HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT
ELECTION DAYLIGHT
Sunshine Preschool to close without new owner
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
After learning about its impending closure in June 2025, parents of students at an iconic preschool are stepping up to find a potential buyer to continue the founder’s nearly half-century of educating the region’s children.
Christine Martin, the owner and administrator of Sunshine Preschool at 1 Briarcliff Drive, said in a recent interview with the Independent that she decided in mid-October to close the preschool she founded at the end of the school year “for personal and health reasons.”
“I was hoping that I would make it to 50 years,” said Martin, 71, noting she started Sunshine in 1977. “It amazes me that students I had taught decades ago are now bringing their children here.”
Martin added that “parents have come here sobbing” after receiving the
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Planning Board on Nov. 4 focused the bulk of its four-hour meeting on which zoning overlay proposals it would put forward at the Nov. 18 Special Town Meeting to allow Hopkinton comply with the MBTA Communities Act. After entertaining public comments and deliberating the merits of the four options under consideration, it voted to present — but not recommend — the original plan narrowly voted down at the May Annual Town Meeting and a recently proposed plan that included The Preserve, the Walcott Valley condominium development and a portion of downtown.
The board was deadlocked 4-4-1 on recommending either option to the STM. The first option, which had been vetted by the state, would be more amenable to those seeking town housing stock to grow because the Carbone’s Restaurant land and its two adjacent parcels would be the most likely land to be developed in the near future. The other option achieves paper compliance with the state’s requirement. Member Vikasith Pratty voted to
Preschool, located on Briarcliff Drive, announced plans to close in the spring unless a new owner can be found.
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Library welcomes language learners
Traditionally, libraries have been known as places where talking is discouraged. Not so at the Hopkinton Public Library, where individuals from all over the world are having healthy discussions.
The library has been hosting an English Language Learners program, where volunteers lead meetings designed to improve conversation skills for those with various levels of fluency. The program is free, courtesy of the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library.
INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS
JERRY SPAR
Organizer Barbara Champney said the program has been “tremendously successful” — so much so that she recently met with library staff to talk about how it could be better supported and upgraded.
“It’s fun, it’s rewarding, the people are so appreciative,” Champney said. “In my class, I have people from A to Z — Armenia to Zimbabwe. When you think about this community, it’s surprising to realize how many people in this town are looking for help and how many countries are represented.”
The program started a few years ago when Champney, a member of the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library and a former high school science teacher, decided to act on the recommendation of library employees.
“The staff at the library kept talking about a need for English language learning instruction. At the time I knew nothing about it,” she recalled. “There’s a woman here in town, Janet Fannon, who does it professionally. So the two of us got together— it’s four years ago now — and we trained some volunteers.”
Most of the participants learn about the program through word of mouth, via the library website or from listings in this newspaper.
“We have three levels, including opportunities for people to socialize and chat,” Champney said. “So it runs the gamut from someone who has only been here six weeks and is just beginning the language, to others who have some experience.
“Janet, the professional, starts with basic vocabulary — where are you from — and sets up a culture that’s very welcoming. We’ll go through things like a grocery circular, because there’s extensive vocabulary there.”
Added Champney: “Anyone is welcome, but we do limit the classes to 10-12 people so everyone gets a chance to talk and we can listen.”
One recent participant came from Ukraine and eventually had to head back home. She enjoyed the class so much that she continues to participate online.
Two other former ELL students who are from Spain now are leading a Spanish class at the library, “repaying us by teaching,” Champney said.
Some participants are taking things a step further and looking to improve not just their speaking but other facets of communication.
“We try to find out what they need,” Champney said. “Several people now want to improve their writing, so the staff is thinking about setting up a writing experience for people in the class. Another thing people are looking for is an opportunity to socialize, because it’s hard to make friends when you first come into the country. So the library is thinking about setting up game nights.”
The Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library also is sponsoring a lifelong learning program. This features meetings on various topics, including the Supreme Court and the potential impact of some recent rulings. In the spring, the program will offer a series of lectures on art, including a session on the Monuments Men who salvaged art that the Nazis had looted during World War II.
Said Champney: “This is such a welcoming town that it’s the perfect place to be trying out programs like this.”
Local runners tackle NYC
Congratulations to Caitlin Thomas and Hannah McKenzie, two young women from Hopkinton who ran the New York City Marathon on Nov. 3 to benefit the Hopkinton-based 26.2 Foundation.
The two share a bond, as their mothers have run together for many years, explained 26.2 Foundation Executive Director Tim Kilduff.
When Thomas was younger, she used to cheer on her mother when she ran New York. The two ran Boston together this past April.
McKenzie, whose mother, Laura, coaches the Hopkinton High School cross country team, was tackling her first marathon this month. She finished in just over 4 hours, a few minutes ahead of Thomas.
“[The mothers] have been running together for many years, inspiring Caitlin and
Hopkinton friends
Caitlin Thomas (left) and Hannah McKenzie ran the
2024 New York City Marathon on Nov. 3.
‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’
Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest
This issue’s winner is Henry Shion for this photo titled “October Super Hunter Moon Rises over Hopkinton State Park.” To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.
The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by BoMain. Readers are encouraged to submit photos of people, places or things in Hopkinton. The Independent staff will select one winner for each issue. The winner will have their submitted photo published in the paper and will receive a $25 gift certificate to BoMain.
All photos must be submitted by individuals 16 and over. The photo must be high resolution, and not submitted for use by any other media outlet. Winners will pick up their gift certificate at BoMain.
Driver dies in highway crash
An overnight crash Oct. 22 involving three cars and a tractor-trailer on the MassPike led to one fatality.
Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty said that the crash occurred at the Hopkinton-Westborough line at approximately 11:40 p.m. He noted that the site is a “tricky location” because that area goes from Westborough to a 1-mile stretch in Hopkinton before becoming Westborough again. There also is construction in this area.
“Anytime an accident like that happens, both departments go,” he explained.
The Massachusetts State Police announced that troopers from the Charlton Barracks responded to the crash on Interstate 90 West in Hopkinton, and David Frencl, 48, of Calvert City, Kentucky, was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. (State Police initially identified him as David Fencil, but an obituary confirmed the correct spelling of Frencl.)
Daugherty said the victim was extricated by the Westborough Fire Department and that two other people were transported to UMass Medical Center in Worcester by HFD for the treatment of minor injuries.
The accident briefly shut down the MassPike westbound. One lane remained closed for several hours.
Accident shuts down Pond Street
A tractor-trailer struck a telephone pole Nov. 5 on Pond Street, injuring the driver and taking down utility lines.
According to a police advisory, Pond Street was to be closed from Erika Drive to 20 Pond Street for the rest of the day. Drivers were advised to find an alternate route.
Hopkinton Fire Lt. John Sheridan provided details on the incident, which he said “was called in at exactly 3:15 p.m.”
“What happened was that the tractor part of the tractor-trailer struck the utility pole on Pond Street,” he explained. “My ambulance crew got to the scene quickly and was able to transfer the driver out of the vehicle when I got there. I was involved in assessing the situation for any dangers, including fuel leaks. It will take a while to clean the scene up.”
He added that the driver was able to walk to the side of the road and speak with emergency medical personnel as they were preparing to take him to the hospital, but he did not speak with the driver directly.
Sheridan said crews from Eversource and Verizon visited the scene to deal with the live power lines, and “a tow truck used for heavy equipment” was brought in to remove the tractor.
OSPC approves request to acknowledge historical properties
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Open Space Preservation Commission at its meeting Nov. 7 voted unanimously to approve a request to commemorate the history of two Hopkinton properties with signage that would describe their significance in Hopkinton’s development from a farming and factory town to its current trail system.
Brian Colella, a member of the Historical Commission, approached the OSPC about the possibility of installing two signs to illustrate the history of the Hughes and Colella properties along Hayden Rowe Street at the Hughes Farm Trail and the town’s recently purchased property from the Colella family. His idea, which he also proposed to Historical Commission chair Michael Roughan, was for the signs to describe the importance of the land to subsistence farm-
ers as well as the former shoemaking industry that drove the town’s economy. Pictures from the Historical Society could be incorporated into the design.
Colella added that as trails eventually are designed on the land, additional signs could be created to encapsulate more of Hopkinton’s history.
“The Hayden Rowe section of town has a unique sort of history to it,” he explained. “And it’s changed so much over time that I thought it would be a nice idea to create some sort of signage there.”
In his outline, he showed two potential signs, which would be funded by the Historical Commission if approved. He will present his proposal to the Historical Commission on Nov. 12. One sign would be “a little more informational,” describing the role of Indigenous people and highlighting the area’s architecture. The other sign would show pictures of the farms, shoe factories and houses of notable shoemakers.
Another interesting building Colella said he would like to feature was once called Hayden Rowe Hall. It formerly was a church, firehouse and the meetinghouse where the anti-slavery and temperance movements were discussed. In addition, he hoped that the sign also could show the location of the Hopkinton Historical Society.
He conceded that “the toughest part is keeping it concise.”
Members expressed support for the idea. Member Nancy Peters noted that when Hayden Rowe Hall was torn down, she asked that the triangular granite support beams be preserved.
Member Jane Moran suggested that the signs be incorporated into the trail system as educational tools.
“There is a lot of history there,” she said. “I’m excited to see how this will progress. I also see it as an ongoing story as the town continues to gain property.”
“We have some great trails here,”
added Select Board member Joe Clark. “If we have the opportunity to educate people on a small part of the history of the town that is often overlooked, I think it’s a wonderful idea.”
The only concern voiced by chair Ed Harrow was trying to “distill down” all of the information Colella would like to see included into a cohesive package. Colella said he would return to the OSPC over the next two months with updates on the project.
Fruit Street bridges in ‘rough shape’
Member Steve Levandosky reported that the bridge that connects to Fruit Street is deteriorating to the point that it may be beyond repair. He suggested that signage be placed there to warn people of the damage. The bridge is about 30 feet long and about 6 feet wide.
Peters pointed out that there are two bridges there, one that is “in rough shape” and a second one that crosses a stream and is in worse condition. They can be accessed by walking behind the Wood Street Fire Station for about half a mile.
Moran said it may need to be demolished and replaced. Levandosky said the concrete footings “appear to be in good shape,” which would make the rebuilding process easier.
Whitehall area has bittersweet issue
Harrow explained that bittersweet grew past the stakes that he and a colleague had placed to demarcate the land a couple of years ago. Invasive weed growth has been a chronic issue in this area.
At this point, Harrow suggested that a professional be hired to manage the invasive species. He will seek advice from wetlands consultant Joe Orzell and report back to the board at its December meeting.
Hannah,” Kilduff shared. “Caitlin and Hannah have seen firsthand how running instills confidence and improves mental health among people of all ages and skill levels.”
Each runner raised more than $5,000 for the 26.2 Foundation.
Dementia Friends program continues
The Hopkinton Council on Aging is sponsoring another Dementia Friends informational session on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at St. John’s Church (20 Church Street).
Organizer Sam Docknevich notes that he’s now conducted 20 such sessions, resulting in 332 new Dementia Friends.
The program, open to residents of all ages and towns, is designed to explain about dementia and how it impacts not just the affected individual but also that person’s family. Extensive resources are available to let people know how to offer support.
For more information, call the Hopkinton Senior Center at 508-497-9730.
Audra Lafleur, FNP-BC
Local
As drought continues, HFD bans outdoor burning
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
Apress release put out by the Hopkinton Fire Department on Nov. 5 underscores just how bad drought conditions in town and across the state have become.
In the press release, Chief Gary Daugherty announced there would be a temporary prohibition on all “open, recreational and cooking fires or other sources of ignition.”
Extreme drought conditions have resulted in heightened fire hazards, “making open flames or ignition sources especially risky.”
A lack of precipitation, continuous strong winds, leaf litter and direct light on fuel sources all lead to a high risk of outdoor fires, according to the Department of Fire Services.
The effect of these conditions has been noticeable throughout the region and the state.
A half-acre of land burned in Milford after an alleged arsonist set a parcel of land on Route 140 on fire. Fires in Salem and Middleton burned 140 and 188 acres, respectively.
In the first week of November, the state experienced 87 fires, which burned more than 483 acres.
“The number of brush fires this season is 2-3 times the national average,” Daugherty said in a follow-up interview with the Independent.
The average monthly fire count in Massachusetts for the month of October is 16, according to Daugherty. Last month, the number exceeded 200.
While the town has not experienced fires of the same intensity as other municipalities, the Hopkinton Fire Department responded to at least one brush fire already.
Daugherty stated that crews tackled a fire on the town line by the E.L. Harvey & Sons recycling center on Wood Street on Nov. 1. It was reported that an arcing power line caused the fire.
Equally as concerned with drought conditions in town is Water/Sewer Department manager Eric Carty.
“We’ve only had an inch-and-a-half of rain in two months,” Carty said.
As a result, his department has been forced to cut back the town’s wells as they pull from further out in the aquifer.
Water use has declined in town as the seasons have shifted, but use of existing wells has not changed due to
the lack of rain.
“Normally we have other wells we shut off this time of year,” said Carty. “Right now, with the situation we’re in, we’re keeping those wells running.”
As the water from those wells is taken from deeper in the aquifer, sediments and elements like iron and manganese are pulled along with it, affecting water quality.
When asked about what it would take to replenish the water supply back to normal levels, Carty explained the town would need “a significant amount of rain to catch all the way back up.”
Some rain is expected in the coming weeks, but not enough to move the town out of drought conditions. According to Carty, forecasts through the winter are not all that promising either.
The length of the drought is perhaps more concerning than anything. “I don’t know that it’s the most severe, but it’s lasted longer than other droughts in near memory,” said Carty.
Both Carty and Daugherty are asking residents to be diligent about water use and fire safety, as one impacts the other.
Said Carty: “It would put a significant dent in [the water supply] if we had to start fighting brush fires in addition to what we’re dealing with now.”
The town has asked residents to avoid “unnecessary water use” as drought conditions persist. Carty also recommends people use water judiciously, and employ “common sense methods” to limit water use when possible.
Daugherty stressed that all outdoor burning should cease, and residents take precautions when disposing of ash from indoor fireplaces.
“We don’t want that being dumped into the woods,” he said.
It is recommended that residents dispose of ashes by dousing them with water and storing them in metal containers.
Other methods to reduce the risk of brush fires includes exercising caution with outdoor power equipment, such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers. Spilled gasoline, hot engines and sparks can ignite dry leaves and grass. Any smoking materials should be disposed of properly.
Residents with any concerns can reach out to the Fire Department and the Water/Sewer Department for more information.
SENIOR TREAT
The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.-
2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, including lunch program menus as well as a newsletter, check hopkintonseniorcenter.com. Anyone with questions can call 508-497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.
Museum of Flight Presents: Exploration of Mars
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2:30 p.m.
From the ancient civilizations and to the present, humans have been fascinated by the planet Mars. In this virtual program, attendees will explore the planet and learn about its characteristics as compared to Earth, and examine the discoveries made by early probes through the most recent exploring rover Perseverance and the helicopter Ingenuity. There also will be a look at future plans for human exploration and the obstacles complicating sending humans to Mars. Those interested should call for the Zoom link.
Variety Show
Thursday, Nov. 14, 1 p.m.
Everyone is invited to share a dance, song, poem or “anything your heart desires.” Individuals do not need a “talent” in order to participate in the Variety Show,
29.
but simply have a family-friendly skill that they want to share with the Senior Center. Anyone interested in performing should see Jessica for details.
Empowering Caregivers Series
Thursday, Nov. 14, 6-7 p.m.
Those who are providing care for a loved one are invited to join this free weekly workshop presented by the Alzheimer’s Association covering topics such as the role of a caregiver and the changes they may experience, using a person-centered care approach, building a support team, managing caregiver stress, exploring available services and support, etc. This program will be held at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts and is open to residents of any town. Registration can be done via Senior Center at 508-497-9730.
Secret Stories Behind the World’s Most Iconic Paintings
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2:30 p.m.
From “American Gothic” to “Whistler’s Mother” to “Nighthawks,” there are some images that are so ubiquitous in our culture that we have stopped looking at them closely. This virtual program delves into these iconic works and shares the secret stories behind their creation and reception. Those interested should call for the Zoom link.
Russell Museum of Medical History and Innovation
Thursday, Nov. 21, 1 p.m.
Attendees for this virtual program will learn all about Massachusetts General Hospital history, the ether anesthesia story, some history of Mass General’s responses to other crises in the past, and information on Mass General’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. Those interested should call for the Zoom link.
Friends of Senior Center Annual Holiday Sale and Silent Auction
Friday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Silent auction items will be available for bidding from Nov. 12 until Nov. 23 at noon. The sale will include baked goods, holiday decor items, handmade goods and much more. Proceeds go to the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors, which helps support nutrition, transportation and other programming needs for the Senior Center.
Individuals show off their costumes at the Senior Center Halloween party on Oct.
SENIOR SNIPPETS
PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO
Hopkinton Holiday Stroll
10am-3pm
There will be free horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Common from noon to 3pm. Check out the ice sculpture demonstrations beginning at 2pm and the Hopkinton Girl Scouts’ annual lighting of the tree on the Town Common that evening.
The annual Holiday Stroll is back! Many Chamber businesses will be participating with sales, specials, contests, treats and promotions to make holiday shopping easy and fun.
Your Chance to Win $300!
Visit the participating business locations and have your Holiday Stroll Passport stamped. Enter your stamped passport in a random drawing for the chance to win one of multiple $300 cash prizes!!
Pick up Itinerary Book with Passports:
• At the participating businesses below in the days leading up to the Stroll
• From our website HopChamber.com
How can business owners plan for an exit?
If you’re a business owner, you always have a lot to do and a lot to think about. But have you put much thought into how you’ll eventually leave it all behind?
Professional insights
Even if you’re a few years away from that day, it’s a good idea to create an exit strategy. If you’re like most other owners, most of your net worth may well be tied up in your business — so how you exit that business can have a big impact on your finances and your retirement.
As you begin the exit strategy process, you’ll need to examine some basic questions, such as how much you want for your business and how much it’s worth. But you’ll especially need to plan for the mechanics of your exit — that is, just how you’re going to sell or transfer ownership of it.
Essentially, you have three main options:
• Internal sale or transfer – You could sell or transfer your business to someone affiliated with the company, such as a family member, business partner or even a group of employees. The advantages of this method are that you’ll have greater control over the timing of your exit, and you’ll be able to provide greater continuity for your employees, clients and suppliers. One potential disadvantage is that your net sales proceeds may be less than what you’d get from selling the business to an unrelated third party.
• External sale or transfer – The biggest benefit of selling or transferring your business to an unrelated third party is that you can potentially maximize your net sales proceeds. But you’ll need to consider some tradeoffs, too. For one
thing, a sale to an outside person or business usually requires a long and possibly expensive due diligence process. Also, you’ll have less control over the timing of your exit than you would if you sold the business to an internal source.
• Liquidation – If you liquidated your business by selling all your assets and shutting down operations, you could end up with far fewer net proceeds than if you sold the business to an internal or external source. However, you could raise cash pretty quickly. But if you chose to liquidate or dissolve your business, it could potentially be disruptive for your employees, clients and suppliers.
Because everyone’s situation is different, there’s no clear-cut formula for deciding which of these exit options is right for you. And it isn’t simply a matter of numbers, either, because you’ll need to consider some intangible factors, too. How will your family be affected by your choice? How would you feel if your business was in someone else’s hands, or no longer existed? You’ll need to work out these issues, along with the financial ones, before you decide on your business exit strategy.
Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. You may want to consult your financial, legal and tax advisors, and possibly work with a commercial banker and a business evaluation expert. By drawing on several sources of expertise, you can feel more confident that you’ll make a decision that’s appropriate for your needs.
One final suggestion: Don’t wait too long before you begin putting together your exit strategy. Time goes fast — and when the time comes for you to say goodbye to your business, you’ll want to be prepared.
Gas station projects in crosshairs of SGC workgroups
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
The Climate Action & Building Workgroups of the Sustainable Green Committee on Oct. 28 talked about ways to regulate projects like the proposed gas station at 290 West Main Street in the future.
balancing development with the town’s commitment to sustainability.
“[We’re] not going to fight every new development,” said Rowland, “That’s not worth it.”
“The goal is that any new development should be as sustainable as possible,” he added.
MEMBER FDIC 1Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) effective as of 11/1/2024 and
SGC chair Geoff Rowland began the discussion by reviewing the Board of Appeal’s use variance hearing for the proposed gas station and country store, which took place earlier in October.
During that meeting, Rowland gave a prepared statement from the committee during public comment. In the statement, he cited environmental concerns, increasing electric vehicle (EV) usage by Hopkinton residents and the town’s net zero goals as reasons to deny the applicant’s use variance request.
After Rowland’s recap, the workgroups discussed what next steps would be on this issue and on potential fossil fuel infrastructure projects going forward.
Rowland emphasized a need for
One idea that dominated much of the discussion was implementing a new bylaw that could block future development of gas stations and other fossil fuel projects in town.
Member Paul Gallagher expressed opposition to the idea. “I think regulating them away probably won’t work,” he said, adding that such a ban could “run the risk of alienating people.”
He advocated for alternate approaches that would “[add] a thumb gently on the scale of being fully electric” instead of outright bans.
Added Gallagher: “I think that’s a better way to regulate than to just say, ‘Stop.’ ” SGC vice chair Amy Groves agreed
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Mark Freeman, CEPA
Power outage no issue for Hopkinton voters
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
More than 10,000 residents cast their votes in the national and state elections, with about half of them voting early and the rest on Election Day on Nov. 5 despite a power outage that hit Hopkinton Middle School just minutes before the polls opened.
According to Town Clerk Connor Degan, his crew was prepared for such a situation, and backup power to the election equipment went on immediately. Town staff then brought in a generator to prevent the machines’ backup systems from draining. So, the only issue was a dim Brown Gym.
“[The voting machines] weren’t down,” Degan said. “Nothing went down besides the lights.”
Degan said he was proud of the fact that there was no delay for the dozens of people who were waiting in line to vote at 7 a.m.
“We have backups hard-wired into our systems,” he noted. “We are all set in case of this contingency.”
Power was restored at 8:39 a.m. An email from Eversource indicated 717 customers were impacted, and the problem was caused by “damage to our electrical equipment.” An Eversource representative later clarified that it was a faulty switch.
Democrats win locally
Based on unofficial results — about 100 provisional and hand-counted votes remained to be factored in — Democratic candidates swept all races in Hopkinton by comfortable margins. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren received 6,072 votes versus challenger John Deaton’s 3,913. U.S. House Rep. James McGovern took 6,704 votes in the race versus independent Cornelius Shea’s 2,817 — about 70% of residents who voted.
In the presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris outperformed former President Donald Trump in Hopkinton. Harris took 6,634 votes to Trump’s 3,120. Harris won the state, but by a slightly
Gas station projects in crosshairs
with concerns about over-legislating the issue. However, she recommended that if the larger committee wanted to make a push for enacting a bylaw, the process would need to start soon.
“We only get one good shot every year to go to Town Meeting,” said Groves. “It takes a while to socialize something and get it to pass.”
Given recent moves by the state Senate to adopt a revitalized climate bill and uncertainty that the final plans for 290 West Main Street would even include a gas station, member Nicole Simpson wondered if a move to develop a bylaw was worth the larger committee’s time.
“[It’s] a lot of work for something that may or may not happen anyway,” said Simpson.
Rowland agreed, stating there was “not much for us to do at this point besides wait.”
The workgroups agreed to bring the matter for discussion at the general SGC meeting and follow up after the next Board of Appeals meeting about the gas station project on Nov. 13.
smaller percentage. Trump won nationally.
In the more local race for District 2 Governor’s Council, Hopkinton voters favored Tamisha Civil. Residents cast 5,629 votes in favor of the Democrat. Her Republican opponent, Francis Crimmins, received 3,646 votes. The statewide tally was similar.
The majority of the questions on this
year’s ballot were rejected by local voters. Question 1, which would authorize the state auditor to audit the state legislature, was the sole exception. Roughly 70% of residents voted in favor of the ballot measure, reflecting statewide results.
Bucking the trend across the rest of the state, Hopkinton voted against Question 2. A yes vote was to eliminate MCAS
as a graduation requirement. However, the margin was slim: 5,036 people voted against Question 2, defeating those in favor of it by exactly 100 votes. Statewide, the question passed with about 59 percent in favor.
Residents voted against Question 3, a ballot measure to allow ride share drivers to unionize. Around 5,063 votes were cast against the question versus 4,618 in favor. That was similar to the statewide tally.
Questions 4 and 5 were opposed in much broader margins. Question 4 — the measure to legalize controlled psychedelic substances — lost by a count of 6,605 votes to 3,779. The server wage tip question had a similar vote breakdown, with 6,381 residents voting against the measure. Residents’ votes on these last two measures lined up with the statewide vote.
When asked about the mood of voters, Degan said he noticed a difference.
“I’ve seen what I consider a lot of energy this cycle, which is nice,” he said. “I didn’t feel as much of that in the last couple presidential cycles.”
Residents wait in line to vote as the polls open at Hopkinton Middle School on Nov. 5.
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MBTA proposals go before Special Town Meeting
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abstain on both votes, although his vote would have broken the tie and allowed the board to make a recommendation to the STM.
Members Lucia Lopez, vice chair Matthew Wronka, Parker Happ and Jane Moran voted in favor of recommending the first proposal. Chair Rob Benson, Karen Wills, Elise Mihajloski and Michael King voted against it.
Benson, Lopez, King and Moran voted in favor of recommending the alternative, while Mihajloski, Wronka, Happ and Wills voted against recommending it.
“The Planning Board is proposing this,” Mihajloski said. “And if we have something we don’t recommend in something we’re proposing, it kind of makes us look disorganized.”
Public comment revolves around ‘hypotheticals’
The public comment period revolved around concerns from the condominium owners in the developments previously proposed — The Preserve, Walcott Valley and Indian Brook. Speakers asked questions about hypothetical situations where they thought the state could take their land by eminent domain, developers could purchase the majority of condos in a complex and force people out, that these were rezoning proposals, and that condo property values would fall, among other conjectures about future development.
Before the public spoke, Benson acknowledged Select Board member Amy Ritterbusch. She had received a letter from Senate president Karen Spilka’s office that addressed some of these concerns and wanted to share this correspondence.
“The MBTA Communities Act was designed to help resolve our housing shortage by requiring communities near public transit routes to add zoning for multifamily housing,” the letter stated. “Nowhere in the law does it allow the state to take a residence or business property by eminent domain, and there have been zero conversations in the Legislature about that hypothetical, or anything remotely close to it.”
It concluded: “The goal of this law is to help add housing to our state, and by doing so, bring down the skyrocketing cost of housing for all our residents so people can afford to stay in the communities they love, like Hopkinton.”
Despite the message against eminent domain put forth in this letter, several people voiced their distrust of state government.
Lopez clarified for the audience that these were not rezoning proposals but proposals for zoning overlay districts. Despite her statement, the term resurfaced in several comments.
Shane Diaz, the president of the board of the Indian Brook condo owners association, said that he spoke with a majority of the complex’s board members and residents of the 112 units. He said that the consensus was to oppose the zoning proposal that included Indian Brook.
Residents of The Preserve continued to be adamantly against their development being included. Eric Wieland, a board member of The Preserve’s condo owners association, expressed concerns about attempts at developing this property in future years.
“I want a letter from the governor
The MBTA Communities Act was something that was done at the state level. Nobody on the Planning Board went out to establish an MBTA Community district on their own. We’ve been trying to come up with the best proposal and put it before Town Meeting.
— Planning Board chair Rob Benson
telling us that our property is safe,” he said. He later said that the Planning Board should ask the state for an extension of the Dec. 31 deadline to submit the proposed overlay district.
Joyce Michel, who lives at Walcott Valley, said she feared the property values would drop. Benson said that, over time, he saw the property values actually increasing, if there is any effect.
Sharon Reynolds said she thought the inclusion of the condo communities forced them to “bear the burden” of the MBTA Communities Act for the whole town. She also called creating the zoning overlay districts “a meaningless exercise.”
King countered that the entire town will bear the burden if a zoning overlay is not passed because it would lose access to state grants and be sued by the state.
Benson said it was “not financially viable” for a developer to purchase all the condominiums in a complex, demolish them and build a new complex.” Some speakers thought that this could be done, perhaps if developers did it in concert or over a period of time.
“I don’t think any of us want to see more development and more growth in town to this extent,” said Mihajloski. “And the reason why we picked these parcels is that we believe that you guys are happy in your areas. … Part of the reason why we want to zone these areas because we don’t think this will happen in these areas.”
Lopez asked if there was a way that the condos’ owners associations could amend their documents to increase the percentage of residents needed to dissolve their respective associations before a sale can happen. Diaz said that a two-thirds vote would be needed to change the bylaws at Indian Brook.
Ken Weismantel asked if the board had done a thorough look at the parking requirements for the proposed districts they put forward. He also stressed that if the condo residents turn out in force, “You guys got a snowball’s chance in hell in passing it at Special Town Meeting.”
“The MBTA Communities Act was something that was done at the state level,” Benson said. “Nobody on the Planning Board went out to establish an MBTA Community district on their own. We’ve been trying to come up with the best proposal and put it before Town Meeting.”
Benson later added: “We are out of time.”
Town Meeting | from page 1
Select Board reviews articles for Nov. 18 STM
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Select Board at its brief meeting Oct. 29 voted unanimously to sign the warrant for the Special Town Meeting, which will be held Nov. 18. Members questioned if there was enough public notification about the eight articles because the meeting was less than three weeks away.
The main article that prompted the STM is Article 8, which will present a plan or multiple plans for a zoning bylaw to meet the state’s requirement that the town adopt an MBTA zoning overlay district (see Page 1). The state statute does not require that new housing be built.
Before the discussion began, Ken Weismantel spoke during the public comment period about the Planning Board’s hearing he attended the previous night. Weismantel, a former Planning Board and Zoning Advisory Committee chair and current Community Preservation Committee chair, said a major concern of his was the inclusion of a plan for consideration that was narrowly voted down at May’s Annual Town Meeting, calling it “an insult to Town Meeting” to have it reconsidered.
Speaking as a private citizen, he questioned why the warrant that the Select Board was signing did not provide any details or maps about the proposed zoning districts. There is only a space to insert a paragraph.
“I have never seen that,” said Weismantel. “It’s a departure from everything we’ve done on zoning articles in the last 40 years that I’ve been going to Town Meeting.”
The Planning Board voted on which proposals will appear on the warrant at its Nov. 4 meeting. Three proposed plans were discussed at length at the previous night’s hearing, while a fourth one was offered by Planning Board chair Rob Benson that would include a small downtown area and The Preserve and Walcott Valley condominium complexes. All plans proved to be problematic for speakers at the hearing because they included private condo developments.
Weismantel stressed that Town Meeting members need to have “specifics as to what they’re going to vote on and what they are expected to vote on.” Because of the tense discussion during the meeting the previous night and the Planning Board’s inability to make a decision as to which plan to back, he surmised that any proposed plan would be voted down at the STM.
Stressed Weismantel: “You’re setting yourself up for failure if you rush the process.”
Town Manager Elaine Lazarus went over the content of the eight warrant articles. Three article came from the Board of Assessors. One is to reauthorize the senior means-tested property tax exemption for three years, while the other two are to approve new veterans tax exemptions that were approved by the state Legislature during its last session.
Article 4 would assess a local meals tax of 0.75% that would fund a full-time economic development officer. Article 5, proposed by the Open Space Preservation Commission, would transfer control of the Hughes Property to the OSPC. Article 6 would rescind authorized but unissued debt of “a little more than a million dollars,” according to Lazarus. Article 7 would establish a Board of Health revolving fund that would begin the next fiscal year.
I have never seen that. It’s a departure from everything we’ve done on zoning articles in the last 40 years that I’ve been going to Town Meeting.
— Resident Ken Weismantel, on STM Article 8’s lack of details
Regarding Article 8, Lazarus said, “The format is different than anything we’ve done before.” While it doesn’t have all the language or plans yet, she explained that town counsel said this article “complies with the law and provides enough of a warning to residents.”
She added that she will work on the language of the articles the next day.
“If the Planning Board hasn’t made a decision, we’ll put them all in there,” Lazarus said of the proposed plans.
Chair Brian Herr asked if the information would be made available before the STM. Lazarus said a draft was to be available the week of Nov. 4.
Member Amy Ritterbusch noted that the abutters to the properties in the draft overlay districts already have been notified, preventing other properties from being considered. Lazarus confirmed that only the properties proposed could be considered at the STM.
Member Shahidul Mannan asked if Town Meeting members would be able to propose amendments at the STM. Lazarus said they could, but they could not propose any parcels for Article 8 that had not already been put forward in the plans. He also suggested that a leaflet about the articles be published.
Herr said he was “concerned about the time frame” to notify residents because the average resident may not be aware of these articles.
“The more we talk about this across town government, the better off we’ll be,” he added.
Ritterbusch noted that information about Article 7 would be helpful to have for the public since it has not been discussed widely. Lazarus said it was “a way to work the revenue stream better” for the Board of Health.
508.808.1149
REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS in Hopkinton
5
Shailesh Jha, Ranjana Jha
Sunshine Preschool seeks to prevent June 2025 closure
email she sent to them dated Oct. 28 explaining that the preschool intends to close at the end of the school year.
“I had to let the parents know first,” she said. “They start making plans in January, so I wanted them to have as much notice as possible.”
“Sunshine Preschool has always been more than just a school,” Martin stressed in her letter to parents. “It is a place where children experience the magic of learning through play, in an environment that is safe, nurturing, and filled with kindness.
“Our success has been built on the
dedication of our incredible staff and the unwavering support of families like yours,” the letter continued, “who share in our belief that a child’s first educational experience should be filled with care, respect and love.”
The concept of early childhood education was relatively new in Massachusetts when Sunshine Preschool was started. Although the federal government awarded Boston emergency relief funds during the Great Depression in 1934 to start a nursery school program for children ages 3-5, the concept fizzled after seven years. Head Start, the first publicly funded preschool program, was
created in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson as a half-day program for preschool children from low-income families.
Martin, a Worcester native, said she has always held education in high regard, particularly in children’s formative years. After graduating from college, she worked in a Worcester day care center for two years. There she fell in love with working with children and dreamed of opening her own facility.
An opportunity arose in Hopkinton at St. Paul’s Church at 61 Wood Street, she recalled.
“The church had built a space to hold kindergarten classes,” she said. “But when Proposition 2½ went into effect, the church couldn’t afford to run it and was looking for someone to rent it. I remember talking to my parents about it, because back then, the rent was ridiculous.”
Martin’s father suggested that before she considered investing in the venture, she go to small business school. She learned how to research market demographics and discovered that there was only one other preschool in the area,
and it served only eight children. To garner support, she put flyers in 6,000 mailboxes “back when it was legal to do that.” With community interest and her father’s financial support, Martin rented the lower church for the preschool.
“We taught 45 children the first year,” said Martin. “After that, we grew to between 100-125 children. We split it into half-day, three-hour classes, with some kids coming on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the others coming on Tuesdays and Thursdays. There would be a line going around the building on admission days, so we had to create a waiting list.”
In 2001, Martin said, “There was a big to-do” when her lease wasn’t renewed.
“The church asked me to leave because a parishioner wanted to rent the space,” she said. “I was devastated and didn’t know what to do and where to go. My father had passed away, and he was a great mentor for everything I did.” Martin found the current site at 1 Briarcliff Drive later that year, but she was not prepared for the amount of
Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week
Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 1-year-old McKinley.
Here is Baypath’s description of McKinley:
“McKinley has been patiently waiting for her forever home, and she’s more than ready to make your family complete! This amazing girl has been overlooked for too long, but in foster care she’s thriving and showcasing her wonderful qualities. McKinley is crate-trained and sleeps peacefully through the night without making a sound. She’s incredibly dog-friendly, getting along great with her foster dog sibling, sharing happily and playing well with other dogs.
“McKinley’s playful spirit shines through in her love for fetch, squeaky toys and the occasional zoomies! Her intelligence and eagerness to learn make her quick to master new things, and she loves exploring on day trips.
Walking nicely on a leash, even in busy areas, this lady proves herself as a well-mannered companion. Most importantly, she’s a true cuddle bug who loves snug
gling and showing affection. McKinley is ready to bring love, joy and plenty of fun to your home!
“Apply now to meet this special girl and see why she’s truly one-of-a-kind.”
For more information about McKinley 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.
Sunshine Preschool seeks to prevent June 2025 closure
community opposition to the preschool.
“I had 500 residents against me,” she said. “They protested in front of the school and shouted, ‘Don’t ruin our neighborhood!’ It was written about in The Boston Globe.”
While the case was being debated, she began teaching in Milford. Half of her students followed her there. More returned to Hopkinton with her when the school eventually opened at its current site in February 2002.
After Martin went to court — draining most of her financial resources — a judge ruled in her favor because of the state’s Dover Amendment. This law exempts agricultural, religious and educational uses from certain zoning restrictions.
Added Martin: “I have always tried to work with the neighbors and always tried to keep the integrity of the neighborhood.”
She noted that the school closing would not occur until June 2025. Until then, Martin vowed to “put all my heart and energy into Sunshine and hopefully making this a turnkey business.”
Sunshine is the first and only preschool in Hopkinton accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), she added. Over time, the students, parents and neighborhood have strengthened a positive relationship.
After moving to Florida 20 years ago, Martin has traveled back and forth to be onsite at the preschool. She decided not to sell it at that time because she understood that “Hopkinton is a community that values education and sets the bar very high.”
“I am lucky that I have had great directors and staff that allow me to do this,” she said, adding that all staff members agreed to stay on at the school if a buyer could be found to “continue in our quest for excellence.”
“The teachers are truly phenomenal,” she continued. “They are not only educated, but they are kind and nurturing people. This is important, because a child’s most critical years for brain development is between ages 0-6. It’s
truly heartwarming that every single one of them wants to stay.”
Martin and the staff members have taken a continued interest in their students. She said they watch graduation ceremonies and other events on HCAM, the local cable outlet, and reminisce about the children. She noted that two former students met at Sunshine and married more than two decades later.
The response by parents has been equally heartwarming, she said. Several have contacted people who have made inquiries about potentially buying the school. In an Nov. 2 email update, Martin said she had “just spoken with another interested party.”
Sunshine Preschool director Liz Dacey has created a separate email address (47yearsofsunshine@gmail.com) for parents and former students to share their memories of their time as part of the Sunshine community. These reflections will be compiled into a memory book for teachers and staff.
“It’s a hard thing for all of us,” Dacey said. “We value all of our parents’ feelings, and it’s nice to see that parents care so much about us that they want to see the school’s legacy continue.”
Sunshine Preschool | from page 12
Christine Martin
HOPKINTON Wine & Spirits
Business
RoslinCT wins manufacturing award
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
RoslinCT, a Hopkinton-based biotechnology company, was recognized recently as a Manufacturer of the Year by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at the ninth annual Manufacturing Awards.
State Rep. James Arena-DeRosa, whose district includes Hopkinton, nominated the company for this award, his office announced in a press release. The release cited RoslinCT’s cutting-edge cell and gene therapy as well as its leadership in the biotechnology industry.
“I was delighted to nominate RoslinCT for the Massachusetts Manufacturing Awards this year,” stated Arena-DeRosa. “This amazing event highlights manufacturers from across the commonwealth who are national leaders in fields such as green energy, biotechnology and even breweries. It was an honor to bring a company whose innovative gene cell therapies are changing the landscape of healthcare treatment.”
He added that he was first introduced to RoslinCT via a tour of the Hopkinton facility on South Street with Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
“Our MetroWest region has the potential to lead the commonwealth in the next wave of biomanufacturing,” Arena-DeRosa continued, “and this company exemplifies the advanced technology manufacturing being conducted every day here in the district and across the state.”
Each year, the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus hosts the ceremony to highlight many of the commonwealth’s most noteworthy manufacturers and celebrate their successes as leading manufacturers in their respective industries. This year, more than 50 diverse manufacturers were selected by legislators from across the state to be recognized at the Sept. 25 event at Gillette Stadium.
The company, which has manufacturing suites in Hopkinton and Scotland, has produced groundbreaking gene therapy treatments for blood diseases including sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thal assemia.
“We are extremely proud to receive this recognition from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” stated Garry Menzel, president of RoslinCT, in a company press release. “Our team is dedicated to advancing the development of transformative cell and gene therapies through excellence in manufacturing and innovation. This award reflects the incredible work our teams are doing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in this field.”
“This honor showcases the strength of our Hopkinton facility and the strategic investments we’ve made to deliver high-quality cell therapy products,” added Dean Morris, RoslinCT U.S.’s chief operating officer. “As we continue to expand and automate our operations, we are committed to driving efficiency and supporting the needs of our clients and their patients.”
Lafleur joins Northeast Dermatology
Northeast Dermatology Associates recently announced the newest addition to its team, Audra Lafleur, FNP-BC. With more than two decades of experience in dermatology, she provides services including acne treatment, dermal fillers, neurotoxins, psoriasis treatment, skin cancer screening and che mical peels.
“We are thrilled to have Audra Lafleur join our team at Northeast Dermatology Associates. Her extensive background in dermatology, aesthetics and patient care truly sets her apart, and we are confident that she will provide exceptional care to our patients,” said Evan Smith, regional vice president of operations.
scHools
Teen creates art boxes with ‘heart
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
Cherylann Walsh, president and founder of the nonprofit Project Just Because, describes Hopkinton High School junior Aishwarya Vijay as “a shining star,” and “just a book of ideas.”
Vijay, a volunteer at PJB since the eighth grade, recently saw her idea come to life when she delivered 35 boxes of art kits she created to the organization.
The student calls her campaign “Palette,” explaining that the goal of the art kits is to spark creativity and provide artistic resources to children who may not otherwise have access to these materials.
She was exposed to the needs in the community while volunteering at PJB — doing everything from working in the stockroom, folding and hanging clothes and stocking shelves at the food pantry.
Interacting with the families who rely on the food pantry for groceries opened her eyes to the financial challenges some people face.
“I have the privilege of living in Hopkinton and going to an amazing high school,” Vijay said. “I really want to help people in need who are not as privileged.”
The student focused on the young children — realizing they did not have toys or art supplies. Vijay, who enjoys painting and drawing in her free time, decided to do something to foster their creativity.
She approached Walsh with the idea of creating art kits. Walsh was more than happy to encourage her.
“Aishwarya is the type of person who walks the walk. She is incredibly kind and very creative and artistic. She’s finding her niche in this world and with a work ethic of kindness, is helping her community,” Walsh noted.
Vijay explained that her boxes are designed to be “fun, accessible and educational and have a positive impact.”
She obtained a sponsorship from Corrugated Packaging Inc. of Fitchburg, a business that donated the boxes.
The kits are applicable for all ages of youth, Vijay said, pinpointing ages 3-9. The boxes contain markers, stickers, color pencils, erasers, animalthemed items to color and more.
Vijay’s intention is to make monthly deliveries of 35 boxes with different themes such as for the holidays.
“My goal is to get to 1,000 [art boxes] by the time I graduate from Hopkinton High,” she said.
While she has made the kits herself, Vijay is trying to recruit other HHS students from the PJB Club, Community Service Club, Honor Society, Art Honor Society and whoever else shows an interest.
She recognizes it is a massive undertaking and would like to encourage her peers to get involved as well as the community at large.
Donations of art supplies (markers, erasers, etc.) are accepted at the middle and high schools, library and Town Hall. Individuals or businesses who would like to donate monetary gifts can contact Vijay at Aishwarya.r.vijay@gmail.com.
She is looking forward to wrapping up the boxes as Christmas presents and using her marketing skills to get the
word out for more support.
At HHS, Vijay is a member of the Mock Trial Team, HOSA Medical Club and PJB Club. Vijay also does martial arts after school, plays the piano and is a coding coach on weekends.
And of course, art plays a large role in her life. She is a member of the National Art Honor Society and has served as the marketing director/liaison for some of her clubs.
“Art is my unwinding activity,” she said. “I find it is relaxing.”
Walsh began PJB 27 years ago in her basement, and the organization became a certified nonprofit in 2004.
The founder said that it is typical for high school students like Vijay to volunteer their time and give back to the community.
and hard work’ for children in need
“I’m very proud of Aishwarya for what she has accomplished,” Walsh said.
The PJB president said she put the art boxes in a basket located in the country store and has seen the reaction of children receiving them so far.
“There has been a very positive response … a lot of happiness and appreciation,” Walsh said. “Families are coming in to the food pantry and then getting sneakers and winter coats. When they go to the country store, the [children] are excited about the art kits. They look and say, ‘I can really have this?’ ” Walsh relayed.
She added the box is blank on the outside and tells the children to decorate it.
Actually, Homelessness Does Exist in Your Backyard
November is National Homelessness Awareness Month
ey are disheveled, unshowered, pushing a shopping cart full of belongings asking for handouts. ese are the stereotypical images we have of the homeless. Yet the reality is that there are thousands of unhoused in the state who are not so easily visible and likely living in your community.
Massachusetts, like much of the country, has seen a surge in homelessness over the last year. Overall, the latest state count reveals there are more than 29,000 homeless in the
“All
state; a 54% increase from 2023. Statewide data indicates this crisis touches EVERY community in the state.
Thousands of ‘Hidden Homeless’
Despite the number of homeless individuals accounted for, there exists a population of unhoused individuals—unlikely part of any statistics—they are known as the “hidden homeless,” who number in the thousands in Massachusetts.
“Because I stayed one night in a motel and then had to sleep in my car, I was still considered not homeless enough to receive emergency shelter services.”
29,000+ Homeless in MA
54% Increase from 2023
ey are experiencing homelessness out of sight by sleeping in temporary spaces such as their cars or on the oors or couches of family and friends.
An increasing number are seniors on xed incomes who can no longer a ord their rents or mortgages. Because these individuals are “hidden” from
national or local statistics, they lack access to housing support resources.
Central Mass. Housing Alliance Executive Director Leah Bradley provides additional insight into the state’s homelessness and what can be done to help with this crisis. To read the Q&A:
Scan the QR Code
or visit milfordregional.org/about-us/ community-benefits/
* Quotes are from local individuals who have spoken to members of the Community Benefits Committee. They are not identified for safety and privacy reasons.
Hopkinton High School junior Aishwarya Vijay created and donated boxes of art kits to Project Just Because.
UMass Memorial Health – Milford Regional Medical Center’s Community Benefits Committee is bringing awareness to the homelessness crisis that many in our service region are facing.
I need for the winter is a pot to melt snow in for drinking water.”
~ Man in his 40s living in a tent in the woods*
~ Woman in her 20s evicted by her landlord*
Elmwood students relish field trip to Respite Center
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
W
hen Emma Litavis was a second grader at Elmwood School, she took a tour of the Michael Lisnow Respite Center.
“Their message and people stuck with me,” Litavis said.
And what was the message she recalled?
“If I see someone alone at lunchtime, I can go sit with them and talk,” she noted.
Today, Litavis is a staff member at the Respite Center, conducting the same tour that left such a strong impression.
For the past three years, she has worked at the day program, facilitating outdoor activities like pickleball, cornhole and games and covering day and overnight shifts in group homes in Hopkinton.
She believes her visit and having a younger family member with disabilities shaped where she is today.
“I love the love here,” Litavis said. “It is a warm and welcoming place.”
Added Litavis: “My visit as a second grader opened me up to a world of disabilities and awareness about them.”
Sharon Lisnow founded the Respite Center 26 years ago in honor and memory of her son Michael, who passed away at age 10. Born prematurely and weighing only one pound, Michael was initially given only a 10% chance of survival during his first months of life.
Though he was blind, challenged with brain damage, unable to walk or talk and fed through a tube, Michael thrived in a local public school setting and had a lot of friends.
Lisnow keeps his spirit alive at the center.
She noted that for more than 20 years, Elmwood second graders have
visited and spent time with the children there, gone on a tour of the facility, heard Michael’s story and gained an understanding about what inclusion means, and not just as it relates to disabilities.
She estimates that 9,000 second graders from Hopkinton have taken the tour.
“They come to us for a field trip, two or three classes at a time,” Lisnow said, “walking back and forth.
“The children have wide eyes when they arrive and say it is the best field trip and so much fun when they leave.”
She noted there is a lot of “give and take” with the children. “I say, ‘Raise your hand if you ever felt left out,’ and all the hands go up, including teachers and parents.
“They have so much to say about how they feel …. and their attitudes are remarkable.”
Litavis also is impressed by the children’s reactions.
“They are really listening, observing and taking in a message,” Litavis said. “Don’t leave someone out because
they are in a wheelchair. … Play a game they can do. No one should be left out or not be a good friend.”
After the presentation, the second graders go outside and play with individuals from the center’s program in the backyard.
Lisnow mentioned that one of the program participants, Michael Mullins,
who has Down syndrome, sang the national anthem at Fenway Park.
“We can point to him and say, ‘Look what he can do.’ We all have differences. He sang at [Pawtucket Red Sox minor league] games for 10 years and moved up to the major league!”
Lisnow said the value of the program is that it “demystifies” people with disabilities. “It changes the way [children] look at people who are different, and that lasts the rest of their lives.”
She added that Hopkinton High School’s football team walks with her program’s participants in the Michael’s Run event each October. Lisnow noted high school kids interact easily and well with individuals with disabilities, thanks to that early exposure field trip.
“So many of them say they remember coming to the Respite Center,” Lisnow said.
For Litavis, it is a “full circle moment,” being on staff now.
“It has helped me find parts of myself I did not know I have,” she said. “Here, we are all loved for our uniqueness.”
Teen creates art boxes with ‘heart and hard work’ for children in need
Art boxes | from page 15
“It reminds me of when there used to be prizes inside a box of Cracker Jacks.”
Whether getting involved with the food pantry and programs for winter coats, cancer care, back-to-school backpacks, mothers of newborns or something else, Walsh is gratified by the reach of the charity.
“It is amazing how many people in our town are stepping up to help make a difference,” she said.
Vijay has spoken to Walsh about her desire to someday expand into a nonprofit organization.
“I hope to work on it as a job after college and make it part of my everyday life,” Vijay said.
“I have no doubt she will be at a nonprofit in the future,” Walsh said. “Youth are paving the way. I love seeing young adults bring an idea to fruition.”
Vijay’s creations are “made with heart and hard work,” Walsh added.
Members of the Hopkinton High School football team pose with a Respite Center resident at last month’s Michael’s Run.
Emma Litavis (right) stands with a Respite Center resident.
HMS custodian arrested on child pornography charges
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
Amember of Hopkinton Middle School’s custodial staff was arraigned in Milford District Court on one count of possession of child pornography on Nov. 4.
In an email to the Independent, the Worcester County District Attorney’s office confirmed Benjamin Hogan’s charges and arraignment. It also stated that “a plea of not guilty was entered on his behalf and he was ordered held on $10,000 bail.”
News of Hogan’s arrest — but without his identification — was shared with district families on Friday by Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh.
“At this time, we have no reason to believe these charges involve any Hop-
kinton Public Schools students,” Cavanaugh wrote. “However, these allegations are deeply disturbing, and we are fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation. … It is our responsibility to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for all of our students and staff, and we remain committed to this mission.”
Cavanaugh went on to note that the individual was a recent hire who passed background checks. The school district placed him on leave.
Massachusetts State Police do not believe any Hopkinton students are involved in the charges brought against Hogan, a 42-year-old Hopedale resident. Cavanaugh noted that police were to “conduct a K-9 sweep of the middle school over the weekend for cyber crime devices.”
Documents that the Independent obtained from Milford District Court detail the criminal complaint filed against Hogan. As well, a statement of fact filed by the Massachusetts State Police Cyber Crime Unit/Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force outlines the investigation into Hogan’s alleged crimes.
According to the statement, Trooper Ryan Cooney — a member of the Cyber Crime Unit — first became aware Hogan
HHS Drama to present ‘Addams Family Musical’
Hopkinton High School’s Drama Department plans to spook and delight audiences this month as it brings “The Addams Family Musical” to the stage.
SCHOOLS NOTEBOOK
The production runs from Nov. 21-24 at HHS and features a cast, crew and band composed almost entirely of students — more than 40 in total, ranging from Grades 9-12.
“It’s a strong ensemble with kids who love to perform and work behind the scenes,” said Kara Sullivan, the school’s new performing arts teacher.
She noted that students were stepping up to lead the show’s technical elements and choreography, among other areas of production.
The musical centers on Wednesday Addams, her mortal love interest and a family dinner that goes wrong when two worlds collide.
“[It’s got] really catchy music and great dancing,” said Sullivan. “It’s a really fun and well-done production.”
Sullivan, who is directing the show alongside music teacher Isaac Brody, said she proposed this musical to her students because it was fun and unique.
“It’s hard to find good musicals for high schools,” she said. “They’re either way too intense, too difficult … or might be dated.”
Regardless, she’s confident in the hard work her students have put into the production.
“They’ve taken so much initiative,” said Sullivan. “[It’s] just a great group of kids.”
Tickets are available via the HHS website: hopkinton.k12.ma.us/extracurricular/performing-arts.
ESBC selects smaller Charleswood mock-up
Revisiting a topic that came up in September, the Elementary School Building Committee on Oct. 29 voted to use a two-sided, L-shaped mock-up structure for testing.
At a previous meeting, Vertex vice president and project director Jeff D’Amico relayed the commissioning agent’s wish to use a six-sided, 10-foot by 10-foot structure, presented as an
“alternate” for the new Charleswood School project.
He said the large mock-up, if the committee wanted, could permanently remain on the school site. The structure would feature the same features and materials of the new school and cost between $85,000 and $103,000.
On Oct. 29, the board voted for the smaller, standard mock-up, with ESBC member Mike Shepard calling it “the way to go.”
He pointed out that the Marathon School project had this type and size structure for testing, and it was going to be used for the Hopkins School renovation/addition project as well.
Tim Persson, the school district’s director of facilities, said mock-ups on any construction project are “a necessity … just not to the extent suggested by the engineer.”
The next ESBC meeting is Nov. 19.
Auger graduates from St. Joseph’s
Hopkinton’s Abby Auger recently graduated cum laude from St. Joseph’s College in Maine with a B.S. in nursing. …
Jennifer Townsend was named to the president’s list and Elizabeth Demont and Tyler Chesters were named to the dean’s list at Southern New Hampshire University for the summer term. … Julianna Lucas was among the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute seniors recently inducted into the Order of the Engineer, a national organization dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards for the engineering profession.
might be in possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on Aug. 24. On that date, Cooney noticed an IP address associated with Hogan was linked into BitTorrent, a decentralized, peer-to-peer file-sharing system.
Subsequent queries into the “suspect device” allegedly belonging to Hogan confirmed files downloaded onto the device from BitTorrent were in fact CSAM. Surveillance on Hogan’s home in Hopedale then led to Cooney requesting a search warrant.
Members of the Massachusetts State Police Cyber Crime Unit executed the warrant on Nov. 1. Troopers found a laptop belonging to Hogan at his Hopedale residence and confirmed “numerous files containing CSAM” were present on the device.
State Police connected with the Hopkinton Police Department and Hopkinton Public Schools Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh that same day. Officials from the HPD and the State Police met at Hopkinton Middle School to apprehend Hogan.
Upon informing Hogan of the purpose of their visit, Hogan invoked his right to counsel. He then was booked into the State Police barracks in Millbury.
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The Hopkinton High School girls volleyball team picked up its second win in the state tournament Nov. 6, sweeping Dartmouth High School at home.
SPORTS ROUNDUP
The fourth-seeded Hillers (18-4) advanced to play Tri-Valley League rival Westwood (17-3), the fifth seed, in the Division 2 quarterfinals on Nov. 8.
The Hillers got off to a fast start, taking a 12-2 lead in the opening set. Dartmouth battled back to tie the score at 19, but the hosts ran off six straight points for a 2519 win.
In the second set, Hopkinton led 6-0. Dartmouth closed to within four at 14-10, but the Hillers then took control and rolled to a 25-16 win.
The Hillers closed out the match with a 25-17 win in the third set.
Hopkinton began tourney play Nov. 4 with a 3-0 victory over visiting Scituate.
Girls soccer rolls early
The HHS girls soccer team started the postseason with a bang, posting a 6-0 victory over visiting Shrewsbury on Nov. 5 behind three goals from Maddie Recupero.
The Hillers (16-1-2), seeded seventh in Division 1, hosted 10th-seeded Newton North (10-7-2) in the Round of 16 on Nov. 8.
Recupero opened the scoring 5:41 into the game, breaking through the defense on the left side and finishing with a rightfooted shot just inside the left post.
Mairin O’Connor scored four minutes later, and Anagha Kulkarni found the back
of net just before 13 minutes had elapsed.
Recupero scored her second goal with 15:17 left in the first and capped her hat trick midway through the second half. It was the senior’s 49th career goal.
Fotini Grontzos wrapped up the scoring when she headed in a corner kick from Sophia Tzouganatos late in the game.
Aila Chase played the majority of the game in goal, with Ella Nye coming on for the last 15 minutes.
Field hockey advances
The HHS field hockey team went on the road Nov. 5 and knocked off Nashoba, 3-1, to advance to the Division 2 quarterfinals. The 13th-seeded Hillers (11-7-2) played at fifth-seeded Canton (18-2) on Nov. 10.
Hopkinton opened the postseason with a 2-0 victory against visiting Oliver Ames.
Ella Fowler opened the scoring in the second quarter, drilling a low shot to the corner of the goal off a penalty corner. Abby Burke scored an insurance goal in the fourth quarter, slamming home a loose ball in front after a shot from Zoe Adams was blocked by a defender.
Riley Curtin recorded the shutout in goal.
Boys soccer bows out
The HHS boys soccer team saw its season come to an end with a 5-0 loss at second-seeded Mansfield on Nov. 6 in the Division 2 tournament’s first round. The Hillers, seeded 31st, finished the season at 6-10-3.
Hopkinton had posted a 2-0 victory over Southeastern Regional Vocational Tech in the preliminary round on Nov. 3. Both Hopkinton goals were initiated by heads-up plays on corners kicks. On the first one, Zach Beauchemin saw the defense was slow to set up, so he raced over to the sideline, and Owen Champlin, taking the corner, made a short pass to him. Beauchemin looped the ball on net, and it deflected off a defender’s head and into the goal with 22:28 left in the half.
A few minutes later, Beauchemin took a corner on the opposite side and tapped the ball to Ian Weilding. The freshman carried it toward the goal and fired a ball that deflected off the goalie’s arm. A defender at the near post tried to clear it, but it went to the front, a few feet from the goal line, where Landon Fitzgibbon slammed it home.
HHS goalie Owen Silva, meanwhile, made sure nothing got past him.
Hopkinton High School volleyball player Evelyn Woodbury pushes the ball over a pair of Dartmouth players during their match Nov. 6.
Recupero pitches in for top-ranked Duke
By Chris Villani Contributing Writer
One year into her col-
legiate soccer career, Hopkinton’s Sophia Recupero is on a team that is in the mix for both a conference and national championship. The graduate of Buckingham Browne & Nichols is earning playing time for the top-ranked Duke Blue Devils, and the college experience so far is everything she hoped it would be.
“It’s been great so far, I am really happy,” Recupero said in early November. “The year has gone well. As a freshman, you have to earn time and earn minutes, but I think I have done a good job adjusting and trying to have an impact on the team.”
Through the regular season, Recupero had seen time in 10 games. She managed eight shots on goal, finding the back of the net twice. Recupero scored early in the year in a win over Eastern Tennessee State University and added a tally in her last game of the regular season, a blowout win over Boston College.
“It’s an adjustment for anyone when you go from club soccer to Division 1, you’re going into a super-intense environment where everyone is just as good as you, if not better,” she said. “It’s challenging, and you’re being challenged in practices and games at the same time, but you’re improving as a player. It’s forced me to get better.”
Duke ended the regular season as the top seed in the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament and a favorite heading into the NCAAs. The Blue Devils also capped off the regular season with a win over rival North Carolina, whose roster includes Caitlin Mara, Recupero’s teammate from BB&N in Cambridge.
“It was different for us to be playing against each other like this at two big rival schools,” Recupero said. “I had been used to playing with her, and now we are going head-to-head. But we are still super close off the field, and it’s obviously really cool to see us both here at this stage in our lives.”
Recupero’s family athletic prowess has been well-documented. Her father, William, played hockey at Bowdoin College, and her mother, Stephanie, played four years of college soccer at George Mason before playing semi-pro. Younger sister Maddie, a Hopkinton High School senior, is set to play for Princeton next year, and younger brother William is a member of the U-15 U.S. Youth National Team.
Though Durham, North Carolina, is different from Hopkinton, life off the field has been good for Recupero. She said she is adjusting to the different pace of college life, including having fewer classes per day.
Heading into the tournaments, Recupero was not letting herself think too far ahead, though she acknowledged that winning an ACC title and a national championship would be the ultimate goal for any college athlete. She does have some longer-term goals in mind, however.
“I want to continue to grow as a player, and I would love to play after college if the opportunity presents itself,” Recupero said. “Duke has the resources to help you pursue that if it’s something you want to do.”
Either way, Recupero said she will be graduating with a degree from a prestigious school in Duke, which will be invaluable for her future pursuits.
“There really isn’t a bad situation at all,” she said.
The team’s holding midfielder, Tzouganatos recorded eight goals and 15 assists through early November as the Hillers looked to make another deep postseason run. According to coach Tom Skiba, the Boston University-bound senior has “a unique balance of defending, attacking and possession skills. Nina can defend the best attacking midfielders, maintain possession with elite passing abilities and initiate attacks with line-breaking passes or dribbles. She has high-end scanning, communication and positional awareness that allow her to organize our team defense and attack in different situations.”
In her final year as a member of the 18-22 program at Hopkinton High School, Carlson was an original member of the unified team in 2018 and is serving as captain this season. She has been “an exemplary teammate and ambassador for our program over the years,” coach Jay Golden shared. “Kelsey is one of the kindest and most compassionate student-athletes in a school full of them here in Hopkinton, and her inclusive and welcoming nature set a wonderful example for our entire program and school community.”
HHS Athlete Spotlight Athletes are selected after consultation with HHS coaches.
Nina Tzouganatos Girls soccer Senior
Kelsey Carlson Unified basketball Senior
Laura Wauters REALTOR®
Sophia Recupero carries the ball for Duke in a game against Louisville this fall.
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.
Trails Club Monthly Meeting Nov. 13
The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
SACH ClamJam Diwali Gala at HCA Nov. 16
The South Asian Circle of Hopkinton presents ClamJam Diwali Gala at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 5:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Bollywood and bhangra. Program partners are Boston Bhangra and the Hopkinton High School South Asian Affinity Group. The event is cosponsored by the Mass Cultural Council. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit southasiancircleofhopkinton.org.
Trails Club Walk at Elmwood Farm Nov. 17
The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a group walk at Elmwood Farm on Sunday, Nov. 17, at 1 p.m. This is a neat area at the south end of a trail system that runs all the way up to Center School. There is limited parking at the farm (on Ash Street) and additional parking along the road on Blueberry Lane. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Become a Dementia Friend Dec. 4
Residents of all towns are invited to become a Dementia Friend by attending an informational program at St. John’s Church (20 Church Street) on Wednesday, Dec. 4, from 7-8:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about dementia, how it impacts the person, what people can do to support them, and the extensive resources and information available. To reserve a spot, call the Hopkinton Senior Center at 508-497-9730.
Chamber of Commerce Holiday Stroll Dec. 7
The Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce Holiday Stroll is Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. People will race between businesses to get their Holiday Stroll passports stamped in order to be entered into one of 10 drawings for $300 each. Businesses will share holiday cheer with raffles and goodies like hot cider, coffee and chocolates or offer special deals and discounts. The event will culminate with Santa arriving by fire truck to the Town Common as well as holiday songs and the town tree lighting. For more information, visit hopchamber.com/holidaystrollcurrent.
Veterans Breakfast First Friday of Each Month
The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. In July, and if the first Friday of the month is a holiday or snow day, the breakfast switches to the second Friday. No registration is required. For more information, contact Amy Beck at the Senior Center, 508-497-9730.
Al-Anon Weekly Meetings Thursdays
Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend a confidential Al-Anon meeting, which takes place every Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. at the meeting room in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (61 Wood Street). For more information, visit al-anon.org or call 888-4AL-ANON.
Event
Age & Dementia Friendly Event
Senior Smilez | Nov. 17 | 2 to 3 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled hour of live theater performed by the Senior Smilez Theater Troupe. You’ll enjoy seeing four different original plays. This is a free event supported partly by a grant from the Holliston Cultural Council, a local agency that the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, supports.
Artful Connections: Stories from the Dinner Table | Nov. 21 | 6:30 p.m.
Join poet and storyteller Cheryl Perreault for Stories from the Dinner Table — gratitude, heritage, traditions, conversations, and social justice. Cheryl is a former resident of Hopkinton, MA and now lives in York, Maine. With a background in psychology and education, she has hosted many programs of poetry, storytelling and song for communities including 15 years as producer at HCAMTV for Wake Up & Smell the Poetry. Cheryl also is a poet and spoken word artist and has recorded two CDs of her poetry accompanied by guitarist Steve Rapson.
For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary. org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on X, @HopkintonPLMA.
Schedule Update
The library will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, through Sunday, Dec. 1, for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Women and Money Round Table
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 1-2 p.m.
In this virtual program, individuals will learn all about today’s financial markets from two women who watch it closely: financial advisors Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series is a virtual, monthly financial literacy program designed to educate women in all walks of life learn about financial matters in a welcoming environment where they can ask questions and share financial experiences.
On Childhood Migration from Central America
Thursday, Nov. 14, 4-5:30 p.m.
This special conversation is with New York Times bestselling author Javier Zamora, who will chat about his riveting tale of survival and perseverance as told in his award-winning memoir “Solito.” Registration for this virtual program can be found at the library website calendar.
Fortnite Tournament with One Up Games
Thursday, Nov. 14, 6-8 p.m.
This virtual tournament is run by One Up Games in collaboration with other local libraries. Individuals can see how they measure up against other local battle royale competitors in this free private custom matchmaking tournament, courtesy of One Up Games’ Game Together Program and Epic Games. This is a virtual program, so individuals will play right from the comfort of their own home on their own Xbox One/Series X/S, PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch or PC. Participants must have their own gaming platform, online connection and copy of the game. Those interested in playing should email jdyment@hopkintonma.gov to register.
Katie Aissis of Sprouting Tree Yoga will lead this tween yoga class. In this class, participants use the practice of yoga to cultivate positive self-regard, self-esteem and connection to one another. Through engaging in yoga asana (postures) and guided mindfulness activities and games, participants gain skills and strategies to confidently navigate the range of emotions they experience in their daily lives.
QPR Suicide Prevention
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 9:30-11 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m.
QPR stands for question, persuade and refer — the three simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. Just as people trained in CPR help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade and refer someone to help. This program is presented by Hopkinton Youth & Family Services.
Monthly Music & Movement
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
This month’s children’s concert, supported by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, is with musician Shon Gordon. It’s recommended for ages 0-5.
Chat ’n’ Chew Book Club
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-2 p.m.
Instead of assigning a book for all participants to read, each person reviews something they read this month. All reviews of the books will be posted to Facebook to share with the Hopkinton reading community. This meeting will be in person or by Google Meet. Individuals can register to receive information for joining. Everyone is welcome, including newcomers. Anyone with questions can contact Nanci Hill at nhill@hopkintonma.gov.
Jeff Klapes: The Traveling Librarian
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 22 and 23 | 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 24 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hey there, fellow pottery enthusiasts! You won’t want to miss out on the hottest event of the holiday season — the Primarily Potters Show Sale at the HCA! This year, eight incredibly talented potters will showcase their stunning and functional ceramics that will make the perfect gifts for your loved ones or yourself — we won’t judge! From delicate vases to sturdy mugs, there’s something for everyone.
Paint & Sip: HCA Open House Nov. 23 | 7 p.m.
This open house event is only intended for new visitors to HCA who have not taken a class yet in 2024. Current students may attend if you bring someone new to HCA. All participants must be 21+ years old. We’ll start with a guided stroll through our Primarily Potters exhibition, then we’ll take you to our loft space to enjoy a monotype art project led by Marion Buricatu. While enjoying a glass of wine, you will learn about all the winter adult programs available at HCA in music, theater, dance, visual arts, healing arts, and ceramics. The art project requires no prior experience and is great for all levels.
Dungeons & Dragons Adult Group
Sunday, Nov. 17, 1-4 p.m.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first publication of Dungeons & Dragons. Dungeon master Keith Donohue grew up in the 1980s, back when D&D was first becoming popular. These days, he is an avid collector of old role-playing games and is a proponent of the loose, improvisational style of play that was common in the past.
Patanjali Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Monday, Nov. 18, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The traditional style of beginner and intermediate yoga is open to ages 18 and older. No prior yoga experience is needed. Classes will include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), dhyana (meditation) and yoga nidra (relaxation techniques).
Branching Out Yoga for Tweens Tuesday, Nov. 19, 4:15-5 p.m.
Jeff Klapes is a retired librarian who has travelled all around the world. His presentations are specific to a travel destination and include firsthand knowledge, insight, tips and photographs tailored to the selected destination. He will present on a destination chosen by Hopkinton Public Library patrons, who can select a destination upon registering. The destination/topic of the presentation will be announced a week before the program.
Native Rights and Culture in Fiction
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 7-9 p.m.
Everyone is invited to join as Mona Susan Power chats about her newest novel, “A Council of Dolls.” This virtual conversation highlights how her work explores Native rights and Native American culture, in particular using an important symbol that anchors comfort and companionship in Native life: dolls.
French Conversation Group
Saturday, Nov. 23, 11 a.m.-noon
Participants in this weekly gathering will learn and practice the French language in an informal rendezvous facilitated by a licensed French teacher. Anyone with interest in the language and its associated cultures is welcome. All French proficiency levels are invited. Practice includes conversation, proficiency-appropriate reading, tabletop games, presentations and more.
Primarily Potters: Show and Sale
Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS
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.
Carol DeWaele
Carol Ann DeWaele, 92, passed away peacefully on Oct. 21. Born in Holden, she was the daughter of Joseph and Kathryn (Sheehan) Buthray. A proud graduate of Holden High School, Carol was the valedictorian of the class of 1950 and received the History Medal for her outstanding academic achievements.
Carol continued her education at Regis College in Weston, before graduating from Lasell College in Newton.
She was married to Charles F. DeWaele for 68 wonderful years until his passing in 2021. Carol is survived by her brother, John Anthony Buthray, and his wife, June.
Her legacy lives on through son Dr. Matt DeWaele of Hopkinton and his children, Kurt, Megan (and husband Matt Bieber and their daughters, Morgan and Maive) and Mark. She also is survived by her other son, Dr. Mark DeWaele of New Canaan, Connecticut, his wife, Heidi, and their children, Kathryn (and husband Jerome and their son, Hugo Robert), Robert and Christopher (and wife Jackie).
Carol dedicated over 25 years to the West Boylston school system, in the town where she raised her family and touched many lives.
A memorial funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Nov. 16, at 10:30 a.m in St. John the Evangelist Parish, Hopkinton. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, Hopkinton.
Wayne Merrifield
Wayne Wright Merrifield, 72, a lifelong resident of Hopkinton, passed away at his home surrounded by family on Oct. 28, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late Doris (Wright) and Stuart H. Merrifield.
A valued member of both the Wayside Players and the Marlborough Players, Wayne brought his artistic vision to life through countless theater productions. His talent as a director shone brightly at Marlborough High School and Hopkinton High School, where he inspired students and fostered a love for the performing arts. He also enjoyed extensive overseas travel.
Wayne is survived by his siblings, Frank Merrifield and wife Dorothy of Loganville, Georgia, Nancy Ring of Westborough and Lois Hansen of Danvers. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, greatnephews, great-great nieces and great-
great-nephews. He is predeceased by brothers-in-law David Ring and Dennis Hansen.
A funeral service was held Nov. 5 at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. Burial will be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute (dana-farber.org) or to a charity of one’s choice.
Karla Passler
Karla R. Passler, 56, of Hopkinton and formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 1.
Born in Worcester, she is the daughter of Richard D. and Frances A. (Pinkus) Passler of Westborough. She attended Westborough schools, was a graduate of the Worcester Area Occupational Training Center and attended a computer program at Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School.
Karla was formerly employed at Alexander, Aronson, Finning & Co. CPA firm and at Central One Federal Credit Union in Shrewsbury.
Karla was very talented. She enjoyed photography, dancing, reading, watching “Days of Our Lives,” playing the piano and listening to music, especially country. She loved taking beautiful pictures of the foliage and flowers, and she even had a calendar published with her pictures of nature. At Christmastime, Karla would play the piano for family sing-alongs.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by brother Gregory S. Passler and wife Heidi LaFleche of Watertown, sister Christine E. Passler and husband George J. Hensel III of Grafton, nieces Addison L. Hensel and Shelby Q. Hensel, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was predeceased by two brothers, Sgt. 1st Class Eric B. Passler and Matthew E. Passler.
Her funeral service will be held on Friday, Nov. 8, at 11 a.m. in the First United Methodist Church, 120 West Main Street, Westborough. The burial in Notre Dame Cemetery, Worcester, will be private.
Calling hours at the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home (62 West Main Street, Westborough) are Thursday, Nov. 7, from 5-7 p.m.
The family’s deepest thanks go the Amego staff for their loving and personal care at the group home where Karla lived for many years. Their care went far beyond what might be expected in a group home setting. We are also indebted to Faith and Family Hospice for their kindness and personal services to both Karla and our family.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Amego, Inc., 33 Perry Avenue, Attleboro, MA 02703 or to Faith and Family Hospice, 420 Lakeside Avenue, Marlborough, MA 01752.
police log
ARRESTS
October 31
1:40 p.m. On Ash Street, Officers Cody Normandin and Nicholas Walker arrested a 37-year-old resident of Ash Street in Hopkinton on a warrant for a probation violation.
November 3
5:31 p.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin conducted a motor vehicle stop on West Main Street, and Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Saletnik assisted with field sobriety tests. A 43-year-old Worcester resident was arrested and charged with speeding in violation of special regulation, operation of a motor vehicle with license suspended, OUI drugs, OUI liquor and possession of a Class E drug.
Editor’s note: The Hopkinton Independent’s new policy for the arrests section is not to include the names of individuals who have been arrested.
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.
October 22
6:35 a.m. A caller reported being stuck in an elevator on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded along with the Fire Department and confirmed a stalled elevator with one occupant and waited for the elevator company to respond.
9:32 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle struck his car in the Shell parking lot on Main Street and drove away. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and took a hit-and-run report.
2:09 p.m. A caller reported his brother’s gravesite at the St. John Cemetery on Mayhew Street possibly was vandalized. He wanted the incident logged and extra checks of the area.
4:38 p.m. A caller reported he was sideswiped on Main Street near the Shell station. Officer Augusto Diaz responded. A witness stopped to provide information but left, as the two involved drivers were yelling at each other. Officer Diaz took a report.
October 23
10:06 a.m. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officers Nicholas Walker and Brian Ziniti assisted with an active shooter drill at the high school on Hayden Rowe Street.
4:09 p.m. Officer Augusto Diaz responded along with the Fire Department to an illegal burn on West Main Street.
10:22 p.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted the Fire Department in responding to a male passed out in a School Street building.
October 24
9:48 a.m. A caller reported a large crow or blackbird was injured in an Exchange Street backyard. A message was left for the animal control officer.
1:26 p.m. A bank manager on Main Street reported an unwanted person at the bank. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officer Nicholas Walker responded and reported all was OK. The person was within his first amendment rights to film.
October 25
9:39 a.m. A caller reported he accidentally hit a mailbox on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and assisted.
12:10 p.m. A South Mill Street resident reported his wife drove through their garage door. Officer Noah Buentello responded and took a report.
4:56 p.m. A caller reported a staff-on-staff assault on West Main Street. The assailant left the scene. Sgt. William Buchard and Sgt. Arthur Schofield responded and took a report.
October 26
7:30 a.m. A Thayer Heights Road resident reported his mailbox was vandalized overnight. Officer Noah Buentello responded to view the damage and took a report.
12:04 p.m. A caller reported a missing 7-year-old girl. Sgt. William Burchard and Officers Noah Buentello and Brian Ziniti responded to Revolutionary Way, and the child was found. A report was taken.
1:43 p.m. A caller reported a part was stolen off a large excavator on Chamberlain Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and took a report.
2:38 p.m. A South Mill Street resident complained of a neighbor spray painting the roadway in preparation for a large party. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and spoke with the neighbor about proper roadway rules.
October 27
12:56 p.m. A caller reported a raccoon acting strangely outside a West Main Street building. Officer Nicholas Saletnik and Sgt. William Burchard responded and notified the animal control officer, and the animal was dispatched.
October 28
8:45 a.m. A caller reported fallen wires on top of tree limbs that were blocking a crosswalk sign on Hayden Rowe Street.
11:25 a.m. A caller reported her husband was out walking and needed assistance getting home. Officer Nich-
olas Walker responded and checked the bank and Fire Department on Main Street with a negative find. The Main was located in front of Main Street Service Center and given a courtesy transport home.
5:21 p.m. Multiple callers reported a two-car motor vehicle crash on Grove Street. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Augusto Diaz responded, took a report and provided a courtesy transport.
5:48 p.m. A concerned caller complained of a female operating a pink scooter erratically with her two young kids on Main Street. The caller stated the woman was headed into oncoming traffic and nearly was hit. The incident was logged.
October 29
2:22 p.m. A Mechanic Street caller reported two males outside her house swearing and fighting. A black vehicle pulled up and the males got in. The incident was logged.
8:03 p.m. A Chamberlain Street caller reported a brush fire but not near a house. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Augusto Diaz responded along with the Fire Department, and the small fire was extinguished.
October 30
7:51 a.m. A caller reported a man in a one-piece pink spandex outfit possibly carrying a baton on Elm Street. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Nicholas Walker responded and checked the area with a negative find.
3:04 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident on Grove Street involving two cars and no personal injuries. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Matthew LaTour responded and issued a criminal application to one driver.
5:10 p.m. A West Main Street employee reported an unruly resident acting out toward other residents and requested help. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Matthew LaTour responded and assisted.
October 31
10:14 a.m. A Bridgeton Way resident reported a stolen package. Officer Noah Buetnello assisted and took a report.
2:14 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle hit a turkey on Wood Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and put the turkey down. The DPW was contacted for removal.
10:53 p.m. A caller complained of a person getting out of control at a party on Connelly Hill Road. Holliston officers responded to assist, and all guests subsequently were picked up from the party.
November 1
6:08 p.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officers Matthew LaTour and Justin Cappuccio responded along with the Fire Department to a brush fire behind E.L. Harvey.
8:06 p.m. A Walker Street caller reported hearing a woman screaming outside but was not exactly sure where the screaming was coming from. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officers Matthew LaTour, Nicholas Saletnik and Justin Cappuccio responded and reported the noise was coming from kids playing in a backyard.
November 2
8:00 a.m. An Echo Brook Lane resident reported several people attempted to break into his son’s car
overnight. Officer Noah Buentello responded and took a report and spoke with neighbors about finding camera footage.
11:27 a.m. A caller reported a fistfight on Wood Street. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Noah Buentello responded and checked the area with a negative find on the disturbance.
11:35 a.m. A Front Street caller reported someone exited a vehicle and stole some political signs from a few properties in the area. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and took a report.
1:05 p.m. A caller reported while walking on Tammer Lane, she was attacked by two dogs and bitten on her hand. Officer Brian Ziniti responded along with an ambulance and took a report. The animal control officer was notified.
3:58 p.m. A motorist reported kids on Walker Street were throwing rocks out onto the road and hit his car. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Justin Cappuccio responded and took a report.
4:45 p.m. A caller reported someone took his political sign. Sgt. Cody Normandin responded and rectified the situation.
5:35 p.m. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Nicholas Saletnik responded along with the Fire Department to Dicarlo Road for an outside odor investigation. A cooking fire was in progress and was extinguished.
7:29 p.m. A South Mill Street caller reported her neighbor had a big outdoor fire. Officer Kyle Quinzani and the Fire Department responded and advised the homeowner of fire regulations.
November 3
2:19 a.m. Two Hayden Rowe Street residents reported two males in hooded sweatshirts rang their door bells, yelled profanities and ran away. Officer Sean McKeon responded and checked the area with a negative find.
10:06 a.m. A North Mill Street resident reported her political sign was stolen. Officer Nicholas Walker took a report.
11:18 a.m. A caller wanted to re port a suspicious theft. Officer Brian Ziniti spoke with the caller, who is known to the Police Department to have made prior unfounded allega tions.
12:42 p.m. A motorist reported he hit a deer on Wood Street and pro ceeded to drive home. Officer Brian Ziniti responded to see if the deer was still in the road, and it was not.
3:13 p.m. A caller reported an employee causing a disturbance on Wilson Street. He left and was told not to come back, and his property was to be returned to him. Officers Brian Ziniti and Nicholas Saletnik responded and spoke with the reporting person.
11:07 p.m. Sgt. Arthur Schofield reported a fallen tree on primary wires on Wood Street that was blocking two lanes of travel. Eversource responded.
November 4
12:32 p.m. A caller reported a family with young children visited an East Main Street business the previous day and left their minivan in the parking lot. Staff was concerned based on their behavior and wanted the incident logged. The business was to consider having the vehicle towed if it remained there the following day.
3:13 p.m. A Summit Way caller reported a UPS truck hit his mailbox. Sgt. Arthur Schofield assisted and took a report.
