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Think pink, chairs that is!

August 26, 2006 — Jeff Doherty pauses his work to enjoy a coffee today at Angel's Garden Center sitting on one of the "Pink Chairs" that a Hopkinton company is donating $25 from each sale to benefit breast cancer research. For more information, visit www.ELLLC.com

Flock or swarm?

August 27, 2006 — These sparrows dining on the lawn at 35 Main Street are so abundant that they should be called a swarm instead of a flock. A flock of starlings, a similarly pesky bird, caused the crash of a plane out of Logan on October 4, 1960, when they got sucked into the jets and gummed up the works, killing 62 people. NOTE: We have corrected the type of bird after being apprised of the fact by John Woodward.

Falling for you

August 26, 2006 — Some members of the cast of ESL Theater ham it up after getting out of costume this evening, following their third and last performance, a reading of Arthur Miller's All My Sons. Actors are notoriously superstitious, thinking that a good wish could jinx them. So the phrase "Break a leg" has become the proper wish to give an actor before a performance.

At the Car Wash

August 26, 2006 — Above, some members of the Class of 2008 had fun beckoning people to their car wash at the new Administration Building today.

Where did he go?

August 26, 2006 — A Milford man refused to stop for Detective Scott Van Raalten this evening, and then sped into Milford, where he temporarily eluded police in the labyrinthine apartment complex, Rolling Green, where his vehicle was discovered near his residence. Above, a State Police canine officer and dog follow the scent of the suspect, while Sgt. Michael Sutton points something out to Detective Scott Van Raalten. The vehicle was impounded, and the suspect has continued to elude police.

Hopkinton Fashion Show raises $35,000 for Breast Cancer Research

Hopkinton Country Club was the scene of a fundraising event supporting breast cancer research at Mass. General. Approximately 300 people attended the event which included a golf tournament, the fashion show, and an auction for a bevy of generous prizes supplied by local businesses.

The guest speakers included Linda Connly, a breast cancer survivor and also a model, and Bianca De la Garza from Fox 25 news. Dena and Todd Pavone of Hopkinton coordinated the entire event. Todd is Linda’s sister and when Linda was diagnosed, they decided to help in funding breast cancer research. Please click here for a slide show of the fashion event and some of the featured guest speakers. The woman in the photo is Linda Connly, who was is not only a breast cancer survivor, but also has generously donated her money and time to the cause of funding breast cancer research. Photo by Geoffrey Grady ©2006.

Hey, Buddy!

August 26, 2006 — This great blue heron on the shore of Lake Whitehall this morning was startled to hear the photographer greet him from an opening on shore with, "Hey Buddy" from about 75 feet away, and is seen here pushing off of the log in the foreground.

Resident wants support for service

Editor:

I wanted to send in a note regarding services provided by the police / fire department. I went to the police department hoping to get my infant car seat inspected and learned that they no longer are able to provide this service as no one has been certified in the past several years. FULL LETTER

REMINDER!

What's ~~wrong~~ right with this picture?

August 25, 2006 — Drivers facing west at the intersection of Main and Grove Streets today were surprised to see vehicles proceeding ahead, and some turning left in front of them onto Cedar Street, while their own light remained red. Apparently, the DPW has reprogrammed the sequence to allow a delay for those drivers, but the photo was taken after sunset, no one was in the office to offer details.

From the It-Couldn't-Happen-Here Department

Selectman recall petition filed in Maine

“Some of these people are dumber than dirt and wouldn’t have any idea what they were signing.”

~ Ellsworth Town Clerk

August 25, 2006 — While perusing the NewsCity.us link on this page, a resource by the way, that we have been building since last year, a reader could stumble upon the Ellsworth, Maine page, and then find the Ellsworth American link and read the story about the Selectmen.. Their three person Board of Selectmen has been reduced to two, after one resigned, saying that he had been too divisive. Seriously.

Then another has just been the target of a successful recall petition drive, which will cause an election within a 60 day period that begins after a 30 waiting period. According to the article, a Board with only one Selectman can only sign a warrant for salaries, and nothing else. Seriously.

So if you think Hopkinton politics are down and dirty, check the link.

There's even a reference to bovine scatology. Seriously. ~ Editor

Thank you to a reader who sent in two valid suggestions and earned $50.00

At his request, we sent the money to the Respite Center.

NOTE: Our Site Meter, a third-party service that can be seen at the bottom of this page, has been active since near our very beginning. It passed the figure of 700,000 visits today.

Patron enjoys the theater

Dear Editor:
Last night I went to see "All My Sons", the ESL production of the Arthur Miller play. It was wonderful. I highly recommend it. This production is worth seeing and discussing. It was great to be able to go to the theater in downtown Hopkinton!
My congratulations and thanks to the cast and crew.
Cathy Bradley
186 Pond Street
Hopkinton

August 25, 2006 More Letters

From the Radical Middle...

Do you see chaos or democracy?

This is a test

by Robert Falcione

August 24, 2006 — It has been HopNews policy to stay out of politics. We choose to be a voice for the residents, a resource for all things Hopkinton, and a breaking news source. Even though we do not do politics, we have made friends on both sides of the "aisle." But that doesn’t mean that a person has to deny his observations.

People on the extremes of the political juggernauts see this position as anathema to their own. Many feel, if you not with us, you're against us. Many in Hopkinton who are aligned with parties, toe the party line, rather than vote on the issues. But others, even though they vote the party line, do so because they deeply share the core values of their peers. Combined, the parties only number about 75 participants at their primary elections.

Wednesday, a writer in another news organization likened the Hopkinton Board of Selectmen to Richard Nixon, and questioned why any Town Manager applicant would want to have Hopkinton on his list, paraphrasing a popular put down, “Would you buy a used car from this town?” The curious part of the lambasting that the Selectmen got from the writer is that while three Selectmen got skewered, Selectman Ron Clark got finessed and fitted for a halo.

It isn't that Ron — and I am going to use the familiar here, because I have gotten to know the Selectmen like friends after covering them for three years — isn't brilliant and hard working. But I wouldn't nominate him for pax Hopkintana. He has been right on target with the hard questions about the Whitehall land purchase, but got stung grilling Fred Hoskins and Mike Neece over the Town Manager Search Committee at a recent Selectmen's meeting. In fact, after coming out of the scrap with their integrity intact and moving on to the next subject, Mike Neece looked at Ron and turned his palms upward. Curling his fingers like a schoolyard brawler, he challenged Ron Clark, taunting, "Bring it on." Ron declined with a laugh.

Leading the current political mischief around town is the phrase, "Look at the Selectmen. Nothing's changed," referring to the change of guard at the last election when the town rose en masse and placed Mike Shepard at the Selectmen’s table. He ran after receiving countless solicitations from people in both parties, who knew he would run as an unaligned candidate. Oh yes, the Board of Selectmen has changed. FULL STORY.

ESL Premiere of ALL MY SONS

August 24, 2006 — ESL Theater held the kickoff performance, a reading of All My Sons, this evening at their 34 Main Street workshop. Above from left, Steve Sullivan, Dawn Anderson and Michael Geary. Additional shows are Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm.

A little off of the sides, please

August 24, 2006 — It looks like Paul McLaughlin from Hopkinton DPW behind those Foster Grants cutting the grass at the baseball Field on Fruit Street today.

POLICE NEWS UP-TO-DATE, today, August 24, 2006

7:19 am A caller from B Street reported that an older white male was going through her trash...

1:22 am Officers William Burchard and Jacob Campbell responded to a report of a male and female arguing outside in their yard on Erika Drive...

11:26 pm A caller from Spring Street reported that her ex-boyfriend was sending harassing/annoying phone calls...

6:57 pm A caller from Meserve Street reported four wheelers driving around. One may have hit a vehicle...

Poll Results In

Mosquitoes lose big

August 24, 2006 — Spraying for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a virus that causes swelling of the brain, on 450,000 acres in Southwestern Massachusetts is underway due to EEE found in mosquitoes.

In our poll on the left, we asked our readers of they favored spraying for mosquitoes. As many know, there are some people against spraying chemicals, claiming harm could come to humans, pets, or wildlife.

Decades ago, a chemical called DDT was sprayed everywhere, because it was such an effective bug killer. However, birds of prey became endangered, because the chemical affected their shells, and DDT was taken off of the market, as were other very effective pesticides of the time. The new chemicals have their promoters, but detractors, if any, get no press.

In any case, the people of Hopkinton have spoken. Spraying good, mosquitoes bad.

REMINDER ~ STARTS TONIGHT

ENTER STAGE LEFT Theater Workshop Inc.

Presents:

Arthur Miller’s American Classic

ALL MY SONS

a staged reading

Winner of the Drama Critics Award for Best New American play of 1947

Directed by Paul Champlin

PERFORMANCES:

8:00 PM Thursday through Saturday, August 24th-26^th, 8pm at 30 Main Street, Hopkinton

Ticket price $10

CAST LIST: Michael Geary, Nancy Gilarde, Steve Sullivan, Kelly Grill, Jean Vickers, Mark Laumeister, Phil Doherty, Jeff Brown, Dawn Anderson

Please call 435-2114 or email esltheater@comcast.net for additional information, or to reserve tickets.

Kindly visit our website: www.enterstagelefttheater.com

Sky Light

August 23, 2006 — Like a painter's vision, this southern sky at sunset today shows a remarkably classic and stormy palette.

Friends at Last

August 23, 2006 — At Carbone's this evening, Rohini and Thomas "TJ" Last are flanked by friends, left, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen Muriel Kramer, and right, Vice-Chair Mary Pratt. Mr. Last was a member of many organizations , started a local newspaper, the Hopkinton Spirit,, and ran for Selectman during their short residency in Hopkinton. Since moving to the West Indies for career choices, we understand the Last's are HopNews readers.

Practice makes Perfect

August 23, 2006 — Football Coaches chat while observing their charges during practice this week.

State Police Requests Public's Help Regarding Crash on Route 24 in Bridgewater

Today, about 12:55p.m., State Police from the Middleboro barracks responded to a crash involving a tanker tractor-trailer unit transporting septic material, which rolled over on Route 24 South prior to Route 104 in Bridgewater and a 1992 Toyota sedan.

The operator of the tanker tractor-trailer unit, a 43 year-old male, was transported with serious injuries by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital. The identity of the operator of the tanker tractor-trailer unit is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The operator of the Toyota, Lucille, Bergeron, 63 years-old and the passenger, Leo Bergeron, 79 years-old, both of Buzzards Bay, were taken by ambulance with minor injuries to Good Samaritan Hospital.

The State Police are requesting the public’s help with any information regarding this crash. Any persons who may have witnessed or who may have information regarding this crash are asked to please contact the Middleboro barracks at 508-947-2222.

The State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section, the State Police Collision Analysis & Reconstruction Section, the State Police Crime Scene Service Section, the Bridgewater Fire & Rescue and the West Bridgewater Fire & Rescue assisted troopers at the scene.

All lanes of Route 24 South were shut down at the time of the crash with one lane re-opening at about 4:30 p.m. Route 24 North was also shut down for about one hour and fifteen minutes to accommodate emergency vehicles.

CBS4 Has the Full Story.

Fire on Hayden Rowe Street

August 23, 2006 — The first Hopkinton Firefighter arrived at 12:19 am this morning to find an upstairs child's bedroom ablaze at this home on Hayden Rowe Street. The family of five, including three children, escaped unhurt.

Mutual Aid

August 23, 2006 — Above, Hopkinton Firefighters climb the roof to cut a vent on top, while other Firefighters, who entered the blazing room, continued to pour water on the affected areas. Southboro, Ashland, and Milford. Police and Fire responded to assist.

Blood's Pond

August 22, 2006 — This majestic willow surrounded by loosestrife makes Blood's Pond on South Mill Street look a little more like a scene from the South.

Swing!

August 22, 2006 — The Red Sox may be in a slump, but Cornell's Field is full of hitting and base running this week, as company teams and other teams do battle.

Show your colors

August 22, 2006 — This weather vane and cupola above the dormant Amato Farms Store makes no mistake where the sun is at sunset this evening, as the Southwestern sky turned warm hues and soft gradients.

On track

August 22, 2006 — Behind the Middle School Gymnasium are, from left, Contractor ESI President Mark Sarno, Union Representative Joseph Grenham, and ESL employee Tom Nigro. Mr. Sarno said he believes the work on the western wall of the gym will be complete by the start of school.

"These workers are all Americans," Union Rep Grenham said proudly. Bricklayers and other union construction workers must attend apprenticeship classes for years before working on their own.

Dinner time

August 22, 2006 — This fawn pauses from eating long enough to notice the photographer's vehicle. Within a minute, the deer got his scent and retreated to her mom who was waiting at the head of the escape trail, shortly after sunset this evening.

ALL INVITED TO ST. PAUL’S

“WELCOME BACK SUNDAY”

SEPTEMBER 10

HOPKINTON, MASS. (August 21, 2006) -- St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 61 Wood Street (Rte. 135) will be kicking off its fall schedule with “Welcome Back Sunday,” September 10. Breakfast will be served at 8:45 a.m., and Church School registration will begin at 9:15. Church School classes will be offered for children ages three and up, and a Nursery will be provided for infants and toddlers. Worship will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the children joining their parents in the church at 10:30 for communion. The service will be followed by fellowship and coffee hour at 11:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome! (File photo of Blessing of Animals.)

Every Sunday at St. Paul’s is family-oriented, with Child Care and Church School at 9:45 a.m. and Holy Eucharist at 10:00 a.m. After every service everyone is invited to the Parish Hall for coffee hour and fellowship.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church’s mission is to minister unconditionally to all in the name of Christ through shared worship, teaching, healing, and service. For more information call 508-435-4536 or visit St. Paul’s website at www.stpaulhopkinton.org.

ENTER STAGE LEFT TO HOST VOCAL TECHNIQUE SEMINAR AUGUST 29

August 22 2006 – Enter Stage Left Theater Workshop Inc. will be hosting a two-hour seminar on voice techniques for actors on Tuesday, August 29 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The seminar will be held at the ESL studio at 30 Main Street, and will feature professional actor and vocal coach Mark Enright. The cost is $50.

Senior Picnic Reminder

Laborer's Training Center

August 23, 2006 11:00 am- 3:00 pm

State Representative Paul Loscocco will host his annual picnic for senior citizens living in his district at New England Laborer’s Training Center, East Street, Hopkinton, Wednesday, August 23 from 11:00 – 3:00 p.m. Hopkinton seniors are asked to sign up at by contacting the Senior Center at 508-497-9730.

As in the past, there will be food, entertainment, and the chance for prizes for all in attendance. The picnic is a great chance to meet with and speak to Representative Loscocco and talk about your concerns. ~ Cindy Chesmore

File photo.

3 Arrested on Hayden Rowe Street

Drugs and Liquor Involved

August 22, 2006 — Two 17 year-old Ashland males were arrested by Detective Scott Van Raalten after a traffic stop on Hayden Rowe Street, one charged with Possession of a Class D substance and the other with being a Person Under 21 Possessing Liquor.

The third teen, an 18 year-old male, also from Ashland, was charged with both Possession of a Class B Substance and Possession of a Class C Substance.

STATE POLICE SOBRIETY CHECKPOINTS

Middlesex County Saturday, August 26, 2006 into Sunday, August 27, 2006

Colonel Mark F. Delaney, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, announced that “Sobriety Checkpoints” will be implemented by the Massachusetts State Police on Secondary State Highways. The purpose is to further educate the motoring public and strengthen the public’s awareness to the need of detecting and removing those motorists who operate under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs from our roadways. They will be operated during varied hours, the selection of vehicles will not be arbitrary, safety will be assured, and any inconveniences to motorists will be minimized with advance notice to reduce fear and anxiety.

Hopkinton Democrats will be gathering on Saturday morning (8/26) to participate in the Democratic Party's statewide Victory 2006 campaign.

The gathering will begin at 9:30 at the home of Ed Mills, 37 Woody Island Rd. Beginning around 10, the participants will branch out around town to contact their neighbors personally in support of all Democratic candidates for statewide office.

For more information, please contact Dick Duggan (508-435-4007) or Ed Mills (508-435-5864).

Hopkinton Police Local 254

Golf Tournament

HOPKINTON COUNTRY CLUB

204 Saddle Hill Road Hopkinton, MA 01748

508-435-4630

October 2, 2006

Time: 10:00 AM Check-in 11:00 AM Shotgun Start

· $135.00 / person (includes 18 holes of golf, cart, box lunch, dinner and more)

· MAXIMUM limit 144 Players (36 foursomes) – first come basis

· Scramble format

· Door Prizes

· Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin Contests

Please register before September 24, 2006

(Click here for signup form)

· Raffle Prizes

Left, right, left...

August 21, 2006 — The football team had its first day of practice this morning. this tight group didn't stick together for long as the more practiced moved away from the pack.

Police News Up-To-DATE August 21, 2006

6:01 pm School Resource Officer Philip Powers spoke with a family about a missing juvenile.

11:32 am Officer Stephen Buckley spoke with a couple about a larceny of their checks.

9:21 am Officer Stephen Buckley reported the High School sign missing.

MISSING CHILD HAS BEEN FOUND SAFE

WANTED for Connecticut Bank Robbery

Attached is a “Wanted Poster” and associated pictures of the suspect regarding a bank robbery that occurred in Putnam, CT, on 08/19/2006. The vehicle used was seen traveling north on Route 395 and had Massachusetts registration plates. Due to this connection to Massachusetts, the Connecticut State Police is asking, through the Massachusetts media, for the publics help. Any questions should be directed to the numbers provided on the wanted poster.

Hopkinton Historian passes

Rose M. Leveille, 78, of Hopkinton died Sunday August 20, 2006 at the Metrowest Medical Center of Framingham. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Concepcion (Morales) Martin. She had also been the wife to Raymond Leveille who had died in September of 1982.

Rose was a lifelong resident of Hopkinton, valedictorian of the Hopkinton High School class of 1946, a member of the Hopkinton Historic Commission, Hopkinton Historic District Committee, a Librarian and Library Trustee at the Hopkinton Library. ARRANGEMENTS COMPLETE

Enice O. (Mongiat) Bogigian, 92, of Milford, died Saturday, Aug. 19, 2006, at Sunbridge Care and Rehabilitation for Milford after a period of declining health.
She was the wife of Vascen Bogigian, who died in 2001.

Born in Milford, daughter of the late Antonio and Maria (Colanti) Mongiat, she attended Milford schools, graduating from Milford High School, Class of 1932. ARRANGEMENTS COMPLETE

Brothers in the fight

August 20, 2006 — In this photo taken ten days ago, Fire Lt. Kenneth Clark, left, and his brother, Firefighter Robert "Boo" Clark, shared this rooftop at Downey Street on this house that was struck by lightning after venting the fire raging inside so that the gases, fire and smoke rise, rather than remain contained. It is then when Firefighters can go in and fight it.

Touching down

August 20, 2006 — Down Dog played while this Irish Step Dancer, foreground, caught some air this evening on the Common.

The nursery?

August 20, 2006 — This dragonfly at Hopkinton Reservoir today uses his legs to grasp this stem near the water. It is unknown whether the stem emits a scent that enchants the insect; or perhaps it is protecting eggs that the female has deposited there, a very likely place. Dragonflies, and dragonflies en masse, should be welcomed by humans, because they eat mosquitoes.

Life's little pleasures

August 20, 2006 — Mom, Liisa Jackson, was not far away on the Common this evening as daughter, Celia, tried to figure out this jump rope (Hint to Celia: The rope is too long).

Gearing up

August 20, 2006 — These sophomores got their equipment today to be ready for practice tomorrow morning.

Hopkinton - William F. Askin Jr. died Saturday, August 19, 2006. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late William F. and Helen (Dasha) Askin.

He was a graduate of Sweden International University and the American Banking Institute. He was the former President and Treasurer of the Holliston Hopkinton Savings Bank and is a World War II U.S. Naval Veteran. ARRANGEMENTS COMPLETE

Hitchin' a Ride

August 19, 2006 — This spotted turtle was crossing the street at Cranberry Lane, when the photographer gave it a push toward the water, causing it to retreat into its shell. It has several passengers piggybacking, whose colors help hide their presence to the casual and distant observer.

Master of its Domain

August 19, 2006 — This diving bird, a cormorant, has had the entire Blood's Pond to itself this season.

Hip Hop Do

August 19, 2006 — This male cardinal, with a modern hairdo, savors a pumpkin seed in its beak at a bird feeder this morning.

Opinion Poll Results

The Whitehall Land purchased at Town Meeting that was supposed to close on July 31, 2006 has just had a second extension of the date, while the Town considers the latest appraisal of the land.

Many readers of the Discussion Page, who apparently were not in on the vote for the purchase, are now saying to walk away from the deal.

These results on the left may very well represent the community at large, rather the group who voted for it at Town Meeting.

Humming along

August 19, 2006 — Robert Fournier shares this photo of a hummingbird moth that frequents his home.

Equestrian urges horse sense

Dear Editor,

We frequent the trails of Hopkinton on our horses, and try to minimize the time we spend on paved roads. In both cases, we encounter people who are unaware of the laws and protocols required when encountering horseback riders. We would like to remind everyone of the proper behavior, so that the safety of the horses, the riders and the public are ensured.

Horses are instinctively fearful of unfamiliar or unexpected sights and sounds. They are large and powerful animals that can become uncontrollable when forced into a “fight or flight” situation, and can be dangerous to people and vehicles in their proximity. Because of this, they have the right of way under certain conditions. Please act responsibly! READ FULL LETTER

Concerts on the Common

August 18, 2006 — The Westwood Swing Band, singer above, was the musical feature last Sunday on the Common. This Sunday, starting at 5:00 pm is the band Down Dog, Celtic music with Irish Step dancers.

Golden Glow

August 18, 2006 — The Hopkinton Reservoir Dam gives off a golden glow in this photo taken at sunset this week.

Oldies but Goodies reminds me of...

August 18, 2006 — Former Hopkinton resident Dave D'Amico helped manage a specialty auto show last weekend at the American Legion in Northbridge. Above center is the front of a 1949 Cadillac, and in the foreground, although it is only inferred, is the unmistakable tail of a 1955 Chevrolet.

Ron Nation agrees to extension

Whitehall sale on again, off again, now on again

August 18, 2006 — The Whitehall land sale that was stalled and all but derailed earlier this week when the Town, which had appropriated $2.75 million for the purchase and signed a Purchase and Sale, instead offered $2,050,000 for the land during the period of an extension, which ends today. The Town has not let the details of the appraisal become public, so the criteria used for the calculations are unknown.

However, according to Ron Nation, he has agreed to an additional extension period, 7 or 10 days he says, so that the Town can look further at the appraisal he supplied for $2,685,000. The Town is looking into meeting that figure, which Mr. Nation has agreed to. That appraisal was based on the land being approved for a 9 home subdivision.

"That's how you determine value," he said in a telephone interview today. "Highest and best use is the terminology."

"I don't know where they're going with it; I'm along for the ride.

"I want to sell it for the appraised value, and if they don't want it, then go away.

"I understand they have to post meetings and these things take time," he said.

Happy Birthday Teri Guarino!

It took you 40 years to look this good!

Women's Club offering memberships

Are you new to or already a member of the Hopkinton community or just in need of something new and exciting to be a part of? Are the kids out of the house, either grown or in school? Are you looking for something in your life that will offer you the opportunity to give back to the community while also enjoying social gatherings and outings? If so, please consider joining the Hopkinton Women’s Club. Our meetings are generally held on the second Monday of the month at the Cultural Arts Alliance in Hopkinton. Social hour is from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m.; meeting from 10-11:00 a.m.. and program from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. The next meeting will be held September 18^th at the Cultural Arts Alliance.

The fashion show we held at the Hopkinton Country Club this year was a sell out, with proceeds donated to the new Senior Center. This event along with other projects help our fund raising in support of town organizations such as the Respite Center, Project Just Because and Serenity House to name a few. Have you read about the student scholarships we award to outstanding junior and senior high school students every year or the donations we make to the YMCA, the Girl Scouts, the Post Prom Party, the High School Yearbook, the Drama and Music Departments? Would you like to get involved, make a difference and have fun too? The level of commitment is up to you; a meeting, fundraiser or social outing once a month. We are organizing now for the upcoming year. This is the perfect time to become involved and contribute to a very philanthropic organization. For further information, please call Renee Martin, Hopkinton Women’s Club Membership Chairperson at (508) 435-1271 rjmar13@aol.com ~ Beth Jacobs

What's New?

Third Anniversary of HopNews in September

by Robert Falcione

August 17, 2006 — As regular HopNews readers have seen over the last couple of months, we have made interactive icons on the top, and in this latest version, we have made the icons even smaller, bringing the content up a bit higher on the page.

And we've added features like a redesigned Discussion Page — as well as an occasional Chat Room. And Totally Free Classifieds, that are shared with Framingham.com readers too.

Today, we've added an Email Alert that puts you, if you so choose, on a list of readers to notify in case of breaking news or other important alerts that we do not yet foresee. We've also added a Memo Pad today, so that you can take notes while you read to review later. Only you will be able to see your memos. And the content of your Memo Pad will be saved for your next visit.

We've also added an "8" today, to link to HCAM-TV, our local Community Access Television corporation.

Something Eric Montville has been working on for months, when he isn't doing the Police News or a myriad of other tasks, is our NewsCity.us site, which is now in Beta. It is likely that a near majority of people in Hopkinton moved from somewhere else in the last ten years. NewsCity.us probably lists a link to their former local news organization. We are working offline on a redesign; the new logo can be seen above, left.

Do you have an idea? Take advantage of the Suggestion Box icon and read the good news — we're paying for suggestions.

Laurann Ransom has joined HopNews as a community reporter, covering her first Selectmen's meeting last week, and we are looking to put other people to work also. Writers please call 508-435-5534 to practice your passion.

Keep the news and the ideas coming this way, and we'll use as much as we can.

Oh, and thanks for the Third Anniversary of HopNews next month.

Any ideas for a special celebration?

Meadowland

August 17, 2006 — The Fruit Street property at sunset this evening, with a little Adobe Photoshop® color saturation enhancement.

What a gem

August 17, 2006 — Carolyn Chase, left, of Silpada Designs Jewelry, shows some catalogue pieces to Gerry Trainor at he jewelry show at Main Street Specialties this evening.

Senior Picnic on track

Laborer's Training Center

August 23, 2006 11:00 am- 3:00 pm

File photo.

POLICE NEWS UP-TO-DATE

Today, August 17, 2006

3:52 pm A party reported that a male subject in a pick-up truck with a Connecticut registration was trying to sell "steaks" out of the back of his vehicle on Cedar Street...

3:26 pm A caller reported two females walking on Wood Street near the cemetery. Both girls appeared to have blood on their faces...

12:34 pm A caller reported hearing what he thought was a gunshot in the area of Angel's Garden Center...

It's the Law!

August 16, 2006 — Ranger DeAnna Collins is shown here informing people at the Main Beach that time is up and Hopkinton State Park will close at 8:00 p.m.

Fruit Street property takes giant step

August 16, 2006 — The secretary of Environmental Affairs has given the green light for the Town of Hopkinton to bypass the preparation of an EIR (Environmental Impact Report) for both Well H-2 and the Wastewater Treatment Facility at the Fruit Street property, which also includes plans for a school, affordable housing, senior housing, recreational facilities roadways and a DPW facility.

Selectman Ron Clark, who doubles as the Chairman of the Fruit Street Development Committee, has been singled out for credit by the Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce as the driving force behind the project moving forward.

EXXON files

administrative appeal

August 16, 2006 — Hopkinton Exxon last week decided to forego a court date on a planned appeal of a Cease and Desist order from the Director of Municipal Inspections, Charles Kadlik, who is also the Zoning Enforcement Officer, in favor of an administrative appeal filed with the Town Clerk on Monday.

Exxon owner, Jerry Lazzaro, hopes that his supporters will bring a new bylaw to the Town's books.

Currently, the Town's bylaws do not address the sale of propane; which precludes the sale, because what is not addressed, is not allowed. And for reasons that people can only speculate, the 1971 Special Permit for the location specifically prohibits the sale of propane, although he was granted a permit by the Selectmen.

Mr. Lazzaro believes his business will suffer irreparable harm if he is denied the relief. He believes there is a flaw in the zoning bylaws, and expects to address the Zoning Advisory Committee next Tuesday.

In his latest appeal, Mr. Lazzaro is requesting that the cease and desist order be "held in abeyance" until the town has time to discuss the sale of propane, and perhaps add a zoning amendment at the next Town Meeting.

IP Address Trace