HopNews asserts that Select Board member Shahidul Mannan has defamed the publication for for labeling it as racist. Mannan claimed he was racially attacked, comments he related to the portrayal by local media including HopNews. Despite attempts to discuss these accusations, Mannan did not respond. Mannan's continued silence left HopNews no choice but to respond assertively through their counsel. Read the full demand letter and reader comments.

Hopkinton's campaign season started for the May 20 election with only one contested position: the Select Board. This board oversees town affairs, including finances, with this year's budget at $123 million. Discontent is evident, as 89% polled lack confidence in the current board. Four candidates are vying for two seats, with multiple events scheduled for voter engagement before the election.

On this episode, Peter & Jim discuss the variety of comments the Select Board heard this week at public forum, including from one of its own members, who described his recent experiences with racism in our town. We also discuss the DA's decision to hold no one accountable for the town's leaking an alleged rape victim's confidential information. Also on the pod, Marathon Monday, exclusive new details on the Destini Decoff case, and the history of Hopkinton's first (and only?) hotel.

The slate for the May 20 town election is set, with the only contested race being for two seats on the Select Board. Four candidates are vying for the seats of outgoing Chair Muriel Kramer and member Irfan Nasrullah. Meanwhile, various other town positions see individual candidates, including boards and commissions with terms ranging from one to five years. A debate for Select Board candidates is scheduled for April 28.

Steven E. Gagne of the Northwestern DA's Office reported on an unredacted transcript release, involving multiple parties' negligence, by the Hopkinton Police. Though Town Manager, Chief Bennett, and others missed redacting a victim's details, Gagne found the oversight unintentional. He doubts criminal liability due to the absence of required intent, and no prosecution was recommended, but stresses the need for preventative future measures.

Rosemary C. Gelman, 77, of Hopkinton, passed on April 13, 2024. She leaves behind a 41-year marriage, two sons, and extended family. A dedicated nurse with a Master's and NP license, she co-founded dialysis units in Massachusetts. Remembered for her compassion, she contributed significantly to her community, family, and national parks.

Today's episode of The Daily podcast, "Are 'Forever Chemicals' a Forever Problem?", is especially relevant for Hopkinton residents affected by PFAS contamination in public water. The town advises vulnerable groups to avoid tap water, offering rebates for bottled water. The contamination, traced to the State Fire Academy, has led to lawsuits and significant health concerns. The episode, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, delves into the history and impact of PFAS.

In the last two weeks, four homes were sold, the priciest at 1 Honeybee Pass for $1,796,775. Other sales included 9 Edge Hill Rd at $1,610,000, 11 B St for $587,500, and 16 Greenwood Rd at $1,650,000, with homes ranging from 1,406 to 4,907 sqft and prices per square foot between $336 and $418.

Marathon Monday Madness: Missing mutts, misplaced mail, and mischievous motorists! Hudson's own Houdini, Corey Clark, nabbed for nighttime naughtiness. Parking pandemonium for pavement-hogging workers. Four-car fender-benders sans scratches. Smouldering suspicions on Spring St. Dodged doggy doo-doo, vanishing vehicles, and one invisible smoke signal. Hide-and-seek with Airpods, Ash St. tree tango, and the phantom leaf blower's blustery battle. Stay tuned for more small-town shenanigans!

The Hopkinton Select Board bid farewell to Town Manager Norman Khumalo, commended for guiding the town through growth and sound financial management. Public Forum had calls for a Citizen of the Year initiative, debate on police chief's administrative leave, a police union complaint on promotion processes, and Member Mannan recounting racial attacks. Elaine Lazarus was named Interim Town Manager, and after interviews, Sergeant Scott van Raalten was appointed as Lieutenant.

Hopkinton celebrated the addition of two new fire trucks with a traditional Push-In Ceremony, attended by townspeople, officials, and firefighters. Chief Daugherty highlighted the trucks' significance as symbols of commitment to fire safety, advanced rescue capabilities, and community support. The event was marked by a live dispatch, underscoring the responders' readiness and dedication. Select Board Chair Kramer reflected on the connection between the town's heritage and future, emphasizing the importance of seeing firefighters in action.

Tonight at 6:30, a crowd of nearly 100 gathered outside Cornell’s Irish Pub to...