Vol. 1 No. 9
Free to Every Home and Business Every Month
January 1, 2012
Keeping Wellesley Illuminated Luminary Night Brightens Town, Aids Programs BY DAVE HALPERIN
tional money towards grants for local nonprofits and money for charities.
The Fourth Annual Luminary Night meant that over 15,000 lights were placed by homeowners in yards and along driveways and walkways around town the evening of Sunday, December 4. The purchase of those lights, in the form of 150 kits, from the Wellesley Hills Junior Women's Club meant a successful fundraising event for the club, translating into college scholarships for worthy current and future students from Wellesley and addi-
With so many lights on display and with an assist from Mother Nature, who provided a clear, warm evening, Wellesley residents were out and about enjoying the atmosphere. "It fits with our mission of building community, because it's a time where the neighborhood and neighbors come out and relax
LUMINARY NIGHT continued on page 3
A caroling we will go: a group of carolers, including Grace Thames, Amelia Thames, Luca Scirica, Alex Auth, Emma Auth and Sofia Scirica spread the holiday cheer during Luminary Night.
Venturing Out Helps Break Incarceration Cycle Staged Reading Raises Funds for Wellesley-Based Organization
for incarcerated men and women who are nearing re-entry into mainstream society.
BY DAVE HALPERIN
The reading of The Castle was followed by a panel discussion, moderated by WBUR's David Boeri, between the actors and John Larivee, Community Resources for Justice CEO; Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian; and Andre Porter, Executive Director of the state's Office of Small
As actors Mark Gibson, LaTanya Jones, Michael Yebba, and Lonnie Farmer expressed to an audience at Babson College's Sorenson Center for the Arts on December 8, serving time in prison doesn't always mean rehabilitation; as a panel discussion after the show revealed, developing entrepreneurial skills during incarceration can be a key
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to avoiding recidivism. Those four actors, three of whom are themselves former prisoners, were performing a staged reading of "The Castle", the off-Broadway play that ran for more than a year in 2008. The staged reading was part of a fundraiser for Wellesleybased Venturing Out, Inc., which provides 12-week self-employment and microenterprise courses
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VENTURING OUT LaTanya Jones (right) and Mark Gibson prepare for their reading of The Castle.
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Copper Wire Stolen, Two Suspects Arrested Two workers assigned to the construction project at 27 Washington Street were arrested for stealing copper wire valued at over $28,000 on Thursday, December 15. Earlier in the week, members of the Cranshaw Construction Company reported a break in at the construction site, which is located in the lower falls section of Wellesley. Cranshaw Construction is managing the new construction project at 27 Washington Street. Officer Tim Barros began investigating the case this week. Officer Barros learned that copper wire, delivered to the construction site, had been stolen from a locked room inside the gate. Cranshaw Construction estimated that the value of the copper wire was approximately $14,000. Officer Barros further learned that a recent, previous break in at the construction site also resulted in a theft of $14,000 worth of wire. Officer Barros, working with Detective Chris Connelly and members of Cranshaw Construc-
tion, were able to compile surveillance videos, and determined that one of the thefts and break in occurred in the early evening hours on December 12. Cranshaw Construction members were able to identify two of the suspects on the video as subcontractors that worked at the site. Officer Barros, Officer Conor Ashe, and Detective Connelly located the two suspects working at 27 Washington Street and placed them under arrest. Taken into custody was Paul L. Beck Jr., 31, of Methuen and Derek Discisio, 37, of Billerica. Both suspects were charged with breaking and entering at night into a building, larceny from a building, malicious destruction, and possession of burglarious tools. These are all felony charges. Both suspects will be arraigned at Dedham District Court on Friday, December 16. The case remains under investigation.
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January 1, 2012
Brig Br ight g L Lights: g Wellesleyites You Should Know By: Je’Lesia ’L M. Jones
There are many stereotypes of incarcerated women. Some views are fact-based, while countless opinions lean toward misrepresentations. Whatever the perception of females behind bars, Kathleen Hughto’s vision is different: she simply sees a woman whose life has taken a very difficult turn. “Most of the women want all the things we want, primarily love,â€? the 27-year Wellesley resident said. “That is why it is important to reach out ‌ it is such a gift to be with the women; to know their remorse, regret, their sadness. Many don’t know what it feels like to be loved. Most of them have been ignored, left on their own to figure it out." Kathleen, who is known as Kathy, is a volunteer in the Read to Me Mommy program at the Massachusetts Correctional InstituteFramingham (MCI), the medium security women’s prison in Framingham that is the oldest female correctional facility in the United States. She has worked with the mothers in the prison for the past nine years. “I was working on a Master of Arts in Ministry at Saint John’s Seminary, and needed a semester of fieldwork study,â€? Kathy said. “And, nine years later, I’m still in my ‘field study.’ It just took over.â€? She smiles. In the Read to Me Mommy program, mothers are filmed reading a book to their child. The book, along with the video, is sent to the child as a “gift’ from their mother. The program was started about 15 years ago at MCI by a Catholic nun who also serves as chaplain at MCI and South Middlesex-Framingham, the minimum security prison for women with non-violent offences. The books available to the mothers are supplied through donations from various sources, including individuals, churches, libraries, and organizations. Books, as well as videotapes and mailing envelopes are always welcomed. “We engage the mothers in conversations about their children,â€? Kathy said. “For example, a child
ing a difference.� In order to qualify for the Read to Me Mommy program, the women must be able to have contact with their children; there must be no DSS (Department of Social Services) involvement and “they have to show up for every session of the sixweek program.�
might like kittens or dogs. Then I go to the library and ask the librarian what books are good for a sixyear-old who loves dogs,� she said. Kathy falls silent as her eyes wander into the distance. After a thoughtful pause, she begins to speak fondly of the librarians at the Wellesley Free Library. “I can’t tell you enough about how nice and helpful the librarians at the Wellesley Free Library are to me. And to be able to go back to the prison and tell the women that the librarians are pulling for them and want them to do their best and get better, it makes the women know that they are not forgotten,� Kathy said, a smile filling her face as she also chokes up. Saint Paul's Parish in Wellesley has made the Read to Me Mommy program a part of their annual Christmastime “Giving Tree� donation. The Giving Tree is a project in which the parishioners buy Christmas gifts for those in need, and although the donations reach people in over twelve different organizations throughout the Boston metropolitan area, local groups are included, like the Wellesley Council on Aging and the NewtonWellesley Alzheimer’s Association. Read to Me Mommy has been a recipient of books for the last three years. “When I bring in the books from church, it deepens the women’s desires to be a good mother,� Kathy said. “The contributions are mak-
Kathy explained that in the same way it is important for the mothers to “show up� to the program, it is important for her to be a constant, dependable source in the women’s lives. “For the last nine years, what has been the most important thing is just showing up. Nobody has ever done that in their lives. They know I’m there for them. At the end of every day, there is a tiny seed of hope,� Kathy said. When videotaping the women for the Read to Me Mommy program, one criterion is that “you can’t cry when you record the book for the child. Children don’t understand tears,� Kathy said. “To them, it means they are doing something wrong; they hurt. Rather, the mothers are positive when they are recorded.� When recording, mothers are also encouraged to relate to their children, like recalling a pet they may have had or a memorable occasion. Bonding is crucial. In addition to the Read to Me Mommy program at MCI, Kathy also conducts a prayer group and a spiritual devotion group. “There is criticism by many that in prison people find God. Well, they have nothing. When you enter prison, you are stripped of everything. If a woman comes into the prayer room or the chapel, they are looking for God,� Kathy said. She pauses. “The people who come to the groups are so honest about what they’ve done and are now facing the reality of why they are here. For many, prison has saved their lives, their physical lives and spiritual lives,� Kathy said. According to the National Institute of Justice, “Women offenders have needs different from those of
BRIGHT LIGHTS continued on page 5
January 1, 2012
LUMINARY NIGHT continued from page 1
and enjoy each other," notes the Club's marketing director Beth Sullivan Woods, who pointed out that many neighborhoods in town organize special events each Luminary Night, including trolleys, horse drawn carriages, and caroling groups. Indeed, in the Poet's Corner neighborhood that evening one group of carolers was traveling from house to house to spread holiday cheer. The group came together thanks to the last-minute efforts of resident Joe Auth. "They usually do a trolley, but
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 3
they couldn't this year, so we just decided to do something fun," Auth said. Among the carolers were Jacob Wagner, Reid Carpenter, Emmie Laudano, Andrew Ng, Sofia Scirica, Emma Auth, Grace Thames, Ryan Harding, Amelia Thames, Caroline Harding, Alex Auth, Drew Carpenter, Katherine Ng, Henry Laudano, Luca Scirica, Abigail Wagner, and Charlie Carpenter. The Wellesley Hills Junior Women's Club is a volunteer organization whose four yearly fundraisers are the Wellesley Phone Book, the Wellesley Mar-
The crew of carolers included: Back row: Jacob Wagner, Reid Carpenter, Emmie Laudano, Andrew Ng, Sofia Scirica, Emma Auth, Grace Thames, Ryan Harding, Amelia Thames, Caroline Harding. Front row: Alex Auth, Drew Carpenter, Katherine Ng, Henry Laudano, Luca Scirica, Abigail Wagner, Charlie Carpenter.
Lights put on display during Luminary Night were a way of donating to the Wellesley Hills Junior Women's Club.
ketplace Craft Festival, Luminary Night and the Wellesley Kitchen Tour. Currently, the Club is accepting applications from students who reside in Wellesley or have graduated from Wellesley High School for two scholarships, the WHJWC Patricia C. Doiron Memorial
Scholarship - for high school seniors who have shown a commitment to Early Childhood Education through participation in the Child Lab program; and the Suzanne Stevens Scholarship - for a graduating senior (or current college student) who has demon-
strated strength when faced with adversity while maintaining a strong academic record and involvement in community service. Applications are due February 1. For more information, visit www.WHJWC.org.
Celebrating the Festival of Lights Hanukah Carnival Means Fun, Games, and Giving at Beth Elohim BY DAVE HALPERIN Members of the Temple Beth Elohim community and guests celebrated Hanukah at the synagogue's Hanukah Carnival on December 18. Amidst games for kids like Pin the Tail on the Kite, a pie-eating contest, and a bounce house,
Hanukah traditions were celebrated and traditional foods like potato latkes were eaten. Organized and run by Temple Beth Elohim's eighth through twelfth grade youth group, BELY (Beth Elohim Local Youth), the Hanukah Carnival was all in the name of having fun and emphasizing tzedakah during the Festival of Lights.
Tzedakah is the Jewish tradition of giving to those less fortunate. "Not only is [the Carnival] a celebration of Hanukah, but it's also a chance to raise money for those less fortunate," said Rabbi Joel Sisenwine. "The important thing is bringing light to the dark places in the world, with the message of hope." BELY's Noam Kahn chaired the Hanukah Carnival committee, which recruited local businesses to donate funds, which were used to buy raffle items. Proceeds from the raffle and from tickets for the event will be used towards BELY's social activities and to support a worthy charity. In the past the group has supported various organizations, including More than Words in Waltham.
Steph Seiden (left) and Rachel Turk running the Pin the Tail on the Kite game.
For Laura Hyman, the temple's Director of Havayah (teen programming) and Beit Midrash (House of Learning), the Carnival is a way for the teens in BELY to
Jeremy Oshins bravely awaits a water-soaked sponge.
interact with and role model for children. "At BELY and Temple Beth Elohim we're all about empowering
our teens, and for the younger kids, they see teenagers in these incredible leadership roles," Hyman said.
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January 1, 2012
The Social Event of the Year 2012 Cotillion a Smashing Success BY DAVE HALPERIN On December 2, seven hundred mostly high school juniors and seniors took part in a formal tradition dating back to the 1940s. According to organizers, the invitees were jumping at the bit for a chance to take after their predecessors. "At 6:30 there were probably 400 of them already in line" at the Dorothy Quincy Suite at the Back Bay Events Center, said Cotillion 2011 Co-Chair Cheryl LaMeeLudwig of the 700 high school juniors and seniors and other guests who attended the 7 p.m. event. "There was a tremendous level of excitement; they were just trying to get their heads around what the evening was going to be all about." The excitement was indicative of not only the size and historical prominence of the Cotillion, but the uniquely formal behavior and attire as well as the decorations, food, and music. Once the clock struck 7, the line
of teens made its way down the grand staircase of the Dorothy Quincy Suite to the registration hall, before checking their coats. Then they went through a formal receiving line of eight adults. "[The girls] were darling, all dressed up in their gowns, and some of the guys introduced their dates and themselves [to the adults in the receiving line]," LaMeeLudwig said. "Their parents had coached them on what a receiving line is." The receiving line helped contextualize this atypical dance, but organizers were busy well before December 2 in making sure that everyone understood the expectations of a formal affair. "We really took it very seriously, the education piece of it," LaMeeLudwig explained. "This is really black tie, and black tie is not just what you're wearing, it's how you're behaving. We expect that kids will have to rise to the occasion of going to a formal party many more times in their life... and this is practice for what that's
Photo by Connie Main
tennis shoes," she said. The 2011 Cotillion now over, January is a time for the passing of the torches. Both Co-Chairs and all 41 Committee Members are handing their responsibilities on to parents interested in organizing for the 2012 Cotillion. Committee and chaperone roles are traditionally filled by parents whose children are high school juniors during the time of that year's Cotillion.
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about." Once inside the Dorothy Quincy Suite, guests wasted no time socializing and enjoying the music of the DJ, or, if they needed a break, retreating to what organizers called Cafe Chill, a separate space with a pianist and food. Moreover, the work of the Decorations Committee could be seen everywhere. "I said to both of our Decorations Committee chairs, Leslie Berndsen and Kathy LaPoint, 'I really wish that the kids could see what the Dorothy Quincy Suite looks like without the decorations,'" LaMee-Ludwig said. "It's so plain and corporate, and they really transformed it into a winter wonderland." LaMee-Ludwig described a place brightened by poinsettias and varieties of white flowers, holiday lights, and nine-foot tall trees.
Berndsen, LaPoint, and CoChairs LaMee-Ludwig and Susan Koeneman were just three of about 85 volunteers who came together to produce 2011's version of a yearly gift to the young adults of Wellesley. The event is independent of Wellesley High School and is free to attend thanks to the volunteers' fundraising efforts and the donations of many businesses and individuals. In addition to the 11-person planning board, there were decorations, coat check, and food committees as well 35 chaperones on hand during the Cotillion itself. Then, arriving at the end of the night was what LaMee-Ludwig called "a really incredible team of six to eight people who came to help break down." "We were all dressed up in formal attire, and they came out in the middle of the night in jeans and
"By January someone needs to be in place to sign the contract on the Back Bay Center... It needs to be signed by February or March," LaMee-Ludwig said. With that in mind, next year's CoChairs are already in place: Jessica Delprette and Lori Place will take the reins from LaMee-Ludwig and Koeneman. "They're absolutely the best people to take it over, and I know they're going to do a great job," LaMee-Ludwig noted, adding that along with passing the baton she may pass along some helpful advice: have fun and remember what the Cotillion is all about. "Someone said to be a duck, and just let it all roll off, and let yourself enjoy the night... and if you get stressed out, remember that it really is about the kids," she said, joking that, as fun as the experience was, there is some relief in passing the torch. "I'm giving them the pen and the notebook, and there's no turning back."
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
BRIGHT LIGHTS continued from page 2
men, stemming in part from their disproportionate victimization from sexual and physical abuse and their responsibility for children.” In a 2010 report of data collected in 2009 by local law enforcement agencies to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting, females represented 25.3 percent of all arrests; approximately 17 percent of female arrestees were juveniles under 18 years of age and 4.7 percent were females under the age of 15. Most females in prison are overwhelmingly poor and usually mothers with children less than 18 years. “Most of the women, about 85 percent are incarcerated because of alcohol and drug addiction,” Kathy said. “There are lifers in here; people who have committed armed robberies, embezzlement, but mostly for selling drugs. Most of the women don’t know what it means to be a mother, about proper nutrition, or how to deal with stress,” she continued. “They are born into sad, dysfunctional families – poverty, no education. After a while, the stories don’t matter: they are just lonely, lost and forgotten women.” There is reason for hope, however. Both MCI and South Middlesex offer mental health, substance abuse, and medical programs for the women to aid their recovery. There are also educational services, family services, library, religious, recreation and community service. “When a woman is in the last two years of a sentence, and if they are non-violent offenders, they go across the street to the minimum security prison (South Middlesex),” Kathy said. “They are able to go to work at Roche Brothers or Dunkin' Donuts. It is important to get the women into
Alcoholics Anonymous. There are all kinds of classes, like anger management, life skills; the women who take advantage of these programs, like getting their GED, usually succeed. There are great stories of women out there who are making it.” Kathleen Hughto, originally from Connecticut, has lived in Wellesley with her husband, Rick, since 1984. They have four children, two boys and two girls, who were educated in the Wellesley school system. Kathy works in real estate, at Rutledge Properties. “I love people and I love the town of Wellesley. My youngest child is finishing at Wellesley High School, so I started taking classes in real estate. I love to match the right people with the right house,” she said. “My time at the prison has made my life so much more enriched because of the honesty of the women,” Kathy said. “Their honesty is just so raw; how they have come through so much and survived. I believe that the difference you make in one person’s life, one person’s day, to make it a brighter day, is tremendous. Everybody inside and outside of prison needs a hand; you get so much more out of it than what you give,” Kathy said.
Page 5
Town of Wellesley 2012 Annual Town Meeting, January 6th The Board of Selectmen will convene the 2012 Annual Town Meeting on Monday, March 26, 2012 at 7:30 P.M. The Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting will
close at 5:00 pm on Friday, January 6, 2012. Any person desiring to have an article included in the Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting shall
submit a petition signed by not less than ten (10) registered voters of the Town. Any such petition shall be submitted to the Town Clerk for signature verification.
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By all accounts Kathleen will keep on giving. She is a Bright Light in Wellesley as well as in the lives of countless women in Massachusetts. “I always say to myself, ‘at the end of this year, I’m done,’ and every year I go back. It is because of the women I left behind. I just go back, and my life gets richer. I just keep showing up,” Kathy said. Bright Lights: Wellesleyites You Should Know appears in each edition of Wellesley Local Town Pages. Please email Je'Lesia M. Jones at arie8@comcast.net with Bright Lights' suggestions.
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Busy Beavers Cause Flooding Water Encroaches on Properties, Prompting Removal of Animals BY DAVE HALPERIN The work of a family of two or three beavers has caused flooding in two Wellesley neighborhoods, and a decision by several town departments led to a plan to trap and kill the beavers, then breach the dams they created.
ing between several town employees, including employees in the Health Department, the DPW, and the Natural Resources Commission. The first move by the group was to contract a private company with beaver expertise to look into
According to Health Department Director Leonard Izzo, several residents of streets near the Recycling and Disposal Facility (RDF) contacted the Department of Public Works to report flooding in their properties. "We have an active beaver dam down by the RDF," Izzo said. "[The issue] came up about a month and half ago (early November) when residents of Cartwright Road and Eisenhower Circle started calling the DPW engineer because they noticed water was backing up behind their houses." Realizing it was an animal control issue, the DPW in turn contacted Izzo's department. "The initial reaction by people was to remove the beaver dam and the beavers" but regulations restrict such actions, so that towns don't send problem animals to other communities, Izzo said. The standstill prompted a meet-
the situation, and Beaver Solutions, Inc. of Southampton was asked to examine the situation. According to Izzo, beavers build dams in order to raise the water level so that their lodges will be partially submerged underwater, providing protection from predators and a place to store food during the winter. The question was whether Beaver Solutions would be able to install a flow device that could keep the water from rising so high that it disturbs surrounding
homes and properties, while allowing the beavers to maintain their habitat. "[Beaver Solutions] came out and looked at it. Their job is to determine if the beavers can cohabitate with humans [in that particular area]," Izzo said, adding that in an area of low wetlands, where Fuller Brook and its tributaries run through, the addition of the dams meant that water in the area "is really encroaching on people's properties." The verdict from Beaver Solutions was that such a solution would not be possible. Instead, Izzo said, the beavers would be trapped and killed and the beaver dams breached. Both actions were expected to start by December 15 and take a couple of days. Natural Resources Commission Director Janet Hartke Bowser said that in her 14 years with the town, this is the first instance of beavers causing problems. She also said that it appeared that just two or three beavers were responsible for the rise in water level. Izzo said the beaver population is growing state-wide, and that several area towns, particularly Needham, have had problems lately.
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“Festival of Trees” Spreads Holiday Cheer BY ZACKARY LAMOTHE The Massachusetts Horticulture Society ran its third annual “Festival of Trees” from November 23 to December 10. Located at its headquarters, Elm Bank Reservation, Festival of Trees was a unique way for the Society to raise money to help maintain their lush and beautiful gardens. With the $8 price of admission, visitors to the Festival were able to place raffle tickets in front of various trees in the hopes of winning that tree's particular raffle. One could place all their raffle tickets in front of one tree or spread the tickets among several trees. The trees were displayed carefully and impressively. Each tree was given by either a local organization or private individual or family. During its inaugural run in 2009, the Festival showcased 25 trees; this year, only two years later, the event expanded to 70 generously donated trees of all shapes and sizes, as well as meticulously crafted gingerbread houses. Inside the building, the trees were placed along the perimeter as well as in a figure-eight shape in the interior. The trees ran the gamut from traditional five foot tall, faux evergreens adorned with pinecones, ornaments, and Christmas images to others more uniquely displayed, including Mass Hort’s own hot pink “Princess Tree.” The “Princess Tree" was covered in gifts of particular interest to girls. Other “trees” were not trees at all! One was actually a lime green kayak standing on end that was filled with clear glass ball ornaments which contained generous gift certificates to local businesses. Another unique display was entitled “Christmas in the Serengeti” in which a three foot wood carved giraffe was at the centerpiece of the presentation. The tree contributed by the Thursday Garden Club of Sudbury, entitled “Morgan’s Gift”,
was especially moving. Its branches were adorned in scrupulously crafted origami cranes by a young Hawaiian woman who is
currently a patient in a Boston hospital. Another theme tree was the “Beer Not Bear” tree from Belmont’s Craft Beer Cellar, which consisted entirely of microbrews. A tree that would appeal to the younger set was covered in Ugly Dolls. Other tree displays were donated by Russell’s Garden Center of Wayland, Strays in Need from Natick, and Bartlett Tree Experts. In addition to bidding on the trees, the gingerbread houses were offered as prizes. These gingerbread houses would be more aptly named gingerbread chateaux, with highly detailed designs including one house that actually had an interior! The fun continued outdoors, with the grounds directly surrounding the Mass Hort buildings decorated festively for the season. Children were excited to take a train ride around Elm Bank, and Santa visited several times throughout the eighteen day celebration. Located close to the building’s entrance was a fire pit that warmed up chilly visitors. The festival was a great way to raise money for the Horticulture Society through the extremely charitable donations of trees decorated with hundreds of dollars in prizes, and by inviting the eager public to buy raffle tickets to try to win one of the highly coveted items. The event was exquisitely executed, from the bighearted gifts given by local benefactors, to the showcase of trees, and the range of fun activities offered. The Massachusetts Horticulture Society presented an enchanted evening of holiday cheer that was both for a good cause and for good Christmas themed fun.
January 1, 2012
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 7
Holiday Stroll Lights up Wellesley Square Merchants Association Reports Big Sales, Awards Raffle-Winning Family BY DAVE HALPERIN Up against the negativity of store closings on Central Street, the recent Wellesley Square Merchants Association's Holiday Stroll was a shining Christmas light of increased business for shopkeepers and a bagful of gift certificates for one family of Holiday Stroll raffle winners. Taking place on a beautiful, sunny Sunday in early December, the Stroll featured the participation of 50 Wellesley Square businesses offering individual deals and discounts, a visit from Santa Claus and the singing skills of two groups of Wellesley High School carolers. And while the basic concept of the Stroll is a tradition some 20 years in the making, this year marked two firsts: outdoor music via wireless speakers and the raffling off of a collection of gift certificates contributed by all of the event's merchant-participants.
Nancy Carbonaro (left) of Carbonaro Photography and Demian Wendrow (second from left) of London Harness presented Izzy, Sophie, Sue, and Zoe Maggioni with the Wellesley Square Merchants Association's Raffle Prize after Holiday Stroll. Courtesy Photo.
To be entered into the drawing, shoppers needed to have their Holiday Stroll card stamped by 12 stores. "[The raffle concept] was generated from a place of wanting to get people excited about shopping downtown," said Carbonaro Photography's Nancy Carbonaro, who came up with the raffle idea. "There's been so much concern about what's not here, versus what is here - the shopping experience, the one-on-one customer service and the personal attention - and we just wanted to encourage people to come experience the goodness of what is downtown Wellesley." More than 200 Stroll cards were passed into organizers, and one lucky family won the grand prize: the Maggionis of Wellesley were notified a couple of days later that there card had been chosen and Christmas would come early for them in the form of $1,125 in gift certificates to 50 stores in the square. "We were just strolling and they had the cards and we filled it out...I guess luck was on our side," said Sue Maggioni, who explained that she and her daughters didn't know about the raffle until they arrived that day, but that getting the necessary stamps quickly became a team effort.
Ben Conlon discusses gift ideas with Santa during the Holiday Stroll.
"It's just our way of giving back to the town, and it's a good bonding experience," he said. "It's always nice to see people enjoying our music." Julie Hockett, another caroler, said, "It's really fun. You wander around and sing, which we all love to do."
Overall the Stroll was said to be the best one in recent memory. "There's definitely increased foot traffic," Carbonaro said that day. "People are out shopping and excited about the Holiday Stroll - it's the best I've seen in a while."
Carolers from the high school made their way through the Square during Holiday Stroll. Here, they sing Winter Wonderland.
Sophie Maggioni, 8, said the whole family, including her sisters Izzy, 11, and Zoe, 6, and their father, John, was surprised by the phone call from the Wellesley Square Merchants Association. "Mom was especially surprised, because we got the phone call and then she got home later and we told her," she said. True to the holiday spirit, the Maggionis said their first use of the gift certificates would be to find a gift for a Toys for Tots recipient they had been told of, a nine year old girl named Brenda. While the plan for Holiday Stroll had been to award just the one lucky winner, since several stores reported exceptional sales figures
that day, individual merchants decided to award additional gift certificates to several entrants. Stuart Swan Furniture gave away four additional gift certificates while London Harness gave away an additional six. Adding to the festive atmosphere during the stroll that day were the aforementioned two groups of carolers from Wellesley High School, with each group featuring members of the Key Notes and Rice Street Singers. Matt Norwood, who was leading one of the high school caroling groups that day, said their involvement was a combination of enjoying themselves and contributing to the event.
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January 1, 2012
Arts In Wellesley VENTURING OUT continued from page 1
Business and Entrepreneurship. During the reading, Gibson, Jones, Yebba, and Farmer portrayed, respectively, the characters of Ken, Vilma, Cas, and Angel, whose life stories demonstrated how abuse or neglect during childhood can lead to poor choices and dangerous situations in teenagehood and adulthood. They also told stories of their time in prison, and the often cruel realities of prison life, especially for younger prisoners who, Gibson, as Ken, said, "Have no choice but to fight for their lives." But the characters and, later, the actors and panelists, said that coming to terms with one's past while in prison and taking advantage of training programs like the one offered by Venturing Out, can be the key to turning one's life around.
"You can reduce the recidivism rate in half," Larivee said during the discussion, by offering programs like Venturing Out. And, according to Venturing Out's own literature, those who are released and are unable to find work are three to five times more likely to commit another crime. Gibson, himself a graduate of Venturing Out's Entrepreneurship 101 during his time at the Suffolk County House of Corrections, told the gathering of Venturing Out supporters, volunteers, and others, that former prisoners have been shown to become excellent small business owners. "If you're an ex-offender who becomes an entrepreneur, you're more likely to be successful [than other entrepreneurs]. I guess the hunger is there," he said, referring to a recent study. Unfortunately, Gibson noted, Suffolk County has a high rate of
recidivism, and Gibson and several others pleaded audience members to support Venturing Out, which has the stated goal of offering its classes in prisons across Massachusetts and the entire country. One reason, panelists said, for the high rate of recidivism, is Massachusetts' heavy reliance on the CORI system, a database of convicted criminals that many employers reference before hiring a person. Therefore, entrepreneurship makes sense. Also, said Porter, the process of starting one's own business is a metaphor for positive change in general. "Entrepreneurship is akin in many ways to life," he said. "It starts with a program and a plan. You decide what you're passionate about and then you can turn that into a business."
Local Artist Shows Off Her Clever Hand at High School
Calling All Word Nerds and Math Mavens
BY RENEE REYNOLDS Debbie Harary, an artisan from the Clever Hand Gallery in Wellesley, visited a Wellesley High art class on November 21 to offer an art lesson to students.
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The ceramics class, which is taken by primarily seniors and some juniors as a major course, is taught by Amie Ciluffo-Larson. She says Harary is one of several artists from the Clever Hand who will be visiting the class this school year. “We are hoping to get at least four artists from the Clever Hand to come in this year and teach different techniques,” Amie CiluffoLarson said. Harary, a graduate from the Fashion Institute in Technology with a degree in textile design, has had her original designs used for costumes and Broadway and published in Seventeen Magazine. Throughout the lesson, Harary talked to students primarily about cutting and melting glass, then passed around a glass cutter and allowed students to cut their own glass. The students were then given an assignment to begin, which involved cutting stringers and gluing them to glass in a grid
Mark Gibson (left), Lonnie Farmer, and LaTanya Jones.
Students Haley Crocker and Margaret Connors work on an assignment given by Debbie Harary.
format, to be finished at a later date. Ciluffo-Larson said the goal is to have the students to put together a portfolio and to have one or two artists from the Clever Hand come by and do a portfolio review at the end of the school year as a final exam. Ann Schunior, a potter at the Clever Hand, says this will be the second year of collaboration between the gallery and the art department and that other artists will be giving different workshops to the students in January, February
and March. According to Ciluffo-Larson, the students work will be on display in the window at the Clever Hand from April 8 to 19, and there will be a reception at the gallery for the students on April 10. Schunior says the collaboration is a fun way to celebrate art in the school systems. “It is our way of celebrating young art in the community,” she said. The Clever Hand Gallery is located at 52 Central Street.
Are you a Scrabble superstar? A math maven? Do you think you could out-word and out-calculate your opponents to win some prizes? Come apply for a new Wellesley Channel game show. “Word Nerd Plus” is the new show from the producer of “Wellesley Password” and “Where In Wellesley?” We are looking for pairs of contestants high-school-age or older to compete in the show. The commitment will be two weekend taping days in early 2012 – the first taping day will be Saturday, January 28. The shows will be taped in the Olin Auditorium on
the campus of Babson College in Wellesley. In addition, we are looking for a live audience to cheer on the contestants at the tapings. Admission is free, but we are suggesting a donation of food items for the Wellesley Food Pantry. If you are interested, please email Aaron at wellesleygameshow@gmail.com.
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Page 9
Arts In Wellesley WBUR’S Radio Boston and the Drum Literary Magazine Team Up
FRANKLIN • NORWOOD • MEDWAYMILLIS • NORFOLK/WRENTHAM • WELLESLEY
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To Create Local Writing Competition Call for Entries to Third Round of “Zip-Code Stories”, On-Air and Online Series Celebrating Local Writers and Locales WBUR’s Radio Boston and The Drum Literary Magazine have joined forces to create “Zip Code Stories,” a special literary series and writing competition that showcases local neighborhoods, cities and towns. Aspiring writers are invited to submit original short stories and essays that take place in one of four designated zip codes selected each month for a chance to have their piece featured on WBUR’s awardwinning website, wbur.org, and on The Drum’s website, drumlitmag.com. One of the four winning pieces will also be featured on the air during Radio Boston, heard weekdays from 3
p.m. – 4 p.m. on 90.9 FM, WBUR, Boston’s NPR News Station. “We hope that breaking down the region by zip code will give people a chance to experience a unique perspective and deeper look into various towns, neighborhoods and villages that make up Greater Boston,” said Mark Navin, executive producer, Radio Boston. Last month, listeners were asked to submit stories highlighting zip codes 02144 (Somerville), 01851 (Lowell), 01970 (Salem), and 01702 (Framingham) for the series’ second round. The winning entry came from Liz Moore of Framingham for her story, “The Start of Something.” Entries are now being sought for the third round of the series for short stories and essays that take
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place in the following zip codes: 01930 (Gloucester), 02301 (Brockton), 02131 (Roslindale) and 02482 (Wellesley). Stories may be fiction or non-fiction and must take place in one of the four featured zip codes (note: entrants do not need to live in any of the specific areas to be eligible). A panel from WBUR and The Drum will review each submission and select one winning entry. The deadline for submissions is 10 p.m. EST on Thursday, January 9, 2012. Stories may be submitted online, by snail mail or via Broadcastr, a social media platform for location-based stories. To learn more about “Zip Code Stories” and for specifics on how to submit your original piece, visit wbur.org/zipcode.
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A Folk Song Feast, January 28th The Wellesley Choral Society presents its second concert of the season on Saturday, January 28. As always this mid-winter concert is in the style of a pops/cabaret performance meant to entertain and amuse. This year's motto is A Folk Song Feast, featuring songs from around the world. These folk tunes are glimpses into the culture of a people. They will be presented either in their original, mostly unadorned style, the way they were sung by the people of a given country, or they will be performed as arrangements of folk tunes by famous composers such as Aaron Copland, Johannes Brahms, Béla Bartók, Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten.
The countries represented in the concert are the US, Mexico, Israel, South Africa, Germany, Hungary, Russia, China, the British Isles and others. This concert will be led by Ted Whalen, Music Director of the Wellesley Choral Society and piano accompaniment is by Hisako Hiratsuka. In keeping with the spirit of a pops/cabaret performance, this is a casual, relaxed event. The audience is seated at tables and complimentary refreshments will be provided. A raffle and singalong add to the evening's entertainment. The Choral Society will donate a limited number of free tickets to
the Wellesley Council on Aging. A few days before the concert, Wellesley senior citizens may pick them up at 219 Washington Street. Call 781-235-3961 first to make sure tickets are still available. The concert takes place on Saturday, January 28, 7 p.m., at Wellesley Hills Congregational Church, 207 Washington Street (near the intersection of routes 9 and 16). Directions to the church can be found on the WCS website, www.wellesleychoralsociety.org. The church is handicapped accessible and there is ample free parking. Tickets are sold at the door: $15 regular admission, $12 seniors, and $5 students.
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January 1, 2012
12th Annual MLK Breakfast World of Wellesley to Celebrate Diversity on January 18 BY DAVE HALPERIN January 18, 2012 will mark the 28th time that Martin Luther King Jr. Day has been celebrated as a national holiday. It will also feature the 12th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast, hosted by World of Wellesley (WOW) and taking place at Sun Life Financial, 1 Sun Life Place from 8:30-10 a.m. The 2012 Breakfast features guest speaker Fayneese Miller, dean of the college of Education and Social Services and professor Human Development, Educational Leadership and Social Policy at the University of Vermont. She is also Chair of the Vermont State Board of Education. The choice of Miller relates to a theme of education for this year's Breakfast, which coincides with an overall celebration of education in Wellesley because of the opening of the new high school. Additional Breakfast appearances include performances by the Wellesley High School Thunder Step Squad dancers and the Wellesley Choral Society; and WOW will present their annual Advancing Race Re-
Adds Chairman of the World of Wellesley Board of Directors Richard McGhee, "We are all about diversity... and [Martin Luther King Jr.] was the person who led the nation in understanding the ills of discrimination and prejudice and he also pushed hard for most, if not all, of the civil rights legislation that came about in that period of time."
Fayneese Miller is the MLK Breakfast featured speaker.
lations Award. Past recipients include Roche Bros. and Wellesley METCO. Overall it's a chance to celebrate the message of Dr. King. "It really fits very well with the mission of the World of Wellesley, which is to recognize and celebrate diversity and civil rights," said Breakfast committee member Melissa Clemence, "and Martin Luther King Jr. was obviously a hero in that regard."
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McGhee himself has been a part of that movement for many years, having worked with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, for whom he coordinated the Human Rights Commission program. Moreover, he met Dr. King back in 1963 during a march sponsored by the United Auto Workers in Detroit.
The Wellesley High School Thunder Step Squad dancers at a previous year's MLK Breakfast.
Times have changed since the '60s, but the focus for World of Wellesley echoes that era. In addition to the Breakfast, the group will contribute to the community that day through a service project. Service projects from past years include volunteering at the Wellesley Food Pantry and painting a women's shelter. Tickets for the annual MLK Breakfast are $25, and are available at the door only.
The Wellesley Choral Society will perform on January 18.
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January 1, 2012
Our Town & Around
Page 11
By Dave Halperin going on, and take pictures, and then I'm going to put everything together and put it up on YouTube. I'm Dr. Ali's tech guy, I guess. When did you get into making videos? I started to get into it in 2nd grade, when I had to do a project. What do you like about it? I just like doing it... I always liked computers and when I started using [a program for making videos] I thought, this is really cool.
Shayan Raza Who: Shayan Raza
The Kinneys Who: The Kinneys, including, What are the challenges? The from L to R, Ethan, 6; Brian; Eliztoughest thing is that when I'm abether, 3; Amanda; and dog Trufilming, most of my friends burst man out laughing about the things we Where Spotted: Centennial Park come up with. (forest) Do you live in Wellesley? No, What are they up to? Taking Needham. Truman out for a walk
Santa and Mrs. Claus Who: Santa and Mrs. Claus, also known as Bill and Denise Arsenault
Where spotted: Wellesley Dental Group's Candy Drive
Where spotted: At the Wellesley Square Merchants' Association's Holiday Stroll
What brings you here? I'm here to pretty much film the event that's
How often does he do this? Denise: He does this every year for his office, the North Hill Retirement Community, and then ... they asked him to start doing the Holiday Stroll.
Trevin Hatch and Andrew Stefura Who: Trevin Hatch and Andrew Stefura
What's it like for Mrs. Claus? Denise: It's hectic. It's busy. It's chaotic. I'm just making sure things go right, that he's dressed right. How come Mrs. Claus is in street clothes? So many people have asked if I would be Mrs. Claus but I haven't gotten there yet.
Georgina and Nikki Who: Georgina Cannie (left) and Nikki Vance
Why Centennial Park? Brian: We live in town and found this to be a great place to walk and great for the kids. It's a hidden gem... you get a lot of people here from Newton because it's nice and wide open.
Where spotted: Cameron Street What are they up to? Scootering.
What kind of dog is Truman? Amanda: He's a Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Why scooters instead of something else? Trevon: We like doing tricks and stuff. How do you guys know each other? Andrew: We go to school together, and I came out to his house from Roslindale.
Where spotted: Walking together with dogs Owen and Bo. Why Centennial Park? Georgina: I go to Mass Bay and there's off-leash here, so [Bo] loves it. Nikki: There's tons of dogs and dog walkers here all the time, and everyone's friendly. How long have the dogs known each other? Nikki: About 45 minutes. How long have you guys known each other? Nikki: We just met
too... I come by myself and I usually meet other people.
The Jamalis Who: Ali, Amir, Armon, and Mohammad Jamali Where spotted: Centennial Park How often do you guys do this? Mohammad: We do this every week. My sons love this. They get a break from the computer, from XBox. What now? Mohammad: We're heading home for lunch.
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Page 12 January 2 Capoeira at the Fitness Center for Women, 200 Linden Street, from 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday evening. Free trial class. Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of fighting, acrobatics, dance and music. In class you will experience fundamental movements such as kicks, escapes and sweeps. Students will spar in pairs, learn optional acrobatic play and participate in a traditional roda circle. January 5-29 Seasons' Greetings, a play by Alan Ayckbourn at Ruth Nagle Jones Theater, Wellesley College. Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. It's Christmas in suburban London, and things couldn't be going less well for Belinda and Neville and their dysfunctional relatives. This black comedy features furtive trysts under the tree, a horrifying puppet show and a few madcap mistaken assumptions. Join us for the holiday festivities as we laugh at the darker side of family life. January 9- March 12 Star Wars: Jedi Training
January Calendar of Events (Ages 5 - 10) Mondays 4:45 - 5:45 p.m. This weekly class will be centered on everything Star Wars! Some activities may include: designing and making a recycled droid, light saber training, making a Jedi Journal and MORE!!! May the force be with you. Instructor: Beth Meditz & Diane Dinell. Location: Warren Building Min: 8 weeks. $165. January 10 Short Films Writing. 6:30 - 8 p.m. Instructor: ALB Production House. This class will get you ready to launch your first film script. You’ll learn the basics, watch some great shorts, and have a lot of fun in the process. So, let your inner writer come out and start to frame your idea from the page onto the screen. At the end of this class you will have a logline and a synopsis to start you out the path to writing your first original script. Please bring laptop or iPad. Location: Warren Building Min: 5/Max: 18. 1 Class. $65 January 13-March 12 Tai Chi for Seniors, Fri 2 – 3 p.m. Jan 13 - Mar 2. Instructor:
Josh Fink. Tai Chi is a state of relaxation of both body and mind. If done regularly, it can improve muscle tone, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Many people find it boosts their energy, stamina, and agility, sharpens their reflexes, and gives a sense of overall wellbeing. Location: Warren Building Min: 8/Max: 20. $50 January 17 Martin luther King Jr. Day Breakfast, 8:30-10 a.m. Join World of Wellesley for their annual Martin Luther King Day Breakfast at Sun Life Financial, 1 Sun Life Financial Executive Park in Wellesley Hills. Featured speaker is Fayneese Miller, dean of the College of Education and Social Services and professor of Human Development, Educational Leadership and Social Policy at the University of Vermont. Admission $25, Tix available at the door. January 21 Why We Broke Up. Book event at Wellesley Books, 82 Central Street, 4 p.m. An exciting afternoon with author Daniel Han-
Speech and the City
For Your Eyes Only We’ve all heard that we have the instinctive ability as communicators to connect and create rapport and relationships within seconds of making eye contact—the efferves-
cent effect of the gaze, the momentary glance that gives away untold stories, the drama of the day shared by a fleeting look. We have so many ways to express the notability of the eyes—“windows to the soul…eyes of the beholder…the gateway to your inner life…the evil eye.” The eyes are your backstory and the running monologue in the mind. Eyes communicate all-im-
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portant social cues that speak volumes about our mindsets, attitude, openness, honesty, and willingness to listen. From the color, shape, speed and pattern of eye movements to the severity and intensity of eye expression...what are your baby blues saying? Elle magazine’s article, Eye Gazing Parties, captures the power of the eyes by saying that daters stare into each other’s eyes up to five minutes before moving on to the next eye partner. Ten minutes of staring into a stranger's eyes can tell you more about them than ten minutes of conversing verbally! Executive coaches teach techniques of “eye scanning” when entering a crowded room. If you’ve seen Lie to Me on television, you know that deception can be deciphered within the most minute
dler and artist Maria Kalman as they share their new book for young adults, Why We Broke Up. Written as a letter from Min to her ex-boyfriend, Ed, relating all the memories and reasons behind their doomed relationship through a series of mementos, this book follows the thrill and heartbreak of young romance. There will be a reading, Q&A, and signing. www.wellesleybooksmith.com. January 21 Free SaT practice test for high school juniors, at Wellesley Free Library, Wakelin room, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Free Kaplan Test Prep exam for High School Juniors. Space is limited-- reserve your spot today: call 1-800-KAP-TEST or online at kaptest.com/practicetest. January 29 Concert: Jazz pianist laszlo Gardony at the Wellesley Free Library, Wakelin Room, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A winner of the Great American Jazz Piano Competition, Mr. Gardony has released eight albums. He has been featured with the Boston Pops, the
shift of the eyes. Whether the communication is for personal or professional purposes, the eyes have the power to make or break a potential life-long connection within seconds. Steve Jobs was famous for having an aura of confidence, and persuasive powers. Audiences would surrender to his will, being completely captured by his seductive eye communication and charismatic charm. Another notable eye charmer was Bill Clinton, whose faculty for making eye contact was often spoken of. So, what’s the secret to Clinton, Jobs, and many other highly successful eye communicators? 1) Eye People on the Street: As you walk down the street look at the eyes of every person walking towards you long enough to see their eye color. Then look away. This technique builds solid eye contact skills quickly. If the eye contact is brief enough, no one minds at all, and you get tons of practice in. Practice longer eye contact with waiters, salesclerks, cashiers, and other paid service staff, so long as you do it respectfully and in a friendly way. Keep a neutral facial expression and soft gaze. You don’t want anyone to think you’re trying to stare them
January 1, 2012 Utah Symphony and The Smithsonian Institute’s Traveling Duke Ellington Exhibit. He has been praised for his “fluid pianism” by The New York Times, and JazzTimes has called him 'one of contemporary music's truly original voices.' Free and open to the public. Generously sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries. January 29 Super Hunger Brunch to benefit The Greater Boston Food Bank at Blue Ginger, 781-2835790. $50. Reservations at gbfb.org. Every January top restaurants join together to help end hunger by offering a delicious brunch to benefit The Greater Boston Food Bank. Super Hunger Brunch restaurants donate their time, food and services to offer a delicious brunch, with all proceeds supporting GBFB. An annual tradition for more than two decades, in the past three years alone, our Super Hunger Brunch has raised over $181,000, which has provided over 456,000 meals to those in need! For additional information about Super Hunger Brunch, please contact Gail C. Favreau at gfavreau@gbfb.org or 617.427.5200, ext. 5050. down, expecting a response, or that you pose a threat. 2) Practice “Eye Presence”: You know the people who make eye contact but have a hard time focusing, as if their mind is on something else more important. To avoid this habitual empty eye gaze, focus on every part of the face of the person you’re listening to, and connect information they're telling you out loud to parts of their face. For instance, notice simultaneously their name and position, and the color of their eyes. 3) Practice Eye Stretches: Before you go out to that next party or meeting, practice exercises to open and stretch your eye sockets and close and relax them. Look intently in every direction three times. Try a pattern of eyes going up, to the side, and down. This opens and wakes up your eye muscles and helps tired or stressed eyes. Try these eye tips for a week as you go about your daily business, and the quality of your eye contact will become better than most people’s, and you will cultivate the skills of a master eye ninja in no time! And remember: keep your “Eye on the ball at all times!”
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Rooted in Family The Fitness Club for Women Means Expertise and Customer Care BY DAVE HALPERIN The sense of family that permeates the Fitness Club for Women is no accident: co-owners Cheryl Steele and Michele Shea are not just work partners, they are sisters who came together to run the business eight years ago, three years after Shea first purchased the exercise complex.
two punch, with Steele responsible for much of the front end, customer service and employee issues, and Shea focused more on back office functions like accounting.
employee, Katy Boyd. Steele and Shea say Boyd misrepresents their relationship; for example, in a recent article in this paper, Boyd is quoted as saying that her former employers let her go during a "restructuring."
Page 13
athletes alike. "The little kids, they grow up here, what we have is like a family here." "We have young to old, every age and every physical ability," Steele adds, relating the story of a 70 year old member who is in such good shape that she was able to
The truth, they say, is that Boyd was fired due to a lack of professionalism and poor performance, among other issues.
"They say we're inseparable," Shea explained recently from inside their 200 Linden Street location. "We grew up in Woburn, and we both live in Medford." In search of a business partner after her husband bowed out of the women-only enterprise, Shea approached her sister, and the timing was right for Steele.
But the two aren't ones to split hairs over assigned duties.
"I was done with the traveling..." Steele explained of her previous job. "And it was a great blend for us."
"We're here, we're helping people," Shea says. "We're plunging the toilets. We'll do whatever it takes to make it work."
Marketing background in tow, Steele joined forces with Shea, who brings experience in human resources and accounting. Now the two sisters are a formidable one-
Viewers of the Style Network's reality show Wicked Fit may recognize Steele and Shea, whose gym is sometimes featured opposite the gym owned by their former
Nevertheless, misrepresentations aside, Steele and Shea have a foundation of expertise and customer care to fall back on. Members appreciate the diverse offerings at the Fitness Club for Women, including personal training, state of the art equipment, nutritional counseling, boot camp, and a wealth of classes ranging from yoga to dance to spinning to Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art. "Being all women, we're like a community here," Shea says, noting the programming for young kids, older adults, and hardcore
Michele Shea (left) and Cheryl Steele during the Celebrities for Charity event to benefit the fight against breast cancer, filmed for one of the Wicked Fit episodes.
overcome a knee injury that her doctor didn't think was possible for a woman her age. "[The doctor] told us she had the bones of a
younger person." And then there's the member who joined after her husband passed away and, with the help of the Fitness Club for Women, has found a new social life. "There's a big social part," says Steel. "We're the only gym in Wellesley with a program for seniors, and after she lost her husband, she was wondering, 'How am I going to survive?' and now she's going out for coffee with people after class." As these sisters say, it's all about health, and healthy attitudes. Steele recalls losing weight and feeling better after joining Shea at the fitness center, while Shea explains that it's all a part of the environment at the club: "It's great because you can have conversations with your members, and everyone's learning from each other... And if you have that energy with each other, there's no need for jealousy and bitterness. Everyone's always sharing with each other." "Now I don't even know what it feels like to have aches and pains," she says, adding, "Sometimes I don't want to go on vacation. I feel like I'm going to miss out."
Cell Phone Thieves Arrested Team Effort by Wellesley, Natick Police and One Alert Citizen An alert citizen who witnessed a suspect stealing phones from a store in Framingham was instrumental in their subsequent capture. The incident started on Route 9 in Framingham at the T-Mobile store on Tuesday, December 13 prior to 8:00 PM. A witness, who had been to out to dinner with relatives in the area, was in the parking lot of the TMobile store about to leave. The witness observed a male acting suspiciously outside the store. The witness watched the suspect suddenly run into the T-Mobile store, and remove three smart phones, ripping them from a security cable. The suspect then sprinted from the store and into a waiting vehicle, which was driven by a female. The vehicle fled from the parking lot into Natick. The witness quickly phoned the Natick Police Department via 911. The witness was also able to follow the suspect discreetly onto Route 9 east. Natick officers were unable to intercept the suspect vehicle, but Natick Police dispatchers notified Wellesley Police dispatchers Matthew Hammer and Matthew
McLaughlin of the situation. Dispatchers Hammer and McLaughlin quickly broadcast a description of the vehicle to Officer Nate Derby, Officer Ron Poirier, and Sergeant Scott Showstead. The witness continued to follow the vehicle, providing a license plate number, description of the vehicle, and a description of the suspects. Officer Nate Derby located the vehicle on Route 9 near Oakland Street, and pulled it over near Cedar Street. During the initial contact with the two occupants of the suspect vehicle, one suspect quickly volunteered to Officer Poirier that he had just stolen cell phones, and also knew of an arrest warrant that was out for him. Officers located the three stolen 4G phones inside the car. Sergeant Showstead worked with the Framingham Police Department, who responded to the T-Mobile store and confirmed that the theft had taken place. The suspects were then taken into custody. Arrested at the scene were Raheem McCoy from Dever Street in Boston, and Uniqua Williams from Jette Court in
Brighton. McCoy and Williams were charged with receiving stolen property over $250. McCoy will face an additional charge due to his outstanding arrest warrant from the Newton District Court. Both will appear in Dedham District Court on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 for arraignment. Thanks to the quick thinking of a good citizen, $1500 worth of stolen phones were recovered within minutes of the crime. In other Wellesley Police news, detectives are investigating a residential break in on Wellesley Ave that was reported on Monday, December 12. A resident returned home in the late afternoon, to find several items had been removed, and indications that a bedroom had been gone through. During the course of the investigation, Wellesley Police officers and detectives determined that an unlocked sliding door was the probable point of entry for the break in. A preliminary investigation has revealed that the break in occurred prior to noon on Monday. This case is under investigation.
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Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 14
January 1, 2012
Bertolon Center For Grief & Healing Fundraiser Raises Money for ‘Glamour Project’
Winter 2011-2012 FREE Bereavement Groups and Workshops Pre-registration is required to participate in any event. Contact Liz Mearkle-Cumming, LPC, ATR at 781-373-6570. All groups are open to the public. No prior hospice experience is necessary. All groups are held at Hospice of the North Shore & Greater Boston’s Office at 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley.
1/10/12.
WORKSHOPS *Newly Bereaved (For losses 13 months) -- 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley, MA
The workshop will be facilitated by a visiting photographer, Sarah Schoor, who received a grant from the Danish Research Council to pursue research on uses of photography in a hospice setting.
Has someone close to you recently died? Are you looking for others who understand? If so, this one time workshop may be a wonderful way for you to find not only support, but also information on grief and loss and about supportive local resources. This workshop is held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 6-8 pm in Wellesley, MA starting on
*A Photography Workshop for Mourners - 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley, MA
This 5 week workshop will provide participants an opportunity to learn photography and its therapeutic elements in life and loss. Participants will be provided the opportunity to experience the personal process of photography as well as photography as an art.
The workshop will be co-facilitated by a Bereavement Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. Workshop fee for 5-week program is $50. Mondays, 1/9 – 2/6 (Snow date 2/7)- 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 8 WEEK SUPPORT GROUPS *Grieving Loss in a Jewish Way
- 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley, MA
This 8-week support group for people who want to explore their grief from the perspective of being Jewish, learning coping skills and an understanding of loss as it relates to being a Jew. The group will be held on Thursdays from 1/26 through 3/22/12, skipping 2/23, from 6:30-8:00 pm in Wellesley, MA. Snow date on 3/29/12. *Loss of a Parent Group - 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley, MA This 8-week support group is open to any adult that has recently lost one or both parents or a dear parental guardian. The group will be held on Mondays from 2/20 through 4/9/12 from 6-7:30 pm. Snow date on Thursday 4/19/12. Space is limited for all events- So call today! Please visit our website for more group and workshop opportunities at www.hnsgb.org.
Wellesley Service League Member Liz Harrington, Marilyn Fedlman's husband Elliot Feldman, and Carleen Baer at the Glamour Project fundraiser at Sara Campbell.
BY RENEE REYNOLDS On December 6, Wellesley Service League member Carleen Baer hosted a fundraiser at Sara Campbell to benefit the Glamour Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged women through makeovers. The Glamour Project, which was founded by Kara Fox and Evvy Shapero, began in the Los Angeles area as a volunteer effort. Fox and Shapero would go to homeless shelters and volunteer their time making over women via make-up application and fashion styling, thereby helping them reclaim their confidence and sense of beauty. Recently, Wellesley resident Marilyn Feldman joined the project, expanding it to the Boston area. With Feldman’s help, the Glamour Project has partnered with the Family Nurturing Center of Boston, giving the project a 501(c )(3) non-profit status. Baer, who had read about the Glamour Project a few months back, attended a Wellesley Service League fundraiser and won an auction item that included hosting a party for friends at Sara Campbell. Baer called Feldman and asked if she would like her to host a fundraiser for the Glamour Project. “She was thrilled,” said Baer. The fundraiser included free color consultations from Kim Long, a fashion consultant, for those who were interested in knowing what colors work best in
their wardrobe. Ten percent of sales from the evening benefited the Glamour Project. The fundraiser raised $775, according to Stephanie Millon, marketing director at Sara Campbell. According to Feldman, all money raised goes directly into their budget, as everyone involved with the Glamour Project works as a volunteer. “Our money goes into material to make hats, buy new hats, more jewelry, new fabric and makeup,” said Feldman. “We also use it for stationary and postage for outreach and fundraising.” Feldman says reaching out to shelters is how they determine which facilities would like them to come in. “Women from the shelters sign up and no one is turned away,” she said. “We do as many as we possibly can in a day. If there are too many, we work on a first come, first served basis.” Recently, makeover recipients were chosen based on letters written by students in a Dorchester school. At the end of the day, women who are made over receive an 8 x 10 photograph and, Feldman hopes, a newfound sense of confidence. “We hope they get a sense of who they once were and who they would like to be,” she said. “We hope they become optimistic and hopeful that this is just a situation they are in rather than a permanent arrangement.”
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Page 15
Citizen Commendation Given by Police
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www.rodenhiser.com www.rodenhiser.com On December 19, Wellesley Police Chief Terry Cunningham and Officer Nate Derby presented a Wellesley Police Department Citizen Commendation to 19 year old Danielle Caouette of Natick. Danielle witnessed a suspect steal
over $1500 worth of smart phones from a T-Mobile store in Framingham last week as she was leaving dinner with her parents. Chief Cunningham and Officer Derby present the commendation.
Danielle promptly dialed 911, and then discreetly followed the suspect as he fled on Route 9 through Natick and into Wellesley. Once into Wellesley, Officer Nate Derby was able to stop the suspect's vehicle. Two people were
placed under arrest for the theft at the scene and the property was recovered. Danielle's outstanding efforts were officially recognized by Chief Cunningham. Danielle was directly responsible for the capture of the suspects.
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Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 16
January 1, 2012
School News Audit Committee: School Department Needs CFO Greater Oversight Would Help Alleviate Revenue Collection and Reporting Problems BY DAVE HALPERIN The Audit Committee presented their annual review of the audit to the Board of Selectmen on December 12, and while the news was not all good, Audit Committee members and Selectmen believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Town-wide there were no significant concerns to report; however, issues emanating from the School Business Management Office led Audit Committee Chair Rusty Kellogg to tell Selectmen of "significant deficiencies or material weaknesses" and recommend the creation of a new position on the school side: a chief financial officer. "Our schools are a $65-70 million operation, and I think they need some more staffing..." Kel-
logg said. "Compared to ... other school business offices in similar towns, their budget is lower, and perhaps we could put more resources into it, and we've made that suggestion" to the School Committee. The recommendation comes at the heels of recent failures of the school business office to handle collection of school lunch debt owed by families, and to accurately report and manage funds related to school activities that can generate income, such as athletics and performing arts. "...this was an issue of staffing and supervision, that the supervision in the school business office was really all concentrated in the school business manager... and was [that person] was responsible for the great majority of work that
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was done... [without] an adequate delegation of responsibilities and segregation of duties," Kellogg told Selectmen. The audit figures and recommendations compiled by the Audit Committee were the result of the efforts of the town's privately contracted auditors, Powers and Sullivan, in coordination with the Audit Committee and the town's own Director of Finance, Sheryl Struther, among others. Following the CFO recommendation, Kellogg told the Board that the schools also struggle with revenue-generating accounts. The receipts generated by certain student activities were not being "observed and monitored as they flowed through financial statements," Kellogg said, explaining that "the concern is that the internal controls were lacking in that there wasn't a reconciliation at the department level."
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"The best example of that control problem... was [that] not actually billing for school lunches started to build in September and by September and October the revenues were falling behind, but the issue didn't come to light until March," Kellogg continued. "If the observation and monitoring [was in
place] it would have been found at a much earlier time." Such lack of internal controls and monitoring led the School Committee to call in the Massachusetts Association of School Business Offices (MASBO) in order to produce recommendations for improvement; Michael Nelligan of Powers and Sullivan predicted MASBO would recommend that forms and processes used by all the various revenue generating activities and programs be standardized. "I wouldn't be surprised if MASBO comes back and recommends standardization as one of their main areas of focus," Nelligan said. As of Local Town Pages press time in mid-December, no date had been set for the start of MASBO's consultation, although it was expected to begin this month. Selectmen hope the continuing investigation into the school department's woes is a chance for a town-wide gut check and reevaluation of roles. "I view this as a wonderful opportunity for the schools and the town to take a hard look at the
function of the business office and to staff it in a different kind of way and to have some changes that would be a benefit throughout the town in terms of transparency and budgets," said Selectman Katherine Babson. Selectmen also expressed solidarity with the schools. Chairman of the Board of Selectmen Barbara Searle said, "If we need to pull them in to get through this, we will. If the schools raise their hands and say, 'we need help,' we'll give it to them, because this is important for the town of Wellesley to get these issues resolved and move forward." Paul Baier, who launched the Facebook group Concerned Parents of Wellesley, said in a later conversation that the chief financial officer position has promise but said more discussion is needed to see if getting better performance out of existing positions, such as through a new superintendent, instead of creating a new position, would be just as effective - and more cost effective. Baier also expressed concern about the time it will take to create and fill any new positions, suggesting a need for short term changes and planning as well.
January 1, 2012
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 17
School News
Sponsored By
Superintendent Search Underway End Chartwells KC Kato heading committee; goal is July 1 Contract, Says Former Cafeteria Worker BY RENEE REYNOLDS
The search for a new superintendent has begun. On November 29, the School Committee met and revealed a tentative outline for the search, naming committee member KC Kato the point person of the search committee.
Superintendent Bella T. Wong will be stepping down at the end of the school year, and the School Committee expressed their desire to have a new superintendent in place by July 1, 2012. Kato said she would be hiring a consultant to help aid in the search. The consultant is expected to be hired by mid-January, and the first round of interviews will take place in March, Kato said. The search comes during a turbulent time in the Wellesley school system. Last school year, the business office made public that more than $100,000 in back lunch debt was unpaid. Parents and former cafeteria workers have also raised concern about using the private
company, Chartwells, after several Board of Health violations were found in the fall. Recent reports also indicate the middle school and high school cafeterias have been dealing with rodent problems since late summer.
Safety has also become a concern for parents. In October, a middle school custodian was arrested and charged with stealing computers and other items from the school over the summer, raising questions from parents about employee background checks. Paul Baier, parent of an eighth grader at the middle school, has launched a Facebook group called “Concerned Parents Of Wellesley” as a forum for parents to express their concerns over issues within the school system. He says he hopes for transparency throughout the superintendent search process. “I’d like to get a better understanding of why these administrative lapses occurred, and why we should have comfort that they will not occur again [next year],” he
said.
Kato made clear that the majority of the information regarding the superintendent search will be made available to the public. The public will have a chance to comment on the search in community forums and online surveys, and take part in focus groups. While the preliminary interviews will be held privately due to open meeting laws, the final interviews will be conducted in public, Kato said. The final decision will be made by the School Committee. While Kato said the Massachusetts Association of School Committees predicts 62 vacancies for superintendents across the state, she hopes Wellesley’s reputation will generate interest among candidates.
Kato noted that while the committee hopes to hire a new superintendent by July 1, it is possible that an interim superintendent may be hired if they do not find the right candidate by the time of Wong’s resignation.
KLB Stands Tall at Bates Bates Elementary recently put their values to work in building three six-foot tall letters out of mostly recycled materials. The letters K, L, and B stand for the school's core values of kindness, learning and leadership, and best effort.
BY RENEE REYNOLDS Former food service workers came forward at the November 29 School Committee meeting requesting the school department does not renew their contract with Chartwells at the end of the school year. “Chartwells has brought shame to the former food service workers and to the town of Wellesley,” said Wellesley resident Frannie Campbell, the former head cashier at the high school. Campbell made the request that the school department ends their contract and returns to an in-house cafeteria system during the citizens speak portion of the School Committee meeting, stating their reputation is not up to par, and that parents should be concerned about who is feeding their children. The decision to privatize was made after the business office made public last school year that more than $100,000 in back lunch debt was unpaid. School Committee Chairman Suzy Littlefield said the primary reasons for deciding to use a private company were to save money and provide healthier, “greener” options for students. However, the Wellesley Health Department noted “serious violations” in the middle school cafeteria at the beginning of the school year, including a lack of sneeze guards, food being kept at unsafe temperatures, and a lack of proper staff supervision.
The structure, made of empty laundry detergent containers and other materials salvaged from the Recycling and Disposal Facility, was built and positioned on the lawn in front of the school.
Virginia Bowditch, a parent who
also came forward during the citizen speak portion of the meeting, expressed her concerns over the health violations. “I’ve had a food borne illness and it was absolutely horrendous,” she said. “[Food borne illnesses are] even worse in children.” Julianne Ivey, a board member of the non-partisan advocacy group Committee 21, stated her committee supports the schools, but does not necessarily support all the decisions made by the School Committee. In an attempt to combat the lunch debt, students are now required to have a plus balance in their account, which Ivey says has led to some students not eating on certain days. “There are some issues with [Chartwells] that need to be addressed,” said Ivey. “If there is not enough money in the account, children are being denied food. I think there needs to be a back-up system in place.” While no decision has been made as to whether or not the School Committee will decide to renew Chartwells contract at the end of the year, Littlefield admits privatizing has not been the easiest transition. “It was a difficult decision and it has not been exactly in line with what we were looking for,” she said. “There is a one-year contract and we will be making a decision about whether or not to renew in the next couple of months. It’s been a rough fall.”
Discussion Session with School Committee What: A discussion session for parents on recent administrative lapses with the Wellesley School Committee Bates students, parents, and faculty built these letters with recycled materials.
When: Wed, January 4, 7-9 p.m. Derek Chalmers (left) and Karim Hamawy help with the nuts and bolts of KLB.
Where: Wellesley Middle School Library
Why: This is a two-hour session for parents to gain more information about recent issues within Wellesley Public Schools adminstration. Moderator: TBD
Page 18
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
School News
Sponsored By
YoungArts' 2012 Best Young Artists in the Nation Two WHS Students are Honorable Mention Winners Caroline Fahey and Stuart Connor Perry of Wellesley High School are YoungArts Honorable Mention Award Winners. Fahey was recognized in Photography and Perry in Visual Arts. Chosen from more than 5,000 applicants in nine disciplines in the visual, literary and performing arts, they will receive a monetary award and join the ranks of the 16,000 YoungArts alumni, including such notables as multimedia artist Doug Aitken; actors Vanessa Williams, Raúl Esparza, and Kerry Washington; and musicians Nicki Minaj and Chris Young. YoungArts is the core program of the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA). Fahey and Connor Perry are two of this year’s YoungArts 174 Honorable Mention Award Winners, selected in a blind adjudication process from a pool representing
all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as all U.S. territories. There are a total of 597 YoungArts winners in total, including 152 YoungArts Finalists. “We are honored to recognize all of these fine young artists,” said Paul T. Lehr, NFAA’s Executive Director. “They represent the next generation of extraordinary artistic talent, and it is our hope that their experience with YoungArts will compel them to pursue their passions.” YoungArts is the only organization in the nation to recognize students in nine discipline categories of cinematic arts, dance, jazz, music, photography, theater, visual arts, voice and writing. YoungArts is the core program of the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA). The organization’s mission is to
identify emerging artists, provide educational enrichment and assistance in their pursuit of the arts, and to raise the appreciation for and support of the arts in American society. Dedicated to inspiring and nurturing young artists, NFAA was founded in 1981 by businessman and visionary, the late Ted Arison, and his wife, Lin. The YoungArts program identifies the next generation of emerging artists and contributes to the cultural vitality of the nation by investing in the artistic development of thousands of gifted artists in nine disciplines in the performing, literary and visual arts. At the request of The Commission on Presidential Scholars, which is appointed by the President of the United States, NFAA serves as the
Wellesley High School Senior Acting WHS senior intensive acting students recently directed 13 one-act plays as part of their Acting IV course, delighting audiences of students, faculty, parents and town residents. Pictured are photos from Block A plays.
Maica Pichler and Simone Tuffy's hilarious production of "Study Group," featuring Rebecca Logue as Anne and James Wall as Bill, two students whose romance has broken up, and Samantha Derderian as Gertrude, a nerdy MIT hopeful who plots to reunite them. Adam Walsh served as stage manager.
Harry Cramer and Yara Farahmand's production of Trevor Suthers' comedy "Hi Santa, Remember Me?", featuring Brian Kelly as Frank, who finds Santa, played by Justin O'Brien, drinking alone in a tavern. Adam Walsh served as stage manager.
honored over 16,000 young artists with more than $6 million in monetary awards and nearly $84 million in college scholarship opportunities. Alumni go on to become leading professionals in their fields. Alumni include actresses Vanessa Williams and Kerry Washington, four-time Tony Award nominee Raúl Esparza, Executive Director of American Ballet Theatre Rachel Moore, recording artists Nicki Minaj and Chris Young, musician Jennifer Koh, choreographer Desmond Richardson, and internationally acclaimed multimedia artist Doug Aitken. exclusive nominating agency for the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. The YoungArts program has
For more information about YoungArts, visit www.youngarts.org. For a complete list of 2012 Winners please visit www.youngarts.org/2012-youngarts-winners.
Go to www.localtown coupons.com for coupons along with grocery coupons too. No sign up forms, it’s free, just click, print and save! Shop Local to support the businesses that support our community.
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Page 19
Wellesley Sports
Seeking a Repeat Boys’ B-Ball Wants Herget Again BY MIKE STOLLER
in the Division 2 South sectionals.
The energy on the court is palpable. At a preseason practice in December, Wellesley boys’ basketball head coach Glen Magpiong is running the floor almost as fast his players. He is stressing team offense and defense, or like his black and red Raiders T-shirt says, “WeFense.”
But, one thing there’s no question about is the Raiders’ work ethic. “I am so proud of how hard these boys worked in the off-season,” Magpiong said.
“We-Fense has to be our number one focus,” he said. Heading into the 2011-12 campaign, it was nearly impossible for Magpiong to know if his team could repeat as Bay State Conference (BSC) Herget Division champions.
Though the Raiders return with a whopping eight seniors, Magpiong said he “would consider us younger [than last year’s group] experience-wise.” But, since it’s their last season on the high school parquet, the seniors are highly motivated, according to the coach, wanting to put their own stamp on the Wellesley program. “They come in with the mindset, ‘No regrets, hold nothing back, and play as if there is no tomor-
Photos by Connie Main
senior centers Avery Brooks and Paul Santangelo. Among the cast, James has the most varsity experience, followed by Osborn and Westerman. “James could be the best shooter on the team, Westerman is potentially our most efficient player, and Osborn is not only knocking down shots, but is also getting to the rim,” Magpiong said. “[They] worked tirelessly in the offseason on improving their game, and it really shows.”
“Can we repeat as Herget Champions, I don’t know. Every team [in the conference] has gotten better,” Magpiong said. “We lost a pretty solid senior group who played a significant amount of minutes for us.” That group included league MVP guard Blake Dowling, fellow BSC All-Stars Darren Johnson (First Team, forward) and Adam Farina (Honorable Mention, center), and solid frontcourt players Armand Menegay and Matt Farina. With all five graduated, Magpiong would only be guessing about his squad’s chances this season, after the Raiders flew to the top of the division with a remarkable 17-5 record last year, reaching the quarterfinals as the No. 2 seed
row,’”Magpiong said. That mindset was evident during their offseason preparation. For starters, guards Cooper Ainge and Cedric White, who comprise two of the three captains, were part of a contingent led by Ainge’s older brother Austin, who “worked with a lot of these kids during the AAU season and they are so much better and ready to go,” Magpiong said. “Cooper and Cedric were our primary ball handlers last year, and we expect a lot from them this year.” Magpiong said Ainge, who poured in a team-high 18 points, including four three-pointers in a season-opening loss to Milford on Dec. 13, “is probably our best allaround defender and scorer,” and
White “is the most proficient at breaking down his defender.” The coach added, “We do not have a lot of size and their play at the guard position will be critical in how we operate both offensively and defensively.” Wellesley’s other captain, junior forward Mack Jones, is also a strong defender, Magpiong said. “[He] will play on both the perimeter and in the post for us and brings a strong work ethic on both ends of the floor.” Jones tossed in five points, including a three, in the opener, played at Wellesley. Other returning players include senior guards Harry James, Nick Osborn, and Reed Westerman, and
Brooks and Santangelo, meanwhile, will pay important roles in the post. The coach said Brooks is recovering from a serious leg injury he suffered during baseball season, “yet was still a formidable force during tryouts,” while Santangelo, who had a successful golf campaign in the fall, figures to be an asset with “his smart play and ability to finish…” Newcomers include senior center Connor Darcey, junior guard Matt Lawrence, sophomore guards Crew Ainge and Aidan James, and sophomore forward Malik Rochelle. Though they are new to the team, they “are not role players,” Magpiong said. Darcey, in fact, is new to basketball at the high school level, but “he really worked on his game over the fall and it really showed in tryouts,” the coach said. “His athleticism,
toughness, and court sense are absolutely remarkable. His profile is exactly what we need as a program.” Magpiong also lauded Lawrence for his determination. “Matt came to tryouts determined to make the team and he did,” the coach said. “I am so proud of how hard [he] worked in the offseason, both on his shooting and ball handling, but also with his strength.” Rochelle, Crew Ainge, and Aidan James, are all first-time varsity players, who all could see “significant minutes,” Magpiong said. “Crew and Aidan have played at a pretty high level over the course of their AAU seasons and as a result, they do not play [like] underclassmen. These guys compete, have game, and will definitely push their teammates.” Magpiong, meanwhile, said Malik “is possibly the quickest player on the team, and combined with his jumping ability, “he may give his opponents fits.” The coach summed up, “We won’t compare ourselves to last year’s team. This group came in on day one ready to go. If we continue to stay focused on getting better each and every day, I truly do believe good things will happen.”
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 20
January 1, 2012
Wellesley Sports
Raider Wrestlers Overcome Brookline BY PETER SHANLEY Four years ago, Jesse Davis arrived at Wellesley High School to become the wrestling coach, and since then, had never beaten Bay State Conference rival Brookline. All that changed in dramatic fashion on Tuesday, December 13. Down 30-29, the Raiders sent heavyweight Jack Barry to the mat to face Kasra Pourahimi in the last match of the night. Pourahimi managed an early takedown on a hip throw, garnering two points. But moments later, Barry reversed position and pinned his opponent, notching the victory for Wellesley. “Brookline is a good team,” said Davis, whose team improved to 31 on the young season. “They came ready to wrestle. It was real
close all the way through. Jack got in sort of a funky position with his hips, but was able to turn the kid at the end. It was a great match.” The Raiders initially found themselves losing 18-6 after the Warriors swept the lighter divisions, save a forfeit at the 120-pound division. Wellesley’s Clayton Krueger then was tied 2-2 at the 138-pound division when he reversed Stephano Magny. That sparked nine straight points, earning Krueger a majority win and closing the team’s deficit to 18-10. Dan Wilkins dominated at 145 pounds, almost pinning Warrior Andres Crespo with a cradle, but was unable to get both shoulders to touch the mat. Nonetheless, Wilkins accumulated a 9-0 advantage, leading to another majority
win for the Raiders. Wellesley took the lead for the first time when the 152-pound Jacob Mingolla buried a half-nelson in on Edwin Marroquin and pinned him. The Raiders then augmented their lead to 23-18 as AJ
Grignaffini beat Sean Kalinin 9-6. Grignaffini took his opponent down late in the third period to secure the victory.
23. That was short-lived, though, as Raider Will Dario implemented an arm-bar pin of Andres Marin at the 182-pound division.
The Warriors received a pin from the 170-pound Josef Shohet, catapulting themselves back on top 24-
The 195-pound match came down to the wire. Wellesley’s Jared Melanson, who was losing 4-0 early, came back and closed within one at 4-3 when he took down Jacob Simmons in the third period. But Melanson could not manage to flip Simmons to earn any back points and lost. Ramses Akemafula won the 220pound match, 6-2, giving Brookline the 30-29 lead before the aforementioned Barry triumph. “We had the kids we expected to wrestle well did wrestle well,” said Davis. “But we did leave some points on the mat, so we have some things to work on.”
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Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Wellesley Sports
Playing for a Cause BY MIKE STOLLER At the Boys' Basketball team's season opener, the Wellesley athletic department honored former Wellesley junior varsity basketball coach Paul Seaver, who was diagnosed with ALS last February during his first season with the Raiders, after coaching basketball at Milford and Franklin for many years. Wellesley opened up the season against Milford in order to recognize both Seaver and the Compassionate Care organization, which raises funds to help support people with the disease. The players from both teams wore Compassionate Care black t-shirts during warm-ups and the coaches wore them throughout the night.
In another sentimental twist to the evening, Magpiong called to center court Wellesley girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; varsity basketball captain Caroline Harrington, who had just won an MIAA honorable mention essay award for her poem featuring Seaver on how student athletes can make an impact on the community. For more information about Compassionate Care, see ccals.org.
Players paused during a ceremony recognizing JV Basketball Coach Paul Sever.
localtownpages Invites you to welcome in 2012 with the first FREE Networking Event of the Year at
Raffaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 1601 Main Street, Walpole January 18th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Refreshments and coffee will be served.
Pre-register by January 12th and you are entered to win a FREE ad in one of our 5 newspapers. RSVP: publisher@localtownpages.com We have over 57,000 readers and expect a large turnout.
Page 21
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
Page 22
January 1, 2012
Snow Sports and More: Winter with the Rec. Dept. With snow in the forecast, it is hard not to think about the upcoming winter and all the fun activities that come with it. This winter the Wellesley Recreation Department has a variety of programs and trips that can please any child. Our winter classes will kick off with our 33rd annual Elementary School and Middle School ski trips. Every Wednesday in January, 3rd – 5th graders will board a bus and venture to Nashoba Valley Ski area to take a lesson and have some free time to ski before heading back to Wellesley. In addition we have a Middle School Ski program that heads to Nashoba every Friday in January allowing middle schoolers to start their weekends by enjoying some night skiing. These annual ski programs have helped introduce Wellesley youth to the joy of skiing or snowboarding. Participants have said how much they have enjoyed skiing
with their friends. Even Recreation Program Administrator, Tim Kennedy, went on the trips when he was growing up in town.
Then sign them up for our Star Wars: Jedi Training class or Robotics 1 class. Looking to keep your child active no matter what the weather is like outside? Every child goes home exhausted with a smile on their face after spending an hour with Joe Roberts and his staff and their Terriers Dodgeball League. We also offer a variety of basketball, multi sport, indoor tennis, and baton twirling classes to keep children entertained and engaged.
If flying down a mountain is not your speed then try our cross country skiing program which is meant for any ability and almost any age. We offer a Wednesday cross country skiing program for 6-10yr olds and a 3 day February vacation program for 6-16 yr olds. If skiing is not your forte then be sure to sign up for one of our skating lessons. Lessons are run by Bay State Blades and they are held at the Chase arena in Natick. Be sure to practice all of your starting and stopping in time for the new outdoor community ice rink which will be located on Hunnewell field. Check out our website for up to date information on the rink and be sure to cross your fingers for some cold weather and snow so that we can start building the rink.
In addition to our skiing and skating programs the Wellesley Recreation Department has many more offerings. The Wellesley Recreation Department prides itself in offering “Something for Everyone”! Would your child prefer a science or robotics class?
Don’t worry, because in addition to all of these elementary and high school programs we also offer an assortment of classes for preschoolers. Everything from teaching your baby sign language to Rockin’ Tot Music to Puddlestompers outdoor adventures, every child will be a “happy camper”. We haven’t forgotten about the adults either…
Aside from our old standbys of aerobics and yoga programs, we are offering some great one & two night workshops. Get your home organized after the Holidays with “Secrets of a Professional Organizer.” Or learn to use some of the new gifts you got this season: Take a cooking class with your teen on February 6 & 13 or learn how to use your iPad on January 12th. Get back to your preholiday shape and take a new Brazilian martial arts program: Capoiera or Zumba, a Latin inspired fitness program. Finally, for all ages, we have Indoor Walking at the Warren Building, you may walk during our office hours Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. or go to our website www.wellesleyma.gov/recreation and check our Open Gym schedule to do laps in the gym. Stop by the office and we’ll give you information for laps and mileage.
Town Of Wellesley Local Election Calendar For 2012 Instructions For Candidates For Town Wide Office 1. The candidate must be a resident of the Town, and for certain offices a registered voter. Check the by-law if this is an issue. 2. The Candidate must personally obtain Nomination papers from the Town Clerk. These forms are available 90 days prior to the Annual Town Election, December 1, 2011 for the 2012 Annual Town Election. The candidate will supply name, address, phone, email and sign for the papers. This information is public information. 3. Signatures of fifty voters registered in the Town are required (any precinct), although it is recommended that more be obtained. 4. The deadline to “take out papers” is January 20, 2012,
5:00 p.m. 5. Papers must be returned to the Town Clerk for certification no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 24, 2012. 6. Candidates for re-election for Town Wide offices must also obtain signatures, unlike Town Meeting Member candidates. 7. We request the use of your email address for election related messages and for Town Meeting communication if you are elected. This email is intended for the use of the Town Clerk to notify candidates and Town Meeting Members of events or information of interest to them. The list is a public record. 8. Elected candidates must be sworn in by the Town Clerk prior to exercising their office. The Town Clerk will host a
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group swearing in reception on the evening of March 14, 2012 for all town-wide office holders at the Town Hall. If the candidate intends to solicit funds or spend money on the campaign a committee must be formed in advance and campaign finance requirements must be followed. Please request a handbook and forms or see state Office of Campaign and Political Finance website for further information http://www.ocpf.net/guides/mun_ office_2010.pdf Town Meeting Members are elected annually at the March Annual Town Election to staggered three year terms by precinct.In 2011 the town new precinct lines were drawn to create eight precincts. In 2012 all 240 seats will be elected, 30 for each precinct. The top 10 vote totals in each precinct will be awarded 3 year terms, the next 10 two year terms and the last 10 one year terms. Incumbent Town Meeting members are required to file a letter stating their intent to become a candidate for re-election 45 days prior to the Annual Town Election. A form for this purpose is mailed to all incumbents in late December. The return notice date for the March 2012 Annual Town Elec-
tion is January 31, 2012 5:00 p.m. New Town Meeting Member candidates must obtain nomination papers. Papers are available from the Town Clerk beginning December 1 2011. Instructions For Candidates For Town Meeting 1. In order to be candidate for Town Meeting Member, one must reside in the precinct from which one desires to run. 2. Nomination papers must be obtained in person from the Town Clerk’s Office beginning December 1 2011 and ending February 3, 2012. 3. Ten signatures of registered voters from the precinct are required. 4. It is recommended that each candidate obtain more than the minimum of ten signatures in the event that any of the signatures cannot be certified. 5. The nomination papers must be returned to the Board of Registrars (Town Clerk’s Office) for certification no later than 5:00 p.m. February 7, 2012. 6. Drawing of names for position on the ballot will be on February 8, 2012 at 10:00 am at Town Hall. Candidates are welcome to observe but rarely attend.
7. Any current Town Meeting Member who is running for reelection need only complete and return the notice of intent to run by January 31, 2012. 8. There are no campaign finance reporting requirements for Town Meeting Candidates. 9. We request the use of your email address for election related messages and for Town Meeting communication if you are elected. This email is intended for the use of the Town Clerk to notify candidates and Town Meeting Members of events or information of interest to them. The list is a public record. 10. The Election is March 13, 2012. Polls open 7 am – 8 pm. 11. Town Meeting is currently expected to begin the last Monday of March and continue weekly until the business is completed. 12. Elected Candidates will be invited to attend an orientation meeting with the Moderator, usually the week prior to the beginning of Town Meeting. 13. Elected candidates will be sworn into office at the first night of the Annual Town Meeting.
Local Town Pages www.wellesleytownnews.com
January 1, 2012
Page 23
Be Prepared For Winter
the tires are in good shape with plenty of tread left. Keep an emergency kit in the car, and keeping a warm hat and a pair of gloves in the trunk or glove compartment is never a bad idea.
home. Have a plan for snow removal, not just from the driveway, but from the roof as well. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not often that snow builds up so fast that it causes problems, but it can happen and you should be ready.
Doug Masters, owner of Masters Touch
It seems like the snow from last winter finally finished melting only a couple of months ago, but here we are heading into another long, cold stretch of New England weather. While last winter's sudden surge of blizzards, one after another, seemed like a unique event, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not unprecedented, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to ensure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be ready when Old Man Winter decides to blanket our area with snow, ice, and frigid weather again this year. Make sure your gutters are cleaned at least once, and sometimes several times a year depending on the amount and types of trees near your home. Pine trees tend to shed needles year round, so a spring and fall cleaning is important. Deciduous trees also drop debris seasonally, so sometimes a spring cleaning is in order. But of course the most important time is early November, when most of the leaves come down. Gutters free and clear of debris are essential in the winter, when there is constant melting of ice and snow. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for the water to be able to flow freely through the gutters and downspouts and away from your
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Last year, in addition to severe ice dams on almost every house, the snow built up so quickly that weight became an issue for some homes. While the building codes have become more strict in terms of how much weight a roof can hold, measured in pounds per square foot, there were many homes that were at the limit last year. Make sure you have a snow rake at the ready as they can be hard to find after a snow storm. After a signifigant storm, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to remove snow from the lower few feet of your roof and keep gutters clear BEFORE ice dams start to form. While not every home needs this done, many are susceptible to severe ice dams and leaks, and staying ahead of the problem is critical. Once you do have ice dams and gutters frozen solid with ice, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very difficult to remove them and being overly aggressive with axes or hammers can cause more harm than good. Many contractors offer routine snow removal, similar to driveway plowing, so if you are not up to the task of keeping up with the snow, find a reliable company that will complete this work for you automatically after any heavy snow fall. In addition to roof snow removal, make sure you have a plan in place for the driveway and sidewalks. Whether you hire somebody for this, or do it yourself, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait until the last minute to make sure you are prepared. Check your shovels and snow blower, make
sure your snow removal company has you on their list, and stock up on salt, sand, or ice melt ahead of time. Also on the home checklist: Turn off all the exterior water faucets to prevent freezing while removing, draining, and storing all the hoses. Make a note of where any exterior vents are that are lower than five feet and keep an eye on them as snow builds up. It is critical to ensure any dryer vents or other exhaust vents are never blocked by snow. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already done so, make sure you have your heating system inspected, cleaned, and serviced every fall. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to contact a chimney sweep to ensure there is no dangerous build up inside the chimney. In case there is a fire or blocked vent, it is extremely important to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check them every year to make sure they are working correctly and change all the batteries. If there is a winter emergency, such as a major blizzard and a long power outage, you should have an emergency check list and have several items on hand. Flash lights and batteries are a good start, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more. Many homes rely on electricity for water, so if the power is out itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to
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have at least a few gallons of fresh water. Also, keep the pantry stocked with non-perishable food that is easily prepared without power, especially if you have an electric stove. Keeping year round access to your gas grill can be a big help in the event of a multi-day power outage. Having an action plan to follow should there be a weather emergency is a must. What happens if school is cancelled? Who will care for the children during the day? Will your employer allow you to stay home, and if not, have you arranged for child care? Keep a list of important phone numbers taped inside one of the kitchen cabinet doors. Make sure it includes family, friends, neighbors, utility companies, and important vendors such as your plumber, contractor, and heating service provider.
And finally, one of the most important things during the winter season - be a good neighbor. Know who the elderly people are in your neighborhood, and help them with snow removal. Many cannot afford to hire somebody for this task, and it is very dangerous for them to handle it on their own. In addition, it can be very hard for them to make it to the store during the winter with snow and ice everywhere, so check on them often and make sure they know they can call you. With a little preparation and planning, winter in New England can be an exciting time and no real trouble at all. However, if you fail to plan youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be wishing you had migrated to a warm and sunny place.
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter too. If the battery is more than 5 years old, you may want to replace it. Make sure your car has a fresh tune-up before winter, check the antifreeze level, oil, and make sure
if there is anything else i can do just let me know!
Doug Masters Masters Touch PO Box 171 Medfield, MA 02052 508-359-5900 ext. 201 Fax 508-359-4042
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January 1, 2012
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