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HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 23 | No. 2 | January 26, 2022

Schools discuss COVID amid ‘culture of fear’

By Mary Ellen Gambon Contributing Writer

A

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

t the Jan. 13 School Committee meeting, Chair Nancy Cavanaugh welcomed the Board of Health, which requested a joint meeting with the committee to discuss the rise in COVID-19 cases because of the omicron variant, which is considered highly contagious in comparison with previous variants.

“I just want to start by saying that this has been a really challenging time for people,” she said, noting that the committee has received feedback on both sides of the issue of restriction policies. “I feel like we are in a time when people have very strong opinions, which is great. I’m hoping we can come together as a town and work toward navigating the next piece of this together in a way that is best for everybody, really, for the health and safety and educational benefit of our kids.”

Elizabeth Whittemore, the Board of Health chair, echoed this sentiment.

“We may not all agree about how

PRETZEL LOGIC

Hopkinton High School junior Adam Distasio (left) has his Bellingham opponent all tied up en route to a victory in their Jan. 8 match at Hopkinton Middle School’s Doyle Gym. For more on the HHS wrestling team, see Page 14.

COVID | 11

INSIDE

Hopkinton’s Farrell heads to Olympics

NEWS

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

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Local store sells $10M winning lottery ticket

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Farrell | 13

PHOTO/HARVARD UNIVERSITY

ean Farrell has been a high school hockey standout, an NHL draftee, and a Division 1 collegiate star. Now the Hopkinton native will be called an Olympian.

The 20-year-old was named to the U.S. men’s hockey team for the Winter Olympic Games taking place next month in Beijing.

“It’s unbelievable, playing in the Olympics is so crazy and such a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Farrell said. “I had an idea that it might be a possibility, but when my coach called me and told me it was official

Sean Farrell will take a break from his season at Harvard University in order to compete for Team USA in next month’s Winter Olympics in Beijing.

FOEMMEL

4

COMMUNITY

Trails Club presents alternative to committee

6

POLITICS

Nomination papers available for elected town positions

23

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2 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 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 7,200 addresses. It’s also available at Price Chopper and Hopkinton Drug as well as at many other local businesses.

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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, Deborah Burke Henderson, Tricia LaCascia, John Cardillo, John Buday, Sandy Quadros Bowles, Christine Strickland, Mary Ellen Gambon, Christie Vogt

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

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.

HHS girls basketball finds fitting honor for Korbey S

ince Mary Korbey died in 2015 following a battle with cancer, the Hopkinton High School girls basketball program has tried to identify an appropriate way to honor her.

That’s not an easy task, considering what a special person Mary Korbey was.

A Hall of Fame athlete at HHS in the early 1980s (when she was known as Mary Marquedant), Korbey went on to play basketball at UMass. She returned to Hopkinton and coached youth basketball and other sports for many years while raising a family and working as a real estate agent. She touched many lives in town and was revered as a compassionate, supportive coach who got the best out of her players, while putting in countless hours behind the scenes. I can attest to this personally, having served on the board of the Hopkinton Basketball Association with her.

After a scholarship was started in her name, HHS players joined Korbey’s husband, Mike, two daughters, Mikala and Calli, and son, Cooper, to volunteer at the Mary Korbey 3v3 Tournament each March. The event is scheduled to return this spring INDEPENDENT after a two-year pandemic hiatus.

But HHS girls basketball coach Mike Greco wanted to THOUGHTS do more, so this season the program planned to start a winter JERRY SPAR break tournament in her name. COVID forced the cancellation of the inaugural Mary Korbey Invitational Tournament, so the team planned to use the Jan. 23 makeup game vs. Holliston as a fundraiser for the Mary Korbey Scholarship Fund.

“Mary had a hugely positive influence in the Hopkinton basketball community,” shared Greco, who also teaches at the high school. “Personally, in addition to having all three of the Korbey children in class, I had the good fortune to coach her son, Cooper, while I was a member of the boys program, and then I was lucky enough to be able to coach Calli for three seasons as the head coach of the girls program.

“During that time it was easy to see how Mary had helped instill a love of basketball into her children and the players she had coached. Furthermore, a number of our graduating student-athletes have benefited from the Mary Korbey Scholarship since it’s origination. I’m just happy that we have an opportunity to give back to a family that has given so much to Hopkinton basketball over the years.”

Valentines for Vets through Jan. 30 As part of the Martin Luther King Day of Service, Hopkinton Girl Scouts Troop 65040 is sponsoring a Valentines for Veterans program. Individuals can write Valentine’s Day cards and drop them in the bin outside of 14 Colella Farm Road by Jan. 30. “Write a kind statement, thank them for their service, make some art, be creative!!” the event flyer reads. For more information, email hopgstroop65040@gmail.com. …

The Hopkinton Emergency Fund is planning its inaugural golf tournament and looking for volunteers to help with organizing the event. The tournament will be May 23 at Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge. No golf experience is necessary. “We are just looking for people who like or are interested in organizing events,” Hopkinton Emergency Fund co-founder Zack Sisitsky shared. For more information, email Sisitsky at zacksisitsky@gmail.com. …

Your chance to bid farewell to retiring Hopkinton Police Officer Phil Powers is Friday, Feb. 4, when the Hopkinton Police Association hosts a party in his honor at the Portuguese Club in Milford. Tickets are $45 and are available at eventbrite. com/e/phil-powers-retirement-party-tickets-237702794457. …

Readers might recall a recent item in this column on Hopkinton native Richard Potter, who is recognized as America’s first Black celebrity as well as the young nation’s first famous magician. Potter toured the country as a magician and ventriloquist in the early 1800s. Resident Ed Harrow reports that there is an individual at Sturbridge Village who does an impersonation of Potter, “and he’s Independent thoughts | 3

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damn good!” A quick internet search reveals the magician to be Robert Olson, who has been performing as Potter since the 1970s (including a visit to Hopkinton in 2015). Added Harrow: “He may not have all of Potter’s skills, but part of his show is relating events in Potter’s career.”

“Its fine to talk about selling, but what are we supposed to buy?”

Independent writer pens children’s book “Lelia’s Aventura” is a children’s book written

by Hopkinton Independent writer Deborah Burke Henderson.

“Home sale prices were crazy last year!”

“Our house is too big for just the two of us”

“Our house is too small for our growing family”

“Maybe we should wait till Spring?”

“What about rising interest rates?”

Should we sell NOW?

This newspaper is very fortunate to have some talented writers on its staff.

One of our contributors, Deborah Burke Henderson, recently completed a children’s book called “Lelia’s Aventura.” The story is about a girl who is afraid of bugs but then becomes braver after a series of “buggy” interactions and support from her abuelo (grandfather, for those of you who flunked high school Spanish).

“This charming story has a loving and truthful message about the preciousness of life, and it will touch everyone’s heart,” reads a description on Henderson’s website (deborahburkehenderson.com). “It is dedicated to the nature lover in all of us, uplifts mindful awareness, and embraces inclusivity.”

A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Nature Conservancy and the Environmental Defense Fund, charities that help support innovative solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges.

Pit bulls should not be singled out I was extremely disturbed by the remark from a Hopkinton community member regarding her warning: “Adopters should be careful with pit bulls.” As a veterinarian, I am disappointed by the ignorance of such comments. Of course all potential adopters should be mindful of a future pet’s history and temperament, but to single out pit bulls is unfair to the breed and frankly remiss to print.

I believe all potential dog owners should be in close contact with the rescue group of their choosing and be on the same page if an animal can or should be placed with young children. Every animal is an individual and I would encourage owners to speak with their veterinarians instead of listening to the misguided albeit well-meaning comments of a layperson.

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Support for stone dust on town trails In view of the current discussion about the routing and surfacing of the Hopkinton portion of the Upper Charles Trail, I’d like to alert readers to the results of a petition I initiated in 2020. I collected signatures in person on Center Trail (which will surely form a part of the Upper Charles Trail) and online, with a total of 288 responses. (You can access the online petition at ipetitions.com/petition/ keep-the-trails-soft.) The results show the overwhelming majority of trail users favor a surface of stone dust, not asphalt, and a trail that runs through woods wherever possible, not along roadways. Some typical comments were: “The Blackstone River Bikeway is an example of the havoc roots eventually create for any wheeled vehicle on a paved trail.” “Do not pave forest trails that should be enjoyed for their natural beauty.” “I don’t know of one nature lover who walks in the woods so they can be on pavement.” “The [stone dust] surface is a distance runner’s dream.” “Paving would unnecessarily increase runoff.” “Unpaved trails are easier on my old knees.”

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

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4 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

Cumberland Farms sells winning $10M lottery ticket Attorney David Spillane, representing the owner of a $10 million instant lottery ticket purchased at Cumberland Farms in Hopkinton, holds the payout check.

PHOTO/MASSACHUSETTS STATE LOTTERY

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opkinton’s Cumberland Farms ended 2021 with a stroke of good luck. The West Main Street store sold the first $10 million winning ticket in the Massachusetts State Lottery’s $10,000,000 Bonus Wins instant ticket game.

Cumberland Farms will receive a $50,000 NEWS bonus for selling the BRIEFS winning ticket.

The winner(s) chose not to reveal their identity, as the prize was claimed by attorney David Spillane on behalf of the Tommy D Nominee Trust of Quincy. The trust opted to receive the prize as a one-time payment of $6.5 million. After taxes were taken out, the total on the check was $4.615 million.

Spillane, who has represented 50 lottery winners, told the Quincy Sun that the trust takes its name from the character played by Joe Pesci in the 1990 movie “Goodfellas” — Tommy DeVito.

Fire hits Pine Island Road home

60 Main Street, Hopkinton 508.435.6738

The Hopkinton Fire Department responded to a house fire on Pine Island Road at 12:45 a.m. on Jan. 16 in subzero temperatures.

According to the department’s Twitter page, “First-arriving companies found heavy fire from a two-story wood frame.”

Mutual aid came from Ashland, Milford, Westborough, Southborough, Hopedale and Upton. HFD reported no injuries to the occupants or firefighters.

Meanwhile, on Jan. 5, a building owned by J.B. Sawmill & Land Clearing at 36 Fruit Street caught fire.

According to Fire Chief Bill Miller, firefighters arrived at about 6:40 a.m. to find flames in the attic and roof over a maintenance garage. Multiple neighboring towns sent fire personnel and equipment to assist, and the fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

Town organizations get Marathon numbers The Select Board held a meeting Jan. 18 to decide which local organizations would receive a charity number for the 2022 Boston Marathon. The town received 50 numbers from the Boston Athletic Association, which organizes the historic race.

Town Manager Norman Khumalo noted that last year, despite tough economic times and the race being rescheduled to October, local organizations were able to raise $294,000.

“There are many reasons why Hopkinton is a great community, and one of those reasons is the work that is done by the local civic organizations,” Khumalo said. “In its infinite wisdom, the Select Board several years back decided to put together a policy that lays out the framework for doing this work. In that policy it is stated that once every year at the appropriate time the Select Board defines the process for distributing the numbers. The intent is to have a process that fair, that is transparent and that is advantageous to local organizations.”

After some discussion, the board

HopkintonIndependent.com

decided to award numbers to the following town departments: Hopkinton Police Department (8 numbers), Hopkinton Fire Department (1), Hopkinton Senior Center (1), Hopkinton Public Library (1), Hopkinton Marathon Committee (5) and Veterans Celebration Committee (1).

The following 33 local organizations were awarded one number each: Hopkinton Women’s Club, Mental Health Collaborative, Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, Hopkinton Garden Club, Hopkinton PTO, Live for Evan, Keep Smilin’ for Abbie Foundation, Michael Lisnow Respite Center, Hopkinton Girls Youth Lacrosse, Hopkinton High School Robotics, Project Just Because, Hopkinton Tax Relief Committee, Baypath Humane Society, Hopkinton Boys Youth Lacrosse, Canty’s Underdog Scholarship Fund, Hopkinton Middle School (courtyard project), Dignity Matters, National Brain Tumor Society, Hopkinton Public Library Friends, Friends of Hopkinton Seniors, Friends of Hopkinton SEPAC, Demons Youth Hockey Association, Hopkinton Historical Society, Hopkinton Lions Club, Hopkinton Education Foundation, Sophie’s Hope Foundation, Hopkinton Little League, Friends of Hopkinton Inc., Hopkinton Emergency Fund, Sharon Timlin Memorial Event, Hopkinton Music Association, Hopkinton Food Pantry and Hopkinton Freedom Team.

The only two applicants who did not receive a number were Hopkinton High School and the Hopkinton Public Schools, Office of the Superintendent, who both applied as town departments.

Town launches online dog licensing system The town announced this month that dog licenses now may be renewed online. Owners can visit permiteyes.us/ hopkinton/publichome.php to search for their dog. Owners with dogs that have been registered previously will receive an email reminder that includes the link. New dog owners can visit the link and click on the “Apply for a new permit” button in the top right corner of the page.

“We look forward to this new system increasing ease and accessibility for our residents when it comes to licensing their dogs,” Town Clerk Connor Degan said. “This streamlined process will make it easier for residents to stay in compliance while allowing us to do more to keep them informed of the deadlines.”

Owners must provide their contact information, property information, dog and veterinary information, including evidence of the pet being neutered or spayed along with a rabies vaccination certificate.

All dog owners in Hopkinton must obtain a license for dogs six months and older on or before April 1 each year. The fee for licensing spayed or neutered dogs is $10. The fee for dogs that are not spayed or neutered is $15.

If a dog is not licensed on or before April 1, a late fee of $25 per household is added. Kennel licenses also are available through the online system.

“We are excited to be launching this new system for dog owners to utilize during the annual licensing News briefs | 5

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 5 News briefs | from page 4

period,” Director of Information Technology Josh Grossetti said. “The entire renewal and registration process can now be conveniently completed online, which will greatly simplify the licensing process.”

Open burning season underway The Hopkinton Fire Department is reminding residents that open burning season runs from Jan. 15 through May 1. A permit is required to burn in compliance with Massachusetts law.

Residents can apply through the e-permitting system on the HFD’s permitting portal, which can be accessed via the town’s website (hopkintonma. gov). Residents must activate their burn permits on days they wish to burn.

Burning must be completed between 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at least 75 feet from all buildings and when air quality is acceptable (as determined by the HFD).

An individual burning without a permit is subject to criminal charges.

For a list of acceptable items to burn and for additional information, visit the town’s website.

Town clerk explains census form error Town Clerk Connor Degan noted an error on the census forms that recently were mailed to every household in town to track the annual population and maintain voter lists.

Degan explained that the town vendor added a column for “gender” with data from the “mail to” column, making it appear as a “Y” or “N.” Wrote Degan: “Please disregard this column, we do not collect gender information and we will simply use that as an extension of the ‘mail to’ column.

I apologize for any confusion this may cause and will ensure this does not happen again.”

MWRTA reduces bus service The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority announced that it is temporarily reducing service on three of its lines due to COVID-related staffing shortages.

One of the affected lines is Route 5, which runs along Route 135 from the Blandin Avenue Hub in Framingham to the Hopkinton Price Chopper on West Main Street. The route, which normally continues until about 8 p.m. on weekdays, will run from 5:30 a.m. until 5:55 p.m.

The agency indicated it plans to return to full service as soon as possible.

Fuel assistance available Applications continue to be accepted for the home heating fuel assistance program through SMOC (South Middlesex Opportunity Council). The program runs from November to April, and is available to all households in Hopkinton if the total household income falls within certain guidelines.

A household of one qualifies for assistance with an income up to $39,105,

a household of two qualifies with an income up to $51,137, etc. Those potentially eligible for assistance includes people who heat with natural gas, oil, propane, electricity, wood, coal or pellets, as well as individuals whose heat is included in their rent.

For more information or to receive assistance applying for assistance, call the Senior Center Outreach Department at 508-497-9730 and ask for Kim or Julia (they will help any resident, not just seniors). Due to health and safety concerns, no walk-ins are accepted — only prescheduled appointments.

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Town Manager Norman Khumalo reported Jan. 11 that the town is applying for a grant to help defray the costs associated with the PFAS water treatment plan.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) PFAS6 Interim response grant program is designed to reimburse impacted public water systems for costs and expenses already incurred in immediately responding to a discovery of PFAS6 contamination in the drinking water supply prior to implementing a long-term treatment plan, Khumalo explained.

Khumalo noted that 105 customers have applied for assistance under the town’s PFAS water rebate program, which reimburses individuals in the sensitive subgroups (those advised not to consume the water) for bottled water purchases.

An article for the design and installation of a filtration system at Well 6 to reduce the level of PFAS in the water entering the system to a level below the state’s maximum contaminant level will be submitted for consideration at the 2022 Annual Town Meeting.

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Misc.: In-person Timlin 5K OK’d The Select Board approved a parade permit for the Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K on June 18. After two years as a virtual event, the race is scheduled to be held in person this spring.

Race director Rich Kennedy said the organizers will err on the side of safety and can wait until six weeks before the race before making a final decision on whether or not to keep it live.

The permit was approved subject to guidance from the state’s Department of Public Health. …

In conjunction with the Housing Authority, the Select Board voted unanimously to appoint Joseph Tobin to fill the Housing Authority’s vacant seat. The term expires June 30, 2026.

In conjunction with the Cemetery Commission, the board voted unanimously to appoint Linda Kimball to fill the vacant seat on the commission, expiring at the 2022 Annual Town Election.

Michael Riley was appointed to the Board of Appeals to a term expiring this July 1, and Beth Malloy was appointed constable to a term expiring at the 2022 Annual Town Election.

The Select Board confirmed the town manager’s appointment of two new town employees. Dawn Duplessis is the administrative assistant for Senior Services, and Cassandra Bigness is the Drug Free Communities Coalition coordinator for Youth and Family Services.

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6 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

Upper Charles Trail Committee hears alternate trail proposal

By Mary Ellen Gambon Contributing Writer

T

he Upper Charles Trail Committee (UCTC) held a virtual meeting last Wednesday with its primary focus to gather information on the presentation of an alternative trail design for the Hopkinton portion of the Upper Charles Trail running from Milford to Ashland.

Resident Peter LaGoy, co-chair of the Hopkinton Trails Club (a private organization), previously helped organize the construction of five current stone dust trails along 2.25 miles in town.

He proposed a stone dust shared-use path (SUP) that he said would be a less expensive and safer option to the one proposed by the UCTC. UCTC Chair Jane Moran opened the discussion by letting LaGoy and the public know that his proposal “is very different than the town-approved Upper Charles Trail Committee’s vision.” She compared it to the Holliston railroad bed, which is stone dust like the one at the Milford railroad bed, and noted that both Holliston and Milford had a flat rail bed to start.

She reminded LaGoy that the committee reviewed his proposal in 2016 and “ran into roadblocks right away,” such as wetlands and connectivity issues.

LaGoy said his proposal of a stone dust shared trail “is more consistent with the recreational needs of Hopkinton,” and it can be constructed at a lower cost and faster rate than the

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UCTC proposal.

For the five stone dust trails LaGoy helped implement in town, the average cost was approximately $150,000 per mile. Medfield is working on one now that will cost $181,000 per mile, while one in Holliston will cost $50,000 per mile, he said.

By contrast, the UCTC asphalt paved trail proposal has been estimated to cost $2 million a mile, while a typical paved road costs $5 million per mile. The committee plans to apply for a MassTrails grant to cover some of the costs.

“You’re building a mini road with all the complexities of building a mini road,” LaGoy explained. There would have to be wetlands surveys, engineered design stage plans, and stormwater management tools.

A stone dust path would need to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and town guidelines with guidance from the state. It has more of” a design-build approach,” according to LaGoy, who added that maintenance costs are lower for a stone dust trail.

He also said there were 19 factors being considered in the UCTC plan, such as noise impacts and air quality impacts, which LaGoy referred to as “overkill for a shared-use path.”

Said LaGoy of the two types: “Neither is better for all uses; both have their place.”

While pavement is better for inline skating, skateboards and biking, stone dust is designed for recreational activities such as walking, running and dog walking. Asphalt is hot for dogs’ feet in the summer.

Construction on a stone dust path could occur this year, whereas an asphalt one would not be completed for five years, he said.

LaGoy’s proposed trail would start at the end of the Center Trail at Loop Road, go to the Charlesview Estates neighborhood, and cross over both town-owned and privately owned parcels in a wooded area. The middle would go through the Hughes and Echo trails, similar to the UCTC plan. To the south, it proposes an 80-foot pedestrian bridge over Route 85 at the town line with Milford.

While five landowners would be affected by LaGoy’s proposal, the UCTC’s version would impact 15, he noted.

“The hope would be to work with the landowners and the topography to come up with a couple of options to the trail and then bring that back to the abutter,” LaGoy continued.

The UCTC proposal would use town-owned land on the opposite side of Hayden Rowe. However, on Jan. 13, the School Committee voted unanimously not to support the UCTC application to use land that abuts Marathon School and where a possible future school could go.

LaGoy was asked several questions from members about the cost of bridge abutments, acquiring the land where the pedestrian bridge is proposed. Because this is not an official proposal, LaGoy has not sought cost estimates for some of the questions answered. He said he talked to two property owners behind Charlesview, and they “are willing to discuss options” about easements or purchases.

Trails | 7

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 7 An alternative option for the extension of the Upper Charles Trail was presented to the Upper Charles Trails Committee last Wednesday.

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’ Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

This issue’s winner is Melissa Appleton for this photo of 3-year-old Cora Appleton with her first snowman. 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.

Trails | from page 6

Moran presented a list of questions, including grading, details on the wetlands and vernal pools, and the elevation of the hills in the Charlesview area.

LaGoy replied that he hasn’t gone into specifics at this point in the process.

“We’ve looked at the cost of the bridge and we’ve looked at the land on both sides,” he said. “That’s as far as we’ve gone with this.”

No public comments or votes were taken because it was considered an informational meeting for UCTC members.

“I think this whole process is going to be a betterment to the town,” Moran concluded. “We all want the best, safest, best available route possible.

And it’s only by researching all these good questions that we’re going to get through this process.”

UCTC chair issues apology Before the presentation, Moran read a public apology for a remark she made.

“At a previous meeting, I made an insensitive and callous and unintentional comment regarding the horrific accident along Hayden Rowe, where a young man was tragically struck and killed,” she said. “It was thoughtless and cruel to the families of the deceased, and I realized too late that I opened up old wounds to which I am deeply saddened and regretful.

“I should have known better and checked the facts of the case before I opened my mouth,” Moran continued.

Since that time, Moran said she reached out to Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett “to get the facts of the case.”

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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8 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

HHS team on ‘Quiz Show’ April 2 PLUMBING - HEATING - COOLING Residential

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Hopkinton High School will make its season debut on GBH’s “High School Quiz Show” on April 2 at 6 p.m., facing off against North Quincy.

HHS is one of 17 teams that qualified for Season 13 of the program, which airs on GBH Channel 2 as well as the broadcaster’s YouTube channel.

If Hopkinton wins, it would meet the winner of Weston and Mystic Valley on April 26 in the quarterfinals.

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Registration for The Education Cooperative’s Summer Internship and Career Exploration Program opened Jan. 19. Applications will be accepted through April, with internship placements distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The summer program placed nearly 100 students in career internships last summer, with both in-person and remote placements available.

Open to those who have completed at least two years of high school as of summer 2022, the program is ideal for students looking for an opportunity to explore a career while considering their post-secondary education options. Students are required to complete 60 hours of work, typically over four consecutive weeks during the summer.

More information and an online application can be found at The Education Cooperative’s Career Exploration page at tec-coop.org. A non-profit educational collaborative that serves area towns including Hopkinton, The Education Cooperative also will host virtual information sessions on Jan. 26, Feb. 15, March 10 and April 6, from 7-8 p.m. each day.

College honors: Locals join UMass iCons program Hopkinton’s Jake Chirco and Luke Joseph were among the 73 undergraduates recently selected for the newest class of the Integrated Concentration in Science (iCons) program at the University of Massachusetts. More than 175 first- and second-year students applied for one of the iCons spots through a process open to roughly 5,500 undergraduate students in business, science, technology, engineering and math. The current iCons program, the 12th to participate, is the largest and most diverse in the program’s history. The iCons Program builds on students’ course of study by providing them with further skills needed to enter the modern workforce.

Diverse teams of students collaborate, identify and study innovative solutions to real-world global problems. …

Lasell University student Abi Brown participated in the institution’s annual Career Readiness Symposium. Brown shared work from the fall semester on behalf of the 1851 Chronicle, Lasell’s student-run newspaper. Brown is the paper’s arts editor. The presentation incorporated the National Association of Colleges and Employers competencies of professionalism, leadership and career and self-development.

Brown also presented the latest edition of Polished, Lasell’s student-run fashion magazine.

Brown is one of the magazine’s stylists. …

Kayla Murphy, Jessica Mellor, Dakota Bouret and Jonathan Goldberg graduated from the University of New Hampshire in December. …

Monica Risso was named to the dean’s list at Assumption University. …

At Stonehill College, Brendan Kelly, Brooklyn McDermott-Hyland and Lydia Rudden were named to the dean’s list. …

Ellis Spar was named to the dean’s list at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business. …

At Southern New Hampshire University, Zachary Levy was named to the president’s list. …

Hannah Polk was named to the dean’s list at Plymouth State University. …

At Holy Cross, senior William Moore (environmental studies), senior Emily Taylor (psychology), sophomore Katharine Lagasse (English visual arts: studio) and freshman Ross Comcowich (undeclared) were named to the dean’s list. …

Rachel Zale was named to the dean’s list at Lehigh University. …

Katherine Morse, a criminal justice major at Saint Anselm College, was named to the dean’s list. …

At Roger Williams University, Linnea Dean, Rebeccah Johnson, Amelia Pickard and Tyler Zanini were named to the dean’s list. …

Quentin Barnes was named to the dean’s list at Coastal Carolina University. …

Editor’s note: Information for college honors is provided by the schools. Those interested in being included in this section should forward the official notification or request for the school to email it to editor@hopkintonindependent.com.

Concern about PFAS might delay Fruit Street turf replacement

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

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t its meeting on Jan. 12, the Parks & Recreation Commission discussed a possible delay to the Fruit Street fields turf replacement project as well as Town Common requests and EMC Park updates.

Regarding the Fruit Street fields, Chair Dan Terry reported that he and consultant Kathy Hervol of Gale Associates presented an application to the Conservation Commission to determine whether engineering work was necessary to satisfy commission requirements. The Conservation Commission responded with a request to broaden the scope of the application to determine if the water beneath the fields is contaminated with PFAS, a group of chemicals that has been found in one of the town’s wells on Fruit Street.

HopkintonIndependent.com

Although there is not yet evidence to suggest that the site is problematic, Terry noted that the field is indeed within a zone for a well that has tested positive for PFAS. The town’s engineering firm, Weston & Sampson, will be evaluating the situation.

“We’re formulating questions for that engineer to determine what should be done as we pull up the field and put down another field to consider for water supply,” Terry said.

The report is expected to be completed by the end of the month, at which point next steps would be determined. Although the study and its results have the potential to delay the turf project, the commission intends to continue moving forward with other elements of the project while it awaits further information.

Parks & Recreation Department Director Jay Guelfi confirmed that the department has $350,000 Parks & Rec | 9

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 9

BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Local realtor ‌Kelly Karp offers steadfast guidance to buyers, sellers By‌ ‌Christie‌ ‌Vogt‌ ‌ Contributing‌ ‌Writer‌ ‌ ‌

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ike many others during the pandemic, Kelly Karp had a “light bulb moment” that made her re-evaluate her career. “I really wanted to do something that excited me, that interested me, that I felt connected to,” she explains. After more than 30 years in retail management, Karp made the decision to leave her corporate job and “go head first into real estate.” Now, as a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth, Karp specializes in Hopkinton properties and is eager to help her neighbors “with whatever their dream may be.”

Karp, a mother of two, has lived in Hopkinton since 2005 and owned three residences in the area. The family is very familiar with the town, its resources and its school system — a background Karp believes is a definite asset when it comes to choosing a real estate agent. She also has served on several town boards, including

Concern about PFAS might delay Fruit Street turf replacement Parks & Rec | from page 8

to contribute toward turf replacement.

Guelfi also shared that he presented the project to the Capital Improvement Committee last week — a presentation that he believes was well received and resulted in few concerns or questions.

EMC Park updates shared The Hopkinton Cultural Council requested permission to create three to five more murals on additional fence panels at EMC Park. The commission approved the request, and the content will be subject to review by the group prior to installation. The artwork would be completed this summer.

Guelfi also shared that new playground equipment has been installed at EMC Park; a “rocket ship”-type structure that includes a climbing rope has taken the place of a tire swing. Guelfi also noted that the department will be replacing all of the park’s board timbers with rebar once they are able to secure the material.

Kelly Karp specializes in the Hopkinton real estate market.

the Planning Board and Parks and Recreation, and she is the current chair of the Hopkinton Youth Commission.

“I love working with people,” Karp says. “I love helping them. I’ve been in customer service my whole life. As a retail manager, that’s what we do — we work with people.” Whether someone

is buying their first home or looking to downsize, Karp finds joy in helping people achieve their goals. “I just really wanted to do something that I felt connected with and really had a passion for,” Karp says of entering the field.

Each client is unique, Karp notes, and she tweaks her approach to suit their needs.

A first-time buyer, for example, might benefit from more support and education, as well as assistance with things like financing and staging, while more experienced clients might prefer that Karp “take the ball and run with it.”

Regardless of the situation, Karp says, “I will do whatever it takes; I will bend over backwards. I really believe that nobody’s going to work harder for a customer than I will.” In the midst of an unpredictable market, Karp believes people benefit from working with an agent rather than trying to navigate the process alone.

With home valuations, for example, Karp has “a tremendous amount of tools” through Berkshire Hathaway that allow her

Every Bodies Massage opens on Main Street Resident opens E storage facility

very Bodies Massage is open at its new location at 35 Main Street after relocating from Framingham.

The company was established in 1999 by BUSINESS Jo-Ellen McCarrick, BRIEFS LMT, who is the sole practitioner. She offers relaxation massage as well as therapeutic massage to help clients with ailments such as chronic back pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, etc. McCarrick also offers clients some relaxing spa treatments using sugar scrubs, hot stones and mud wraps.

“I’m excited to have my business in Hopkinton,” McCarrick said. “I’m in a beautiful, spacious location. For existing clients, the commute from my prior location is extremely convenient. I’m looking forward to meeting some new people in Hopkinton and expanding my

client base.”

A graduate of the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy in Worcester, McCarrick also is a reiki practitioner and is certified in integrated energy therapy. She has additional skills in cupping, Lomi-Lomi massage, myofascial work and prenatal massage.

“There is nothing more rewarding than helping clients improve their wellbeing,” McCarrick said. “I love to help clients alleviate chronic pain and to help them to heal their injuries. It’s also very rewarding to help clients reduce stress. When I see someone come in the office as a bundle of nerves, it’s nice to see them leave completely relaxed.”

Every Bodies Massage (everybodies.com) is open by appointment and can be reached at 508-603-9779 or jmccarrick@every-bodies.com.

Hopkinton’s Ed Kelly and Ashland’s Kevin Price are the new owners of Key Storage (keystorage1.com), a newly expanded self-storage facility located in downtown Uxbridge.

Formerly known as Capron Self Storage, the Depot Street business has undergone a number of improvements to deliver a state-of-the-art facility with more than 300 spaces — including a new temperature-controlled building with 50 units.

The owners plan to add solar panels to all of the building rooftops in the spring, as well as construct a freestanding canopy for RV and boat storage — also with a solar-powered roof.

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Town Common requests approved Hopkinton PolyArts, the annual festival that features regional artisans, crafters and local nonprofits, was granted a permit to use the Town Common on Sept. 10.

The Hopkinton Public Library’s request to use the Town Common for two upcoming events also was approved. On May 14, the library will host Hopkinton 101, a community-building event in which other town departments and local nonprofits can share information, give short presentations and recruit volunteers. On July 16, the library will host a concert on the Town Common featuring female jazz musicians.

to do a thorough analysis of a home’s market value. Karp offers free home valuations with no commitment required. “Truly, there’s no obligation,” she says — she’ll run a valuation for anybody at any time.

Although it’s difficult to make market predictions, Karp does note that this time of year, “The buyers that are out there, they are serious buyers; they’re looking and they’re looking for a reason.” If you’re contemplating waiting until spring, she says, you might want to consider selling sooner rather than later.

Whether buying or selling, Karp’s approach with clients is steadfast. “I am there for them,” she says. “They are relying on me to help them make probably one of the largest decisions of their lifetime, and I take that very seriously.”

To learn more, call or text Kelly Karp directly at 508-345-1644.

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10 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

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he School Committee at last Thursday’s meeting approved the fiscal year 2023 budget of $57,116,438 and discussed a range of topics from updating the school calendar to the decrease in COVID-19 cases in schools over the previous week.

The committee approved by a 4-0-1 vote the proposed FY 2023 school budget after considering presentations on budget requests for the past several weeks. Member Meg Tyler abstained after speaking about her concern over out-of-district placements for students with disabilities, stressing the need for inclusivity.

She cited a recent publication by the National Council on Disability that showed that Massachusetts had the third-highest rate of out-of-district school placement for students with disabilities.

“I would ask us going forward to take even greater care than is already given — and I know a lot of care is already given, that is no question of mine — to take more care over each individual placement,” she said, stressing in-district alternatives.

“We need to reconsider what very much resembles segregation-era thinking.”

She stressed that students with disabilities are affected later in life by this separation and fare better when they are educated among students their own age.

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh noted that the parents usually are the ones who choose out-ofdistrict placements for their children in consultation with the administration and medical providers.

“I really just want to be careful that people don’t think that the schools are asking students to leave or are excluding students in some way,” she said, adding that approximately 0.7 percent of students are placed out of district.

The budget will be submitted to the town manager’s office in preparation for its review by town committees before being voted upon at Town Meeting.

School calendar changes debated The committee continued its public discussion from the previous week on including more holidays into the school calendar in an effort to balance the need to recognize Hopkinton’s diversity while not disrupting the flow of in-class instruction.

Member Amanda Fargiano, who served on the calendar subcommittee, noted that several of the proposed additional holidays are in the fall, which would be disruptive to students adjusting to a school routine.

“The focus on the continuity of learning is kind of complicated,” she said. “And I think what we discovered in the discussion, which was very rich, were different takes on what would ensure continuity.”

The subcommittee ultimately recommended adding three holidays: Eid al-Fitr, Lunar New Year and Diwali.

Member Joe Markey pointed out that this decision veered from the data collected from a community-wide survey.

“I think that the decision itself became mired in a lot of discussion and sensitivity that maybe was above and beyond what the survey data indicated was important to people,” he said. Tyler agreed, adding that one group of students should not be disadvantaged over another.

The superintendent noted that the survey was one component in the decision. Also, respondents might not have realized the impact on instruction if teachers and students were to take days off, noting that large numbers of substitute teachers might not

HopkintonIndependent.com

The focus on the continuity of learning is kind of complicated.

And I think what we discovered in the discussion, which was very rich, were different takes on what would ensure continuity.

— Amanda Fargiano

be available. She gave Rosh Hashanah and Good Friday as examples.

“You get to a place where you really aren’t operating a school with that kind of efficiency that you would like to,” she said.

Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parson, who served on the subcommittee, noted that the survey didn’t represent all students of families based on the number of respondents, so it was used as a guide.

Added student representative Jessie Ianelli: “Inclusivity is a value that’s very strongly held among the student population.”

Chair Nancy Cavanaugh noted that many families moved to Hopkinton because the Jewish holidays were included in the school calendar and they ”wouldn’t have to make the choice between their faith and being in school.”

Said Tyler: “I do understand that people have great faiths and spiritual lives that are profound and meaningful. But we are a public educational institution.”

Markey suggested going with the state-mandated holidays because there are “just too many holidays.”

A vote on the calendar was scheduled to be taken at the next meeting on Feb. 3.

COVID-19 case numbers decreasing The superintendent noted that the number of students and staff absent because of contracting COVID-19 dropped to 150 from 204 the previous two weeks, a 25 percent decrease.

She noted that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) revised its policy on contact tracing, recognizing the burden that it has placed on school nurses and administrative staff.

Likewise, DESE announced that the Test and Stay program “was a lot of work with very little benefit,” noting that it was primarily for unvaccinated students.

Cavanaugh said there would only be one more week of Test and Stay.

Instead, the district will distribute a test kit every other Tuesday with two tests so students and staff members who sign up for the program can test weekly on Wednesdays. The district only will require “symptomatic testing.” This policy will continue until April 22, when it will be re-evaluated.

Tyler recounted a report she read describing how the socio-emotional impact of being out of school “may be more harmful than the disease itself.” Markey agreed, calling the policy “a mistake.”

“We’ve created this morass of rules,” he said, “and we have to start dismantling it.”

The superintendent said she would take it under advisement, noting that studies show the virus can be transmissible up until Day 8.

The chair said she could “see the issue from both sides,” because one child in her family could return to school on Day 6 while the other could not.

The chair and the superintendent agreed that a vote should not be taken because the topic was not on the posted agenda.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 11

School Committee weighs COVID precautions against emotional strain

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we get there,” she said. “But I I’m hoping we can come think we all agree that we want together as a town and work our communities to stay open and our schools to stay open.” toward navigating the next piece Whittemore noted that the of this together in a way that Board of Health is moving away from contact tracing and instead is best for everybody, really, relying on personal responsibilfor the health and safety and ity, following the lead of the state’s Department of Public educational benefit of our kids.

Health.

School Committee Member Joe Markey pointed out that children, who are in the population — Nancy Cavanaugh least at risk for severe illness from School Committee chair the coronavirus, “have really shouldered the bulk of the burden over the next two weeks to about 1,200 for preventing the spread” during cases, followed by a decline in the rate the pandemic to protect others. of illness.

Board of Health Director Shaun At this point the rate of exposure for McAuliffe said the latest data showed children is about three times more than 541 confirmed COVID-19 cases since that of elders; however, seniors are more the beginning of the year, the highest likely to have serious health issues. number the town had experienced in “Isn’t there a great positive story in a 10-day period since the pandemic this for Hopkinton?” Markey pressed, began. Forty percent of those cases noting that national coronavirus expert were school-aged children, which is a Dr. Anthony Fauci said recently that drastic jump. Also, 40 percent of the virtually everyone will get COVID-19 541 cases occurred in people who were at some point. “We’re very highly vacfully vaccinated. cinated and highly boosted.

While the previous week’s positiv“We hear the case count and the ity rate was 14.14 percent, the week of dread and the panic,” he continued. “But the meeting it was 21.24 percent, a leap it’s all according to predictions.” that McAuliffe said is comparable to McAuliffe said that he has been area towns. communicating with elder homes and Right now, he said, “Schools are care facilities. Some people have debearing the brunt of the illness.” veloped serious symptoms because they In other communities that decided to were infected by their grandchildren, off-ramp from the mask mandate policy which leads to reducing the exposure because their school population testing risk in the schools. rates reached 80 percent or higher, there “Right now, we’re trying to make have been similar increases. sure we don’t have to close a classroom Variants also have changed. There or close a building,” Superintendent now are two strains of the omicron virus Carol Cavanaugh added later in the here, one from South Africa and the meeting. other from the European Union. This School Committee Member Lya illustrates that Hopkinton is “highly Batlle-Rafferty asked about the effects mobile” in its travel patterns. of long COVID on children and how McAuliffe also suggested a change vaccines can affect long COVID in chilin approach about dealing with COdren. McAuliffe said there isn’t enough VID-19 regarding the five-day return data on that subject yet. to school policy — staying home if one While Member Meg Tyler exhas the coronavirus and then receiving pressed concern over those who have a negative test on the sixth day to alhad severe symptoms, she balanced that low a student whose symptoms have with “how long we have to live in this improved to return. He noted that other culture of fear,” which has its own health towns are considering Hopkinton’s consequences. McAuliffe said that he is return policy. looking for grants to allow an increase “All of the work that we’ve done in counseling programs. over the last two years, it’s really been Whittemore said that there is a shift ingrained that you’re really not free toward personal responsibility, but that from COVID until Day 8,” he explained. there still is a challenge. Tools such as Some kids who returned to school masking, testing, boosters and education over the previous four days tested will help change the perception from a positive on an antigen test, including crisis to something more manageable.

43 percent of those returning on Jan. Markey said he felt that masks for 10. McAuliffe’s concern is that there is students have been detrimental, whereas a potential for spread, particularly durother populations who are more likely ing lunch and snack times when students to spread the virus are not regulated in are unmasked. such a strict manner.

School Committee Member AmanBoard of Health members stressed da Fargiano asked about vaccination that, for now, masks should be worn rates for younger children as well as in school to be able to keep students booster rates. On a positive note, the in class. percentage of those ages 5-11 who have Parent Christine Hagberg noted been vaccinated rose to 91 percent. that, unlike other situations, children Most young children are not eligible have no choice about attending school. for booster shots, but McAuliffe said She explained that her son developed a he just received a $19,000 grant to set lung condition last year, which makes up booster clinics. him more vulnerable if he is exposed “In theory, we’re going to run out of to the virus despite being vaccinated. places to infect our residents,” McAu“I don’t know what getting COVID liffe said because of the current high will do,” she said. “He certainly feels exposure rate. better when he sees everyone wearing He added that he expects the nummasks.” ber of positive cases “to almost double”

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12 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

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Versatility sparks Hillers boys swimming

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

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he Hopkinton High School boys swimming and diving team headed into the final relay against Ashland with a chance to win the season-opening meet. The Hillers have a small roster relative to some of their opponents and also have been hit hard by COVID-19, with athletes being forced out of the lineup.

The challenges made it even sweeter when Hopkinton took the final relay and beat the Senior Kevin Gu competes during a meet earlier this month.

Clockers by two points.

“That set the season off on a high note right there,” coach Kristen Wells said.

“He is good under pressure,” his coach said.

“It was a very exciting meet, and we have been “He stepped up and got the job done when he trying to build off that energy for the rest of the needed to.” season.”

Freshman Kevin Zhu is another impressive It has been an uphill climb at times, with the and young swimmer whose times, Wells said, have pandemic still affecting high school sports and the been falling throughout the season. team battling to overcome having top swimmers “He is a great practice swimmer,” she said. unavailable.

“He does whatever is asked of him and he is really “We have been hit hard with a lot of our key showing a lot of improvement in just a few weeks people out for periods of time,” Wells said. “It’s since the beginning of the season.” been hard to fill the gaps.”

Hopkinton has been led by a trio of captains The key to overcoming the lack of numbers this year: Ryan D’Alleva, Kevin Gu and Tyler has been versatility. Wells said she has been able Fallon. to ask different swimmers to take on different “They have all been good about stepping up events or strokes and they have answered the call, to the plate whenever we have needed them and including sophomore standout Davis Peishoff. leading the team,” Wells said.

“He is very versatile, he has swam almost all Even with a small roster, the Hillers are hoping of the events so far and he has the best time on to have as many athletes as possible swimming in our team in the majority of the events,” Wells said. postseason meets this year. Wells said the focus “So we can really put him in any event and he is is on postseason qualifying, especially for the always a key member of our relays.” relay teams.

Peishoff swam the anchor leg of the relay “Some of our relays are really close to getagainst Ashland that the Hillers needed to win ting to a qualifying time,” she said. “The relays that meet. are going to be a big focus for us going forward.”

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RE/MAX Executive Realty congratulates award winner

Jonathan Sundberg

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he McBride Team of RE/MAX Executive Realty would like to congratulate Jonathan Sundberg on his award for Student of the Month.

Jonathan enjoys participating in community service opportunities including ones at Hopkinton High School. Jon has been observed walking home from school with a trash bag collecting litter as he walks.

Jon is described by teachers as a respectful and dedicated student, and as being very deserving of this award. Other teachers feel he is a model student who is engaged in learning and very helpful in class.

Jon’s interests include cooking and playing games. He dreams going to college for computer science, having a great career in his field of choice, and having a happy family.

Congratulations, Jonathan!

The McBride Team

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L

ast season, swim meets took on a bit of an eerie feel. During most competitions, teams swam by themselves and recorded times, matching them against their opponents who swam at a different venue — and sometimes on a different day — to see who came out on top.

Meets are more “normal” this year, and Hopkinton High School swimming and diving coach Kristen Wells is grateful for it.

“This is such a big difference from last year when we just had to swim by ourselves,” Wells said. “It’s so much better to have a live event.”

But the effects of the pandemic still linger over the program. Midway through the season, Wells said the girls team had not had a full roster due to COVID-19 protocols and other illnesses, but stressed that the girls have Swim | 13

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

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

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Senior Tess Weatherhead finishes a dive during a recent competition.

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 13

Farrell set to represent Team USA in Beijing Olympics Farrell | from page 1

it was really special.”

It’s really special for my family The roster was revealed on Jan 13. Farrell said he called and something they have put his parents, Erica and Bill, after so much effort into, helping me hearing the news several days earlier, and the three of them realize my goals and dreams as shared an emotional moment. a hockey player.

“We were all crying on the phone together,” he said. “It’s really special for my family — Sean Farrell and something they have put so much effort into, helping me realize my goals and dreams as a hockey player.” skilled,” Farrell said.

For most of the year, it did not apWinning a gold medal, he added, pear that amateurs like Farrell would would be a “dream come true,” but the have a chance to compete in Beijing, path to the podium would not be easy. with the NHL slated to send its play“It’s going to take a lot of effort ers. But when the NHL pulled out, it from everyone every single day to opened the door for Farrell, who is in complete that goal,” he said “Once the midst of his first season playing at we get to Los Angeles that journey Harvard. Farrell is set to fly from Bosstarts and we are going to have to do ton to Los Angeles on Jan. 30 before everything the right way to compete.” making the trek to China.

Through Harvard’s first 13 games “It’s obviously an odd time with this season, Farrell scored eight goals COVID and everything going on and added 11 assists. Last year, he in the world, so the main thing we earned Player of the Year honors in have been told is that it’s going to be the United States Hockey League, the very structured and strict with mask nation’s top junior league, after recordrequirements and making sure everying 101 points (29 goals, 72 assists) in one is staying healthy,” Farrell said.

53 games with the Chicago Steel. The “I think that’s the main goal, to get Montreal Canadiens drafted him in the everyone there safe and healthy and fourth round of the 2020 NHL draft. stay healthy.”

Farrell has been part of the U.S. But he has let his mind wander National Team Development Program to the possibility of winning a medal, and competed in the 2018 Under-18 perhaps even a gold. Without the top World Championships, winning a pros in attendance, he said the Eurobronze medal with Team USA. He pean teams figure to be pretty strong, said that even though the focus will including Russia, which will have a be on winning, he is excited to take team stacked with players from the in as much as he can during his time Kontinental Hockey League. Perhaps in Beijing. harkening back to the Miracle on Ice “It will be exciting with the activiin 1980, the Russian pros will face a ties in the village and all of the sports young American roster. going on,” Farrell said. “We will defi“As a team, we are going to be nitely try to take in as much as we can a lot younger than some of the other and enjoy the experience of being at teams, but we are going to be fast and the Olympics.”

HHS girls embrace return of live swim meets Swim | from page 12

been making the most of whatever numbers they have.

“This year in particular, we are versatile,” she said. “Of course some swimmers have their specialty events, but everybody across the board is versatile about what they can do and they have been good when asked to take on a new event.”

The Hillers have a number of standout athletes in the program this winter, including diver Tess Weatherhead. The senior captain is heading to the University of Richmond next season to compete for the Division 1 college program.

“She has always been a standout and she is continuing that this year,” Wells said. “She always takes practice seriously and she has been working hard on a lot of her dives.”

Weatherhead has placed in postseason meets during the past few seasons and was unbeaten through mid-January this season in dual meet competition. Fellow senior captains Sofia Luce and Deirdre Belger also have been consistent scorers for the Hillers in a variety of events.

“Deirdre does a great job in practice being a great team leader and a vocal leader,” Wells said. “She makes sure everyone knows what they are supposed to be doing and she is a great leader in practice.”

Luce has been seeing her times drop throughout the season, Wells added.

“Sophia is doing a good job looking for areas to improve and selfidentifying areas where she needs to improve,” the coach said. “She has goals she wants to reach now that she is a senior.”

With the Hillers battling low numbers and protocols and things not entirely back to “normal” in high school swimming, Wells stressed that seeing times drop is more important to her and the program this year than how many meets Hopkinton is able to win.

“Our overall record is not a concern this year, especially because we have not had a full roster for a single meet,” she said. “It’s about showing improvement individually and as a team. We want to show improvement and see our times drop week-to-week, so we are focusing on that.”

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14 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

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If we get these meets in and get the consistency that we want to see, I think this is going to be a really solid team by the end of the year. The kids are fresh, they are motivated, and they want to make the most of the last four weeks.

ust a few weeks into the 2021-22 wrestling season, Hopkinton High School interim coach Corey Mills could tell that the effects of the pandemic on the ultimate of close-contact sports were not entirely a thing of the past.

The Hillers had to shut down for a couple of weeks over — Corey Mills the holidays. They scrapped a Hopkinton High School planned appearance in the Lowinterim coach ell Holiday Tournament and had a meet with Natick canceled.

Hopkinton also had to postpone a league meet against Ashland. Still, Mills said he’s thrilled to have the team competing again during its usual season after being moved to the spring last year.

“The kids have really loved being back wrestling during the winter,” Mills said. “When we have been able to wrestle, it’s been a lot of fun.”

The opening weeks of the year were not all cancellations. Hopkinton won four of its first five meets and competed in the Milford Holiday Tournament. After graduating five wrestlers who placed at last year’s state meet and losing another potential state finalist to a prep school transfer, Mills said he has been pleasantly surprised with the early success.

“We were not sure what to expect,” he said. “This team has been really deep, though, and we have great leadership on the team, which helps us build up our numbers.”

Hopkinton has more than 35 athletes in the program, Mills said. Even during stretches in which multiple wrestlers were in COVID protocols, the Hillers have had more than enough to fill out a lineup. Seniors Sean Walker, Sebastian Losada, Alec Brookes and James Muzzy — all of whom are captains — have embraced their roles as leaders.

“They have all really stepped up,” Mills said. “They are doing a great job.

When we were shut down during the two weeks over the holidays they reached out to the kids, did organized team runs, and kept the kids excited and interested in the sport.”

The quartet also has helped Mills, who has been with the program for more than a decade, with the middle school program that has been crucial to keeping the program’s numbers up.

Losada is someone Mills thinks could be a factor at the end of the year. He has been competing at 152 pounds, but Mills thinks he will be down to 145 by the time the postseason rolls around.

“I started coaching him in the seventh grade, so it’s been a long road for us,” Mills said. “He has a great work ethic and he competes well at a tough weight class.”

Junior Adam Distasio is looking to compete at states in the 106-pound division. Mills said Distasio is looking to “take the next step in his progression.” On the other end of the weight class spectrum, junior Justin Sokol is a contender at 220 pounds.

“He had a good football season and he has put in the work that is starting to translate into wrestling,” Mills said.

If there is a silver lining to the cancellations, Mills said it may be the fact that the Hillers will have fresher legs by the end of the season.

“If we get these meets in and get the consistency that we want to see, I think this is going to be a really solid team by the end of the year,” he said. “The kids are fresh, they are motivated, and they want to make the most of the last four weeks.”

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 15

HHS track stars continue to shine K

ate Powers and Sean Golembiewski were at it again Jan. 14-15, breaking records at the Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association Invitational, held at the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center in Boston.

Powers won the weight throw with a meet record of 48 feet, 1 inch.

It was the fourth-longest throw in the country this season.

Golembiewski broke his own school record in SPORTS the 55-meter hurdles with ROUNDUP a time of 7.54 seconds and set a meet record.

His time was the fastest in New England this season.

At the same event, Riley Finnegan took second in the boys weight throw with a toss of 45 feet, 6 inches. …

In team competition, the boys posted wins over Holliston (68-27) and Ashland (85-10) on Jan. 11. Double winners for HHS included Golembiewski (300 and 55 hurdles), Declan Mick (high jump), Neil Abraham (55 dash) and Anshu Velur (long jump).

The boys knocked off Westwood, 65-30, on Jan. 6. Golembiewski continued his stellar season with a first-place finish in the 55 hurdles. Abraham (55 dash), Matt Burdulis (mile), Wyatt Ruff (600), Lex Kaye (2 mile), Russell Perryman (shot put) and Velur (long jump) also posted wins. …

On Jan. 17, girls track routed Westwood, 75-20, in the final dual meet of the season. Winners included Keira O’Connor (high jump), Powers (shot put), Autumn Tumbleton (mile), Ellie Driscoll (55 hurdles), Lily Buckley (2 mile), Katie Callery (1,000), Steph Johnson (600), Carmen Thomas (300) and the 4x400 relay team of Aubrey Thomas, Kayla Sawyer, Johnson and Grace Joy. The girls routed Ashland (95-0) but fell to Holliston (52-43) on Jan. 11. Double winners were Driscoll (55 hurdles), Carmen Thomas (55 dash), Sinead Herr (300) and Bridget and Keira O’Connor (high jump). Single winners included Callery (mile), Emily Hayward (600), Johnson (1,000), Tumbleton (2 mile), Sowmya Karthikeyan (long jump), Powers (shot put) and the 4x400 relay team of Herr, Aubrey Thomas, Joy and Johnson.

Fossbender sparks girls hoops The HHS girls basketball team posted a 37-22 victory at Bellingham Jan. 18, as Kiki Fossbender scored 17 points.

In a makeup game Jan. 16 against a strong Norwood team, the Hillers fell 54-17.

In their home opener on Jan. 14, the Hillers took care of business against Dedham, picking up a 44-31 victory.

The girls fell to Dover-Sherborn on Jan. 11, 49-35, despite 10 rebounds from Lexy Trendel. …

Boys basketball routed visiting Bellingham on Jan. 18 behind a balanced effort. Nate Kasper led the way with 18 points, while Evan Mirazimi and Sam Pantera each contributed 14.

On Jan. 14, the Hillers knocked off Dedham, 61-53. Kasper scored 20 points, Mirazimi netted 15 and Zach Hyman spurred the team with strong

defense.

The Hillers dropped a 69-65 decision to visiting Dover-Sherborn on Jan. 11.

Hockey teams get first wins The HHS boys hockey team picked up its first two wins of the season. On Jan. 15, the Hillers knocked off Dedham, 3-2. Drew Morse, Ryan Teitel and Callum Greenwood scored for Hopkinton.

The boys’ first win of the season came Jan. 12, as Joe Carrazza recorded a hat trick in a 6-2 victory over DoverSherborn. After HHS gave up a goal 90 seconds into the game, Manoli Barris tied the score on a shot from the blue line. Carrazza then tallied despite the Hillers being shorthanded with two players in the penalty box. Hopkinton took control in the second period, scoring three times on two goals from Carrazza and one from Joe Scardino. Scardino added a third-period goal to complete the scoring.

The Hillers lost to Algonquin on Jan. 10 by a score of 6-1.

On Jan. 8, Hopkinton lost to Westwood, 7-1, with Charlie Purpura scoring the lone Hopkinton goal. …

The girls hockey co-op team also recorded its first win Jan. 12, topping East Bridgewater, 2-0. Bianca Musgrave and Sophia Mazzuchelli scored the goals, while Abby Wayne recorded the shutout in net.

On Jan. 15, the short-handed Hillers — down to nine skaters and needing Morgan Fraser to make an emergency start in goal — fell to Framingham, 5-2.

The girls fell to Ursuline, 6-4, on Jan. 8. Kelly Bailey and Mazzuchelli scored two goals apiece.

recorded 307 career victories.

An HHS alumnus, Sweetapple served as an assistant to Grabmeier for the past seven seasons. …

Bianca Pal was named StudentAthlete of the Month by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association for December. Pal was a member of the unified basketball team in the fall.

Wrestling sweeps quad meet The HHS wrestling team won all three of its matches in a quad meet on

S E N I O R S

2 0 2 2

Jan. 15, beating Lowell Catholic (60-17), Concord-Carlisle (48-21) and Arlington (60-12). Justin Sokol, Jason Girard, Steve Moody, Sebastian Losada and Cyrus Hanson all went undefeated on the day.

On Jan. 13, the Hillers bested Holliston, 54-21. Recording pins for Hopkinton were Sokol (in 8 seconds), Will Liptak, Losada, Jari Zaidi and Liam Kassab. …

The alpine ski teams opened their seasons Jan. 13. The girls finished second, led by Lila Mato (8th overall) and Klara Niss (10th). The boys took seventh, with Jake Lacoche taking sixth overall.

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Swim teams sweep Dedham The Hopkinton High School swimming and diving teams competed at Dedham on Jan. 18, and both emerged victorious.

For the boys, who won 85-66, Kevin Gu won the 100 and 200 freestyle races, and the 400 free relay of Tyler Fallon, Shawn Haley, Caleb Burke and Gu recorded their best time of the season.

For the girls, who won 90-64, Deirdre Belger won the individual medley and 100 breaststroke, while Eve Weatherhead recorded 9s on her back dive.

On Jan. 8, the teams competed against Dover-Sherborn. The girls dropped a 95-69 decision. Olivia Scalora won the 100 free and was part of the 200 freestyle relay squad that won a very close race.

The boys fell 89-73. Fallon pulled out a win in the 50 free and anchored the winning medley relay.

Sweetapple new Hillers volleyball coach Emma Sweetapple was named Hopkinton High School varsity volleyball coach, the school announced earlier this month.

Sweetapple replaces Margie Grabmeier, who retired in November after guiding the Hillers to the Division 2 state title‚ her third as HHS coach. She

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16 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

LIBRARY CORNER

CALENDAR

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.

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.

Officer Powers retirement party Feb. 4 The Hopkinton Police Association is hosting a party to celebrate the retirement of School Resource Officer Phil Powers on Friday, Feb. 4, from 6-11 p.m.

The event will be held at the Portuguese Club, 119 Prospect Heights, Milford, MA 01757. Tickets are $45 and are available at eventbrite.com/e/phil-powers-retirementparty-tickets-237702794457.

Access Digital Materials Those without a library card or time to visit can access Hopkinton digital materials by signing up online for a free CWMARS e-card for e-books, audiobooks and magazines. Check the library’s website for details.

School Resource Officer Phil Powers

Nature in Winter with Mass Audubon

The annual Knights of Columbus free throw competition, originally scheduled for Jan. 4, will be held Friday, Feb. 11, at Hopkinton High School after the Hopkinton-Ashland varsity girls basketball game. All boys and girls ages 9-14 can participate regardless of disabilities. Trophies/medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age category, and first-place winners advance to the district finals.

Registration will begin in the high school gym at 7:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Ashland/Hopkinton Council (Bishop Rice Council 4822).

Tuesday, Feb. 8, 7-8 p.m. (Zoom) The nature of Massachusetts is filled with seasonal mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Have you ever wondered which animal left tracks in the snow? What happens to pond animals under a layer of ice? Or what trees are lining the trails on your winter walks? This online program will introduce the seasonal dynamics of nature in winter, and provide ideas and resources for observing, appreciating and supporting wildlife near home this winter. The instructors are Patti Steinman and Tia Pinney. Register via the library website.

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Knights of Columbus free throw contest Feb. 11

Veterans Breakfast first Friday of each month The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. In July, and if the first Friday of the month is a holiday or snow day, the breakfast switches to the second Friday. No registration is required. For more information, contact Amy Beck or Judi Allessio 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. Volunteers are needed to help with general trail maintenance throughout the year, and a specific trail will be selected each month for targeted maintenance. 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.

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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.

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Soupah Bowl | Feb. 6 | 12–2:00 p.m.

It’s Soupah Bowl Week at HCA! A ceramic program fundraiser for HCA. A $20 donation gets you a handcrafted bowl made by one of HCA’s amazing pottery students and a packet of soup.

Celebrate the excitement with others around the HCA Farmhouse renovation that day, which includes information about the new pottery studio and music lesson studios. Can’t attend the kickoff? Stop by the HCA through Saturday February 12, during our open hours to pick up your one-of-a-kind bowl and support the HCA!

An Evening with Ralph Graham Feb. 12 | 8:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Join us for a very special evening of music with the immensely talented Ralph Graham, a renowned singer, songwriter, and RCA recording artist. AND just in time for Valentine’s Day, we have a great date-night treat or girls/guys night out option. For an additional $10 add-on ticket price you can enjoy table seating in front of the stage, a FREE first drink, and a dessert! A “voice like chocolate”… that is how many of Ralph Graham’s fans have described his silken, baritone vocal style.

BECOME A HCA MEMBER AND SUPPORT THE ARTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY Members get a full range of benefits and also help HCA change the lives of artists and art-lovers through its nurturing faculty, state-of-the-art facility, and need-based scholarships.

INSIDER FAMILY MEMBERS GET • 10% discount off all performances • Free entry to Open Mics & Jazz Jams • 5% discount off classes and ESL Theater children’s production fees • AND MORE!

Your Art Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 17

Senior Snippets 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 check Ourseniorcenter.com/find/Hopkinton-council-on-aging or 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.

Keeping your eyes happy & healthy!

Welcoming New Patients

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, utilizing grants and MetroWest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA) programs. Individuals aged 60 and older, veterans or those homebound due to a disability should call the Outreach Department at the Senior Center at least three business days in advance of the desired day of travel at 508-497-9730, ext. 1615, for assistance in scheduling a ride.

Dr. Perryman

Brittany

Lunch Program Meals are back in person at the Senior Center. Individuals should call to sign up at least two days in advance. The cost is $5 per meal, or a pre-purchased ticket for five meals is $20. The Senior Center website has the full lunch menu.

Exercise Classes All classes now are in person, and due to generous support from Friends of Hopkinton Seniors Inc., fitness classes are free in January and February Chair yoga, Mondays, 9 a.m.

Exercise with Linda, Mondays, 10:30 a.m.

Stretch class, Tuesdays, 9 a.m.

Zumba, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

Balance & Flexibility, Tuesdays, 11 a.m.

Exercise with Joni, Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.

Tap dancing, Tuesdays, 2 p.m.

Tai chi, Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.

Zumba, Fridays, 9:15 a.m.

Chi gong, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.

Meditation, alternating Fridays, noon (call for schedule)

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H O P K I N T O N E M E R G E N C Y F U N D . O R G

Thursday, Feb. 10, 1 p.m.

This presentation will focus on some of the world’s most famous impressionist artists, including Monet, Renoir and Degas, addressing what they believed, how they worked and how their creations stirred the art world, inspiring so many artists and individuals who followed — especially the post-impressionists.

Rubber Duck Soap Craft Class Monday, Feb. 14, 1 p.m.

Each participant will make their own soapy creation using glycerin-based soap.

The process doesn’t involve traditional soap-making techniques, so there is no lye exposure. Once the soap is slightly cooled, participants will add cosmetic grade glitter, colors, essential oil (optional) and one’s choice of a variety of rubber duckies to embellish and decorate. The cost is $8 per person. Space is limited.

Cultural Conversations: Easter Island: Myth and Reality Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m. (virtual) Easter Island is one of the most isolated islands in the world, full of enigmas and mysteries. Attendees will discover the secrets of its famous statues and the people that carved them in this journey through the history of this island and the rich culture that developed in isolation. Call the Senior Center for the link.

Our Time Memory Cafe Call for dates Our Time Memory Cafe is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences with others going through similar changes, and form friendships. A care partner must accompany anyone who requires assistance. The program is a joint venture between the Hopkinton Senior Center and Hopkinton Public Library. For more information or to register, call 508-497-0108 or email info@ourtimememorycafe.org.

TED Talks Mondays, 12:30 p.m. (offered live and virtual) In 1984, TED Talks were created to bring technology, entertainment and design information to the curious and open-minded public. These videos cover a wide array of subjects and always lead to lively discussion and conversation. The Outreach Program at the Senior Center will have casual TED Talks group meetings over Zoom for one hour every Monday at 12:30 p.m. The meeting will consist of viewing a video and then discussing it. The program is free. Register by calling the Senior Center.

We are so grateful to the Hopkinton Community for your generosity in helping to establish the Hopkinton Emergency Fund.

In one year, we have partnered with four existing human services agencies to aid Hopkinton residents in need.

We were awarded a Community Impact Grant from Eversource and a Boston Marathon bib.

Generous donations from Hopkinton residents and businesses enabled us to provide numerous grants for car repairs, rent and utility bills.

Thank you, Hopkinton, for helping us take care of each other!

The Hopkinton Emergency Fund Board

Zack Sisitsky Hannah Steir Jay Cheney Nataraj Iyer Charusmitha Ram Judith Weinthaler Renee Dean Jennifer Blake Stephanie Whelan

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18 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

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

Antoinette Gomes Antoinette M. (Calderella) Gomes entered the kingdom of eternal life on Jan. 10 at Berkshire Medical Center.

Toni was born in Pittsfield on June 28, 1927, to Joseph L. Calderella Sr. and Jenny (Lachina) Calderella. Toni graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1945 and furthered her education by enrolling in and graduating from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in 1948.

Toni was a woman of high moral fiber and even higher character. In addition to the love and attention she gave to her family, Toni’s life mission was helping others. To this end, she had a long and distinguished career as a registered nurse, retiring from the Berkshire Medical Center after 40 years of service. In addition to her professional life, Toni was engaged in several outside activities and organizations. She was an active member of Pittsfield’s ITAM (Italian American) Lodge 564, where she routinely played bocce and was involved in many other activities and events. She was a past member of the Portuguese American Club, as well as having had a longtime involvement with the Allendale School PTA, Pittsfield Figure Skating Club and Pittsfield Senior Center. She was an active member of the St. Luke’s Nursing Alumni. Toni will always be remembered by those who knew and loved her for the unconditional love and support she provided to family

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and friends throughout her life.

Toni was predeceased by her husband Jack in 2008, by her son Christopher in 1986, and by her granddaughter Carolyn in 2018. She is survived by and will be missed by her loving family. She leaves a son, Stephen and wife Catherine of Feeding Hills, and two daughters, Lorita Copley and husband John of Hopkinton, and Melinda Lordan and husband Joseph of Westminster. She also leaves eight grandchildren: Daniel of Weymouth; Laura and husband Sammy Hannoush of Agawam; Michaela, Shane and Kendall Copley; and Connor and Ciara Lordan.

She also leaves a great grandson, Theo Hannoush of Agawam. Toni also is survived by her brother, Joseph L. Calderella Jr. and wife Geraldine, as well as a sister, Lorita Decorie and husband Clyde, all of Pittsfield. She leaves three nieces and one nephew to cherish her memory. Lastly, she leaves her faithful companion, her cat Bella.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial for Toni Gomes was celebrated Jan. 13 at Sacred Heart Church, Pittsfield, followed by burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Services were under the care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Home.

Memorial donations in her memory may be made to the Berkshire Humane Society (berkshirehumane.org), in care of the funeral home.

Boyd Blaker Boyd William (Bill) Blaker, 87, of Rockport passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 4 of heart failure.

He was born on April 21, 1934, at Framingham Union Hospital. He was the son of the late Boyd M and Catherine (Portmore) Blaker. Bill lived his early life on Cape Cod but upgraded to his lifelong cape, Cape Ann, when he was blessed to find his wife of 63 years, Marilyn (Tuck).

Bill was an avid supporter of making Rockport a better place for all. Serving many roles in Rockport, he worked as everything from a town police officer to a Parks Department foreman, but most proudly served many years as a volunteer fireman (until forced retirement at 70), driving Engine 1 to countless service calls at all hours and in all weather. Whether he was keeping the pumps flowing to fight a fire or driving a plow on Bearskin Neck in the Blizzard of 1978, Bill served the town of Rockport and its people until his retirement in 1996.

Bill is survived by his wife, Marilyn (Tuck), whom he married July 4, 1958, sons Victor Blaker of Rockport and David Blaker of Gorham, Maine, and daughter Janice Roberts of Hopkinton. In addition to his three children, Bill was the proud grandfather of Amy Haynes, Daniel Blaker, Kevin Roberts and Matthew Roberts, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date this year.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Rockport Firemen’s Association, P.O. Box 2, Rockport, MA 01966. Arrangements are being handled by the Greely Funeral Home, Gloucester.

Brian Timlege Brian Terry Timlege, 57, formerly of Webster and Hopkinton, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Jan. 2.

Born in Framingham on July 3, 1964, he was the beloved son of Irene (Terry) Timlege of Hopkinton and the late Edward C. Timlege, who passed away in January 2020. During his youth, he attended Hopkinton Public Schools and was active

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in local sports including baseball and football. He cherished the close friendships he formed at a young age. Many of his hometown friends remain like brothers to him.

Brian’s outgoing personality and sense of humor was unmatched. To know Brian was to love Brian. He was a true friend to anyone who crossed his path, and the life of any party. He always had an entertaining story, a well-timed joke, and a kind word for all. Brian embodied a lifelong passion for golfing, skiing, boating and fishing, and also will be remembered as a diehard Patriots fan.

His legacy is one of love, loyalty and laughter.

All who knew him will treasure his life and memory.

We take comfort knowing he is joyfully teeing off at the 19th hole of Pearly Gates Country Club.

In addition to his mother, Irene, he will be missed by his two children, the lights of his life, Connor and Caitlyn Timlege of Webster, three loving sisters, Kathleen Arena and partner James Basnett of Littleton, Beth Timlege of Monterey and Kimberly Timlege of Brattleboro, Vermont, his stepmother, Charlotte Timlege of Acton, his nephew, John Arena III and wife Haili of Concord, his niece and goddaughter, Emily Arena of Littleton, several cousins, as well as countless dear friends including his “Tiki family.”

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Brian’s life during visiting hours on Monday, Jan. 31, from 5-8 p.m. at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Concord. All attendees are asked to wear masks. Burial will be private in the family plot at St. John’s Cemetery in Hopkinton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor Brian’s memory may be made to the Connor and Caitlyn Timlege Support Trust, c/o Middlesex Savings Bank, 64 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742.

Dorenda Rice Dorenda S. Rice, 99, passed peacefully away Jan. 2 after a period of declining health.

Born May 24, 1922, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada, daughter of David and Leah (Larter) Stewart, she lived most of her life in Woodville, graduating from Hopkinton High School in June of 1940. Her husband of 62 years, Alden Rice, passed away in 2003. She also was predeceased by sons Howard and Joel Rice.

She leaves her daughter, Ethel Temple of Westborough, and daughter-in-law, Martha Pratt-Rice of Warwick, as well as five grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She enjoyed reading, puzzle books, knitting and crocheting.

Her funeral service was held Jan. 11 in the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home. Burial followed at Evergreen Cemetery, Woodville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hopkinton Food Bank, P.O. Box 36, Hopkinton, MA 01748.

E. Leonard Kane E. Leonard Kane, 92, passed away peacefully at home in Weston on Jan. 13.

Born in Danvers, Leonard was the son of Edward and Rachel (Lyons) Kane. After graduating as valedictorian of Holten High School in Danvers, he attended Boston College and received a Bachelor of Science in business administration, graduating magna cum laude in 1951. He then received a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School, graduating in 1954. He served in the Counter Intelligence Corps of the U.S. Army for two years. Leonard joined the Raytheon company in 1957, working as an attorney in labor relations before being promoted to vice president and then senior vice president of human resources, ultimately retiring in 1993.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 19

Obituaries

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Leonard was a member of several professional and civic associations and boards. He served on the Business Roundtable, Aerospace Industries Association and the Industrial and Labor Relations School at Cornell University. He also served as chairman of the Associated Industries of Massachusetts and vice chairman of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation. In addition, he served on the boards of the Boston YMCA, New England Aquarium, Waltham Weston Hospital, Seiler Corporation, Waltham Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau of Eastern Massachusetts.

Leonard received the Cushing Award for Excellence in Labor-Management Relations and was a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre.

Leonard enjoyed spending time in Annisquam, and in Naples, Florida. He was a longtime member of the Annisquam Yacht Club.

Leonard is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anne (Ronan) Kane, and his six children, Jim and Debbie Kane of Newburyport, Tracy and Brian Lannigan of Dover, Ted and Kristin Kane of Hopkinton, Rosamond Kane of Charlestown, Tom and Jennifer Kane of Andover, and Matthew Kane and Julie Lane of Newton. In addition, he is survived by his 11 grandchildren, Allison Conroy and Patrick Kane; Madeline and Genevieve Lannigan, Elizabeth and Caroline Kane, Shannon and Simon Kane, and Amelia, Eliza and Colin Kane.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 18 in St. Julia’s Church, Weston, followed by interment in Annunciation Cemetery of St. Mary’s, Danvers.

Arrangements were under the care of the Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, Wellesley.

various capacities. She believed deeply in the transformative power of education and volunteering in the schools. As a member of the Harwich Women’s Club she served on the Scholarship Committee.

For several summers she helped at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center doling out information on the best places to visit to fully capture the Cape Cod experience. Whether she was delivering a bowl of fruit or flowers from her garden, driving someone for their cancer care, or sitting and listening, Betty was happiest when she was helping others.

She had numerous interests that ebbed and flowed as she aged. A voracious reader of nonfiction, she was a member of two book clubs. In her younger years with her husband and friends, she enjoyed playing bridge and tennis, dancing in the popular dance halls of Boston and traveling the world. She loved dogs and always had a bone available or a lap for a puppy. She was devoted to gardening, and plants thrived with her nurturing.

She saw beauty and awe in the glory of a Cape Cod sunset, the twinkling stars of the dark night sky, the monarch butterflies sipping nectar in her gardens and the ever-changing moods of the ocean. She will be deeply missed.

There will be no visiting hours, and funeral arrangements are private. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Chapman Funeral Home in Harwich.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either of two charities dear to Betty: Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 (guidingeyes.org) and Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Processing Center, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 (lovetotherescue.org).

Elizabeth McGowan

France-Anne Tardino

Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Williams McGowan, of West Harwich and formerly of Braintree, died at her home Jan. 7, just shy of her 94th birthday. She was the beloved wife of the late Frank M. McGowan Jr., and the daughter of Archibald J. and Geneva Litchfield Williams of Brockton.

Betty was born in Brockton, graduated from Brockton High School in 1945 and went on to Lasell Junior College, where she spent “two of the most enjoyable years” of her life. After graduating from Lasell, she attended Boston University, became a member of the Alpha Phi sorority and graduated in 1949 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She was the first person in her family to receive a college education. While at Lasell, she met her future husband at MIT (Frank) and they were married in the fall of 1949.

Betty is survived by her three children: Mark McGowan and wife Heather of West Harwich, Robin McGowan of South Harwich, and Sheryl Harrow and husband Ed of Hopkinton, as well as three grandchildren who loved her as “Nana”: Alexis and Brittany McGowan, and Amanda Harrow. She leaves her nieces, Susan Thibeault and Jill Marcotte and husband Greg, and their children and grandchildren, as well as her dear friend, Marilyn Walter. She is predeceased by her brother, Bill Williams and wife Frances, niece Paula Settino and husband Mike, and Ernie Thibeault.

Daughter, sister, wife, mom, mother-in-law, nana and friend, Betty dedicated her time to caring for others. A quiet woman, she was small in stature but huge in heart. She was always interested in what someone else was doing and how she could support them. Like many, she faced numerous challenges through her years, including growing old, and she met them with her inner strength. She was the heart of the family, keeping everyone connected and welcoming friends and foster children.

She adored her grandchildren, delighting in their successes, supporting them in difficult times, and “appropriately spoiling them.” Throughout her life she volunteered in numerous organizations in

F r a n c e - A n n e Ta rdino, 80, of Hopkinton passed away unexpectedly at her home on Dec. 30.

Born on Aug. 21, 1941, in Queens, New York, she was the daughter of the late Clara (Ziliotto) and Victor Tardino Sr. France-Anne spent her early years in Richmond Book online at christinesnail.com Hill, Queens, then Manhasset, New York, graduator call for an appointment ing in 1959 from St. Mary’s High School, and was a graduate of Hofstra University in 1963. France-Anne 508-435-0222 Walk-ins worked for a CPA firm in Manhattan for a couple of welcome 22 South Street, Hopkinton years. During her years living in Manhasset, she was an avid tennis player, often trading favors with her brother in return for play time. She enthusiastically Because Because Because Your Your Your Family's Family's Family's introduced horseback riding to her brother Victor Health Health Health &&Safety Safety & Safety Matters Matters Matters Most Most ToToUs To UsUs and sister Robin, riding at a nearby stable. FranceBecause YourMost Family’s Anne always enjoyed sailing on Manhasset Bay with Health & Safety Matters friends and family, and while living in Manhasset Most To Us occasionally took art classes with her mom.

When she married Lee Staebler in February Because Your Family's 1965, France-Anne moved to Framingham, MasHealth & Safety Matters Most To Us sachusetts, where she raised her family and was a great neighbor and friend to many. She continued to work in the accounting field full-time and part-time for many years. France-Anne retired to upstate New York in 2004 to be near her parents and sister. When daughter Vicki relocated back to Massachusetts a number of years ago, France-Anne followed in February 2020. She lived there for the remainder of her life. While sticking close to home during her last years, she enjoyed reading, movies and especially the antics of a friend’s two darling Pomeranians.

France-Anne was kind-hearted and had a quick smile for everyone.

France-Anne is survived by two daughters, Vicki Staebler Tardino (Doug Antholz) of Hopkinton and Caryn Staebler (fiancé Dan Tegel) of Wildwood, Missouri, and two stepsons, Lee Staebler Jr. (partner Josephine Esposito) and Lawrence Staebler (Nancy).

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20 • The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022

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and children Scott (Shelley) and Brian Langer; Jeri Hemerlein (Dan) and children Chris, Matt and Mallory Hemerlein; Tony Tardino (Jennifer Flood) and children Calla and Zoë Flood Tardino; and John Tardino (Meryl) and children Michael and Tara Tardino. She also is survived by grandchildren, cousins, grandnieces and grandnephews.

France-Anne is predeceased not only by her parents but by aunts and uncles as well as ex-husband Lee B. Staebler.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to France-Anne’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Foundation (stjude.org) or to the Greater Boston Food Bank (gbfb.org). Private arrangements are being made under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Gerald Tuite Gerald E. Tuite, 73, died Jan. 9 after a brief illness, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Ann L (Mayer) Tuite, to whom he was married for 36 years. Born in Norwalk, Connecticut, he was the son of the late John R. and Madeline (Gilmore) Tuite.

Jerry was a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Norwalk, Connecticut, and Fairfield University. He worked at Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford as a financial analyst for 41 years. Jerry retired 10 years ago and kept active with family, gardening, neighborhood poker games and local politics, including being on the Zoning Board of Appeals. His happiest place was home.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, John Tuite (Nicole Graham) of California, Elizabeth Tuite, Victoria Tuite and Nathan Tuite, all of Hopkinton, and Meredith Tuite (Chuck Torrisi) of Melrose. He also leaves his sister, Marie Muller and husband Bruce of Florida, his brother, Peter Tuite and wife Marcia of Florida, and his motherin-law, Louise Mayer of Hopkinton. In addition, he leaves a long list of relatives in the Carver, Mayer, Tuite and Muller families.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 14 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Hopkinton. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Services are under the care of the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, Hopkinton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jerry’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Gianna Pandolfino Gianna Marie Pandolfino, 21, of Holliston passed away Jan. 12. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of

Janine (L’Antigua) and Paul Pandolfino of Holliston.

Gianna was a precious little girl who overcame tremendous odds. Born completely healthy, she suffered a vaccine injury that left her on a journey of complete hardship. Doctors said she would not live to see her first birthday or her 15th birthday, but God had a different and beautiful and perfect plan for her life. Gianna amazed most doctors with her tenacious will to live; it was almost admirable. She endured more than most people do in a lifetime. Her story, her life, taught many of us of the goodness of God. Her story led more people to Christ without her even uttering a word. Gianna seemed to have an impact to change lives for all who crossed her path.

Her smile was contagious to all who knew her. She loved the feel of a warm, bright, sunny day, loved strolling on long walks, loved the wind in her face, music and her Winnie the Pooh book on tape. She knew and loved her family and friends and she loved her extended family at Seven Hills Pediatric Center; but most importantly, Jesus loved her.

Besides her parents, Gianna is survived by her brothers, U.S. Air Force Sgt. Nicholas Pandolfino of Texas and USAF Sgt. Vincent Pandolfino of Nevada, her grandparents, Joyce L’Antigua of Hopkinton, and Pete and Lorraine Pandolfino of Hopkinton, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 5, at 12:30 p.m. at Faith Community Church in Hopkinton. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston.

James Corsi J a m e s (Jim) Bernard Corsi, age 60, of Bellingham, died peacefully from cancer at home surrounded by his loved ones on Jan. 4. He was born in Newton on Sept. 9, 1961, the son of Bernard (deceased) and Dorothy Corsi of Ashland. He was the beloved father to Julianne and husband Doug Garabedian, Mitch, Jenna and Joey Corsi. He was the devoted brother of Michael Corsi, John Corsi, Cynthia Athy and husband Paul, and Natalie Doyle and husband Peter, and the fun-loving uncle to Ali, Max, Maddie, Nick, Molly, Abby, Sam, PJ, Colleen, Sabrina, Jack and Zack. He remained a loving friend to his ex-wife, Diane, and Joey’s mom, Jill. His dedicated partner, Keena, remained faithfully by his side.

Jim graduated from Newton North High School in 1979 and went on to attend Saint Leo University before getting drafted by the New York Yankees in the 25th round of the 1982 Major League Baseball draft. During his 10-year career, he played for the Athletics, Astros, Marlins, Orioles and Red Sox. Jim won a World Series ring and two pennant rings with the Oakland Athletics. As a Boston native, it was a childhood dream of his to play for the Red Sox. After his career, Jim worked as a studio analyst for Red Sox coverage for local networks for a few years and started

a construction company, Corsi Realty, with his mother and brother, John. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, making people laugh and going to his children’s and nephew’s sporting events.

He lived life with an infectious love for baseball, humor and most importantly, family. Anyone who crossed his path felt his sincerity and immediately felt like a friend. His presence will be deeply missed.

Visiting hours were held Jan. 9 at Faith Community Church of Hopkinton. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Jan. 10 in St. Cecilia’s Parish, Ashland, followed by burial in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland.

Flowers can be sent to Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main Street, Ashland, MA 01721.

Donations can be made to the Joey Corsi Education Trust Fund. Checks can be made payable to Joey Corsi Education Trust Fund, c/o Julianne Corsi, 2 Nixon Lane, Unit 4, Stoneham, MA 02180.

James Hagberg On Jan. 5, James (Jay) Hagberg, loving brother and father, passed away unexpectedly in the hospital at the age of 59. Jay was born on March 16, 1962, in Malden. He was a 1980 graduate of Hopkinton High School and worked thereafter in the family business alongside his father and brother.

Jay was preceded in death by his father, John, and his mother, Elizabeth (Betsy). He is survived by his daughter, Karina of Westborough, his brother, George of Hopkinton, and sister, Brenda of Norwell. He also leaves behind his niece, Grace, and nephews, Peter, John, Luke and Joshua as well as several cousins, aunts and uncles.

“Good N You” — Jay had a gentle, easygoing spirit and was known for his unique phrases and welcoming smile. He loved fishing, family, friends and football, probably in that order. His proudest achievement was being a father, and he cherished any time he and his daughter spent together. He had amazing friends who cared for him deeply. Even when he was diagnosed with ALS in 2020, his spirit did not break. His bravery was inspiring; he was loved by all who cared for him.

Visitation was held Jan. 17 at the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home in Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassionate Care ALS of Falmouth.

Patricia Precobb

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Patricia Precobb, 81, of Chelmsford, a devoted wife, mother and sister, died Jan. 4 at the Advinia Nursing Home in Wilmington.

She was married to Wil-

liam J. Precobb, with whom she celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 19, 2021.

Born in Spokane, Washington, she was the daughter of the late Alvin L. Hurley and Marjorie Adams.

She graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School with the class of 1958. Patricia furthered her education by attending Anna Maria College and graduated with a bachelor’s in education, then graduating from Fitchburg State with her master’s in education.

Patricia owned and operated Therapeutic Tutors Nashoba Valley Counseling. She taught in the Chelmsford and Needham School Systems. Patricia also was a part-time teacher at Don Bosco Technical High School in Boston, and was a special project manager for Roxbury Community College.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts gave Patricia a citation for her outstanding work as past president of the board of the Paul Center for disabled children located in Chelmsford. She was a past fundraiser for the Chelmsford Little League. She was an avid squash player.

Besides her husband, William, Patricia is survived by son John Precobb of Hopkinton, daughter Carol and husband Dr. Brian Newman of Alamo, California, brother James Hurley of Secaucus, New Jersey three grandchildren, Katarina Precobb, Cailin Newman and Ryan Newman, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was the sister of the late Alvin L. Hurley, the late Mary Mahoney, and the late Ann M. Hurley.

A funeral Mass was held Jan. 8 at at St. Mary Church, Chelmsford, followed by burial in St. Joseph Cemetery, Chelmsford. Services were under the care of the Dolan Funeral Home, Chelmsford.

Memorials may be made in Patricia’s name to The Paul Center, 38 Concord Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824.

Rita Robinson Rita J. Robinson, 86, of Framingham and formerly of Southborough, passed away on Jan. 11. She was the wife of the late William R. “Dick”

Robinson.

Born in Milford, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Flora (Metcalf) Peacock. She was educated in Hopkinton and Framingham and graduated from Framingham High School.

Rita was employed as a bookkeeper for Dick Robinson’s Garage, Westboro Auto Supply and Maple & Clover Landscape prior to her retirement.

She is survived by one son, Gene C. Robinson and wife Tara of Framingham, and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service in Southborough Rural Cemetery will be planned for a later date. Details will be announced.

Services are under the care of the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home.

Donations in her memory may be made to Sterling Animal Shelter, 17 Laurelwood Road, Sterling, MA 01564 or sterlingshelter.org.

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 21

Police Log ARRESTS January 6

3:17 p.m. Sergeant Scott van Raalten and Officer Ryan Polselli responded to a motor vehicle accident on Clinton Street and subsequently arrested a 34-year-old from Blackstone and charged her with marked lanes violation and OUI liquor.

January 7

4:21 p.m. On Cedar Street, Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Kevin Sager arrested a 31-year-old Milford resident and charged him with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a truck failure to display owner’s name, operation of a motor vehicle with license suspended, default warrant, and straight warrant arrest.

January 16

9:11 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle crashed into a stone wall on School Street.

Officers Brian Sanchioni, Robert Ekross and Jessica Ferreira responded and reported a male party fled the vehicle and scene and headed up School Street. A 60-year-old Winter Street resident was apprehended and charged with leaving the scene of property damage and OUI liquor, second offense.

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.

January 4

8:28 a.m. A walk-in reported a stolen motor vehicle. Officer Brendon Lyver checked the business area where the vehicle had been with a negative find. Sergeant Timothy Brennan responded and reported the vehicle was located at the owner’s place of employment and was towed by a second party. It was confirmed that the vehicle was not stolen.

8:00 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Brian Sanchioni responded to a motor vehicle accident on Angels Way. No personal injuries were reported. The motorist reported a truck cut her off, causing the accident, and took off. Sergeant McNeil checked the area with a negative find and notified the Upton Police Department.

9:22 p.m. A caller reported a dog running loose on School Street. Officer Brian Sanchioni responded, and the dog ran into a yard. Officer Sanchioni spoke with the owners, who stated their electric fence was not working. The dog safely returned home.

January 5

6:43 a.m. Sergeants Timothy Brennan, John Porter and Arthur Schofield and Officers Kevin Sager, Ryan Polselli and Moira McGaffigan assisted the Fire Department in responding to a fire at a Fruit Street building.

8:58 a.m. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Chamberlain Street. No personal injuries were reported.

7:13 p.m. Officer Brian Sanchioni responded along with the Fire Department to Mayhew Street.

A fire was subsequently extinguished.

January 6

5:04 a.m. A motorist reported icy road conditions on Pond Street. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported it should not be an issue for those driving the speed limit. A message was left for the DPW. 5:15 a.m. A caller reported icy road conditions on Proctor Street. The DPW was notified.

5:45 a.m. The Southborough Police Depart-

ASHLAND MOTORS Integrity. Reliability. Customer Service. ment reported hazardous road conditions on Cedar Street. The DPW was contacted.

6:51 a.m. Officer Jay Deiana responded to a motor vehicle accident on Ash Street. No personal injuries were reported.

7:20 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident on Legacy Farms North. Sergeants Matthew McNeil and Timothy Brennan responded.

The vehicle was gone upon their arrival.

10:03 a.m. A caller on DJ Murphy Lane reported an erratic operator who traveled on West Main Street, crossing double yellow lines, and sped toward Upton. Officer Ryan Polselli responded and checked the area with a negative find.

1:22 p.m. A Davis Road resident reported a male party attempted to take her property. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and took a report.

2:37 p.m. The Natick Police Department requested assistance in locating a person suspected of larceny in Natick. Officer Philip Powers went to a Clinton Street residence but was unable to locate the suspect.

5:26 p.m. Officers Robert Ekross, Cody Normandin and Kevin Sager responded to a motor vehicle crash on Lumber Street and took a report.

January 7

3:49 a.m. The DPW reported a deceased deer in the roadway of Legacy Farms North. Officer Stephen Buckley responded and moved the animal off to the side of the road. The animal control officer was notified.

4:58 a.m. The Upton Police Department received a call about a car off the roadway that possibly hit a pole on West Main Street. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported no personal injuries. A tow truck was requested. The DPW was requested for plowing the snow in the area.

5:20 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle stuck in the roadway of Legacy Farms North with hazard lights on. Officer Stephen Buckley responded and contacted the DPW for snow removal.

6:33 a.m. The DPW reported a truck off the roadway and stuck in a gulley on Pond Street.

Officer Shannon Beloin responded and requested a tow for removal.

6:40 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crashed into a stone wall on Cedar Street. Officer Stephen Buckley responded. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck was requested.

8:06 a.m. A caller reported her husband’s plow truck was broken down in the middle of the roadway of Wood Street, creating a possible hazard. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and awaited the tow.

10:40 a.m. Sergeant Timothy Brennan responded to a motor vehicle crash on Clinton Street.

No personal injuries were reported.

10:42 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crashed into a tree on Hayden Rowe Street. A tow truck was requested. Officer Cody Normandin stood by while the car was removed.

10:54 a.m. Officer Matthew Santoro responded to a motor vehicle crash on Fruit Street. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck was requested.

12:55 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded to a motor vehicle accident on Front Street after a vehicle crashed into a pole. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

4:17 p.m. Officer Ryan Polselli assisted and provided a courtesy transport to a person who got lost snowshoeing on Andrea Drive.

5:09 p.m. Officer Robert Ekross responded to a motor vehicle accident on Proctor Street, where a vehicle struck a pole. No personal injuries were reported, and the vehicle was drivable.

6:25 p.m. Officer Robert Ekross assisted a disabled motor vehicle that was pulled over and overheating in a church parking lot on West Main Street.

9:09 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil checked on a vehicle that slid off the roadway on Clinton Street, Police log | 22

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84 Wood Street, Hopkinton CITATION GIVING NOTICE OF PETITION TO EXPAND THE POWERS OF A GUARDIAN Docket No. NO21P0430GD Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Norfolk Probate and Family Court 35 Shawmut Road, Canton, MA 02021 In the Interests of: Shari Cook of Sharon, MA RESPONDENT incapacitated Person/Protected Person

To the named Respondent and all other interested persons, a petition has been filed by Judith Cook of Sharon, MA in the above captioned matter requesting that the court: Expend the powers of a Guardian. The petition asks the court to make a determination that the powers of the Guardian and/or Conservator should be expanded, modified, or limited since the time of the appointment. The original petition is on file with the court.

You have the right to object to this proceeding. If you wish to do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance at this court on or before 10:00 A.M. on the return date of 02/16/2022. This day is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline date by which you have to file the matter without further notice to you. In addition to filing the written appearance, you or your attorney must file a written affidavit stating the specific facts and grounds of your objection within 30 days after the return date.

IMPORTANT NOTICE The outcome of this proceeding may limit or completely take away the abovenamed person’s right to make decisions about personal affairs or financial affairs or both. The above-named person has the right to ask for a lawyer. Anyone may make this request on behalf of the above-named person. If the abovenamed person cannot afford a lawyer, one may be appointed at State expense.

Witness, Hon. Patricial Gorman, First Justice of this Court Date: January 11, 2022 Colleen M. Brierley, Register of Probate

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Police Log Police log | from page 21

and he assisted the driver.

9:17 p.m. A caller reported an intoxicated male threatening a patron at a Main Street business. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Ryan Polselli and Kevin Sager responded, and the man was gone upon their arrival.

January 8

9:31 a.m. A Proctor Street resident reported a dead deer in her backyard.

The animal control officer was contacted.

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12:42 p.m. A caller reported a Christmas tree in the roadway of East Main Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded and checked the area with a negative find.

4:19 p.m. A motorist reported an erratic operator passed him on Wood Street on a solid double yellow line.

Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and located the vehicle and spoke with the operator and advised him to drive more cautiously.

4:24 p.m. A Hillcrest Drive resident reported a male drove a snowmobile into her fence. Officer Brendon Lyver responded and spoke with both parties.

January 9

2:30 p.m. A motorist reported exiting Interstate 495 onto West Main Street with a flat tire. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and assisted.

January 10

8:38 a.m. A caller reported two loose dogs running on Main Street.

The owner was contacted and took custody of them.

10:00 a.m. While driving on Chamberlain Street, Sergeant Timothy Brennan noticed a person in need of help, and he assisted.

10:46 a.m. A Lumber Street caller reported a tree may have fallen into the roadway. Officer Ryan Polselli responded and advised the caller that it was a civil matter, not a police matter,

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between her and her neighbor.

12:33 p.m. Sergeant Timothy Brennan reported a tree fell on some wires on Pond Street. Verizon was notified for removal.

1:25 p.m. The Natick Police Department requested assistance in contacting an Aspen Way resident whose vehicle had been parked at the Natick Mall for over a month. Officer Ryan Polselli delivered the message and the owner was to contact the Natick Police Department.

8:38 p.m. A caller complained of a dog barking for over an hour on North Mill Street. The exact location was unknown. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and drove around the area but could not hear the barking.

8:49 p.m. A caller reported a Jeep Wrangler drove in the middle of the yellow line and into her lane on West Main Street, and the teenagers in the vehicle then yelled at her. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and the Jeep was gone upon his arrival.

January 11

7:29 a.m. Officer Robert Ekross checked on a disabled motor vehicle off the roadway on Legacy Farms North. All was secure, and Officer Ekross was to check back on the vehicle later.

8:09 a.m. Officer Robert Ekross responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Chestnut Street.

No personal injuries were reported.

10:06 a.m. A caller reported a brown dog with a collar on South Street that was shivering and hungry.

The animal control officer was notified.

3:16 p.m. A walk-in reported a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident in the middle school parking lot. Officer Robert Ekross responded and took a report.

3:38 p.m. A caller reported two small dogs were running loose on Snowy Owl Road. Officer Jessica Ferreira and the animal control officer responded and checked the area with a negative find.

4:20 p.m. A Cedar Street caller reported his sister stole electronics while he was incarcerated. Officer Robert Ekross spoke with the caller.

5:10 p.m. A caller reported a male in a plaid shirt, khaki jacket and jeans asking people for $50 on West Main Street. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and checked the area with a negative find.

7:31 p.m. A caller reported a large black and white dog in the middle of the roadway on South Mill Street. The caller brought the dog to the animal control officer.

9:55 p.m. A caller requested to speak with an officer about a teenage boy dropping off vapes to his 14-yearold daughter. Officer Brian Sanchioni assisted.

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January 12

12:38 a.m. Officer Shannon Beloin checked on a motor vehicle parked on West Main Street and found the owner sleeping. All was OK. 12:47 p.m. A caller reported a fallen wire in the roadway of West Elm Street. Sergeants Matthew McNeil and William Burchard responded, placed cones in the area and contacted

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1:20 p.m. A concerned caller reported a struggling deer fell through ice on Clinton Street. Sergeant Timothy Brennan responded.

4:29 p.m. A caller reported a possible predator contacted her daughter.

Officer Ryan Polselli took a report. The caller was advised to report the account to the social media app.

January 13

7:56 a.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil checked on a tree company doing emergency work on Pond Street.

12:10 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell on wires on Spring Street. Sergeant Timothy Brennan responded and notified Verizon.

9:17 p.m. A motorist reported a deer ran into his car on Front Street and he wanted the incident logged.

January 14

4:20 p.m. Officers Brian Sanchioni and Jessica Ferreira responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

7:03 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard assisted the Fire Department on Lumber Street.

January 15

12:52 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Jessica Ferreira assisted the Fire Department on Pine Island Road.

10:00 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident with no personal injuries on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded and took a report.

11:46 a.m. A motorist reported a table in the roadway of Interstate 495 northbound. The State Police were notified.

11:56 a.m. A walk-in reported an icy patch on Ash Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded and checked the roadway and confirmed the icy area. The DPW was contacted to treat the road.

6:53 p.m. Officer Brendon Lyver responded along with the Fire Department to a smoke detector activation at a Revolutionary Way residence.

January 16

12:45 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Jessica Ferreira assisted the Fire Department on Ash Street.

11:50 a.m. A caller reported a sickly raccoon on Hayden Rowe Street.

Officers Ryan Polselli and Brendon Lyver responded and checked the area with a negative find. The animal control officer was notified.

1:07 p.m. A caller reported water spurting up out of the roadway on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Ryan Polselli responded and checked the area with a negative find. The Water Department was notified.

1:16 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator who nearly caused several accidents while exiting the Interstate 495 ramp on West Main Street.

Officer Moira McGaffigan responded and checked the area with a negative find. The Upton Police Department was advised to be on the lookout for the vehicle.

6:22 p.m. Officer Robert Ekross

The Hopkinton Independent • January 26, 2022 • 23

Police Log assisted the Fire Department on Ash Street.

January 17

4:53 a.m. Officer Shannon Beloin assisted the Fire Department on South Street.

6:07 a.m. The DPW reported a vehicle parked on Fruit Street was preventing the snowplow from passing through. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and assisted in contacting the owner.

8:48 a.m. The DPW reported a vehicle was blocking the sidewalk on Pleasant Street and it needed to be moved. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded and contacted the owner, who moved the vehicle.

9:53 a.m. A Hayden Rowe Street caller reported his business was the victim of a cyber crime. Officer Moira McGaffigan responded and took a report.

12:32 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident with air bag deployment on East Main Street. Sergeant Timothy Brennan and Officers Moira McGaffigan and Brendon Lyver responded

Puppy Training Behavioral Issues Dog Walking and reported no personal injuries. A tow truck was requested for two vehicles.

1:48 p.m. A Grove Street caller reported the odor of natural gas indoors. Officer Ryan Polselli responded along with the Fire Department.

2:50 p.m. A caller reported a tree fell on wires on Coburn Road. Officers Robert Ekross and Jessica Ferreira responded and notified Eversource and Verizon.

3:02 p.m. A caller reported his vehicle was involved in a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident in a Lumber Street parking lot the previous day. Officer Jessica Ferreira took a report.

4:28 p.m. A caller reported receiving a text message from someone stating they were going to burn his house down. Officer Jessica Ferreira responded and took a report.

7:08 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator all over the roadway of Legacy Farms South. Officer Robert Ekross responded and checked the area with a negative find.

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week E

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

This week we feature 1-year-old Scout.

Here is Baypath’s description of Scout: “Have you been scouting for a new best friend to take on an adventure? Here he is — Scout! This young man had his own adventure from Florida to Massachusetts and is now looking for his new family. He is a bright and happy boy who loves to please and explore.

“Scout is looking to be part of your troop and looking forward to hikes and long walks! He is a young and active guy who is ready for adventure! Scout loves toys so much that he carries one with him on all of his walks. He especially loves tennis balls!

“He is still young and very smart so would love to have someone who will help train him and teach him lots of cool tricks! So far, he knows how to sit and give paw!

“Scout wants to find his people who he can cozy up with after a fun day! He wants to be by your side every step of the way. He is great with other dogs!”

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

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

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omination papers for town positions available in the May 16 Annual Town Election are available at the town clerk’s office. The deadline to return the forms is March 28.

The following positions are open for election: Board of Assessors (1 term, 3 years), Board of Health (1 term, 3 years), Board of Library Trustees (3 terms, 3 years, 3 years and 2 years), Select Board (2 terms, both 3 years), Cemetery Commissioners (2 terms, 3 years and 2 years), Commissioners of Trust Fund (1 term, 3 years), constable (2 terms, 3 years and 2 years), Housing Authority (2 terms, 5 years and 2 years), Parks & Recreation Commission (1 term, 3 years), Planning Board (3 terms, 5 years, 5 years and 1 year), Among those taking out nomination papers at Town Hall on Jan. School Committee (1 term, 3 years), 18, the first day papers were available for the 2022 Annual Town town clerk (1 term, 3 years) and town Election, were: back row (from left), Kayla McSweeney, Ellen Rutter, moderator (1 term, 3 years).

Michael Hayes, Rebeka Hoffman, Cynthia Esthimer and Maria Elyse Anyone interested in seeking to Barrett Mihajloski, and front row (from left), Shahidul Mannan, Susan volunteer for elected office should Porter, Nancy Drawe, Mary Jo LaFreniere and Anne Beauchamp. inquire with the town clerk’s office about the process for obtaining nomination papers and getting on the ballot.

For information, stop by Town Hall (18 Main Street), email townclerk@hopkintonma.org or call 508497-9710.

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Our commitment to quality care is stronger than ever with our team of exceptional nurses, physicians and hospital staff all dedicated to delivering the very best healthcare every day. We are honored to once again be recognized as a national healthcare leader with Leapfrog’s Grade “A” for safety.

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