HILLER GRILLER
District welcomes new administrators
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
As a youngster, Lauren McDonough wanted to be a pediatrician and help children.
Rachel Ritchie played school with her brother, teaching and assigning homework.
And Cherie Kent played school in a makeshift classroom her father, who was a teacher, created in the basement using former school desks and bulletin boards.
Today, McDonough, Kent and Ritchie are the new administrators for the Hopkinton Public Schools.
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
The end of summer vacation took a tragic turn in town, as an Upton man fishing with his family at Lake Whitehall on Aug. 22 suffered a “medical episode” and died.
A fundraiser was started for the family of Nick Shaw, and within three days it had raised more than $42,000.
Shaw, 35, left a wife and two young sons. He had been fishing with them when he collapsed. According to a town press release, other boaters assisted Shaw by calling 911 and moving him onto an island in the reservoir while they waited for help to arrive.
Hopkinton Fire officials, aided by Westborough firefighters, put boats in the water to reach the island just after 5 p.m. The District 14 Dive Team also was on hand to provide assistance. Emergency personnel took over care and returned Shaw to the shore. From there, he was transported to a regional trauma center, where he later was pronounced dead.
Hopkinton High School senior Rishit Shekar barbecues some food in the HHS parking lot during the Senior Sunrise event held the morning of the second day of school on Aug. 29.
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Family Day highlights busy September calendar
September is a special month in Hopkinton, as community events ramp up following a slow summertime.
This year is no exception. The calendar is dotted with annual events such as PolyArts (at the Town Common), Blooms, Brews & BBQs (at Weston Nurseries) and the Porchfest musical festival (at homes in Hopkinton and Ashland). All three of those events take place on Saturday, Sept. 7. (Check the Independent website for more information on each.)
INDEPENDENT THOUGHTS
JERRY SPAR
The following Saturday, Sept. 14, is Hopkinton Family Day, held at the middle school/high school complex. Organized by Friends of Hopkinton, the all-ages event features live entertainment, games, activities and refreshments from 2-6 p.m., followed by a fireworks display at 7:45.
Organizers — who have set a rain date of Sept. 28 following last year’s rainout — are expecting a big turnout.
“We’ve gotten a huge response, which is really nice,” said Dorothy Maruska, a member of the event’s organizing committee. “We have 30 different local organizations committed to attend, with multiple new activities. We had a really good outpouring of sponsors as well. People are really stepping up to help out.”
Among the highlights: Local business Under Pressure will have a water-shooting activity, the police will offer children’s DNA kits to parents, and the Fire Department will bring its mobile home display that burns up on-site. Other activities include a nine-hole mini-golf course, bounce houses, an obstacle course and a baseball game. The popular dunk tank returns, and volunteers are being sought for participation (contact the Hopkinton Lions if you are interested).
For entertainment, there will be balloon figures, face-painting, henna artists, bubbles, a magician, classical Indian dancing, a barbershop chorus, singers and a DJ.
Those working up an appetite will have their choice of a dozen food trucks that will be lined up behind Hopkinton Middle School. Fare includes Mexican food, Indian food, shawarma, Southern-style barbecue, Asian fusion, pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, pretzels, ice cream, fried dough, cotton candy, popcorn and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
Friends of Hopkinton (friendsofhopkinton.org) has been planning for close to a year, and the group welcomes anyone interested in helping this September or in years ahead.
“It takes a village to run this, and we would love to have new members of the committee to help with the planning, the day of, the website, social media and other things,” Maruska said. “There are so many things that people can be a part of, whether it’s a small or large part. We would love to have more activity from the community.”
Lifelong resident Guthrie turns 70
A happy 70th to lifelong Hopkinton resident Carol (Drowne) Guthrie, whose birthday was Aug. 30. According to her daughter Patricia, Carol was born during Hurricane Carol in 1954 — in the car on the way to the hospital — which is how she got her name.
Carol lives in the house on Saddle Hill Road where she was raised. She used to run an in-home day care, which allowed her to stay home with her two daughters, Patricia and Sandra, and she later became a pre-K teacher at the former Golden Goose Academy in town. She also took care of her handicapped brother.
Carol, who used to enjoy going to Colella’s Supermarket on Main Street (where the CVS now is located, for those new to town), works part-time at Price Chopper.
“Through all of life’s challenges, she’s been everyone’s rock,” Patricia shared. “She is fierce, kind, positive and so much more!”
Local HOSA team shines
Hopkinton representatives at the HOSA-Future Health Professionals International Leadership Conference in Houston pose for a picture.
A belated congratulations to the 34 Hopkinton students who took part in the HOSAFuture Health Professionals International Leadership Conference in Houston in late June.
In addition to an educational component, the conference featured competitive events, as students demonstrated their knowledge in various health-related categories.
Barbara Wagner made it to the final round in clinical nursing, and the team of Kaizar Rangwala, Pranamya Keshkamat and Shaurya Patni finished in the top 10 in medical innovation. Other competitive event categories included community awareness, health career Independent thoughts | 3
(Drowne)
‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’
Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest
This issue’s winner is Alyesha Sen for this photo titled “The Sky is Pink.” To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@ hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website. Presents
The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by BoMain. 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 BoMain.
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 BoMain.
Local HOSA team shines
display, health education, job seeking skills, public health, and researched persuasive writing and speaking.
“All students competed in their chosen events, attended multiple workshops and seminars, participated in tournaments and had a great time learning more about health professions while meeting students from around the world,” shared Hopkinton High School HOSA Club advisor Marjorie Billeter, who teaches anatomy and physiology. “We also had the opportunity to visit NASA Space Center in Houston. It was an incredible experience for all involved.”
Hopkinton was well-represented in community service awards. Syesha Sen earned an American Red Cross Volunteer Service Individual Gold Level Award. Shrihitha Sunkara and Nandita Ramesh earned the Barbara James Service Gold Award for completing more than 250 hours of health-related community service, Anish Kulkarni received the Silver Award for 175-plus hours, and Anna Noroian, Piyusha Majgaonkar, Haasini Yarram, Annika Chan, Anagha Kulkarni, Rithikaa Vigneshwaran and Snigdha Marapally earned the Bronze Award for 100-plus hours. Independent thoughts | from page 2
Police interaction appreciated
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I just want to give some positive recognition to the Hopkinton Police. I was playing tennis with my 11-year-old son [earlier this summer]. My other son was playing basketball on the basketball courts. I looked over from the tennis court and there was a cop shooting hoops with my 8-year-old. This went on for about 15 minutes before the officer left. I walked over and asked my son what that was all about. My son said the officer asked if he could stretch his legs and shoot some hoops for a while. I’m sure the officer wanted to stretch his legs, but he was also obviously taking a moment to connect with a kid in a positive way. My son appreciated it, and so did I.
— Rick Wayshville, 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.
Select Board sounds alarm on budget issue
As the budget season approaches, Town Manager Elaine Lazarus discussed at the Aug. 27 Select Board meeting a new document that serves as a resident’s guide to the town’s finances that includes information about the town’s expenditures and debt service.
NEWS
BRIEFS
Created by the Finance Department, it will be a useful tool to help people understand where the town stands fiscally, Lazarus shared. It will be available on the town’s website and in town buildings shortly.
Chair Brian Herr presented a stark picture of the situation, which was backed up with information from Kyla LaPierre, the town’s chief financial officer.
Based on what has been approved, LaPierre said that in fiscal year 2025, the debt payment is $7.6 million.
“In FY 26, it doubles,” she explained. “And it keeps going up.”
The average homeowner with a current tax bill of $12,500 will see that number jump to $18,500 by 2030, according to LaPierre. This is if the town does not incur any future debt.
Herr explained that more expensive homes could see their taxes go from $20,000 to $30,000 or more in five years.
Stressed Herr: “These increases are real, and they are massive.”
This
taken into account when departments come forward requesting money for projects, he added.
“I don’t think the residents understand that,” said LaPierre. “I’m nervous for the town, especially for people on limited incomes.”
Member Shahidul Mannan attributed this to the “tremendous growth” in the town, which has necessitated infrastructure improvements.
Because the town will begin the budget process next month, Mannan asked board members to discuss the strategy regarding the capital budget process moving forward, including how capital projects are selected.
He brought up his ideas about the capital budget process with several key town officials in light of the tight financial times and the amount of debt service the town has encumbered due to large-scale projects. Mannan said he would like to see a scoring mechanism for prioritizing projects.
He also suggested a review and potential revision of the budgetary policy with the assistance of LaPierre. She can work with stakeholders on a framework in preparation for the Select Board’s budget preparation sessions.
Mannan mentioned that the town has had an increase in free cash. He wanted to analyze how and from where that money came about.
financial session, possibly at the Senior Center, to educate the public about the budget process. She added: “We really, really have to concentrate on the debt.”
Member Joe Clark said it would be helpful to have an amortization table so that the public could see how much debt accrues every year based on the status of various town projects, such as the schools.
“I think and hope everyone understands that we need to slow down and do fewer projects until we kind of catch up with that debt,” member Amy Ritterbusch added.
Motorcycle accident claims man’s life
A 43-year-old man identified by Milford Police as being from Hopkinton died following a motorcycle crash in Milford on Aug. 24.
Member Mary Jo LaFreniere suggested a town-wide
A fundraiser was started for the family of the man who died, identified as Rafael Melo. His brother-in-law, who started the fundraiser, wrote that Melo was vacationing with family in the area at the time of his death. He had been making plans to return home to Brazil in September.
Melo left behind a wife and an 11-month-old daughter.
The crash occurred at 4:33 p.m. on Cedar Street in Milford, by the Interstate 495 southbound on-ramp. Local police and fire crews arrived on scene and began rendering aid shortly after receiving multiple 911 calls.
According to a Milford Police Department press release, there was a collision between the motorcycle and a motor vehicle. The man was “ejected from his motorcycle” and subsequently “collided with a nearby rock formation.”
Emergency personnel transported the man to Milford Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to lifethreatening injuries. The driver of the motor vehicle, who had minor injuries, was transported to the hospital as well.
Mosquito spraying scheduled
The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) announced that personnel will be in Hopkinton to spray for mosquito control on Sept. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25. The dates are tentative and subject to change due to weather conditions, mosquito populations, mosquito virus activity and/or special event spraying.
This program will shut down when cool night time temperatures become predominant in the area. A detailed notice about the CMMCP spray schedule is posted on the CMMCP phone system (508-393-3055) after 3:30 p.m. each day and also is listed at cmmcp.org (click on “2024 spray schedule” button on the right).
Residents may opt out of the spraying. For instructions, visit cmmcp.org and click “no spray info” button.
Requests for service may be recorded by calling the CMMCP office between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or via cmmcp.org. Results of these requests may initiate an application of mosquito insecticides to defined, site-specific areas of town. Such an application may be accomplished by using truck mounted equipment depending on the extent of the application.
Neighbors concerned about proposed West Main Street gas station
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
After an Aug. 28 Zoom meeting filled to capacity, blocking others from joining, the Board of Appeals moved a hearing about the 290 West Main Street gas station variance application to Oct. 2.
About an hour after the meeting started, it was brought to the attention of the board that some residents were unable to enter the Zoom meeting, which had been set to cap at 100 attendees and had reached the max. Denying people access would constitute a violation of the state’s open meeting laws.
The board determined the public hearing needed to be rescheduled and settled on Oct. 2 as the best available date. Members agreed on a hybrid model for the meeting, opting to use space at Town Hall.
Prior to the meeting adjournment, representatives of Rte 85 Realty Corp. had begun presenting their case to the board.
The company is looking for approval of a use variance on the parcel — which sits at the intersection of School Street and West Main Street — as the land is zoned as an agricultural district. The variance would maintain the current zoning while allowing specific use for a country store and gas station.
Neal Bingham, Rte 85 Realty’s lawyer, argued that the allowed uses under the applicable zoning bylaws created a burden for his client.
“Literal enforcement of the bylaws would create a hardship [for the developer],” Bingham explained.
He and Shawn Reardon, the project’s civil engineer, described conditions on the
A rendering provided to the Board of Appeals by Rte 85 Realty Corp. shows the proposed layout for a country store and gas station at 290 West Main Street.
public hearing.
“We collected close to 100 signatures of our neighborhood and taxpayers who are opposed to this,” Alison Fitzpatrick said in an earlier interview with the Independent. She and her husband, Jim, live on Dicarlo Road and directly abut the 290 West Main Street property.
They, along with other abutters, have submitted their objections to multiple town committees.
“Not one person we’ve talked to has said this is a good idea,” Alison Fitzpatrick noted.
site that make the land “undevelopable” under the existing zoning rules.
According to a memorandum Bingham’s law firm filed with the board, its insistence on the variance versus a complete rezoning is to keep the project “in a style consistent with the existing semi-rural residential neighborhood.”
The realty company’s proposal would see the construction of a 4,000-square-foot country store with four pump islands on the north side of the development. Four electric vehicle (EV) charging stations would be installed as well as a new stormwater management system for the property.
Also featured in the design are pollinator gardens as well as blueberry bush plantings that would serve as a transition to the wetlands west of the parcel.
Before the hearing was postponed, members of the board asked clarifying questions.
Member Shawn Masterson inquired about current ownership of the property.
Bingham responded that Allan O’Connor still holds the deed. O’Connor previously operated the Evergreen Haven Garden Center on the property.
Bingham went on to explain that O’Connor had entered into an agreement with Rte 85 Realty to sell the property should the project move forward.
Businessman Kevin Meehan — the owner of Rte 85 Realty Corp. — requested the proposal be withdrawn without prejudice. His team explained that it would prefer to make its case from the start, rather than picking up from this stopping point. The board accepted the request.
Residents want voices heard
Because of the issues with the Aug. 28 meeting, residents continue to wait for their concerns to be addressed.
Prior to the meeting, a coalition of residents organized to submit objections to the town and get people to attend the
The Fitzpatricks and their neighbors share a long list of concerns they want addressed by both the developer and the town. They have questions about the process the developer is taking to get approval, environmental and traffic concerns and the project’s necessity.
While the memorandum Rte 85 Realty sent to the Board of Appeals reports the developer has spoken with abutters and “received generally favorable feedback from those who responded,” the Fitzpatricks and others claim no such outreach attempts were made.
“We only heard about [the public hearing] secondhand,” Alison Fitzpatrick stated.
Because their property also sits against the wetlands impacting the 290 West Main Street parcel, the Fitzpatricks — who have lived in town for almost 20 years — see the variance application as a double standard in process.
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provement projects they’ve undertaken have not encroached upon the wetlands. The couple would like to see the developers go through the same rigorous process.
“We worry about 40,000 gallons of gasoline in the ground,” said Jim Fitzpatrick.
The developer has asserted that its plan will be put through the proper channels. It is intended to go through a site plan approval from the Planning
Board, notice of intent to the Conservation Commission and a formal design review process.
However, residents have continued to express wariness over the variance request. They indicated that they would prefer the developer pursues its project through standard vetting channels versus exceptions under a variance.
“We’re just asking that [the plan] follows the normal process,” said Alison Fitzpatrick.
Developer reprimanded for removing trees
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Conservation Commission at its meeting Aug. 20 called out the developer of the Elmwood Farms III subdivision off Blueberry Lane for allowing a contractor to remove trees in the buffer zone.
Conservation Administrator Kim Ciaramicoli explained that the order of conditions originally approved in 2021 for the subdivision, now also known as Newbury Glen, required the construction of a trench drain behind the homes on Blueberry Lane.The trench drain goes through one of the lots on which a conservation restriction was placed. The land contains an isolated vegetative wetland, which triggers a 50-foot no disturb zone and a 100-foot buffer zone.
The original subdivision was approved in the late 1980s and constructed from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. However, a portion of the project was never built. The remaining lots were purchased by Toll Brothers, which donated land to the Open Space Preservation Commission. The OSPC approved the donation in April, and Town Meeting voted in favor of the land transfer in May.
Ciaramicoli recently walked the site with Ted Merchant, the director of land development for Toll Brothers, during a pre-construction meeting. The two agreed on a 15-foot-wide work area for the trench installation. But the contractor violated that staked area and “removed trees in a wider swath” of about double the amount that goes “right up to the 50-foot wetlands buffer.”
Merchant explained to the commission that he had thought the 15-footwide work area was “reasonable” during his walk with Ciaramicoli. He told the contractor that minor adjustments could be made but that the contractor “exceeded that direction.”
He added: “I’m happy to work with the commission to restore some of that area.”
Merchant expected the trench installation to take no more than 10 days, at which point work on stabilizing the land can begin.
Commission members were upset with the blatant violation and that Merchant had not approached Ciaramicoli when he discovered it.
Newly elected chair Melissa Recos, who succeeded Jeff Barnes when he resigned from the commission earlier in August, said there needed to be “consequences and mitigation.”
“This is the beginning phases of the project,” she added. “We really need to have some trust going forward.”
Member Jim Ciriello said it was disappointing that the applicant “never asked for [a wider work zone] in the first place.”
He added: “It’s not up to us to pick up something that they probably forgot.”
Member Ed Harrow, speaking as chair of the OSPC, said he had “misgivings” about accepting the property that had “for lack of a better word, a pipeline running through the middle of it.” He found the tree cutting “extremely disappointing.”
Blueberry Lane resident Doug Onsi said he saw the trees being removed. He noted the contractor “showed an absolute disregard for the staking,” running stakes over and clear cutting the land.
Said Onsi: “It creates a strong distrust in the neighborhood for the envi-
ronmental respect and the expectations for Toll Brothers as a developer.”
Recos said the first step is to learn the number, species and caliper of the trees that were removed to understand the impact. Merchant said he would provide the information at the next meeting,
Charleswood School plan modifications reviewed
The development team for the new Charleswood School presented some updates to the project that came about after receiving input from both the commission and the Planning Board.
Claire Hoogeboom, a wetland scientist at LEC Environmental Consultants, explained that the planned athletic field has been moved further north and away from the wetlands. The driveway was moved, and pavement now will be completely out of the 100-foot buffer zone. About 40 new parking spaces were created.
She noted that there “might be other slight modifications to the plans” because the team has not yet received the stormwater management plan review and traffic comments.
Harrow lamented that during a site walk, he saw three hawks and a deer running through the wooded area. While he thanked the team for its ef-
forts, he was upset that the school will be located at this site, located at 147 Hayden Rowe Street.
“I am just so frustrated that the town has put itself in the position that we have to build infrastructure on land that is supported by wildlife and that is not really conducive to be built upon,” he said.
The hearing was continued until the next meeting on Sept. 10.
Violation discussed for Saddle Hill business
The owner of a Saddle Hill Road landscaping storage business appeared before the commission. On May 31, Ciaramicoli said the town zoning enforcement officer issued a cease and desist order against Lucio Arcuri for operating “an unpermitted landscaping storage operation.”
Arcuri removed all of the landscaping debris from the site. There also was a “significant Japanese knotweed infestation” on the land. Ciaramicoli issued a violation to Arcuri the week before the meeting. She recommended “chemical and mechanical management” of the site for at least three years and the application of an erosion control seed mix to stabilize the soil.
Arcuri said landscaping debris had been dumped there previously, so he decided to “dump over it.” He removed
the materials immediately and offered to work on the Japanese knotweed infestation.
Recos said the wetland boundary needed to be pulled back and that medallions should be installed to mark it. She also suggested “outside planning” for invasive species management.
Members salute former chair, Ciaramicoli
Commission members offered their thanks and praise to Barnes, who recently resigned after more than two decades of service on the board.
Recos, who has served as vice chair, said he “did a great job,” noting that “we have some big shoes to fill.” She was unanimously voted as Barnes’s successor.
“He has been incredibly supportive to me in my commitment to open space,” Harrow said of Barnes. “I really, really appreciate his handholding.”
Ciriello added that he “certainly appreciated his leadership, his effectiveness, his knowledge.”
As her first action as the new chair, Recos suggested that the committee go back to its previous format of having two co-vice chairs. She nominated members Ted Barker-Hook and Matt Moyen, who were unanimously elected.
Recos noted that there is a vacancy on the commission now and encouraged interested people to apply.
In other news, Ciaramicoli announced that she has resigned from her position as conservation administrator. Her last day was Aug. 29, but she said she hoped to attend the commission’s September meetings.
Commissioners expressed their thanks to Ciaramicoli, who has held this role for the past few years.
“You and Jeff leaving at roughly the same time is a big hit,” Ciriello said, telling her she “can’t leave.”
“I think you brought a really fresh way of looking at things,” added Recos.
“I do want to say that it has been both a privilege and an honor to be your conservation administrator,” said Ciaramicoli.
Milford chief upset after Brennan suspended by state police agency
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
Embattled former Hopkinton Police
Sgt. Tim Brennan was suspended from his current job as a Milford patrol officer by the state’s police disciplinary agency pending a disciplinary hearing and a further look into the circumstances that led to his being fired by the HPD in February. The Milford police chief expressed frustration with the decision.
The Peace Officer Standings & Training (POST) Commission suspended Brennan on Aug. 15 from his position in Milford, which he has held for about a month, according to an email to the Independent from POST Commission spokesperson Alia Spring. Brennan was placed on unpaid administrative leave by the POST Commission pending the outcome of the hearing.
Spring added that “investigation times vary” when asked about a time frame for the POST Commission’s investigation into Brennan’s conduct and a potential hearing date. No date has been set.
The POST Commission on Aug. 19 released Brennan’s suspension notice after an inquiry from the Independent. Before the notice was released, Brennan had been listed on the POST Commission officer status database on Monday morning as “conditionally certified.” This status means that an officer “has met some certification requirements and must satisfy all requirements within a specified time frame.”
“The Commission finds by a preponderance of the evidence that suspension of the Respondent’s [Brennan’s] certifica-
tion is warranted and is in the best interest of the safety and welfare of the public,” the notice concluded.
An excerpt states: “The Commission received evidence supporting the conclusion that the Respondent had knowledge, in 2017, of a school resource officer allegedly having committed an indecent assault and battery against a student in 2004, when she was 14 years old. Also, the Respondent became aware in August 2022 that the same school resource officer had allegedly raped the same student, also when she was 14. The Respondent did not report the alleged indecent assault and battery or the alleged rape until after the District Attorney’s office initiated an investigation later in August 2022.”
HPD firing triggered POST Commission review
In February, a divisive Loudermill hearing process concluded with a 4-1 Select Board vote to terminate Brennan.
Brennan was accused of violating department policy by not reporting information about an alleged sexual assault by a colleague, former Deputy Chief John “Jay” Porter, relating to when Porter was serving as the school resource officer and the alleged survivor was a Hopkinton High School sophomore nearly two decades ago. Porter pleaded not guilty to three counts of child rape in May 2023 in Middlesex Superior Court. Brennan explained that he was prioritizing the confidentiality and safety of the alleged survivor, who placed her trust in him. He
also raised issues about department policy during the hearing.
Porter’s trial is scheduled to begin Dec. 9.
The Loudermill hearing originally began Jan. 19 with a contentious public session at the Hopkinton Senior Center. As the Select Board neared a vote to dismiss Brennan, representatives for Brennan and the town asked for a continuance so that they could discuss a possible solution.
A group of Brennan’s supporters has been advocating for his reinstatement for months, including at May’s Annual Town Meeting.
When asked whether the Milford Police Department should have hired Brennan given his firing in Hopkinton and because Brennan’s case with the town remains in arbitration, Spring stated:
“Law Enforcement Agencies are encouraged to use all available resources when performing background checks on candidates for hire, including POST’s Historical Disciplinary Records Database. However, inclusion in the database does not automatically preclude a candidate from being hired by an agency.”
Milford police chief decries POST Commission decision
In an interview Aug. 19, Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino said he did not agree with the POST Commission’s decision, calling it shortsighted.
“This whole thing stinks from top to bottom,” he said. “While I do think the POST Commission is a necessary thing
to have police have accountability to citizens, I think they missed an opportunity to do the right thing.”
He noted that he previously worked in the New York City Police Department, including time in the special victims unit, so he understood Brennan’s rationale for wanting to protect the alleged survivor. He also said he would report the reasons why he made a decision to his superior officer.
“They were trying to do too much all at once,” he said of the POST Commission. “They should have had a welldefined guidance structure for discipline in place, like they have had in the NYPD’s Civilian Complaint Review Board for decades.”
The POST Commission was established in 2020 as part of criminal justice reform legislation. It was meant to help instill public confidence in law enforcement officers “by implementing a fair process for mandatory certification, discipline and training for all peace officers in the Commonwealth,” according to its website.
Tusino said he had never known Brennan personally, but that Milford detectives said he had cooperated with them on past investigations. He reached out to the POST Commission for its approval of hiring Brennan after Brennan went through a “thorough vetting process” that included Tusino and several Milford detectives.
Said Tusino: “I knew about Sgt. Brennan’s work ethic and integrity because of what the detectives who worked with him said.”
Regarding Brennan’s being “conditionally certified,” Tusino said he and the POST Commission butted heads.
“I told them that I needed a letter from the POST Commission saying that I had permission to hire him,” Tusino said. “They came back and said he need to get certified first. But I told them he couldn’t go ahead with the certification process until they sent the letter.”
Tusino said he received the letter about a month ago that gave Brennan 90 days to complete the certification process, which Tusino said Brennan completed in seven. It included a basic review of police duties such as filing reports and using a firearm.
“We submitted the results to the POST Commission within nine days,” he said, noting Brennan “passed with flying colors.” “Now that Officer Brennan did what they wanted him to do, they pulled the carpet out from under him and me.”
Tusino noted that Brennan “may never be able to work as a police officer again,” depending on the results of the POST Commission inquiry and disciplinary hearing.
“What I can’t wrap my head around regarding what happened in Hopkinton is that he got fired for doing exactly what the victim wanted him to do,” Tusino added. “He also would have had to report the victim’s information to Porter under their policy. That makes no sense.”
Questioned Tusino: “Could you imagine the pressure of being an officer trying to navigate this situation with an administration you don’t trust?” Tusino added that Brennan “was the one who suggested going to an outside agency” with the alleged survivor’s information, namely the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office.
“There will be victims lurking in the shadows because of this decision,” Tusino said. “ ‘No cop will ever want to help me after seeing this,’ they’ll think.”
Conservation administrator leaves for private sector job
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
Conservation Administrator Kim Ciaramicoli announced at the Aug. 20 Conservation Commission meeting that she has resigned after more than three years in the position.
“After much reflection, I have decided to step down from my role as the Conservation Administrator,” she wrote in an email to the Independent on Aug. 22. “This decision was not made lightly, as serving this vibrant and supportive community has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.
“During my tenure, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues and engaged citizens, all committed to improving the town of Hopkinton,” she continued. “Together, we have tackled challenges, celebrated successes, and made strides towards a brighter future for all.”
Ciaramicoli is taking a job at an engineering firm in the Boston area. Her last day was set for Aug. 29, but she has offered to provide support to the town during the transition period.
She noted that the Conservation Commission’s decisions directly affect residents, even if they are not cognizant of it.
“The work of the Conservation Commission often goes unnoticed, but its impact is deeply felt,” stated Ciaramicoli. “The decisions of the Conservation Commission play a direct role in community climate resilience and quality of life for the residents of the town.”
At the last meeting, Conservation Commission members asked her to attend a September meeting in person or a private celebration to thank her for her work. She likewise wanted to express her gratitude to them for their reciprocal dedication to protecting Hopkinton’s natural resources.
“I want to take this opportunity to personally thank the Conservation Commission for their hard work, professionalism, and the countless hours invested in ensuring the community thrives,” Ciaramicoli stressed. “Your contributions are greatly appreciated, and the Town of Hopkinton is very fortunate to have such a dedicated commission working on its behalf.”
Added Ciaramicoli: “As I transition to my next chapter in the private sector, I remain optimistic about the future of the town and confident in the continued dedication of those who will carry forward the work I’ve started. I look forward to
— Kim Ciaramicoli
seeing the positive changes and achievements that lie ahead.”
Town
manager lauds Ciaramicoli
Town Manager Elaine Lazarus commended Ciaramicoli for her professionalism, expertise and work ethic.
“I think we’ve all enjoyed working with Kim in Town Hall,” Lazarus said. “She is a wonderful resource and is very professional. Her technical knowledge is amazing.”
She added that everyone will miss “the dynamic energy she brought to the role.”
Lazarus, who also has served as assistant town manager and director of the town’s Land Use Department over the past two decades, has first-hand knowledge of the qualities that make a conservation administrator effective. One example she gave of Ciaramicoli’s expertise was the way she handled issues that have arisen with The Trails, a development project now in its fourth phase, that has been plagued with stormwater management problems over the past few years.
“One of the biggest challenges she handled was working with The Trails development,” Lazarus said. “She worked with them on stormwater management issues, pointing out where the design needed to be changed. She was able to work with the applicant, the Conservation Commission and Town Hall and navigate some difficult issues.”
Ciaramicoli was able to balance working with developers and the commission while doing extensive work out in the field, she added.
Ciaramicoli’s departure comes on the heels of the resignation of Jeff Barnes, the longtime chair of the Conservation Commission. While Lazarus admitted that this makes the situation a bit challenging, she spoke of the important work the Conservation Commission has done to protect Hopkinton’s open space while simultaneously allowing carefully planned development.
Said Lazarus: “It’s heartening to hear that, al-
Select Board reviews redaction policy draft
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Select Board at its meeting Aug. 27 sent a draft of a redaction policy back to town counsel for further tweaking after members offered suggestions for improvements.
Attorney Bryan Bertram prepared a seven-page document that outlined proposed internal guidelines and procedures governing the redaction and disclosure of town records. It provided for several levels of review and approval before a document is released to the public.
The impetus for this sprung from an improperly redacted report that failed to catch two references to identifying information about an alleged sexual assault survivor. This person accused former Hopkinton Police Deputy Chief John “Jay” Porter of raping her while she was a Hopkinton High School sophomore and he was the school resource officer. HPD Sgt. Tim Brennan later was fired for not revealing the information she told him to his supervisors, per department policy, although he insisted he was trying to protect the accuser and ensure she would not recant her accusation if forced to go public when she was not ready.
Immediately after the first night of the Loudermill hearing that determined Brennan’s ultimate termination, the improperly redacted report was published on
the HPD news blog and disseminated to the public via social media, causing an uproar and a call for a more stringent redaction policy.
Bertram apologized about the situation at a July Select Board meeting, particularly to the alleged survivor. While the town released the report when it did to increase transparency, several sets of eyes missed the two references.
This is the first time the town has considered adopting a policy of this kind.
Members provide input on policy draft
At this meeting, Bertram explained that he approached drafting the policy from the perspective that some employees “may not have a lot of experience doing this.”
“When I wrote it, I didn’t assume anything,” he said. “You try to break everything down into the discrete steps that you’d want to do.”
It provided a summary of what document reviewers should be looking for as well as a “one-stop shop” reference guide to the exemptions in the state’s public records law.
The document also provided helpful information
though the commission is sad about Jeff and Kim leaving, the members are optimistic about the future. People find opportunities for advancement, and then new people come in and add their skills.”
Ciaramicoli will be helping the commission during her transition, Lazarus confirmed. Ciaramicoli said at the Aug. 20 meeting that she plans on attending both meetings in September.
The conservation administrator position was posted on Aug. 22.
Added Lazarus: “This is an important position, so we would like to have it filled as soon as possible.”
Barnes’s resignation leaves a vacancy on the Conservation Commission. Lazarus said that an announcement will be issued soon, but interested people can apply via the application on the town website.
“If anyone is interested, they should feel free to call Kim or Anna [Rogers] to ask questions about what is involved in the role and the time commitment involved,” she said. Rogers is the town’s environmental and inspectional services coordinator who works closely with Ciaramicoli and the Conservation Commission.
“The work that the Conservation Commission is does is so important to our community,” Lazarus stressed, “whether it’s about individual lots or larger developments. The preservation of open space is crucial to the town.”
Antiques Purchased
Planning Board reviews tweaks to Charleswood School plans
By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer
The Planning Board tackled a packed agenda Aug. 19, reviewing some revisions to the new Charleswood School project and hearing a complex case for a subdivision off Benson Street that required a revision to a previous Planning Board decision made in 2006.
There was an overview of the plans for the proposed school, to be located at 147 Hayden Rowe Street, at the previous meeting. Principal Planner John Gelcich said the town is waiting to receive the peer reviews for the traffic plan, the engineering review and the stormwater management plan.
Chris Eberly, project manager for Vertex, the owner’s project manager, described an update to the plans for the 176,000-square-foot school for Grades 2-4. He said the team incorporated Planning Board and Conservation Commission meeting comments regarding parking and traffic flow.
In response to the need for parking and the Conservation Commission’s desire to protect abutting wetlands, the athletic field was “shifted slightly to the north” to completely remove it from the buffer zone of the southern wetland. This shift moved the pervious parking spaces to be located on one side of the field and impervious parking spaces on the other side, each with “about 40 spaces,” according to architect Daniel Colli.
“We felt strongly that with the comments we heard here and from what we know about future and potential growth, a little bit more parking near the school was appropriate,” he added.
Chair Rob Benson said he was concerned when he heard that the windows would only cover about 25% of the school’s wall space. The team noted that the project was designed to capture as much available sunlight as possible. Wall space also is important because teachers use it in their instructional plans, added Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh.
The board scheduled a site walk for Saturday, Aug. 24. It also voted 7-0 to continue the hearing for the site plan review and the stormwater management permit until the Sept. 9 meeting and the decision deadline until Sept. 16.
Benson Road proposed subdivision raises issues
Property owner Wayne Comeau’s proposal revolved around a parcel he owns to the south of his home at 0 Benson Road. In a 2006-07 subdivision project approved by the Planning Board at that time, he had agreed to donate this parcel to the Hopkinton Area Land Trust (HALT) in exchange for an extension of a dead-end road.
Joe Marquedant, who spoke on behalf of the applicant, said Comeau was in the process of donating the land to HALT in 2016. At that time, he said Comeau received a letter from HALT president Dave Goldman that HALT “was no longer interested in the land.” The two parties agreed that Comeau could get the land back if he made a $1,000 donation to HALT.
Because the lot doesn’t have a conservation restriction, Marquedant said Comeau’s understanding is that “this lot is a buildable lot.” To build on that lot, part of the Planning Board’s 2006 decision regarding the land donation would need to be reversed.
Comeau explained that he didn’t convey the land to HALT over a decade because “time got away” and he forgot. He said Goldman told him the 1.6 acres of land was no longer of use to the organization because it was “in the middle of nowhere” and released him from the agreement upon the $1,000 payment.
Member Jane Moran asked why the Planning Board was never consulted and stressed that Comeau originally said he had no intention to develop that land.
Comeau replied that his attorney said he could go through HALT. He added that he now wants to build on that land for additional income.
While board members agreed that the intent of the 2006 Planning Board was for conservation, discussion between two attorneys dominated the hearing. Joe Antonellis represented an abutter, while
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Donna Wolf represented Comeau. Antonellis said the donation of the land was a condition of the original agreement “for full conservation purposes” so that a dead-end street could be extended “under exceptional circumstances.” He questioned how the building permit for Comeau’s home could have been issued if all of the conditions had not been met after a decade.
He said the Comeaus are trying to “unjustly enrich themselves” by developing the parcel. As a land use lawyer, Antonellis said the Comeaus are bound by “a constructive trust” not to develop the land.
Wolf noted that Comeau has been paying property taxes on this land for years, and that “entitles him to use his land as he sees fit.” She said that the onus also was on HALT to pursue the situation over the 10-year period.
The board unanimously agreed to continue the hearing so that the previous documents could be reviewed.
The Trails proposes to remediate road damage
Peter Bemis, the engineer for The Trails, appeared before the board to present a plan to control the water flowing from the development onto Wilson Street. Now in its fourth phase of development, The Trails has been plagued by stormwater management issues for years that have negatively impacted Ashland’s water supply and prompted the Conservation Commission to assess fines.
Bemis and Vin Gately, the owner of The Trails, reiterated that they do not believe The Trails should be held totally responsible for all of the road damage. Bemis explained that a stretch of water flows from Legacy Farms North Road “without any drainage improvements for about 670 feet.” A stormwater basin exists at that point. He pointed out that this road has a country drainage system that he believes is insufficient.
Bemis showed an updated plan for the construction of a stone swale on the shoulder of the road that would extend about 785 feet, replacing the current gravel channel. Portions of the riprap channel would go down to 2 feet in the upper part and 3 feet in the lower part of the street to convey the water.
But because Wilson Street is “a very narrow road with country drainage,” installing this swale would take away the road’s shoulder, Bemis said.
Gelcich said that the plan had been reviewed by BETA Group, the town’s peer review consultant. BETA made comments and is awaiting a response from Bemis.
Gately told the board repeatedly that The Trails “should only be made responsible for our own flows” but not water flowing from upgradient land, as he said Kerry Reed, the Department of Public Works Director, believes.
Moran suggested that the original host community agreement be reviewed to see what it specified regarding drainage.
Gately noted that The Trails has been “a really good citizen to the town,” providing Hopkinton in 2023 with $3.5 million in tax revenue from its current 127 units. There will be 175 total units when this project phase is complete, units that he said require “very little town services.”
Benson said the parties involved need to come to a resolution, hopefully by the next meeting.
Added Benson: “We’re as anxious to get it off our agenda as you are to get it off your plate.”
Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week
Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 5-month-old Bob.
Here is Baypath’s description of Bob:
“Are you ready for a bundle of joy who’s brimming with energy and affection? Look no further than Bob! This young and spirited pup is the epitome of fun and enthusiasm, always eager for his next adventure.
“Bob is a social butterfly who thrives in the company of other dogs and adores spending time with people. His playful nature and affectionate personality make him the perfect companion for families, singles and everyone in between. Whether he’s frolicking at the park or snuggling on the couch, Bob’s zest for life is truly contagious.
“Training time? Bob is all in! He’s excited to learn and eager to please, making him a fantastic candidate for obedience training and fun new tricks. His energy is matched by his eagerness to bond, ensuring that every moment with him is filled with joy and laughter.
“If you’re looking for a devoted friend who will fill your days with endless fun and unconditional love, Bob is your guy. Come meet him today and see why he’s destined to be your new best friend!”
For more information about Bob 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.
Select Board reviews redaction policy draft
Redaction | from page 9
for reviewers, such as taking frequent breaks so that they are less likely to make a mistake or to review a document over several days.
One employee would be in charge of the redaction of a document to ensure that all the steps have been followed, providing accountability and a “level of discipline.”
“There are at least two sets of eyes on every redaction project,” Bertram added. There will be three checks before the actual redactions are made, and then a final check. A list of keywords would help people involved in the redaction process.
For lengthy or sensitive documents, additional features are put into play, including notifying the Town Manager’s Office. Layers of review can be added as deemed necessary.
Chair Brian Herr acknowledged the reasons behind the drafting of this document. He asked Bertram what it is different in terms of what was done or not done before.
“There was a lot of opportunity for people to catch the mistake,” conceded Bertram, “but not a lot of responsibility, if you will.
“In looking with a lot of humility and self-reflection on what happened the last time, I wrote this policy not only to implement the things that one would typically do when redacting, but to look at what went wrong previously and address it.”
He explained that the policy would apply to the law firm representing the town as well as town employees.
Board member Amy Ritterbusch noted that the term “sensitive records” was mentioned in the document several times, but the term was not defined.
Because there is a 10-day period to respond to public records requests, she questioned whether money should be budgeted for a dedicated employee to help process requests.
Due to the fluctuating nature of requests, Bertram suggested that the town may need to hire a temporary person on occasion to help, but he cautioned against the expense of a salaried employee.
Member Shahidul Mannan suggested that a flow chart be created to illustrate the steps involved. He also called for a way to categorize documents by levels of sensitivity so that people with higher levels of responsibility would be in charge of those documents and provide “additional scrutiny.”
Herr said a training program would need to be implemented for Town Hall employees.
He also mentioned a public records request brought up by resident Steve Snow during the public comment period. Snow said he has been waiting for months to have his request fulfilled.
Bertram said that request is taking longer to fill “because of email searches” and having to redact personal email addresses from documents.
Bertram will take the board’s suggestions and tweak the document so that it can be presented at the next meeting for a final review.
For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary. org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on X, @HopkintonPLMA.
Schedule Update
Beginning Sept. 8, the library will be open on Sundays from noon-4 p.m. On Sept. 8, the library will host a Sunday Sundae Social, featuring ice cream from noon-2 p.m. (while supplies last).
CreatorSpace Survey
Underway
Residents are invited to participate in a survey (forms.gle/ A9yK76q9TU5eGeys8) as the staff works toward bringing a CreatorSpace to the library. This survey is to help the library to understand what types of materials and equipment the community is most interested in having in a CreatorSpace. A CreatorSpace will be a room within the library that will be open to ages 10 and older (younger individuals will not be permitted to enter the room due to safety reasons).
Diversity Book Club
This passive “book club” is for all ages. Patrons can check out a book related to a theme and then engage in an at-home discussion activity. With National Public Lands Day on Sept. 28, this month’s theme is Our lands: Public lands through a diverse lens. Patrons can stop by the library lobby
anytime during the month to check out a themed title for adults, young adults and children.
Patanjali Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Mondays, Sept. 9 and 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The traditional style of beginner and intermediate yoga is open to ages 18 and older. No prior yoga experience is needed. Classes will focus on building strength in the core, balance in the body, and increasing flexibility and range of motion while incorporating breath awareness and mindfulness techniques. Participants should bring a yoga/exercise mat and water.
Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle
Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Participants are invited to bring their current project or pattern. This group is open to teens and adults of all skill levels. All fiber arts crafts (knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch, needle felting, etc.) are welcome. Anyone with questions should email Jak at jmiller@hopkintonma.gov.
Dungeons & Dragons Adult Group
Sundays, Sept. 15 and 29, 1-4 p.m.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first publication of Dungeons & Dragons. Dungeon master Keith Donohue grew up in the 1980s, back when D&D was first becoming popular. These days, he is an avid collector of old role-playing games and is a proponent of the loose, improvisational style of play that was common in the past.
Kids Creative Writing Club
Monday, Sept. 16, 4:15-5 p.m.
Children in Grades 3-5 will have fun exploring the world of writing, imagination and storytelling with their friends. Each meeting will include creative activities like interactive games, poetry prompts, group storytelling and more. This club meets every other week, alternating with Grade 3-5 Book Club.
Chat ’n’ Chew Book Club
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 12:30-2 p.m.
Instead of assigning a book for all participants to read, each person reviews something they read this month. All reviews of the books will be posted to Facebook to share with the Hopkinton reading community.
Over the Rainbow Book Group
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 12:45-2 p.m.
All adults are invited to join the group, which meets in the Ellsworth Room on the fourth Tuesday of each month unless otherwise noted. This group explores fiction and nonfiction work, written by LGBTQ+ authors
SENIOR SNIPPETS
or with LGBTQ+ themes. Copies of the titles to be discussed will be available at the Circulation Desk at least one month before each meeting. This month’s discussion is “The Paying Guests” by Sarah Waters.
Animanga
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6-7:30 p.m.
Anime and manga fans will meet in the Betty Strong Room to discuss manga, watch Crunchyroll, draw characters and eat fun snacks. This program is open to teens and pre-teens in Grade 6 and up. Note: In this program, participants may watch and/or discuss material that is rated TV-14 or unrated.
French Conversation Group
Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m.-noon
Participants in this weekly gathering will learn and practice the French language in an informal rendezvous facilitated by a licensed French teacher. Anyone with interest in the language and its associated cultures is welcome. All French proficiency levels are invited. The practice includes conversation, proficiency-appropriate reading, tabletop games, presentations and more. Registration opens Sept. 14.
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.
Our Time Memory Cafe at the Senior Center
Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 p.m.
This program is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. It’s a place to socialize, share experiences and form friendships, usually with live music and refreshments. This is a joint venture between the Hopkinton Senior Center and Hopkinton Public Library. For more information, call the Senior Center at 508-497-9730.
Senior Spirit Week
Monday-Friday, Sept. 9-13
Hopkinton celebrates National Senior Center Month by inviting residents to dress up during the Senior Center’s third annual Spirit Week, which each day having a different theme.
Monday: Comfy cozy — Pajamas, sweats, slippers, a robe, etc.;
Tuesday: Sports fanatic — Favorite sportswear to show team pride; Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday — Crazy hair, tie-dye, mismatched socks, clothes inside-out, or any fun and funky clothing choice;
Thursday: Hopkinton pride — Favorite Hopkinton Senior Center gear, or the Hopkinton colors of green and orange;
Friday: Tie-dye disco fever Friday — Favorite tie-dye patterns, which can be worn at the center’s Dance Like Nobody’s Watching afternoon party in the Great Room.
Crafts with Deb
Monday, Sept. 16, 9:30 a.m.
No prior craft experience is needed. Participants will learn how to make a fun fall craft. Those interested can check out the full project display in the Senior Center lobby to see what will be made. Some projects may require basic sewing skills. Advance registration is required because space is limited.
Senior Services Needs Assessment Findings
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 5 p.m.
The findings of the Hopkinton’s Senior Services needs assessment, done in collaboration with UMass Boston’s Department of Gerontology, is completed and will be presented to the public. This process was started more than a year ago to identify current and long-term needs of residents aged 55 and over in Hopkinton. The program will be recorded by HCAM.
Hopkinton Repair Fair
Saturday, Sept. 28, 9 a.m.-noon
The fourth annual Hopkinton Repair Fair is a free community event where people can bring items that don’t work right — such as small appliances, dull knives, books that need rebinding, clothing that needs work, etc. — and volunteers help repair them. Individuals must remain on site while their item is repaired and should bring necessary replacement parts if applicable, or be prepared to run out to a hardware store. Anyone interested in volunteering as a helper or fixer should call the Senior Center at 508-497-9730.
Hopkinton Vision Center offers personalized eye care for 25 years
The motto for Hopkinton Vision Center is “a small local office with a big heart.” And according to Steven Perryman, O.D., who owns the practice, that philosophy is something patients experience daily.
“What sets us apart is we have people who answer the phone, people who are happy to answer questions, and people who help patients pick out glasses,” said Perryman. “We offer more immediate, more personal care. Since I am not overbooked, I can spend more time with patients and take emergency cases, both aspects of the practice that I enjoy.”
Established 25 years ago, Hopkinton Vision offers a full line of optometry services including comprehensive eye examinations, contact ordering and fitting, fashion frames with quality lenses and emergency care. Unique to the office is its focus on helping patients with dry eyes.
About a decade ago, Perryman realized no one locally was taking the ailment of chronic dry eye seriously.
“Dry eye can range from a mild irritation to severe burning and very red eyes,” he said. “The pain can run from being irritating to making a patient feel miserable.”
Perryman said as he saw more dry eye patients, “I decided to become better educated about the ailment, exploring better ways to treat it and working to help find the underlying causes. I wanted to know why it happens and how to treat it.” He noted many patients who used Accutane to treat acne as teens experience dry eye 20 to 30 years later since the drug dries up glands around the eye as well as on the face.
Hopkinton Vision now has a variety of treatment plans and specialized equipment for those suffering from chronic dry eye.
“We get referrals from a lot of local physicians. Dry eye cases make up 20 percent of our business,” said Perryman. “I really enjoy helping patients find relief from this ailment. It is rewarding to see the results of our treatment.”
That focus on patient care also is the reason Perryman decided to stop taking specialized vision insurance.
“The specialized plans began taking control and limiting what we could do for patients,” said Perryman. “And I found I was spending most of my time with my back to the patient filling in boxes on a computer form instead of
talking with people and discussing what they needed.”
The office still takes normal health insurance, with most policies offering coverage for annual exams and other services.
A native of Acushnet, Perryman graduated in 1998 from the New England School of Optometry and a year later began working part time at Hopkinton Vision Center. Welcomed by the community, he went full time in 2003 and continued to grow the practice, buying the current office at 10 Cedar Street in 2011. He and his wife have raised their two sons in Hopkinton, since the town “feels like the place where we belong.”
To learn more about Hopkinton Vision Center, visit HopkintonVision.com or call 508-435-4711.
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Besides offering a variety of optometry services from eye exams to contact fitting, Steven Perryman of Hopkinton Vision Center specializes in treating patients with chronic dry eye. He is pictured with some of the equipment he uses for the treatments.
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Troop 4 Scouts brave New Mexico wilderness at Philmont
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
Fortwo weeks this summer, a group of Hopkinton Boy Scouts put their survival and leadership skills to the test as they trekked the mountains of the southwestern United States.
The small crew of Scouts from Troop 4 Hopkinton spent 12 days at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, from the end of July to the beginning of August. The group of 10 youth and three advisors hiked a total of 70 miles.
“[Going on this trip was] probably one of the best choices I’ve made in my life,” said Harrison Gu, a Life Scout.
Gu and the other crew members had been planning for this trek for several years. Troop 4 commits to a regular trip to Philmont every three years, and there are plans to return to the ranch in 2027.
Philmont is the the largest high-adventure base for the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Established in 1938, it features over 140,000 acres of mountain wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains. Elevations range between 6,500 to 12,441 feet.
The Troop 4 members who trekked Philmont are: holding flag (from left), Kul Thapa, Charusmitha Ram, Matt Delprete and Harrison Gu; back row (from left), Colin Stacey, Lucas Reed, Sam Peace, Cooper Dold, Breandan Cole, Alvin Zhong, Owen Bayes, Peter Recos and Fred Chaloux.
fall fun
Because of the hike’s many challenges, the crew needed to train and prepare for what lay ahead.
“We had to do a couple of hikes with our bags fully packed to get used to the weight,” said Brendean Cole, another member of the crew. “We did a two-day backpacking trip to prepare as well.”
The boys were tasked with choosing the trail they took through Philmont as well as daily activities. The crew had opportunities to participate in various programs at each base camp along the trail.
“A list of activities was published along with the itineraries [they chose from],” said Charusmitha Ram, Troop 4 assistant scoutmaster. She was one of three advisors on the trip.
“We did things like fly fishing and climbing,” said Life Scout Sam Peace.
“There was also rifle shooting, horseback riding and gold panning,” added Gu. “We did a lot of things.”
Cole, Peace, and Gu served as leaders for their crew during the trip. Cole was selected as the crew leader, while Peace took on the role of chaplain’s aide.
Cole’s main duties centered on setting pace and delegating duties. He set times for the crew to wake up and be ready, as well
as dealing with logistical concerns.
“I had the map, so I was kind of in charge of navigation also,” said Cole. “But I asked other Scouts to help out with that, too.”
As the chaplain’s aide, Peace took charge of saying grace before meals and leading daily reflections with crew members.
“People say that Philmont is a spiritual experience, and those [reflections] were a really important part of it,” Peace said.
Gu functioned as the crew’s “Wilderness Guia,” whose role it was to help fellow Scouts understand Philmont’s Wilderness Pledge and BSA’s Leave No Trace principles.
“It was challenging, but I had to endure it,” said Gu.
Gu led fellow crew members in a small conservation project. During their hike, the boys could complete three hours of conservation work to earn Philmont’s Wilderness Pledge Achievement.
The Scouts helped clear part of a trail that was under construction. They widened out and expanded the trail and removed some brush.
“It made us realize how important it was to conserve a trail,” said Gu. “It was really hard.”
When reflecting on their trip, each Scout had a different part of the experience resonate with them. However, they all agreed that the views on the trail were particularly memorable.
“The views here are nothing like out there,” said Peace.
“It was the first time I’ve ever seen the Milky Way,” added Cole. They also appreciated the bonding they experienced as a crew over the course of their 12-day trek.
Said Gu: “We bonded so much, it was so fun.”
BUSINESS
Dream homes fulfilled at Baycraft Construction and Design
Most homeowners have a wish list for home improvement projects. Some envision the details like the builtins, while others have only a general idea like a modern look. In certain cases, the dreams are for a whole new place instead. As people have been spending more time at home, many are turning their visions into reality to better enjoy their living space.
Martin and Alan Brennan, brothers who run Baycraft Construction and Design, get immense satisfaction in making those dreams come true.
“When the project is complete and the client is happy, you feel good about how much they appreciate it, about the accomplishment and how it came together,” said Martin.
Baycraft does additions and remodeling work, including kitchen and bathroom makeovers, as well as new construction.
“If you have an architect, we’ll work with them, or our team will work with you to create the plans,” said Alan. “We work with specialists we trust so we can produce high-quality results in every area.”
Added Martin: “Communication is most important for us. We ensure we understand the customer and they understand what the project entails so they get what they want. You don’t want to learn partway through that your foundation won’t support the work, or your water line’s insufficient. With us, the goal is to
be on the same page from day one, and then daily as the project proceeds, with status updates and plans for next steps. People really appreciate that.”
Customers David and Emily R. confirmed the value of that approach.
“We needed more space, and Baycraft delivered with a seamless addition that blends perfectly with our existing home,” they shared. “Their team was meticulous in the planning and execution, making sure every detail was just right. The final result is better than we could have imagined.”
Though the Brennans have been in the industry for over 30 years, that feeling of satisfaction never gets old.
“We’re from Ireland,” said Martin,
BAYCRAFT
CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
We are an Irish family business with 30+ years of experience in all aspects of construction. Let us help you get your next home project done and done correctly. You will find us reasonably priced and professional to work with. Our team is tried and tested.
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Homeowners happy with Baypath Construction’s renovation and new building work make owners Alan and Martin Brennan smile.
still sporting a bit of a brogue. “We started there, then branched out in Europe, worked on the West Coast and settled in the Boston area.”
The experience in different locales has helped in communicating with a variety of clients. In Europe, Alan became an accomplished carpenter, providing
custom finishes for a unique and elegant look using clamps and glue rather than visible nails.
As for recent trends, Martin said, “We’ve been making more open kitchen plans, with fewer walls and more support beams. Clients are also looking for cleaner designs like Scandinavian style, and want more robust insulation, and to avoid materials that off gas. Additions for parents moving in or students returning home after college are also popular.”
When they aren’t working together, Alan and Martin like traveling with their families, and they enjoy golfing.
Said Martin, “Alan would like to beat me on the course, but that’s more of a dream than a reality.”
More information can be found at BayCraftConstructions.com. Anyone interested in discussing a remodeling or new construction project can call 617922-3435 or email Alan@BayCraftConstructions.com.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.
Select Board voices support for International Marathon Center
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
The Select Board at its Aug. 27 meeting voiced its unanimous support for the International Marathon Center project.
At the meeting, members of the 26.2 Foundation and Scott Richardson, the project’s architect, presented updates to the center and its next steps.
Richardson, of Hopkinton-based Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects, walked the board through the vision of the proposed facility. He explained the International Marathon Center (IMC) would feature exhibit areas, multi-use spaces for rental and activities, a 250seat theater and educational rooms focused on health, wellness and fitness.
He also suggested the facility could serve as a trail hub, connecting trails running north and south through town.
According to Richardson, the center would be a “world-class facility dedicated to telling the history of the marathon around the world.”
Tim Kilduff, president of the 26.2 Foundation, stressed to the board that while the Boston Marathon would be
featured at the IMC, it would not be its sole focus.
“We’re not just talking about one marathon,” he said. “We’re talking about going all the way back to 490 B.C.”
The plans for the center include tracing the history of the sport — from its roots in the Battle of Marathon to the first Olympics and into modernity — throughout its exhibits.
The project is estimated to cost $35 million. Kilduff insisted all the funds would be raised privately. His foundation continues to court private and institutional donors.
The Select Board appeared enthusiastic about the latest update to the project.
“I love it,” said chair Brian Herr. “It’s a great opportunity not only for Hopkinton, but for MetroWest and Massachusetts as well.”
Vice chair Shahidul Mannan and member Joe Clark offered support to Kilduff and his team, should they need it.
Member Mary-Jo LaFreniere advocated for spreading the word about the
This rendering shows the planned design for the International Marathon Center, which is to be located off East Main Street.
Upton man dies during fishing trip at Whitehall
22.
Shaw | from page 1
The fundraiser notes that Shaw had been battling brain cancer.
“Nick fought the absolute strongest fight since Day 1 of brain cancer; never letting his illness define him,” the fundraising appeal reads. “In true Nick fashion, he set his goals high, tackled every appointment and therapy, headon, with grace and gratitude.
“Nick showed up for everyone he loved, especially, his wife and children. Nick was the best dad and most supportive husband, always making sure his family was well taken care of. Nick shared his love of the outdoors with his family spending much of their free time hiking, fishing, boating, watching wildlife visitors on their trail cam and sitting in their yard enjoying his grass lines. Do we all remember the time he
during a fatal incident at Lake
hiked 1.5 miles only three days post-op from craniotomy #2?! Strong, brave, and courageous doesn’t even seem to do him justice.
“The Shaws are some of the strongest people you’ll ever encounter, but even the strongest people need support. Nick’s sudden passing leaves his family with several unanticipated costs on top of navigating life without him.”
According to his obituary, Shaw had worked as a virtual design and construction (VDC) manager at the WhitingTurner Contracting Company. He was diagnosed with Grade 4 astrocytoma, an aggressive and terminal form of brain cancer, in January of 2022 after suffering severe headaches.
A visitation was held Aug. 30 at a funeral home in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, the city in which Shaw was born.
center as wide as possible.
“We need to let marathoners everywhere know this is happening, and it’s happening for them,” she said.
Kilduff lays out wider vision
In an interview with the Independent, Kilduff went into greater detail about the IMC project.
While the presentation to the Select Board was meant to “reorient” the members to the IMC’s size and scope, it also was what Kilduff described as the beginning of a longer process.
“We want to create a channel of communication, especially as we start to talk about going through permitting,” he explained.
The 26.2 Foundation hopes to initiate the permitting process in the next few months, Kilduff shared. There also is due diligence needed to be done on the property. He reported there are some issues on-site that his team is working to resolve.
The foundation has leased 19 acres from the town on East Main Street, just before Weston Nurseries and the Spirit of the Marathon statue. It is about a halfmile from the Boston Marathon start line (next to the Town Common).
Kilduff’s vision of the center is a
facility that would attract visitors not for just one month, but year-round.
“We’re looking at building programs that bring people here 12 months out of the year,” he said.
He believes the IMC would boost Hopkinton’s economy “across the board.” He pointed to numbers from the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau that indicate an increase in tourism to the MetroWest area in recent years.
Further data provided by Kilduff and the 26.2 Foundation discuss both direct and indirect economic impacts. He stated that this data was under review still, and that the foundation hoped to have a more comprehensive economic report in the coming months.
Kilduff expressed optimism about the project’s timeline. The foundation projects a public phase of fundraising next year, along with the finalization of permitting and land surveyance.
“Having the groundbreaking next year would be ideal,” he added.
The foundation anticipates the IMC’s doors will open two years after ground is broken. It would open in 2027 if work began on the facility next year.
Kilduff and his team hope to “build a center of excellence designed to honor, celebrate and inspire the power of the human spirit” through marathoning.
“This is a global institution we’re trying to build,” he said.
Emergency personnel stand ready to assist
Whitehall on Aug.
PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO
ZAC votes to move South Street rezoning proposal forward
By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer
At the Aug. 26 Zoning Advisory Committee meeting, members discussed an updated proposal for rezoning parcels on South Street and voted to move it forward.
Scott Richardson of Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects presented a revised proposal for rezoning 66-70 South Street from residential lakefront property to rural business. He spoke on behalf of Marguerite Concrete, the company looking to develop the properties. Marguerite Concrete’s initial rezoning proposal was rejected at Town Meeting in 2023.
The proposed commercial property would be a three-story, 8,000-square-foot building with 80 parking spaces. It would have one entrance and exit onto South Street.
According to Richardson, the land behind the building would be donated to the town and left as natural plantings. An earthen berm along the rear of the property and “substantial plantings” would be part of the design.
Included in the proposal was a 10-foot buffer strip along Hayward Street. “It would remain as lakefront residential,” Richardson explained. He anticipated the buffer strip would prohibit a future connection onto Hayward Street.
Richardson went on to discuss common inquiries his team
has received about the plan. These included questions about use of the building and vehicle traffic. He reiterated that concrete trucks would only be on the property during construction.
“This is strictly office use, which is why we’re proposing rural business and not industrial,” said Richardson.
After Richardson’s presentation, Zoning Advisory Committee (ZAC) chair Ted Barker-Hook set parameters for discussion from board members and residents, stating he “would love not to rehash earlier comments.”
As well, he expressed intent to hold a vote on the proposal that night. ZAC members agreed to the terms.
This rendering provided by Marguerite Concrete shows the newly proposed plan for the development of the company’s headquarters at the corner of South Street and Hayward Street.
members that the committee’s power in making a decision on this application was limited.
“Our only power is to recommend whether the Planning Board can have this discussion,” he said. “There are many, many steps between now and anything happening to that land.”
Once public comment was closed, the committee voted 4-1 to move Marguerite Concrete’s application to the Planning Board stage. Member Vikasith Pratty recused himself due to his status as an abutter to the South Street property.
MBTA Act options discussed
Members of the committee focused on discussing the proposed Hayward Street buffer. Their concerns centered on whether the commitment to maintain it as residential could be undone if the owner decided they wanted a driveway onto Hayward Street.
“If [the strip] remains residential, does that make it ironclad, or does it just make it harder to put a driveway in?” Barker-Hook asked.
John Gelcich, the town’s principal planner, explained that an open space donation would prevent a driveway onto Hayward Street being installed.
Jim Marguerite, who was in attendance, stated that he had no issue with donating the strip of land to the town. He is the current owner of the property.
Gelcich brought the committee up to speed on zoning options that could meet requirements of the MBTA Communities Act.
He first explained how the proposed downtown district had been expanded since their previous discussions.
It now includes the Domino’s Pizza and Santander Bank buildings on Main Street, along with a small lot on Cedar Street and a vacant parcel behind Town Hall.
“It’s just to grab a little bit more area to see if we can get over the 50-acre requirement with a second, smaller sub-district,” said Gelcich.
Further discussion by members explored the legal framework for preserving the land on Hayward Street and how the applicant could enter into agreements with the town to protect the space. Richardson explained that Marguerite was open to arranging these agreements as part of the development process.
During the public comment period, residents expressed confusion over why the rezoning application was brought back to ZAC in the first place.
Residents at the ZAC meeting suggested Marguerite consider leasing space from other businesses on South Street. They cited concerns over wildlife, increases in traffic and housing shortages as reasons the committee should deny the rezoning request.
Richardson responded to residents’ concerns about the renewed application.
“The previous application was rushed,” Richardson explained. “We have rethought a more optimal use and development of the property.”
“It got through to Town Meeting through citizen petition,” said Barker-Hook, adding context. “It was never presented to ZAC and the Planning Board, and had very little support by the town.”
Richardson went on to explain that the construction company feels a new development is the best option available.
“They’re looking for owner-occupied, not a lease,” said Richardson. “The other buildings are not appropriate for their needs.”
David Click, Marguerite’s lawyer, explained that the new rezoning request would seek to address residents’ concerns. He reiterated that things like traffic studies and environmental impact reports would be part of the process.
“We want to take as many unknowns out of the equation as possible,” said Click.
Planning board member Parker Happ, speaking as a member of the public, was critical of the notion of rezoning the lot in the first place.
Showing maps pulled from the archives of the Harvard Map Collection, Happ argued that a possible decision to rezone made no sense historically.
“In rezoning this, the board is going against over 100 years of conventional wisdom, and at least 57 years of conventional planning history,” said Happ.
Barker-Hook reiterated to Happ and fellow ZAC
He then demonstrated a model that showed how three proposed districts — downtown, Indian Brook Condominiums and Walcott Valley — could be adjusted to meet the state’s requirements.
According to Gelcich, the state requires MBTA community districts to be a minimum of 50 acres and have a 750-unit capacity with 15 units per acre.
The committee discussed the feasibility of each district. Most of the members agreed that a proposal that relied on two districts would be ideal.
“Having to convince the voters on two districts instead of three potentially would have a higher chance of passing,” said member Sam Sader.
Others lamented the lack of what they perceived as good options to meet the state’s requirements.
“While we can get the numbers with Indian Brook, it’s a lousy location,” said Barker-Hook. He cited lack of connection to buses and a likely increase in traffic as reasons to discount it as a district.
Members brought up other properties that could be zoned for inclusion in the project. Gelcich mentioned the Carbone’s property and neighboring parcels at 2 Akins Road and 278 Cedar Street.
Carbone’s would provide the proposed plan with 10 acres, while Akins Road and Cedar Street would offer 4.7 and 15.7 acres, respectively.
“I don’t know if all those would be able to be counted, though,” cautioned Gelcich.
During public comment, Planning Board chair Rob Benson cautioned putting together a proposal that would see the chosen districts developed quickly.
“If we put a proposal [out] that 750 units could be developed in five years, I don’t think the town would vote for it,” said Benson.
Other members wondered about the possibility of not putting a plan forward at all, given potential pushback from residents.
“Our charge is to come up with a plan that complies with the law,” Barker-Hook asserted. “If the voters choose to vote against it and roll the dice against complying, that’s up to them.”
The committee decided to evaluate the other available options before finalizing a plan. Gelcich agreed to prepare two plans — one involving the downtown district and Indian Brook, the other with Walcott, Carbone’s and its neighbors — for review at the next meeting.
obituaries
Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.
Nancy Hackett
Nancy A. Hackett (Gallagher) passed away peacefully on Aug. 18 in Methuen at the age of 77. Born on March 7, 1947, raised in Cochituate and Hopkinton, she was a testament to the strength that defines a life well lived around family.
Nancy’s early years were spent in Cochituate, later moving to Hopkinton, where she formed lifelong friendships and memories. She graduated from Hopkinton High School. Nancy’s path in life was shaped by love, learning and a dedication to family, which was evident in every choice she made. In the mid 1960s, Nancy married David Gorman, and together they built a life while David was serving in the United States Navy. They were assigned to various naval bases on the East Coast, the last being South Weymouth Navy Air Station. Nancy was a devoted mother to her daughters, Kelly and Carrie. In 1988, David passed away. Nancy returned to the workforce as a member of the Babson College Telecommunications Department (Babtelco). This is where she met Jay Hackett, who was working in the Babson Department of Public Safety. In 1994, she married Jay, who took on the role of the loving father. She cherished her role as a grandmother, sharing her warmth and wisdom with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jay, of Milton, her daughters, Kelly Masciarelli and husband Lou of Bellingham, and Carrie Gorman of Concord, New Hampshire, and was “Gramma” to USMC Cpl. David Masciarelli of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and Alannah Masciarelli of Bellingham, who will forever hold her in their hearts.
She also is survived by her siblings, Dorothy and husband Michael Greeley, Joseph and wife Linda Gallagher, Ruth Rich and Helen Gallagher. She was predeceased by sister Maryann Gallagher and brother John Gallagher Jr. Her extended family includes many loving nieces and nephews who were touched by her wisdom and love.
Her interests reflected her love for the beauty of nature and the depth of her familial bonds. Nancy found great joy in spending time at her condo in Intervale, New Hampshire, overlooking Cathedral Ledge and the Mount Washington Valley. Having coffee at Jackson Falls was always a special treat. Doing a puzzle by the fireplace was a winter tradition. Above all, Nancy loved her children and grandchildren with a passion that infused every aspect of her life.
Described by those who knew her as a force to be reckoned with, she was never shy to express her opinion.
Nancy’s life was a tapestry of relationships and experiences, each thread woven with care and intention, much like the quilts that were given to her by her daughter Carrie. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire and guide those closest to her. Her laughter, her wisdom and her spirit will be deeply missed.
As Nancy’s family and friends bid her farewell, they take solace in knowing that her journey was one of profound love. She will be remembered not only for the life she led but also for the lives she touched. Nancy Hackett’s memory will be cherished, her influence lasting, and her spirit forever a beacon of love and kindness.
We would like to thank the first responder
community that helped Nancy: NH 911, New Hampshire State Police, Salem Police, Salem Fire & Rescue and ER staff at Holy Family Hospital. A celebration of life will take place at a later date in New Hampshire.
Rose Crettien
Rose Crettien, 74, of Hopkinton died Aug. 25 surrounded by her loving family after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born Oct. 6, 1949, in Winthrop. She was the daughter of the late Frances Kanegis and Irving Steinberg. She is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Philippe Crettien, daughter Chloe Crettien of Portland, Maine, as well as son Miles Crettien, daughter-in-law Jennifer Crettien and grandson Elijah Crettien of Kingston, New York. She also is survived by sister Lynda “Marla” Miller and brother-in-law Andy Miller of Framingham. Rose was a passionate and talented educator, cook and gardener with profound respect for all living things. She had a quick wit and ridiculous sense of humor. She is infinitely loved.
Public services will be held Saturday, Sept. 7, from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe Street.
Donna Baldwin
Donna Marie Irvine Baldwin, 75, formerly of Hopkinton, passed away Aug. 1 at her home in Kinston, North Carolina. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert L. and Ruth C. Irvine, longtime Hopkinton residents, and her sister, Ruth C. Taylor.
Donna attended Emerson College in Boston and St. Joseph School of Nursing in Nashua, New Hampshire. She enjoyed walking, running, swimming and hiking, where she could be outdoors. Donna was an insurance agent in Hillsboro, New Hampshire, for 25 years. At age 50, she attended nursing school and received her LPN (nursing license). Her passion for caring for the elderly took her to retirement homes and rehabilitation facilities. Donna loved her community of Hillsboro. Throughout the years, she volunteered in many ways. She was the chair for the Balloon Festival for several years, the first woman president of the New Hampshire Lions Club in Hillsboro and a member of the school board for several terms. She loved traveling. She and her husband, Richard, made many cruises, including to the Mediterranean. Trips also included Europe, England and Alaska. She spent her winters from 2005-21 in Apollo Beach, Florida, where she also volunteered in her community. In 2021, she moved to Kinston, North Carolina, where she loved to spend time tending the flowers and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. Donna will be remembered for her smile, easy laugh and the mischievous twinkle in her eyes. We will miss her warmth, love and the way she brought us all together.
Donna is survived by her husband, Richard S. Baldwin; daughter Michele L. Greene and husband James Greene Jr.; son Shawn M. Stevens and wife Jennifer Stevens; grandchildren Meghan E. Whiteside, Amber M. Stevens, Brittany A. Greene, Hunter S. Stevens and Kyle J. Greene; great-grandchildren
Wyatt Whiteside, Bailey S. Stevens and Laney B. Whiteside; siblings Albert L. Irvine Jr., Karen A. Garbarino, Debby L. Schmitz and Kelly A. Irvine, along with many other close family members and friends.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Hillsboro, New Hampshire, on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. Interment will be held at Maple Avenue Cemetery in Hillsboro. A celebration of life will be held at Stonewall Farm B&B on Windsor Road in Hillsboro following the services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s Skip Curtis Fund for Alzheimer’s Research. Gifts can be made online or mailed to: Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Attention: Emily Lewis, Robinson Building 7800, 72 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118.
Robert Parent
Robert M. Parent, 90, died Aug. 18 at home in Holliston after a period of declining health. He was the loving husband of Cecilia (Malinowski) Parent, to whom he was married for 67 years. Born in Fort Benning, Georgia, he was the son of the late Louis and Carmen (Murray) Parent.
Bob grew up in Odenton, Maryland, and graduated from Calvert Hall College High School in 1951. After high school, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Loyola University in Maryland. He worked as a vice president for Honeywell, followed by serving as director for the Conference Board in New York. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having attained the rank of lieutenant. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Susan Frechette and husband Chris of Gaithersburg, Maryland, Carol Gebhardt and husband Steve of Westminster, Maryland, and Nancy Mayo of Holliston (who has worked at the Michael Lisnow Respite Center in Hopkinton for many years). He also leaves nine grandchildren, Elizabeth, Anna, Samantha, Sean, Olivia, Jake, Zach, Katie and Ray, and four great-grandchildren, Adelaide, Colton, Parker and Riley. Bob is predeceased by his son-in-law Scott Mayo.
Bob was an avid tennis player and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was never at a loss for sound advice and sharing his countless ideas. Bob’s highest priorities in life were his faith in God and the love for his wife and family. Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the Callanan Cronin Funeral Home in Hopkinton, are private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Odenton Heritage Society in Odenton, Maryland.
Calendar
To submit an item for the Hopkinton Independent calendar section, email the information to editor@HopkintonIndependent.com. Submissions should be limited to 100 words and are subject to editing by the HI staff.
Trail Volunteer Day at Fruit Street Sept. 7
The Hopkinton Trails Committee and the Hopkinton Trails Club have created a monthly trail volunteer day on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m.-noon. The next workday is Sept. 7 at the Fruit Street Athletic Complex. Volunteers will remove invasive Japanese knotweed. Parking is available at the Fruit Street parking area, by the turf and grass fields. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Hopkinton PolyArts Festival at Town Common Sept. 7
The 49th annual Hopkinton PolyArts Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 7, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Town Common. Proceeds fund multiple scholarships for Hopkinton graduates majoring or minoring in the arts. For details, visit cozzens.net/polyarts.
Blooms, Brews & BBQs at Weston Nurseries Sept. 7
The annual Blooms, Brews & BBQs event will be held Saturday, Sept. 7, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Weston Nurseries (93 East Main Street), raising money for the Jimmy Fund at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. There will be local bands, barbecue food, ice cream and alcoholic beverages. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit westonnurseries.com.
Ashland-Hopkinton Porchfest Sept. 7
Ashland-Hopkinton Porchfest, a grassroots community music festival, is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7, from 2-6 p.m. The event features free musical performances at front porches of homes in Hopkinton and Ashland, with a community finale at 6:30 p.m. at Ashland’s Corner Spot. For more information, including a listing of performance locations, visit ashhopporchfest.org.
Women’s Club Charity Golf Event Sept. 9
The Hopkinton Charity Golf Event, sponsored by the Hopkinton Women’s Club, is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 9, at Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge. The event starts at 8:30 a.m. and includes lunch and a silent/live auction. The fee is $160 per golfer, which includes greens fees, a cart and lunch. Non-golfers can join the lunch for a $45 donation. For more information, including sponsorship options, visit hopgolfcharity.com.
Trails Club Monthly Meeting Sept. 11
The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month to plan activities and discuss trails-related matters. The meetings are open to all, and anyone with an interest is encouraged to attend. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Hopkinton Family Day at HMS fields Sept. 14
Hopkinton Family Day, a community event featuring live entertainment, games, activities and food trucks, and topped off with a fireworks display, is set to return Sept. 14 on the fields behind Hopkinton Middle School. The event, which runs from 2-9 p.m., is sponsored by many generous local businesses. Town organizations, nonprofits, clubs and businesses located in town offer activities for everyone. All activities (not including the food trucks) are free for the whole family. For more information, including how to participate as a sponsor or town organization, visit the Friends of Hopkinton website at friendsofhopkinton.org.
Trails Club Walk at Legacy Farms North Sept. 15
The Hopkinton Trails Club will host a group walk on the Legacy Farms North trail on Sunday, Sept. 15, at 1 p.m. This trail tour will route up to the State Park and back. For more information, visit hopkintontrailsclub.com.
Women’s Club Monthly Meeting Sept. 16
The Hopkinton Women’s Club will host its next monthly meeting on Monday, Sept. 16, in the large event room at the Hopkinton Public Library. The program portion of the meeting is open to the public and begins at 11 a.m. The program topic is Dignity Matters, a nonprofit organization that collects, purchases and supplies menstrual products, bras and underwear to women and girls who are homeless or disadvantaged. New members from Hopkinton and surrounding communities are always welcome. For more information, check the club’s website at hopkintonwomensclub.org or email HopWCMembership@gmail.com.
Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk Oct. 6
Registration is open for the 36th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 6. Funds raised are donated to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk features four distances, from the full marathon (starting in Hopkinton) to a 5K. To register or to support a walker, visit JimmyFundWalk. org or call 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for a $5 discount off the registration fee. All registered participants will receive a bib, medal and T-shirt.
Michael’s Run 5K for Respite Center Oct. 12
The 25th annual Michael’s Run, a 5K run/walk to benefit the Michael Lisnow Respite Center, will be held Saturday, Oct. 12. The race starts and ends at the Town Common. On-site registration opens at 8 a.m., and the race
Calling all singers (and people who love to listen to people sing)! Open Mic is an excellent way for singers to put themselves in front of a very supportive and fun crowd and to learn by watching other singers—$10 at the door. HCA Members attend for free. About our hosts: Lady Stardust features two unique voices and two guitars with sisters Sarah and Josie Thompson. The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Linda Ronstadt, and more influenced original music and covers. Take a musical journey with Lady Stardust!
Sunday Jazz Jam | Sept. 8 | 11 a.m.
Please grab a cup of coffee and join us in our barn loft for an hour-long concert by the MetroWest Jazz Project, followed by a public jam session. The MetroWest Jazz Project is a collaboration of jazz musicians playing acoustic contemporary jazz featuring the unique sound of the vibraphone. The jam session welcomes amateurs and professionals of all ages and talents. It is a FREE event, but donations are appreciated.
starts at 10. The family event includes food, music, crafts and games. For more information or to register online, visit hopkintonrespite.org.
Farmers Market at Town Common Through Oct. 13
The Hopkinton Farmers Market returns to the Town Common on Sundays from 1-5 p.m., starting June 9 and running through Oct. 13. The market features local fresh food, craft beverages, organic produce, flowers, handmade products, live music and activities. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers again will receive a $10 incentive for a $10 purchase, and there will be Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) benefits as well. For information, including a list of vendors, music and activities, visit hopkintonfarmersmarket.com.
Veterans Breakfast First Friday of Each Month
The Veterans Breakfast is held on the first Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at the Hopkinton Senior Center. In July, and if the first Friday of the month is a holiday or snow day, the breakfast switches to the second Friday. No registration is required. For more information, contact Amy Beck at the Senior Center, 508-497-9730.
Al-Anon Weekly Meetings Thursdays
Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend a confidential Al-Anon meeting, which takes place every Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. at the meeting room in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (61 Wood Street). For more information, visit al-anon.org or call 888-4AL-ANON.
Bob Malone Live In Concert September 13 | 8 p.m.
Called a “keyboard wizard” by The New Yorker and “a genre-crossing master” by the Tallahassee Democrat, singer/ songwriter/pianist Bob Malone has amassed a loyal international fan base through 25 years of touring and nine critically-acclaimed album releases. He played keyboards for John Fogerty for 14 years and has been a session player for Ringo Starr and Avril Lavigne.
Byrne:Kozar:Duo
September 22 | 3 p.m.
Created by New York City and Boston-based soprano Corrine Byrne and trumpeter Andy Kozar, the Byrne:Kozar:Duo presents historically informed performances of Baroque music for natural trumpet and soprano and commissions new works for modern trumpet and soprano. They have been said to create “an arresting symbiosis in their melding of voice and trumpet timbres” (Textura) and that the “trumpet and voice seem to take on one another’s qualities” (Bandcamp Daily).
First Friday Open Mic with Lady Stardust | Sept. 6 | 8 p.m.
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Hopkinton welcomes new school administrators
McDonough shifts to HMS assistant principal
Lauren McDonough is a familiar face at Hopkinton Middle School, having worked as a teacher in all three grades for related arts, digital literacy, media literacy and sixth grade English since 2015.
Now the new HMS assistant principal, McDonough said she is excited to work with families in a different capacity. She comes to the position with an appreciation for the district and community.
“Hopkinton has the best families, the most hard-working students and greatest teachers,” she said, making it an easy decision to transition from teacher to administrator.
After receiving her undergraduate degree in English/creative writing, McDonough earned her master’s in education from Framingham State University with a focus on curriculum and instruction technology.
In addition, she completed 500 hours of coursework and an internship at HMS through the Massachusetts Schools Administrators’ Association Leadership Licensure Program this past year.
McDonough sees the role of assistant principal as a support person for students, providing guidance as they “navigate moments,” and as someone kids can trust.
Although middle school students sometimes are regarded as tough ages with which to deal, McDonough has a different view.
“I love how much growth happens over three years,” she said. “[Students] come in as children and leave as young adults. They grow academically and socially and are a fun group. … There are a lot of laughs and they are honest. They will tell you what they are thinking.”
Although she once considered a career in medicine, McDonough said, “Pre-med was not for me. The fact that I am still working with kids is awesome.”
Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh noted that parents will see McDonough “out front” more frequently, and she will interact with students in ways that are “developmentally knowledgeable, respectful and caring, while ensuring our young adults learn how to become productive citizens of our middle school and the greater community.”
Cavanaugh added, “Lauren embodies the middle school motto of ‘Growing an active community of strong minds and kind hearts.’ ”
McDonough, originally from Norwood, said her priority would be “setting positive, joyful energy for the new school year.” She noted, “In these first months, I will build relationships with parents and see what students and teachers need from me.”
Ritchie takes No. 2 role at Hopkins
Ritchie most recently worked as a second and fourth grade
teacher in Newton schools for seven years after previously serving as a substitute in eight MetroWest schools.
She is the new assistant principal for Hopkins School.
A native of Miami, she earned an undergraduate degree in religious studies/psychology and a master’s in elementary education from the University of Pennsylvania. She also is licensed as an administrator.
“Hopkinton seems like a vibrant, growing community with a lot of changes going on and with the new building in the future,” Ritchie said.
The new Charleswood School will house Grades 2-4. That means fourth graders from Hopkins will move out and sixth graders from the middle school will move in.
Although Hopkins is dealing with space deficiencies until an addition/ renovation project is finished, Ritchie said she is impressed with how the district is “still providing the best” for students.
Ritchie said her focus is on building relationships with students and staff and making sure their voices are heard.
She said she loved teaching at the elementary level, especially fourth grade, because the children are “growing in independence and building a sense of justice — becoming more aware and wanting to give back to the community.”
In her first few months on the job, Ritchie said she hopes to learn how to “best support students, staff, and families” as well as Principal Matt Cotter and fellow Assistant Principal Tanya Lamoureux.
Cavanaugh said she was impressed by how Ritchie “spearheaded work for staff and students in equity and cultural competency, which are initiatives here in Hopkinton, too.”
The superintendent praised Ritchie’s understanding of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for those grade levels and her expertise in teaching curricula based on those frameworks.
“This knowledge and experience will help her assume the role of an instructional leader at Hopkins,” Cavanaugh said.
She added, “One of the things I found most exciting about Rachel’s candidacy came in her cover letter, where she wrote: ‘The times I feel most
energized, challenged and engaged are when I am meeting with colleagues to collaborate in service of students and the broader school community.’ ”
Kent to lead literacy efforts
Cherie Kent, the new director of literacy for pre-kindergarten through Grade 5, has 30 years of experience as an educator. She spent 15 of those years as an elementary school teacher, primarily in Worcester Public Schools, and 15 years holding various positions such as literary coach, curriculum and instruction leader and reading specialist in suburban communities.
She was literary coach and consultant for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and director of literacy and Title 1 for the Wachusett Regional School District.
Most recently, Kent served as a fa-
cilitator at HILL for Literacy, a nonprofit consulting firm.
After stepping outside of public education for a few years, Kent said she was eager to get back to that environment because she missed the day-to-day interaction with students as well as building relationships with colleagues and families.
Kent said she is impressed with the dedication of the administrators and teachers she has met so far in Hopkinton.
“The people here are amazing,” Kent said. “Honestly, it sounds cliché, but I feel at home already. … Everyone is so welcoming.”
Although her office is based in the administration building, Kent noted she will be out at least three times per week as needed at Marathon, Elmwood and Hopkins.
Kent earned her master’s degree in school administration from American International College. She has a reading specialist license and did her undergraduate work in education at UMass Amherst and Fitchburg State.
Cavanaugh noted that Kent’s experiences at the state DESE and HILL for Literacy have given her “front-row seats in places where literacy curriculum and instruction development takes place.”
She also praised her long tenure in education, adding, “Cherie began her career passionate about teaching students to read in elementary grades, and she has devoted her life’s work to growing her ability to do that.”
The superintendent said Kent has expertise in “analyzing student learning data, both in the aggregate and at the subgroup levels.” Cavanaugh expects the new literacy administrator will be “publicly presenting information about Hopkinton’s work in expanding our reading curriculum and instruction.”
Rachel
Headline
Rachel Ritchie
Cherie Kent
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Hopkins School work forces changes to traffic plan, parking
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
AtHopkins School, parents and students will experience changes to the approach for drop-offs, the exterior site and different parking configurations resulting from the ongoing addition/ renovation project.
Eberly noted that for the first few weeks, some of the construction will be noisy as workers remove rocks to prepare to build up the foundation and begin to put in geothermal wells.
Cotter has experienced some of the sounds. “The rocks are the loud ones,” he said. The well work, more off in the distance, is not as disruptive.
During the Aug. 22 School Committee meeting, Chris Eberly, Vertex project manager, and Matt Cotter, Hopkins principal, described the current plans. Parents will be updated on the website as well as through email communications.
Eberly said the start of school during a construction project is an exciting but
He noted that instead of having 14 spaces in the north lot and 72 spaces at the back of the school, there will be 46 spaces available up front.
Users with disabilities will have handicapped spaces in the north lot with a straight path for them leading to the
Eberly pointed out features of the current configuration including a paved play area protected by Jersey barriers and a grassy area for a mix of physical education and recess uses.
Also, a construction fence will be in place along with a paved path going around it to access fields and an assembly area for fire drills. To address issues on a temporary basis, crews have added Jersey barriers in a continuous path along
Eberly explained parents will follow in a single lane to drop off students, now turning right into the area where the grass ends. He said there will be a short, paved area like an emergency lane. This space will be used if a car is having an issue and needs to take more time for some reason.
“Rather than hold up the line, they can pull over and wait in that small paved area,” Eberly explained, with staff there controlling bypassing cars.
Leaving, cars will pull out into the loop road and continue one way all around it. There will be a supervised two-way road in the last section with signage and directed traffic on a shortterm basis.
Eberly said parents should “view it in context” if children go home and say, ‘The entire building is shaking,’ though they may feel some movement.
The principal said the district has purchased a cover layer for the windows that lets light in but will stop students from looking out and trying to see what is going on.
Responding to School Committee member Chris Masters, Eberly said it will be winter before the shape of the building starts becoming visible. In the spring, “It will start to look like a building,” he said, but warned, “There is still a whole bunch of stuff on the inside to do that will take a long time.”
He added that the “aggressive focused parts of work” are slated in the summers with a hard deadline set.
Cotter added a decision was made to prioritize the parking lots this summer.
Cell phones, vaping in handbooks review
All building administrators appeared before the board to review changes and additions to student handbooks.
Cell phone use, vaping, disciplinary measures and attendance at after school or evening events after missing classes were common themes.
At the elementary level, Cotter said cell phones are more of an issue for fourth and fifth graders.
Elementary administrators prefer phones are stored in lockers during the school day. They can be confiscated by teachers if they are causing a disruption in class.
Elmwood School Principal David Brauninger said second and third graders can become distracted wearing devices
School Committee | 24
This map indicates the traffic and parking changes at Hopkins School for the start of the school year.
Policies on civil rights, harassment reviewed by School Committee members
By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer
In late August, the full board and a partial subgroup of Hopkinton School Committee reviewed policies regarding civil rights and harassment and how they are handled in the district.
As the members rework some language for clarity and relevance, several questions arose that will be addressed in future iterations of the documents.
Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh said as the district enters the budget season, the committee will have less time to devote to policy revisions, although they could be squeezed onto an agenda when time permits.
During the policy subcommittee session on Aug. 23, questions arose about language suggesting that building principals or their designees are the administrative parties responsible to handle civil rights violations.
Carol Cavanaugh said typically at the elementary level, assistant principals investigate infractions that occur, while the principal is the party in the older grades.
In response to a question from subcommittee member Susan Stephenson, the superintendent said staff received civil rights training during the pandemic, but it is more “cyclical” now that Title 9 regulations are changing.
“Two years ago, we shored up the process so when someone reports bullying, we have a system where the [reporting] forms with civil rights are linked together to be consistent,” she said.
Principals handle violations
Stephenson asked whether it would be overwhelming for a newly hired assistant principal to take on these duties as they try to transition from a classroom teacher to an administrator. She asked whether they received civil rights training.
Carol Cavanaugh said it would depend on the focus of the licensure program the individual completed. Some, for example, are geared toward curriculum and instruction. She suggested new personnel could receive guidance from more veteran administrators.
Subcommittee member Jamie Wronka asked about how the civil rights policy applies to situations occurring on school grounds after hours or outside of school.
The superintendent is seeking legal counsel’s advice on actions that occur in neighborhoods, on social media and elsewhere that are considered violations of a student civil rights. She said the language implies it is a district matter if “it trickles in and impacts teaching and learning.”
Elsewhere in the document, there is wording that defines violations as “barriers” that stop students from achieving their fullest potential.
Wronka also asked questions about wording that talked about the general public and the public school “community” rather than system.
As an example, the superintendent
Two years ago, we shored up the process so when someone reports bullying, we have a system where the [reporting] forms with civil rights are linked together to be consistent.
— Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh
used a fifth grade choral concert where a member of the general public calls out a person of color. She said it is a schoolsponsored event and the student should be protected.
There are instances at sporting events, like football games, when police must be called.
Carol Cavanaugh said Athletic Director Ricky Andrade is the “first line of defense” administrator at athletic events. Civil rights violations could include racial issues with someone in the stands “making ugly calls,” she said.
Andrade has been put in the position of having to “call out a parent if an individual starts being nasty,” Cavanaugh said. Taking action in cases like that puts Andrade in a “tricky situation,” she added.
Security at athletic events
When asked about security and police detail at sporting events, Carol Cavanaugh said it likely would be at large football games but less likely at midweek basketball games.
“Shouldn’t someone call the police. or am I depending too much on citizens’ intelligence?” Stephenson asked.
The policy covers anyone from an uncle at a parents night to visitors, volunteers and “parties contracted to public schools,” if they are deemed to be violating students’ civil rights.
Complaints must be registered with the district’s Title IX compliance officer, assistant superintendent Jeff LaBroad.
Carol Cavanaugh said if an administrator interviews a child and the incident is found to be a civil rights violation or harassment, the police are notified. However, she noted, parents often do not want the situation escalated in that way.
Once legal counsel weighs in, the subcommittee will continue to revise the policy.
On Aug. 22, the full School Committee took another look at the related sexual harassment policy, and the superintendent repeated the sentiment that the district investigates any formal complaint.
“There are times when the school [district] says that we’ll investigate an incident as sexual harassment and the
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Hopkins School work forces changes to traffic plan, parking
on wrists and taking photos, so administrators want to safeguard against that.
While it’s probably best to leave phones at home, Cotter said they serve a purpose for parents to connect with kids if, for example, they are walking home for the first time or going downtown.
Marathon Principal Lauren Dubeau spoke about how adjustments in the dis-
cipline/suspension policies are meant to coincide with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) standards. “Restorative practices” rather than punitive measures have been in effect with updated laws for a few years, she said.
Cotter noted that to participate in after school activities or evening events, a student must be in school for at least a half of that day.
At Hopkinton Middle School, Principal Matt Lefebvre said cell phones are the biggest distraction for students, and the staff wants to emphasize that the school is a “cell phone free space.” Phones are powered off during the day and given to teachers at the start of class.
For first offenses, staff takes devices and return them at the end of the day, and an email is sent home to parents. Second offenses result in an email sent home and the phones kept at the main office for a week, while third offenses mean that families, administrators and students meet to develop a management plan, and phones are turned into the main office for a designated time (to be determined).
To deal with students vaping, suspensions are not effective, Lefebvre said. Instead kids will learn about the dangers of vaping through a diversion program.
At the high school, Principal Evan Bishop said there would not be a total ban on cell phones. However, for the sake of consistency, all phones will be put in holders during class time, including when a student leaves to use the bathroom. There would be rare exceptions such as if phones are part of instruction.
Bishop said vape detectors are back in school bathrooms. Vaping and use of oral nicotine products are on the rise, he said, and infractions overall, including excessive tardiness, are better handled through alternatives to suspensions.
For example, Bishop talked about “highly structured” days or weeks when situations are not handled in a “cookie cutter” fashion. Instead, the administrator, students and parents come up with a plan working toward improved behavior that gradually gets rewarded with privileges (such as a cell phone) being restored.
He also reviewed a policy whereby senior students can park in designated lots via $200 permits that are issued by lottery. If spaces are available, juniors can obtain spaces by lottery as well.
However, Bishop said, administration is “tightening the process up” by having lined and numbered spaces. Disciplinary issues from the previous school
year or excessive tardiness can impact a student’s ability to get a parking space.
“It is the big issue,” Bishop said, of parking.
Athletic Director Ricky Andrade spoke about several policies, including requiring students to be in school by 11:15 a.m. and the rest of the day to participate in athletics for that day.
He also set deadlines for students to join athletics and said they must pay the fee in full prior to their participation. This measure is necessary, he said, because students who join late often drop out soon after and stop showing up for practices.
“This will help coaches of non-cut sports manage their teams,” Andrade said.
Enrollment, inclusive sports on agenda
In other business, Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh described how quickly enrollment changes, with K-12 increasing from 4,128 to 4,154 students since Aug. 8.
Pre-K is up to 80, making overall enrollment total 4,234. She said the projection for June 2025 is 4,290 (or “56 students away”).
Lefebvre talked about Hopkinton becoming a Special Olympics Unified Champion School. Towards that designation, this fall, a pilot program will make bocce a unified accessible sport. Unified basketball also would start being offered at the middle school. Special Olympics will fund the coaches in the first year, but there will be stipend requests forthcoming next year, he said.
He estimated having a one-hour practice once per week for bocce would cost $560 for coaching, the amount club advisors typically earn.
School Committee members felt that stipend was low, noting the importance of inclusive sports.
“There’s got to be a way to make sure those people helping out these kids are taken care of and make it worth their while,” Masters said.
Policies on civil rights, harassment reviewed by School Committee members
parent says, ‘I don’t want you to.’ ”
She added the parents sometimes say they just want the behavior to stop.
Stephenson questioned what happens when everybody at the district recognizes harassment is what it is, but the parents do not want to pursue it.
“Once you put a tag on it, it becomes a police matter,” Carol Cavanaugh said. “There are school-based consequences regardless.
“Kids being kids, sometimes they do something sexually suggestive. … There is a conversation between the kid and administrator. We talk about the severity of the conduct versus pervasiveness. There is a difference between making a mistake and doing the same thing repeatedly so it becomes harassment.”
School Committee chair Nancy Cavanaugh said another layer is Mass. General Law that requires school personnel as mandatory reporters to report cases of suspected child abuse to the Department of Children and Families. For the category of sexual violence and “other serious matters,” the law reads, referrals to local law enforcement are made.
The superintendent said the complainant does not have to be the person at whom the unwelcome sexual conduct is directed. It may be a witness to it and someone personally offended by the conduct.
The board will revisit the policies at future meetings and they will be further clarified by legal counsel.
“This is a heavy topic,” Nancy Cavanaugh concluded.
School Committee | from page 22
| from page 23
Youth lax select team revels in state title
By Chris Villani Contributing Writer
Whencoach Will Abbott met with his players at halftime of the Mass. Youth Lacrosse Division 1 state title game on June 12, the Hopkinton Youth Lacrosse select team was facing a situation unlike any it had encountered before.
“I think that was the first time we were trailing all year,” Abbott said.
Down 4-3 against a strong Reading team, Hopkinton rallied for seven unanswered goals and emerged with a 10-4 victory under the lights at Harvard Stadium for the program’s first-ever state championship.
“It’s a credit to the kids,” Abbott said. “They worked really hard for the couple of months we were together. At that age, it’s not always about wins and losses. We tried to focus on the development and making sure the kids had fun, but we were fortunate to have a lot of success.”
The team of 14 fifth grade students and nine sixth graders finished the regular season 7-0 playing in MYL’s top division. The perfect record secured the first overall seed in the playoffs. After a pair of tournament wins at home, Hopkinton advanced to the title game and the showdown with Reading.
games at the Fruit Street fields and enjoyed the benefit of a strong home crowd before playing at Harvard.
“That was a super cool experience,” Abbott said of the state championship game. “It meant a lot to them.”
After a season of being the top team, the coach said the title tilt was the first time his players had to take a breather at halftime and assess what they needed to do to bounce back in the second half.
Abbott said he had a good feeling about his team from the very start of the season.
The championship comes in the first season at the helm for Abbott, who played for this very program when he was in middle school before playing four years at HHS and collegiately at Quinnipiac. Abbott, who was assisted by volunteer coaches Bro Ford and Mike MacDonald, said he had the benefit of
a team filled with experienced players.
“A lot of the kids, if not all of them, play club lacrosse almost all year round,” he said. “They get a lot of reps, so when they come to us in the spring, they are very prepared.”
Abbott said the players enjoyed getting the chance to host two playoff
“From day one you kind of saw that this was a group that is pretty talented and skilled for their age,” he said.
“We were not looking too far in advance, but I knew we wanted to be successful. When we met for that first day, they were prepared and ready to go.”
Added Abbott, “I had a feeling we were going to do well for ourselves. But to win it all, that’s just the cherry on top.”
Spring Season
BASEBALL & SOFTBALL EVALUATIONS
Hopkinton Little League will be holding evaluations for placement on Spring 2025 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 8/31/17 and for softball players born on or before 12/31/15. Evaluations help us match players to the best team-playing experience. For more information visit www.hopkintonlittleleague.org
Friday, September 20 - EMC Park 5:00 – 6:00 10U/12U Softball Saturday, September 21 - EMC Park 10:00 – 10:30 or 12:30 – 1:00 8-Year-Old Baseball 10:30 – 11:00 or 1:00 – 1:30 9-Year-Old Baseball 11:00 – 11:30 or 1:30 – 2:00 10-Year-Old Baseball 11:30 – 12:00 or 2:00 – 2:30 11-Year-Old Baseball 12:00 – 12:30 or 2:30 – 3:00 12-Year-Old Baseball
Sunday, September 22 - EMC Park 11:00 – 11:30 10U Softball 11:30 – 12:00 12U Softball 12:00 – 12:45 8/9-Year-Old Baseball 12:45 – 1:30 10/11/12-Year-Old Baseball
Make-Up Date (if player can’t attend the above dates): Friday, September 27 at EMC Park from 5–6 pm for 10U/12U Softball and 8-12-Year-Old Baseball Rain Date (if any of the above are canceled due to rain): Saturday, September 28 at EMC Park, timing and age groups would be communicated via email The HLL Annual Board Meeting (open to the public) will be held on Thursday, September 12 at 7:30 pm at St. John’s Church parish hall. E-mail hopkintonlittleleague@gmail.com with questions.
Members of the Hopkinton Youth Lacrosse select team state champions were: front, Lucas Fournier; kneeling (from left), Greyson Grove, Bennett Gilbreath, Vihaan Botla, Paxton Choi, Austin Lahair, Matt Dacey, Carson O’Donnell, Landon Weable and Jack Alexandre; players standing (from left), Nolan Oram, Cal Chewning, Drew Howard, Finn Thaisz, Henry Diune, Nate Gregg, Brendan Foutz, Ryan Quinn, Tyler Scherer, Michael Mathot, Colin Wilson, Dylan DeCosta and RJ Gibson; and coaches Will Abbott (far left), Mike MacDonald (back center) and Bro Ford (back right).
poliCe log
Editor’s note: Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated version of the Police Log. For the full Police Log visit the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.
August 13
7:22 a.m. Multiple callers reported the traffic light at Legacy Farms North was malfunctioning. Officer Noah Buentello responded and was unable to reset the lights. The DPW was notified.
9:09 a.m. A walk-in concerned about ongoing crosswalk violations and vehicles speeding on Main Street spoke with Officer Nicholas Walker. Officer Walker was to conduct enforcement.
2:41 p.m. A walk-in reported Social Security number fraud. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted.
August 14
12:11 a.m. A Connelly Hill Road resident reported teenagers were knocking on her front door. Officers Kyle Quinzani and Tyler Staback responded and spoke with the reporting person.
2:10 a.m. A caller reported a cat was in the middle of the roadway on East Main Street, and it would not move. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and removed the feline.
8:25 a.m. A caller complained of a vehicle speeding on Front Street. Officer Augusto Diaz responded, and the vehicle was gone upon his arrival.
9:56 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street and took a report.
11:21 a.m. A walk-in reported she was nearly in an accident on the Interstate 495 ramp off West Main Street and believed the placement of the yield sign was the problem. MassDOT was notified of the possible yield placement issue.
12:01 p.m. A caller reported a 13-year-old on an e-bike ran into the caller’s vehicle and was shaken up. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and took a report.
1:30 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officers Noah Buentello and Nicholas Walker responded to a motor vehicle crash on Hayden Rowe Street and took a report.
1:38 p.m. A walk-in reported identity theft. Officer Noah Buentello took a report.
4:26 p.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield and Officer Matthew LaTour responded to a motor vehicle crash on Ash Street, where a vehicle struck a wall. No injuries to the driver or her son were reported. A tow truck removed the vehicle from the wall. A complaint application was issued to the driver.
8:24 p.m. A caller reported that a male driver in a dark gray pickup truck followed the caller’s daughter home and confronted her about her driving. Officer Matthew LaTour assisted and took a report of the threats.
11:33 p.m. A passerby reported a person was standing on the side of the road on West Main Street near Interstate 495 Ramp 3. Officer Matthew LaTour checked the area with a negative find and believed the person to be a worker in the area, as a personal truck was parked in the area.
August 15
8:38 a.m. A caller reported her gas tank was leaking gas on Whalen Road. Sergeant Matthew Santoro responded along with the Fire Department.
10:55 a.m. Officers Shannon Beloin and Noah Buentello found low-hanging wires on Ash Street, placed cones in the area and notified Eversource.
11;32 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle stopped in front of her house, and a person took photographs of her house. She was going to check with her neighbors to see if they had security cameras and any footage. The incident was logged.
11:44 a.m. A walk-in reported a scam phone call he received from someone alleging to be from an immigration department and trying to elicit information from him. He was advised to never give out personal information.
3:57 p.m. Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Shannon Beloin responded to a motor vehicle accident on Cedar Street Extension. One vehicle was towed.
4:36 p.m. A caller reported a fallen tree and wires on Pine Island Road. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and notified Eversource.
August 16
8:12 a.m. A Cherry Lane resident reported an owl was stuck in a soccer net. Sergeant Matthew McNeil, Officer Brian Ziniti and the animal control officer responded and freed the bird.
12:02 p.m. Sergeant Matthew McNeil and Officer Noah Buentello assisted the State Police on West Main Street with a vehicle after a motor vehicle accident on Interstate 495.
5:15 p.m. A walk-in reported receiving threats via text message. Officer Matthew LaTour took a report.
8:31 p.m. A Sanctuary Lane resident reported her neighbor stole her flowers and several lights. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a report of stolen property.
August 17
10:22 a.m. A caller reported a tree limb hanging vertically on West Main Street that looked like it was about to fall. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and contacted the DPW.
2:17 p.m. A walk-in reported he believed a contractor who was doing work at his house stole his watch. Officer Brian Ziniti assisted and took a report.
7:45 p.m. A caller requested assistance finding her way off the yellow trail on Wood Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded and assisted her.
August 18
8:56 p.m. A Wilson Street resident complained that the neighbor’s dogs had been barking all day. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and attempted to make contact with the homeowner. The homeowner arrived home while Officer Quinzani was there and brought the dogs inside.
August 19
7:47 a.m. Officer Noah Buentello responded along with the Fire Department to a CO alarm activation on Chestnut Street. 6:28 p.m. A caller reported a male from a solar company came by her house and “basically forced his way inside.” Neither the solicitor nor the solar company registered at the station. It was unknown if the caller gave the solicitor money or not. The incident was logged.
August 20
9:10 a.m. A walk-in reported his bike was vandalized. Officer Augusto Diaz assisted and took a report.
9:52 a.m. Multiple callers reported an erratic operator who struck two cars and then a pole on Wood Street. Sergeant Matthew Santoro and Officers Augusto Diaz and Noah Buentello responded along with the Fire Department. A crash report was taken. 1:07 p.m. A caller reported a male was harassing his work crew on Hayden Rowe Street and making inappropriate comments to female staff. Sergeants William Burchard and Matthew Santoro and Officer Augusto Diaz responded and took a report.
2:58 p.m. Officer Shannon Beloin notified Verizon of a fallen wire on Hayward Street.
6:21 p.m. A Hayden Rowe Street resident requested an officer to check if her neighbor’s car was parked legally. Sergeant Arthur Schofield responded and told both parties involved that the car was parked legally.
August 21
10:47 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle with its hazard lights on backed into a guardrail on West Elm Street. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported an issue with the brakes caused the vehicle to rest on the guardrail. She stood by while the car was towed. Significant damage to the guardrail and minor damage to the vehicle were reported. The Fire Department applied a speedy-drying solution to the ground. 2:00 p.m. A walk-in reported someone attempted to use his name and bank information to get money. Officer Shannon Beloin assisted, took a report and spoke to the Marlborough Police Department, as the reporting person lives in Marlborough. 5:51 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious male was smoking outside of a Lumber Street business, and when she walked past him, she saw a flash and thought he took a picture of her. She confronted him, and he showed her his phone and said he did not take a picture of her. He was described as in his 60s, with grayish hair, an accent, Hispanic, and wearing khaki shorts and a gray T-shirt. The caller wanted the incident logged.
August 22
12:06 a.m. Sergeant Arthur Schofield checked on a vehicle on Legacy Farms North and found it unoccupied. He checked on and spoke with two people by the water. They were to move along shortly.
10:42 a.m. An Ash Street caller reported a raccoon was in his trash bin. He tried kicking the bin, but it would not leave. The caller wanted the animal control officer to take care of it. He was advised to let the raccoon be, and eventually it would leave. The animal control officer stated there was not much he could do, but he would speak to the caller.
1:29 p.m. A Baker Lane resident reported a coyote in her neighbor’s yard. The animal control officer was notified.
1:54 p.m. A caller reported receiving a scam phone call requesting Medicare information that she did not have. The incident was logged.
August 23
10:18 a.m. Officer Nicholas Saletnik took a report of a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street.
1:48 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard issued a parking violation warning to an attached vehicle on Lakeshore Drive.
1:57 p.m. Sergeant William Burchard and Officer Brian Ziniti responded to a motor vehicle crash on East Main Street and requested the Fire Department to clean a fluid spill. A tow truck removed the vehicle.
4:49 p.m. Officer Brian Ziniti responded to a Main Street address to a report of a Social Security number being compromised.
5:18 p.m. A Pleasant Street caller reported a dispute between neighbors and stated the police had better show up quickly. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officers Augusto Diaz and Brian Ziniti responded and restored peace. The animal control officer was advised.
8:53 p.m. A Heartwood Way resident reported the water in his house was brown. The Water Department responded to the area to investigate.
8:57 p.m. The Ashland Police Department reported an erratic operator heading to Hopkinton. Officers Augusto Diaz and Nicholas Saletnik responded, located the vehicle on Main Street and issued a verbal warning for a marked lanes violation.
10:41 p.m. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded to a report of a vehicle fire on Interstate 495. Upon arrival, officers found that the vehicle was burning oil but no fire. A tow truck responded along with the State Police.
August 24
9:45 a.m. A walk-in requested information about a vehicle that he was trying to have removed from his property. Sergeant Aaron O’Neil assisted and left a message with the owner.
1:29 p.m. A caller reported a white Camaro doing “doughnuts” on Emerald Drive in the new development. While the reporting person was on the phone, the vehicle left the area. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and advised the Milford Police Department.
6:25 p.m. A West Main Street resident complained of dogs barking and yelping all day long. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and did not hear anything. The report-
ing person believed the dogs were moved indoors. All was OK.
9:54 p.m. Officer Augusto Diaz spoke with a Wood Street homeowner about visitors parking in the road and causing a hazard.
10:05 p.m. A Glen Road caller reported two males vigorously banged on his door and then took off. Officers Kyle Quinzani and Augusto Diaz responded and found juveniles playing a manhunt game and advised them to go inside their residence for the rest of the night.
11:25 p.m. A caller reported a disturbance on Walker Street, where youths were in the road and urinating on lawns. Officers Sean McKeon, Kyle Quinzani and Nicholas Saletnik responded and spoke to all parties involved.
August 25
7:09 a.m. A dog walker complained of vehicles parked on Cedar Street waiting to enter the State Park and blocking the roadway. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and opened the gate due to the safety hazard.
8:51 a.m. A caller reported a vehicle with heavy damage in a West Main Street parking lot. Officer Noah Buentello responded but was unable to locate the owner. A report was taken.
10:54 a.m. A Hidden Brick Road resident reported a road rage incident that occurred in Holliston. Officer Nicholas Walker took a report and notified the Holliston Police Department.
7:41 p.m. A caller reported a cat was hit and was in the middle of the roadway on East Main Street by the field near Weston Nurseries. Officer Shannon Beloin responded and reported it was a raccoon, not a cat. The animal control officer was contacted for pickup.
August 26
5:00 a.m. A caller reported noise on East Main Street and a possible violation of town bylaw. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and found a sewage truck pumping septic. No issues were reported.
7:31 a.m. A caller reported a struck mailbox and debris of a vehicle on Emma Drive. Officer Nicholas Walker responded and found a license plate and checked the residence it belonged to. He found the mailbox at that residence badly damaged and took a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident report.
9:09 a.m. A walk-in reported a mail scam. Officer Noah Buentello assisted and took a report of fraud.
9:51 a.m. A walk-in reported a nuisance dog on C Street. The animal control officer was notified and was to respond.
1:20 p.m. An Edge Hill Road caller reported an unwanted male in the area. Officer Nicholas Walker responded, stopped the vehicle and took a report.
1:43 p.m. A walk-in reported a past hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on South Street. Officer Noah Bunetello assisted and took a report.
6:33 p.m. A caller reported finding a black and gray dog, about 60 pounds, on Rice Street. Sergeant Matthew McNeil responded, and the caller was to keep the dog until the animal control officer arrived.
9:47 p.m. Sergeants William Burchard and Matthew McNeil assisted a disabled motor vehicle on Clinton Street. A tow truck removed the vehicle.
CREAM OF THE CROP
Servers at the Hopkinton Senior Center’s annual Ice Cream Social prepare to deliver scoops to the crowd at the Aug. 22 event.
PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO
