HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT
Local family gives back via therapy dogs, medical flights
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
The members of the Richmond family have found unique ways to give back to their local and regional communities: their dogs and their plane.
The Richmonds’ two dogs, Gracie and Hula, are trained therapy dogs certified by the American Kennel Club.
Both dogs recently earned the titles of AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished and Therapy Dog Excellent for completing a certain threshold of visits per title.
The dogs provide services through two organizations: the Pets & People Foundation and First Responder Therapy Dogs.
Pets & People offers therapy teams to nursing homes, assisted living homes, special needs facilities, schools, libraries and hospitals. Pets & People primarily serves the Greater Boston area.
With the organization, Gracie and Hula provide support at the Hopkinton Public Library for children learning to read. Children are invited every week to read aloud to the dogs.
“We were there just recently for the start of the
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
Horticulturalist and longtime Hopkinton resident Wayne Mezitt, who expanded Weston Nurseries and introduced hybrid species of plants to the region, died on July 18.
Wayne Mezitt’s passion for plants sprouted in him at an early age. His grandfather started Weston Nurseries, where he worked beginning in 1966 after earning degrees at Cornell University. He was a 1960 Hopkinton High School graduate.
“He was a nationally renowned and influential horticulturist who dedicated his long career to making gardening more accessible to the average homeowner through improved plant varieties that do well in New England climates,” son Peter Mezitt shared.
The elder Mezitt helped grow people’s interest in multiple ways. He mentored many of the region’s leading horticultural specialists.
Wayne Mezitt also contributed to and expanded the family business
Sprinters break out of the blocks during the Parks & Recreation track and field clinic last
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Residents do their part to rescue injured owls
It’s been a rough summer for owls in Hopkinton. Most recently, on July 20, one got caught in a soccer net on Cherry Lane, in the Legacy Farms North development. Just over a week later, a resident found an owl next to Lake Whitehall hanging from a fishing line, dangling off a tree.
While the first owl was able to recover, the second suffered a fracture of its humerus, and personnel at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in Grafton determined it was not reparable, so the bird was euthanized.
INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS
“Nature would not be kinder,” lamented Ed Harrow, who, along with his wife, Sheryl, discovered the owl and called for assistance in an attempt to save it.
The owls’ misfortunes are a continuation of a trend in town.
“The one in the soccer net was hunting when it flew down and got tangled,” explained Bill Proctor, the town’s animal control officer.
“The one hung up in the fishing line was just a sad mishap.”
Proctor has been very busy lately with calls about various animals venturing into residents’ yards, getting hit by vehicles or, as with the owls, random interactions.
“It’s weird, because animal calls run hot and cold,” he said. “You could get 50 in one week, then five in another week — no rhyme or reason. Although, I think the fact that the weather is all messed up isn’t helping them any. The weather can be very hot and rainy, then not hot.
“Obviously the winter always plays a factor,” he continued. “When we have a light winter like we had this year, not a lot of snow, the deer can move around and make more deer, and it affects all the animals.”
The ever-present construction in town also plays a role pushing more animals toward the center of town, added Proctor, who noted that there have been some recent bear sightings in town.
Proctor advises residents not to approach wildlife. Oftentimes deer leave their fawns alone while they look for food, and it can appear that a fawn is abandoned or injured when it’s not the case.
“My general advice for people is not to touch wildlife in general,” Proctor said. “You just never know. As many years as I’ve been doing it, I still don’t always know what to expect. That said, if people see things, they are more than welcome to call and let us know. I get people who call and say they saw a bobcat or other things. It’s good for us to know.”
Proctor just has one request: Make sure you are calling the right Hopkinton.
“We get calls about things in the Hopkinton in Rhode Island and New Hampshire,” he said. “People will start describing roads, and I’m like, ‘You’re not talking about our Hopkinton.’ ”
Main Street work back on
New Select Board chair Brian Herr promised he would lean hard on Eversource to deliver the long-awaited transformers that have held up the Main Street Corridor Project, and he was true to his word.
Herr works in the solar business and is familiar with the transformer situation. Since the pandemic slowdown, transformers have become a hot commodity. Herr said he believes the transformers originally targeted for Hopkinton were reallocated to other projects.
After a few pushy phone calls, and with continued help from some other VIPs, six of the transformers made their way to town last month, with the other six due in early August.
“A lot of people pitched in here to make it happen,” Herr said, acknowledging Town Manager Elaine Lazarus and state Senate President Karen Spilka in particular. “Then Independent thoughts | 3
JERRY SPAR Workers on Main Street install some of the transformers that recently arrived from Eversource.
This owl, found stuck in a soccer net on Cherry Lane, was taken to Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in Grafton for rehabilitation.
Tales from a Townie: Little League comes to Hopkinton
Blake. Back row (from left): manager Paul Phipps, Frank Jolly, Bill MacMillan, Jim Pyne, Bill Hamilton, Bill Thomas, Doug Walker and coach Max Carey. Missing from picture: Russ Ellsworth.
By William T. Hamilton Jr.
Contributing Writer
Early spring 1954, and word of Little League Baseball coming to Hopkinton spread rapidly among all the guys in town between the ages of 8 and 12.
There were many questions: Where to sign up, where are we going to play our games, is 12 too old?
The answers: We signed up soon after we heard the news, we had no field yet, and I was eligible to play — although about half the guys in my class were too old.
Tryouts were held at the old ball field where the new high school would be built starting that summer. Home plate for that field was about where the shower in the boys locker room is now, with the third base line parallel to the road that is still there, and left field being in front of the white building that remains there.
We were a motley crew at the tryouts. One good thing, though: There were lots of new baseballs and bats.
The league consisted of four major league teams — the Tigers, Giants, Braves and Red Sox — and four minor league teams — I don’t remember their names.
The major league teams had full uniforms, while the minor league teams wore T-shirts.
When a player from a major league team went on vacation, they turned in their uniform, and a minor league player was called up to take their place. The season was divided into two halves, with the winner of each half playing one game to determine the champion for that year.
Main Street work back on
Independent thoughts | from page 2
Our field was built by a group of our fathers, who got together in front of where the new high school was being built. The old tennis court was next to Hayden Rowe and the field was built to the west of it. If you hit a ball far enough to left field, it would end up in Terry’s cow pasture. Surrounding the whole field was wood slat and wire “snow” fence. There was even a built-up pitcher’s mound, but no dugouts — just benches.
I will outline one team, the Tigers — because I was on it. Our manager was Paul “Skipper” Phipps, assisted by Max Carey and Mr. Schneider.
We had a secret weapon: our pitcher, Doug Walker. He pitched real fast and was just wild enough to be scary to bat against. I’m glad he was on our team; I didn’t like to bat against him, even in practice.
We had a great bunch of guys and won both halves of the season, so there was no need for a playoff game. We were the champions.
A couple of notes: My father was the head umpire. He made sure there was a home plate umpire at all games. He also umpired some games. I hated it when he umpired our games. I had a lot more strikes called, it seemed.
We had an All-Star team and played about 10 games up until the night before school started. I don’t think we won any games, though.
Little League was a great introduction to organized sports. Our sandlot games weren’t bad, but we didn’t have as many good baseballs or bats.
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with [him pushing for them] and making it clear I wasn’t going to go away, Eversource became very responsive when they realized we were serious about this. It all kind of came together at the right time.”
While the transformers are key, Herr noted that there is a lot more aesthetic work still to be done on the project. First is the obvious — removing the poles downtown and finishing the sidewalks. But there’s a lot more. While those unhappy with the bike lanes — and that’s a very long list — are unlikely to be satisfied, at the very least, the area should look more appealing when the project is completed.
“Everybody thinks it’s basically done, but aesthetically we haven’t even started this thing,” Herr said. “When we get the bricks to replace the concrete and install the trees, it’s going to look a lot nicer. We’re trying to get started on the bricks [this month], and what that entails is cutting out about 2 feet of the bike lane and installing bricks the entire length of the bikeway [to create a delineation between the sidewalk and bike lane]. Then there will be a yellow line painted down the middle of the bikeway and little images of bicycles so people know exactly what it’s for.
“All that aesthetic work has just been so slow in coming, but a lot should happen this year, and we’re going to push like heck to get this done by December 31st.”
Hopkinton’s inaugural Little League champions in 1954 were the Tigers. First row (from left): Dick Deleo, Bob Farnsworth, John Devers, Harry Hamilton, Bill Carey, Barry McKenney and Bob
Brennan takes job with Milford Police
Former Hopkinton Police Sgt. Tim Brennan was sworn in July 22 as a patrol officer with the Milford Police Department.
Brennan was fired in February in a controversial decision by the Select Board, which had received a recommendation for termination from Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett for violation of department policies. Brennan had learned about but did not report accusations of sexual assault against then-Deputy Chief Jay Porter Although Brennan explained he was doing what he could to protect the alleged victim and give her time until she felt ready to come forward, it was not enough to save his job. He appealed the decision, but it has not yet been heard.
Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino threw his support behind Brennan.
“I had never known Officer Brennan, personally, ever, but I’ve known his work ethic, integrity and his commitment to excellent is bar none,” Tusino told the Milford Daily News.
Tusino added that while he did not know everything that happened in Hopkinton, he supports Brennan’s decision to protect the accuser.
“I think you should be commended for doing that, and in my humble opinion, that’s what I think he did,” the chief said. Added Tusino: “I was very happy he wanted to be here, and I think he’s happy to come here. I think everyone is happy he’s here — he’s an amazing cop.”
Preliminary work underway on skate park
Parks & Recreation Department Director Jon Lewitus recently provided a progress report on the preliminary work to prepare for the construction of a new skate park at EMC Park in September.
Drainage work at the EMC Park was nearing completion in late July, and the project area has been graded and seeded. Additional landscaping work is to take place in the drainage area, followed by the commencement of the new skate park construction in September.
Construction of the skate park is estimated to take approximately two months to complete, and the park is expected to open in late November. A safety net will be installed between the park and the baseball fields with funds awarded by the Hopkinton Community Preservation Committee.
“We look forward to the completion of the new skate park,“ Lewitus stated in a press release. “The skate park provides recreation that is more diverse and inclusive for kids who are not playing other sports.”
The original skate park was revitalized in 2015, but no maintenance was done, resulting in disrepair and the need for the new skate park, according to the press release. Once the new skate park is opened, the Parks & Recreation Department initially plans to offer introductory skate programs on a drop-in basis from dawn to dusk.
Sweatt continues to be held without bail
The Milford man accused of striking a Milford woman with his car and killing her in an apparent road rage incident in Hopkinton will continue to be held without bail, according to multiple news sources.
Ryan Sweatt, 36, was indicted on charges of first degree murder, multiple counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and operating a motor vehicle to endanger in connection with the death of Destini Decoff, 26, on April 4. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Sweatt appeared in Middlesex Superior Court on July 23. The magistrate judge ordered that Sweatt be held without bail but allowed him to appeal the ruling. He is due back in court Sept. 4.
Decoff’s family wore shirts bearing an image of her face to the court hearing, according to a news report.
Sweatt was driving a Honda Civic in the vicinity of Cornell’s Irish Pub around 6:25 p.m. on April 4. According to court documents, Sweatt told police he was driving home from work when the car Decoff was in pulled in front of him and slammed on the brakes. He said Decoff and four men then
jumped out of their vehicle, surrounding and threatening him.
Surveillance video from the pub showed Sweatt’s car driving at a group of people who jumped out of the way. Sweatt’s car made a U-turn and hit Decoff, “propelling her into the air and down the road approximately 60-75 feet,” a prosecutor said in court.
After being on life support for two days at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester and undergoing multiple surgeries, Decoff succumbed to her injuries.
West Nile virus warning issued
Health Department Director Shaun McAuliffe recently warned residents of the presence of a large pool of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus in the area.
On July 23, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus had been identified in mosquito pools within Natick, Clinton, Marlborough and Worcester.
The West Nile virus is an arbovirus, a viral infection carried by mosquitoes, ticks and other insects. There are more than 130 different types of arbovirus that affect humans. Symptoms include headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Most people recover completely, but some experience fatigue that can linger for months.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Hopkinton Health Department are encouraging residents to utilize EPA-approved mosquito repellents and avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito activity at dusk and dawn.
McAuliffe noted that the local mosquito population has grown at an exponential rate over last year. The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) reported that the population of human biting mosquitoes has increased 1,766% since the same week last year. McAuliffe urged people to take precautions to prevent infection.
The CMMCP has tentatively scheduled another round of mosquito spraying in Hopkinton on Aug. 6, 7,
Tim Brennan (left) became a member of the Milford Police Department on July 22.
PHOTO/MILFORD POLICE
‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’
Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest
This issue’s winner is Paul Murcko III for this photo of a double rainbow over the Hopkinton Center for the Arts during a concert on July 12. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.
West Nile virus warning issued
West Nile | from page 4
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.
Pizzeria.
27 and 28. These dates are subject to change due to weather conditions, the mosquito population, virus spread or spraying for special events.
Town representatives attend anti-drug conference
Two Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention (HOP) Youth Coalition students were among several town representatives who attended a training conference led by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) from July 14-18 in Chicago.
The Hopkinton attendees were Colleen Souza , a Youth & Family Services clinician and co-leader of the HOP Youth Coalition; Cassandra Bigness, the Drug-Free Communities coordinator and co-leader of HOP Youth Coalition; Hopkinton Police Sgt. Aaron O’Neil, a HOP Coalition member and mental health liaison; Neha Ninan, a Hopkinton High School senior and HOP Youth Coalition youth intern; and Keira Souza, an HHS junior and HOP Youth Coalition member.
This is the third time the HOP Youth
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“This was an experience I am grateful to be a part of and is something I will use to make a positive change in our town and as far across as I can,” said Ninan. “With all the empowerment I saw at the conference, I know that our future will be bright!”
Senior Tax Exemption applications available
Town Manager Elaine Lazarus recently announced the availability of the Means-Tested Senior Tax Exemption Program for eligible residents. This program provides valuable tax relief to older residents who qualify based on specific criteria, she explained. Residents interested in applying for the Means-Tested Senior Tax Exemption must submit a complete application to the Assessor’s Office by Aug. 30. Applications are available via the town’s website (hopkintonma.gov). Residents can contact the Assessor’s Office at 508-497-9720 with questions.
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Richmond family provides support with dogs, flights
summer reading program,” said Elizabeth Richmond. “There were at least 30 kids waiting to read to the dogs.”
The program at the library has now been running for 10 years. The Richmonds, who live in Hopkinton, worked with the children’s librarian back in 2014 to develop the program with Gracie and their former dog, Kaboom.
For the Richmonds, the First Responder Therapy Dog program is a newer endeavor but nonetheless important.
“We started with them about three years ago,” said Richmond.
The First Responder program aims to address the mental and emotional health needs of first responders. Now in 42 states, the program provides emotional support through the use of trained therapy dogs.
Gracie and Hula comprise one of 300 therapy dog teams nationwide offering support to first responders during debriefs or post-emergency scenarios.
They also will show up for military members about to go on deployment.
“In those situations, it’s about providing support to the families of those being deployed,” said Richmond.
Other calls they might take include public events, department visits and situations involving significant community trauma.
When asked what drives them to provide community support in this way, Richmond reflected on the healing power pets can have.
“There’s something about being
able to pet a dog or get that love from a pet that’s so helpful,” she said.
PALS SkyHope offers flights to those in need
Beyond the work they do with their dogs, the Richmonds offer their time — and their plane — to people in need. They volunteer for Patient Airlift Service (PALS) SkyHope, a nonprofit that offers free medical and compassion
flights for both patients and veterans.
“There are patients in remote areas who need to come to places like Boston for quality medical care,” explained Richmond.
Elizabeth acts as an ambassador for the program, routinely reaching out to clinics and letting them know this flight service is available.
Along with Bob Cordner, another Hopkinton resident, Richmond’s husband, William, takes care of the flying.
William has been a licensed pilot for eight years and has been flying with PALS for three. He uses his own plane to transport patients.
Many of his flights take him to Maine, but other paths have included Rochester, New York, and Pittsburgh.
“His most recent trip was up to Presque Isle, Maine, to transport a cancer patient,” said Richmond.
PALS also will provide flights for veterans based on need. William has taken veterans to camp up in Maine and to programs in other states.
In the last 13 years, PALS has provided 3,200 families with more than 27,000 flights.
Eligible participants are never charged anything for the flights. All costs are taken care of by the volunteer pilots. All participants have to do is make a request, and PALS takes care of the rest.
For William, volunteering to fly for PALS hits close to home. Working in rare diseases at Sanofi, he understands how urgent and critical treatment can be.
“Especially in Maine, there are these huge areas that are underserved,” he said. “Folks are driving 6 to 12 hours to get care otherwise.”
The Richmonds find great satisfaction in the work they do to help others. Elizabeth is particularly proud of the work her husband and Cordner do for those in need.
“The work they do is just amazing,” Richmond said. “And patients are always so appreciative.”
Volunteer William Richmond prepares to
Select Board discusses municipal aggregation plan for electricity
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Select Board at its meeting July 16 learned about the potential benefits of a municipal aggregation plan for electricity and a proposed upcoming public forum on the topic.
Municipal aggregation is a process through which a municipality purchases electricity in bulk from a competitive supplier on behalf of its residents, according to the state website. Communities also can join together to procure electricity in an effort to reduce cost.
Town Manager Elaine Lazarus told the board that while the Board of Selectmen had voted more than a decade ago to enter into the municipal aggregation plan, “it determined later that the terms were not advantageous to residents.”
Because of changes in the program since that time, Lazarus said that the town has been looking into municipal aggregation over the past year or so. Eversource, the supplier of the electricity, would remain the same. But the electricity may be purchased through another vendor, potentially at a cheaper price.
Julia Chun, the town’s sustainability, economic development and equity project manager, explained that under a municipal aggregation plan, there would be a distributor and a supplier of electricity.
The sooner we can get this done, we can save residents and businesses money through their electric rates, ideally.
Resources (DOER) for review. It then must receive final approval from the state’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU). This takes about four months and incorporates public feedback. Once approved, the town and the consultant can put out a request for proposals for the electricity supply company.
Said Chun: “We’re well positioned now to have a public comment period for 30 days, where we’ll introduce the draft plan to residents.”
She hoped to schedule a public forum in late July. Once the meeting is held, the 30-day public comment period can begin.
“Municipal aggregation basically allows the municipality to set contract terms for anyone who resides or is located within the town to automatically be opted into this aggregation plan,” she said.
People would be able to opt out of the plan at any time or participate at different tier levels, she added.
One benefit of this program is its focus on providing “green electricity,” according to Chun.
Consultant Mass Power Choice has created a draft plan for the town that has been sent to the Department of Energy
Vice chair Mary Jo LaFreniere, who chaired this portion of the meeting, balked at the idea of having a meeting during late July because many residents will be on vacation. While both LaFreniere and member Amy Ritterbusch suggested holding the forum in early September, member Joe Clark asked Chun for her advice.
“I’ve had residents reach out, excited about moving this program along as quickly as possible,” she said. She recommended holding the forum at the end of July with a virtual option. If it is held then, Chun anticipated that the final plan would be approved in December.
the
Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week
Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 1-year-old Zeus.
Here is Baypath’s description of Zeus:
“Meet Zeus, the most handsome boy with a heart of gold! This sweet pup loves playing with toys and snuggling in your lap. Great with older kids, Zeus is seeking an active family ready to give him plenty of attention and adventure. He might also do well with other pets. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who’s both playful and affectionate, Zeus is your guy!”
For more information about Zeus and any of the other available pets at Baypath, email adopt@baypathhumane.org or visit baypathhumane.org/ adopt.
For more Adoptable Animals of the Week, check the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.
Geoff Rowland, the chair of
— Sustainable Green Committee chair Geoff Rowland
Electricity | 10
Revival folk festival to honor Old Vienna Kaffeehaus
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
MetroWest’s historic folk scene comes alive again this month with a festival that’s one of a kind.
On Aug. 17, Touchable Stories will be sponsoring a free revival folk festival in Hopkinton honoring the Old Vienna Kaffeehaus. Billed as a “nostalgic journey” through the venue’s history, the event will feature more than a dozen artists and special guests.
“This is a first of its kind event,” said singer/songwriter Barbara Kessler, a Hopkinton resident and host of the event. “It’s been over 25 years since the club closed.”
Notable performers in the lineup include Jim Infantino, Peter Mulvey and Grammy-winning country songwriter Lori McKenna.
Kessler will perform a set of her own during the festival, as will her daughter, Emilia Ali.
Ali is an EDM (electronic dance music) and pop musician who grew up in Hopkinton and graduated from Berklee College of Music. She has performed at Lollapalooza and SXSW (South by Southwest festival), and has more than 600,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
The festival will run from 1-9 p.m. and feature special guests introducing each act. The event is being held at a private location in town, so attendees are asked to reserve tickets online ahead of time (via 0830club. com/ovk), at which point they will be provided the location. There is no cost to attend, but donations are encouraged.
Kessler and other local musicians got their start at OVK, which first opened its doors in 1986. The club was upstairs from the Old Vienna Restaurant, an AustroHungarian eatery that once stood on South Street in Westborough.
Newcomers, established local acts and internationally known musicians and artists performed at the 125-seat club for a decade. Headliners included big names like Kris Kristofferson, Arlo Guthrie, Gil Scott-Heron and others.
“My first gig there was opening up for Livingston Taylor,” said Kessler.
OVK’s famed open mic nights drew now well-established folk and singer/ songwriter acts like Dar Williams, Martin Sexton and Ellis Paul.
The owners decided to close the club in 1996. Its impact, however, lives on.
“People still remember the days there,” said Kessler. “It was a nationally known place, but it was a treasure for local singer/songwriter acts.”
Weston Nurseries’ Mezitt dies after contracting tick disease
alongside his father and brother, Roger. In addition to the Hopkinton location, there also are Weston Nurseries locations in Lincoln, Hingham and Chelmsford, making it one of the most successful nurseries in the region. The Hopkinton location is the venue for many community celebrations, including the Rang-Holi Festival of Colors this past April and the annual Blooms, Brews & BBQs event.
Writing was his other love, his son recounted. Wayne Mezitt spent many hours writing accurate descriptions of native plants. This led to him contributing articles to The Boston Globe, Fine Gardening and Yankee Magazine as a member of the Garden Writers Association.
His experience led him to contributing a column to the Globe called “Ask the Garden Guy.” He continued writing this column until his illness prevented him from doing so.
Peter Mezitt explained that his father’s death was caused by babesiosis, one of three common tick-borne diseases in Massachusetts. It is carried by the black-legged tick, often referred to as deer tick. Wayne Mezitt had the disease for a month before he succumbed to it.
“Due to his illness, he was not able to write his weekly ‘Ask the Garden Guy’ article for the Boston Globe,” Peter Mezitt shared in a family statement. “However, we know that he would want us to share the latest article written during his absence, which covers ticks, tick-borne diseases, and how to reduce exposure.”
In 2023, Wayne Mezitt and his
wife, Elizabeth, released a book, “For the Love of Gardening,” in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Weston Nurseries.
The octogenarian held positions within many well-known horticultural organizations locally and nationally over the years. He received many awards which recognized his contributions to horticulture, including most recently the Massachusetts Horticultural Society Gold Medal award and the Worcester County Horticultural Society’s Cary Award, both in 2023.
“Throughout this month-long ordeal, we all supported him, my mom and each other,” stated Peter Mezitt. “We are a close family and we have become even closer during these days. We will miss his sense of humor, optimistic approach to everything, and the values he stood
for as a person.”
Hopkinton resident and Weston Nurseries boss Wayne Mezitt (left), with son Peter, is being remembered as a legend in the gardening community and beyond.
Wayne Mezitt was surrounded by his wife of 59 years and other family members when he passed, according to his obituary.
“It will be incredibly hard for quite some time to not have him around as he was a big part of our lives,” Peter continued. “We will miss him, and we will never forget the way he lived his life: full of zest and passion with everyone he interacted with. He taught us so much, and we will all carry a piece of him in our hearts.”
Wayne Mezitt’s obituary further describes his six-decade career and interests.
Following a private family service, visitation was held July 30 at Chesmore Funeral Home in Hopkinton. A celebration of life will be held in the near future.
Mezitt
Longtime
Planning Board debates merits of current plan to comply with MBTA Act
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
A
t its meeting July 15, the Planning Board discussed whether it should present or adjust its current proposal to meet the zoning requirements necessary under the MBTA Communities Act at a Special Town Meeting.
A Special Town Meeting is expected to be held in December so that residents can vote on a potentially revised plan and to receive more information based on questions asked during May’s Annual Town Meeting. The state’s deadline for compliance looms on Dec. 31.
Town Meeting narrowly rejected the article that outlined the proposed zoning districts by eight votes, with 118 in favor and 126 opposed. Some opposition came from residents of The Preserve because their property was included in the zoning, although it is unlikely to be redeveloped in the near future.
Vice chair Matthrew Wronka told the board that he analyzed some of the points that led to the article’s defeat. He noted that if the board had presented more information, the outcome may have been different.
One concern raised at Town Meeting was the potential impact of larger developments on the schools. Wronka said that the properties chosen in the
proposed map were selected because they would not cause “an immediate spurt of growth” that would impact the schools.
Statistically, he showed that apartments would generate about 0.2 students per unit. This number is in line with the number of students in Woodview at Legacy Farms as well as state and national statistics he found. Conversely, a single-family home at Legacy Farms generates an average of 0.7 students per unit.
Said Wronka: “I think that’s something we didn’t communicate well, if at all.”
Wronka added that between 16-35 students would be the anticipated number of students expected if the Carbone’s property were developed. At Town Hall, someone said that as many as 300 students would live there, so he wanted to correct that speculation.
Increased traffic was another fear raised at Town Meeting. Wronka said that the traffic from development in the upper Cedar Street zone likely would flow north to Route 9. Downtown development may help develop “a more walkable business district.”
Some residents were angry about the state imposing this requirement on Hopkinton and 176 other cities and towns that are in the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority’s service area
Select Board discusses municipal aggregation plan for electricity
Sustainable Green Committee, agreed with Chun. His committee had begun doing research on municipal aggregation before Chun joined the town’s staff last year. He explained that municipal aggregation is “incredibly common throughout the state.”
About half of the towns in the state participate in the program, he added, noting that the “vast majority” of them paid below market rates for their electricity.
By contrast, Hopkinton’s rate has usually increased over the past few years.
Said Rowland: “The sooner we can get this done, we can save residents and businesses money through their electric rates, ideally.”
Clark asked if the forum could be recorded and was told that it shouldn’t be a problem by Chun.
“It’s seems like a lot of work’s been done in the background,” said Clark. “Let’s not slow it down anymore.”
to encourage denser housing. Wronka explained that while the state is “using scare tactics” to some extent, it is “trying to back them up” by encouraging denser development in town centers and near MBTA stops.
“I say we keep the map,” added member Parker Happ, noting that “it’s crunch time.” He said it received kudos from the state “as a shining example” of how to meet the zoning requirements.
Chair Rob Benson stressed that the board needs to take into account the concerns of voters over the praise by the state.
“I am concerned,” he said. “Just proposing the same map, [it] would be rejected, and it’s not listening to the will of Town Meeting, which we just had.”
Several members, including Happ and Karen Wills, noted that the article was only defeated by eight votes. Happ added that the vote was taken on the third night of Town Meeting, when attendance was lower.
Said Wills: “You can’t ignore half the community.”
Two other properties were mentioned to be considered as an addition to the map — Legacy Farms and Windsor Gardens. Because of the affordable housing compliance requirement at those developments, it is unclear if they would be able to be included in the new map. Benson said that the Zoning Advisory Committee should let the Planning Board know if those properties would be feasible.
“There’s definitely a sentiment across town where there’s a lack of desire to have apartment-style buildings in town,” he said.
Member Jane Moran noted that if the Carbone’s property were to be developed, it likely would get its water connection through Southborough. She said that sewer connection would follow, making Carbone’s more valuable for developers to build larger complexes.
“My perspective is that we want to put the best plan possible that the town supports,” Benson said. “And if I could have the town’s unanimous support, that would be ideal.”
Principal Planner John Gelcich noted that Milton’s decision not to comply, which will be challenged in court, doesn’t really impact Hopkinton. Milton’s contention is that it is not a “rapid transit community” because it is serviced by the Mattapan-Ashmont trolley. The court might rule against Milton. In that case, it still would be an “MBTA adjacent community” like Hopkinton and would have to come up with a compliant zoning district.
This item will remain on subsequent agendas, Benson said, so that the public could attend meetings and provide feedback.
24 Chestnut Street subdivision discussion continued
The board decided to continue the hearing on the proposed subdivision at 0-24 Chestnut Street after several abutters voiced concerns.
Vito Colanna spoke on behalf of the applicant, Keystone Development Corporation. The proposal seeks to combine two parcels into a 9.5-acre parcel. There currently is a house at 24 Chestnut Street, while the rest of the property under consideration is wooded. The house would be demolished and included in a five-unit subdivision with a cul-de-sac.
Gelcich explained that the affordable housing component that is triggered with the development of five new units doesn’t apply here because one unit is being torn down and rebuilt while the other four are new.
Abutter Robert Cordner expressed concern that one lot would be “literally right at our front door.”
“For 30 years, we’ve lived here with nothing but woods in front of us,” he continued. “It looks like they’re trying to shoehorn five lots in the middle of a residential area.”
Abutter Chris Cooney added that he was “not really excited about this up front.”
A site walk will be scheduled once the Planning Board receives and reviews information from Pare, its peer review consultant.
Sandy Beach group discusses speeding jet skiers, after-hours
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Sandy Beach Subcommittee of the Parks & Recreation Commission on July 24 outlined some safety measures to prevent jet skiers from veering too close to swimmers and to stop after-hours partying and barbecuing.
Sabine St. Pierre, president of the Lake Maspenock Preservation Association (LMPA), said the biggest problem she has observed this summer is with jet skiers speeding and coming dangerously close to swimmers.
“They’ve now created their own swimming area,” she explained. “So now, not only are they partying out there but also having their jet skis there.”
Added St. Pierre: “A lot of lake residents are really frustrated by the jet skis because it’s a big safety issue.”
Parks & Recreation Director Jon Lewitus said his understanding was that most of this activity happens after hours and on the weekends, calling it “the wild west.” He has spoken with the police, and the department has stepped up patrols of the area and is issuing tickets.
He added that staff at the beach have tried speaking to the jet skiers to deter their behavior.
“It’s really a reeducation process,” Lewitus explained. “For years we have had these policies and procedures in place, except they haven’t been enforced.”
St. Pierre also suggested a gate at the boat launch, noting there was one previously. The goal would be to stop boat trailers from putting boats and jet skis into the water after hours. She said the LMPA potentially could pay for it.
In the meantime, members discussed putting up a chain to close off the area during off hours as a temporary solution.
Lewitus said St. Pierre should write an official request that the Parks & Recreation Commission could review. She agreed and offered to research gate types.
Lewitus also suggested adding another buoy in that area. St. Pierre said the LMPA discussed that earlier this week. There currently are three buoys that she said could be moved to deter people from entering the swimming area. Conversely, the buoys could create a channel jet skiers would use as a challenge.
While there was no proof that the scofflaws were non-residents, St. Pierre said the license plates she saw were from Maine, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.
Another problem members observed was people using grills on the beach after hours. The LMPA decided to get stickers to add to signs and picnic tables saying that grilling is prohibited. The area where the jet skiers and others tend to grill is close to pine trees, creating the potential for a large-scale fire.
Staff members address other concerns
Parks & Rec program coordinator/ summer supervisor Maureen Sammon said the “biggest complaint” she has received is about non-residents trying to get to the beach and disregarding the gate guards, entering and exiting the wrong way. Parks & Recreation
A lot of lake residents are really frustrated by the jet skis because it’s a big safety issue.
— LMPA president Sabine St. Pierre
Commission liaison Laura Hanson agreed, calling it “a serious problem.”
The Parks & Recreation Department’s website states that use of the Sandy Beach Park, including access to the boat launch, is for Hopkinton residents only from June 8 through Labor Day weekend. Access to the park requires the purchase of a seasonal or day pass, which can be purchased at Sandy Beach or online.
One issue Hanson raised is that residents of Milford and Upton also live on the lake but are prohibited from accessing the beach because of this policy.
Said Hanson: “That doesn’t sit well with me.”
She asked that the commission revisit this issue for next summer.
Lifeguards have expressed issues of poor communication with gate guards, according to Hanson. She said a lifeguard told her that the lifeguards “feel like they don’t have communication backup.”
Director Jon Lewitus noted that gate guards and lifeguards have walkie-talkies to use. If anyone is unable to handle a situation, he said, they can radio the beach supervisor or head lifeguard for assistance.
Another problem Sammon mentioned is that the seat for the gate guards partially obstructs their view of the boat launch. Member Seth Kenney agreed, noting that a higher chair would be beneficial, as well as placing it at an angle.
Part of the issue, members said, is that teens in these roles may become overwhelmed by handling multiple tasks, selling various passes, dealing with difficult adults who don’t know the policy, and handling awkward situations.
One example provided by St. Pierre occurred on July 3, when a gate guard was offered marijuana to let in people without passes.
“That’s the kind of stuff where, until it happens, you don’t know how to prepare them,” she said.
St. Pierre suggested color coding passes next year to differentiate between seasonal, day and trailer passes. This discussion led to a consensus that passes should only be sold at the Parks & Recreation office to alleviate strain on staff at the beach.
Despite the concerns raised, Hanson applauded the Parks & Rec staff, saying that this has been the most organized summer at Sandy Beach in years.
Charles River Bank a personalized, full-service bank
Offering a complete line of banking products for private and commercial customers coupled with personalized service is a hallmark of Charles River Bank. “Our depth and breadth of products and services matches anything out there,” said Derek Plourde, Charles River President and CEO. But, he noted, unlike larger banks “all our decisions are made locally,” at the Medway headquarters and customers can always “speak with a person who will help resolve a problem.” He added, “We do it better at the local level.”
A large component of the bank’s
ability to assist depositors is the experience of employees at all three Charles River branches—Medway, Bellingham and Mendon. “The people we have in our branches have been here a long time” as have the members of senior management, said Plourde. “We have a consistency of service so we can help you when you need it. When you call or stop by a branch you will speak to a person who knows what you are talking about and will keep you informed until the problem is solved.”
Besides offering individual and commercial customers a full range of saving and checking accounts plus online and
HOPKINTON SHELL
• Domestic & Foreign Cars
• Computerized engine tune-up
• Computerized 4-wheel alignment
• Computerized wheel balancing
• Exhaust systems
•
• Propane tanks filled
Learning about some of the personalized services offered to commercial customers at Charles River Bank are (from left) Loretta and Henry Arnaudo of HPA Design, Inc. with VP/Commercial Loan Officer Sean Coyle.
mobile services, Charles River Bank also provides assistance with financial planning and investments. He noted a focus in recent years has been helping customers improve their financial literacy. “We have various tools on our website, especially our Financial Wellness Center page, to help anyone from kids to retirees learn about finances,” said Plourde.
Another web-based tool for finances is the Manage My Money page. “It is a one-stop-shop, one-page synopsis of your entire financial life,” said Plourde. “Not only can you put all your Charles River products there but you can also allow financial institutions to feed information about other loans, credit cards, retirement accounts or whatever you think of. All your financial information is on one page that you can see in real time as well as use for budgeting, determining net worth and planning. It gives you the capability of seeing where you are.”
Helping its youngest customers learn about finances is the Charles River Student Banking program which Plourde said is of-
fered through every area school and online. The program features special incentives for youngsters to encourage financial literacy. Charles River also provides a full range of services for small businesses from cash management tools, various loans including SBA and lines of credit to debit and credit cards. “We offer all the commercial services of larger banks locally,” said Plourde.
Summing up the philosophy underlying Charles River, Plourde said, “We are a mutual bank, so we are not beholden to any stockholder demands. Our depositors are actually the owners of the bank. We know whom we are serving. And we try to do that everyday.”
To learn more about Charles River visit CharlesRiverBank.com, call the main office, 508-533-8661 or stop by one of the three branches in Medway, Bellingham and Mendon.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.
Commission on Disability airs concerns about Main Street
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Commission on Disability at its meeting Monday night discussed concerns about accessibility with Michelle Murdock, the professional project specialist for the town on the Main Street Corridor Project.
Murdock first announced some “awesome news” about the project. Earlier in the day, Town Manager Elaine Lazarus announced that six of the 12 transformers needed to complete the undergrounding of utilities will be arriving this week from Eversource.
“What has been holding up the project is the availability of transformers from Eversource,” she explained. “The remaining six will be arriving in the next few weeks. Now that we have these transformers, it will enable the project to continue and complete.”
After this update, Murdock listened to members’ concerns with the project in regard to accessibility. Member Nancy “Punky” Drawe asked if more curb cuts would be added to allow for better access to the sidewalk. The addition of curb cuts and accessible parking at the Town Common was of particular concern to her.
While Murdock said she was at the meeting in a listening capacity, she did note that the final coat of pavement has not been applied yet. When it is, the curb will not be as tall. Murdock added that the bike lane cannot be completed until it is striped, the traffic signals are updated and the brickwork is finished. It will be striped for two-way traffic. Member Amy Ritterbusch suggested that the commission request an ADA audit to address issues before the project is completed. Chair Holly Disability | 14
McBride announces engagement
John (Jack) McBride
Jr. of Hopkinton announces the engagement of his daughter, Erica Karen McBride (Hopkinton High School class of 2014) to Mark Daniel Brkovich of Frederick, Maryland. The couple currently resides in Arlington, Virginia.
The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of John and Carol McBride of Hopkinton and Dr. Stephen Richardson of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Mark Brkovich and Erica McBride are planning a wedding in 2025.
The prospective groom is the son of Joe and Audrey Brkovich of Frederick, Maryland. He is the grandson of the late George and Mary Brkovich of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, and Harry and May Flickinger of Gaithersburg, Maryland.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of the University of Maryland, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. She is employed as an internal audit manager with Capital One.
The prospective groom, also a graduate of the University of Maryland, received a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminology & criminal justice and currently serves as a police officer for the Montgomery County Police Department in Maryland.
Planning is in the works for a 2025 wedding in Tuscany, Italy.
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 508497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.
TED Talks Discussion Group
Mondays, 12:30 p.m.
In 1984, TED Talks were created to bring technology, entertainment and design information to the curious and open-minded public. These videos cover a wide array of subjects and always lead to lively discussion and conversation. Casual TED Talks group meetings are held every Monday for one hour. Attendees will view one of these videos and follow with a discussion. This program is free.
Senior Center Book Club
Wednesday, Aug. 7, 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. This month, the club will discuss “All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum and Me,” by Patrick Bringley. New participants are always welcome.
Craft Class With Deb
Monday, Aug. 12, 9:30 a.m.
No prior craft experience is needed for this fun, seasonal craft class. Advance registration is required. Call the Senior Center for more information.
Line Dancing
Wednesdays, starting Aug. 14, 1 p.m.
Lisa Abbascia will lead the Senior Center’s newest weekly exercise class. Dancing has many health benefits, both cognitively and physically. It can help to
refine many parts of one’s overall health, such as muscle strength, endurance, balance and cognitive function. Dancing can improve motivation, mood, posture and balance, and help with stress management. It can even lower the risk of dementia.
Annual Ice Cream Social
Thursday, Aug. 22, 1 p.m.
The Senior Center will celebrate National Senior Citizens Day (one day late) at the annual Ice Cream Social, sponsored by the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors. The center will have all the fixin’s to make a perfect ice cream sundae as well as live music for everyone to enjoy. Non-dairy and nut-free options will be available. Advance registration is required.
Myths and Miracles of Victorian Medicine
Thursday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m.
Audiences sigh, chuckle and cringe as they become privy to the contradictions, misconceptions and surprising achievements associated with the medicine of their parents, grandparents, etc. This program is led by Myrtle Mills, a fictional woman who has endured “every illness known to man,” and she will discuss the simultaneously advanced and utterly primitive world of medicine during the late 1800s. Attendees will learn about Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S., general hygiene practices, patented “remedies,” dentistry, pregnancy, kitchen cupboard concoctions, industry-altering discoveries such as the X-ray, and practices that, in today’s world, defy common sense.
Outreach Services
The Senior Center has an Outreach Department. The department can help identify assistance programs (including SMOC fuel assistance), loan durable medical equipment, help with transportation, facilitate nutrition assistance and much more. Anyone looking for assistance or more information about services should call to make an appointment.
Trails Committee talks about future direction, creating a ‘baby master plan’
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Trails Committee at its meeting
July 17 examined its vision for the future and what its priorities will be, including finding ways for children to be engaged in using trails.
Chair Peter LaGoy said there are about 25 miles of single-track trails on town. But the shared-use paths like the Center Trail, the Hughes Farm trail and the Echo Farm trail are more widely used. Members said that is in part because there is ample parking.
“The thought is our clients, if you will, are the overall town of Hopkinton,” he explained. “So maybe we ought to be
focusing direction.”
LaGoy described the idea of a shared-use path going from Chamberlain Street to the Berry Acres Conservation Area and out to West Main Street as “a no-brainer” that would benefit crosscountry runners as well as walkers.
Another idea he had was having a trail at the field behind Hughes with “large climbing rocks” and logs on which children could play and walk.
Vice chair Chuck Dauchy noted that the maintenance of that area would have to be determined, as well as whether it was considered a recreation area or a trail with those amenities.
“A natural playscape would be really appealing,” said member Kri -
The thought is our clients, if you will, are the overall town of Hopkinton. So maybe we ought to be focusing direction.
— Trails Committee chair Peter LaGoy
sanne Connell.
Member Fran DeYoung noted that there is a lot of traffic congestion at EMC Park, particularly during Little League season. Having an activity for kids at Hughes would be great for the overflow of people to the area. The committee potentially could apply for Community Preservation Committee funding for the project.
Connell suggested a kids trail activity like the monthly story walk behind the library, noting that the library could potentially collaborate with the committee on the project.
Dauchy added that the town’s recent acquisition of the Colella property could lead to new trails there that could be enjoyed by adults and children.
Said LaGoy: “I sort of see this as a next step to introducing the kids to trails and get the parents and the kids out there moving in a way that both are going to have a good time.”
trail connectivity. Coordination with other boards and committees was stressed as a goal by all members, particularly in regard to connectivity. Members hoped to improve collaboration with the Open Space Preservation Commission, the Planning Board and the Department of Public Works, among others, to see how their interests align and make them aware of the committee’s top projects. This would be helpful considering the desire of several entities for land acquisition.
Connectivity was a goal of the Planning Board over the past year. Chuss said creating connections could lead to longer and more challenging trails for long-distance runners and mountain bikers.
LaGoy mentioned Lexington’s “ACROSS Lexington” trail network as a model. ACROSS is an acronym for Accessing Conservation land, Recreation areas, Open spaces, Schools and Streets. The trails connect town landmarks with schools and conservation areas.
This project could be one of the main goals of the Trails Committee over the next year. Secretary Linda Chuss said that examples of expanded trail use could be part of a “baby master plan.” This would help the committee prioritize projects and lead to a longer-term master plan.
The ultimate goals of the trails, she added, are to enjoy and preserve nature, encourage outdoor exercise, provide access to all potential users and encourage
Another committee priority is creating a trail that connects the apartments on Lumber Street toward the school complex into the downtown area. LaGoy mentioned the need for a trail connection to the Southborough commuter rail station for people who don’t have cars. Dauchy brought up the need for a trail connecting Legacy Farms to the town center.
Dauchy suggested quarterly meetings with committees and boards with similar goals to facilitate cooperation and knowledge sharing.
DeYoung said he was impressed with this “very healthy discussion.”
Commission on Disability airs concerns about Main Street
Disability | from page 12
Morand agreed, adding that the commission should do a site walk to point out and take pictures of problematic areas. Murdock said she would check into the audit request.
Ritterbusch also noted that the current placement of accessible parking at the Town Common poses a problem because users have to go down Main Street to find a curb cut to get onto the sidewalk.
Vice chair Alex Danahy confirmed that the only designated space on the Center School side of the Town Common is an issue.
Another problem Danahy pointed out is the Main Street space just beyond the library.
“For me to put my ramp down, my ramp would come down into the bike lane,” he said. “But then there’s no way for a wheelchair to get back up onto the curb without driving against traffic. I feel like that’s common sense with the handicapped parking space right there.”
Ritterbusch suggested that some spaces on Marathon Way be designated as accessible spaces.
The placement of poles on the sidewalk make it difficult for those who
use wheelchairs, walkers or strollers to travel safely, several members told Murdock.
Morand asked if auditory cues would be available on the traffic lights that would assist visually impaired people and alert vehicles.
The Muffin House Cafe’s placement of furniture for outdoor dining on the sidewalk and in the bike lane also was pointed out as a hazard. Murdock said that was “a valid point” and “an enforcement issue for the town” rather than a Main Street Corridor Project issue.
Many of the issues addressed to Murdock were “common sense,” Danahy said several times. People with disabilities, he said, should be included in the planning process.
Added Drawe: “I always wonder if the people who designed these things would make it look like that if they were handicapped themselves or had someone in their family who was.”
Murdock requested that the commission put together a list of concerns that she can share with the project team. She was scheduled to meet with the team Tuesday morning and said she would bring up the issues mentioned at this meeting.
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.
Play It Forward Sports Equipment Resale Aug. 7
Hopkinton Youth & Family Services is hosting Play It Forward, a new/used sports equipment drive and distribution event. Individuals can drop off new and gently used sports equipment donations (no ski equipment/clothing) on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 3-7 p.m. at the Hopkinton Middle School cafeteria. Then on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 3-7 p.m. at the HMS cafeteria, individuals are invited to pick out items for free. For more information, email hmorand@hopkintonma.gov.
Trails Club Monthly Meeting Aug. 14
The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Old Vienna Kaffeehaus Revival Concert Aug. 17
The Old Vienna Kaffeehaus is a revival concert scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 17, from 1-9 p.m. in Hopkinton. This is a pay-what-you-can, reservation-only, notfor-profit house concert, although it will be outdoors. The lineup includes Hopkinton folk singer Barbara Kessler and her daughter, national recording artist Emilia Ali. For more information, including a list of performers, and to RSVP, visit 0830club. com/ovk. Location will be provided after registration.
Trails Club Walk off Fruit Street Aug. 18
The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a group walk off Fruit Street on Sunday, Aug. 18, at 1 p.m. This will be a tour of the trails in the southern part of the Fruit Street trail network. There are low sections with beaver activity and uplands with beautiful woods. The walk will start in the parking lot by the soccer field, to the right of the concession building. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Hopkinton Family Day at HMS fields Sept. 14
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. 14 on the fields 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. 6
Registration is open for the 36th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 6. 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.
Pippin The Musical | Enter Stage Left Theater Summer Stock
August 9, 10, 16, 17 | 7:30 p.m.
With an infectiously unforgettable score from four-time Grammy winner, threetime Oscar winner, and musical theater giant Stephen Schwartz, Pippin is the story of one young man’s journey to be extraordinary. Winner of four 2013 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Revival, this updated, circus-inspired version of Pippin continues to captivate and appeal to the young at heart worldwide.
A Play, A Pint & A Pie
August 24 & 25 | 6 p.m.
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 4th Annual A Play, A Pint & A Pie festival. With six outstanding plays selected from 115 submissions across the globe, this festival promises to be a night of non-stop fun, laughter, and maybe a few tears. And that’s not all — we’re honoring the Scottish tradition of a lunchtime pint, pie, and a play with an HCA twist. Your ticket includes admission to the plays, a delicious meat pie or vegetarian alternative, and an alcoholic or soft drink of your choice.
Open House and Open Mic
August 31 | 5:30 p.m.
Step into a world of endless possibilities as we unveil the latest and greatest at HCA for fall classes and private lessons in visual arts, dance, theater, music, and ceramics! Get ready to brush up on your skills, twirl into new routines, hit the high notes, and mold masterpieces with our talented instructors. And that’s not all — stick around to watch or perform for the free open mic session (6:30 p.m.) after the open house. Embrace the arts, unleash your creativity, and make this fall season a masterpiece together at HCA!
Bob Malone Live In Concert
September 13 | 8 p.m.
Called a “keyboard wizard” by The New Yorker and “a genre-crossing master” by the Tallahassee Democrat, singer/ songwriter/pianist Bob Malone has amassed a loyal international fan base through 25 years of touring and nine critically-acclaimed album releases. He played keyboards for John Fogerty for 14 years and has been a session player for Ringo Starr and Avril Lavigne.
EXPERT TREE CARE
• Tree Removals
• Tree Pruning & Trimming
• Emergency Services
• Storm Damage
• Lot Clearing
• Stump Grinding
For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary.org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on Twitter, @ HopkintonPLMA.
All-Access Pass Behind the Scenes at the Space Station
Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2-4 p.m.
Everyone is invited to virtually step inside one of the greatest international achievements with a behind-the-scenes guide to space exploration with Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Curator Dr. Jennifer Levasseur. Registration can be found at the library website.
Needle Felting Workshop for Tweens and Teens
Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2:30-4 p.m.
Participants can make their own bubble tea from wool. Pop Up Art School will demonstrate the basics of needle felting. Individuals will leave the class with a completed piece and the tools and knowledge to needle felt on their own. This program is suitable for students ages 11 years old and up.
Teen Board Game Night
Wednesdays, Aug. 7 and 21, 6-8 p.m.
Teenagers are invited to the Betty Strong Room to play one of the library’s many modern and classic games, or individuals can bring their favorite game(s) to play. Free soda and snacks will be provided. This program is open to teens in eighth grade and up. For more information, e-mail Jess at jdyment@hopkintonma.gov.
Family Yoga Class
Thursday, Aug. 8, 10-10:45 a.m.
Katie Aissis of Sprouting Tree Yoga will host this family yoga class. Children and their grown-ups will enjoy this special time to move, breathe and play together. Families will learn and practice fun, effective strategies both on and off the mat for connecting and relaxing together.
Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle
Thursday, Aug. 8, 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 welcome.
Henna Workshop
Saturday, Aug. 10, 2-4 p.m.
Teens and pre-teens (Grade 6 and up) are invited to learn about the art of henna and get a lovely henna tattoo. Henna for Humanity focuses on raising money for the American Association for the Social Advancement of India. Registration is required.
Young Adult Crafternoon
Monday, Aug. 12, 2-4 p.m.
Teens and pre-teens (Grade 6 and up) are invited to the downstairs classroom every other Monday this summer to hang out, listen to music and make some art. There will be a different themed craft every meeting as well as extra materials for individuals to make their own creations.
Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction
Tuesday, Aug. 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Narcan, the brand name of the generic drug naloxone, is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids. This free training from the Hopkinton Health Department will provide participants with brief instruction on how to recognize an opioid overdose, when and how to use Narcan, and a free kit to take home.
Monthly Music & Movement
Wednesday, Aug. 14, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
This month’s children’s concert, supported by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, is with Evan from Music at the Blissful. It’s recommended for ages 0-5.
Women’s Financial Round Table
Wednesday, Aug. 14, 1-2 p.m.
This virtual program is for anyone confused about financial markets, wondering what Bitcoin is all about or staring blankly at retirement statements. Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone present Women and Money Round Table: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets. Each session focuses on a different topic.
College Admissions Advice
Thursday, Aug. 15, 2-4 p.m.
Another college application season is around the corner, and already stress is beginning to ratchet up for teens and their parents. This virtual discussion led by Irena Smith will address constructive and healthy ways to approach the college application process, demonstrate how parents can preserve a relationship with one’s teen, and explain how to define success on a teen’s terms instead of chasing the elusive “golden ticket.”
In the Middle Book Club
Tuesday, Aug. 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
This summer book club is open to teens and pre-teens (Grade 6 and up) and meets in the Ellsworth Conference Room every other Tuesday. On Aug. 20, the discussion will be “It Wasn’t Me” by Dana Alison Levy. Copies of the book will be
ScHoolS
ESBC talks energy code compliance, MSBA reimbursement
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
Elementary School Building Commit-
tee members on July 25 talked about energy code compliance as well as the process by which the town will receive reimbursement from the Massachusetts School Building Authority for the Charleswood School project.
Chris Eberly, project manager for Vertex, said that Passive House, a standard for energy efficiency in buildings, is the “most straightforward, clearest route” to specialized energy code compliance.
Dan Colli, project manager at Perkins Eastman, said Passive House is a private agency like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), a green building certification program. He said it is another version of third-party certification. Although the way the code is written does not technically say it is required, Colli said that it essentially is required.
“It says, ‘You don’t need to get Passive House certification, but you need a letter from Passive House certifying it.’ It is impossible to get one without the other,” Colli said.
The board approved authorization of $33,175 to register for the program.
Given the frequent changes to the energy code, ESBC member Mike Shepard said it’s “probably money well spent.”
Eberly noted that there was a budget line item already set aside for this purpose. He reminded the committee that the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) “dramatically increased” its reimbursement rate by an additional 4% ($5 million) last fall, shortly before it was brought to the voters for a decision.
It is anticipated that MSBA will reimburse the town $61 million of the $158 million project.
MSBA process outlined
In answer to ESBC member Bill Flannery’s questions about MSBA and energy reimbursements, Eberly gave a breakdown of how it works during each stage of the project.
For example, Eberly said during the feasibility phase, the MSBA cut checks to the town monthly “with a slight lag time,” once every expense was reviewed and audited.
In the design phase, he said MSBA shifted to get Massachusetts Environmental Protection Act (MEPA) involved and will not execute a project scope and budget funding agreement until all the issues MEPA identifies are resolved.
“The budget funding agreement is what kicks off design phase reimbursement similar to what happened in the feasibility phase,” Eberly said.
But reimbursement is on hold until a MEPA certificate is granted, once all that agency’s requirements are met, he added. Initially, it was anticipated that the certificate would be received next February, but now it is likely to happen in November of this year instead.
“At that point [in November], all the costs you’ve paid to this point … MSBA will cut you a check based on your reimbursement rate, and that will kick off the
monthly process to continue into construction,” Eberly said.
He said MSBA holds back 5% of the total reimbursement kind of like an insurance policy so that it does not overspend. That money gets released pending a final audit “two to three years later if you are unlucky and 18 months to two years [otherwise],” Eberly said.
Flannery questioned the timeline for energy rebates from MassSave and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Eberly replied it could take 18 months to two years after the project is verified for MassSave reimbursement, and it could be two to three years after the project is completed for IRA funds.
“IRA is relatively new, and we have not seen projects make their way through it yet,” he added.
Abutter meetings ‘going well’
In other business, ESBC chair Jon Graziano reported on recent visits with three abutters to the Hayden Rowe Street project who are impacted by proposed road improvements.
They walked the property, and Graziano felt the individual conversations went well. “Neighbors expressed concerns, but nothing seemed too unreasonable,” he said.
However, there are three or four other impacted households that did not respond yet. Graziano said he would follow up with these residents, and Vertex and landscape engineers “will see what we do to alleviate their challenges and try to come to an agreement in individual households.”
The ultimate plan is to return to the ESBC to report on the total amount that it will take to address the abutters’ concerns.
“It is always nice to be able to walk the property and to see collectively what the issues are and might be,” Graziano said.
Permitting process updated
Eberly also gave the board an update on the town permitting process, noting the Conservation Commission requested a site visit on Aug. 1, and therefore it made sense to move future discussions with the Conservation Commission from the next meeting on July 30 to Aug. 13 or Aug. 20.
“There was no significant opposition voiced,” he said, and the design team is looking at the peer review, which is pending. Eberly noted that in between meetings, he reached out to the ESBC chair to approve $4,900 for Lucas Environmental to conduct the review.
He invited anyone interested in going on the site visit from the ESBC to be aware it is “deep in the woods in overgrown areas,” with a lot of ticks and mosquitoes.
The first appearance before the Planning Board will be on Aug. 5, and a peer review by Tighe and Bond costing $16,000 had been authorized by the chair, Eberly said.
To learn more, scan the QR code or visit HopGolfCharity.com. September 9, 2024
ScHoolS HHS students earn national awards in art, writing
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
Three Hopkinton High School students recently were recognized by the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program as national medalists.
In writing, Daniel Applebaum and Kaesha Rajgor both won a gold medal (top national honor) for “Jewish Requiem at Terezin: A Burning Haibun” and “The Gambler Mentality: Would You Risk It?” respectively.
In art, Pascaline Tetteh won a silver medal for her piece titled “A Bright Idea.”
HHS English teacher Benjamin Lally explained that the Scholastic program is an opt-in for students to discover individually. HHS English Department head Sarah Ellam and HHS Art Department head Colleen Gianino help organize the submissions and provide payment to Scholastic, using donation funds from the Hopkinton Parent Teacher Organization.
stock market.
Lally, who is advisor to the HHS Art & Literature magazine, is familiar with Tetteh’s work and described it as “striking and sophisticated.”
“ ‘A Bright Idea’ does a fantastic job of being a success in both its execution and its vision,” he said. “It is a skillful piece and is one that grabs the viewer’s attention.”
Tetteh said her digital painting took about six hours to create and was done in one sitting as part of a sketchbook project prompt given in art class.
“My vision was to portray me finally finding comfort in an idea,” she said. “I struggle with figuring out what to draw for most of my projects or simply how to start them. So when I do get an idea, I’m immediately comforted, because it’s the biggest hurdle.”
Tetteh said her painting has a subtle additional meaning — comfort in religion. “The background of my piece is slightly influenced by Renaissance paintings, the ones that often have angels drawn or religious depictions,” she said.
Although her career aspirations are to become a doctor, Tetteh said she hopes to minor in art, or if she changes her mind about medicine, pursue medical illustration.
Winning a silver award “really made my day,” she said, adding that she was proud of “A Bright Idea,” and grateful it was appreciated enough to be recognized.
Lally praised Rajgor’s essay for its “clear voice” while presenting an “impressive depth in her research.”
He said, “She makes her points cleanly and clearly and writes with purpose and momentum.”
Rajgor said she wrote “The Gambler Mentality: Would You Risk It?” as part of an assignment in her Grade 9 English class. She said she wanted to explore the intersection of psychology and human behavior.
At first, at a friend’s suggestion, Rajgor considered writing about stock market betting because of her interest in business “and the recent surge in high-risk trades based on speculation rather than research.”
She expanded on that idea by focusing on all forms of betting like sports, the lottery and the
Rajgor said she used sources including podcasts, TED Talks, books and websites and conducted firsthand interviews.
Her 2,000-word submission was in the critical essay category.
“The [essay] explores the diverse motivations behind gambling addiction, including biological, neurological and personality-driven factors,” she explained. “It examines how individuals with impulsive traits are more susceptible to addiction, leading them to bet increasingly higher amounts to achieve the same feelings of reward.”
Rajgor added that the essay also talks about “how addiction impacts one’s health, life and relationships but emphasizes that recovery is possible with treatment and motivation.” She said it highlights how various forms of gambling can be overlooked as sources of addiction yet still have extremely dangerous effects.
Although she did not expect to win a national gold medal, Rajgor said the achievement has inspired her to continue pursuing excellence in her writing and to believe in the potential of her work.
A rising junior at HHS, Rajgor said she regards writing and art to be fun, relaxing hobbies and as a “creative outlet” to share “unique perspectives with the world.” Although she is not thinking of writing as a career, she believes strong writing skills are essential for everyone, no matter what field or interests they pursue.
Lally noted the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program celebrated its centennial anniversary last year and is open to students in Grades 7-12. The contest has 28 categories. At the state level, approximately 30% of submissions earn either a gold key, silver key or honorable mention.
The gold key winners are entered into the national competition that awards a gold or silver medal to the top entries in the United States. Additionally, seniors can submit portfolios, and those can earn an honorable mention at the national level, Lally explained.
An annual ceremony recognizes the gold and silver key recipients in Massachusetts, and students receive a certificate. Writing recipients at the state and national levels have their achievements displayed in the English hallway — certificates and plaques, respectively.
Pascaline Tetteh won a silver medal for this digital painting titled “A Bright Idea.”
SportS
Kenney showcases football skill on national level
By Chris Villani Contributing Writer
Football is a fall sport, but Cam Ken-
ney has spent the summer in pads competing at the highest level. The 14-year-old Hopkinton resident kicked off his summer in mid-June at Football University Camp at Belmont Hill, where he was selected for the Grade 8 Under Armor All-America Game that will be held this winter.
In late June, he went to Georgia for a national lineman showcase known as The Show, put on by NXGen Sports. Then, in July, Kenny took part in a national combine at Wakeland High School in Frisco, Texas, earning a spot on the all-camp team.
During that trip, he was able to take part in the Middle School Dream All-American game at Dallas Cowboys headquarters in Frisco.
It’s been a whirlwind, but Kenney said it has been a lot of fun, too.
“It’s been great,” he said. “It’s been really good competition, great coaching and I got to showcase my skills and have a really good time with some teammates and make some new friends.”
Kenney drew strong reviews from the coaches who watched him compete at camps. Words like “explosive,” “tough” and “aggressive” were among those most often used to describe his game.
While Kenney is done playing football for a few weeks, his preparation for the coming season has not stopped. He
Cam Kenney poses for a picture at last month’s Middle School Dream All-American game in Frisco, Texas.
Join our FALL LEAGUE
Little Leaguers who just aged out are eligible to play as 13-Year-Olds this fall!
Ages 13 – 14 (Grades 6 - 8) September 4 – October 30
• Wednesday 5 – 7 pm & Saturday 3 – 5 pm
The league is for players of all abilities. No tryouts. Attendance is flexible.
For more information and to register, go to HopkintonRec.org. Questions? Email hopkintonbaberuth@gmail.com
is in the gym five days per week and getting set for his first year at DexterSouthfield School in Brookline. He is hoping to see as much varsity time as possible.
“I need to get myself ready for the bigger, faster kids I am going to be going up against,” Kenney said.
At 6-foot-2, 235 pounds, Kenney is bigger than most eighth graders. But he said he will probably see more snaps at center at the varsity level, since he is a little undersized to play guard. Kenney said he expects to see some JV time as well, and he’ll likely play guard at that level.
Kenney said he wants to stay consistent in the gym and also continue to develop as a pass blocker as the DexterSouthfield season approaches.
“I want to be the best teammate and the best player I can be,” he said. “I am really excited. I met most of the guys, and they have a really strong team and a really good bond with one another.”
Kenney expects there to be some challenges, including the commute from Hopkinton to Brookline and the workload that comes from playing football and studying at an elite private school. Kenney said he is eager to learn from his older teammates, but he also is confident he can hang on the gridiron with kids who might be three or four years older than he is.
“Competing nationally, I have gone up against kids that are that much older than me,” he said. “I am not too worried about it.”
obituarieS
Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.
Ralph Steurer
Ralph William Steurer, 90, husband of the late Carol Brann Steurer, passed away peacefully on July 15. Born on July 17, 1933, in New York City, he was the son of the late Alberta Knower (Muhlhan) and Ralph Emerson Steurer.
Ralph is survived by his son, John E Steurer and wife Charlene (Calderone) Steurer; two grandchildren, Jessica Conley and husband Kyle, and Jennifer Steurer; his brother, Ronald Steurer and wife Barbara; his nephews, Mark, Timothy and Matthew Steurer; his brother-in- law, Paul Brann and wife Rita; his nephews, David Carlson and wife Leanne, Len Carlson and wife Maureen, and William Carlson; and his niece, Jane (Carlson ) Rossi and husband John. He is predeceased by his father-in-law, Herbert Brann, mother- in-law, Mabel Brann, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Arnie and Betty Carlson.
Ralph graduated from Mamaroneck High School in 1951. After high school , he attended Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, North Carolina. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1955. Ralph was a passionate Wake Forest sports fan, where it was very common to see him wearing his Wake Forest merchandise. He served in the United States Army as a military intelligence specialist in the Korean War, from May 1956 to May 1958. Upon his return from Korea, his family moved to Berlin, Connecticut, where he met his future wife. They married on October 15, 1960, and celebrated 49 years of marriage before Carol passed in January of 2009.
Ralph worked 33 years for The Colgate Palmolive Company as retail merchandiser and account manager calling on Springfield Sugar. He was selected three times to the Top Pro Club for sales excellence, and in 1991, he was inducted into the Colgate Hall of Fame. Outside of working at Colgate, Ralph was an active member in the Berlin community, especially youth baseball. From 1970-74, Ralph was the manager of the Berlin Little League Cardinals, and he led his teams to four consecutive championships. He also managed the 1973-74 Berlin Little League All-Star teams, reaching the district championship in 1974. He went on to Babe Ruth Baseball and led his team to a championship as well. Ralph was actively involved in the Berlin High School Athletic Boosters Club. Ralph was an incredible father who never missed his son’s basketball
or baseball games, both at Berlin High School and Western New England College, even if the games were on the road. For hobbies, Ralph enjoyed playing golf at Berlin’s Timberlin Golf Club, where he scored his first and only hole-in-one, on the par-3 fourth hole, on Aug. 16, 2006.
In April 2022, Ralph moved to The Golden Pond Communities in Hopkinton to be closer to his son and daughter-in- law. There was nothing more important that brought joy to Ralph than spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. A very special thanks to Lisa Jacobs and the entire professional staff at Golden Pond. Ralph especially looked forward to Alexandria Connolly’s performances each month at Golden Pond. Also, a special thank you to Heather, Kim and Nane from the Brookhaven Hospice team for their love and care for Ralph over the past six months.
Funeral services are being held privately, with interment at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. Tributes can be made at ChesmoreFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ralph Steurer’s memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, Donor Care Center, P.O. Box 758541, Topeka, KS 66675.
Roland Bachman
Roland Joseph Bachman (Joe), a resident of Massachusetts since 1984, died peacefully on July 6 at Hope Health Hospice in Providence, Rhode Island. Joe was born in Metamora (Peoria) Illinois to Elton Bachman and Eleanor (Nauman) Bachman.
Joe graduated from Metamora Township High School, class of 1965. Throughout high school, he worked at Bursott’s Bakery, where he honed his baking skills, and he made baking his hobby later in life. He often baked for friends and neighbors and the local kids. His mom’s gingerbread cookie recipe often stole the show at Christmas parties.
While working for Western Electric (AT&T and Bell Telephone), he was drafted by the U.S. Army in 1966. He served as a pole lineman and field wireman in Vietnam D Company 40th Signal Battalion 1st Signal Brigade stationed in Binh Dinh province, with the mission of wiring South Vietnam for telephone service. He also spent time in Thailand. After returning home, he married, had two children and started a carpentry business. In 1984, he moved to Massachusetts, where he met his wife, Jennifer (MacKay) Bachman, formerly of Hopkinton.
He is survived by his wife, two sons, Randy and Rick, four grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and his dog, Ziggy. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, a sister, several nieces and nephews and his
dog Tyedye.
Visitation will be held Friday, July 19, from 2-4 p.m. at the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, 34 Church Street, Hopkinton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope Health Hospice North Providence (hopehealthco.org), Milford Regional Medical Center (milfordregional.org), Baypath Humane Society (baypathhumane.org) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).
Wayne Mezzitt
Wayne Mezitt, 81, of Hopkinton passed away peacefully on July 18 after a brief illness and surrounded by his family. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Wally “Vallya” (Bralit) and Edmund V. Mezitt. He was the husband of 59 years to Elizabeth (Pickering) Mezitt of Hopkinton.
Wayne moved to Hopkinton from Weston and was a graduate of Hopkinton High School in the class of 1960. After high school, Wayne earned his B.A. from Cornell University and stayed on at Cornell to earn his MBA in 1966. After college, Wayne went to work at the family business, Weston Nurseries. Wayne contributed to and expanded the family business alongside his father and brother, Roger. His dedication to hybridizing and growing plants played a pivotal role in making Weston Nurseries one of New England’s largest and most successful nurseries, now in its 101st year and run by the fourth generation. Many of the plants introduced and grown by Ed and Wayne have become industry staples that have beautified landscapes all around the country.
Wayne’s horticultural legacy spans over six decades. He enjoyed being involved with many organizations and was well known throughout the industry. Wayne was a member and held positions in the American Nursery and Landscape Association (past president), the International Plant Propagators’ Association (Eastern Region fellow), the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (past president), the New England Botanical Garden (board member), the Massachusetts Horticultural Society (past chair), the Massachusetts Invasive Plant Council (president), the Horticultural Club of Boston (past president), the Massachusetts Agricultural Club (past president), the Magnolia Society and the American Rhododendron Society.
He has received many awards recognizing his contributions to horticulture, including the Massachusetts Horticultural Society Gold Medal, the New England Botanical Garden Carey Award, the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture Gold Medal and the Massachusetts Chapter Rhododendron Society Gold Medal. He recently was named an honorary lifetime member of the Horticultural
Club of Boston. He was a true leader in the sense that he brought unlimited energy to untold numbers of individuals he knew and to organizations to which he belonged.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Wayne had a fondness for skiing, golf, woodworking, traveling, reading, cooking and wine. He and Beth cherished the holidays and travel time spent with his family and friends. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends at the family ski house in Vermont. As an active gardener, Wayne maintained acres of land around his home filled with unusual and specimen plants and often traded plants with plant enthusiasts. He was an avid vegetable gardener who loved to share all he grew.
In addition to his wife, Wayne is survived by four children and nine grandchildren: son Peter Mezitt and wife Karen and children Nathan, Anna and Madeline; daughter Laurel Provencher and husband Bob and children Katrina and Jack; daughter Cyndy Lindeman and husband Andy and children Braden and Graham; and son Brian Mezitt and wife Cara and children William and Cullen. He is predeceased by his brother, Roger Mezitt. Following a private family service, visitation was held July 30 at Chesmore Funeral Home in Hopkinton. A celebration of life will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society (Elm Bank) at masshort.org/support/donate/, Worcester Country Horticultural Society (New England Botanical Garden) at purchase.nebg.org/donation. aspx, or the Horticultural Research Institute (Edmond V. Mezitt Research Grant) at hriresearch.org or 2130 Stella Court, Columbus, OH 43215.
John Whalen
John Whalen was born in Waltham as the oldest child of Doris and John Whalen II, and soon became the big brother to Judy and Jimmy. While attending Waltham High School, he met the love of his life, Frances “Frani” Dunn. They were married shortly after John’s graduation from Bentley University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In 1974, he welcomed his first daughter, Sandy, his second daughter, Chrissy, in 1976, and completed a move to Hopkinton, where he and Fran would raise their family. John worked his way up the ranks to VP/comptroller at ComEnergy/NSTAR in Cambridge, from where he would eventually retire to Florida in the early 2000s. He was a devoted father, spending all his time with his girls as they both pursued their skating passions. Whether it was buying an RV to drive cross-country for competitions or getting up and driving to 6 a.m. practices, John was always there with his larger-than-life camera to document the good, the bad
obituarieS
and the ugly! He rediscovered his love of fishing and hunting over the years, and spent countless seasons doing both in Minnesota, Pennsylvania and New York, where he kept his boat, The Comptroller. While he and Fran took the girls on many adventures to Disney World, Hawaii and more, his passion for travel took the two of them on amazing adventures that included countless trips to Disney World, with and without the kids, Napa Valley with Judy and Billy, Alaska, Europe, South Africa, China, Australia and more. When it was time to stay stateside again, they both loved heading back to their roots in New England and spending time in New Hampshire with Judy.
Over the years, he welcomed sons-in-law Jeremy and Bryan into the family, and found the deepest love and his proudest times when he was promoted from father to grandfather, or as he was called, “Pap.” TJ, Jack, and Nick came first, along with many trips to Minnesota for birthdays, basketball games, hunting and fishing. Kendall, Samantha and Abby came next, creating tons of memories with Disney trips, soccer games and musical shows that lit up Pap’s eyes. They will all miss his guidance, strength and support.
John passed away on July 14, at the age of 76. He is predeceased by his parents, John and Doris Deveaux Whalen, brother James “Jimmy” Whalen, and brother-in-law William “Billy” Rourke. He is survived by his adoring wife of over 55 years, Frances “Fran” Whalen, oldest daughter Sandy Whalen Rebrovich, son-in-law Jeremy Rebrovich, and grandsons Thomas John “TJ” (John’s namesake), Jack and Nick Rebrovich, youngest daughter Chrissy Whalen Morton, son-in-law Bryan Morton, granddaughters Kendall, Samantha and Abigail Morton, and his sister, Judy Rourke.
A funeral service was held July 17 at the Loving Funeral Home Churchland Chapel in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Leopold Dirlinger
Leopold R. Dirlinger, 77, formerly of Hopkinton, died July 21 at UMass Medical Center in Worcester. He was the husband of the late
Susan M. (McCobb) Dirlinger, who died in 1984. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, on Aug. 20, 1946, he was the son of the late Leopold R. and Agnes M. (Grundy) Dirlinger. He was raised in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he graduated from St. Raphael’s Academy High School in 1964. After his graduation from high school, he attended and graduated from Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick Neck, Rhode Island, in 1968. After studying at the University of Louvain in Belgium, he returned to the United States and became a respiratory therapist, working for a few decades in local health care facilities.
Leo enjoyed collecting stamps and
coins as well as traveling and seeing new places. He also enjoyed cheering on and sometimes mocking his local sports teams. He loved his role as a father and grandfather. He was always a willing ear or helping hand.
He is survived by his son, Michael D. Dirlinger and wife Summer of Worcester, and his grandchildren, William, Emma, Kathryn, Andrew and Peter.
A graveside funeral service was held July 26 in St John’s Cemetery, Hopkinton. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, Hopkinton.
Donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Brian Thompson
Brian W. Thompson, 77, of Amherst and most recently Hopkinton and Chatham, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on July 22.
Brian grew up in Amherst and graduated from Amherst Regional High School in 1964. He earned a B.S. from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1968 and his MBA from Western New England University.
Shortly after graduating college, Brian began what would become a five-decade banking career as a trainee at Shawmut First Bank in Springfield, where he worked his way up to president by the time he turned 40. When the bank was consolidated into the Shawmut Bank Holding Company, he left to join New Hampshire-based Pelham Bank and Trust Company as its president and CEO. That bank was sold in 1996 to First Essex Bancorp of Andover, where he then served as president until it was acquired in 2004. He subsequently joined Commerce Bank and Trust Company in Worcester, and served as its president and CEO before the bank’s sale in 2018. Brian retired shortly thereafter to spend more time with family and friends.
Brian was regarded as a leader in his field, participating in many industry organizations, and was an active board member of many nonprofit organizations, including the United Way of Central Massachusetts. He loved banking because it enabled him to support the local communities that he served, and he would encourage others to be generous with their time as well. Over the years, he received much recognition for his leadership and service.
Brian always reflected on how fortunate he was to have supportive mentors and the opportunity to continue growing professionally. He most enjoyed building teams of great people in the organizations he led; he was always so proud of those he worked with and treated everyone with respect and appreciation.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marilyn (Bates) Thompson, also of Amherst. He leaves his three children: Laura and husband Matt
Colleran of Hopkinton; Mark and wife Natalie Telfer of Toronto, Canada; and Matthew and wife Sarah Blank of London. He also leaves behind his seven beloved grandchildren: Taylor, Teddy, Tucker and TJ Telfer-Thompson, and Riley, Jack and Kennedy Colleran. He leaves a sister, Joanne Allen of Naples, Florida, a brother-in-law, Larry Bates and wife Dottie of Wareham, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Marjorie Thompson of Amherst.
Brian always said he never had a bad day. He loved his work, his community, his friends and, above all, his family; Brian made his family his life. He never missed his children’s games, from youth baseball and softball through to college sports. As time passed, his focus turned to his grandchildren, with weekends and travels spent watching soccer, hockey and dance recitals. He took tremendous pride in all of the athletic, academic and professional achievements of both his children and grandchildren.
Over the years, Brian and Marilyn’s house in Chatham became a special place for the family to come together, especially over the Fourth of July holiday. He loved those moments, and his family will always cherish the memories they shared with him there.
Brian enjoyed life to its fullest and treasured each day. He loved to play golf, always wishing he was a little better than he was. He was a member of Chatham Seaside Links and Cranberry Valley Golf Course. He also loved the Red Sox and Chatham A’s, the morning paper, a coffee from Cumberland Farms, a hot beach, boat rides in Essex I and time spent with friends.
Brian is remembered for his kindness, generosity and selflessness. He would do anything to brighten the day of those around him. He will be dearly missed by his family, former colleagues and many friends.
Thank you to the UMass Memorial Medical team in Worcester, whom Brian regarded as friends, for the care he received over the past years.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Brian may be made to UMass Memorial Health in support of the Cancer Center of Excellence (leukemia designation). Give online at donate. umassmemorial.org.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, Aug. 1, from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. at Douglass Funeral Home, 87 North
Pleasant Street, Amherst.
A celebration of Brian’s life will follow at 3 p.m. at the Inn on Boltwood, 30 Boltwood Avenue, Amherst.
Roberta Schwartz
Roberta E. Schwartz, 84, of Londonderry Vermont, passed away peacefully on July 11 at Golden Pond Assisted Living in Hopkinton. Born in Landsdale, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Esther (Courter) and Robert E. Schaedler. She was the beloved wife of 65 years to John Schwartz.
Bobbi was born Aug. 2, 1939, and raised in Pennsylvania. She graduated from North Penn High School in 1957. She began her career as an X-ray technician, dedicating herself to healthcare before starting a family. Beyond her professional endeavors, Bobbi’s passion for sports was evident throughout her life. During high school, Bobbi was actively involved in field hockey, tennis and swimming. She later made significant contributions as a sports official, earning a USFHA national rating in field hockey and traveling across the country to officiate field hockey, volleyball and basketball games. Her expertise and commitment were recognized and respected in these communities.
Bobbi loved being outdoors. For over 30 years, she served as a PSIA ski instructor at Stratton Mountain, sharing her love for skiing with countless individuals. She especially loved teaching her grandchildren, and until recently spent time on the mountain with her great-grandchildren. During the warmer months, she was an avid gardener, and you would often find her tending to her many flower and vegetable gardens. Bobbi will be remembered for her kindness, enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to her family, friends and community.
In addition to her husband, Bobbi is survived by her son, Michael Schwartz and wife Tracy of St. Augustine, Florida, six grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren as well as extended family. She is predeceased by her son, Mark Schwartz, and her brother, Robert Schaedler.
A graveside service was to be held privately with family in Pennsylvania. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.
police log
ARRESTS
July 12
12:24 a.m. A caller reported an erratic operator swerving and almost hitting a curb on Main Street. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Nicholas Walker responded, and Officer Brian Ziniti brought a portable breath test. A 39-year-old resident of South Mill Street in Hopkinton was arrested and charged with negligent operation of motor vehicle, possession of open container of alcohol and OUI liquor, second offense.
July 18
4:52 p.m. Officer Robert Ekross conducted a motor vehicle stop on South Street and arrested a 28-year-old from Milford on a warrant.
July 22
12:14 p.m. On Main Street, Officers Matthew LaTour and Cody Normandin arrested a 33-year-old from Chelmsford and charged him with unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, operation of motor vehicle with license suspended, possession of open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle, uninsured motor vehicle and unregistered motor vehicle.
July 23
5:29 p.m. On Hayden Rowe Street, Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Cody Normandin and Nicholas Saletnik arrested a 25-year-old from Milford on a warrant.
July 28
7:28 p.m. On West Main Street, Officer Cody Normandin and Sergeant Matthew McNeil arrested a 63-year-old who resides on Constitution Court in Hopkinton and charged her with resisting arrest 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 9
1:15 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Tyler Staback checked on Sandy Beach on Lakeshore Drive and advised a group having a late-night swim to move along.
3:38 p.m. Officers Shannon Beloin and Robert Ekross responded to a motor vehicle crash on East Main Street involving three cars. No personal injuries were reported.
5:51 p.m. A walk-in DoorDash worker reported a male customer sent harassing messages to her via the DoorDash app. Officer Shannon Beloin took a report.
July 10
7:48 a.m. A caller reported a horse running on Frostpane Lane with no rider on it. Officer Shannon Beloin and the animal control officer responded. They located the horse and the rider, who had fallen off. The rider refused any medical attention.
4:38 p.m. A walk-in reported while he was parked on Grove Street, a person in a vehicle next to him opened his driver door and hit his vehicle. The person who caused the damage did not pull over. The caller was able to take a photo of the license plate. The incident was logged.
9:03 p.m. A walk-in reported she was stopped by a Milford police officer earlier because another motorist accused her of hitting his car and driving away. She stated she did not hit anyone’s car, and she showed pictures of her car that had no damage from the alleged hit and wanted to give her side of the story
July 11
3:20 p.m. A caller requested to speak to an officer about a dispute with a neighbor about cutting trees. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.
July 12
12:41 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback checked on a vehicle in a back parking lot at the high school and moved a few students along.
1:13 a.m. A caller reported credit card fraud after receiving transaction notifications on a credit card that neither she nor her son were using. Officer Tyler Staback took a report of fraud.
2:29 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on Granite Street. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and checked on the driver, who was eating while driving. A verbal warning was issued.
5:33 p.m. A Huckleberry Road walk-in reported seeing via a security camera a person with a badge at his front doorstep. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil assisted the caller.
July 13
6:31 a.m. A Hayden Rowe Street caller reported a dead fawn at the bottom of his neighbor’s driveway. The caller subsequently moved it across the street into the wood line. The DPW and the animal control officer were notified.
11:42 a.m. A walk-in reported his bike was stolen from his driveway two days earlier. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and took a report.
3:22 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Cody Normandin responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on Pinecrest Village. They issued a criminal application and took a report.
4:31 p.m. Officer Augusto Diaz assisted a person on Hayden Rowe Street who had an object fall off the roof of his vehicle.
6:53 p.m. Multiple officers responded to a motor vehicle accident involving personal injury on West Main Street. A tow truck removed both vehicles.
July 14
2:30 p.m. Multiple callers reported a motor vehicle crash involving personal injury on Cedar Street. Multiple officers responded along with a tow truck. 4:23 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard reported a sand barrel on Main Street was struck and was in the roadway. Camera footage showed that a vehicle with a boat struck it and drove away. The DPW was notified.
5:57 p.m. A caller complained of jet skiers causing a disturbance on Lake Maspenock. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Shannon Beloin responded. They issued parking citations but found no further issues.
8:50 p.m. A caller complained that multiple families were at Sandy Beach about to cook their dinner. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported the families were clearing out.
July 15
10:12 a.m. An Elm Street caller reported a lost cat. The incident was logged, and a social media post was made.
2:35 p.m. A caller reported several youths popping wheelies and operating bicycles recklessly on Hayden Rowe Street. Sergeant Matthew Santoro responded and checked the area with a negative find. 6:24 p.m. The State Police reported a road rage incident on Interstate 495 where a driver flashed a gun. The vehicle exited in Hopkinton or Milford. Sergeants William Burchard and Matthew McNeil and Matthew LaTour responded and checked the area with a negative find.
July 16
2:46 p.m. A caller at a West Main Street business reported an unwanted person whom he just fired refused to leave the premises. Officers Cody Normandin and Noah Buentello responded and located the individual and spoke to him about no trespassing. A report was taken.
4:28 p.m. The Southborough Police Department reported an erratic motorcyclist weaving in and out of traffic and speeding on Cedar Street. Another call was received reporting that the motorcycle entered the State Park. Officers Cody Normandin and Noah Buentello responded and checked the State Park with a negative find.
9:05 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator with no license plate who started on Route 135 near Able Limo and stopped on College Street. Officers Sean McKeon and Cody Normandin checked the area with a negative find and notified the Milford Police Department.
July 17
10:23 a.m. A Teresa Road caller reported an adult male met with her 13-year-old daughter and sold her a vape pen, and the daughter arranged another sale. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and took a report.
4:11 p.m. The Southborough Police Department requested assistance locating a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident. Officer Matthew LaTour searched Grove Street and located the vehicle. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Cody Normandin responded as backup until a Southborough officer arrived.
July 18
1:01 a.m. Officer Tyler Staback responded along with the Fire Department to a Revolutionary Way residence, where alarms were sounding. The residents were advised to evacuate.
10:33 a.m. A caller reported a tree fell on wires on Chamberlain Street. Sergeant Matthew Santoro responded and notified Eversource.
2:09 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard notified Verizon about a dead tree on top of wires on Saddle Hill Road.
1:34 p.m. A caller reported a dog wearing a watermelon bandana was running loose on Pond Street, and she transported it to Baypath. The animal control officer was notified.
5:28 p.m. The business manager at a Lumber Street business reported being harassed. He requested extra checks of the area. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.
8:38 p.m. The driver of a dirt bike did a wheelie in front of Officer Cody Normandin on Whisper Way
police log
and took off. Officer Robert Ekross responded but did not locate the motorist.
July 19
6:22 a.m. An Oakhurst Road caller reported a large snapping turtle across the street. The incident was logged.
9:34 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Nicholas Walker responded to a motor vehicle crash on West Main Street and reported one person was being aggressive. Neither person wanted medical attention. A report followed.
10:47 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Augusto Diaz and Robert Ekross checked on a person stumbling around a Main Street parking lot and then into the street. All checked out OK.
July 20
7:31 a.m. A Cherry Lane resident reported an owl was stuck in a soccer net. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and left a message with the animal control officer and also contacted the environmental police. Officer Walker subsequently transported the owl to Tufts in Grafton for rehabilitation.
4:30 p.m. A caller reported a possible motor vehicle accident on Legacy Farms North Road. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and issued a civil citation. The vehicle was towed.
7:18 p.m. A West Elm Street caller reported an injured rabbit was in her backyard. A message was left for the animal control officer.
July 21
9:47 a.m. A caller reported a huge pile of trash on the side of the road on Cedar Street. Officer Augusto Diaz responded and contacted the Stoughton Police Department to notify a resident about retrieving belongings. A report was taken.
10:31 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker notified a Curtis Road resident that her wallet was found in Bellingham.
11:29 a.m. A caller reported a man walking on the side of the road on Cedar Street and pointing an unknown shiny object at oncoming traffic. Officer Augusto Diaz responded and checked the area with a negative find.
3:14 p.m. A Cedar Street resident reported the water in her house was brown. The on-call Water Department personnel was notified.
6:10 p.m. A caller reported a possible sinkhole on Canterbury Lane from recent construction on the street. Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported small holes but nothing in need of immediate attention.
July 22
2:02 p.m. An Eastview Road caller reported a bird was stuck in her chimney. The animal control officer was contacted.
7:41 p.m. A Wilson Street caller reported solicitors just left her home. Officer Noah Buentello and Cody Normandin responded and spoke with the fuel company solicitors and advised them how to apply and register for soliciting.
July 23
10:31 a.m. A caller reported a lot of smoke coming from a fire pit and nobody home at a College Street residence. Sergeant Matthew Santoro responded along with the Fire Department, and the fire was extinguished.
10:44 a.m. Newton-Wellesley Hospital reported a fox bite on East Street. The incident was logged.
1:47 p.m. A walk-in reported an abandoned bicycle deep in the woods on College Street. The make, model and serial number were provided, and the incident was logged.
5:17 p.m. A caller reported his package was stolen. Officer Cody Normandin took a report.
6:32 p.m. A caller on Saddle Hill Road reported a youth threw a rock at his vehicle’s windshield and broke it. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report of vandalism.
9:45 p.m. An East Street caller requested to speak with an officer about someone throwing fireworks
into his driveway. Officer Nicholas Saletnik spoke with the caller and checked the area.
10:24 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious incident on Woodview Way where a male in a white Honda Civic was taking pictures of vehicles in the parking lot. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Cody Normandin responded and searched the area with a negative find.
July 24
1:30 p.m. A walk-in reported a stolen package containing a phone. Sergeant Matthew Santoro took a report.
5:27 p.m. Police Chief Joseph Bennett and Officer Robert Ekross checked on a vehicle with its horn sounding on Main Street and found a child inside. They stood by until the adult came outside after picking up pizza.
July 25
7:22 a.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik advised the DPW of a fallen tree blocking the roadway on Winter Street.
9:08 a.m. A Curtis Road resident reported damage to her lawn. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and took a report of vandalism.
8:00 p.m. A caller reported an injured raccoon on Wood Street. Officer Cody Normandin responded and dispatched it and left a message with the DPW for pickup.
July 26
12:04 a.m. A concerned caller reported a vehicle and people near the trailhead on Chamberlain Street. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Kyle Quinzani reported the vehicle was unoccupied. They checked Loop Road, the fields and school campus but did not locate anyone.
3:38 a.m. Sergeant William Burchard responded along with the Fire Department to an elderly male on East Main Street who called and stated, “I can’t shut my gas off,” and was unable to answer further questions or answer on the call back.
4:22 p.m. Eversource requested assistance with an emergency power outage on East Main Street. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and assisted with providing lights.
5:55 p.m. A supervisor at an Elm Street company requested advice from an officer about an employee who was fired earlier in the day and made threats. Officer Matthew LaTour assisted, and the supervisor was to call back when he had a plan.
July 27
9:17 a.m. Multiple callers reported a motor vehicle crash on Cedar Street involving a rollover and possible head injury and entrapment. Officers Augusto Diaz and Robert Ekross responded along with the Fire Department and an ambulance. The male driver was issued a citation.
1:51 p.m. A caller reported two males camping out on Cedar Street. Officers Noah Buentello and Robert Ekross checked on the individuals and moved them along.
July 28
5:13 a.m. U.S. Customs requested information about a father having permission to take his son out of the country. They were to return to Boston the next day from Ireland. Officer Tyler Staback assisted. 5:20 p.m. A Wood Street resident reported a rabid fox in her backyard. The animal control officer was notified.
July 29
7:40 a.m. A caller reported an owl was tangled in a fishing line on Spring Lane. The animal control officer was contacted.
11:22 a.m. The animal control officer reported he removed a raccoon from a Wood Street building. 11:25 a.m. A caller reported a backpack blower was stolen on Woodview Way. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and took a report.
5:05 p.m. A Fruit Street caller reported thousands of dollars were stolen from a resident. Officer Nicholas Saletnik took a larceny report.
