HI 6.28.23

HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT

Hayes apologizes, steps down from committee seats

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

The fallout from the online controversy involving former Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee chair Darlene Hayes continued this month, as Hayes apologized for her actions and resigned from her positions on the town’s Housing Authority and Cultural Council.

Under stories in the Hopkinton Independent and HopNews websites, Hayes had posted comments numerous times under various aliases leading up to the May 15 Annual Town Election, promoting Democratic candidates for School Committee while criticizing and raising concerns about independent candidate Ashley Fogg.

After Hayes’ actions were revealed June 5 by HopNews, she stepped down as HDTC chair, but she had not made any public statements and declined to comment when reached via text — that is, until her June 12 apology.

Golembiewski caps record-setting HHS career

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Hopkinton High School track and field standout Sean Golembiewski was thrilled to be participating in the New Balance Nationals earlier this month, but the showcase became even more special when he had the chance to compete in the venue that will be his home for the coming four years.

The meet took place at Philadelphia’s Franklin Field, a stadium that predates Fenway Park by more than a decade and is the home of the University of Pennsylvania’s track and field team, the very program for which Golembiewski will compete.

“It was amazing,” Golembiewski said of the experience. “There are maybe two or three other stadiums in the country that are as historic and as big and cool as that one. There were a bunch of fans there, and it was really loud. I am even more excited to go there next year.”

Golembiewski | 14

Evie Pare, 2, stands in a front loader during the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation’s annual Touch-A-Truck and Food Truck Festival on June 10 outside Hopkinton High School.

New school will cause traffic issues

Hopkinton independent

The Hopkinton Independent is published by Hopkinton Independent, LLC, 32 South St., Westborough, MA 01581. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of the ad that was in error if notified in writing within three business days of the publication date. All material is the property of the Hopkinton Independent. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material. The Hopkinton Independent is delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to 100 percent of the homes and businesses in Hopkinton, reaching more than 7,600 addresses. ‘It’s also available for free pickup at Muffin House and Price Chopper as well as at many other local businesses.

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Managing Editor: Jerry Spar

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EDITORIAL COMMENTS AND INQUIRIES, including Letters to the Editor should be emailed to Editor@HopkintonIndependent.com

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I attended the online meeting on June 7 outlining the plans for the proposed new Elmwood School located next to the Marathon School on Hayden Rowe Street — a location behind the Start Line Brewery. I don’t believe many in this neighborhood are aware of the impact this new school is going to create not only on traffic but property values. Besides this new school proposal, it appears that a turning lane will be needed from the 147 Hayden Rowe proposed road and this will run past several homes to the Marathon School. It appears that at least 12 feet of land will be required to implement this, and that will adversely affect these homes (mine at 139 Hayden Rowe as one of them). So now we have the town building another school on wetlands, and I don’t think residents realize that when you start planning a three-wing, three-story school with parking lots, roads, fields, etc., where this water is going. Wintertime snowplowing is going to push all that snow into these wetlands, and when that melts, there will be flooding. At this meeting, we were told that a traffic study was done showing that traffic is heaviest at 6 a.m. and then again around 5 p.m. I don’t know where this study was done, but it certainly wasn’t done from my driveway. I think anyone living on Hayden Rowe will inform you that traffic is bottlenecked from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. and again from 2:30 p.m. until 6 or 6:30 p.m. I believe they are considering a traffic light at the Marathon School entrance. That would probably save the life of any crossing guard willing to stand out there directing traffic, but it would only add to the amount of traffic already backed up on Hayden Rowe. I don’t see how anyone coming out of Chamberlain Street would be able to negotiate a left turn. I think this would divert a lot of traffic into the Charlesview Estates area in order to avoid the Hayden Rowe area, especially if they ever connect Whalen Road to Chamberlain Street. They insisted that this new impressively large school isn’t the Taj Mahal, but it’s damn close. Something of this magnitude, besides the additional cost of moving telephone poles, mailboxes, fences, trees, etc., is going to significantly increase our real estate taxes.

— Ellen Holmes, Hopkinton

Pride Parade organizers thankful for support

We, the Hopkinton Freedom Team (HFT), would like to express our gratitude to Hopkinton and surrounding communities for a fantastic Pride Event! Not only was the event well attended with record turnout, it was a celebration that far exceeded any of our expectations. This could not have taken place without the hard work and effort of the scores of volunteers who helped to plan and execute this event. Many hands make light work, but it also makes them hungry and thirsty, so thank you to Bill’s Pizza and Price Chopper for sustaining our volunteers with food and drink. Special thanks to fellow HFT member Hopkinton Police Chief Bennett and the Hopkinton Police Department for their incomparable support of Hopkinton Pride events these past three years.

We would also like to thank Hopkinton Youth and Family Services and the Hopkinton Center for the Arts for their outstanding collaboration, as well as Boston Pride Community Fund and Mass Cultural Council for their generous grants to support.

It is always the intention and mission of the HFT to spread love, inclusion and trust. If anyone was negatively impacted on the day of the Pride Event, you should feel free to reach out to us at info@hopkintonfreedomteam.org so that we can better prepare for future events.

— Lynn Canty, on behalf of the Hopkinton Freedom Team

School Committee could use new leadership

I am so disappointed as I read the news article in the Hopkinton Independent about the School Committee reorganization.

I am grateful for the service that the board members provide. At the same time, why are the same people continuing to hold onto power in the Executive Committee (chair/ vice chair) for years at length, controlling the narrative, not making room for new voices who express interest to step up — highly qualified, inclusive and thoughtful leaders at that. These roles control subcommittee appointments, agenda shaping and much, much more. No one stepping up is evidently not an excuse in this case.

Is it not time to introduce term limits for elected roles, and leaders of leaders, who oversee tens of millions of taxpayer dollars? Two terms is enough both in the elected office and on the executive committee of a committee. This is 2023, after all, time to find ways to make room, elevate other voices and share power. Pass the torch, please.

— Meena Bharath, Hopkinton

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

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Man arrested, suspected of dealing cocaine

Hopkinton police arrested a Whitinsville man suspected of dealing cocaine after an officer noticed an erratic driving pattern on June 9.

Calvin Hodge, 40, was charged with drug possession to distribute a Class B substance, operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. His bail was set at $2,500.

Shortly after 1:30 a.m., Officer Brennan Grimley was driving eastbound down West Main Street when he observed a gray Jeep traveling on West Main Street toward Upton. The vehicle was driving about 20 mph in a posted 45 mph zone, “which attracted his attention, so he turned around to observe the vehicle driving,” according to a Hopkinton Police Department statement. The Jeep was spotted swerving and drifting half into the opposite lane, prompting Grimley to conduct a traffic stop.

Grimley and fellow Officer Matthew Santoro inspected the vehicle. They discovered a “large wad of cash” totaling $808 in the Jeep’s front cup holder, along with 20 individually wrapped baggies of what they believed to be crack cocaine in the center console, the HPD stated. The substance weighed approximately 12 grams. Immediately after the discovery of what was suspected to be drugs, the officers stopped their search and a search warrant was requested

“Based on the presence of a large amount of cash located within close proximity to individually packaged narcotics, [Officer] Grimley believed the possession of the narcotics was for distribution,” according to the HPD statement.

The Jeep was seized, “as there may be more evidence of further crimes located within the vehicle,” the HPD stated.

The HPD later announced that three days after the arrest, after a search warrant was obtained, a plastic bag believed to contain 45 grams of cocaine was found inside a backpack in the rear seat area of the Jeep. That brought the total of suspected narcotics to 57 grams.

The HPD noted that according to state law, any amount more than 18 grams is considered trafficking.

Water rate jumps 17.5%

At its June 20 meeting, the Select Board approved a 17.5% water rate increase for fiscal year 2024. It will be somewhat offset by a 5% sewer rate decrease.

Town Manager Norman Khumalo noted that many of the calculations are determined by how much money was approved for the budget at May’s Annual Town Meeting to ensure that the town can sufficiently fund it.

Factors that go into determining the rates include personnel costs, the annual enterprise operating budgets, operating expenses and capital project costs, explained Elizabeth Rourke, the town’s senior accounting manager.

Hopkinton’s planned connection to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority plays a part in the five-year budget forecast, Rourke noted.

Said Rourke: “That is one of the major cost drivers in the water rate — there’s no avoiding that.”

There are “a lot of unknowns” about possible state funding that could come to the town, which comes after a project starts. The town is planning on using $4 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding toward the MWRA project.

For the following two years, water rates are projected to rise by 30%.

“As you know, our community has grown rapidly,” said Water and Sewer manager Eric Carty. “We’re really struggling to keep up with demands.”

In addition, the costs to treat PFAS and manganese in the water “are also astronomical,” Carty said. The town is trying to provide more water that is cleaner.

Mosquito spraying scheduled for July

Personnel from the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) are scheduled to spray areas of Hopkinton on July 6, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26.

All dates are subject to change due to weather conditions, mosquito populations, mosquito virus activity and/or special event spraying. The program will shut down when cool nighttime temperatures become predominant in the area.

The detailed spray schedule is updated after 3:30 p.m. each day at the CMMCP website and the department’s phone line at 508-393-3055 (press 0 at the prompt to hear a recorded message).

For a list of products used in the spraying, check the CMMCP website’s Pesticide Information page. For information on how to be excluded from the spraying, check the CMMCP website’s Pesticide Exclusion page or call 508-393-3055.

Kenney added to Parks & Rec Commission

The Select Board met jointly with the Parks & Recreation Commission June 20 to appoint a new commissioner. After reviewing three candidates, the board voted for Seth Kenney to fill the vacancy that was created when Cynthia Esthimer moved out of state before her term was to expire in 2025. He lives on Lake Maspenock and has two children who utilize Parks & Rec programming.

“I’d like to be able to give back to the town as someone who uses [Lake Maspenock] every single day,” said Kenney.

The seat will be up for election next spring.

Mark Underdah Remodeling

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The positivity was palpable at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on June 11 as hundreds of people gathered for the third annual Hopkinton Pride Parade and celebration. The three-hour event was co-hosted by the Hopkinton Freedom Team, Hopkinton Youth and Family Services, and the Hopkinton Center for the Arts to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in an inclusive and family-friendly environment. Rainbow flags, ribbons, balloons and banners waved in the summer breeze as an estimated 380 people from Hopkinton and surrounding communities marched up Hayden Rowe Street before circling back to the HCA through neighborhood streets.

“This year, we were really trying to include more of the surrounding communities,” said lead event organizer Cathleen Dinsmore of the Hopkinton Freedom Team. “We have organizations from Holliston, Westborough, Milford and Southborough participating, as well as local groups.”

Lynn Canty, a fellow HFT member and volunteer, said she was excited about the event’s expansion.

“I think it’s absolutely amazing to have this collective coming together,” she said. “Having the location change to the HCA was great, and they have been really supportive.”

Pride was on full display as spectators cheered, waved and danced throughout the HCA grounds. Some waved rainbow flags while others wore T-shirts with messages such as “Be Kind” and “Love is Love.” Others wore leis and carried parasols.

is always changing, and the more voices we have represented in determining what our culture is going to be, the richer we will be as a society.

A local DJ pumped up the crowd with pop tunes that captured the day’s momentum, including “Happy” by Pharrell Williams and “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus. Food trucks served ice cream and hot dogs to the attendees while they were treated to live music and dance performances throughout the afternoon. Younger children enjoyed a bouncy house while groups of friends took pictures at a photo booth.

Later in the afternoon, an a cappella singing group entertained the crowd. Dance performances from the South Asian Circle of Hopkinton, Dance on Dance Center in Hudson, and Hopkinton High School’s K Club drew cheers and applause.

Hopkinton Freedom Team volunteer Chelsea Rockhold has been involved since the first parade, which originally circled the high school track. She said it was moving to see the shift to Hayden Rowe Street with participants from Hopkinton and beyond.

“Having it at all was really, really impactful for our family,” she said. “And then watching it move up further in the community, become bigger and bigger, and really have it be visible and celebratory like this is really cool. It used to be back on the track, but now it’s front and center.”

Rockhold credited the Hopkinton Freedom Team and all of the participants for the day’s success.

Hopkinton SEPAC (Special Educa-

Pride Parade | page 5

Individuals march in the third annual Pride Parade on June 11.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

I think the LGBTQ community, in general, is underrepresented.Culture

— School Committee member Adam Munroe

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

This issue’s winner is Corey Macdonald for this photo of a rainbow over Sandy Beach. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

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

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

Pride Parade attracts hundreds to Hopkinton

tion Parent Advisory Council) was one of several organizations with information tables lining the parking lot. The group brings together parents of special education students with school administration and provides feedback on school programs.

“SEPAC is proud to stand with the Hopkinton Freedom Team to celebrate pride and diversity in our community,” said SEPAC events coordinator Erica Seekell. “We were thrilled to meet so many residents and introduce them to the mission of SEPAC.”

Danielle Fitzpatrick stood on Hayden Rowe Street as she watched for her wife and daughter, who were marching in the parade.

“My family is an LGBT family,” she said. “We just want to celebrate who we are. Love is love, and we’re just here to spread the love.”

“I was here last year, and it wasn’t this big,” added her cousin, Mary Marcello, who has a transgender daughter. “There’s a great turnout, and it’s all positive.”

“We’re just so blessed that we have a welcoming community like this,” said Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett. “It’s a gorgeous day, and I was really happy that I can be here.”

He added that countless hours of volunteer effort made the day a great success.

“This is important stuff,” said Woodville resident Mike Perkins as he and Hudson, his son, took turns waving a large pride flag with the message “Abide No Hatred.” He purchased it through The Bitter Southerner, a group that works to advance social justice causes in the South.

“This flag is so weathered because it’s been flying at our house for about a year and a half,” he said. “It’s important, especially the way the world is now, to show support.”

He added that the HCA was the perfect venue for the activities, calling it “a town treasure.”

School Committee member Adam Munroe said he came to show his support for the LGBT+ community and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

“As a member of the School Committee, I’m very interested in what all aspects of the community are involved with,” he said. “I’ve always been very supportive, and I take people at face value for who and what they want to be.”

He added that some family members and close friends are members of the LGBT community.

“I think the LGBTQ community, in general, is underrepresented,” Munroe continued. “Culture is always changing, and the more voices we have represented in determining what our culture is going to be, the richer we will be as a society.”

Eversource addresses concerns about LNG plant safety

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Representatives from Eversource addressed safety and operational concerns about the company’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility on Wilson Street at a public forum June 8 that spanned more than three hours.

The meeting, held at the Faith Community Church on East Main Street, attracted more than 75 people, including residents of the nearby Legacy Farms community, state Rep. James ArenaDeRosa and Select Board members Muriel Kramer, Amy Ritterbusch, Shahidul Mannan and Irfan Nasrullah. It was organized in response to a request at a May Select Board meeting for a special forum to address concerns about the three aging tanks that contain a billion feet of natural gas in its vaporized state, which is condensed into a liquid of about 1/600th of that amount.

Eversource’s presentation was led by Jim Blackburn, the manager of LNG engineering and technical services. In an interview with the Hopkinton Independent on Wednesday and at the forum, he described the history of the modification work to the plant and improvements made to the liquefaction equipment that freezes the gas into a solid.

Project history detailed

“I appreciate the opportunity to get our side out,” Blackburn said in an interview one day earlier in response to concerns recently raised about safety and security at the plant. He explained

that the facility is unique because two pipelines intersect there.

He said the company began in 2013 to assess its LNG assets, including its facilities in Hopkinton and Acushnet. Preliminary assessments were made of site conditions, and engineering and design work was performed “to add to the goal of safety, reliability and main-

Join us every Friday and Saturday night in our outdoor amphitheater from 6:30–8 p.m. for one of ten amazing bands in our Summer Art Series line-up, sponsored by Dell Technologies. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab a lawn chair, blanket, and a picnic basket, and join us for a night of rockin’ good music!

Through the generosity of ALL our sponsors, the Barbara Corbett Foundation, Phipps/MAPFRE Insurance, and the cultural councils of Ashland, Holliston, Milford, and Southborough these concerts are on a pay-what-you-can basis. Please reserve your tickets at HopArtsCenter.org.

tainability of the facilities.”

“Recognizing that we, as many utilities, were beginning to approach the 50-year mark of our assets, we recognized that there was a need to reinvest in the facilities to ensure continued reliability and safety,” he said.

During this time frame, Blackburn explained, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) performed a review of the gas services agreement between the company, referred to as Hopkinton LNG Corporation, distributor NSTAR Gas, and the DPU.

“That agreement essentially provided some framework in which the company would invest in the facilities and what we would call the refurbishment period,” he said. “The idea was to modernize the facilities. The first year of that agreement was 2014.”

Now Eversource is about two-thirds of the way into the more than $300 million worth of investments into its two facilities, with most of the money going toward the Hopkinton plant. A major investment was to improve the facility’s liquefaction equipment, according to Blackburn. Eversource is finalizing the commissioning of the new equipment. The updated technology, which utilizes nitrogen to freeze the gas into a solid,

will replace flammable refrigerants. This is expected to improve air quality and reduce LNG going under the roadway of Wilson Street.

Said Blackburn: “I think one of the big things that some folks in the community will see is substantial, if not total, reduction of flaring taking place at the main part of the facility, which is the hillside part that all of the folks at Legacy Farms can see.”

Some of the concerns about the project may have arisen because new residents were not familiar with the project history, he explained.

“I think that one of the things is because we’re right there on the roadway, I think people are seeing a lot of things they’re not used to seeing because maybe they’re new to the town,” said Blackburn. “It kind of draws attention to a facility that in the past was kind of quiet.”

He described LNG as “one of the keys of bridging our transformation in energy to decarbonization and moving into more electric forms of energy.” And unlike electricity, the LNG facility stores gas for use “strictly for the distribution customers” and charges them about one-tenth of the market cost

Eversource | page 7

98 Hayden Rowe Street | Hopkinton | 508.435.9222 | HopArtsCenter.org

Eversource’s Jim Blackburn talks during the public forum.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Residents raise questions about LNG facility

during the winter months, when gas and electricity rates spike.

Said Blackburn: “At the end of the day, the LNG is really owned by the NSTAR gas customers.”

“LNG seems to be a little mysterious to folks,” he added. “They think nothing of having a propane tank for a gas grill. But LNG does not have some of the safety concerns that propane does. It’s actually lighter than air, is much safer, and is a better means of storing energy.”

Residents voice concerns about safety, air quality

At the meeting, Blackburn and the Eversource team addressed concerns about safety, security and air quality. Blackburn said the plant is overseen by manager Kirk Hayden and has three supervisors, a plant superintendent, an operations supervisor and a maintenance supervisor, all of whom were in attendance.

Blackburn explained that $20 million in modernization went into examining Tank B after a “thermal anomaly” was discovered in 2017. Over the past two years, the tank was fully inspected from the inside.

What happened was that a 10-squarefoot portion of the insulation made of volcanic rock between the walls of the inner and outer tanks developed some moisture and then froze. This caused it to become pearlized. The tank was taken out of service when the anomaly was discovered and then emptied, inspected and re-insulated. The tank was considered to be in good condition because LNG is not corrosive. He stressed that no cracks were found in Tank B.

Residents questioned whether the tanks are in-ground. It was explained that they are on a foundation one foot above grade level. Some confusion arose because of a report citing cracks in the rock at two antiquated tanks installed below grade; these tanks were taken out of service in the early 1970s.

Concerns were expressed about gas escaping into the air. While the facility has the ability to vent in an emergency, “generally there should be no venting of methane into the air,” according to Blackburn. The insulation and outer tank provide a buffer.

The facility has dozens of gas detection monitors that set off alarms if methane escapes, as well as fire detectors that can trigger an automatic shutdown, Hayden said. If valves are rotated, a small amount of gas may escape, but this is not considered a leak.

Security issues outside the facility also were addressed. Hayden said that security providers are outsourced. The provider was changed about five months ago because the company “was not satisfied.” The current security provider is being evaluated.

Blackburn added that there are “several layers” of internal security.

He noted that the facility is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities Pipeline Safety Division. Semiannual reports are conducted.

“It is confusing because there are so many different regulators,” ArenaDeRosa said, noting that residents in-

quired to his office about a permit that had expired in 2017.

During the meeting, a central repository in town for documents relating to the LNG facility was suggested.

Arena-DeRosa added that he spoke with a regional director from the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) regarding air quality concerns. Reports are available publicly, and Arena-DeRosa pledged to compile related reports and have them available to the public upon request.

Nasrullah, who formerly worked for Mass DEP as its senior regional counsel, explained that the operating permit regarding air quality relates to the emissions from the equipment, not from the entire facility.

Blackburn said that the renewal permit was applied for within the sixmonth window of expiration, keeping the plant in compliance, but Mass DEP has been very slow to issue it.

Residents also stressed their need for an evacuation plan should an emergency occur. Eversource has developed an evacuation plan with the town’s public safety officials. The Fire Department is responsible for the evacuation plan outside of the plant.

Fire Chief Bill Miller explained that situations like this are “dynamic,” and the strategy is determined by the nature of the event. Because of this, a definitive plan cannot be released to the public, he said. An evacuation plan is being updated, which occurs on a five-year basis. Reverse 911 calls and door-knocking would be performed in worst-case scenarios.

Blackburn said that May’s drill was successful and took a year to coordinate. In addition to this, “tabletop and functional exercises” are performed annually.

Security lanterns around the perimeter of the facility also concerned Legacy Farms residents. Blackburn said that the lanterns have not been working “almost from day one.” He said they were “not an appropriate measure to put in place” because igniting the gas and then sending it back toward the facility would not be safe.

Residents also asked about the need for seismic tests. The team said that

there has not been an earthquake in the area of the plant or any changes in the surface around it.

Said Blackburn: “We’ll have to discuss that internally.”

Improving communication and transparency was a mutual goal of the community and residents. Residents requested that the town provide regular

updates to the public on the facility. “We’ve recognized over the last few years the sensitivity that the town has over the facility,” Blackburn stressed, noting that Eversource provides the town with weekly construction updates. “We have a much-improved relationship with the Fire Department and first responders.”

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 10-month-old Delta.

Here is Baypath’s description of Delta:

“Delta is a total nerd who loves to learn! She’s currently calculating how she can find her way into your home for summer school! This young lady is so smart and loves to do training, especially when yummy snacks are involved — don’t worry, she’s not picky. When she’s not busy learning, Delta enjoys going on walks and playing with her favorite toys. She loves carrying around her favorite stuffies!

“She is looking forward to finding a home to take her on adventures and go swimming — she loves exploring the water. Delta is used to the warm Texas weather, so this New England summer will be a breeze!

“Delta is looking for a home with teenagers or older to play with her! She would be willing to share her home with another dog sibling — as long as they like to wrestle!”

For more information on Delta 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.

Downtown businesses deal with rowdy students

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Concerns recently arose about teen activity in the downtown business district and what options are available for young adults to socialize after school and during the summer break.

As first reported in HopNews on June 12, Bill Besozzi, the manager at CVS at 61 Main Street, said that large groups of teens had been loitering in the store after school, being disruptive and shoplifting.

Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett said police responded to a call from CVS after students were released from school following an early release day earlier this month.

“CVS called us because there was a large group of kids hanging out in the store,” Bennett said. “CVS was regulating how many came in and went out and asked them to leave their backpacks outside.”

Said Bennett: “No crimes were reported.”

He added that police did not observe any disruptive behavior by teenagers while in the store.

“I myself have been in CVS when school gets out,” said Carol Cavanaugh, the superintendent of the Hopkinton Public Schools. “I will tell you that I have seen 40 kids come through the door. I will say that they’re loud and obnoxious and kind of running up and down the aisles. I can imagine that it must be kind of a little battle with them and the manager. But I did not get the impression that there was stealing.”

She described the behavior as “more of a middle school thing” because many of the district’s older teens have jobs or are involved in sports.

The superintendent also questioned if students could be stealing things they really need, “or if it’s just a game.”

Cavanaugh also said she has seen

SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME FOR SUMMER

of the early dismissal for the last day of school on June 21, Siarkos requested that a police officer walk through the pizzeria in the early afternoon. The officer arrived shortly before noon.

“For us, it’s mostly damage, not really theft,” Siarkos explained. “They are cutting up the booths and breaking stuff in the bathroom — breaking the dryers and the soap dispensers, making a mess, leaving trash. And, of course, the gumballs and candy everywhere.”

Stressed Siarkos: “It’s not all the kids who do this.”

He tried to implement a policy where teens would not be allowed to eat inside Bill’s, but he “received pushback from parents.”

“But it’s not like we are babysitters,” Siarkos explained. “They are able to eat in here, but they can’t hang out all day. Once they are done, they are asked to go, because other customers want the seats. On half-days, it usually works out well because they are our only customers early in the day. Then they leave when it starts to get busy.”

One difficulty Cavanaugh noted is that teens often are cashiers at retail establishments, and it would be hard for them to diffuse difficult situations with their peers.

groups of teens hanging out at the HCAM-TV building on Main Street after school.

Said Cavanaugh: “Maybe it’s because they have no place else to go.”

At past town meetings earlier this year, residents have made suggestions for a community center that could provide activities for all ages.

“During the summer, the district does offer a program for kids who need additional academic support so that they don’t experience learning loss,” Cavanaugh said. “This is different from the typical extended-year program that all school districts offer for special education students. There are also programs for non-native-English speakers.”

The schools do provide after-school clubs and activities during the academic year, according to Cavanaugh. But they are typically offered one day a week. This raises the issue of after-school transportation.

“Unless they have a parent who can get you at 2:25 or 3:25 p.m., you are going to walk the streets of Hopkinton,” she explained. “And that’s when you could get into trouble because you have nothing to do.”

Because of budget constraints, it would be difficult to pay teachers to stay after school to run more activities or to hire vans.

“There are a lot of inter- and intramural sports that we offer for middle schoolers,” Cavanaugh added. “But I wouldn’t say that it’s enough to offer every kid who would be going downtown. We just don’t have it.”

Bill’s Pizzeria on Main Street is a popular teen hangout, she added. If teens purchase food, behave in a respectful manner and don’t litter the property, they should be treated the same as other customers.

“It’s definitely happening, the rowdiness,” said Zack Siarkos, who owns and runs Bill’s. “But it’s not like it’s anything new. It’s been going on for some years. Some years are better than others.”

For Bill’s, problems tend to occur on early release days, when packs of up to 50 teens show up at once. In advance

Said Cavanaugh: “If you’re a cashier, you’re a cashier; you’re not a security guard.”

The pandemic has affected many teens’ behavior, she said, noting the heavy use of social media that didn’t exist a few years ago. Last year, districts across the country were impacted by TikTok challenges, where teens would be encouraged to destroy school property or behave in less than appropriate ways.

“We still say that our kids don’t really know how to do school, so to speak,” she said. “A big piece of that is social media. … It’s a game.”

Pat Savage, the interim director of the Parks & Recreation Department, said there is a breadth of activities offered. But primarily, they are athletic offerings, she acknowledged.

“Hopkinton is a town that is very sports-oriented,” she said. “But there are some teens who don’t like or don’t want to participate in sports.”

She added that increasing programming for teens and other underserved populations is something she has discussed with program coordinators and likely will be addressed when a permanent director is hired.

“It’s a game,” Savage said of the recent shoplifting allegations. “It’s a challenge. Teens are bored. This is not something that is unique to Hopkinton.”

The Parks & Recreation Department is a good resource for young people, she continued. In addition to athletic programming, it offers employment opportunities for teens. Lifeguards and camp counselors are positions that tend to attract high school and college students. In addition, she has discussed a counselor training program for middle school-aged students.

“There are always volunteer opportunities in town where they would be very much appreciated,” Savage said. She suggested the Senior Center, the library and the food pantry as places where help is needed.

“It’s a difficult age because teens are looking for independence,” she continued. “But teens develop at different rates, and not everyone is at the same maturity level.”

Bill’s Pizzeria is a popular downtown hangout for students, especially on early release days.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

— Bill’s Pizzeria owner Zack Siarkos

It’s definitely happening, the rowdiness. But it’s not like it’s anything new. It’s been going on for some years. Some years are better than others.

Hayes apologizes, resigns committee seats after online controversy

“I am sorry,” the apology read. “I immensely regret my online behavior, as well as the disappointment and mistrust it caused. I take full responsibility for what I did. It was thoughtless, unnecessary and inexcusable.

“I care deeply about our community. My husband and I have lived in Hopkinton for nearly 30 years where we have raised our family in this wonderful town. I have been an active member in our community, supporting many local causes and organizations, and I also extend an apology to all [those] that I may have hurt with my actions.

“Moving forward, I will strive to be a better neighbor and hope in time that you will be able to forgive me.”

When contacted for a response, Fogg indicated she was grateful to see an apology, although she was disappointed not to see her name in it.

“Darlene’s behavior (both online and not) has left a gaping wound in our town, one that is going to take a long time to recover from, if ever,” Fogg wrote via email. “Darlene’s apology is only the first step. The HDTC needs to take a hard, introspective look into their organization and fix the systemic issues if it ever hopes to continue as a viable political organization in Hopkinton.

“Hopkinton has lost trust in the HDTC and its members. They continue to turn a blind eye to the division and hostility they have caused for many years in Hopkinton. The democratic process for volunteer positions has been summarily destroyed.

“To have any chance of moving forward with any integrity or trust, the HDTC should do the following:

“1. Put together a new HDTC policy that condemns divisive, harmful attacks online or otherwise, AND hold their members accountable. Make this new policy public;

“2. Publicly apologize to Holly Morand, School Committee member and Hopkinton resident, for the mistreatment and attacks she had to endure after supporting my campaign;

“3. Investigate and make public your findings into the coordinated efforts of the HDTC and the HTA [Hopkinton Teachers Association] during the election;

“4. Ms. Hayes needs to resign from all elected positions, and the Select Board should be asking for her resignations immediately.

“Darlene’s apology may be a good start. But the HDTC needs to put in the work to rebuild Hopkinton’s trust. Otherwise it will just be business as usual.”

Hayes attended the Housing Authority meeting June 14 but did not address the issue. In a letter to the Select Board dated June 16, she recapped some of her accomplishments on the Housing Authority and indicated she would resign effective June 30 “to make sure any historic knowledge, information and contacts are coordinated to hand off the implementation process” of an outdoor improvement grant project she had been spearheading.

The HDTC Executive Committee, which had issued a statement the day the initial story broke disavowing Hayes’ behavior and accepting her resignation as chair, responded to a question about Fogg’s recommendations by noting it has a written statement that

“encourages positive campaigning and was adopted by our entire membership years ago.”

Amy Groves is the new HDTC chair, with Dick Duggan (vice chair), Ellen Rutter (recording secretary) and Mary Jo Ondrechen (affirmative action outreach coordinator) joining Groves on the Executive Committee.

The HDTC also insisted it did not coordinate with the HTA, whose president, Rebecca Abate, had criticized Fogg prior to the election. Abate previously stated there was no coordinated plan.

“It is not easy to run in a contested campaign, regardless of party affiliation,” the HDTC wrote via email. “We are grateful to all those who volunteer to run for office.

“Our endorsed candidates ran positive campaigns that emphasized their own ideas and qualifications; this is the way that it should be. We were unhappy that multiple candidates were the target of personal attacks.”

Darlene Hayes resigned her town committee positions following her online controversy.

FILE PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Tensions flare at Trails Committee meeting regarding UCTC

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Trail Coordination and Management Committee met jointly with Select Board chair Muriel Kramer on June 14, with the main point of contention being the potential reorganization of the Upper Charles Trail Committee.

At last month’s Annual Town Meeting, there was an overwhelming vote of approval on Article 47. This nonbinding article, proposed by TCMC chair Peter LaGoy as a private citizen, asked that Town Manager Norman Khumalo abolish the current UCTC and reconfigure it as a TCMC subcommittee. Because the UCTC was created by the Select Board, it is under its purview to make a decision about the UCTC’s future.

This article was drafted in response to what has been seen as a lack of responsiveness to residents’ concerns about proposed Upper Charles Trail Segments 6 and 7. They were proposed to travel behind Marathon School and then head to the Milford border, crossing busy Hayden Rowe Street in the process.

In response to the Town Meeting vote, the Select Board created a subcommittee that drafted a survey to get public input about the UCTC’s charge and charter, as well as the potential users of the Upper Charles Trail and the surfacing they would desire.

Kramer noted during the meeting that the survey is nearly ready to go out to the public. The final draft was submitted to Khumalo, who is having it reviewed by an outside consultant before it is released. It will be available online, and paper copies will be available at the library and the

senior center. She expected the survey release date to be posted on the town website and released to the local media. There also could be posters at trailheads with QR codes directing to the survey.

“We’re hoping to get a nice cross section of the community, including ages and areas of the community,” Kramer said.

UCTC’s future sparks tense debate

LaGoy said he proposed making the UCTC a TCMC subcommittee with the intent of it functioning in the same way that a school building committee reports to the School Committee about its project. He explained that there are five TCMC associate positions vacant that potentially could be held by members of a UCTC subcommittee, if approved by the Select Board.

Kramer clarified that school building committees report to the Select Board, not the School Committee.

Said Kramer: “What we really want to have is a go-forward position that really is collaborative and works for all interested parties and really helps us make some progress.”

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She pointed out that because there has been some tension between the UCTC and the TCMC, she personally envisions them as remaining separate committees. Her reasoning was that subcommittees do not seem to be “a super successful structure.” Also, she wanted to make sure that the UCTC’s previous work was not invalidated.

TCMC member Charles Dauchy noted that this is the first time that the TCMC has discussed the UCTC’s future as a committee. LaGoy and TCMC member Linda Chuss added that some town members felt their concerns were not being heard by the UCTC nor the Select Board for more than a year and a half. This made the Town Meeting article “an extraordinary step,” according to LaGoy.

Said LaGoy as a private citizen: “It was presented in the hope that it would force some action on the part of the Select Board.”

Countered Kramer: “When the Select Board doesn’t necessarily take the action you wanted, it doesn’t mean that you haven’t been heard. It may mean that you haven’t been necessarily agreed with.”

She added that the subcommittee approach never was formally submitted to the Select Board for consideration.

“For me, there’s a serious piece that we formulate committees by charge and by purpose — not to suit people or to remove people,” Kramer stressed. “I really don’t want to get to a place where we’re working collectively against individuals or people. I want to find different ways forward, always.”

UCTC member calls article a ‘strong-arming’ tactic

When the topic veered into talk about Segments 6 and 7, Jim Ciriello, the UCTC’s liaison from the Conservation Commission, spoke out. He noted that this was not on the meeting agenda for discussion.

“What’s on the agenda is the charge and this so-called new committee,” said Ciriello. He added that he believed that LaGoy perceived a UCTC subcommittee

as “a foregone conclusion.”

Said Ciriello: “Clearly, this whole thing has come about because of bullying and strong-arming.”

LaGoy replied that the segment discussion could be considered under the agenda item on the UCTC’s “status.”

Chuss pointed out that there seemed to be a disconnect between the Town Meeting vote and the UCTC’s vote to retain its current officers, calling the reelection “business as usual.” Kramer, who attended the UCTC meeting when the election of officers was held, said she was surprised by the vote.

When Ciriello interrupted Chuss and began to yell, LaGoy told him he was out of order. Ciriello, who refused to stop talking, eventually asked if LaGoy wanted him to leave, and LaGoy said yes.

“The problem is that nobody went to the Upper Charles Trail committee for years,” Ciriello said before departing. “Virtual, after COVID and in person.”

The Select Board liaison to the UCTC is Irfan Nasrullah. He had not attended UCTC meetings for some time until the election of new officers last month. He is a member of the subcommittee that drafted the survey, along with Select Board member Amy Ritterbusch.

Said Kramer: “It is a priority for me that we value, respect and transition in a respectful way.”

“The two groups are not working, clearly,” said TCMC member Fran DeYoung. “There’s a lot of energy being spent that could be done in, I think, a more cohesive way. But the ball is clearly in the Select Board’s court.”

Kramer noted that the issue is “politically charged and emotionally charged” and suggested an arbiter.

“There’s a piece of me that’s like, ‘Why are we arguing about trails?’ ” she said. “We love them.”

TCMC charge discussed

Committee members reviewed the TCMC’s three-page charge. What was missing from it, LaGoy said, is the work about building trails.

“You’ve been doing a lot of work that doesn’t satisfy the charge,” Kramer pointed out, noting that there are parts of both the UCTC and TCMC charters that are not being acted upon.

The key focus areas of the charge, LaGoy said, should be trail development and maintenance, outreach, and working with other committees.

Chuss added that the structure and number of members should be considered.

— TCMC member Fran DeYoung

The two groups are not working, clearly. There’s a lot of energy being spent that could be done in, I think, a more cohesive way. But the ball is clearly in the Select Board’s court.

BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER

FEATURE

Century 21 Marathon opens office on West Main Street

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

James

Burton, the owner and broker of Century 21 Marathon, is a top producer in the real estate industry, but he’s also at the peak when it comes to professional development. “Since 2019, I’ve completed 24 realtor designations and certifications, which is the second or third highest accumulation in the entire country,” he says. “I am into education, learning and growth — not just growth in business but growth personally and professionally.”

After running out of professional courses to take, Burton is moving on to training classes this summer in order to become a real estate instructor. “That’s the next evolution for me,” he explains. “I’ll be able to teach classes online, which is a great way to brand and get my message out there.”

Locals may recognize Burton from his signature bright yellow Jeep, which features prominently in his ads and is readily spotted around town. Branding is a major part of Burton’s business, formerly known as Marathon Real Estate, and one of the reasons he purchased a Century 21 franchise last December.

“Century 21 brings an extra level of awareness because it’s the largest international brand, and we are a diverse community,” Burton says. “There are a lot of Century 21 offices in Europe and Asia. So the brand recognition in itself is driving business for me as a top producer, and I’m continuing to recruit agents to help them take advantage of the opportunity for international referrals as well.”

With a broker’s license valid in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, Burton’s range is vast, and he has “seen it all” when it comes to real estate. As a disabled army veteran with a VA loan himself, Burton is well equipped to work with other VA loan clients (150 of them so far), and he also frequently guides first-time home buyers through an often daunting process. “Getting people into their first home,

that’s one of the most rewarding things about my job,” Burton says.

Burton’s new office is located at 77 West Main Street, where he serves as “manager, owner, CEO, admin, relocation director — I am everything, basically.” Located across from Dunkin’ Donuts and right next to Interstate 495, Burton’s office is “probably the most accessible in town,” he says, plus there’s ample parking and a latte machine.

Burton lives in Hopkinton and currently is building a house on Ash Street. He’s also a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Greater Boston Real Estate Board.

“The way I explain the real estate process to clients is that it’s like those old-school, classic watches with all the gears inside,” Burton says. “My job is to keep all those gears turning quickly and to build in margins of error for everything so that if something happens, you have extra time on the back end.”

For more information, call 617-5495024, email james@c21marathon.com or drop by the Century 21 Marathon office and enjoy a latte with Burton. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.

Marshall reelected to MassCPA board

The Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants (MassCPAs) announced that Arthur Marshall, CPA, MBA, was elected to serve a third year on its Board of Directors for its 2023-24 fiscal year, which began May 1. Marshall, a Hopkinton resident, is a partner of assurance services at EY with clients in various industries, including software, technology, manufacturing, oil and gas, retail/distribution and healthcare. EY is one of the Big Four accounting firms that primarily provides assurance (including financial audit), tax, consulting and advisory services to its clients.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

MassCPAs Board of Directors is a group of 19 elected members that sets policies, manages programs and oversees activities that benefit the 11,500-member organization and accounting profession in Massachusetts.

“MassCPAs Board of Directors is an exceptional and diverse group of individuals that will have a profound impact on defining the society’s priorities and propelling the accounting profession forward in Massachusetts,” said Amy Pitter, MassCPAs president and CEO. “I am thrilled to have Arthur on the board and know that his valuable contributions and leadership will benefit the Society, our community and the profession in the coming year.”

With over 20 years of public accounting assurance services experience, Marshall excels in guiding clients through public offerings (IPOs and debt), acquisitions and adoption of new accounting standards. As EY’s Global Professional Practice Technology Transformation leader, he collaborates with audit teams and external clients, leveraging technology and creating digital assets to elevate audit quality and financial reporting and streamline business processes that foster trust and value for stakeholders.

James Burton has been in the real estate industry for 15 years.

State orders Golden Pond not to accept new residents

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

OnJune 21, employees from the Assisted Living Certification Unit of the state Executive Office of Elder Affairs visited Hopkinton to investigate conditions at an assisted living residence that failed a compliance review in March.

The state’s Executive Office of Elder Affairs conducted a compliance review at The Communities at Golden Pond, located at 50 West Main Street, on March 23, according to a letter dated May 22. The facility was ordered not to accept new residents “on or after May 4.”

“Based on findings of non-compliance identified through the review, EOEA has suspended the Assisted Living Residence Certification status of Golden Pond,” reads the letter from the EOEA to Golden Pond (and viewed by the Independent). “Suspension of Certification means that Golden Pond may continue to operate but may not accept any new residents on or after May 4, 2023, until the Secretary of EOEA determines that Golden Pond is in full compliance with all the laws and regulations applicable to Assisted Living Residences.”

“The EOEA told me that the content of that letter is very accurate,” confirmed Hopkinton Health Director Shaun McAuliffe, who on June 21 spoke with MarieJean Earnshaw, the EOEA’s assistant director of assisted living certification

compliance.

“They are investigating Golden Pond because they have been accepting clients when they don’t necessarily have the staff to provide the services that are necessary,” he said. “The EOEA is awaiting an action plan from Golden Pond “to see what measures will be put in place.”

The Independent reached out to Michael Volpe, Golden Pond’s executive director, for comment on the violations found by the state during the March audit and plans for rectifying the situation. Volpe did not return a phone call by press time.

In an email sent to Golden Pond resi-

dents on May 19 (and obtained by the Independent), Volpe offered an explanation.

“With all of our focus on the health and well-being of our residents and team members as we navigated through the pandemic, we were not always able to maintain all the regulatory requirements required for our certification as an assisted living community,” he wrote.

“COVID-19 protocols and unforeseen challenges in staffing and infection control made it very difficult to adhere to all the requirements as we have prided ourselves in years past. I am writing today to notify you that we recently had our survey with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA), our regulatory office, and their findings were similar. We work closely with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and embrace the survey as a way to constantly look at how and where we can improve our services and quality of care. Their findings at this most recent survey indicate that we have some work to do to improve our processes.”

In the email, Volpe also stated that

while new admissions cannot be accepted, “We are working diligently to correct the issues and welcoming new admissions.”

McAuliffe said the finding of noncompliance was concerning. What he also found troubling was that three Golden Pond residents died there during a oneweek span in mid-June.

“There is an expectation of a higher number of deaths than average at Golden Pond or Fairview Estates because they are assisted living facilities,” McAuliffe said. “But there were three deaths reported [in a] week. That is a high number.”

On June 21, McAuliffe said the Office of the State Medical Examiner was in contact with him because he is in charge of the town’s burial records.

“The Medical Examiner’s Office said there are several deaths they are looking at,” he said, noting that the police and fire departments are being contacted as well. “I am not sure of the specifics at this time.”

McAuliffe said he hoped to receive records from the Fire Department related to Golden Pond to see if any resident deaths may have been reported to other hospitals. While patients usually are transported to Milford Regional Urgent Care in Hopkinton for care, more emergent cases could go to Milford Regional Medical Center in Milford or to MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham, as well as to Boston hospitals. These hospitals might not report death data for Hopkinton residents to the Hopkinton Health Department.

Parks & Rec welcomes interim director during difficult time

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

At its meeting June 12, the Parks & Recreation Commission welcomed interim director Pat Savage, noting that the department has been in some disarray due to recent staff and committee departures.

“We’re really fortunate to have Pat,” said chair Dan Terry, who indicated that she was recommended by Town Manager Norman Khumalo. “The downside is that she’s busy.”

Savage, who came out of retirement

to accept the interim position, is working 15 hours per week in this role. She began her career teaching physical education at the junior college level. Savage then served as the recreation supervisor for Newton for seven years. She left to become Sudbury’s recreation director, working that job for nearly nine years. After leaving in 2002, Savage became the director of parks, recreation and cemetery for the town of Westford, a position she held for more than 21 years until her recent retirement.

“Part of my background is the financial background of parks and grounds,”

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she said. “It’s the field I went into, and I actually got jobs in the field.”

She described the director’s role as being business oriented because of the collection of funds and dealing with multiple budgets.

Said Savage: “You no longer just throw the basketball out and play.”

Terry noted that the department has been understaffed because of the recent departures of Jay Guelfi (director) and Jennifer Hart (program coordinator). This has hampered progress on projects discussed over the past several months, including the million-dollar redesign of Pyne Field and the skate park at EMC Park.

“What I’ve seen from Pat so far is a real process-driven approach and understanding of how things are done,” Terry said. “I’m looking forward to us being in a different place 12 months from now with her help.”

He expressed some concern over the projects that received funding through the Community Preservation Committee, noting that the department previously “took the lead on them.” The pickleball/tennis facility project recently went out to bid, according to Savage, and the closing date is June 29.

The status of the skate park is unclear, Terry said. Dave Daltorio, the town engineer and facilities director, will be consulted for the most current information. Also on hold is the boat dock proposed for Sandy Beach until a file number for the project is received from the state’s Department of Environmental Protection.

One change Savage is implementing is putting staff work into modules with a backup person to ensure continuity and prevent the current situation from reoccurring. She said new program coordinator Erin Grogan is “a real go-getter” who will be helpful during this transition period.

Savage can provide some structure to the department during her tenure, Terry added. One thing she has done already is

to hire someone to train summer staff in CPR and first aid. She also asked to hire an outside trainer for staff and lifeguard training on “basic group leadership techniques” and how to work with children.

“Many times, we’re the first employer of these individuals,” she said. “And so, really, we’re setting them up hopefully to be successful in their future careers.”

Savage will remain in this role until a permanent director is found. Applications will be accepted through June 29.

Cricket pitch hits snag

The highly anticipated cricket pitch has encountered a problem because cricket enthusiasts from the Hopkinton Cricket Club purchased resurfacing materials before meeting with the commission for approval.

Terry learned that although the club did receive multiple bids on the surface materials, this process should have been completed through the town’s procurement office. The bids the club received may not have considered prevailing wage. They also included sales tax, which would not need to be paid via the town process because Hopkinton is a municipality.

Said Savage: “Definitely, it did not go through the proper procurement for the town.”

She added that it would be easier for the club to donate the carpet it purchased to the town at this point. She was unclear if the carpet met the specifications required for a cricket pitch.

Terry added that the project “has kind of taken on a life of its own.”

Another problem brought up by commissioner Amy O’Donnell is that the cricket carpet is being stored in the Fruit Street closet behind the concession stand, preventing any equipment from going in or out. Lacrosse nets were supposed to be moved there, she said, but there is no room.

Golden Pond was ordered by the state not to accept new residents until officials could determine the facility was in compliance with regulations for assisted living residences.

Biggest threats to a comfortable retirement?

If you save and invest for decades, you’d like to know you can retire without financial worries. Nonetheless, you still have to be aware of some threats to a comfortable retirement — and how to respond to them.

These threats include:

• Inflation – Inflation has been high recently, but even a mild inflation rate can seriously erode your purchasing power. In fact, with just a 3% inflation rate, your expenses could double in about 25 years — and your retirement could easily last that long. So, if you’re going to rely on your investment portfolio for a sizable part of your retirement income, you will need to own a reasonable number of growth-oriented investments, such as stocks or stock-based funds, whose potential returns can equal or exceed the inflation rate.

• Excessive withdrawals – Once you retire, you should establish a withdrawal rate for your portfolio — an amount you can take out each year and still feel secure that you won’t run out of money. Some people make the mistake of withdrawing too much, too soon, once they’re retired. Your withdrawal rate should be based on several factors, including your age at retirement, the size of your portfolio and the amount of income you receive from other sources, such as Social Security. A financial professional can help you determine a withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for your needs.

• Market volatility – The financial markets will always fluctuate. When you’re still working, this volatility may not be such a problem, as you have years or decades to recover from short-term downturns. But when you retire, you don’t want to have to sell investments when their price is down. To help prevent this, you can tap into the cash in your portfolio, assuming

Cricket pitch hits snag

Cricket | from page 12

Terry said he will consult Daltorio about a place to store this carpet.

Outside groups littered fields during recent tournament

Groups that rented the fields for a tournament during the Memorial Day weekend left behind bottles and trash, according to commissioners. O’Donnell said this caused the fields “to end up in a world of hurt.”

“It was trashed,” added commissioner Laura Hanson. “It was horrifying.”

Terry said this situation showed that “there were gaps in things we did” regarding supervision, noting that multiple teams can use a field during a day.

Savage suggested instituting a security deposit fee that would be refunded if the fields are left in good condition by renters.

Terry said outside players may have been using metal cleats at the high school

you have enough to cover several months’ worth of living expenses. You could also draw on a CD “ladder” — a group of CDs that mature at different times — to provide you with resources for the next few years and allow your equity investments time to recover their value.

• Unexpected costs – You had them when you were working, and you’ll probably have them when you’re retired: the furnace that breaks down, the car that needs a major repair, and so on. But if you’ve established an emergency fund containing a year’s worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account, you may be able to “ride out” these costs without jeopardizing your investment portfolio. Be sure to keep these reserves separate from your typical day-to-day accounts to avoid the temptation of spending your emergency money.

• Health – Retirees may face more health concerns than younger people, and those concerns often come with larger medical bills. That’s why it’s important to maximize the benefits from Medicare or your Medicare Advantage plan. Also, if you contributed to a Health Savings Account (HSA) while you were working, and you haven’t depleted it, you can use the money in retirement. As long as the HSA funds are used for qualified medical expenses, withdrawals are tax- and penalty-free, and won’t be included in your income. This could help keep your income below certain levels, lower your Medicare premiums or avoid the 3.8% surtax on net investment income that can be assessed on high-net-worth taxpayers.

Retirement can be a pleasant time in your life — and you’ll enjoy it more if you’re prepared for the challenges that face all retirees.

If you would like to discuss your personal situation with a financial advisor contact:

field, which tend to tear up the surface. A person may need to be hired to monitor if cleats are used and to prevent damage to the fields.

Terry reelected as chair, Hanson new vice chair

The board reelected Terry as chair and voted to elect Hanson as vice chair, a position that previously was unfilled.

Terry noted that a new commissioner must be appointed by the Select Board in a joint meeting with the commission because commissioner Cynthia Esthimer moved out of state. He expected the joint meeting to be held “in the next couple of weeks.”

“We’ve lost some institutional knowledge,” he said of Esthimer, who was a longtime volunteer in town.

At the next meeting on June 27, committee liaisons will be discussed, including a new liaison to report on the conditions at the Fruit Street fields. In addition, there will be project liaisons for the CPC-funded projects to ensure continuity during the transition to a permanent director.

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Timlin Event

Golembiewski caps record-setting HHS career

At nationals, Golembiewski took part in the 400-meter hurdles (25th place), the 110-meter hurdles (16th) and the shuttle hurdle relay (10th anchoring a team that included Paul Litscher, Will Bialobrzeski and Drew Bialobrzeski). It marked the end of a standout track and field career that saw numerous highlights, but no stronger season than his senior year.

Golembiewski captured three state titles this year, winning the 55 hurdles during the indoor season and capturing the state championships in both the high and low hurdle events during the outdoor track campaign. He also was able to set personal bests in all of his events. With the goal of winning state titles top of mind heading into the year, Golembiewski said he was able to approach his season differently.

“I could kind of take the first half of the season and not run as many meets and instead train and lift a lot, which is what I felt like I needed,” he said. “By the time we got to championship season, I didn’t have as many races in my legs.”

His strong individual performances also helped Hopkinton’s team succeed. The Hillers captured the state relay championships for the first time ever and finished second at the Division 2 state meet.

“It cemented our team as the best team in program history,” said Golembiewski, who also helped the HHS soccer team to a runner-up finish in the fall.

Golembiewski is going to transition to the decathlon next year. He said he is not the typical decathlete in that he will have to learn field events like throwing and pole vault, but he already is particularly strong in many of the racing events. His background will influence his training this summer.

“I don’t want to build any bad habits, but I want to lift a lot and try some of the throwing events and learn the basics of pole vaulting,” Golembiewski said. Golembiewski said he will attend a camp for pole vaulting and will benefit from having a multi-event coach at Penn who specializes in the event.

In attention to track, Golembiewski said he is looking forward to the experience of attending a college in the heart of a big city.

“It’s so big, a real metropolis,” he said. “There are unlimited options for what I can do there.”

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

Golembiewski | from page 1

Runners prepare for the start of the Sharon Timlin Memorial Event 5K road race, held June 17 at Hopkinton High School. Check HopkintonIndependent.com for more photos from the event.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Brauninger set to start as Elmwood principal

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

David Brauninger was not actively seeking to move from his position as principal at Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School in Canton when he heard about the administrative opening at Elmwood School.

But after researching the Hopkinton district and its focus areas, Brauninger felt there was a match to his values.

“I actually really enjoyed the process,” he said, referring to the interviews and interactions that followed with not only administrators and teachers but also other staff, the School Committee, community members, parents and students.

After growing up in Millis, Brauninger was familiar with Hopkinton, and his application built on that knowledge.

“I learned more about the school and community, and it gave people the opportunity to ask me questions,” he explained. “Everyone was awesome … fantastic … and I’m really excited and thankful for the trust that has been put in me so far and looking forward to getting started.”

Brauninger officially begins as Elmwood principal on July 1, replacing Anne Carver, who is retiring.

“I have big shoes to fill,” he acknowledged, adding that his first few weeks will be devoted to “talking to people, learning a ton and trying to be available to get to know as much as possible” before planning for the opening of the school year.

Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School has 540 students in Grades K-5, while Elmwood School serves Grades 2-3 and has approximately 630 kids. Brauninger is aware that Hopkinton’s enrollment “is on the upswing,” and the district is proposing a new Elmwood facility to accommodate Grades 2-3-4. Schematic plans are expected to be finalized this summer before moving to a Special Town Meeting vote in November.

If successful, the project will appear on a Special Town Election ballot, with voters asked to fund it over multiple years through a debt exclusion.

Brauninger said he heard from Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh

about the project and understands it could be a major part of his job. Although he is uncertain whether he will become a nonvoting member of the Elementary School Building Committee (ESBC) as Carver is now, Brauninger is anticipating having “a voice at the table” and working with contractors and facilities personnel to address space needs.

Brauninger added that his experience with building projects dates back several years, when his district put on an eight-classroom addition.

The incoming principal said a career in education was not on his radar until his senior year of college.

While pursuing a B.A. in criminal

justice from Stonehill College, his vision was to join the state police. An internship at an alternative school in Brockton changed those plans following graduation.

He began his career at Franklin High School, where he worked as a special education teacher and alternative learning program coordinator/chair.

He also previously served as student services coordinator at Canton High School.

At the time, Brauninger said, the thought was to one day become a high school assistant principal. Instead, he filled an “interim” role when a principal at the elementary level left mid-year.

“I quickly loved it,” he said. “It was engaging at a different, early side of education.”

Brauninger described students at the elementary level as “excited, honest and

engaging.” He appreciates working with children that age because “it’s really a moment in time, an opportunity for growth, learning and building skills,” he said.

In addition to his criminal justice degree, Brauninger earned a master’s of education in organizational management from Endicott College and completed the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ Association Leadership Licensure Program.

Cavanaugh said Brauninger’s background in special education “adds a layer of depth to his instructional leadership.” She added, “David came so highly regarded. It didn’t matter who we spoke with. People in Canton, where David was an elementary school principal, sang his praises.”

Brauninger lives in Uxbridge with his wife and two sons.

Invention winners

David Brauninger

Hopkinton High School students Disha Mudenur, Dylan Striek and Rylee Blair won the Most Innovative Award at Raytheon Technologies Invention Convention U.S. Nationals earlier this month. The students’ winning invention was Dawsonite Diver, which also was awarded first place for Grade 11. The students previously won the State Science Fair for their project.

By Susan Gonsalves

Contributing Writer

The Elementary School Building Committee (ESBC) reviewed the previous week’s public forum, viewed tweaks to outdoor learning spaces and discussed exterior and interior design materials at its June 13 meeting.

Committee members said the recent forum highlighted the need to get the community more involved in the process

for a proposed new Elmwood Elementary School for Grades 2-4 on Hayden Rowe Street.

Chris Eberly, Vertex project manager, and Jeff D’Amico, Vertex project director, talked about the difficulties in making direct comparisons with other schools. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) sets a framework that is customized to the needs and educational plan of the district.

Factors like the size of each classroom or if the site is at a new location have a huge impact on cost, they said.

Decisions on sustainability goals, science/technology/engineering programs and the number of lunch shifts or gym classes to accommodate students are other examples.

Eberly spoke about inflation and fluctuations in costs for building materials, noting that they are making estimates based on what they believe items will cost two years from now.

He said that since the pandemic, “the compounding of inflation took over.”

What a ‘no’ vote means

Another discussion repeated what a ‘no’ vote from residents would mean for the project. The process would end, the committee would be disbanded and an exit poll would be conducted to review why the proposal failed.

If Hopkinton attempted to reapply, it would take three to five years (in the best-case scenario), and the town would have to start over, hire an owner’s project manager and architect, reform the committee and “recomplete” all phases of the feasibility module.

Significantly, Eberly said, the MSBA would never reimburse the town for any portion of a second feasibility process, and it cannot reuse what was already done by designers during the first goround.

Reimbursement funds, if forthcoming, would only kick in for construction costs following a passing vote, he said.

If Hopkinton stays on its current path and voters approve the project at Special Town Meeting and Special Town Election, groundbreaking is anticipated in mid-2025, and the school would open in December 2027. However, if the town votes ‘no’ and starts over and succeeds the second time, a new school likely would not open until 2031.

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh cited overcrowding at various school buildings. She said the district must accommodate 1,175 students in Grades 2-3-4. Enrollment is tracking ahead of two projection studies by demographers.

Eberly noted that there are space constraints throughout the district. “It’s not a projected problem; it’s a problem now,” Eberly said.

She described how this year, the science labs, principals’ offices and small group instruction room at Hopkins School were dismantled for classroom spaces, and the library/media center was divided in back for use by students with special needs.

The school is adding two fifth grade classes this upcoming year and running out of options where to fit the kids, she said.

“It is pretty chaotic. Space is very limited,” she added, talking about recess areas and Elmwood School as a whole. “There are not a lot of choices. There are no additional available classrooms left.”

The superintendent listed possible results of a no vote, such as classroom sizes of 25-26 kids, trailers on-site and five lunch shifts. Using temporary walls and the gym as classrooms and adding more buses are other measures.

Cavanaugh spoke about the sig -

nificance of potentially losing approximately $42.5 million in MSBA reimbursement (using a $170 million project estimate for the school).

Eberly added that it was mentioned 1,000 square feet were removed from interior plans with recent tweaks in design. When soft costs are factored in, that reflects a reduction of $800,000 to $900,000.

Outdoor spaces tweaked

Following past feedback from the committee, Ashley Iannuccilli, principal at Traverse Landscape Architects, said her group had reduced playground spaces in the plans, pulled the ring road closer to the rear of the building, cut outdoor classrooms from five to three and reduced from two basketball courts to one and a half. Walkways were minimized, and paving of the site was downsized by half an acre, she said.

“It’s still a great recess area, but substantially reduced,” Iannuccilli said.

Committee members discussed how “outdoor learning spaces” are not a new concept and how they give students a new environment in which to be educated.

“It’s not some newfangled idea we’re coming out with,” ESBC chair Jon Graziano said.

Elmwood principal Anne Carver noted outdoor learning gained in popularity with teachers and students during the pandemic again. It currently is being used for small end-of-the-year celebrations, the principal said.

Eberly said the students who are not athletically inclined or basketball fans can use the spaces during recess to read or draw or do other activities.

The changes to the landscaping plan mean fewer classes will be able to access the space as often, Eberly said, considering Elmwood must accommodate 200plus children per recess shift.

ESBC member Mike Shepard thanked the landscape architect for making the changes based on input.

“My major concern last time was that it was a little bit too much,” Shepard said. “I can see how you pulled everything in and we still provide for kids, which is the important thing.”

ESBC reviews materials

In other business, the committee decided by consensus to use an economic concrete masonry unit (CMU) material for a large portion of the building exterior; brick and alternative brick for the front; and an HDL panel that adds a wood look with the windows systems.

Shepard said, “The takeaway is we are using the most inexpensive materials that will last the longest. We have a Class A architect, and it’s going to be a good-looking building. That is all that matters.”

“It’s still maintained a warm, attractive look,” Graziano added, “even with the less expensive materials.”

At the next meeting, the board will further discuss options for the interior ceilings, walls and flooring while considering factors like durability, cost, acoustics, maintenance demands and life cycle.

School Committee completes reorganization, picks liaison roles

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

Aftermuch discussion, the Hopkinton School Committee on June 15 named Amanda Fargiano vice chair. Member Holly Morand also expressed interest in assuming that role.

The board waited until all five members were present to complete its reorganization process. One factor stalling the decision was the fact that both Fargiano and Morand have terms expiring next spring.

The need for continuity is important, members noted. However, the decision fell to two new board members, Adam Munroe and Susan Stephenson, who expect to use their first year getting adjusted and learning.

Morand assured committee members that she has “no ego,” and she would not be sad over any decision. She said she was willing to function together with other board members and did not want to put the new members in an awkward position.

Fargiano served as vice chair this past year. She said experience is helpful, and she wanted to continue in the role. She explained the most important duties are serving as a backup to chair Nancy Cavanaugh, agenda planning with her and being prepared to guide the committee in its responsibility for the budget, policymaking and evaluating the superintendent.

As the meeting continued with a lack of a motion, Fargiano, too, assured board members that she would move on just fine with either selection.

Describing himself as “personally torn,” Munroe expressed the hope that they both run for another School Committee term. He described Morand and Fargiano as “fantastic” before Stephenson nominated the latter.

Liaison roles selected

Another portion of the meeting centered around committee members deciding who would take on what liaison positions with other boards and organizations.

Munroe noted that his background in behavioral health and nursing would be helpful in working with Hopkinton

Organizing for Prevention (HOP) and the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC).

Stephenson volunteered to join Fargiano working on the policy board and selected the Youth Commission as well, while Fargiano opted to stay on the Sustainable Green Committee.

Cavanaugh will continue to serve on the English Language Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC) and the Elementary School Building Committee (ESBC), recently taking over for Lya BatlleRafferty and Jen Devlin, who opted not to seek reelection.

Morand answered the call to be the backup person on the ESBC as well as liaison to the Planning Board.

Cavanaugh said they would circle back midyear to see how members are faring as liaisons in these areas as well as a few others. Changes can occur if scheduling or other difficulties arise, she said.

Unified track team, national science fair winners applauded

During the recognitions portion of the meeting, the committee welcomed members of the Hopkinton High School unified track and field team that recently won its second consecutive Division 2 state championship.

Coach Chip Collins noted that all participants compete on a level playing field, and “each member contributes to the team in one way or another.” He explained that a few eighth graders participated at the high school level this season and helped earn points that gave the team the victory.

He added that the athletes all abide by his wishes to work hard, have fun and display good sportsmanship.

The committee also heard from a trio of students who took third place in the International Science Fair last month in Dallas. A state championship victory for sophomore Dylan Striek and juniors Disha Mudenar and Rylee Blair meant they qualified to compete against other young scientists from around the world.

Their project is titled “The Electrolytic Extraction of Dawsonite from Ocean Water: Efficient Saltwater Min-

eral Recovery through Electrolysis.”

The students explained that their project involved creating a method to extract carbon dioxide from the ocean by using dawsonite, a natural mineral.

Teacher and program director Kristen Murphy noted that the science fair is popular at the high school, with more than 100 students participating this year. She said what impresses her about the winning trio is “how much fun they have and how much they like solving

problems.”

The prototype the students built, a small machine called “Dawsonite Diver,” is gaining a lot of attention. The students are in the process of filing a patent and getting licensing for it. The device goes on the back of boats to reverse ocean acidification.

“Thank you for putting Hopkinton on the map,” Morand said.

The next School Committee meeting is July 6.

•

Mastroianni earns Fulbright fellowship

Hopkinton’s Christopher Mastroianni has been awarded a prestigious J. William Fulbright fellowship, an award given annually to the nation’s best and brightest college graduates.

COLLEGE HONORS

Mastroianni, who earned a B.S. in mathematics from Boston College in 2021, will spend a year in Taiwan as an English teaching assistant.

“I was overjoyed when I learned that I had been accepted by Fulbright,” said Mastroianni, who works for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. “While I recognize that this will be a challenging experience, I also know that it will be a rewarding one that will help me grow as both a person and a professional. It is time for an adventure, and I’m ready to get started.”

As part of his Fulbright experience, Mastroianni, who speaks Mandarin, will teach English and other subjects. In addition, he plans to start an extracurricular sports club at the school where he will work.

Mastroianni, who earned a spot on the dean’s list all four years at BC, graduated with honors including Phi Beta Kappa, Order of Cross and Crown, magna cum laude and Alpha Sigma Nu.

“Three of the most impactful parts of my BC experience were tutoring elementary students with 4Boston, leading 48Hours, and volunteering at the YMCA for Pulse,” he said. “These experiences, combined with BC’s emphasis on being ‘men and women for others,’ have inspired me to teach in Taiwan.”

Following his Fulbright year, Mastroianni said he may attend graduate school or pursue a career in foreign service, and he looks forward to the influence his year in Taiwan will have on his future.

The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries through the exchange of persons, knowledge

and skills. The program honors the late Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, longtime chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

WPI recognizes students

At Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), junior Matthew Kiszla (majoring in computer science), sophomores Andrew Kovacs (business), Aabid Peermohammed (mechanical engineering) and Emma VanBeek (biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering), and freshmen Brandon Belmonte (mechanical engineering), Tora Ito (mathematical sciences), Jahnavi Prudhivi (computer science and robotics engineering), Hemankit Vallurupalli (data science), Treavor Weeden (mechanical engineering) and Mena Youssif (civil engineering) were named to the dean’s list. …

Alopa Waje recently was initiated into the WPI Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society. …

Elisabeth Whittemore, a junior majoring in electrical and computer engineering at WPI, was a member of a student team that recently completed an intense research project titled “Investigating the Opening of a Railway Station in St. John’s.” …

Also at WPI, students are required to complete a senior thesis as part of the university’s distinctive project-based educational experience called the Major Qualifying Project (MQP), one that usually is team-based and often focuses on very specific issues or needs of an organization that has partnered with the university to sponsor the student’s work. Patrick Mejia (majoring in computer science) completed a project titled “Z3Wellness: An Enhanced Sleep Health Application.” Oliver Yasuna (computer science) completed a project titled “Library Technology.” Alexander Guerra (biology and biotechnology) completed a project titled “Recycling Fast Food Waste.” All three earned degrees in May.

Locals earn degrees, honors

Addy Hodson and Kara Shipkin were among the graduates recognized at Bridgewater State University’s 182nd spring commencement convocation at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on May 13. …

At Regis College’s commencement exercises, Stephanie Napoli graduated summa cum laude with an A.S. in nursing, Madison Murphy graduated cum laude with a B.S. in diagnostic medical sonography, and Anna Simanowski graduated with an M.S. in nursing-adult/ geriatric nurse practitioner. …

At Quinnipiac University, Allison Burdulis received a B.S. in nursing, Isabella Callery earned a B.S, in nursing, Tess Greenwood was awarded a B.A. in communications, Madeleine Hildreth earned a master’s in teaching elementary education and Marina Yasuna received a B.A. in graphic and interactive design. …

At Holy Cross, Sara Cahill (magna cum laude) and Tyler Dougherty earned degrees. …

Brendan Kelly and Lydia Rudden earned undergraduate degrees from Stonehill College. …

Alison Fujiyoshi graduated cum laude from Nazareth College with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences and a minor in psychology. …

At Salve Regina University, Olivia Kirshy graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in music and administration of justice, Ryan Kelleher earned a B.S. in finance, and Kyle Stukel received a B.A. in environmental studies. …

Sahit Bolla graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a B.S. in computer science. …

Abigail Brown graduated from Lasell University with a B.A. in fashion media and marketing. …

At James Madison University, Emily Jurasek (majoring in hospitality management) and Andrew Nealon (kinesiol-

ogy) were named to the dean’s list. …

Maya Zent and Spencer Smith were named to the dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin. …

Dylan Goldman (majoring in health science/ pre - physician assistant) and Colin Norred (sport management) were named to the dean’s list at Springfield College. …

Mikayla Cappetta , majoring in middle child education, was named to the dean’s honor list at Cedarville University in Ohio. …

At Muhlenberg College, Esther Klinger and Matthew Klinger were named to the dean’s list. …

Julianna Lucas, who is studying aeronautical engineering, made the dean’s honor list at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. …

Avery Knous was named to the president’s list at Siena College. …

At Southern New Hampshire University, Jennifer Townsend , James Wine and Elizabeth Demont were named to the president’s list, while Zachary Levy earned a spot on the dean’s list. …

Ruqayah K. Al-Ashabi (B.A. in political science) and Jaspreet Sethi (MBA) graduated from Clark University. …

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

Jacob Sullivan, a senior majoring in aeronautical engineering, was named to the dean’s list at Clarkson University. …

At Assumption University, seniors Megan Halloran and Monica Risso and junior Madison Kenney were named to the dean’s list. …

Pat Crantz was named to the dean’s list at Marquette University, where he is pursuing a B.S. in innovation and entrepreneurship. …

Nia Alvarado-Rodriguez, Taneja Forero, Rebecca Gallant and Madelyn Scannell were named to the dean’s list at Bridgewater State University. … Freshman Olivia Jaye, majoring in cell biology/biochemistry, was named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University. …

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

Dylan Morin was named to the dean’s list at Hofstra University. …

At Fairfield University, Nathalie Bates, Andrew D’Alleva, Alexandra Graeber and Cecily McNamara were named to the dean’s list. McNamara and Alexandria Power received degrees. … Emmaline Kent was named to the president’s list at Husson University. … Cormac Masterson, an economics major, was named to the dean’s list at Providence College. …

Leah Palinkas was named to the dean’s list at the University of New England. …

Harriharan Thirukallam Srinivasan was initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the University of Illinois.

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.

CALENDAR

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

Hopkinton PolyArts Festival at Town Common Sept. 9

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

Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk Oct. 1

Registration is open for the 35th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 1. Funds raised are donated to the DanaFarber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk features four distances, from the full marathon (starting in Hopkinton) to a 5K. To register or to support a walker, visit JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-5319255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for a $5 discount off the registra-

tion fee. All registered participants will receive a bib, medal and T-shirt.

Weekly Farmers Market Sundays at Town Common

The Hopkinton Farmers Market is held weekly at the Town Common on Sundays from 1-5 p.m., running through Oct. 15. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers receive a $10 incentive for a $10 purchase, and there are Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) benefits as well. For information, including a list of vendors, visit the Hopkinton Farmers Market Facebook page.

Al-Anon weekly meetings Thursdays

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

Trails organizations seek monthly volunteers

The Hopkinton Trail Coordination

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

Veterans Breakfast first Friday of each month

The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. In July, and if the first Friday of the month is a holiday or snow day, the breakfast switches to the second Friday. No registration is required. For more information, contact Amy Beck at the Senior Center, 508-497-9730.

Event Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

A Play, A Pint & A Pie One Act Festival

June 26–27 | 7 p.m.

Enter Stage Left Theater, the Resident Theater Company of HCA, is pleased to announce auditions for its third annual A Play, A Pint & A Pie, an evening of new one-act play shorts to be held on the evening of Saturday, August 26, 2023. This outdoor festival showcases seven plays selected from 112 submissions from playwrights nationally and internationally, and has been the hottest ticket around for the last two summers running. Auditions are open to actors ages 16-65. Details on our website.

Barbara Corbett Summer Kick-Off Concert with Hot Acoustics!

June 30 | 6:30 p.m.

will receive a free gift! Hopkinton Town Day is sponsored by Phipps Insurance and MAPFRE Insurance. Details on our website.

The Delta Generators

July 1 | 6:30 p.m.

Winning awards and playing to sold-out shows across New England and beyond, the Boston-based Delta Generators have made quite a name for themselves since hitting the scene in 2008. Their music brings together their diverse musical influences, drawing on the traditions of blues, roots, R&B, Americana and rockn-roll to create a sound uniquely their own. This concert is sponsored by DELL Technologies and held in our outdoor amphitheater. To make the arts more accessible to all, this concert is on a paywhat-you-can basis. Reserve your tickets on our website.

Register now for Summer Programs

SENIOR SNIPPETS

The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, 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.

Schedule update

The Senior Center will be closed to the public from July 3-7.

AARP Driver Safety Course

Thursday, June 29, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Even the most experienced drivers can benefit from brushing up on their driving skills. This is the nation’s largest driver safety course designed specially for drivers 50 and older. Attendees will review current laws, defensive driving techniques and how to safely drive in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. AARP membership is not mandatory, and no road tests are required to pass this course. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. There will be a break for lunch (which is not included in the cost).

Cultural Conversations: Helsinki Walking Tour

Monday, July 10, 2-3 p.m.

On this live, virtual walking tour, participants will explore Finland’s capital, Helsinki, viewing the most common areas at the center of this Nordic city, such as the Helsinki Cathedral, the Orthodox Church, the city market square Kauppatori, the Finnish parliament, and the National Museum. There will be a discussion about the historical significance, local culture, foods and more. Those interested should call for the Zoom link.

Senior Center Book Club

Thursday, July 13, 10:30 a.m.

One of life’s pleasures is a good book. Another is the time to read it. At this meeting, attendees can relax and bring something to drink, all while enjoying book reviews and socializing. The July book of the month is “The Man Who Died Twice” by Richard Osman.

Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction

Wednesday, July 12, 1 p.m., and Wednesday, July 19, 1 p.m.

Public Health Nurse Simone Carter is hosting two separate Narcan trainings at the Senior Center in July (individuals only need to attend once). Attendees will learn how to recognize and react to an overdose situation and when and how to administer Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose and save lives. Opioids are a class of drugs that include illegal drugs but also can include pain-relief prescription medications found in many household medicine cabinets. Advance registration is requested.

Our Time Memory Cafe

Thursday, July 13, 1 p.m.

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

HCA is so excited to welcome back our friends and local town favorite the Hot Acoustics for the Barbara Corbett Memorial Fund Summer Kick-off Concert. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab lawn chairs, a blanket, and a picnic basket, and join us in our outdoor amphitheater for a night of rockin’ good music! Thanks to the generosity of DELL Technologies, this concert is on a pay-what-you-can basis. It’s also Hopkinton Town Day—residents that attend the concert

Dance | Visual Arts | Ceramics | Music | Theater | Film

Classes available for youth 4–17

Adult classes available too! Hurry, classes are filling quickly!

Your Arts Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org

ANTS READY TO BUG HOMEOWNERS THIS SPRING

WPC Pest and Termite Control offers pest-prevention tips to keep ants from marching indoors

Summer is officially here and with it comes one of the most persistent warm-weather pests—ants. As temperatures rise, WPC Pest Control warns that America’s number one nuisance pest will invade homes across MetroWest in search of food. While most species present problems in people’s pantries and kitchens, some species can deliver painful bites while others inflict property damage. According to a survey from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), more than half of consumers list ants as their top pest concern.

“As most homeowners know, ants are especially drawn to the kitchen and their sheer numbers can be daunting,” said Jim Mazzuchelli, owner at WPC Pest and Termite Control. “Carpenter ants are most likely to invade residential homes this spring, but eliminating food sources can help keep them at bay.”

Of all the U.S. ant species, carpenter ants and fire ants pose the most risk for homeowners. Carpenter ants excavate wood in order to build their nests, which can compromise a home’s structural soundness. Just seeing 3 to 5 ants a day could indicate an underlying problem that might only get worse and cause major damage to your home.

Although ants can be difficult to control once they have entered a home, the following preventative measures can play a major role in helping to avoid infestations:

• Wipe up crumbs and spills immediately

• Store garbage in sealed containers and remove from the home frequently

• Keep food packages closed or sealed and store products in air-tight containers

• Avoid leaving food out on the counter or pet food out on the floor for long periods of time

• Repair holes or gaps in window and door screens

• Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home including entry points for utilities and pipes

• Keep tree branches and shrubbery well-trimmed and away from the house

• Replace weather-stripping and repair loose mortar around basement foundation and windows

• If you suspect an ant or any pest infestation in your home, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect, identify and treat the problem

“With more than 700 species of ants in the U.S., many of which create huge colonies, prevention is the key to an ant-free home,” added Mazzuchelli.

For more information on ants, please visit www.nobugsnopests.com or call 508-3661820 to set up a free inspection and a free outside treatment.

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.

Matthew Lindi

Matthew R. Lindi, 65, of Hopkinton passed away June 5. Born in Worcester, he was the son of the late Pauline (Gustafson) and Richard Lindi. He was the husband of Ryta (Marchant) Lindi of Hopkinton.

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thew was raised in Upton and lived in North Carolina and New Hampshire. He worked for Bose and was a longtime talented and well-loved musician. He played guitar and sang in several bands. He had many friends in North Carolina and was a very happy and social guy.

Besides his wife, he is survived by three children, April, Dylan and Jessica; three stepchildren, Jennifer, Meghan, and Katy; four step-grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He also leaves behind his siblings, Eve and John Lindi.

Services were held privately with family and were under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Leonard Main

Leonard J. Main of Hopkinton passed away June 8 at his home after a brief illness, with his family by his side. He was born in Brighton on May 12, 1938, to Leonard F. and Catherine G. (Sherman) Main. He graduated from Lowell High School in 1956.

Besides his wife of 58 years, Pamela (Magee) Main, he leaves his children, Robert J. Main of Hopkinton and Teri Main and partner Dan Matos of Hudson; two granddaughters, Kathryn Main of Worcester and Rebecca Main of Framingham; brother John W. Main and sister Ann (Main) Desjardins, both of Lowell, and many cousins and close friends. His sister, Mary Diane (Main) Hatch, and her husband, Tom, predeceased him.

He worked as a civilian employee for the U.S. Army Natick Laboratories for 27 years and then 10 years for Mitre Corp. at Hanscom Air Force Base as a logistician on government contracts, retiring in 1993. For 32 years, he served in the U.S. Army Reserve and retired

as a sergeant major. He only wished his dad had lived long enough to have seen him receive this promotion. After retiring, he worked as the bar manager at the Woodville Rod and Gun Club, of which he was a member for many years. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son, Bob. He supported the kids fishing derby each year and encouraged his granddaughters to participate. Following in their dad’s and “grampy’s” footsteps, they managed to win trophies for the largest fish many times. He worked at TJ’s Restaurant for over 20 years and continued to keep busy by doing some part-time deliveries for Sunnyside Gardens during the afternoons. He loved seeing the joy on recipients’ faces when he presented them with their beautiful flowers.

He was a 50-year member of Masons, having served as Master of Middlesex Lodge in Framingham, and affiliated with John Warren Lodge in Hopkinton, serving as Master two years, as well as treasurer and in other capacities. He was a former member of the Milford Commandery. He also was a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, a past patron, and at the time of his death was an officer in Myrtle Chapter No. 33, O.E.S., in Holliston along with his wife. They enjoyed their 50-plus years of membership traveling together around the state, making many friends along the way and working on charitable projects. He, along with his wife, supported the local Hopkinton Rainbow Assembly by serving on its advisory board for many years. He always said that youth groups need our support and he never lacked in this area. Because of that example he demonstrated, he had bestowed upon him the Grand Cross of Color for this outstanding service, the highest honor given by Rainbow. He was very proud of it.

Visitation was held June 15 at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. A funeral service took place June 16 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Hopkinton. Internment was at the Evergreen Cemetery in Woodville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts, Order of the Eastern Star, P.O. Box 600583, Newtonville, MA 02460 (write Seafarers Scholarship Fund in memo section), or to the Rainbow Camp, c/o Mrs. Nancy Whalen, 20 Rainbow Circle, Middleboro, MA 02346.

James Smith

James Robert Smith, 73, of Hopkinton passed away on May 18 after a three-year battle with a terminal illness. Jim was born in Framingham and was a 1968 graduate of Hopkinton High School. Jim refused to let his illness hold him back, and he and his family tried everything they could to keep his life normal for as long as pos-

sible. Jim lived his life doing what he loved the most — driving his tractortrailer, tending to his lawn and visiting the beach. He loved any truck, but he preferred Freightliners and Fords with classic country music playing. He was a small business owner for over 50 years and had continued driving his beloved tractor-trailer until the winter of 2023. He believed that his lawn was meant to be manicured and appreciated from a distance and regularly discouraged people and pets from walking on it. Jim’s dream had been to retire and live by the ocean with his family.

Jim leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Nancy (Piso), and his daughter, Caitlin Smith and fiancé Edward Painter. He also leaves behind his mother, Phyllis Smith, his brother, Thomas Smith and wife Melanie, and two nephews. In addition, he leaves his sister-in-law, Susan Turpin and husband Thomas Turpin, and his three nieces. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Edward Smith, and also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family is asking that donations be made in his name to the White River Animal Rescue (whiteriveranimalrescue.org/donate), from which Jim’s rescue dog, Scout, was adopted.

Vincent Carbone

V. Vincent Carbone, 85, formerly of Feeding Hills, passed away June 13. He was the son of the late Antonio and Maria Carbone, Italian immigrants who settled in Watertown, where they

raised their seven children, all of whom attended the Watertown public schools.

A gifted athlete, Vincent graduated with high honors from Watertown High School in 1955 and earned a bachelor’s degree with honors in English from Harvard University in 1959. Immediately after graduation, he was offered a teaching position in the English Department at Watertown High School. There he taught English for nine years, the latter of which he was the coordinator of English. He left to become assistant principal at Hopkinton High School, where he met his future wife, Patricia Lapan. During this time, he earned a master’s degree from Northeastern University in public administration and later earned with highest honors a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies, an advanced post-master’s program in school administration, also from Northeastern University.’

Immediately following his Harvard graduation, from September 1959 to his retirement in June 1999, Vincent devoted his entire professional life to public school education. During his professional career, he had opportunities to teach at the university level, but he instead remained dedicated to public

school education. In his professional career, Vincent was assistant principal at Hopkinton High School, principal at Cromwell (Connecticut) High School, assistant superintendent of schools in Springfield, and for 18 years he was superintendent of the Monson public school system, from which he retired in June 1999. Throughout his professional career, he fostered and cultivated parent/teacher organizations, involving them in the educational process. During his years as principal, he encouraged his teachers, and later as superintendent, his principals and directors, to be innovative in the educational process and demanded accountability and results. His philosophy concerning teamwork in public school education was embraced by each of the school committees in the various communities in which he worked. In his administration of public schools, he insisted on ethical behavior in public education. Both he and his wife, Patricia, had a deep and abiding faith in their Roman Catholicism.

Vincent was predeceased by his cherished and beloved wife, Patricia (nee Lapan), who was a public school teacher in Hopkinton and then Palmer. He leaves his beloved daughter, Maria Patricia Coughlen and husband Tim, and his beloved granddaughter, Caitlin Marie Courtney, all of Feeding Hills. He was predeceased by his brothers Domenic and John. He leaves his brother, Guy and wife Mimi of Belmont, his sister, Angela of Watertown, his brother, Ben and wife Joyce of Arlington, and his sister, Maria (nee Carbone) Mauro and husband Emilio of Belmont. He leaves many beloved nephews, Anthony of Boxford, Michael of Billerica, and Emilio of Canton (and their wives), and nieces Elvira (nee Mauro) Keeley of Florida and Marie (nee Carbone) Foster of Colorado (and their husbands). He also leaves 10 grandnieces and grandnephews.

All services will be private. Arrangements were being handled by Nardone Funeral Home, Watertown. Memorial contributions in Vincent’s name may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

Margaret Prescott

The family of Margaret (Mulhern) Prescott, 90, of Hopkinton sadly announces her passing on June 5 due to the ailments of old age. She passed away peacefully and was surrounded by her family. Margaret “Peg” was born in Milton to J. Leo Mulhern and Margaret (Nickerson) Mulhern; sadly, her mother died in childbirth. Margaret was raised by her maternal aunt and uncle, Mary (Nickerson) and William Kirley of Hopkinton. She enjoyed a loving and joyful life living in the “big house” on Hayden Rowe and their farm. She grew up with three

siblings: the late William Kirley, Jr. (Patricia), the late Marie Darling (Jerry), and her sister, the late Eleanor Gallagher (John). Margaret spent her entire life in Hopkinton and was a true Hopkintonian.

Margaret fell in love with a Natick man, Orren C. Prescott Jr. They married in 1958 and started their family in Hopkinton. She was a homemaker until their four children were older; she then drove a bus for the Hopkinton school system. She held different office positions in the area until retiring early to help care for her growing grandchildren, who were her life and her passion. Her home was the gathering place for all family functions, and we will miss her love and guidance.

She was the loving mother of Mark Prescott and wife Cheryl of Downers Grove, Illinois; Mary Lou Pagucci and partner Joseph Golter of Green-

LIBRARY CORNER

land, New Hampshire; Michael Prescott and wife Mary of Hopkinton; and Matthew Prescott and partner Stephanie Flood of Wellesley.

She also is survived by the loves of her life, her seven grandchildren: Brian (Laura) Prescott, Samantha (Eric) Prescott, Jake (Michelle) Pagucci, Kyle Pagucci, Robby Prescott, Daisy Prescott and Emma Prescott. She recently welcomed her first great-grandchild, William Prescott, in November. We are thankful she was able to see him regularly and spend time with him. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved their Aunt Peg.

Visitation was held June 13 at the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, followed by a funeral Mass in St. John the Evangelist Parish and burial in St. John’s Cemetery, Hopkinton.

For more information on any of the following programs or 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.

Schedule update

The library will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, for Independence Day.

Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle

Wednesday, June 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Author Talk: Nancy Horan

Wednesday, June 28, 7-8 p.m.

In this virtual program, Nancy Horan, author of the million-copy New York Times bestseller “Loving Frank,” sits with Therese Fowler to discuss her new book, “The House of Lincoln,” a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of Abraham Lincoln’s ascendance from rumpled lawyer to U.S. president to the Great Emancipator through the eyes of a young asylum-seeker who arrives in Lincoln’s home of Springfield, Illinois, from Madeira, Portugal.

Author Talk: Tananarive Due

Wednesday, June 28, 8-9 p.m.

In this virtual program, Tananarive Due, a contributing author to “Black Panther: Takes of Wakanda,” will discuss her newest work, “The Wishing Pool and Other Stories.” The second collection of stories by the author is full of her signature offerings of horror, science fiction and suspense while confronting monsters of all kinds, including racism, the monster within and the supernatural.

Learn to Play Dungeons & Dragons

Wednesdays, June 28, July 5 and July 12, 6-8 p.m.

The experts from Pete’s Nerd Emporium will teach two series of three sessions this summer. No experience is needed. Individuals are asked to commit to all three of the evenings in a given series. These sessions are intended for tweens and teens 10 years old through high school.

Learn to Play Pokemon

Tuesday, July 11, 1-4 p.m.

During this three-hour session, participants will have hands-on instructions on how to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game, receive a free structure Pokémon deck, and get to play with others. Those interested should register early, as space is limited to 10 players.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Wednesday, July 12, 2-7 p.m.

Registration is available at the Red Cross website at rcblood.org/3AmuYsP.

Young Adult Craft Workshop — Candle Making with Duckie Soaps

Wednesday, July 12, 2-3 p.m.

This workshop is an introduction to fragrance candle making. Each participant will make one container candle using soy wax and can choose from a variety of seasonally inspired fragrance oils.

Author Talk: Lisa See

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

In the Zoom program, New York Times bestselling author Lisa See will talk about her new book, “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women,” a captivating story of women helping other women. See’s latest historical novel was inspired by the true story of a woman physician from 15th-century China and is a triumphant reimagining of the life of a woman who was remarkable in the Ming dynasty and would be considered remarkable today.

Author Talk: Martha Wells

Thursday, July 13, 7-8 p.m.

This virtual conversation is with science fiction and fantasy author Martha Wells, whose latest release, “Witch King,” is described as “a remarkable story of power and friendship, of trust and betrayal and of the families we choose.”

ARRESTS

June 9

1:39 a.m. Officers Brennan Grimley and Matthew Santoro conducted a motor vehicle stop on West Main Street and subsequently arrested a 40-year-old Whitinsville resident and charged him with negligent operation of a motor vehicle, OUI liquor and possession to distribute cocaine.

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

June 6

8:08 a.m. A motorist reported a dark gray Honda Accord drove into the median on South Street, drove in circles, then stopped on the median. Officer Brennan Grimley responded and spoke with the operator, who stated the brakes were not working, so he used the median to slow and stop the vehicle. A tow truck was contacted, and the vehicle was removed.

12:44 p.m. A Cross Street resident reported an injured raccoon in her backyard. The animal control officer was notified.

12:50 p.m. A Milford school resource officer reported that the sixth grade class was at the YMCA on East Street and an issue arose between two students. Parents arrived on scene and were irate. The officer requested assistance keeping the peace. Sergeants William Burchard and Matthew McNeil responded and assisted.

1:32 p.m. A caller reported finding a wallet on Front Street. Sergeant William Burchard picked up the wallet, which belonged to a Clinton Street resident.

2:35 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious motor vehicle hanging around South Street for an hour at a time. Sergeant William Burchard responded, checked the camper and logged its presence.

9:46 p.m. An East Main Street resident reported a suspicious male outside who stated he was selling pest control services. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and checked the area with a negative find.

June 7

5:55 a.m. A motorist reported traffic lights at the South Street intersection were not functioning properly. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted with traffic control while the DPW responded and reset the lights.

3:15 p.m. A West Main Street restaurant manager reported her chef was helping someone with their vehicle and the car parked next to him drove over his foot. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and took a report.

5:41 p.m. A motorist reported he got a flat tire while driving on Main Street in the area under construction. Officer Robert Ekross responded and reported AAA was en route.

6:00 p.m. A caller reported her daughter got two flat tires on West Main Street in the area under construction. The incident was logged, and she was directed to contact her insurance company.

6:24 p.m. An East Main Street caller reported possible stolen credit card information and subsequent credit card usage in Worcester. Officer Nicholas Saletnik assisted and took a report of larceny.

8:46 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported a solicitor knocked at her door at 8:45 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and advised the solicitor that he needed a permit and to tell his manager. He waited to be picked up.

June 8

11:39 a.m. A Lumber Street caller reported seeing a loose dog coming onto her property several times while she was outside with her children, and she later noticed a coyote in the area. The incident was logged, and the caller was advised to remain

indoors when the animals were visible.

7:17 p.m. A Cedar Street caller reported someone stole his bike, and he saw the person on it. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and retrieved the bike.

8:35 p.m. A Cross Street resident reported a raccoon in front of his house that wouldn’t move. Sergeant William Burchard responded, and the raccoon went into hiding.

June 9

8:56 a.m. The Southborough Police Department reported an erratic tractor-trailer unit tailgating, honking its horn and being aggressive on Cedar Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and checked the area with a negative find.

12:28 p.m. Multiple callers reported a Hayden Rowe Street light not functioning due to a power outage in the area. Sergeants Matthew McNeil and William Burchard responded and notified the DPW and Eversource.

5:57 p.m. A caller reported a female on Hayward Street making suspicious statements and offering her child for adoption to the reporting person. The caller stated the woman took off toward Milford. The Milford Police Department and Upton Police Department were advised to be on the lookout. The Upton Police Department located the vehicle, which had crashed, and arrested the woman. Officer Cody Normandin responded and assisted.

June 10

11:37 a.m. Officers Sean McKeon and Cody Normandin responded to a motor vehicle accident on Wood Street. No personal injuries were reported.

12:16 p.m. A walk-in reported a water leak at the fountain on the Town Common. Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported a small leak in one of the floor beds. A message was left for the Water Department.

12:17 p.m. A caller reported an unleashed dog at a Whalen Road construction site. A message was left for the animal control officer.

2:29 p.m. Officer Cody Normandin responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Grove Street. No personal injuries were reported.

11:14 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported a vehicle pulled into her driveway after possibly hitting something. Detective Gregg DeBoer and Officer Brennan Grimley responded along with a state trooper and reported the vehicle was involved in an accident on Interstate 495.

June 11

7:18 p.m. A concerned Lakeshore Drive resident reported a rowdy, large gathering. Another caller complained about non-resident boaters. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Augusto Diaz responded and issued verbal warnings about the lack of parking passes and were advised they would be ticketed in the future.

June 12

11:55 a.m. A Frankland Road caller reported a van was left in his driveway. The caller was informed that the van belongs to a neighbor. He was to contact the neighbor, and if the issue wasn’t resolved, he was to call the station back.

2:02 p.m. An East Street caller reported a dumpster fire was set the previous night. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report of vandalism.

3:25 p.m. A caller reported an abandoned boat on Legacy Farms North. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report of illegal dumping.

4:13 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on Clinton Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded, caught up with the vehicle and issued a civil citation for a stop sign violation. The operator also was advised to get a Massachusetts license.

5:43 p.m. A Grandview Drive caller reported a snake in her basement. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded and attempted to remove the reptile, but it fell between the stairs. The reporting person was advised to call pest control.

7:38 p.m. A walk-in reported being followed by a driver of an old-style Ford Crown Victoria. Officer

Nicholas Saletnik took a report.

8:30 p.m. A caller reported a possible illegal burn on Hillcrest Drive. Officer Robert Ekross responded along with the Fire Department and found an illegal burn.

June 13

1:32 a.m. A caller reported a friend of hers threatened to go to her house and shoot it up. She requested an officer to sit at her house in case he did show up. Sergeant William Burchard contacted the individual and he denied the accusations and assured Sergeant Burchard that there was no need to worry about him harming the caller’s family. Sergeant Burchard relayed the information to the caller and advised her to call again if any more issues arose.

5:27 p.m. A caller reported an ambulance was in an accident on Main Street. Officer Robert Ekross responded. No personal injuries were reported.

5:37 p.m. A caller reported blank checks were stolen from her car. Officer Nicholas Saletnik took a report.

June 14

12:01 a.m. A 33-year-old female caller on Hayden Rowe Street reported she had an argument with a co-worker and she was pushed down the stairs. Her knee was injured and she did not feel safe. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Augusto Diaz responded and took a report.

4:31 a.m. An East Main Street caller reported he was awakened by workers across the street. Officer Augusto Diaz responded and reported a truck had pulled out of the church driveway shortly before he arrived. All was clear.

5:51 a.m. A Constitution Court resident reported a possibly homeless man was going through trash by the mailboxes. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and recognized the man, a Constitution Court resident, and spoke with him.

7:23 a.m. A caller reported a golden retriever running loose on Hayden Rowe Street. She had it in her possession, and the animal control officer was contacted.

10:11 a.m. A motorist reported a turtle was struck in the middle of the roadway of Wood Street. The animal control officer responded and assisted.

2:14 p.m. Officer Matthew Santoro responded to a motor vehicle crash on Winter Street. No personal injuries were reported.

5:18 p.m. A caller reported her father’s money and credit card were stolen from his apartment. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report.

8:12 p.m. A Lowell Drive resident reported a large sum of money was stolen from her closet. Sergeant Matthew McNeil assisted and took a report.

June 15

9:48 a.m. A Jackson Street caller reported a truck drove by and someone threw a bag of black pellets or powder out the window. Officer Robert Ekross responded and reported the substance was just trash and he discarded it.

12:13 p.m. A caller reported a person pushing a disabled vehicle out of the South Street intersection. Officer Tyler Staback responded and found the vehicle out of fuel and assisted.

June 16

5:42 a.m. A concerned caller reported a turtle laying eggs in the middle of the roadway of South Mill Street. Officer Brennan Grimley responded and reported all was clear and the turtle moved off the road.

7:07 a.m. A Knoll Road resident

reported someone may have opened his door earlier in the morning. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

7:36 a.m. Officer Cody Normandin took a motor vehicle accident report on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

11:33 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident involving personal injury on Gassett Road. Officers Sean McKeon and Cody Normandin and an ambulance responded. Two people were transported to a business for pickup and both vehicles were towed. A report was taken.

2:04 p.m. A caller reported an ongoing complaint of vehicles running a stop sign on C Street. Officer Sean McKeon left a message for the reporting person.

4:54 p.m. A caller reported a young child hanging out of a vehicle window on Main Street. Officer Matthew McNeil responded and checked the area with a negative find.

5:57 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Cody Normandin and Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

June 17

6:45 a.m. The Fire Department requested a unit to accompany personnel to Fruit Street to get back a bag possibly left behind the previous day. Officer Brennan Grimley assisted.

12:01 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on East Main Street that entered Ashland. The Ashland Police Department was notified.

12:01 p.m. A caller reported losing a wallet containing credit cards and a license. The incident was logged.

1:48 p.m. A caller reported a vehicle complaint on Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Sean McKeon and Cody Normandin responded and spoke to both parties, who headed in different directions.

2:22 p.m. A motorist reported the traffic light on Chestnut Street was blinking. Officer Cody Normandin responded and assisted.

4:34 p.m. A walk-in reported losing a wallet late the previous night and noticing a credit card since was used. Officer Shannon Beloin assisted and advised the walk-in to contact the Reading Police Department, as that is where the wallet was lost and the card used.

June 18

6:16 a.m. Officer Brennan Grimley checked on a couple of vehicles parked on Cedar Street on the side of the road and moved them along until the State Park opened.

10:24 a.m. A Granite Street resident reported her trash bin was stolen. She was advised to contact the DPW for a new one. The incident was logged.

3:41 p.m. A caller reported her dog was underneath her porch and would not come out. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded and the dog would not come out. The owner was to call back if she still needed help.

3:43 p.m. A caller reported a woman standing on West Main Street, acting suspiciously and holding a sign asking to be taken to Fall River. Officer Robert Ekross responded along with the State Police, and she was given a ride to a gas station.

4:10 p.m. A caller reported her child was bitten by a dog. Officer Shannon Beloin assisted and took a report.

7:01 p.m. A Primrose Circle resident reported someone

rang his doorbell and fled, and that was not the first time it happened. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and checked the area and took a report.

June 19

1:31 a.m. An East Street groundskeeper reported he received a notification from a security camera that a vehicle headed down to the lower fields of the property. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Nicholas Walker and Augusto Diaz responded.

9:07 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback advised a crew working on Walnut Way that it was a holiday and they were working in violation of town bylaw. They subsequently ceased work.

7:03 p.m. A Hayden Rowe Street caller reported his downstairs neighbor was being loud with his girlfriend and he was concerned it would escalate. The caller stated he and the neighbor have had an ongoing issue. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Robert Ekross responded to the disturbance and asked the neighbor to turn down the music.

7:15 p.m. The Millbury Police Department reported a white box truck struck a guardrail and fled, then took Exit 54 off Interstate 495. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and checked West Main Street with a negative find.

8:58 p.m. The Southborough Police Department requested Hopkinton to be on the lookout for a possible breaking-and-entering suspect on Cedar Street. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and checked the area with a negative find.

The McBride team congratulates award winner Connor Minogue

The McBride Team of RE/MAX Executive Realty would like to congratulate Connor Minogue on his award for Student of the Month. Connor attends Hopkinton High School and is currently finishing his sophomore year. He is proud of his accomplishments as a member of the Unified Track team, and administrators say he has had a positive impact on the entire team. He currently works at a local grocery store as a cashier and is saving money to purchase his first car.

In his spare time, Connor likes to bake pies, bars, cookies and cakes. He enjoys playing with his dogs and watching reruns of Grey’s Anatomy!

In the future, Connor sees himself as a college graduate, living in Boston, owning a nice car, and having a close relationship with his siblings. Most of all, Connor strives to keep his positive characteristics, such as being responsible, kind and caring.

Congratulations, Connor!

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

The

www.mcbrideteam.com