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HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 23 | No. 14 | June 29, 2022

Big jump in water rates on tap

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

C

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

OFF AND RUNNING

Runners head out at the start of the 5K road race that was part of the Sharon Timlin Memorial Event on June 18 at Hopkinton High School. The event was a fundraiser for ALS research.

Appalachian Trail awaits

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

Tom Dawson will attempt to hike the entire Appalachian Trail starting July 12.

T

Tom Dawson | 8

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Water rates | 10

INSIDE NEWS

Select Board mourns active volunteer Hoffman

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COMMUNITY

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

om Dawson loves the outdoors, and he’s putting that love to the test this year when the longtime Hopkinton resident embarks on a hike of the entire Appalachian Trail — all 2,193 miles, from Maine to Georgia.

“Doing the whole AT is something I’ve had as a goal for my whole life,” Dawson says. “I decided to do it as COVID hit and it made us all introspect a little more.

COVID made us all realize we have to go after those dreams. They’re not going to happen on their own. So I planned it in 2020 to do this year.”

After he shared his idea with his two older siblings, his brother immediately asked to join the journey. The pair have run some 100-mile ultramarathons together, so endurance tests are not new to them. “We’re not strangers to pain and suffering,” Dawson jokes. “I guess we’re

lean water is a valuable — often underappreciated — commodity, and it’s about to become a lot more expensive in Hopkinton.

At the June 21 Select Board meeting, the board approved a 9.5 percent increase in water use fees for fiscal year 2023. And town officials cautioned that the rates are going to continue to spike for several years. However, due to a number of variables, it’s not yet clear exactly how much higher the rates will rise.

“These rates are going up, and the band of ranges that we’ve projected depending on how these factors work out is, over the next several years, a probably doubling or tripling of rates even if many things break our way,” said the town’s chief financial officer, Tim O’Leary. “But that’s to get a clean, safe, reliable water supply for the next 100 years.”

Town shows support at LGBTQIA+ Pride Parade

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SCHOOLS

Staff departures hit hard, especially at middle school

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2 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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 7,600 addresses. It’s also available at Price Chopper and Hopkinton Drug as well as at many other local businesses.

STAFF

Publisher: David Bagdon Dir. of Business Development: Susanne Odell Farber Founder: Sarah Lothrop Duckett Managing Editor: Jerry Spar Social Media director: David Bagdon Editorial contributors: Lyn Calkins, Michelle Sanford, Chris Villani, John Cardillo, Christine Strickland, Christie Vogt, Jane Bigda, Walter Bird Jr., Susan Gonsalves, Courtney Cornelius

contact us

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

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

Local sculptor Alfano opens Boston exhibit I

f you’ve been to the Town Common, you likely are familiar with one of Michael Alfano’s sculptures, as his statue of George Brown firing the Boston Marathon starting pistol sits on the park’s northeast corner and has become a local landmark since its debut in 2008.

Alfano, an award-winning artist who lives in town, has plenty of othINDEPENDENT er impressive pieces. Many of THOUGHTS them will be on JERRY SPAR display over the next 18 months as part of his exhibit titled “Of Many Minds” at the Boston Harborwalk. The display starts at the USS Constitution Michael Alfano supervises as his “Questioning Museum at the Charlestown Navy Mind” sculpture is lowered into place along the Yard and stretches for more than a Boston Harborwalk for his exhibit titled “Of Many mile along the Harborwalk, with Minds.” the Boston skyline as a backdrop.

A total of 20 large-scale pieces ure looking up in somewhat of an abstract are being featured in the solo exhibit. way,” Alfano said. “She has realistic feet “Each of the pieces are very philoand a head and then this abstract body that sophical and accompanied by sort of a almost creates a plant trellis. The whole philosophical quote that kind of talks about piece talks about our relationship with the our relationships in the world with differearth and being a part of the earth — the ent things that we go through, particularly oneness of humanity and nature.” questioning minds, always thinking and Alfano said the Navy Yard Garden & questioning things and how to do things Arts organization reached out to him after better,” Alfano said. seeing his work at other exhibits, and he’s One of Alfano’s pieces, titled “Liquid been hard at work preparing ever since.

Sunshine,” depicts yellow paint pouring “It’s been about seven months of very out of a paint can and forming a human intense efforts to both get it approved by face before it hits the ground. downtown Boston and the powers that be It represents “pouring your creativity as well as doing all the logistical stuff and out into the world,” Alfano explained. “It actually making the sculptures and getting goes with the quote, ‘Turn towards the sun them installed there.” and all shadows will fall behind you.’ ” Alfano traditionally sculpts in clay, The exhibit features some old and makes a mold and then casts into bronze new pieces. One of the new sculptures is and other materials. It generally takes called “Anthropocene.” “It’s a female figIndependent thoughts | 3

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 3

Sculptor opens exhibit Independent thoughts | from page 2

him about 1-2 years to make a large-scale sculpture. He has displayed his work in major shows around the country.

“This is my largest solo exhibit in terms of space and large-scale pieces,” he said. “It’s in downtown Boston and comprising over a mile-long walkway of sculptures, so that’s quite ambitious.”

The exhibit is free and open to the public through December 2023. An opening celebration was held June 21. For more information, visit navyyardgarden. org/events.

HHS duo takes on grills Luke Scanlon and Nick Dieter, who both just finished their junior years at Hopkinton High School, want to help with your barbecues.

The pair have started a grill cleaning business, with a percentage of profits being donated to the Mental Health Collaborative.

“Cleaning a grill adds years of life to your grill, and it looks good,” Scanlon said.

Scanlon said he was sitting around with his father tossing around ideas on services he could provide residents when they came up with grill cleaning.

“I love to grill,” Scanlon said. “[The idea] started because I would burn a lot of my food on the grill because of hot spots and grease fires.”

Scanlon’s father, Jim, put Luke in touch with a woman on Cape Cod who has experience in the field, and she provided some key guidance.

Scanlon and Dieter cleaned six grills in their first month and had a few more appointments lined up for late June. The teens remove parts of the girl, soak them in chemicals and power wash them.

“The process itself is pretty straight-

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forward,” Scanlon said. “We’ve come across some pretty gross grills, some 20-year-old Webers. Not everything comes off. There’s going to be some 10-year-old rust and black spots, but we make it look as good as we can.”

Based on a suggestion from Dieter’s mother, the boys decided to donate 10 percent of their gross profits to the Hopkintonbased Mental Health Collaborative.

“Especially with COVID and everything, it’s a great way to give back to people who need it and reduce stigma associated with mental well-being, like anxiety and depression,” Scanlon said.

“That’s something that’s very important to me and a lot of people. At the end of the summer we’ll hopefully make a pretty sizable donation.”

For more information, email glisteninggrills12@gmail.com or call/text 508-944-3453.

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Gould perfect on ACT Congratulations to Hopkinton teenager Hunter Gould, who recorded a perfect composite score of 36 on the ACT, a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures what students have learned in school. Making his achievement even more interesting is the fact that Gould has been studying via an online school (Pearson Online Academy).

The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. A student’s composite score is the average of the four test results. Fewer than half of 1 percent of students who take the ACT earn a perfect composite score. In last year’s graduating class, only 4,055 out of 1.29 million students who took the ACT earned a perfect composite score of 36.

Gould will attend Union College this fall to study computer science.

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Cricket Club proposes pitch at Reed Park amid resident concerns

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

A

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

t its June 13 meeting, the Parks & Recreation Commission invited the Hopkinton Cricket Club and neighborhood residents to discuss a proposal to install a cricket pitch at Reed Park.

Ravi Dasari and Rajanagan Rasan, representatives from the Hopkinton Reed Park has been proposed as a potential site for a Cricket Club, attended the cricket pitch, but neighbors expressed concern about meeting to present their potential traffic and parking issues. proposal and gather resiers and residents noted that parking limits dent feedback. Beginning in 2018, the would be difficult to enforce as other resiclub has installed pitches at the Fruit Street dents utilize the lot to access recreational grass fields and Victory Field in partneractivities like tennis, hiking and fishing. ship with the Parks & Recreation DepartParks & Recreation Director Jay ment. The club seeks more space and field Guelfi noted that Cricket Club members time as demand for the sport has grown. have been “respectful” and “excellent partSeveral Reed Park-area residents atners” over the years, a sentiment echoed tended the meeting to share concerns about by the commissioners. the proposal. The main issues raised re“This town is expanding at a rate that volved around increased traffic, poor road no one anticipated, and there’s a need for access and congested parking. Reed Park, recreational space,” Guelfi said. “I underlocated just off Wood Street (Route 135) stand that there are no great solutions to is accessed via a narrow unpaved road. that problem. …

As the person who runs The Cricket Club acknowledged these the department, I have a need for playing challenges and proposed establishing a fields, and I have a demand not just from carpool system and a limit on the number cricket but from lacrosse, soccer, ultimate of cricket-affiliated vehicles that would be Frisbee, flag football and everyone else, allowed in the parking lot. Commission-

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4 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

Are we teaching students to resent reading?

of people interested in softball increase, as it creates a great community for everyone and many long-lasting friendships.

Students are not satisfied with their schoolbooks. Chapters are read in school and assigned as homework. When each book has at least a LETTERS TO month spent reading and writing about it, it is a considerable amount of THE EDITOR time in a 10-month school year. But what do the students have to say?

In a recent anonymous survey, 20 high schoolers were asked questions about recreational reading and assigned reading in their English classes. Students were able to select answers from four options: yes, usually, sometimes and never. The overarching question asked, “Do you enjoy reading assigned books?” Surprisingly, only one person selected yes, while 35 percent selected usually, half the participants selected sometimes, and 10 percent selected no. Overall, the majority of students leaned towards disliking what was assigned for them to read.

This is not to say they disliked reading in general, as 80 percent answered that they enjoy or usually enjoy reading recreationally. However, this presents an issue when students are given chapters of a book to read at home. Forty percent reported sometimes having enough time to read recreationally, but 35 percent of students said they did not feel they had enough time to read for enjoyment outside of school. This same 35 percent also answered that reading books assigned to them decreases their likelihood to read on their own. On a positive note, 19 of the 20 students said they would find school assignments more enjoyable if they were given several books to choose from, and 18 of 20 said they would find assignments more enjoyable if they were able to choose their book. Eighty percent also reported they would enjoy at least choosing their own genre.

At the end of the survey, students were asked to select genres they were interested in reading for school. Seventy-five percent, an overwhelming majority, were interested in reading fantasy novels, 60 percent were interested in dystopian novels, 55 percent in adventure novels, 50 percent in mystery novels and 45 percent in science fiction.

Contemporary, nonfiction and war novels ranked lowest at 35, 25 and 20 percent.

The general consensus appears to be that having books assigned is not considered a necessary evil. Instead, the problem is that books are not one size fits all. When given a say in what they can read, students will likely find assigned reading more interesting and less of a burden.

— Eva Crane, Hopkinton (HHS freshman)

Center School spot could be green space In a recent survey as reported in Boston magazine, “Boston is coming in nearly last in green space for a city that hosts the Boston Marathon and has been called the country’s best running city.”

Hopkinton is known as a running town, so why not create green space downtown behind Center School. It could be called Starting Line Park! As a town, we could partner with the Boston Athletic Association to create such a park.

We need more downtown green space and all its inherent environmental benefits.

It’s worth considering a park behind Center School as opposed to more housing, which would create more downtown congestion and other negative environmental effects.

— Beth and Rick Kelly, Hopkinton

Still hope for Frankland Road forest The Town of Hopkinton is very enthusiastic about trails and how to connect them.

Only the east part of town, closest to Ashland, lacks the pleasure of connected walking, biking or horseback riding trails that were in fact available through the property of Liberty Mutual at 71 Frankland Road. About 100 acres of mature forest with Native American trails and structures were appreciated by residents from all parts of town until the property was sold to a Connecticut solar company that posted no trespassing signs. Hope still exists that that parcel will survive undisturbed by inappropriate solar locations.

— Olivia Chen, Hopkinton (HHS sophomore)

— Ann Karnofsky, Hopkinton, chair of Save the Forest

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

Softball program could use spark I have noticed that in the past few years not as many kids have been interested in softball in Hopkinton. I have played softball for years and just finished my first season playing for the high school. I love the community it has given me and the amount of friends I have made along the way. Even though this season of spring softball has just finished in Hopkinton, registration for next season will open up during the summer.

As an umpire for Hopkinton Little League, I hope in the next years to see the amount

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The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 5

What to expect from a financial advisor

Christopher Stevenson

Mark Freeman

Professional Insights PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

I

f you know how important it is to invest for your future, but you’re unsure of the road to follow, you may want to get some guidance and direction from a financial professional. But if you’ve never worked with one before, what can you expect?

Here are some things to look for: • Assessment – A financial advisor will assess your current financial situation – assets, income, debts and so on – but that’s just the start. These days, advisors recognize the need to view their clients’ lives holistically. Consequently, you will see questions like this: What are your feelings about investing? How would you judge your risk tolerance? What are your individual financial goals? What hopes and dreams do you have for your family?

• Recommendations – Only after fully understanding your needs, goals and preferences will a financial advisor recommend any investment moves. There are no “one-size-fits-all” solutions. You may want to steer clear of individuals claiming to be financial advisors who “guarantee” big returns with no risk. In the investment world, there are few guarantees, and every investment carries some type of risk.

• Communications – Financial professionals communicate with their clients in different ways, but you should always feel free to reach out to an advisor with any questions or concerns. Most financial advisors will want to meet with clients at least once a year, either in person or through an online platform, to review their investment portfolios. During the review, the financial advisor will help you determine if any changes are needed. But financial advisors won’t wait a full year to contact clients to discuss a particular investment move that might need to be made. Also, depending on

the firm you choose, you should be able to go online to review your portfolio at your convenience.

• Technology – A financial advisor can employ a variety of software programs to help clients. For example, a financial advisor can determine the rate of return you might need to attain specific goals, helping shape your investment strategy. But there are also a lot of “what ifs” in anyone’s life, so an advisor can use hypothetical illustrations to show you where you might end up if you take different paths, such as retiring earlier (or later) than you had planned or putting in more (or less) money toward a specific goal, such as education for your children. Anyone’s plans can change, so the ability to view different potential scenarios can prove valuable.

Above all, a financial advisor can help you feel more confident as you pursue your goals. Among investors who work with a financial advisor, 84% said that doing so gave them a greater sense of comfort about their finances during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey conducted in 2020 by Age Wave and Edward Jones. And during times of market turbulence, such as we’ve experienced this year, a financial advisor can help you avoid overreacting to downturns. When unexpected events crop up, such as a lapse in employment, a financial advisor can suggest moves that may enable you to avoid major disruptions to your financial strategy. Conversely, when a new opportunity emerges, perhaps from an inheritance or some other windfall, your financial advisor can help you take advantage of it.

Navigating the investment landscape can be challenging – but the journey can be a lot smoother if you’ve got the right guide.

Cricket | from page 3

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Cricket Club proposes pitch at Reed Park and currently there’s an asset that’s not being utilized. So, from my perspective, it becomes about how do we access it, not if we access it, but how do we access it that’s safe?”

Attendees noted new road plans have been proposed in the past to improve access, but this longer-term solution was not discussed at length during the meeting.

Agreeing that road access and parking are a concern, Parks & Rec Commission Chair Dan Terry added: “Gym space and field space, we don’t have anywhere near enough here in town, given the interest in outdoor activities that we have. We have to balance it, and we’ve got to consider [Reed Park] as a resource.”

Commissioner Amy O’Donnell also recognized residents’ apprehensions but expressed her own concerns for the greater Hopkinton community as it demands more recreational space. “It’s one of those things that everyone agrees we need but kind of ‘not in my neighborhood,’ right?” she

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said. “And so, the only way we’re going to move forward from a recreational perspective in this town is if we start creatively working together to find places for those things. … I understand where [residents are] coming from and I do think the safety and the access is a concern, but it is a community park that is unused.”

The commission decided not to vote on the issue and will continue discussions at its next public meeting, scheduled for June 29 at 7 p.m.

Additional updates shared In other Parks & Rec news, removal of the Fruit Street fields turf was scheduled to begin June 27. Cameras will be set up to record the construction process. …

Summer program registration rates have officially surpassed levels of all prior years, Guelfi reported, with numbers expected to top off at 15-20 percent higher than in years past. The department continues to hire seasonal staff.

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6 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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P

lanning Board members have many ideas about what to do with the vacant Center School and property at 11 Ash Street, across from the Town Common, with all in agreement that whatever the future holds for the property, it must be in the best interest of the town.

Perhaps the boldest suggestion came in the form of possibly tearing down the 1928 building altogether. (Additions in the back were constructed in the 1950s and 1980s.)

“I know from conversations I’ve had, there are massive expenses associated with rehabbing it in some way,” Planning Board Chair Gary Trendel said at the board’s June 21 meeting, where Permanent Building Committee Chair Dan McIntyre gave the board an update on the project. “I’d also point out this is such a wonderful parcel of property, with that frontage on the common.”

Trendel suggested building something that maintains the character of the original building while offering “substantially” more upside.

“How important is it to save the existing shell of that building, or would folks be open to something being built in its place that, again, has similar characteristics but was built in a modern capacity that included functionality,” Trendel put forth to his colleagues.

There seemed to be at least some appetite for that, and McIntyre said Trendel’s suggestion was similar to what his committee was hearing from its architect. He said he would likely hear the opposite when he makes a similar presentation to the Historical Commission in late June (McIntyre previously updated the Select Board on the project).

The presentations are being done to gather input before the committee issues a request for proposals (RFP) to developers.

“Our architects are saying buildings like this are kind of a dime a dozen around New England,” he said. “There’s nothing really special about them.

It makes it difficult to build something that’s going to serve the next generation.”

The Planning Board and Select Board, which previously expressed its sentiments, both seem to be on the same page when it comes to wanting to maintain ownership of at least some of the property and not sell it off entirely to a developer.

“There are two parcels,” Planning Board Member Jane Moran said. “It sounds like the town may have a feeling about wanting to hold on to both.”

She asked McIntyre if there has been thought given to having the town keep the Center School property and sell off the other parcel in the rear, the topography of which McIntyre noted is “pretty tough.”

Housing, McIntyre noted, seems to have attracted the most interest through a request for information. The preference when it comes to housing is to build multi-family units on the back property, which would require a zoning change.

Calling it a “very tough project,” Trendel applauded the efforts by McIntyre and his committee.

When the discussion turned to “optimal” uses by developers for the project, Trendel countered by saying, “Optimal for developers is not necessarily optimal for the town. Our goal isn’t to make the developer more money, it’s to build something the town benefits from.”

Members were keen on uses that would benefit the entire community, including youths and other organizations, with a community center on the front parcel receiving support. McIntyre also mentioned the possibility of administrative space for the town.

“As a mom of young kids, I’m also on the board of a moms group in town and there aren’t really any municipal buildings or spaces where we can hold events or meetings,” Planning Board Member Elyse Mihajloski said. “It would really be nice to have this. It doesn’t have to be specific, not necessarily courts or anything, maybe just rooms or a big open space where volunteers could use it for meetings, so

HopkintonIndependent.com

How important is it to save the existing shell of that building, or would folks be open to something being built in its place that, again, has similar characteristics but was built in a modern capacity that included functionality.

— Planning Board Chair Gary Trendel if they wanted to use it for fundraising, we’d have a place to offer them.”

She said it would also be nice to have an indoor space for use during the winter.

McIntyre acknowledged the allure of a community center, saying, “I think there would be more town-wide support of this project. No one wants to spend money just on an office space for administrative staff.”

The board is in a “unique position” with the property belonging to the town, Member Fran DeYoung noted.

“We can provide some pretty strong guidance,” he said. “In the RFP, I would be incredibly descriptive to developers. What are the key things the town wants to keep, whether indoor basketball facilities, administrative, and once you define what needs to stay, then you allow developers to [build] something around that. If it’s open, it’s all going to be housing.

They’re going to want to make the most money they can in terms of the space. For the town … [we want to] really keep the spirit of what people would like that building to be preserved as.”

Whatever ultimately happens with the property, board members appreciated being kept in the loop and being part of the discussion.

“This is the kind of stuff we like to talk about,” Trendel said, “and the more we can engage early on in the process, the better. … We all agree this is an opportunity for the town and we want to make sure we get something done with that property that has a very positive net result for the town.”

Eversource lines approved with conditions Board members also unanimously approved, with conditions, new electrical lines by Eversource along Chamberlain Street, a scenic road, as part of a 29-unit subdivision being built by Toll Brothers at the ends of Chamberlain Street and Whalen Road.

The work by Eversource involves the removal and pruning of several trees, with the company proposing eight removals and seven limb removals.

The board attached seven conditions to the plan, including a reduction of tree removals to seven, sparing a cherry tree, while allowing four limb removals.

The conditions require Eversource to submit a revised plan showing the trees and limbs agreed to be removed within seven days after the permit is issued. In addition, Eversource must ensure an arborist is present during the removal and trimming.

Another condition includes the planting of seven compensatory trees of native species along Chamberlain Street and Whalen Road, to be approved by the Planning Board.

With Trendel (a resident of Chamberlain Street) recusing himself from the discussion, Vice Chair Mary Larson-Marlowe led that portion of the meeting. The board ultimately voted 6-0 in favor of the permit, with the conditions attached.

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 7

Select Board mourns Hoffman A

t the June 21 Select Board meeting, members took a moment to express condolences following the passing of Rebeka Hoffman, who had served on multiple town committees and was a substitute teacher in the local schools.

Hoffman, 68, died June 11 after a one-year NEWS battle with cancer.

BRIEFS Last month, Hoffman was reelected to the Housing Authority. A 33-year Hopkinton resident, she also was vice chair of the Sustainable Green Committee.

“She was always dedicated to the cause, very passionate,” Select Board Member Shahidul Mannan said. “She will be remembered for a long time. It’s very sad.”

Input sought about town website The town’s Information Technology Department introduced its design concept for the redesigned town website earlier this month and is asking residents for their thoughts about it.

The town launched a survey in February to solicit feedback from residents, volunteers and employees. The survey asked about the current website, future design ideas, and areas of focused improvement, including examples of overall design style and asking residents to pick their favorite wireframe (layout) from five examples.

The town reported receiving more than 125 responses that included a number of common trends. This feedback was used to drive the design concept for the new site.

According to a town press release, “The refreshed design keeps a modern look, though has a revived bright and crisp tone that carries through to interior pages. It contains a more prominently displayed and expanded ‘quick links’ section, as well as a streamlined news section with more intuitive navigation between news stories. The main topnavigation menu will be simplified, and contact info will be more prominently displayed, including in the footer section of each page.”

Check the town’s website for more information.

Mosquito spraying scheduled The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) announced that personnel will be in Hopkinton to spray for mosquitoes on July 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27. The dates are tentative and subject to change due to weather conditions, mosquito populations, mosquito virus activity and/or special event spraying.

This program will shut down when cool night time temperatures become predominant in the area. A detailed notice about the CMMCP spray schedule is posted on the CMMCP phone system (508-393-3055) after 3:30 p.m. each day and also is listed at cmmcp.org (click on “2022 spray schedule” button on the right).

Residents may opt out of the spraying. For instructions, visit cmmcp.org and click “no spray info” button.

Requests for service may be recorded by calling the CMMCP office between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday

through Friday, or via cmmcp.org.

Results of these requests may initiate an application of mosquito insecticides to defined, site-specific areas of town.

Such an application may be accomplished by using truck mounted equipment depending on the extent of the application.

Cardillo were appointed to the Woodville Historic District Commission.

There still are some vacancies for various committees.

Town committee positions filled

The Select Board accepted the resignation of Meena Kaushik from the Sustainable Green Committee and the Hopkinton Cultural Council. Kaushik is moving out of town.

Board members acknowledged both Kaushik and her husband, Sundar Sivaraman, who were very active in town.

“Both Sundar and Meena have served this town beautifully and we really appreciate their service,” Select Board Member Muriel Kramer said.

In a joint meeting of the Select Board and Planning Board on June 21, members voted to appoint Paul Ostrander to fill a vacant position on the Planning Board. The vote was 8-5, with runner-up Matthew Wronka encouraged to return and apply for another expected opening on the Planning Board later this year.

The Select Board also filled a number of other committee vacancies.

Khwaja Ehsan and Jack Nealon were appointed to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board.

Michael Riley, Walter Garland, Arnold Cohen, John Mosher and Sudheer Beedanagari were appointed to the Board of Appeals.

Ken Weismantel was reappointed to the Community Preservation Committee.

Ed Harrow and Melissa Recos were reappointed to the Conservation Commission.

John Palitsch, Donald Wolf and Stacey Schmidt were appointed to the Council on Aging.

John Cardillo and Michelle Leibowitz were appointed to the Cultural Council.

Colleen Charleston and Carole Nathan were reappointed to the Marathon Fund Committee.

Michael DiMascio and Robert Scott were appointed to the Permanent Building Committee.

Scott Knous and Jane Moran were appointed to the Upper Charles Trail Committee.

Linda Muri and James Mirable were appointed to the Veterans Celebration Committee.

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signs at the sites of old stone foundations on trails in town.

Chen built an informational kiosk in the town’s new dog park.

Davan built and installed 25 trail signs throughout town advising hikers of the presence of ticks, with tick identification cards and brochures with information about tick issues.

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8 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

Resident set for Appalachian Trail adventure Tom Dawson | from page 1

masochists.”

Dawson, 60, and his 68-year-old brother plan to leave from Maine’s Mount Katahdin on July 12. Their goal is to get to Springer Mountain in Georgia by Christmas, some six months later.

“The main thing I’m looking forward to is life without time restrictions and limits,” says Dawson, who will take a break from his job as an architect. “Just experience it and not worry about the time. We’re all so busy, with so many things and our phones. I’m really looking forward to unplugging.”

Dawson, who comes from a family of Eagle Scouts — he was Scoutmaster of Hopkinton’s Troop 4 from 200812 — is an experienced backpacker, mountain biker and kayaker. “I’ve always loved the outdoors,” the Virginia native says.

While most hikers start in the south and head north, Dawson elected to go the opposite way, in part to avoid the heaviest crowds.

“There’s competition for campsites and shelter space and resources in the towns for months,” he says. “We wanted to avoid that. Statistically, more serious hikers go north to south. And also statis-

My lifelong dream is to just start at one end and walk to the other end. It will be a dream for me to say that I’ve done it.

— Appalachian Trail hiker Tom Dawson

tically, there’s a better success rate going north to south. It’s a little more difficult, as a lot of the harder sections of the AT are in the northern corridor. That is one detriment to going that direction. If you come from the south you’re in a lot better shape when you hit that.”

Dawson has been doing short, fast hikes around Lake Whitehall, near his home, in preparation.

“My brother and I are going to be starting slow, because we’re older,” he says. “We’re going to do maybe 5-6 miles a day to start and acclimate. You don’t go into it doing 20 miles a day, especially in the northern sections. You work up to it. Through-hikers [anyone who hikes the entire trail in one calendar year] have what’s called zero days,

where you take off a day for rest. They may be more frequent in the first few weeks and months. We’re not going for any age or speed records. That’s not what we’re interested in. We’re going to enjoy it.”

There are three-sided, log-hut shelters along the trail, and the brothers occasionally will leave the trail to recharge in a nearby “trail town” — returning to the same spot so that they complete the entire route.

The Dawsons will carry ultralight materials in their backpacks, including a tent, blow-up mattress, pillow, quilt and water filter so they can drink from wildlife sources. They will have family members send packages to be held at post offices in trail towns with food

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and more robust gear to wear when they hit wintry weather in the southern mountains.

They also will take their phones and a GPS communication device that will broadcast their location.

Their daily plan is to have an early breakfast, hike from about 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. — possibly longer in the summer months where there’s more daylight — then set up camp, eat a relaxed dinner and get some sleep.

“Basically your job is to walk all day, as long as you can, then sleep, get up and repeat,” Dawson says.

He credits his wife of 33 years with not only supporting his undertaking but being a self-reliant, independent individual, making him more comfortable spending so much time apart. “My daughter’s more concerned that our golden retriever will get supremely depressed,” Dawson says with a chuckle.

As the trip gets closer, Dawson has been continuing to walk every day, including fast hikes of about 6-8 miles.

He’s confident he will be in the right physical and mental state to accomplish his goal.

“I’ve been dialed in to this for years,” he says. “My lifelong dream is to just start at one end and walk to the other end. It will be a dream for me to say that I’ve done it.”

Eagle Scouts honored Eagle Scouts | from page 7

Kimball installed wooden bridges and puncheons over wet areas of trails on the Hughes property off Hayden Rowe Street.

Cambourelis-Haskins created a flagstone garden park with plant identifiers at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. He also created a website with a map and description of the garden.

Dolski wrote and produced a video public service announcement to raise awareness around mental health and the jail diversion program the Hopkinton Police Department has been using for the past few years.

Misc.: Small fire hits Start Line The Hopkinton Fire Department responded to a small fire at Start Line Brewing on Hayden Rowe Street on June 14. The fire was in a utility building in the back of the facility.

Start Line owner Ted Twinney reported that the fire was contained to an old garage used for storage. He expressed gratitude that no one was injured, and he said restaurant activities will not be affected. …

Town Manager Norman Khumalo said he will share results of a survey about Town Meeting at an upcoming Select Board meeting, and he offered a quick preview June 21. He said there were 434 respondents to the survey, and while 98 percent of them identified as registered voters, 77 percent of them did not attend any night of last month’s Town Meeting. The length of the meeting was the top reason for people choosing not to attend. …

The Select Board gave high ratings to the town manager, police chief and fire chief during their performance reviews and set goals for the coming year.

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 9

Community rallies support for LGBTQIA+ at Pride Parade Amelia and Anthony Dellelo, whose mother is Hopkinton Youth & Family Services prevention coordinator Lauren Dellelo, take part in the parade.

By Sidhi Dhanda Contributing Writer

O

n June 19, a vibrant crowd of about 250 people of all ages gathered behind Hopkinton High School for the town’s second LGBTQIA+ Pride Parade.

The Hopkinton Freedom Team, the Hopkinton Youth Commission and Hopkinton Youth & Family Services hosted the event. Freya Proudman, a 2018 HHS graduate pursuing her master’s degree in London, served as the primary organizer.

“I could never have imagined something like this when I was in high school in Hopkinton,” said Proudman, who identifies as queer. “It means a lot to me to be able to provide for kids that are in those schools now [the knowledge] that there is a community here that you can be part of and that there’s a community here that supports you.”

Added Proudman: “I think it’s really important for young queer people to see queer adults living their open authentic selves.”

Residents from Hopkinton and surrounding towns joined Hopkinton Select Board members and representatives from 26 local organizations. The group, led by a black Ford Mustang convertible, walked around Loop Road and then convened for a celebration on a field behind the school.

Among the attendees were School Committee members, who also walked last year.

“I think it is really important that there is visibility of the School Committee being supportive and inclusive to all of our students, and in particular LGBTQIA kids, so they know that we are here,” said Chair Nancy Cavanaugh. “In everything that we do, it is important to make sure that everybody feels included and that everybody is represented.”

Newly elected School Committee Member Holly Morand said she hopes that “every student knows that they can come to us and say something.”

The celebration began with Proudman thanking the organizations that made the event possible, including the Hopkinton Public Schools, the Police Department and the Fire Department.

Proudman also took time to recognize the Juneteenth holiday.

“Intersectionality is key to equality,” she said.

HHS student Salem Bradley, one of the presidents of the school’s GayStraight Alliance, acknowledged those who are closeted and not able to express pride for themselves.

“Even if you’re here as an ally or if you are part of the LGBT community, your face being at a pride event is so important for closeted kids and people who can’t have that experience,” said Bradley.

Town Manager Norman Khumalo discussed how returning to a prepandemic normal should not mean sacrificing social and civil strides. He also spoke about how Juneteenth and the pride movement are setting a foundation for more justice.

“Juneteenth and the pride movement provide the playbook about matters of struggle, social justice, freedom and new forms of solidarity,” said Khumalo.

“They articulate a sense of commitment, demonstrate ways and give meaning to civic courage, compassion, willingness to listen to others and to being a moral compass for the common good.”

The event’s keynote speaker, Al Green, works at the Hadwen Park

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Town leaders including (from left) Town Manager Norman Khumalo, Select Board Members Irfan Nasrullah, Amy Ritterbusch and Mary Jo LaFreniere, Housing Authority Board Member Nancy “Punky” Drawe (in car with dog Sally), Select Board Member Shahidul Mannan, Town Clerk Connor Degan and Select Board Member Muriel Kramer show their support at the second annual Pride Parade.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Congregational Church United Church of Christ in Worcester as the ministry director for the LGBT asylum task force.

Green spoke about the progress that already has been achieved and the collective effort it takes for more to occur.

“The struggle of the LGBTQ community is like a relay,” said Green.

“Previous generations took the baton

and fought to get us to this point where we have equal marriage, and some of us enjoy relative safety.”

Added Green: “Take a look around at the people who are here with you.

You have a community alongside you, and you have a movement behind you, so go out there and walk boldly in your authentic selves.”

HopkintonIndependent.com

The event ended with a performance by the Dance on Dance Center, based in Hudson. The group, wearing pride flags, danced to the song “Unruly Heart” from the musical “The Prom.”

The song appropriately ends with the line, “Nobody out there ever gets to define the life I’m meant to lead with this unruly heart of mine.”

10 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

Water rates to jump 9.5 percent for next year connect with the pipes in neighboring Southborough. The connection fee is around $10 million, but Khumalo noted that the MWRA Advisory Board has recommended a fiveyear suspension of that fee.

Construction costs are projected at $25 million, but at least a portion of that could be covered by federal, state or other related grants, Khumalo said.

There are more than 4,000 water customers in town, Department of Public Problems with PFAS in Well 6 off Fruit Street have led Works Director John West- to the town planning to connect to water supplied erling said, and last year by the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority, but they consumed more than with that comes substantial additional costs.

413 million gallons of water, of which approximately tion system at Well 6, and $40,000 for 150 million gallons were purchased the replacement of the roofs at the Fruit via an inter-municipal agreement with Street well facility. Additionally, Town Ashland.

Meeting authorized the expenditure of Khumalo noted that users pay the $1.3 million from prior water enterprise entire cost for water usage. borrowings to perform design work on “One hundred percent of the exthe MWRA interconnection through penses for the town water and sewer Southborough. services are paid for by user fees,” he Despite the substantial additional said. “There is no subsidy provided by costs, Westerling said he believes Town the general government budget. There Meeting made the right decision to switch are no property tax funds that are applied to an MWRA connection rather than try to the water and sewer services.” to solve the PFAS issue long-term.

O’Leary explained that the aver“The more I look at the engineerage annual residential water bill will ing and business issues associated increase from $287 to $314, a jump of with the town’s water supply, the more $27. He also cautioned that next year convinced I become that the MWRA could bring an even higher increase even connection is the right option for the if MWRA connection cost projections town,” he said. come in lower than expected.

On a positive note, town sewer rates “The cost of purchasing the water will decrease 5 percent for 2023 due to [alone] is going to be enough to almost a projected substantial surplus in the double the cost of our water bills when Sewer Enterprise Fund. we go to the MWRA,” O’Leary said, “We believe that a reduction in and that’s assuming the town can limit sewer charges at this time will help the leakage, which has been an ongoing ratepayers who are both water and sewer problem. users cope with the required increases in Discounts will remain in effect for water usages,” Khumalo said. residents in need of assistance.

However, there is some uncertainty Last month’s Town Meeting apon the sewer side as well. proved a number of immediate capital “Hopkinton relies heavily on a expenses: $50,000 for the cleaning of treatment agreement with Westborough the town’s three water tanks (as required and another with Milford,” Khumalo by the Department of Environmental explained. “The inter-municipal agreeProtection), $60,000 for the replacement ment for the latter has expired … and of a heavy-duty water enterprise truck, the town’s efforts to execute a bridge $600,000 for a temporary PFAS filtraagreement with Milford have stalled.

What this means is if industrial activity on South Street picks up significantly, either using Milford or increasing treatment capacity at Fruit Street will need to be examined.”

That said, Westerling indicated the town was able to manage its wastewater without the Milford connection over the past year (the agreement expired in February 2021).

“The sewer division transports and treats over 120 million gallons of Turkey Cuban wastewater per year from approximately Sandwich 1,800 customers,” he shared. “WasteMexican Breakfast Wrap water can flow to Westborough, Fruit Street or Milford for treatment. Last year we sent over 102 million gallons of wastewater to Westborough and over 20 million gallons to Fruit Street. We were able to manage our wastewater Chicken, Avocado and ORDER Provolone Panini flows last year, and we didn’t send any wastewater to Milford. The Fruit Street ONLINE! plant was built to treat 100,000 gallons Proudly serving per day, but it can be expanded to treat Come in every day for fresh…

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Water rates | from page 1

The biggest reason for the jump is the town’s planned move to connect to water supplied by the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority. This move — approved at last month’s Annual Town Meeting — comes on the heels of the detection of PFAS in the town’s water supply (specifically from Well 6 off Fruit Street).

“Annual Town Meeting has taken actions to move toward a possible

connection to the MWRA to provide a safe, bountiful, reliable water supply for the town,” Town Manager Norman Khumalo said. “There are several potential cost factors for a transition to the MWRA that are highly variable, and because of that variability it’s difficult to definitively discuss likely future [costs] for water with any precision.”

Two of the key variables, Khumalo explained, are the MWRA connection fee and the construction costs to

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The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 11

Library Corner For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary. org. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on Twitter, @HopkintonPLMA.

Schedule Update The library will be closed July 2-4 for the Independence Day holiday weekend.

Summer Reading 2022: Read Beyond the Beaten Path The theme for this year’s Summer Reading Program is Beyond the Beaten Path.

Registration opened June 23.

Patrons can create an account on BookPoints (hpl.bookpoints.org) and register each reader in their household.

There is a program for everyone.

Youth programs: Kids earn points by logging the number of minutes they read, completing fun activities and entering secret codes. Once they get enough points they earn a prize. There are three youth tracks in BookPoints: pre-readers, Marathon-Elmwood School readers and Hopkins School readers.

Young adult programs: This is suitable for middle school, high school and college-age young adults. Young adults will earn points by logging the number of books they read, completing different reading activities/challenges, entering secret codes given out by the librarians during library programs, or checking out different types of materials. As readers earn points, they will level up and be awarded tickets.

At the end of the summer, the young adult librarian will draw winners and contact them to offer one of the grand prizes (gift cards to local restaurants and hangouts). Each reader who participates in the summer reading program will qualify for a summer reading prize.

Adult program: This is suggested for ages 18 and up. Adults can participate online or by paper. Paper reading logs are available at the main desk.

Adults will earn points by logging the number of books they read, completing different reading activities/challenges (e.g. reading different genres/topics, going on hikes), entering secret codes given out by the librarians during library programs or checking out different types of materials. As readers earn points, they will level up and be awarded tickets. At the end of the summer, the adult librarian will draw winners and contact them to offer one of the prizes in the display case.

The BookPoints platform and summer reading prizes are generously funded by the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library.

Attendees will learn about coyotes’ behaviors and characteristics as well as how to live alongside these majestic, intelligent animals.

Interactive Swordsmanship with Dan Burns

Ukulele with Julie Stepanek

Tuesday, July 12, 3-4 p.m. (teens), 6-7 p.m. (adults)

Thursday, July 7, 11-11:45 a.m.

This program is for teens and adults. Julie Stepanek will demonstrate the fundamentals of playing the ukulele, a fun instrument that is easy to play. No experience is necessary.

Ukuleles will be provided. Registration is required on the library website starting one week prior to the event.

Acrobatic Performance by Li Liu

Monday, July 11, 4-5 p.m.

Traditions of Chinese Acrobatics is a one-woman acrobatic performance.

Li Liu performs hand balancing, plate spinning, ribbon dancing, diabolos and foot juggling. A limited number of volunteers will get to join her on stage to create an impromptu ribbon dance, and also to try their hand at plate spinning.

Li’s ideal audience is literally all ages, from kids to parents to grandparents.

Registration is required on the library website starting one week prior to the event.

miles. Participants should bring water, wear sneakers or hiking shoes and wear bug spray. Walkers will gather at 6 p.m. at the designated trail parking area. Visit the library’s website calendar for more info.

Dan Burns will present an interactive swordsmanship demonstration. Attendees will learn about how to hold and duel with a sword, and then try a foam sword on a partner. There also will be a historical cutlass and pistol for viewing, and there will be talk of pirate history and the specifics of pirate weaponry.

This program is part of the library’s Summer Reading Series, Off the Beaten Path. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Thursday, July 14, 6-7:30 p.m., Legacy Farms South The Hopkinton Public Library and the Hopkinton Trails Club are combining for a summer series of easy guided trail walks in Hopkinton. Participants will experience the trails while learning about the green spaces in town. No walking or hiking experience is needed. Walks will last 1-2 hours and cover roughly 1.5-2

Residential and Commercial

Saturday, July 16, 2-3 p.m.

Women of World Jazz presents an afternoon of jazz and history on the Town Common. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or folding chair for maximum comfort. This event is sponsored by the Cultural Council.

Fairy Door Teen Program Wednesday, July 20, 2-3 p.m.

Guided Trail Walk with HPL/Hopkinton Trails Club

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Participants will make their own fairy door, which can be hung on a wall, placed on a tree or kept on a desk to add a bit of fairy magic to one’s life. All of the supplies will be provided.

Red Cross Blood Drive Wednesday, July 27, 1-6 p.m.

Those interested can register at the Red Cross website (rcblood. org/3AmuYsP) or call 508-497-9777 and the Reference Desk can help schedule an appointment.

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Our Coyote Neighbors Thursday, June 30, 6-7:45 p.m.

John Maguranis, the Massachusetts representative for Project Coyote, will host a presentation and question and answer session about coyotes.

HopkintonIndependent.com

Design, Maintenance & Construction

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12 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

Business BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Platinum Physical Therapy expands Hopkinton office

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

P

latinum Physical Therapy, which has locations in Hopkinton, Ashland and Milford, recently expanded its Hopkinton office in order to offer more extensive strength and conditioning programming to the community. Its Platinum Strength program includes a movement screening to determine patients’ strengths and weaknesses and a customized exercise program to help meet their goals.

Julianne Rickert, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Hopkinton clinic manager, says the expansion will provide the clinic’s Platinum Strength program with a dedicated performancefocused space in which additional strength and conditioning equipment will be utilized.

In addition to its strength program, Platinum offers 40-minute one-to-one care for patients seeking improved mobility and pain relief. “Our target niche in health care is that we are movement specialists,” Rickert says. “Regardless of what your goal is — running a marathon, playing with your grandkids, driving long distances — we want to help

you meet that goal through movement optimization.”

Adds Rickert: “The biggest thing that sets Platinum apart is our one-toone care. It’s becoming increasingly rare to have that personal experience with a medical practitioner, and many people feel like they get bounced around in the system.” With stability in mind, Platinum strives to keep patients with the same therapist throughout their course of care.

The company’s Hopkinton clinic is the only location with an AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, a technology that uses air displacement to reduce a patient’s body weight. “With AlterG, we can help people rehabbing from injuries or surgeries who have weightbearing restrictions,” Rickert explains.

“They can walk or run earlier than they would have without the gravity assist.”

The technology also is available to the community; users do not have to be Platinum patients to purchase time on the treadmill.

The clinic also offers running gait assessments for those who are looking to improve their running mechanics.

“Through a combination of a movement screening, running gait assessment and exercise prescription, we can help them

Platinum Physical Therapy’s five Hopkinton therapists are (from left) Kim Bolick, Julianne Rickert, Courtney Cappadona, Christian Navarro and Lindsey Maher.

meet their goals,” Rickert says.

Another service offered in Hopkinton is dry needling. Three therapists are certified in the treatment, which helps release muscle tension and pain. All of Platinum’s locations also offer free injury screens.

Rickert says one of her favorite success stories is that of a runner who had seen multiple doctors across the Boston area without finding relief for chronic knee pain. “Within a couple of sessions,” Rickert shares, “we found that the problem was coming more from her back and hips and not the knee itself. So, we worked up the chain, and we were able to get her running within a month’s

time from the rehab process starting.”

Platinum Physical Therapy aims to be part of its patients’ preventative care team, Rickert says. “Some patients absolutely need surgery,” Rickert says, “but for many people who have years of pain or dysfunctional movement, after a few sessions with us they find relief and potential light at the end of the tunnel.”

Platinum’s Hopkinton office is located at 1 Lumber Street. To learn more, visit platinumptma.com or call 508-544-1540.

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

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The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 13

Schools HMS teacher takes ‘amazing’ educational trip to Greece culture,” he noted.

Now that he’s had a taste of traveling abroad, Mingace said he would like to go back to Greece one day and also take trips to Italy and Japan/Asia.

Mingace thanked the 26.2 Foundation for making the experience possible.

The 26.2 Foundation has ties to Greece through the Boston Marathon.

The Examined Life (ExL) Greek Studies in the Schools was established

by Barbara Harrison and a small group

of educators with Brandeis University collaboration. In 2013, the program transitioned from in-person to an online program to reach a wider geographic area in association with Framingham State University.

In 2018 ExL was incorporated in Massachusetts and received a 501(c)3 IRS non-profit designation.

In addition to the study tour of Greece, participants attend lectures and complete graduate course readings.

JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION FROM YOUR NEW HOME! William Mingace poses in Athens at the Acropolis, which dates back thousands of years.

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

P

articipating in The Examined Life educational program enabled Hopkinton Middle School Grade 8 civics teacher William Mingace to make a life-changing trip to Greece, a journey he believes allows him to better understand what he teaches.

From April 14-23, he traveled with about 25 other educators, librarians, artists and writers to experience both structured touring and more freestyle exploration of Greece. It was Mingace’s first trip abroad.

He noted the group was taken to all the major historical sites and attractions such as the Oracle of Delphi, the Tumulus at Marathon, the Parthenon and the healing center at Epidaurus.

One notable part of the journey was learning more about Greek democracy.

When visiting Agora, he said, the group was met by acclaimed archeologist John Camp and given a personal tour of the current excavation site.

“Seeing and literally stepping on top of the ancient Stoa where civic life would have flourished in ancient times was a surreal experience,” Mingace said.

The group also was able to visit the Agora Museum, which is located inside a reconstruction of the Stoa.

“We were able to see real pieces of ostraca and learn about other protections that the Athenians put in place for their democracy,” Mingace added.

He said that his favorite part of the experience was spending two days in Hydra with more free time. “It was amazing,” Mingace said. “We got to explore and get lost in the back roads. …We had some really great food at the restaurants on that island and I took my opportunity to jump in the Aegean [Sea].”

The food lived up to the hype as well. “From real Greek yogurt as a staple of my breakfast, to moussaka, to lamb, to grape leaves and Greek salad with every meal, there were times when I could not decide which dish I wanted to try next,” Mingace recalled.

The group enjoyed other activities like watercolor painting with artist

It was all so amazing.

There are not enough words to describe how happy I was there.

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jenniferfrench.re@gmail.com | www.jenniferfrench.com ­— William Mingace Garrett Hines and readings by author Gregory Maguire.

Also memorable was having the opportunity to spend time with people who have similar interests “and who really wanted to be there.”

Mingace said that getting to know his fellow travelers with “great conversations” during group lunches and dinners was a highlight.

“The people I went with were what made the experience memorable,” Mingace said.

He said each individual had something to contribute — whether it was knowledge of medical and Greek terms or historical events, photography or drawing.

“I was truly blessed to have met some great people,” he said, adding that their tour guide, Mara, was knowledgeable and a lot of fun and kept them at a pace where they could see all the important sites.

He said the program lived up to the praise bestowed upon it by fellow faculty members who went in the past.

Any educator or other person who may feel hesitant about signing up for the trip and program really should try it, he said. “It was all so amazing,” he gushed. “There are not enough words to describe how happy I was there.”

Mingace said that he is looking forward to incorporating what he experienced first-hand “about the birthplace of democracy” into his civics classes next year.

“I had the opportunity to experience the people, the food, the dancing and the religious practices of Greece, while learning so much about the importance of Greek civilization to not only the Western world but global

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Schools Hopkins team wins state chess title

By Sidhi Dhanda Contributing Writer

F

or the first time ever, a team from Hopkins Elementary School won the Hurvitz Cup State Scholastic Team Championship, a chess competition run by the Massachusetts Chess Association.

The team representing Hopkins consisted of four fifthgrade boys, Dattasai Kilari, Dhairya Mehta, Jashu Reddy Ambati and Karthik Lakshmanan. Dhairya’s mother suggested that the boys form a team. Each member played someone of a similar level, and the Hopkins team, playing in a division for kindergarten through Grade 5, did not lose a single match.

Playing in chess tournaments was not a new experience for any of the team members. Individually, they have competed in over 400 tournaments.

Kilari started playing competitively at the age of 6, and he has competed in over 200 tournaments. In the Hurvitz Cup, he was first board for the team. First board refers to the team member with the highest rating, and they play the highest-rated member on the opposing team.

Lakshmanan, who recently moved from Alabama, is just beginning to play in tournaments.

“I started just casually playing at 4 and playing in tournaments at 10,” he explained.

Kilari, Mehta and Ambati have been to many of the same tournaments, and Kilari and Mehta often compete against each other. Mehta previously lived in Newton and knew Kilari and Ambati from chess tournaments before they started attending school together. “[Kilari and Mehta] have competed like a million times,” said Ambati.

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Hopkins Principal Vanessa Bilello accepts the Hurvitz Cup State Scholastic Team Championship trophy from team members (from left) Dhairya Mehta, Karthik Lakshmanan, Jashu Reddy Ambati and Dattasai Kilari.

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

Camille is a sophomore at Hopkinton High School. She is described as a true leader and a genuine person with a heart of gold.

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Asked if they had a rivalry, Kilari and Mehta looked at each other, smiled and said yes. However, their competition does not stop them from hanging out together.

“We are all friends,” said Kilari.

Kilari and Mehta both use the same chess opening, the Caro–Kann Defense, in tournaments. Ambati likes to open with the Sicilian Defense, while Lakshmanan prefers the Modern Defense.

Kilari and Lakshmanan look up to the same chess grandmaster, Hikaru Nakamura. Ambati aspires to play like Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, while Mehta’s chess hero is Viswanathan Anand.

The team members started playing chess after their fathers taught them the basics. For this tournament, the team did not have a coach. They practiced before the tournament by playing against each other, playing online and analyzing their mistakes.

The result of all that practice was confidence going into the tournament.

“We were not nervous at all,” said Mehta. “We had worked together improving our own skills.”

The two trophies won from the tournament were handed off to Hopkins principal Vanessa Bilello for display in the school.

One of the trophies the school gets to keep forever. Hopkins will give the other trophy to the new champions next year.

The team plans on competing in the Winter Team Challenge later this year.

It’s a tournament that Kilari, Mehta and Ambati each have won before but on separate teams.

To celebrate their recent victory, the team planned on eating pizza and ice cream together.

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 15

Schools Mehta makes mark in chess tournaments Fifth-grader Dhairya Mehta, who has been been competing in chess tournaments since he was a kindergartner, recently finished second in a state tournament.

By Sidhi Dhanda Contributing Writer

O

n his fifth birthday, Dhairya Mehta was gifted a chess board. The box stayed unopened in his house for months. Bored one day, Mehta asked his father, Mitul, to teach him how to play.

His father showed him the basics and later enrolled the boy in chess classes.

At 6 years old, Mehta was encouraged by his instructor to compete in a tournament.

“We just showed up there, and we were not expecting anything,” his father said. “His coach said that he only knew the basic rules.”

Much to everyone’s surprise, he finished in third place.

Although he is only a fifth-grader at Hopkins School, Mehta already has participated in more than 114 chess tournaments. He has finished first, second or third in most of them. The large collection of trophies and medals at his home attests to that.

Mehta practices chess for 1-2 hours daily and trains with chess coach Steve Winer.

“Practicing to me means playing chess games, of course, watching chess YouTube videos and analyzing my game to study from my mistakes,” he said.

Mehta recently took second place at Massachusetts’ Barry S. Spiegel Cup, which consisted of four matches.

“The first game I got destroyed,” Mehta recalled. “I was not feeling well, but I talked to my dad, and he gave me some confidence.”

He went on to win the second and third games and drew the fourth.

At local tournaments, Mehta often sees and competes against the same faces. Over the years, some of the competitors have become friends and played friendly games against each other.

Like most activities, the pandemic forced chess tournaments to go virtual.

Many players, including Mehta, started playing much more online, and players who were used to playing one tournament a week could now play a tournament every day.

“As I kept playing, I kept getting better throughout the pandemic,” he said. “After the pandemic, I have been playing much better than I used to play.”

Added his father: “Because of the pandemic, [kids] started playing every day. There was a lot of practice, and when the pandemic got over, there was a big jump in a lot of kids because they were practicing so much.”

Mehta still plays in some online tournaments, and at the 2022 National Online Quick Scholastic Championships, he placed ninth in the division for kindergarten through Grade 6.

Although he loves chess, Mehta does not aspire to be a chess grandmaster like his idol, Viswanathan Anand, the first chess grandmaster from India.

Instead, he hopes to be an entrepreneur and run his own business. After a summer break, encouraged by his parents, Mehta plans on playing more chess.

His passion and commitment to chess inspire his younger brother and

other students in his school. His brother, Viaan, has started competing in and winning a few chess tournaments. At Hopkins, Mehta is the assistant coach of Chess Wizards, an after-school program, and one of his favorite activities there is making chess puzzles for others to solve.

Aside from chess, Mehta plays baseball and the violin, and he enjoys playing Monopoly and cards with his family, especially since he is no longer able to play chess with his father.

“I try to avoid that humiliation,” his father joked. “After the first few months, I realized that he had surpassed me.”

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16 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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TAKE LIFE OUTDOORS

he School Committee at its June 9 meeting ratified a three-year contract for the Hopkinton Teachers Association (HTA) Unit C, which is the nurses union.

The contract, covering 2022-25, contains cost of living increases of 4 SCHOOLS percent in the first year and 3 percent NOTEBOOK in the second and third years. The board also approved an additional agreement giving a one-time bonus of $2,000 for efforts during the pandemic.

Although contact tracing and other pandemic measures are not anticipated in the next year, the committee approved a memorandum of understanding just in case whereby nurses would receive 1 1/2 times their hourly pay for work conducted outside of the school day.

The pact also has provisions allowing them to carry a single personal day from one year to another.

They will also receive two additional bereavement days off for someone close to them who doesn’t fall into the immediate family.

“We really value our nurses and want to make sure they are paid equitably and we retain them,” Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh said. “I’d be heartbroken if they went anywhere except to retirement.”

Elmwood School replacement planning continues

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Women’s Club announces scholarships Continuing on a long annual tradition, the Hopkinton Women’s Club recently presented its 2022 scholarships to the following Hopkinton High School seniors: Kathleen Beauvais, Mary Billeter, Sarah Bouvier, Kathryn Callery, Charlotte Cann, Lauren Coccio, Julia Dever, Sebastian Losada, Sofia Luce, Abigail Lussier, Saathvika Motukuri, Petra-Jasmine Samrout, Ashlyn Sullivan, Sucheta Sunder, Olivia Sward, Alexis Trendel, Tess Weatherhead, Erin Yenawine, Grace Young and Mena Youssif. The Mary McDonough Community Service Award recipient was Saibhaskar Gudempati. …

Graduates of the Advanced Math & Science Academy Charter School in Marlborough included Hopkinton residents Audrey Clayton, Raunaq Mokha and Emilie Phely-Bobin.

WPI students complete research projects

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Cavanaugh said Compass Project Management and the designer will help the district with looking for a site, weighing whether different school grade configurations are feasible and looking at things like effects on traffic, town permitting, site acquisition and planning and flexibility for future growth.

The superintendent said the district population is now 4,100, but projections for 10 years forward predict growth to just under 5,000 students. She said the main goal is to determine how to maximize funding to get the most “educationally sound” facility.

Cavanaugh added that engagement with community members about the Elmwood School project will start in August. Numerous forums and presentations are expected to gain feedback.

t Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), all undergraduates are required to complete a research-driven, professional-level project that applies science and technology to addresses an important societal need or issue.

Two WPI students from Hopkinton recently completed their projects.

COLLEGE Junior Ryan Hawkins, who is HONORS majoring in mechanical engineering, completed a project titled “Exploring and Monitoring the Wairarapa Moana Ramsar Site.”

Freshman Oliver Yasuna, who is majoring in computer science, completed a project titled “George C. Gordon Library Mobile Application IQP.” …

At MassBay Community College, Maxwell Foster Levy earned an All-College Academic Award for his 4.0 GPA, the Division Award for the highest GPA in the academic division of humanities and social sciences, as well as the Program Award for the highest GPA in his academic program, liberal arts. …

At Holy Cross, seniors Anne Comcowich, William Moore and Emily Taylor, junior Sara Cahill and sophomore Katharine Lagasse were named to the dean’s list. …

Mia Carboni was named to the dean’s list at the College of William & Mary. …

At Bryant University, Joseph Harrison graduated with a B.S. in business administration-finance, while Ted Torres received a B.S. in business administrationaccounting. …

Maya Zent was named to the dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin, where she is studying in the College of Agricultural & Life Sciences. …

Lily Kasper was named to the dean’s list at Plymouth State University. …

At the University of Rhode Island, Delaney Augspurg, Teddy Henneberry, Natalie Morgan, Lauren Nordling, Will Pawela, Eliza Worrell were named to the dean’s list. …

HopkintonIndependent.com

Andrew Tomney was named to the dean’s list at Curry College. …

Sophomore Haley Goldner earned dean’s high honors at Connecticut College. …

At the University of Delaware, Grace Schacterle, Brianna Antonioli, Dylan McBride, Raymond Lucas and Emily Murphy were named to the dean’s list. …

Andrew Nealon was named to the dean’s list at James Madison University. …

Mikayla Cappetta was named to the dean’s honor list at Cedarville University. …

At Clark University, Sarah Gallagher graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and Sam McAuliffe graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. …

Michelle Gates, Kinnon MacEachern and James Peishoff were named to the dean’s list at Dean College. …

At Siena College, Avery Knous and Aiden Scannevin were named to the president’s list. …

Amelia Bashy and Dylan Morin were named to the dean’s list at Hofstra University. …

Hannah Deal, a special education multi-categorical major, was named to the dean’s list at Coastal Carolina University. …

At Quinnipiac University, Tess Greenwood, Caitlyn Halloran, Madeleine Hildreth and Aidan Morin were named to the dean’s list, while Halloran (B.S. in marketing), Hildreth (B.A. in interdisciplinary studies), Audrey Gladu (B.S. in nursing) and David Sloan (B.S. in entrepreneurship/small business) earned their degrees. …

James McDonald graduated with distinction from Clarkson University, earning a Bachelor of Science in financial information and analysis while minoring in economics. …

Juliana Cole graduated from Saint Anselm College with a Bachelor of Arts in social work.

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 17

Schools School staff departures include HMS principal, HHS AD

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’ Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

Alan Keller is leaving Hopkinton Middle School after 12 years as principal.

This issue’s winner is Corey Macdonald for this photo of a swan family on Lake Maspenock. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com.

Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

T

he end of each school year brings with it staff changes, and this year’s changes are more significant than usual — especially at Hopkinton Middle School, where the top two administrators have taken positions in other communities.

HMS Principal Alan Keller will become assistant superintendent for the Auburn Public Schools, while HMS Assistant Principal Chris Ocampo is leaving to become assistant principal at Acton-Boxborough High School.

Keller is completing his 12th year running HMS after working in a central office curriculum position.

“Alan‘s extensive experience with curriculum, instruction and assessment will be invaluable to the Auburn Public Schools, and we offer him the best as he moves to this new and well-deserved role,” HPS Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh wrote in an email to schools faculty and families.

Ocampo spent two years at HMS after a 10-year stint at Framingham High School in a variety of roles.

“We wish him the very best in his new district and in this new role, as he carries forth a vast understanding of what students need academically, socially, emotionally and behaviorally,” Cavanaugh wrote.

As previously reported, HPS Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parson is leaving to become superintendent in Plainville.

Additionally, Elmwood Assistant Principal Jason Dimen has taken a position as principal of Woodland Elementary School in Weston. Dimen spent three years at Elmwood.

“Certainly it’s with every good wish that we say goodbye and good luck to Mr. Dimen, although with his depth of talent, he won’t need luck,” Cavanaugh wrote.

At Hopkinton High School, Athletic Director Rich Cormier is departing for a

job outside of education so he can spend more time with his family.

“This last year in particular has been incredibly challenging personally and professionally and I have reached a point where I can’t continue in this role,” Cormier wrote in an email. “Simply put, the demands and responsibilities of this role are preventing me from being the father and husband I want to be for my family. I will be transitioning into a position outside the field of education, and while I am positive that I will miss many aspects of my role as athletic director, I am excited for this new opportunity and challenge.”

In his three years at the school, Cormier helped guide the department through the pandemic. He expressed gratitude and pride for the opportunity to work at HHS and credited the community support for helping to ensure students have “the best experience possible — academically and athletically.”

“I will sincerely miss working with the Hopkinton community, its students and families,” he wrote. “I have learned so much from this experience and I know it will benefit me in my future pursuits.

“This decision is strictly a family one and realizing what I want in life for my family, and unfortunately this position does not go hand in hand with that vision.”

Cormier indicated that he has submitted his resignation but will “continue to work tirelessly to make sure everything is ready to go for the ’22-23 school year and will collaborate with my replacement to ensure a smooth transition.”

The process for filling all the soonto-be-vacated positions is underway.

“As you can imagine, it will be a busy summer replacing these incredibly talented educators,” Cavanaugh noted.

“Certainly, we are committed to ensuring excellent continuity of education for all students in the Hopkinton Public Schools.”

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

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

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

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18 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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Lt. Col. Dennis J. Zifcak, 76, of Uxbridge and formerly of Douglas, died June 12 after an illness.

He is survived by his two children, Donna Hardy of Uxbridge and Brian and wife Nicole Zifcak of Auburn; his partner, Patricia Shalbey, with whom he lived; three grandchildren, Kevin Hardy, Anderson Zifcak and Jackson Zifcak; two brothers, John D. Zifcak of Douglas and Francis M. Zifcak of Arlington, Texas; a sister, Katherine Vassar of Uxbridge; and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Mary E. Albin. Born in Northbridge on Dec. 18, 1945, he was the son of Francis A. and Mary (Gonsorcik) Zifcak and lived in Uxbridge since 1978.

Mr. Zifcak worked as the director of global benefits for EMC in Hopkinton. He was a 1964 graduate of Douglas Memorial High School and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. He was a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, serving as a helicopter pilot, and received the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, a Bronze Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

He later served in the National Guard. A member of Joseph Michna VFW in Douglas he took great pride in his military accomplishments and participated in annual Memorial Day Parades as a flag bearer.

Always a family man, he loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sports events.

An avid golfer, he annually played in the Veterans Inc. Golf Tournament. He spent winters in Florida

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

SENIOR SNIPPETS

Thrift Store The thrift store is open Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Transportation Programs for Seniors The Senior Center offers transportation to and from the Senior Center as well as local shopping Tuesdays through Fridays for Hopkinton residents.

The Senior Center also can help residents find transportation assistance for medical appointments and essential shopping. Anyone interested should call the Senior Center to learn more.

Cultural Conversations: Guided Tour of Persia Wednesday, July 20, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (virtual) Participants will travel back in time to learn about the history, culture and architecture of ancient Persia in addition to modern-day Iran. The presentation includes stories and information about the cities of Tehran, Shiraz, Yazd and Isfahan, just to name a few.

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and often spent time relaxing in Maine. He was a former national director and secretary of the Slovak Catholic Sokol in Douglas. He was also a big fan of white chocolate, carrot cake and his daughter’s strawberry rhubarb pie. Dennis will be remembered as a true gentleman who put everyone else first and was always willing to help others.

His funeral and celebration of his life was held June 18 in St. Denis Church, Douglas. Burial was to be later in Arlington National Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to Veterans Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605.

Lawrence MacDonald Lawrence P. “Paul” MacDonald, 96, late of Webster and a former resident of Hopkinton and Natick, passed away in Worcester on June 6.

He was the son of the late Cecelia (Cournoyer) and Alexander MacDonald, and the husband of the late Helen G. (McEwen) MacDonald, with whom he shared 71 wonderful years. He is survived by his son, Steven D. MacDonald and wife Susan of Holliston, and his daughter, Janet Coutu of Webster. He was the father of the late Paul F. MacDonald and the brother of Marie Nichols of Holliston and the late David, Anne, Gerald and James MacDonald and Virginia Haskell. Paul was the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and is survived by many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was celebrated in the chapel of the John Everett & Sons Funeral Home at Natick Common on June 18, followed by inurnment at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Natick.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.

Art Appreciation: Early New England Seascapes Thursday, July 21, 1-2 p.m.

Attendees will enjoy a selection of images by several prominent American artists, including Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper and Andrew Wyeth, and increase their understanding of all that goes into the creation of an effective seascape painting.

Helping Your Kids (and Grandkids) Wednesday, July 27, 1 p.m.

Many seniors want to help their grandchildren get through college while not affecting their potential college financial aid. Some want to help a child or grandchild who has special needs while not disqualifying them from government programs. In this seminar, elder law attorney Arthur Bergeron helps parents and grandparents figure out how to help without hurting.

Repair Cafe 2022 — Volunteers Needed Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m.-noon Many people have items that don’t work quite right — tables with wobbly legs, scissors or garden tools that no longer cut very well, lamps with balky switches, and so on — and they either put up with the annoyance or wind up throwing out perfectly usable and fixable items. The Senior Center is hosting its first Repair Cafe, a community event where people bring their not-quite-working-right but too-good-to-throwaway items, and other community members help repair them. Organizers are looking for those who are handy and enjoy fixing things to volunteer to help out with general furniture repair, lamp rewiring, sharpening of garden tools/scissors/kitchen knives, simple sewing and mending, appliance repair (e.g., can openers, hair dryers), etc. Call to learn more.

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 19

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

minoring in the arts. For more information, including a vendor’s application, visit cozzens.net/polyarts.

Hopkinton Family Day Sept. 17

Next Veterans Breakfast July 1 The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. No registration is required. The next breakfast is July 1 and is sponsored by the family of Joseph Pyne. Organizers will recall several past military events that happened on this date and entertain sports fans with baseball events from July 1. Last month’s discussions will be extended to include past significant events of selected Hopkinton veterans. Future veterans activities planned for Hopkinton will be announced. For more information, contact Amy Beck at the Senior Center, 508-497-9730.

Trails organizations seek monthly volunteers The Hopkinton Trail Coordination and Management Committee (TCMC) and the Hopkinton Trails Club have created a monthly trail volunteer day on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m.-noon. Residents also are encouraged to inform these groups of maintenance issues observed on trails (downed trees, trails becoming overgrown, etc.) by emailing TCMCchair@hopkintonma.gov or hopkinton.trails.club@gmail.com. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.

Project Just Because Golf Tournament July 11 Project Just Because will host a fundraising golf tournament on Monday, July 11, at Hopkinton Country Club. The event starts at 8 a.m. and will include a continental breakfast, 18 holes of golf, dinner, raffles and a silent auction, with the proceeds going to the families served by PJB. For more information, including about being a sponsor or making a donation, visit projectjustbecause.org.

Weekly Farmers Market Sundays at Town Common The Hopkinton Farmers Market has returned to the Town Common on Sundays from 1-5 p.m., running through Oct. 16. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers again will receive a $10 incentive for a $10 purchase, and there will be Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) benefits as well. For information, including a list of vendors for each week, visit hopkintonfarmersmarket.com.

Hopkinton PolyArts festival Sept. 10 The 2022 Hopkinton PolyArts festival will be held at the Town Common on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event, established in 1974, features regional artisans, crafters and local nonprofits. Now a subcommittee of the Hopkinton Cultural Council, it is managed by a small committee of volunteers.

Proceeds fund multiple scholarships to local high school graduates majoring or

Event Calendar Sponsored by

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 on Sept. 17. The event is sponsored by many generous local businesses. Town organizations, nonprofits, clubs and businesses located in town offer activities for everyone. All activities (not including the food trucks) are free for the whole family.

Hopkinton Charity Golf Event Sept. 26 The Hopkinton Charity Golf Event, sponsored by the Hopkinton Emergency Fund and Hopkinton Women’s club, is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 26, at Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge. The event starts at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at 1 p.m. with lunch and a silent/live auction. The fee is $125 per golfer, which includes greens fees, a cart and lunch. Non-golfers can join the lunch for a $40 donation. For more information, visit hefhwc.perfectgolfevent.com.

Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk Oct. 2 Registration is open for the 34th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 2. Funds raised are donated to the DanaFarber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk features four distances, from the full marathon (starting in Hopkinton) to a 5K. To register or to support a walker, visit JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for a $5 discount off the registration fee. All registered participants will receive a bib, medal and T-shirt.

Al-Anon weekly meetings Thursdays Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend a confidential Al-Anon meeting, which takes place every Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. at the meeting room in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (61 Wood Street). For more information, visit al-anon.org or call 888-4AL-ANON.

BACK TO SCHOOL Special Seasonal Section in Hopkinton Independent

Reach EVERY FAMILY in Hopkinton

HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS The Rust of Us Artist Reception July 1 | 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Meet the artists Mark Mercer and Christopher Plunkett at their opening reception. This mixed media exhibition of photography and paintings speaks to finding the beauty in the forgotten, to the infinite flow of time — how we spend it, how we navigate it, and what we leave behind. The Rust of Us exhibition runs through July 15. Reception is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

Summer Arts Series Concert: July 1 Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Back at HCA by popular demand—get ready for an amazing concert featuring Erin Harpe and her band The Delta Swingers! Country blues at its very best... one of the finest finger-picking acoustic blues singers in the land. Wine, beer, and food available for purchase.

Summer Arts Series Concert: July 2 Tokyo Tramps | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Hailing from the Land of Rising Sun (Japan), TOKYO TRAMPS is a group of American roots music fanatics. The musical journey started when the group left Japan to go to Louisiana searching for the spirit of rock and roll. Soon they found the key—blues. Wine, beer, and food available for purchase.

Summer July Jazz: July 3 Nate Aronow Nextet | 11:00 to 1:00 p.m.

The Nate Aronow Nextet has been delighting Boston area audiences for the last several years with their brand of thoughtful and entertaining contemporary jazz, Latin, and R&B.

HCA Summer Arts Series is sponsored in part by Phipps and MAPFRE Insurance and DELL Technologies.

Concerts are held outside but will move indoors in the event of rain.

In an effort to the make the arts accessible for all, our Summer Arts Series Concerts are on a Pay-What-You-Can basis when you reserve your tickets!

Your Arts Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org

Publication Dates: August 3 • August 17 • August 31 • September 14

Reserve your advertising space today!

Contact Susanne Farber (508) 954-8148 or sales@hopkintonindependent.com

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20 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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The Tri-Valley League recently announced its All-Star teams, and Hopkinton was well-represented, including three league MVPs in Sean Golembiewski, Kate Powers and Lex Kaye.

For boys track and field, Golembiewski was named MVP. Eric Touzjian, Russell Perryman, Kavin Prasana, Craig Salois, SPORTS Wyatt Ruff, Josh Krymgold, Luke Boothroyd, Ruben Noroian ROUNDUP and Paul Litscher were All-Stars, while Declan Mick and Drew Bialobrzeski received honorable mention. Brian Prescott was named Coach of the Year for the TVL Large champs.

For girls track and field, Powers was named MVP. Emma DeMichele, Sarah Furlong, Bethel Flanagan, Elyse Srodawa and Kiki Fossbender were All-Stars, while Ellie Driscoll, Grace Joy, Autumn Tumbleton, Katie Callery, Steph Johnson, Kiley Locke and Avery Sawyer received honorable mention. Jean Cann was named Coach of the Year for the TVL Large champs.

For boys tennis, which won the TVL Large title, Kaye was named MVP, while Adam Glace, Spencer Smith and Rishit Shekhar were All-Stars.

For girls tennis, which won the TVL Large title, Paula Sendele, Riley Krattenmaker, Victoria Allen, Hailey Kessler and Romy Zinman were named AllStars, and Lyn Calkins was named Coach of the Year.

For boys lacrosse, Logan DelPonte and Owen MacDonald were All-Stars, while Luke Beaudet, Wyatt Iantosca, Dylan Mansur and Jack Provencher received honorable mention. The Hillers also won the TVL Sportsmanship Award.

For girls lacrosse, Emily Hayward was an All-Star, while Jaymie Arena, Emma Dacey, Jessie Ianelli and Michaela Scannevin received honorable mention.

For baseball, Joe Carrazza, Andrew Gaughan and John Wauters were All-Stars, and the team received the TVL Sportsmanship Award.

For softball, Ashley Callery, Caroline DeSimone and Holly Paharik were named All-Stars, while Charlotte Cann and Julianna Ceddia received honorable mention. …

HHS recently handed out its own awards. Powers and Gaughan were named Hiller Athletes of the Year. Jessie Ianelli and Aryan Shah were named Scholar Athletes of the Year. Fossbender and Nick Paharik were named Marines Scholar Athletes of the Year.

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Tourney runs come to end The HHS baseball team ended its season on June 11 with a 7-6 loss to host Mansfield in a Division 2 quarterfinal game.

The sixth-seeded Hillers fell behind 2-0 after one inning, but Joe Carrazza tied things up with a long, bases-loaded single down the line in left field in the second, scoring Andrew Gaughan and Joe Scardino. However, third-seeded Mansfield answered with a three-run home run to center field in the bottom of the inning from starting pitcher Jimmy Gilleran. The Hornets added a run in the fourth to make it 6-2.

Hopkinton got one back in the fifth as Carrazza reached base on a wild pitch after striking out, advanced to second on a walk to Scott Pagliuca, stole third and then scored on a groundout by Nick Paharik.

In the sixth, Charlie Simulis singled and Scott Pagliuca walked. One out later, Carrazza ripped a two-run single to center to trim the deficit to 6-5.

Mansfield plated an insurance run in the sixth, which proved vital as Hopkinton scored once in the seventh, when Simulis singled to drive in Charlie Petruney. The Hillers had the potential tying run on second when the game ended on a groundout.

In their previous game on June 8, the Hillers won a thriller over visiting Norwood as Carazza ripped a run-scoring single down the right field line in the ninth inning to break a scoreless tie.

Girls tennis dropped a 3-2 decision to Westwood on June 10 to close out its season. …

HHS boys tennis saw its season come to an end June 10 with a 5-0 loss to Duxbury in the Division 2 quarterfinals. …

Sean Gołembiewski finished sixth in the 110-meter hurdles and earned AllAmerica honors on June 19 at the Nike Outdoor Nationals, which were held at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field. Golembiewski clocked a time of 14.35 seconds. At the same event, Russell Perryman finished eighth in the javelin in the Emerging Elite Division with a personal-best heave of 46.33 meters (152 feet).

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Bradley shines at U.S. Open

HHS graduate Keegan Bradley finished in a tie for seventh place at the U.S. Open golf tournament held June 16-19 at The Country Club in Brookline. Bradley, who grew up in Vermont and moved to Hopkinton for his senior year of high school, was two strokes off the lead heading into the final day. He finished with 1-over-par 71 in the final round. He ended the tournament at 1-under-par, five amily Family Owned Family Owned &Owned Operated & Operated &Operated Operated Serving Serving MetroWest Serving MetroWest MetroWest Boston Boston Since Boston Since 1968 Since 19681968 Family Owned & Serving MetroWest Boston Since 1968 strokes back of winner Matt Fitzpatrick.

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The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 21

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Tian competes in national gymnastics meet Rhythmic gymnast Emma Tian, shown after winning an event at regionals, went on to compete in a national competition earlier this month.

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hen Emma Tian was just 4 years old, her mother tried to find an activity for her. Tian, now 11, tried rhythmic gymnastics, and she has risen up the ranks to earn a spot at her first national meet this month.

The competition, which took place from June 1-5, took Tian back to Wisconsin, a state where she lived for the first few years of her life.

“It was exciting to visit again and exciting to take part in nationals,” said Tian, who just finished her fifth-grade year at Hopkins School. “When my mom found gymnastics, I got really excited and I liked it a lot so I kept doing it.”

American gymnasts are divided into categories ranging from 1-10, with the first three ranks reserved for beginners and the latter categories for more advanced athletes. In rhythmic gymnastics, athletes perform a floor routine with a type of apparatus, including a hoop, a ball, clubs, ribbon or rope.

Tian is Level 6, among the advanced groups, and has excelled in several events. She was able to place in both the rope and ribbon events at nationals (second in rope and sixth in ribbon), and placed in every one of her apparatuses at the regional competition (first in floor and rope, second for allaround and fourth in hoop and ribbon).

“I was really happy with my performance,” Tian said, adding that clubs and ribbon are her favorite events.

One of Tian’s routines might only last 90 seconds to two minutes, but there are a large number of elements on which she is judged in that short amount of time. Gymnasts are given

points based on how difficult their routine might be and are scored on doing jumps, balances and turns while twirling and tossing the apparatus at hand.

There also are dance steps and other moves, and every twist and turn is scrutinized by the judges, including an athlete’s rhythm, expression and musicality.

“Sometimes you can get deductions for very little things,” Tian said.

Tian said she loves the camaraderie associated with the sport, including getting the chance to meet gymnasts from other parts of the country and learning what they enjoy about the sport. She said she made some friends during her time at nationals.

She also credits her coach, Yulia Kisseleva of Elite Training Center in Needham. “[Kisseleva] has been training me since I was little and I have trained here my whole career in gymnastics,” Tian shared. “It would not be the same days as right now without her.”

The national competition brought the season to a close. It will start up again in January with new routines and different apparatuses, Tian said. In the meantime, Tian said she will be spending time dancing ballet and playing the piano. She’s also looking forward to a trip to Six Flags and the Hershey chocolate factory. The twists of being a gymnast mean she has no fear when it comes to riding a roller coaster.

And, despite the high stakes and the margin for error, Tian said she was not overly nervous when stepping onto the national stage for the first time. She also can’t wait to get back.

“I want to qualify for nationals again next year and the year after that, too,” she said, “and then get higher scores than I did this year.”

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22 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

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

June 7 6:56 a.m. A detail officer reported a dog running loose in the roadway of Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and checked the area with a negative find.

8:23 a.m. A walk-in reported a person who may be driving commercial vehicles without a commercial driver’s license.

Officer Brittany Firth investigated and took a report.

1:10 p.m. The State Police reported suspicious activity in the State Park. The Ashland Police Department was notified, as the incident took place in Ashland.

6:27 p.m. Officer Jessica Ferreira checked on lowhanging wires on Winter Street.

June 8 6:26 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Sean McKeon assisted a disabled motor vehicle with a dead battery on West Main Street.

12:23 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin responded to Elm Street and took a report of an immediate threat. An individual was transported to the hospital.

12:55 p.m. A caller reported her dog was hit by a car on Wood Street. Officers Matthew Santoro and Shannon Beloin responded and assisted. The owner subsequently took the dog to the veterinarian.

1:49 p.m. A walk-in handed in a cell phone that she found on a Main Street bench. The incident was logged.

2:20 p.m. A School Street resident reported an ongoing barking and wandering dog complaint. The animal control officer was notified.

5:00 p.m. A caller on Main Street reported a stolen catalytic converter. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

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7:14 p.m. A walk-in reported a piece of yellow metal in the roadway of West Main Street. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and removed it.

June 9 1:41 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield checked on a motor vehicle parked on Wood Street and moved the driver along.

1:54 a.m. Officer Matthew LaTour checked on a motor vehicle parked on Pratt Way and moved the driver along.

7:23 a.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on West Main Street. Officer Basit Dennis responded and located the vehicle, which had pulled into a gas station. The driver had no impairments.

10:34 a.m. A walk-in reported a truck stuck on Grove Street that will cause property damage if moved. Officers Brendon Lyver and Brennan Grimley responded and assisted the disabled motor vehicle.

12:45 p.m. Officers Brendon Lyver and Brennan Grimley investigated a suspicious incident on Hidden Brick Road and took a report.

1:29 p.m. A caller reported a large turtle in the roadway of East Main Street. The animal control officer was contacted and responded.

2:15 p.m. A caller reported a beagle mix wearing a red collar was lost in the State Park. The animal control officer was notified.

2:37 p.m. Officer Brendon Lyver and Brennan Grimley assisted a disabled motor vehicle on Main Street.

3:59 p.m. A caller reported a fallen wire on Clinton Street. Officer Basit Dennis responded and contacted Verizon.

8:49 p.m. A caller reported a deer ran into her car on West Main Street. The State Police were on the scene and Officer Cody Normandin responded to assist. No personal injuries were reported.

10:20 p.m. A Davenport Lane resident reported a vehicle driving up and down the street multiple times. At the end of the call, the caller stated the vehicle drove into a garage of one of the homes. Officers Robert Ekross and Nicholas Saletnik checked the neighborhood and all was OK.

June 10 9:53 a.m. A Hopkinton Country Club employee on Saddle Hill Road reported two members caused a disturbance while arguing about golf. Officer Brittany Firth responded and took a report.

10:38 a.m. A Greenwood Road caller reported losing her Acura car keys and wanted it logged.

11:05 a.m. Officer Basit Dennis reported a student walked out of school and was on Grove Street. A report was to follow.

3:40 p.m. A walk-in reported a suspicious male in the area. Officer Basit Dennis spoke with the walk-in and took

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a report.

3:54 p.m. A caller reported the crosswalk lights on Cedar Street were not functioning. Officers Robert Ekross and Nicholas Saletnick responded and contacted the DPW. 8:16 p.m. A caller reported teenagers threw feces at her house. Officer Sean McKeon responded and took a report of vandalism.

9:56 p.m. A Constitution Court caller reported hearing screaming for help and children crying in the area. Officers Cody Normandin, Robert Ekross, Sean McKeon and Nicholas Saletnik responded and checked the area and found all in order.

June 11 4:09 p.m. A Gassett Road resident complained of a neighbor’s loud pool filter. Officer Basit Dennis responded and reported no loud noise when he drove by.

5:21 p.m. The Milford Police Department requested an officer to speak to a Kimball Road resident, who was involved in a hit and run in Milford. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and was canceled en route when Milford officers located the operator.

June 12 10:42 a.m. A motorist reported a woman and two small children on Wedgwood Drive yelled at passing vehicles and recorded license plates. The caller stated she was driving just 15 mph. Officers Brennan Grimley and Brendon Lyver responded and spoke to the woman about the road hazard.

2:01 p.m. A caller complained of vehicles parked on both sides of the roadway of Ash Street, making it unpassable. Officer Basit Dennis responded and spoke with the homeowner, who had the vehicles removed.

4:13 p.m. A caller reported a teen threw a water balloon at her vehicle on Hayden Rowe Street and then took off.

Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and took a report.

6:03 p.m. A caller reported debris in the roadway of Ash Street. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and removed it.

10:55 p.m. A caller reported leaving work at the plaza on Macadam Road and finding her tire had been stolen. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and took a report.

June 13 7:32 a.m. Officers Matthew Santoro and Shannon Beloin responded to a motor vehicle crash on Main Street and took a report.

9:48 a.m. A Fruit Street caller reported his mailbox was damaged the previous day. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and took a report of a hit and run.

11:24 a.m. The DPW reported an abandoned motor vehicle on School Street that had been parked in a hazardous spot for several days. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and spoke with the owner, who removed the vehicle.

3:16 p.m. An Ash Street caller complained of a loud Corvette that speeds up and down the street between 8 p.m. and midnight. Officer Cody Normandin left a message for the reporting person.

June 14 8:09 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious vehicle on Main Street. Officer

The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022 • 23

Police Log Matthew Santoro responded and reported it was a detail officer’s car.

1:23 p.m. A Winter Street caller reported a stolen propane tank. Officer Brittany Firth responded and took a report.

2:43 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street and reported no personal injuries.

4:11 p.m. A concerned caller complained of cars speeding on Main Street in the afternoon after school.

Officer Cody Normandin spoke with the reporting person.

June 15 4:29 p.m. A Downey Street resident reported an Amazon driver damaged her property and drove away. Officer Brennan Grimley responded to view the damage and took a report.

6:45 p.m. A caller requested to speak with an officer about getting assistance with returning and receiving belongings from a male in town due to a no contact order. Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted.

June 16 6:39 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon found a counterfeit $20 bill on Hayden Rowe Street and took a report.

8:56 a.m. Officers Brendon Lyver, Basit Dennis and Brennan Grimley responded to a motor vehicle accident on Granite Street and issued a criminal application and a civil infraction to the driver. The vehicle was towed. Officer Grimley took a report.

9:29 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle was stuck in a ditch in a West Main Street parking lot. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and assisted. A tow truck subsequently removed the vehicle.

9:38 a.m. A caller reported a small pug or terrier running in and out of the roadway on Chamberlain Street. The caller reported he took possession of the dog. The animal control officer was contacted.

3:46 p.m. Officer Cody Normandin was flagged down on Main Street by a woman wanting to report harassment of her daughter. Officer Normandin took a report.

5:27 p.m. A Hayden Rowe Street resident reported his dog was missing.

The animal control officer was con-

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tacted and reported the dog was picked up in the morning.

June 17 1:22 a.m. A caller reported a goose had been hit and was in the middle of West Main Street. Officer Basit Dennis responded, and the goose was moved to the side of the road.

The animal control officer was notified.

3:20 p.m. Officers Matthew Santoro and Brennan Grimley responded to a motor vehicle crash on Wood Street involving two cars. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed one vehicle.

4:02 p.m. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded along with the Fire Department to a report of a fallen tree on a wire that was smoking.

10:42 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted a disabled motor vehicle on Spring Street.

June 18 1:22 a.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik checked on a person walking on Spring Street. All was OK, as he was on his way home.

12:05 p.m. A caller reported two vehicles without placards parked in handicap spots on Constitution Court. Officer Basit Dennis responded and issued parking citations.

1:08 p.m. Officers Shannon Beloin and Basit Dennis responded to a motor vehicle crash on Prestwick Drive, where a car struck a telephone pole and airbags were deployed. No personal injuries were reported. Verizon was notified about damage to the pole. A tow truck removed the vehicle. Officer Beloin noted damage to a mailbox belonging to the caller. A report was to follow.

1:54 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator in a tan SUV on Sanctuary Lane. The operator subsequently entered a house. The incident was logged.

3:06 p.m. A motorist complained of many vehicles parked on Lumber Street, making it difficult for other vehicles to pass. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported there was ample room to pass.

4:15 p.m. A caller reported the head of a dead animal on her front lawn. Officer Basit Dennis responded and removed the deer head.

5:12 p.m. A caller reported youths loitering around the back entrance of a Main Street business and leaving trash around the property. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and removed them.

8:27 p.m. Officer Jessica Ferreira assisted the Fire Department in verifying the owner of a vehicle parked on Main Street before making entry.

8:29 p.m. The Natick Police Department requested an officer to make contact with a Proctor Street resident and have him respond. Officer Matthew LaTour attempted to make contact with the person but learned that he no longer lived

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June 19 11:08 a.m. A motorist reported a vehicle driving on the wrong side of the road on Wood Street. Officers Matthew Santoro and Shannon Beloin responded and located the driver, who stated he was dodging a dog in the road. All was OK. 1:48 p.m. Officers Shannon Beloin and Matthew Santoro responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars and personal injury on West Main Street. An ambulance responded and transported an individual to the hospital. A tow truck removed one vehicle. A crash report was taken.

4:55 p.m. A caller reported unidentified packages near the roadway of West Main Street. Officers Matthew LaTour and Jessica Ferreira responded and left a message with the DPW to pick them up. A report was taken.

9:12 p.m. A caller reported a black truck sped toward him on Hayward Street, and he complained that there was a lot of speeding in the area but no radar checks. Officer Matthew LaTour responded for radar monitoring.

June 20 11:45 a.m. A caller from a Main Street business reported many youths were loitering and disrupting several Main Street businesses. Officers Matthew Santoro and Brennan Grimley responded and checked the area with a negative find. The business owners were advised to call back if the youths return.

1:42 p.m. Officers Brennan Grimley, Matthew Santoro and Shannon Beloin responded to a motor vehicle crash on Wood Street. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

2:26 p.m. An Eastview Road resident reported a possible unregistered solicitor in the area. Officers Matthew Santoro and Brennan Grimley responded and checked the neighborhood with a negative find.

5:07 p.m. An employee of a Main Street business complained about five kids hanging out in the lobby. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and they were gone upon his arrival.

6:40 p.m. A caller reported a telephone pole fell down on Ash Street. Detective Gregg DeBoer and Officer Matthew Santoro responded and notified Verizon and Eversource.

6:55 p.m. A caller reported cars were parked illegally on Hayden Rowe Street and blocking emergency access. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and issued parking violations.

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9:47 p.m. An Avenue D caller reported a 22-year-old erratic male who possibly made statements about suicide.

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24 • The Hopkinton Independent • June 29, 2022

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week

E .

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

Here is Baypath’s description of Bailey: “Our best friend Bailey wants to know why he is still waiting to meet his family! Bailey is a wonderful dog and he is so excited to find his new home. Bailey loves people! He is also great with kids!

“Bailey wants to be the center of attention, so no dogs or cats for him (both in his home or out in the world).

“Bailey is house-trained and does well on car rides. Bailey LOVES toys!

He is like a puppy with his stuffed animals — he is the cutest! Bailey loves his walks. He is a perfect gentleman on leash and doesn’t pull! He enjoys his swimming time! He is ready to swim with his new family this summer.

“This perfect gentleman is patiently waiting for a family that is home often to spoil him the way he deserves to be spoiled! He will give you all the love in return!”

For more information on Bailey 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.

HopkintonIndependent.com