HI 5.29.24

GREEN DAY

Chess prodigy takes national title

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

Harini

Chadalavada and her husband, Arum Vellanki, noticed that their young son Devansh could keep himself occupied for hours playing with Legos and puzzles — sitting and focusing intently on what he was doing.

The Hopkinton residents decided to teach him about chess and how the pieces move.

That was two years ago, when Devansh was about 5.

“As soon as he started, he took to it right away,” Chadalavada said. “Even at two months short of 5, he had the emotional maturity,” she said.

Select Board reshaped with Herr, Clark

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Joe Clark and Brian Herr joined the Select Board for its meeting May 21 after winning their seats in the previous day’s Annual Town Election. In an unprecedented move, the board elected Herr, a previous member of the board for 12 years, to be the chair after receiving strong public feedback from residents calling for a change in the board’s direction.

Herr’s first action as a Select Board member was to call for moving the public comment period to the top of the agenda over the board’s reorganization process of electing officers. This allowed several residents to speak in favor of Herr becoming the new chair before the election process began.

“In the past several months, many community members have been deeply upset with the way the Select Board handled not only the Tim Brennan matter but also other significant issues,”

Hopkinton first grader Devansh Vellanki has won multiple major chess tournaments.

Patrons check out the items on display at the Hopkinton Senior Center during the Friends of the Seniors Plant Sale on May 18. The Senior Center also will serve as host for the Hopkinton Garden Club’s Horticulture Specialty Flower Show on June 7-8.

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Jagdale turns to AI to produce children’s book

Hopkinton resident Amit Jagdale, known to readers of the Independent website for his fantastic photos from around town, is venturing into the world of book publishing.

Together with his daughter, Siya, a Hopkinton High School junior, Jagdale published a book for children who are learning to read. It’s called “Zoom Along: A to Z with Cars!”

INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS

What makes this project especially interesting is that it was created via artificial intelligence (AI).

“I was looking at things people are doing with AI, and I thought I would see how hard or easy it is to do,” he explained. “It was a very easy process.”

Jagdale, who works as a program manager at MathWorks in Natick, said he used “a bunch of different AI tools” to generate the images, providing instructions on what sort of pictures he desired, then adjusting the photos to make them look the way he wanted.

“The book is more car themed, so I had to be more specific as to what I wanted,” he said, adding that vehicles are a passion of his, as he owns “a couple of cars and some motorcycles.”

Jagdale said he isn’t sure if the book will sell (it can be found at Amazon.com), but if it turns a profit, he plans to donate to a local charity or organization.

“It’s kind of a fun thing to do. I don’t know if it’s going to make any money,” he said. “But it’s interesting to see how technology has evolved.”

Comedy for a Cause delivers

The RE/MAX Executive Charitable Foundation hosted its annual Comedy for a Cause fundraiser at Hopkinton Country Club on April 27.

“It was a huge success for our foundation,” reported Sandy Lucchesi, who this month stepped down as the foundation’s president after five years. “All 150 seats sold out, and the comedians, Jim McCue and Kelly MacFarland, nailed it. Not only did the audience have a great time, but we raised $27,000! This will make a significant impact on the Charitable Foundation’s ability to help families facing catastrophic situations and continue our mission of Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”

Lucchesi noted that the foundation has donated more than $400,000 since its inception in 2009, helping more than 200 families and individuals For more information on the organization, email charity@remaxexec.com.

HPTO celebrates anniversary

The Hopkinton Parent Teacher Organization celebrated three decades of supporting the town’s schools with a party at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts last month. The theme was the 1990s, the decade when the HPTO was formed.

“It was a wonderful way to honor 30 years of dedication and hard work from Hopkinton parent volunteers, 30 years of community support and 30 years of giving to our schools totaling over $2 million,” shared HPTO president Sarah Navin.

The event raised more than $7,000, which will support enrichment programs, clubs/activities for students and appreciation for school staff.

Women’s Club honors teens

Cris Bright is the new president of the Hopkinton Women’s Club, which held its annual Spring Awards Luncheon on April 24 at the Hopkinton Country Club. Bright, who will serve a two-year term, took the gavel at the event.

A few high school students were recognized for their contributions.

Sophomore Abby Burke received the MassSTAR Award. She was slated to participate in a three-day dynamic leadership conference sponsored by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. At the conference, students from across Massachusetts gather for leadership training, civic education and personal development, with the aim of promoting their understanding of what it means to be an active and engaged citizen.

JERRY SPAR

Outgoing RE/MAX Executive Charitable Foundation president Sandy Lucchesi (center) poses with fellow board members and comedian Jim McCue (back row, third from left) at the recent Comedy for a Cause fundraiser at Hopkinton Country Club.

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

This issue’s winner is Deborah Mihaley for this photo of her dog, Sunny, and her pet tortoise, Fenway, friends who “have a unique and gentle way about them!” To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@ hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by 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.

Winners will pick up their gift certificate at Bill’s Pizzeria.

Women’s Club honors teens

Morgan Prophet received the Junior Endeavor Award. Recipients of this award are selected by the HHS Guidance Counseling Office. It celebrates a junior who has demonstrated resiliency, perseverance, determination and earnest and industrious effort.

The Mary MacDonough Community Service Award was presented to Eva Bennet. Her commitment to improving her community has been shown through her work with the Hopkinton Youth Commission, Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention Youth Advisory Team, MetroWest Anti-Bullying Coalition, Current Events Club, Diversity Club and We Wear Red Day to promote women and girls. She also volunteers with the MetroWest Medical Center. Bennet will attend Northeastern University in the fall and plans to study behavioral neuroscience with the ultimate goal of becoming a psychiatrist.

Garden Club brings back Flower Show

The Hopkinton Garden Club, celebrating its 100th anniversary, is hosting a Horticulture Specialty Flower Show on Friday, June 7, from 1-4 p.m., and Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held at the Hopkinton Senior Center.

“It has been over 25 years since the HGC hosted a flower show, so bringing it back for the 100th anniversary felt fitting,” explained publicity team leader Erin Graziano. Ruth Gorman, HGC treasurer and also a National Garden Club Master Flower Show judge, has led the effort, planning the show for a year.

Participating exhibitors will include HGC members, Hopkinton Girl Scouts and individuals from the Hopkinton Senior Center and the Hopkinton schools. In addition to horticulture exhibits, there will be exhibits about conservation groups in Hopkinton and native plants.

For more information, visit hopkintongardenclub.org.

Food drive nets big haul

The local Bishop Rice Council of the Knights of Columbus expressed gratitude for the members of the Hopkinton community who were able to participate in the recent Food For Families food drive.

“Thanks to your kindness and generosity we collected over $1,000 pounds of food and supplies — over a half-ton — and $2,225 in cash, checks and online donations to support the Hopkinton Food Pantry at Project Just Because,” shared event co-chairs Paul St. Jean and Jim Kenealy.

The drive ran from March 2-17.

8 Cobblers Way, Hopkinton

5 Susan Drive, Hopkinton

3 Ruth Road, Framingham

3-5 Central Square, Upton

30 Buttercup Lane, Grafton

7 Bellingham Street, Mendon

414 Dutton Road, Sudbury

5 South Street, Ashland

438 Oakland Park, Franklin

Independent thoughts | from page 2

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

Small fire hits Bill’s Pizzeria

Afire broke out at a popular downtown restaurant early on the morning of May 15, causing an hour-long road closure of Main Street.

NEWS BRIEFS

The call came in about the fire at Bill’s Pizzeria at 6:19 a.m., according to Hopkinton Police Department Lieutenant Scott van Raalten

“It was not large at all,” he said. “It affected the side of the building between Bill’s and Town Hall. The interior wall caught fire, and the situation is being investigated as to the exact cause.”

He added that Main Street was closed to traffic until around 7 in the morning.

“It was actually a fire that started in the exterior wall,” Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty explained. “It burned in between the interior and exterior walls. Because of the nature of the fire, it took us more time to take down the interior wall than it did to put out the fire.”

Daugherty added that the fire was put out “within minutes of our arrival.” Per protocol, fire departments from Ashland, Southborough, Milford and Westborough provided mutual aid.

“There is no indication that it was arson,” van Raalten said. “There was nothing suspicious about it.”

The restaurant, which recently announced plans for changes, opened for business that afternoon, after receiving approval from the Health Department.

“It’s all good now,” confirmed Bill’s owner Zach Siarkos later that morning.

Planning Board approves stormwater plan

Following a prolonged discussion, the Planning Board at its meeting May 13 voted 5-0 to approve the stormwater management permit request for the Elmwood Farms III subdivision after reviewing new plans.

The developer provided updated plans shortly before the meeting regarding the subdivision off Blueberry Lane. In this iteration, Fitch Avenue and Myrtle Avenue would be kept private to avoid overtaxing the town’s stormwater management system, according to Ted Merchant, who represented the developer.

He noted that the previous plan showed footing drains that connected into the roadway drainage system. But a town bylaw will not allow that configuration.

Making the roadways private would require the homeowners association to provide the road and infrastructure maintenance, outgoing chair Gary Trendel stressed. Merchant said this is done at several subdivisions he has built in town.

Department of Public Works Director Kerry Reed explained there have been ongoing water problems at the site. She also was concerned with the number of private connections to the town drainage system proposed. She stressed that buyers should be made aware of the lack of town services that comes with living on a private road before they make a purchase.

Mosquito spraying scheduled

The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) announced that personnel will be in Hopkinton to spray for mosquitoes on June 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 25 and 26. The dates are tentative and subject to change due to weather conditions, mosquito populations, mosquito virus activity and/or special event spraying.

This program will shut down when cool night time temperatures become predominant in the area. A detailed notice about the CMMCP spray schedule is posted on the CMMCP phone system (508-393-3055) after 3:30 p.m. each day and also is listed at cmmcp.org (click on “2024 spray schedule” button on the right).

Residents may opt out of the spraying. For instructions, visit cmmcp.org and click “no spray info” button. Requests for service may be recorded by calling the CMMCP office between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or via cmmcp.org. Results of these requests may initiate an application of mosquito insecticides to defined, site-specific areas of town. Such an application may be accomplished by using truck mounted equipment depending on the extent of the application.

Workers patch up the wall at Bill’s Pizzeria following a small fire on May 15.

Frustrated UCTC completes revised charge draft

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Upper Charles Trail Committee at its meeting May 15 completed its final draft revisions to its charge. But discussions unearthed tensions as to why the UCTC was compelled to complete this process in the first place.

Our job here will be done here as we know it. At least that’s the message I got from the Select Board at several meetings.

— UCTC chair Jane Moran

Members will review the final draft and present any modifications to chair Jane Moran before the committee’s next meeting. Moran will complete a summary of the discussions to include in a packet to submit to the Select Board.

The Select Board last year requested that the UCTC modify its committee structure and charge after a nonbinding Town Meeting article, Article 47, called for disbandment of the current UCTC and restructuring the committee.

Major revisions made to committee structure

One major change is that there no longer will be alternate members or a Select Board liaison.

Members agreed that all members should be allowed to participate and vote. The current alternate members are Tim Ritterbusch and Jamie Wronka, who ran unopposed for a School Committee seat in the May 20 Town Election.

Said Moran: “I think we’re all in agreement that there should be seven members and no alternates.”

The committee also decided to report to the Select Board at least twice a year after quarterly updates initially were proposed by member Scott Knous. Members argued that there is a no need for a Select Board liaison, as recent years showed that the liaison rarely attended meetings.

Outgoing Select Board member Irfan Nasrullah, the current liaison, rarely appeared at meetings. He was the author of one of the proposed charge revisions submitted to the UCTC as well as a member of the Select Board subcommittee that created a community survey on the UCTC’s mission.

“The Select Board should not have a position on this board,” stressed vice chair Eric Sonnett. “What we have now is Irfan as a voting member. And their member has never showed up at a meeting with any consistency.”

Moran noted that a previous unnamed Select Board liaison years ago was very involved. But he decided it was not appropriate for him to vote on issues that would eventually come before the Select Board.

Added Moran: “He felt like the committee needed to do its own work without interference from the Select Board.”

She noted that the Select Board will be appointing the members of the reconstituted UCTC.

“Our job here will be done here as we know it,” said Moran. “At least that’s the message I got from the Select Board at several meetings.”

There still will be a liaison from the Conservation Commission, but not from the Parks & Recreation Commission. Parks & Rec has not had a liaison for more than a year. The Conservation Commission does not currently have a liaison, but Jim Ciriello is a member of both bodies. The Trails Committee now will have a liaison, and the UCTC will have a liaison on that

committee.

Knous questioned if a liaison had to be a member of that committee. After discus sion, members decided that a person did not, but would have to approach that body to seek recommendation for appointment to the UCTC.

“We want to create as many open paths as we can for membership,” Knous said.

Wronka pointed out that the current roster on the town website does not list two current members.

“I don’t care what the roster says,” asserted Sonnett. “The law says you are a member until they replace you with someone.”

He added: “Most boards don’t have a clue what we’re doing.”

Length of officer terms sparks debate

Moran brought up the issue of officer terms. One draft proposal stated that leaders should serve no more than two consecutive terms and not serve for two years after concluding that role.

This proposal was rejected by Sonnett. He said many town boards have had the same chairs for years. Knous, Ritterbusch and Wronka advocated for rotating chairs to encourage new energy. Ciriello agreed with Sonnett, noting the demands of a chairmanship.

This discussion provoked old resentment about how the decision to restructure the UCTC arose.

“There is no other committee that was attacked like we were attacked,” charged Ciriello.

“No other committee was attacked on a personal aspect the way we were,” added Moran. “Obviously people have a problem with its leadership, It a personal affront.”

“The reason that we’re different is that we’re being disbanded,” said member Ken Parker. “Take that into account.”

“I challenge anybody in this town to present some real factual evidence that this committee has been dysfunctional,” said Ciriello. “It’s a fact that a bunch of people followed one person at Town Meeting that said it’s dysfunctional.”

The person to whom Ciriello referred is Trails Committee chair Peter LaGoy. LaGoy drafted Article 47 as a private citizen.

After some heated discussion, the majority of members voted for the leadership terms to stay as is with no term limits.

Other decisions made

The committee decided that one UCTC member should have marketing and communications experience, while another should have information technology expertise.

The group also voted 6-0 to present “two or three options” for the design of the Upper Charles Trail.

“I think that it’s important to remember that we just present these options to the Select Board,” said Moran. “The Select Board will ultimately make the decision.”

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

Trails Committee touts success of ‘Dogs on Trails?’ forum

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Trails Committee at its meeting

May 15 talked about its “Dogs on Trails?” forum on May 1. But it noted the event’s success did not translate to Town Meeting approval of all parts of the article the committee proposed regarding the leashing of dogs.

“keep the issue alive.” One was posting signs on trails regarding expected dog and owner behavior. Another was to ask the Parks & Recreation Department if it would be willing to host a dog training program with a professional dog trainer.

Turning to the forum, Connell said people were initially uncomfortable with the participatory nature but became enthusiastic about it by the end. They were also “super respectful.”

“As you know, the article basically had three pieces,” said chair Peter LaGoy. “Two were housekeeping. One was to say that a leash was a physical leash. One was to say you could have off-leash dogs in the dog park. And the third was the one we wanted, which was to try other control measures.”

The Trails Committee had hoped for approval of its idea to have the town temporarily test allowing dogs to be off leash on certain trails within the confines of specific days and hours. The community forum allowed 30 participants to share their varying viewpoints on the idea.

“The people who argued against it said that dogs off leash had attacked their leashed dogs,” explained LaGoy of the Town Meeting debate. He added that the town took five years to pass a leash law, so this idea may need time to germinate with the public.

“From the educational view, the issue was out there,” added member Chuck Dauchy about both the forum and the article.

LaGoy said there were three distinct populations involved: those who want to have their dogs unleashed, those who want the current leash law, and a third and often unrecognized group “who would prefer to never see a dog on a trail.” He said the committee should revisit the issue as a means to serve all three groups.

Member Linda Chuss noted that these three groups were equally represented at the May 1 forum.

Chuss, who presented the article at Town Meeting, offered suggestions for improvement for the next time the committee sponsors an article. They included having a more in-depth presentation and lining up committee members and article supporters to attend, speak and ask questions at Town Meeting. She also said the committee should approach the Select Board first for its endorsement and discuss potential town liability.

Member Krisanne Connell, who organized the forum, suggested means to

Added Connell: “By the end, people were high-fiving and saying they changed their minds on things.”

Unanticipated concerns that arose were the opinions of trail abutters as well as the role of hired dog walkers who walk multiple dogs at a time, impacting trail safety by letting the dogs off leash.

Chuss noted that participants said there were problems on “every single trail” with unleashed dogs. She mentioned a horseback rider who was thrown from her horse when it bucked upon seeing an unleashed dog. The woman, she said, broke vertebrae and her pelvis. The horse had to be euthanized.

Added LaGoy: “Clearly there are some problems with the current leash law and enforcement.”

Select Board approval of charter awaited

LaGoy noted that he submitted the committee’s revised charter to the Select Board in October 2023, but it has not appeared on its agenda. He hoped to get the charter before the Select Board as soon as possible.

He said he would like the new Select Board to take it up as well as to appoint a Trails Committee liaison from the Parks & Recreation Commission. The Trails Committee has been a member short because of this oversight. Said LaGoy: “Trails committees are something that have certainly gotten their attention.”

He noted that the four candidates for Select Board seats all mentioned “the importance of listening to what Town Meeting says.” This was the only contested race in the May 20 election, where voters could select up to two of the four candidates. LaGoy said this may change the Select Board’s momentum toward approving the charter.

Member Fran DeYoung said he planned to reach out to Shahidul Mannan, who was expected to become the Select Board chair, to get it on the agenda “within the first 30 days of the new administration.”

Committee structure discussed

LaGoy noted that he would like to get the committee up to seven members. The terms for LaGoy and member Janine LeBlanc expire June 30.

While LeBlanc said she would “throw her hat into the ring,” LaGoy was more cautious. He said he had already served two terms and would be willing to help out on projects at the direction of the committee.

“I do not want to be chair,” he stressed. “I do think it’s time for new ideas.”

Added LaGoy: “Hopefully we’ve stirred up enough noise that people want to take up these positions and help out.”

Arrest made in case of reckless driver on golf course

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Smart thinking by patrons at the Hopkinton Country Club on May 4 and the teamwork displayed between them and the Hopkinton Police Department led to the arrest of a driver who sped through the club’s fairways.

Detective Sergeant Gregg DeBoer shared that officers responded to a call at 4:52 p.m. that day for “the report of a car intentionally driving down several fairways” while golfers and HCC employees were on the course. The vehicle had fled the area by the time the police arrived.

“The damage to the course, and particularly the putting greens, was extensive,” DeBoer continued. “Subsequent damage estimates by the professional greenskeeper stated that it would approach $7,000 to repair the course.”

Added DeBoer: “The responding officers did a phenomenal job of getting statements from people in the area and a solid description of the suspect vehicle.”

What aided the investigation was that “astute patrons and employees” took several videos and photos of the car. According to DeBoer, “This revealed a very distinctive vehicle, a white hatchback with a front passenger fender that was black.” Witnesses estimated that the car was traveling at speeds as high as 30 mph.

“Videos showed that the suspect vehicle appeared to swerve at a golf cart being operated by an HCC employee before continuing on its path down several more fairways,” DeBoer stated in an email to the Independent. “Subsequent interviews with several golfers and employees revealed an extreme state of fear of the vehicle traveling at them at a high rate of speed and only missed colliding with them by several feet.

“Unfortunately, in the chaos, nobody was able to grab a full license plate,” he continued. “A patron believed that the plate contained the letters 4GL.”

Another aspect that aided the investigation was the initiative taken by HPD dispatcher Rob Savolt. DeBoer noted that Savolt is extremely computer savvy.

“Rob took the self-initiative and reviewed the videos and researched vehicles and was able to determine that the vehicle was a Toyota Matrix manufactured between 2009-2013,” DeBoer noted. “Rob then went to work using the partial plate number and the vehicle color to get a list of potential vehicles and their registered owners.”

Savolt learned that the Town of Weston had run plate number 4GL627 at approximately 2 p.m., less than three hours before the golf course incident. The vehicle description matched what witnesses described — a white 2013 Toyota Matrix registered to Ian Mahoney, 27, of Princeton.

Mahoney became “a very likely suspect” because of “a previous police interaction between Mahoney and the Hopkinton Police Department in 2015.”

Stated DeBoer: “Rob’s diligent work saved me hours chasing dead ends, he truly developed this case. In less than 48 hours we went from knowing very little to identifying the likely suspect.”

Suspect apprehended

DeBoer then traveled to Princeton, where he observed the vehicle in the suspect’s driveway.

“Although Ian Mahoney refused to talk to me, I was able to speak with his father and explain what I was investigating,” he shared. “The following day, I was contacted by an attorney retained by the Mahoneys to represent Ian’s interests.”

While DeBoer was certain that he had the right vehicle, he also wanted to make sure he had the correct driver.

“Through my investigation, I had learned that an HCC employee had clearly seen the operator and felt that he could identify the operator,” stated DeBoer. “A photo lineup of Mahoney and similar registry photographs to Mahoney’s image were presented to the employee. The employee was able to identify Ian Mahoney as the operator.”

DeBoer obtained an arrest warrant for Mahoney. The charges were for malicious destruction of property over $1,200, operating a motor vehicle recklessly to endanger, and three counts of assault with a deadly weapon (automobile). DeBoer also filed an immediate threat to suspend Mahoney’s driver’s license. He spoke with Mahoney’s attorney and arranged for Mahoney to surrender himself on May 13.

“I am very proud of how our team at the Hopkinton Police Department handled this,” DeBoer stressed. “The teamwork by HPD on this case was outstanding and reflective of how dedicated we all are to thoroughly investigate crimes that occur in town. It does not matter if you are a detective, patrolman, or dispatcher — we all work to provide the best service that we possibly can to the public.”

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This car was spotted driving on the Hopkinton Country Club golf course on May 4.

Herr, Clark make immediate impact on Select Board

added Ashley Fogg, a former School Committee candidate. “We have felt unheard and unseen.”

Fogg stressed Herr’s “wealth of experience, wisdom and leadership” as reasons to elect him as chair.

Kelly Fitzgerald also advocated for Herr, She noted that the high voter turnout and the election of both Herr and Clark reflected “the will of the people.”

Select Board Amy Ritterbusch nominated Shahidul Mannan, the previous vice chair, for the chair role.

“Regardless of the vote, I think we will all come together as one board and work on the issues,” said Mannan. “I truly believe in one Hopkinton. That’s what I want everyone to remember.”

Ritterbusch pointed out that some of the issues that Herr suggested working on were already proposed months ago by Mannan, but they never advanced on the agenda.

Clark nominated Herr, leaving the deciding vote in a straw poll to member Mary Jo LaFreniere.

“In this case, I do believe that the town needs a quiet down period,” she

explained as she voted for Herr.

The Select Board officially voted for Herr unanimously. Herr said he “appreciated the gravity of the situation” as well as the people’s confidence in him. Herr immediately moved to the chair seat in the middle, where he said, “It’s time to move ahead.”

Said Mannan: “Too much drama, but that’s the norm of the day.”

Clark nominated LaFreniere to become vice chair. Ritterbusch nominated Mannan for the position, but the straw poll vote was split along the same lines. The board then unanimously elected LaFreniere.

Said LaFreniere: “I think that having a combination of people of different backgrounds here might help to bring around a consensus to the town.”

Election results decisive

In the May 20 election, Clark and Herr cruised to victory in the only contested race on the ballot, easily besting contenders Kyla McSweeney and Peter Mimmo.

In unofficial results — updated by the town clerk since Election Day

and unlikely to change substantially — Clark tallied 1,894 votes, with Herr right behind at 1,851. McSweeney received 962 votes and Mimmo 888.

This election showed a shift toward a more independent philosophy and toward two candidates with local town knowledge.

In a phone interview with the Independent shortly after the results were announced, Clark said the town spoke “loudly and clearly” about the type of leadership it wants for Hopkinton. He hopes to move the town away from the polarization that has divided it during a year rife with conflict.

“Obviously I’m super humbled by the support I received today,” said the native Hopkintonian. “But I am not surprised by it, or the fact that more than two times the number of voters showed up than last year. They really care about the town and its future, and this vote really emphasizes that.”

As for the issues he hopes to address first, Clark noted, “It’s too long a list.”

“Really, with this vote, we have the opportunity to listen to the will of the people,” he explained. “The vote really showed that the town wants some change.”

Clark said he was happy that the party designations were removed from this year’s ballot. This may have been a factor that allowed Clark and Herr, both unenrolled in a party, to best their Democrat contenders. During the last

election cycle, the Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee was embroiled in scandal during a contentious School Committee race when Darlene Hayes, its chair at that time, was rebuked for her conduct on social media, posting comments against candidate Ashley Fogg under various aliases.

“We need to have a board right now where members can feel free to disagree and still come to an understanding,” Clark said. “It isn’t good when the members all vote the same way all the time.”

Added Clark: “Honestly, the town needs to heal. And it started to with tonight’s vote.”

McSweeney, who would “possibly” consider a future run, said what impressed her the most during the campaign was the camaraderie among the four candidates.

“All four of us had great relationships and great discourse,” said McSweeney. “Even today at the polls, all of us were talking. At one point, I said that I wish the four of us could serve on a Select Board together because we had such great chemistry.”

Mimmo said he offered his congratulations to the winners, noting, “The town has spoken clearly and loudly.”

Hopkins project passes in close vote

The most discussed of the eight ballot questions at the election was Ques-

The new Select Board consist of (from left) Brian Herr, Joe Clark, Mary Jo LaFreniere, Amy Ritterbusch and Shahidul Mannan.

Blackstone advisors recognized again

Blackstone Valley Wealth Management advisors James A. Valis and Gregg R. Manis were recognized with the 2024 Five Star Wealth Manager Award in the February edition of Boston Magazine. This award comes to the advisors for the 10th year in a row, since their opening of Blackstone Valley Wealth Management in 2013.

This exclusive designation has been given to select wealth managers for over 15 years in more than 45 markets throughout the U.S. and Canada. Award candidates were evaluated against 10 objective criteria and resulted in the Boston area’s top 3% of wealth managers who provide quality services to their clients.

Blackstone Valley Wealth Management (blackstonevalleywealth. com), located at 22 South Street in the Hopkinton Square Plaza, is a boutique financial planning and advisory firm “committed to providing investors the undivided attention they deserve.”

Baskin narrates motivational audiobook

Hopkinton author/musician

Cheryl Melody Baskin recently

released an audiobook version of her motivational title, “Heart-Dreamer: Stepping into Life, Love, Creativity and Dreams — No Matter What.”

Rooted in her personal journey as an “unstoppable dreamer and inspirational figure,” she writes, the book offers listeners a “profound exploration of self-discovery, empowerment and unwavering hope.”

Baskin narrates the book herself, delivering “an immersive and heart-centered experience, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of inner healing, self-love and limitless potential.”

The audiobook is available via Pro Audio Voices (proaudiovoices.com/product/heart-dreamer-stepping-into-lifelove-creativity-and-dreams-no-matter-what/), and there are plans to expand to distribution companies around the world.

MRMC earns top grade

For the 12th consecutive time, Milford Regional Medical Center has received an ‘A’ Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. The spring 2024 grade ‘A’ recognizes Milford Regional’s achievement in protecting patients from preventable harm and error while in the hospital.

Since 2018, Milford Regional has consistently received the top grade from the Leapfrog Group. The biannual patient safety grades are presented to hospitals across the country in spring and fall.

Milford Regional is among 29% of hospitals nationwide to achieve a spring 2024 ‘A’ grade and one of only 15 hospitals in Massachusetts to achieve the top grade. In addition, Milford Regional is one of only 123 hospitals nationwide and five in Massachusetts to achieve 12 consecutive ‘A’ grades.

“Even as hospitals continue to face unprecedented pressures, Milford Regional works hard to sustain its culture of safety,” said Milford Regional President and Chief Execu

tive Officer Edward J. Kelly . “Receiving an ‘A’ grade for the 12th time speaks volumes to our commitment to our patients.”

tion 3, which asked if residents would support an addition/renovation project at Hopkins Elementary School, designed to help alleviate overcrowding. The vote was 1,384 in favor and 1,284 opposed, so it passed in a close vote. Two of the five precincts (2 and 3) voted no on that question.

All other ballot questions unofficially passed except Question 5 (improvements to some roads), which was moot because it already was voted down at Town Meeting. It needed approval at both. Question 2 (school HVAC work) also won’t happen, because the schools requested and received a vote for no action at Town Meeting.

For more complete election coverage, visit HopkintonIndependent.com.

e by UniBank Checking Basic Rate of Interest

or visit any

at unibank.com/locations

and subject to change at any time after the account is open. The interest rate and annual percentage yield for your account depend upon the applicable rate tier. The interest rate and annual percentage yield for these tiers may change. The APY range assumes a maximum deposit of $50,000 for illustration purposes only. Fees may reduce earnings. The account does not have a maximum deposit limit. Refund of domestic ATM surcharge transaction fees are capped at $25.00 per statement cycle. Non-UniBank ATM Surcharges are those fees charged by the bank that owns the non-UniBank ATM used. If the eligibility requirements are not met the account will earn a lower interest rate and corresponding APY and will not be eligible for refund of ATM surcharge transaction fees. Minimum balance of $10 to open the account. Limit one account per customer holding position of primary account holder. Other restrictions may apply.

In order to be eligible for the disclosed Tier I and Tier II interest rate, Annual Percentage Yield (APY), and refund of domestic ATM Surcharges the following conditions must be met in a given statement cycle.

A minimum of 8 posted and settled debit card purchase transactions during the statement cycle. Not all purchase transactions post or settle on the day they occur.

• Active enrollment in e-statements – you must sign into your online banking account at least once every 12 months to keep enrollment active.

Concerns raised over food distribution at Legacy Farms

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

At the May 21 Board of Health meeting, members discussed the ongoing issues with food distribution in the Legacy Farms neighborhood. The Health Department has been coordinating with the Legacy Farms homeowners association, United States Department of Agriculture and Massachusetts Department of Public Health to curb these activities.

“Home takeout kitchens have been identified and closed down,” reported Health Director Shaun McAuliffe. “But there has been a transition over to retail sales operations.”

There have been multiple reports that residents are distributing food for retail sale in violation of local, state and federal regulations, McAuliffe shared. Larger grocery sellers provide stock in bulk to these residents, who distribute the food from their garages. The risk of contamination in these environments is the Health Department’s primary concern.

“These grocery sellers are passing liability from themselves to these home distributors,” said McAuliffe. “If someone gets sick, the distributors aren’t covered by insurance and can be held financially liable.”

Jacobs and member Mary Jo Ondrechen offered input into the situation. Jacobs recommended increased education for residents. Ondrechen inquired about issuing permits for food distribution.

Strategic plan underway

Updates to the department’s strategic plan were provided to the board. This plan is intended to align the Health Department with the missions of both the Select Board and that of town leadership.

“We embarked on this plan because the breadth of work that we could be involved with is so broad, we felt like some guardrails were needed,” McAuliffe said.

To that end, the department has coordinated with MAPC and the Collins Institute of UMass Boston to engage town stakeholders, gain feedback and review data. The department is scheduling further meetings to address questions from these organizations and anticipates having a strategic plan by the end of June.

Document digitization ongoing

McAuliffe reviewed the department’s record digitization goals. He reported over 50% of records have been digitized, with a total of 80% of all records in process.

“We’re getting really close,” said McAuliffe. He noted that for all records now “ingested,” or available, on the website, records request reviews can be turned around within 10-15 minutes.

McAuliffe explained that while these retail food practices were a violation of Legacy Farms’ HOA rules, the Health Department was not opposed to working with the public on cottage industry setups.

“Some of the kitchens we encountered had clientele in excess of 400,” said McAuliffe. “The demand is there. So, let’s work with them and find ways to grow their businesses in compliance with local, state and federal regulations.”

As part of a broader effort to encourage this collaboration, McAuliffe described efforts currently underway to talk with local and state representatives about fostering cottage industries in town. He suggested that an incubator for these home operations might foster business growth while maintaining health standards.

PFAS discussions continue

McAuliffe gave an update on the Health Department’s PFAS management

McAuliffe noted that changes in EPA standards complicate finalizing a comprehensive communications and mitigation plan. “The new standards from EPA drop PFAS thresholds from 20 parts per trillion to four,” he said.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has yet to adopt this new standard. Once DEP takes this step, several additional public water supplies will require mitigation.

The Health Department, along with town leaders and representatives from DEP and DPH, are working to coordinate a public forum on PFAS mitigation. It is intended to review information on the new treatment plan and its impacts on municipal water, public wells, food and other systems.

“The hope is to have a robust discussion with the people who are overseeing [environmental] regulations outside of town,” said McAuliffe. The meeting has not yet been scheduled.

Board of Health chair Richard Jacobs inquired about self-service options for records requests because of these digitization efforts. McAuliffe informed Jacobs that the computer terminals necessary for that offering are not yet available. Town to receive mosquito control services

As an off shoot of the continuing conversation on PFAS, Ondrechen raised the topic of pesticide use in town. McAuliffe explained to the board that two initiatives are currently in place to address pest control: regulation and coordination with regional programs.

“The goal is not to be onerous to businesses,” McAuliffe said of the regulation he and a DPH intern will be developing over the summer.

“Primarily, the goal would be educating the public about what is getting sprayed onto their yards,” he added. This regulation might require riders from pest control operators about what pesticides they are applying and PFAS-free certifications for those spray products.

McAuliffe also informed the board that the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project would be visiting next month to provide nighttime spraying at no cost to residents.

Residents interested in these free services can sign up on the CMMCP website. For apiaries or residents who wish to be excluded, there is an exclusion form available. Residents can contact the Health Department for direct assistance. New board member begins term

Ondrechen was welcomed onto the board after her unopposed win in the May 20 Annual Town Election. Ondrechen replaced Regina Miloslavsky, who did not seek reelection at the end of her term. A professor of chemistry and chemical biology at Northeastern University, Ondrechen hopes to bring her advocacy for environmental issues and expertise to her role with the BOH.

How to get the best price for your home

Thinking about selling and wondering what improvements will yield the biggest return on your investment?

Let’s start with the entryway! Curb appeal is the first impression. With the snow gone, now is a great time to walk around the home and see how it fared over the winter season. Does the house need paint or a power wash, is there any window or trim rot, do gutters need to be cleaned or reattached?

Trimming bushes and adding plantings, fresh mulch and flowers in planters is a great way to spend a weekend outside in this nice weather. To really make the property pop, adding a fresh coat of paint on the house and deck, replacing rotted trim with Azek materials, replacing garage doors and seal coating the driveway all are great and reasonably priced improvements that will make a big impact.

Kitchens and baths are where you will receive almost 100% return on your investment, within reason.

However, spending $300,000 on a new kitchen or $75,000 on a new primary bath likely will not see a similar return. Replacing appliances that have seen better days, installing new counters, backsplashes and hardware, and sometime updating the cabinetry and/or hardware will make a huge impact. Oh, and floors! There are rare times that we do see timeless floors where we can strip and replace all the grout and the floors will look much newer. Did you know you can sand and poly plastic shower inserts to make them look new again, or glaze a tub to make it shine?

Then there is paint! A $50 can of paint is worth thousands on the wall. Buyers are looking for fresh and neutral paint colors that are in style and are the current trend. I love taking a trip to the local paint store to see the new colors that I know will make a huge impact with bringing a dated home into the new century. Changing a room to a lighter color typically will help it make it feel brighter and bigger. Go grab a few samples and see how they look in different parts of the room, and how they match the furniture and the floors. If the whole house needs to be painted, consider choosing a total of three or four colors, keep them neutral and make sure that they work well together. Neutral sells, as it allows a buyer to picture themselves and their furniture in the home.

Refinishing floors, replacing carpet and replacing window seals also are great ways to achieve a better return on your investment. My rule of thumb is if we can make double the money of your investment, then it’s likely worth the effort!

With spring here, now is a great time to consider decluttering, organizing and donating/selling items you no longer need. Realtors have contractors who can help with all this and have teams of people who can help make this process

a breeze.

Contact Kim Foemmel at Foemmel Fine Homes to find out what your home is worth!

Kim Foemmel Foemmel Fine Homes 1 Lumber Street, Suite 207C Hopkinton, MA (508) 808-1149 Kim.Foemmel@gmail.com FoemmelFineHomes

Hopkinton first grader wins national chess title

Chess champ | from page 1

Now, the first grader at eBridge Montessori School in Westborough has made a name for himself in the world of chess.

At the 2024 U.S. Chess Federation National Elementary Championship in April, the 7-year-old emerged as the national champion in the K-1 category, sharing the title with two others. There were 147 competitors in all.

His mother felt “extremely happy” about the results, noting that Devansh was very passionate about working toward achieving his goals, and this title was a great accomplishment. To earn it, he achieved an undefeated score of 6.5/7.

The four-day tournament in Columbus, Ohio, was comprised of seven rounds with approximately 1,600 players from 43 states participating.

Chadalavada explained that parents and spectators are not allowed into the room when play is underway, although she admits they can peek from a distance now and then to see how things are going.

A month prior, Devansh tied for first place at the 16th annual open tournament at Foxwoods Resort in Ledyard, Connecticut. This event featured competitors from various countries and ran for three days. Devansh remained undefeated in the under-1,400 rating category with four wins and three draws. He won

a cash prize of $1,266.

What is different about an open tournament is that the first grader can be competing against adults in addition to young people.

Chadalavada noted that her son played against people in their 30s to 50s and had to have stamina to complete the rounds, which run up to three hours. No talking is allowed during play.

Devansh said he enjoys playing against adults and kids of all ages. His focus is on the game, however, and not getting excited or nervous at tournaments.

“Technically, I don’t feel anything,” he said. “I only think and feel about the game.”

Devansh likes to play soccer and said he previously used to swim and play tennis.

His favorite subject at school is science, and he practices chess “almost every day.”

His younger brother, Vedansh, who is 3, already is learning about chess thanks to the champion.

“I do teach him,” Devansh noted. As for what he likes best about chess, he said it’s “the game and trying to pick which pieces” to move.

Prior to the big events, Devansh participates in other club tournaments for his age group as well as K-12.

Chadalavada explained that these tournaments are held in places like Westborough, Burlington, New York, New Hampshire and Rhode Island, so travel is involved. On weekends, it can be a 12-hour day.

Hoping to slow down his schedule a bit, Chadalavada said she felt confident her son would do well in the major events.

“It’s a national competition and I expected he would do his best,” she said. “I knew he would be there [at the top] someday.”

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week

Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 4-year-old Aspen.

Here is Baypath’s description of Aspen:

“Aspen is a beautiful and affectionate lady looking for her forever home. She loves to snuggle and enjoys spending time with her humans. Aspen is moderately active, smart and enjoys training. She knows commands like stay, come, down, sit and place.

“She walks well on a leash and is calm during car rides. Though she’s a bit anxious when meeting new people, she quickly warms up with reassurance and enjoys attention and praise. Aspen loves showing off her zoomies and is eager to continue building confidence.

“She is house-trained, does well when left alone and is a wonderful house guest in her foster home. Aspen would thrive in a loving home with someone who can continue her training and provide lots of cuddles.

“If you’re ready to welcome a sweet, snuggly companion, reach out today. Aspen could be the perfect match for you!”

For more information about Aspen 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.

Devansh Vellanki has collected numerous awards for chess.

School Committee addresses member’s absences; hears SPED, bullying reports

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

The School Committee on May 16

talked about member Adam Munroe’s frequent absences and heard a report on disproportionality in special education.

During the public comment period, resident Ashley Fogg said Munroe’s attendance at meetings has been “abysmal,” citing the various dates he has missed and mentioning the recent three nights of Town Meeting.

Fogg, a former School Committee candidate, said she respects people who volunteer for boards but took issue with Munroe’s assertion when campaigning that he could balance service with his work schedule.

She called his missing of key votes “completely unacceptable,” saying it is a “disservice to voters” and an “affront to the town at large” that he is absent so often.

Fogg criticized the lack of public discussion by the School Committee on the topic, noting that that members could remove him by a majority vote.

She cited law that said removal is possible if a member misses four consecutive meetings or more than 50% of sessions. Committee members do not engage in discussion during the comment period. However, later in the meeting, chair Nancy Cavanaugh said they are aware of Munroe’s absences, which are at 44%, not yet up to the 50% plus threshold for removal.

Cavanaugh said Munroe had missed the last two meetings (May 2 and May 16) and last attended on April 25. (The calculations do not include Town Meeting, which is not a regular meeting of the committee.)

She said his absenteeism is on the public’s mind and the committee’s radar.

Cavanaugh expects to have a conversation with Munroe and noted that the process for removal, should the committee decide to do so, involves sending a certified mail notice of intent 10 days before. First, the member must miss more than 50% of meetings or four consecutive ones, she reiterated.

Disproportionality report explained

Director of Student Services Abigail Hanscom explained that the law that governs special education in the United States (IDEA) requires that states determine disproportionality. It tracks the identification of children with disabilities in six categories; disciplinary actions — incidences, duration and type, including suspensions and expulsions; and placement in particular educational setting of students.

Data for seven groups is obtained: Black/African American, American Indian or Alaska native, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, multi-racial, native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and white.

Hanscom’s presentation gave statistics at the state level as well as specific to Hopkinton.

For example, the state has 923,349 students, 179,095 of whom have an individualized education plan (IEP). In Hopkinton, of 4,196 students, 566 (13.5%) have an IEP.

That percentage, which is for 202223, is up from 12.4% the previous year.

Although Hopkinton was found not to be disproportionate for categories like emotional disability or autism, it did get red flagged for having a “risk ratio” of 4.7 during 2022-23 for specific learning disability (SLD) in the white population. (Disproportionality is cited for 3.0 and higher).

Dyslexia or other learning disabilities in math or writing would be included in this group.

Hopkinton had a risk ratio of 3.39 in 2020-21 among white students in this SLD category and 4.63 the year after that.

Several of Hopkinton’s risk ratio numbers reflected six students or less and had to be calculated in a different way because there were so few, Hanscom said.

Hanscom said a draft plan was submitted to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), showing steps for improvement in professional development and tier systems for support, among other things.

She said she would return to the committee with information once she hears back from the state.

Hanscom agreed with Nancy Cavanaugh’s suggestion that part of the problem may be not identifying kids who are not white.

Assistant Superintendent Jeff LaBroad noted universal screenings are mandated for dyslexia in grades K-3 and the district is obligated to inform parents — increasing the odds they will ask for an evaluation.

However, some parents choose to wait or may prefer to work with their kids at home.

“It is not a diagnosis, it is a screening tool,” Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh said.

The Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) can be “super helpful” with outreach to parents in terms of education, awareness and alleviating stigma, according to Hanscom.

One part of the plan is to survey

the parent community to see where the comfort level is in asking for support, Hanscom said.

She expects it will take two or three years to improve the numbers, adding, “I’m very excited to think about this and make sure everyone is getting what they need.”

Also in special education, the committee approved a transportation contract from its existing vendor and sole bidder, Ride Right, totaling $512,000 — an 8% increase.

Hanscom said the amount budgeted was $397,000, with $140,000 set aside for future placements and $80,000 expected to come out as placements change.

“The budget can absorb the increase,” Hanscom said.

Bullying figures cited

A presentation by Carol Cavanaugh reviewed the number of bullying reports at each school as well as the number of bias incident reports (BIRs) submitted by students.

A total of 41 bullying allegations were reported in the district, with four withdrawn, 10 substantiated findings and 27 unsubstantiated cases, she said.

Broken down further, Marathon School had three substantiated cases, Hopkins School had one, and there were four and two at the middle and high schools, respectively.

At the high school, two students filed BIRs. One was a prank, and the other was anonymous and investigated. There were 15 submissions at the middle school. Of those, three were identified and followed up on, two were about the same incident, eight were found to be conflicts or incidents unrelated to bias and two were pranks.

In response to a question, student representative Jack Ianelli said that he and most students are aware of the BIRs, as administrators told them about them.

“It is a tool for us to feel more comfortable in school,” he said.

Ianelli added that he did not think many students submitted the reports because, “They don’t want to make a big deal out of things.”

Members say goodbye, opt out of school choice

In other business, the committee: — Voted not to participate in the school choice program because of lack of space;

— Approved the renaming of the high school auditorium stage to honor longtime drama teacher Valerie von Rosenvinge, who is retiring in June;

— Agreed to raise the lunch price for adults from $4 to $5.50 to correspond with the USDA Foods per Meal value;

— Thanked Ianelli, the student representative, for his participation at meetings, referring to numerous times when he was called upon to voice the student perspective on issues. Ianelli was given a gift, and members wished him luck at Boston College. “You have been a real asset to the committee,” Nancy Cavanaugh told him.

— Acknowledged vice chair Amanda Fargiano and member Lori Nickerson for their service to the board, noting that it was their last meeting. They were presented with flowers and plants.

Fargiano, who served for six years, outlined the district’s various accomplishments and challenges during her tenure, adding, “There is so much new work to do.”

“It has been a journey. We did accomplish a lot of things,” Carol Cavanaugh said.

Nickerson was praised for stepping in mid-budget season when a five-month vacancy occurred after Holly Morand resigned. They noted it was a smooth transition back onto the board several years after the last time she was a committee member.

The next meeting on June 6 will see the board reorganize following the May 20 Annual Town Election.

ScHoolS

Stormwater management plan expanded for Charleswood School

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

On May 14, the Elementary School Building Committee heard about changes to the stormwater plan for the Charleswood School project. Members also authorized the project team to submit an expanded Environmental Notification Form (ENF) to the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Act (MEPA) office.

Submission of the form on May 15 was to initiate the MEPA review of the project.

Christopher Eberly, Vertex’s senior project manager, noted the civil design originally had a small detention basin meant to clear after a 72-hour storm event. Further investigation by CMTA’s project engineer determined that expansion of the stormwater system is necessary “by a good amount.”

He showed on the plans it will go to the back side of the field that separates the two playgrounds.

Eberly relayed that from the well test pits done, on average, groundwater occurred 7 inches down on many of them, prompting the recommendation for expansion.

“In order to deal with the wealth of groundwater the town has on this site, modifications to the stormwater system are necessary,” he said.

In addition to an added structure to deal with stormwater, Eberly said there would be a “slight reconfiguration” of the chamber infiltration system.

He said what looks like plastic shells over gravel create a void where stormwater can go “and be retained while it slowly percolates into the earth or leaves the system through outlets.”

Eberly said wells would have to be relocated so as not to overlap with the detention basin.

Dan Colli, project manager at architectural firm Perkins Eastman, said the expansion of the stormwater detention area is “almost double” what was originally planned.

“There will be water left in there because the water table is very high,” Colli said.

He noted the engineers are aware of the concerns of the site’s southern neighbors regarding retention of stormwater and, “They want to make sure we have ample space.”

Well recommendation relayed

Eberly reminded the EBSC of its earlier desire to keep 10 wells beyond what was recommended to accommodate a future addition of 18 classrooms, about 1,000 square feet each for 400 students.

These future potential additions would be located at each side of the hallway, extending out of the wings on three stories.

Eberly relayed that the engineer recommended a total of 100 wells. With the 10 additional the ESBC wants, the total is

The McBride Team of RE/MAX Executive Realty would like to congratulate Surya Raja Amudhan on his award for Student of the Month.

Surya attends Hopkinton High School and is a junior this year. He is affiliated with a long list of clubs and programs — Hopkinton High School Car Club, Trivia Club, Badminton Club, Chinese Culture Club, JV Volleyball, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Boy Scouts of America and Business Professionals of America. This is a student who is described as going beyond expectations!

During this academic year, Surya and a group of friends created the Car Club, where he is serving as president. He went to all the appropriate departments in the Town of Hopkinton to orchestrate a car show, and it was a huge success. Surya hopes to own his own car collection and attend charity car shows in the future. Congratulations, Surya!

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

McBride Team 22 South Street, Suite 203 Hopkinton www.mcbrideteam.com

the same as what the committee expressed it wanted at the last meeting.

Despite the changes, Eberly said the project remains under budget. He recommended taking the reduction of wells to lessen the monetary impact of the stormwater drainage expansion.

“Nothing makes me overly concerned that it will not fit within the budget,” Eberly said.

He noted the under-budget estimates quoted at a previous meeting would “bump back up” again because of the work. Eberly added there also are “ample contingency allowances.”

However, ESBC chair Jon Graziano said he wanted more of a concrete estimate, because he feels the changes are of a “higher magnitude” from what was previously discussed.

“I want to get a sense of what you are talking about here,” Graziano said.

Colli was instructed to reach out to the estimator for that information.

Graziano said he appreciated the work the designers had done and how they are being thoughtful about the stormwater management.

“We know it has been an issue expressed by the public as pretty significant,” Graziano said. “We want to make sure we do everything we can to mitigate and keep it as zero impact as we can. …So I think this is a good thing.”

Outreach to abutters planned

Graziano noted, with the support of Vertex, he and ESBC member Mike Shepard would be doing outreach to abutters along Hayden Rowe Street to talk about mitigation efforts that will result from the new school being there and roadwork.

“We’ll zero in on what they are thinking and see

what is reasonable,” Graziano said before bringing information back to the board for its input.

Scoping session, other milestones outlined

In other business, Claire Hoogeboom of LEC Environmental Consultants spoke about the submission of the ENF to MEPA.

She said it would be published in the Environmental Monitor on May 22, and MEPA would assign an analyst. MEPA will have a “scoping session” online when members of the public and agencies can provide comments and join the meeting.

The comments will be open until June 21, with time for the project team to respond.

Other milestones include receipt of an expanded certificate followed by an outlined scope of the environmental impact report (EIR), which may involve plan modifications, she said.

The time between the certificate and submission of the EIR is unknown, Hoogeboom said. “It is difficult to determine how long it will take. It is sort of a ‘wait and see what comes up’ situation.”

Eberly noted the MEPA process is “a very long one.”

ESBC member Bill Flannery noted that a MEPArequired meeting was held in the town’s Environmental Justice Community, but no one showed up. However, he heard 17 people filled out a survey and asked if any red flags came up.

Eberly replied that comments were “overwhelmingly positive” about the project. Some comments concerned project costs and the growth in town, but those concerns “were not unique to the Environmental Justice Community,” he said, “and they mirrored the thoughts shared by a cross section of town up until now.”

HHS quiz bowl team competes in national tourney

Following a championship at the Maine Quiz Bowl Alliance Fall Invitational III, the quiz bowl team from Hopkinton High School earned a spot in the National Academic Quiz Tournaments’ High School National Championship Tournament, a 320-team competition that was held May 24-26 in Atlanta.

This marked Hopkinton’s first time attending the High School National Championship Tournament.

The team is captained by Abhishek Vijay and includes Pranamya Keshkamat , Gwen Parduhn , Ishan Ramesh and Alexander Stephan HHS history teacher Mason Challinor serves as coach.

The Hillers competed in GBH’s “High School Quiz Show” earlier this year, winning their first match before bowing out of the competition with a loss to Mansfield in April.

Quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity for teams of four students. Quiz bowl teams use buzzers to answer questions about science, math, history, literature, mythology, geography, social science, current events, sports and popular culture. The matches feature a blend of individual competition and team collaboration.

Stage set for von Rosenvinge

The stage at the Hopkinton High School auditorium will be named after Valerie von Rosenvinge in a ceremony on Thursday, June 6, from 6-7 p.m.

Von Rosenvinge is retiring after 22 years as the school’s drama director. Also a teacher at HHS, she has written numerous plays and last year penned her second novel, “Rowing in Eden.”

Local collegians recognized

At Southern New Hampshire University, Katya Markovich, Elizabeth Demont and Annina Hendrick were named to the president’s list, while Jennifer Townsend and Zachary Levy were named to the dean’s list. …

Cameron Jerrett and Jacob Sullivan were named to the dean’s list at Clarkson University. … Benjamin Martin was named to the dean’s list at Assumption University. …

Adam MacLeod earned dean’s list honors at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. …

At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, all undergraduates are required to complete a research-driven, professional-level project that applies science and technology that addresses an important societal need or issue. Senior Matthew Kiszla (computer science major) completed a project titled Customizing LLMs for Automated Academic Advising. Senior Aidan Wech (computer science) completed a project titled Isolation-Centric Operating Systems for the Enterprise. Senior Elisabeth Whittemore (electrical and computer engineering) completed a project titled Opportunistic Communication with Zero and Low Power Radios. Junior Aabid Peermohammed (mechanical engineering) was part of a project titled Green Bucharest: Nature in the City. Junior Andrew Kovacs (business and financial technology) was part of a project titled Developing Sustainable Tourism in Klong Ta In, Thailand. Junior Emma VanBeek (biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering) was part of a project titled Exploration of VR for Road Safety Awareness in Morocco.

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.

SportS

Hillers girls tennis excels back in D1

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

The Hopkinton High School girls tennis program is back in Division 1 this year, but the move has not slowed the Hillers’ success in the slightest. Hopkinton posted a double-digit win total in both the Tri-Valley League and overall.

“They are all very coachable tennis players, and they are very supportive of each other and push each other to do better,” said coach Lyn Calkins. “Both in practice and during matches, they hold each other accountable on and off the court.”

Hopkinton has benefited from having a great deal of consistency in its lineup relative to last year. Sophomore May Chen returned and is the top singles player in the lineup. She had posted a 10-5 record heading into the final two regular-season matches.

Junior Avery Michaud, a doubles player last spring, improved enough to earn a nod as the No. 2 singles player.

“She worked her way up in the lineup,” Calkins said. “It has been a little bit of an adjustment playing singles, but she is a backboard. She has come up big for us in a lot of matches.”

Senior co-captain Roma Tewari plays third singles and also won more than a dozen matches this spring.

“She is a solid, reliable player for us,” Calkins said.

Evanya Mathur, another senior co-captain, returned at first doubles alongside junior Aarushi Kamra. In part due to some injuries and illnesses over the course of the year, Hopkinton has settled on the second doubles tandem of junior Caitlin Mangan and freshman Charlotte Nadeau.

“They have excellent team chemistry and have had to fight through some tough matches together,” Calkins said.

Overall, the results have been solid for the program. Calkins reached a milestone when a win in a May 6 match at Holliston gave her 100 victories in her Hopkinton career.

Calkins said the Hillers accomplished one goal by putting themselves in the mix for the TVL title and a spot in the state tournament. The coach said that Hopkinton set a goal of advancing into the second round of the playoffs. To do so will require the Hillers to do what they have generally done all year, pick up one another.

“When someone is having a bad day, it just seems like another person or a doubles team shows up big and helps carry the team that day,” Calkins said. “We are pretty deep in that way.”

Added the coach: “There is a really solid team bond. The girls have had a lot of good off-court team bonding activities, and they are all really looking out for each other.”

‘Resiliency’ defines HHS boys tennis team

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

The Hopkinton High School boys tennis team came into the 2024 season with only one returning player from last year’s starting lineup and facing a schedule that included two of the top teams in the state. But the Hillers have not let that slow them down, winning their first 11 matches in Tri-Valley League play and dominating with a revamped roster.

“The season is going great, I think we are probably right about where we thought we would be,” coach Mike Miller said in mid-May. “We knew there was going to be a lot of parity with this team and a lot of juggling and shuffling around in different positions.”

After some roster mixing and matching earlier in the year, Miller said the team settled on a lineup heading into the final matches of the regular season.

Freshman Joe Krattenmaker stepped into the No. 1 singles role. Miller said that “resiliency” is the word that defines his team, and that includes the young player.

“Sometimes, when you have a freshman come Joe Krattenmaker has been playing No. 1 singles as a freshman.

The HHS girls tennis team was closing in on a state tournament berth in late May.

Pitching drives HHS baseball win streak

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Hopkinton High School’s baseball team started the season with a subpar 1-3 record, but coach Matt Anderson pressed his team to stay the course. The Hillers responded by winning 13 games in a row, with a pitching staff that shut down nearly every opponent in recent weeks.

“Our pitching has been carrying us,” Anderson said.

During the win streak, Hopkinton put together a stretch of nine games in which it did not permit more than two runs. The Hillers posted five shutouts during that span.

Senior captain Derek Hatherley is the ace of the Hopkinton staff. Over his first five decisions, he posted five victories, a 0.63 earned run average and 45 strikeouts over just 33 innings.

Fellow senior Matt Gaughan has added a 1.07 ERA through 32 innings and four wins. Senior Jack Arthur has filled in well as a third starter, posting a two-hit performance in a win over Holliston.

The bullpen has been anchored by two more seniors: Drew Riesenberger and senior co-captain Sean McCann. Through mid-May, Hopkinton’s team ERA was 1.38.

“They have been lights out,” Anderson said. “We have been pretty dominant. These are five seniors who have all been outstanding on the mound.”

Hopkinton has several players who have helped drive the offense, including leadoff hitter Nick Pedroli, a center fielder and a junior. He was hitting .436 and had only three strikeouts in 64 plate appearances heading into the regular season’s final week.

An arm injury moved Dylan Ruff from shortstop to a second base/designated hitter platoon, but it did not slow down his bat. With two games left in the regular season, he was leading the team in RBIs and had a batting average north of .400.

“He is having a great year,” Anderson said.

Senior co-captain Charlie Petruney is second on the team in RBIs, and freshman Lucas Hodne earned a spot in the lineup as the cleanup hitter.

“He is built for baseball,” Anderson said. “Physically, he is outstanding, and mentally, he is beyond his years. He has made some amazing plays at third base, and hitting in the 4-hole is not something you normally do with a freshman.”

Senior captain Pete Mahon is a defensive leader at catcher, and sophomore Ryan Lang has stood out after stepping into the shortstop role this spring. Anderson said the Hillers have been able to string together wins by staying the course and outworking other teams. Hopkinton is one of the top teams in the state and began the final week of the regular season ranked in the top three.

“I don’t know if there are any great teams, and I am not even sure where we are in that regard,” Anderson said. “But we are playing good baseball, and anything can happen.”

Hopkinton was on the wrong end of an upset in last year’s tournament, but Anderson said this team has the ability to make a deep run and maybe even go all the way.

“I think we have the talent, I think we have the pitching, and I think we have the character to do it,” the coach said. “We are going to be a tough out in the state tournament.”

‘Resiliency’ defines HHS boys tennis team

Boys tennis | from page 15

in, you don’t know how they are going to handle it when they are used in tough matches, but he has handled it well,” Miller said. “Not every point is going to go your way, but for a freshman to bounce back and have that ‘never say die’ attitude is great.”

Krattenmaker has been winning his fair share of matches and learning from his setbacks, Miller said. He’s been followed by Rishit Shekhar, the lone returner from last year’s lineup.

“It’s been fun to see his transition from doubles to singles, it is a big transition,” Miller said. “He has turned into a much better singles player than he was at the beginning of the year.”

Ilian Glace is playing third singles for the Hillers. Hopkinton also fields a pair of strong doubles tandems. Kais Guessab and Sooraj Sambasivam play at the top singles spot, while Anay Pachori and Prithvi Venkatesh have held down the second doubles position.

Miller said the team is not focused on any particular goals, like winning the TVL or success in the state tournament. He said that, “as cliche as it sounds, we go from practice to practice and match to match and we do not look too far forward.”

“Some of our best competition is in our practices,” he added.

Hopkinton has been tested in dual matches. The Hillers’ only two losses heading into the final week of the season came against Weston, one of the best teams in New England, and Wayland, the defending state champion.

“We play those teams that are really strong, and it helps us get ready going forward,” Miller said, adding that the team’s resilient theme has shown in its setbacks.

“I think about the losses that we had, the kids just bounced back the next day,” he said, “whether it was having the best practice that we have had or the best match we had played. They just keep their heads up, and they keep plowing forward.”

The Hillers gather for a between-innings strategy session during a recent game.

Gaughan took a 5-1 record and 1.07 earned run average into the final week of the regular season, holding opponents to a .185 batting average over 32 2/3 innings as the Hillers battled for a Tri-Valley League championship. In addition to being one of the team’s top pitchers, Gaughan is “a leader on the bench when he’s not pitching,” coach Matt Anderson shared. “He’s an outstanding person as well as a player.”

Riesenberger threw two no-hitters in a 10-day span in early May and took a 3.23 earned run average into the final week of the season, holding opposing batters to a .239 average. as the Hillers challenged for a Tri-Valley League title. Coach Shannon Allberry-Yerardi credits Riesenberger’s work ethic and willingness to take coaching, calling her “an important piece of the culture we’ve been trying to build. She is resilient, flexible and a phenomenal teammate.”

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HHS boys volleyball sets high bar in inaugural year

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Whenhe was a student at DightonRehoboth High School, Jake Enos and some of his friends decided they wanted to start a volleyball program. So, they did just that.

“I and a few of my friends were interested. We went to the athletic director, and I was able to have my dad and one of my friend’s dads coach the team,” Enos recalled.

The experience is serving him well as the coach of a Hopkinton High School boys team that is in its first season of existence, competing at the club level.

“I think that starting the program when I was in high school prepared me for what to expect as a first-year club team in terms of skill level and things like having to transport ourselves to away games,” Enos said.

Enos played three varsity seasons in high school and, similar to the Hillers this spring, started the program at Dighton-Rehoboth as a club squad before becoming a full-fledged varsity team.

Hopkinton has done well during its first year, as the Hillers headed into the final week of the season with a 5-3 record. Enos said there has been a learning curve, but he was pleased to see the team win more matches than it has lost.

“Seeing 24 kids sign up at the start of the year, I expected a bunch of kids who were looking for something to do in the spring,” he said. “But what I got

was a lot of athletes who were willing to buy into the game and who banded together well. It’s a strong varsity team at this point.”

Hopkinton has nine seniors on the roster, with no captains due to the club nature of the team. Enos said the entire roster has been able to contribute and declined to single out any individual for accolades, noting the team nature of the sport. Next year, when Hopkinton becomes a full-fledged varsity team, the Hillers will have captains like a traditional varsity sport.

Attitude has been crucial for HHS all season.

“Our positivity is the key,” Enos said. “We are moving on after any bad plays. I always tell the kids, ‘it’s a bunch of little points that add up to a big point to win a set.”

Enos said the players were able to glean early glances at their potential, which only further motivated their improvement.

“Once they clicked with each other and had that bond on the court, they started playing well,” he said. “And they haven’t turned back since.”

And, although the nine seniors on this year’s roster will not be able to play at the regular varsity level, Enos said they are happy to help lay the foundation for the fledgling program.

“They definitely have said that they are proud that they started this,” Enos said. “They are able to give future generations of kids the chance to play.”

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Hopkinton Youth Soccer

Registration for Foundations & Town Programs May 10 - July 1 Registration for Travel Program May 10 - June 10 Academy Tryouts May 20 - May 23 (Completed) PLEASE CONSIDER VOLUNTEERING TO COACH WHEN REGISTERING

FOUNDATIONS PROGRAM

• Registration open May 10 - July 1.

• Kick Start Program – must be 4 by 8/31/24.

• Kindergarten Program – must be 5 by 8/31/24.

TRAVEL PROGRAM

• Registration open May 10 - June 10.

• Placement not guaranteed and late fees applied after 6/10.

• 3rd - 8th grades play in the BAYS League.

• Weeknight practice & Saturday game.

• Attend Evaluations 6/1, 6/2, 6/8, 6/9.

• Registration open May 10 - July 1.

• 1st grade program and 2nd/3rd grade combined programs.

• Weeknight practice & Saturday game.

• Saturday mornings only. TOWN PROGRAM

REVOLUTION

ACADEMY PROGRAM

• Academy tr youts for 2024-2025 season were held May 20 - 23.

• Year-long program for 3rd - 8th grades.

• Professional coaches from the New England Revolution Academy.

SUMMER 2024 PROGRAMS

Future Hillers Soccer Clinic June 19 - 21, 9 am - 12 pm. Current Kindergarten - 5th grades, Hopkinton residents only. Revolution Academy Summer Clinics (including Goalkeepers) Summer Camp 1, June 25 - 27, 9 - 12 pm • Summer Camp 2, July 29 - 31, 9 am - 12 pm. Current Kindergarten - 7th grades.

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PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

HHS Senior Car Parade June 1

The Hopkinton High School Senior Car Parade will be held Saturday, June 1. All graduating seniors who are Hopkinton residents are invited. Cars will start lining up on Loop Road at 10 a.m., and the parade will kick off at 11. A police cruiser and float will lead the parade, which will leave the high school and turn left onto Hayden Rowe Street, then right onto Park Street at the Town Common, right onto Ash Street, right again to remain on Ash Street, right onto Chestnut Street and right onto Hayden Rowe, ending back at the high school.

Touch-A-Truck and Food Truck Festival June 2

The Hopkinton Public Library Foundation will host the 10th annual Touch-aTruck & Food Truck Festival on Sunday, June 2, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Hopkinton High School parking lot. Individuals can climb aboard construction, service and emergency vehicles, including the Hopkinton Fire Department ladder truck. The Roaming Railroad will take children on rides on a trackless train. There will be food trucks and concessions from more than a dozen vendors. For more information, including a list of vendors and ticket information, visit hplfinc.org.

St. John’s Rummage Sale June 7-11

The annual St. John’s Rummage Sale will take place June 7-8 and June 1011 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. each day (no sale June 9). Donations of clothing, jewelry, books, toys/games, household items and furniture are welcomed at St. John’s Parish Center from May 20-26. All items should be in good, resealable condition. For more information, including a list of donations that cannot be accepted, visit stjohnhopkinton.com.

Garden Club Flower Show June 7-8

The Hopkinton Garden Club will host a Horticulture Specialty Flower Show at the Hopkinton Senior Center on Friday, June 7, from 1-4 p.m., and Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit hopkintongardenclub.org.

Hopkinton Pride Parade June 8

The Hopkinton Freedom Team will host its fourth annual Pride Parade on Saturday, June 8, from 1-4 p.m., starting and ending at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. Held during Pride Month, the event celebrates and works to promote greater understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community. For more information, visit hopkintonfreedomteam.org.

Farmers Market at Town Common June 9-Oct. 13

The Hopkinton Farmers Market returns to the Town Common on Sundays from 1-5 p.m., starting June 9 and running through Oct. 13. The market features local fresh food, craft beverages, organic produce, flowers, handmade products, live music and activities. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers again will receive a $10 incentive for a $10 purchase, and there will be Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) benefits as well. For information, including a list of vendors, music and activities, visit hopkintonfarmersmarket.com.

Baypath Golf Tournament June 14

Baypath Humane Society’s 11th Annual Fore Paws Golf Tournament will be held Friday, June 14, at Cyprian Keyes Golf Club in Boylston. The tournament will be a fourperson scramble format, beginning with a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. After golf, guests will gather for a night of silent auction, delicious cuisine, an awards ceremony and an update on Baypath’s mission. Tickets are $200 per person, which includes golf and the evening events. For more information about participating or becoming a hole sponsor, visit baypathhumane.org.

Timlin Event at Hopkinton High School June 15

Registration is open for the 21st annual Sharon Timlin Memorial Event, which will be held at Hopkinton High School on June 15. The 5K road race and family fun day is a fundraiser for The Angel Fund for ALS Research. The 5K race begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the family fun day activities with live music, food, games, raffles, a silent auction and other activities — including a kids color run — until noon. There also is a virtual option. For more information or to register, visit sharontimlinrace.org.

MBCC Against the Tide at State Park June 15

The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) will host its annual Against the Tide event on Saturday, June 15, at Hopkinton State Park. The event features multiple competitions and recreational activities, including a half-mile or 1-mile swim, a 5K or 10K run and a 3-mile fitness walk. There also will be a virtual component. Proceeds benefit MBCC’s work toward breast cancer prevention, locally and nationally. For more information and to register, visit mbcc.org/swim.

Spring Cleaning Fundraiser for PJB Through June 16

The officers of the Project Just Because Student Board are organizing a spring cleaning fundraiser. For a donation to PJB of $100 per hour, a group of five volunteers will help with yard work. The program started April 7 and ends June 16. To reserve a time, visit signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FABA829AAFEC07-48594491-spring#/ or email studentboardpresidents@projectjustbecause.

Ken will be performing a concert and leading a sing-along workshop for adults experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment, as well as those living with dementia, their caregivers, and friends. This event is supported by the Southborough Local Cultural Council and is absolutely free of cost. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enjoy the magical power of music with your loved ones. Please RSVP so we can accommodate all who would like to attend.

Diane Blue All-Star Band with guest Cliff Goodwin | June 8 at 8 p.m.

Boston’s Diane Blue is a “multi-talented performer who’s equally at home belting out a blues standard or cutting loose with a ferocious harmonica solo.”

(Bill Van Siclen, Providence Journal). Her performances are deeply soulful, captivating, charismatic, and heartfelt. She leads her ensemble of world-class musicians when she is not singing with Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters. Her All-Star Band is guitar virtuoso Chris Vitarello, Hammond organ aficionado Dave Limina, and ace drummer Chris Anzalone.

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

June 14 | Hot Acoustics

June 15 | Erin Harpe and the Delta Swingers

The much-awaited Summer Concert Series at HCA is finally here, and we can’t wait to kick off the series on June 14 with the amazing Hot Acoustics! But that’s just the beginning! Friday and Saturday nights from mid-June through July, we bring 12 incredible bands to get you on your feet and dancing. Additionally, we will be offering five Sunday jazz groups! Sponsored by Dell Technologies, our outdoor amphitheater provides the perfect backdrop! You only need your lawn chair, blanket, and picnic basket to enjoy an evening of rockin’ good music. And don’t worry, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll move the concert inside to our airconditioned performance space. So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and join us for a summer to remember at HCA’s Summer Concert Series! To make the arts more accessible to all, this concert is on a pay-what-you-can basis.

Spring into Summer with Ken DoRosario | June 7 at 2 p.m.

Summer Music Series: Summer KickOff Concert sponsored by Phipps/ MAPFRE Insurance

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.

Stress Management with Pearls of Wisdom

Thursday, May 30, 1 p.m.

Stress is the number one enemy of aging, both mentally and physically. Participants will learn the effects of stress on their overall health. They will learn to identify stressors and manage them in their daily lives. Stress busters include: attitude of gratitude, adaptability, lifelong learning and meditation.

Painting with Venus

Mondays, June 3 and 10, 1 p.m.

The public is invited to a mingle and paint event led by artist and instructor Amy Adams. This wonderful lighthearted event will boost creativity and provide an opportunity to connect with others through the use of art. All experience levels are welcome and encouraged to attend. Advance registration is required, and space is limited. This program is supported by a grant from

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

Not Just Ancestry.com

Wednesday, May 29, 1-2 p.m.

Whether an experienced family researcher looking for new online sites to explore, or someone just starting research and unsure what’s out there, everyone is invited to join Hopkinton librarian Allison Keaney for a presentation and discussion of lesser-known online resources.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Thursday, May 30, 2-7 p.m.

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

For the Love of Mars

Monday, June 3, 2-3:15 p.m.

This Zoom program is a human history of the Red Planet with Smithsonian curator Matt Shin. Mars and its secrets have fascinated and mystified humans since ancient times. Due to its vivid color and visibility, geologic kinship with Earth, and potential as our best hope for settlement, Mars embodies everything that inspires us about space and exploration.

Scrabble Club and Mahjong Club

Tuesday, June 4, 6-7:30 p.m.

Scrabble sets will be provided, but the library does not yet have a mahjong set. Participants are encouraged to bring a set if they have one. No registration is required.

the Hopkinton Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Our Time Memory Cafe at the Senior Center

Thursday, June 6, 1 p.m.

This is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment, or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences and form friendships. Live music and refreshments usually are offered. This is a joint venture between Senior Services and the Hopkinton Public Library. For more information, call the Senior Center.

Horticulture Flower Show

Friday, June 7, 1-4 p.m.

Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Hopkinton Garden Club will host its 100th anniversary Horticulture Flower Show, “100 Years of Friendship and Gardening,” on June 7-8 at the Hopkinton Senior Center. Those who love to garden or baby houseplants and want to show off just a little can join in on the fun by entering the show. The HGC will have three entry divisions for the Senior Center members: 1) a tomato plant grown from seed, 2) a house plant grown for its flowers, and 3) a houseplant grown for its foliage. Individuals can enter in one division or all three. Entry cards will be at the front desk, along with an eligibility schedule for entry divisions.

Ellis Island

Thursday, June 27, 1 p.m.

Attendees will learn about the history of Ellis Island, other inspection sites and a history of immigration to our country. This program will cover the history of Ellis Island from 1630-2012, including who was processed at Ellis Island, what that involved, and how the legislation of immigration affected Ellis Island.

Get the Dirt on Composting

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

The Sustainable Green Committee will lead this program, designed for those who are curious about the benefits of composting — for both individuals and the environment — and which approach is best. Composting is one of the most important things a person can do to help address climate change.

Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction

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

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

Read In Peace: Silent Book Club

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

Read In Peace allows participants to read whatever they want without interruptions. Individuals are invited to bring their own book or pick out a book on their way into the library. Then, readers will meet on the lower level for some uninterrupted literary enjoyment.

Author Talk: Freida McFadden

Thursday, June 13, 8-9:15 p.m.

This Zoom program is a conversation with Freida McFadden, the queen of twists. McFadden will chat about writing psychological thrillers — her mega-bestselling hit “The Housemaid” series, in particular, and her forthcoming third installment, “The Housemaid Is Watching.”

obituarieS

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

Dorothy Bartlett

Dorothy (Hazen) Bartlett, 85, of Bellingham passed away peacefully on May 5 with her loving family by her side. She was the beloved wife for 65 years of the late Eugene F. Bartlett and the loving mother of Robin J. Beauparlant and husband Albert of Harrisville, Rhode Island, Peter J. Bartlett and wife Jennifer of Wrentham, and Terri-Lynn Hart and husband Daniel of Bellingham. She leaves her cherished six grandchildren, Stephanie Schlesinger and husband Matthew, Ashley Beauparlant, Aarik Beauparlant, Rachel Bartlett, Nicholas Bartlett and Rebecca Brothers, and four great-grandchildren, Aaden, Elliana, Jacob and A.J.

Dorothy (Dutchie as she was affectionately called) was born in Plattsburgh, New York, on Jan. 1, 1939, the daughter of the late Lloyd E. and Mabel F. (Wildman) Hazen. She was predeceased by her siblings, Sylvia Hitchings, Norma Nordstrom, Donald Hazen, Charlotte Marquedant, David Hazen and Richard Hazen. She leaves her brother-in-law Joseph Marquedant of Hopkinton and many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was a resident of Bellingham for 59 years, formerly of Holliston and Hopkinton. She was a graduate of Hopkinton High School class of 1956. She worked in the accounting department at EMC in Hopkinton for many years until retiring, previously working at The Big D supermarket stores in customer service. Dorothy also served as “executive assistant” for her husband, who was chief of Bellingham Auxiliary Police for over 40 years.

Dorothy was a member of the Slatersville Congregational Church and Choir. She loved to sing. Whether it was church hymns, show tunes or movie songs, she was always happiest singing with her grandchildren. Dorothy volunteered her time in many different ways over the years. She gave her time to hospice, providing respite care for patients and their families. She also volunteered at the Bellingham Police Youth Services Center in their daily operations, fishing derbies and making crafts with after-school children, reading and playing games. She also was a big part of the Operation Old Red Suit collection, which still operates today, as the Stuff a Cruiser program with the Bellingham Police Department.

She was a Girl Scout Troop Leader for both her girls when they were younger and played in the Women’s Over-30 Bellingham Softball League. When it came to sports, she loved her Red Sox, and Big Papi, but her football love was for the Seattle Seahawks, which always made for interesting conversation! She loved getting together with her family for Super Bowl Sundays, family dinners,

taking walks with her grandpups, making baby quilts, jigsaw puzzles, reading and dancing with her husband. Her grandchildren/great-grandchildren were the apple of her eye. She would always make time to attend all of their various events. You would always know Gramma was there as she proudly cheered them on! Dorothy will be greatly missed. Dorothy’s family would like to thank the Bellingham Fire & Rescue for their service, kindness and professionalism over the years.

Visiting hours were held May 15 at Cartier’s Funeral Home, Bellingham. A funeral service was held May 16 at the Slatersville (Rhode Island) Congregational Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory to Salmon VNA Hospice, 37 Birch Street, Milford, MA 01757, will be greatly appreciated.

Ronald Vorce

Ronald “Big Ronnie” H. Vorce II, 58, a longtime resident of Framingham and formerly of Hopkinton, passed away unexpectedly at his home on May 6. Born in Framingham, he was the son of Ronald H. Vorce I and Audrey Vorce.

He was a loving and proud father, survived by two children, Ronald “Little Ronnie” H. Vorce III and Kaitlyn O’Connor. He is predeceased by brother Roy Vorce, and he leaves behind siblings Richie Vorce, Lisa Martin and Paul Martin, as well as his sister-in-law, Joanne Martin, and his many nieces and nephews.

Family services are being held privately, however, a celebration of Ronnie’s life will be open to all friends and family and will take place at the Woodville Rod & Gun Club in Hopkinton on June 8 from 5-10 p.m. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his son to support his services.

Anne Morgan

Anne S. Morgan, 82, of Mashpee, passed away peacefully at home on May 10. She was the beloved wife of Francis (Frank) Morgan and the daughter of the late Louis and Alice Hennessy Slattery.

Anne graduated from Somerset High School and received her bachelor’s degree in education from University of Massachusetts, where she and Frank met. As a young family, Anne and Frank moved several times, meeting dear friends in each community, including Lincoln, Rhode Island; Guilford, Connecticut; Guilderland, New York; and eventually Hopkinton, where they lived for 33 years. In recent years, Anne and Frank resided in Mashpee and Estero, Florida.

Anne had many interests throughout her life. A lifelong sports fan, she cheered for the Patriots and the Celtics, and she faithfully rooted for her cherished Red Sox, which was an enthusiasm passed

down from her father. In the 1970s, Anne and Frank jumped on the tennis bandwagon and enjoyed playing with a large circle of friends. Eventually, their passion for tennis shifted to golf, which they enjoyed playing together. For many years, Anne played golf in the women’s league at Saddle Hill Country Club in Hopkinton and at Spring Run in Florida. Additionally, Anne and Frank enjoyed traveling and had some great times with family and friends in Mexico (Cabo San Lucas), Italy, Scotland, Ireland, California and Arizona (Scottsdale, Sedona and the Grand Canyon). She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and was an avid reader. But most of all, Anne enjoyed spending time with those she loved. Whether the gathering was a holiday, a vacation or simply dinner on the deck, Anne was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. She was a loving wife and mother, and she will be dearly missed by all who loved her.

In addition to her loving husband, Frank, Anne is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth O’Neill and husband Brendan of Natick and Falmouth, and Jennifer Morgan of Charlestown. Additionally, she is survived by nieces Pamela Megan (Paul) and Margaret Collins (Scott), and five great-nieces/nephews, Kevin Kennedy, Emily Megan, John Collins, Katie Dwyer and Sarah Collins. She was predeceased by nephew Michael Benso.

A private committal service was to be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Falmouth.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Anne’s memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611 or online at secure.qgiv.com/for/ pulfibfou.

Janet Stewart

Janet M. Stewart, 87, of Hopkinton passed away May 14. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Richard C. Stewart; her parents, William F. Pyne and Helene (McGrail) Pyne, and her brothers, William and Robert Pyne.

She is survived by her children, Karen Irvine and husband Skip of Cramerton, North Carolina, Brenda Stewart and husband Bruce Zalneraitis of Port Ludlow, Washington, Richie Stewart of Hopkinton, and Peggy Stewart of Scarborough, Maine; grandchildren Rachel Link and husband Brett of Daniel Island, South Carolina, Mary Irvine and husband Nicholas Byrne of Cary, North Carolina, Christine Irvine of Chicago, Alex Stewart of Milford, and Ryan and Aidan Dery of Scarborough, Maine. She also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren, all of whom she truly adored.

Janet was born in Framingham and graduated from Hopkinton High School in 1954. After high school, she worked at New England Telephone Company until she married Dick and her focus became raising their family. Her circle of friends was vast and included many childhood friends, cousins and other extended family members. She also cherished the many deep friendships she made with neighbors and other fellow Hopkintonians. Throughout her life, she loved maintaining the home that she and Dick built in Hopkinton in 1956. Other favorite hobbies included sewing, gardening

and cooking. In retirement, she enjoyed many winters in Deltona, Florida. As a devout Catholic, Janet received all of her sacraments at St. John the Evangelist Church in Hopkinton, where her funeral mass took place May 20. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Michael Lisnow Respite Center, 112 Main Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748. Arrangements were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Gail Locke

Mrs. Gail A. (Greenhalgh) Maher Locke, 88, of Hopkinton and formerly of Milford, died May 16 at Milford Regional Medical Center after an illness. She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. John T. Maher, who died in 1983, and the late John T. Locke, who died in 2010.

Gail was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of the late Harvey C. Greenhalgh Sr. and the late Mildred A. (Rawson) Greenhalgh. She was a 1953 graduate of Burrillville (Rhode Island) High School. She was also a graduate of the former Milford Hospital School of Nursing.

Gail began her successful career as a registered nurse working at the former Milford Hospital. She later transitioned into working as the school nurse for the Milford public school system, working at Milford High School, and for the Bellingham public school system, working at the Clara Macy School. Also, later in life, she worked as a substitute school nurse at various local public schools.

Gail had resided in Milford for most of her life and had been a resident of Hopkinton for the past eight years. She was an avid supporter of the Milford High School Boosters Club and was a frequent participant in the various local bocce ball leagues.

Gail is survived by her four children, Thomas M. Maher and wife Maria of Cairo, Egypt, David J. Maher and wife Pamela of Sturbridge, Carolyn A. Grenon and husband Glenn Grenon of Hopedale, and John S. Maher of Belmont; her five grandchildren, Allison Maher of Beverly Hills, California, Jonathan Grenon of New York City, Matthew Grenon of Hopedale, Kathryn Grenon of Hopedale, and Michael Maher of Wakefield; her four great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Amelia, Liam and Rowan; her brother, Glen A. Greenhalgh and wife Jackie of Millville; her sister-in-law, Pauline Greenhalgh of Rhode Island; and several nieces and nephews.

Gail is also survived by her stepson, William E. Locke and wife Jacqueline of Milford, and Kathleen Locke of Milford, the wife of the late Robert J. Locke, who died in 2020.

Gail was also the sister of the late Harvey C. Greenhalgh Jr.

Her funeral services were held May 22 at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, Milford, followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Milford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Milford Regional Medical Center, c/o the Milford Regional Healthcare Foundation, 14 Prospect Street, Milford, MA 01757 or to the charity of your choice.

William E. Thomas Jr.

William “Bill” Thomas of Fort Myers, Florida, formerly of Hopkinton, passed away surrounded by the love of his entire family both near and far at Joanne’s House, a hospice home in Bonita Springs, Florida, at the age of 81.

Bill, born on June 21, 1942, was the son of the late Gladys (Berry) Thomas and William Thomas Sr. and the brother of Patricia Jones, currently of Sturbridge. He also leaves behind the love of his entire life, his wife Betty (Irvine) Thomas of Fort Myers, Florida. Married for nearly 63 years, they were inseparable.

Bill grew up at 86 Main Street in Hopkinton. He often reminisced and fondly talked about his childhood in Hopkinton, where he spent time doing his paper route, going to dances with his love Betty, and having fun with friends and family. Bill went to Hopkinton High School and loved being part of the HHS Drama Club and often was the lead in the productions. He also loved playing football for coach Ed Hayes, who remarked, “I never had to worry about Bill Thomas, who always did his job.” Upon graduation in 1960, Bill decided to join the U.S. Coast Guard, just like his father before him.

Soon after graduation, while just starting in the service, his childhood sweetheart could not wait any longer. Billy and Betty were married on Aug. 27, 1961. They first lived in Rockland, Maine, where Bill was stationed, and then Nantucket for the remainder of his time in the Coast Guard. Bill was a proud Coast Guard veteran who put on his Coast Guard hat every single day to proudly hang his flag outside his home in Fort Myers.

A dedicated family man, Bill and Betty began their family in February 1963 with the birth of their daughter Nancy Lorraine, affectionately dubbed “Charlie” by her father. Brian Edward “Sam” followed soon, in May 1965. Their core family became complete with the birth of their youngest child, Karin LeAnne, in May of 1971; Bill had run out of nickname ideas by the time Karin was born!

After his time in the Coast Guard, Bill continued to follow his father’s lead by becoming an electrician. He helped run and operate his family business, Electime, where he fixed clocks all while raising his family. Bill’s incredible work ethic and devotion to his family spurred him on to work numerous jobs to make life easier for his family. He loved his time bartending at Carbone’s while his wife waitressed. Bill also went on to work at General Motors in Framingham as an electrician and foreman. Once GM closed, he moved to Virginia and became a fire alarm specialist at the CIA building in McLean, Virginia.

Above all else, Bill was devoted to his family. His number one priority throughout his life was his undying love and devotion to his wife, Betty, his children and grandchildren. His second love would be for his friends and honestly strangers alike, because once you met Bill he was your friend. He loved jokes both clean and not so clean! He loved to make people laugh, and even as his memory failed him, he could still drop zingers, especially towards his love, Betty.

Finally, Bill had a love affair with food! He especially loved the delicious food Betty always made for him, but Bill could and would eat anything you gave him, never complain and tell you it was delicious even if it was a PB&J (on white bread, of course)!

Besides his wife, Betty, Bill/Dad leaves behind his adoring sister-in-laws, Susie Midgette and Patti Boelsen, his loving children, Nancy Clark and husband Brian of Park City, Utah, Brian Thomas and wife Pam of Sutton, and Karin DePaolo and husband Stephen of Franklin. “Grampie” also leaves behind his grandchildren, Tommy and wife Katie, Tom and wife Joey, Katie and husband Bill, Rebecca and fiancé Paul, Nicole, Ryan and Ethan. “Grampie” loved babies and leaves behind his first great-grandchild, Max, as well as two more baby girls soon to arrive. As a direct result of his kind nature and tremendous humor, he also leaves behind many more adoring friends and family.

A private memorial was being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s name to Joanne’s House, 27200 Imperial Parkway, Bonita Springs, FL 34135 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Christine Dietz

Christine “Chris” Dietz, 74, a resident of Hopkinton for 34 years, passed away peacefully March 2 surrounded by loved ones. Born in Springfield in 1950, she was the daughter of the late Helen and Joseph Closta. Her siblings included an older brother, Edward (now passed), and a younger sister, Jocelyn. She was married to Kenneth Dietz for 36 years. She was the loving mother of Alexander and Stephen Dietz.

Chris put herself through college, receiving a degree from Boston University, and later took evening courses at Harvard to improve her skills. Chris worked as a software engineer for a number of years at DEC and EMC. As the jobs moved elsewhere, she retrained herself to be a medical biller working for local hospitals. She retired at the age of 67.

Chris had a passion for local politics and was a supporter of the Democratic party, serving as a member of the Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee for years. Chris lived to help others in any way she could. She enjoyed traveling, with a high point of touring the south of France in 2022. For her, a glass of wine with a lobster on a Friday was always a favorite. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her friends and extended family.

She was always a strong and determined independent woman. She is missed.

To share a memory with the Dietz family, kindly visit mccarthyfh.com.

Lenore Auslander

Lenore (Murphy) (Elmes) Auslander, 89, of Framingham and formerly Hopkinton, passed away peacefully on May 15. She was the loving wife of the late Norman Elmes and the late Saul Auslander. Born and raised in Brockton, she was the daughter of the late Gerald and Lucille (Maguire) Murphy and beloved sister to the late Jean (Murphy) (Latham) Coté.

Lee left home in 1957 in the early days of aviation to work as an “air hostess” for Trans World Airlines (TWA), flying on cross-country tours. She often told the story of serving movie stars like Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor on trips to/ from New York and California. Her adventures led her to her first husband, Norman (“Skip”), in New York. Norman and Lee had four boys and adopted sister Sarah from Korea at the age 2. Sadly, Norman passed away at an early age. Lee met and married Saul and started new adventures in Florida and Massachusetts.

Lee worked in the health care industry as an office manager for many years. After retiring, she volunteered at a local hospital offering comfort, companionship and encouragement to ill patients. Her caring nature continued to the end. Lee always gravitated toward those in need. One of the best examples of her big heart and generosity was bringing in family friend Lenny, who shared the following after learning of Mom’s passing: “Lee impacted my life tremendously … in every aspect. I am who I am because she exposed a little 6-year-old boy from the inner city to a lifestyle I never knew existed … and for that … I am deeply grateful.”

Mom enjoyed listening to classical music and Leonard Cohen, eating ice cream and frosted cakes — the more frosting the better! Lee loved spending time on the beaches in Florida, Bermuda, Cape Cod and Westport. She loved babies, little fluffy dogs, bright blue skies and sporty red cars. She loved to be in the garden, and as a person of faith, she loved spending time in church. Lee loved to laugh and had a lovely smile.

Mom will be sorely missed and remembered by brother William Murphy (Tracy) of Colorado, brother Gerald Murphy (Sally) of Florida, son Chris (Bogusia) of Florida, son Tim (Brenda) of Massachusetts, son Peter of Georgia, son Norman, also known as Josh (Inga), and her two beautiful granddaughters, Katherine and Audrey, of Virginia, daughter Sarah (Jack) of Massachusetts, stepdaughter Amy (Jack) of Massachusetts and two

loving grandsons, Philip of Massachusetts and Alexander of Tennessee, stepdaughter Wendy (Susie) of Missouri, several special nieces and nephews and longtime schoolmates and friends, including Dorothea and Natalie.

Sincere thanks and appreciation to the staff at The Communities at Golden Pond, Hopkinton, and St. Patrick’s Manor, Framingham, for their care, attention and compassion. A funeral service will be held in early fall at the Massachusetts National (military) Cemetery in Bourne. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

police log

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

May 7

4:03 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle struck a tree on Pond Street. Officer Cody Normandin and Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a crash report. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

4:06 p.m. A caller reported a turtle in the roadway on Wood Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded, and the tor-

toise was gone upon his arrival.

5:38 p.m. A caller reported a boxertype dog running around on Granite Street. Officer Augusto Diaz responded and took the dog to Baypath Humane Society.

6:17 p.m. A caller reported unleashed dogs on Sandy Beach. Officer Nicholas Salettnik responded and advised the owners to leash their dogs.

6:27 p.m. A caller at a Main Street business reported someone followed him into the bathroom. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported the individuals went their separate ways. A report was taken.

May 8

9:23 a.m. Multiple motorists reported a muffler in the roadway of Interstate 495, just before the off-ramps. The State Police were notified.

1:34 p.m. A caller reported a deceased cat in the roadway on Cedar Street. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and reported it was an opossum. The DPW was contacted.

5:34 p.m. Officers Robert Ekross and Cody Normandin assisted the Bellingham Police Department and attempted to make contact with a Granite Street resident.

6:53 p.m. The Milford Police Department reported an erratic gray Maserati near the town line on Hayden Rowe Street. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Robert Ekross responded and checked the area with a negative find.

10:48 p.m. An Elm Street resident reported hearing clanging in her basement. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Robert Ekross responded, checked the basement and found all OK.

May 10

8:33 a.m. A detail officer on Clinton Street reported a neighbor had an issue with the work being done on the street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and spoke to the neighbor, and peace was restored.

6:35 p.m. A caller reported a person operating a motorbike at a high speed up and down Briarcliff Drive. Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded and advised the driver of the rules. His neighbor subsequently gave him a ride home.

May 9

8:41 a.m. A caller reported several construction vehicles parked in a hazardous spot on Cedar Street Extension. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and spoke to the workers, and the dump truck was moved. The dump truck struck a mailbox, and the driver was to make arrangements for repair.

12:29 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle ran her husband off the roadway on Lumber Street and into a guardrail. Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Walker responded and spoke with both parties involved. An ambulance was canceled en route, as no personal injuries were reported. A report was taken.

2:43 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officers Matthew LaTour, Kyle Quinzani, Noah Buentello and Augusto Diaz responded to a motor vehicle crash on Hayden Rowe Street. No personal injuries were reported. Two tow trucks removed the vehicles. A report followed.

3:44 p.m. A walk-in handed in a firearm found at her mother’s house. Officer Cody Normandin assisted and reported it was a BB gun, and he still took it for the woman.

3:49 p.m. A caller reported his mountain bike was stolen. Officer Cody Normandin assisted and took a report.

5:06 p.m. A caller reported a possible drunk driver in a blue Dodge pickup truck trying to drive on the sidewalk on Grove Street and take a right on red. Officers Shannon Beloin and Kyle Quinzani responded and checked Main Street, Wood Street and Woodville with a negative find.

1:15 p.m. A caller reported a raccoon acting strangely and running around Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Noah Buentello and Nicholas Walker responded along with the animal control officer, and they could not locate the animal.

4:05 p.m. A caller reported a case of fraud in which someone pretending to be from Westborough court tried to scam him. Officers Robert Ekross and Kyle Quinzani responded and assisted.

5:13 p.m. Fire Department personnel reported a young girl sitting on a Main Street corner alone. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Robert Ekross responded and checked on the child, and her father came outside.

5:37 p.m. A caller reported a truck hit a wall on Winter Street and drove away. Debris was scattered in the road. Officers Robert Ekross and Kyle Quinzani responded and reported damage to a Verizon pole. Verizon was notified, and the DPW was contacted for cleanup.

May 11

10:40 a.m. A walk-in reported graffiti on the former Center School playground on Ash Street. Officer Shannon Beloin took a report of vandalism.

11:47 a.m. A walk-in reported his exwife’s boyfriend was yelling at him at the Fruit Street fields. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took a report.

12:27 p.m. A caller complained of someone operating a motorized bike on the sidewalk of Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Shannon Beloin and Noah Buentello responded, and the bike was gone upon their arrival.

1:52 p.m. The Spencer Police Department requested an officer to make contact with a Rice Street resident. Officer Shannon Beloin assisted.

10:01 p.m. A caller reported her car broke down on the Interstate 495 exit

ramp and she needed assistance. Sergeant Gregg DeBoer responded along with the State Police.

May 12

11:30 a.m. A caller reported a small brown dog running in the road on East Main Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and checked the area with a negative find.

11:39 a.m. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Noah Buentello and Sergeant Gregg DeBoer responded to a motor vehicle accident on Wood Street. No personal injuries were reported.

12:40 p.m. A motorist reported a road rage-type incident on West Main Street. The involved vehicle got on Interstate 495. The State Police were notified.

1:48 p.m. A Huckleberry Road resident reported she believed someone attempted to break into her house. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report.

6:16 p.m. Officers Matthew LaTour and Kyle Quinzani responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on Main Street and took a report.

May 13

12:51 p.m. A Mayhew Court resident reported a dog bite. Officer Nicholas Saletnik followed up with the caller.

1:23 p.m. A Turnbridge Lane resident reported her car was keyed. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and took a report of vandalism.

2:23 p.m. A caller complained of construction trucks in the roadway on East Main Street. Officer Brian Ziniti checked the area, and there were no hazards present.

2:47 p.m. Officers Brian Ziniti and Nicholas Saletnik responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Lumber Street. No personal injuries were reported. Both vehicles were towed.

3:29 p.m. A walk-in reported a small moped operating in and out of the roadway on Grove Street. Officers Augusto Diaz and Cody Normandin responded and checked the area with a negative find.

4:17 p.m. A caller reported a juvenile on a motorbike doing wheelies in the roadway on Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Brian Ziniti and Cody Normandin located the juvenile and told him to stop riding in the roadway.

7:39 p.m. A Granite Street resident reported a white sedan, possibly an Audi, drove past her house at a high rate of speed. Officer Augusto Diaz responded, and the vehicle was gone upon his arrival.

May 14

6:33 a.m. A caller reported that she and several others from various stages of her life were being harassed over the internet. She reached out to several Hopkinton organizations to warn them of this person, or cyberbot, who was out to gather information about her. The incidents of fraud were logged.

1:06 p.m. Officer Matthew LaTour took a report of a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street.

4:12 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Augusto Diaz took a crash report on Whisper Way. No personal injuries were reported.

4:33 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported receiving four fraudulent phone calls from out of state. Officer Augusto Diaz assisted and took a report.

May 15

6:19 a.m. Multiple officers responded along with the Fire Department to a fire at a Main Street restaurant. The owner was contacted to head to the scene.

12:11 p.m. A walk-in reported she believed she was being stalked. Officer Noah Buentello spoke with her and took a report.

5:44 p.m. Multiple callers reported a rabbit was struck by a car on Saddle Hill Road. Officer Kyle Quinzani and Matthew LaTour responded and reported the animal was off to the side of the road.

8:55 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin made checks of Ash Street property and found profanity written on it. A message was left with the DPW for removal.

9:59 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident on Trevor Lane, and the operator took off. Officer Robert Ekross caught up with the vehicle and spoke with the operator. A report followed.

May 16

1:59 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker checked on a vehicle parked on Avenue E and found an employee sleeping before his work shift. All was OK.

2:13 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker checked on South Street property and found a door open in the back of the building. Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded to assist in checking the property and subsequently secured the door.

5:52 a.m. A caller reported a male wearing a white hat threw a water bottle at his car on Hayden Rowe Street. Sergeants Arthur Schofield and Matthew Santoro responded and checked the area for the individual with a negative find.

8:18 a.m. A caller reported receiving threats while at her place of employment in Ashland. She stated the person showed up at her Church Street residence as well. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted and took a report.

8:41 a.m. Officer Augusto Diaz notified the DPW of a fallen tree in the roadway on Spring Street.

1:19 p.m. A walk-in reported she was scammed, and the scammers were threatening and harassing her. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took a report of fraud.

2:43 p.m. Officers Augusto Diaz and Noah Buentello responded to a motor vehicle accident on Freedom Way and took a report.

3:42 p.m. A Hopkinton school principal reported confiscating fireworks. Officers Robert Ekross, Matthew LaTour and Kyle Quinzani responded and took a report.

9:34 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard checked on two vehicles parked on Lakeshore Drive and found two men night fishing. They were to leave.

May 17

7:11 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crash on Lumber Street. Officers Shannon Beloin and Noah Buentello responded and took a report.

9:37 a.m. Officer Shannon Beloin checked on the former Center School property and reported the facilities crew was working on it.

3:41 p.m. A motorist reported a dog was hit on Interstate 495 south. The State Police responded and reported it was a coyote.

May 18

6:46 a.m. A caller requested to speak with an officer about getting a restraining order. A few minutes later, the caller requested to cancel the restraining order. Officer Sean McKeon spoke with the caller and took a report.

1:19 p.m. Officers Brian Ziniti and Noah Buentello responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street. A tow truck removed the vehicle. No personal injuries were reported.

2:08 p.m. A Grove Street caller reported that at 3 a.m., someone was banging on his front door, and when he checked, no one was there. The caller wanted the incident logged.

3:57 p.m. A caller reported a road rage incident on Main Street and was still behind the suspect vehicle. Officers Cody

Normandin and Kyle Quinzani responded, pulled over the vehicle and found no crimes were committed.

5:48 p.m. A Curtis Road resident complained of loud construction all day in violation of town bylaw. Officers Matthew LaTour and Kyle Quinzano responded and advised the workers to shut down the equipment.

6:04 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator all over the roadway on Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Cody Normandin and Matthew LaTour responded and reported it most likely was a DoorDash driver.

6:49 p.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted a person with removing a deceased animal from the roadway on West Main Street. 10:16 p.m. A Spring Street caller reported she has been harassed for two years via text. Officer Matthew LaTour assisted and made contact with the party and stated there was to be no further contact between the two parties.

May 19

12:45 a.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported her dog was barking, and her neighbor came over banging on the door and left a note. The caller believed that the neighbor should not be doing that. It was explained that the neighbor had the right to knock on her door and ask the owner to stop the barking. Officer Noah Buentello responded and attempted to confirm which neighbor it was.

6:27 p.m. The State Police reported three erratic operators, driving a blue Civic, a tan Mustang, and a motorcycle, were racing on Interstate 495 and exited in Hopkinton. Officer Cody Normandin checked the area with a negative find.

May 20

9:20 a.m. Sergeant Scott van Raalten and Officer Brian Ziniti responded to a motor vehicle crash on Main Street and issued a criminal application. No personal injuries were reported.

6:49 p.m. A caller reported three cars operating erratically on Hayden Rowe Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Cody Normandin responded and spoke with the drivers, who were participating in the high school senior assassin game.

7:27 p.m. A Main Street store manager reported a male shoplifted from the store, concealing at least $500 worth of merchandise in his pockets before leaving. Officers Augusto Diaz and Cody Normandin responded and took a report of stolen property.

9:54 p.m. A caller reported a raccoon was hit by a car on Hayden Rowe Street, and the animal was still moving. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and left a message for the DPW.