Saffron, a 17-year-old transgender female, has endured a complicated, challenging journey even at her young age. Born a biological male named, Saffron suffered from mild autism and battled isolation and confusion, especially as she grappled with issues of gender identity. Despite the difficult phone call to her parents announcing her non-binary status and subsequent struggles against societal norms and prejudices, Saffron has remained strong and aims to work with youth struggling with similar issues one day. Despite everything, she is clear that one's gender identity doesn't determine their worth.
On November 29, Faith Community Church donated holiday gifts to assist 267 disadvantaged families through Project Just Because. Launched in October, the church's giving campaign enabled members to "adopt" families, fulfilling their holiday wish lists. The gesture is part of an annual tradition, last year benefiting 500 children. Items requested ranged from toys to essential supplies like food and diapers. The program is among the largest run by Project Just Because, which delivered more than 27,556 holiday gifts last year.
Eighth-grader Will Recupero from Hopkinton has been chosen to represent the USA in the U-15 Men's National Soccer Team. Selected for the 20-man roster, Recupero will play in an international tournament against Italy, Scotland, and Portugal. Following intensive training and standout performances, he's one step closer to fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing for the US Men's National Team.
Dignity Matters Founder and Hopkinton resident Kate Sanetra-Butler received the 2023 Feminist In Action Award. The honor recognizes her efforts towards gender equality through her work in providing menstrual care to local women and girls in Massachusetts.
Learning how to roast an entire lamb is not just about the culinary process; it's also about understanding cultural traditions, mastering various cooking techniques, and appreciating the value of communal dining.Â
We took a walk with Julia Chun to learn more about her background, hear some of her ideas for bringing businesses to Hopkinton, and to understand how she plans to transform Hopkinton into a greener, more resilient, and more inclusive community.
Patrick Morrisey crafts some of the finest guitars on the planet from his home in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Get to know Patrick and take a tour of his shop.
Ryan Sweatt has been charged with the first degree murder of Destini Decoff, who he allegedly intentionally struck with his vehicle in an apparent act of road rage.
There are also new details on Hopkinton PD's response and corrections to eyewitness accounts.
The Middlesex DA and State Police arrested four men, implicating them in 43 burglaries targeting homes of Indian or South Asian residents across Hopkinton and 24 other Massachusetts towns from 2018 to 2024. The organized burglary ring, tied to a Providence gang, stole items worth over $4 million. The accused were indicted on 95 counts related to these crimes and operated with sophisticated methods including Wi-Fi jammers and strategic planning based on the victims' ethnic backgrounds.
The Appropriation Committee's report for Hopkinton's upcoming Annual Town Meeting outlines significant financial challenges, projecting property tax increases between 10% and 22% over the next five years due to escalating capital expenditures and debt, which could reach 83% of the legal limit. Key budget priorities include sustaining core services and funding the Hopkins School addition. Rising debts and a potential operating deficit of $4 million by 2028 highlight urgent issues, compounded by costly measures to address PFAS contamination in water.
On this episode, we are joined by Massachusetts Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities, Ed Augustus, whose department is charged in part with overseeing the implementation of the MBTA Communities Act. Also joining Peter as co-host is Chair of Hopkinton's Planning Board, Gary Trendel.