Hopkinton News

Rev. Miranda Hassett is welcomed into Hopkinton's St. Andrew’s community

2008-09-04T00:46:00Z

From North Carolina to Massachusetts and now to Hopkinton, Miranda Hassett is ready to apply the lessons she has learned along the way to her first full-time church job.

Hassett, 33, began as the assistant to the rector at the beginning of the summer at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, was ordained a deacon in North Carolina and graduated from the Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, Mass.

“We love it here. It’s a wonderful peaceful place. The people have been very welcoming,” said Hassett. “There’s so much to do, and we hope to get out and see the beautiful countryside.”

Hassett’s job is a combination of office work, community work and preparation for church services, a variety that keeps her constantly on her toes.

“It’s an all-over-the-place job. Today’s a quiet in the office day where I’m finishing my sermon, but other days I am out visiting people and getting to know the people in the community,” she said. “There is a lot of variety. You don’t have to get bored doing any one thing.”

The job in Hopkinton is her first full-time role following her completion of graduate school for degrees in anthropology and theology.

During graduate school, Hassett worked on a book, “Anglican Communion in Crisis: How Episcopal Dissidents and Their African Allies are Reshaping Anglicanism,” which was well-received in the religious community.

“I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to have completed some of the things I have. It’s a blessing to get to follow through on that,” said Hassett.

Hassett said she is still getting acclimated to her working schedule for her and her family.

“It’s an ongoing process. When you’re in graduate school you never really have free time. So it’s nice to be in a job with somewhat regular hours,” she said. “It’s also an adjustment getting used to being out of the house all day. We’re finding that balance.”

Since she arrived in Hopkinton, Hassett has gotten to know the residents who she’s met at the church, and many others.

“It’s very exciting. The people and members have been so welcoming. There are so many interested, gifted people in the church,” said Hassett. “When it comes to the people who aren’t involved in the church that I meet, I am finding more of the same.”

After six years of work and study from the University of North Carolina to New England, Hassett is glad to have her current job title.

“To finally get to this point where I am energized and excited about what I chose to do, it’s very rewarding,” said Hassett.

Reviving traditions

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church will join First Congregational Church to host a collaborative ecumenical/social event on Sunday, Sept. 28, to revive their old traditions of neighborliness and cooperative spiritual community occasions.

This first gathering will be preceded by a pulpit swap at 10 a.m. First Church’s pastor The Rev. Gordon Crouch will preach and preside at St. Andrew’s, and St. Andrew’s Rector The Rev. Kevin Nichols, and assistant to the rector, The Rev. Miranda Hassett, will preach and preside at First Church.

Following the services, members of the two churches will be invited to gather for lemonade on the lawn in front of St. Andrew’s.

Driver to go on trial for death of Hopkinton police officer

2008-09-04T00:34:00Z

BY JENN McDOWELL

A Henniker District Court judge ruled there is probable cause to move forward in the case of the 22-year-old Henniker man accused of killing Hopkinton police officer Sean Powers.

Jeffrey Dennis is facing two charges of negligent homicide, one charge of aggravated driving while intoxicated and one charge of conduct after an accident. Sean Powers, 24, was riding his motorcycle back to his home in Hillsboro after his shift at the Hopkinton Police Department at round 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14.

He was travelling west-bound on Route 202/9 in Henniker, said State Police Troop D Capt. Russell Conte, when Jeff Dennis, 22, of Henniker hit him from behind.

When Dennis’ 1992 BMW struck Powers’ Harley Davidson, Powers was thrown into the road where he was inadvertently struck a second time by a Honda Civic traveling westbound. The driver of the Honda is not being charged in the accident.

After hitting Powers, Dennis and a passenger, now identified as Adam Kowalski of Henniker, fled the accident scene. Both were found within several hours, according to police.

Kowalski is not facing any charges at this point, and has been cooperating with the investigation. Dennis and Kowalski had allegedly been drinking at Chen Yang Li in Bow prior to the accident.

Henniker District Court Judge Brackett Scheffy ruled there was probable cause to proceed with the charges against Dennis at a hearing on Tuesday, Aug. 26. Scheffy also continued Dennis’ bail at $500,000 cash only.

The case now goes up to Merrimack County Superior Court for trial. A date has not been set.

Dennis has several DWIs on his record, and has allegedly left the scene of two other accidents in the past.

Powers had just joined the Hopkinton police force in April 2008, and having completed his field training, was about to enter the police academy.

Prior to that, Powers served two tours of duty in Iraq, one from August 2004 to March 2005 and another from September 2006 to April 2007, and came back unscathed.

Powers graduated from Hillsboro- Deering High School in 2002 and joined the Marines. He was based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina for his entire Marine career, outside of his two deployments.

Hopkinton Police Chief David Wheeler said his department has kept in close contact with the family since Powers’ death.

“They’ve certainly risen to the occasion. They’re working through things in a very positive way, and they’ve been in communication with the family continuously,” Wheeler said of his officers. “I think that’s been very positive both for them and the family.”

He added while the Hopkinton police are in no way involved in the Merrimack County Attorney’s Office investigation into the crash, the Hopkinton police are hoping the process will work in this case.

“Our hope is that the justice system does what it’s intended to do,” Wheeler said.

Hopkinton officer remembered with bike benefit

2008-09-04T00:26:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Police officer Sean Powers’ memory will ride on.

Hopkinton Police Chief David Wheeler is working with two of Powers’ Hillsboro-Deering High School classmates to honor the recently killed officer with a motorcycle ride to benefit the Powers family.

“The family is strapped right now with paying for the funeral, so we wanted to generate a fundraiser and bring closure to that issue,” said Wheeler. “By the same token, we want to do something very positive to not only help the family out, but bring people together in his memory.”

Wheeler said the Saturday, Oct. 4, motorcycle ride will hopefully include a two-hour ride into the White Mountains, a one-hour lunch break, and a two-hour ride back, including a police escort the entire way. Powers, who joined the Hopkinton Police Department in the spring, was killed on Aug. 14 by an alleged drunk driver while riding his motorcycle home at the end of his shift.

“He had so many passions. It’ll be amazing to try to think about what he would want to have money go to each year,” said Russell Fuller, one of Powers’ friends who organized the benefit with friend Jeremy Gaudette. “It’ll be good coming up with special things to remember a special person. It’s hard to say just how amazing someone is.”

Even though Powers worked with Wheeler in the department for a short time, the chief said Powers made a big impact.

“Although he was here for a short period of time, his spirit will be stimulating this department and community for a long time to come,” said Wheeler. “It hit here as hard as it hit them, in some respects. It’s been very good for the officers to get through this by maintaining an open communication with the family.”

Fuller said he has been impressed to see the community response since Powers’ death, and hopes the motorcycle ride will be more of the same outpouring.

“Even the day we did the funeral, seeing everyone on the side of the road was very respectful,” said Fuller. “I’m looking forward to putting something like this together every year from now on. I’m hoping I can do it every year, learn more about it and see people coming back.”

Wheeler said he has already gotten a large response about the ride, and hopes to get at least 300 to 400 people to take part. Each rider is being asked to make a $25 donation for the event, which has a rain date of Saturday, Oct. 18.

“I think it’ll be very instrumental in (getting some sort of closure),” said Wheeler. “The family needs the support, and they’re getting the support.”

Even those who don’t ride motorcycles may take part in the event, as Wheeler said there have been volunteers willing to cater the lunch at the halfway point of the ride.

While Wheeler said the fundraiser will be helpful in the grieving process, he knows it is ongoing.

“This process will take time. It’s not something that will be over in any finite period,” said Wheeler. “We want to keep that memory stimulated and very much alive.”

Motorcycle Ride will travel from Hillsboro-Deering High School to the White Mountains and back. Anyone who wants to participate in the ride is asked to meet at the Hillsboro-Deering High School, 12 Hillcrest Dr. Hillsboro, at 9 a.m.

Those interested in taking part in the ride should contact Chief Wheeler at 746-5151.

Hopkinton State Fair begins August 28

2008-08-21T00:37:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

CONTOOCOOK – Whether making the trip for the demolition derby, agricultural displays or simply a sausage sandwich, visitors from all over come to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the annual Hopkinton State Fair.

The fair, which runs annually on Labor Day weekend, will be opening for its 93rd year beginning Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Hopkinton Fairgrounds.

According to Hopkinton State Fair President Debbie Curtis, planning for the five-day event begins not too long after it ends each year.

“It’s a seasonal fair, but it’s definitely a year-round process,” said Curtis. “As we get into August, things really pick up. There’s a lot of prep in getting the grounds ready, scheduling the events, setting up ticket sales and things like that.”

At the Country Porch Stage there will be daily shows, including free bicycle and skateboard demonstrations, with high-flying athletes performing a variety of tricks.

Visitors will get to be a part of Ron Diamond’s show, as the hypnotist and magician will put on three shows each day, with the night performance giving some members of the audience a chance to be put under hypnosis.

Many of the regular aspects of the fair remain the same, including the agricultural competitions and one of the fan favorites, the demolition derby, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday, with seating beginning at 5:30 p.m.

In addition to those annual events, there will also be some new shows for fair-goers to take in.

On Thursday and Friday, Aug. 28 and 29, there will be a motocross bike competition for the first time at the fair, and any riders are welcome to take part in the course.

Fair organizers have been busy preparing the motocross track, hauling in dirt to make the jumps for the riders.

Curtis said it is important for the Hopkinton community to bring in the large crowds into town each year. “It’s very important and it’s great being able to offer it to visitors,” said Curtis. “It is important that we keep agriculture in our families to understand where things come from and what it brings.”

In addition to all of the shows and exhibits, there is also a variety of food and rides to take in.

According to Curtis, the biggest key to the fair’s success is being able to keep guests of all ages entertained.

“There’s a little bit of everything. It’s very important to have variety,” said Curtis. “Everyone has their own reason for coming to the fair, so you have to provide something for everyone. You have to have a mixture of it all.”

For more information and a complete schedule of the Hopkinton State Fair’s events, visit www.hsfair.org.

Hopkinton officer killed by drunk driver

2008-08-20T21:24:00Z

BY JENN McDOWELL

A young Hopkinton police officer who just joined the force in April after serving two tours of duty in Iraq was killed on Thursday, Aug. 14, when a drunk driver rear-ended him.

Sean Powers, 24, was driving his motorcycle back to his home in Hillsborough after his shift at the Hopkinton Police Department around 1:30 a.m. He was traveling westbound on Route 202/9 in Henniker, said State Police Troop D Capt. Russell Conte, when Jeff Dennis, 22, of Henniker hit him from behind.

When Dennis’ BMW struck Powers’ Harley-Davidson, Powers was thrown into the road, where he was inadvertently struck a second time by a Honda Civic traveling west-bound, Conte said.

Dennis, who has several convictions for drunk driving on his record, is facing one more, in addition to being charged with negligent homicide and felony conduct after an accident. The driver of the Honda is not being charged, Conte said.

“Right after the accident happened, (Dennis) bolted into the woods,” said Conte, who added police used a helicopter and numerous search crews to locate Dennis in the area shortly after the accident occurred.

Conte said Powers was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Calling hours were held on Sunday, Aug. 17, and Monday, Aug. 18. Funeral services took place Tuesday, Aug. 19. The family is trying to cope with the loss while at the same time celebrating Powers’ achievements and good spirit.

“We’re taking it in stride,” said his brother, Dan Powers, 21, with whom Sean Powers shared an apartment on Mary Rowe Drive in Hillsborough. “I mean, we’re celebrating a great life and at the same time we’re devastated.”

After graduating from Hillsboro-Deering High School in 2002, Sean Powers served in the Marines and was stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina from August 2002 to August 2007, according to the employment history on his resume.

Dan Powers said his brother suffered no injuries during the two tours of duty he served overseas as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, one from August 2004 to March 2005 and the other from September 2006 to April 2007.

When he returned, he began working for Asplundh Tree Expert Co., based in Weare, where his brothers Dan and Peter Powers also worked. Kimberly Carney, the office manager for Asplundh, said Powers was overjoyed when he got the job with the Hopkinton Police Department.

“He was so excited when he got this position because he was going to be a motorcycle police officer,” Carney said. “He was just meant for so many bigger things, and it’s just a shame,” she said.

Gary Shelto, regional manager and vice president of Asplundh Tree Expert Co., Region 28, said Powers was a wonderful employee and a great person to be around.

Dan Powers said he was woken up at around 4:45 a.m., just a few hours after his brother was killed, when his father called and told Dan to meet him in the living room of their apartment. His father then broke the news to him.

“We got along great. We had a lot of fun and a lot of laughs,” said Dan Powers of his relationship with his older brother. “He was always the best person to break the ice.”

The accident, near the intersection near the former Golden Pineapple and Route 202/9 in Henniker, remains under investigation. Conte said the results of Dennis’ blood alcohol test are not yet available.

An accident reconstruction team is still trying to piece the accident together to determine whether speed was a factor. There are skid marks in the vicinity of the crash scene, said Conte, but not very long ones.

“This guy probably wasn’t on the brakes,” said Conte of Dennis.

“I think it’s a tragic loss that you have someone who survived military action, and comes back and dies on a roadway,” Conte said, adding Sean Powers was operating his motorcycle responsibly and made no errors to cause the accident. “Regardless of him being a police officer, he was just going home like anybody else.”

Conte added the stretch of road where the accident occurred has seen several fatal accidents over the years, most of them caused by people drifting over the center line, which didn’t seem to be the case here.

Dennis was arraigned at Concord District Court on Friday, Aug. 15, where Conte said a judge set his bail at $250,000 cash. As of the end of the week, Friday, Aug. 15, Dennis was still in jail, Conte said.

Dan Powers described his brother as sometimes “too honest,” and said the family is trying to focus on the positives of his brother’s life.

“His goal in life was to make everyone smile, and he could, too,” he said.

Hopkinton recreation director has passion for the outdoors

2008-08-13T19:33:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

After living in Alaska in a tent with no electricity, residing in Hopkinton must seem tame in comparison for Justin La Vigne.

The Hopkinton Recreation Director has lived in a variety of states across the country, but has found a home in New Hampshire since he took over the department a year ago.

While a student at York College, La Vigne wasn’t sure what he wanted to do for a career. La Vigne was majoring in business and was accepted to an internship at Walt Disney World.

“I figured out I liked working with people and like being active outside,” said La Vigne. “I don’t want to sit at a desk all week.”

When his undergrad work was completed, La Vigne travelled to Arizona State University to earn a graduate degree in Recreation Management.

During that time, La Vigne travelled to Alaska to work on his dissertation, and while the living quarters weren’t lavish, La Vigne enjoyed spending his time working on maps and hiking trails.

“It was a great experience. I drove from Arizona to Alaska and lived in the back country in a tent made of wood and canvas with no electricity or anything like that,” said La Vigne. “I worked there for six months and then came back to defend my thesis.”

La Vigne returned to Alaska to work for a cruise company, worked in a nursing home and as an outdoor recreation director before he landed in Hopkinton last summer.

“Being out there in the geriatric field, parks and recreation, tourism, bringing that all together, gives me good ideas for all sorts of programs that I could bring for all ages in Hopkinton,” he said. “I’m doing things for people from 3 years to 100 years old. All my experience in the different states helps me communicate with people.”

Spending time with community members is La Vigne’s favorite part of his job.

“That’s my passion, people. I love to be around people,” said La Vigne. “I get a kick out of going to the camp to see kids running around, or going to the pond to see kids learning to swim. Having a job that fuels my passion is great.”

220 kids participate in Hopkinton day camp program

2008-08-13T19:27:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Within a small area near Kimball Pond in Hopkinton, children kayak, color, fish, and play hide and seek. Hopkinton’s summer day camp wrapped up another successful season after providing about 220 children the chance to take part in a variety of trips and activities over a seven-week span.

“I would guess that kids definitely like being here better than being at home doing nothing,” said camper Aimee Echelberger, 11. “I like going on field trips and hanging out with my friends the most.”

Hopkinton Recreation Director Justin La Vigne said he can tell the camp is a success just by standing nearby and watching.

“The best part is just seeing the kids enjoying the camp,” he said. “I really love to see when the parents come to pick them up and they are just so excited to tell them all of the things they did during the day.”

During Hopkinton’s annual Town Meeting, the camp came under some scrutiny, with some residents believing the program should not be funded by the taxpayers. After lengthy discussion during the March 15 meeting, voters decided to support the budget and pay for the camp.

La Vigne said he remains cognizant of how some voters feel, and has a plan to eventually get the camp to be self-supported.

“Getting the funding allowed to us to keep the camp the same as before,” said La Vigne. “I’m working toward getting to phase three of my plan, which is to pay for more counselors out of the profits from the camp, which would reduce the line-item budget for the camp.”

Each week of camp consists of a variety of activities for the children ages 6 to 12. Every Tuesday the group of children, which has ranged from 30 to 42 campers, goes to the Kimball Cabins to take part in a variety of activities. Twice a week, the children go to swim at the pond and Fridays they go to state parks.

One of the more popular aspects of the camp has been the field trips, which are to places such as Funspot in Weirs Beach and the Boston Children’s Museum.

Rachel Dabuliewicz, 22, of Warner just finished her first summer as a counselor. She recently graduated from Keene State, where she studied education.

“I got to do a lot of the things that’ll work when I am in a classroom, and also got to see some of the things that I probably won’t do in the future,” she said.

La Vigne said the children get an experience at the camp that helps keep them from sitting at home during the normally bright summer weather.

“It’s great. It opens up lots of different things for the kids, and it gives them the experience to do things they haven’t done before,” said La Vigne.

Hopkinton resident takes role as interim town administrator

2008-08-06T21:00:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Hopkinton will have its second interim town administrator in the past year, as Bob Veloski has accepted a job in Sanbornton.

Resident John Boatwright, who has lived in town for more than 40 years and has worked on multiple boards in the past, will serve as the newest interim town administrator for less than 60 days, said selectmen Chairman Scott Flood.

“He has volunteered to help the town out, and I am grateful that he is willing to step up to the plate and help us like this,” said Flood.

Boatwright has been chairman of the School Board, a member of the Zoning Board and has also been chairman of the Information Technology Committee.

Veloski has been in the interim role since last summer, while the Local Government Center and Hopkinton selectmen worked to find a permanent replacement for Ed Wojnowski, the former town administrator, who left in August 2007 to take a job in Newmarket.

Finding a permanent replacement is a process that was expected to take until September.

The Local Government Center received resumes in response to the advertisement on its Web site, and Flood said those resumes have been narrowed down and handed over to Hopkinton officials.

“We’ve received a number of applications as a result of the announcement, and they are being reviewed by the committee that’s been established so we can make the first cut,” said Flood. “That consists of senior department heads, and once the first cut is made, they’ll cut the pile down and give a limited number of applications to the board.”

Veloski said the town administrator job in Sanbornton was appealing to him because of the location.

“The fact that it’s 8 miles from my house was big,” he said. “I used to live there, so it will be kind of like going home again.”

Like Veloski, Wojnowski also went back to his roots as he grew up in Newmarket.

Though he will be moving on after a year in Hopkinton, Veloski said it was time well spent.

“I’ve enjoyed my year in Hopkinton. What I enjoyed most was meeting and dealing with new people,” said Veloski. “This will be my third or fourth time in a new town. It’s always a challenge learning how they do it and adapting to a new town.”

Flood said Veloski did a solid job of stepping in to fill the void left by Wojnowski.

“The board is very sad to have him go. He’s done a great job for the town, and it is a hard position to be in, being an interim anything,” said Flood. “Quite honestly, from my point of view, the fact that he was interim wasn’t even noticeable. It hasn’t impacted the services he has done for the town.”

While Flood said he understands employees don’t always stay for extended periods of time, he hopes Hopkinton’s newest hire will be able to contribute for years to come. “I think it’ll be good to have someone on a permanent basis, although Bob did a great job,” said Flood. “I’m hopeful whoever we pick will come here and stay for a significant amount of time.”

Hopkinton flutist leaves special messages in his work

2008-07-30T19:56:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

The first flute Todd Aubertin ever acquired was nearly the most dangerous one.

After the Hopkinton resident traded an antler carving for a Native American flute at the Mount Kearsage Indian Museum about 10 years ago, he immediately wanted to try it out.

“Once I got it, I tried to play it and almost crashed on the drive home,” he said during a Sunday, July 20, discussion and demonstration of his handmade flutes at the New Hampshire Antiquarian Society in Hopkinton.

When Aubertin got home that day he sawed the flute he had gotten from a man named Lone Wolf in half to see what it was made of, and immediately fell in love with flute-making.

Aubertin said he has made flutes from woods his customers bring him, and also from things such as chair legs, pianos and countertops.

“I can make them out of anything that looks like it wants to be a flute,” he said. “Then, I sometimes find pieces of wood that don’t want to be a flute no matter what I do to them, and they make really neat smoke rings in my wood stove.”

Aubertin started making creations out of wood 16 years ago when he made a gift for his wife, and has continued to make and sell creations since.

The flutes sell starting at $350 and are usually made for each individual’s request.

Inside each instrument, Aubertin leaves his initials and a message such as love, friendship or world peace. Sometimes, the messages are able to to be seen, but sometimes they are hidden.

“I want to make it so when they are playing, the message will get out into the universe,” he said. “Hopefully, if I put enough of them out there, it will latch on someplace.”

Although Aubertin said he doesn’t perform often, he plays frequently, either in his backyard or taking his creations into nature to lose himself in the music.

“I have to be careful, because I could fall asleep with a flute in my hand, still playing it,” he said.

The flutes are appealing to animals, as Aubertin can call owls nearly every time, and he has even had a coyote approach him in his backyard while he was playing.

For Aubertin, the combination of creating and playing the flute is what makes his job most worthwhile.

“It’s being able to be proud of the flute’s look, and then to be able to sit and play is the icing on the cake in a big way,” he said.

Whenever the Hopkinton resident finds himself in need of a boost, he knows where to turn.

“I can heal whatever is not good in myself within five minutes with (my flute),” he said.

Gene and Anne Slusser, of Hopkinton, donate $1 million to Concord VNA

2008-07-30T19:46:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Gene Slusser wanted to make sure he said, “Thank you,” to those who have helped care for his wife, and he said it in a big way.

Slusser, whose donation made building Hopkinton’s Slusser Senior Center possible, recently donated $1 million to the Concord Regional Visiting Nurse Association.

Slusser’s wife, Anne, is battling dementia and the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and the visiting nurses have helped her live comfortably at home.

“The fact that they are supplying us help at the house for my wife (is why the donation was made),” said Gene Slusser. “I didn’t want to put her in one of the hospitals, and with their help, she’s here.”

The donation will be spread to a number of areas, including $100,000 to develop two scholarship funds – one for Hopkinton High School graduates who are interested in studying science, math or health, and the other scholarship for the visiting nurses staff members to continue their education.

In addition to the scholarships, Slusser’s donation will also help the Concord Regional Visiting Nurse Association move into a new building, as $500,000 will help purchase the building and $400,000 for furnishings.

“We were stunned and very pleased by the donation,” said Eileen Male of the Concord Regional Visiting Nurse Association. “With this gift, we’ll be able to get state-of-the-art information technology equipment, and that’s very important. It helps us keep up with everything that’s going on with home care.”

According to Male, one of the rooms the donation will help furnish is a high-tech training room for the nurses, including computers, projectors and TVs.

“That was my idea. I told them what to use it for. I knew they needed money for their furnishings,” said Gene Slusser. “They’ve been wonderful. They come to my house and help me with taking care of Anne. It’s a first-class operation.”

Slusser said he wanted to make sure the donation helped benefit his hometown as well as others in the area, which is why he wanted to incorporate the Hopkinton High School scholarships.

“My idea was that some of the money should go back to our town, and to our town kids,” he said.

According to Male, having his wife at home with him has been something extremely important to Slusser.

“She has been in our care for some time, and I think they’ve come to depend on our care,” said Male. “Mr. Slusser depends on us to have his wife be able to stay at home, and that’s what means everything to him, to be able to still have that time with her.”

Both sides are excited about the large gift.

“I think they’re pleased they could give us such a gift, and we are totally pleased,” said Male. Slusser said he was glad to see the CRVNA’s reaction to his gift.

“They were excited, very happy and pleased to hear about it. It will facilitate getting their new building furnished and other opportunities for them,” said Slusser. “It’s money they didn’t really have and they now have.”

Live together

The Slussers first met during an air raid drill in 1942 when they ran into each other in the hallway at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where Gene Slusser was working at the time.

The couple moved to Hopkinton in 1954 and he founded Aerotronic Associates in 1958, a company that made equipment to test semi-conductors.

Slusser’s business was making about $18 million a year when he sold it and retired in 1984. The couple then spent their free time flying in their private plane. Gene Slusser has had a passion for flying since he first flew at the age of 15, and he still enjoys his plane.

Private ambulance service for Hopkinton under review

2008-07-16T20:20:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Supporters of the Hopkinton ambulance service crowded Town Hall during a recent selectmen’s meeting after getting word that board members were considering privatizing the department.

About 40 emergency service personnel and department supporters came to the Monday, July 14, meeting after selectmen decided to discuss whether that move could potentially save money out of the budget.

“I don’t think it’s any big surprise that all towns are looking to balance budgets given costs and increases,” said Selectmen Chairman Scott Flood. “Fuel is going to triple, and the cost of supplies has gone up, including salt.”

As a result, Flood said board members are looking to find any ways to lower the budget, and the ambulance service is one of those areas they are looking at.

“This Board of Selectmen is trying to look at all the processes the town participates in and validate whether we’re getting the best value for the dollar we’re spending,” said Flood. “It’s our obligation for the taxpayer dollar.”

Fire Chief Rick Schaefer, who is also in charge of the ambulance service, said he felt blind-sided by the discussion, as he was not consulted prior to the meeting.

Schaefer read that the ambulance service would be on the agenda for the meeting, and heard what the discussion would be about.

“I asked three questions at the meeting, and didn’t really get answers on all of them,” he said. “Why wasn’t I consulted? What are they trying to accomplish? Finally, I just wanted to know where they were at in the process.”

In addition, Schaefer said the comparisons to town EMT services and privatized service are difficult to make.

“It isn’t comparing apples to apples,” said Schaefer. “I can’t stress enough that the ambulance workers we have are more than that, they are also certified career-level firefighters. We count on them. They know if there’s a fire, they will be some of the first people in there.”

Flood said the budget discussions are not meant to be geared at only the ambulance service.

“The ambulance service is one piece, and we’re looking at a bunch of other stuff,” he said. “Once we get that information, we will see if there are areas that make sense. It’s not like we’re sitting down and saying we want to do that. It’s the reality of it. The economy -- we have an unprecedented downturn facing us. I personally believe it will get much worse before it gets better.”

Selectmen are receiving bids from private services, and will assess the decision.

“It sounds like when they get the bids in, I will get called down and we’ll look at them. That’s how I took it to see what’s what,” said Schaefer.

Schaefer said the ambulance services currently cost the town less than $100,000 for 365 days of 24-hour coverage.

Schaefer also said he was glad to see the high turnout of support at the meeting, even from those not involved with the department.

“I think the board now obviously understands that we’re very concerned and want to be included,” said Schaefer. “There were past members on hand and people who have used the service with otherwise no connection at all.”

Flood said the budget discussions are for the benefit of Hopkinton residents.

“You’ve got to be proactive and look at these things to see how we’re going to plan so we don’t have to double or triple the tax bills,” he said. “There are people who are concerned about it. We’re looking very hard at the things the town is doing to see where we can economize and work smarter with the dollars we get, instead of simply wasting them.”

Parades and races highlight Hopkinton's July 4th festivities

2008-07-02T19:40:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

Hopkinton residents will get the chance to make the Fourth of July an all-day festivity, as the town’s Recreation Department will sponsor events throughout the holiday, beginning at 9 a.m.

The day will kick off with a 5K run and walk, which begins in front of the Contoocook Village Fire Station at 9 a.m. Runners, who are asked to wear red, white and blue, can register beginning at 8 a.m.

Also in the morning will be the canoe and kayak race, which begins at 11 a.m. at Multi Weld on Riverside Road. There is a $15 fee for the event, and racers can register beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Hopkinton youths will have their chance to parade around town, at the Kids’ Parade at 11:30 a.m., after assembling near the gazebo at 11 a.m. Preschoolers through third-graders are invited to dress up and decorate their bikes for the event.

Soon after the Kids’ Parade will be the annual Fire Department- sponsored Independence Day Parade, which will start at Hopkinton High School and end at the Contoocook Village Cemetery. The parade will kick off at noon, moving down Park Avenue through the village and toward Penacook Road.

Hopkinton’s celebration will culminate at Houston Park for a second consecutive year during the Fourth of July Family Fun Day, including food, a variety of games, music and other activities.

“The whole day is going to be great,” said Justin La Vigne, Hopkinton Recreation director. “From the start, with the road race and canoe race to then end it at Houston Field with food, festivities and music, it’s going to be a blast for everyone.”

According to La Vigne, the event should receive a large turnout, despite the holiday landing on a Friday.

“Last year, I was here for the event and saw it. It blew me away to see the community come out,” he said. “We’re expecting hopefully 1,000 people again, like we did last year. It’s a great thing, and a great thing for the community while trying to keep it at a low cost.”

Golf tournament raises money for scholarships

2008-06-18T21:20:00Z

The 11th annual Hopkinton Rotary Scholarship Golf Tournament took place Thursday, June 4, at the Sunapee Country Club. More than 100 golfers and 45 sponsors helped the Hopkinton Rotary Club raise money for $10,000 in college scholarships for Hopkinton area high school graduates awarded this year.

This year’s tournament was chaired by William Chapin Jr. of RBC Wealth Management.

“It was a great day because of our sponsors, golfers and volunteers,” said Chapin. “I am especially grateful to Tracy Banks for being our lead sponsor.” Other major sponsors were RBC Wealth Management, Lovering Volvo, The Grappone Companies and Merrimack Savings Bank.

The Hopkinton Rotary Club is a service organization, and its 38 members are involv ed in a number of projects that serve the local community. The club is part of Rotary International, an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

Work begins on dangerous Route 202/9 in Hopkinton

2008-06-18T20:55:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

State workers have begun work on Route 202/9 in Hopkinton and Henniker, starting a project that will make the road safer and more convenient for drivers.

Chuck Davis, New Hampshire Department of Transportation contract administrator, said the project will cost about $3 million and needs to be completed by Oct. 17.

Workers started grinding the road, and the first phase will include paving about 4 miles. In total, the project will consist of work on 7.3 miles of road from Exit 5 on I-89 to Rush Road in Henniker.

The second phase of the project will include widening the road, guardrail improvement, turning lanes, and slope and drainage work.

Davis said the final product will lead to happier drivers.

“It’s a little of both (safety and convenience). We’re adding the turn lane that should make traffic go more smoothly and be a safety improvement,” said Davis. “The rest is routine maintenance. We’re going to put in shallower rumble strips so they’ll be less noise as well.”

There will be four turning lanes added by the time the project is completed. The first will be on Stumpfield Road, next at the intersection of Route 127 and Old Concord Road near the Golden Pineapple and Contoocook River, the third at Old Concord and West Hopkinton roads, and the final at Foster Hill Road.

“We’ll impact the commuters in the morning and afternoon commute, but we’re trying to minimize that,” said Davis. “The best option is to use an alternate route, such as 127 and Exit 6. We’ll try to keep commuters in the loop with what we’re doing.”

Although the project needs to be completed by the pre-set Oct. 17 deadline, Davis said the project is slightly ahead of schedule, targeting an Oct. 12 completion.

Life’s challenges become Hopkinton senior’s strength

2008-06-11T22:22:00Z

BY MATT SCHOOLEY

As a child, Jonny Yocum asked his grandfather a delicate question.

“Grandpa,” he said. “Can I call you dad?”

Bruce Yocum paused, understanding the difficulty of the situation before answering.

“I wouldn’t let him,” he said. “I told him, Jon, you’re like a son to me, but you’re my grandson.”

Now a graduating senior at Hopkinton High School, Jonny Yocum, 18, has met with more challenges than many students face.

Having a father whose name he barely knows, seeing his mother once in recent memory and being raised by his grandparents, Jonny was forced to adapt.

When he was born, Jonny’s father was not ready for a child. He was abusive to his newborn son, and Jonny’s mother, Samantha, decided she wanted her son out of that situation.

So his mother brought Jonny to live with Bruce and Thongkum Yocum in Hopkinton, something that wasn’t always easy for the active youngster.

“It’s not been easy. It isn’t like they’re young or hip. They’re so much different,” Jonny said. “They’re used to quiet and being settled, and I just wanted to be a kid.”

Growing up without parents wasn’t the only obstacle Jonny had to overcome.

“Hopkinton is not a poor school, so it’s hard to fit in. I don’t have a lot of money around here, and I grew up with no parents. People gave me a hard time about a lot of things,” said Jonny. “It’s hard to make friends. Every day would be hell. I had to learn to deal with everything myself.”

Despite the difficulties, Jonny still became one of the more well-known faces in the hallways of Hopkinton High School.

“He’s a very social person. Everyone I know knows Jon because he’s such a social butterfly,” said Evan Morse, Jonny’s best friend since fourth grade. “He loves to be around people and loves to be the center of attention, and not in a bad way.”

Jonny’s mother now lives in Seattle, Wash., while his father has been in and out of jail. When asked what his father’s name is, Jonathan said, “This sounds bad, but I am not totally sure. I think it’s Ted or something.”

If he needs to, Jonny can still call and talk with his mother, though they have only seen each other once recently. Despite his father’s abuse, Jonny visited his father during one of his stints in prison.

“Even though he wasn’t the greatest to me, I still gave him the chance to make it right,” he said. “I believe everyone deserves a second chance. I decided to face it and see who he really was.”

Although Bruce Yocum said it was difficult at times raising his grandchild, it is in many ways the same as other parent-child relationships.

“It had its high and low points. In many ways it was typical. He was a child who was growing and learning and making mistakes, making you proud,” he said. “In many ways, it was just like a typical childhood, but the only difference is I was older and couldn’t keep up as fast.”

Jonny said he wasn’t always as comfortable talking about his past as he is now.

“It’s something I don’t mind talking about. It used to bother me,” he said. “I eventually started talking about it and learned to laugh at myself. It made me stronger instead of weaker.”

It was talking about it that Bruce Yocum said may have helped Jonny arrive to where he is now.

“Probably the hardest part was the fact that he just had a lot of difficulty, asking, ‘Why can’t I have a normal life?’ That was one of his big issues, his feeling of difference,” said Bruce. “The way we got through it was simply with lots and lots of talks.”

Morse said he has learned a great deal of independence since he became friends with Jonny, while talking over favorite video games and television shows in fourth grade.

“I’ve learned a lot about doing things on my own. I used to rely on my parents a lot and then after hanging out with him, I made my own path,” said Morse. “I planned out what I want to do in life and told them about it. They were impressed.”

After graduation, Jonny plans to attend Southern Maine Community College, where he wants to study communications. He looks forward to a new life, applying a lot of what he has learned throughout all of his experiences.

“I want to be kind of far away from here,” said Jonny. “It’s like the more things kept falling apart and breaking, the more I wanted to just get out of it. Instead of just sitting down and giving up, it motivated me to keep trying instead of letting myself give up. The more things went wrong, the more I wanted to make it right.”

Being 3,018 miles away from his mother and having an abusive father in and out of jail, Jonny has spent his entire life learning, and not just on school grounds.

“I’ve learned a lot. I learned that no matter how bad things are, there is always a way out. There’s always another answer,” said Jonny. “You don’t lose until you completely give up, you always have a chance to keep trying. I believe I’ll be OK no matter what happens.”