HI 9.13.23

LAST FIRST DAY

Project Empathy explores human connection

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

According to an old adage, a person can never completely understand another until walking in their shoes.

Project Empathy takes that concept further, using theater as a vehicle for sharing personal experiences. Eight people from different walks of life have been immersing themselves in the life story of a person with whom they have been paired for three months. Participants have been sharing their most challenging life experiences with their partners, who then will perform them onstage at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on Sept. 29-30.

Project Empathy was created in

SC OOLS IN!WELCOME BACK!

iller students a Successful Year!

Police urge caution after dog killed by coyote on trail

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

TheHopkinton Police Department on Friday urged trail walkers, particularly those with dogs or children, to exercise caution when encountering animals after a dog was snatched by a coyote Aug. 31.

According to the police report issued Sept. 1, the incident was reported on Whisper Way, which is off Wood Street and offers access to a trail that runs through Cameron Woods. The dog was found to be deceased, and the animal control officer assisted in its removal.

“Please use caution while walking with your dogs and kids on the trails in town, particularly in the areas of the Whisper Way trail, Yellow Trail and Red Trail,” reads a statement from the Police Department posted on Facebook on Aug. 30. “A woman was walking her dogs this afternoon when one of them was unfortunately snatched by a coyote. An officer assisted with attempting to locate the dog with the owner. We feel horrible

Last year’s Project Empathy cast members brought their personal triumphs to the stage through each other’s performances.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Seniors at Hopkinton High School gather in the foyer as they prepare for their first day of school on Aug. 30.

Hopkinton independent

The Hopkinton Independent is published by Hopkinton Independent, LLC, 32 South St., Westborough, MA 01581. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of the ad that was in error if notified in writing within three business days of the publication date. All material is the property of the Hopkinton Independent. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material. The Hopkinton Independent is delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to 100 percent of the homes and businesses in Hopkinton, reaching more than 7,700 addresses. It’s also available for free pickup at Muffin House Café and Price Chopper as well as at many other local businesses. Hopkinton Independent, LLC is equally co-owned by Bagdon Advertising, Inc. and Susanne Odell Farber.

STAFF

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Managing Editor: Jerry Spar

Social Media director: David Bagdon

STAFF WRITER: Mary Ellen Gambon

Editorial contributors: Lyn Calkins, Chris Villani, John Cardillo, Christie Vogt, Jane Bigda, Susan Gonsalves, Courtney Cornelius

FOR ADVERTISING: Contact Susanne Odell Farber

Water Department welcomes heavy rain

During a typical year, the Water Department will send out notices each summer, reminding residents about the water restrictions in town.

No need in 2023.

Hopkinton received a near-record amount of rain — about 12 inches in July alone, which is around four times the average — making Water Department Manager Eric Carty’s job a little easier.

“That rain definitely helps,” Carty said. “It’s meant people have cut back on water usage, so that does cut back on the supply, and the groundwater is recharging quickly.”

Hopkinton’s water storage totals fluctuate from year to year (and month to month), but heading into the fall, “It’s right where we should be,” Carty said.

Unfortunately, most of the extra precipitation can’t be saved for the next drought.

INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS JERRY

SPAR

“It definitely recharges the aquifers, but they only have so much storage,” Carty said. “So, most of this rain is going right into rivers and streams. It’s not like we can store up. Once the aquifers are full, they’re full.”

Recent years in town have featured normal springs but dry summers. That’s left the town struggling to maintain a healthy supply of water.

“We’ve had years we’ve gone in with a perfectly wet spring, and within two months the aquifers get drawn down,” Carty said. “You can’t count on anything, it’s so extreme nowadays.”

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

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

Carty said he still receives calls asking if the water restrictions are in place, even though there isn’t much reason for someone to water their lawn when there is so much natural precipitation. The restrictions actually are a requirement from the Department of Environmental Protection and run from May 1 through Sept. 30, so they remain despite the weather.

Check the Water Department page at the town’s website (hopkintonma.gov) for details on the restrictions.

Meanwhile, the Water Department recently submitted a grant application to the state for help with its efforts to determine if there are any remaining lead pipes in town.

A federal mandate dictates that by the end of 2024, every community has to identify the makeup of its pipes, Carty explained.

The town previously made efforts to identify old pipes when it raised the pH level in the water, and it switched lead pipes to iron. Carty said the town’s current records do not identify any remaining lead pipes.

However, the system was first installed in the 1800s, and some of the Water Department logs date back to the 1930s. So, in order to check the accuracy of the information, employees will be dispatched to houses to determine what types of pipes are going into residents’ basements. With about 4,000 connections, it will be a “very, very labor-intensive project,” Carty said.

Crafty residents replace sign

As part of the Main Street Corridor Project, roads connected to the redesigned section of Main Street are getting new street signs. A temporary signpost was erected at Claflin Avenue, but without cement footing, the post fell over. When crews were slow to replace it, residents took matters into their own hands.

The new temporary street marker is a colorful sign designed by two young residents: 7-year-old Graham and 3-year-old Hannah.

It likely won’t last long (it might even be gone by now), as Department Independent thoughts | 3

Presents

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

Proven

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

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

Crafty residents replace sign

of Public Works Director Kerry Reed indicated that the project contractor was notified that the actual sign needed to be reinstalled.

HMS mourns Da Silva

Hopkinton Middle School staff and students received some sad news right at the start of the school year with the passing of longtime custodian Antonio Da Silva after a brief illness. He was 53 and leaves behind his wife and two sons. (See obituary, Page 21.)

In my role with the basketball programs in town, I regularly interacted with Tony, and it was always a positive experience. While he would have preferred to talk soccer, he was happy to do what he could to help basketball run smoothly. Many times, it was just Tony and me in the gym, either before everyone showed up or after everyone left, and whether we were sharing a laugh about something random or he was filling me in on his sons’ soccer exploits, it was an enjoyable interaction. He will be missed.

Minimize trash to save ocean

Imagine the ocean without trash. Imagine how many animals would be saved. The world would have one less problem.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The ocean is vanishing right before our eyes. More than 5 trillion pieces of plastic are in our ocean — and plastic alone. Just think how many pieces of trash and plastic there is. Experts say that we could have fishless oceans by 2048.

My goal is to clean the ocean and encourage others to do the same. What can you do? Well, try to only buy things that you need. For example, it’s back to school! Instead of just buying new things instantly, take a look in your house and see if you have anything left over from last year. This way you won’t throw away as much trash.

One key thing to do is to reduce, reuse and recycle. Hopefully, you’ll consider doing these things and help reduce the amount of waste going into the ocean.

— Aanya Soni, Grade 5, Hopkinton

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

“Wow! Chuck, Ann and Mike, you did it again. After you managed the sale of our house so flawlessly two years ago, there was no question we would call on you again when we needed to sell our condo. And once again you exceeded our expectations. Your team’s experience, professionalism, and responsiveness were evident throughout the process, from the development of the sales strategy, staging and marketing, offer negotiation, and managing the steps to closing. Thank you, Chuck, Ann and Mike for making another successful sale happen for us. We cannot adequately express how much we appreciate all of your hard work on our behalf and how much we enjoyed working with all of you.”

~ HB and GB 9/5/23 Time

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

Select Board delays discussion of police promotions

The Select Board at its meeting Sept. 5 voted 4-1 to delay consideration of the promotion of two Hopkinton police officers to the rank of sergeant until a departmental review is complete, provoking angry outbursts from some audience members.

Detective Gregg DeBoer and School Resource Officer Matthew Santoro were recommended by Chief Joseph Bennett to be promoted to the rank of sergeant. DeBoer has served as an HPD detective since 2014 after starting with the department as a patrolman in 1999. Santoro has been with the department since 2016, serving in the capacities of patrol officer, field training officer and school resource officer.

Select Board chair Muriel Kramer, the Select Board liaison to the Police Department, asked the board to wait, stressing the need for the departmental review to be completed. Kramer anticipated that this review would be completed later in September. The department simultaneously is in the process of preparing its accreditation paperwork, which is due in March.

“I also want to say out loud, for anybody who is being considered, that I will personally consider disciplinary records in my decision whether to support promotions or not for leadership positions in the Hopkinton Police Department,” she said.

Kramer also requested that board members discuss a review process for promotions of this type at a future meeting.

Member Irfan Nasrullah agreed, noting that he would like to have “all the information available to us” before making the determination. He also said that the town’s Human Resources Department should be present.

“I’m not saying that I don’t want to promote anyone,” he explained. “I’m just saying that I want to have a full picture.”

Select Board member Mary Jo LaFreniere disagreed with the others.

Said LaFreniere: “I think that they have been excellent police officers, I think they deserve their promotion, and they deserve it now.”

After LaFreniere’s comment, several people started clapping. As they left, some shouted that the 4-1 vote — with LaFreniere against postponement — was “an embarrassment” and “wrong.”

Two days after the meeting, Hopkinton police union vice president and patrol officer Cody Normandin wrote an open letter in which he called the Select Board’s action “disgraceful” and requested further explanation for the “humiliation” of its members.

Noting the town’s recent struggles to recruit qualified police candidates — a problem not just in Hopkinton but nationwide — Normandin questioned how this action will affect a department striving to overcome short-staffing issues.

“The town … should be striving to be an attractive and supportive environment for officers to work in,” he wrote. “By publicly showing their disrespect for our members, the Select Board has chosen to do the exact opposite. In light of this treatment, we ask the Select Board, why should officers come to work for the Town of Hopkinton? Do you truly value us?”

The Hopkinton Police Department has been stung by the placement of two high-ranking officers on administrative leave over the past year, one of whom is awaiting trial.

Former Deputy Police Chief John

“Jay” Porter has been accused of committing two acts of child rape while working as the department’s school resource officer nearly two decades ago. Porter resigned in April after being placed on administrative leave in August 2022. He is awaiting trial on these charges, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. for the filing of a discovery motion in Middlesex Superior Court.

In May, Sgt. Tim Brennan was placed on paid administrative leave, although further details were not released. Kramer announced later in the meeting that a hearing will be held regarding Brennan later this month.

Special Town Meeting timeline discussed

Town Manager Norman Khumalo presented the tentative timeline for the upcoming Special Town Meeting to the Select Board on Sept. 5. The main focus will be on the potential approval of the Elmwood Elementary School building replacement project.

Khumalo proposed that the Select Board could make the call on Oct. 3 for a Special Town Meeting, which would kick off the process. The Special Town Meeting date would be Nov. 13, with articles due for the warrant by Oct. 16.

Because the Elmwood School replacement building requires a town vote on a ballot question, the Select Board would need to select any ballot questions at its Oct. 19 meeting, he added.

The election is being scheduled for Nov. 28, according to Town Clerk Connor Degan. Voting by mail will be available, although there won’t be early in-person voting.

HFD receives FEMA grant

Interim Fire Chief Gary Daugherty announced that the Hopkinton Fire Department will purchase new equipment after receiving funding from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The $921,943 grant was awarded jointly last month to departments in Hopkinton, Ashland and Southborough. With town matches, the departments will share $1,014,138.

The funding will allow the HFD to replace 30 self-contained breathing apparatus, 60 spare air cylinders, and three Rapid Intervention Packs. By collaborating with the Ashland and Southborough Fire Departments, brands, cylinder size and training opportunities will be standardized.

The grant also allows the department to fulfill equipment needs without requiring a capital request from the town.

Misc.: Town appointments confirmed

The Select Board appointed Andrea Conboy as the Youth Services supervisor for the Hopkinton Public Library. She has served as the children’s librarian for the past four years.

Appointments | page 5

Tea Party favor

During a ceremony at Hopkinton’s Evergreen Cemetery on Aug. 27, Danielle Pribyn, dressed in clothing representative of the Revolutionary War era, places a marker next to the gravestone of John Dickman in recognition of the Hopkinton native’s participation in the Boston Tea Party.

Police offer tips amid string of home burglaries

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

In the wake of several MetroWest home burglaries that appeared to target homes where the occupants were on vacation — often in South Asia — the Hopkinton Police Department and the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office provided safety tips for homeowners.

In a statement released Aug. 28, Police Chief Joseph Bennett said that the department and the DA’s office are jointly “currently investigating multiple home burglaries.”

“The ongoing investigation has determined that the individuals are likely gaining entry into homes through an upstairs window while residents are away and stealing large amounts of cash and jewelry,” Bennett said. “It is also believed that the individuals are able to interrupt security measures. The victims of these break-ins are often of Indian and Asian descent.”

The first break-in in Hopkinton of this type was reported in July 2019, according to Bennett. Four break-ins have been reported so far this year in Hopkinton, according to the press release.

“The safety of our community is our top priority,” said Bennett. “While this is an ongoing investigation, we encourage residents to be vigilant and want to ensure people know about basic security precautions that can help prevent crimes such as these.”

Misc.: Town appointments confirmed

Appointments | from page 4

The Select Board also approved Matthew Moyen as the newest member of the Conservation Commission. Sheila Frackleton and Nicole Mousad were appointed to the Cultural Council. On the Board of Appeals, associate member Arnold Cohen was appointed as a regular member, while Michael Heaton and Daniel Hunt were approved as new associate members. …

The Select Board honored Ashwath Sridhar, an Eagle Scout in Troop 4, for his work on building a bridge in the area of Whitehall Woods.

According to a recent police report, a homeowner who was out of the country received a snapshot from his home security camera on Aug. 27 that showed “an individual outside his home with a flashlight looking into the house.” The homeowner stated that a neighbor was house-sitting.

As the summer vacation season wound down, Bennett encouraged Hopkinton residents who will be away for long periods of time to submit the House Check Request Form. Through the house check program, a Hopkinton police officer will check a home on a daily basis.

The Hopkinton Police Department also reminds residents to immediately report any suspicious activity. Anyone who may have information about these burglaries is asked to call the Hopkinton Police Detective Bureau at 508-497-3401.

An article on this subject was first published by the Boston Globe on Aug. 2. In response to an inquiry by the Independent, Middlesex County DA spokesperson Meghan Kelly shared additional information in an email on Aug. 10.

“A preliminary analysis of similarly situated investigations since January 2023 revealed approximately 16 other incidents in various cities and towns in Middlesex County along with others occurring elsewhere in Massachusetts and other states including New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Maryland,” Kelly wrote in an Aug. 10 email. “The link between these cases are that the majority of the cases involve affluent Indian or Asian American families in affluent towns including Shrewsbury, Lincoln, Hopkinton, Weston, Chelmsford, Burlington, Sudbury and Carlisle. … This is an active and ongoing investigation, and we are pursuing every lead.”

Added Kelly, “When there are many weddings or family gatherings such as Diwali, there may be more jewelry in the home; this may be a time to be extra vigilant,” noting that last year, “the spike in home invasions coincided with the weeklong Hindu festival of Diwali, a time when families often have gold jewelry on hand as part of the celebration.” This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, Nov. 12.

The Hopkinton Police Department shared some safety tips to prevent burglaries. Check the town’s website or HopkintonIndependent.com for the list.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Project Empathy explores depth of human connection

2017 by Catherine Cote, a former HCA student who grew up in Hopkinton. At the time, she was studying abroad through a partnership with the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester and the University of Melbourne. She pursued psychology, Mandarin Chinese and education while dabbling in theater, a pursuit she has enjoyed since childhood.

“So much of my passions boil down to understanding humans and the ways in which we communicate and connect, especially through storytelling,” Cote shared. She now works full time in higher education marketing while running Project Empathy on the side.

“I was longing for deeper connection in a new place, and simultaneously, I was distressed over the intense division occurring in the U.S. following President [Donald] Trump’s inauguration,” she explained. “I couldn’t help but wonder what would happen if there were a space for people to come with the intention of understanding each other. Having always found community in theater, my mind jumped to a performance setting: What if I created a space for people to tell each other’s stories?”

She directed the first performance in Melbourne later that year. Her desire to bring Project Empathy to a worldwide audience crystallized during the isolation of the pandemic.

“In today’s world, the things that divide us unfortunately get more airtime than the things that connect us,” she noted. “When the pandemic hit in 2020 and social and political divides grew even deeper, I knew it was the

right time to found Project Empathy, LLC and create the Performance Package — a comprehensive kit containing everything needed to put on Project Empathy — to increase the project’s reach and impact.”

“Catherine came up with the idea that people would come and talk about their stories of transition — their light bulb moment when they made a significant transition in their lives,” explained Kelly Grill, the co-director of the 2022 and 2023 HCA productions. “Most of the time, the story would not be something apparent to someone just meeting them.”

Participants delve deeper into each other’s lives to prepare for translating them onstage, she added. Cast members perform empathy and writing exercises in addition to engaging in deep conversations.

Said Grill: “The work really comes in when I can tell your story as if it was mine.”

The challenge for the audience is to figure out who is telling the story of another cast member. After the show, people can question cast members about their experiences and what they learned

during the process.

“The great thing is that the person telling the story probably doesn’t look like what you would assume they would,” Grill said. “This is another level of empathy and understanding, and you find yourself really captured by the story and the experience this person had. Watching that as a director was thrilling.”

Grill noted that participants in the inaugural performance last year included someone who was bullied because of his race, a transgender woman and two people with invisible disabilities.

“It was really a great breadth of people with really powerful stories,” she said. “The reaction of the audience was incredible. The overwhelming response was that there needs to be more of this.”

Cote described witnessing last year’s performance at the HCA as “a full-circle moment.”

“Last year’s cast captivated me in the way they showed up for each other,” she said. “When you see the performance, keep in mind the care that went into each person learning the ins and outs of their partner’s story so as to do it justice. Giving your story to a

stranger to tell to an audience is scary, but they stepped up for each other. I’m incredibly proud of them.”

One of the participants last year was former Hopkinton Middle School assistant principal Chris Ocampo, now the assistant principal at ActonBoxborough Regional High School. He was prompted to participate in an email and went through an interview process before being accepted.

“It was a good vehicle to see the world through other people’s eyes,” he said. “It’s hard putting yourself in another person’s shoes.”

Ocampo took on the struggle that his female partner encountered when her child was born with a rare disease. The chances of her daughter surviving were very slim.

“The moment that she learned that something was off, she kind of went into an out-of-body experience to essentially save her daughter’s life,” Ocampo said. “She stuck to her gut and her heart and pretty much told the doctors that something was wrong with her daughter.

“As a male, it’s hard for me to connect on that level, you know?” he continued. “It really helped me to have a much better appreciation for moms out there who are learning who their child is in the first few days of their world. It was very enlightening.”

Ocampo was able to meet the daughter, who was in middle school at the time, after the performance, which was powerful for him.

“It was an amazing experience to share not only the mom’s story but also Project Empathy | page 7

So much of my passions boil down to understanding humans and the ways in which we communicate and connect, especially through storytelling.

— Project Empathy creator Catherine Cote

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 Sheldon.

Here is Baypath’s description of Sheldon:

“School is back in session, and Sheldon is most likely to be the first one sent to the principal’s office!

“Sheldon is a playful and mischievous kitty who’s always up for a good time. Despite his spice, Sheldon is a staff favorite and always keeps us laughing. He loves to play with toys and explore his surroundings. He will surely keep you entertained with his antics!

“To help this class clown find his forever home, Sheldon’s adoption fee is completely waived! Additionally, cat behaviorist Dr. Rachel Geller will be offering a complimentary postadoption tutoring session to help set Sheldon up for success!”

For more information on Sheldon 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.

the daughter’s story,” he said. “I hope that I did it justice and that they enjoyed it.”

He noted that everyone has an emotional connection to their personal stories, and it’s crucial to communicate to capture the essence of someone’s experience. Before sharing his story with his partner, he kept his feelings about the bullying he experienced “stowed away.”

“I talked about how I grew up as a person of color in a predominantly white neighborhood,” he said. He spoke about his parents’ struggles of trying to assimilate in America and the challenges he faced.

Said Ocampo: “No one else is experiencing the same world you are experiencing, based on your perspective.”

“Watching my partner tell my story was very vulnerable for me,” he shared. “It made it easier knowing that everyone was in the same boat. At first I felt like everyone was watching me, criticizing me and judging me. But seeing it performed in that way felt so welcoming and so brutally honest that I am sure the audience was challenged to put themselves in other people’s shoes as well.”

At the time, Ocampo was training to run in the Boston Marathon on behalf of the Hopkinton Freedom Team, a nonprofit that strives for inclusion in Hopkinton. He combined the activities by reflecting on his partner’s experiences while on his runs.

“I recorded myself reciting her story,” he explained. “And when I would go on a run, I would listen to it to see if I could remember it. Memorizing was one piece, but the other part was about understanding her emotions and what she was thinking at the time.”

Ocampo shared some advice for this year’s cohort.

“I would say to let go of your story,” he explained. “Give it to them and let them own it. Also, whoever is jumping into the roles should think about there being more commonalities than differences among people.”

As an educator, Ocampo envisions schools adapting this for their theater programs or using the icebreaker exercises

to help students create bonds. He also sees it as a tool for businesses and clubs.

The hope, Grill said, is to spread the concept of Project Empathy to schools and corporate settings as well as theaters. Project Empathy to date has been performed eight times in locales as diverse as Melbourne, Australia; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; and Wilmington, North Carolina.

“The statement that we hear over and over again is that the world is divided,” Grill said. “Our little part of the world as well as the world at large is having a difficult time talking to one another. There’s a lot of anger, frustration and people not truly listening to each other and making assumptions.

“This is something that is very proactively telling people to pay attention, look at things a little differently, and dig a little deeper than a regular conversation with someone,” she pointed out. “It’s a gift that I would love to see blossom even further.”

“I actually don’t think we do enough of that in the world, listening and truly appreciating someone’s story,” Ocampo added. “I think that if we put more empathy into our day-today lives, the world would be in a better place.”

For more information, go to officialprojectempathy.com.

Project Empathy | from page 6

Senior SnippetS

Red Sox World Series Trophy Visit

Monday, Sept. 18, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Senior Spirit Week will kick off with a special visit from one of the iconic Red Sox World Series trophies, which will be on display at the Senior Center. Individuals can stop in anytime during the two-hour visit to view the trophy and pose for a photo alongside it.

Luau Dance Party

Thursday, Sept. 21, 1 p.m.

In celebration of Senior Center Month, the center will host a fun, tropical afternoon of music and light refreshments. This event is generously sponsored by the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors. Advance registration is requested.

Aging in Place

Part 1: Thursday, Sept. 28, 1 p.m.

Part 2: Thursday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m.

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

Senior Spirit Week

Sept. 18-22

September is National Senior Center Month, and Hopkinton will show its Senior Center pride with its second annual Spirit Week. Individuals can stop in all week for fun activities and lunches, all arranged around a daily theme.

Monday: Sports Fanatic — Favorite jersey or sports paraphernalia.

Tuesday: Comfy Cozy — Favorite pajamas, sweats or whatever one’s most comfortable clothes are.

Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday — Crazy hair, mismatched socks, clothes insideout, tie-dye or whatever fun and funky clothing choice can be found.

Thursday: Luau — Floral shirts, tropical leis and grass skirts are encouraged.

Friday: Hopkinton Pride — Favorite HSC gear, or rock the Hopkinton colors of green and orange.

Pleasant Hill

Rethink Retirement Living.

So many seniors today are living longer than generations before. It’s called the Longevity Dividend, as it’s the best gift one can get. This two-part series will have individuals make the most of that gift. The first session explores the attitudes and behaviors that may be holding one back from having a truly fulfilling and happy retirement. The second session helps devise a plan to make that a reality. This is all from information based on the latest research by psychologists and gerontologists. Attendees will find out not just how to live longer but also how to make these extra years really count.

Repair Fair

Saturday, Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-noon

The third annual Hopkinton Repair Fair is held in partnership with the Hopkinton Lions Club and Hopkinton Public Library. This is a free community event where people bring items that don’t work quite right — dull knives, small appliances, books that need rebinding, textile and clothing in need of repair, etc. — and others help repair them. Individuals must remain on site while their item is repaired. If replacement parts are needed, attendees should bring them or be prepared to run out to a hardware store. For more information, to register or to be considered as one of the “fixers,” call the Senior Center.

Information Seminars

Discover

Tuesday, September 26

Lunch & Learn: 11:30 a.m.

Dine & Discover: 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 27 Lunch & Learn: 11:30 a.m.

BUSINESS PROFILE: AN ADVERTISER FEATURE

Peer Arboricultural advises homeowners to assess trees in fall for safety

By Linda Chuss

Contributing Writer

While autumn is a perfect time to admire the beauty of the changing colors in trees around the home, it’s also the best time to assess the trees.

Kevin Narbonne, owner of Peer Arboricultural in Hopkinton, explains: “We identify limbs or trees that pose potential hazards, that could come down due to added weight during winter ice and snowstorms. This is part of what we do during a walk-around and assessment in the fall. Then we prioritize and schedule any work needed, for example, removing a limb over the house or a pool. This summer, heavy rains have meant more growth, and that likely will require more pruning.

“In fall, we prune ornamental shrubs, but for trees, it’s not until the dormant time that we do the pruning. One reason is that between November and March, without the leaves, it’s easier to see the tree structure, almost like an X-ray. Therefore, it’s easier to identify and make the specific cuts needed for the desired shape. Another reason is protecting the health of the tree. After trees finish growing and drop their leaves, they maintain nutrients in the roots until they need them to start pushing growth again in spring. By pruning in winter, we aren’t sapping the tree from its sustenance. Not only that, after fresh cuts, trees are more susceptible to pests and diseases, but those threats are typically dormant during colder months.”

Adds Narbonne: “Understanding the why, the intent behind an action, is important, and we do that as part of the walk-around. For example, if someone wants to prune a tree at the wrong time of year, there are companies that will do it right away. I’ll describe the consequences, so the homeowner understands that delaying might be the better option. These philosophies come from old-world cultures in East Asia that learned over centuries the proper timing for applying resources, which they applied in the practice of bonsai.”

Clients appreciate the explanations and education Peer Arboricultural provides. Narbonne is a certified arborist in Massachusetts and with the International Society of Arborists.

For those who want to learn more, Narbonne recommends the “Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs” by Michael Dirr. As an example, if someone wants to know the best time to transplant a hydrangea, Narbonne says the answer depends on the location and subspecies, so it’s best to consult a valued resource like Dirr’s book.

Another treatment suited to the fall is subsurface fertilizing.

Narbonne explains: “In their natural environment, trees are surrounded by leaves on the ground that are decomposing to provide nutrients in the soil the trees then absorb. In a yard where leaves are raked up, we replace those missing nutrients by applying fertilizer to the roots every two to three years.”

A new concern is beech leaf disease, which is affecting American and English beech trees in this region. First identified in Ohio over a decade ago, the disease has spread to a dozen states, including Massachusetts. Scientists don’t fully understand it, but it can be devastating.

“This could be like Dutch elm disease or Chestnut blight,” Nardonne says. “A client of mine in another town has trees with it, and I’ve spotted what appears to be beech leaf disease in Hopkinton. Diagnosing it re-

quires testing a sample, and there aren’t proven treatments. Experimental treatments are very expensive at this point and might not even save the trees. The best thing to do is help ward it off by keeping beech trees healthy.”

For inquiries or to schedule an appointment for Peer Arboricultural to do a walk-around and assessment, email kevin.peerarboricultural@ gmail.com or call 781801-3576.

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

Kevin Narbonne, certified arborist and owner of Peer Arboricultural of Hopkinton, provides tree pruning advice in the fall to help prevent problems from winter storms.

RECOVERY PROGR AM

Your

For

being

an integral part of their identity. You might find yourself wondering what to do with yourself now. You might feel sad or depressed.

moving out is a loss of sorts. It’s natural — and healthy — to grieve that loss. Make sure to give yourself as much time and space as you need to process all this so that you can move forward. Try catching up with old friends or making new ones to fulfill your social needs, and don’t feel guilty about being sad — the grieving phase has an expiration date, and it’s followed by relief.

Finally, you have the freedom to put yourself first. Sure, you miss your kids, but now you can do what brings YOU joy. All those projects you’ve been putting off, that fishing trip or spa day you’ve always wanted to take — it’s all waiting for you.

Moving from sadness to relief to joy is a complicated process, and the new you that emerges on the other side may not have the same needs or wants as the old you.

No surprise, then, that empty nesters often turn to the housing market to find a home that better suits their new lifestyle.

Downsizing has a few inherent advantages, and the most obvious is cost. Smaller houses cost less to buy and less to heat and cool. The money saved by downsizing can be put to better use — visiting the kids (and grandkids, if you have them), paying for college, traveling, finally buying that bigticket item you’ve always wanted.

You may find yourself happier when you don’t have to walk past now-empty bedrooms, and you can create a memory wall or corner in your new home with family photos and memorabilia. This also could be a good place to have a comfortable chair and a laptop for Zoom or FaceTime calls with the kids.

No home can slow the passage of time and make us immune to the perils of age, but a new home could provide features that significantly improve your quality of life, such as single-level living or wheelchair accessibility. Homes in 55-plus communities also may offer amenities such as landscaping or pools, along with allowing you to live in proximity to people around your age.

When you’re facing empty nest syndrome, it’s important to weigh your options and decide what’s most important to you. There will be pros and cons either way, so focus on the things you value most. It’s normal to miss your old house after you move, so allow yourself to grieve, but focus on the good memories you had there and the ones you’ll create in your new home.

For more information on empty nest syndrome, visit betterup.com/blog/emptynest-syndrome.

Thinking about moving and want to understand the process? Feel free to reach out.

Kim Foemmel

Foemmel Fine Homes

1 Lumber Street, Suite 207C

Hopkinton, MA (508) 808-1149

Kim@FoemmelFineHomes.com

FoemmelFineHomes.com

in customers’ steps

By Christie Vogt Contributing Writer

Hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, tile, carpet, rugs, cork — what’s the best choice for your space? Durability, color, comfort, price — which elements will have the most impact? There are hundreds of options to choose from when it comes to flooring, but the team at Flooring America Design Center will make the process feel seamless, says Ryan Beans, the owner of the family-operated business. The Beans have decades of experience in the industry — Ryan’s father, Bruce, has worked in flooring for 50 years, and Ryan followed in his dad’s footsteps 15 years ago.

With locations in Natick and Franklin plus the option to have samples sent to your home, Flooring America serves a wide range of MetroWest clientele, including homeowners and business owners.

Upon entering the company showrooms, the staff guides clients through a series of considerations to ensure that new flooring elements are well suited to each room. Education is a key piece of the discussion as team members explain how different materials perform depending on usage, foot traffic and the presence of pets and kids, for example.

“Some brands perform better in certain situations,” Beans says, “and we can help customers understand how variations in quality will affect their space over the long term.”

Customers also can set up a free appointment with the company’s in-house interior designer.

“This is a real benefit,” Beans says. “This complimentary service ensures that your new flooring complements your paint colors, furniture, curtains and any other design elements in your space.”

Adds Bean: “People often don’t

realize how colors can appear different in artificial light versus natural light, and color swatches on your computer screen can also be deceiving. So, having clients come to our design centers and see the real thing is a way to avoid any buyer’s remorse.”

Speaking of zero buyer’s remorse, many of Flooring America’s products qualify for a “confidence plus warranty,” meaning that if a customer decides within 30 days that they aren’t satisfied with their new floor, Flooring America will replace it for free. “Almost no other company does that,” Beans says. The company also has a lifetime installation guarantee in which it will repair any installation-related issues at no cost.

Hearing from happy clients is one of the best parts of the job, Beans says. Mark C., for example, shared the following review after Flooring America staffers installed a stair runner: “They did an unbelievable job! The price was exactly what was quoted, and they definitely have the best prices. … The quality of the rug is amazing … and the installation was done quickly and professionally.”

Flooring America currently is offering zero percent financing for 12-18 months and up to 36 months for some purchases.

“With interest rates rising, we’re proud to be able to offer customers this option to have their dream floors without breaking the bank,” Beans says. “Plus, when you shop with a 100% locally owned business like ours, everything stays in the area. You’re supporting a local business and local workers.”

To learn more, visit flooringamerica1.com or call 508-655-5582.

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

Ryan Beans (left) is a co-owner of Flooring America along with wife Megan Beans and father Bruce Beans.

fall fun

Inaugural Ash-Hop Porchfest brings music into neighborhoods

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Area musicians and aficionados will share their passion for song at the first Ash-Hop Porchfest grassroots music festival, which is taking place in Hopkinton and Ashland on Saturday, Sept. 30.

“It’s like a scavenger hunt for music,” explained Porchfest Organizing Committee member Darlene Hayes of the free event. “There will be artists performing on porches and public spaces in both towns.”

The concept of Porchfest reportedly originated in Ithaca, New York, in 2007 as a way to build community by banding together musicians and neighbors. Now, annual Porchfest events are held throughout the United States and Canada.

Signs with QR codes will provide maps, the names of the performers and information about the musical genre so people can hop from one place to another or go to see specific performers. Information about some performers will be available on the event’s website (ashhopporchfest.org) and Facebook page.

Ash-Hop Porchfest will take place between 2-6 p.m., and a rain date is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 1. Performances in Hopkinton will end around 5 p.m. to allow people to travel to Ashland for the finale and to visit local businesses and restaurants along the way.

Artists are mainly based in the MetroWest area, Hayes added, although one performer is coming from Connecticut and another recently moved to the area from Nashville, Tennessee. More than 25 performers already have signed up, and as of late August, perform-

ers were still being added.

Hayes said she was contacted by Ashland resident Allison Horgan, who previously was involved with the popular Jamaica Plain Porchfest in Boston, about joining forces on the Porchfest Organizing Committee. They agreed that hosting it jointly would attract a more popular and diverse array of performers while bringing residents from both communities together.

“The vast majority of towns that host a Porchfest are the size of Hopkinton and Ashland combined,” Hayes explained. “We looked at the popularity of Natick Porchfest and thought we could recruit more popular artists from MetroWest and beyond by coming together. Natick Porchfest has been extremely successful, with 65 bands performing.”

The event boasts something for virtually every musical taste, according to Hayes. In addition to pop and rock, there will be jazz, blues, bluegrass, grunge, alternative rock, techno, gospel and folk.

Added Hayes: “We even have a hillbilly jug band.”

Some local performers include Hopkinton’s Mikey Hutchinson, Greater Boston alt-rockers Friendly Fire Band, Worcester guitarist and WICN jazz DJ Joe Cicero, and Framingham’s multiple-genre singer-songwriter Kevin So.

“The artists will be split pretty evenly between Ashland and Hopkinton,” Hayes said. “There will be several performers in the Sandy Beach area, while the majority of them will be concentrated in a hub in the downtown area along Grove Street, Hayden Rowe and Park Street.”

“There is something just so magical about the

Spring Season

BASEBALL & SOFTBALL EVALUATIONS 2024

Hopkinton Little League will be holding evaluations for placement on Spring 2024 Baseball and Softball teams. Come to any one of the listed times for an age group. Evaluations are required for baseball players born on or before 8/31/16 and for softball players born on or before 12/31/14. Evaluations help us match players to the best team-playing experience. For more information visit www.hopkintonlittleleague.org

Friday, September 15 - Carrigan Park 5:00 – 6:00 10U/12U Softball

Saturday, September 16 - EMC Park 10:00 – 10:30 or 12:30 – 1:00

or

–

America's most unique celebration of the music and inspiration of The Beatles, The Weeklings features former members of Styx, Dave Mason, the original Beatlemania on Broadway, Jon Bon Jovi & The Kings of Suburbia, Southside

Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Springsteen drummer Max Weinberg's Jukebox and BeatleFest house band Liverpool.

or

or

–

Sunday, September 17 - EMC Park

Make-up Date: Friday, September 29 – Carrigan Park 5 – 7 pm 10U/12U Softball and 8-12-year-old Baseball

The HLL Annual Board Meeting (open to the public) will be held on September 14 at 7:00 pm at St. John’s Church parish hall. E-mail hopkintonlittleleague@gmail.com with questions.

neighborhoods Sept. 30

Porchfest experience,” added Horgan, who moved to Ashland about a year ago from Jamaica Plain, bringing her Porchfest expertise with her. “It’s an exciting, organic experience that involves everyone from Berklee College of Music students to popular area bands.

“People have exposure to music and neighborhoods they might not have known about before,” she continued. “It’s like being a kid in a musical candy shop — the best of all worlds, I think.”

For Horgan, the fun part now is matching the performers with their porch hosts.

Hopkinton’s Police Station will host a stage to promote Baby Safe Haven, a national organization. The Safe Haven Act of Massachusetts, which was passed in 2004, allows a parent to surrender a newborn infant seven days old or younger at a police station, manned fire station or hospital without facing criminal prosecution.

“When I met with [Norfolk County District Attorney] Mike Morrissey, I was impressed with his dedication and commitment to educating people on the Baby Safe Haven law,” shared Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett via email. “When he asked if we would host a concert on the front lawn of the station, I thought it was a fantastic idea. These concerts have been going on for years, and by all accounts they are very well received. So, stop by on September 30th and enjoy some music!”

The Corner Spot in Ashland will feature The Road Dawgs, a popular classic rock/pop band based in Ashland, as the finale performance from 5:30-7 p.m. There will be food trucks and a beer truck where refreshments can be purchased.

The Ashland Farmers Market will be wrapping up as the finale begins, giving residents a chance to purchase locally grown produce, she added.

Hayes and Horgan hope that the day will allow for increased neighborhood connection while attracting people to the business districts. If successful, Ash-Hop Porchfest may become an instrumental annual community event.

Hayes credited Ashland’s Town Hall staff for being “absolutely amazing” in helping to coordinate the event on the Ashland side. She also thanked local sponsors for “allowing the costs to be kept at a minimum” and noted that all the people involved in the event — including the musicians — are volunteers.

Ashland resident Timothy Bryant Jones, chair of the Porchfest Organizing Committee, has been the lead singer of the Friendly Fire Band for the past two years. He noted that the event is an ideal opportunity for fledgling performers.

“The Porchfest concept is all about connection,” he explained. “It’s a great opportunity for amateur bands that are starting out to get some exposure and get to a higher level of performance. A lot of up-and-coming bands can’t get gigs in restaurants and other venues without having live performance experience under their belts.

“My favorite saying is that Porchfest is a place where porches become stages and strangers become friends,” Jones added. “This is where a critical mass of people can gather to enjoy live music from all kinds of genres.”

Live Entertainment / Inflatable Fun Houses / Magician Games & Activities / Dunk Tank / Food Trucks Fireworks!

www.friendsofhopkinton.org

Conservation Commission addresses stormwater violations with multiple projects

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Conservation Commission at its three-hour in-person meeting Aug. 29 noted that while erosion control improvements recently were made on the fourth phase of The Trails, continuing sedimentation overflow issues prompted the commission to consider levying additional fines against the project.

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

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

Project engineer Peter Bemis noted that several remediation strategies have been implemented at the project’s fourth phase since the last meeting three weeks ago. Crushed stone was installed along the entire length of the roadway there. Construction has begun on a new basin, but one of the infiltration basins has been “marginalized” by sediment infiltration. Now that drier weather is on the horizon, the infiltration basins will be pumped out to remove the sedimentation.

He added that a basin in Phase 3 was “overwhelmed” when the site was deluged with an inch of rain in a one-hour period a couple of weeks ago. Sod and sediment from three lots washed into that basin, prompting it to overflow onto Wilson Street.

Bemis also said he appeared before the Ashland Conservation Commission the previous evening to discuss sedimentation overflow into that town’s reservoir.

Kim Ciaramicoli, Hopkinton’s conservation administrator, noted that she documented turbid water flowing in Phase 4 on July 10 and July 17. On Aug. 8 and Aug. 18, she also reported turbid water overflowing from a basin on the first phase of the project, which resulted in new violations. During this time frame, she tallied $141,600 in additional fines over a period of 39 days.

Ciaramicoli requested that “the entirety of Phase 4 be stabilized” and that calculations be submitted for the erosion control measures to show how much water they can withstand. She said she did not feel that some methods used were “commensurate with the size of the project.”

In addition, she tracked turbid water that flowed from the top of the project where a dog park has been proposed into the infiltration basins at the lower end of Phase 4. A cease-and-desist order was placed on this phase pending a site review that will take place on Thursday.

Said Ciaramicoli: “Certainly, we need to make sure that the [best management practices] are adequately sized versus just constructing it and hoping that it works.”

Chair Jeff Barnes asked who has been supervising the project’s contractors after a problem was pointed out by Bemis in a pipe that leaked at its joint. Bemis replied that “there’s not been adequate supervision.”

Property owner Vin Gately of Heritage Properties noted that he and Bemis are on-site on a daily basis as part of a more “proactive” approach.

The hearing was continued until the next meeting on Sept. 12.

Violations outlined at Myrtle Ave. subdivision

The commission also discussed violations incurred at a five-unit subdivision proposed on Myrtle Avenue — a road that is to be built off Blueberry Lane. Ciaramicoli noted that on July 23, sediment was seen flowing beyond the limited areas of work and into wetland resource areas. An additional violation occurred on Aug. 8 during a heavy rainstorm when water flowed off of unsecured house lots, as well as a third violation on Aug. 18.

Ted Merchant, the land development director for Toll Brothers, which also built the Chamberlain-Whalen project, reported the Aug. 8 violation to Ciaramicoli. He retained LEC Environmental Consultants, a Plymouth-based firm, to address stormwater management strategies.

In addition, Toll Brothers installed check dams, swales and a “super silt fence” behind the current silt fence. It is a chain-link fence that supports the silt fence. Merchant said it should “drastically help” the situation.

No fines were discussed because the developer was proactive in reporting and taking action regarding mitigation measures.

188-190 Fruit Street project voted down

The commission voted 4-1-1 to reject a proposal under the Wetlands Protection Act and 5-1 against under the town bylaw for the development of two single-family homes at 188-190 Fruit Street. The two lots under consideration are undeveloped lots on the golf course property created in 2004. The lots are 1.4 acres and 2.2 acres, respectively.

In previous meetings, commission members pointed out the poor quality of the soil there and the amount of disturbance that would be required to construct two homes. Drainage concerns also were raised.

The development team presented a detailed three-phased plan as to how erosion controls would be implemented, both for the two developments simultaneously as well as individually. Because the two lots were sold together, the impacts were considered cumulatively.

Commissioners complimented the team on the plans. But they didn’t feel they would be adequate to allow for development of two homes on the land. Barnes also noted the large amount of excavation that would be necessary to facilitate development.

Member Jim Ciriello voted in favor of the project under the town bylaw. Under the Wetlands Protection Act, Harrow abstained and member Janine LeBlanc voted in favor of approval.

A request for reconsideration can be filed within 10 days of the decision.

Mass. Laborers project approved

The commission unanimously approved the alternative gas line alignment approved for Mass. Laborers’ Training facility located at 37 East Street, bringing many months of hearings on the project to a close.

offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Private Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor. Private Advisor Group and Blackstone Valley Wealth Management, LLC. are separate entities from LPL Financial.

Certainly, we need to make sure that the [best management practices] are adequately sized versus just constructing it and hoping that it works.

— Kim Ciaramicoli Conservation Administrator

SportS HHS football moves in right direction

Wide receiver Sam Pantera, shown attempting a catch last season, is one of the key players on the HHS offense.

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

WhenMark Sanborn took over as coach of the Hopkinton High School football team two years ago, he said he would be lucky to see maybe 10 or 12 players show up during the offseason for strength training.

This past offseason, after an 8-3 campaign that included a win over rival Ashland on Thanksgiving Day, Sanborn said 30-40 Hillers regularly hit the weights. It’s part of a strong offseason that has Sanborn feeling good about where his program is heading.

“The older guys are showing the younger guys how things are done, and it’s a really good overall environment,” he said. “People understand the scheme and the expectations. I think we are in a good spot, and it’s only going to continue to get better.”

Hopkinton graduated a small but skilled senior class a season ago. This year, the Hillers have 17 seniors leading the way, and Sanborn said they all were committed both to getting in their reps in the weight room and to getting closer together as a group.

“They have led by example,” he said.

As with most teams, the success starts with the captains. The trio of Charlie Petruney, Jason Girard and Carlos Linton have been a big part of the team’s offseason work, and all will play a big role on the field this fall.

Petruney is part of a deep skill position group on offense as a wide receiver and also will play outside linebacker on defense. Girard is expected to help anchor both the offensive and defensive lines, and Linton will play linebacker and fullback.

“These guys really set the tone for

us,” Sanborn said.

Sam Pantera will play wideout, and his coach called him a “big weapon” for the offense. Cooper Fossbender will get the ball at running back and play inside linebacker on defense. Jason Piccioli is another talented two-way lineman.

“All of these seniors have one if not two years of varsity experience,” Sanborn said. “We are excited about this senior group.”

Manning the helm of the offense will be junior Julian Rivard, who was the program’s junior varsity quarterback last fall.

“He got some snaps with the varsity last year when the situation arose,” Sanborn said. “He has been great so far. He is a smart player with a high football IQ.”

Rivard should have numerous options when it comes to moving the football down the field through the air and on the ground.

“We have a bunch of good wide receivers and skill positions guys,” Sanborn said. “We want to find ways to get them the ball and have them get out in space.”

Sanborn said practices and preseason scrimmages have been very competitive and, even as the regular season gets underway, there will be some spots on both sides of the ball where players will be battling for snaps.

“We want to see everybody and give everybody a fair shot,” the coach said. “But so far, each week has been better in terms of the discipline, playing together and being committed to the team.”

Hopkinton has another tough schedule this fall. While Sanborn said it can be difficult to tell which opponents will be the strongest due to roster turnover, he noted Holliston and the annual Turkey Day showdown with Ashland as games that stand out.

“We know the Tri-Valley League Large School Division is challenging week in and week out,” he said. “Every single week we have to show up and play our best football.”

FILE PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

ESBC discusses permits, public outreach plans

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

At the Aug. 29 Elementary School Building Committee meeting, members talked about permitting matters with the Zoning Board of Appeals and Conservation Commission as well as plans to start outreach about the proposed Elmwood School replacement.

The committee approved $2,500 for additional survey work on the site. The money will come from the approximately $20,000 left in uncommitted funds from the previously approved feasibility study account, according to Jeff D’Amico, Vertex’s project director.

He said both Vertex’s scientist and the Conservation Commission peer

reviewer agreed on where wetlands boundaries begin and end but had a few additional points to confirm.

D’Amico also described the process with its submission to the Board of Appeals.

He noted the building project’s height exceeds the zoning regulations of 35 feet, but added that educational buildings are exempt from this limit

Efforts shift to information sharing

Graziano noted during the meeting that it is time for the committee to shift its effort to sharing information about the project to as many groups in town as possible.

through the Dover Amendment.

The ZBA must concur that the Dover Amendment would apply here. Before the Special Town Meeting, a hearing is expected on this issue.

ESBC chair Jon Graziano said Aug. 31 that the same procedure was used with the Marathon School project because “schools often exceed this height restriction.”

He said he would be meeting soon with a group of residents who offered help with public outreach. Graziano said the committee will need volunteers to cover tables at upcoming back-to-school nights, where the goal is to engage with people participating at those events.

He said the committee needs to put together informational materials to hand out to organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce with plans to have a presence at the Sustainability Fair/Forum in October as well as Family Day on Sept. 23.

Graziano said it is important to hold in-person conversations with residents in neighborhoods throughout Hopkinton, but he emphasized the board cannot spearhead these events. As an appointed board, the ESBC is allowed to provide information, but it will be up to volunteers to conduct more advocacy-type work.

“It’s been a crazy few weeks for this committee in terms of work that had to get done, and I think it’s going to be a crazy couple of months leading to Town Meet

It’s been a crazy few weeks for this committee in terms of work that had to get done, and I think it’s going to be a crazy couple of months leading to Town Meeting.

— ESBC chair Jon Graziano

School Committee talks revised capital plan, Hopkins project

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

TheSchool Committee on Sept. 7 heard updates on the district’s capital plan, solar panel installations and the Marathon School addition. The committee also chose the construction manager at risk delivery method for the Hopkins School renovation project.

Susan Rothermich, assistant superintendent of finance and operations, gave a presentation outlining how approval of the proposed Elmwood School replacement and Hopkins addition project would impact other capital needs recommended in the past.

She noted that the new Elmwood School cost now is at $158,427,494, which includes $1 million already approved and spent during the feasibility phase. The total does not include rebates from MassSave and the Inflation Reduction Act as well as Massachusetts School Building Authority reimbursement.

She said the town’s cost with those factors would be in the range of $105 million to $108 million.

Rothermich said a successful Elmwood vote would open the existing building for a potential relocation of the preschool and result in six more classroom spaces to absorb enrollment at Marathon.

An Elmwood approval also could mean cutting a $4 million capital item related to relocation of the high school tennis courts for more parking and eliminating a $2.2 million request to reconfigure traffic flow at the middle school and high school, as one grade would move out of the middle school.

Moving Grade 6 out would free up 10 classrooms for the high school and accommodate capacity up to 2028 if all space is used, Rothermich said.

It would mean timelines for feasibility studies at the higher grades could be adjusted.

An original request for loop road paving and a sidewalk project could be moved to fiscal year 2027 to coincide with the Hopkins addition or eliminated altogether, she said.

“It reinforces that the process is something you do annually because information changes all the time,” Rothermich said.

She noted that the town is using older information about the school district’s capital requests in its spreadsheet. She was advised to send updated copies of the presentation so that other town officials can be on the same page. The committee ultimately voted to approve the new capital plan.

Chair Nancy Cavanaugh said there is a $119 million difference between what the committee is looking at now versus capital requests unveiled in the past. If one or both projects are not approved by Town Meeting, then the plan and its timeline would change again.

Solar panels, Marathon addition updates given

Reporting on solar panels, Rothermich noted the rooftop installation is complete. Hopkins School is live, while the middle and high schools are awaiting an electrical switch to go live.

Work on canopy installations is underway at the high school bus lot, with an estimated completion next month. The canopy installation at the middle school is expected to start in November and be done around January 2024.

Displaying a photo of Marathon School with its addition, the assistant superintendent said the “new and old buildings blend seamlessly.” Once the final flooring base molding and counters are complete, furniture will be set.

Rothermich said Mill City Construction expects to turn the space over to the school district department later this month, which is one month earlier than expected.

She added that in addition to having the work done early, it came in under budget.

Hopkins project delivery method chosen

Following a presentation and recommendation by Vertex Project Director Jeff D’Amico, the committee decided to use a construction manager at risk (CMAR) method to carry out the Hopkins addition project work.

Although the proposed Elmwood School is using the other model, DBB (design, bid, build) with a general contractor, D’Amico said this project is complex due to challenging logistics such as students in the building and an aggressive schedule.

He noted that seven weeks in, the design team is looking at two options within the addition: a new gym with renovations of the current gym to make it part of the cafeteria (right now, the spaces are next to each other), or a new cafeteria and kitchen in the addition with renovations to the existing cafeteria to make it part of the gym.

The CMAR method means more flexibility, a larger pool of bidders, pre- and post-construction services, a negotiated price and “more boots on the ground and skin in the game,” among other things, according to D’Amico.

In other business, the committee:

— announced Jack Ianelli as the new student council representative. Because of an athletic event conflict, he will attend his first meeting next time;

— accepted a $20,181 Northeast Foods on School grant award;

— added a .5 special education (SPED) position at Elmwood School, increasing a vacant .5 slot to full-time for severe/intensive needs. (The position will be funded through an increase in the preschool revolving fund this year);

— approved requests for one SPED paraprofessional each at Elmwood and Hopkins as a result of new students with significant needs.

Orthopedic Surgeon Accepting New Patients

Milford Regional Physician Group is proud to welcome C. Brittany Boisvert, MD. Dr. Boisvert comes to Milford Regional from Emerson Health Orthopedics in Littleton.

Dr. Boisvert is a board certified orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in general orthopedics and sports medicine. She specializes in ACL and rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocation, meniscus problems, knee replacements, fracture care, sprains/strains, and ligament and tendon injuries.

Dr. Boisvert received her medical degree from UMass Medical School in Worcester, where she also completed her post-graduate training in research and orthopedic surgery.

A sports medicine fellow at The Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Dr. Boisvert worked as a member of the orthopedic staff for many professional sports teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Eagles and the Philadelphia Flyers. She looks forward to taking care of patients with a variety of orthopedic issues.

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

Broadway Musicals: The Golden Age, 1927-64 Wednesdays, Sept. 13, 20 and 27, 10-11 a.m.

This virtual class is presented by Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library as part of the Life Long Learner program and is offered at no charge to the community. With the opening of “Show Boat” in 1927, a new style of musical was born. Referred to as the “book” musical, it would become the standard of shows on Broadway, especially in the 1940s and 1950s, with great shows by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Presenter Fran Lautenberger will discuss the development of this new musical form and show clips of the best and brightest Broadway has to offer.

Women’s Financial Roundtable

Wednesday, Sept. 13, 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 Roundtable: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets. Each session focuses on a different topic.

Pokémon Club After-School Free Play

Wednesdays, Sept. 13, 20 and 27, 4-5 p.m.

This program is for Pokémon players (8 and older) looking for someone to play with, trade cards and chat about all that is Pokémon. This club is a peer-directed event that will be held in the main library area outside of the Young Adult Room, adjacent to the magazine area.

Dungeons and Dragons Group

Wednesdays, Sept. 13, 20 and 27, 6-8 p.m.

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

50-Plus Job Seekers Networking Group

Wednesday, Sept. 13, 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 20, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

This Zoom program is a professional forum for networking with peers in a safe and comfortable environment conducive to developing new relationships and developing skills and strategies to help with a career transition. These sessions will focus on artificial intelligence, applications and cover letters.

Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle

Wednesdays, Sept. 13 and 27, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Open Video Game Play by One Up Games

Friday, Sept. 15, 1-4 p.m.

One Up Games will bring a variety of next-gen consoles and gaming monitors, including virtual reality devices, to the library for free open game play. It will include all the popular games along with a mixture of classic and retro games.

SAT Study, Practice and Strategy Session

Fridays, Sept. 15 and 22, 3:15-4:15 p.m.

For those preparing for the SAT, these peer-led, drop-in study sessions in the Teen Room will help students achieve their best scores. Registration is not mandatory, but doing so will prompt a calendar reminder.

Adulting 101: Resume/Interview Skills For Young Adults

Saturday, Sept. 16, 1-2 p.m.

Participants will learn how to write a resume, improve interview skills and much more. Teens and young adults (high school students, college students and recent graduates) are encouraged to learn about resume writing and interviewing.

Massachusetts Desserts with Tammy Donroe Inman

Tuesday, Sept. 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Tammy Donroe Inman, trained chef, cooking instructor and award-winning author of “New England Desserts: Classic and Creative Recipes for All Seasons,” will discuss her favorite desserts that originated in Massachusetts, the stories behind them and the pleasures of seasonal baking.

Chat ’n’ Chew Book Group

Wednesday, Sept. 20, 12:30-2 p.m.

Instead of assigning a book for all participants to read, each person reviews something they read in the past month. All reviews of the books will be posted to Facebook to share with the Hopkinton reading community. This meeting will be in person or by Google Meet. Those interested should register to receive information for joining.

Author Talk: Adam Alter

Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2-3 p.m.

This Zoom program is a chat with New York Times bestselling author Adam Alter about his new book, “Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most.”

Kathaka: Dancing Rhythms and Stories of India

Saturday, Sept. 23, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

This event is part of the One Book/One Hopkinton program and will take place at Hopkinton Family Day on the field behind Hopkinton Middle School. The ancient art of Kathak is one of the eight forms of classical Indian dance. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word for “story.” Kathak dancers use swift and precise footwork and graceful gestures to tell traditional Indian stories. Through movement, music and math, Kathakas perform Kathak yoga — a technique that unifies the recitation of taal (rhythm), the singing of a melody and the dancing of complex footwork and rapid spins.

One Book/One Hopkinton Book Discussion

Monday, Sept. 25, 6-7 p.m.

This is the first library staff-facilitated book discussion of the One Book/One Hopkinton book choice, “Digging to America.” Books are available at the library, compliments of the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation.

Author Talk: D.N. Chadha

Tuesday, Sept. 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

This event is part of the One Book/One Hopkinton program. Hopkinton resident D.N. Chadha is not a rich businessman or famous celebrity but an ordinary man who came to America with only a suitcase. His story, captured in “Suitcase: A True and Inspiring American Dream Story,” is the story of all immigrants who came to America with only a suitcase and some extraordinary dreams.

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.

Historical Society Open Certain Saturdays Starting Sept. 16

The Hopkinton Historical Society will open its building at 168 Hayden Rowe Street to the general public on the first and third Saturday mornings of each month from 10 a.m.-noon, beginning Sept. 16. For more information, visit hopkhistsoc.org.

HEF/HWC Charity Golf Event

Sept. 18

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

MHC Mental Health Essentials

Sept. 19

The Mental Health Collaborative will host a program on Mental Health Essentials for Parents and Caregivers on Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts (98 Hayden Rowe Street). This educational presentation, sponsored by Hopkinton Youth & Family Services, will include strategies to include mental health as part of parenting, how to identify when loved ones need support for mental health, how and where to get professional support, how to use strategies for self-care and more. For more information, visit the Hopkinton Youth & Family Services Facebook page or email marissa@mentalhealthcollaborative.org.

Respite Center Coffeehouse at HCA Sept. 22

The 16th annual Respite Center Coffeehouse, featuring musical performances by Dan Cloutier, Ricardo Barraza and Kim Jennings, will be held Friday, Sept. 22, from 7-9 p.m. at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts (98 Hayden Rowe Street). Suggested donation is $10 per person or $20 per family. All proceeds benefit the Michael Lisnow Respite Center. For more information, visit hopkintonrespite.org.

Hopkinton Family Day at HHS Fields Sept. 23

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

HOP Celebration of Recovery at Town Common Sept. 24

HOP (Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention) presents a Celebration of Recovery on Sunday, Sept. 24, from 1-4 p.m. at the Town Common. This community event will celebrate individuals and families in support of or connected to substance abuse recovery. There will be live music, guest speakers, food trucks, a bounce house, face painting, recovery information/wellness education and a commemorative flag garden. For more information, visit the Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention Facebook page.

Event Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

The Weeklings

Sept. 23 | 8 p.m.

America’s most unique celebration of the music and inspiration of The Beatles, The Weeklings features former members of Styx, Dave Mason, the original Beatlemania on Broadway, Jon Bon Jovi & The Kings of Suburbia, Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Springsteen drummer Max Weinberg’s Jukebox and BeatleFest house band Liverpool. The band performs and records explosive renditions of The Beatles albums and Top 40 classics.

AUDITIONS: The Nutcracker Sept. 23 | 2:45 p.m to 6 p.m.

Ages 7 through Adults

The HCA is pleased to announce an audition date for this favorite holiday tradition. Auditions will be held at the new HCA Dance Studio at 34 Hayden Rowe, Hopkinton. Please enter the main entrance at the back of the building and head upstairs to the studio.

The audition is open to beginner (some roles require little to no experience) through advanced dancers. Applicants do not need to be enrolled at the HCA to participate. Full details can be found on our website.

Kid’s Dance Party with DJ Mike Pride

Sept. 24 | 3 p.m.

DJ-led dance party for kids, with games and prizes! DJ Mike Pride will play top hit radio edit music and personal playlists. He organizes various games and contests coordinated to music such as the Hula Hoop, Limbo, Huggie Bear, Human Musical Chairs, Color Corners, Coke & Pepsi, Freeze Dance, and more. DJ Mike will also play and instruct various line dances such as the Cha Cha Slide, Macarena, Cotton Eye Joe, and provide prizes. Great for kids ages 4 to 10. Kids

$10 | Adults FREE.

Project Empathy

Sept. 29 & 30 | 8 p.m.

Bringing the power of human connection to our community. Project Empathy is a performance-based project in which people are tasked with telling each other’s true, personal stories. For 6-8 weeks, the cast engages in empathy exercises, reflective writing, and perspective-taking to build trust and understanding. The connective experience culminates in a performance of stories for an audience. To make the arts more accessible to all, this performance is on a pay-what-you-can basis.

Ashland-Hopkinton Porchfest

Sept. 30

Ashland-Hopkinton Porchfest, a grassroots community music festival, is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 30, from 2-6 p.m. (Rain date is Oct. 1.) The event features free musical performances at front porches of more than 25 homes in Hopkinton and Ashland. For more information, including a listing of performance locations, visit ashhopporchfest.org.

Live4Evan Oktoberfest at Start Line Brewery

Oct. 1

The Hopkinton-based charity Live4Evan will host its annual Oktoberfest fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 1, at Start Line Brewery (151R Hayden Rowe Street). The event, featuring food, music, friends and more, will bring the community together to celebrate Live4Evan’s growth in housing support for families affected by congenital heart disease. Tickets are $40 and are required for admittance. For more information, visit live4evan.org.

Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

Oct.

1

Registration is open for the 35th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 1. Funds raised are donated to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk features four distances, from the full marathon (starting in Hopkinton) to a 5K. To register or to support a walker, visit JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for a $5 discount off the registration fee. All registered participants will receive a bib, medal and T-shirt.

Become a Dementia Friend Oct. 3

Individuals are invited to become a Dementia Friend by attending a free informational program at Faith Community Church (146 East Main Street) on Tuesday, Oct. 3, from 7-8 p.m. Attendees will learn about the different types of dementia, what it’s like to live with dementia,

and how to communicate with people who have dementia. For reservations, call the Hopkinton Senior Center at 508497-9730. For more information about the program, visit dementiafriendsma. org. Residents of all towns are welcome.

Baypath’s Paws & Claws 5K Oct. 15

The 14th annual Paws & Claws 5K presented by VCA Animal Hospitals, a fundraising run/walk for Baypath Humane Society, will be held Sunday, Oct. 15, at 10:30 a.m. at Hopkinton State Park. Participants can register as an individual or as part of a team. For more information — including about sponsorship options — and to register, visit baypathhumane. org.

Michael’s Run 5K for Respite Center Oct. 21

The 24th annual Michael’s Run, a 5K run/walk to benefit the Michael Lisnow Respite Center, will be held Saturday, Oct. 21. The race starts and ends at the Town Common. On-site registration opens at 8 a.m., and the race starts at 10. The family event includes food, music, crafts and games. For more information or to register online, visit hopkintonrespite.org.

Mental Health Collaborative Golf Tournament Oct. 23

The Mental Health Collaborative Fall Classic will be held Monday, Oct. 23, at Hopkinton Country Club, starting at 9 a.m. Activities include continental breakfast, golf, boxed lunch, cocktail reception, silent auction, awards dinner and live auction. Participants provide an opportunity to support the critical cause of mental health literacy for teens and young adults, and allows MHC to educate more teachers, students, parents, coaches, young adults, organizations and communities. For more information about participating or becoming a sponsor, visit mentalhealthcollaborative.org.

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.

Nicholas Scianna

Nicholas (Nick) Paul Scianna of Natick and Hopkinton passed away on Aug. 30 at Fairview Estates in Hopkinton at the age of 99. He was predeceased by his wife, Rose Scianna, on Sept. 10, 2020.

Nick was born Jan. 25, 1924, in Trapani, Sicily, to Giuseppe and Ignazia Scianna. He graduated from Natick High School and received a football scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University. Nick enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1943-46 and, while in the Marines, he attended aerial gunnery training. Nick married his sweetheart, Rose M. (Ortenzi) Scianna, and together they raised their three children in the home he built in Natick. He retired in 1989 from Anchor Motor Freight in Framingham after 43 years. Nick enjoyed gardening and took great pride in his tomato crop each summer. He was a sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching and attending sporting events.

Nick will always be remembered for his loyalty, his selfless nature and his kind and kindred spirit — helping anyone in need. He cherished his role as a family provider, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Nick is survived by his brother, Louis J. Scianna and wife Joanne of Bonita Springs, Florida. He was preceded in death by brothers John J. Scianna and Luciano N. Scianna. Nick is the loving father of Linda Scianna of Grafton, Joanne Scianna of Maynard, and Joseph Scianna of Framingham. He also leaves behind his cherished granddaughter, Amy Jordan, her husband, Scott Jordan, and great-grandson Casey Jordan, as well as many nieces and nephews. A private memorial service was to take place at Saint Patrick’s Cemetery in Natick. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home. Donations in Nick’s honor may be made to the American Heart Association at heart.org or P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284.

Charlotte Colella

Charlotte (Pentheny) Colella, 94, of Hopkinton passed away at home on Aug. 26, surrounded by family after a short period of declining health. Born and raised in Hopkinton, she was the daughter of the late Har-

old O. Pentheny and Nellie (Foster) Pentheny.

Charlotte graduated from Hopkinton High School in 1947. She was inducted into the Hopkinton High School Athletic Hall of Fame for her outstanding athleticism on the undefeated girls basketball team, as a catcher for the softball team and as a cheerleader. After high school, Charlotte married Daniel E. Colella and started her career by his side as co-owner and bookkeeper for Colella’s Supermarket until she retired in 1985. She enjoyed traveling, her home in Las Vegas, watching Red Sox games, crocheting blankets, going to the casino, and playing cards with her children and grandchildren. She cherished her lifelong friendship with her classmate, Rosalie (Diddy) Davis, and their weekly conversations.

Charlotte was predeceased by her husband, Daniel, who died in 1998, her two sisters, Mildred and Arlene, and three brothers, Everett, Harold and Kenneth. She leaves behind her six daughters, Ellen (Robert) Holmes of Hopkinton, Nancy (John) Simone of Upton, Donna Bowker of Hopkinton, Dale (James) Danahy of Hopkinton, Diane McGrath of Holliston and Sandra Varnum of Hopkinton. She has nine grandchildren: Jennifer Shults, Nikki Simone, Courtney and C.J. Bowker, Rob and Rachel Holmes, Nick, Kelley and Alex Danahy; and six greatgrandchildren: Conner Shults, Nathan and Audrey Holmes, and Rocco, Richie and Luca Yurewicz. She is survived by her brother, James Pentheny of Oregon. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. All services were to be private. The family would like to thank PNPS Nursing & Home Care of Hopkinton & VNA Hospice & Palliative Care of Woburn for the exceptional care they provided to Charlotte in the past month. Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Hopkinton Senior Center, Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England, VNA Care Fund Development Office (199 Rosewood Drive, Suite 180, Danvers, MA 01923) or any disaster relief effort of your choice.

Carole Mikulski

Carole

Anne (Olsen) Mikulski of Hopkinton passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 25. She was surrounded by loved ones.

Carole was born Sept. 30, 1938, in Lynn, and grew up there with her mother, Lena, grandmother Anne, sisters Beverly and Martha, and brothers Carl and Steven, until she met the love of her life, Stefan (Steve) Mikulski. Once married, they spent the next 65 years together — first in Virginia Beach, then back to Massachusetts (Hudson, Lynnfield and Wayland) before retiring to Florida (Amelia Island and Merritt Island). In spring 2019 they returned to Massachusetts to be closer to family. The couple enjoyed a lifetime of summers and vacations on Lake Arrowhead

in North Waterboro, Maine.

Carole graduated from Lynn Classical High and then later in life earned her bachelor’s degree in child psychology from Framingham State University. Carole excelled in everything she put her mind to. She was a strong advocate for children. Carole and Steve were foster parents for over 10 years and welcomed many children into their home. Always a wonderful friend and hostess, Carole enjoyed reading, swimming, traveling and spending time with her family and girlfriends (especially her annual Ladies Weekend at the lake).

Not only a loving and devoted wife, she also was a loving sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Over the years, her love of family blessed her with eight children, 12 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. Carole was a well-loved memere and often said whichever grandchild was spending time with her was her favorite.

Carole is survived by her devoted husband, Steve of Hopkinton, brother Steven and wife Linda Olsen of Negaunee, Michigan, and children Chris (and Laurie) Mikulski of Milford, Larry (and Ellen) Mikulski of Burlington, Janet (and Daniel) Messcher of Live Oak, Florida, James Mikulski of North Waterboro, Maine, John (and Sylvia) Mikulski of Welland, Ontario, Canada, Laura (and Bruce) Connolly of Hopkinton, Charlene Fichman of Springvale, Maine, and Spike (and Lisa) Mikulski of North Scituate, Rhode Island.

Funeral services will be private. All are welcome to join in a future celebration of Carole’s life at Good Shepherd Parish in Wayland (date to be announced). The family would like to thank Dana-Farber and Brigham & Women’s for their efforts in fighting breast cancer. They also would like to thank CenterWell Home Health of Marlborough and Salmon Palliative & Hospice Care of Milford for their excellent home care.

Memorial donations in Carole’s honor can be made to one of her favorite charities: Heart of the Nation Catholic Mass (heartofthenation.org/donate/ ways-to-give) or Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org/donate).

Anne Fairbanks

Anne Maria Fairbanks, 82, of Hopkinton died peacefully on Aug. 31. Anne was born Oct. 12, 1940, to Fredrick Kennedy and Marjorie (Benner) Kennedy in Framingham. She graduated from Peters High School in Southborough in 1958.

Anne was a faithful lifelong member of Faith Community Church in Hopkinton. She was artistically talented and enjoyed painting, family parties and holidays, spending time with her loved ones, Sunday road trips with her husband, Art, and Cape Cod vacations with her girlfriends. She was very caring, devoted, social, strong and thoughtful to all who knew her. She was an anchor

to the family, laughed easily and had a steadfast faith.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Arthur W. Fairbanks Sr., brother Edward Kennedy and wife Brenda (Witkowski), sister Janet Parks (Kennedy), and brother Richard Kennedy. She also has left behind her children and stepchildren: Donna L. Fairbanks, Kathleen A. (Hilditch) Campbell, Tammie (Fairbanks) Talvey and husband David, John A. Hilditch and wife Karen (Heyward), Arthur W. Fairbanks Jr. and wife Janet (Dykstra), Nancy (Hilditch) Moschini and husband Peter, and Marcy Fairbanks-Linane and deceased husband Dennis Linane, as well as many nephews, nieces, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her infant daughter, Julie Hilditch.

Visitation was held Sept. 8 at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. A celebration of life took place Sept. 9 at the funeral home, followed by burial at Rural Cemetery in Southborough and a reception at Faith Community Church.

Richard Whalen

Richard G. Whalen of Natick, formerly of Hopkinton, passed away Sept. 2 under the care of the Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center in Natick.

He was the beloved husband of Mary S. Burke, devoted father of Geralyn Burke of Newport, Rhode Island, and the late Scott R. Whalen of Chelmsford, and father-in-law to Lynn Walker Whalen. He was the loving grandfather of Kylie, Lilie and Caroline Whalen and Natalie Rodrigues. He was the son of the late Gordon and Alice (Nelson) Whalen. He was predeceased by his former wife, Linda Berry Soby, Scott’s mother.

A proud graduate of Natick High School (1958) and Northeastern University (1962), he began teaching at the former Coolidge Junior High School as a student teacher. He worked at the Natick Co-Op (now the site of the Natick Outdoor Store), where he made enduring friendships and fond memories. For many years he was employed at the Powers Package store, to the distress of a few would-be patrons.

He will be missed also by the scores of Kennedy Middle School students whom he taught over a 33-year-career, some of whom remain his loyal friends to this day. He shared his passion for the weather, the mysteries of nature and the environment, having established the Kennedy Weather Service at the school, and was proud to be a schoolteacher.

In retirement, he spoke at senior facilities and led residents in weatherrelated songs. He volunteered at the Natick Farmers Market, the formerly named Big Heart/Little Feet group, Earth Day celebration and Kids Art Walk, and wrote a MetroWest Daily News column titled, “Under the Weather for a Year.” Most recently, he compiled monthly newsletters for neighbors and other weather and nature enthusiasts with interesting facts and bits of little-

known information. He spoke daily to area television meteorologists with his observations and concerns.

He will be missed in the neighborhood where he and Mary resided. He enjoyed the sounds and chalked messages on his driveway from the newly arrived children over the past decade.

He won’t soon be forgotten by Mary’s large family of sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and many in-laws.

On the Fourth of July, he turned 83 years of age, walked his usual 3 miles with Mary and spent a rainy afternoon with dear friends and his wife. Early the next morning, he suffered a stroke from which he did not recover. He has been cared for by an army of dedicated health care workers, too many to individually express deserved appreciation.

Visiting hours were held in the John Everett & Sons Funeral Home (Natick Common) on Sept. 8, followed by a funeral service and interment at Dell Park Cemetery, Natick.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mr. Whalen may be made to the Kennedy Middle School, 165 Mill Street, Natick, MA 01760 in support of the many youth programs in honor of his love of teaching.

Antonio Da Silva

Antonio A. Da Silva, 53, passed away peacefully in Milford on Aug. 31, following a brief illness, surrounded by loving family and friends. He was born in Portugal on March 10, 1970, to the late Nicolau Nunes Da Silva and Celeste Martins Alves of Portugal. Antonio was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend whose vibrant life and generous heart will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Antonio’s journey to the United States began when he immigrated from Portugal to Framingham, eventually settling in Milford. His resilience and drive for a better life were evident in everything he did. Antonio was a dedicated employee at Hopkinton Middle School for many years, where his hard work and dedication were greatly appreciated.

A man of faith, Antonio was a devoted member of St. Mary Church, Milford. He also found community and camaraderie as a member of the Milford and Framingham Portuguese Clubs. His love for his native Portugal remained strong throughout his life, a love that he passed on to his children and those around him.

Antonio had a passion for soccer, especially Benfica, and his love for the sport was infectious. He also was a lover of the beach, where he found peace and joy in the rhythm of the waves. Antonio had a knack for bringing laughter and light into any room, a trait that endeared him to many.

Known for his generous heart, Antonio was always ready to lend a hand or offer a kind word. He was the unofficial family’s dog sitter, a role he thoroughly enjoyed. Most of all, Antonio loved his family. He cherished the time spent with them, especially watching his boys play soccer. It was clear that his family was his pride and joy.

Antonio is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Colleen D. Da Silva (Callinan); his mother, Celeste Martins Alves of Portugal and Milford; his sons, Michael A. Da Silva and fiancée Stephanie Brousseau of Milford, and Daniel T. Da Silva of

Milford. He also leaves behind his siblings, Belchior Alves Da Silva and wife Celeste of Westborough, Manuel Alves Da Silva and wife Luisa of Milford, and Aldina Alves Jordan and husband Paul of Milford. Antonio also is survived by mother-in-law Lois Callinan of Mendon, brother-in-law Thomas Callinan and wife Rebecca of Clinton, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Antonio’s love for life was evident in his love for a great ice cream sundae, a simple pleasure that brought him immense joy. His love, laughter and kindness will be dearly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Antonio A. Da Silva’s life was a testament to the power of love, resilience and generosity. He will forever be remembered as a loving husband, a dedicated father, a caring brother and a loyal friend. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched with his kindness, generosity and love. His spirit will forever be a guiding light for his family and friends, reminding us all to live with compassion, love and laughter.

A Mass of Christian burial was held Sept. 8 at St. Mary Church, Milford, followed by interment at St. Mary Cemetery.

Wally Irvine

Wallace E. Irvine, known by all as “Wally,” passed away peacefully on Aug. 31 at the age of 92. Son of the late Hazel (Lougee) and Arthur E. Irvine, he was born and lived in Hopkinton most of his life. He spent the past two years with his daughter Nancy and her family in North Carolina, where they spent many happy days together.

Wally was an extremely friendly man and knew most everyone in town. He truly loved living in Hopkinton. He was very generous and helped anyone in need. He had a great sense of humor and was very positive about life. He lived his life caring and loving his family, always putting them first. He loved golfing and enjoyed watching football. He was a talented car machinist and handyman. Wally worked at Fenwal Electronics in Framingham for 25 years as a purchasing manager. After retiring, he went into business with his son John, building homes. Wally is survived by daughter Nancy Mooradian and husband David, and granddaughter Nicole Mooradian, all of Clemmons, North Carolina; granddaughter Laura Courage and husband David; great-granddaughters Bella and Olivia Courage of Carver; grandson Adam Irvine and wife Sally of Southbridge; and grandson James Irvine of Fall River. In addition, he leaves sister Hazel Johnson of North Grafton and many nieces and nephews from the very large Irvine family. Wally is predeceased by son John Irvine (2019), first wife Mary Irvine (1996) and second wife Alberta Irvine (2020).

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Sept. 23, at 11:30 a.m. at Faith Community Church in Hopkinton, with a luncheon to follow in the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association at heart. org. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

police log

August 27 10:24 p.m. On West Main Street, Officer Cody Normandin conducted a motor vehicle stop of a vehicle with temporary Florida license plates. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officers Brennan Grimley and Matthew LaTour responded as backup. A 29-yearold from Upton was arrested and charged with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, number plate violation to conceal ID, forge/misuse, remove document, intent to distribute five or fewer documents, motor vehicle lights violation, and unregistered motor vehicle. The female in custody gave permission for her sister to take her child. Officer Brennan Grimley provided a courtesy transport to Upton.

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.

August 22

7:56 a.m. A Winter Street caller reported a motor vehicle accident in his driveway. Officer Sean McKeon responded and took a report.

9:22 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a motor vehicle accident on Lumber Street. No personal injuries were reported.

10:08 a.m. An Elm Street caller reported her roommate’s dog had been locked in a room for 27 hours and she would like assistance. Sergeant Matthew McNeil reported prior issues at the same location. He contacted the roommate, and she was on her way home.

12:40 p.m. A Smith Road caller reported his house was egged and vandalized with other types of food several times in the past few days. Officer Shannon Beloin spoke with the caller. The incident was logged.

5:20 p.m. Multiple callers reported a single-car rollover on Front Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Cody Normandin and Matthew LaTour responded along with the Fire Department. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck responded, and a crash report was taken.

6:19 p.m. A caller reported finding a bag full of money on B Street. Officer Cody Normandin responded and retrieved the bag.

August 24

12:51 a.m. An Ash Street caller reported a case of blackmail. The caller sent photos of himself to a female on Snapchat and she threatened to send the photos to all his friends unless he paid her $500. Sergeant Matthew McNeil took a report.

2:15 p.m. An Eastview Road caller reported a 6-year-old male was locked in his sister’s room and was scared and crying. Officer Tyler Staback responded and assisted in opening the door.

2:20 p.m. Officer Tyler Staback responded to a report of a pedestrian with a bike who was struck by a vehicle on Grove Street. The individual declined medical attention.

10:20 p.m. A caller reported a house party with underage drinking on Bowker Road. Officer Cody Normandin responded and reported house lights going on and off. Sergeants Aaron O’Neil and William Burchard and Officers Nicholas Walker and Augusto Diaz responded and took names for the incident. Rides were obtained for 15-20 youths on scene.

August 25

1:34 a.m. A caller reported a truck was involved in an accident on Legacy Farms North. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Augusto Diaz responded and reported property damage to a fence, retaining wall and guard rail. A tow truck was requested. No personal injuries were reported. A criminal application was issued to the driver.

August 26

2:42 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard took a crash report on Hayward Street. Two vehicles were involved. No personal injuries were reported.

August 27

3:13 a.m. A Sylvan Way caller, out of town, received a snapshot from his security camera showing an individual outside his home with a flashlight looking into the house. A neighbor was supposed to be housesitting. Officers Sean McKeon and Nicholas Walker responded and checked the perimeter of the house with a negative find. They were to make contact with the neighbor.

6:06 p.m. A Lumber Street caller reported being blocked in her driveway. She stated she believed the person who placed the object in her driveway was harassing and stalking her daughter. Officers Brennan Grimley and Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

7:20 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street and took a crash report.

10:31 p.m. A Lyft driver reported picking up a female customer on Revolutionary Way and driving her to Framingham. She left her bag in the car. Upon search of the bag, he found what appeared to be a gun. He took it to the Framingham Police Department and was advised to take it to Hopkinton. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil inspected the bag and found a toy gun and makeup. The owner was notified that the bag was at the station.

August 28

9:42 a.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street and took a report.

10:26 a.m. A caller reported a person stuck in an elevator on West Main Street. Officer Sean McKeon and the Fire Department responded to assist.

3:27 p.m. Officers Cody Normandin and Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle accident on Spring Street. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed one vehicle.

August 29

6:07 a.m. A caller reported a baby deer appeared to have been hit on Hayden Rowe Street and was in the middle of the road. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and was able to move it to the side of the road, and he contacted the animal control officer.

Police log | page 23

Police log | from page 22

8:03 a.m. A Blueberry Lane resident reported his mailbox was vandalized. The caller called back after finding a note left by the person who struck the mailbox.

Officer Matthew Santoro responded and spoke with the caller, who was to call the person who struck the mailbox.

10:34 a.m. An East Main Street caller reported she hired a moving company to move all her belongings, and she found a filing cabinet was damaged and some of her things were missing. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and took a report.

2:21 p.m. A caller reported an injured skunk in a South Street parking lot. A message was left for the animal control officer.

6:53 p.m. A Hayden Rowe Street resident reported a breaking and entering of her house while her dogs were outside. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officers Cody Normandin and Nicholas Walker responded and took a report.

9:42 p.m. A caller reported someone left two dogs inside a car parked on South Street from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Officer Nicholas Walker attempted to contact the owner, but no one answered.

August 30

1:51 a.m. Sergeant William Burchard and Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Walker responded to a crash report on Colonade Drive and found a vehicle upside down in the roadway. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

4:12 p.m. Officer Brennan Grimley came across a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles on DJ Murphy Lane. One person had a bump on the head. The Fire Department responded. Officer Grimley took a report.

August 31

8:06 a.m. Multiple callers reported a fallen tree across the roadway of Valentine Road. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and the DPW responded.

9:03 a.m. A Spring Street caller reported someone struck her retaining wall and took it out. Officer Tyler Staback responded and took a crash report.

9:22 a.m. A Winter Street resident reported a stolen bike. Officer Tyler Staback responded and took a report.

2:48 p.m. A caller reported a dog was attacked by a coyote on Whisper Way. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported the dog was deceased. The animal control officer responded and assisted in removal.

3:38 p.m. School resource Officer Matthew Santoro received a call about an unruly student on Wood Street causing a disturbance. Officer Santoro responded and took care of the incident.

6:50 p.m. A caller reported a male was harassing her. Officer Shannon Beloin spoke with the caller and reported the male party was outside the station. He was advised to stay away from her.

September 1

11:43 a.m. A Constitution Court caller reported her rear windshield was smashed overnight. Officer Matthew Santoro responded, viewed the damage and took a report.

1:42 p.m. An Oakhurst Road caller reported property was stolen from her house. Officer Matthew Santoro responded and took a report of larceny.

September 3

1:16 a.m. A South Mill Street resident reported finding her back door unlocked and open. She requested an officer to check the house. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Augusto Diaz responded, spoke with the homeowner and checked the house.

7:01 p.m. A concerned Wood Street caller reported her husband and children went to Cape Cod and were supposed to have returned, and she was unable to get in contact with him. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil spoke with the caller.

September 4

6:01 p.m. A caller reported her friend was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Ash Street where she struck a pole. No personal injuries were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle. The DPW was contacted about a speed enforcement sign that was knocked over.

6:33 p.m. A caller reported a deer struggling in the roadway of Chestnut Street. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil responded, dispatched the deer and moved it to the side of the road. The animal control officer was contacted.

Police urge caution on trails after dog snatched by coyote on Whisper Way

Coyote | from page 1

this happened to someone’s fur buddy, they are members of the family and are a tremendous loss when we lose them.”

The department also offered several tips when encountering coyotes, as well as a reminder that the coyotes are in their natural habitat. They include:

1. Have your dogs on a leash so as to keep them with you at all times, especially the littles.

2. Carry a walking stick if you can.

3. Make a lot of noise (whistling, stomping, singing, etc.) so as not to accidentally surprise wild animals as you’re walking.

4. If you do see a coyote that doesn’t run when you encounter it, yell and wave your arms; they do not like loud noises. Also, do not run away, as this may trigger them to chase you and/or your dog.

In response to an inquiry by the Hopkinton Independent last month following social media posts from residents of a bear spotted in town, Chief Joseph Bennett noted in an Aug. 18 email that recently “there were 21 incidents where

there were reports of animal calls to police.”

“I reviewed all 21 animal calls,” he explained. “We had calls for dogs, cats, deer, birds, bats, hostile turkeys, an owl and even a chicken. No bear calls yet this month.”

Bennett added that he received training earlier this year from the Massachusetts Environmental Police regarding a statewide awareness program on how to handle encounters with black bears. Black bears are common in Western and Central Massachusetts and have been migrating eastward. They have been spotted this summer as far eastward as Newton and Quincy. One factor could be development in previously wooded areas.

A Boston Herald article in July pointed out that black bears are traveling eastward beyond Interstate 495. In the mid-1970s, the black bear population was estimated to be less than 100 bears. Now, it is closer to 5,000. According to the MassBears website, there have been no reported black bear sightings in Hopkinton from 2019-23.