more than fields, faciliSmith said his priority for Lewitus ties, and programs, it is about creating was making sure Parks & Rec continopportunities for people to connect, ues its operations so that “we don’t be active, build relationships, and feel have programs falling apart [and] we a sense of community. don’t have staff without direction.” “For my successor, my hope is Member Amy O’Donnell recomthat they continue to build on that mended there be a focus on ensuring foundation while bringing their own that Autumn Tallent, the department’s ideas and vision to the department. new program coordinator/summer I would encourage them to listen to supervisor, be brought up to speed. the community, value and support “It sounds like a pretty smooth the staff, continue developing strong transition plan, Jon,” commented partnerships throughout Town, and member Brad Fenn. “You’ve been always remember the important role spot-on with all your work, and I reParks & Recreation plays in people’s ally appreciate all your efforts.” everyday lives. The Select Board voted Sept. 8 to “I will truly miss being part of approve the job posting for the directhe Hopkinton community and worktor position, and it was posted on the ing with so many wonderful people. town website Sept. 10. I leave very proud of what we acVice chair Dan Terry recomcomplished together, thankful for mended Smith take on that role, citing the experiences and relationships I the chair’s professional experience in have gained, and excited to see what hiring. The commission voted unanicomes next for Hopkinton Parks & mously to make Smith its HR liaison. Recreation.” Lewitus called his departure from Hopkinton “bittersweet,” noting he Town Common was making the move to Sudbury for his campout discussed family. “My family’s number one, and it’ll continue to be that way,” he said. Determining it needed to review available options, the commission Lewitus reflects on agreed to come back to a request by Hopkinton tenure Hopkinton Girl Scouts to use Parks & Rec properties for a campout at its During his time with Parks & Rec, next meeting. Lewitus oversaw the installation of Girl Scout leader and Hopkinton new pickleball and tennis courts on Scout Leaders Association member Fruit Street, renovations to the Hank Juanita Hanson appeared before the Fredette Skate Park, improvements to commission initially to pitch a family Sandy Beach and advancement of the camping event at the Town Common. Pyne Field project. He reflected on his The campout, which she hoped would career in Hopkinton in a statement he be held in October, would allow shared with the Independent prior to Scouts and families to stay overnight his resignation date: Parks & Rec | 5 “Leaving Hopkinton Parks &

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 5

Tales from a Townie: Dick Byers

T hank You

By William T. Hamilton Jr. Contributing Writer

hate doing this — writing these memorials — but I guess it goes with the territory when you are in your mid-80s. However, I feel it is an honor and privilege to be able to do so for my lifelong friends. I met Dick Byers 69 years ago, the day we entered first grade. Over the years, we did many things together, including Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Key Club, church and Teen Canteen Committee. We also sang in the church choir — Dick sang, I tried to. After high school, we went our separate ways. He went to Babson College and I went into the Navy. But we kept in contact. I will tell one tale of what I think friends are for. We were about 19. I had been at sea most of the winter, so the tires on my 1955 Ford weren’t very good. I had met this new girl from Ashland. We were at a dance in Ashland and decided to take a ride. We drove to the far end of the Ashland Reservoir and talked, not paying attention to the weather. When we decided to head home, I turned on the lights to find it snowing hard. Both ways out of the area were uphill. We were stuck. We walked about 1 1/2 miles to her home on West Union Street. It was about 1 a.m. Who to call? I decided to call Dick for a ride home. He came with his father’s car and took us back to my car. He had one tire chain. We put it on my car, although neither one of us had ever put on a chain. He pushed my car with his car (bumpers were made better then) and we got up the hill. I arrived home at about 2:30 a.m. That is a true friend. Over the years, Dick became an executive in the insurance industry and I became a firefighter, and we always kept in contact. In his 50s, Dick became very ill — so ill, in fact, that he had to retire. He ended up in a wheelchair. He did research on his illness and had the doctors recheck for Lyme disease. He tested positive for Lyme, despite living in an apartment in New York City! Come to find out, a couple of years earlier, a friend with a dog visited. The dog had been on the sofa and must have left behind a tick that infested Dick. Move forward to about 30 years ago, and Dick was living in Daytona Beach. I visited him for a week in his brand-new, stand-alone condo. Over the next few years, my wife and I wintered in Melbourne Beach and visited often. About 15 years ago, Dick stopped driving long distances, so we would drive to Daytona Beach and meet Dick with another classmate and his wife, and all five of us would have a nice visit. Dick and I talked on the phone three or four times a year until about a year ago. Dick became ill again, spending time in the hospital several times. He finally had to give up his condo and move in with his son. On the Friday before Father’s Day, I got a call from his sister. Dick had had a massive stroke. He was in the hospital and would be going to hospice care. I got the call on Father’s Day that Dick had passed away that morning. Richard Aubrey Byers was born on Aug. 16, 1941, the son of Charles and Hazel Byers. He leaves his son, Todd, his sister, Susan, and his former wife, Joyce. Goodbye to another lifelong friend. You will be missed.

Openi

on the common. The evening could include some coordinated activities, and the HSLA would provide snacks and s’mores, along with either a continental breakfast or a food truck in the morning. Hanson characterized the event as a way to bring the community together. “I think it would be a really awesome thing to add to our lineup,” she added. Lewitus said he was open to the request because he and Tallent had experience with these sorts of events before. “I think the common’s a good idea, but I do have some reservations about it,” he said. He told Hanson Hopkinton Police and Fire would need to be involved, as well as the Board of Health. Lewitus said he would be comfortable with limiting the event to 10-15 families. Hanson pushed back on that number, asking if it were possible to map out the available capacity on the common. Later on in the discussion, she explained that she envisioned capping the event at 40 families. Terry raised concerns over safety with more than 15 families camped out on the common. He and other

commission members noted that traffic cuts through the area at all hours of the day. “Why the common?” he asked Hanson. “Is that something that … you’d really be interested in?” Hanson cited the visibility of Town Common as part of the appeal for holding the campout there. “I’m not married to it,” she clarified. “I think [of] the common first because it’s so centrally located.” “If there is another park that would be more appropriate, I’m open to that,” she added. Commission members threw out other Parks & Rec properties that could work for the event, including Pyne Field, Victory Field, EMC Park and Fruit Street. Lewitus mentioned that bathrooms would be something the Scouts needed to consider. He added that Fruit Street might not work depending on fall sports schedules. Terry shared his perspective that the discussion could not move toward a motion to allow the campout to take place until the availability of other properties was understood. Hanson agreed to work with the Parks & Rec Department to look at the options and return with a proposal at the next commission meeting.

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6 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

Select Board focuses on improving town communication strategy By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

he Select Board at its meeting Sept. 8 turned its attention toward improving the way the town communicates with its residents. Julia Chun, the town’s sustainability, economic development and equity project manager, told the board about the results of a communication and engagement outreach assessment performed by the Center for Government Research. Last year, the town received a $50,000 state grant to perform this assessment, she explained. This assessment should assist the board as it starts

working on the town’s strategic plan. The key takeaway is that “information can be difficult to find,” said Chun. She noted that new residents in particular have trouble learning about community meetings. The survey showed that 30% of respondents felt they were “not at all informed” or only “slightly informed” about town policies and planning. Improvements could be made to the town website to make it easier to navigate, she added. The town also could better utilize social media, according to the survey. A “missed opportunity” Chun pointed out is that the town does not use Instagram, which is popular among ages 25-44. It

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It’s obvious that we’re not doing enough. — Select Board chair Shahidul Mannan.

also should look at using WhatsApp and WeChat, which frequently are used in the South Asian community. But the town should “not abandon print,” she stressed. Older residents tend to read newspapers and newsletters. Successful towns also have a “strategic brand alignment.” This uses recognizable colors and symbols so people can easily identify town communication and its overall identity, Chun said. The survey used several methods to collect data, explained Chun. They included surveys, focus groups and interviews. One finding was that many people would like to have in-person outreach from their board and committee members outside of meetings. They then can have one-on-one conversations to learn about their functions without being at a meeting, which can be stressful and intimidating to newcomers. This community strategy virtually stopped during the pandemic. Said Chun: “We heard from several residents that it would be great for us to have one annual event where different boards and committees can really share what they do.” The communication plan should help grow economic development and interest in the town’s cultural district, she added. “I think this is something that we can never do enough with,” said member Joe Clark.

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Clark later suggested using artificial intelligence to help facilitate communication. He also liked the idea of targeting different age groups using print and social media. Vice chair Matthew Kizner suggested that the town consider hiring a public information officer. He noted that the boards and departments have “unique and decentralized” communication strategies. This means that not everyone can readily find the information they need. “It’s obvious that we’re not doing enough,” said chair Shahidul Mannan. He pointed out that he had several conversations with residents about the new route for the MetroWest Regional Transportation Authority that started Sept. 8. It is expected to improve public transportation in Hopkinton. But these residents were unaware that a bus route existed. Town Manager Elaine Lazarus said that a consultant will be hired for community engagement as the strategic plan process starts.

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Lazarus explained that the draft warrant for the Oct. 26 Special Town Meeting has been compiled. It includes 25 articles, most of them citizens’ petitions. She noted that the proponents will appear at the Sept. 15 Select Board

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meeting to speak about their proposed articles. Resident and Planning Board member Parker Happ previously told the Independent that he hoped to submit 19 citizens’ petitions. Town-sponsored articles include the Charter Review Committee’s presentation on proposed changes. This process is undertaken every 10 years. Financial articles related to supplemental appropriations measures and capital requests by the Department of Public Works also were sponsored by the town. The citizens’ petitions focused on town acceptance of private ways and their maintenance. Another key area of concern was the scheduling of and procedural review for Town Meeting. “I have never been a fan of Special Town Meeting,” said member Brian Herr. “I will never be a fan of Special Town Meeting, and this is an example of why.” All other members stressed that town counsel should review the articles to make sure they are legal and viable before the board goes through them.

Charter review update presented Charter Review Committee vice chair Peter Mimmo explained that the committee has had “vibrant and robust discussion” around potential changes. “The review is not going to change a blessed thing in the charter,” he stressed. “The town is going to change it, if [residents] choose to do so.” Since the last Select Board update on Aug. 4, Mimmo said there have been several key topics raised. The committee has held three meetings, one of which was attended by members of boards for whom membership changes were proposed. They included the Planning Board, the Board of Health and the Library Board of Trustees. In addition, member Muriel Kramer said the committee has considered making one Community Preservation Committee member appointed. There also was discussion about the Town Clerk being appointed rather than elected. She stressed that people should not look at this process as “fixing a problem of today.” Rather, it is about codifying what works. There will be a forum about the charter review process on Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the HCAM-TV studio, located at 77 Main Street. “[W]e crave your engagement, and we crave your feedback,” stressed Mimmo.

Senior means-tested tax exemption approved The board voted unanimously to approve a 200% means-tested senior tax exemption of the calendar year circuit breaker income tax credit for the current fiscal year. It also voted 5-0 to extend the means-tested senior tax exemption for the next three years.

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 7

Select Board hears resident input on police surveillance tech Flock | from page 1

West Main Street near Interstate 495. Two more were planned, interim Police Chief Scott van Raalten told the Select Board at its July 21 meeting. The cameras use artificial intelligence to track license plate numbers. Van Raalten stressed then that the cameras can be useful tools, shaving countless hours off investigations. But they also can be used for unlawful searches. For example, a New Bedford police officer in August was suspended for using Flock camera data to track an ex-girlfriend.

Residents voice concerns “I want to emphasize that tonight’s discussion is not simply about one vendor or one technology,” said chair Shahidul Mannan at the forum’s start. “It’s about how, as a community, we evaluate public safety and surveillance technologies responsibly.” The resounding concern expressed by residents and board members was that the Select Board did not receive information from the HPD before the Flock cameras were installed. Some residents questioned the procurement process. In July, van Raalten explained that the cameras were purchased with money returned to the department’s asset forfeiture fund. Therefore, the purchase did not use town money and did not have to be approved by the Select Board, he said. “Again, the town faces issues with the Hopkinton Police Department, installing Flock cameras without town approval, signing contracts with Flock and telling no one,” charged resident Beth Malloy. She added: “Please explain to me what right [van Raalten] had in signing this contract for the town.” Resident Darlene Hayes questioned whether the HPD solicited bids from other surveillance companies before choosing Flock as part of its procurement process. Amy Groves, a resident who spoke out against the cameras previously, said she researched Flock Safety’s competitors and, “They’re not looking so hot either.” The public “should not confuse the term Flock with ALPR,” or automatic license plate readers, she said. Groves requested that a complete review of privacy and cybersecurity issues be undertaken if and when the town looks at another vendor. The fact that Select Board members did not know about the Flock camera installation concerned resident Karen Crum. But she did praise members for acting quickly to get a review and eventual termination of the contract. “Public safety cannot exist without public trust,” she stressed, later adding, “It’s common sense to let you know.” No one from the HPD attended the hearing. “It screams to me that the police didn’t show up tonight,” said Malloy. Mannan said the forum was a public listening session.

been notified about the Flock contract. The town manager and town counsel should review any contract before it is signed, she added. Vice chair Matthew Kizner stressed that residents should have “the expectation of privacy.” He said that the asset forfeiture fund was “used in a way in which we are absolutely not happy about.” Kizner noted that Kyla LaPierre, the town’s chief financial officer, now will be able to better track transactions, thanks to the implementation of new integrated financial software purchased through a grant. He added that getting the cameras removed within 6-8 weeks is “like light-speed” in government. Member Joe Clark echoed Kizner’s statement about the contract being terminated quickly. He indicated that not every town contract can come before the board. But he said the town is working toward a new “standard operating procedure.” Town Manager Elaine Lazarus noted that private entities can put up surveillance cameras. She said the Flock cameras should be removed “by the end of the month.” Member Brian Herr said there are circumstances where the police should not share everything with the public. He pointed out the massive use of town, state and federal law enforcement agencies during the Boston Marathon and the week before it. Mannan stressed the importance of transparency moving forward as well as continued public engagement.

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This issue’s winner is Peter Paul Payack for this photo of a rainbow over Woodville taken “during an evening run along Wood Street in the middle of a sun shower.” To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) 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 BoMain. 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 BoMain. 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 BoMain.

Altercation at Town Common leads to police intervention By Nick Schofield Interim Editor

verbal confrontation between a protester and a vendor at the Hopkinton Farmers Market on Aug. 30 led to a police response. At 12:54 p.m. on Aug. 30, Hopkinton Police responded to the Town Common after a caller reported he was assaulted while protesting. According to Interim Police Chief Scott van Raalten, officers took reports from the involved parties and a witness. No charges were filed. Market manager Julie Beauchemin explained that the incident occurred between one of the market vendors and the protester, who was holding up signs advocating against abortion. “It was actually two confrontations that happened with two of our vendors,” Beauchemin clarified. In the first incident, one vendor who had a pro-choice sign at their booth brought it to where the protester was stationed and stood alongside him. The second, which escalated to confrontation, involved a vendor who was asking questions of the individual to understand his

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beliefs better, according to Beauchemin. The protester allegedly pulled up a video of an abortion procedure on his phone and put it in the vendor’s face. A verbal escalation followed, and the police were called. According to the police report, which includes corroboration by the parties involved, when the protester put the phone in the vendor’s face, the vendor took the phone and threw it on the ground. The vendor then walked away, and the protester followed him. The protestor, a Medway resident, told police he wanted to charge the vendor with assault and battery for throwing the phone, but the responding officer, Augusto Diaz Jr., told him he “did not believe there was enough to charge the vendor at that time.” Diaz also indicated that he advised the protester “that although he has the right to protest, putting a phone in someone’s face might not be the best course of action during a heated argument.” Diaz also wrote in his report that, regarding the throwing of the phone, the vendor “agreed that this was not the best course of action.” Added Diaz: “Subsequent to my conProtester | 9

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 9

Historical Commission to probe historical significance of Winter Street home By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

he Historical Commission on Sept. 1 voted unanimously to designate the house at 155 Winter Street as historically significant, pending a future determination at a public hearing. Known as the Gibson House, the structure dates back to “sometime prior to 1831,” according to chair Michael Roughan. He added that it was included in the 1989 Hopkinton Historical Property Survey conducted by Gretchen Schuler and Anne Forbes. Member Scott Knous questioned whether any work had been performed on the home that would take away from its historic character. Roughan replied that a second story was added to part of the structure in the 1970s. “There’s only a portion of it that has the original 1½-story architecture,” added the chair. “But it’s discernable.” Roughan said he was contacted by Victor Visoni in the town’s Inspectional Services Department about potential interest in demolishing this home. While no building permit has been filed, the Mary McManus Trust at 117 Winter Street requested that the town start a historical review process. Roughan suggested that a public hearing be held. Also, he said he would coordinate a site walk or property tour for members. The chair described the architecture as “Yankee handsome,” which evoked laughs. Roughan suggested that the commission vote to designate the home as historically significant, which it did unanimously. A public hearing cannot be scheduled until a demolition permit is requested, Roughan stressed. If the hearing concludes that it is not historically significant, demolition work can proceed.

There’s only a portion of [the Gibson House] that has the original 1½-story architecture. But it’s discernable.

versations with both parties, I spoke with multiple witnesses who corroborated both parties’ accounts and stated that nothing became physical. … I was able to clear the scene without further incident.” “Nobody was removed or arrested,” said Beauchemin. “We kind of let him stand there for the remainder of the market, and [he] left when we started to pack up.” She noted that the man arrived at the market close to when it opened. Police did not provide the name of the protester, and Beauchemin said he had not been seen at the market before. According to his sign, the individual has some affiliation with an Oklahoma-based anti-abortion group known as Abolitionists Rising. Beauchemin said she was “not happy” with the situation, adding that the market strives to be free of any religious or political statements. She also stated that the individual positioned themselves right behind the area where families like to sit on the green and listen to the local performers. He would ask people in attendance if they believed abortion was murder, she said. “[Patrons] were clearly uncomfortable

Review of McFarland Sanger documents sought

— Historical Commission chair Michael Roughan

Center School demolition cost shaved by $1.1M Several previously approved projects have shown significant progress. The largest one is the demolition work for the Center School reuse project, Member Eric Sonnett told the commission that Annual Town Meeting had allocated $2.4 million for the demolition of the two rear additions to the historic Center School building at 11 Ash Street. Hazardous materials will be removed from the site, including from the main building’s interior. “After a lot of scrutiny and significant work by the Permanent Building Committee and the liaisons to it, the bids came in at $1.3 million,” he said, noting that he and Ken Weismantel, the Community Preservation Committee chair, were the liaisons. Saving $1.1 million is “a big deal,” Sonnet said. Demolition work is expected to start “within the next 30 days,” he added.

Slave plaque moves closer to installation Member Anne Mattina, who also chairs the Hopkinton Historical Society, explained that the sign honoring Black people enslaved in Hopkinton will cost $2,300. Although the commission previously approved $2,400, the pole for its installation and shipping cost $561. Mattina paid out of pocket for this, so the committee voted unanimously to

Altercation at Town Common leads to police intervention Protester | from page 8

work will be done at a later date. Renovations to the Hopkinton Historical Society building are “on the brink of completion,” according to Sonnet. He added: “They’re under budget, and everybody’s happy.”

and left the market because of his presence,” Beauchemin remarked. She called the whole situation “very upsetting.” The market manager recognized that the common is a public space and that members of the public have the right to assemble and exercise their right to free speech. However, the market strives to be an inclusive and safe space for all, she said. Beauchemin worried that those with a personal history with abortion could find the protester and his sign upsetting. “We don’t want that,” she said. In an email shared with the Independent, Beauchemin commended the vendors for their behavior during the incident. “Not one of us stepped out of line — you kept your cool, stood up for what you believe in and stood up for each other,” she stated. “We have a wonderful community of vendors … who looked out for each other during this incident while also trying to support their own businesses,” Beauchemin stated in a follow-up. “They depend on the market for income to support their families, and a protest like this only deters shoppers, which hurts local business.”

reimburse her. Mattina added that it likely will be installed in early October on the Town Common next to the monument honoring the early white settlers. Roughan noted that this information should be brought to the attention of the Historic District Commission. Mattina said Linda Connelly, who researched the project for more than a decade, planned to do so. Also regarding signage, the commission also voted unanimously to approve an expenditure of “not more than $110” for a sign honoring historical figure John Howe. This is in addition to a previous allocation of $1,926 that did not cover the entire cost.

CPC-funded historic projects move forward Sonnett noted that other CPCfunded projects are showing signs of progress. He praised the new flooring at the Hopkinton Public Library’s Ellsworth conference room, calling it “spectacular.” Sonnett added that the refurbishment of the Mount Auburn Cemetery building is complete. The roof pointing

Roughan updated the members on the status of the McFarland Sanger House at 148 Lumber Street. He said town counsel is in the process of preparing documents for its lease or sale. The chair also said he met with Town Manager Elaine Lazarus about the project. He requested that the house be “boarded up” until the commission could either fund its restoration or get a disposition on the property. Lazarus, he said, “thought that was a little harsh.” The one sticking point about the property, he noted, is that it does not have access to town water and sewer connections. Roughan said that he reviewed several months of old commission meeting minutes. They revealed that the developer of the Deerfield Estates complex promised two decades ago to provide water and sewer access to the McFarland Sanger House. Knous asked if town counsel could review these documents to see if Deerfield Estates or its developer could be held responsible for providing the connection, as the old meeting minutes inferred. It would make the property easier to lease or sell. Members voted unanimously in favor of this idea.

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10 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

Board weighs options as Hill, Miller depart HPL Library | from page 1

Hill will depart Sept. 17.

Joint approach for hiring process Mary Zeinieh from the town’s Human Resources Department led the discussion. She explained the steps that must be taken to fill this high-level position. “This is a process that we’ve run before,” said Zeinieh. “But there are decisions and choices that you have to make.” Zeinieh added that she will be the board’s HR liaison in this process, as she specializes in recruitment. She suggested that the town may receive as many as 75 applications for the director’s position. The first step is for the board to review the job description “and make sure it still accurately reflects what we want,” said Zeinieh. Members will be able to email modifications to her. She added that she has requested that the Select Board approve of the job posting at its Sept. 8 meeting. The earliest that the job could be posted was Sept. 9. In order to do that, the Board of Library Trustees needed to approve of the wording before that Select Board meeting so that it can be incorporated into the posting. Added Zeinieh: “[I]f we work together, I think we can get there.” Zeinieh suggested that the board appoint a liaison to serve on the interview panel. Members unanimously chose Susan Porter, who said she is a veteran of this process. The panel also will include department heads and library staff members. The wording of the job posting will be used to create candidate screening questions. Applicants who do not meet the minimum criteria will not be considered, Zeinieh stressed. HR will develop the questions for the initial interview round. Two rounds are expected before the finalists appear before the Select Board. She added that she will employ the

same strategy in the search for a new Parks & Recreation Department director. Jon Lewitus took the director’s position at the Sudbury Park & Recreation Department as of Sept. 9.

Communication concerns arise While Zeinieh stressed a collaborative approach, members Anne Beauchamp and Jessica McCaffrey called her out for addressing her presentation to chair Warren Carter rather than to the full board. “I’m sorry to interrupt, but actually we make decisions as a board,” said Beauchamp. Zeinieh said she was asking the chair if he would like to present the information rather than her. “Just to clarify Anne’s point, the board makes decisions through the chair,” stressed McCaffrey. “So the questions can be presented uniformly to the board.” Some muffled discussion occurred. Then Carter said, “I’m all for that.” Said McCaffrey: “I think you totally disregarded what we just said.” “Just speak to the group, that’s all,” she added. After this exchange, the board voted unanimously on Zeinieh’s request to email redacted applications to board members separately for their individual review. Added Zeinieh: “So now my goal is to help you out, keep the process moving forward.” Her objective is to make sure that “at the end, we are all comfortable with who we’ve selected.” To that end, she agreed that Beauchamp could consolidate members’ feedback in the interest of time. Porter will review the new document for accuracy before forwarding it to Zeinieh. After the job description is posted, Zeinieh will give applicants a “priority deadline” of three weeks from the posting date. Applications can be submitted after that time, but they will be reviewed

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Staff shortage solutions emerge The chair asked if an acting or interim director could be brought in to provide stability for library staff. Because of the staff shortage, Zeinieh said HR has approved of paying a stipend to two current supervisors. They are Danielle Wolber, the reference and technology supervisor, and Allison Keaney, the circulation and technical services supervisor. Each will take on half of the assistant director’s duties. Miller will serve as “a sounding board” for them and be paid on a per diem basis, Zeinieh added. Beauchamp expressed concern that Wolber and Keaney could become burned out. Wolber added that once the new employees have been trained, some current tasks performed by her and Keaney could be handed off to them along with existing staff, at least for the time being. Zeinieh suggested that an interim director be brought in. She also said that the assistant director position should not be posted until after the director has been chosen. Zeinieh said the director should have input in choosing the assistant director. Board members agreed. Beauchamp said the assistant director description may need to be revised.

Library hours may be cut Wolber noted that once the director and assistant director positions officially are vacant, “the library as a whole will be down approximately half of its fulltime people and approximately onethird of our full-time equivalents.” Because of the staff shortages, Wolber said closing the library on Sundays is “one of the least impactful and most effective ways to save some hours.” Other potential options for consideration are reducing evening hours on Thursdays and only opening the library on alternate Saturdays until the full staff is in place. Miller noted that the library is open 60 hours per week; the state requirement is only 50. Beauchamp stressed that “foot traffic” and “special population programming” times be taken into account when deciding on reducing hours to “protect that equity.”

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Hill: ‘I have to do what’s best for me’ Carter told the board that he spoke with Hill on Aug. 28. “My only real question was, ‘Are you sure?’ ” he reported asking Hill regarding her resignation. Her reply to Carter was, “I’m ready to move on. I think it’s the best thing for everybody.” Hill served as library director for the past five years and nine months, according to LinkedIn. She has more than two decades of experience in library leadership roles. Miller told the Independent in a separate interview that she could not comment on the manner of Hill’s departure. When asked about Hill’s impact on the library and the community, Miller had kind words about the former director. “I know personally that we have a good relationship and that she will be greatly missed,” she said. Miller began working for the Hopkinton Public Library in June 2021. She ascended to the position of young adult librarian four months later. Miller was promoted to assistant library director in October 2023. Her new job will be at the Lunenburg Public Library. “It’s a promotion, so I’m very excited,” she said. “But I’ve enjoyed working in Hopkinton so much.” In a statement submitted to the Independent on Sept. 9, Hill stated she chose to resign from her position to focus on her family and travel after a 27-year career of working as a librarian and eventually as a library director. She plans on traveling and spending time with her partner and grandchildren. She also intends to return to library consulting work, which she shared that she previously enjoyed. Hill also clarified comments she made to Carter regarding her departure. “[It] makes it sound as if I’ve had problems with many people, which … is not true,” Hill explained. “What I actually said was, ‘I have to do what’s best for me.’ ” The outgoing director further addressed her relationship with the Select Board, which she worried may be misconstrued or viewed by some to be acrimonious because of comments made at the board’s Sept. 8 meeting. She called indications of tension between her and the Select Board “absolutely inaccurate.” “I have never had anything but a great relationship with the board,” she stated.

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aving for retirement is important, but it’s only part of the picture. If you’re within five to 10 years of your target retirement date, it’s time to start thinking about what you actually want your retirement to look like. After all, getting to retirement isn’t the end goal — it’s what you want to do once you’re there that matters. Start by asking yourself Mark Freeman, CEPA these five questions. When do Professional you want to reInsights tire? The age at which you PAID ADVERTISEMENT PROVIDED BY EDWARD JONES retire matters more than you may realize. Retiring early sounds appealing, but it means saving more and having less time to do it. It can also create gaps in health care coverage and income before key benefits kick in. For example, Social Security benefits can begin at 62, but at a reduced amount. Full benefits are available between ages 66 and 67, depending on birth year, and waiting until 70 means the maximum benefit. Medicare doesn’t start until age 65, and penalty-free withdrawals from retirement accounts generally aren’t allowed until age 59½. For couples, timing gets even more complicated. Staggering retirement dates can sometimes maximize benefits; in other cases, retiring at the same time works better. A financial advisor can help you sort through these decisions and find the approach that makes the most sense for your situation. How do you want to spend your time in retirement? Many new retirees are surprised to find that having unlimited free time feels disorienting rather than freeing. Thinking ahead about how

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The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 13

fall fun The hidden wire that can make or break your smart thermostat A A thermostat is the control center telling your heating

few years ago, the “C-wire” became a bit of a buzzword as smart thermostats started showing up in more homes. Homeowners buying Nest, ecobee and other Wi-Fi thermostats quickly discovered that what looked like a simple do-it-yourself upgrade sometimes became much more complicated once the old thermostat came off the wall. The issue is especially common in New England homes. The “C” stands for common wire. In simple terms, it provides continuous lowvoltage power Ilija Crnobrnja to a smart therProfessional mostat. Older thermostats did Insights not need nearly as much power. PA I D A D VE R TI SE ME NT Today’s smart thermostats have Wi-Fi connections, displays, sensors and processors running continuously, so they need a reliable source of electricity. Many Massachusetts homes heated by an older gas or oil-fired boiler have only two thermostat wires running through the wall. Those two wires were

and cooling equipment when your home needs attention. If a smart thermostat is improperly powered or wired, symptoms can include a thermostat that repeatedly reboots, loses its Wi-Fi connection, drains its battery or stops operating altogether. perfectly adequate when all the thermostat had to do was tell the boiler, “Turn the heat on” or “Turn the heat off.” Add a modern smart thermostat, however, and suddenly those two wires may not be enough. The same issue often comes up when homeowners replace a traditional heating system with a heat pump. Heat pumps typically require additional thermostat connections to control heating, cooling, the indoor fan, reversing valve and, in some systems, auxiliary heat. The existing thermostat cable simply may not have enough conductors. Sometimes the solution is surprisingly easy. If the thermostat is on the first floor, the basement ceiling is unfinished and the existing wire was not stapled tightly inside the wall, an HVAC

technician may be able to pull a new thermostat cable through the same path. Other homes are a different story. If the thermostat is on the second floor, walls and ceilings are finished, and the existing wiring is inaccessible, running a new cable could mean opening walls. In those situations, a technician may recommend a properly designed power extender, common-wire adapter or other control solution instead. That is why a smart thermostat advertised as a 30-minute DIY project can sometimes turn into an afternoon of frustration. There is also a more important consideration than convenience. A thermostat is the control center telling your heating and cooling equipment when your home needs attention.

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If a smart thermostat is improperly powered or wired, symptoms can include a thermostat that repeatedly reboots, loses its Wi-Fi connection, drains its battery or stops operating altogether. A thermostat failure while you are home is inconvenient. A failure while you are away for a winter weekend could be much more serious if the heating system stops receiving a call for heat. During freezing weather, that can eventually put plumbing at risk. During the summer, losing cooling can also mean excessive temperatures and humidity affecting pets, furniture, artwork and the home itself. Manufacturers have made smart thermostat installation easier, and many homes really are straightforward DIY projects. But before assuming yours is one of them, look behind the thermostat and understand what wiring and HVAC equipment you actually have. And when the wiring does not match the instructions in the box, that is usually a good place to stop and consult a qualified HVAC professional rather than improvising. Ilija Crnobrnja, Co-Founder SumZero Energy Systems Holliston, MA (508) 474-3220 sumzeroenergysystems.com

14 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

fall fu Gasser hospitalized after hiking injury By Nick Schofield Interim Editor

utgoing Hopkinton Area Land Trust president Morrie Gasser reportedly fell and became injured during a hike in New Hampshire Sept. 7. According to a press release issued by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG), the organization received a call at around 2:30 p.m. Sept. 7 about an injured hiker on the Glen Boulder Trail in Sargent’s Purchase, New Hampshire. Parties hiking with Gasser called New Hampshire State Police and reported he had taken a fall, suffering a head and neck injury. According to the press release, Gasser could not move and did not have any feeling in his extremities. The group reportedly was 4 miles from the closest parking lot at the time Gasser sustained his injuries, presenting a challenge for the NHFG. The agency requested a helicopter rescue from the New Hampshire Army National Guard and called up volunteers from Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue and Lakes Region Search and Rescue in the event the helicopter could not reach the area. The press release noted that if air rescue was not possible, volunteers and conservation officers

Outgoing HALT president Morrie Gasser reportedly sustained injuries on Sept. 7 after a fall during a hike in New Hampshire.

would have to conduct a “time-consuming, lengthy carryout.” A Blackhawk helicopter was able to land nearby about three hours after the initial 911 call. Flight medics assessed Gasser before carrying him back to the helicopter. He was flown to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Gasser, a longtime member of HALT and its board of directors, recently announced plans to vacate his role as he moves out of Hopkinton. He joined the nonprofit “as soon as it started accepting members” sometime in the 1990s, he explained, and became a board member in 2015. He took on the role as president when founder and former president Dave Goldman retired from the position in 2019.

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The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 15

un Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week

ach week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 10-yearold Freya. Here is Baypath’s description of Freya: “Freya is a gentle, affectionate senior searching for the retirement home of her dreams! After spending 10 years with a loving family, she found herself needing a new home due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control. “Freya is a social butterfly who loves meeting new people, soaking up the sunshine, taking leisurely walks and snuggling with her favorite humans. She also gets along wonderfully with other dogs and has been an easy, house-trained guest in her foster home. Now, this sweet senior queen is ready for a family and a cozy place to call her own.” For more information about Freya 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.

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16 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

Board of Health opposes charter recommendations By Nick Schofield Interim Editor

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he Board of Health voted against a suggestion from the Charter Review Committee to shift who the Health Director reports to at its meeting on Aug. 31, while agreeing to revisit a second proposal about its membership at a later date. The discussion about the Charter Review Committee’s suggestions took place over two meetings. A previous meeting on Aug. 27 was restricted only to member and Health Department feedback. The following meeting involved discussion with Charter Review chair Connor Degan and member Muriel Kramer. Degan sat in on both meetings, attending the former as a member of the public. During its review of the town charter and discussions with key stakeholders, the committee has come up with a recommendation to consolidate directorlevel reporting from certain town boards and committees to the town manager. Appointment and supervision of department heads would fall under the Town Manager’s Office, while policy setting, performance reviews, evaluations and goal-setting would remain the purview of the Board of Health.

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At the Thursday meeting, all Board of Health members and Health Department employees in attendance voiced opposition about changing to whom the Health Director reports. Public health nurse Simone Carter, who said she was speaking both as a resident and a department member, characterized the Charter Review Committee’s suggestion as “shifting the power away from the community-focused board.” This, she claimed, would dilute the voice of the voters. “I hate to see the local voice lost, especially in the times that we’re living in right now,” said Carter. She added her belief that an independent board minimizes risk to the town and promotes both public transparency and accountability. Chair Nasiba Mannan said she was “kind of surprised that we would have a recommendation like this, to take something from elected bodies and give it to one administrative person” in the

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current political climate. “Will the town manager have the capability [to decide] what is best for the residents of this town regarding a public health matter, or an epidemic or whatever public health challenges we face?” she wondered. Health Director Shaun McAuliffe also spoke to these concerns, claiming that any decision-making put solely into the town manager’s hands “circumvents specific expertise in decision making that the board and director have over issues.” McAuliffe added that he is following goals and objectives set by Town Manager Elaine Lazarus and the Select Board, and checks in with Lazarus regularly. “There isn’t a problem to correct, and there is therefore no need for this charter revision as it pertains to the health director,” he said. McAuliffe also warned that in other Massachusetts communities where consolidation under the town manager has occurred, many have faced a “lengthy list of bad issues that have transpired.” According to the health director, state law is designed to keep his role under the Board of Health’s oversight as to create a separation of powers.

Degan, Kramer explain reporting recommendations During the Monday night meeting, Degan and Kramer offered additional context to the Charter Review Committee’s recommendations. Kramer explained that the suggestion came from looking at just the structure of the town’s administrative system. She also said the reporting concerns have been a longstanding concern. “It’s been a central question since before the charter was established 20 years ago,” she said. Added Kramer: “I do think that it’s worth considering making the charter consistent throughout and having some sort of through line of professional supervision for all professional staff.” In hearing board members’ suggestions that retaining the current reporting Keeping families structure would help shield the Health comfortably cozy in their Department from the town manager, homes over Degan clarified thatyear-round whoever thefor town years! manager is still has 76 hiring and firing powers over all other roles in the department. Board of Health | 17

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The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 17

Hopkinton voters favor Markey, Minogue in state primary races

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allots cast by Hopkinton residents during the state primary Sept. 1 reflected results statewide for two key races: the Democratic race for the U.S. Senate and the Republican nomination for governor. The majority of the 2,159 Democratic ballots cast favored incumbent Sen. Ed Markey over challenger Rep. Seth Moulton. Markey took 1,305 votes (60.4%) in Hopkinton to Moulton’s 840 (38.9%). The split mirrors statewide results, according to results from WBUR posted Sept. 2. The incumbent senator will face Republican candidate John Deaton in the November election. Deaton, a lawyer and cryptocurrency advocate who

previously ran against Sen. Elizabeth Warren, ran unopposed in the Republican primary this year. A total of 551 residents cast votes on the Republican ballot. The key race on the Republican side was Michael Minogue versus Brian Shortsleeve for Massachusetts governor. Minogue earned 378 votes (68.6%) while Shortsleeve took 166 (30.1%). Shortsleeve performed marginally better in Hopkinton in comparison to statewide results. Minogue won the Republican nomination with 75.9% of the overall vote, per the results from WBUR. He will take on Gov. Maura Healey later this fall. Town Clerk Connor Degan confirmed that all accepted mail-in ballots were included in Hopkinton’s primary results.

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Citing separation of powers, Board of Health votes against charter recommendation Board of Health | from page 16

“The point is, the current structure as it is now doesn’t further insulate departmental employees from the town manager,” he said. Following the discussion, the board unanimously voted to support its current reporting system and oppose any changes.

Membership increase considered The second of the Charter Review Committee’s recommendations for the Board of Health is an increase in its size, bumping it from three members to five. “This was identified in the Health Department’s very own strategic plan,” said Degan. “Now we’re hearing a push against it.” Degan claimed that adding two additional members would bring more citizens’ voices to the board. He wondered if the board’s opposition to adding more members was a “political push” affecting the strategic plan. Vice chair Mary Jo Ondrechen explained the board’s position, saying that it has been successful in finding qualified members. However, the dissolution of the town’s caucus system and an increase in available seats means filling them with qualified candidates is harder. Furthermore, if a seat came up for election and no one ran, someone

who may not be as qualified could take it with a write-in campaign. “That sounds like politics coming into the department,” Degan commented. Members explained they were not necessarily opposed to expanding the Board of Health, but that current circumstances both local and nationwide have influenced their position on the matter. “We thought the residents of this town would be safer with a … threemember board right now,” said Mannan, noting all members have advanced degrees and credentials in health-related fields. Member Malcolm Smith reiterated concerns over the board taking on members with only a “personal interest or lay interest” in public health. However, he was amenable to the idea of adding seats. “In an ideally organized board, five is better than three,” said Smith. Degan rounded out the discussion by noting the concerns over power consolidation and voter disenfranchisement voiced in opposition to the previous recommendation were addressed by expanding the board’s membership. “It feels to me like this is the way to maintain more voice but also avoid the risk of a singular bad actor taking too much authority over the board,” he said. Members agreed to revisit the recommendation at a later date.

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18 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

CPC shares good news on Center School demolition bids By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

t a brief meeting Aug. 27, the Community Preservation Committee heard positive updates on projects for which it previously awarded funding, particularly for the Center School reuse project. Chair Ken Weismantel told the committee that the town received the bids for the demolition work on the two rear additions for Center School on Wednesday. On May 2, Annual Town Meeting voted to approve a request for $2.4 million for the demolition of Center School’s two rear additions and the

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removal of hazardous materials as part of the reuse plan for the building. Weismantel said the committee was “normally fearful” that the bids would exceed the approved amount. “I’m estimating we’re going to come about $900,000 under, so we got some good bids,” he explained. “So that’s looking really good.” The bidders will be vetted, he added. There may be a price fluctuation based upon how much hazardous material is removed from the site. Because bids were received on this project, no articles were proposed for the Oct. 26 Special Town Meeting to request additional funds. Also, the executive session on the agenda was canceled. “Being 900 grand less didn’t just happen,” said vice chair Eric Sonnet. “The Permanent Building Committee, with the two liaisons from this committee [Weismantel and Sonnet], went through a point-by-point discussion on each of the [project points].” Added Sonnet: “People are working hard to make this happen.” Weismantel added that $100,000

was budgeted for an owner’s project manager. Because the project came in under the $1.5 million mark, no OPM is required under state law. This potentially could add to the money saved on the work, he said. Weismantel also shared some “bad news” that was not unexpected, given information shared at past meetings. He said the slate roof is “in really bad shape.” Because tiles have been falling off, fencing will be installed around the property to protect the public.

Potential use of Carbone’s land discussed The town is in the process of purchasing the Carbone’s Restaurant property, located at 280 Cedar Street, Weismantel reminded the committee. This purchase was approved at the ATM on May 2. The town intends to build a pump station on the restaurant portion of the property. The CPC contributed $225,000 toward the purchase in order to acquire the land behind the restaurant for open space.

The committee voted 8-0 to authorize the chair not to spend more than $10,000 to survey the land to delineate the open space property from the adjacent land at the Ashland border. Weismantel suggested that the 5 acres may be a good site for a youth baseball field. The Parks & Recreation Commission previously proposed redesigning Pyne Field to include a baseball field and cricket pitch. The site was deemed not large enough to accommodate both fields and parking, and safety concerns had also been raised. While no formal proposal was made, members appeared receptive to the idea. Weismantel said he was unsure if Parks & Rec would concur, as the site previously had been considered.

Adaptive playground receives ‘final touches’ Planning Board liaison Parker Happ shared that he recently visited Marathon School and was impressed with the progress on the adaptive playground located there. The CPC voted to award $300,000 toward the $1.2 million project in December 2024; Annual Town Meeting approved the request in May 2025. “The adaptive playground looks phenomenal,” said Happ. “They’re putting the final touches on it. I think this committee should be really proud about that as an appropriation of funds.” Added Happ: “I think it just made a very positive impact on that whole landscape.”

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The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 19

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.

Eric Seaholm Eric Neal Seaholm of Hopkinton died peacefully at home on Aug. 24 surrounded by his family and song. He was 80. Eric graduated from Wilfred Academy and then served in the National Guard as a member of the 215th Army Band. He met his wife of 58 years at International Paper, then had a long career at Honeywell Inc. as a manager of the printing department for 25 years. From there, he worked alongside his best friend, Peter, as a driver for JFK Transportation in Natick, before finding his true love as a parts driver for Muzi Motors in Needham. He loved rolling down the highways in his little pickup, making friends along the way in between stops at Dunkin’. Eric was a longtime and active member of the East Natick United Methodist Church, serving in adult education, as a trustee, as chair of the Ad Council, as a lay leader, in choir and as a featured soloist until it closed in 2000. He then joined the United Parish of Upton and was a member of Jack the Barber’s AA group for 37 years. It was after his sobriety that he devoted himself to living his life to the fullest with his family and enjoying his time given to him by God. Eric loved camping with his family and friends for many years. He loved metal detecting, tinkering and trying to understand the latest technology. There was nothing that Grandpa didn’t know the answer to, or how to make a contraption to fix it! He took pride in his woodpiles and keeping his wife warm, his garden and his well-kept yard. In more recent times, he loved quiet evenings at home with his wife, a puzzle and a fire, and his timeshare weeks in Newport, Rhode Island, and Lincoln, New Hampshire, playing games he couldn’t follow correctly and just talking with his kids and grandkids. The family all looked forward to the weeks of being together. Eric leaves behind his true soulmate and the love of his life, Jane. Together they shared a love beyond words. He believed with all his heart that his job on this earth was to take care of her, and he did until his dying breath. “In sickness and in health,” he would always say. Together they had two children, Lauren Webb and her husband, Robb, of Hopedale, and Eric (Rick) Seaholm and his wife, Nicola, of Framingham. Lauren and Robb gave him two adored grandchildren, Graydon and Sutton, both of Hopedale, but Rick proved to be the best duet partner. He also leaves his sister, Barbara Wildman, her children, Linnea, Marc and Karl, and their families; his brother, Nels Seaholm; his sister-in-law, Mary Sue Thompson, and her children, Craig Thompson and Jill Murphy and their families; his brotherin-law, John Allison, and his nieces and nephews, Lynda Kelly, David Kelly

and Mark Kelly with wife Diana and their children. He is predeceased by his parents, Eric and Lillian Seaholm, brother Robert Seaholm, nephew Kurt Wildman, brother and sister-in-law John and Cecilia Kelley, father-in-law Luther Allison, best friend Peter Thompson and his beloved mother-in-law Orlena Allison. A private funeral was to be held. Arrangements were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research (michaeljfox. org), which held a special place in Eric’s heart.

Fred Prince Fred Miles Prince passed away on May 19 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, at the age of 76. Formerly of Hopkinton, Fred lived in Seven Lakes, North Carolina, with his

wife, Terry. Fred was raised in Natick. He graduated from Newman Prep in Boston and attended the University of South Florida. An accomplished athlete, Fred was deeply devoted to his children and took great pride in being involved in their school activities. He coached them in baseball, softball, basketball and hockey. Evenings and weekends found him at Carrigan Park, Laborers Training Center, the Elmwood School gym and hockey rinks across the state. Fred taught his children and their teammates not only how to play the game but about perseverance, teamwork and, most of all, how to have fun. Years later, former athletes still would seek him out to tell him he was the best coach they ever had. Shortly after 9/11, Fred joined the Department of Homeland Security at Logan Airport to honor the memory of a person he knew who lost his life in the attacks. Several years later, he transferred to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, where he continued his career until his retirement. Even in retirement, Fred was not one to be still. He began working at the Country Club of North Carolina. Family, sports, music and the beach were among Fred’s greatest passions. He treasured sharing a fantasy football team with his son and loved the camaraderie and competition that came with it. Fred loved golfing with his brothers, and over the years, they shared countless rounds together on courses throughout Massachusetts and North Carolina. Music was a lifelong passion for Fred, and he saw hundreds of artists and bands over the years. Of the many concerts he attended, one of his favorites was just a few years ago, when The Cure played at the Xfinity Center. Fred had taken family members to see the band several times during the Great Woods days, so it was especially meaningful when his son and nephews took him to see them this time. Fred’s playlist was as diverse as it was extensive. Working outside in his yard or washing his car with his earbuds in brought him immense joy. Fred also loved the sun and the beach. Scusset Beach, Rexhame Beach

and Pawleys Island, South Carolina, were among his favorites. But as much as Fred loved sports, music, the beach and all the things that brought him joy, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. The moments he treasured most were those spent with his beloved wife, children, grandchildren and family. Fred is survived by his wife, Terry, his children, Fred Jr. (Jodi), David (Devon), Taylor (Mike) and Christina (Leigh); his cherished grandchildren, Aiden, Charlotte, Jena, Delphine, Avery, Mabel and Miles; his siblings, Elaine, Joel and Gary, and many beloved nieces and nephews — all of whom he adored. He was predeceased by his parents, Gweneth and Mertland, brothers Mert and Glen, and nephew Don. Fred will be remembered for his faith, his dedication to Hopkinton’s youth, his ability to connect with everyone he met, his kindness, his wit, his smile and the tremendous love he had for his family. Services were held at Fred’s church, The Village Chapel in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and at the Northborough SDA Church.

Kathleen Gamache Kathleen Mary Gamache was born Kathleen Mary Hussey on June 19, 1957, in Grafton. Kathy passed away on Aug. 27 at home, her favorite place on Earth, surrounded by her loving family, after a 20-month courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Until her final breath, she encouraged her husband and two wonderful children to live their lives to the fullest, as she did. Kathy graduated from Framingham State University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree and worked as a medical technologist for 11 years at Leonard Morse Hospital in Natick. She left her job to focus on raising her children and channeled her considerable energy as Girl Scout town leader for 11 years in Hopkinton and Christmas pageant director for 15 years at St. Mary’s Parish in Holliston. Kathy married her husband, David, in 1982 and was endlessly devoted to him and her two children, Joseph and Elizabeth. She was a loving wife and mother, deeply caring, dependable, supportive and always provided the space for each in her family to be themselves. Kathy oversaw the construction of their home of 40 years in Hopkinton. She enjoyed family trips to Japan, Italy and Germany and more than a dozen other countries with her husband. Some of her fondest memories were annual family vacations on Cape Cod and in Maine. An avid quilter, Kathy enjoyed gifting her creations to those she loved. She enjoyed spending time in her glass-surrounded sunroom, where she could see outside without having to go outside. Once the nest at home emptied, she returned to part-time work for nine years as the front desk administrator at Kids on the Common Pediatrics in Grafton. It became a second family for her, and she adored the constant stream of infants

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and toddlers. She is survived by her husband and best friend of 44 years, David; son Joseph; daughter Elizabeth; mother Eleanor Hussey; brother Thomas Hussey and sister Patricia Connor. Visitation was held Sept. 4 at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. A funeral Mass was celebrated Sept. 5 at St. Mary’s Parish in Holliston. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathleen Gamache’s memory to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, 504 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 or lustgarten.org.

Jacqueline Moore Jacqueline Scrutton Moore died on July 13 in Worcester at the age of 79. Born in the United Kingdom, Jacqueline lived a life shaped by many places and experiences. She briefly lived in Austria and Singapore and spent her formative years in Ghana, West Africa, where her father, Stanley Scrutton, was a port manager. In 1970, she came to the United States and began a new chapter that would take her to several Massachusetts communities over the years, including Malden, Dracut, Hopkinton, Boylston, and Clinton. After arriving in the United States, Jacqueline worked at Hood in Everett, then at Wang in Lowell, and later at The Waters in Milford. Earlier in life, she met her first husband, David Moore, while working on an Air Force base in the United Kingdom. Family was an important part of Jacqueline’s life. She is remembered by her husband, Steven Gabis; her former husband, David Moore; and her children, Gillian Moore and Diana Luddy. She was preceded in death by her father, Stanley Scrutton; her mother, Maisie Kibblewhite; her brother, Anthony; and her sister, Tonita Philon of Florida. Jacqueline, also known as Jackie, was a longtime member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, an association that remained a meaningful part of her life. Those who knew her will remember a life that crossed continents and communities, from the United Kingdom to Ghana and from Massachusetts towns she called home through the years. Her life reflected a wide range of experiences, steady work and enduring family connections. She will be remembered with respect and affection by those who knew her.

Kenneth Bogue Kenneth (Ken, Kenny) George Bogue passed away peacefully on Aug. 19 at Silverado Memory Care in Encinitas, California, after a long and brave battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Born Aug. 15, 1943, in Montreal, Canada, Ken remained a proud Canadian for all of his 83 years. Ken’s love for his beloved mother (Margaret) and his four siblings remained his most cherished memories until the end. Ken had two children, Sean and Susan, with his first wife, Carol Ann Bogue. For the last 22 years, Ken was husband to his Obituaries | 20

20 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

Obituaries Obituaries | from page 19

beloved wife Elizabeth (Liz) Bonnet. As a boy, Kenny was known for his charm. His impish grin and sparkle can be seen in a photo on the front page of the Montreal Gazette with older brother Brian when they were little boys watching Santa pass by on snow covered streets during Montreal’s Christmas parade in 1944, a keepsake he treasured. Ken spent his early career at Robin Hood Flour, which took him to Saskatchewan. He then quickly moved back to Montreal, where he found himself in the paint industry, which eventually helped him and his family make the move to Boston. Fed up with corporate America, he bought his own business in the 1980s and ran East Coast Plastics in Natick and then Framingham for more than 20 years. The company charitably employed his children and many of their friends through several brutally hot summers. Ken worked to be the best father he could be, and he enthusiastically taught his kids how to skate, play hockey and ringette, throw a baseball, ski, play backgammon and bridge, drive a car, change a tire, break rules, use a table saw, build a deck and pinch a penny. He strove to give his children a lifetime of love and support, and he worked hard to ensure they had a better life than he had. That they did was a deep source of pride to him, even if he often expressed incredulity about it. Ken loved his lake houses, first with a summer getaway north of Montreal and then later as his permanent residence in Hopkinton. He loved his small boat, on which he taught Sean and Susan to waterski — no small feat as the little boat had limited, inconsistent horsepower (not to mention questionable buoyancy) and much-used oars. Ken paid that no mind, as when he stepped aboard the vessel, he acted as though he was taking the helm of a yacht, even sporting a huge white captain’s hat. It was an apt metaphor for his life: Ken was a master at squeezing lemonade from lemons. Though he made some questionable stylistic and home renovation choices in life (notably his decision to line the bottom of the aforementioned boat with astroturf, to grow a ponytail in middle age and to rig a fan inside his home’s gas fireplace), his marriage to Liz was one of his best decisions. Ken and Liz traveled the world together and eventually made a home in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where they retired. They spent their days gardening, art collecting, playing games and planning their next trip. They created amazing trips with Liz’s grandkids Tyler and Mackenzie. Ken was endlessly improving, renovating and making their home a testament to their travels. Indeed, Ken was most happy when he was home with Liz, working on home projects. He loved puttering around and fixing things, often in ways that could only be described as dangerously — yet proudly — improvisational. He also loved drinking his evening glass(es) of Scotch whiskey, listening to Elvis, Kenny Rogers and Creedence Clearwater Revival (“Long as I Can See the Light” was playing as he drew his last breath), his miniature cannon collection and looking at old photographs. He was often seen sporting a crown-like baseball hat adorned with the pins he collected throughout life, from coaching his kids’ teams to his travels with Liz in Europe and Asia. The titles he most cherished were

those of father, son, brother, husband, grandfather, uncle and friend. He is predeceased by his mother, Margaret Savage Bogue, and sister Catherine Bogue. He is survived by his wife, Liz, his children, Sean Bogue (Kristin) and Susan Bogue Myslik (Dave), siblings Brian (Dawn), Virginia and Robert (Michele), and his grandchildren, Katie and Elliot Bogue, Maggie Myslik, Tyler Ince and Mackenzie Baron. He remained a charmer and a flirt his entire life, even in the grips of Alzheimer’s. The staff at Silverado reported he was blowing kisses to the whole staff until his last days. We would like to thank the staff at Silverado for the loving and dedicated care they provided for Ken in his last years of life. Ken never passed a Salvation Army bucket without throwing in a donation. If you are moved to, a meaningful remembrance of Ken would be to make a donation in his name to The Salvation Army (salvationarmy.ca/get-involved/ donate). Alternatively, donations to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund would be a loving way to remember him (curealz.org). All are welcome to join us in celebrating Ken’s life with an urn burial at 9:45 a.m. on Oct. 10 at Notre-Damedes-Neiges Cemetery in Montreal. A luncheon nearby will follow. Please email kenboguememorial@gmail.com for details.

Kathleen Kimura Kathleen M. Kimura, 63, of Hopkinton passed away on Aug. 28. Born in Teaneck, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Lois (Hauser) and Robert Testa. She was the wife of 34 years to Alan Kimura. Kathy and Alan met while working together in Pearl River, New York. Kathy enjoyed gardening and crafts and loved to travel. When her children were young, she often could be found watching their sports and other activities, always there to support them and cheer them on. In addition to her husband, Kathy is survived by two children, Christopher Kimura and wife Yumiko, and Lauren Kimura. She also leaves her grandson, Dan; her siblings, Robert Testa and wife Terri, Steve Testa, Lynn Polite and husband Edward, and Laurie Iezzi and husband Michael; her brother-in-law, Brian Kimura and wife Amy; and many nieces and nephews. Arrangements were being held privately with family and were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Frances Harris A celebration of life for Frances Marion Harris was held Sept. 9 at Hawks Nest Community Room in St. Albans, Vermont. Frances, a longtime area resident, passed away on Aug. 27 at the Northwestern Medical Center with her family at her side. Born in Hopkinton on Jan. 19, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Willard

and Lurlene (Sumner) Buffington. Frances was 92 years old. Frances’ working career consisted of being associated with Grand Union in the Vermont cities of South Burlington and St. Albans, a line worker for Eveready and then retired from INS. She was a longtime member of Green Mountain Post 1, American Legion Auxiliary, Robert E. Glidden Post 758, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1090 (former member and bartender) and Voiture 646 of the Forty and Eight. Having a zest for life, in her spare time Frances enjoyed her flower gardens, taking rides looking for deer during the summer and her yearly deer hunting ventures. Frances is survived by her four daughters, Peggy Rubie of South Carolina, Sue Johnson and husband Jack Shappy of St. Albans, Tammy Levick of St. Albans and Laurie Johnson of St. Albans; as well as her grandchildren, Nick and Christine Rubie and their children, Jack and Jesse; Julien Brenton, Kari Longley and son Andrew; Amand and Jeff Griffin and their children, Tiawna and Austin Barry and their daughter, Brae Lynn; Brady and Hailey Hatin; Mikayla and Josh Edelson; and Heather and Ben O’Neil and their children, Tyler King, Khloe Lumbra and Theodora O’Neil. She also is survived by her sister Lurene Brewer of Kentucky and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Frances was predeceased by her husband, Robert Harris, grandson Chad Charron and sisters Clara Bluto and Merlene “Patsy” Sloan. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Frances’ name may be made to the Franklin County Senior Center, 75 Messenger Street, St. Albans, Vermont 05478. Assisting the Harris family is the Heald Funeral Home, where messages of condolences are welcome at healdfuneralhome.com.

Robert White Robert “Bob” White, 70, of Holliston died on Sept. 3, 2026, after a brave and brutal 10-month battle with lung cancer, with his wife, Lynn, by his side 24/7, caring for him every second. He died at home, surrounded by the people who loved him most, one day before his 71st birthday. Bob was born on Sept. 4, 1955, in Framingham to Norman White and Miriam (Orme) White, both of whom predeceased him. One of seven children, Bob was predeceased by his sister, Patty, in 1958; his brother Michael in 2025; and his brother he was closest with, Alan, in 2011. Bob showed early in life the qualities that would come to define him, from rocking his very ill baby sister, Patty, in his arms to caring for Lynn’s family as though they were his own. Bob is survived by the love of his life, Lynn (Aylward) White. Bob met Lynn while they both worked at Burger King as teenagers and never looked back. There was no one in the world he loved more than his wife. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December 2025, and as far as Bob was concerned, the sun rose and set with his beloved Lynn. To

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that end, when Lynn needed many complex surgeries, Bob never left her side. When the surgeries caused her extreme pain and often left her bedridden for years, Bob took over the shopping, cleaning and anything else that he could do to make Lynn as stress-free and comfortable as possible, and never complained. Bob also is survived by his three children, their three spouses and three grandchildren: son Robert, daughter-inlaw Ann Marie (Maimone) White and granddaughter Sophia; daughter Holly (White) Morand, son-in-law Matthew and grandchildren Dylan and Max; and daughter Alison (White) Parker, son-inlaw Jason and grand-doggy Sheena. Bob also had many aunts, uncles and cousins who cared for him, especially the Aylward family of Hopkinton. Bob was an outstanding father and grandfather. He was the kind of dad who would leave homemade chocolate chip cookies and the grandkids’ favorite foods outside his kids’ homes, or come running whenever there was a problem, whether it was at the kids’ homes, with cars or an issue all the way up in New Hampshire — even when the problem was stupid or objectively one of his kids’ faults. If anyone needed him, Bob showed up. That was, in many ways, who Bob was. He was best known for helping anyone he cared about with anything, at any time. With a natural aptitude for engineering and mechanics, he never met an appliance he couldn’t fix. He started his own appliance repair company in the 1980s, American Commercial Appliance, and successfully ran it until his illness prevented him from working. He was beloved by his customers for his incredible work ethic, vast knowledge and determination to “not rip people off.” He believed in doing good work, treating people fairly and helping when he could. Bob also had a deep love of animals, flowers and the outdoors. He loved fishing. Bob fished in lucky spots all over but was happiest when with his children, his brothers-in-law, Sean and Tim Aylward, or his cherished grandchildren. He loved spending time at his home in New Hampshire, especially taking out his boat and fishing on the quiet lake. At his home in Holliston, he built his own koi pond and cared for 20-30 large koi. He also transformed his backyard into an oasis, planting hundreds of flowers specifically so that something would be blooming from spring through fall. He made his yard a haven for woodland creatures, but he loved sitting outside and watching his fish swim, especially after a stressful day. He adored his three cats, as well as the many animals he loved and cared for throughout his life. Bob spent his life caring for living things, standing up for people who needed it and showing up for the people he loved. His family will miss him, his love, his laughter, his generosity, his stubborn determination and, most of all, the certainty that if they needed him, he would be there. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Mass General Cancer Center (massgeneralbrigham. org), directed to small-cell lung cancer research. Bob’s oncologist at MGH, Dr. Jessica Lin, was paramount in the approval of the second-line treatment Bob received, which gifted his family precious additional time with him. Visitation was held Sept. 11 at Chesmore Funeral Home in Holliston. A private burial was to be held at a later date.

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 21

Business BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Crust & Co. continues to build connections with community C

rust & Co. is about to mark one year since opening in Hopkinton. Owner Ryan Dion continues to emphasize community service and connection while providing food choices the town has come to love. Dion opened Crust & Co. last fall, bringing decades of restaurant industry experience. Among his many achievements and awards, Dion co-founded 110 Grill, also in Hopkinton. About a year ago, the building’s owner approached Dion to take over a lease for an existing pizza restaurant and he jumped at the opportunity. “All of the puzzle pieces came together for what I thought would be a good fit for me and my family,” said Dion. “Hopkinton is such a great community, the location is fantastic, and the town has a relatively small number of pizza restaurants.” Over the past year, Dion modernized the space with new wall colors and added tablecloths and local artwork reflecting Boston’s sports teams. He noted the installation of three televisions as a result of customers who asked for the opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports while they dine.

Ryan Dion (holding child), owner of Crust & Co. in Hopkinton, joins his family and staff behind the counter as the restaurant approaches one year since its opening.

“We offer so much more than just pizza,” said Dion. “Crust & Co. is a cool place to come for a quick bite, whether you are on your lunch break from work or having dinner with your family.” Many of the menu favorites that patrons have enjoyed from the former restaurant remain, but Dion added specials such as chef-creation pizzas. Lunch typically draws local workers for a quick meal, and most hot and cold sandwiches can be ready in about 5 minutes, he said. Pizza is

the most popular dinner item, especially on Fridays, according to Dion. “Pizza is an old-school American comfort food that people grew up on,” said Dion. “It’s important not to change what people love, but giving them a new option to try is nice as well.” Dion has made community connection a priority for Crust & Co., from hiring to its support of local organizations. Because many Hopkinton High School students work for the restaurant,

he has partnered with school sports and activities. He pointed to the Class of 2027 parent committee as one example. Crust & Co. will sponsor its fundraising events throughout this school year. He encourages other organizations in the school and town to reach out for support of upcoming events and programs. The restaurant is hiring part-time staff and looks to Hopkinton students to fill those roles. Dion wants to create a fun and kind environment for his employees. “I’m a big believer in employing locally, treating people well and having fun at work,” said Dion. “Many of our high school staff just graduated and are off to college, so we are currently looking for the next generation. It’s like passing the torch.” Crust & Co. is at 77 West Main Street and open for dine-in, carry-out, catering and delivery every day. Menus, online ordering and other details are featured at crustandcompanypizza.com. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.

Blue Cross Foundation tabs Sanchez for MMPI post Siblings start real estate T venture he Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation appointed Liz Sanchez as director of the Massachusetts Medicaid Policy Institute, a dedicated arm Liz Sanchez of the foundation’s policy and research agenda. MMPI serves as an independent and nonpartisan BUSINESS source of information and BRIEFS analysis of MassHealth, the Massachusetts Medicaid program. As director, Sanchez will oversee the work of the institute, including tracking developments that affect MassHealth, guiding policy research, producing policy briefs, and working closely and collaboratively with state leaders, health care stakeholders and advocacy organizations. “With vast experience in community health and health care access policy, Liz brings the knowledge and skills that are needed to advance the critical work done through MMPI,” said Kaitlyn Kenney Walsh, president and CEO of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation. “Liz’s deep understanding of those perspectives will be invaluable as the foundation connects what is happening on the ground with the policy conversations shaping MassHealth. This is especially important at a time when federal policy and funding changes are having dramatic impacts on this program and are directly challenging our mission.” Sanchez has over 15 years of experience in federal, state and local health policy development, analysis and implementation. She spent much of her career with the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, where she most recently served as the vice president of government affairs and public policy. She succeeds Katherine Howitt, who was named the foundation’s vice president of

policy and research. “I have spent much of my career working at the intersection of health policy and access to care, and I am thrilled to bring that experience to MMPI,” said Sanchez. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation of independent research and analysis and working with partners across the state to provide timely and practical information that can help inform policy decisions.” Sanchez holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Arizona and a master’s degree in public health from Northeastern University.

REC Partners, a growing Hopkintonbased real estate firm co-founded by Paul Mastroianni and Ryan Mastroianni, has added Emily Mastroianni as a licensed real estate agent. Ryan and Emily make up two-thirds of the Mastroianni triplets and were born and raised in Hopkinton. Both are graduates of Hopkinton High School and Providence College. According to a press release, “Their early exposure to the real estate industry

Local Mirick lawyers honored Hopkinton residents Joseph Baldiga and David Fine, both attorneys at the Mirick law firm’s Westborough office, recently were included as part of the 2027 Best Lawyers in America awards. Baldiga was chosen for his work on bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights/ insolvency and reorganization law, as well as litigation-bankruptcy. He has been recognized in Best Lawyers since 2006. Baldiga is a partner and co-chair of the Creditors’ Rights, Bankruptcy and Reorganization Group at Mirick. He has extensive experience in the areas of creditor and debtor rights, bankruptcy proceedings, out-of-court loan restructurings and the purchase and sale of distressed businesses, including extensive litigation experience in bankruptcy courts throughout the United States. Fine was selected for construction law. A partner and chair of the Construction Law Group at Mirick, he represents and counsels clients throughout the construction industry, including owners, developers, general contractors, construction managers, subcontractors, suppliers and manufacturers, in litigation and arbitration, as well as risk management, contract preparation and negotiation, and project and business advice.

through their father, Paul — whose commercial development work helped shape much of the West Main Street and Lumber Street corridors — sparked a lasting interest in real estate and local economic growth.” Ryan has experience in technology sales at Hopkinton-based Dell and commercial real estate at Surmount, where he supported clients navigating complex property needs. Emily joins REC Partners after five years in sales at HubSpot, where she helped small and midsize businesses implement CRM and marketing technology solutions.

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22 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

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he School Committee on Sept. 10 adopted a three-run transportation schedule for the 202728 school year. That option has high school and middle school students starting at 7:45 a.m. and ending at 2:15 p.m. With this choice, the school day for Hopkins School runs 8:25 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. At Marathon School and the new Charleswood School, the schedule will be 9:05 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The budget impact is a decrease of $245,040 because fewer buses will be required, especially on the second run that would have 20 fewer buses. Superintendent Evan Bishop noted that a survey with more than 800 responses earlier this year showed a consensus about adopting a three-run option. The other three-run option had high school students starting in the second time slot. Also taken into consideration were 100 direct responses from the public in addition to feedback about the YMCA before/after-school care program. The latter showed the schedule change having little impact in K-4 because the times shift by no more than 10 minutes. It also expands care access to Grade 6 families. Bishop also reviewed staff and student surveys at the high school. Staff had 84.27% (112 responses) preferring the earlier start time and 15.8% (21 responses) in favor of the 8:25 a.m. start time. For students, the results were the same. Out of 1,271 students at the high school, 838 responded to the survey. Approximately 70% opted for the earlier start time. The superintendent also surveyed Hopkins staff in Grades 4-5, with 73.4% (56 responses) choosing the second 8:25 a.m. start time. Grade 6 staff, who will be moving from the middle school to Hopkins School, showed a preference for the earliest time, keeping with current practice. About 39% of respondents (9 responses) were in favor of the change to the middle run. “It really shows a lot about our district that we value the input of our students,” School Committee chair Kyla McSweeney said. Student representatives Jillian Toran and Matty Lydon liked the selected option because it provides more time for after-school sports, clubs and jobs. Lydon added the availability of teachers overseeing clubs after school is another important factor. Member Nancy Cavanaugh said choosing the option that saved the most money speaks to the School Committee’s goal of responsible budget stewardship. Added member Chris Masters: “It makes the most practical and fiscal sense.”

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Buses will be on a three-run schedule for the 202728 school year.

Bishop thanked committee members for their thoughtfulness in making the decision. “It’s not going to please everybody, but I think with all the information that was put together … it’s just practical,” he said. The superintendent said the next step is to start the process of preparing for the grade reconfiguration that will occur when Charleswood School opens. Charleswood will have students in Grades 2, 3 and 4, while Hopkins School will change from Grades 4 and 5 to Grades 5 and 6 (with the latter grade moving from the middle school).

Enrollment shows uptick In other business, the superintendent reported an enrollment of 4,217 students in the district — prekindergarten through Grade 12 — an increase of three students since August. Bishop also recognized Kathy Bieri, a cafeteria worker who is starting her 41st year of service. Bishop called her tenure a “unique accomplishment” and described her as “incredibly kind.” The committee reviewed its goals, which members will vote on at the next meeting. The goals include community connectedness, responsible stewardship of assets, and diversity, equity and inclusion support. Cavanaugh noted she would like DEI efforts to extend to students and parents/caretakers with disabilities in the community. Member Sandra Irwin expressed interest in being a liaison to the town’s Commission on Disability. Cavanaugh, a member of the Commission on Disability (but not as an official representative of the School Committee), said it would be great to have a liaison. That process involves going before the Select Board for approval.

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hree Hopkinton High School students — Aditi Khiste, Rudra Pachori and Jacob Wu — were named semifinalists in the 72nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among more than 16,000 academically talented high school seniors who have an opportunity to continue in the competition for about 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth approximately $24 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. SCHOOLS About 95% of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately NOTEBOOK half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

Local collegians recognized Hopkinton’s Jackson Canales, a sophomore at Wake Forest University, recently spoke in front of more than 1,600 new students during orientation as the college’s Interfraternity Council President. “Welcoming the incoming class and representing our Greek community was an incredible opportunity to hone my public speaking and leadership skills,” Canales shared on social media. “Excited to build on this momentum throughout the rest of my term as we approach rush week!” … At the University of Rhode Island’s 2026 commencement in May, Trinity Birtwistle graduated with a B.A. in psychology and Josephine Zeigler graduated with a B.S. in nursing.

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The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 23

Sports Clement joins USA U-17 soccer team

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opkinton’s Nina Clement was selected for the U.S. Under-17 Women’s National SPORTS ROUNDUP Tt r aei nai nmg camp, one of only two players from Massachusetts to earn a spot with the high-level team. The 24-player squad is preparing for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying next year. “It’s all been really fun,” Clement said from Fayetteville, Georgia, Nina Clement tracks the ball during a Hopkinton High where she and her team- School girls soccer game last season. mates were training for a week in early September. “The level of competition is really high. the night before, focusing on taking I am seeing some new faces this time, things one day at a time. Clement also and it’s a great experience.” is a well-rounded athlete. She enjoys Clement trained with both the U-15 running, surfing, skiing and tennis when and U-16 national teams before being she is not on the soccer pitch. And she called up to the U-17 camp. During the loves spending time baking with her camps, the teams spend time practicing grandmother. and engaging in intra-squad matches. On the pitch, Clement said her focus Clement, 15, already has seen socis on playing at the highest level poscer take her around the world — includsible. While she enjoys strong support ing locales as far away as Germany and from her friends and family, she traveled California. She plays club soccer for FC to Georgia alone and said that experiStars and played with the Hopkinton ence has been a positive one. High School varsity as a freshman last “It’s kind of a little insight into what fall. She elected to step away from high it’ll be like when I am older,” Clement school soccer this year as she prepares said. “It definitely makes me feel more to be recruited by collegiate programs. mature, getting to be down here and “I did have a really fun time being doing things my way.” on the varsity team, and I really miss my teammates,” Clement said. “But there are parts of my game that I really needed to improve to be ready for my recruiting season, and I thought the club environment would be the best place to Hopkinton product Barrett Hanlon get better.” won his professional boxing debut Aug. Clement said she wants to work on 29 with a first-round TKO of Ratavibeing a better defender on the ball and ous “Playboy” Thrasher during Boston being stronger with both her right and Harbor Fight Night 2 at Encore Boston left foot. A center back who also plays Harbor Casino in Everett. outside back, Clement knows she wants Fighting as a light heavyweight, to play in college, but said she does not Hanlon recorded three knockdowns, the have any particular schools in mind as last via an overhand right, en route to her sophomore year in high school gets the victory in just 1 minute, 15 seconds. underway. Hanlon was a basketball standout at “I hope to play at a school with Hopkinton High School who went on to strong academics and a strong soccer play at Salve Regina. He later coached program,” she said. “My dream one day the Hopkinton Middle School basketis to play for the U.S. Women’s National ball team and now serves as an applied Team, but there are a lot of steps that I behavior analysis (ABA) professional need to go through before that.” in the Boston school system. In the meantime, Clement is focusHe took up boxing during the ing on the short term. During the trainCOVID-19 pandemic and fought in 15 ing week with the U-17 team, the team amateur bouts. did not receive its daily schedules until

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24 • The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026

LIBRARY CORNER

For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary.org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary.

ADULT PROGRAMS CreatorSpace: Drop-in Drawing

Mondays, Sept. 14 and 21, 10 a.m.-noon The CreatorSpace will be open to adult patrons who wish to drop in and draw. No registration is required.

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Mondays, Sept. 21 and 28, and Oct. 5, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library is offering this four-part workshop about the impacts of environment on human health. Material for study includes a variety of readings, podcasts and films. Topics include how health is impacted by air, water, food and neighborhood surroundings. The class involves group discussions and activities related to the materials. Participants are encouraged to attend as many sessions as possible. Registration is required so information about the readings can be distributed each week.

Parent/Caregiver Strategic Plan Focus Group

Tuesday, Sept. 22, 7-9 p.m. Parents and caregivers can join this virtual strategic focus group to help shape the future of youth services at the Hopkinton Public Library over the next five years. Registration is required. Call today to make your life better with propane & ask about our NEW Customer Programs!

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CHILDREN’S/YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS Play, Learn and Grow Play Group

Thursdays, Sept. 17 and 24, 10-11 a.m. This play group, let by Project ABC, will include free play as well as a circle time with stories, songs and rhymes. It is recommended for children ages 0-5 with a caregiver.

Homework Help Club

Thursday, Sept. 24, 4-5 p.m. Students in Grades 3-6 are invited to gather in the Children’s Programming Room to do homework, projects and reading. Extra homework help will be provided by high school volunteers. Teens interested in volunteering can contact young adult librarian Jess Dyment (jdyment@hopkintonma.gov).

SCHEDULE UPDATES The HPL strategic plan focus group will meet in person in the Ellsworth Room on Oct. 3 at 11 a.m. The Friends of the Library will meet in the Strong Room on Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m.

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The library will be closed Oct. 10-12 in observance of Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day. The Massachusetts Center for the Book will meet in the Strong Room on Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. The Library Board of Trustees will meet Oct. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Ellsworth Room. 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.

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Painting with Venus

Thursday, Sept. 24, 1 p.m. Everyone is invited to a mingle and paint event led by artist and instructor Amy Adams. This event will provide an opportunity for attendees to connect with others through the use of art. All experience levels are welcome. This program is supported by a grant from the Hopkinton Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Advance registration is required, and space is limited.

Hopkinton Repair Fair

Saturday, Sept. 26, 9 a.m.-noon The annual Hopkinton Repair Fair is a free

HopkintonIndependent.com

Frisbee Dogs

Monday, Oct. 5, 2 p.m. Mike and his team of world-record holding and K-9 Frisbee finalist dogs will put on a performance at Reed Park (off Wood Street) featuring stunts and some audience participation. A shuttle will be available to take participants from the Woodville Rod & Gun Club to Reed Park starting at 1 p.m. Guests are asked to call the Senior Center to add their name to the shuttle list. Participants must bring their own lawn chairs or blankets, and some concessions will be provided. Attendees are asked to leave their own pets at home.

Pottery for Beginners

Tuesdays, 12:30-2:30 p.m. This nine-week course, designed for beginners, teaches essential ceramics skills. Participants will have the opportunity to master fundamental handbuilding techniques including pinching, coiling and slab construction. The instructor will provide step-by-step guidance. Registration is required, as space is limited. The full session is $100. Those who don’t make it into this class will have opportunities to sign up again in the winter and spring.

Hopkinton Family Day at HHS fields Sept. 19

Hopkinton Family Day, a community event featuring live entertainment, games, activities and food trucks, and topped off with a fireworks display, is set to return Saturday, Sept. 19, on the field behind Hopkinton Middle School. Activities run from 3-7 p.m., followed by fireworks at 8. Town organizations, nonprofits, clubs and local businesses offer something for everyone. All activities (not including the food trucks) are free for the whole family. For more information, including how to participate as a sponsor or town organization, visit the Friends of Hopkinton website at friendsofhopkinton.org.

FOW Hopkinton Springs Hotel Tour Sept. 20

The Friends of Whitehall will host an archeological tour of the Hopkinton Springs Hotel on Sunday, Sept. 20, at 3 p.m. The hotel, with its medicinal mineral springs, opened in 1820 as one of the first resorts in New England, attracting the sick and wealthy vacationers. The history of the resort will be presented at the intersection of Spring Street and Lyford Road. Participants then will travel down a slightly inclined trail of about 200 yards to the mineral springs locations for more discussion and questions. For more details, visit friendsofwhitehall.org.

HWC Charity Golf Event Sept. 23

The Hopkinton Charity Golf Event, sponsored by the Hopkinton Women’s Club, will be held Wednesday, Sept. 23, starting at 8:30 a.m., at Blissful Meadows Golf Club in Uxbridge. The fee is $175 per golfer. Sponsorships are available as well. Proceeds will benefit the Hopkinton Women’s Club scholarship and charitable giving funds. For more information, visit hopkintonwomensclub.org.

Climate Resilience Workshop at HPL Sept. 23

The town’s of Hopkinton’s Climate-Led Resilience Land Initiative invites residents and community members to a Community Design Workshop on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. This family-friendly workshop will bring community members together with creative activities to uncover key elements and priorities such as accessible recreation, environmental education, public health benefits and low-cost maintenance that will serve as the basis for resilient site plans. No design experience is needed. For more information and to reserve a spot, go to resilienthopkintonma.org.

‘Our American Family’ at HCA Sept. 24

Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention (HOP) will host a screening of the film “Our American Family” on Thursday, Sept. 24, at 6 p.m. at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, followed by a discussion with Linda Geraghty, the mother featured in the movie. The film portrays the impact of generational addiction on a close-knit family as members journey to recovery. Registration is requested for this free community event at canvas.hopartscenter.org/events/105.

Hop/Up Wellness Weekend Sept. 25-27

Black Door Yoga in Hopkinton will host Hop/Up Wellness Weekend on Sept. 25-27 to raise funds for the food banks at Project Just Because in Hopkinton and the United Parish Church of Upton. Individuals can support the effort in two ways — by purchasing a coupon book featuring discounts at numerous area wellness businesses and by attending discounted yoga classes at Black Door Yoga or Angel’s Garden Center in Hopkinton that weekend. For more information,

visit blackdooryoga.com.

Trails Club Walk at Metrowest YMCA Sept. 27

The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a guided walk on the trails at the Metrowest YMCA Outdoor Center on Sunday, Sept. 27, at 1 p.m. Participants should use the East Street entrance opposite Wildlife Drive and meet at the Hayes Lodge parking area. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

Cultural District Public Meeting Sept. 28

Hopkinton residents and business owners are invited to a public meeting to learn about and discuss a proposed Hopkinton Cultural District. The meeting will be held Monday, Sept. 28, at 6 p.m. in the upper loft of the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. The proposed primary goals of the Hopkinton Cultural District are to foster and preserve local cultural development, encourage businesses and job development, and establish the district as a tourist destination. For more information, email Julia Chun at jchun@hopkintonma.gov or Kelly Grill at kelly@ hopartscenter.org.

Trail Volunteer Workday Oct. 3

The Hopkinton Trails Committee and the Hopkinton Trails Club have created a monthly trail volunteer day on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m.-noon. The next workday is Oct. 3. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

Paws for a Cause at Golden Pond Oct. 3

Golden Pond Assisted Living will host a community dog show on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 2-4 p.m. in its facility on West Main Street. It costs $15 to register a dog, and winners will be selected among five categories. Other activities include a live DJ, dessert bar, raffles, vendor tables and a meet and greet with dogs from Greyhound Friends, the Hopkinton shelter that will benefit from this fundraiser. Registration is due by Sept. 25. For more information, email tsenecal@ goldenpondal.com or call 508-215-4954.

Baypath’s Paws & Claws 5K Oct. 4

The 17th annual Paws & Claws 5K presented by VCA Animal Hospitals, a fundraising run/walk for Baypath Humane Society, will be held Sunday, Oct. 4, at 10:30 a.m. at Hopkinton State Park. Participants can register as an individual or as part of a team. For more information — including about sponsorship options — and to register, visit baypathhumane.org.

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Trails Club Monthly Meeting Oct. 14

The Hopkinton Trails Club holds its monthly meeting on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The next meeting is Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

Michael’s Run 5K at Town Common Oct. 17

The 27th annual Michael’s Run, a 5K run/walk to benefit the Michael Lisnow Respite Center, will be held Saturday, Oct. 17. The race starts and ends at the Town Common. On-site registration opens at 8 a.m., and the race starts at 10. The family event includes food, music, crafts and games. For more information and to register, visit hopkintonrespite.org.

Trails Club Walk at Waseeka Sanctuary Oct. 17

The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a guided walk at the Waseeka Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 10 a.m. The trail can be accessed from Clinton Street, just before the border with Holliston. No dogs are allowed on this walk. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

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Police Log ARRESTS Editor’s note: The Hopkinton Independent’s policy for the arrests section is not to include the names of individuals who have been arrested.

Aug. 30

5:13 p.m. Officers arrested a 33-year-old man from Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, for operating a vehicle with a suspended license and driving without an inspection sticker.

Aug. 31

8:40 p.m. Units came across a single-vehicle crash on West Main Street. While addressing a party involved, officers deployed tasers and took a 48-year-old Worcester man into custody. He was charged with assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace and operating under the influence of liquor.

Sept. 5

6:06 p.m. Officers conducted a straight warrant arrest of a 45-year-old woman from Mayhew Court. Editor’s note: Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated version of the police log. For a more complete police log, visit the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

Aug. 26

12:23 a.m. Units responded to Clinton Street after a caller reported a vehicle struck a tree and a male party was injured. A report was to follow.

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9:31 a.m. A Davis Road resident reported an ongoing issue with a neighbor where she doesn’t feel safe and doesn’t know how to remedy the situation. 9:57 a.m. OnStar reported a single-vehicle crash on East Street. Officer Augusto Diaz Jr. responded and found the operator went off the road and was reporting no injuries. Tow trucks were on the scene. 3:11 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on Main Street who went through a red light and almost ran a vehicle off the road. Officer Justin Cappuccio stopped the vehicle on Chestnut Street and advised the operator of the complaint.

Aug. 27

12:29 a.m. A Wood Street resident reported that a cab driver who had just dropped him off at his home was driving erratically. Sgt. Robert Ekross checked the area, and the vehicle was gone on arrival. 1:47 p.m. Sgt. Arthur Schofield responded to a crash on A Street, spoke with all parties involved and took a crash report. 2:35 p.m. A caller reported a large reptile tank was dumped in a cemetery on Mayhew Street and that they also had advised the DPW. Officer Matthew Santoro checked the area and located the item. The DPW was to remove the tank. 3:47 p.m. Officer Justin Cappuccio took an incident report from a caller who reported someone may have gotten into his business on Cedar Street that is being emptied and is closed.

Aug. 28

2:58 a.m. Officers were out with a parked vehicle on Main Street. Hopkinton Fire was en route after the person inside initially was found unresponsive. Officers reported the party showed no signs of impairment, and they were given a courtesy ride to Walcott Street. 9:09 a.m. Dispatch observed a person on a motorized wheelchair traveling with traffic in the travel lane on Main Street. Sgt. Arthur Schofield spoke with the party and advised them to stay in the bike lanes or on the sidewalk. 1:57 p.m. A Revolutionary Way caller reported someone stole his wallet along with his wife’s wallet from his vehicle. 2:27 p.m. Units checked Amherst Road after a caller reported she saw a green truck in her driveway. It was an ice cream truck. Officers spoke to the driver, who reported they were turning around.

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5:37 a.m. A caller on DJ Murphy Lane stated he was behind a gray Honda that was speeding and passing cars over the double yellow line. He provided a partial license plate to dispatch. Units checked the area with a negative find. 6:45 a.m. BMW emergency assist called for a vehicle with a flat tire on Front Street. Lucille Creedon spoke with the driver, who was requesting a tow. 9:44 a.m. Officers came upon an impromptu car meet on West Main Street. They assisted with removing the crowd and moving them on. 11:08 a.m. Officers responded to South Mill Street following a report of a two-car crash with airbag deployment. Tow trucks were en route, and one party was transported by Hopkinton Fire. Officers took a crash report. 12:48 p.m. A caller reported an erratic driver on Wood Street. Officers responded and located the vehicle. They spoke with the operator, who reported they were adjusting something within the vehicle. The officers checked the vehicle and advised the driver of operation. 2:20 p.m. A Spring Street resident reported her mailbox was destroyed overnight. Officer Nicholas Saletnik spoke with the homeowner and surveyed the damage. A report was to follow. 6:25 p.m. An Auciello Drive caller reported stolen yard signs. Officer Sean McKeon spoke

HopkintonIndependent.com

with the party and took an incident report. 6:37 p.m. A caller on Fruit Street reported a lost black Lab named Max who had been missing from the area since approximately noon. A message was left for animal control. 10:05 p.m. Dispatch noticed on security camera footage three to five people by the restrooms at Sandy Beach. Units were canceled en route after it appeared the parties had left the area. 10:22 p.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to Erins Way after a caller reported loud music coming from the area for the last two nights. He spoke with the responsible party who agreed to lower the music. The party was to end within the hour.

Aug. 30

11:26 a.m. A caller reported a loose dog on Frankland Road. Officer Augusto Diaz Jr. assisted, and the dog was back with their owner. He advised the owner that animal control would be contacted because the dog was a constant issue. 12:54 p.m. Units responded to Church Place after a caller reported he was assaulted as he was protesting. An incident report was to follow.

Aug. 31

8:40 a.m. A caller reported a truck from Northeast Recycling had its lift up, and it struck the bottom of a bridge on I-495 northbound in Hopkinton. The operator reportedly then pulled over. Officer Augusto Diaz Jr. checked the area with a negative find. He observed damage to the bottom of the bridge. A crash report was to follow. 11:07 p.m. Officers responded to Revolutionary Way after a caller reported a breaking and entering into a vehicle in the area. Units checked in on a house party in the area and followed up with a male party in the area of Hayden Rowe Street and Davenport Lane. The man was given a courtesy transport, and a report was to follow.

Sept. 1

7:14 a.m. Upton Police reported receiving a phone call about a two-car crash with no injuries on Dicarlo Road. An off-duty Massachusetts State Police officer drove by and was assisting with traffic and lights. Officer Augusto Diaz Jr. responded to the scene. A crash report was to follow. 2:45 p.m. A Cobblers Way resident reported a white pickup truck was in his driveway, and a male party was walking around his property. Units responded and spoke to the man, who reported he worked for a pest control company and had proof he was supposed to be at the residence. 6:04 p.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a two-car crash with no injuries on East Main Street. A tow truck was on scene. 11:33 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle had been parking at a trailhead on Granite Street late at night the previous two nights, and she was concerned. Officer Brian Ziniti checked on the vehicle as it was leaving the area. The party was advised of the complaint and was to be on their way.

Sept. 2

2:23 a.m. A caller reported two men at the end of her driveway on Main Street possibly holding flashlights. She was advised that crews were conducting night work in the area and had two police details with them. Dispatch checked in with one of the detail officers, who confirmed they were in the caller’s area. 7:55 a.m. Sgt. Arthur Schofield responded to a call about a hit and run on West Main Street. He checked the area with a negative find on the vehicle. 9:01 a.m. While out doing community policing, officer Noah Buentello came upon a crash with no personal injury. He spoke with the driver, observed the damage and took a crash report. 1:36 p.m. A walk-in reported threats from an ex-boyfriend. Officer Kyle Quinzani referred the Police Log | 27

The Hopkinton Independent • September 16, 2026 • 27

Police Log Police Log | from page 26

party to the courts regarding domestic violence rights. 3:32 p.m. A caller from Fruit Street reported a past larceny of a ladder and past illegal dumping. A report was to follow. 3:40 p.m. Units assisted with a crash on Wood Street. The scene was cleared, and the parties involved exchanged paperwork. 8:32 p.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin checked Elm Street following a report of male walking up to some bushes. All checked out OK; parties were gathering nearby on Parkwood Drive.

gone on arrival. At 5:04 p.m. a caller reported a raccoon in the roadway. Officer Nicholas Saletnik checked the area, and a voicemail was left for the DPW. Saletnik returned at 5:11 p.m. for a report of an injured deer that was gone on arrival.

Sept. 5

12:57 a.m. Officers checked on a vehicle on Lakeshore Drive and spoke with the operator. They were moved along. 1:46 p.m. A resident reported that it was possible someone broke into her Main Street apartment on Aug. 30. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took an incident report. 9:19 p.m. Units responded to Woodview Way after a caller reported screaming in the unit above her. Parties involved were separated for the evening.

4:46 p.m. Units checked on a disabled motor vehicle and found parties engaged in a verbal argument. They were all set. 7:20 p.m. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded to Chestnut Street for a call regarding a baby deer hit in the middle of the road. The deer was moved into the brush, and animal control was notified. 8:44 p.m. Units assisted with a disturbance at a West Main Street business resulting from a verbal disagreement between a manager and customer. The customer left and was to reach out to the manager at a later date. 9:31 p.m. A Knoll Road resident reported their house is on the market, and someone came by earlier in the evening stating they were there for the buyer’s agent. The resident provided a description of the other party and noted she left the area in a silver Honda Accord. Units checked the area.

Sept. 4

Sept. 6

Sept. 3

1:10 a.m. Officer Victoria Fullagar found an open door at a food stand on Pratt Way during a property check. She secured the door. 1:29 a.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin checked on a vehicle behind AllTown Fresh. The party was to be on their way. 5:37 a.m. Officers took a report of stolen yard signs from Auciello Drive and their AirTag location. 10:17 a.m. A service manager from Constitution Court reported an e-bike was taken Sept. 1, the incident was recorded on camera, and he found the culprit. Officer Aline Matos reported being unable to speak with the suspect and took a report. 11:30 a.m. A caller reported malfunctioning traffic lights on Main St. Officer Aline Matos checked and watched several light cycles, finding no problems. 12:32 p.m. Officer Augusto Diaz Jr. assisted a party with questions regarding recovering property. He transported the individual to a residence for pickup of a vehicle. A scooter was located at a front office. Diaz was unable to contact the owner. 1:26 p.m. Sgt. William Burchard spoke to a party in regard to getting firearms back. The party indicated they would arrange to pick up the firearms in the future. 1:41 p.m. A walk-in reported a man parked in a handicapped parking spot without handicapped plates and a makeshift sign that read “POLICE” on the windshield. Sgt. William Burchard checked the area with a negative find. 2:59 p.m. A caller reported downtown construction is not ADA compliant and they cannot navigate the area in a wheelchair. A message was left for the town construction project manager, and the complaint was logged for future reference. 4:50 p.m. The HPD received multiple animal calls from Clinton Street. During the first call, the animal was

12:49 p.m. A resident reported that she felt she was being followed by a middle-aged man in his car. Officer Noah Buentello took an incident report. 9:18 p.m. A caller on Hayward Street reported a vehicle brake-checked her and drove erratically from Milford onto the highway. She wanted the incident logged. 11:23 p.m. Northbridge Police called regarding a past request to be on the lookout for a male party involved in a hit and run. The department received information that the party’s Snapchat location was showing in Hopkinton. Units responded to Lumber Street and checked the area with a negative find.

business was open but there were no workers in the building. Officer Noah Buentello responded and was able to locate an employee. All was OK. 4:46 p.m. Officers responded to Cedar Street for a report of a man who was naked and masturbating. Once the man saw the reporting party, the man ran into the woods. Officers checked the area with a negative find. 5:17 p.m. A caller reported a male

party ran away from a group home on Mayhew Street. Officers responded to the area and requested an ambulance for an employee who was struck in the head. The employee signed a patient refusal, and group home staff had the situation under control. 10:33 p.m. Units conducted a motor vehicle check on West Main Street. The operator was an Uber driver, and was to be on his way.

Town recognizes 9/11 anniversary By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

n memory of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, Hopkinton resident and Marine Corps veteran Mike Whalen organized a ceremony Sept. 11 at the Town Common gazebo. Whalen, the Hopkinton American Legion Post 202 Commander, explained this ceremony typically is held every five years to recognize those who died in the 2001 attacks that leveled the twin towers in New York City. “I want to share some information about what happened on that day,” he said prior to the event. “I’ve spoken to several young people lately who had heard of 9/11 but didn’t know what it was about, so I felt that was important.” State Rep. James Arena-DeRosa was to be the featured speaker. Whalen added that representatives from the town’s police and fire departments were invited to give remarks. “I just hope that people in town make an effort to attend to honor the people who lost their lives,” said Whalen, “as well as to express gratitude and respect for all of the first responders from all over who helped in the rescue effort.” He noted that Old Guard New England was to fire a rifle salute and play

taps to honor those who lost their lives. Whalen recalled an experience at St. John the Evangelist Parish two decades ago that motivated him to continue this event. “I remember vividly when I spoke to someone at church of Muslim descent who had recently moved to town,” he said. “I was told how children of Southeast Asian heritage were being taunted by kids in town [after 9/11]. “I said, ‘I don’t want that to be a part of anybody’s childhood,’ ” he stressed. “Not in my town.” He later spoke to others in the Southeast Asian community about their experiences. “They were afraid,” said Whalen. “Some even changed their last names to sound more American.” He noted that “most people know that this was done by Islamic jihadists.” “It wasn’t an ethnic group or a religion,” said Whalen. “Just a small group possessed by evil that was trying to make trouble for our country and cause division.” He stressed that everyone should feel welcome in Hopkinton. “Looking at the future, this may be the last time we do this,” lamented Whalen. “It just doesn’t mean as much to people now.”

Sept. 7

12:35 a.m. Units responded to Lincoln Street after a caller stated she heard a loud bang, like a screen door slamming shut. She was concerned that someone might have tried to break in while she was home alone. Officers checked the area and completed a walkthrough of the home with a negative find, determining the home was secure. 8:44 p.m. A caller reported four to five motorcycles with no plates on West Main Street. Officers responded and spoke with the riders, who all had plates that checked out OK. They were to be on their way. 10:01 p.m. Units stopped a vehicle on Hayden Rowe Street after a caller reported the car was all over the road. The driver was advised of the complaint.

Sept. 8

11:02 a.m. A caller reported there were at least six syringes dumped in the roadway by her mailbox on Hayden Rowe Street, and she was concerned children would encounter them while walking to school. Officer Noah Buentello responded and removed the syringes. A report was to follow. 11:43 a.m. A walk-in reported a

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$181/wk

$85/wk

$113/wk

As low as

#C48536 • LS TRIM, HEATED SEATS

#48900 • TURBO, APPLE CARPLAY

#49073 • ALLOYS, 2.7L TURBO

NEW RETAIL PRICE: WHOLESALE PRICE:

$64,980

50,977

SEVEN-DAY VEHICLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

$29,100

23,977

$54,750

$44,520

36,977

$29,400

22,977

$44,645

Quest for the Best

GOLD MEDAL WINNER

40,977

$48,950

28,977

BAD CREDIT? DON’T SWEAT IT! We ﬁnance your future - not your past.

31,977

Mike Penner Sr. Vice President

SALE ENDS 09/30/2026. 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 2015 OR NEWER TRADE. SEE US FOR DETAILS. ADVERTISED PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE TAX, TITLE, REGISTRATION, $595 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.

There’s always something happening at

Cotswolds

BITTERS, AMARO & BEER FEST

September 22 6–9 PM

September 26 2–4 PM

Whisky Dinner 350 E. Main Street Marlborough, MA

Join Firefly’s BBQ, Julio’s Liquors, & Guest Speakers from Cotswolds Distillery.

$90 per person includes:

For complete event listings, details, tickets and sign-ups, scan the QR code or visit us online at juliosliquors.com/events

• 5 Courses • Welcome Cocktail • 4 Whisky Tastings • Tax & Gratuity • and a $20 Julio’s Gift Card

140 Turnpike Road Westborough, MA

s ! r e e h

Purchase a $10 Gift Card to attend, Bring a friend for FREE!

$90/person GET TICKETS & DETAILS at EventBrite

Family Owned & Operated since 1974

140 Turnpike Rd, Westborough | Route 9 at Lyman St. 508-366-1942 | juliosliquors.com

Experience the Difference!

OPEN 7 DAYS M-Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm

HopkintonIndependent.com