Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a video or two to brighten your morning.

It’s been more than a year that the country has been dealing with the effects of COVID-19. Consequently, it should come as no surprise that the pandemic has taken a toll on so many individuals’ mental health. With National Mental Health Awareness Month coming up in May, the Hopkinton-based Mental Health Collaborative (MHC) wants to make it known there is help out there and it’s important to reach out for it. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to build resilient communities through mental health education and awareness.

A big emphasis has been placed on social emotional learning lately, with schools realizing the importance of developing more well-rounded children and addressing mental health concerns as early as possible. Hopkinton’s Jessica Beattie has been on the forefront of this movement, and due in large part to such efforts she recently was named the Paul J. Hunter Assistant Principal of the Year by the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association for her work at the Robert Adams Middle School in Holliston.

The Conservation Commission met for nearly 3 1/2 hours Tuesday to discuss a number of issues, the most prevalent being those concerning the property on the Chamberlain/Whelan project, which is being developed by home builder Toll Brothers. The property, which covers just over 200 acres in total, is where Chamberlain Street and Whalen Road — both dead-end streets — are to be extended, in the area behind the schools complex.

Hopkinton High School students took home a haul of awards from the Business Professionals of America (BPA) state competition. The BPA provides opportunities for students to work on projects related to business, including such topics as finance, IT and computer applications.

This week’s Business Profile features John Fitzgerald, who last November launched his own real estate company, serving as broker and owner. His is the newest company in town. Personable and knowledgeable in the industry, Fitzgerald helps individuals and families throughout MetroWest sell their current homes and find the home of their dreams.

Town meetings tonight include The Lake Maspenock Weed Management and Control Advisory Group (5:45), Appropriation Committee (6), Historic District Commission (7) and School Committee (7). Additionally, the Hopkinton Republican Town Caucus is tonight at 7.

Photo of the Day: The land behind 25-35 Main Street is being prepared for Hopkinton Village Center, a condominium development.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Video of the Day:

https://twitter.com/fred035schultz/status/1379915558083256327?s=20