HI 4.5.23

HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT

School budget discussions continue

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

COPS AND BALLERS

Marathoner Mimmo fit for a cause

By Courtney Cornelius Contributing Writer

The 2023 Boston Marathon will be a “first-ever marathon, period” for Diane Mimmo.

“I always said that I would never do it, that I would never have the time — I also have a full-time job and a family,” she said. “But it’s a bit of a rabbit hole. … After you run your first 10K, and then you run your first half, and then you start thinking like, ‘Oh, OK, maybe I could do this, and I do want to do this.’ ”

Mimmo, a tax partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers and mother to two boys (ages 14 and 20), started running in 2012 as a way to manage stress and achieve better general health.

F

ollowing a budget presentation, members of the Hopkinton Appropriation Committee told the School Committee at a March 27 meeting that looking at long-term capital needs should be a priority.

First, Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh reviewed the district’s proposed $60.1 million operating budget for fiscal year 2024, noting the various twists and turns the process has taken to get to this point.

Currently, the Select Board put forth a school budget reflecting a 7.7 percent increase over FY23 for the schools. That total is $350,000 less than the budget the School Committee adopted. Both boards noted a caveat concerning part of that gap that could be grant funded through the Student Opportunity Act.

Assistant Superintendent Jeff LaBroad said he expected a decision

Diane Mimmo poses in front of the Johnny Kelley statue on Newton’s Heartbreak Hill.

Lindsey Franco takes a shot during the annual Special Olympics vs. Hopkinton Police basketball game on March 26 at Hopkinton Middle School’s Brown Gym.

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Health Department trains residents on OD rescues

The Hopkinton Health Department is sponsoring a monthly program at the Hopkinton Public Library to train individuals on the use of Narcan, a medication that can help an individual recover from an overdose of opioids.

The training takes place on the second Tuesday of every month — the first one is April 11 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. — and will teach participants how to recognize an opioid overdose and when and how to use Narcan (which is the brand name for naloxone).

INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS

JERRY SPAR

“No judgment, no stigma,” Public Health Nurse Simone Carter stressed at a recent Board of Health meeting.

Health Director

Shaun McAuliffe said overdoses — both accidental and on purpose — are among the leading causes of death in individuals under 40, and last year there was a spike in cases among those aged 40-60. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that there were 101,750 reported fatal overdoses in the country over a 12-month period ending last October, primarily driven by synthetic opioids like illicit fentanyl.

There also are reports that high school students are using drugs — including cocaine — at a higher rate.

“So we’re trying to get ahead of this,” McAuliffe said.

The department is providing free kits for participants of the training to take with them. Each kit includes two doses of Narcan, a mouth shield for administering breaths during CPR, two pairs of gloves and fentanyl testing strips.

The department also acquired 500 fentanyl testing kits for distribution, and McAuliffe noted that the public has been taking advantage.

“We put them out by the COVID testing kits, and people are coming in and taking them,” he said. “They’re going out the

door a lot faster than we ever anticipated.”

On a related note, on March 29, the FDA approved Narcan to be sold over the counter (without a prescription) in a 4-milligram nasal spray. The spray initially was approved by the FDA in 2015 as a prescription drug.

Town mourns Lynch

Pat Lynch, who passed away last month at the age of 89, was a longtime volunteer in Hopkinton, serving on many town committees. A former Marine, Lynch was an original member of Friends of Hopkinton, the organization that puts together community events such as Family Day.

“Pat desired to continue the spirit of the 2015 town [300th] anniversary by forming our group,” former Friends of Hopkinton president Ann Click shared. “He showed his dedication to the town through ideas for promoting events that required town-wide involvement. Thank you Pat for your civic spirit and pride in Hopkinton.”

Lynch passed away March 22, three days before Friends of Hopkinton was to host the second annual Family Fling at the Town Common. The event ended up being canceled due to inclement weather.

Marathon fundraiser has Easter theme

Beth Hankin, who is running the Boston Marathon while raising funds for the Hopkinton Women’s Club, is doing her best to come up with creative fundraisers. Her current effort is a partnership with the Ashland business Dulce D Leche. Individuals can purchase a personalized gourmet chocolate (milk or dark) Easter egg. Each egg is personalized up to seven letters and filled with jellybeans. Eggs can be picked up between April 3-8 at the store.

For more information, visit hopkintonwomensclub.org or email Beth@ BethHankinWellness.com.

Town leaders need to answer for school funding concerns

We have heard a lot about the school budget, with many more conversations likely as we approach Town Meeting. The schools receive a significant portion of our town budget, and the growth of our school budget continues to outpace that of our town budget. Probing questions on the topic are necessary and, in some cases, long overdue. The fact is that our schools remain terribly underfunded — yes, underfunded. Hopkinton spends 20 percent less per student than the average school in this state, and 30 percent (!) less than other schools within the top 20. (Per student spend data per Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, top 20 as determined by Niche.com.) This significant gap is simply unsustainable — it WILL affect the quality of the schools if allowed to persist.

For most houses being built in town, the property tax for that house will not cover the cost of educating the students likely to move in there. This structural deficit must be resolved through determined and focused leadership. Instead of directing your critique toward the School Committee, instead consider asking the Select Board, Planning Board or town manager the difficult questions:

— Why have we not seen any push toward building out the commercial tax base — the only true solution to this problem — beyond campaign promises? Leadership and action — not simply photo ops — are desperately needed on the part of the Select Board.

— Why have we not sought out a residential growth strategy, or even considered attempting to moderate housing growth? The rate of growth in the number of students has reached (or exceeded) the breaking point as displayed during this year’s budget conversation and reinforced by the significant space constraints within all of our school buildings.

— Why does the Planning Board continue to push for higher-density residential housing, despite the town’s inability to financially support it at this time?

— Where is any mid- or long-term financial planning on the part of the town manager or other town leadership? Why do we seem shocked by the budget every single year?

Much has changed in the 18 years that I have lived in Hopkinton, but through it all, the schools have maintained their excellence and are a source of pride for the community. Only committed, decisive action now on the part of town leadership will keep them there.

— Jared Pray, Hopkinton

Maspenock residents question rezoning plan

Representatives from Marguerite Concrete presented their proposed zoning map and plan for a three-floor building on a parcel in the Lake Maspenock neighborhood of Hopkinton. However, residents raised several concerns at the meeting on March 25, including traffic volumes, resident safety, dark sky compliance, neighborhood/ home privacy and stormwater management. Despite the presentation, many residents were left with unanswered questions and concerns.

During the meeting, Marguerite’s representatives were asked why they chose to build a new multistory office building when Hopkinton had many available properties. While they viewed a few places, they did not meet their needs. The proposed 24,000-square-foot, 35-foot-tall building will house 50 employees, who will come and go as needed. The building will have several training rooms, and pickup trucks will be used (no heavy vehicle movement) as materials are stored on-site.

Residents questioned the proposed plan, including the 120 parking lots proposed. Marguerite’s representatives explained that was to ensure sufficient space for all

Tales from a Townie: Signals and sleds

By William T. Hamilton Jr. Contributing Writer

This tale takes place around 1953. I had just joined Boy Scouts the year before. Besides regular meetings on Friday nights with the whole troop, we had patrols that consisted of six or seven guys. The patrols usually met during the week in the afternoon to work on badges and small projects.

Several of the guys in the troop needed to pass signaling requirements. Our patrol and another decided to join forces and work together. We planned to meet on an evening at the ball field, which was located where the middle school is, near the water tanks. We needed enough space between the two signal groups so that we couldn’t yell back and forth. As luck would have it, it snowed about a foot the night before we were to meet.

One of the patrol leaders lived in the house at the fork in the road at Wood Street and West Main Street. He called us all and told us to meet at his house instead of the ball field, and bring our sleds.

Back in the 1950s, the snowplow-

ing equipment was nowhere as good as it is today. The roads were never scraped clean, and the remaining snow got packed down — we called it “white ice.” They didn’t use salt on the roads, just a little sand on the hills. This “white ice” remained until either it rained or got warm.

There was much less traffic then, and most people who had to drive much put chains on their back tires.

So, here was the plan:

A couple of guys would go to the bottom of the Wood Street hill (BenPond Hill) and set up their signal station. The other station was at the top of the hill.

The guys who needed the signaling would send messages back and forth, and also signal the bottom of the hill when the rest of the guys started down the hill on their sleds so they could stop any cars that might come along.

We had a great night. The ones who needed the signaling got it, and we all slid down the hill until we got tired of walking back to the top. And no one got run over.

Times certainly were different then.

Plan for Altaeros to relocate to town on hold

At the March 28 Select Board meeting, Town Manager Norman Khumalo recommended that the board remove the Town Meeting article related to a proposed tax increment financing (TIF) agreement with Altaeros Energies, which the board did.

According to Khumalo, the company — which designs and builds aerostats — no longer plans to renovate and inhabit the building at 80 South Street. However, he said Altaeros is considering other options in town.

In November, Khumalo announced a TIF draft between the town, Altaeros and the property owner, Atlantic Oliver 80 South Street LLC.

Altaeros had proposed renovating the existing building to create a 105,000-square-foot space to accommodate the company’s research and development, manufacturing and corporate headquarters. Altaeros was to invest $23.9 million, including $5.1 million in renovations and $18.8 million in personal property.

The proposal called for 181 new, net, permanent, full-time jobs over a sixyear period with those positions maintained over the term of the agreement.

In return, the town was to grant real estate tax exemptions for 14 years and personal property exemptions for seven years.

Southborough supports water connection

At its Town Meeting on March 25, Southborough voted in favor of proceeding with design plans for Hopkinton to connect to Southborough’s water system in order to access water that comes from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority.

Hopkinton has a proposed intermunicipal agreement with Southborough to pay for the work and contribute $1 million in additional funds for three other water-related projects in Southborough.

The plan would address Hopkinton’s issues with PFAS in its current water supply. Khumalo noted that the town’s latest monthly PFAS test showed levels continuing to rise.

The decision to connect to the MWRA water was passed by Hopkinton Town Meeting voters last year. It eventually will return to Town Meeting for another vote for funding, but not this year.

Safety concerns raised about Pyne Field plan

The Parks & Recreation Commission at its hybrid meeting March 23 discussed concerns about traffic safety once Pyne Field is reconfigured, pending a $1 million funding request that will be voted upon at Annual Town Meeting on May 1.

Amy and Josh Brassard, the owners of J.B. Sawmill and Landclearing Inc., spoke about their fears that children running to the field could potentially be hit by the 18-wheelers heading into their company property, which abuts the field on Fruit Street.

Chair Dan Terry explained that

the proposed redesign, which is in the conceptual stages, will take most of the current parking lot and the current Little League field and convert the 253-acre parcel into a smaller Little League field and a cricket pitch, which will be 330 feet in diameter. Baseball and softball currently are played at the site, and softball still would be able to be played there with the new design.

The Brassards said they were supportive of the cricket field, but they want access to it to be safe.

Meet the Candidates Night April 26

The Hopkinton Women’s Club will host its 35th annual Meet the Candidates Night on Wednesday, April 26, at 7 p.m. The event will be broadcast on HCAM.

Residents are invited to attend at the HCAM studio (77 Main Street) for the opportunity to learn more about citizens running for office and to pose questions about key issues before the May 16 Town Election.

Home viewers also will be able to ask questions ahead of time or that evening using live@hcam.tv for emails and 508-435-7880 for texts.

For more information, visit hopkintonwomensclub.org.

Sismanis court date postponed

At a pretrial hearing on March 22 in Framingham District Court, the attorney for Hillers Pizza owner Petros “Peter” Sismanis was granted a postponement for discovery — meaning more time was requested to examine evidence and determine the best path forward.

Judge Jennifer Stark set a date of May 24 for the new hearing.

On Jan. 31, Sismanis was charged with one count of indecent assault of a minor and two counts of witness intimidation following an alleged incident with a teenage female employee in the basement of the restaurant. Sismanis pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Police participate in scenario-based training

The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office announced that 34 officers from Hopkinton and Ashland completed interactive, scenario-based training utilizing the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Mobile Training Center (MTC).

The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with Chiefs [Joseph] Bennett and [Cara] Rossi to make this vital training available,” said Sheriff Peter Koutoujian “By facilitating this interactive, scenario-based training, we are helping officers reinforce skills and techniques that are critical to effective policing — particularly around communication and de-escalation.”

Over the course of five days (March 13-17), Hopkinton and Ashland officers were put through a series of video-based scenarios that focused on responses to both business and residential settings, as well as calls where mental health was

Police training | page 5

Maspenock residents question rezoning plan

employees and visitors during peak hours. However, it was clearly called out during the March 6 Planning Board meeting that there is no guarantee that the plans for the building will stay the same once the site is rezoned.

Furthermore, Marguerite corporate representatives stated that they would not accept the will of Hopkinton residents if their petition were defeated at Town Meeting and would pursue an industrial rezone regardless. During the meeting, one Marguerite Concrete representative used foul language that created tension in the room and claimed that the company was doing residents a favor, generating around $100,000 in tax revenue. However, some residents questioned the accuracy of these numbers and whether it was worth the risks posed by the dangerous plan that would impact nearly 500 residents and the lake.

It is time for the residents of Hopkinton to stand up together to this intimidation, reckless planning and insulting behavior. The rezoning of this lot could damage the lake and set a precedent for a further industrial creep on all Hopkinton empty lots. Please come to Town Meeting on May 1 to vote against this zoning change. Bring your friends and family. This town and its neighbors deserve better.

— Vikasith Pratty and Rustem Rafikov, Hopkinton

Town’s road/trail planning raises questions

With our Main Street reconstruction getting underway for the third year, I can’t resist opining on a topic I know so little about.

I do know the new Fruit Street bridge is planned at 32 feet wide, curb to curb, features a 5-foot-wide paved walk on one side and, according to the MassDOT [Massachusetts Department of Transportation] Fruit Street traffic study, carried approximately 4,000 vehicles/day in 2021.

The plans for Hayden Rowe Street, incorporating a 10-foot-wide shared multiuse trail (SMUT) on one side, depict a road width, curb to curb, of 26 feet. Interestingly, I have not been able to learn of a traffic count for Hayden Rowe Street. One might think, with another new school being planned there, and the most recently built school being expanded, that there would be a MassDOT traffic study for Hayden Rowe Street.

I have inquired as to the availability of traffic counts for Main Street and Fruit Street, and none, but for Fruit Street, have been forthcoming. I have found traffic studies for West Main Street (~13.000 vehicles/day), for the attendant ramps to Interstate 495, and for Wood Street (~6,000 vehicles/day).

I note on the town’s drawing for the proposed Upper Charles Trail Committee SMUT on Hayden Rowe Street that there is reference to the 2012 AASHTO [American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials] Guide for Bicycle Facilities, which states, “For … grades less than 2 percent, a design speed of 18 mph is generally sufficient, except on inclines.” Main Street features grades of 6 percent. I have been unable to learn of AASHTO or other standards design speeds for grades greater than 2 percent.

My read of the MassDOT Separated Bike Lane Planning & Design Guide (Page 59, Exhibit 4D) is that when driveways cross bike lanes, the driveway should rise to meet the bike lane. I see on Main Street that the proposed bike lane drops to the driveway grade. [So] in Hopkinton we have the opposite of what is stated in the Planning & Design Guide.

Lastly, I wonder why a SMUT is planned for Hayden Rowe Street but not for Main Street. A 10-foot-wide SMUT could at least possibly provide a degree of separation between descending bikers and eastbound Main Street traffic. Make no mistake, I do not suggest this as the “fix” for a fatally flawed design.

— Edwin E Harrow, Hopkinton

Police participate in scenario-based training

Police training | from page 4

Misc: New employee welcomed

The Select Board confirmed the town manager’s appointment of Daurys Reynoso as a heavy equipment operator for the DPW. …

Editor’s note: The opinions and comments expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Independent. Submissions should be no more than 400 words and must include the writer’s name and contact information for verification. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event. Letters may be edited by the Independent staff for space, errors or clarification, and the Independent offers no guarantee that every letter will be published. For a schedule of deadlines for letters and other submissions, check the Hopkinton Independent website (HopkintonIndependent.com) and click on the Contact header, then on Editorial Deadlines. an underlying factor. These scenarios allowed officers to focus on the effective use of de-escalation, communication and other skills. In addition, officers also participated in an active shooter scenario. Following each scenario, officers and trainers discussed and assessed the responses.

“One of the most valuable aspects of this training is that the officer’s actions can dynamically impact the outcome of each scenario,” said Bennett. “In some scenarios the officer is capable of de-escalating the situation through the effective use of tactics and communication.”

Doris Early , a nominee of the Democratic Town Committee, was appointed to the Board of Registrars. Diane Hayward was appointed to the Sustainable Green Committee. Scott Knous was named an associate member of the Historical Commission. Timothy Ritterbusch was named as an alternate member to the Upper Charles Trail Committee. …

The board accepted the resignation of Michelle Leibowitz from the Hopkinton Cultural Council.

Planning Board discusses Turkey Ridge, The Trails, solar

By Mary Ellen Gambon Contributing Writer

The Planning Board met for nearly four hours March 20, and it ended up continuing several longstanding projects that are on the cusp of approval.

Turkey Ridge issues cause problem for open space

The Turkey Ridge Estates subdivision project, located at 52 Cedar Street Extension, near the Southborough border, has been plagued by weatherrelated problems that have caused its erosion control barriers to fail on several instances, sending turbid water toward the Sudbury River. Although the developer hired Goddard Consulting after the first incident on Dec. 29 and has made significant efforts toward remediation, additional violations recently prompted the Conservation Commission to leverage $31,800 in fines that had been held in abeyance for the first two violations.

“There have been some open space erosion problems that are of concern for the Planning Board,” said Principal Planner John Gelcich. He described how stormwater has flowed over the open space “and effectively into the river.” There also has been damage to trees and stones piled near some trees.

Gelcich noted that the acquisition of the open space is on the warrant for the upcoming Town Meeting on May 1.

Said Gelcich: “I think it would be hard to justify the Planning Board accepting the open space in the current condition that it’s in right now.”

The applicant submitted a corrective action plan a couple of hours before the meeting, Gelcich said. The work needs to be done before Town Meeting.

Developer Shane Perrault showed pictures taken that show that the disturbed areas “have been cleaned up.” A hydroseed mix was to be planted on Wednesday.

A site walk was scheduled for March 25 to assess the land.

The Trails inches closer to approval

The Trails open space mixed use development (OSMUD) got one step closer to the approval finish line. But because an update was sent on the day of the meeting, Trendel said board members didn’t have sufficient time to review it. The board unanimously decided to continue the hearing until the next meeting on April 3.

Engineer Peter Bemis said he was “able to resolve all outstanding issues with our peer review” with Phil Paradis, the town’s consultant from BETA Group. He explained that off-site improvements are being made in Ashland as well as in Hopkinton to address stormwater management. There also now is a long-term operations and stormwater management plan on the property to keep sediment from flowing into the water system in Ashland, which was a previous issue.

Paradis discussed nine changes to the stormwater and landscaping plans as well as to the two basins and the sidewalk, which will have sloped granite curbing. He said the differences largely have been ironed out.

“I would love nothing more than to get this to a vote tonight,” Trendel said of the long-discussed project that has been hampered by continuance requests and late document filings. “But I do want to take a look through the packet.”

Grasshopper project hits snag

Electrical engineer Chris Balogh appeared before the board to present additional proposed modifications to landscaping and fencing plans for Grasshopper Energy’s 2.4-megawatt commercial solar farm between Wilson Street and Cedar Street.

The main point of discussion was how to shield the five electrical boxes from view. Balogh proposed wooden planter boxes as a compromise between a fence and plantings. Trendel said the developers “threw us a curveball” with this suggestion.

Planning Board members said they would be subject to damage from cars and do not fit in with the character of the scenic road. Member Jane Moran continued to suggest tall ornamental grasses, which Balough said would be a good option.

Another issue was that the removal of boulders was not articulated in the plans. This would need to be spelled out for the next review. There also would need to be a five-year plan for the maintenance of plantings.

Members later raised additional points. Member Matthew Wronka said he hoped “to see more of a narrative in the proposal” as to why certain changes were made. His concern was that Grasshopper implemented the board’s recommendations even when members stressed that they are not landscape architects.

Trendel emphasized that space to properly shield the electrical boxes was not considered before construction. The board repeatedly noted concerns about plants surviving at previous meetings.

Said Balogh: “They were installed to where it was in the plan.”

Another point of contention was that members repeatedly have asked for the entrance gate to be moved in front of the site. They were told that the utility company needed to be consulted to see if that was feasible for access.

Trendel expressed frustration that the project has lingered unresolved for more than a year.

Said Trendel: “I think I just want to make clear to the applicant that we really want to wrap this up.”

If not, the board could be “pretty close” to revoking the special permit. “We want to see your best and final here of something that looks like it fits into the neighborhood and properly shields the boxes and that fits into the street,” Trendel said.

Proposed bylaw amendments set for Town Meeting

The Planning Board endorsed two of the three zoning bylaw amendments proposed by the Zoning Advisory Committee that it previously reviewed. Their topics included electrical vehicle parking and a rooftop solar exemption from site Amendments | page 7

Proposed bylaw amendments set for Town Meeting

Amendments | from page 6

plan requirements.

The proposed inclusionary zoning bylaw generated the most discussion, and it was unanimously continued pending a language revision with edits by town counsel. Trendel pointed out that a change in language that needed to be made is that the number of affordable units needed to be rounded up, not to the nearest whole number. This change was brought up at the previous meeting by member Ron Priefer.

Member Rob Benson said that, from his perspective, he did not see the number of affordable units being rounded up “is something that participants in Town Meeting would be supportive of.”

He pointed out that in the affordable housing developments in town under Chapter 40B, only a fraction of the units “are actually affordable.”

“The percent of affordable housing units in town is way smaller than 10 percent,” he said. Ten percent is the number of affordable housing units that Hopkinton needs to maintain to prevent developers from building affordable housing developments by right and getting around local zoning laws.

Elm Street warehouse plan generates debate

The most contentious of the night’s hearings was a January proposal for a “flex storage warehouse” at 86 Elm Street. Three waiver requests were presented by Michael Dryden, who spoke on behalf of the proponent, Elm Street Capital. After a protracted debate, it was continued until the next meeting in a unanimous vote.

The first waiver request was to have the loading dock in the front of the building. Dryden noted that it is screened by five other buildings in an industrial park. The second was to waive the requirement for street trees around the parking area because they are not consistent with the rest of the industrial park. Similarly, a request was made for no sidewalk along the frontage because there are no other sidewalks on the site.

While the first and third requests were approved by the board, members’ opinions on the plantings veered. While some wanted plantings for shade, aesthetics and screening for the day care center nearby, others stressed that it is an industrial park.

The major issue that BETA raised about sewerage concerns triggered a debate.

Paradis said that the work is extremely tight at the delineation of the one-acre work. Dryden said it was unfair that a condition would be put in stating that work not encroach beyond this area when there is no intention to do so.

Planing Board member Mary LarsonMarlowe asked if going over one acre would trigger a stormwater management permit requirement. She said there should be a condition to stop any work outside of the one-acre area.

Paradis questioned how going over the boundary would be enforced.

Said Paradis: “This is impossible to police.”

Trendel added that, while this project doesn’t intend to go over its boundaries, other recent projects have, causing problems.

Said Trendel: “That is unfortunately driving our sensitivity here.”

While member Paul Ostrander said he was “sympathetic” to developers, member Fran DeYoung disagreed. DeYoung said

that projects that breached boundaries “either by accident or by design” were discussed during this and other recent meetings. There also was a concern that the setback would cross the highway into an agricultural zoning district. An opinion was to be sought from the zoning enforcement officer to see if it would be enforceable in this case.

Trendel reminded the applicant that “this permit has longevity beyond you and your ownership of the land,” which is why documenting details is important for the Planning Board, even when the applicant agrees with what was discussed by the board.

Dryden also objected to Paradis’ comments about improving soil quality, saying that it cost the developer “significant construction costs.”

“I don’t have a lot of sympathy for them costing you more money,” Trendel said. “Our job as a board is not to make sure that your client makes money. It’s to make sure that what’s built conforms appropriately and is an asset for some time to come for the town.”

Citizens’ petitions addressed

Two citizens’ petitions were on the agenda for discussion. Trendel stressed that the Planning Board’s role, as with the proposed zoning amendments previously discussed, is to decide whether the board will recommend them for approval at Town Meeting — not to approve or deny them. Regardless of the vote to recommend or not, the discussion will be raised at Town Meeting.

The first one proposed involved changing zoning for 0 and

2 West Elm Street from Residence B to Business. Mary Overholt, a member of the recently closed Community Covenant Church, presented the petition on the two lots owned by the denomination, which encompass about 5 acres. She said that she has posted flyers in the neighborhood to make residents aware of the proposed zoning change.

Several residents commented that they believed that changing the zoning would be financially prohibitive for houses of worship who want to purchase the space because they would be competing against housing and business developers. Trendel stressed that houses of worship are included in all zoning districts in Hopkinton. The Planning Board cannot compel a property to be reserved for houses of worship, which was brought forward by a few commenters.

Noise, traffic and light pollution were raised as concerns. This citizens’ petition was recommended for approval at Town Meeting. Larson-Marlowe stressed that everyone on the call should attend Town Meeting and let their perspectives be heard there.

The second citizens’ petition was continued at the request of Peter Bemis, the resident who proposed it as himself and not as an engineering consultant. He explained that he is in the process of forming a neighborhood group to discuss and advocate for the petition.

This petition would change the zoning of Hayward Street at South Street from Residence Lake Front to Rural Business. The change would allow for Marguerite Concrete, a concrete company located in Hopedale, to build its new headquarters on these parcels near the former EMC property.

connectivity meeting stresses safety concerns, accessibility

By Mary Ellen Gambon Contributing Writer

Pedestrian safety was a recurring theme March 21 in a virtual meeting on how to integrate the needs of walkers into Hopkinton’s infrastructure.

Planning Board chair Gary Trendel, who facilitated the meeting, said it emerged after the board heard repeated inquiries since the end of 2020 for more sidewalks and trails. But there was a disconnect when it came to voting for funding for them at Town Meeting.

A pedestrian connectivity survey was conducted last year to help “understand the drivers” behind the requests and generate public input on potential solutions. Around 350 responses were received, Trendel said.

One interesting survey data point he pointed out was that people were willing to walk more than a mile if there was increased accessibility.

Another was that more than 85 percent of respondents said more trails and sidewalks would improve mental and physical health. The majority of respondents were runners or fitness walkers, and the concept of trail loops of 2 or 3 miles was important to them.

Said Trendel: “I think it’s important to recognize that the best thing we can do is give people options.”

While recreation was stressed, the overarching theme of the meeting was safety. Cars speeding and ignoring pedestrians, particularly on Elm Street and near the Town Common, was highlighted by Kathy Waldron.

She described how a vehicle passed her car as she waited for a family with a stroller to cross Main Street.

“Some impatient person behind me zoomed around me and almost killed that whole family,” Waldron said. “It makes it difficult that people just don’t stop, and I wish that could be enforced.”

Trendel read one comment in the chat that summed up what Waldron and others alluded to: “I’d love to be able to cross Main Street without dying.”

At Elm Street, Waldron was unsure if the speed limit is even posted.

Department of Public Works Director John Westerling said that it is a “lengthy process” to lower the speed limit, and it would require an engineering study by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. He added that he would send an email to Police Chief Joseph Bennett to inquire about a speed limit sign.

“I know it’s MassDOT, but I don’t really care,” said Ria McNamara, stressing that speeding is impacting the west side of town.

With regard to Main Street, Westerling noted that Main Street Corridor Project construction will be initiated after the Boston Marathon on April 17.

Said Trendel: “Most streets in Hopkinton have speeders, and most streets in Hopkinton have some inherent risks for pedestrians.”

Sidewalks would protect pedestrians from speeding cars and consequently allow them to drive less frequently to get to their destinations, according to meeting participants. Sidewalks and trails of varying widths and surface types to accommodate walkers, runners and bikers are essential, Trendel explained, noting that it’s not an either/or decision.

The need for accommodations for older residents, people who have disabilities, and walkers with strollers also were highlighted in the discussion. Benches were mentioned as something that

should be included in sidewalk plans.

McNamara emphasized “social equity” in infrastructure improvements, as Interstate 495 is seen as a dividing line. More work has been done on the eastern side of Hopkinton, she said, and it’s time to focus on the western side as its population grows. Said McNamara: “I just want to see some of that love come our way.”

“I think the crux of this — the biggest challenge — is how we’re going to pay for things,” Trendel said.

Alternate funding sources could be grants, or in some cases, money from the Community Preservation Commission.

The pressure for potentially implementing the MBTA Communities law may generate grant opportunities for connectivity between nearby commuter rail stations to the downtown area, Trendel added.

One priority that came from the meeting was connectivity under I-495 and the Price Chopper shopping area. Jane Moran, a Planning Board member and chair of the Upper Charles Trail Committee, said she has been working on this. She said “the elephant in the room” is the topic of possible eminent domain to take land for sidewalks.

Two major options were discussed for improvements. One, which the majority of participants said they preferred, was to create a sidewalk on Main Street from Lumber Street to Downey Street, just beyond the Price Chopper.

Said Westerling: “When I see folks that currently walk that … I cringe in fear because they’re up against two and sometimes three lanes of traffic that are moving at well over 45 mph.”

The other was a shared use path from the Southborough Commuter Rail Station to the downtown area. Traffic as well as potential users should be factors in making these decisions, Trendel said. He noted that many people downtown might want to walk to the train station rather than drive. Planning board member Matthew Wronka also added quality of life as a factor.

Smaller projects could be addressed more quickly from a financial perspective, Trendel said. Two of these will be voted upon at the Annual Town Meeting on Monday, May 1.

One proposed sidewalk would connect Chestnut Street with Wild Road and Smith Road. This would increase pedestrian access to the downtown area for residents in the Connelly Hill and Ravenwood areas. He noted that a young person was struck by a car in that area several years ago, which prompted the discussion about sidewalks.

The second article proposed sidewalks that would connect Blueberry Lane to EMC Park.

Annual requests for sidewalk funding and developing a multiyear plan may become priorities as a result of the desire for connectivity.

Trendel summarized the meeting with the classic movie line: “If you build it, they will come.”

This stretch of West Main Street has been identified as being especially unsafe for pedestrians, with no sidewalks and cars moving at a fast rate of speed.

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

This issue’s winner is Anne Lee for this photo of “three good friends enjoying a nice spring-like day by the reservoir.” To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

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

Mimmo to run Boston to support YMCA

Mimmo | from page 1

“It was important for me to find activities that would give me a break from my computer screen,” she said, “and it was kind of transformational in my life. I fell in love with running, and I’ve been running ever since.”

Running soon expanded to other forms of exercise — such as CrossFit, Peloton, spin classes — and also led to more mindfulness about nutrition. Mimmo said she can definitely feel a difference since embracing a healthier lifestyle.

“I feel like, from an overall wellness perspective, it’s been crucial to my wellbeing,” she shared.

Mimmo moved to Hopkinton from Whitinsville eight years ago and believes living in the area and witnessing the annual excitement at the Boston Marathon encouraged her to enter the race.

“As a community, I think we support fitness, and running in particular, because of the presence of the Marathon. … I feel like if I hadn’t moved here and experienced the starting line every year, I might not have been motivated to do this. So I really do credit the town itself and the community we have here,” Mimmo remarked.

Because fitness is such an integral part of her life and because she recognizes its many positive effects, Mimmo is running to benefit the MetroWest YMCA (givengain.com/ap/diane-mimmo-raising-fundsfor-metrowest-ymca).

The YMCA, per its website, “helps people build a healthy spirit, mind and body.” The organization’s areas of focus are youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Among its many programs, services and events are a diabetes prevention program, Parkinson’s disease wellness program, nutrition and weight

loss program, lifeguard and CPR training, and Y Night for Teens.

Mimmo also appreciates that the YMCA fosters a sense of community, and added that several of her friends’ children enjoy the Y’s classes and activities and “value that space and the experience.”

To prepare for the 26.2 miles in April, Mimmo has been following the training plan posted by the Marathon Coalition — of which the YMCA is a member — which hosts group runs every Saturday morning in Brookline. She also belongs to the Hopkinton Running Club, which she said helps keep her motivated for training.

“There seems to be an inordinate number of women from Hopkinton this year running the Marathon,” she said, and noted that with so many people training, “It’s very easy to stay on track.”

Although her declared mission is to promote and support fitness, Mimmo clearly shares a value expressed by the slogan on the YMCA’s About Us page: “It’s not a club, it’s a community!”

I feel like if I hadn’t moved here and experienced the starting line every year, I might not have been motivated to do this. So I really do credit the town itself and the community we have here.

— Diane Mimmo

What goes into a retirement ‘paycheck’?

During your working years, you generally know how much money you’re bringing in, so you can budget accordingly. But once you’re retired, it’s a different story. However, with some diligence, you can put together a “paycheck” that can help you meet your income needs.

Where will this paycheck come from?

income investments, such as certificates of deposit (CDs), can also add to your retirement income. In the years immediately preceding their retirement, some investors increase the presence of these interest-paying investments in their portfolio. (But even during retirement, you’ll need some growth potential in your investments to help keep you ahead of inflation.)

Professional insights

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Social Security benefits should replace about 40% of one’s pre-retirement earnings, according to the Social Security Administration, but this figure varies widely based on an individual’s circumstances. Typically, the higher your income before you retire, the lower the percentage will be replaced by Social Security. Private pensions have become much rarer in recent decades, though you might receive one if you worked for a government agency or a large company. But in any case, to fill out your retirement paycheck, you may need to draw heavily on your investment portfolio.

Your portfolio can provide you with income in these ways:

• Dividends – When you were working, and you didn’t have to depend on your portfolio for income to the extent you will when you’re retired, you may have reinvested the dividends you received from stocks and stock-based mutual funds, increasing the number of shares you own in these investments. And that was a good move, because increased share ownership is a great way to help build wealth. But once you’re retired, you may need to start accepting the dividends to boost your cash flow.

• Interest payments – The interest payments from bonds and other fixed-

• Proceeds from selling investments – While you will likely need to begin selling investments once you’re retired, you’ll need to be careful not to liquidate your portfolio too quickly. How much can you sell each year? The answer depends on several factors — your age, the size of your portfolio, the amount of income you receive from other sources, your spouse’s income, your retirement lifestyle, and so on. A financial professional can help you determine the amount and type of investment sales that are appropriate for your needs while considering the needs of your portfolio over your lifetime.

When tapping into your investments as part of your retirement paycheck, you’ll also want to pay special attention to the amount of cash in your portfolio. It’s a good idea to have enough cash available to cover a year’s worth of your living expenses, even after accounting for other sources of income, such as Social Security or pensions. In addition, you may want to set aside sufficient cash for emergencies. Not only will these cash cushions help you with the cost of living and unexpected costs, but they might also enable you to avoid digging deeper into your long-term investments than you might like.

You may be retired for a long time — so take the steps necessary to build a consistent retirement paycheck.

Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week we feature 3-year-old Omega.

Here is Baypath’s description of Omega:

“This gorgeous, gentle giant is ready to find his forever home! Omega loves to play and spend time with people and would do best with an active household. He grew up with a loving family and was brought to Baypath at no fault of his own. Omega has the silliest, most entertaining personality! This lanky boy absolutely loves zooming around and playing fetch. He gets along well with other dogs, but we are currently not sure about cats. Since Omega is still learning not to jump up to greet new people, he would do best in a home with adults or older teens.”

For more information on Omega 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.

Christopher Stevenson

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS in Hopkinton

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

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on the grant to come “any day,” adding he had been checking periodically on its fate. It would be a one-year appropriation.

Chief Financial Officer Tim O’Leary said if the grant does not come through, $57,500 would be taken out of the amount proposed for the town’s OPEB (Other Post-Employment Benefits) Fund and $57,500 from the Stabilization Fund.

Acknowledging the School Committee does not endorse a budget less than $60.1 million, Cavanaugh said administrators created a list of items to bridge a possible $350,000 gap.

These areas include reducing two technology integration specialists to 0.6 FTE (full-time equivalent, a $120,000 savings); reductions of fine arts/business/technology/engineering requests at the high school ($45,000 savings); onetime purchases like furniture, shelving, maps, a tuba and textbooks, a $70,000 savings); and $110,000 in additional positions that impact teaching and learning (possibly grant funded).

While discussing factors affecting the operating budget, Cavanaugh pointed out growing enrollment and an increase in students with high needs.

The current enrollment of 4,209 students already is higher than the 4,160 students predicted by demographer Arthur Wagman for the next school year, she said.

The superintendent said the 10-year projection from Wagman is 4,745 students, while 4,900 students are predicted by the Massachusetts School Building Authority demographer.

Cavanaugh also outlined what is approximately 26 percent of the school population having high needs such as disabilities, English language learners, economic challenges and more.

These factors translate to having staff to address these needs, she said.

Cavanaugh also talked about how Hopkinton falls in the bottom 25 percent of the state in a half-dozen areas related to per pupil expenditures and in the bottom half in others.

“We’re a community that gets a lot of bang for its buck,” the superintendent said.

Increase in fees pitched

Appropriation chair Mike Manning said he is concerned about relying on a grant for personnel to fill in the budget gap. “The following year it will be something we have to fund ourselves,” he said. “I’m afraid we’re digging ourselves into a hole.”

Manning said the town is trying to look forward and find structure to support itself. He suggested the schools find other means of support and avoid

using free cash.

Manning asked about the possibility of raising fees to increase revenue.

School Committee chair Nancy Cavanaugh said the board made a policy decision not to raise fees. Increasing transportation fees, for example, would mean fewer riders, she said.

She noted that traffic already is a major problem near the schools at peak times, and the addition of more vehicles would exacerbate the issue. Additionally, there are more families struggling financially, and administrators don’t want to exclude students from access to athletics or transportation, to name a few examples, she said.

The superintendent said yes when asked by Appropriation Committee member Caroline Lu whether the trend for supporting high-need students was expected to continue. Lu emphasized the need to seek more federal and state

funding.

Appropriation Committee member Bill Flannery said he also had concerns about relying on grants.

“Our job is to look at numbers and find money where we can,” he said.

Capital requests outlined

Susan Rothermich, the school district’s finance director, talked about the capital requests expected at this year’s Town Meeting. They include HVAC (heating/ventilation/air conditioning) district-wide at $1.2 million, HVAC testing at $98,520 and HVAC replacement and controls at $157,739. Those items will be packaged together and proposed to be funded through debt exclusion.

Also, Town Meeting will be asked to fund $800,000 of the $3 million “Phase 1” cost for the Hopkins School expansion. The remaining $2.2 million would be taken out of the school stabilization account.

Manning said the town’s anticipated five- and 10-year capital plans take his breath away.

“We have to find ways to bring those costs down [because] there’s real impact to the taxpayers there,” Manning said.

In the capital plan, the Elmwood School replacement project funding begins in FY25 with a cost of $40 million over 30 years. Concurrently, funds for the Hopkins School addition will be sought. Manning said he is more concerned about long-term debt and its effect on taxpayers than he is about the current $350,000 gap between the School Committee’s endorsed budget and the Select Board’s recommended total.

BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Boston Honey Company — so much more than honey

By Linda Chuss Contributing Writer

In November of 2020, the Boston Honey Company opened a retail store at its farm in Holliston. The flagship location houses every aspect of the business — from harvesting, extracting and bottling honey to candle making and more. Customers love this unique direct-to-consumer experience.

“These days, consumers are looking into their food sources, wondering where their food is coming from,” said Addie Reseska, who founded the business with her husband over 20 years ago. “When visitors come to our farm for the first time, they are surprised how much they can learn about bees with our in-store observation hive. It’s a great hit with kids. The window leading to the extraction room is another point of interest. After the honey is harvested, we bring the supers [containers on hives

where bees store honey] to the room and remove the honey. People appreciate the transparency on display. It gives

them a sense of what it takes to run a commercial beekeeping operation, how much infrastructure is needed. And the ability to experience all these factors at one place is quite special.”

Some people make the farm store a destination on their travels, while locals who return regularly often discover new and interesting aspects.

From May through October, customers enjoy stopping for ice cream, especially as part of a biking or walking excursion along

the Upper Charles Trail. The farmland makes for a pleasant vista while resting with a beverage at an outdoor table.

“It’s a year-round operation,” explained Andy Reseka. “In summer, the honeybees are pollinating and producing honey throughout Massachusetts and New York. Before the cold of winter arrives, we move our bees to Georgia, where we raise bees and queens, and produce our Georgia honeys. Our bees return to the Northeast in late April to pollinate the apple orchards and continue the cycle of commercial migratory beekeeping.”

Boston Honey demonstrates its commitment to the bees and the larger environment. The visually inviting store was designed for sustainability, including a highly efficient geothermal system, and display stands made from old beehive frames. When people buy products from the company, they are supporting a local farm whose work is

Addie and Andy Reseka show off unique honeys they produce at their farm store along the Holliston rail trail.

critical to maintaining the ecosystem in the MetroWest region and beyond.

Patrons can feel good about their contribution while enjoying the honey. Some popular uses are for smoothies, on ice cream and in tea. Boston Honey Company offers a range of unique mono-floral honeys that pair well with charcuterie or cheese boards.

Events are another attraction at the farm, like the annual October Harvest party with food and beverage vendors, live music and a variety of children’s activities. In the summer, group tours are available.

Located at 45 Chestnut Street in Holliston, the store is open year-round from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Along with honey, locally sourced products like maple syrup, pasture-raised meats and fresh eggs are available. Many items also can be purchased at bostonhoneycompany.com. To contact Boston Honey Company, call 508-429-6872 or email info@bostonhoneycompany.com.

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

Parks & Recreation offers ‘uniquely Hopkinton’ summer

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

Families who seek affordable and “very uniquely Hopkinton” activities this summer will find what they’re looking for in Parks & Recreation programs, says Director Jay Guelfi.

“We want our programs to be accessible to anyone who wants to participate,” he says. “What also sets us apart is that most of our staff are locals.

So, if you sign up for a basketball clinic, you get coaches from Hopkinton High School. If you sign up for playground groups, the counselors are local kids who likely were past participants in the groups themselves.”

Guelfi believes that this “local

continuity makes Parks & Rec summer programs special, which is why they fill up so fast.” On that note, summer registration is now open, and Guelfi anticipates that basketball clinics and playground groups in particular will quickly reach capacity.

Other youth recreation programs include track, football, archery, baseball, dance, golf, field hockey, tennis, soccer and volleyball. If a child isn’t interested in athletics, Guelfi notes the many other enrichment programs available like STEM, art, chess, etiquette and public speaking.

“Our goal is to have something for everyone,” he says. “We want everyone to feel included and find something special.”

Additionally, Sandy Beach will be open and staffed starting Memorial Day weekend.

For the adults, Guelfi highlights the new women’s soccer and men’s softball leagues. “We’re working hard to increase and expand offerings for adult

recreation in town,” he says. This year’s summer concert series will feature more diverse acts, Guelfi adds, and the Movies on the Common series and Sunday farmers market will return.

Other Parks & Rec developments on the horizon include pickleball courts and a cricket pitch at Pyne Field. Although the courts won’t be built in time for this summer, Guelfi hopes the construction bidding process will be underway, and he is optimistic that cricket pitch funding will be approved at Town Meeting in May.

“We hope to continue to improve and expand our offerings,” Guelfi says. “This summer, we want to know that everyone did something that brought them some enjoyment, some exercise, some stimulation, some fun.”

For more information, visit hopkintonrec.org or call 508-497-9750.

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

Nursery School Woodland School Longmeadow School

Conservation Committee allows The Trails to move forward

By Mary Ellen Gambon Contributing Writer

The Conservation Commission at its meeting March 28 unanimously approved amendments to plans for The Trails that would modify its basins and allow the development to move forward.

The Trails, an open-space mixed use development (OSMUD) off Legacy Farms North Road, near the Ashland border, has been plagued by stormwater management issues that have negatively impacted the water system in Ashland, and violations were issued in the summer of 2021. Both the Conservation

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Commission and the Planning Board have been seeking plans to remedy the situation over the past several months. A peer consultant was brought in to review the stormwater management practices.

Conservation Administrator Kim Ciaramicoli shared a presentation to describe the project and the amendments proposed by project engineer Peter Bemis as he prepares to start the next phase of development. The two phases discussed are separated by a wetland area, and water tends to flow northward toward the Hopkinton Reservoir, near the Ashland Reservoir.

There are three large basins that

serve as the main containers of stormwater, she explained. The third basin will impact the next development phase.

Some of the amendments proposed by Bemis and approved by town engineering consultant BETA Group “were already made in the field,” Ciaramicoli noted. The first was creating a constructed wetland behind Bandon Lane. It is located outside of the 50-foot nodisturb buffer and primarily is vegetated with cattails.

Modifications were proposed that would increase its storage volume. This also would allow the water to flow into the Hopkinton Reservoir via a large culvert. The water would be redirected to the east. Ciaramicoli said a large riprap apron would be required.

Chair Jeff Barnes noted that the previous request to increase the depth by 4 feet ultimately was not feasible because of the disturbance it would cause.

Bemis explained that the basin “was already constructed to its maximum depth.”

“The one thing that I can state to you emphatically is that this project originally designed versus what is constructed and will be constructed when we’re done is about 100 percent more volume for processing stormwater capacity than it was originally designed for.”

The embankment will be expanded, Bemis added.

Said Barnes: “It may not be ideal from a commission standpoint, but I just want to put a caveat and a footnote in here that this is something that Ashland is really pushing to get implemented at the site.”

The second amendment approved was for an infiltration basin behind 5359 Weston Lane that previously was constructed. This basin collects water and takes it away from Wilson Street. Because this basin was not infiltrating properly, according to Ciaramicoli, Bemis proposed to modify it into a constructed wetland basin.

The third basin will be modified to increase its depth. It will require riprap expansion and will encroach into the 50-100-foot buffer area.

Ciaramicoli added that the Planning Board also is considering other modifications being made to the project.

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“Patty told me so many things that she would have NO WAY of knowing, even if she researched me for a month ahead of time!”

As the discussion continued, Barnes stressed that the stormwater basin modifications should be completed before construction on the new phase of the development begins. In this new development, the stormwater manage-

ment system should be put in before the units are built.

Bemis asked for permission to break ground on the new phase, and the commission approved of him doing site preparation work. Construction on the units cannot begin until the basin work is completed.

Said Bemis: “I understand the request.”

A condition was added that Bemis work with BETA Group on the phasing plans on new construction prior to any site work as well as modifications made to the first basin.

Said Barnes: “There’s been good strides here and a good effort made by the applicant.”

A separate notice of intent on the project was continued until the next meeting on Tuesday, April 11.

Turkey Ridge development makes progress

The Turkey Ridge Estates development at 52 Cedar Street Extension made significant progress on managing its stormwater issues after fines that had been held in abeyance were leveraged at the last meeting.

Ciaramicoli said she conducted an inspection earlier in the day and saw “major improvements at the site.” This inspection was conducted after a joint site walk with Conservation Commission and Planning Board members three days earlier.

Jute netting was used to stabilize a detention pond that had been overflowing, she added. The land was hydroseeded, and the grading work has been mostly completed.

The upper pond is under construction but “is starting to take form.” Other areas have been shored up, according to Ciaramicoli.

The area that had been breached twice before was well stabilized, she added.

Barnes recommended that the fines for the most recent violation on March 14 be held in abeyance because of the significant effort made to stabilize the site. This motion was approved unanimously.

Ciaramicoli stressed the need for construction sequencing, as was highlighted with The Trails. When issues are resolved, she will lift the cease and desist order for construction.

Local HOSA students shine at state conference

School Committee questions 14 percent hike for SPED tuition

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

SchoolCommittee members on March 30 agreed to send a letter to legislators outlining their concern about a 14 percent increase in costs to send students to private special education schools.

SCHOOLS

Members of the Hopkinton HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) team took part in the State Leadership Conference on March 18 at Worcester State University. A total of 28 Hopkinton High School and Hopkinton Middle School students finished in the top three in various events and qualified for the International Leadership Conference, which will be held in Dallas from June 21-24.

In the high school competition, in the Community Awareness event, Srilakshmi Venkatesan and Nandita Ramesh finished first, Piyusha Majgaonkar and Shrija Kumar took second, and Anna Noroian and Tanisha Renjith were third.

In Health Education, Devanshi Agrawal, Anjali Bhattacharyya, Sofia Dhayal and Sruthi Tadaka finished first.

In Job-Seeking Skills, Nandita Ramesh took second.

In Medical Innovation, Jake Dold, Kaizar Rangwala and Shaurya Patni finished first.

In Medical Math, Prachi Meher was third.

In Nutrition, Aryan Shah was third.

In Public Health, Anagha Kulkarni, Renee Gowda, Vidya Narendra Ramakrishna and Charan Vijay finished second.

In Research Poster, Ishita Khurana captured first.

In Veterinary Science, Leah Hong took third.

In the middle school competition, in the Emotional Well-Being event, Suhani Patni and Parnika Rai took first.

In Health Career Display, Akshadha Ghantasala and Kashvi Gupta took second, and Ishana Khurana and Niyathi Thatigutla took third.

In Medical Terminology, Ghantasala was first, Khurana was second and Gupta was third.

The State Leadership Conference also included presentations from multiple college and medical students, researchers, physicians and professionals from many healthcare careers.

Local collegians recognized

MassBay Community College esports

participant Blake Briner was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 21 Academic Honor Roll for his achievement in the classroom during the fall 2022 semester. …

At Bates College, Alex Kovacs, a senior majoring in environmental studies and minoring in mathematics, and Nick Brown, a sophomore majoring in economics, were named to the dean’s list. …

Caitlin Maloney was named to the dean’s list at Elms College. …

Nora Drechsler was named to the dean’s list at Champlain College. …

At Dickinson College, first-year student Kayali Pandian was named to the dean’s list. …

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

The tuition hike was imposed by the Operational Services Division and goes into effect in fiscal year 2024.

In the letter, drafted by chair Nancy Cavanaugh and signed by all members, the increase is called “both unexpected and difficult to manage” at the local level.

Cavanaugh noted that increases over the past 10 years have averaged 2 percent and there was never any rationale given for not phasing in hikes over time instead.

She wrote the process was done “without collaboration or transparency,” saying it could negatively impact Hopkinton’s budget as well as other districts across the commonwealth.

The impact would affect existing programs as well as cause deferring of staff and resources to support all students, she said. School Committee member Lya Batlle-Rafferty said the hike comes at a time when all school districts are coming out of COVID and trying to “revitalize.”

“Now they throw something like this and it creates all kinds of issues,” she said.

In writing, the board also expressed support of legislation calling for the use of “pothole” relief funds in FY24, lowering the circuit breaker cost threshold, and increasing the circuit breaker reimbursement rate from 75 percent to 90 percent.

“Legislators should care about offering that help long term,” Cavanaugh said.

Elmwood principal named

David Brauninger, principal of Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School in Canton, was selected as the new principal at Elmwood School, Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh announced March 31. He will succeed Anne Carver, who is retiring.

Brauninger and the other finalist, Tiffany Ostrander, principal of the Calvin Coolidge School in Shrewsbury, had met with faculty, community members and the School Committee on March 23 to answer questions.

Brauninger previously served as student services coordinator at Canton High School. He began his career as a special education teacher and alternative learning program coordinator/team chair at Franklin High School.

Future agenda items proposed

At the March 30 meeting, committee members gave reminders about topics they would like discussed at future meetings.

Committee member Holly Morand said she gets a lot of feedback from the public about bullying and wants to hear more about the district’s policy.

Batlle-Rafferty said she would love to hear about technologybased programs, saying technology intersects with other disciplines. She added that she wants to gain a sense of how prepared students are when they get to college.

Vice chair Amanda Fargiano asked the board to circle back about financial aid for field trips.

Both Nancy Cavanaugh and member Jenn Devlin noted that these items got put on the back burner during the budget process so that ample time can be given for discussion.

Additional track coaches approved

In other business, the committee approved a request by interim athletic director Kiely Murray for two additional outdoor track and field coaches, one each at the high school

The McBride Team of RE/MAX Executive Realty would like to congratulate Lucas Pereira on his award for Student of the Month. Lucas is especially deserving of this award because of his all-around respectful attitude toward teachers, administrators and peers at Hopkinton High School. He has been described as a “walking ray of sunshine.”

During his free time, Lucas does community service at his church. He is also a member of the music program at the high school, and he performs in a jazz band. His love of drums has been rewarded with a gold medal, enabling him to compete in an upcoming state competition. With dual languages, Lucas works as a translator and a negotiator. In the future, Lucas would like to become a businessman and be relevant in the field of administration. He also hopes to be married with children. Congratulations, Lucas!

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

The McBride team congratulates award winner Lucas Pereira

BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

The Carnahan Group demystifies school admissions process

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

There’s a misconception that working with an educational consultant is a luxury reserved for the very wealthy, says Dan Monahan, a consultant with The Carnahan Group. “But our services are not out of reach,” Monahan says, “and it’s important that students find support, especially since school counselors often have excessive caseloads.”

The Carnahan Group, which is headquartered in New Orleans but operates globally, provides admissions and educational planning services for students who are headed to college, boarding school or graduate school. Monahan, a resident of Ashburnham, is part of a seven-person team with a cumulative 60 years of experience in educational consulting.

Educational consultants work with

Dan Monahan, an educational consultant with The Carnahan Group, has more than 20 years of experience in the field.

students to analyze their academic interests and goals, assess applications, consider timelines for test preparation and test taking, and maximize college visits.

“We work with all types of students,” Monahan says, “from highachieving students to students with learning differences to student-athletes hoping to get recruited, to students who aren’t sure what they want to do.”

There are thousands of educational

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consultants across the world, Monahan explains, but fewer than 300 are certified educational planners (CEP), a “gold standard” designation that Kathie Carnahan, the group’s founder, has earned. Other team members are also working toward their CEP status, and all full-time consultants are members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA).

“If families are looking to hire consultants,” Monahan says, “they should at the very least be a member of IECA or the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA), so you know they’ve met important standards.”

In addition to its certifications, The Carnahan Group’s team-based approach is unique, Monahan says.

“There is a lead consultant for each student, but at our team meetings we discuss all our students so

everyone can contribute ideas toward the students’ success,” he explains.

The college admissions process can seem daunting, Monahan acknowledges, “but if you take things in pieces along the way, starting as a freshman or sophomore, then it will never feel overwhelming.” Monahan knows the system on a professional level, but he’s also currently going through the process as the father of teenagers.

Another advantage of working with educational consultants is that families often are introduced to unfamiliar institutions.

“There are over 2,500 four-year colleges and universities in the country,” Monahan says, “and students sometimes overlook places that would be a great fit for them because they haven’t heard of the college.”

Ultimately, Monahan and his colleagues strive for “that moment when students can be honest with themselves and you. You hear what their hopes and dreams are, and we work toward finding a college or university that fits those aspirations.”

Monahan recalls one student who began crying as he submitted his first college application. “Because he did it — it was this huge accomplishment,” he explains. That student went on to become a clinical social worker. “To see him go from a young man who was overjoyed and scared all at once to now — seeing him as a happy, successful professional — that’s why I do what I do.”

To schedule a free consultation, visit carnahan-group.com.

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

Additional track coaches approved

Coaches | from page 15

and middle school.

The positions will be paid for out of the athletic revolving fund. The board had approved the request last year. This vote was to keep these positions intact “in perpetuity.”

This year, 230 students have registered for the sport at the high school and 126 students at the middle school. Those numbers compare to 220 and 110, respectively, last year.

There are six coaches currently at the high school and three coaches at the middle school. In addition, Murray noted she expects the numbers to increase even more in late registrations and if students don’t make it onto one of the cut teams.

She attributed the higher interest, in part, to the success of the high school cross country and indoor track teams, where eight student-athletes earned the title of All-American.

Donations accepted

The committee also accepted donations including two 35 mm film cameras valued at $200 for the high school photography program from Bob Cole and a rowing machine to the fitness center from Resilience CrossFit in Hopkinton. The rowing machine is valued at $1,000.

The Fowler family also donated $1,000 to the girls golf program.

“We’re fortunate to live in such a generous community,” Nancy Cavanaugh said.

Farrell makes debut with NHL’s Canadiens

ADMISSIONS AND

SAFE IN YOUR HANDS WITH WI-FI

always know your little ones are protected.

You can check if the garage door was left open — and close it — right from your smartphone.

Hopkinton’s Sean Farrell agreed to a three-year contract with the Montreal Canadiens and made his NHL debut March 28 when the Canadiens played the Flyers in Philadelphia.

SPORTS ROUNDUP

Despite not having practiced with the team, the 5-foot-9, 175-pound left winger jumped in on the second line and played just over 13 minutes without recording a shot on goal in Montreal’s 3-2 loss.

“Offensive talent, dynamic player,” Montreal coach Martin St. Louis told reporters after the game. “He’s done it at every level. This is the level where he’s going to have to show he can still do it.”

The 21-year-old Farrell, a fourthround selection in the 2020 NHL draft, has a three-year, entry-level contract that carries an average annual value of $1,158,333, according to a team announcement.

Farrell recorded 20 goals and 33 assists in 34 games this season at Harvard University. It’s the second-highest point total by a Crimson skater in the last 29 years. He was named one of 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, which goes to college hockey’s top player.

Harvard’s season came to an end March 24 with an 8-1 loss to Ohio State in a regional semifinal game in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Harvard, ranked seventh nationally, finished with a record of 24-8-2.

In 58 career games at Harvard, Farrell totaled 81 points (30 goals, 51 assists).

Farrell represented the United States at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, leading the team in scoring with six points on three goals and three assists.

Korbey 3v3 draws record crowd

The fifth annual Mary Korbey 3v3 basketball tournament was held March 26, drawing a record 68 teams for a day of fun and competition at Hopkinton High School and Hopkinton Middle School.

The event honors Mary Beth (Marquedant) Korbey, who passed

away in July 2015 after a courageous battle with cancer. Korbey was a basketball standout at Hopkinton High School who went on to play at UMass. She returned and raised her family here, while becoming a beloved youth sports coach and real estate agent.

Funds raised from the tournament fund the Mary Korbey Scholarship, presented annually to a Hopkinton student.

In the Grade 3/4 girls division, the winning team was the MBNA Hillers: Alexandra Tighe, Norah Reilly, Maddy Jones and Brooke Elliott

In the Grade 5 girls division, the championship squad was America Runs on Dunking: Allie Lydon, Emily Fitzgibbons, Kylie Pray and Naeva Benning

In the Grade 6 girls division, the winners were Wyatt’s Warriors: Murphy Chatten-Guerette, Brooklyn Bearfield, Ireland Resteghini, Brooke Merrill and Shannon Sullivan

The Grade 7/8 girls champion was the Fire Ballers: Ava Carrell, Jehen Fortunat, Alicia Stone, SeSe Atchinson and Chloe Barnatt

In the Grade 3/4 boys division, the title went to the Hoopsters: Nate Pantera, Jack Pantera, Dylan Medeiros and Michael Mathot

In the Grade 5 boys division, the winning team was Nothin’ But Net: Maddox Paparazzo, Gavin Orloff, Dylan Niemi and Finn Thaisz

In the Grade 6 boys division, the championship was won by And 1: Patrick Reilly, Jackson Balster, Michael Tighe, Rocco Yurewicz and Jaedon Bouffard

In the Grade 7 boys division, the top team was PB&Jellying: Max Incutto, Hugh Desmond, Connor Nguyen and Ryan Dorfman

In the Grade 8 boys division, the title went to Big 3: Rocco Spinelli, Michael Sullivan and Lucas Hodne

The Adult division championship was won by Bus Drivers: James Marquedant, Craig Sager, Ryan Hamilton and Matt Griffin

The Senior division crown belonged to Still Got It???: Rob Robledo, Stephen Cho, Tom Chatten, Taylor Blinn and Josh Deisenroth

PHOTO/ERICA DENHOFF/HARVARD ATHLETICS

Sean Farrell joined the NHL’s Canadiens after wrapping up his season at Harvard.

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

Schedule update

The library will be closed Saturday, April 15, and Monday, April 17.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Wednesday, April 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Our Time Memory Cafe at Senior Center

Thursday, April 6, 1-2:15 p.m.

Sponsored by Hopkinton Senior Services and the Hopkinton Public Library, Our Time Memory Cafe invites those with forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment or dementia and their care partner, family and friends to attend. Our Time Memory Cafe takes place on the first Thursday of each month from 1-2:30 p.m. This event will be held at the Hopkinton Senior Center.

Movie and Director Q&A: ‘Being Robin’

by Roger Kabler

Thursday, April 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

(Note: This event has been rescheduled after being postponed due to inclement weather last month.) Local filmmaker and performer Roger Kabler will present a viewing and discussion of his film “Being Robin” (beingrobinthemovie. com). A man believes he is possessed by the spirit of Robin Williams. Whether he is truly at the center of a spiritual event or he is delusional, he mounts a hysterical and touching stage tribute that becomes a hit around America. Based on true events.

The Plant Guy Eric — Cannabis Consultant

Monday, April 10, 6-7:30 p.m.

Eric is a cannabis cultivation consultant based in Central Massachusetts. He will cover everything from choosing and starting seeds, what equipment is needed, daily care including info on nutrients and types of soil, right through the process of harvesting, with an emphasis on destigmatizing the use of cannabis.

Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction with Hopkinton Health Department

Tuesday, April 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Narcan is the brand name of the generic naloxone and is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids. This free Narcan training will provide participants with a brief understanding of how to recognize an opioid overdose as well as when and how to use Narcan, and includes a free kit to take home.

In-Person Author Talk: Janis Daly discusses ‘The Unlocked Path’

Tuesday, April 11, 6-7 p.m.

Meet a “new woman” of the 20th century: educated, career-minded, independent Eliza Pearson Edwards. In 1897 Philadelphia, after witnessing her aunt’s suicide, Eliza rejects her mother’s wishes for a society debut, and at a time when 5 percent of doctors are female, she enters a woman’s medical college.

Women’s Financial Roundtable

ing what Bitcoin is all about, or staring blankly at their retirement statements should join Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone for this online program. Each session of Women and Money Roundtable: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets focuses on a different topic.

SAT Strategy Session

Wednesday, April 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

AP students who have succeeded all year long in their classes still need to prepare for the actual exam. In this presentation from the Princeton Review’s Sarah Cao, students will learn strategies for the AP exams that can earn scores that equate to college credit.

Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle

Wednesday, April 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Participants are invited to bring their current project or pattern. This group is open to teens and adults of all skill levels. All fiber arts crafts (knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch, needle felting, etc.) are more than welcome. This group meets on the second and last Wednesdays of each month from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

50-plus Job Seekers Networking Group

Wednesday, April 12, 6-8 p.m.

The Massachusetts Library Collaborative’s 50-plus Job Seekers Group meets via Zoom. This program is for those who are unemployed and actively looking, underemployed or seeking a new career direction. This session will focus on creating a LinkedIn profile.

96

(Rte 135)

Wednesday, April 12, 1-2 p.m.

Anyone confused about financial markets, wonder-

Robertson-Barnes

Going Zero Waste As a Family with Sarah

Wednesday, April 12, 7-8 p.m.

Participants in the Zoom program will learn how to manage eco-anxiety and lessen their impact on the planet with easy-to-implement sustainable living tips for busy families. All ages are welcome. Sarah Robertson-Barnes, founder of the Sustainable in the Suburbs blog, is a freelance writer, educator and consultant.

SAT Practice Test

Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This free online SAT practice test is with the Princeton Review. Registration is available via this link: secure.princetonreview.com/event?PSOId=518553.

Author Talk: Christopher Morash discusses

‘Dublin: A Writer’s City’

Saturday, April 15, 10-11 a.m.

Those who love classic literature and a pint o’ Guinness should join this online conversation with author and Trinity College professor Christopher Morash. He will discuss his book, “Dublin: A Writer’s City,” which unfolds a book-lover’s map of this unique city, inviting readers to experience what it means to live in a great city of literature.

50-plus Job Seekers

Networking Group

Wednesday, April 19, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

The Massachusetts Library Collaborative’s 50-plus Job Seekers Group meets via Zoom. This program is for those who are unemployed and actively looking, underemployed or seeking a new career direction. This session will focus on LinkedIn and personal branding.

CALENDAR

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

Friends of Whitehall annual meeting April 5

The Friends of Whitehall annual meeting will be held Wednesday, April 5, at 7 p.m. at the Sanctuary at Woodville (Woodville Baptist Church), 249 Wood Street, Woodville. The guest speaker will be Richard Trubiano, supervisor of the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) headquarters in Hopkinton. He will talk about Lake Whitehall and Whitehall State Park and what DCR does for maintenance and preservation. The annual business meeting also will take place, with a review of the past year’s accomplishments and plans for 2023. Anyone interested in the lake is encouraged to join. For more information, visit friendsofwhitehall.org.

Become a Dementia Friend April 6

Individuals are invited to become a Dementia Friend by attending an informational program at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on Thursday, April 6, from 7-8:30 p.m. Attendees will learn about the different types of dementia, what it’s like to live with dementia, and small gestures that make a difference. For reservations, call the Hopkinton Senior Center at 508497-9730. The program, open to residents of any town, is sponsored by the Hopkinton Council on Aging.

Trail Explorers at Hopkinton Public Library April 26

Parents and children can drop in between 4-6:30 p.m. on April 26 at the library’s event room to learn about trails in town. There will be activities and prizes, plus information about geocaching, mountain biking, trail running, building stuff in the woods and more. Representatives from the Trails Club, Hopkinton Area Land Trust, Upper Charles Trail Committee, Parks & Rec, New England Mountain Bike Association, YMCA, Wildwood Learning Center and Mass. Audubon will be on hand along with the sponsoring organizations, the Hopkinton Trail Coordination and Management Committee and the library. For more information, visit HopkintonMA.gov/Trails.

Applications due May 1 for Hopkinton PolyArts Festival

The 48th annual Hopkinton PolyArts Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Town Common. Proceeds fund multiple scholarships for Hopkinton graduates majoring or minoring in the arts. Applications from artists seeking to host a booth must be received by May 1. For details, visit cozzens.net/polyarts.

K of C Nite at the Races fundraiser May 6

The Knights of Columbus is hosting a fundraising event for adults (18 and up) called A Nite at the Races on Saturday, May 6, at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Parish Hall (20 Church Street). Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be 10 virtual horse races and 10 grand prize gift drawings. All admission tickets, which are $25 each ($200 for a table), are eligible for a door prize. Food and beverages, including premium beer and wine, will be available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bishopricekoc.org or email joealtman@verizon.net.

Event Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

First Friday Open Mic with feature

George Wood April 7 | 8 p.m.

Calling all singers (and people who love to listen to people sing)! Open Mic is a great way for singers to put themselves in front of a very supportive and fun crowd and to learn by watching other singers.

About George Wood: There is an almost epic quality to the songs of this man. The arrangements are electric and inspiring, and his voice is like a fine wine that needs to breathe and fills the air with its aroma, eliciting a craving for more. His music is sweet and soothing but deep and emotional.

Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards

April 8 | 8 p.m.

Little by little, you will get to know Mark and Raianne through their unmistakable vocal harmonies, poetic lyrics and downto-earth personae. They are a married musical couple based out of Webster, Massachusetts. These prolific and hardworking artists have contributed over seventeen albums within their first decade and toured consistently throughout the US and Canada.

The Peacheaters April 15 | 8 p.m.

The Peacheaters dig deep and respectfully pay homage to the five-plus decades of music from the Allman Brothers Band.

From “Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More” to “Whipping Post” and more, they deliver the ultimate Allman Brothers Band experience. Featuring blistering guitar solos and harmonies, a pulsating Hammond B-3 organ, a thunderous three-drummer rhythm section, and soulful southern-twinged vocals all meshing seamlessly to deliver that authentic ABB sound. The best Allman Brothers tribute band you will see.

Psychic Medium: Patricia Griffin

April 22 | 7 p.m.

Patricia Griffin is a gifted psychic medium, intuitive, clairvoyant, empath, Reiki Master, certified Angel card reader, and Angel links facilitator. She has had this gift her entire life, at first afraid and unsure of what to do with it. Now she’s embraced it to help you connect with your loved ones, in spirit. Her readings can help you find closure, peace, and validation. Even though loved ones are no longer in a physical body, love lives on. Love truly never dies.

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

SENIOR SNIPPETS

MCOA Walk Massachusetts Challenge

Walking consistently has numerous physical and mental health benefits. Regardless of how far or fast one walks, whether an individual uses a cane or a walker, remaining active is key to aging well and living independently. Walking is accessible for most people, whether done outside at a local park or indoors and in place on rainy days.

With six challenges, there’s a challenge for everyone. The only competition is one’s self: to be better than yesterday. Individuals who meet milestones are entered to win up to a $50 gift card. For each person who completes their challenge, the Hopkinton Senior Center is entered to win up to $1,000 for future programming. The more each person walks, the more everyone wins. Registration can be found at walkmachallenge.com or by calling the Senior Center. Participants will choose a challenge and track their walking during the period between May 1 and Oct. 31.

Our Time Memory Cafe

Thursday, April 6, 1 p.m.

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

Cultural Conversations: Kenya

Tuesday, April 11, 2-3 p.m.

This Zoom program focuses on the beautiful country of Kenya, taking a deep dive into the culture and learning about the people, tribes, traditional foods and music. With the aid of videos, pictures and lots of stories, attendees will gain new insights into the unique customs and local culture. Call for the Zoom link.

Six Pillars of Brain Health

Wednesday, April 19, 1 p.m.

Participants will learn about the six pillars of a brain-healthy lifestyle, share brain-boosting activities and be inspired by others. This session is a good overview for anyone interested in improving their brain health and will provide actionable steps people can take along with resources to learn more. Advance registration is requested by calling the Senior Center.

Art Appreciation: Masters of the Dutch Golden Age

Thursday, April 20, 1-2 p.m.

This program takes a close look at images by famous painters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer as well as other 17th century Dutch masters who reached levels of excellence that still inspire viewers today.

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.

Daniel CambourelisHaskins

Daniel M. Haskins and Diane C. Cambourelis, grandfather Thomas Ewing Haskins, aunt Nancy (Ivan) HaskinsLeblanc, uncle John (Nina) Haskins, uncle Thomas (Sabrina) Haskins, uncle Mark LaPerle, aunt Eleni (Michael) Benedikt and cousins Ruth Martins, Marie Scott, Andrew Leblanc, Jillian Leblanc, Walker Haskins, Victoria Haskins, Katerina Benedikt and Andreas Benedikt, as well as many other relatives, friends and neighbors.

A celebration of Daniel’s life was held March 25 at Faith Community Church in Hopkinton. Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home in Worcester directed arrangements.

Daniel Cambourelis-Haskins, 19, of Hopkinton passed away Feb. 28. Daniel was born in Boston on Sept. 29, 2003. He attended Lexington Christian Academy through January 2022 and graduated from Greater Commonwealth Virtual School soon after. He was working as a computer consultant in the midst of a gap year. He deferred his admission to the University of Connecticut to fall of 2023.

Daniel will be remembered for his creative ideas and his love of sharing his learning with others. Remarkably, Daniel was self-taught in many subjects. A voracious reader, he excelled at synthesizing volumes of information through a scriptural lens, becoming wise beyond his years. He loved long discussions with family and friends about geopolitics, science, history, philosophy and world affairs.

Known for his extensive knowledge of technology and his creative inventions, Daniel crafted innovative technological applications to improve people’s lives and enjoyed helping those who struggled with its use. He was a gifted woodworker and artist, receiving prestigious awards for his artwork. As an Eagle Scout, he enjoyed the outdoors and serving by mentoring younger scouts, illuminating many conversations with his sparkling wit and contagious smile.

But most important to Daniel’s heart was the honor of reaching others with the hope of connecting them with his Savior and the hope of seeing the world become a truer reflection of Heaven.

Despite his many accomplishments, Daniel invariably deflected praise and would faithfully respond, “All glory be to God!” Daniel’s humility, intelligence, sensitivity, sincerity and twinkling smile will be deeply missed.

Daniel is survived by parents

Peter Henry Dodson of Wellesley died unexpectedly at home on March 18 at the age of 80. Peter was born in Atlanta, however, shortly thereafter the family relocated to their longtime home in Hopkinton, and he often reminisced about the old family farmhouse and life there with his older sister and younger brother. Peter graduated from Hopkinton High School in 1960, and attended Wesleyan University, where he was president of his fraternity, graduating in 1965. He moved on to the University of Pennsylvania Law School, where he was editor of the Law Review and earned a law degree in 1968, followed by a formative clerkship under U.S. District Judge Joseph Lord III. Peter spent his entire working career with Ropes & Gray LLP, both in Boston and New York City, from 1970-2008. He is remembered as a dedicated and revered colleague, partner and mentor.

Peter was able to enjoy his retirement, spending much of his time in his sanctuary home he designed in Stowe, Vermont. Peter was an avid photographer and enthusiast of all the arts, especially classical music and American Indian and Inuit art. He loved being active in the outdoors and hiking year-round. Spending time with his family was paramount, and he cherished reading to his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lois (Hollely) Dodson and Frederick James Dodson, as well as his sister, Carol Spengler, and his beloved wife, Beverly Mae Feinberg. He is survived by brother Bruce and wife Nancy of Killingworth Connecticut; son Matthew and wife Jessica of Need-

Peter Dodson

ham; son Jonathan and wife Melanie of Towson, Maryland; adoring grandchildren Winter, Molly, Samuel and Clara; nieces Christine Graham and partner John Berube of Skowhegan Maine, and Sara Dodson Holmes and husband Stephen and their son Rowan of Chester, Connecticut.

Visitation was held at George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home in Wellesley on March 30. Funeral services were held at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Wellesley on March 31. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Peter’s name to National Audubon Society (audubon.org), Trustees of Reservations (thetrustees.org) or a local charity in your area that is passionate about the preservation of land and wildlife.

Herbert Mingace

enjoyed playing at many functions and at the old country-western bar called the Good Times in Sandwich. This also provided an opportunity to make a record and ultimately “star” in a movie with Demi Moore and John Cusack called “One Crazy Summer.”

Herb enjoyed many hobbies, including fishing, boating, gardening, poker and running the local pool league. His passion was to one day compete in the annual Las Vegas pool tournament. He garnered the love of many of his fellow billiard players who asked for him regularly. He made loyal friends wherever he found himself.

Herb valued his family above all else. Starting with his mother and father on down, he cherished the love and time being together with family and friends. No family occasion was complete without a well-cooked meal shared with all of his family, guests and friends. He enjoyed eating and took his time to enjoy his meals.

Herb learned from his father how to master most trades. While retired, he worked on his pool and built a solar heating system among many other “projects” around the house. There was never a job that could not be done without a trip to Home Depot and the right tool. He often was called upon to help his family with plumbing and everything construction-related to assist others.

Herb made friends easily everywhere he went, and we know as he enters Heaven, he will rekindle some old friendships and have a great meal with his family that will be waiting there to greet him.

Herbert “Herb” Salvatore Mingace Jr., born June 29, 1942, passed away peacefully on March 15 at the Stuart Lodge assisted living home in Stuart, Florida, surrounded by family. Herb is predeceased by his father, Herbert S. Mingace Sr., and mother, Palma (Creonte) Mingace. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Mingace, and his children, Joseph M. Mingace and wife Marianne Mingace of Hopkinton, David J. Mingace and significant other Van Nguyen of Jensen Beach, Florida, Christopher H. Mingace and wife Dina M. Mingace of Hopkinton, and Gina Mingace Quinn and husband Michael J. Quinn of Newton. Herb had many grandchildren, Michael, William, Richard, James Daniel, David Alex, Nicholas, Lindsey, Olivia, Gabriella, Michael and Christopher. Herb also is survived by his sister, Roberta Tambascia of Dennis, and his two nephews, Daniel and Anthony Tambascia of Cape Cod.

Herbert graduated from Natick High School and Northeastern University and obtained his degree in chemical engineering. He was employed at Polaroid Corporation in Cambridge for over 35 years in the Holography Department. Herb was a pioneer in the development of the mass production of the white light holograms. He is credited as an inventor of holograms with the United States Trademark and Patent Office. His work has been presented and displayed at the Museum of Science in Boston, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum Cambridge, and the Smithsonian Institute Museum in Washington.

Herb came from a musical family and played the drums his whole life. He

A funeral Mass will be held for Herbert on Wednesday, April 5, at 10 a.m. at Corpus Christi-St. Bernard Parish, 1523 Washington Street, West Newton, MA 02465.

Patrick Lynch

Patrick Lynch, 89, of Hopkinton passed away March 22. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Mary (Walsh) and Cornelius D. Lynch. He was the husband of 53 years to Rosemary (Briggs) Lynch.

Pat proudly served his country as a corporal in the Marines. He was a member of the VFW in Milford and Knights of Columbus Bishop Rice Council, and served on numerous town committees, including the Marathon Committee.

Pat is survived by his sons, Patrick Lynch (Dianne), Michael Lynch (Ruth), Daniel Lynch (Bev), William Lynch and Andrew Lynch (Hillary). He also leaves behind two sisters, Mary Bodnar and Helen Lotruglio (Joe); nine grandchildren, Patrick, Matthew, Ryan, Spencer, Aidan, Kathleen, Brianna, Madisen and Chloe; as well as six great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by son Timothy Lynch and siblings John Lynch, Katie Chamberlain and Margaret Nichols.

Visitation was held March 26 at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. A funeral Mass was celebrated March 27 at Saint John the Evangelist Church in Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Knights of Columbus Bishop Rice Council (bishopricekoc.org/donate), a veterans organization or Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748.

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.

ARRESTS

March 27

9:43 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik conducted a motor vehicle stop on Wood Street and subsequently arrested a 37-year-old from North Attleboro and charged her with resisting arrest, failure to signal, low-speed vehicle violation, and OUI liquor, second offense.

March 14

12:49 a.m. Officers Augusto Diaz and Brennan Grimley checked on a motor vehicle on West Main Street and advised the operator of registration status. The operator headed back to park the vehicle.

11:38 a.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Tyler Staback responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street. No personal injuries were reported.

11:45 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon took a report of a motor vehicle accident on Baldwin Lane.

1:39 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil assisted a disabled snowplow on Wood Street.

6:06 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Robert Ekross and Nicholas Saletnik responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street, where one of the operators requested an ambulance. A tow truck and an ambulance responded. Courtesy transports were provided for two people.

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TOP FOUR SIGNS OF A TERMITE INFESTATION

Red flags that could indicate the presence of a termite infestation

This year, WPC Pest and Termite Control and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are working to spread public awareness about termites during the spring of 2023. With spring on the horizon, termites will begin swarming and could seek out your home for their new nesting space. Because the damage from a termite infestation can easily go unnoticed, WPC Pest and Termite Control is educating homeowners and offering FREE inspections to help idenify the top four signs that signal their home is infested.

“Experts with the NPMA estimate that termites cause $5 billion in damage every year,” said Jim Mazzuchelli, owner of WPC Pest and Termite Control. “This could mean a costly repair bill for homeowners if they don’t spot and stop an infestation in its tracks. Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t recognize the signs of an infestation until it is too late.”

While pest professionals don’t recommend a homeowner inspect their home on their own, there are a few red flags that they should look out for that could signal the presence of an infestation. With the help from experts at NPMA, WPC Pest and Termite is sharing the top four signs that a home has termites:

1. Swarmer or Discarded Wings: Swarmers, also known as reproductives, are young female and male winged termites. In the springtime, after the last freeze, termite swarmers will emerge from their nest to mate and search for a new location to start a colony, which typically includes our homes. Termite swarmers, or their discarded wings near windowsills and doors, are often the first (and only visible) sign of a termite problem.

2. Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites, the most destructive termite species, build mud tubes to provide moisture while they travel between their colony and food source. Mud tubes are most often found near the home’s foundation and look like encrusted, dry dirt similar to the size of a drinking straw.

3. Wood Damage: Termites tend to eat wood from the inside out, so wood that sounds hollow when tapped often signifies a termite infestation. Additionally, homeowners should also look for blistering pieces of wood.

4. Uneven or Bubbling Paint: Uneven or bubbling paint is often a sign of moisture build-up, which could mean one of two things – water damage or termites.

“If you suspect you have a termite infestation, it is best to contact a licensed pest control expert as soon as possible to stop the damage before it gets worse,” added Mazzuchelli. “It is also recommended that homeowners have an inspection done every year to ensure their home is safe from termites.”

For more information on this pest, or to contact a licensed pest control expert, please visit WPC Pest and Termite Control at www.nobugsnopests.com

6:30 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported someone put fiberglass in his bed. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and checked with the caller. All was OK.

11:01 p.m. A walk-in reported harassment after a caller from an unknown number kept calling her. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted and took a report.

March 15

7:47 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident on Frankland Road involving two cars. Officer Sean McKeon responded and reported no personal injuries.

11:50 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback assisted a disabled motor vehicle on South Street before AAA arrived and issued a written warning for registration status.

3:17 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported a past larceny. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report.

3:49 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator exited the highway onto West Main Street and was swerving in and out of traffic. The caller stated the driver got out of his car on School Street and was being aggressive and attempted to start an altercation with the caller. The caller then left the area and the subject followed behind briefly before turning away. Sergeant Timothy Brennan and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report.

March 16

10:00 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious motor vehicle parked on Marshall Avenue. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and spoke with the occupants, who confirmed they were painters working at a house on the street.

12:52 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious incident that happened to his elderly father a few nights earlier. Officer Matthew LaTour spoke with the caller and took a report.

1:41 p.m. The owner of the CVS and Marty’s Liquors building requested to speak with an officer about kids being disruptive in the lobby. Officer Matthew Santoro spoke with the caller.

4:07 p.m. Officer Tyler Staback responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street and took a report.

6:31 p.m. A motorist reported a piece of iron in the roadway of Clinton Street. Officer Tyler Staback responded and reported it appeared to be a broken drainage system. He placed a cone over it and notified the Water Department.

6:50 p.m. A motorist reported he just exited the highway and thought his wheel was about to fall off. He requested the number for the nearest tow company. Officer Cody Normandin responded to West Main Street to be sure the vehicle was in a safe location.

March 17

12:41 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious person walking in the parking lot and looking at vehicles on Revolutionary Way. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Brennan Grimley responded and checked the area with a negative find.

7:10 a.m. A Tammer Lane caller reported a suspicious van parked in front of her house for the past month. Officer Tyler Staback responded and spoke to the owner of the van, who was doing work in the neighborhood. All was OK.

7:25 a.m. A Revolutionary Way caller reported a break-in and entry of her vehicle during the night. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

9:23 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback took a crash report on Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

1:42 p.m. A caller complained that he almost was in an accident with a company truck from a Main Street business, and when he contacted the company office to report the incident, the staff treated him poorly. The caller wanted the incident logged.

police log

2:31 p.m. A caller reported losing a wallet containing cash and wanted the incident logged.

3:20 p.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported stolen property from a motor vehicle. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a report.

4:11 p.m. A Revolutionary Way caller reported a breaking and entering. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a report.

4:21 p.m. A caller reported three juveniles, two males in black hoodies and one female in pink, trespassing on a Hayden Rowe Street construction site. Officers Cody Normandin and Nicholas Saletnik responded and were unable to locate the individuals.

6:19 p.m. The Ashland Police Department requested assistance with a female barricaded in a room with a knife. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded to assist.

9:00 p.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik removed two youths from Ash Street property.

9:52 p.m. A Constitution Court resident reported when she passed by two males who recently moved in, she stated they were not allowed to smoke on the property, and their response was rude and vulgar. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Matthew LaTour responded to check on the disturbance.

March 18

2:05 a.m. Officers Nicholas Walker and Brennan Grimley checked on a person walking down Main Street and provided him with a courtesy transport to Framingham.

7:06 a.m. A caller reported a possibly intoxicated driver on North Street. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and the vehicle was gone upon his arrival.

8:16 p.m. Sergeants Timothy Brennan and Gregg DeBoer and Officers Brennan Grimley and Matthew LaTour responded to a breaking and entering on Westcott Drive.

March 19

10:49 a.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported being harassed via WhatsApp. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and reported it appeared to be a civil issue.

12:19 p.m. A Revolutionary Way caller reported the odor of natural gas inside her apartment. Officer Sean McKeon responded along with the Fire Department.

4:46 p.m. Officer Brennan Grimley checked on a motor vehicle parked on the side of the roadway on Palomino Drive.

10:35 p.m. Officer Brennan Grimley reported it appeared there was someone inside the Urgent Care on Lumber Street. Officers Grimley and Shannon Beloin checked and found a cleaner working in the facility. All was OK.

March 20

12:53 a.m. Officer Brennan Grimley reported a stop sign was hanging upside down on Hayden Rowe Street. The DPW was notified.

5:46 a.m. An Oakhurst Road resident reported a loud bang on her door, but she did not see anyone on her property. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Augusto Diaz responded and checked the area and found nothing out of the ordinary.

March 21

4:56 p.m. A caller reported receiving threatening calls and text messages all

day. Officer Robert Ekross assisted and took a report.

5:57 p.m. A caller reported finding bones while working on a bullpen at a baseball field on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and determined they were animal remains.

6:01 p.m. A caller reported a dog, possibly a labradoodle, running down the middle of the roadway on Wood Street. Officer Shannon Beloin responded.

9:01 p.m. A caller reported someone changing a tire in a dangerous location on West Main Street. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and checked on the disabled vehicle and found the driver could not get lug nuts off while changing a tire. He was to return later to get the vehicle.

March 22

2:38 p.m. A caller complained of youths riding bicycles on Grove Street. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and advised the youths to ride on the sidewalks only.

2:56 p.m. A caller reported an ongoing complaint of speeding vehicles leaving a construction zone on Chamberlain Street. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and logged the incident.

6:18 p.m. Officer Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street and assisted with paper exchange. No personal injuries were reported.

7:26 p.m. A motorist reported a road rage incident on Cedar Street with a possible drunk male who took off northbound on Route 85. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Nicholas Police log | page 24

police log

Police log | from page 23 Saletnik responded and checked the area with a negative find.

9:18 p.m. A caller complained of an erratic operator on Wilson Street driving onto Main Street toward the center of town. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Matthew LaTour responded, caught up with the driver and issued a verbal warning for marked lanes violation. No signs of impairment were observed.

9:18 p.m. The Westborough Police Department requested assistance making contact with a South Mill Street resident. Officer Nicholas Saletnik was unable to make contact with the person and left a note. Dispatch also left a voicemail with the father of the involved party.

March 23

9:37 a.m. The Southborough Police Department reported a motorbike fleeing Southborough at a high rate of speed, and assistance was requested. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officers Matthew Santoro and Robert Ekross responded.

5:52 p.m. A caller complained of a vehicle all over the road on Cedar Street. Officers Matthew LaTour and Cody Normandin responded. All checked out OK.

March 24

12:05 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Brennan Grimley

checked on a vehicle on the side of the road on West Main Street with its hazards on. The driver was lost and pulled over to look for directions.

3:35 p.m. A caller reported a disabled motor vehicle that may have crashed into a stone wall. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and requested a tow truck. No personal injuries were reported. Property damage to the wall was reported.

4:23 p.m. Verizon reported a water main break on Hayden Rowe Street. The Water Department was contacted and the incident was logged.

4:25 p.m. Chief of Police Joseph Bennett assisted a disabled motor vehicle and helped move it out of the roadway on Claflin Street.

4:33 p.m. Officer Matthew LaTour took a report of vandalism on Greenwood Road.

5:33 p.m. Multiple callers reported a child riding around on a dirt bike and popping wheelies. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and spoke to the operator and parents and took a report.

9:27 p.m. A caller reported a female screaming for help on Wood Street where she exited one vehicle and entered another, which headed toward Westborough. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and spoke with the reporting person. The vehicle was gone upon his arrival.

March 25

5:16 a.m. A walk-in reported striking a deer on Main Street. Officer

Brennan Grimley checked the area for the deer with a negative find.

6:14 a.m. Officer Brennan Grimley checked on a vehicle with hazard lights on Hayden Rowe Street and spoke with the operator, who was having difficulty locating the Boston Marathon start line.

3:54 p.m. A report was received about a dog bite on Downey Street, and the information was shared with the animal control officer.

8:05 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle was off the roadway and struck a tree on Lumber Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Shannon Beloin and Matthew LaTour responded and requested a tow. No personal injuries were reported. A crash report was to follow.

8:54 p.m. A caller reported a teenager walking down Cedar Street and seeming out of place. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and spoke with the person, an older male, just over the town line in Southborough, where he was walking to a friend’s house. All was OK.

9:50 p.m. While making checks of a Wilson Street property, Officer Shannon Beloin found the east side of the property not secured properly and subsequently spoke with a representative who was to send someone over to check it out.

March 26

12:36 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield checked on a vehicle with head-

lights on but unoccupied on West Elm Street and found nobody in the vicinity.

March 27

8:14 a.m. A Cole Drive resident reported a past theft of power tools. Officer Sean McKeon responded and took a report of larceny.

8:33 a.m. Sergeants Matthew McNeil and Arthur Schofield responded to a motor vehicle accident on School Street and took a report.

10:08 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded along with the Fire Department to a chimney fire on Spring Lane.

11:07 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon located dogs in the roadway on Fruit Street and assisted in getting them back home.

5:16 p.m. An upset caller who was yelling at the nursing staff at a West Main Street facility reported a disagreement. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded and reported the matter was resolved.

5:48 p.m. A caller reported credit card fraud and ID theft. Officer Robert Ekross assisted and advised the caller.

7:00 p.m. The State Police reported receiving a call from a male who stated he was being threatened on Main Street. Officers Shannon Beloin, Nicholas Saletnik and Robert Ekross responded and checked all the gas stations in the area with a negative find.

7:10 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted a disabled motor vehicle on West Main Street.