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24 Main Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748

Editor@HopNews.com E07/13/2012 06:59:50 PM

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Time of the Season

September 22, 2007 — Annie Smith makes sure everything has it proper place, including a goose-shaped zucchini, earlier this week in front of Weston Nurseries.

Soar With the Eagles

September 22, 2007 —Troop 92 Eagle Scout candidate, James Fanquhar, partially blocked from view, watches as Jason El-Massih leaps over a pile of wood chips at the Hopkinton State Park. James has gathered a group of Scouts to help with his plan of making the entrances to areas in the park attractive. At the entrance to the Pavilion, he and his group has built a stone wall, as well as planted maximum rhododendrons and created a planted shrub bed.

Hopkinton Public Library

Celtic Music
by
Jeff Snow
7 p.m.
Friday 9/28/07

Join us for this exciting and fun program where traditional and contemporary songs blend melodically for your listening pleasure. Jeff will sing & play guitar, autoharp, bouzouki and bodhran!
Jeff has performed for audiences of all ages. Bring your family to a show where there is something for everyone.
13 Main St. Hopkinton, MA 01748 (508) 497-9777

Men Devise Ruse Against Elderly

Two Still at Large - State Police Seek Public Assistance, Give Advice

September 22, 2007 — Yesterday, September 21, 2007, at approximately 12:12 p.m. troopers assigned to the State Police Barracks in Cheshire investigated the robbery of an elderly couple while in their residence located on Hancock Road (Route 43) in Hancock.

Preliminary investigation by Trooper Talitha McCarthy-Johnson indicates that two men, claiming to work for an energy company that worked to reduce the energy costs of those on fixed income, entered the elderly couple’s home at approximately 11:15 a.m. The two men distracted the couple by having them assist one of the men with measurements while the other searched for items within the home. Taken from the residence was approximately $2500.00 in cash and four antique rings. The men are both described as 50-60 year-old white men approximately six feet tall. One is stockier then the other and they were both wearing gray caps, light blue shirts and light blue pants. It is unknown if there was a vehicle involved in the incident.

Anyone who may have information about the identity of these two individuals are asked to contact Trooper Talitha McCarthy-Johnson at the State Police Barracks in Cheshire at 413-743-4700.

If individuals are solicited at their residence and suspect a similar ruse they should request photo identification from the individuals and contact the local authorities before dealing with them further.

HYSA Night at the Revolution

THE fall soccer event of 2007!

Our Price:$25.00

Bring your family, bring your friends, bring your neighbors but DON'T

make the mistake of missing this event which is bound to be hailed as THE event of the fall 2007!

Whether you are a huge soccer fan or not, this is a great opportunity for you to get together with friends, eat some good food, visit Gillette Stadium, enjoy a great fall sporting event, and support Hopkinton Youth Soccer. This is definitely a 'more the merrier' type of event so please go ahead and forward this email along to others.

Date:

Saturday September 29th - New England Revolution vs. Colorado Rapids

Time:

6:00pm Tailgate party (the game starts at 7:30pm)

Location:

Gillette Stadium

All of this is included in the price of your event ticket:

A game ticket in a section reserved exclusively for Hopkinton Youth Soccer.
Exclusive Hopkinton Youth Soccer Tailgate party area in the Gillette Stadium parking lot (parking is free - see below for details)
All you can eat buffet in the tailgate area prepared by Olivia's of Milford (starting at 6:00pm)
Every child attending this event will receive an official Revolution commemorative souvenir.

In addition, families will also enjoy

Access to Soccer Celebration! where children are treated to many interactive inflatables, face painting, and more!
Hopkinton Youth Soccer's 'Name in lights' displayed on the Jumbotron throughout the game
Cheering on representatives (children) from Hopkinton Youth Soccer who will be out on the playing field throughout the night representing Hopkinton Youth Soccer.
Opportunity to win fabulous raffle prizes!

Exclusive HYSA Tailgate Party:

Upon entering the Gillette Stadium parking lot, go ahead and park your car anywhere in the main lot. After parking your car proceed over to the pop-up tent (in the parking lot) and cars that have the Green & White balloons tied to them. That's us...let the tailgating begin!

What to bring: Please plan on bringing your own beverages for adults & children. All dessert items will be welcomed! You may also want to consider bringing a folding table and chairs. Other than that, we will handle the rest! Please visit the Gillette Stadium website for a list of items that are and are not allowed into the stadium.

Town Manager Feted

September 21, 2007 — Town Manager Anthony Troiano was the guest of honor at a party put on by Town Hall employees at lunchtime today. He said he is glad to be back, as he completed his first full week working on his own and without the Interim Town Manager, Gary Daugherty, since his return after a horrific automobile accident in May.

School Committee and Teachers’ Association Reach Contract Settlement

September 21, 2007 — The Hopkinton School Committee and the Hopkinton Teachers’ Association (HTA) announced today that an agreement has been reached on a new three year contract. The HTA ratified the agreement at a meeting with its members on September 11th. The School Committee approved the contract at its meeting last night.

The agreement provides increases of 2.25% in the current school year, 3.25% in year 2, and 3% in year 3 for a total of 8.5% over the duration of the contract. “This agreement provides our teachers with a fair and competitive wage package that will help us retain existing staff and attract new teachers to Hopkinton,” said Ms. Rebecca Robak (File photo), Chairman of the Hopkinton School Committee.

To mitigate the town’s rising costs for employee health insurance, the agreement includes a plan design change that increases teacher co-payments for health and prescription services. The higher co-payment, however, is contingent on the town reaching similar agreements with its other employee unions.

The agreement also results in additional learning time for students by extending the student day 5 minutes in 2007-08 and an additional 5 minutes in 2008-09. “While on the surface, 10 minutes does not seem like a significant amount of time, during the course of a year it amounts to a substantial increase in contact time with students. We are in this profession to work with students,” stated Mr. Tim Kearnan, President of the Hopkinton Teachers’ Association.

As other highlights of the settlement, the School Committee and HTA agreed to changes in the teacher evaluation process, additional bereavement benefits for teachers, and adjustments to teacher stipends for coaching and extracurricular activities.

“Negotiations are the art of compromise,” stated Ms. Robak. “At the end of the day, you hope to reach an agreement that is good for students, good for the employees, and good for the town. In this negotiation, we feel we have accomplished each of these goals.”

Pinwheels for Peace

September 21,2007 — The students of Elmwood School created their own art exhibit today with the installation of hundreds of pinwheels that they assembled themselves, on the front lawn. According to art Teacher Bonnie Muir, who coordinated the event with Mass Art student teacher Kelly Phillips, the the 2nd and 3rd graders will write their thoughts about "war and peace / tolerance/ living in harmony with others" on one side. On the other side, they drew, painted, made collages, etc. to visually express their feelings. The school was one of thousands of locations throughout the world that participated in the project.

Hopkinton Falls Short

September 21, 2007 — #10 leads the pack down the field Thursday afternoon at home against Dover-Sherborn, who won 2-1.

Hopkinton 2, Holliston 1

September 21, 2007 — #8 beats her Holliston opponent to the ball.

Bright New Room

September 21, 2007 — Fred Moseley, a senior citizen volunteer, brings some fresh painting materials to the former senior center in the basement of town hall, an area with a full kitchen that will now serve Town Hall employees.

Hopkinton Houses by John Savignano

Please give a listen to out friend and supporter, John Savignano, above.

Golden Oldie

Hopkinton Residents Kevin Kenney and Monica Coyne are superimposed in this image against the original delivery truck for Central Cleaners in Milford, a HopNews advertiser.

Historical District Commission Warm to New Gazebo

by Robert Falcione

September 21, 2007 — The Hopkinton Historical District Commission heard a presentation by Architect Scott Richardson, his second in as many evenings, on the need for a new Veterans' Memorial Gazebo on Hopkinton Common. The Historic District is from the Hopkinton Gourmet to the Price Mansion House 150 feet from Main Street to the south, and includes the Common Center School, and the Town Hall.

Mr. Richardson, a member of the private group, Friends of the Common, listed both sides of the issue of repairing the existing structure, or constructing a new one. The Friends of the Common has vowed to not use a penny of taxpayer money for the project that will encompass a new or repaired gazebo, a repaired fountain, and a newly landscaped Common.

On the down side of doing a repair is that it must be made handicap accessible in the process, which would require a 48-foot ramp for the 48-inch structure. The alternative is a lift system, which would cost nearly $20,000, and would detract from the aesthetics of the structure, the prime reason most people give for keeping it the way it is.

The new structure would be lower to the ground and have a ramp built up from the earth perhaps on both sides of the structure, and will be open on two sides. People with wheelchairs, or limited ambulatory ability, women with strollers and others will be able to reach the inside without using stairs. One entrance will have about three stairs leading in.

The Commission was warm to the idea of the structure in their district. The existing gazebo is not old enough to be considered historic, and is in a state of neglect.

Commission member Claire Wright, a champion of less lighting is more, questioned the need for lights on the Common.

This writer noted that the plan should be looking 100 years to the future, the increased population and changing demographics that would necessitate a lighted walkway due to the need for security, and the possible use of the area in the evening.

Mrs. Wright, also a member of the Planning Board, asked if the railings needed to be installed, as well as a narrower walkway around the structure, and smaller plants.

Mr. Richardson said that he would incorporate the changes for the next submission.

Next, the group plans to meet with the veterans.

Assault with Intent to Murder on Route 93 in Randolph

September 21, 2007 — Yesterday at 8:27 p.m. Troopers assigned to the State Police Barracks in Milton responded to a report of an Assault with a Dangerous Weapon at the on-ramp from Route 93 south to Route 24 south in Randolph. That resulted in one arrest.

Preliminary investigation by Trooper Kathleen Carney who responded with several troopers working paid details in the area indicates the following. A male operator of a tractor trailer was stabbed numerous times while operating his vehicle by a 21 year old female passenger identified as Deka Artan from Tempe Arizona. The party fled into the nearby woods and was captured by State Troopers working in the area. She was in the company of a 2 year old female child.

The Suspect is currently being held at the State Police Barracks in Milton. She is charged with Assault with Intent to Murder. And will be arraigned tomorrow at Quincy District Court.

This incident remains under investigation by the State Police Troop H Detectives. The Norfolk County District Attorneys Office, Randolph Fire Department, Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services and Mass Highways assisted troopers at the scene. File photo

Esme YC Disch - “Natural Inspirations”

Art Exhibit

September 20 - October 20, 2007

Opening Reception

September 20, 2007 6:30 pm

Esme has been a fan favorite at the CAA Juried Art Show over the past few years winning many prizes including last years Viewer’s Choice Award.

This exhibit will include abstract and representational watercolors, mixed media and monotypes from the past five years leading up to the current monotype series of nests and grasses.

Through her watercolors, mixed media works and recent monotypes Esme YC Disch expresses her feelings about nature and the spirit through both representational and abstract imagery. In this way she helps preserve her impressions for the future and capture the magic of nature. Disch states, “I was drawn to the natural environment and often mourn the demise of pristine forested acreage for development, often holding the last vestiges of beauty and mystery in my mind and imagination. I wish for my paintings to visually communicate evocative feelings of reverence to the infinite spirit within all things natural.”

An opening reception will be held for the artist on Thursday, September 20, at 6:30 pm. The gallery is located at 98 Hayden Rowe Street (Rt. 85) in Hopkinton, MA. Directions are available by calling 508-435-9222 or visiting the website at www.caahopkinton.org.

Driving Around

September 20, 2007 — James Hendry of HHS Golf Team showed great form yesterday driving from the first tee. Above, he winds down his swing and watches his drive, as do the Holliston golfers to the rear.

Casting Away

September 20, 2007 — Tom Alexander and Mike Drake enjoyed the peacefulness of Hopkinton Reservoir yesterday after school. There were no fish in sight, and a lot less water than usual. No one could remember ever seeing the base of the dam before.

Greyhound Friends Fall Open House & Reunion September 29 & 30, 2007

September 20, 2007 - Greyhound Friends of Hopkinton, Massachusetts will host its Annual Fall Open House and Reunion on Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30, 2007. With the seasonal closing of four local racing tracks, there are many greyhounds that will need homes. Racing tracks in Hinsdale, NH, Wonderland, Mass. and Belmont, NH have already closed for the season. The track in Seabrook, NH will close on October 24.

The open house will showcase dogs in the shelter available for adoption as well as provide prospective owners with the opportunity to speak with current greyhound owners. The event will welcome back adopted greyhounds and their owners for an annual reunion. This year’s Open House will also offer a place where greyhounds and their owners can share in a day of pampering, delicious food, good company, and great canine activities. Marion Fitzgibbon, Chairperson of Limerick Animal Welfare and president of the Irish SPCA, will also be on hand at the event to discuss a brief overview of greyhound welfare and adoption in Ireland. Photo ©2006 John Mottern.

Additional activities will include:

• The Not Quite Westminster Dog Show

• Nail clipping

• Pet massage

• Pet photography

Greyhound Friends Annual Fall Open House will take place at the Greyhound Friend’s Kennel, located at 167 Saddle Hill Road, Hopkinton, MA. The event will run from 12 noon – 5 pm.

To learn more about Greyhound Friends and the adoption process, please visit www.greyhound.org

Bee part of all the buzz in Hopkinton!

Spelling Bee
Hopkins School Cafeteria
Saturday, November 3, 2007
6:00p.m.

The Hopkinton PTA along with the Hopkinton Education Foundation have organized the first annual Hopkinton Community Spelling Bee.
Become part of his great event by forming a team, sponsoring a team or by becoming an event sponsor. All spelling is done by consensus. Teams will be made up of Middle School aged kids through adults competing for a trophy and bragging rights!

For More Information, Contact ~
Event Sponsor or Team Sponsor: Ruth Ann Cote, cotemail@comast.net
Register a Team: Nancy Burdick, nancyb88@hotmail.com
Volunteer: Jean Bertschmann, jeanber65@hotmail.com

For more information visit our website at www.HopkintonSpellingBee.info . With your participation the HPTA and HEF can expand their support of the Hopkinton Public Schools while providing a fun event for families and community members!

Heartbreakers

September 20, 2007 — They did it!! All three walked all 26.2 in the Jimmy Fund Walk and then limped to school the next day. Katie Duggan, Lindsay Kramer and Rachel Gately, above at Heartbreak Hill.

Groups Discuss New War Veterans' Memorial Gazebo Concept

Proposed new structure could cost less than repairs

Friends of the Common vow all private funding

September 20, 2007 — Gorman and Richardson architect, Scott Richardson of the Friends of the Common (FOTC) presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission a conceptual plan of a rejuvenated or reconstructed Gazebo, a plan that he donated for use at the evening's meeting. Mr. Richardson said, "Its an accessibility issue.

     "When I went to look at the gazebo with Ruth [Gorman], there was a mother pulling her stroller up the stairs." Mr. Richardson explained that to repair the existing gazebo and bring it up to handicap accessibility standards, a ramp of 48 feet would need to be built, or a lift would need to be installed, costing up to $19,000.
     "What makes most sense for this gazebo, if your going to put money into it, let's build something new," said Mr. Richardson.
       FOTC Chairman Ruth Gorman said that most of the participants in the private group wanted to see a new gazebo. The group had discussed the advantages that a gazebo closer to the ground could have in the way of handicap access and convenience. The plan Mr. Richardson brought showed a slope from the one side to the other, gentle enough to provide for a stroller or wheelchair to ascend easily, reaching the level of the interior.
       Parks and Rec member Michele Gates asked Selectman Michael Shepard, a member of the Friends of the Common his views. Mr. Shepard is also on the Veterans' Committee.

Above, veterans, Selectmen, Parks and Rec members, Friends of the Common members, show off a super-sized check for $5,000 presented to the Commission by Mr. Kilduff (pink shirt) on behalf of the HAA (Hopkinton Athletic Association), of which he is President. Don Creswell, in teal third from left, built the original gazebo.

      "I don't want the gazebo to move from where it is," he said.
      "I'm not comfortable with the Bellingham gazebo model, and that's what I look at this as," he said, looking at the drawing provided by Mr. Richardson. The Bellingham gazebo has been described as inviting, and has similar intellectual technology that Mr. Richardson proposed. The Bellingham gazebo also has benches inside for casual gatherings of residents. That town just celebrated the tenth year of its construction.
       "But whatever we do will be done with private funds, with your guidance, and I'm comfortable with that," Mr. Shepard concluded, speaking to the Commission.
        Mrs. Gates asked if the veterans had been on board with the plan, and added, "I can lose the basement," referring to the storage that she had lobbied for from the start of discussions weeks ago.
       "You're taking from the veterans that built this," said Don Creswell, Hopkinton Auxiliary Chief of Police, who attended as an interested party. Someone mentioned that Mr. Creswell banged most of the nails. "Every one of them," he replied.
       "Those very veterans that use it need to access it and get up those stairs," said Mrs. Gates, directing her comment to Mr. Creswell.
        Chairman Brendan Doyle asked Mr. Creswell if the existing structure could be brought down lower for handicap access.
        Parks Member Brian Eberlin said he was "torn" over refurbishing the existing structure or building a new one. Michele Gates echoed that sentiment.
       Mr. Doyle said it never struck home until he heard about someone struggling to get up the stairs. He brought up that the Parks and Rec had brought an article to town meeting that was rejected.
      "It makes a lot of sense what you guys are proposing; it sounds like a great idea from my perspective," he said.
      "I was against this approach from the beginning, like Ruth was," said Mr. Richardson, "but the more we looked at it, the more it seems to make sense; and because it doesn't cost the town anything, it makes even more sense. But I know we need to build more consensus," said Mr. Richardson.
       President of he HAA, Timothy Kilduff was on hand to present an oversized check of $5,000 to the group as he pledged, and speak about his fundraising efforts.
       "The resources are there to renovate, rebuild, remodel — whatever the decision is — but that decision lies with you guys. And it will impede the fundraising process if this decision gets dragged out," Mr. Kilduff said.
      "Do you want us to proceed?" Asked Mr. Kilduff of the Parks and Rec Commission. Voices from the group answer in the affirmative in unison. The group explained that they would like the FOTC to meet with the Veterans, the Historical District Commission, and design Review Board — and then return.

Financial Plan Working Group Heads to Closed Sessions
“You must demonstrate report has endorsement of Town Hall finance team” ~ Tim Kilduff

By David Hamacher

September 19, 2007 — Marking their progress since their meeting on August 22nd, the Financial Plan Working Group (FPWG) met this afternoon at Town Hall to plan critical next steps in the process of corralling the ‘structural deficit’ that plagues Hopkinton, as well as, other neighboring towns.
        By way of review, principal assessor, Mr. Bob Bushway, reported that he had worked with consultant, Ms. Judi Barrett, and had tweaked the financial projections model to reflect earlier differences.
       FPWG Co-Chair Mr. Totino noted that the school committee was, so far, the only department to have completed re-running future budget projections factoring in an annual 6% utility cost increase. School business manager, Mr. Geoff MacDonald (File photo) also explained how the school budget increase in fiscal year 2012 had been calculated against a declining enrollment projection.
       Referencing the current meeting’s agenda, Mr. Totino announced that when the agenda called for report-outs, the media would be asked to leave the room. “I’ve been advised that when it comes to discussing sensitive issues with cutting expenses, people in this room would not feel comfortable having the discussion in public”, he said.
       Mr. Totino then introduced Mr. Tim Kilduff to deliver a draft communications plan he had prepared. “First of all, Mr. Kilduff said, “you need to overcome the perception that the work of this group is a school committee driven process. This is a town-wide effort and the public has to know that. Secondly, you must demonstrate your report has the endorsement of Town Hall finance team. You also need to create and present an implementation plan”, he said.
       The proposed communication plan would simplify the message by clarifying the challenge facing the community, identifying key message points, prioritizing short and long-term objectives, and setting a timetable for implementation.
The communication plan sparked much discussion. Selectman, Mr. Brian Herr (File photo) stated, “We need to educate the town on the model we’re using,”
       Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Phelan said, “I think we need a working session. When you’re talking about sensitive issues like this having an impact on jobs, it’s better to do that in a closed session.”
       There were also many comments on what timetable the report should reflect. Budget projections are more accurate within the next five years, projections should be outlined for ten years, and the impact on the town with Legacy Farms goes out further than 15 years. Mr. Totino expressed his original concern that the timeframe should be ten years.
       “We know we’re facing a potential two million dollar shortfall next year, and we’re trying to understand what that figure could be ten years out if we do nothing,” Mr. Totino said. “Let’s review the options, come up with a plan of action for increasing revenues and reducing expenses, and then present the options to the town”.
       The goal is now to distill the report-outs for the ideas on closing the revenue and expense gap in closed working sessions, compile the final report, and present it to the Board of Selectmen during a meeting in October.

Next Generation of Harringtons

September 19, 2007 — Bill and Mary Harrington were treated to a surprise weekend celebration with their entire family in Meredith NH on Lake Wauwekan. They were married at St. John's in Hopkinton on May 4, 1957 and have been blessed with four children, Cindy Collette, Marylou Knox, Kathy Laflash and David Harrington, 7 grandchildren, John and Laura Collette, Michael, Stephen and Katherine Knox, Matthew Laflash and Jillian Katz and 1 great granddaughter, Alina Collette. Old memories were shared and new ones were made.

Comparative Poll Results

Casino for Massachusetts and casino for Hopkinton

September 19, 2007 — After The poll on the left finished in a near dead-heat, a reader suggest the question in the poll on the right to test the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) factor. The NIMBY factor turned it from a virtual tie on a state level into a 2 to 1 against a casino in Hopkinton.

One reader remarked, "That's normal."

Lady Hillers Competed in Summer Triathlon

September 19, 2007 — In early July, a team of young ladies from Hopkinton High School ventured out to Natick’s Memorial Beach to compete in the Cheryl Calder Memorial Triathlon. The team of young ladies was sponsored by Hopkinton High School Teacher and Varsity Swim Coach Bryan King. Mr. King, who is from Natick, and used to work at the beach where this event took place has been associated with the triathlon for over 20 years.

This year, he asked some of the soon to be seniors if they would consider doing the event. The original team of swimmer Gabby Choi, bicyclist Coco Ellis, and runner Nicole Driscoll were planning on being ready to go. A last minute injury to Nicole meant a substitute had to be found, so, instead of letting her team down, Nicole went looking for a substitute, and incoming junior Molly Kessler stepped right in.

The Hiller Team took the lead in the swim due to a tremendous performance by Gabby, and then Coco maintained a top position on the bike. When it came time to do the run, Molly ran within 4 seconds of her personal best mile time to ensure the win for the girl’s division. Congrats go out to these fine young ladies who spent a little bit of their summer vacation competing in a worthy event.

Reach the Beach

September 19, 2007 — This past weekend, Hopkinton Running Club participated in the Reach the Beach Relay (which, by the way is co-managed/directed by Hopkinton resident Mike Dionne). The R.T.B. is a +200 mile relay in which teams of 12 (we had 2 teams) run +200 miles starting at Cannon Mountain and finishing at Hampton Beach. This event occurs over (approx) a 24 hour period.

Our teams were called: Team Loonacy I and Team Loonacy II - in honor of our fellow HRC member Andy Welzel, who passed away last year.

What a trip it was! ~ Kathleen Karpe

Wa-wa-chusett

September 18, 2007 — A clear day aided by a long lens and a good camera brings Mt. Wachusett a little closer to Hopkinton, as viewed from the Breakneck Hill Road area today.

Hopkinton over Ashland

September 18, 2007 — Hopkinton won three sets against Ashland this evening at the Athletic Center, 25-15, 23-25, 27-25 and 25-16. Above, Maggie Grabmeier winds up to send a bullet over the net to the Ashland team.

POLL RESULTS

The results on the desire for a casino in Massachusetts are nearly in a dead heat in this HopNews poll.

If you know of a Boston or Mass poll on this issue, send us a link to compare with.

Editor@HopNews.com

Roundtable Open To All Business Owners: How Much Can You Risk?
Thursday- September 27, 2007
Hopkinton Fire Station – 2nd Floor: 7:30 a.m. – 7:50 a.m.
Registration and Continental Breakfast: 7:50 a.m. – 8:20 a.m.
Roundtable Presentations: 8:20 – 8:40 a.m. Q&A

The Bernat Mill Fire in Uxbridge exposed 65 small businesses to severe losses. Brian Thomas of Phipps Insurance will discuss what you can do to minimize the risk for your business.

New health insurance regulations went into effect on July 1st. David Ferreira of WB Smith Companies will give you a brief summary of the new law, and how you need to act to comply.

        Long-term illnesses can devastate your retirement funds and your family.
        Richard Roche (File photo), a long term care insurance specialist will discuss current trends in LTCI, and why it is important to consider it in your plans.
       For questions and to make a reservation: Contact Ron Foisy at 508/259-3303. Ron_Foisy@msn.com

Planning Board Update on Legacy Farms

by Joseph Markey, the Hopkinton Planning Board 2nd Vice Chair

September 18, 2007 —Since May 2007 Town Meeting, the Planning Department, Planning Board, other town departments and boards, and Boulder Capital have been busy on a number of fronts. The Planning Board welcomes this opportunity to provide a public progress update and to outline next steps.

Zoning Advisory Committee

In June, the Planning Board voted to appoint all 14 citizens who expressed an interest in serving on ZAC for the 2007-2008 term. These ZAC volunteers represent a diverse range of interests and professional backgrounds, aimed at achieving the rich and open dialogue that leads to well vetted zoning recommendations. We welcome new and returning members to ZAC and look forward to a busy and productive year. ZAC is currently researching and prioritizing zoning ideas to be addressed during the 2007-2008 term, including zoning proposals related to Boulder Capital land and surrounding areas. (File photo)

Sasaki Zoning Recommendations

In early September, Planning Board consultant Sasaki Associates concluded their work on East Hopkinton planning. Sasaki's final report offers a suggested framework for zoning overlay districts covering the eastern portion of Hopkinton, including the ~700 acres now owned by Boulder Capital. Sasaki presented the report to the planning board and to ZAC in September.

The Sasaki recommendations are the culmination of a year long effort funded by 2006 Town Meeting. Serving as the backbone of the Sasaki proposal are the key values that the town identified during over a dozen public input sessions and numerous interviews with town departments during 2006 and 2007.

Boulder Capital Due Diligence

The sale of Weston Nurseries property to Boulder Capital was completed over the summer, and Boulder Capital immediately began working with various town boards to complete due diligence on the land and infrastructure. Activities include:

Water Main Break

Please be advised that due to a water main break this morning you may notice some discoloration in you water throughout the town. The break caused a surge in the main along the Wood St. line dislodging the sediment in the pipe and sending it throughout the system. Please check your water before using and you may need to let it run for a short period to clear your pipes.

Senator Karen Spilka Announces Hopkinton Office Hour
Monday, October 15, 2007
10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

The Golden Spoon
85 West Main Street, Hopkinton

State Senator Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) is holding an informal office hour for the residents of Hopkinton to discuss issues of importance to them. All constituents are encouraged to stop by and meet the Senator in person, as well as raise any questions, concerns or ideas they may have.

Any resident unable to attend should feel free to contact the Senator’s State House office at (617) 722-1640 at any time.

SPEAC Hosts Evening with Student Service Director Dr. Esposito Sept. 26

HOPKINTON, MASS. (September 17, 2007) – Hopkinton’s Special Education Advisory Council (SPEAC) will be hosting an evening with Dr. Kirsten Esposito, Hopkinton’s new Student Services Director at 7:00 p.m. on September 26 at the Hopkinton Middle School Library. All interested parents are invited to take part in this open conversation and sharing of ideas.

Based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, SPEAC is made up of parents and guardians working to ensure all children with special needs are educated effectively. For more information visit the SPEAC Web page listed under Support Organizations on the Hopkinton School District web site www.hopkinton.k12.ma.us/.

Constitution Day

Above, students in Ms. O'Malley's Fourth Grade class work to solve their problems.

September 17, 2007 — Principal Martha Starr and Assistant principal Deana Law held a "Constitution Day" today, which is, according to Ms. Law, mandated by Federal Law passed after 911. The entire school of fourth and fifth grade students, over 500 kids, had to wear either red white or blue to school.

Below, students are eager to answer questions in Mrs. Green's Fifth Grade class

Constitution Day

Below is a word scramble, compliments of Mrs. Starr:

Constitution Word Scramble

1. On what day did the Constitutional Convention sign the Constitution?
EESPTBERM 71 7781
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

2. What is the introduction to the Constitution called?
BEAREPML
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

3. What is the name of the first ten amendments to the Constitution?
LILB FO TGRHIS
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

4. Which branch of government administers the law?
DJCIALUI
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

5. Which branch of government does the President oversee?
VEEEXCIUT
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Real Estate Transactions for Hopkinton, Massachusetts *Compiled by Eric Montville for HopNews.com, September 17, 2007*
Address	Buyer	Price	Date	Seller
8 Smith Road	John J. Durr & Patricia A. Durr	850,000	Sep. 14, 2007	William H. Huckaby & Donna Huckaby
28 North Mill Street	Robert E. Schofield III & Mary W. Schofield	$612,719.50	Sep. 14, 2007	Christian D. Nealon & Lynette S. Nealon
1 Elm Street	Jason L. Jeffers	$354,000	Sep. 14, 2007	Sirva Relocation Credit, LLC
1 Elm Street	Sirva Relocation Credit, LLC	$354,000	Sep. 14, 2007	John P. Bentley & Kathleen Delehanty
6 Angelo Drive	Steven M. Hyman & Sherri L. Hyman	$645,000	Sep. 13, 2007	Lori Fellela
6 Summit Way	Todd S. Holbrook & Deborah A. P. Holbrook	$880,000	Sep. 12, 2007	Eagle Farm Limited Partnership
14 Falcon Ridge Drive	Scott D. Willover & Janet A. Salafia Willover	$850,000	Sep. 12, 2007	Andrew M. Valerie & Julie B. Valerie
12 DiCarlo Drive	John P. McCabe & Sharon McCabe	$636,000	Sep. 11, 2007	Hunt R. Hedrick, Jr.
Previous update:
36 Huckleberry Road	Roger Blanchette & Manon Gagne	$604,450	Sep. 07, 2007	Jeffrey P. Cheek
24 Kruger Road	Teresa M. Anthony & Dennis S. Katz	$35,000	Sep. 06, 2007	Paul Ishkanian
273 Hayden Rowe Street	Gregory J. Sieczkiewicz	$405,000	Sep. 04, 2007	Meredith C. Allen
See Full List back to February 1, 2007

Today, September 17, 2007

7:22 am There were several calls regarding a skunk with a yogurt container stuck on its head running in and out of Pleasant Street...

12:34 pm A 911 caller reported a suspicious motor vehicle on Clinton Street with a man and teenage girl inside...

12:56 am There were two callers who reported gunfire in the area of Spring Street and Norcross Road...

11:23 pm A caller reported that vehicles were driving down Ridge Road backwards at a high rate of speed...

9:41 pm There were multiple calls reported fire works or gunshots being set off on Downey Street...

Click the title above for the entire Police News and Arrests...

HOPKINTON FOOD PANTRY IS NEARLY EMPTY

To donate for the Food Pantry, drop your donation off at Colella's, Town Hall, Library, Hopkinton Drug, Sovereign Bank or Hiller's Cleaners.

According to Project Just Because Director Cheryl Lambert-Walsh, the Hopkinton food pantry is desperately low because more people are using it. She said that the Scouts contribute enormously when they do their drive in November, and she looks forward to working with them for the first time.

What type of foods are desirable? Click here to find out.

Where is the Top Tier?

Fountain is only half of its former self

by Robert Falcione

September 17, 2007 — The cast-iron fountain on the Hopkinton Common that is around 100 years-old is not only in disrepair, but is missing the top tier, a circumstance that has many stories surrounding it. The photo on the left, possibly from the 1920's judging from the women's clothing, proves that a top tier once existed.

But the tree in the background on the left appears to have had its main trunk broken several feet from the top, If that is true, it likely broke during the 1938 hurricane, making the photo more recent (Next time, the photographer will look at the date on the other side of the postcard).

The grass is noticeably longer, unlike the neatly trimmed look of the grass in today's photo. Kudos to the DPW. Those were the days when people from Hopkinton knew there was something special about the place, a secret that has apparently gotten out to the world at large.

The story of its damage — and this is the only story I have heard repeated — is that some youths tested the strength of some M-80 fireworks by placing them somewhere in the fountain.

In other words, they blew it up.

The people in the story were named, but the names escape me. And when I turned to the source recently to relearn their identities — perhaps they know where the rest of it is — I was met by a friend with amnesia.

Some very small pieces, purportedly from the fountain, were hanging around the Town Hall looking like junk when a proper authority disposed of them, not knowing their priceless value.

Then there is the story that someone in Hopkinton traded with Westborough the top tier of Hopkinton's fountain for some needed fire hose. The bottom tier of the fountain across from Town Hall in Westborough looks remarkably similar to, if not exactly like, the missing piece.

Another Townie is certain that the piece was taken for safekeeping and placed in a garage of a home near the Common. That person has since moved and has an unlisted phone number.

It is apparent that the post between the first and second tiers is also missing, and was perhaps the object of the destructive forces. The existing top post appears to have been originally at the top of the second tier.

Jeff Furber has been investigating the cost of repairing the fountain, and has been given a $79,000 estimate by one foundry. The CPC has promised $20,000 toward the repair, but it stands to reason that the cost would be considerably less without the need to remanufacture the second piece.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of the top tier of the fountain, please give us a call at 508-435-5534. Anonymity is assured.

High School Students Help the Homeless in San Francisco

Two stories from teens

by Natalie Crosier

September 16, 2007 – As students return to school, many will be asked “What did you do this summer?” Nineteen area teenagers can proudly say that they spent part of their summer helping the homeless and less fortunate of San Francisco.

On July 7-14, 8 adult volunteer leaders and 19 students from First Congregational Church of Hopkinton teamed up with The Center for Student Missions in California to make a difference on the streets of San Francisco. Most of the time was spent working with agencies that feed the hungry and homeless, as well as agencies that care for children. However, some of the time was actually spent on the streets of San Francisco talking to homeless people, praying with them and helping to meet some of their basic needs by handing out items such as socks, blankets, food, and toiletry kits.

“Before the trip, I thought homeless people were just outcasts of society. I was afraid to talk to or touch them,” comments Jeremy Sutton, Medway High School Junior. “After my experience in San Francisco, I can’t walk by a homeless person without praying for or talking to them. They are people and they need our help.”

The group stayed in the heart of the city, experiencing firsthand the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of urban life. They ate at local ethnic restaurants and cafes, sampling the delights of Indian, Central American, Greek, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisine. During a city tour and through daily activities, they learned about inner-city life (positives and negatives); who lives there, the unique issues and problems that city dwellers face.

READ MORE....

Casino for Hopkinton?

"Billionaire casino developer Sheldon Adelson is talking with legislative leaders about a casino on Interstate 495 where it intersects with the turnpike." ~ Boston Sunday Globe

September 16, 2007 — Billionaire Sheldon Adelson, majority owner of the Las Vegas Sands, has been pushing for casino gambling in Massachusetts since at least earlier this year, and the Boston Globe has reported today that Governor Duval Patrick is going to announce tomorrow, his blessing of three casino locations in Massachusetts to add to tax revenue.

"Billionaire casino developer Sheldon Adelson is talking with legislative leaders about a casino on Interstate 495 where it intersects with the turnpike," reported the Boston Sunday Globe today.

The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian tribe just got the town of Middleborough to approve a casino/resort at a Town Meeting, but they have yet to get any gambling licenses.

To get one of three state licenses, according to the Globe, the tribe will have to compete on a level playing field with all other bidders. However, the tribe did receive Federal recognition in May of this year, and could proceed to apply on the Federal level, making it a fourth license if approved.

According to a story in the Las Vegas Sun, Mr. Adelson, who flies by private jet and reportedly travels surrounded by bodyguards, is very generous to Jewish charities. He is also noted to be as tough as he is generous, and apologized for some remarks made about native Americans.

Although a site has not been specified for the casino, the largest owner of dry land nearest the area is EMC, which owns over 400 acres adjacent to their facility at the intersection of Routes 9 and 495, which includes the former Data General complex. That land can also be reached from Flanders Road on the Southborough side of Westborough, near Fruit Street in Hopkinton.

Large parcels of land on Fruit Street are 257 acres owned by the Town of Hopkinton, which cannot agree on what it wants to place there, and the Pratt family's farm land, which could total as much as 175 acres on both sides of Fruit Street. Mary Pratt, reached by phone today, said that no one has approached her about her land or the Town's Fruit Street property.

Another large parcel is Cedar Swamp in Westborough, an area of wetlands that is likely not buildable. But the state land off of Lyman Street in Westborough appears to total several hundred acres.

One of the largest parcels in the area, the former Weston Nurseries land, has often been mentioned as a desirable site for such an endeavor. However, principal Roy MacDowell, Jr. has yet to respond to email at this writing.

The other large parcel in Hopkinton is the Terry property, which borders Lumber and West Main Streets. Erickson Retirement Communities recently opted not to purchase the parcel after studies that showed that the wetlands on the property broke up the upland areas so much that they could not locate their community on one contiguous piece.

Neither Mr. Adelson nor Governor Patrick have specified the exact location of the proposed casino.

The site slated for a resort/casino in Middleborough is about 250 acres.

Low Tide

September 16, 2007 — Hopkinton Reservoir continued to be at its lowest level in recent memory, as the lack of a substantial rain coupled with the heavy municipal water taking by Ashland and Hopkinton draws the level down.

Jimmy Fund Walk

September 26, 2007 — Robin Buckingham and Lori Puccetti could likely have been the last walkers this morning in the Jimmy Fund Walk, which started at the Common. They were photographed by perhaps the last photographer to get there.

GIRLS in GRADES K - 12!
Learn more about the world of Scouting.
Learn How to join Girl Scouts
Bill’s Pizza, Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2007, 5:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Meet some of the town’s scout leaders, have your questions answered, learn about becoming a leader or assistant leader!
Please contact registrars Kerry Creswell creswell4@comcast.net or Maureen Camillucci m.camilluci@comcast.net if unable to attend. Visit www.HopkintonGirlScouts.org for more information and to see some of the many activities you can be involved in.

JOIN CUB SCOUTING

Calling All BOYS in GRADES 1-5!
Come to our Scout sign-up with your parent or guardian to learn more about the exciting world of Scouting.
HOW TO JOIN CUB SCOUTS
Elmwood School Cafeteria
Monday, Sept. 17, 2007
6:30 – 8:00 P.M.

Meet some of the town’s cub scout leaders, have your questions answered, learn about exciting volunteer opportunities!
Please contact Maria Karlis, Registrar of Pack 4 at mariakarlis@yahoo.com , Tim Landreth, Cubmaster of Pack 26 at tlandreth@comcast.net , or Dick Temple, Cubmaster of Pack 1 at 508-497-2403 if unable to attend. Scouting is a family oriented organization, develops character, communication skills and good citizenship. Cash or checks accepted for Registration fees.

Divine Kitchens of Westborough & Tomosso's Tratoria of Southborough

Corner of Route 9 and Lyman (Reservations only)
Team up together to take a stand against ovarian cancer

Tuesday September 18 / 6-9pm

at Divine Kitchens' newly redesign kitchen showroom Tomosso's Executive Chef Tony Bettencourt will do an evening of cooking demonstrations with wine pairings, appetizers and prizes.
     Everyone will receive recipe cards from that evenings preparations and enjoy delectable dishes that they will then learn to be able to prepare at home.
     $50 minimum suggested donation per person & space is limited.
     One hundred percent of the proceeds is being donated to Ovations for the Cure toward patient awareness and education initiatives for ovarian cancer.      September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - Get inspired by the spirit of hope. Invest in the power of science.
     For more information contact Darlene at 508-655-5412 / darlene@ovationsforthecure.org www.ovationsforthecure.org

Hope Starts with You

Join the Fight Against Breast Cancer

(Boston, MA) September 15, 2007 – Join the American Cancer Society in the fight against breast cancer at its 15th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5 mile walk on Sunday, October 14, 2007 starting at the DCR Hatch Memorial Shell on the
Charles River Esplanade in Boston. Registration and rolling start are set for 8:00 a.m. -10:00 a.m. This inspiring event unites the entire community to honor and celebrate breast cancer survivors, educate women about the importance of early detection and prevention, and raise money to fund lifesaving research and support programs to further the progress against
this disease. To register or for more information, visit www.cancer.org/stridesonline, or call 1-800-ACS-2345.

SPEAC Announces Fall/Winter Slate of Special Education Speakers

September 15, 2007 – Hopkinton’s Special Education Advisory Council (SPEAC) will be hosting the following fall speakers and workshops this fall and winter. All events are free and open to the public.

Wednesday, September 26 – Conversation with Dr. Kirsten Esposito
7:00 p.m. Hopkinton Middle School Library
SPEAC invites parents to come welcome Dr. Kirsten Esposito, Hopkinton’s new Student Services Director, and take part in an open conversation and sharing of ideas.

Tuesday, October 16 - District Attorney’s Office presents “Bullying”
7:00 p.m. Hopkinton Middle School Lecture Hall
This evening, done in conjunction with the HPTA, will discuss who is a target for bullying and how to help as a parent or student.

Tuesday, November 6 - ADHD
7:00 p.m. Hopkinton Middle School Lecture Hall
This discussion will cover defining ADHD, medications, strategies for intervention, and organizing for school and homework.
Tuesday, January 15 – Transistions from High School
6:30 p.m. Hopkinton Middle School Library
Presented by the Federation for Children with Special Needs, this discussion will feature challenges and solutions for students with special needs as they leave high school. (Snow date January 22)

Tuesday, February 5 – Basic Rights
7:00 p.m. Ashland High School
The Federation for Children with Special Needs will give an overview of the special needs laws and rights for parents who find themselves in the world of Special Education. (Snow date February 12)

Thursday, March 20 - “A” is for Advocate”
7:00 p.m. Hopkinton Middle School Lecture Hall
A panel of educational advocates will be available to answer parents’ questions on a variety of topics, including “What can an advocate do for you and your child?” “What should you look for in an advocate?” “What is the best way to work with an advocate and make them part of your child’s educational team?”

Based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, SPEAC is made up of parents and guardians working to ensure all children with special needs are educated effectively. SPEAC believes in the worth and importance of each child’s education and strives to continually enhance the quality of Hopkinton’s special education programs. In addition to hosting workshops and education roundtables, SPEAC also annually awards scholarships to graduating students who have benefited from special education or related services and are pursuing higher education. For more information or to become a member, contact Karen Weiskerger at 508-497-3959, Amy Lincoln at 508 497-0172, or visit the SPEAC Web page listed under Support Organizations .

~A quick link to the schools is always on top of HopNews.

Hopkinton Little League is holding tryouts for the 2008 season for both Softball and Baseball on September 21-23 at EMC Park.
Tryouts are MANDATORY for all players in 10U and 12U Softball and for all 7-12 year old Baseball.
Please go to www.hopkintonlittleleague.com for the tryout schedule and more details or email donaldelehman@aol.com with any questions.

Hillers beat Stoneham 28-7

Mahon comes off bench to rescue Hillers

Kelly Cook carries the ball across the goal line for the first Hopkinton touchdown of the evening and the first touchdown at home for the 2007 season.

by Peter Marso

September 14, 2007 — The Hopkinton Hiller football team won their 2nd straight non-league victory 28-7 at the hands of the Stoneham Spartans in a game played Friday night in Hopkinton. The Hillers with backup quarterback Conar Mahon came into the game for the injured Jeff Doyle and drove the Hillers for three scores.

The Hillers received an 88 yard kickoff return from Luke Warren and two touchdowns from Zach Carrol and one from tough Kelly Cook ( tremendous running game). The Hillers fell behind 7-0 but quickly tied the score and took the lead 14-7 at the break. Senior Will Morningstar and Paul Ostrander played outstanding on defense. Cory Thalheimer, Mark Masucci and Justin Marchessault played great football on way to the victory. Mark Sanborn was four for four in extra point conversions. The Hillers will open the Tri-valley season next Friday in Medfield game time is 7:00. The locals are up and running!!

Tower of Power

September 14, 2007 — The Hopkinton High School Cheerleaders proved their skills during halftime on Friday evening.