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Community Service Highlights Student Achievements

by Muriel Kramer
May 18, 2012 — Notable achievements and recognition at the School Committee last night included mention of Hopkinton High School’s recent ranking by US News as the number 3 high school in Massachusetts based in large part on a very high Advance Placement (AP) participation rate and outstanding MCAS scores. The average AP test score for last year’s seniors was 3.83; 361 students took a total of 696 AP exams in 2011, and the tests are scored on a scale from 1 to 5. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jonathan Landman commented that this ranking and the AP performance of Hopkinton students represents “a remarkable level of achievement.”

The public is encouraged to visit the High School this week to enjoy the Art Show currently on display in the main lobby; additionally, senior projects will be on display Wednesday May 23 from 8 to 10AM. Finally, Sunday May 20th at 2pm, the public is invited to come and enjoy the annual Pops Concert at the High School.

Elmwood School was highlighted for its success in raising money for both Children’s Hospital and the American Heart Association (AHA). Elmwood students raised $3,905 in a Coins for Cure effort benefitting Children’s Hospital; they raised the fourth highest amount in the state. Additionally, Elmwood students raised $11,750 for the AHA. In more good news, the 6th annual Relay for Life event organized primarily by students was held last weekend with over 750 participants raising over $150,000 to fight cancer. In six years, this student run event has raised over $900,000.

Dr. Mary Ann DeMello, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, and Laura O’Malley, Grade 2 teacher, briefed the School Committee on their recent professional development project that culminated in a trip to Peru this past April. Grade 4 teacher Pam Pendleton also travelled to Peru for the project. The program began months before the trip and included collaboration in curriculum ideas and class projects then a trip to the country including visits to schools and significant sites; there was also a community service component to the program. In written comments presented to the School Committee, Pendleton remarked that it was truly “a one of a kind experience.” Her fourth graders designed and decorated bookmarks that included facts about Peru on the back as well as Alpaca wool ties; 80% of the proceeds from the sales went to purchase paper and commission book shelves for one of the schools the teachers visited while 20% of the proceeds was donated locally to the Respite Center in Hopkinton.

O’Malley presented a briefing that captured the stark resources students and teachers work with in the Peruvian schools they visited high in the Andes Mountains. “I was so amazed by how little they had but how much the teacher was able to do and how enthusiastic the students are.” She also created a blog that the students in her second grade class could join and participate with. Follow the link to the blog http://kidblog.org/MsOMalleysClass/ to see some amazing pictures and find out what the second graders in her class had to say about the experience. “It is exciting to bring a global perspective to students in our school.”

Massachusetts has implemented changes in teacher and administrator evaluations statewide. Dr. Landman presented an overview of the changes in teacher evaluations. “The new regulations require substantial changes for us in the District.” Full implementation will take several years. Some of what is new includes a self-assessment requirement, a rubric to measure performance with four levels of achievement, student growth and performance as a measure for the teacher and evidence required to support performance and progress on the educator’s goals. Part and parcel of the new standards is a component whereby teachers contribute to evaluations on administrators and vice versa. Additionally, there is intended to be a mechanism for student input in the evaluation process. This effort establishes a standard of measure state wide that will be useful in the hiring process as teachers or administrators move between districts. Dr. Landman will present an overview of the new evaluation standards for administrators at a future meeting.

Upcoming at a joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen on June 6th, the School Committee will begin work to prioritize upcoming capital projects on town owned facilities and assets.

YOUR HOME

 

Annual Drinking Water Quality Report
The Water Department has completed the annual drinking water quality report. This consumer confidence report is a requirement of the EPA and will be distributed by July 1st for the previous calendar year reporting period. Copies are available on the Water Department web page,
www.hopkinton.org/water, and at the Water Department office, 85 Wood Street from 7:00am to 3:30pm. Additional copies can be obtained from the Town hall and the Library.
If you have any questions please feel free to give us a call @ 508-497-9765.

 

Hopkinton is one of 17 towns chosen by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to participate in a town wide group purchase plan for Solar Photovoltaic systems.

How does it work?

The more people purchase, lease or enter Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), the lower the installed costs are for everyone. If you own a home or business in Hopkinton with a mostly unobstructed south (ish) facing roof or yard, this can be a great deal. Without having to build in marketing and customer acquisition costs, a selected installer will offer very competitive pricing that will only get better as more people sign on. Because the installer gets to buy in much bigger quantities and rotate crews around a single town, costs go way down. A crew can install the racking system one day and then move on to the next house while waiting for building inspection. The electrician crew then comes in to hook the panels up and moves to the next house while waiting for final electrical inspection of the previous. This is much easier than moving crews all around the state with random jobs and dealing with various inspection departments.  

Hopkinton’s evaluation committee and the MassCEC will choose a Solar PV contractor from many qualified competitive bids. Each contractor submits bids based on a tiered pricing structure. Each Solarize home or business installation adds to the total contracted number of watts. The tiers are structured like this:  

1-25kW price per installed Watt = Tier 1 25-50kW price per installed Watt = Tier 2 50-150kW price per installed Watt = Tier 3 150-250kW price per installed Watt = Tier 4 250kW+ price per installed Watt = Tier 5
As each tier of installed capacity is reached, the price drops for everyone. Solarize Harvard 2011 reached the 4
th tier of discount - $4.00 per contracted watt, a 30% discount from the competitive starting price!
Why this makes financial sense:
 PV prices have dropped nearly 30% in the last few years
 MA currently has great incentives of any State but they won’t last forever.
 Federal tax credit of 30%. Incentives will not last forever!
 State tax credits – 15% of installed costs up to $1,000
 Commonwealth Solar rebates = $0.40 per watt on the first 5kW. $0.45 if using made in MA inverters.
 SREC’s (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) - you get salable credits for all the energy you produce.
 Sales tax free
 Keeps your house cooler in the summer – panels act as shade and can actually make your roof last longer
 

If you are interested in the Solarize program, the Mass CEC has designated the Chairman of the Green Committee, Andy Boyce, as Hopkinton’s "Solar Coach". If you have questions, you can contact him at:
Solar Coach Email: SolarizeHopkinton@Gmail.com
Solar Coach Phone Number: (508) 293-1837
To learn more about the Solarize Mass program, visit
www.SolarizeMass.com, on Twitter at #SolarizeMass, or email Solarize@MassCEC.com. Also see solar PV basics at MassCEC.com/AboutSolar

What happens if I add my name to the "interested" list?
There is no commitment by signing the list. The Solar Coach is keeping a spreadsheet of contacts. In the next few weeks, a committee composed of community and state representatives will choose an installer from the many competitive bids. The Solar Coach will then work with the vendor to contact people on the list. The installer will do a preliminary site analysis with you over the phone using Google Earth to check for obstructions and to see which way your roof faces. If conditions look good, they will come out and perform a no-cost site analysis. They will then be able to tell you how much it will cost at each tier and offer several installation options including purchase, lease, or a power purchase agreement. If you choose to sign a contract, the system will count towards the total installed number of Watts. As each tier is reached, your contract price is reduced.
The MA CEC will be conducting Solar 101 and 201 meetings in Hopkinton to explain in more detail.

SERVICE GUIDE

   

 

Cub Scout Informational Night

Cub Scouting is for boys ages 6 – 11, entering grades 1-5in fall 2012. Parents and boys can come learn about the fun and benefits of Cub Scouting at an information session held on Wednesday, June 13 at 6:30-8:00p.m. at the St. John’s Parish Hall. This event is informational; there is no obligation to join.

All Hopkinton Cub Scout Packs will be represented at the Information Session. You can join Scouts right away, or make your plans for fall registration. There are currently openings in all three Hopkinton Cub Scout Packs for boys entering First Grade in 2012, and varied openings in each Pack for boys entering Second through Fifth Grades.

You will have an opportunity to speak with leadership from each Pack to learn about Scouting, when and where the different Packs meet, and for boys entering grades 2-5, which Pack has openings for your son (s) to join. For more information please visit http://www.pack97hopkinton.org/,www.pack26hopkinton.org, or www.pack4hopkinton.org.

   

Chamberlain Pines Adds Tennis Pro

May 17, 2012 — Chamberlain Pines has added to their repertoire of activity offerings with the addition of Tennis Pro Dan Greenberger, who will be available all summer for clients and private lessons on their four clay courts. Another addition to the long list of fun is a new water aerobics class, as well as swimming lessons for members and non-members. File Photo.
       Chamberlain Pines Swim and Tennis Club is a great place to make an instant play date for Mom and the kids, not a place to drop kids off, according to principal Laura Emerson, who with her husband Ned, daughter Carol, and employees were setting up today for the upcoming Memorial Day pool opening — both the large pool and the "baby pool," which is 18" at its deepest.
        In addition to the competition sized tennis courts, Chamberlain Pines has an area for all aged youngsters, with basketball, volleyball, Wiffleball, foursquare, a sandbox and a playground.
        "This is a great alternative to the one-hour trip to the beach," said Mrs. Emerson.
        Chamberlain Pines is conveniently located on Chamberlain Street in Holliston, a minute from the Hopkinton line on Ash Street past Ravenwood.

     

Bill Carey to be Inducted into Hopkinton Hall of Fame 

May 17, 2012 — One of Hopkinton High School's most outstanding Athletes will take his place in the Hopkinton Athletic Hall of Fame this Saturday at 6:30 pm at St. Johns Parish Center. The Honor will go to Billy Carey (Class of 1962) Billy will receive the Honor along with 16 other outstanding coaches and players.  

Carey played in the first Little League game ever played in Hopkinton. The team was the Tigers who were Coached by Fellow Hall of Famer Paul Phipps, along with teammate and Hopkinton Hall Of Famer Dave Hughes. Billy Carey was an outstanding High-School Athlete, and grew up on Pleasant Street when Hopkinton was a small Community made up of many interesting personalities. Billy excelled in all three sports. and Captained the Football, Baseball and Basketball Teams.  

The 1962 graduate quarter-backed the 1959-60-61 Hillers under the Legend Coach Ed Hayes. At that time, records and stats were not really looked at or even thought off.  Billy Carey threw many touchdown passes to Hopkinton's outstanding end Alton Keith.  

His first t. d. pass was as a Sophomore to Alton in the Leicester 6-6 tie.( This was Ed Hayes' first Hopkinton Football Game.) Billy broke his wrist prior to the Thanksgiving Football game his Senior year. Ed Hayes put Billy at running back and ran all over Ashland as John Safstrom was called into doing the Quarterback duties. Billy had more yardage than any Hiller player thought of on this particular day. Again the stats were not kept ! Billy threw 12 touchdown passes his senior year and earned the reputation as one of Hopkinton's greatest football players. 

Billy later played for the Framingham Falcons and the Tri-City Chargers of the New England Football League. He also quarterbacked his Service Team ( His brigade in France). He also did a tour in Vietnam and won a medal of outstanding achievement with his brigade. In the Winter he turned his attention to Basketball as he was all-league his sophomore, junior and senior year, playing for Coach Clayton Smith.  

The Spring could not get here any quicker as the fields dried and it was time for baseball. Bills Baseball Career started in the Hopkinton little League. He won the batting Title as a 10-11- and 12 year old. As an eighth grader Carey started as a second baseman and shifting over to third base as a freshman sophomore junior and senior.. In 1957 as a seventh grader he was asked to play for the Varsity. ( He held his own as a youngster.) Billy's Hopkinton Baseball achievements were outstanding, as it carried him to an opportunity to sign with his hometown team the Boston Red Sox.  

Carey's most memorable performance was hitting three homeruns in one game against Blackstone. He hit with power and fielded flawlessly. His strong Arm and bat rumored him to the Red Sox Scouting Department. Billy in the summer played for the Milford Legion were he excelled so much that the Red Sox asked him to play in the prestigious Cape Cod League where once again he came to the attention of the Sox to start working him out at Fenway Park.  

At numerous times Billy worked out at Fenway Park as the Red Sox were waiting for a place to put him into the Minor Leagues. After another great season at the Cape the Sox called Billy and his dad Max Carey to come in and talk contract with Minor League Director Neil Mahoney. The day Billy was to dot the Contract a shift in minor League operations ( Sox losing minor league affiliates.) Billy was put on hold for the time being. The United States was now in a war zone and Billy decided to enlist in the United States Army. Billy carried his Baseball skills to Ft. Gordon, Georgia were he played third base for his Company team. They also won a Championship and he won the Batting Title.  

During Billy's Army duties he married Mary Poirier and had three wonderful children, Patti-Ann, Billy and Todd. They have ten grandchildren. His son Todd was also an outstanding Football player and also captained the Hillers. ( He coached in Holliston and also in Vermont. Son Billy was an outstanding Hockey player. Billy played with some outstanding Athletes. A few mentioned Alton Keith, Barney Hughes, Harry Hamilton, Charlie Lowell, Fred Murphy , Russ Ellsworth, Dave Hughes, Dick Gooding, Billy Thomas, Billy Smith, Paul Sheehan, Bob Evers, Edo Mongiat, Bill Macmillan, Albie Harris, and many more that I haven't mentioned. It brings great pride and happiness to see that Billy Carey will be having his most deserving day as he is only a few days from being honored with Hopkinton's most elite athletes. An award most deserving ! ~ Peter Marso Special to Hopnews.

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Support for Frank Sivo

Editor: 

As you know, Hopkinton residents will be asked to go to the polls on Monday, May 21st to cast their votes for our elected officials and vote on 10 ballot questions.  Of particular interest to many people is the contested race for School Committee. We have an opportunity to decide what type of leadership and skills we would like to see on this very important committee.  

This year, one candidate stands out to me as being very different from the rest. That candidate is Frank Sivo. I recently have had the opportunity to work with Frank on the Elementary School Criteria Working Group and have been very impressed and thankful for his participation on this sub-committee. From the beginning Frank asked very thoughtful and pointed questions to help the group get started in the right direction. He is rational in his thinking and respectful in his delivery. Frank is an independent thinker, asks thoughtful and sometimes difficult questions, and is concerned with excellence in our schools. 

I have witnessed Frank’s logical thinking and line of questioning; he is persistent, yet respectfully listens to all who contribute. He is firmly committed to ensuring that the next school building project is reflective of the desires and affordability of the community. He is not tied to any particular solution for our next building project, but is interested in a transparent process that is fact based and will provide the best solution for our students and community. Frank is the type of thinker and contributor that our town needs at this important juncture. Last year 72% of our town was in agreement that the Fruit Street school proposal was not right for Hopkinton, for a variety of reasons. Frank Sivo was part of the 72% who did not support the proposal. I would never vote for a candidate on one issue, but I do think that knowing where the candidates came out on that vote can be a reasonable predictor of their future performance.  

Do you want a candidate who would consider supporting another project like the failed Fruit Street proposal? Or would you prefer an independent thinker who will work diligently to find the best option for the challenges our schools face in the coming years and will work hard to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely? I hope you will join me in casting a vote for Frank Sivo on Monday, May 21st at the Middle School between 7:00 am – 8:00 pm.  

Respectfully,
Kim Brennan

151
Spring Street
Hopkinton
May 17, 2012

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TOWN OF HOPKINTON

2012 ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION - TEN  BALLOT QUESTIONS 2012  WITH EXPLANATIONS 

Question 1: Shall the Town of Hopkinton be allowed to exempt from the limitation on total taxes imposed by Chapter 59, Section 21C of the Massachusetts General Laws (Proposition 2 ½, so-called) the amounts required to pay for the bond issued to provide for the purchase of a Fire Department Tender Truck? 

At the 2011 Annual Town Meeting (ATM), the voters voted to borrow $350,000 for the purchase of a tender truck, accessories and any other related costs.  At the 2012 ATM, this amount was increased to $367,000. This borrowing was made contingent on the passage of a debt exclusion under Proposition 2 1/2, authorizing a temporary increase in the Town’s levy limit to cover the cost of borrowing for this item.  A YES vote would mean that the funds are approved and the expenditure will proceed.  A NO vote would mean that the funds are disapproved and the expenditure cannot proceed without a future ballot vote within 90 days of the ATM. 

Question 2: Shall the Town of Hopkinton be allowed to exempt from the limitation on total taxes imposed by Chapter 59, Section 21C of the Massachusetts General Laws (Proposition 2 ½, so-called) the amounts required to pay for the bond issued to provide for the design of a Department of Public Works headquarters facility, along with all related costs? 

At the 2011 Annual Town Meeting (ATM), the voters voted to borrow $250,000 for the design of a DPW headquarters facility, along with all related costs.  This borrowing was made contingent on the passage of a debt exclusion under Proposition 2 1/2, authorizing a temporary increase in the Town’s levy limit to cover the cost of borrowing for this item.  No such vote was taken, however, within the 90-day period prescribed by statute.  Therefore, any borrowing for this purpose would need to be approved at a future Town Meeting.  A YES vote would mean that, if the funds are approved at a future Town Meeting, the levy limit will be temporarily increased to cover the cost of the borrowing.  A NO vote would mean that no temporary increase will be authorized at this time.
PLEASE SEE ALL 10 QUESTIONS HERE

 

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Police Incident Log -

Most Recent First
Updated Thursday, May 17, 2012
 

Click Here for New Arrests 

INCIDENTS:
Wednesday, May 16, 2012

11:07 pm
Officer Linda Higgins responded to a domestic incident and arrested an individual as a result.

7:08 pm A caller reports an individual throwing trash out of their window on Lumber Street. The caller also stated that he had honked his horn and the operator of the vehicle gave him the finger. Officer Philip Powers spoke with the operator of the vehicle who claims to have disposed of a banana peel out of his vehicle.

5:38 pm A resident of Lakeshore Drive reports a teenager is riding a dirt bike with no helmet on, in the roadway. Officer William Burchard could not locate the teenager.

3:45 pm A resident of Ridge Road reports all of her fire alarms have activated. The Fire Department responded.

3:44 pm Officers William Burchard and Philip Powers responded to a 2 car accident on West Main Street. One operator was complaining of head pain.

2:21 pm A caller reports that the stop signs on Westcott Street have obscene images drawn on them. Department of Public Works advised.

11:17 am A loose dog was discovered on East Street in Upton. The Upton Police Department was called. The caller then reported that the owner of the dog showed up.

9:54 am A caller from Wood Street reported that his wife noticed a man standing outside their front door last night. When the man was confronted he stated that he was looking for a bar. The man was a white male in his 20's wearing a black Under Armor gold shirt and plaid shorts. The man appeared somewhat intoxicated and he left the area after the husband confronted him.

1:50 am An individual spoke with Officer Linda Higgins regarding a tree limb on the wires is on fire on Fruit Street.

1:48 am Officer Linda Higgins checked a motor vehicle on Saddle Hill Road.

YOUR HOME

 

A letter of request from the Hopkinton Department of Public Works


The Hopkinton Department of Public Works asks for your continued support of its efforts to replace the DPW facility on Wood Street. The Annual Town Meeting of 2011 appropriated $250,000 for the design of a new DPW facility on Wood Street.  That vote requires approval at the ballot on Monday, May 21st.  The DPW asks for your continued support of this important initiative. 

The DPW prepared a presentation of the needs for the new DPW facility which can be reviewed at the following web address: http://bit.ly/JRVmeU.  The new facility will allow for greater efficiency of DPW operations and allow the DPW to improve its service to the community. The new facility will provide countless benefits including adequate room for all DPW employees to work from the same location and it will garage all vehicles under one roof. The new facility will incorporate “green” design concepts and it will be located at the same site of the existing facility which will be demolished. 

My thanks and appreciation for your continued support,
John K. Westerling
Your Director of Public Works

   

Long Life Farm Expands

May 17, 2012 — Donald Sutherland, Laura Davis and a shareholder expand the Long Life Farm's Community Supported Agriculture by planting six acres of the former Amato Farms that straddles the Hopkinton/Upton line. Their premier growing location that began last year will remain on Pond Street, and their goods will continue to be offered at Weston Nurseries' Farmers' when it opens on Friday, June 15, 2012.

   

Alvin!!!!

May 17, 2012 — This chipmunk will remain unnamed for now, but its Hollywood brethren have starred in several movies.

SERVICE GUIDE

   

 

Marathon Fund Donates Monies for HCA Outdoor Stage

HOPKINTON, MA (May 16, 2012) --- Thanks to monies provided by the Marathon Fund Committee, the Hopkinton Center for the Arts was recently able to purchase an indoor/outdoor stage. The stage was used for the first time during the HCA Spring Arts Festival, and will be used during the Summer Music Festival on June 23; Shakespeare Under the Stars on August 4, 5 and 6; and the Summer Jazz Festival every Saturday during the summer. It is also available for use by other non-profit groups in town. 

“This was a very generous gift and will make a tremendous difference in our outdoor performances,” said Kelly Grill, executive director of the HCA. “Being slightly elevated and on a firm, stable surface is more comfortable for performers and also makes it easier for the audience to see them." Contributed

     

No Fire

May 16, 2012 — Firefighters responding to a fire alarm at a Main Street multifamily found no fire, but several code violations, one said.

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All Smiles for Boosters Sale, Sports Swap – This Saturday at High School 

 

Hopkinton High School freshmen (left to right) Colin Palmer, Kaitlyn West, Holly Mokler and Jenna Hanlon model the latest collection of Be Positive (B+) T-shirts now available at the Boosters store for $10 each. All students are encouraged to wear the popular shirts to school on Wed., May 23 when the seniors have their last day – reminding everyone to focus on positive, happy thoughts for a successful future. The Boosters store will open this Saturday, May 19, starting at 10 a.m., in conjunction with the “Sports Equipment Swap” in which you can drop off gently used equipment at a collection site in the high school parking lot and receive a generous discount coupon for store merchandise. Check the web site www.hopkintonboosters.com for more information. Featured sale items this month are: Champion sweatshirts and Hiller golf shirts (reg. $45—sale price $25), and hooded Under Armour sweatshirts (reg. $65–sale price $35.) All proceeds benefit Hopkinton athletics.

 

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TRAILS CLUB OFFERS GUIDED HIKE 

Saturday, May 19, 2012, 3:00 PM: Lake Whitehall walk. We'll explore the Parker Point/Whitehall Conservation Area  trails. Beautiful woods, unique views of the lake, and a wealth of paths. Meet at the Lake Whitehall boat ramp parking area on Wood St./Route 135. As always, there more info at www.hopkintontrailsclub.com  .

  1. Thumbnail See a photo excursion on the lake from 2010 narrated by Austin Falcione in the YouTube/HopNews video on the left.

 

Support for Frank D'Urso

Editor:
I have had the pleasure to know and work with Frank for the past few years thru various community functions. Con Com, Green Committee, Trails Club, Scouting and Town Sports. Frank brings a fresh perspective to Town politics, always willing to look at the big picture, his manner is non partisan and looks for ways to re-purpose Town assets rather than replace and rebuild. I also commend him for stepping and seeking election for this position. I ask you vote on Monday for Frank D'Urso for School Committee.

Andre Griben
6 Winter Street
May 16, 2012

   

CAR WASH FOR HONDURAS TRIP!

SATURDAY, MAY 19TH 9-1
TJ’S RESTAURANT
ASHLAND, MA

355 W Union St Rt 135

Please come and support Nicole Wigglesworth, Katie Pelgrin and Liz Keefe for their Mission Trip to Honduras hosted by St. Johns Parish

SERVICE GUIDE

   

 

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Police Incident Log -

Most Recent First
Updated Wednesday, May 16, 2012
 

Tuesday, May 15, 2012
9:06 pm
Arts towing pulled up to a disabled motor vehicle at the same time as Officer William Burchard on Cedar Street.
7:19 pm
Officer Aaron O'Neil assisted Bellingham Police Department with an investigation.
2:04 pm
Officer David Shane assisted with a disabled motor vehicle on East Main Street.
1:01 pm
An individual from Fruit Street reported gunshots in the area. Officer Gregg DeBoer could not locate the source of the noise.
10:07 am
Officer David Shane spoke with the owner's wife regarding an apparently disabled motor vehicle. It was established that the owner was fishing and the vehicle was not disabled.

YOUR HOME

 

   

Hopkinton PTA To Host Retirement Reception for
Elmwood School Principal Ilene Silver
 

May 16, 2012, Hopkinton, Mass. - The HPTA cordially invites community members, parents, and students to a retirement reception for Mrs. Ilene Silver in celebration of her nineteen years of dedicated service to Elmwood School.

The reception will be held on Tuesday, June 12 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Elmwood School library. Light refreshments will be served.

The HPTA is creating a memory book for Mrs. Silver that will be presented to her at the reception. We would greatly appreciate participation from the Hopkinton community. A section of the book will incorporate personal messages from community members, school administration, faculty members, parents, and students.

Please send your personal message to elmwoodmemorybook@hptaonline.com.
Provide your name and the section your message should be included (community member, school administration, faculty member, parent or student).

All submissions must be received by Wednesday, May 23.

For questions, contact HPTA Elmwood School Co-Vice
Presidents Kristin Kane (508) 435-3164 or Christine Tourigny (508) 435-2470.

 

UPDATE

21 Year-old Hopkinton Man in Serious Condition. Family seeking help.

May 15, 2012 — The family of a 21 year-old Hopkinton man was who found in the roadway of Elda Road near Eleanor Road in Framingham at 3:00 pm yesterday says he is hospitalized in grave condition, in a coma, and expect the next 72 hours to be critical in his recovery. He was airlifted to Boston Medical Center yesterday following his discovery. 

The aunt of Nicholas Russo said that he and his mother are staying in her home temporarily, and would hope that the mystery of why he was in that area yesterday, and who may have been with him will be solved with the help of the public.  

Nick made many friends in the neighborhood in the short time he has been staying with his aunt and her family, she said. 

Anyone having information about yesterday's tragic circumstance and those leading up to it is urged to call Framingham Police 508-872-1212. 

In addition, she hopes the press would not bother her family. Members of the press walked onto her property yesterday while her children were at home, and a neighbor needed to guard the front door and fend them off until she arrived. Photo contributed by family.

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CWG Shaping Elementary School Building Project Study 

by Muriel Kramer
The Criteria Working Group (CWG) has been tasked by the School Committee to create a list of criteria that will be used to shape the next Elementary School Building Project Study; the final results of their work are scheduled to be presented to the School Committee (SC) on Thursday June 7, 2012. Ideally the criteria is intended to incorporate feedback from the community after the failed vote in March 2011 for a new, districted elementary school on Fruit Street; that feedback was gathered from an exit poll at the Special Town Election, structured feedback working groups, a SC survey and from individual voters directly. Members of the community that are interested in shaping this discussion as it goes forward are encouraged to contact School Committee members, the Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jonathan Landman and/or Assistant Superintendent Dr. Mary Ann DeMello directly. The CWG has two more meetings before presenting their results to the School Committee; they are scheduled to meet in the Middle School Library from 6:30 to 9:30 on May 22 and May 29.
 

Discussion at the May 14th CWG meeting centered on refining the drafted criteria and assigning a priority on a scale of 1 (less important) to 3 (top priority); the approach yielded some criteria that stood out as priorities, but many were rated a 2. CWG member Kim Brennan asked about next steps and the schedule ahead expressing concern that the list to date doesn’t include many things of concern to the community. She commented that the list they were working on came from an initial exercise and may not include necessary priorities from the community. Dr. DeMello responded that she hoped that wasn’t so and asked if any others in the group felt that necessary criteria were missing. 

Erica Mauer, representing SPEAC, responded, “Aren’t we the community? I feel like we have been able to tap in almost ad nauseam to the community.” 

Others felt that they had reached out to neighbors, teachers, family and friends; Brennan responded, “It seems like the community is much broader than that. We are getting very close (to the final presentation), and I don’t think we’ve expanded into the community feedback.” 

Member Tara Sanda asked, “Can you give an example of what hasn’t been addressed?” 

Brennan responded that cost had not been addressed. Chirco immediately agreed. “I was going to say that too.”  

Brennan continued, “I think it was a good starting exercise, but I don’t feel confidence in the comprehensive criteria work. I want this to be successful and as comprehensive as possible.”
MUCH MORE

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21 Year-old Hopkinton Man in Serious Condition

May 15, 2012 — According to MyFoxBoston's newsroom, a 21 year-old Hopkinton man was found in the roadway of Elda Road near Eleanor Road in Framingham at 3:00 pm this afternoon and was airlifted to by Medical helicopter to Boston Medical Center, where he is reported to be in intensive care. Hopkinton Police would not release the name of the victim, but referred calls to Framingham Police, where no one was available this evening to answer questions.
       WCVB TV has identified the 21 year-old as Nicholas Russo of Hopkinton, and said has serious head injuries.
 

There are no indications of why he was in the roadway. The residential roads in that neighborhood off of Brook Street in Framingham are often used by people to access the rear of the Mass Pike westbound service plaza in Framingham.

     

SERVICE GUIDE

   

 

 Sport of the Week

Hopkinton Baseball Wins Their 10th behind Haroian’s Arm and Sullivan’s Bat -
Qualifies For State Tournament With Exciting Victory Over a Tough Bellingham Squad, 8-5!!!

By: Lou Ottaviani

Going into yesterday’s TVL baseball matchups with Hopkinton hosting Bellingham, and Medfield taking on Holliston, Hopkinton was hoping that something big was going to happen for them, and big it was! You see, the Hillers, Blackhawks and Warriors were all tied for first place with identical 9-3 records going into their respective games.

With Hopkinton and Bellingham playing each other, it was easy to figure out which one of those teams were going to drop down to the second place; and depending on the outcome of the Holliston/Medfield game, one would be able to determine which team Medfield would be pairing up with. Would Hopkinton be in a two-way tie for first with Medfield or would Bellingham have the honor of sharing second place with them?

With their 8-5 victory, Hopkinton answered the first part of the question above. The second part would be answered by Medfield, as they beat Holliston by a score of 13-8. Hopkinton has played the Warriors twice this season taking away two wins from them, despite their identical records of 10-3.

Prior to the game, both teams were showcasing their “Coaches vs. Cancer” wrist bands in support of the American Cancer Society awareness. The Hopkinton baseball team has raised approximately $1K dollars which they have donated to the American Cancer Society. “Janice Portlock does wonderful things working with Coaches vs. Cancer and we’re happy to be participating in this great cause,” said Hopkinton Coach Jay Golden. “Hopefully next year we can raise more money for them.”

Winning this game was a significant accomplishment for the boys of “green and white” as well as with their staff. “Coming into this game with nine wins, our first goal as a team was to make tournament play,” said Golden. “Our win today clinched us a berth to the state tournament. I thought that Jake (Haroian) pitched a wonderful game, especially in the later innings against an excellent and well coached team. We knew that Bellingham would battle us to the end. We expected no less from a solid program. I thought that we did a good job keeping our hands back. Ryan’s (Sullivan) first homerun to right was a good example of that. Our defense played tremendously, particularly our left side of the infield and our catcher, Craig (Levergood) has been outstanding all year and today was no different.”

For the first five innings, Hiller starter Jake Haroian had the Blackhawks just where he wanted them. The Hopkinton senior kept the Bellingham hitters off balance with great control and nice off speed pitches. “Coming into today’s game I felt relaxed and Craig (Levergood) called a great game,” said a modest Haroian. I was really excited knowing that a win would clinch us a tournament spot. So that was a big motivation for all of us today. Craig called a great game and as the game progressed my confidence continued to grow. My curve and sliders seemed to work well for me. Overall, I felt good throwing today.

And good he should have felt. For his first five innings, Haroian had only thrown a total of 53 pitches with no inning throwing more than 14 pitches. He had a total of 37 pitches for strikes, or a 70% strike to ball ratio during those first five innings. The only run allowed during that time was a solo homerun by Joey Mangini in the top of the third.

The Hillers provided support for Haroian right away, giving him a quick 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first. With one out, number two batter, Mike Decina (2 for 3, RBI, 2 runs scored) hit a line drive single to put him on first. Ryan Sullivan, who had an incredible offensive display at the plate (3 for 4, 6 RBI, 2 HR, 2 runs scored) proved to be the “hit dog” of the day. With the count 2-0, Sullivan took the next Brad Rebello pitch over the right field fence to put the Hillers on top of the Blackhawks.

Rebello settled down over the next three innings and in the bottom of the fifth, he gave up four consecutive singles and was relieved by Kevin Martinis, with no outs. Martinis faced four Hopkinton batters and was able to stop the bleeding but not before Hopkinton was able to produce two more runs, both on RBI singles from Decina and Levergood, to make the score 4-1 at the bottom of the fifth.

Coming out in the top of the sixth, Haroian threw 25 pitches (the most he had thrown in any inning thus far). Despite a bit of a struggle, Haroian kept his composure and focus and let his defense make the plays. Bellingham was able to muster up run to bring the score to 4-2, going into the bottom of the sixth.

With Jack Yaggy leading off, he wasted little time reaching first as he took a Martinis fastball to the side. Alex Hulme watched four consecutive balls go by to give him a pass to first. Next up was Nick Burns, who was pinch hitting for Mike Decina (who had to leave the game in the fifth to attend an MIAA Football Scholar/Athlete Award banquet where he was a recipient of the award). Burns also reached first with a walk from Martinis. With the bases loaded, Bellingham brought in David Sampson to replace Martinis. Up to the plate was Ryan Sullivan. Sullivan greeted Sampson promptly on his first pitch by drilling a line drive homerun over the left centerfield fence for a grand slam to make the score, 8-2 for the Hillers.

“I was looking for good pitches to hit today and knew that making the right selection was key for me,” said Sullivan. I was able to get two good pitches to hit that worked out well for me. I think that Jake pitched a great game for us which made it easier for us to play and gave us more confidence. He did a nice job working the batters and kept them off balance all game. This was a great win putting us in first place and clinching a tournament berth for us."

Coming into the top of the seventh, Haroian’s pitch count was at 78. It appeared that Haroian may be tiring (as he finished the inning with 31 pitches, bringing his total pitch count to 109 for the day). His strike to ball ratio had dropped to 65% (strike to ball ratio). Through this inning, Bellingham could sense his fatigue, having collected four hits in that inning along with his second walk of the game. Haroian, however, hung tough and was determined to get through the inning. But not before the ever determined Blackhawks had their say, scoring three runs of their own to make it a go. However, it wasn’t enough, as Hopkinton prevailed by a score of 8-5.

Along with Sullivan’s heroics, other Hillers contributing offensively included: Craig Levergood (2 for 4, RBI); Mike Decina (2 for 3, RBI, Run); Connor Farrell (2 for 3) and Tim Moberg had a double. Hopkinton finished with 12 hits on the day.

Leading hitters for Bellingham included: Pat Williamson (3 for 4, 2 doubles); Tyler Colacchio (2 for 3, 2 RBI, Run, double) and Brad Robello (2 for 4, Run).

Hopkinton will host Millis tomorrow and will travel to Medway on Thursday.

   

POLL RESULTS

A poll started Monday evening yielded unquestionable results, shown in the graphic to the left. People were asked to consider the information below before voting. The practice of banning Sunday construction, we are told, is universal.

Construction Ban. Good? Bad?

There is a Hopkinton bylaw that limits the use of construction equipment for commercial purposes to weekdays between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, and Saturdays from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. Sundays and holidays are banned entirely. Homeowners are also limited in use and times.
As a result of this bylaw, construction equipment stands idle at all construction sites in Hopkinton, like Legacy Farms (photo taken Sunday) and Price Chopper, outside of the allowable days and times.
 

These laws are left over, either statutorily or philosophically,  from the so-called Massachusetts Blue Laws that were handed down from the Puritans banning work on the Sunday Sabbath. Since most of the ones regarding retail have been abandoned or overturned — shopping malls are very busy places on Sunday — should the construction ban, which is listed under the noise ordinance, be overturned too?
NOTE: No one is proposing any changes. The poll is just an academic exercise.

 

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