Hopkinton Education Foundation Announces 2017 Grant Awards
Foundation to Fund Grants Valued at $28,260
For Elmwood,
Hopkins, Middle and High Schools
HOPKINTON, MA – May
17, 2017 – The Hopkinton Education Foundation (Ed Foundation)
awarded 6 grants totaling over $28,260 to schools in the Hopkinton
Public School system. These 6 grants were chosen as their ideas best
met the foundation’s criteria for innovation and positively
impacting the Hopkinton Public School System. After today’s
announcement, the total funds awarded to the Hopkinton Public School
system are nearly $1.3 million.
The grants awarded in
this cycle support a wide range of disciplines including critical
thinking skills, science, diversity & empathy, English language
arts, and mathematics. “This year we funded a big variety of new
curriculum tools for the teachers. Introducing collaboration and
diversity in a fun way to an early age is very exciting. It is also
great to see new ways of teaching things like math and grammar”,
said Alexis Miller, Education Foundation President.
This year’s award
recipients are:
Break Out
of Traditional Learning awarded to Lauren Mack at the Elmwood
School for $750 - Stephen Gray Innovation Grant -This
grant funds six EDU Breakout Boxes on which second and third
grade students will work collaboratively to solve a series of
critical thinking clues in order to open a locked box. These
activities can be tailored to reinforce or learn any aspect of
content curriculum in a fun and engaging way.
The STEAM
Powered Classroom awarded to Laura O’Malley at the Elmwood
School for $10,000 – This exciting grant will enable
instructors from Science from Scientists to come to 3rd
grade classes and teach engaging, hands on, STEAM based lessons
that tie to the new science standards while focusing on critical
thinking skills and collaboration. Teachers will also receive
lesson instructions for future use.
Celebrating
Neurodiversity through Bibliotherapy awarded to Mariel Calnan at
the Hopkins School for $500 – Students often ask
teachers “Why do you teach them differently? Why do they get to
do that?” This grant funds a collection of books on various
disabilities and struggles that children may face. This library
and I ts associated lesson plans, will help teachers explain the
hidden differences in learners. Teachers will incorporate these
books and lessons into morning meeting and other parts of the
school day helping students learn to understand both themselves
and their peers.
Membean
awarded to Noreen Sloan at the Middle School for $5,100- This grant funds a web-based multimodal vocabulary system
that uses brain-based research on learning to improve vocabulary
retention and ultimately improve reading comprehension and
writing. Homework is automatically differentiated and
appropriate for each student. All middle school students will
use this new vocabulary program.
NoRedInk
awarded to Noreen Sloan at the Middle School for $8,000 - This grant funds a program designed to help teachers
differentiate grammar practice while keeping students engaged.
Ultimately this project will increase the quality of a student’s
writing across content areas by providing him with high interest
content and adaptive, differentiated instruction in grammar.
Building a
Thinking Classroom awarded to Kathy Campbell at the High School
for $3,910 - This grant allows two
math teachers to set up their classrooms in a collaborative way
so that all students (225) can be “at the board” at once and
work together on solving problems. Teachers will use a strategy
called Cuethink, an innovated application to improve critical
thinking skills and math communication using 4 phases. This will
result in a truly “Thinking Classroom.
“Congratulations to
all of the grant recipients for their hard work and outside of the
box thinking,” said Maureen Belger, Ed Foundation Grant Committee
Chairperson. “We are proud to be a catalyst for innovation
motivating our educators and students.”
About the Hopkinton Education Foundation
The Hopkinton Education Foundation provides funding, ideas and
professional development to help Hopkinton educators
deliver innovative educational experiences that inspire students to
strive for excellence and become lifelong learners. Since its
inception in 1992, the Foundation has made 334 grants valued at
nearly $1.3 million. For further information, visit
www.hopkintoneducationfoundation.org, or the Foundation’s
Facebook page.
The Education Foundation partners with
businesses, individuals, and other organizations for funding that
will promote awareness of the Education Foundation’s mission,
vision, goals, and successes. It is generously supported by
DELL/EMC, Middlesex Savings Bank, Phipps Insurance, Richmond Group,
Kidsborough, Elizabeth Blake Orthodontics, Chapman Educational
Services, The Dental Place Hopkinton, Compass Project Management,
Putnam Pipe Corporation.
Contributed content.
St.
Paul’s Rummage Sale June 3, 2017
HOPKINTON, MASS (May 16,
2017. – Bargain hunters won’t want to miss the St. Paul’s Rummage
Sale on Saturday, June 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be
some great deals on adult and children’s apparel and accessories,
books, and other household items! St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is
located at 61 Wood Street (Rte. 135) in Hopkinton.
Anyone
wishing to donate items to the Rummage Sale is welcomed to drop off
items (with the exception of computers, TVs, microwaves or air
conditioners) at the church on Thursday, June 1, 2pm to 7pm and on Friday,
June 2, 12 noon to 7pm.
May 16, 2017-- In the most closely-watched
races, Hopkinton voters, led by Democrats calling for diversity,
rejected long-time Planning Board Chair Ken Weismantel, filling
his 5-year seat and one other 5-year seat with women. In
addition, newcomer Amman Haidri got within 78 votes
[1204-1126] of Selectman
Vice-chair John Coutinho, which was originally reported by the
town as a 20-vote spread.
May 14, 2017 -- Is it possible that the
operator of the drone is high enough over the water to see the
location of the golden trout?
Mouse-over the photo to see the drone close-up. Mouse-away to not
see the close-up, at the Hopkinton Police Fishing Derby yesterday.
HopNews photo.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Metamorphosis
May 14, 2017 -- Chairman of the Board of
Selectman, Brian Herr straddles the aisle in this photo of him
holding signs of each major party today in Downtown Hopkinton. Two
years ago, Mr. Herr ran as a Republican candidate in an unsuccessful
bid for U.S. Senate against Democrat Ed Markey.
Family Stuff
Cancer Crushers -- A Relay for Life Team
May 13, 2017 -- About 20 youngsters
belonging to the Relay for Life "Cancer Crushers" team held an ice
cream social at the Spoonery, behind the Spoon for three hours
today. The Spoonery donated 50 % of the proceeds to the cause.
Above, during a lull, are Casey Tourigney, Veronica White and Anne
Kester, members of the team.
Candidates for Planning Board Amy Ritterbusch & Gary Trendel
In
Live! on Main
RE: Town Election:
No more Letters to the Editor will be accepted, nor will any more
advertising be accepted, that are not already in the works.
Note
5.11.17. 10:27 am.
<-------- -Those wishing to share their opinions or letters in our
New Town Talk Group are welcome to do so.
Small Hands, My Foot!
by Robert Falcione
May 12, 2017 -- It had to be around thirty
years ago, mere days before a town election, that I got a phone
call from a Townie friend.
"There's an indictment about to go down any day now," she said.
Then she told me which candidate. It wasn't the one I was voting
for, anyway, so it had no sway for me. But, wow, what huge news.
But she didn't know what it was for. Well, the candidate was
elected regardless, and I waited for the news of the indictment
afterward. And I waited. And waited. And... the news never came.
It took years before I realized I was hoodwinked by a friend,
who valued political party over friendship. In politics, it
isn't always what it seems.
It was around that time that more than one person suggested I
should run for Selectman. You see, as some people may remember,
I could fill a bar with as many people it takes to have a quorum
at Town Meeting with the promise of getting musicians together
for a jam every week. Or, it could have been to use me as a
foil, like my fellow twenty-somethings did, who insisted I join
them in a pickup game of basketball, although I had never
played, all of those years ago. They made sure I got on the
other team.
Although the warning about the first indictment came about
thirty years ago, the second warning I got about an indictment,
from another friend, came about thirty days ago. Really! I asked when the one from
thirty years ago would be resolved. He did not realize how old
the defamatory trick really was.
Recently, some politically active people were not so nice in
speaking about me behind my back, because I described a photo in
a way they didn't like. Oh, the insults they hurled, the pain
they caused me. It was like lions at a fresh kill.
"Fake news!" several of them chortled.
"Boycott! HopNews," said a couple more.
"I have never read it, and never will, because it's fake news,"
contradicted another.
One said I targeted her family several years ago, the total
opposite of who targeted whom.
Another speculated that I was the mentally ill person in Price
Chopper.
But of all of the insults and defamation they sent my way, one
hurt the most.
One of them said I have small hands.
Given the incontrovertible photographic evidence above, and
paraphrasing a famous philosopher with a broken toe, I refute
thee thusly!
Family Stuff
Support
for John Coutinho
Editor,
I am pleased to
endorse John Coutinho for re-election to the Board of Selectmen.
I have known John
both as a friend and committed volunteer for 11 years. Over the last
7 years, we served together on the Zoning Advisory Committee and
Planning Board and I can say with confidence that John loves this
town more than anyone I know. He works tirelessly, both in the
spotlight and behind the scenes, to support all members of the
community, and will always make decisions with the town’s best
interests in mind.
John has more than 20 years of volunteerism under his belt in
Hopkinton. In addition to serving on the following appointed
committees, Zoning Advisory, Downtown Revitalization, the Marathon
Fund and Upper Charles Trail, John was elected to the Planning Board
and most recently the Board of Selectmen. You can count on John to
be at community events no matter how big or small, and to support
his neighbors no matter the need. His dedication and commitment to
this town and its citizens is what makes John the perfect candidate
for Selectman.
Please join me on May
15th in voting for John Coutinho for re-election to the
Board of Selectmen.
Brian Karp
23 Nicholas Rd.
May 8, 2017
RE: Town Election: No more Letters to the Editor will be accepted, nor will any more
political advertising be accepted, that are not already in the works.
Note
5.11.17. 10:27 am.
<-------- -Those wishing to share their opinions or letters in our
New Town Talk Group are welcome to do so.
Support for Ken Weismantel
It is critical that we keep the
steady hand and solid experience of Ken Weismantel on the Planning
Board. Having spent 15 years as a member of that board, I can attest
to the knowledge and skills required to serve effectively on it, and
I will also admit that the learning curve is steep. Ken has an
incomparable understanding of the town, including its
infrastructure, and combined with his engineering background, this
enables him to spot the small details and raise the large issues.
Time after time, I have seen him zero in on the critical questions
because of his depth of knowledge.
The disappointing reality for some
is that the Planning Board is not about stopping development or just
saying “NO.” It is directed by the town’s Subdivision Rules &
Regulations and private property rights. Thus its power comes from
asking the right questions, spotting problems, exerting pressure,
and seeking windows of opportunity to manage change within the
existing laws. Ken Weismantel knows how to do this. Over 10 years,
he has also played a part in the Board’s oversight of Legacy Farms,
since the townspeople voted for the Legacy Farms development in
2008.
Ken is the longest serving, most
experienced member of the Planning Board. He is followed by only 2
members with more than 2 years of experience. We MUST keep Hopkinton
on a steady course by keeping Ken Weismantel on the Planning Board.
Claire Wright
28 Hayden Rowe
May 8, 2017
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
TLC (The Learning Center) of Hopkinton
May 11, 2017 -- TLC continues their campaign against Cystic
Fibrosis, continuing the challenge by having students circle the
traffic island next to the school every day to bring awareness to
the need. Above, two students break away from the pack, while
collie, TJ, takes her sweet time, with another group behind her.
[BOURNE,
MA] May 10, 2017 -- Yesterday, at about 12:10 a.m., Trooper Katie
Lorenco assigned to the State Police Barracks in Bourne was on
patrol on Route 195 in the town of Marion when she observed a gray
Nissan Altima traveling
at an excessive speed of 90 mph. Trooper Lorenco subsequently
stopped the vehicle which first travels a quarter-mile in the break
down lane before coming to a complete stop. Trooper Mastera arrived
as back up.
As a result of an investigation and subsequent search of the vehicle
38.5 grams of cocaine, various pills, $4,189 in cash as well as
evidence consistent with the sale and distribution of narcotics was
located.
The operator identified as PIERRE BENOIT, 26, of Worcester was
placed under arrest and transported to the Bourne Barracks where he
was booked and later bailed.
BENOIT was criminally charged with the following offenses:
-Trafficking in cocaine;
-Possession to Distribute Class C;
-Possession to Distribute Class C;
-Possession to Distribute Class D;
-Possession of Class E;
He was also issued a Massachusetts Civil Citation for speeding and
State highway traffic violation.
Marian High School Announces New Leadership
Hopkinton native Steps
into Principal Role for 2017-2018 School Year
(Framingham, MA) May
10, 2017 – The Marian High School Board of Trustees is happy to
announce a reorganization of leadership at the Framingham MA
Catholic Independent Co-ed High School. Beginning in the 2017-18
school year. John Ermilio, who for the past three years has been
principal, will assume the role of President, a role previously held
by Sister Catherine Clifford of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.
Moving
into the Principal position will be current Dean of Students Brian Kitchell-Donohue, a 1999 graduate of Hopkinton High School. For the
past seven years Mr. Donohue has taught English at Marian and more
recently also moved into the Dean of Students role.
“I believe in
the Marian community. I have personally seen it succeed for the last
seven years and now I look forward to serving our students and staff
as their new principal,” said Mr. Donohue. Adding to her duties as
Athletic Director Stephanie Ridolfi will become the Dean of
Students.
Since 2015, Mrs. Ridolfi has been Athletic Director and
head girls lacrosse coach at Marian High School. “During my time at
Marian I have enjoyed interacting with the students at the athletic
level,” says Mrs. Ridolfi, “and I am excited and honored for the
opportunity to engage with the entire student body.”
“For 60 years
Marian has been educating leaders,” says Mr. Ermilio, “and I am
humbled by the faith that the Trustees have demonstrated in
Stephanie, Brian and myself. I am confident that the three of us
will continue to position Marian as a premier Catholic College Prep
High School in the Metro West area.” Marian is a Catholic, college
preparatory, co-educational secondary school. The Marian community
welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and is committed to
fostering the growth and development of each individual in an
environment of respect and accountability.
Marian High School was
officially opened by Rev. Richard Cardinal Cushing, the Ordinary of
the Boston Archdiocese, in 1956. Under the leadership of the Sisters
of St. Joseph, Marian grew in number and reputation, educating many
who are now proudly part of our more than 6,000 alums.
Former
students have moved on to assume roles as astronaut*, business
manager, educator, physician, pro athlete, TV producer, etc. Over
the years, many dedicated men and women have assumed the educational
leadership of the school, ably supported by dedicated faculty and
staff. In 2004, through a change in governance within the
Archdiocese of Boston, Marian High School became its own entity,
Marian High School, Inc.
I am writing to express my support for Gary
Trendel as a candidate for Hopkinton Planning Board.
I first met Gary when he and his wife Jenn moved to Hopkinton
approximately 10 years ago. Over the past 10 years, Gary has
volunteered extensively in our community-from volunteering on the
Upper Charles Trails Committee to coaching many sports teams. Gary
has always expressed an interest in being involved in our community
and has always wanted to make Hopkinton a better place to live.
Gary has a strong educational background and an immense work ethic.
Gary brings a strong background to the table and approaches tasks in
a detail oriented, reasonable, common sense manner. He will work
hard for us and will do everything he can to preserve the wonderful
character of Hopkinton.
Please join me in voting for Gary Trendel on March 15th.
Democracy is not a spectator sport and John Coutinho is no
spectator. That is why I am voting for his reelection for Selectman
on May 15.
I served on Planning Board with John. During my term I saw him in
action. He proved time and again to be a thoughtful board member who
consistently voted with our town's interests at heart. And during
this time he volunteered on other town boards, gave of his time to
non-profit organizations, all the while having a real job and being
a devoted family man.
John preceded me as a civic volunteer and he continues to give back
as a town leader. John is now going on ten years as a community
volunteer.
We are lucky to have John Coutinho in Hopkinton. He is a doer, a
volunteer, and a leader who loves our town. One thing he isn't, is a
spectator. And that is why I support John Coutinho for Selectman on
May 15.
Sincerely,
Dick MacDonald
3 Wyman Lane
Hopkinton, MA 01748
Your Home
Northern Flicker
May 10, 2017 -- Christine St. Andre caught this bird earning its
name in Hopkinton.
Team Zack
May 10, 2017 --
Students at TLC [The Learning
Center] are collecting contributions to benefit the search
for a cure for cystic fibrosis, and the way they proceed is by
walking around their island at the wood street location for 50 laps
a day.
The inspiration for their Team Zach is Zach Scheib, cousin of
TLCowner Trish Miller.
James Sheedy Convicted of First
Degree Murder
LOWELL – May 10, 2017 -- Middlesex
District Attorney Marian Ryan has announced that James Sheedy, 55,
of Lowell, was convicted yesterday of first degree murder by a
Lowell Superior Court jury in connection with the 2014 death of
Barbara Romano, 54, of Lowell. Judge Heidi Brieger scheduled
sentencing for June 22, 2017.
On
May 31, 2014, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Lowell Police received a
call from a woman requesting a well-being check to be conducted on
the defendant. She informed the police that she had received a
call from the defendant in which he stated he was planning on
killing himself. The Lowell Police contacted the defendant,
but he refused to tell them where he was. The police went to the
defendant’s apartment, but did not find James Sheedy. Instead, the
body of Barbara Romano was located. The victim had been stabbed
multiple times in the neck, abdomen and extremities.
At approximately 10:00 p.m. on May 31, James Sheedy telephoned the
Lowell Police Department and informed officers that he knew the
police were looking for him, and he had just attempted suicide by
throwing himself in the canal. The police went to the
defendant’s location, and after the defendant admitted to hurting
the female in his apartment, he was placed under arrest.
Through their
investigation authorities learned that the defendant had stabbed the
victim on the evening of May 30, 2014 and then left his apartment.
The defendant claimed the victim was alive when he had fled the
scene. Officers located a knife, socks and a towel with the victim’s
blood on them belonging to the defendant, as well as various phone
calls and text messages referring to what he had done.
The cause of death
was determined to be sharp force trauma to the neck.
This case was
investigated by Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Middlesex
District Attorney’s Office and the Lowell Police Department.
The prosecutors assigned to this case were Assistant District
Attorneys Suzanne Kontz and Crystal Lyons. The Victim Witness
Advocate was Dora Quiroz.
Family Stuff
Support
for Three Candidates
Dear Editor &
residents of Hopkinton,
I am writing in
support of Muriel Kramer, Amy Ritterbusch both running for the two 5
yr seats on the Planning Board & Irfan Nasrullah
for the 1yr seat on the Planning Board.
These three represent a great deal of professional & community
experience along with a calmness and willingness to work as a team
player on a board. They are open to hearing input from citizens and
businesses in regards to their concerns/needs/ideas along with
bringing a fresh perspective as we look to Hopkinton’s future.
Muriel has been a
past Selectman including chair along with other elected and
appointed roles, she works tirelessly for this community.
Muriel is committed to providing a thoughtful,
strategic and managed approach to growth, while ensuring open space
preservation and protection of historical sites are always in the
forefront of consideration. She is fair and balanced, and dedicated
to finding the best solution for all stakeholders, with you as her
first priority.
Amy has held many
volunteer roles in town, is diligent, extremely detailed oriented
and hard working. Amy is the go to person who can dig out facts,
history and relate it to its prevalence of Hopkinton’s future. Amy
is currently serving as the Chair of the Hopkinton
Center Historic District Commission and as an Associate Member of
the Design Review Board.
Irfan has been in
Hopkinton for nearly 40yrs, an Environmental
Attorney who also practices in Real Estate law from his office on
Main St. in Hopkinton. Irfan has worked with the Massachusetts
Attorney General’s Environmental Crime Strike Force, the MassDEP
protecting water and land resources. In his private practice, he has
worked with numerous Conservation Commissions and Planning Boards.
Irfan brings familiarity with land development as well as a
responsible stewardship of land in both planning and development.
Please join me on May 15th
voting for Muriel & Amy for 5 yrs seats on the Planning Board and
Irfan to the open 1yr seat.
Darlene Hayes
1
Third Road
May 10, 2017
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
May 9, 2017 -- May's full moon is called the Flower Moon, which
blooms this week. ~ Thanks to Christine St. Andre for another great
composite photo.
State
Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Franklin on Route 495n
This
morning at about 5:15 am, State Police responded to a single-vehicle
crash on Route 495 northbound in Franklin which resulted in the
death of the operator,
Olenrewaju Esaojo, 23, of Providence.
Preliminary investigation by Trooper Brian Soares indicates that a
2011 Toyota was traveling on Route 495 northbound when, for reasons
still under investigation, the operator, a 24-year-old male from
Providence, RI lost control of the vehicle and struck an arrow board
causing the vehicle to rollover into the median.
The operator was determined deceased at the scene. His
identity is being withheld pending family notification.
This crash remains under investigation with assistance from the
State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, Crime
Scene Services Section and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
State Police were assisted on scene by Franklin Fire and EMS, and
MassDOT.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Bethany Health Care
Center James Argir, Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament
Charter Oak Country Club, 394 Chestnut Street, Hudson, MA
Monday, June 12, 2017
Registration 8:00AM – Tee Time
9:00AM – Buffet 3:00PM
Sister Jacquelyn McCarthy, CSJ, R.N., CEO/Administrator announces
Bethany Health Care Center's 11th
Annual Golf Tournament at the Charter Oak Country Club in
Hudson. This year's tournament will celebrate the life and honor the
memory of James Argir, Sr., a dear friend of the Bethany community
and former golf tournament committee member.
Registration at 8AM and tournament tee time at 9:00AM, culminating
in a post-tournament reception, buffet dinner, awards ceremony and
live auction. Boston College football color commentator and former
NFL linebacker Pete Cronan will be the emcee and auctioneer.
Register golfers, become a sponsor, purchase golf packages or donate
online at
www.bethanyhealthcare.org .
See Brochure
Bethany Health Care
Center, a Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston,
is a short and long-term healthcare facility and home to Sisters of
St. Joseph and women from other religious orders as well as for
members of the MetroWest and Metropolitan Boston communities.
Proceeds from Bethany's 11th annual golf tournament will
benefit our Activities Center expansion project. The new Activities
Center will expand from its current 1,520 sq. ft. space to 4,571 sq.
ft. and provide a modern, sunlit, spacious area for all residents to
enjoy a variety of cultural, entertainment, craft and physical
activity programs. For these residents, staff
directed Activities Programs provide the main source of their
social, intellectual, spiritual and physical activities.
Contributed content
Family Stuff
Camp Bailout
In conjunction with the Ashland Fire Department
and the Ashland Board of Selectmen, Camp Bailout Summer Program will
be held, for the seventh consecutive year, July 10-14, 2017.
Camp Bailout is a week long program designed to educate young women
on firefighting and emergency service skills, in a dynamic and fun
environment. The week long curriculum is interactive and physically
challenging, where the girls will gain strength and knowledge while
building confidence and leadership skills.
During the week, the girls will be taught basic skills in:
Rappelling from the training tower; motor vehicle extrication with
the Jaws of Life; search and rescue; CPR Certification; live fire
extinguishment and much, much more.
Program participants should possess a positive attitude, be in good
physical conditioning and be prepared to have fun!
Program Creator and Director, Lieutenant Lyn Moraghan will be
looking forward to receiving applications, which can be downloaded
from our website
www.campbailout.org .
Support for John Coutinho
Dear Editor and Residents of Hopkinton -
I am proud to support John Coutinho for Selectman. For over ten
years, John has volunteered in our town and in our town government.
He is hard-working, open-minded, and passionate about Hopkinton.
I am a registered
democrat. My mother and her friends started the League of Women
Voters in Holliston when I was a kid. I grew up knowing the power of
voting. Growing up with strong women all around me, I know to always
vote for a person not a party. Know your candidate. Do your
research. Don’t let someone else take your power.
Why would we need to
vote party lines in town elections? Many cities and towns in
Massachusetts are non-partisan including Boston, Needham, Dover,
Lexington and many others. Hopkinton should be as well; at the town
level we are voting for candidates who work hard for the benefit of
our town. So, ask questions. What has each candidate done for
Hopkinton? Do they volunteer their time to help this town? What is
their track record? You can find it. I challenge you to look.
John crosses party
lines. He believes, as I do, in supporting candidates who have a
strong work and volunteer ethic. John supports candidates who are
passionate about making a difference. He appreciates people who have
done – and will continue to do - good things for Hopkinton.
John was always
registered Independent. Ten years ago, when he first ran for public
office in Hopkinton, his opponent was running on the Democratic
ticket. John’s choice was to run on the Republican ticket.
John is a supporter of NOW and women's rights. He is a supporter of
the of the ACLU and government transparency with Judicial Watch.
He believes - though diverse and even somewhat opposed in
philosophy - each of these organizations is trying to make the world
better. John, as a person and as a candidate, crosses party lines.
He does not feel limited by those party lines.
John has done so much
for our town and for many of us individually. He has tirelessly
volunteered his time not only in town politics, but behind the
scenes in our schools and in our educational programs. When my
Destination Imagination team needed a volunteer appraiser, John
volunteered and became our appraiser. And he didn’t even have a kid
on our team! I’m sure many of you have similar stories about John.
If you have
volunteered in this town or in town government, you know John or you
have seen him around. John is someone who unites people. He is an
all-inclusive candidate and a good listener. He is someone who works
hard and volunteers continuously for this town. We are all very
lucky to have John as our Selectman.
Please join me in
voting for John Coutinho for Selectman on May 15th.
Alisa Wade
41 School Street
May 9, 2017
7th Annual Friends of Hopkinton Football
Golf Outing 2017
Please mark your calendars for Friday, June
23rd! Please consider joining us for the 7th Annual Golf
Tournament at Shining Rock Golf Club to support the Hopkinton
High School Football Program. The money raised from this event
goes towards making the Hopkinton Football program the best one
possible. This is a great day filled with golf, raffles,
auctions and a wonderful barbeque lunch!
The cost is $100 per player. If you are interested, please reach
out to Brigid MacDonald at bmacdonald171@gmail.com.
I am proud to support
Ken Weismantel for a 5 year term to the Planning Board.
I have known Ken for
7 years now, and would tell you that no one cares for the town of
Hopkinton more than he does. He has lived here for 36 years, has
raised his family and put his daughters through the Hopkinton
schools, has been volunteering his time to various committees and
boards for nearly 25 of those years, has attended and actively
participated in all but, as he stated on Wednesday night, 1 Town
Meeting.
For the last 6 years
I have had the pleasure of working with Ken on the Planning Board.
In those 6 years, as the Chairman of the board, he has helped to
improve the transparency of the board and its meetings. All meetings
are televised, and the public is always invited to come join us and
participate. Ken has never, not allowed the meeting audience to ask
a question or give their opinion during a public hearing. He, along
with the Planning and Land Use Department created a Site Plan
Outline allowing all proponents, board members, and the public to
know what to expect before the site plan process begins. This has
made for a much more efficient meeting because everyone knows what
to expect. Prior to Ken being the Chair, applicants would often
bounce back and forth between different boards, which created a very
frustrating experience, causing them to not want to do business in
town. Because of this improvement we have had several businesses
come to town, which provide great services to our community.
The recent
accomplishments of the Planning Board have shown Ken Weismantel’s
commitment to Hopkinton. We have spent over a year updating and
rewriting the town’s Master Plan. We negotiated with Legacy Farms to
ensure an annual tax benefit of $1.8 million. We negotiated with
Legacy Farms to install gaslights around the northeast perimeter of
the LNG plant to ensure the safety of our newest residents. We have
also written a letter to the Board of Selectmen urging them to
continue the gaslights to ensure the safety of our existing
residents. We drafted a letter, to the Board of Selectmen, two years
ago asking them to figure out a use for the soon to be vacant Center
School.
If you support our
open space, our trails, our Parks and Recreation, Education, Police,
and Fire Departments, as well as our Library and countless other
town services, then think about how far that $1.8 million annually
will go and thank Ken Weismantel by voting for him on May 15th.
Brian Karp
23 Nicholas Rd.
May 9, 2017
Family Stuff
Support
for Amy Ritterbusch
Editor:
I am supporting Amy
Ritterbusch for Planning Board because of Amy's amazing research
abilities, knowledge of the town by-laws, strong relationships and
commitment to the town of Hopkinton. I have known Amy for well over
ten years as we have worked together in many capacities together
with a civic group in town, the Hopkinton Parent Teacher Association
(HPTA) and we have children similarly aged.
I believeAmy
Ritterbusch should be one of your choices for the two open seats on
the Planning Board. She is committed to an open communication
philosophy; she has proven and will continue to dedicate the time to
research and investigate; and she will keep an open mind when
addressing all areas that impact our town's future development. Amy
has proven that she is willing to put in the time and effort this
volunteer position requires and will work as a part of the team to
not only get the job done but to get it done well. She has a natural
inquisitive mind that will prove to be an asset to this position.
Amy has shown that she can successfully juggle the time
commitments of being a mother of three children, a volunteer on
various roles in the schools and the town, more recently a member of
the Hopkinton Center Historic District Commission and Design Review
Board. Some of her volunteer roles include President of a civic
group in town, Communications Chair for the HPTA, Girls Scout
Leader, and Boy Scout Advancements Chair. Please join me in voting
for Amy Ritterbusch for Planning Board as she will be an excellent
Planning Board member.
Finally, I encourage
everyone to go and vote on Monday, May 15th.
Cindy and Manny
Bernardo
5 Susan Drive
Family Stuff
Real Estate Transactions for Hopkinton & Surrounding
Towns
New
Transactions from May 2, 2017 - May 8, 2017 Click on blue links to see Town's property card
w/photo
Uptown Salon & Color Owner Rosemary Cugini Walsh and stylist Taylor
Munroe hold a couple of pugs in the days leading up to their very
successful cut-a-thon on Sunday, where they raised nearly $1,000 for Baypath Humane Society.
Please join with me in voting for Ken Weismantel
and Gary Trendel for the two 5-year seats on the
Planning Board. Ken and Gary have complementary
skills and perspectives that will serve our
community well in the years ahead.
Ken has lived in town for over 30 years and has
served with distinction on many boards and
committees, including the past 10 years on the
Planning Board. He has a wealth of knowledge of
the town’s land use bylaws and understands what
it takes to get things done in town. His
institutional knowledge on a board with a light
bench due to considerable turnover in recent
years will provide stability and continuity.
Gary has lived in town for 10 years, has three
young children in the Hopkinton public schools,
and is committed to the town for the long term.
Gary has the education (an engineering degree
from Carnegie Mellon and an MBA from Duke) and
leadership qualities that can benefit Hopkinton
for many years to come. He is personable,
articulate, and passionate about preserving the
character of our community in all its
dimensions.
Gary Trendel represents the future of Hopkinton;
Ken Weismantel will provide a bridge to that
future. I respectfully ask that you vote for
both Gary and Ken for Planning Board in the town
election on May 15th.
Sincerely,
Phil Totino
17 Whalen Road
May 8, 2017
Family Stuff
A Little Bit of Heaven
May 8, 2017 --The new,
thin, and tender tree leaves are backlit by a
dropping sun in Charleton yesterday.
Your Home
Special
Recognition for HHS Student Journalists
May 7, 2018 --
Five Hopkinton High School student
journalists received Special Recognition
awards from the New England Scholastic
Press
Association
(NESPA) on Friday for articles written
for The HHS [Hopkinton High School]
Press.
The five
articles cited were among just 140
awards given out by NESPA for all of New
England. "Special Recognition" is the
only award level given out.
These
are the students and their articles
receiving awards:
Aiden
Brookes and Michael Karlis for their
news story "Complaints lead to new
T-shirt design"
Molly
Hawkins for her feature story "I
wore a Trump hat in public to see
what people would do"
Michael
Karlis for his news story "Turf
field proposal unveiled, $6.5
million estimated cost"
Alex
Reynolds for his sports story "Boys
hockey team notches best-ever
record"
Grayson
Spitzer for his film review "Brutal
'Logan' surprises as best X-Men film
of the franchise"
Karlis is the
editor-in-chief of The HHS Press.
Spitzer is a
junior at Hopkinton High School, and the
rest of the student journalists are
seniors.
NESPA
announced the awards at its annual
conference at Boston University on May 5
Rape Aggression
Defense Systems Training for Women ONLY
R.A.D. is an internationally taught realistic
hands on self defense training class
specifically designed for women (15 hours).The
program teaches and emphasizes awareness,
avoidance and physical self defense with the
tools we possess with us at all times (hands,
feet, elbows, knees, head, etc…)
All ages, sizes and physical capabilities are
welcome (ages 14, 15 or 16; parental waiver will
be needed – 13 and under is too young for this
class).
Class is sponsored by the Hopkinton Police
Department, FREE!. Manuals are provided. Casual
exercise clothing and an aerobic type of sneaker
preferred
To enroll or if you have questions simply
email Sergeant Tim Brennan at
tbrennan@hopkintonpd.org and leave
your name, email address and phone number. If
email is not available to you please call
508-497-3401 x1203 and leave a (clear and slow)
message with the same information. The first 30
women to enroll will be admitted (maximum number
of students is 30). Confirmations will be done
by email to the first 30 women that email me.
Please ensure you can make all 5 classes before
enrolling. The class will run from 6p-9p.
WHEN and WHERE
Monday May 15, 2017 @ Hopkinton Police Station
Monday May 22, 2017 @ Doyle
Gym (lower at Hopkinton MS)
Monday June 5, 2017 @ Doyle
Gym
Monday June 12, 2017 @ Doyle Gym
Monday June 19, 2017 @ Doyle Gym
All 5 nights are required
from 6p-9pm in order to go through simulation.
INSTRUCTORS: Officer
Linda Higgins, Sergeant Timothy J. Brennan
Live!
on Main Recorded at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 5,
2017
with guests, 2 of 4 candidates for (2) 5 yr. Planning Board seats, Muriel Kramer and Incumbent Ken Weismantel
Family Stuff
Support
for Amman Haidri
I'm endorsing Amman
Haidri for Selectman. Amman brings
strong business acumen from structuring
financing for small businesses at
Eastern Bank and Bank of America and
currently leads investment financing at
a life sciences company. This
substantive expertise will augment the
board's knowledge in areas relevant for
driving effective action on vacant
downtown storefronts, infrastructure
investment, incentives for local
businesses, long range financial
planning, and advancing action on town
priorities that have stalled and
faltered.
Over the past 2-3 years, we have seen issues
such as re-use of Center School, use of
properties aside the new Marathon elementary
school, routing of the Upper Charles Trail,
and major intersection improvements, linger
in a state of indecision and inaction.
While I commend any volunteer for stated
enthusiasm for these initiatives and for
time spent in committee meetings, as a
taxpayer and voter I'll be placing a higher
value on management and development
expertise and ability to get the job done.
Please join me voting for Amman Haidri for
Selectman on May 15.
I
am very happy to state my support for Gary
Trendel as a candidate for one of the 5-yr term
positions open on the Hopkinton Planning Board!
As you all know, our town
is going thru some growing pains, and I know
that Gary has a very real and common sense
outlook on the future of Hopkinton. His platform
is "Our Town, Our Vision", and that speaks to me
of what I feel Hopkinton's Town Planning Board
should always be working towards. There are many
intricacies to being on the Board, and I know
that Gary’s civil and environmental engineering
background will contribute fair and well thought
out solutions to the conflicts and issues that
arise in our town. He is thinking of today,
tomorrow and the years down the road – not only
in how Hopkinton will look but also in how
Hopkinton can be more desirable for those who
want to remain after their children have left
the nest. Gary Trendel will be a great asset to
this position and will be a proponent to
preserve all the things we love about Hopkinton
while allowing for plans that mesh well with the
long-term picture.
This year, I have seen many residents take up
the call to get involved in how our town is
evolving - very proud to see our neighbors step
up and make a difference. On Monday May 15th,
please consider joining me in electing Gary
Trendel to our Hopkinton Panning Board.
Thank you!
Amanda Faucher
39 Chamberlain St.
May 6, 2017
Support for
Amman Haidri
To the Editor:
I first met Amman Haidri early last year and
liked him instantly. Over the course of the year
we began to work together to help people in
Hopkinton get to know one another across
religious boundaries. I have been constantly
struck by his practical wisdom, his energy and
tireless concern for the needs of others, along
with a deep and authentic generosity, I was not
at all surprised to learn that he felt called to
public service: it’s in his bones. His
intelligence and compassion– and let’s say it,
his humor– make him an ideal candidate for
public office. He’s the kind of guy who is
always figuring out ways to get people to work
together for the common good. He likes it best
when everybody wins. But, of course, it’s not
always possible for everybody to win. Then is
the real test of character– when conflict seems
irresolvable. And this is when Haidri shines. He
knows that there are no enemies, only
disagreements that can be faced with humility
when you win and grace when you don’t. Amman
Haidri will make an excellent Selectman because
he is committed to the good of Hopkinton, the
good of Hopkinton for all.
Sincerely Yours,
The Rev. Gordon J. Schultz,
Rector, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Hopkinton
This endorsement is by Gordon Schultz,
personally, not the congregation of St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church
May 6, 2017
Michael J. Mantenuto, 35
Michael
J. Mantenuto, 35, passed away
Monday, April 24, 2017. Born in Natick, MA, he
was the son of Kerry Barton Lee of Lunenburg, MA
and formerly Hopkinton, MA and Edward Mantenuto
of Holliston, MA and was married to Kati
Vienneau of Fort Lewis, WA and Medford, MA. They
had two children Ava and Leo. Michael is
survived by three sisters, and their families;
Katie Mantenuto and Will Thomas, and son Andrew
of Lunenburg, Meggan Mantenuto Hope, Dave Hope
and their children Lily and Landon, and Lauren
Mantenuto of Boulder, CO. Michael also leaves
behind two aunts, several cousins and their
families.
Michael’s life was far too short, but in his 35
years, he lived BIG and he lived fully! Starting
at age 3, his father put him on ice skates, and
from then on hockey remained an important part
of his life. From youth hockey to elite teams,
to Holliston High School, Univ of Maine, and
finally to coaching his son, Leo, in youth
hockey when Mike was stationed at Fort Bragg,
NC. Besides hockey, Mike went on to be chosen to
play the role of Jack O’Callahan, in the Disney
movie’s production of “Miracle”, chronicling the
unprecedented event of the Americans beating the
Russians in the 1980 Olympics. Mike then spent a
couple of years in the “Hollywood” scene
exploring acting options, but that was not to
be. He went on to enlist in the Army and became
part of the Special Forces as a Green Beret.
Ultimately, what gave Mike the most inner
satisfaction and passion was devoting his life
to helping other soldiers who struggled with
mental health, PTSD, and addiction issues.
Visitation will be held on
Thursday, May 4th from 4:00-8:00p.m. at the
Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854
Washington St. (Rt. 16) www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com.
A gathering to celebrate Michael’s life will
take place on Friday, May 5th from 12:30-4:00p.m
at the Crystal Room, 49 Cedar St. (Rt. 85) in
Milford with a memorial service, followed by a
light luncheon and closing with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, donation information will be
forthcoming.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Round and Round
May 5, 2017 -- The famous Swans, Romeo and
Juliet, swim in the Pond with the Swan Boats
yesterday in Boston Public Garden.
Your Home
94C Destroyed
May 5, 2017 -- Sgts. van
Raalten and O'Neil confer following the
confiscation and destruction of marijuana from
male individuals in a passenger vehicle parked
in the back lot of Bill's Pizza, which, it might
be good to note, has more security cameras than
the neighboring bank. "94C" is the statutory
reference for marijuana.
May
4, 2017 --
Governor Charlie Baker ceremoniously signed
a Resolve examining commonwealth procurement
policies relative to Congo conflict minerals
(S. 2463), requiring the Executive Office of
Administration and Finance in consultation
with the Office of the Inspector General to
review state procurement policies and
examine best practices ensuring that the
Commonwealth’s electronics and information
technology suppliers provide products that
do not directly or indirectly finance armed
conflict or result in labor or human rights
violations in the Democratic Republic of the
Congo or an adjoining country, use minerals
that the origin and exporter can be
identified and contain raw materials that
appropriate tax payments have been made on.
Contributed content.
I
am thrilled to support Amy Ritterbusch in her
pursuit of one of the open positions (five-year
term) on the Hopkinton Planning Board.
Our family has lived in Hopkinton since 2002. I
met Amy through the Hopkinton PTA more than 10
years ago. Amy has always been a staunch
supporter of our public schools, whether through
fundraising, volunteering or championing new
ideas. Amy is smart, dedicated and is a tireless
advocate for our schools.
Beyond our schools, Amy can often be found at
town meetings. Amy is thorough and balanced. I
bet we often don't cast similar ballots in
state-wide or national elections. That's ok. I
know a valuable citizen when I see one,
regardless of political affiliation.
Sometimes we just need to elect the best people.
I admire those who are hardworking, smart and
ethical like Amy. Amy has an unusual commitment
to our town. Amy does her homework and ensures
that everyone has a voice at the table.
Amy is advocate for the entire community. I have
seen Amy in action. She is thoughtful and
proactive.
I
will share a little secret that few know. Before
I vote in our town's elections, I call or email
Amy. Oddly enough, I don't consult family
members or neighbors. Just Amy. She presents a
fair and balanced view of the issues and then I
can make an informed decision. I swear she knows
every line item of our school's budget.
Please join me in voting for Amy Ritterbusch on
May 15!
Sincerely,
Patricia Hunt Sinacole
4 Edgehill Road
May 4, 2017
Family Stuff
The
Project Just Because Hopkinton Food Pantry
depends on this food to help stock our shelves
for the summer months.
Non-perishables just need to be put in a bag by
the mailbox and the letter carriers will pick
them up on May 13th.
All food will come to the Project Just
Because Hopkinton Food Pantry to support
Hopkinton children and families.
If you miss your mail carrier, food items can be
dropped off at PJB,
86 South St., from 12:00-4:00 on May 13th.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Audio of 911 call for Senior
Assassin: Pond
St_audio.m4a
will be our last mention of the incident.
Support for
Coutinho
Editor:
I am supporting John Coutinho for
the open position on the Hopkinton Board of
Selectman. John and I have known each other
since 1999 when he first moved to town. Our
daughters have grown up together in Hopkinton
and are currently high schoolers and college
students.
I feel that John has done an
exceptional job in his first 3 years on the
Board of Selectman and that this town will
benefit greatly from 3 more years of John’s
service. In my interaction with town government
officials, John is one of the most interactive
with Hopkinton residents. He is a people person
and is always willing to listen to friends and
neighbors about their concerns.
As a Selectman, John is currently
Board Liaison to the Police Department, Fire
Department, Board of Health, and Board of
Appeals. Before he was a Selectman, John was a
member of the Planning Board for many years,
where he helped preserve open space, expand the
trail and sidewalk networks, and helped with the
Downtown Revitalization.
In addition to serving on two of
the Town’s major boards, John has also served on
many committees. He is currently a member of the
Zoning Advisory Committee and has been for
almost 10 years. He is also a member of the
Upper Charles Trail Committee and the Marathon
Fund Committee. With all this experience, John
Coutinho is the right man for Board of
Selectman, so please join me in voting for him
at the election on Monday, May 15.
Dave Paul
7 Meadowland Drive
May 4, 2017
Support for Haidri
Editor:
I
write endorsing our neighbor, Amman Haidri, for
Selectman. I’ve known Amman as a Husband,
a Father, a Brother, a Son, a neighbor and
friend, and while there may be his equal,
there’s none better in this town. He and
his family moved into our neighborhood in 2009
and have settled in like traditional, old-time
New Englanders, just as I remember from my
childhood. We’ve shared meals at our
homes, aided each other, and Amman has been
there, providing unrequested aid when I was
excavating a 6’ high, 25’ deep snow bank to
enable access to Spring Lane’s sole hydrant, and
on a pre-arranged schedule to aid in extracting
my car from the garage. Most recently he
called to ask if I would be so kind as to give
our copy of their key to his youngest daughter,
who’d forgotten hers. It doesn’t get any
more ‘Old New Englanders’ than shared keys.
I ask for your vote for
Amman Haidri, a community builder.
Sincerely,
Edwin E Harrow
8 Spring Lane
May 4, 2017
From the
Radical Middle
Helicopter, Super
Soakers, Tasers, Drawn Service Weapons,
Senior Assassins, and Imagination!
by Robert Falcione*
May
3, 2017 -- Well, Hopkinton kids got cited
with attending the third best schools in the
state, according to U.S. News & World
Report, just a few days ago. But not
all news is good news for everyone all of
the time.
Regular readers may recall that about three
weeks ago, Hopkinton Police and Fire, while
being dispatched to an allegedly illegal
open fire set by some youths on an island,
were overheard by a State Police Airwing
helicopter, who offered to self-deploy to
the scene of the infinitesimal
conflagration, which it did. That's where
the "Helicopter" in the headline comes in,
and leads to the "Imagination" part,
because except for a witness at the scene
who saw the helicopter hovering over the
conflagrated island, that's where the actual
information ends, and the imagination
begins.
Imagine, youngsters sneak over to Marco's
Island with some hot dogs and lighter fluid,
but unbeknownst to them, a grownup has
spotted the flash of a lighter and phoned
police. First, some explanation of the
island's name may be in order. It is neither
a typo, nor a new form of the possessive for
Marco Island, that island in the Gulf of
Mexico belonging to Florida. Actually, upon
hearing about the complaint, an individual
stated to another in the group of adults I
was with, that there was no island in that
area of Lake Maspenock.
"Marco's Island," stated another, bringing
the group to laughter, because everyone got
the pun instantly.
Around a quarter century ago, lake resident
Mark "Marco" Dendunnen acquired a large
excavating machine and began gathering the
dangerous shallow rocks off of Woody Island
into a pile. That pile is clearly visible
when the lake is drawn down. Judging from
the spontaneous belly laughter, this was the
first time most of us heard it described
that way. Back to "Imagination."
So, here are some youths sparking a fire and
being surreptitiously observed by a grownup
when, right out of the movie Apocalypse
Now, a sleek I-wish-I-had-one-myself
French and electric blue helicopter arises from the
treetops in the dusk, flips its klieg light
on and begins recording. Simultaneously,
Hopkinton Police and Fire arrive on Woody
Island, near the scene of the simmering hot
dogs and the crackling fire. Leaving the
"imagination" and skipping back to reality,
the police spoke with the parents of the
youngsters. Let's fast-rewind to a couple of
days ago.
There is a game the HHS seniors play this
time of year called Senior Assassin, which
involves squirting the targeted senior using
a water "gun." (Okay,
so far we've
taken care of Helicopter, and some
Imagination, Senior Assassin, and, in a few
seconds, the Super Soaker.) As the team of
assassins approached their victim's location, something
seemed awry (They were unknowingly at the wrong
address).
One individual hid in the garage, Super
Soaker at the ready. But he was spotted by
the resident woman who was frightened by the
Super Soaker, which looks like a toddler's
bath toy (Photo), and called police. Seeing
this, the assassin sprang through an open
window of the garage, and through an open
window of the waiting vehicle 100 feet away,
without touching the ground. Okay, that
takes care of the Soaker and a little more
of the "imagination" part.
Several cruisers converged on the fleeing
vehicle, conducted a felony stop, and drew
their weapons, remembering that the woman
said the weapon, the gun, the Super Soaker,
was indeed black.
It may be good to note that the Selectmen
will soon be considering arming the police
with Tasers, which in most cases, is a less
than lethal weapon, one which the current
seniors will not likely see used before they
graduate. But they could come in handy next
year if a similar event occurs.
The school sent a letter home to parents
regarding the event, which covers most of
the topics in the headline of this piece,
except for Tasers and Helicopters, and in
which everyone denies sanctioning the game.
Let's hope the same for next year.
P.S. The column
above is intended to be funny and contain a
punchline.
* Thanks to Michael
Karlis for contributing to this story.
Your Home
Town Meeting Finishes Business in Two Days
By: Michael Karlis
Staff Writer
May
3, 2017 -- Town
meeting got off to a slow start last night with
residents debating and adding amendments to a
handful of articles, including Article 44 (town
meeting quorum), the sale of alcohol at town
facilities, waste and debris in people's yards,
and an attempt by selectman Todd Cestari (At mic
, above)to make constable an appointed position.
Article 44, purposed by Pamela Waxlax, a member
of the appropriations committee, proposed that
town meeting require 75 registered voters for
any discussion to take place. The current law
requires 100 registered voters to be present for
discussing fiscal matters and 1 registered voter
for civic matters.
Article 44 received
criticism from residents who believed that
lowering the quorum to 75 for all matters was
not beneficial to a town that was experiencing
unprecedented growth.
“I
appreciate the citizens petition to make a
quorum for non financial articles,” said
selectman Todd Cestari. “That being said, I
don't feel comfortable lowering the bar to 75
for financial articles; there should be a
standard, but we shouldn't go backwards,” Cestari said.
Resident
Darlene Hayes proposed an amendment, which
passed, that would require 1% of all registered
voters to attend town meeting in order for a
quorum, which roughly equates to 115 residents
being present, less than the number who attended
both town meetings this week.
Article 45, which
authorized alcohol to be served at 3 events per
year at public buildings such as the new
library, town hall, and the senior center,
wasn't enough for some residents.
"I organize non profit
events, and if we limit only 3 events a year
then non profits who don't get one of those
slots will go to another town," said Hayes.
An amendment proposing an
unlimited number of events at public buildings
for non profits passed with little resistance.
Planning Board member
Cliff Kistner (left) proposed limiting the
licensing to only beer and wine for non profit
organizations. Residents opposed this measure
saying that beer and wine would be a disservice
to those who prefer hard liquor.
"Some citizens give up
beer for lent," said selectman John Coutinho.
"We should not limit to only beer and wine, some
people don't like beer and wine."
Another resident said,
"What about bloody Mary's and mimosas?" The
amendment, limiting alcohol to only beer and
wine failed.
Selectman Brian Herr tried
to clear up some misunderstandings in regards to
the this article.
"This article gives the
town the opportunity to celebrate the opening of
new facilities such as the library,” said Herr.
“I'm glad to see the town has expanded upon
that."
Some residents were not as
proud of the article as Herr and said that the
Board of Selectmen should be ashamed of
themselves for allowing public buildings to
serve alcoholic beverages.
Increased fines for
inhumane conditions at kennels passed, although
one resident claimed that these fines were a
witch hunt in response to the legal troubles
facing Greyhound Friends. Others supported
the measure, such as Chairman of the Baypath
Humane Society, Susan Rossnick.
"This article shows strong
support for animal rights," Rossnick said.
Rossnick also said at town
meeting that Bay Path would submit a proposal
for the land in parcel 8 at the Fruit Street
complex. The article that proposed allocating
this land to a humane society of the selectmen's
choice passed.
Article 47, labeled
Construction Waste or Debris Bylaw, received
strong support from a Blueberry Lane resident,
who said her house backs up to a man who has
been collecting junk for 20 years.
“Something
has to be done,” said the resident. "He says
he's building something but nothing has been
built and stuff keeps showing up; it's a
junkyard."
Resident Mike Shepard
countered her argument my reminiscing of his
younger days and how neighbors used to work
things out without calling the Department of
Public Works or the Police.
“Hopkinton
is a rural town and people have a right to do
what they want with their land,” Shepard said.
The Blueberry Lane
resident disagreed.
“I
feel like I'm living in a war zone,” said the
resident. “I've tried to communicate with this
neighbor and he's not very nice. He has sworn at
me numerous times. I can't live, and let my kids
play in my yard, while I'm looking at a junk
yard.”
This article passed with
the full support of the Board of Selectmen.
Lastly,
Constables will continue to be an elected
position in spite of Selectman Todd Cestari's
pitching
for the position to become an appointed
position.
“We
have had numerous election cycles in which no
one runs for this position, it would just make
it easier if we appointed a person for this
position.”
Darlene Hayes disagreed
saying that she enjoys having the opportunity to
vote for an elected official.
Town meeting adjourned for
this year and will reconvene next May in 2018.
May 2, 2017 -- Dr. Bruce
Karlin shares this photo of a barred owl, which,
under certain circumstances, can be totally
camouflaged by blending into its surroundings.
Milford Regional Honors Volunteers at Annual
Luncheon
MILFORD – Milford Regional Medical Center
recently honored the more than 500 volunteers
who contribute their time and talents to support
the patients and staff with a celebratory
luncheon at the Hopedale Community House.
The annual luncheon is an opportunity for
department managers and administrative staff to
show their appreciation and thank the volunteers
for their service. Milford Regional has a total
of 511 volunteers who contributed 36,347 hours
of support to patients and staff in more than 40
different roles during 2016.
“We are fortunate to have such caring and
skilled people volunteer at Milford Regional,”
says Elaine Willey, Director of Volunteer
Services. “Volunteers positively impact patients
from newborns to end of life, and provide
support to staff throughout the Medical Center.”
Our volunteers from Hopkinton are: Lynn Bono,
Bob Cole, Debby Cole, Renee Dean, Donna Dobay,
Mark Haggerty, Debbie Hall, Bob Hebden, Phil
Kuehne, Doug Kulig, Maureen Moresi, Mary
Prescott, Eileen Ryan, Erin Ulrich,
Your Home
Demonstrators Who Blocked Roads Arrested at
Pipeline Project; Interactions Were Peaceful
Massachusetts
State Police arrested 18 demonstrators for
trespassing at two separate locations at the
Sandisfield Pipeline Extension project this
morning. The arrested persons were in two
groups of nine, with each group blocking a
different access road to obstruct members of
the project team conducting tree cutting
operations. The blocked locations were
approximately one-half mile apart.
The demonstrators were all peaceful and
respectful. After refusing requests to move
from the roads, they were arrested and
charged with trespassing. They will be
brought to the Berkshire County House of
Correction for processing and eventually
arraigned in the Great Barrington District
Court.
If their arrests are not processed in time
for arraignment today, we expect that they
will be bailed from the House of Correction
and ordered to appear in court in the near
future for arraignment.
We do not have the names of those arrested
yet.
> FOOD AND BEVERAGE <
Town Meeting, +/- 160 Members, Finishes Over Half
of Articles
By:
Michael Karlis
Staff
Writer
May 2, 2017 --
Traffic
calming on Hayden Rowe, sidewalks on Chestnut
Street, bathrooms at the Fruit Street Field
Complex, the definition of restaurants, and the
proposed moratorium on marijuana establishments
all garnered heated debate among town residents
last night.
The
traffic calming on Hayden Rowe (Article 24)
received backlash from residents worried about
their property being cut down in order to expand
roads and parents worried about cars queuing in
front of the middle school, high school, and
soon to be Marathon Elementary school.
The
proposed design included a stop light at the
intersection of Chestnut Street and Hayden Rowe
and right and left turn lanes on Chestnut at the
intersection. The plan also included a sidewalk
expansion that would extend down Hayden Rowe to
the intersection with Chestnut Street.
“This
design will probably take land from my lawn,”
said Hayden Rowe resident Nancy Haines. “I’m
wondering why I wasn't notified of this and why
no public hearing was held?”
The head
of the Department of Public Works (DPW) John
Westerling, insisted that the plan did not
intrude into Haines’ yard and that the plan was
using the road already in place.
Haines was
hesitant to accept Westerling's response.
“So
you're telling me you would expand Chestnut Hill
and Hayden Rowe without taking land from my
yard? I don't think that's possible,” Haines
said, who voted against Article 24.
Parents
who drive their kids to the high school and
middle school in the morning expressed concerns
in regards to the already unmanageable traffic
in the morning. This plan also omitted any
traffic control for the middle school at the
intersections of Grove Street and Pleasant
Street.
Article
24 passed with a ⅔ majority of 152 to 20 with an
estimated cost of $1,050,000.
Article
25, a citizens petition, also requested a
sidewalk extension down Chestnut Street to
connect residents on Chestnut Street and
Springwood to a network of sidewalks.
“There
was another accident that people have not
acknowledged tonight,” said a resident of
Chestnut Street. “There was a little boy who was
struck by a car walking home from school last
January,” the resident said. “We need to do
something about it before someone else gets
hurt. A sidewalk would be much appreciated by
the residents of Chestnut Street and
Springwood.”
The town
cited a lack of planning by the residents and
lack of funds by the town and did not endorse
their petition. The town did say that they
wanted to work with the petitioners and help
present a proposal for the next town meeting in
May of 2018.
“I
can report that I did speak directly with the
petitioners; we will get together with them and
walk them through the process to present an
article to a town meeting,” said Selectman
Norman Khumalo. “As part of that discussion we
will also talk about how to involve other town
boards in their proposal,” Khumalo said.
The
resident who presented the petition said that
they were simply trying to raise awareness and
will propose a final plan in 2018.
Planning
Board member Frank D'Urso was a vocal opponent
of Article 31, clause h, which requested an
additional $500,000 of funds for the Fruit
Street bathroom and concessions facility. The
money requested would have supplemented the
$400,000 already requested for the project the
previous year.
The
measure passed with a ⅔ majority despite
criticism from D’Urso.
“This
is $900,000 for a bathroom, I’ve seen other
projects and none of them have ever cost this
much,” D’Urso said.
The
allocating of these additional funds had
supporters, such as Parks and Recreation
Commissioner Dan Terry.
“When
we rent (The Fruit Street Complex) to outside
organizations, there is an expectation that we
have bathrooms and other facilities,” Terry
said.
Another
resident said that this building would provide
shelter from the sun on hot days and during
afternoon thunderstorms, as well as food for
spectating parents.
Selectman
Chair Brian Herr also supported this article,
saying that when he brings his kids to other
sports complexes, it is a standard that they
have bathrooms and other facilities.
Planning
Board Chairman Ken Weismantel [Photo, left], who
originally opposed the plan, voted in favor of
the measure.
Article
33, which discussed the definition of
Restaurant, passed. There were concerns that
this article would lead to fast food chains
would moving into town. Weismantel disputed
these claims.
“Do
not be fooled by what you have seen online and
on Facebook,” Weismantel said. “ This article
does not make it easier for a McDonalds to come
into town.”
Residents, including Muriel Kramer, who is
running against Weismantel for a planning board
position with two other candidates, said that
she was concerned about a dedicated industrial
area that would not require restaurants to close
at a certain time, creating the opportunity for
24 hour restaurants to come to Hopkinton.
There
were also claims made by residents that this
article would lead to the reopening of debate
about building a freestanding Dunkin Donuts on
West Main Street.
Article
38, which proposed a Moratorium on Marijuana
Establishments from opening in Hopkinton,
received backlash from members of the community,
but passed nonetheless.
“This
can create good jobs for the community,” said
one resident. “I think with all these
surrounding towns passing similar pieces of
legislation, we have an opportunity to be
proactive and attract this new business in ways
that benefit our town, so we aren't playing
catch up later,” said the resident.
Resident Kevin Shea
[Photo, right], known for his quick wit, said he
had studied the subject in college, bringing a
room full of laughter.
Director
of Youth and Family Services for the Town of
Hopkinton, Dr. Denise Hildreth, made a heartfelt
plea in favor passing the moratorium.
“We
are the folks on the frontlines of what this
means for our youth,” Hildreth said. “All of my
clients who are heroin addicted, or folks who
have had issues with a number of other types of
drugs, will tell you that it started with
smoking marijuana.”
Town
Meeting adjourned until Tuesday, May 2, at 7pm.