HI 8.16.23

FLOWER SHOWER

UCTC remains separate group, but with changes

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Aftermonths of speculation about the future of the Upper Charles Trail Committee, the Select Board on Aug. 1 voted unanimously to keep it separate from the Trail Coordination and Management Committee, but with both committees modifying their structures and charges.

The vote also included a provision for the UCTC to resume meeting, but only for the limited purpose of preparing a presentation for a joint meeting with the TCMC (now to be called the Trails Committee), the Select Board and town officials.

In May, the Select Board voted to suspend the UCTC from meeting after a nonbinding vote at May’s Annual Town Meeting showed that 72% of 219 voters preferred that the committee be disbanded and reconstituted as a TCMC subcommittee. The decision sparked the creation of a survey by the Select Board to gather wider public feedback

earlier this month.

Boston Tea Party history project hits home

By Courtney Cornelius Contributing Writer

“Friends! Brethren! Countrymen!

That worst of plagues, the detested tea, shipped for this port by the East India Company, is now arrived in the harbor.”

So proclaimed the pamphlet distributed throughout Boston on Monday morning, Nov. 29, 1773, after some 100-plus colonists destroyed 340 chests of tea in an act of protest that led to the American Revolution.

The citizens who participated in that momentous event — most of whom were in their 20s, and some of them just teenagers — changed the course of history. One such thenyoung man, John Dickman (who

was born in 1749 or 1750 and died in 1833), is interred in Hopkinton’s Evergreen Cemetery.

The Boston Tea Party Participant Grave Marker Project will recognize Dickman with a commemorative marker at a small ceremony open to the public on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 11 a.m. Hosts of the event will answer questions and present photo opportunities after the marker is placed at the cemetery, which is situated between Wood Street and Fruit Street/Cunningham Street.

The Grave Marker Project is a collaborative effort between the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and Revolution 250 to commemorate known participants with honorary Bryan Brown

A commemorative brass marker with this design will be placed at the grave of a Tea Party participant who is buried in Hopkinton.

Merylyn Mezitt from the Hopkinton Garden Club waters flowers at the Town Common

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STAFF

Local Girl Scouts earn highest honor

Hopkinton’s Elizabeth Schneider and Katie Beauvais recently received the prestigious Gold Award, the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn, from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. The Gold Award is available to girls in high school who create sustainable change on a community or world issue, from teen nutrition to literacy development in youth. Gold Award Girl Scouts address the root cause of a problem, plan and implement innovative solutions to drive change, and lead a team of people to success.

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Schneider was awarded for her project, Plant Powered — Changing the World One Meal at a Time. Passionate about plant-based eating, with its physical and environmental benefits, Schneider chose to use her Gold Award platform to share her experience. She created seven informational videos about the benefits of a plant-based diet and posted them on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. She also created pamphlets that were displayed and distributed by the Hopkinton Health Department and the Hopkinton Public Library. Additionally, she developed plant-based menus using entirely economical, easily accessible ingredients to create nutritious meals.

“I decided to complete my project on this topic because I know that this manner of eating has helped me personally feel better and has improved my performance in sports,” Schneider said. “I have more energy for the duration of practices, my sleep has improved, and my focus has increased.”

JERRY SPAR

Beauvais’ project, Leave No Trace and Outdoor Skills, sought to inspire members of the community to be respectful of the natural environment when hiking local trails. She spread the word by hosting environmental impact workshops and building a small bridge to concentrate foot traffic into one area. She made her curriculum available to Girl Scout leaders, community educators and younger Girl Scouts via an online post — resources that remain widely available.

“One of my favorite parts of the project was teaching kids about ‘leave no trace’ on a night hike,” Beauvais shared. “It was very rewarding to hear the kids discussing the ways that they could practice ‘leave no trace,’ including when they used what they learned to brainstorm ideas I had not thought of.”

Only about 50 girls in Eastern Massachusetts earned Gold Awards this year.

Hopkinton teens appear in Worcester play

Hopkinton teenagers Urmi Chowdhuri and Sasha Shulman are part of the cast for the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts Youth Summer Program’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof.”

Chowdhuri plays Shprintze and Shulman is Yussel in the iconic show, which won nine Tony Awards when it debuted in 1964.

Urmi Chowdhuri and Sasha Shulman will appear in “Fiddler on the Roof” Aug. 1819 at the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts in Worcester.

Performances at the Worcester venue are scheduled for Friday, Aug. 18, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 19, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $25. Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org for more information.

Nearby towns seek aid for refugees

Hopkinton Health Director Shaun McAuliffe put out a call for residents to help with refugees from Haiti and other countries who recently arrived in neighboring towns.

Framingham, Northborough, Westborough and Hudson are the communities where the refugees have landed.

“If Hopkinton’s residents are able to assist, the local health departments and family services groups would be grateful,” McAuliffe shared.

Northborough is hosting a clothing drive that ends Aug. 16. Visit town.northborough.ma.us or email lizard211@gmail.com for details.

Emergency Fund works to build up account

The Hopkinton Emergency Fund is working to bulk up its finances so it can provide assistance to local individuals and families in need.

The HEF recently received a second Community Impact Grant from Eversource to help with that effort.

Additionally, together with the Hopkinton Women’s Club, the HEF is planning its annual Hopkinton Charity Golf Event on Sept. 18 at Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge. Participants and sponsors are being sought for the event. Visit hopgolfcharity.com for details.

Merloni made mark with Marathon

Dorothy Ferriter-Wallace from the Hopkinton Marathon Committee noted the passing of Jim Merloni, the longtime administrator of the New England Laborers Training Trust Fund located in Hopkinton. The Marathon Committee’s annual wrapup party has been held at the Laborers Training Center on East Street for many years.

Ferriter-Wallace called Merloni a friend to the committee and “a true friend to everyone in Hopkinton and beyond. I hope you all will take a minute to remember the hospitality Jim, his wife Mickey and his entire family shared with all of us over the many years at Marathon time and at our wrap-up parties at Laborers. Jim will truly be missed.”

K-9 key to finding drowning victim

The Boston Globe recently ran a feature on Riggs, a 4-year-old black Labrador retriever who has been trained to find human remains “by sniffing out the odors a body produces as it decomposes.”

Riggs, who works out of the Auburn Fire Department with handler Matt Ethier, was called into action in Hopkinton on July 22, the morning after a Hopkinton man, Wilinson Orbe Quito, drowned in Lake Maspenock off Sandy Beach.

The story indicated that it took less than 20 minutes for Riggs to identify a spot on the lake’s surface just above the body — swimming in circles to alert rescuers. It then took divers 10 minutes to locate Orbe Quito.

Interim Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty, who said it was his first time using a dog in a water recovery mission, was impressed.

“Any time that I have a recovery or a missing person, I will use a dog from now on,” Daugherty said.

Local riders take part in Pan-Mass Challenge

The Pan-Mass Challenge, an annual event in which bicyclists ride various distances to raise money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, was held Aug. 5-6. Among the 6,000-plus participants were 20 riders from Hopkinton: Kristi Allen, Jesus Amadori, Elizabeth Boland, Rob Cusanelli, Jonathan de Boer, Sean Gassett, Sami Ghaddar, Susan Kenney, Bill Kenney, Brendan Lafferty, Kristina MacPherson, Aimee Mannix, David Maruska, Dorothy Maruska, Stuart Miniman, Susan Perlini, Chris Pobiegio, John Powell, Brian Rosendale and Stephen Smith.

Since its inception in 1980, the event has raised more than $900 million for adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Jimmy Fund.

The Hopkinton Emergency Fund recently received a second Community Impact Grant from Eversource to help with the HEF’s mission of providing temporary emergency financial assistance to Hopkinton residents in need. Pictured at the Town Common are (from left): Nataraj Iyer (HEF), Peter Bowman (Eversource), Kathy LaFlash (Eversource), Stephanie Whelan (HEF), Jennifer Blake (HEF) and Renee Dean (HEF).

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’ Hopkinton

Independent Photo Contest

New school cost concerning

My concern increases with news of decisions being made regarding the proposed new school. While I am grateful for the Elementary School Building Committee members’ willingness to volunteer their time and energy for this project, recent reports have me scratching my head.

We learned that the actual cost of the school is a moving target that is based on various contingencies involving the state’s level of reimbursement — ranging from 25% to 49.64% depending on a multitude of factors. We “should” have a number by the end of August, but maybe not until October. And the Special Town Meeting to vote on this is when? November? Chasing after state reimbursement has not proven to be cost-effective or even efficient for other large projects in town (Main Street corridor), so what makes anyone believe this will be different?

Also reported was the traffic study that showed that “the times with the most traffic (on Hayden Rowe) did not correspond with school related opening and closing times.” Gobsmacked is my only response to this bit of nonsense. The residents of Hayden Rowe and the side streets near the schools know that the heaviest traffic is during opening and closing of schools.

Also alarming is the report of a “snowball effect” regarding school population growth and capital needs reported out from the School Committee. Hopkinton’s population growth was among the largest in the state between 2010-20; according to census data it rose 23.9%. Since 2020, the population rose 2.9% and is projected to rise by another 20% by 2035. Hopkinton has also consistently issued the highest number of building permits for single family homes in Middlesex County for that same time period. We just keep building and building when we clearly don’t have the infrastructure to support all this growth.

This issue’s winner is Scott Barnard for this photo he calls “Morning friend in flight.” 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.

We can change zoning to slow growth of single-family housing. We can and should diversify the commercial base instead of making it nearly impossible for any development beyond enormous houses. The path we are on is a dead end.

We have seen how easy it is to turn people’s heads with fancy schematics and welldressed consultants selling dreams which turn into nightmares because no one has thought about the long-term consequences. We need a new balanced vision for this community, one that speaks to the needs of all its citizens. This is not anti-school, it is pro-Hopkinton.

— Anne Mattina, Hopkinton

Youth misbehavior at CVS must stop

Wow! Can’t believe it. Must be dreaming. I’m in CVS on a Wednesday at 3 p.m., and it’s quiet!

Oh, I forgot. It’s July, and school’s out for the summer. That means the “Tweens and Teens Clubhouse at CVS” is closed until the end of August.

OK, let’s get serious. CVS is in business to make a profit. It also provides a service. It supplies medication for people to purchase. As we grow older, we usually need more medication, so a large proportion of its customers are elderly.

Suppose an 88-year-old who walks with a cane is walking down the aisle to get her meds. Two teens are chasing each other, come around a corner, and knock this woman down, breaking her hip.

The woman has a diminished capacity to heal, and her broken hip is fatal. Who gets sued? Probably CVS.

This ridiculous and dangerous behavior must cease. Through a coalition of store management, police, parents and youth, this issue must be worked out.

If the tweens and teens need to make a purchase in the store, they should buy what they need and leave the store like all of the rest of us do. No hanging out in the store!

The way things are now, it’s not fair to CVS or any customer of the store.

— William T. Hamilton Jr. and Alice R. Hamilton, 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.

Conservation Commission blasts The Trails for continued stormwater violations

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

During its nearly fourhour meeting Aug. 8, the Conservation Commission lost its patience with the developer of The Trails after the project incurred additional stormwater management violations after the deluge of rain earlier in the day.

The Trails, an 80-unit open-space mixed-use development (OSMUD) off Legacy Farms Road North, between Wilson Street and the Ashland border, has been plagued by stormwater management issues that have negatively impacted the water system in Ashland. Now in its fourth phase of development, The Trails has a history of nearly three years of stormwater violations over different phases of development that have caused turbid water to run into Ashland’s reservoir.

At last month’s meeting, chair Jeff Barnes and vice chair Melissa Recos called out the developer for violations following a rainstorm, and the commission issued a new fine on July 10. At the June meeting, the commission decided to enforce $43,100 in fines that had been held in abeyance for nearly two years because the pattern of stormwater violations on the project had not been broken.

Conservation Administrator Kim Ciaramicoli shared pictures from the violations seen in July as well as earlier in the day. A violation incurred on July 16 when an infiltration basin north of Weston Lane topped out with water that flowed onto Wilson Street.

Earlier on the day of the meeting, the stormwater bypassed the infiltration basin and “jumped over the footpath” into the wetland system. She noted that she emailed project engineer Peter Bemis a week earlier noting that this could occur, “but I’m not sure if anything was done about that.”

Barnes chastised Bemis and property owner Vin Gately of Heritage Properties for failing to adequately prepare for the rain, stressing the project’s history of poor stormwater management practices. He made it clear during the half-hour discussion that the commission had had enough.

Asked Barnes: “How could this happen again, sir, after everything we’ve been through over the past three years?”

He noted that Gately was informed before the second phase of the project of the steps that needed to be taken to keep the project in compliance.

“I’m beside myself, really,” Barnes continued. “How does this happen again?”

Replied Gately: “I’ll let my engineer talk to you about that.”

“I have as much disappointment as you,” said Bemis, noting that crews tried to install a detention basin two weeks before. “We have failures at several areas of the site — no question. The basin is in place, but the water couldn’t get to it.”

“These are the same excuses we heard in the first phase of the project,” Barnes said to Gately, visibly frustrated. “They’ve had three years, and we’re experiencing the same problem. I don’t have confidence in Engineering Design Consultants [Bemis’s firm] .… I don’t

Enter Stage Le eater Presents:

Third Annual One-Act Play Festival

August

Doors

think Mr. Bemis understands the gravity of what’s happening here. You’re contaminating a public water supply.

“As a commission, we want to know when it’s going to stop, honestly,” Barnes continued. “Because this is embarrassing for us as a commission. Frankly, It’s ridiculous.”

Bemis explained that the area had been stabilized, but reconstruction in the back of the lots disrupted it. Water flowed off roofs that do not yet have roof drains installed.

“We’re working to stabilize that area,” Bemis said, noting that there was significant rain. “This is why we’re where we are.”

“The site contractor has taken certain liberties with this site,” he said, indicating that wood chips were spread “unbeknownst to us” where Bemis said sod was more appropriate. He explained that he is not on-site full time to supervise the contractor, who had cleared more land than he had expected.

Said Bemis: “I’m being put in the role of contractor, and it’s been unfair.”

“Mr. Bemis, stop with the apologies!” Barnes fumed. “It’s unprofessional, number one, and it’s disingenuous at this point. You’re not at the principal’s office because you put a bullfrog in little Suzy’s lunchbox, OK? This is a serious situation. You’re impacting a public water supply in another town.”

Member Ted Barker-Hook questioned Gately about his responsibility. He later asked whether Gately thought it was better for the project to absorb fines rather than to spend money getting the project done right. Gately initially remained silent.

Barker-Hook called the silence “a bit of cowardice.”

Replied Gately: “I’m just listening to you guys rant, that’s all.”

“I’m not getting much credit for all the mitigation work that I have done,” Gately added. “I’m certainly not happy that we’re in the place that we are. But you’re totally off base with these comments.”

Ciaramicoli noted that the site is under a cease-and-desist order, with the exception of stormwater management remediation work.

Recos questioned whether the same contractor was being used as in the previous phases, and Bemis confirmed it.

Said Barnes: “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.”

The Trails needs to present its action plan to the commission at its next meeting on Aug. 29, which will take place in person at the Senior Center at 7 p.m.

Conservation Commission | page 7

Get ready to experience the most exciting and entertaining one-act play festival of the year! HCA is thrilled to host Enter Stage Left Theater’s third annual A Play, A Pint & A Pie festival in our outdoor amphitheater. With seven outstanding plays selected from 112 submissions across the globe, this festival promises to be a night of non-stop fun, laughter, and maybe a few tears.

Your ticket includes admission to the plays, a delicious meat pie or vegetarian alternative, and an alcoholic or soft drink of your choice. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends and family.

Ongoing stormwater issues at The Trails, a development off Legacy Farms Road North, have infuriated the Conservation Commission.

BRIEFS

The Communities at Golden Pond was re-certified by the state’s Executive Office of Elder Affairs after the Hopkinton assisted living facility submitted a 17-page corrective action plan and took appropriate steps to address the issues identified in March, when it failed to meet its compliance requirements.

Employees from the Assisted Living Certification Unit of the EOEA visited Hopkinton on June 19 to investigate conditions at the West Main Street facility.

The investigation was the result of Golden Pond failing a compliance review on March 23, according to a letter from the EOEA dated May 22. The facility was

ordered not to accept new residents “on or after May 4.”

The actions listed in Golden Pond’s plan of correction — which was riddled with typos and grammatical errors, making its meaning at times unclear — noted a completion date of June 12, according to the document.

EOEA Communications and Outreach Manager Elle Romano indicated the plan was accepted and all corrective actions were taken, and Golden Point was re-certified on June 28. The EOEA was planning a site visit to ensure compliance, Romano added in an Aug. 8 email.

The investigation revealed that 11 residents were missing documentation to confirm the completion of their SAMM,

or Self Administered Medication Management processes. The facility was to re-educate staff on the importance of medication documentation.

Another concern found during the investigation was that some residents waited more than 10 minutes for a response to an emergency call, which the facility was to address. Other concerns dealt with hourly resident checks, accuracy of resident screening assessments, resident service plans, emergency preparedness, controlled substance policy, staff health screening and staff educational requirements.

Michael Volpe , Golden Pond’s executive director, did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

State legislators update town officials on budget impacts

Massachusetts Senate president Karen Spilka and Rep. James ArenaDeRosa appeared at the Aug. 1 Select Board meeting and updated members on the state budget approved late last month and addressed issues important to the town such as PFAS and school aid.

Spilka spoke about how Hopkinton was able to persevere and grow despite the challenges presented by the pandemic. She also praised Arena-DeRosa, saying that he “has hit the ground running” in his first term representing Hopkinton.

Said Spilka: “I believe Hopkinton has a great partnership and communication, and that has helped us to help you in the State House.”

On July 31, the Legislature passed the state budget. Spilka said a $20 million provision for farm resiliency aid was approved in a supplemental budget Monday evening that would benefit the region’s farms that had been flooded during torrential rainstorms this year.

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority received funding as part of a $190 million investment into regional transit authorities, doubling the state’s investment in the system over last year. Also, free school lunches were approved statewide.

Hopkinton will receive $939,000 in unrestricted local aid, a 3.2% increase over last year, according to Spilka. The schools will receive $9.8 million, a 12.1% increase. Money was included for Hopkinton’s diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging initiative. Hopkinton Youth and Family Services will receive $20,000 in funding to provide youth mental health services. Project Just Because also received $20,000.

“When I see these line items come to life in communities like Hopkinton, I’m reminded that all of us as public officials have the same ability,” she said. “And we want to make a positive difference in people’s lives and help shape our communities to make them better.”

She added that she looked forward to seeing the new Elmwood School building project come to fruition.

Arena-DeRosa added that he has been heavily involved in researching the issues at the LNG facility. After attending a recent public forum, he compiled federal and state emissions reports on the project that he sent to Town Hall.

He also talked about the town’s issue with PFAS in the town’s Well 6. He questioned whether the former state firefighter training facility in Hopkinton may have led to PFAS issues in the water and said that will be reviewed. Spilka said some budget funding has been set

aside to improve drinking water quality, and she will be looking for federal aid to address PFAS issues.

Arena-DeRosa also advocated for $25,000 in the budget toward the town’s new sustainability, economic development and equity project manager’s position.

Affordable Housing Committee proposed

Town Manager Norman Khumalo proposed that the town create an Affordable Housing Committee to manage the creation of affordable housing. This would help to direct the allocation of the more than $4 million that the Affordable Housing Trust Fund has amassed for that purpose since its creation in 2010.

Said Khumalo: “What has been missing is a mechanism to create the projects to be funded.”

He suggested that this committee could be structured as a nonprofit entity that would ensure that town land previously designated for affordable housing will be used solely for that purpose.

HFD offers smoke alarm installation

The Hopkinton Fire Department, in collaboration with a generous grant awarded by FM Global, is offering free installation of smoke alarms to Hopkinton residents in need.

Per the National Fire Protection Association, “Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out.”

The installation program targets those who are most vulnerable to fire deaths, including older adults, families with children, residents with disabilities, veterans and homes with no working smoke alarms. The goal is to ensure residents have the protection of a smoke alarm, but because they won’t prevent every death, HFD personnel also will perform a home safety inspection and educate residents on creating a home fire escape plan.

To take advantage of this community risk reduction opportunity, call the Fire Prevention Bureau at 508-497-2323, Ext. 4, to schedule a home safety inspection and evaluation of current alarms. Supply is limited, and alarms will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Misc: New hires approved

The Select Board unanimously approved the appointment of Poonam Rijhsinghani as the new assistant town accountant. ...

Police cadet Noah Buentello, who is currently in the Police Academy, received a unanimous vote of approval from the Select Board to become a member of the Hopkinton Police Department, pending his graduation. ...

The Select Board unanimously approved the taking of Box Mill Road by the town as a private way. This action was approved by a Town Meeting vote in May. ...

The board approved the appointment of Beth Malloy as the new member of the Housing Authority’s board. Also in contention for the position was Amit Tandon

Conservation Commission blasts The Trails for continued stormwater violations

This is not the first town in which Bemis has faced issues. He was involved in a lawsuit in 2021 for clearcutting land along the Holliston-Medway line without a permit, according to a MetroWest Daily News article.

Laborers’ Training gas line hearing continued

In another ongoing project, attorney George Connors appeared before the commission requesting a notice of intent to realign a proposed gas line at the Massachusetts Laborers Training facility at 37 East Street.

He explained that the project does not have the Department of Environmental Protection file number that the commission requested. Connors then described where the gas line would be placed. The first section he described is in the wooded rear area of the property, while the second one is in the campus proper within river zones. The proposed gas line will go in where there are existing gravel and paved driveways on previously disturbed land, he said.

Connors requested that the hearing be closed with the understanding that the DEP file number will be submitted when it is received. He explained that he submitted the complete file the commission had requested on the previous NOI to review earlier that day.

He said he was “anxious” to get the gas line installed before winter. He said that the file he just submitted on the previous NOI is “not really germane” to the current request.

Ciaramicoli said the DEP requires that an alternatives analysis be submitted to show other options where the gas line had been proposed that may be “less impactful to the riverfront area.” This is “the missing piece” that was not included in the current application.

Connors said he didn’t believe it was required because it is in a previously disturbed area and because the documentation had been submitted in the previous application.

Ciaramicoli noted that the commission had been “burned” previously when it did not have a DEP number on file for a case.

Barnes said the case needed to be continued until the next meeting. Recos agreed, saying that the completed packet needs to be filed.

“It’s a shame that the [commission] is getting this kind of pressure for an application that I think we feel good about, that is likely headed towards an approval on the 29th,” said Ciaramicoli. “It’s something where I’ve really got to put my foot down. It’s burned this commission in the past. This is how we end up in court.”

Commercial building proposed at 28 Lumber Street

Scott Goddard from Goddard Consulting appeared before the commission with a presentation to build a two-story commercial medical office building at 28 Lumber Street on a 3.4-acre vacant lot close to the Hopkinton Stone and Garden nursery property. The parcel is divided by an elevated ridge line, he explained, because the site previously had been used as an excavation pit. This caused the creation of an isolated vegetated wetland when the groundwater table was

hit, although it is “largely barren.”

Some of the land has been used as a “borrow pit” during the construction of Interstate 495, he explained. There also is encroachment onto the southern edge of the property by the abutter.

To construct the building, encroachment into a small corner of the buffer zone is proposed. He proposed replicating the disturbed wetland at a 1.5:1 ratio, as well as replication in the fill pile areas. A septic system is proposed at the front of the building.

Ciaramicoli noted that the applicant needs to provide an alternative to disturbing the wetland, according to the town bylaw.

Barker-Hook noted that the stockpiles need to be removed from the buffer zones. He said this should not be counted as part of the mitigation effort. Goddard said it is “part of a long-term operation” by the nursery. That area will be restored.

The hearing was continued until Aug. 29 so that the applicant could look at rain gardens and other restoration practices.

Two Myrtle Avenue homes approved, three others put on hold

The commission approved two notices of intent for single-family homes on Myrtle Avenue proposed by Toll Brothers as part of a subdivision after some discussion. Two others on Myrtle Avenue and one on Fitch Avenue — both roads to be constructed off Blueberry Lane — were continued.

The applicant’s representative, Ted Marchant, explained that there will be tree restoration on the properties and that measures will be put in place to update stormwater management practices to modern standards, even though this is not required. He asked that the first two properties be approved because the deadline for their permits will expire before the next hearing.

A discussion ensued about obtaining a permit for a sewer hookup from the Department of Public Works. Marchant said these may not be sought until the building permit is requested.

Discussion about the caliper of replaced trees also occurred. Smaller trees would be more likely to succeed than those of larger diameters, commissioners explained. Questions also arose about grading in the buffer zone and the need to replant trees there that were more than 12 inches in diameter. There are mature red oaks on the site ranging from 12-30 inches in caliper. This discussion will continue at the next meeting.

Marchant said that the project would be unlikely to continue unless all five lots are approved.

A condition was made that there be a 2-to-1 tree replacement ratio. The two lots were approved 5-1, with member Ed Harrow against.

188-190 Fruit Street proposal discussion continued

The commission also continued the hearing on a proposal for the construction of two homes at 188-190 Fruit Street. Barnes and other commissioners noted that the poor soil quality and disturbance to the land required because of its sloping nature likely would prevent two homes from being built on the site.

Former Deputy Police Chief Porter denied monitoring system removal

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The appeal of former Hopkinton Deputy Police Chief John “Jay” Porter to be released from his GPS ankle bracelet while he awaits trial on three counts of child rape was denied Aug. 2 at Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn.

The alleged incidents occurred nearly two decades ago, in September 2004 and June 2005, while Porter served as a school resource officer in Hopkinton and the alleged victim was a 15-year-old sophomore, Thomas Brant, the deputy chief of the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office, said during Porter’s pretrial hearing on May 9.

During that hearing, Brant alleged that Porter committed “two specific types” of sexual acts with his client. The second event took place in June 2005, when Brant said there was “an assault and an oral rape.”

Dressed in a black suit with a royal blue shirt, Porter sat with his hands folded during the hearing, his head turned slightly to the side while photos were being taken. Porter was represented by Worcester-based attorney Leonardo Angiulo during the hearing of about 15 minutes.

Angiulo requested that the GPS monitoring device be removed from his client, noting that he served in the Hopkinton Police Department for more than 30 years and has no prior incidents on his record. He argued that there is “no question” as to whether Porter will return to court and discounted claims by Brant that the alleged victim felt “intimidated” by Porter.

During the pretrial hearing on May 9, Brant requested that Porter be released on his own personal recognizance but be monitored by a GPS ankle bracelet. He also requested that “exclusion zones” be considered for the alleged victim’s home, work address and the two schools her children attend.

“Intimidation of a witness has to be based on evidence,” said Angiulo. “There was no allegation of contact since 2015. There is no evidence to suggest that this is necessary.”

At that point, Judge Sarah Weyland

Ellis asked if the GPS monitoring device worn by Porter was “imposed as a condition of his release” and whether Angiulo questioned this condition at that time.

Said Angiulo: “I did not object at that time.”

Brant stressed that the alleged victim had made “very serious allegations” against Porter. As a deputy police chief, Porter “had access to firearms,” Brant added.

Brant repeated that his client has two small children, and that the alleged victim fears for her safety as well as for her children. At the May 9 hearing, Brant said the children currently attend school in Hopkinton.

Brant said the ankle bracelet served “somewhat as a balancing act” because, when the condition was imposed on Porter, he was asked to provide addresses for the home of the alleged victim and her children, as well as for the children’s schools.

“The defendant seemingly did not know,” Brant said. “This information was provided because of the GPS condition.”

Brant added that he “would not describe this as a most intrusive act” to monitor Porter’s whereabouts. At the May 9 hearing, he said he did not request that Porter be released on cash bail, instead allowing Porter to be released on his own recognizance. He also weighed the imposition of the GPS against the safety of his client and her children in making his decision.

Angiulo countered that “there is a lack of criminal history” in Porter’s case. He has lived in the same house with his wife of 28 years, he said, and has two children.

Added Angiulo: “We are not discounting any fear the alleged victim feels during this process.”

His argument was based on Section 58A of state law regarding the release of persons accused of “certain offenses involving physical force or abuse,” according to the state website.

Said Angiulo: “Section 58A does not mention fear.”

He added that during an investigation that ended in the early fall of last year, Porter “alleged he didn’t know who the alleged victim was.”

“There was no indication that the alleged victim was not safe during that time period,” Angiulo said.

After taking a few minutes to review the case history, Ellis noted that the conditions of release were actually stipulated under Section 57 of the law, not Section 58A. According to the state website, Section 57 addresses bail and other requirements that can be imposed by a justice of a supreme judicial or superior court. Part of the section states: “Any person authorized to take bail for such violation may impose conditions on a person’s release in order to ensure the appearance of the person before the court and the safety of the alleged victim, any other individual or the community.”

“The facts create a nexus between the condition of release and its purpose,” Ellis said.

While the judge said that wearing the GPS device is an inconvenience during family and other obligations and is “visually apparent,” she added, “I don’t believe the GPS impedes his functions as a parent, spouse or employee.”

Porter is scheduled to appear in court again on Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. for the filing of a discovery motion.

According to Massachusetts Trial Court electronic files, a trial readiness conference has been scheduled for April 5, 2024. A jury trial is scheduled to begin on May 7, 2024, two days shy of the anniversary of Porter’s pretrial hearing.

Former Hopkinton Deputy Police Chief John “Jay” Porter (far left) was denied removal of his GPS monitoring device during a hearing at Middlesex Superior Court on Aug. 2.

PHOTO/MARY ELLEN GAMBON

Boston Tea Party participant to be commemorated at Hopkinton cemetery

Tea Party | from page 1

grave markers by the event’s 250th anniversary in 2023.

A list of those identified can be found at the Boston Tea Party Historical Society website (Boston-tea-party.org). However, as noted on the site: “Not all of the participants are known, as some carried the secret of their participation to the end of their days.”

Kristin Harris, a research coordinator for the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, is working to track down and verify participants’ resting places. She credited fellow project researcher Jonathan Lane of Revolution 250 with discovering Dickman’s location.

Finding graves and verifying records is a long and sometimes arduous process. Information can be found through genealogical websites, such as Ancestry.com, as well as paper records stored in local municipalities.

“I’m very lucky in the fact that now, many things are digitized,” Harris remarked. “I use different genealogical websites to corroborate as much as I can. Once I have enough information, I take it to the town — whether it’s a town manager or cemetery commissioner or historical society — and I’ll send them

what I’ve found, and they can confirm it with me through their records.

“It’s really fun, and it’s really rewarding, especially when somebody didn’t know that someone [buried in their town’s cemetery] was a Tea Party participant,” she added.

In the course of their research, the team uncovered photos of a letter written by Dickman’s son-in-law that describes Dickman’s account of the sounds of splashing on the fateful night. The letter had been stored in Houghton Library at Harvard University.

It’s those details that give folks an “in-depth look into the people behind the event, rather than just the event itself,” Harris said, noting that one of the main goals of the project is to recognize the lesser-known names.

“You know, when anyone thinks of the Tea Party, they think of Dr. Joseph Warren or Samuel Adams or Paul Revere — they don’t think of John Dickman,” she lamented. “They don’t think about all the apprentices and blacksmiths and barrel makers who were at this event. So, our goal has been to take these stories … and really hammer home that it is the common people who make change.”

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 5-yearold Milo.

Here is Baypath’s description of Milo:

“Milo is a playful dog who enjoys spending time with people and other dogs. He loves going for walks, playing with toys, and even taking a dip in his kiddie pool on hot summer days!

“Due to Milo’s nervous demeanor, Milo would do best in a home with older teens or adults only. He has experienced a lot of change recently and needs a family that can provide him with a patient and loving environment to help him settle in. Milo is easily frightened by loud noises, including sirens, fireworks and thunder, so a quieter environment would be more suitable for him.

“If you’re looking for a furry companion, Milo might just be the perfect addition to your family!”

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

Recently, The Boston Globe highlighted the difficulties that rescues are experiencing, including Baypath. This includes a high demand for rehoming locally, and, unfortunately, a record low number of available adopters. Baypath has been a safe haven for many rescue partners down South. They are eager to place dogs in foster or forever homes to maintain this life-saving transportation and local rehoming efforts.

During this year’s #ClearTheShelters Campaign, which continues throughout August, Baypath is waiving the adoption fees for all adult dogs over 50 pounds. Baypath is ready to help with the adoption or fostering process. Anyone who has been considering adoption or fostering, now is the perfect time to reach out.

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

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UCTC to remain separate from TCMC but with changes

on the UCTC, but the response rate was very low.

Select Board member Irfan Nasrullah, who serves as the board’s liaison to the UCTC, oversaw the discussion. He explained that because the UCTC was created by the Select Board, it had the purview over whether it should be continued or disbanded, not Town Meeting’s vote.

He stressed that the UCTC needed to “go through some training” on how to run meetings and make sure that all viewpoints on the proposed route are considered, vetted and shared with the public. One concern that arose previously was a need for the UCTC to conduct greater public outreach and increase transparency.

While Nasrullah said the UCTC had done some substantial work, “things fell apart” when the UCTC proposed that the trail cross Hayden Rowe Street as it approached the Milford border. This approach is no longer being considered as a viable option by the UCTC. More recently, the UCTC has focused on the first proposed trail segment at the Ashland border, which he described as “noncontroversial.”

Vice chair Shahidul Mannan initially said that he was “leaning toward” the UCTC becoming a TCMC subcommittee. He said the UCTC and TCMC previously competed for grant funding, which caused some tension. Bringing them together, he said, could help them move toward a unified goal.

“Visibly, the committee has been experiencing a lot of conflict over the last two years,” he said. This has prevented the UCTC from “moving the needle” forward on the trail design and having the two committees “working in a siloed fashion.”

“I realize that this has been a very difficult process for people on all sides of the question,” said Select Board chair Muriel Kramer. After considering the pros and cons, she said the committees should remain separate.

She asked that the UCTC meetings be reinstated so that members can “enter into this conversation for the next couple of months” and hold the joint meeting the UCTC requested with the TCMC, the Select

Board and town leaders to discuss what the UCTC has accomplished and where it needs to evolve.

Abutters to proposed trail routes need to be notified of and included in discussions so that concerns can be addressed in a timely manner, she said. Kramer added that there should be a member from the Trails Committee on the UCTC and a UCTC member on the Trails Committee to promote better communication.

Because of public concerns about the previously proposed Hayden Rowe trail section, Kramer asked that the motion also include language stating that the Select Board opposes this route.

Select Board member Mary Jo LaFreniere agreed that the two committees should remain separate. She noted that from the start, they served two distinct functions. While the TCMC’s focus is on smaller trails in town, the UCTC’s goal is to be part of a system that connects towns and allows for multimodal transportation.

Said LaFreniere: “It’s two different animals; it’s oranges and apples.”

Select Board member Amy Ritterbusch concurred, noting the committees have separate purposes. She added that the Hayden Rowe option should be “taken off the table” — at least for now.

Ritterbusch also recommended revisions to the charges of both committees and their membership structures. She said there should no longer be nonvoting UCTC alternate members, that committee liaisons should not be allowed to vote, and that a UCTC member should be on the TCMC.

Mannan stressed that the goal of this process was “to find a new frontier” rather than revert to the UCTC’s status quo. All members agreed that UCTC reforms need to be made.

Kramer proposed the motion for the committees to remain separate “with reformatted structures.” It also called for the UCTC to be reinstated so members can prepare for the joint meeting previously described. The motion included the Select Board’s opposition to a route along Hayden Rowe, unless approved by a future Town Meeting vote.

Hopkinton’s Aanya Soni poses with her President’s Environmental Youth Award during her visit to Washington earlier this month. The youngster was honored for starting a wildlife conservation project called “Every Turtle Matters” in an effort to protect turtles crossing roadways in town.

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.

Cub Scouts Pack 4 Event Aug. 16

Hopkinton Cub Scouts Pack 4, for boys and girls in Grades K-5, will host an event open to the public on Wednesday, Aug. 16, from 6-8 p.m. at the MetroWest YMCA Recreation Lodge (45 East Street). The event will include water bottle rocket launching, rock climbing and ice cream, and attendees can learn more about Cub Scouts. For more information, visit the Pack 4 Facebook page @pack4hop.

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.

Blooms, Brews & BBQs at Weston Nurseries Sept. 9

The annual Blooms, Brews & BBQs event will be held Saturday, Sept. 9, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Weston Nurseries (93 East Main Street), raising money for the Jimmy Fund at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. There will be local bands, craft beers, ciders, barbecue and vegetarian food. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit westonnurseries.com.

HEF/HWC Charity Golf Event Sept. 23

The Hopkinton Charity Golf Event, sponsored by the Hopkinton Emergency Fund and the Hopkinton Women’s Club, will be held Monday, Sept. 18, starting at 8:30 a.m., at Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge. The fee is $150 per golfer, or $45 for lunch only. Sponsorships are available as well. For more information, visit hopgolfcharity.com.

Hopkinton Family Day at HHS fields Sept. 23

Hopkinton Family Day, a community event featuring live entertainment, games, activities and food trucks, and topped off with a fireworks display, is set to return Sept. 23 on the field behind Hopkinton Middle School. The event, which runs from 2-9 p.m., is sponsored by many generous local businesses. Town organizations, nonprofits, clubs and businesses located in town offer activities for everyone. All activities (not including the food trucks) are free for the whole family. For more information, including how to participate as a sponsor or town organization, visit the Friends of Hopkinton website at friendsofhopkinton.org.

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 Dana-Farber 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 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code

NEWS for a $5 discount off the registration 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.

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. 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.

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.

Al-Anon weekly meetings Thursdays

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

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Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

The C-Jammers

August 18 | Music starts at 6:30 p.m.

The C–Jammers are a high-powered, horn-driven band specializing in playing blues, swing, and early rock ‘n’ roll the way the music was originally played — with joy, vitality, and spirit. The band has been entertaining listeners and dancers to great acclaim since the early ‘80s and has recently been reconstituted with the return of several original members and the addition of one of MetroWest Boston’s best guitarists/singers, Pete Henderson. The C-Jammers will be playing in our outdoor amphitheater. In the event of rain, the show will move inside our performance space.

The Nervous Eaters with Special Guest Girl with a Hawk

August 19 | Music starts at 7:30 p.m.

Formed in the mid-’70s, the Nervous Eaters would eventually become the house band for the legendary Boston punk rock club The Rat, where they established themselves as a leading punk rock band in the Northeast, playing with a who’s who of punk and new wave luminaries, including The Police, The Ramones, The Cars, Patti Smith, Dead Boys, Iggy Pop, The Stranglers, Go-Go’s and many others.

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Girl With A Hawk: Singer/songwriter

Linda Viens’ band of Boston rock legends — gorgeously emotive indie rock with Americana, garage, and punk roots.

Orphan Play

August 20 | Curtain 2 p.m.

Orphan Play is a new work by Maggie MacDonald which follows a playwright as she tries to write an autobiographical play. As she writes, she begins to relive her memories in the theatrical space of her imagination. Based on MacDonald’s life, Orphan Play grapples with grief, loss, and the traumas of growing up.

A Play, A Pint & A Pie

August 26 | Plays start at 6:30 p.m.

HCA is thrilled to host Enter Stage Left’s third annual A Play, A Pint & A Pie festival. With seven outstanding plays selected from 112 submissions across the globe, this festival promises to be a night of nonstop fun, laughter, and maybe a few tears.

Your ticket includes admission to the plays, a delicious meat pie or vegetarian alternative, and an alcoholic or soft drink of your choice. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends and family.

Your Arts Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org

Mercury is an element that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly.

Mercury is found in products such as:

Please contact your local Board of Health or Department of Public Works for information on where to safely dispose of these items.

Parks & Rec closes in on new director, discusses drowning

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Two finalists were chosen from the top four candidates for the Parks & Recreation Department’s director position after they interviewed Aug. 7 before commission members and town leaders.

After a three-hour-plus meeting that consisted of individual interviews and commissioner discussion, Jonathan Lewitus and Mark Kelly advanced to the next step in the process. They both come from larger recreation program backgrounds. Their references were to be contacted, and they were to undergo background checks. They also were to be interviewed by Maria Casey, the human resources director, in further detail on their goals and salary requirements.

The commissioners who reviewed the candidates also commended Frank Livera and Julie Harrington for their dedication. They noted that while any of the four would make a good director, their chief concern was who would fit best with the department and the town as a whole.

Lewitus, who appeared to be the

front-runner, stressed the pride he has taken in his work and his desire to provide recreational activities that he would want to see his two children enjoy. For more than three years, he has worked as the assistant recreation director for Brookline, where he previously was employed as a recreation leader and facility manager. He also worked as an assistant recreation director in Sharon.

“The entire time, I was always involved in programs and services,” he said of his Brookline stints, “whether I was teaching youth martial arts, coaching athletics, and running public fitness programs and summer camps.”

Said Lewitus: “I like to say that I’ve done everything under the sun when it comes to recreation.”

His goal for Hopkinton would be to oversee a department with programming that he would like to see offered to his two children. Lewitus has family and friends who live in Hopkinton and surrounding towns, so he is familiar with the town and its needs. His hope is to bring Hopkinton “to the next level.”

Kelly, a Hopkinton resident, has 25 years of experience in municipal management. He currently works as the

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director of special needs for the Newton Parks & Recreation Department. During his interview, he stressed his efforts to create programming for people who have special needs and creating events to raise awareness, such as a road race.

He stressed that he is looking for “a long-term commitment” in the position and how he plans on taking a “team approach” to the job. He noted his experience in managing staff and volunteers and working with a variety of stakeholders.

“This is a really unique opportunity for me,” said Kelly, who has lived in Hopkinton for the past 17 years. “I’m a tremendously hard worker, and I like to advocate for parks and open space. I think I’ve learned over the years that you’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with.”

One achievement he highlighted was starting “Paddy’s Road Race” in Newton. The funds raised have benefited programming for children and adults with disabilities. He also transformed Camp Echo Bridge from a camp for children with disabilities to an inclusive camp that is now the largest camp in Newton.

Said Kelly: “If it’s going to have my name on it, it’s going to be open and welcoming to all, whether it’s race, religion, gender identity or ability level.”

Commission vice chair Laura Hanson said she believed Lewitus had “the entire package” of experience and commitment. She also praised Kelly for his experience, knowledge of the town and his willingness to make this job a long-term commitment as opposed to a stepping stone position.

Commissioner Seth Kenney said he liked Kelly because “he is in it for the long term.”

Interim director Pat Savage noted that both Lewitus and Kelly come from larger departments where they receive more support.

She appeared to lean toward recommending Lewitus because she did not “see the same passion” for the position in the other contenders. She countered that by noting Kelly’s extensive experience and leadership.

“The town is fortunate to have four great candidates,” added Town Manager Norman Khumalo, calling the decision “very difficult.” What concerned him most was how the new director would

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fit in with the staff, town leadership and the community.

Casey said that Kelly showed “a softer side” of his personality during this interview process than in the initial round that included seven candidates.

“I don’t think you could go wrong with him,” she said.

Chair Dan Terry countered that Kelly’s focus was more on populations with special needs, making him lean more toward Lewitus.

Savage added that while Lewitus was “very polished,” she would like to learn more about him from his references.

Because Terry, Hanson and Kenney joined the Aug. 7 meeting on time and heard the interviews of both candidates, they will be the ones voting on who will assume the directorship. Commissioner Ravi Dasari was able to attend for the final two interviews, while commissioner Amy O’Donnell was unable to attend.

Commission discusses drowning

At its July 31 meeting, commissioners discussed the tragic drowning of a 21-year-old Hopkinton resident whose body was recovered in Lake Maspenock on July 22.

Wilinson Orbe Quito was reported missing the previous evening by a friend who was swimming with him at Sandy Beach. The pair had ventured past Sandy Beach’s safe-swim zone and further into Lake Maspenock.

Savage said she first was contacted by public safety officials about the incident at about 1:30 a.m. on July 22. Later that morning, she spoke several times with Gary Daugherty, the town’s interim fire chief, who told her that the beach had been closed and that rescue crews had gone into the search and recovery process.

Said Savage: “I was really impressed with the police and fire departments and how they kept me informed.”

The beach was closed on the night of the drowning, and lifeguards are not present after 5 p.m. Savage noted that incidents like this tend to happen during off-hours and when a person is not a strong swimmer.

For next year, Savage suggested that staff be trained in how to respond to media requests during emergencies such as this. She also said that it was a good time to analyze “what was done right, and what could be done better.”

Commissioner Seth Kenney, who lives in the Lake Maspenock area, said Lake Maspenock Preservation Association members are encouraging signage

at the beach about the water’s depth. He is the commission’s liaison to the LMPA.

“The drop-off is really pretty steep once you get past the buoys,” he explained, noting that the water quickly goes from about waist- or chest-level to 10 feet.

Hanson suggested that there be signs on the buoys as well as at the beach explaining the hazards of swimming past the designated area.

“Signs don’t stop people,” Savage said. “Somebody who wants to go swimming is going to find a way to do that. But that’s definitely something to look at because it always comes into question.”

“It’s just a sad thing to happen,” added Terry, noting that this is the second drowning at Sandy Beach in

four years.

O’Donnell questioned the frequency of night swimming at Sandy Beach after it is closed. She said she had heard on a broadcast news interview from a neighbor that people are swimming there “almost every night.”

Said O’Donnell: “If they are swimming at night, there’s a risk of it happening again.”

“People are definitely there after 5 o’clock, for sure,” Kenney replied, noting that police do walk the beach then and ticket non-resident cars but do not require people to leave.

“I hope that it’s a very isolated incident,” Hanson said, noting that cameras are present on the beach. She called the circumstances “unusual” because of the thunderstorms and torrential downpours that night.

Article planned for Town Meeting to abolish party designation on local ballots

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

An effort is underway to draft an article for a fall Special Town Meeting that would abolish the town caucus system in the hope of potentially limiting the influence of party politics in town elections, its organizers confirmed.

“We are trying to get rid of local party caucuses here in Hopkinton,” explained John Cardillo in an interview Aug. 2. Cardillo was elected in May as a town constable. He also is a member of the Woodville Historical Commission, the Hopkinton Cultural Council and the Veterans Celebration Committee. (Cardillo also works part-time as a photographer for

the Hopkinton Independent.)

He explained that accusations by School Committee candidate Ashley Fogg about the influence she said the Democratic Party exerted in thwarting her election bid and the social media backlash that followed prompted the effort led by him and longtime resident Ed Harrow to eliminate party affiliation on the ballot. Harrow is a member of the Conservation Commission and chair of the Open Space Preservation Commission.

Former Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee chair Darlene Hayes resigned from her positions on the HDTC as well as the town’s Housing Authority and Cultural Council after she admitted to making comments critical of Fogg on

articles on the Hopkinton Independent and HopNews websites under several aliases. She stepped down in early June as HDTC chair after her actions were revealed. One week later, she released a public apology.

Harrow, a member of the Conservation Commission and chair of the Open Space Preservation Commission, said he first thought of the idea after the recent School Committee election, which he described as “incredible, outrageous shenanigans.” He brought his idea to abolish party designation on local ballots to state Rep. James Arena-DeRosa during his June office hours session at Town Hall. Cardillo told Harrow of his agreement with the plan, and the two set forth to bring the

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concept to fruition.

Hopkinton is one of just 16 cities and towns in the state that has partisan caucuses preceding its town elections, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.

“This is part of an effort to decrease the influence of partisan politics in the Town of Hopkinton,” Cardillo explained.

“The Town of Hopkinton needs to free itself of the national paradigm and focus more on what’s good for our community.”

This will not eliminate participation in political parties, he added. It is meant to curb the influence of political caucuses.

In an interview Aug. 2, Arena-DeRosa mentioned that the most popular question he was asked during his recent Hopkinton office hours was about how the town can move to a nonpartisan local election system.

“More than half of the comments I received were about how can we change this structure,” he recalled. “What’s interesting is that it came from all political perspectives — Democrats, Republicans and independents. It is interesting that in this time of sharp political divisions and partisan sentiment that all sides are saying that they want this. It’s like they’re all in this together.”

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“It’s up to the community whether they want to do that,” Arena-DeRosa continued. “But if the town votes to pass the article, I will support it.”

Cardillo said he spoke with ArenaDeRosa about how to go about initiating this process, and Arena-DeRosa confirmed the conversation.

The draft text of the article obtained by the Independent reads:

“Section 1. Notwithstanding chapter 53 of the General Laws, or any other general or special law to the contrary, a primary or caucus for the nomination of town officers shall not be held in the Town of Hopkinton. Ballots used at a regular or special town election for the election of town officers shall not have printed thereon a party or political designation or mark, and there shall not be any political designation or mark appended to the name of a candidate for town office.”

If the article is passed, it will change how campaigns are run, according to Cardillo.

“People will just be voting on the person and their views,” Cardillo explained. “Unfortunately, that means more work for the people who are running for office — but I think that’s a good thing.”

He noted that a candidate needs 50 signatures to get on the ballot. However, if a candidate is nominated by a party caucus, the candidate doesn’t need to get 50 signatures.

“I don’t think people know how a caucus functions and what it actually does,” he continued. “Getting rid of the caucuses will relieve the caucuses of some degree of their power and influence and will transfer it over to the people.”

Cardillo anticipated that the Special Town Meeting on the article will be held in the fall to coincide with the vote on the article regarding the proposed new elementary school building. If it passes there, it goes before the Select Board for its approval, but Cardillo said the Select Board’s approval is somewhat perfunctory.

“It’s simply a matter of procedure,” he said. “They can’t stop it at that point.”

At that point, town counsel and ArenaDeRosa are expected to review the language and possibly make suggestions to its wording so that Arena-DeRosa can submit a home rule petition to the Legislature for its consideration and approval.

“Once it passes the Legislature, it will be enacted immediately,” Cardillo said.

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Planning Board looks at 87 Hayden Rowe redevelopment

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Planning Board at its meeting

Aug. 7 reviewed a major site plan for a proposed office building at 87 Hayden Rowe Street and considered a housing proposal that will trigger the implementation of the town’s new inclusionary zoning bylaw.

The property at 87 Hayden Rowe Street is next to the school administration building and across from the middle school. There is an apartment building there, although it has not been occupied for more than a year, according to property owner Ken Driscoll.

Driscoll said that the Historical Commission approved the demolition of the apartment building. The proposed project is a two-story office building that has a gross floor area (GFA) of 12,576 square feet that he hopes will revitalize the site. A major site plan review was triggered because the project is more than 5,000 square feet of GFA and involves the alteration/expansion of a parking area with more than 25 parking spaces. Currently about 38 parking spaces are proposed.

The building will maintain the historic style of the previous structure, Driscoll said. A company Driscoll owns next door at 89 Hayden Rowe Street called Solect Energy is planning to move to at least part of the new building. The current Solect building will be improved. There will be a parking area in the rear and landscaping in the front.

Driscoll called the proposed building “a well-deserved upgrade for this part of town.”

There will be a common driveway that accesses the back of the property. A pedestrian walkway will be developed between 87-89 Hayden Rowe, and the building design will complement the building next door. Construction is anticipated to begin in late in the fall and finish in late spring. The building was designed by Hopkinton-based Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects.

Project manager Dave Marquedant explained that all utilities will be underground and that sewer access will be provided for the new and adjacent

buildings.

The hearing was continued until the next meeting on Aug. 21.

Chestnut Street proposal invokes new inclusionary zoning bylaw

Keystone Builders, LLC proposed a seven-lot, market-rate, residential subdivision at 0-24 Chestnut Street. The applicant proposed creating an off-site affordable housing unit, which triggered usage of the new inclusionary zoning bylaw and requires the Planning Board’s approval of a special permit. No designs will be completed until the subdivision is approved, according to the developer.

Applicant Richard Olstein from Keystone requested that the affordable housing unit be built offsite. He wanted to gauge what the process entailed before designing the subdivision. Olstein also explained that it is “a very simple economic reality” that it is more expensive to include an affordable unit in a subdivision.

Gelcich explained that this is a decision that would set a precedent for the town that should be made carefully. It would need to include a finding as to whether or not there is a benefit to having the affordable unit offsite.

Chair Gary Trendel noted that “it is not an easy process” to locate an affordable housing unit offsite. An example of this is the Chamberlain-Whalen development, where three would have been required. In that case, the developer

instead made a payment in lieu of those units to the town.

A discussion ensued about ensuring that a condition be included so that affordable housing units are not clustered in one area of town. The proposed subdivision units would include three bedrooms, so members asked if the number of bedrooms potentially could be split between two affordable units. They would each be considered part of the town’s affordable housing stock.

The number of bathrooms also was discussed as a consideration but was not specified as a condition. Access to public transportation was deemed to be a restrictive factor.

A point was raised that multiple bedroom dwellings can’t be referred to as being targeted to families because that could be considered exclusionary to some residents who are not members of traditional nuclear families.

The applicant agreed that a threebedroom threshold “seemed reasonable.”

The hearing was continued until the next meeting on Aug. 21.

188-190 Fruit Street hearing continued after discussion

Nick Skoly presented a status update on the stormwater permit to construct two single-family homes at 188-190 Fruit Street, as proposed by Rebel Hill LLC, near the Hopkinton Country Club. Site walks were held with both the Planning Board and the Conservation Commission last month.

The information received during the

site walks prompted the team to make changes in the construction sequencing, according to Skoly. The timing and placement of the stormwater infrastructure installation were adjusted, as was where the landscaping debris will be placed on the golf course. A map detailing the placements was provided to the board.

The board needs to determine if the plan complies with town stormwater regulations, which in turn must comply with regulations set forth by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Phil Paradis, the town’s engineering consultant from BETA group, explained that the site has low-grade soils called sandy loam and steep slopes where excavation will be required. He said the low infiltration rate of sandy loam “makes me nervous” because of other projects in town that have experienced issues with stormwater management.

The hearing was continued until Aug. 21 and the decision until Aug. 28.

New economic development project manager introduced Sustainability, Economic Develop-

ment and Equity Project Manager Julia Chun introduced herself to the board. She was appointed to this newly-created position last month and started on July 24.

“I look forward to joining some of these meetings, hopefully working alongside you to encourage business development and economic growth in a sustainable manner,” she said.

Chun spent the last year working as the economic inclusion coordinator for the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. She holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in urban economic geography with a concentration in law and sociology. She grew up in Northborough and currently resides in Newton.

Trendel spoke about Chun’s “interesting mix of roles and responsibilities” in this new position. Chun explained that she splits her time among the three job areas. Her larger goals are working on the town’s climate action plan, municipal aggregation and help for small businesses.

Electric vehicle parking proposed regulation approval delayed

The approval of the new electric vehicle parking regulations was postponed. Principal Planner John Gelcich noted that he had not received any corrections on the last version of the language, nor had he received feedback from the electrical inspector on it. He advised delaying a vote until this perspective was shared with the board.

Trendel complimented the Zoning Advisory Committee and the Sustainable Green Committee for their work on developing the regulation’s language, as this is the first regulation of its kind for the town.

Amended inclusionary zoning bylaw reviewed

The board voted to approve and adopt the amended inclusionary zoning bylaw. No edits were made since the last version was reviewed, and Trendel called it “exceptionally well written and modified.”

This office building is proposed for 87 Hayden Rowe Street, across from the middle school, at the site of a vacant apartment building.

Board of Appeals denies barn for receptions, OKs bike sales on Winter Street

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Board of Appeals last month again denied the use of a detached barn at 47 East Main Street for functions such as wedding receptions. There also is a single-family home on the property.

The applicants, Howard Roberts and Anna Dorcey, last year proposed this use for the barn but were denied. In March, they proposed adding an agricultural component on abutting land they purchased in addition to the previously proposed barn use, noting that receptions would be for fewer than 100 guests.

This action was denied in a letter from Assistant Building Inspector Michael Shepard on March 28, prompting an April appeal letter from the applicants. The appeal was denied at a July 12 Board of Appeals hearing.

“When the owners initially applied last year to use the barn for functions, they were denied because it was in a residential district and this use is not allowed,” Shepard explained via email. “Since that initial hearing they acquired some additional land next door and added it to the 47 East Main lot.”

Now that the property consists of more than 6.91 acres, agricultural use is allowed there because the property is larger than 5 acres. But at the time of a March letter, “none of the planned agricultural uses were undertaken,” according to the Board of Appeals decision document.

The denial stated that the appellants had to prove the barn’s use as a reception hall “is minor in significance” to the main property use.

“Unless or until plausible evidence is provided that the primary use of the land is for commercial agriculture, the use of the barn for micro functions shall remain prohibited,” the decision read.

According to the decision findings, Roberts and Dorcey said the work to prepare the property for agricultural uses was performed after the March letter was issued. But the board’s role was limited to reviewing and ruling only on the March 28 decision.

“Essentially, this is why the opinion was upheld,” Shepard said. “I anticipate at some time, probably in the not too distant future, the agricultural use will have started and the accessory use will be allowed if it complies with the building code and site plan approval from the Planning Board.”

Added Shepard: “Agricultural uses in Massachusetts receive a lot of latitude from the state because such uses are dwindling rapidly, and the state is trying to encourage this use.”

Winter Street resident OK’d to continue selling bikes

A Winter Street resident will be allowed to peddle refurbished bicycles on his property, provided that they are placed at least 6 feet away from the street, after receiving unanimous approval from the Board of Appeals.

Todd Alving, who lives at 166 Winter Street at the intersection of Winter and Pond streets, has been selling refurbished bicycles on his front lawn for the past two decades. The property is zoned as being in an agricultural district.

An issue arose in April when the town ordered a cease and desist order to Alving to prohibit him from selling the bicycles. In response, Alving filed a special permit request with the Board of Appeals to al-

Right: The owners of this home and barn at 47 East Main Street are seeking permission to rent the property for private events.

Below: A Winter Street resident got approval to continue selling bicycles in front of his home.

low for the bicycle sales as a “home occupation,” according to the board’s decision statement. A hearing was scheduled on June 28 before the board.

Shortly before the hearing, area residents received a flyer in a black plastic bag tied to each mailbox with a picture of several bikes displayed in the front yard. The flyer, which was written anonymously, urged people to attend the hearing, referring to the bicycle display as “a bicycle junk yard” and “an illegal eyesore.” It also noted that bicycles sometimes fell into the street, causing a safety issue on the narrow, winding roadway.

According to the decision document, which was provided to the Independent by Shepard via email, the bicycle business was deemed allowable by right as a “home business workshop.”

While the use was by right, the ability to display the bikes on the front lawn required a special permit. The refurbishment of the bicycles takes place in a detached barn on the property, and there is no business signage or advertising on the property, according to the decision.

“The applicant stated that he needs to display the bicycles to sell them,” the document stated, “and no more than one person at a time has ever stopped by to look at a bicycle.”

Written and verbal testimony was received on both sides of the issue. The majority of residents noted that there are other home businesses in the neighborhood, while an opponent, Joe Centola, stated that there are “too many bicycles too close to the road,” according to the decision.

The board allowed the special permit in a 5-0 ruling with the following conditions:

— That the work must be contained in the detached barn on the property

— That there is no major structural change to the exterior of the home, other than permitted signage

— The applicant must display no more than 15 bicycles at a time, that they shall be no closer than 6 feet from the roadway, and that the bikes only be displayed between April 1 and Dec. 31.

The decision infuriated Centola. He spoke about his displeasure with the bicycles being displayed in the yard at the past two Select Board meetings during the public comment period, saying they also occupy town property when they fall into the street.

“The bikes are still there,” he said at the Aug. 1 Select Board meeting. “I hate to say it, but it’s a busy intersection that twists and winds. Somebody’s going to get hurt. The town will be liable.”

He requested that the town survey the lot to delineate where Alving’s property ends and the town’s begins. He also said Alving should have presented a site plan showing how the bikes will be staged. Alving did not respond to requests for comment.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Budget process, school proposal addressed by School Committee

By Susan Gonsalves

Contributing Writer

Overviews of the budgeting process

and issues associated with the Elmwood School replacement project were among the topics at the Aug. 3 School Committee meeting.

Presented by Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh and Assistant Superintendents Susan Rothermich and Jeff LaBroad, the administrators took the committee step-by-step through the budget process starting in September and described other sources of funding, such as revolving funds and different types of grants.

Cavanaugh said the budget is created with “three buckets to fill”: planning for enrollment growth, meeting every student’s needs, and building a community of respect and collaboration.

She said last year’s motto of “All means all” now is “All really can mean all.”

Rothermich described the budget as “the financial expression” of the educational program and the priorities of the school district.

Salaries generally make up 80% of the operating budget, with 20% in expenses. Capital items are requests costing $25,000 or more, she explained.

The budget process is launched in September and involves principals and

directors evaluating needs, beginning with a zero-based budget and “building it from the ground up with students at the center of the work,” Rothermich said.

The School Committee and administrators meet with the town manager and other town leaders to be advised by a “budget message” also in September, she said.

Other factors of the process include weekly meetings of a budget advisory group; presentations by building principals, directors and central office personnel in November and December; and in January, a public hearing and School Committee vote.

Rothermich explained that the same budget presentations are conducted numerous times (9-10 last year), which gives opportunities for the public to get involved, ask questions and receive the information they need.

She added that Hopkinton does a lot, considering per-pupil expenditures of $15,000 annually rank among the lowest in the commonwealth.

She also explained that many requests are not included in the ultimate budget. Last year, 9.5 full-time equivalent positions did not make it, totaling approximately $500,000, or nearly a 1% increase.

Cavanaugh highlighted budget changes over time corresponding to enrollment. For example, in 2020, the budget was $48 million for 3,897 kids.

In 2023, the figure was $55 million for 4,206 students.

Rothermich reiterated the sentiment that a five-year capital plan must be reviewed annually because “there are always levers, and things do change.”

The superintendent presented a “stop light” analysis showing enrollment capacity within buildings to inform the Elmwood School replacement project. (Red shows out of space, yellow is tight space and use of non-traditional classrooms and green means the students can fit in the building).

She reviewed how moving certain grades would impact other buildings and free up space in some cases.

LaBroad described Every Student Succeeds Act grants as well as Title I-IV, SPED (special education), Entitlement grants and funds from other sources like nonprofits and private entities. He also outlined the process of applying for competitive grants and the follow-up requirements.

In fiscal year 2023, the town received $1.1 million in entitlement and earmarked grants, and $1.3 million is expected in FY24, he said. Hopkinton received $195,662 in competitive grants, with the number in FY24 to be determined.

Elmwood project timeline offered

Jon Graziano, chair of the Elementary School Building Committee, said the most common questions the board receives from the community involve project cost and site location.

He said the committee would receive two cost estimates from independent contractors and reconcile the figures. By Aug. 22, the committee will know the amount of Massachusetts School Building Authority reimbursement the town would receive and vote on a budget.

Former HPS Wellness leader Elliott dies in bicycle accident

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

Former Hopkinton Public Schools Health and Wellness Department leader Bruce Elliott died July 29 after being struck head-on by an SUV while bicycling in Mentone, California.

Elliott, 55, had been living in nearby Redlands, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles. Captain of a cycling group called Don’s Bikes Race Team, Elliott was taking part in a group ride when the accident occurred.

According to a police report, Elliott was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 10:21 a.m., about an hour after emergency responders were called to the scene.

The accident was under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

A memorial service is planned for Aug. 6 at 2 p.m. at the University of the Redlands Memorial Chapel.

A fundraising page was set up via spotfund, with donations to be split between Bikes for Kids and Grand Teton National Park.

Elliott worked in the Hopkinton school system from about 2012-17, according to current Hopkinton High School principal Evan Bishop. Elliott left Hopkinton and moved to Southern California after his wife accepted a job there. Elliott had been working as a physical education teacher at Bella Vista Elementary School in Desert Hot Springs, California.

“He was a wonderful guy, such a hard worker, so positive,” Bishop recalled. “He always had a smile on his face, always willing to roll up his sleeves and do whatever he was asked to do. He understood the stress that a lot of students were feeling and was just a really dependable, kind, caring, supportive colleague and leader of his department.”

Jeanne Reimonn was a Hopkinton

Bruce Elliott had become involved in the bicycle racing scene in Southern California after moving from Hopkinton.

neighbor and friend and remained in contact with the Elliott family after they moved. Bruce and Cindy Elliott have two grown children: a son, Wyatt (who graduated from HHS), and a daughter, Ainsley.

“He was a wonderful husband and father and was the wellness director at the high school because he always had an interest in healthy eating and healthy activities for young people,” Reimonn said. “He was always upbeat, a positive guy. He was a positive role model for a lot of middle school and high school students. It’s a big loss.”

Reimonn said she talked recently with Elliott’s wife, who shared that the accident appears to be a case of driver’s error.

“She said she and the kids are in shock, it happened so suddenly,” Reimonn said, “but she’s grateful that they had 30 wonderful years together and two great children.”

Reimonn noted the dangers of cyclists sharing the road with motor vehicles and said Hopkinton’s new downtown bike lanes are the type of thing that should be promoted.

“Bicycling infrastructure is something that we need more of,” she said. “It would help prevent some of these accidents.”

Mikulis reaps honors after standout lax season at Haverford

Mikulis helped Haverford to a 12-6 record and an appearance in the semifinals of the conference tournament.

Basketball registration open

Registration for the upcoming season of the Hopkinton Basketball Association (HBA) travel basketball program

is open and can be accessed via the HBA website: HopkintonBasketball.org.

The program is for Hopkinton boys and girls in Grades 4-8. Mandatory tryouts are scheduled for Sept. 9 and 10.

Fall baseball program planned

Hopkinton Babe Ruth Baseball

is hosting a fall league from Sept. 6 through Oct. 21. Games are Wednesdays from 5-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 3-5 p.m. The league is for ages 13-14 (Grades 6-8) — players who have aged out of the Little League program and are eligible as 13-year-olds in the fall. For more information, visit the Hopkinton Babe Ruth Facebook page.

Softball stars

Hopkinton’s Tiffany Mikulis was named a 2023 Intercollegiate

SPORTS ROUNDUP

Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association second-team All-American following her stellar season as a sophomore midfielder at Haverford College in Pennsylvania. Mikulis, the Centennial Conference Midfielder of the Year, also was named USA Lacrosse Magazine third-team All-American and selected to the PhillySIDA Academic All-Area team.

In addition to becoming Haverford’s single-season draw control leader (91), Mikulis ranked within the top five in the Centennial conference for goals (63), points (74), ground balls (47), shots on goals (82) and free-position goals (13).

Budget process, school proposal addressed by School Committee

The School Committee is expected to take an “endorsement” vote at that same meeting, with the Select Board likely to do so a week later.

The final submission must go to the MSBA by Aug. 31.

Graziano said residents have asked why other sites like commercial buildings off South Street, the Old Liberty Mutual site and the former Center School were not chosen instead of Hayden Rowe Street for the proposed Elmwood School.

Once he explains things like the existence of wetlands, insufficient roads, the need for HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems to be overhauled and the lack of windows, cafeteria and gymnasium spaces and other factors, they appear to understand, Graziano said.

He added that 44 sites were carefully studied before Hayden Rowe was chosen last year. There are no alternatives that cost less, Graziano said, keeping in mind it is a large school to accommodate 1,200 in three grades.

Graziano invited residents to attend a virtual public forum on Aug. 10 and continue to provide feedback.

School Committee member Adam Munroe noted that the town has been in this situation with enrollment growth for several years. He said the district is “high performing” despite its space limitations, and it is time to give the students “appropriate space to teach them into the future.”

There is a contingency plan in case there is even more enrollment than projected, Cavanaugh said. Graziano noted the schematic design includes room to add classrooms to the three academic wings.

Nature’s Classroom trip approved

In other business, the School Committee gave approval for the Grade 6 Nature’s Classroom trip to be held Nov. 13-17 with two groups comprised of 300 students. The students will travel to Ossipee Lake in New Hampshire and take part in hikes, team-building games, survival skills and exploration of forests, streams, beaches and other aspects of the natural world.

Hopkinton Middle School assistant principal Ann Benbenek noted that the cost of transportation had increased, resulting in a $410 rate for families to pay. She and Cavanaugh explained that financial assistance is available, as are payment plans.

Vice chairAmanda Fargiano described the program as “a great way to start the middle school experience” for students.

Liaison chosen to review bullying plan

Member Holly Morand was selected to represent the School Committee in a group reviewing the bullying/intervention plan. The group is comprised of students, teachers and administrators and will return to the School Committee next spring with a proposal.

“I can’t imagine anyone more qualified than you,” Fargiano said. Morand noted that as a social worker, she works with both bullies and the bullied, and these are the types of issues where she would like to contribute.

Hopkinton Little League’s summer softball 12-andunder team won the Twin Valley League Championship last month, going undefeated for the second straight season. The team consists of (front row) Averey Robillard; (second row, from left) Kaitlyn Ballas, Elyn Stomberg, Olivia Thompson, Elena Valis and Sydney Iaricci; (third row, from left) Kate Riesenberger, KK Kelly, Nina Staffieri, Amelia Godfroy, Emily Coito and Emma Wiley; (back row, from left) Coach Mitch Riesenberger and assistants Matt Iaricci, Dave Ballas and Jim Valis.

Tiffany Mikulis (right) was a stalwart at midfield for Haverford lacrosse.

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.

Michael Clooney

Michael Coleman Clooney, 81, died at his home in Hopkinton on July 28. He was the husband of the late Katherine N. (Sullivan) Clooney, who died in 2012. He was born March 13, 1942, in Malden to Faith Miltimore Clooney and was raised in New England.

After high school, he entered the service, serving in the U.S. Army as a mechanic and later as a platoon leader in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged as a second lieutenant after his service and soon began working as a diesel mechanic for Caterpillar, work he continued until his retirement in 2009.

He enjoyed sailing, reading, writing, music and spending time with his family.

He is survived by daughter Nora F. Clooney of Cambridge, son David Clooney of Florence, daughterin-law Amber Clooney and grandson Gabriel Clooney. In addition to his wife, he is predeceased by a brother, Rev. David F. Clooney.

Memorial calling hours will be held Thursday, Aug. 24, from 5-7 p.m. at the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, Hopkinton.

Sona Wyman

Dr. Sona Elizabeth Averill Wyman passed away peacefully on July 27 at her residence in Marlborough. She was born in Bangor, Maine, on Aug. 17, 1926, the daughter of Robert Wallace Averill and Venia Elizabeth (Keene) Averill. She is predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Rev. Dr. Henry Wyman, whom she met at the Bangor Public Library, and her sister, Ruth Averill Smith. She leaves behind her daughter, Rev. Susan Wyman and husband Rev. Dr. Steven Blackburn of Pleasant Valley, Connecticut, and her son, Stephen Wyman and wife Nancy (Thompson) Wyman of Hopkinton, as well as four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Dr. Wyman was a 1944 graduate of Bangor High School and received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Maine in 1948, all the while working at the Bangor Public Library. In 1950, Rev. Dr. Wyman and Dr. Wyman moved to Windham, New York, where Dr. Wyman worked as a school librarian. Their next move was to Columbia, Connecticut, in 1952, and then to North Olmsted, Ohio, in 1956. It was in Ohio at Case Western Reserve University that Dr. Wyman received her master’s in library science and was the head librarian at North Olmsted High School. In 1968, the couple moved their family to Patchogue, New York, and Dr. Wyman eventually became the district coordinator of media for all of the Three Village public schools. She attended Hof-

stra University in Hempsted, New York, and earned a doctorate of library science. After retirement, she and her husband returned to her childhood home in Bangor, Maine.

Dr. Wyman was a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) and a direct descendant of Frances Deighton Williams, for whom the Bangor NSDAR is named. She was a member of the Mayflower Descendants in the State of Maine and a member of the Magna Charta Society. She had a great love for her family, friends and pets and a voracious appetite for reading.

Contributions in her memory may be made to a charity of your choice or to the Bangor Public Library, 145 Harlow Street, Bangor, ME 04401 or to the Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mt. Hope Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401.

Friends are invited to a graveside service at Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor, Maine, meeting at the Cemetery’s Superintendent’s building (State Street entrance) by 10:45 a.m. on Sept. 16. Graveside service will take place at 11 a.m. Immediately following the service, all are invited to an informal luncheon. Details will be handed out at that time.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.

Peter Pandolfino

Peter J. Pandolfino, 92, passed away peacefully on July 26 in Hopkinton. Pete was born in Cambridge in 1931 to Anthony and Mary Pandolfino. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Lorraine, and his brother, Joseph and fiancee Cathie Harty, of Ashland. He was predeceased by his sister, Josephine of Centerville. Peter also leaves behind his five children, Donna Jacobs of Framingham, Steven Pandolfino and wife Suzanne of Whitinsville, Paul Pandolfino and wife Janine of Laconia, New Hampshire, Peter Pandolfino and wife Elizabeth of Upton, and Laura Brevik and husband David of Westborough; his nephews, Michael Pandolfino and wife Tiffany of Milford, and Joey Pandolfino and fiancée Sharon Bonzetti of Framingham; and a niece, Debra Pandolfino, recently married to Chris Rogaishio of Framingham. Peter also greatly loved his 12 grandkids and 17 great-grandkids.

Peter graduated from Arlington High School, attended classes at Berklee College of Music, and later served in the U.S. Army and Air Force National Guard. Pete was well known in the area for his many years in the hair business, as he owned several hair salons independently and also with his brother, Joe. Pete was a music lover and musician who loved playing his bass. In his younger years, he started a band, The Peter Pann Quartet, and played weekends at Alphonse’s Powder Mill Restaurant in Maynard, and also performed for special occasions throughout the area.

Pete loved life and his family but more than anything his beloved wife of 71 years, Lorraine. After raising his family in Natick, Pete and his wife later moved to Mashpee, where he enjoyed his retirement. Pete kept his many friends and neighbors close and continued getting together with his musician friends down the Cape to do what he loved best — play music. Loved by all who knew him, Pete was a kind and thoughtful person who was always willing to help those who reached out to him. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19, at noon at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe Street.

Maureen Stake

Maureen D. (Sheehan) (Sinnery) Stake, 86, of Auburn passed away unexpectedly on July 17.

She leaves her beloved husband, Ronald H. Stake; her devoted children, Ronald Stake of Ohio, Donald Sinnery and wife Joanne of Milford, Donna Kaliszewski and husband John of Dudley, Robert Stake and wife Judy of Worcester, Debra Caruso and husband Harold of South Carolina, and David Sinnery and wife Suzanne of Groton; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; her brother, Walter Sheehan of Oxford; along with several nieces and nephews. Maureen was predeceased by her first husband, Donald Sinnery, a brother, Jack Sheehan, and their parents, George and Christine (Logee) Sheehan, as well as a grandson, Ronald Stake Jr.

Maureen was born in Hopkinton and raised and educated in Worcester. She was a 1955 graduate of Classical High School, prior to beginning an extensive career in business administration and finance.

She was proud to be a past president of the Worcester Chapter of American Business Woman’s Association, and was named Woman of the Year in 1975 by the ABWA.

Maureen’s unwavering love for her family kept her going. She always cherished the memories she made with each of her children and grandchildren. They will, in turn, keep her love alive.

A funeral service was held Aug. 4 at St. Michael’s on-the-Heights Episcopal Church, Worcester. Memorial donations can be made to St. Michael’s on-theHeights (stmichaelsontheheights.org/giving).

James Merloni

James Merloni Jr., 88, of Ashland passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Aug. 3. He was the husband of Marilyn (Hogan) Merloni for 68 years. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late James Merloni Sr. and Louise (Luisetti) Merloni. James was a member of the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 609 since 1952 and was the longtime administrator of the New England Laborers’ Training Trust Fund located in Hopkinton. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn (“Mickey”), and his children, Lynn Merloni-Abelli and husband Chris of Ashland, Dr. Christopher J. Merloni and wife Susan of Ashland, and James Merloni III and wife Kristen of Ashland; as well as eight grandchildren, Amy Wainwright, Jason and Peter Walker, and Alexander, Nicole, James, Dante and Alexis Merloni; four great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Silas, Aiden and Noelle; a brother, Victor Merloni of Southboro; a sister, Elizabeth Minnucci of Southboro; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Aug. 9 in St. Cecilia’s Church, Ashland, followed by cremation.

In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ name may be made to St. Cecilia’s Parish, 54 Esty Street. Ashland, MA 01721, or Bethany Health Care Center, Advancement Department, 97 Bethany Road, Framingham, MA 01702 (please include the honoree’s name on the memo line), or Salmon Hospice, 37 Birch Street, Milford, MA 01757.

LIBRARY CORNER

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.

Young Adult Soap Making Workshop

Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2-3 p.m.

Young adults, teens and tweens are invited to learn how to make soap. Each participant will make their own fun and quirky swirl soap using a glycerin-based soap, colorful soap curls, color, cosmetic glitter and a variety of scents. The program includes a discussion about the process of making cold-process soap, blending of essential oils and the role of exfoliants in soap making.

50-Plus Job Seekers Networking Group

Wednesday, Aug. 16, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 23, 6-8 p.m.

This Zoom program is a professional forum for networking with peers in a safe and comfortable environment conducive to developing new relationships and developing skills and strategies to help with a career transition. These sessions will focus on creating a “career story” pitch.

Ukulele with Julie Stepanek

Thursday, Aug. 17, 2-3 p.m.

In this program for teens and adults, Julie Stepanek will show the fundamentals of the ukulele, an instrument that is fun and easy to play. No experience is necessary. Ukuleles will be provided. Registration is required.

Ladybug Printmaking

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 6-7 p.m.

Participants will carve linoleum blocks to create two-sided stamps that can be used to make ladybug images. These are great fun and can be used on a variety of surfaces. Attendees will make cards with a summer theme.

Dungeons and Dragons Group

Wednesdays, Aug. 23 and 30, 6-8 p.m.

This program is suggested for ages 10 and older. Nate, Hopkinton’s resident Dungeon Master, will lead the library’s weekly Dungeons and Dragons Group. Players will test their skills and wills through challenging and fun campaigns and character development. Upper elementary students, teens, tweens and new adults are welcome for a night of role-playing fun.

Author Talk: Cassandra Clare

Wednesday, Aug. 23, 8-9 p.m.

This online chat is with mega-bestselling author Cassandra Clare, who wrote The Mortal Instruments series, and will focus on her newest and final book in The Last Hours series, “Chain of Thorns.”

Trail Walk with Hopkinton Trails Club

Thursday, Aug. 24, 7-8 p.m.

This week’s walk will take place at the Pratt Farm Trail, off Ash Street. The

Hopkinton Public Library and the Hopkinton Trails Club present the Summer Trail Walks series. In this series, experts from the Trails Club will lead attendees on one-hour leisurely trail walks through Hopkinton trails and discuss the history, flora and fauna of the area. These walks are not strenuous, and no one will be left behind. Families are welcome. Registration is optional.

Meet The Things 2

Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

With the library of things, patrons can borrow items like musical instruments, home maintenance tools and craft tools. Individuals are invited to drop in to learn about some of the cool new things the library recently added. All ages are welcome. No registration is required for attendance.

Board Game Night For Adults

Tuesday, Aug. 29, 6-7:30 p.m.

During the pandemic, many people regained an appreciation for (and an occasional aversion to) board games. Participants will revisit old favorites or discover something new with Reference Supervisor and resident nerd Danielle Cook. She’ll have a selection of games on hand and be available to help get people started.

Zero Waste Kids: Birthdays, Lunches and More

Tuesday, Aug. 29, 7-8 p.m.

This virtual program for all ages is led by Sarah Robertson-Barnes, who will dig into practical tips to make children’s birthday parties and school lunches eco-friendly and low waste. There also will be a discussion about how kids, families and communities can be more sustainable as some towns/cities/states move toward free lunches for all.

Author Talk: Jeff Selingo

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2-3 p.m.

Spend an hour online with bestselling author Jeff Selingo, who wrote “Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admission.” Selingo immersed himself in the world of admissions for a year to answer the question on the minds of teenagers and their parents: How do colleges select their freshman class?

Frayed Knot Fiber

Arts Circle

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 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.

police log

ARRESTS

July 27

6:46 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator all over the road on Pleasant Street. Officer Matthew LaTour conducted a motor vehicle stop and subsequently arrested a 54-year-old Pleasant Street resident and charged him with marked lanes violation, unlicensed operation of motor vehicle and OUI liquor.

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.

July 25

6:50 a.m. Officers Tyler Staback, Nicholas Walker and Nathan Wright responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street. No personal injuries were reported. A courtesy transport was provided to one person to North Mill Street.

2:42 p.m. A caller reported a road rage incident on Fenton Street, where occupants of a vehicle threw a milkshake out the window at the caller. Officers Sean McKeon, Tyler Staback and Nathan Wright responded and took a report.

July 27

5:41 p.m. A caller reported part of a rock wall was in the roadway of Elm Street. Sergeant William Burchard responded and reported a small stone was on the ground but not a hazard.

6:46 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard notified the DPW of a fallen tree across the roadway of Elizabeth Road.

July 28

3:16 a.m. A caller reported seeing a male looking into vehicles on East Main Street and then walking behind the property. He also saw a Honda Civic in the area. Officers Nicholas Walker, Nicholas Saletnik and Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded and checked behind the building but were unable to locate the person.

9:37 a.m. Officer Matthew Santoro took a crash report on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

4:24 p.m. A Wood Street caller reported a dog exited the walking trail and killed one of her chickens while the dog’s owner stood and waited for her 11-year-old daughter to attempt to break up the fight. A message was left for the animal control officer.

11:07 p.m. A Longwood Drive caller reported someone was attempting to break into his residence. His family was home and upstairs. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Augusto Diaz responded and assisted.

11:55 p.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Saletnik responded to a breaking and entering on Benson Road and took a report.

July 29

1:52 a.m. A Holt Street caller reported his neighbor’s residence was completely left open. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded, checked the home and spoke with the reporting person.

12:56 p.m. A Greenwood Road resident reported a landscaping vehicle crashed in his yard and caused significant damage. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and took a crash report.

3:55 p.m. Officers Shannon Beloin and Sean McKeon responded to a motor vehicle crash on South Mill Street and took a report.

8:13 p.m. A Barbara Road resident requested assistance locating his daughter and her 12-year-old son. He stated that they left his residence and then the storm arrived. The dispatcher spoke with the daughter, and she and her son were safe at a neighbor’s house, where they found shelter. All was OK.

July 30

7:21 a.m. A Courtney Circle resident reported his neighbor’s tree fell down across the roadway. Officer Sean McKeon responded and notified the DPW.

7:31 a.m. A Hayden Rowe Street caller reported finding his stuff all over the ground next to his vehicle and believed both his car and home were broken into. Officers Sean McKeon, Cody Normandin and Tyler Staback responded and took a report of breaking and entering.

7:55 a.m. A Downey Street resident reported the breaking and entering of a motor vehicle. Officer Tyler Staback responded and took a report.

8:31 a.m. A Downey Street resident reported two people wearing hoods attempted to break into his residence. Officer Tyler Staback responded and took a report.

1:06 p.m. A walk-in from Leonard Street reported the breaking and entering of a motor vehicle. Officers Cody Normandin and Sean McKeon assisted and took a report.

7:33 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street and then responded to Price Chopper, as the accident may have started as an altercation in the store. A report was to follow.

10:13 p.m. A caller reported someone having a panic attack and jumping out of his friend’s car on Grove Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Cody Normandin and Robert Ekross responded and took a report.

July 31

10:57 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback responded along with the Fire Department to a shed fire on Country Way.

11:25 p.m. An Overlook Drive resident reported the strong smell of something burning in the neighborhood. Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Walker responded and found a neighbor having a small bonfire, which they extinguished. All was OK.

August 2

1:59 p.m. A caller reported a lowhanging wire on Ash Street. Officer Tyler Staback responded and notified Verizon.

3:39 p.m. Officer Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street and took a report.

8:05 p.m. A caller reported his car was damaged in a construction area on Hayden Rowe Street, and he requested to speak with an officer. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and notified Eversource. A gate box was discovered coming out of the ground. Officer Beloin took a report.

8:33 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin responded to a report of a flat tire on Hayden Rowe Street among the construction.

August 3

9:24 a.m. A caller reported what he believed was a civilian vehicle with a blue police-style light bar that was used to bypass traffic at the Grove Street and Main Street intersection. The license plate provided did not return any information. The incident was logged.

12:48 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin took a crash report on South Street and issued a written warning for gridlocking. No personal injuries were reported.

3:37 p.m. A Valentine Road resident reported receiving a text message asking if she was the homeowner of her property. She requested an officer speak to the individual who sent her the message and advise the individual not to contact her again. The incident was logged.

3:40 p.m. Officers Cody Normandin and Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on School Street. No personal injuries were reported.

August 4

12:42 a.m. A concerned caller from Medway reported his 91-year-old male tenant, who often goes to the range on Lumber Street, had not returned home. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded to Lumber Street to search for the man and his vehicle with a negative find and contacted the Medway Police Department.

9:49 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

10:46 a.m. A caller reported a bird was stuck in the grille of her car. A message was left for the animal control officer. The individual called back and stated the bird was out of the grille and may have a broken wing.

1:12 p.m. A motorist reported a chicken on the side of the roadway on South Street. Officer Sean McKeon responded and saw the chicken run into the woods. A message was left for the animal control officer.

1:32 p.m. A caller reported her Drizly account was hacked and the address came back to a Roosevelt Lane address. Officer Matthew Santoro responded to the address and spoke to the homeowner, who was moving in and did not appear to be involved. A report was taken.

2:05 p.m. A caller reported a loose chicken on South Street. Officer Sean McKeon responded and checked the area with a negative find.

Police Log | page 23

3:52 p.m. A caller reported her 93-year-old mother woke up to someone knocking on her bedroom window around 12:30-1 a.m. The front door at the East Street home was left open and nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary. Officer Matthew LaTour was to follow up with the caller.

7:17 p.m. A Revolutionary Way resident reported someone was threatening her children. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

August 5

11:19 a.m. A motorist who pulled over on busy South Street requested assistance with catching the rogue chicken. Officer Tyler Staback responded but was rerouted to another call.

3:03 p.m. A walk-in reported items were stolen from her the previous night. Officer Robert Ekross assisted and took a report.

3:58 p.m. An Old Elm Way resident reported his house was broken into. He stated he had been out of the country since early June. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

6:28 p.m. An employee at a West Main Street store reported a possible fake ID and requested an officer. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Robert Ekross and Cody Normandin responded and spoke with the employee and then responded to an address to speak with the involved party, who was hiding. Officer Normandin was to be in contact with the parents of the involved party.

6:59 p.m. A caller reported a chicken in the roadway of South Street. Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported the bird ran across the road and into the woods.

8:32 p.m. An Ash Street caller reported a suspicious male on her property who seemed intoxicated and confused. He then entered Holliston. Officers Robert Ekross and Cody Normandin responded. Holliston police officers took the man back to where his friend and car were in Ashland.

August 6

12:17 a.m. Officer Nathan Wright checked on a vehicle parked on Hayden Rowe Street and reported it had beer cans inside that were the same as the cans around the outside of the vehicle.

10:40 a.m. A motorist reported getting a flat tire from a manhole cover in the roadway of West Main Street. Officer Tyler Staback responded and took a report.

11:48 a.m. An Oliver Lane caller reported a bat in a wood stove. The animal control officer was notified.

7:20 p.m. A West Main Street caller reported someone, possibly on Whalen Road, hitting golf balls onto his property. Officer Cody Normandin responded and spoke with a few residents, and they did not know where the golf balls were coming from.

August 7

7:28 a.m. A Pleasant Street caller reported an owl stuck in a soccer net in the backyard. The animal control officer responded and assisted.

9:36 p.m. A West Elm Street resident reported a male on a bicycle at the end of her driveway who appeared to need assistance. Officers Tyler Staback and Matthew Santoro responded and spoke with the cyclist, who believed he was dehydrated but refused medical evaluation. Officers provided a courtesy transport to the man.

12:48 p.m. A caller reported his truck was hit while in a Main Street parking lot. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and took a hit-and-run crash report.

2:09 p.m. A Woodview Way walk-in reported her dog was bitten by a neighbor’s dog three days earlier. The animal control officer was contacted.

7:50 p.m. A caller reported she did not feel comfortable with the person with whom she was living. Officer Shannon Beloin spoke with the caller and took a report of harassment.

11:55 p.m. A Forest Lane caller reported a bat in his living room. The animal control officer was contacted.

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.

Transportation Programs

The Senior Center offers transportation to and from the center as well as local shopping Mondays through Fridays for Hopkinton residents. Those looking for transportation for medical appointments or essential shopping should call to learn about options.

In-Person Caregiver Support Group

Wednesdays, Aug. 16 and Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.

For those who are caring for a parent, spouse/ partner or close friend and might be feeling overwhelmed and isolated, the Caregiver Support Group provides an opportunity for learning and a space for sharing concerns with others who face similar challenges. Those interested should call the Senior Center for more information.

Thrift Shop Red Tag Sale

Thursday, Aug. 17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

In honor of National Thrift Shop Day, the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors are hosting a Red Tag Sale. Anything in the shop with a red tag will be an additional 50% off the lowest price. Jewelry is excluded from this sale.

Cannes: Glamour and Beyond

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 1 p.m.

This live virtual tour is of Cannes, one of the most iconic destinations on the French Riviera. The tour will start at the top of a small hill, showing a breathtaking panoramic view of Cannes. Information will be shared about its history as a small fishermen’s village and how it gradually grew into the city of glamour as it’s known today. The tour will make its way through the old town of Cannes and see charming architecture, quaint boutiques and local food before moving on to the famous Croisette, a palm-lined boulevard that stretches along the shore. The tour will stroll the promenade on the way to the Festival Palace, the home of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival.

The Day After Yesterday: Portrait of Dementia Exhibit

Aug. 29-Sept. 29, at Hopkinton Center for the Arts

The Day After Yesterday is a powerful collection of portraits and personal stories that destigmatizes dementia and humanizes the millions of people living with the disease. It deftly combines narrative and portraiture, breaking the taboo around dementia, and replacing the fear, futility and despair that so often are associated with the disease with empathy, nuance and complexity. For details, visit hopartscenter.org.

Senior Center Book Club

Wednesday, Sept. 6, 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 September book is “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman.