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24 Main Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748

Editor@HopNews.com E10/14/2007 10:51:52 AM

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A Few Scenes and Interviews from Polyarts 2007 (9 minutes long)

September 29, 2007 —David Sheehan speaks with vendors and patrons of Polyarts.

To see the video, you will need to "Allow blocked content" if prompted.

TIP: Once the movie is playing, you may right-mouse click on the image and then choose "Zoom...Full Screen" to view the HopNews Windows movie in Full Screen mode.

Poly = Many

September 29, 2007 — Hopkinton sculptor Michael Alfano speaks with a prospect today at Polyarts. His work is in the foreground. Mr. Alfano can be seen speaking about his work in the video above.

The Birds

September 29, 2007 — These birds protecting the sign at the corner of Main and Cedar are regular customers at the Hopkinton Exxon bird feeder, where they have spilled enough sunflowers to start a crop in the shrubbery bed below it. Like humans, they keep a comfortable distance from one another.

Whatcha' Gonna Do...

September 29, 2007 — This US Marine helicopter made a loud entrance and exit over the skies of Hopkinton this week. Few nations in the world want to see this pointing in their direction.

Modern Day Troubadour

September 29, 2007 — Jeff Snow brought his traveling musical performance to the Hopkinton Public Library to the delight of young and older.

Double- Fatal Crash on Route 495 in Milford

September 29, 2007 — Yesterday, at approximately 8:19 p.m. troopers assigned to the State Police Barracks in Millbury responded to a two-vehicle crash on Route 495 South approximately 1 mile north of Route 109 (exit 19) in Milford that resulted in two fatalities.

Preliminary investigation by Trooper Brian Tully indicates that 50-year old Rodney L. Gladle Sr. of Laconia New Hampshire was operating a 2007 Infinity Semi-Tractor Trailer on Route 495 North when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle traveled off the left shoulder of the roadway, through the median and collided head-on into a 1991 Honda Civic operated by 40-year old Yu Hui of Stoughton. The Honda was traveling in the left lane of Route 495 South before the crash. It is unknown if either, the Gladle or Hui were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash but they both sustained serious injuries. Gladle was declared deceased at the scene of the crash and Hui was transported to Milford Hospital by ambulance where he was later declared deceased.

This crash remains under investigation with the assistance of the State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, the State Police Crime Scene Services Section and the State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section. The Milford Police Department, the Milford Fire Department, Hopkinton EMS and Mass Highway assisted troopers at the scene.

Due to the investigation and vehicle recovery all lanes of Route 495 South were closed for approximately 2 ½ hours when the left lane was opened. The right two lanes of Route 495 South remained closed approximately an additional 4 hours. Traffic was diverted off Route 495 South at Route 85 (exit 20) and back onto Route 495 South at Route 109 (exit 19).

Hillers upset Norton 21-14

Jeff Doyle coming off an injury ran and threw the Hillers to a 21-14 win over Norton played last night in Norton.

Doyle scrambled for a touchdown to put the Hillers in a tie in the 2nd quarter. 7-7. It was a 12 yard scramble and Mark Sanborn kicked the extra point. The Hillers Zach Carroll ran a t.d. in for 6 yards. The final Hopkinton touchdown came on a Doyle passing option to Mark Sanborn which put the Hillers ahead for good 21-14. The Hillers battled and are looking good.

Will Morningstar played a great defensive game and made many tackles to keep the Hillers alive. The Hillers host Holliston next Friday at 7:00 in Hopkinton. ~ Peter Marso

Music in Hopkinton on Friday Night

September 29, 2007 — In case you missed it, hear Deborah Rocha sing at ESL Girls Night Out and hear Jeff Snow at the Library, both are above.

Golden Frame

September 29, 2007 — The shoreline vegetation provide an early autumn frame for the island at ice House Pond, the gazebo, and the mud between each.

Synchronized Landing

September 29, 2007— These mallard ducks all land at precisely the same time on the Hopkinton Reservoir.

Two Birds

September 29, 2007 — This sparrow helped the photographer, who was looking for a photo of a bird, pardon the pun, kill two birds with one stone as he also wanted to remind readers of the Police Golf Tournament on October 1 at the Hopkinton Country Club. Please see the Calendar.

Making a Point

September 29, 2007— Former Selectman Ron Clark makes a point during last Tuesday's Selectmen's meeting on Fruit Street. Mr. Clark was also the Chairman of the now-defunct Fruit Street Development Committee.

Board of Appeals

Oil Truck Overnight Parking Now Prohibited on Meserve Street

Must be parked in area "remote from habitation"

September 27, 2007 — The Board of Appeals submitted their 25-page Decision to the Town Clerk today in the matter of the Appeal of the Zoning Enforcement Officer's (ZEO) Cease and Desist order against The Alliance Express (Heating Oil Partners L.P.), which has been operating a fuel storage and truck terminal facility on Meserve Street, a neighborhood of residential homes.

ZEO Charles Kadlik noted that upon review, he learned that there was only a variance granted in 1974 for the storage of the fuel oil, but no Special Permit for the decades-old facility. Trucks have been stored overnight in violation of the prohibition of such a use in an area of habitation.

The Decision notes that the permits required to park the vehicles in any municipality gave a Chelsea address of the "Land where Vehicle is Parked Overnight," rather than the Meserve Street address where they actually were parked.

Mr. Kadlik wrote in his Order: "These trucks are started in the early hours of the morning to warm up during the week and on weekends. I have no desire to infringe upon your living, but I am concerned that you are not concerned about the rights of your neighbors to live in a relatively clean, noise free environment."

In addition, results of required testing of the tanks and inventory certifications to "assess the integrity of underground storage tanks," according to the Decision, were not submitted.

The Decision by the Board includes a new Cease and Desist Order, but suspends it upon compliance with conditions of the Decision, and laws stated therein and otherwise, allowing a use that has not been previously granted by Special Permit, and that is an expressly prohibited use by being within the boundaries of the recently altered Water Protection Overlay District (WRPOD) in 2006. There are 60,000 gallons of fuel stored in three underground tanks used to supply the home delivery trucks. Almost 4.5 million gallons almost was transported to and from that facility in the 2003-2004 season.

If the use of the property changes, then the current zoning will kick in, prohibiting such uses in the future, which is one of the purposes of zoning.

It appears after a quick read of the Decision that it does not address the early morning idling of vehicles, an activity that the ZEO will likely address . However, a town bylaw prohibits the running of equipment before 7:00 a.m., something that may prohibit the filling of the machines before that time.

NOTE: The entire Decision can be read here.

Dry Spell, Drought?

Ben Lewis takes the HopNews camera in search of water, above.

Reader Remembers Honor Roll

Editor -

Thanks for your picture of the Honor Roll. I remember how proud we were of it up there in the Common. I was a little younger than those on the list but knew many of them. Is it still around or has only the picture survived? I read your excellent paper every night. Good work.

John Mullins
1795 Grape St.
Denver, Colorado 80220-1350

September 27, 2007

ST. PAUL’S 16TH ANNUAL “BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS” OCTOBER 7

HOPKINTON, MA (September 27, 2007) – Creatures of all species – including four-legged friends or feathered fowl -- are invited to receive a special blessing at St. Paul’s 16th Annual Blessing of the Animals on October 7. (File photo)

All dogs, cats, and others of God’s creatures – and their human friends – are invited to a special ceremony being held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 61 Wood Street (Rte 135) in Hopkinton. This year the Blessing of the Animals is being done in a joint service with Grace United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. (also located at 61 Wood Street), followed by a “Pet Friendly”

Save the Date!

Hopkinton Wine & Spirits

Grand Tasting & Open House

Saturday, October 13th

1 - 6 PM

Hopkinton Public Library

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

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

State Police Search for Carjacking Suspects near MassPike

Trains delayed

September 27, 2007 - Today at 5:07 PM Troopers assigned to the State Police Barracks in the Ted Williams Tunnel on the MassPike were alerted by a toll collector working at Interchange 19 westbound, the Allston-Brighton tollbooth, of a carjacking that had just occurred and from which two suspects fled. (File photo)

Preliminary investigation by Trooper Kevin Sweeney indicated that a 2007 black Nissan Maxima occupied by two males was stopped in a line of vehicles at the tollbooth when two suspects jumped into the backseat of their vehicle and displayed a handgun. As the Maxima proceeded through the tollbooth, the victim passenger alerted the toll collector that they were being carjacked and to call the police. The Maxima then traveled a short distance, sideswiped another vehicle and stopped. During this time, the victim passenger was pistol-whipped by one of the suspects. After the crash, the suspects fled on foot west toward a railroad depot. State Police immediately began a search for the suspects, who were described as Afr ican-American males, one wearing a white shirt and the other wearing a black shirt. The victim passenger sustained minor injuries and was not hospitalized.

In the course of the search, some delays were experienced on MBTA train lines. Areas surrounding the railroad depot and railroad tracks in Cambridge were the focus of the search.

This incident remains under investigation by State Police Troopers assigned to Troop E. The State Police Airwing, K-9 Unit and Marine Unit assisted in the search, along with Boston, Cambridge, MIT, Boston University and MBTA Police.

If anyone has information, they are asked to contact the State Police at (617)946-3000.

The Macmillans Return to ESL Coffeehouse Oct. 6

HOPKINTON, MA (September 27, 2007) – Enter Stage Left Theater Workshop Inc. is pleased to announced that brothers Fenwick and Dan Macmillan will return to their Hopkinton hometown with Fenwick’s wife Ursula to once again sing about love, loss, longing, struggle and hope. The return engagement will take place at 8:00 p.m. on October 6 at ESL’s intimate studio setting at 30 Main Street in Hopkinton. Tickets are $10.00. See them on HopNews' YouTube site.

SUNDAY TAPS VIGIL OCTOBER 7, 2007
Hopkinton to join thousands of communities across America

Please join the Hopkinton Veteran’s Celebration Committee on Sunday October 7, 2007 as we join thousands of communities across America for a remembrance ceremony at the Gazebo at the town common in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. The Committee is hosting a “Sunday Taps Vigil” starting at 7pm. The ceremony will consist of a short tribute to American soldiers, veterans and their families and is expected to last 15 minutes. The ceremony will include the sounding of the 24 hauntingly beautiful notes of “Taps”.

“Taps” traditionally serves two important purposes. At military outposts around the world it is played in the evening to signal the time for quiet, rest and reflection after a day of duty. It is also mandated by the Department of Defense to be sounded live by a bugler, if possible, at the funeral of each and every American veteran as a final tribute to that individual veteran’s honorable time of service to his or her country. An average of over 1,600 American veterans are laid to rest each day.

Hopkinton has held this ceremony, on the first Sunday each month, since it was initiated in March 2004 by the national non-profit organization Bugles Across America. Since the ceremony was first proposed over 1,500 communities across America as well as in Canada and several other countries now participate.

Middlesex County Justice/Crime

65-Year-Old Everett Man Indicted In Connection With Alleged Murder Of Ex-Wife

CAMBRIDGE - September 27, 2007 - Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone informed the public today that a 65-Year-Old Everett man has been indicted by a Middlesex Grand Jury in connection with the alleged murder of his ex-wife, Dorothy Philbrook, age 65, also of Everett.

George Philbrook, age 65, of Everett, is charged with murder, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, possession of a defaced firearm used during a felony, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.

“We allege that this was a domestic dispute which tragically turned to violence and death,” District Attorney Leone said. “Mr. Philbrook’s arrest was the result of courageous police work by the Everett and Malden Police, who worked together to track down and apprehended the defendant minutes after the shooting, and while he was still in possession of a loaded weapon and several extra rounds of ammunition.”

James Montgomery

at Cornell's Field

October 21, 2007

1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Left to right, Isabel Holden, Madison Calkins, Christine Leonard, Colleen Malloy. Back row, Abigail Carbonneau, Regina Gemma

September 27, 2007 — Junior Girl Scout Troop 3799 was treated to a visit to the Selectman’s office Tuesday afternoon as they worked toward their “Local Lore” badge. The 4^th grade troop met with Geri Holland, Executive Assistant and Clerk to the Board of Selectmen. Ms. Holland explained the workings of the Selectman’s office and all the preparations that go into a selectman’s meeting.

Anthony Troiano, Town Manager, also met with the girls and described his role, and the role of others in our town government. Both Ms. Holland and Mr. Troiano answered all the girl’s questions and the girls had a tour of the town hall. After having their photos taken in the selectmen’s chair, each girl was presented with a certificate of gratitude and respect from Mr. Troiano. It was a memorable day for Troop 3799. Thank you Ms. Holland and Mr. Troiano for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with our troop. ~ Troop 3799

Above sign was once on the Hopkinton Common.

White Powder in Mailbox

September 27, 2007 — Firefighters and police under floodlights await a Hazmat team to investigate a Winter Street resident's report of a white powder in his mailbox. Police closed the road while the investigation continued. The team arrived shortly before 8:00 p.m., and cleared at 8:28 p.m. According to Lt. William Miller of the Hopkinton Fire Department, the team discovered that the powder was baking soda, and not a hazardous material. The US Postal Service as been used by criminals in the past to deliver deadly poisons to unsuspecting legslators.

According to Wikipedia: The 2001 anthrax attacks in the United States, also known as Amerithrax from its FBI case name, occurred over the course of several weeks beginning on September 18, 2001. Letters containing anthrax spores were mailed to several news media offices and two Democratic U.S. Senators, killing five people and infecting 17 others. The crime remains unsolved. Senator Patrick Leahy, one of the recipients of an anthrax letter, publicly stated just before the sixth anniversary of the case that he believes people within the US government know the source of the anthrax powder.

According to Hopkinton Police Sgt. Sutton, the police do not know what was behind the incident.

"If the intent was to scare," said Sgt. Sutton, "it would be a charge of placing a hoax device. A lot of these laws are new since 9-11. The gentleman has not had any other threats, hate mail or problems, and he doesn't work in a place that uses animals."

HOPKINTON - Dorothy J. McBride, 91, died at her home Monday, September 24, 2007. Born in Milford, she was the daughter of the late Dewitt and Florence (McArdle) MacKinnon.

She was a 1934 graduate of Hopkinton High School, a retired LPN of Grafton State Hospital, and a Hopkinton Senior Center volunteer. She was the oldest living member of the First Congregational Church of Hopkinton and a member of the church's Joy Fellowship. Arrangements complete.

Bill's Pizza is Back

Coupons is the word

September 26, 2007 — Bill's Pizza, one of HopNews' first advertisers when we had as few as 100 readers per day, is back on board with good news — the operation is now computerized, making it easier to offer discounts. Call your order in and your phone number immediately gets transfered to your receipt. The time of your call is also noted so that it is ready on time — just come in, present your coupons, pay, and pick up. It's that easy.

Coupons

Check out the coupons in the page linked by their icon ad. Print them yourself any number of times and bring them in on the specified days.

Fruit Street Stakeholders meet with Selectmen

No new Fruit Street Development Committee

by Robert Falcione

September 26, 2007 — The main order of business at Tuesday's Selectmen's meeting was a discussion, as outlined by Chairman Muriel Kramer, of the various projects slated for the town-owned Fruit Street property. However, during any discussion of Fruit Street, the Board is reduced to three members, because Vice-Chair Mary Pratt is a direct abutter, and Selectman Michael Shepard's daughter lives within some designated zone of influence.

But before the round-table over the property, Mr. Shepard availed himself of the ten-minute Public Discussion segment afforded residents by the Selectmen near the beginning of each meeting.

Mr. Shepard first spoke of the right of people to appeal things that are decided by Boards or other governing bodies, but not to make frivolous appeals. Mr. Shepard did not refer to any specific incidents.

Mr. Shepard went on to talk about the Fruit Street property without mentioning it by name, calling it "the property of which I cannot speak," suggesting that a private company such as John Smith [in Milford] could come in, lease the property and provide athletic services such as fields. The last two Town Meetings have shot down appropriations for the construction of Parks and Recreation Department athletic fields on the Fruit Street property.

Brendan Doyle of the Parks and Recreation Commission would later say that his group is still pursuing the construction of fields on that property.

Mrs. Kramer would refer to the "news about artificial turf, given the proximity to the wells," implying some sort of danger to drinking water, and asked Mr. Doyle if he would investigate.

Mr. Doyle implied he would not investigate, saying he was certain that the consultants they hired would have said something.

Mrs. Kramer started the conversation by saying, "As a community we have been paralyzed by our inability to get things done. This forum is an opportunity to start fresh.

"I believe we need to challenge each other. Every question is not opposition, but is hard work to make progress," she said.

DPW Director JT Gaucher cited the progress of the Waste Water Treatment Facility and the new water well, which he said cannot be drawn from until the treatment plant comes online.

However, later in the meeting Board of Public Works member Dan McIntyre explained that water can be taken out of that well to rest the other wells, but the overall capacity cannot be increased until water is put back into the ground to recharge it. Mr. McIntyre also said that he agreed with the Conservation Commission that a DPW facility, one of the originally planned uses of the property, should not be located on that land.

READ MORE... <----Link now works.

Caution for Milford Residents

Good advice for everyone

(Milford, MA.) September 26, 2007 — There have been numerous reported breaks throughout the Milford Community during the summer months. They include commercial and residential buildings as well as motor vehicles and have occurred in different areas of town. Most of burglaries are believed to have been committed during the late night to early morning hours under the cover of darkness. In some instances there have been intrusions into homes while the residents were asleep and unaware of the burglaries until discoveries of missing items were observed once they were awake. Some of the breaks were determined that entry was made by removing a window screen with an open window on the rear first floor level and then burglars have made efforts to hide their crimes from detection by replacing removed window screens that they used to enter a dwelling. Many motor vehicles breaks still occur due to valuables left visible in unlocked vehicles.

Each resident and vehicle owner should create enough risk for would be intruders to go elsewhere because burglary is a crime of opportunity that may involve someone who lives close by and possibly addicted to drugs. Burglars look for places they can enter and exist without the risk of being caught and the key is to discourage would be thieves from breaking into your property. Residents who hear or see someone or something suspicious, unusual or out of place in their neighborhood should call the police right away so that they can investigate it immediately.

In addition the Milford Police Department makes the following crime prevention recommendations for citizens to help prevent them from becoming victims of theft.

Lock all doors and windows especially first floor windows.
Make sure your property looks well.
Always make your property appear occupied.
Secured window screens.
Don’t allow valuables to be visible to someone outside.
Light the outside of your home to make visible to your neighbors. Outside motion lights can make it more difficult for a burglar.
Trim bushes near doors to reduce hiding places for burglars.
Install dead-bolt locks on outside doors making sure you can unlock the doors from inside without a key to allow everyone inside a quick escape from possible dangers such as fire.
Don’t keep expensive jewelry, collectables, or large amounts of cash in your home. Keep a list of valuables with serial numbers and document them using videotape and or photographs.
Don’t advertise your absence. Never leave messages on your answering machine that says you are away. Have someone pick up mail, newspaper, set out trash, mow lawn or shovel snow.
Close your garage door. Empty garages may signal no one is home.
Lock your vehicles and keep valuables out of sight, reducing temptation for thieves.
Park vehicles in a visible and well lit areas.

SUNSHINE PRESCHOOL EARNS NATIONAL NAEYC ACCREDITATION

Program Among First in Nation to Complete More Rigorous Accreditation Process

Hopkinton, September 26, 2007 – Sunshine Preschool, located in Hopkinton is one of the first early childhood programs to earn accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) – the nation’s leading organization of early childhood professionals. To date, only 285 programs nationwide – 82 percent of those that have received decisions – have received this honor.
“We’re proud to have earned the mark of quality from NAEYC, and to be recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards,” said Christine Martin, Owner and Director. “NAEYC Accreditation lets families in our community know that children in our program are getting the best care and early learning experiences possible.” For over 30 years, Sunshine Preschool has provided a warm, safe, accepting environment where children may grow as individuals. The school fosters the child’s total development in the areas of social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through a multi-sensory approach to developmentally appropriate activities.
To earn NAEYC Accreditation in the new system, Sunshine went through an extensive self-study process, measuring the program and its services against the ten new NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards and more than 400 related Accreditation Criteria. The program received NAEYC Accreditation after an on-site visit by NAEYC Assessors to ensure that the program meets each of the ten NAEYC program standards. NAEYC-accredited programs are also subject to unannounced visits during their accreditation, which lasts for five years. FILE PHOTO

ESL Presents Auntie Goose Puppet Show

October 3

30 Main Street

10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

HOPKINTON, MA (September 25, 2007) – Enter Stage Left Theater Workshop Inc. will be hosting the puppet show Auntie Goose on Wednesday, October 3 at 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. This show, which is sponsored in part from a grant from Target, is geared to preschoolers and is presented by Rosalita’s Puppets, featuring puppeteer Charlotte Dore. It will take place at the ESL studio at 30 Main Street in Hopkinton. Admission is $3.00 per child, $5.00 per adult, with a $15.00 per family cap.

AP^® Scholar Awards at Hopkinton High School

September 26, 2007— Fifty-three students at Hopkinton High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) Exams.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school, and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. About 18 percent of the more than 1.4 million high school students in more than 16,000 secondary schools worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to merit the recognition of AP Scholar.

Students took AP Exams in May 2007 after completing challenging college-level courses at their high schools. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performance on AP Exams.

At Hopkinton High School two students qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on a 5-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. These students are Timothy English and Julie Sung (File photo).

Eighteen students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. These students are Madeleine Aronson, Brian Doyle, Timothy English, Megan Galeucia, Colin Horowitz, Elise Largesse, Cara Maresca, Joao Mendes, Adam Merzel, Timothy O’Connor, Nicole Okland, Alison, Philbrook, Martin Racenis, Jeffrey Stevens, Julie Sung, Matthew Surka, Jennifer Weaver, and Renee Zale.

Ten students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. These students are Andrew Amato, Daniel Bond, Corinne Flieger, Martin Gallagher, Casey Kadlik, Samantha Lohnes, Megan Prall, Cassandra Rudden, Janine Stafford, and Archana Vamanrao.

Twenty-five students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams, with grades of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are Chelsea Ball, Lauren Blake, Gabriella Choi, Luke Fraser, Bethany Goodrich, Anna Greco, Abigail Greff, Morgan Hegger, Daniel Hoskins, Andrew Jesanis, Lauren Lodge, Jaclyn Mahoney, Paul Menlibai, Whitney Mullen, Rachel Mutschler, Tierney Nolen, Elisabeth Roughan, Megan Ryan, Gregory Scalzo, Katharine Schenot, Kathleen Smart, Sarah Smith, Tiffany Tate, Lucie Wall, and Michael Wyzga.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY FALL NEWSLETTER

Middlesex County Justice/Crime

Man Indicted In Connection With 2003 Hopkinton Home Invasion, Sexual Assault

Defendant Was Arrested In July In Connection With Series Of MetroWest Area Home Invasions And Sexual Assaults

CAMBRIDGE – September 25, 2007 — Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone informed the public today that a New Jersey man, formerly from Framingham, was indicted yesterday on charges of home invasion, assault with intent to rape, and other charges in connection a 2003 incident in Hopkinton.

Marcelo Mota, 28, was indicted by a Middlesex County grand jury on charges of home invasion, armed burglary, armed assault in a dwelling, assault with intent to rape, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and threats.

“We allege that this defendant preyed on unsuspecting women and put an entire region in fear by committing a series of similar crimes,” District Attorney Leone said. “These indictments relate to the incident in Hopkinton and we will continue to pursue this case in cooperation with other agencies.”

Mota was arrested by New Jersey police on Saturday, July 14, on a warrant obtained on July 13 by Hopkinton Police in connection with an August 14, 2003, armed home invasion and assault in Hopkinton.

On August 14, 2003, Hopkinton Police responded to a townhouse complex and, upon investigation, it was alleged that the suspect, wielding a knife, broke into a dwelling and assaulted a 41-year-old female victim. Despite extensive investigation by law enforcement, including the use of billboards seeking information to solve this crime and others possibly related to it in the area, no arrests were made at the time. READ MORE...

Donations to Friends of the Common

$2,500 donation in Memory of Ernest Fecteau from his family

See the donors' list and learn how to donate by clicking on the Commonometer --->

Women’s Art Forum, A program sponsored by the CAA

Special guest feature: Julie Nardone

Thursday, October 4, 2007

7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Cultural Arts Alliance, 98 Hayden Rowe Street

Do you talk yourself out of trying new creative endeavors? Throw obstacles in your path that make it impossible to do anything but the same ole’same ole’? Wish you could get out of your own way?

A formerly fearful female, Julie Nardone, now writes, paints, signs, runs a home-based graphic design company, dances in her home disco, plays the piano, bikes, kayaks, travels without reservations, hikes 2000-footers, saves historic buildings and deliberately signs up for new activities that make her nervous. She also leads The Adventureete Workshop, a multi-paced, supportive romp that encourages women to leave their narrow little comfort zones for the wide-open spaces awaiting them in the discomfort zone.

Join us to hear Julie’s story about conquering creative fears, share your own and/or participate in some Adventureete-building exercises. Those ready to try something new can join Julie after the talk for a night of Karaoke at Tennessee’s Barbeque in Milford.

National Merit® Scholarship Program Commended Award Recipients

Above, from the left: Zachary Perez, Katharine Schenot, Stephanie Murdock, Martin Gallagher, Sarah Branz, Caitlin Kohl, Kelly West with Hopkinton High School Principal John McCarthy

September 25, 2007 — Hopkinton High School Principal John McCarthy announced today that Sarah Branz, Martin Gallagher, Caitlin Kohl, Stephanie Murdock, Zachary Perez, Katharine Schenot, and Kelly West, have been named Commended Students in the 2008 National Merit® Scholarship Program. The principal presented letters of Commendation from the school and National Merit Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, to these scholastically talented seniors.

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2008 competition for Merit Scholarship® awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.4 million students who entered the 2008 competition by taking the 2006 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQTâ).

“The young people named Commended Students in the 2008 National Merit Scholarship Program are distinguished by their strong academic performance in this rigorous competition,” commented a spokesperson from NMSC. “Our nation’s pursuit of educational excellence can be furthered by publicly honoring these outstanding students and by acknowledging the important role schools play in fostering their development. We hope that this recognition will contribute to their educational opportunities and encourage all students to strive to realize their potential.”

Hopkinton Square Gets Nod

September 24, 2007 — Hopkinton Square, an ambitious project at the corner of West Main and South Streets by partners Chuck Joseph and Peter Markarian, a former Planning Board member himself, was approved this evening by the Planning Board following several previous meetings and a prior Public Hearing.

The project plans for around 100,000 square feet of office and retail space, made up of a three story office building, a two story retail building, and a free standing building of 13,500 square feet, the footprint, pundits have said, of a Walgreen pharmacy/retail store. However, both Mr. Markarian and Mr. Joseph said this evening that they had no agreements with any tenants.

"Maybe we will now," said Mr. Markarian, smiling, after tonight's meeting.

An EMC representative had lobbied for some sort of barrier between the project and their corporate offices on the abutting property, and the partners said they conceded to much of what was asked.

Both Planning Board members Sandy Altamura and Claire Wright questioned the need for a barrier, saying that it accomplished nothing, and wondered if the money could be put to better use on traffic mitigation.

Planning Board Vice-Chair RJ Dourney, who coincidentally has an office on the same floor as Mr. Joseph at 77 Main Street, said, "I applaud what Chuck and Pete are doing, above and beyond — and being good neighbors."

Second Vice-Chair, Joe Markey left the table during the discussion, because he is employed by EMC, an abutter.

"We think there is a benefit to it [fence]," said Mr. Markarian.

Member Carol DeVeuve said, "I'd like to see sidewalks," referring to the streetscape.

However Mr. Markarian said that he would not be doing that.

The vote was all present in favor, except John Coolidge abstaining.

Senior Center Craft Fair

October 13th 9am-3pm

The Hopkinton Senior Center will be holding a Craft Fair on Saturday, October 13th from 9 AM - 3 PM. There will be knitted sweaters, hats and mittens, jewelry, ornaments, dolls, Christmas Stockings and pajamas, as well as a bake table. This Fair is to kick off the celebration of our first anniversary at the new Hopkinton Senior Center, 28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA. We will serve lunch from 11:30 AM � 1:00 PM consisting of Turkey Sandwich, drink and dessert for $4.00. At 1:30 PM there will be a Magic Act and from 1-3 PM free ice cream and cake will be served.

LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION SECURES VETO OVERRIDE

TO RESTORE 495/METROWEST CORRIDOR PARTNERSHIP’S STATE FUNDING

WESTBOROUGH – The 495/MetroWest region’s legislative delegation have secured an override of Governor Patrick’s veto of a $250,000 state appropriation for the 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership.

The funding authorization on behalf of the Partnership was endorsed by both the House and Senate as part of their deliberations on the Fiscal Year 2008 state budget, and was included in the final budget proposal, but vetoed by the Governor. In order to restore this funding authorization for the Partnership, an override vote for this particular veto had to be conducted in each legislative branch, with a two-thirds margin required for passage.

“We are grateful to our legislators for recognizing the importance of the partnership and the value it brings to 495/MetroWest and the entire Commonwealth,” said the Partnership’s Public Sector Co-Chair, Andrew M. Porter, the Chairman of the Holliston Board of Selectmen. In all, twenty-two state legislators endorsed the Partnership’s appropriation and played pivotal roles to secure the funding, including State Representatives Jennifer Callahan, Thomas Conroy, John Fernandes, Geoffrey Hall, Stephen LeDuc, David Linsky, Paul Loscocco, Harold Naughton Jr., Alice Hanlon Peisch, George Peterson, Jr., Karyn Polito, Pam Richardson, Richard Ross, Thomas Sannicandro, James Vallee, and Patricia Walrath, and Senators Edward Augustus, Scott Brown, Harriette Chandler, Richard Moore, Pamela Resor, and Karen Spilka.

“This restoration of the Partnership’s appropriation in the state budget demonstrates the collective strength and leadership of our legislative delegation,” commented Paul Matthews, the Partnership’s Executive Director. “Beyond our legislators’ leadership, we also owe our thanks to the many municipal officials and business executives from the region who advocated for this appropriation in the state budget.”

“This veto override by the House and Senate shows the Legislature’s commitment to our continued economic success, and recognition of the Partnership’s work ensuring our continued competitiveness,” said the Partnership’s Private Sector Co-Chair, Joseph T. O’Leary of Sovereign Bank. “Senate President Murray, Speaker of the House DiMasi, and our legislative delegation deserve our thanks for their leadership in restoring these funds and maintaining the public sector commitment to the Partnership.”

The 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership was founded to address regional needs through public / private collaboration, by enhancing the economic vitality and quality of life while sustaining natural resources in 495/MetroWest region. The Partnership was formally incorporated in 2003, building from the prior activities of the I495 Technology Corridor Initiative and the economic development program MetroWest Momentum, as well as a collaboration with the affiliated chambers of commerce of the Corridor Nine Area, Marlborough Regional, MetroWest, Milford Area and United Regional chambers. As currently constituted, the Partnership has a service area of thirty-two communities, and as a chartered non-profit organization, is governed by a Board of Directors representing leadership from municipal government, business, environmental organizations, and non-profit groups.

Nurturing Mom’s
Bible Study
Weekly studies include:

Surviving and Thriving the Barnacle Stage,
When You’re Running on Empty,
Who’s the Parent Here?,
Taming the Top 10 Marriage Monsters,
Sibling Sanity and more.

Join us every Thursday Morning (9:15 – 11:15a.m.) for Nurturing Moms, beginning Sept 27 and ending January 23. A group devoted to Growing a Child and Growing a Mom. Contact Kathy Bridge at 508-435-5900 for further information or to register. Child care is available, but space is limited.

First Congregational Church of Hopkinton
508-435-5900 ext. 36
146 East Main Street, Hopkinton, Ma 01748
www.fcch.org

The CAA is having a yard sale on Saturday September 29 and we need your stuff!

So clean out you attics, closets and basements and drop it off at the CAA on:

Wednesday September 26 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Friday September 28 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

We can not accept large items, appliances, TVs, or computers.

Yard Sale will be held on Saturday Sept. 29

(Polyarts Day) from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at the CAA

98 Hayden Rowe Street Hopkinton.

Don't forget to get all your unique gifts at The Art Shack!

The Art Shack Boutique will be open during drop off times and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm until December.

Call Sandra with any questions- 508-435-9222 or 508-435-9016.

Hissing Fit

September 25, 2007 — The photographer tried to push this snake, identified as a water moccasin, to the side of South Mill Street with a fallen tree branch. The reptile coiled, hissed and showed its white mouth with a wide open jaw, and snapped in the direction of the photographer, who did not know that some call this snake the most dangerous in the Northeast. The creature probably could have reached and struck the photographer if it had not just been run over by an automobile. NOTE: Several readers have sent links that claim there are no water moccasins in this area, but instead water snakes. The animal did stand its ground, showed its cotton-white mouth several times, and tried to attack the photographer, behavior that is not known to be practiced by the benign water snake, according to one source. Update: All readers emailing regarding this snake's ID have denied that is is a water moccasin.

Dorothy McBride, 91

Hopkinton - Dorothy McBride, 91, died unexpectedly at her home on Monday, September 24, 2007. Funeral arrangements by the Callanan-Cronin Funeral Home are incomplete at this time.

NOTE: We regret the previous typo in this space.

SoapBox Derby racing is coming to Hopkinton ~ again!

Event to be held at vacant EMC building at 52 South Street

Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, September 30, 2007

Last year, SoapBox Derby racing hit the streets of Hopkinton on the same day as did PolyArts. Residents got an exclusive look into this interesting, fun, and safe method of kids racing cars they have built (with a little help from their parents). Last year, racing these gravity-driven cars happened on Church Street, as spectators taking a break from the Common made their way over a few blocks to see what all the excitement was about and joined parents, siblings and other onlookers on the sidelines.

This fall, The Northampton SoapBox Derby group has decided to host another event in Hopkinton on Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, September 30, 2007, at the EMC facility parking lot at 52 South Street, Hopkinton, MA. from 9:00 am Saturday, and 8:00 am Sunday. It is guaranteed to be yet another fun-filled event, both for the racers and spectators alike. Last year, a girl from Ohio had one of her greatest moments racing when she took first place, not only receiving a trophy but creating lasting memories.

NSBD and local coordinators of the sport are INVITING YOU TO ATTEND, and PARTICIPATE! We have a limited number of “club” cars available to race, in the Stock and Superstock divisions. This is a great way to get started in this sport, or just come for a day and give it a whirl. If interested, please call one of the local coordinators listed below, as they are available to answer any questions and fill you in on the details. Please call.

Bob Barnes: 508-523-5238
Tom Dawson: 508-498-7335

Real Estate Transactions for Hopkinton, Massachusetts *Compiled by Eric Montville for HopNews.com, September 24, 2007*
Address	Buyer	Price	Date	Seller
6 Penney Meadow Lane	Darrell G. McLaughlin & Jillene M. Mayo	$493,900	Sep. 21, 2007	Sarag Meyrial & Gregory M. Kahoun
13 Doyle Lane	Jennifer Sherblom	$265,000	Sep. 21, 2007	Christina L. Slocomb
19 Falcon Ridge Drive	Cartus Financial Corporation	$777,500	Sep. 19, 2007	Claude J. Nusom, III & Diane M. Nusom
Previous update:
8 Smith Road	John J. Durr & Patricia A. Durr	850,000	Sep. 14, 2007	William H. Huckaby & Donna Huckaby
28 North Mill Street	Robert E. Schofield III & Mary W. Schofield	$612,719.50	Sep. 14, 2007	Christian D. Nealon & Lynette S. Nealon
1 Elm Street	Jason L. Jeffers	$354,000	Sep. 14, 2007	Sirva Relocation Credit, LLC
1 Elm Street	Sirva Relocation Credit, LLC	$354,000	Sep. 14, 2007	John P. Bentley & Kathleen Delehanty
6 Angelo Drive	Steven M. Hyman & Sherri L. Hyman	$645,000	Sep. 13, 2007	Lori Fellela
6 Summit Way	Todd S. Holbrook & Deborah A. P. Holbrook	$880,000	Sep. 12, 2007	Eagle Farm Limited Partnership
14 Falcon Ridge Drive	Scott D. Willover & Janet A. Salafia Willover	$850,000	Sep. 12, 2007	Andrew M. Valerie & Julie B. Valerie
12 DiCarlo Drive	John P. McCabe & Sharon McCabe	$636,000	Sep. 11, 2007	Hunt R. Hedrick, Jr.
See Full List back to February 1, 2007

Today, September 24, 2007

8:12 pm A caller from Fruit Street reported hearing three to four gunshots coming from the Hopkinton/Westborough town line...

8:40 pm A caller from Hayward Street reported nine gunshots, fired in rapid succession...

4:06 pm A female caller reported being intimidated by two white males on Harley-Davidsons...

Chose the link above to see the entire Police News.

Reminder...

HOPKINTON POLICE LOCAL 254

FUNDRAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT

October 1, 2007

Hopkinton Country Club

204 Saddle Hill Rd
Hopkinton, MA 01748
(508) 435-4630

10:00 a.m. Check-in 11:00 a.m. Shotgun Start

• $135/person includes 18 holes of golf, cart, box lunch, dinner, and more.

• MAXIMUM limit 144 Players (36 foursomes) 1st come basis.

• Scramble format

• Longest Drive and closest to the pin contests

• Door prizes / Raffle prizes

See Hopkinton Police Website for application

Effluent Happens

A look at where the WWTF will go

September 23, 2007 — The Town of Hopkinton's Fruit Street property is on the Selectmen's agenda for a 90 minute roundtable discussion on Tuesday by the various stakeholders such as the DPW, Parks and Recreation, Board of Health and the School Department.

The Waste Water Treatment Facility that is now on the fast-track for the property will be located above. At the tree line to the right in the above photo is the area where the "package" sewer plant of 100,000 gpd will be located. The plant will be capable of an expansion to 350,000 gpd.

The disposal beds will be in the flat area (above) where gravel was once removed. The original height of the earth is demonstrated at the base of the tree line in the far left corner. According to one town official, the area will need gravel put back to near the original topography for the sewer beds.

Its proponents have promised that the treated effluent — which will be a spit away from Whitehall Brook, an ORW (Outstanding Resource Water) — will be "near drinking water quality."

However, the defenders of those ORW waters appear to have the entire project, including the temporary culvert that must now be a $500,000 bridge, tied up in one appeal or another.

The culvert is below.

Return of the Natives

September 23, 2007 — Mike Torosian, Information Officer and Webmaster for the Hopkinton Ashland Youth Football and Cheerleading Raiders noted that today was the first time the Hopkinton Pop Warner team played on their home turf in about four years.

"I credit Al Rogers for that. He let them play on the varsity football field, too," said Mr. Torosian.

"We wanted the kids to play on the field of their heroes, the Hillers," he said.

Mr. Torosian said he hopes this is not the last time they get to play in Hopkinton.

Waseeka Wildlife Sanctuary

September 23, 2007 — The frog above is a resident of the 219-acre Waseeka Wildlife Sanctuary of the Massachusetts Audubon Society located on Clinton Street in Hopkinton near the Holliston town line.

A visitor may park in a small, but adequate area at the head of the trail that is littered with pine cones, which could at any time jump up and run into the brush in the form of a chipmunk. Mosquitoes and "eyelash" bugs abound.

One branch of the trail comes to an end at some landlocked beaver lodges, surrounded by trees apparently chewed by the rodents who used the wood. The upland location of the lodges makes it apparent that the level of the adjacent pond was much higher than it is now. However, it appears that the beavers may have been "relocated," perhaps to beaver heaven, euthanasia being the common solution for beavers encroaching on human territory.

The pond still appears higher than it was when the trails were built, trails with chirping, whistling chipmunks on both sides, and birds calling from no closer than 200 feet away. The other leg of the trail comes to another part of the secluded pond, where wood ducks fled upon the photographer's nearby arrival.

Boots could be the preferred footwear for parts of this trail that require a leap across a stream and the traversing of muddy areas.

The land was likely farmed at one time, or at least harvested for its wood in the last century, if the 30-75 year-old age of the trees is any evidence. However, there are some trees on the trail before this end of the pond that two grown men would have trouble getting their arms around, perhaps dating them back to pre-revolutionary times.

The Audubon website warns that the trails are not all open due to the beaver activity, but claims that a visitor could see a mink or an otter.

Frogs are pretty much a guarantee.

"Don't tase' me bro'" ~ UF Student to Campus Police

See video here

NOTE: AOL Player is live on the page in the "READ MORE" page. Anyone having trouble loading that page, please drop us a line.

by Robert Falcione

September 23, 2007 — During Massachusetts Senator John Kerry's speech at the University of Florida, a student, Andrew Meyer asked him, among other things, why he didn't become President after he had actually won the election; and if he was a member of the Skull and Bones Society of Yale University.

Presidents William Howard Taft, George Bush and George W. Bush are purported to have been members of that secret society. The genesis of the CIA has been credited to Bonesmen.

The man is then placed under arrest, and it appears from the video that it is because of the nature of his question, raising complaints of a free speech violation. He refuses to submit to arrest and needs to be tasered in order to be placed under arrest, causing screams from himself and from some in attendance.

The video of this point in the exchange, a copy above, that was played all over the internet and national television, begins at a moment that lends credence to overreaction by Campus Police. However, it is a definitive example of the press offering a moment that is "taken out of context." READ MORE