Millis/Medway April 2012

Medway & Millis localtownpages

Vol. 3 No. 2

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Medway to Say Farewell to Fire Chief

BY J.D. O’GARA

laughs.

After 46 years as a Medway firefighter, Fire Chief Paul Trufant is finally hanging up his helmet.

Over four decades as a firefighter brings with it some big memories. Trufant says one memory that stands out is saving the Medway Community Church, which got struck by lightning in July of 2008.

“I’m on an extension,” laughs Trufant, who since his promotion to Lieutenant in 1975, climbed the ranks to the town’s Fire Chief in July of 2008.

“I was supposed to retire at 65, and they asked me to stay on, and I did,” he says, matter-of-factly.

In June, when he retires from the Medway Fire Department, Trufant doesn’t plan to sit around.

Instead, he’ll be going back to running his construction company, P.L. Trufant & Sons Construction, along with his son.

Trufant is clearly a family man.

With his wife of 26 years, Barbara, Trufant raised seven stepchildren. Each holiday, he says, brings some combination of the busy family, although many a holiday has been interrupted by the call of duty. He proudly talks about his 13 grandchildren, counting and naming them off on his fingers.

“I’ve got to make sure to check that no one is forgotten,” he

“There’ve been so many times we’ve gone to fires that we’ve saved peoples houses and got them out safely, with minimal damage,” says Trufant, although he does note that some “bad things,” have been “hard to digest.”

BY KAREN SPATH, WITH STEVE CAMPBELL AND MARYANN ZIEMBA

In June, Chief Paul Trufant will retire after 46 years with the Medway Fire Department.

Times have changed since Trufant became a firefighter. At the time, he was working construction as well as delivering fuel oil for Julian’s Oil Co. “I worked winters with Chief Julian,” says Trufant, who one day asked him, “’We’re shorthanded some firefighters. Would you be interested?’”

the police station dispatching, volunteered. His first call was a learning experience. “ When I got on, I got an old helmet and an old coat and was told where to go to buy a pair of boots,” says Trufant. When the alarm sounded, he said, he was told to “follow the older guys.”

Trufant, who also helped out at

FAREWELL continued on page 2

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BEAUTIFICATION continued on page 3

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Advance registration is underway for volunteers to participate in the eighth annual Millis Beautification Day, co-sponsored by the Millis Garden Club and Millis Lions Club. The event will take place on Saturday, April 14, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. On-site registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. in a tent on the grounds at the Veteran’s Memorial Building, 900 Main Street. All volunteers are required to wear work gloves and requested to bring a rake, marked with your name.

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“That was a memorable day, that we saved the church, that we got there,” he says. “There was a horrendous thunder and lightning storm. You could smell the fire, but you couldn’t see it because of the fog around the steeple.”

Along with successes have come a number of tragedies.

Trufant remembers two young people out canoeing. One drowned, he says, but firefighters were able to pull the other out of the river, saving him. He speaks with humble pride about events in which the department has been successful.

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FAREWELL

use have improved dramatically.

continued from page 1

“We never had the Jaws of Life until the mid 70s,” he says. The department actually purchased them after raising funds for them following a fatal accident. The town has since purchased another set, and one family in particular, who chose not to be recognized purchased another set and some rescue tools, says Trufant. A number of local companies have also donated to the fire department over the years.

Since then, says Trufant, he’s had a lot of academy training as have the rest of the crew. In fact, that’s advice he would give to a young firefighter today.

“Make sure they get the proper training,” says Trufant, “and make sure they get as much training as is offered. There are so many changes in firefighting methods of today versus what they were years ago. I can’t stress enough to get as much training in as possible.”

Chief Trufant says that firefighters these days actually go into buildings more often to get at the heart of a fire, whereas years ago “a lot of firefighting was done from the outside.” Newer gear allows firefighters to do things they weren’t allowed to do at one time.

“Our heat indicators were our ears,” says Trufant. “Your ears started to burn, you got out. Now we wear hoods, and helmets of today allow us to enter.”

Trufant says the tools firefighters

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Saturday, March 17 marked the first annual Shamrock Shuffle, a 5K behind Medway High School that benefited the Medway Elementary Parent Teacher Organization (MEPTO). The event was one of the first to use RaceMenu’s RaceDay, a mobile application that enables more efficient same day race registration.

“We have a lot of good neighbors, as you would call them in the town, that come forward,” says Trufant.

Trufant says the Medway firefighters he works with, some fulltime and some on call, “are dedicated. They take the job very seriously,” he says. He expects that whoever fills his shoes will do so as well.

“When the qualifications went out (for the position), a lot of us were kind of amazed,” says Trufant, who considers himself a firefighter first, administrator second.

“A lot of these fellas that are applying have probably held positions of some form of rank; they’re not just people in off the street, but the practical knowledge to me outweighs a lot of the book knowledge.”

Post-race, these runners had the Irish spirit. From left, Dawn Socha, of Franklin, Nancy Dickie and Dawn Travalini, both of Medway and Kim Calvano, of Norfolk.

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BEAUTIFICATION continued from page 1

tee member noted that, “Although high school students are expected to perform community service during their years, Millis Beautification Day has become a special tradition that they themselves have helped create. Like the Garden Club and the Lions Club, the young people of Millis are the foundation of this collaborative effort to make Millis brighter than the day before. It is a favorite day for them, as they always ask me, ‘Ms. Ziemba, when is Beautification Day this year?’

This year, a new school group will participate in the event. The Middle School Student Council, under the direction of their advisor and science teacher, Deb Hickey, will recruit volunteers in school and at home,” Ziemba said “Every year we exceed our goal for the number of volunteers. In addition, we encourage elementary school children, third grade and above, to participate with their families. While many younger children already participate with their Scout troops and town groups, it would be wonderful to see families and groups of friends carry on the spirit of volunteering every year thereafter,” Ziemba said.

Local businesses have also been encouraged to participate in the event. Karen Spath, Millis Beautification Day Volunteer Coordinator, has asked business owners, managers and their employees to volunteer to become part of a special team, named for their business.

“Special teams can experience the satisfaction, camaraderie, and community spirit of a successful Millis Beautification Day,” Spath said.

“We also ask local businesses to support the event by cleaning up and maintaining areas around their properties and appropriately disposing of any trash and debris. Each area, no matter its size, is an important part of the entire landscape that makes up the 12.5 square miles of the Town of Millis. Millis strives to

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com support its local businesses and we appreciate the business community supporting Millis Beautification Day. Since a spruced-up commercial property is also likely to be more appealing to customers, it's a win-win for both the business and the Town,” Spath explained.

This year, the Lions Club will have their EyeMobile on site at the Veterans Memorial Building.

Steve Campbell, Lions Club member and Millis Beautification Day event co-chair, noted “The EyeMobile, sponsored by the Lions Club District K will come to Millis for the first time in seven years. It will be staffed by trained Lions Club members who will provide free eye exams and screening for eye diseases for all residents,” Campbell said.

Also this year, the Lions Club will be planting Trees at the event.

“The Lions Tree Planting supports the goal of Lions International President Wing-Kun Tam,” Campbell explained. “During his one-

Page 3

year term, President Tam challenged the Lions Clubs to plan one million trees. Lions International has surpassed this goal, but Clubs are encouraged to plant additional trees. Millis Lions President Mike O' Shaughnessey requested that the Club raise enough funds to plant at least six trees in locations chosen by the tree warden and the town selectmen. To date, the Lions have planted two trees, and the other four will be planted on Millis Beautification Day around the triangle at Veterans square, in front of the American Legion hall. The new trees are being planted to replace the trees that had to be cut down last year due to disease,” Campbell said.

To volunteer for the event, please contact Karen Spath at (508) 3761122 or karen12349@verizon.net.

For more information on the Millis Lions Club and its programs, visit http://www.millislionsclub.org. To learn more about the Millis Garden Club, visit www.millisgardenclub.org.

Millis Beautification Day volunteers will be assigned, beginning at 7:30 registration, one of several sites around Millis to help spruce up, Shown is a group of volunteers from last year’s Beautification Day at the Veteran’s Memorial Building. Local businesses are also encouraged to clean up the areas around their shops. Photo by George Trumbour, III, courtesy of the Millis Garden Club.

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Jewish Family Workshop Offers Foundation in Judaism

By J.D. O’Gara During the first two nights of Passover, which begins on April 6 this year, many Jewish families celebrate the exodus of their ancestors from Egypt by holding a Seder, or ceremonial dinner. This year, on March 25, a number of families involved in the Jewish Family Workshop IV got to participate in a model Passover Seder in anticipation of their spring holiday. The Jewish Family Workshop IV began in 1975 to provide children of Jewish families with a basis in Jewish education and an avenue to celebrate the high holidays.

The organization (www.jewishfamilyworkshop.org) draws members from all over the Metrowest area. Since the Hebrew school is at the Mindess School in Ashland, many of the members are from that town, but members also come from such areas as Millis, Franklin, Framingham, Hopkinton, Holliston and Natick.

“The reason members are involved as families is to educate their children. It really all focuses around the Hebrew school,” says Adam Kahn, who, with his wife and two children, is in his second year of involvement with the Jewish Family Workshop. For those who are Jewish and do not belong to a temple, this collective provides a lesserpriced alternative.

“We’re a collection of parents doing it on our own, and we’re not beholden to a fee. We’re saying no to the standard way of what synagogues cost,” says a member and Mom from Millis, who says that most temples can cost a family thousands per year to join, plus religious education fees and high holiday fees.

“Unlike belonging to a church, and obviously I have friends who are active church members, they take donations,” says Kahn, “To be a member of a Jewish temple, it doesn’t work that way. There are member fees, building fees, and high holiday fees,” he says, although those prices depend on what temple one is involved with. “We provide a lot of what a temple has to offer without all the associated costs.”

Although Kahn admits that he doesn’t necessarily consider himself a very spiritual person, he’s very proud of the “culture associated with being Jewish.”

“We are reformed,” says a Millis Mom, who is raising her two daughters in the Jewish faith, although her husband grew up in a Christian faith.

“I didn’t feel like our interfaith situation was a good fit for a traditional temple.” She says she finds a lot of families like hers in the collaborative.

“Not being associated with the temple makes it easier to manage

that fine line,” says Kahn. “I think that’s one of the reasons it’s attractive to interfaith families.”

Kahn says he believes the Jewish Family Workshop provides a “good, solid Jewish foundation as far as education for the holidays, being able to read and write the language.

What’s also great, he says, is its open approach to the high holidays.

“For high holidays such as Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah,” says Kahn, “a lot of non practicing Jews who don’t go to temple come out of the woodwork, and so a lot of the temples also charge tickets to attend the high holidays. One of the things that’s great about JFW is we also offer the community a location to attend the high holidays,” says Kahn.

The JFW holds its high holidays at the River School in Weston, and, although he says they welcome donations, “they’re open to anyone who wants to attend.”

The Jewish Family Workshop mission statement is to provide children with a sense of Jewish identity, introduce them to the rich history and culture of the Jewish people and provide a solid foundation for Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Children attend classes on Sunday mornings only during the school year. Members are expected to participate in at least one committee, but Kahn notes, “The community is what you make it.”

April 1. 2012

Primary in Both Towns Show Romney Leading Republicans The March 6 primary brought a number of Republican voters out in both Millis and Medway, as well as some Democratic voters.

In Millis, Romney garnered 608 of the Republican votes, followed

by Santorum (98), Paul (67) and Gingrich (28). In Medway, the

same order of popularity also reigned with Romney leading at 929 votes, followed by Santorum (98, Paul (91) and Gingrich (49).

Among Democrats, 145 in Millis and 279 in Medway cast their vote for President Obama.

Medway DPS to Rebuild Sidewalks

BY DAVID D’AMICO, DPS Deputy Directory, Medway The Medway Department of Public Services is completing design and specifications to rebuild sidewalks on Village Street and Lovering Street this summer. The Village Street section to be replaced runs from Centre Street to Cottage Street. The Lovering Street section to be replaced runs from Holliston Street to Pond Street.

Both sections will require some roadway drainage improvements along with the sidewalk work.

Work on the projects will begin in July and be completed by September 1st. Since the sidewalks run so close to properties along the roads, residents should expect that

some disruption of their property could occur to accommodate wider and raised sidewalks. These disruptions are temporary and the Town will repair and restore these areas at no cost to the homeowners.

The goal is to improve the sidewalk's look and function, correct roadway drainage problems, and generally enhance the neighborhoods.

The Department of Public Services plans on mailing more information to residents in the areas affected and will provide update information on the Town's web site at www.townofmedway.org. Residents may also contact the Department directly by e-mail or phone at (508) 533-3275.

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Millis Middle School Science Team Wins $3,000 Janet Shockley Named Regional Winner in Shell Science Lab Challenge

By J.D. O’Gara Although Janet Shockley, a science teacher at Millis Middle School in Millis, Mass., has been named a regional winner in the Shell Science Lab Challenge, she doesn’t want personal credit.

“We share equipment, so we did it as a team,” she says, referring to the Millis Science team, who include Shockley, Lance Benham, April Hodge and Deb Hickey.

Sponsored by the Shell Oil Company and administered by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the competition encouraged middle and high school teachers (grades 6-12) who have found innovative ways to deliver quality lab experiences with limited school and laboratory resources to share their approaches. Shockley was one of 17 regional winners named.

The team applied for the Challenge in October, explaining how the Millis teachers make do with limited funds. Science teachers were asked to detail why their schools’ laboratory facilities would be considered limited and how they make the most of what they have using current lab facilities.

Along with a letter, they crafted a video to demonstrate.

For part of the contest, teachers had to explain how things would change if they had access to better laboratory facilities. All agreed that a big change would be in allowing students to participate in experiments rather than simply observe.

The middle school grades, for example, share one hot plate. The teachers would like to see maybe six to eight per lab, but hot plates run about $140 each, they say.

“We’re trying to increase the hands-on (activities) in all of our situations,” says April Hodge. “A lot of times, everyone has to gather around. It’s hard to get that many kids around (the experiment),” says Hodge. She adds that after a demonstration, she likes to leave the items out for a while, so that all students will have an opportunity to come in and touch it.”

With more funds, “Kids would have other options,” says Shockley, who adds it would be nice to

The Millis Middle School Science Team recently won $3,000 as Regional Winner in the Shell Science Lab Challenge.

Teacher Janet Shockley submitted the grant application as part of a team. From left to right, teachers Janet Shockley, Lance Benham and April Hodge. Not shown in photo: Deb Hickey

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purchase science/lab equipment and science education resource books; a $300 gift certificate to the NSTA Bookstore; a one-year NSTA membership for two teachers and paid registration for two teachers to attend a 2011 NSTA Area Conference on Science Education.

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Page 6

April 1. 2012

Looking to Go from Good, to Great Family Gives Back A Conversation with Millis’ New Chief of Police

By J.D. O’Gara

are so limited, the challenge is to make it work with what you have.

A lot of times you try to improve those things that need it most, but with a little investigation, you might see something you’ve done well that you can do better.

Millis has a new police chief. As of March, the Millis Police Department welcomed Lt. Keith Edison at its helm. Edison had been on the Holliston Police Department for 33 years, making Lieutenant in the Fall of 2000. The role of chief is not unfamiliar to Edison, who has served Holliston as Acting Chief for more than one period of time.

What brought you to Millis?

I was actually planning on retiring. I had done what I had done, and I had reached the maximum percentage of pay for my position in Holliston. Then all of a sudden, Chief McGowan ended up going to Dover.

How well do you know the town?

I’m somewhat familiar with the community, having worked next door for so many years, and I’ve known Chief McGowan for many years. I talked with him about town, what it’s like. He spoke very positively of the relationship between the police department, and the town, and the schools.

What are your plans?

Right now, I’m focusing my time and energy just getting an assessment for how things work, how effective they work.

Elise Spies Scholarship Fund Aims to Help Students Who Give

How many will you oversee on the police department in Millis?

The department here has 14 officers and 4 full time civilian dispatchers.

New Millis Police Chief Keith Edison

Would you change anything?

How are they working?

I’m not interested in being viewed as someone who came in and changed things just because I’m in charge and I can, as in ‘Okay, as of tomorrow, here’s your new 3,000 page policy manual.’ I’m not interested in fixing things that are working fine.

Are there things that need to change?

The one trap you want to avoid is oftentimes people look at something and see it’s working well and never try to improve it, and you lose an opportunity to move from good to great, from doing well to doing it better, especially in municipal work where dollars

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How closely will you work with the fire department?

I’ve been learning my way through that process. The fire chief has been discussing issues we have concerns about. We have very tight quarters here. The better they get along, the better it works.

On a day to day basis, I don’t have much interaction with fire chief, but we do share input. For example, we’re right now, and we’ve shared some experience on it. The goal is to make the most with the limited dollars we have available to us.

Are there discussions about the facility, the possibility of expanding or moving?

Well, the facility is inadequate.

The goal would be to find the most cost effective way to get to the finish line, and preferably move out while that happens. The more you restrict your movement on the site, the more costly it becomes. We will look at every opportunity to make it the most cost effective energy efficient building.

Tell me about you, personally.

My wife Karyn and I will be married 33 years this spring.

We have two daughters, Elizabeth and Kathleen, and pretty soon, I’m going to gain a son through Elizabeth’s marriage.

Shown, center, is Elise Spies, working with some volunteers from Medway NHS. Elise has partial Trisomy 18, and the family’s experience with young volunteers has prompted them to give back with a scholarship in Elise’s name.

By J.D. O’Gara Cindy Parker Spies breaks her life into two distinct eras: life before Elise, and life with Elise. Elise, now seven, is the second of Spies’ three children who also include Parker, 9 and Rio, 3, and she’s changed the way that the Spies family lives and looks at life. Elise was born with a chromosomal disorder known as partial Trisomy 18, which causes severe disability, multiple food and environmental allergies, and obstructive sleep apnea. She gets sick easily, is prone to pneumonia, cannot attend school and needs assistive technology as well as constant care.

Elise learns in a classroom in her home, built especially for her with help from volunteers from Random Smiles, in Franklin, and the Millis Lions Club. She uses assistive technology, including an iPad, provided to her by the school. A continuous stream of professionals and volunteers make their way in and out of the Spies household each day to care for and teach Elise, including a number of high school-age volunteers from Medway and Millis.

“Everyone’s been so generous,” says Cindy Spies. “The high school students were so generous,

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going above and beyond some of their community service hours. I was really touched.

And so, the Spies family decided to give back. In 2009, Cindy and her husband Ed established a scholarship, in lieu of birthday gifts, in Elise’s honor, to support a graduating high school senior in either of the two towns who “demonstrates leadership efforts in working selflessly to help others in the community.”

Spies says she really wants the $500 annual scholarship to benefit someone who is an outstanding volunteer, and that while academic achievement is valued, it’s the volunteer effort that counts.

“I don’t want to exclude people who spend a lot of time volunteering and enjoy the whole aspect of community service but don’t consider themselves academically very high,” says Spies, who has become friends with the students who’ve come to work with her daughter. “I think (volunteering) is important for people – we can learn so much from giving back,” says Spies.

Graduating seniors from the two towns can contact their guidance departments to find out more about the Elise Spies Scholarship Fund, Inc., also found at http://elisespiesscholarship.com.

The Spies Scholarship will hold a skate party fundraiser on Saturday, April 28, from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. at Perelli Veterans Skating Rink in Franklin.

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April 1, 2012

Page 7

Homes for Heroes® Finds Home in Millis Braving the Cold Program Offers Generous Rebate to Everyday Heroes Together, as Brothers

By J.D. O’Gara Sometimes, “thank you” just doesn’t seem like enough, especially for those around us who give of themselves day in and day out.

Local realty company Northeast Signature Properties, LLC. has found a way to do more for those everyday heroes. Just this month, they’ve joined with Homes for Heroes®, to give something, namely a good chunk of their gross commission, back to a selfless group of military personnel, police officers, firefighters, first responders, health care workers and teachers who dedicate their lives to helping others.

“A past client who is in the military had referred us to it, so we looked into it,” says Northeast Signature Properties’ Laina Kaplan.

“We thought it was a great idea.”

Kaplan explains that the Minnesota-based program is just starting to take hold in the New England area, but that her company is the only one who does it in her territory, which includes Millis, Medway and 13 other surrounding

Shown in the center are brothers Ben (wearing suspenders) and Eli.

For seven years, a young man from Millis, Ben Dugdale (Millis High School 2005), his wife Molly (Millis High School, 2007) and their friends have participated in the Polar Plunge at Nantasket Beach, to benefit the Massachusetts Special Olympics. Ben’s 16-

year-old brother Eli has Down’s Syndrome. Although he had been a spectator of past events, this year, Eli decided to join in and brave the icy waters on March 3. In total, Dugdale and his friends raised $2,435 this year, and an estimated $15,000 in years combined.

towns. The program is open to clients of Northeast Signature Properties, Inc. who are buying or selling their primary residence.

“Times are tough right now,” says Kaplan. “It’s a nice benefit for a hero. They’re going to get a rebate of 25% of our gross commission.” Homes for Heroes was actually formed in 2002 after the tragedy of September 11, 2001. A group of Minnesota real estate-related business owners decided to create the network and program to give back to those who served their communities.

Kaplan says that in addition to the quarter of gross commission that goes back to the hero, another 5% goes to the Homes for Heroes Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization which provides or coordinates financial assistance and housing resources to our Nation’s Heroes such as Military personnel, Police/Peace Officers, Firefighter and First Responders who demonstrate neediness.

What’s more, the everyday heroes involved also stand to get a

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PASTA Served with bread and butter

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5.25 6.75 6.75 6.75 6.75 6.75

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discount from Homes for Heroes mortgage brokers. NE Signature Properties works with Millis residents Suzy Ferrentino, of Prospect Mortgage, and Matt Miller, of Leader Bank, who also offer the related discount.

The Homes for Heroes program appealed to the realtors at Northeast Signature Properties, says Kaplan, because “We live in these towns. We have families in these towns. We’re getting the services of these heroes,” she says.

Northeast Signature Properties, LLC will be holding a seminar on the Homes for Heroes® program at their office at 1352 Main Street in Millis on Thursday, April 12, from 7-8 p.m. Visit www.nesignature.com for more information.

To find out more about who qualifies as a hero under the program, contact Homes for Heroes at info@homesforheroes.com or else toll-free at (866) 4 Heroes/(866) 443-7637. More information is also available at http://www.homesforheroes.com/.

SUBMARINES Small Medium Italian 4.25 5.50 Salami 4.25 5.50 Ham 4.25 5.50 Hamburg 4.25 5.50 BLT 4.25 5.50 Pepper & Egg 4.25 5.50 Meatless 3.50 4.50 Turkey 4.50 5.60 Ham & Egg 4.50 5.60 Sausage & Egg 4.50 5.60 Tuna 4.50 5.60 Chicken Salad 4.50 5.60 Chicken Fingers 4.50 5.60 Roast Beef 4.75 6.00 Pastrami 4.75 6.00 Steak 4.25 5.50 with Onions 4.40 5.60 with Peppers 4.40 5.60 with Mushrooms 4.50 5.75 with all of the above 4.60 5.85 Steak & Egg 4.50 5.75 +All submarines served with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, pickles and hot peppers at no additional charge.

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 8

April 1. 2012

Living Healthy Modern Cataract Surgery In 2012

BY GLEN K. GOODMAN, M.D. FACS

Goodman Eye Medical & Surgical Center In my last column in January, I provided a basic understanding of what a cataract is. Herein is a summary of surgery for cataracts.

For millenia the most common procedure available was a technique called couching, wherein the practitioner (perhaps not even a physician) would apply pressure to the eye with a finger or other instrument to dislodge the white cataract lens out of the patient's line of sight. The improvement in vision could be substantial due to the fact that some vision, although blurry, was always better than the pre-existing near-total blindness Two centuries ago, the age of modern cataract surgery was born with the introduction of scientific principles and improved instrumentation. In the intracapsular surgical technique, the entire clouded lens was removed. Patients were then provided eyeglasses, which because of their

strength, were thick and were known as "coke bottles." Millions of successful intracapsular procedures were carried out world-wide.

The intracapsular technique was not without complications, however, many of which were related to the large incision which could take weeks or months to heal.

Approximately fifty years ago, extracapsular surgery evolved in an attempt to maintain the advantages of the intracapsular method, but to minimize the associated risks. In this technique, the back membrane, the capsule, of the original cataract is intentionally left in place to provide a natural barrier between the front of the eye and the more distal back structures. The development of the extracapsular technique was also accompanied by improvements in optics, namely hard and soft contact lenses, which represented a significant improvement in vision as compared to the thick cataract glasses that so many generations had been accustomed to.

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In the 1980's Dr. Charles Kelman of New York City revolutionized cataract surgery and brought the specialty to its current modern state, by developing phacoemulsification cataract surgery, which involves ultrasonically disassembling a cataract through multiple small microscopic incisions in the eye, as opposed to removing it as a large singular unit. At about the same time, Dr. Harold Riddly in England developed the first human intraocular lens which allowed ophthalmologists to place, for the first time in human history, an artificial lens inside the eye. The combination of phacoemulsification with implantation simultaneously of an intraocular lens (IOL) is the standard of care in 2012.

As we look forward over the scientific horizon, the next step in the evolution of cataract surgery is likely to involve the femtosecond laser which is being developed to assist the cataract surgeon in more safely removing the cataract utilizing laser light as opposed to the scalpel. The initial reports are quite encouraging but the femtosecond laser is not available in the United States other than on an experimental basis.

Finally, the question arises as to what an individual patient should do when he or she is told that a cataract is present. Although most cataracts are removed with the phacoemulsification technique, it is not indicated for all types of cataracts. Similarly there are many specialized types of implants which can be employed. It is best

to seek a qualified board certified ophthalmic cataract surgeon who has the experience to fully diagnose and advise the individual patient as to the proper options available. Not all ophthalmologists specialize in cataract surgery, as there are many other sub-specialties in the field.

When flying cross country recently, I overheard a person behind me state to his traveling companion, "I hope I see a lot of gray hair on the captain." In other words, experience matters in flying a jet and similarly experience in the cataract operating room is equally important.

For more information or to make an appointment, please see our ad on this page.

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April 1, 2012

Page 9

Living Healthy Local Medway Paddler to Compete in CRWA Race Michael Prentice of Medway, will be putting his paddling skills to test at the Charles River Watershed Association’s (CRWA) 30th Annual Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race scheduled for Sunday, April 29, 2012. The Race, which celebrates the ongoing improvements of the Charles River, draws approximately 1,500 paddlers and thousands of spectators.

Prentice is entered in the Corp Category of the 24-Mile Race, which features paddling races for all skill levels, from expert to beginner. The $5,000 Professional Flatwater Canoe Marathon draws elite paddlers from across the United States and Canada, while the 24-Mile Relay Race attracts many corporate teams ready for a great bonding experience.

The race’s Finish Line Festival at DCR’s Artesani Park in Brighton is free to all racers and

spectators and hosts day-long.

Registration remains available up to and including race day, but it is recommended that racers register early to avoid late fees.

For more information on registration, becoming a volunteer, or any other aspect of the race, please call (508) 698-6810, e-mail rotc@crwa.org or visit www. charlesriver.org.

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 10

April 1. 2012

Living Healthy Free Divorce Seminar April 17th at 7pm

Lazy Eye - Why All Children Should be Screened

BY JOHN F. HATCH, M.D. Milford-Franklin Eye Center Amblyopia, commonly referred to as lazy eye, is an eye condition noted by reduced vision that is not correctable with glasses or contact lenses and is not due to any eye disease. It usually only affects the vision in one eye. Up to 5% of the population is affected by this problem and it represents the most common cause of treatable blindness in childhood. Unfortunately, the term "lazy eye" is often misused to represent many eye problems including misaligned eyes (strabismus) and droopy lids (ptosis). Many children with strabismus are at risk for amblyopia but not all forms of ocular misalignment result in lazy eye. It can run in families but the inheritance pattern is not easily predicted.

The most common cause of amblyopia is misalignment of the

eyes, referred to as strabismus. A less obvious cause is unequal focus between each eye. Since visual development in children occurs between birth and age eight, it is critical that they be screened by a health professional or the school. Most pediatricians begin screening children, by checking the vision in each eye separately, between the ages of two and four.

Public schools screen children as part of the pre-kindergarten developmental evaluation annually through fifth grade. It is important that the vision be equal in each eye for the brain to develop the ability to use each eye properly. If one eye is not aligned with the other, then the brain may ignore the vision coming from the misaligned eye, and the vision in that eye may not develop properly. If one eye is out of focus compared with the other eye, then the same situation may occur. This is more

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difficult to diagnosis without screening since there is often no apparent abnormality visible to parents and the child usually has no complaints or apparent visual difficulties.

Treatment for amblyopia consists of either patching the better seeing eye or eye drops to make the better eye blurry. Blocking or blurring the non-amblyopic eye will force the brain to use the other eye and restart the process of vision development. Usually patching needs to be done for several hours each day and it may take months for the vision to improve. Follow up appointments are usually scheduled every four to six weeks. The first few weeks can be tough since the child will often complain that they cannot see well while the better eye is patched and they are concerned about how they look with the patch in place. Reassurance by the parents and ophthalmologist are important for success.

The doctors, technicians and staff at the Milford-Franklin Eye Center have been caring for children with this condition for more than 20 years. If amblyopia is detected early and managed properly, the likelihood of lifelong improved vision is quite high.

Any child who has misaligned eyes or difficulty on a screening exam should see a qualified eye care professional for a complete evaluation.

For more information or to make an appointment, please see our ad on the this page.

New Owner

The Divorce Collaborate LLC, a Franklin-based law firm, is hosting a free seminar on April 17, 2012.

The two-hour seminar, Massachusetts Divorce - What to Know Before You Go, starts at 7 p.m. and will be conducted at 9 Summer Street, Suite 201, in Franklin.

Attendees will learn about divorce process options, including

mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation; and topics such as child support, property division, and the new alimony statute will be reviewed.

Space is limited, so please register in advance by sending an email to Melaine at clientsupport@divorcecollaborative.com, or call (508) 347-3805.

Millis Lions to Host Eye Mobile April 14 Free Eye Screenings, VMB 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Head on down to the Veteran’s Memorial Building in Millis on April 14 (Millis Beautification Day) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to visit the District 33K Lions Club EyeMobile, hosted by the Millis Lions Club. For more information, visit millislionsclub.org or contact Lion Mike O’Shaughnessy at (508)

376-1202.

Got old eyeglasses? The Lions can recycle them and distribute them to the needy. Please bring them (no matter what condition)!

In addition, a permanent drop-off location for old eyewear is Eyeworks of Millis.

Medway Senior Expo The Council on Aging in Medway will be hosting a Senior Expo on Friday, April 13, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Senior Center on Oakland Street in Medway.

Among the many exhibitors will be the District 33K Eyemobile, which will be providing free eye screenings from 9 a.m. to Noon.

Meteorologist Harvey Leonard of Channel 5 is a featured guest speaker amongst the entertainment, raffles, prizes and a free lunch courtesy of Roche Brothers. All are welcome to come to the Expo to check out the various exhibits.

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April 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 11

Living Healthy Medfield Orthodontics Celebrates 3rd Anniversary! when they get their braces off and see their smiles transform. It is very rewarding to the entire staff to see this transformation."

After improving countless smiles on patients young and old, Medfield Orthodontics is proud to be celebrating its third anniversary this month. Throughout the past three years, the practice has grown substantially and established itself as a leader in orthodontics in the area by uniquely focusing on personalized care while producing exceptional treatment results.

"Every patient's care is individualized," office manager and treatment coordinator Kristin Formalarie said. "We know their first names, mothers and fathers names and whether or not they got the part in the school play. It starts from their initial phone call.

Everybody who works here loves the patients."

Dr. Jodi Parker and Formalarie have been with Medfield Orthodontics since its inception in 2009 and together have built an exceptional Team delivering outstanding treatment along with a high level of customer service. Drawing from her many years in the dental field,

Although initial financial reactions with orthodontic treatments can be intimidating, Medfield Orthodontics is a preferred insurance provider which sets fees, often resulting in much lower out-ofpocket expenses. It is like a benefit within a benefit. Medfield Orthodontics is also happy to work within a family's budget with financing.

"If someone wants orthodontic Formalarie proudly describes a practice completely dedicated to the comfort and care of its patients.

"It takes many aspects to make it happen and here it comes together so well," Formalarie said.

That compassion shared throughout Medfield Orthodontics is a vital component of their successful history. While they service a varied mixture of children, teens and adults, all patients receive

treatment at often vulnerable times in their lives. Many times, their young patients initially arrive with their head barely reaching the reception desk, but once their treatments are completed, they are blossoming into young adults.

"The difference in this office is that we make it a really great experience for the kids and for the parents as well." Formalarie said.

"Our favorite part of our job is

Dr. Parker specializes in providing orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults and is an elite Invisalign provider. Medfield Orthodontics is located at 266 Main St., Bldg. 3, Suite 32A, and also offers convenient evening hours. For more information, call them at (508) 359-1989 or visit their website at www.medfieldbraces. org.

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treatment for their child or themselves, we don't turn them away," Formalarie said. "We try to work with the economy and work with everyone."

www.flipside-gym.com 508-533-2353

Speech-Language & Hearing Associates of Greater Boston

Toddlers and preschoolers welcome! no conTracT Fees Insurances Accepted/Private Pay-Sliding Scale Available Free Consultation • Preschool Assessment and Intervention • School-Age Speech-Lanquage and Literacy Evaluations and Therapies • Hearing and Auditory Processing Tests • Hearing Aid Fittings

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Visit our website: www.speechlanguageandhearingassociates.com Two Convenient Locations 5 north meadow rd, medfield (508) 359-4532

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 12

Bottle & Can Drive The Medway Lions will conduct its monthly bottles and cans collection on Saturday, April 7, 2012 starting at 9 a.m.; a fundraiser with proceeds used to support community services. Redeemables should be placed at curbside by 9 a.m. or brought directly to Medway Oil

on Broad Street by 11 a.m.

Residents may also, at their convenience, place redeemables in the Lions Bottles and Cans shed in front of West Medway Liquors on Main Street. The Lions thank residents for their continued support.

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April 1. 2012

Franklin Rotary Encourages Seniors to Apply for Scholarship Dear High School Senior, As your high school experience is coming to a close, it is time to contemplate, plan and make decisions that will affect your future.

Part of that process is determining how to pay for a college education. The cost of furthering your education is high but the failure to obtain additional knowledge will cost you even more. Our members understand this and recognize the significant expense and sacrifice that often accompanies its pursuit.

With this in mind the Rotary Club of Franklin, as it has for many years, continues to offer graduating high school seniors from Franklin, Tri–County, King Phillip, and Medway High

Schools an opportunity to receive scholarships to offset the expense of higher education.

The Rotary Club is an international service organization that is dedicated to world peace through service to others and an increased awareness of people’s needs through education. Based on this premise, each application for the Franklin Rotary Club Scholarship is evaluated on the basis of community involvement, financial need, and academic achievement.

To apply for a Scholarship please go to the Rotary Club of Franklin website http://www.franklinrotaryma.org. Click on to “Rotary

Scholarships” and fully complete an application. Please return it as soon as possible and before the May 4, 2012 deadline to: Rotary Scholarship Committee PO Box 148 Franklin MA 02038 On behalf of the Rotary Club of Franklin and its Scholarship committee we wish you good luck and best wishes.

Sincerely, Daniel Gentile Chairman, Rotary Club of Franklin Scholarship Committee

Medway Community Church Announces Easter Services Medway Community Church, 193 Main St, Medway will be hosting the following services to celebrate the risen Lord this Easter season. All are welcome to join!

For more information, call (508)

533-7032 or visit medwaycommunitychurch.org

Maundy Thursday: Thursday, April 5th at 7 p.m.

Palm Sunday: Sunday, April 1st, 9 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m.

Worship Service

Easter Sunday Worship Service: Sunday, April 8th at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. No Sunday School

Know a Great Mom? Nominate Her for Millis Mother of the Year!

Congratulations to Our Staff for a

Deficiency-FREE 100% Compliance

The Millis Recreation Department is once again holding its annual Mother of the Year Contest.

Send us your letter stating why your Mom deserves to be the Mil-

lis Mother of the Year! The Recreation Committee will select the winning entries. Mothers of all ages are eligible.

Prizes awarded will be sure to

please all mothers. Deadline for entries is Friday, May 11, 2012. A special mailbox will be available at the Clyde Brown School; or mail your letters to the Recreation Department, 900 Main Street.

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Page 1

Local Town Pages

April 1. 2012

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April 1. 2012

Random Smiles Project Excited to be Chosen as Beneficiary and Partner in $10,000 Carpet Giveaway Contest Random Smile Project is urging friends, donors, supporters and the general public to vote for their charity, non-profit in the “Improve Your Home, Improve Your Hometown” contest. Flooring America selected Random Smile Project to participate in the contest, and they are now in the running to win a $10,000 Stainmaster® carpet donation. The contest takes place online, and runs from April 9th to May 20th.

Flooring America has selected Random Smile Project as their partner to compete for—and ideally win—a $10,000 Stainmaster® carpet donation for the charity, non-profit in the nationwide “Improve Your Home, Improve Your Hometown” contest. Random Smile Project is thrilled to be in the running and is now asking for the community’s assistance to spread

to the word, and to help them collect as many votes as possible between the start of the contest on April 9th, and its end date on May 20th.

The nationwide contest, which takes place online, asks community members to vote on behalf of their local charity, their Flooring America store, and their community. Should Random Smile Project and Flooring America rally the most support, Random Smile Project will get a big boost in the form of flooring which they can donate to help and improve the homes of those in need of their charitable contributions in their local community. Flooring America will also donate $1 for every 100 sq feet of Stainmaster Ultra Life Carpet sold to the Random Smile Project during the contest period!.

Surviving Drought During a Water Restriction Homeowners don’t need to have a green thumb to know how taxing a drought can be on their lawns.

Though summer is a laid-back season for many people, those same high temperatures and sunny days that make summer so enjoyable can wreak havoc on a lawn during periods of drought.

In response to drought, many communities institute water restrictions that limit how much water a homeowner can use to water his or her lawn. These restrictions are well-intentioned and necessary, but lawns that need water still need to survive the summer heat. There are a few steps

homeowners can take to help their lawn survive drought during a water restriction. * Extend intervals between cuts.

Mowing the lawn is necessary, but whenever a lawn is mowed the grass is stressed. Since grass is already stressed during a drought, try to extend the periods between cuts as long as possible. If a landscaping service tends to your lawn, negotiate with the foreman or another company representative so the maintenance crew knows not cut the lawn on its regular, nondrought schedule. * Help the lawn help itself. A lawn can actually help shield itself

“We’re really excited about the potential of new Stainmaster carpet,” says Matt Sousa, Spokesperson for Random Smile Project.

The event comes as part of Stainmaster’s effort to salute small business owners and the communities they serve. As local economies have become a larger part of the national conversation, Stainmaster has chosen to recognize the efforts of locally owned and operated Flooring America and Flooring Canada stores, like Flooring America, as well as the ever-important work of community charities and non-profits.

“This giveaway amounts to a lot more than new flooring,” says Matt Sousa. “It increases morale, and it also enables us to spend money we were planning to use for renovations on something else.

We’re really excited about it, and

To vote in the Improve Your Home, Improve Your Hometown contest, visit www.flooringamericama.com/myhometown after the start of the contest in early April and continues until end of May. About Random Smile Project: Random Smile Project provides a bridge of support to people going through difficult times. We recognize and inspire volunteerism, creating a culture of community involvement. We accomplish this through our programs and activities, rooted in the spirit of giving and community.

Random Smile Project – PO Box 13, Franklin Ma 02038/ 508 728 7850 About Flooring America

As one of over 550 locally owned and operated stores, Flooring America in both Franklin and Westborough Ma serves as your friendly, neighborhood source for exclusive floor-covering brands and expert advice. Visit Flooring America for an outstanding selection of carpet, hardwood, laminate, tile, area rugs and vinyl floors, plus programs and warranties like Move or Improve Assurance and the Ultimate Confidence Guarantee that set Flooring America far apart from the competition. When you invest in your home with a small business, you’re investing in your community. And now, for every 100 sq ft of Stainmaster Ultra Life carpet sold, Flooring America in both stores, Westborough and Franklin will donate $1.

For more information, visit www.flooringamericama.com.

from drought, especially if homeowners are on board. When mowing, raise the decks of the mower so the grass can adequately shade itself from the blistering summer sun. Raising the decks also allows the lawn to maintain more water, which will be lost to evaporation if the lawn is cut too short. * Aerate. The height of drought season is not necessarily the best time to aerate, so the correct aeration schedule might be a preventive measure homeowners can take to help their lawn better cope with drought.

Cool season lawns, which includes bluegrass, bent grass, fescues and rye grasses, grow best when temperatures are between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and might struggle mightily when the weather is especially hot and dry.

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Homeowners can employ a few simple strategies to help their lawn survive summer drought, even during water restrictions.

August through early October is the best time to aerate cool season lawns.

Warm season lawns include Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, Buffalo grass and Saint Augustine grass, and these species grow best when the temperatures rise into the 80s and mid-90s. Late spring or early summer is the best time to aerate warm season lawns.

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So why aerate? Because aerating the lawn helps break up hard, compacted soil, allowing water, air and nutrients, each of which are essential to a healthy lawn, to reach the soil and strengthen the roots.

Strong roots are essential for the lawn to survive, be it hot and dry

temperatures in the summer or colder weather in the winter. * Buy a mulching mower. If you don’t already have one, purchase a mulching mower and employ the mulching feature during hot and dry periods. Remove the bag from your mower so the clippings are left on the lawn, where they will break down and provide the lawn nutrients it desperately needs.

Droughts are typically a lawn enthusiast’s worst nightmare. But even if water restrictions have been put in place, employing a few simple strategies can help a lawn survive extended periods of high temperatures and dry conditions.

Local Town Pages

April 1, 2012

Page 3

Growing Your Own Herb and Vegetable Plants The fun of planting your own seeds is that your options are limited only by your available space or pocketbook – you are no longer restricted to what your neighborhood garden shop offers. You can really add some incredible plant variety to “spice up” your herb, vegetable and flower gardens! It is time to start some of your own seedlings. If you have never done this before, there are a few key things you will need to know, as well as a few purchases you will have to make.

LIGHTING - Windowsill gardening at this time of year does not produce the best results. If you’ve tried this, you may have noticed that your seedlings become very spindly, or leggy. They are reaching for the weak light source and will lean towards it. The best solution is to acquire some type of fluorescent light fixture. Shop lights can be found at many hardware stores for around $20. A four-foot light will accommodate 2 flats of plants. Though you can spend the money for special grow lights if you wish, you can substitute one cool bulb and one warm bulb to achieve almost the same result.

One important point is that the light source should be very close to the growing plant – 2 to 3 inches above the seedlings. Therefore, you should have some method of raising and lowering the light – a chain is sometimes supplied with the light. A bonus of growing under lights is that you can grow your plants anywhere you have space. I used to start all of my seeds in my basement, which kept the mess out of the living room.

The final note is that the lights need to be on for about 12 - 14 hours per day.

HEAT SOURCE - As most seeds germinate better with a little heat (some will not germinate at all unless the soil temperature is about 70-75) you need to figure out a

DON’T MISS THE NEXT PULLOUT SECTION IN MAY CALL 508-533-4588

tle water. As my plants grow, I usually water with a weak solution of fish emulsion every few days. This gives them a little boost and results in better plants.

For anyone first starting out planting from seed, I would suggest trying tomatoes and basil.

These are very popular, and some of the easiest plants to get to start from seed. It’s also what most people want to grow in their gardens.

Even discount stores are offering heirloom seeds, which are far superior to many of the plants offered at nurseries.

Don’t wait too long to plant your seeds inside. Many seeds need 68 weeks of optimal growing time before they can be set out in the garden. Know your last frost date, and work backwards from that to discover when you should plant.

And realize, too, that you will need to spend time re-potting those little seedlings as they grow, to encourage stronger roots and sturdier plants.

way to provide bottom heat. I use grow mats, which are self-contained, water-resistant and pretty much foolproof. The trays need to be removed from the heat source once they germinate, or you will be watering them several times a day.

TRAYS, POTS AND SOIL Trays that come with a clear plastic top are easiest to use, since they keep in the moisture that germinating seeds need. Many plants do not need light to germinate (though some do – check the instructions on the seed packet) so you need not worry about providing them with light until they break through the soil. Trays with individual inserts can be found at many area

stores that carry garden supplies.

Peat pots can be difficult to monitor, as they really wick water away from the plant, and also dry out more quickly than plastic inserts.

You should always use clean, sterilized pots and a growing mixture specific for starting seeds to ensure the health of your plants. This will prevent the dreaded “damping off” of your seedlings, which is caused by a fungus that can linger in the soil or dirty pots. The stem of the seedling will look pinched, and since nutrients will not be able to be drawn up from the soil, it will die. Most seed starting mixes contain a small amount of fertilizer, too. You will have to watch your seedlings carefully so that you give them neither too much nor too lit-

Despite what the groundhog said, spring will be here before you know it! Good luck!

Karen O’Brien runs her herbal business “The Green Woman’s Garden” in the central MA town of Mendon. She has herb plants, heirloom vegetables and ornamental flowers for sale, runs workshops on various herbal adventures, and occasionally participates in farmers markets and fairs. She is the Development Chair of The Herb Society of America, currently serves as Vice Chairman of the New England Unit of H.S.A., is Secretary of the International Herb Association, sits on the Board of the Greenleaf Garden Club of Milford, and serves as State Advocate for Leave No Trace. She is a contributing author to the latest Herb of the Yearbook on Rose, produced by the IHA. Her website is www.greenwomansgarden.com, where you can find other articles on herbs and gardening.

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Local Town Pages

Page 4

April 1. 2012

Franklin Community Garden Gives Peas a Chance

BY J.D. O’GARA It wasn’t quite the top o’ the morning on March 17, when The Franklin Community Garden held its “Give Peas a Chance,” pea planting demonstration. Eager

community gardeners came out on the mild, gray morning to learn a little and get started digging in their plots, with free pea seed courtesy of the Friends of the Franklin Community Gardens, Inc. Accord-

Franklin Community Garden Coordinator Chris Clay demonstrates, along with his son Gabriel, 3 1/2, how to create a support for peas out of bamboo.

ing to Garden Coordinator Chris Clay, peas do well in cooler weather, so gardeners should think

Eager to start planting, the O’Brien family foregoes the pea planting demonstration and gets down in the dirt. Shown here are Katy O’Brien and her son Leo, age 2 1/2. Emily, four years old, is not shown in the photo.

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about planting them in the early and late seasons. They are also a good crop to help balance nitrogen

Garden Club Announces Scholarship The Millis Garden Club is pleased to offer an annual scholarship to a deserving high school senior who resides in Millis, wishes to pursue a career in horticulture, agriculture, conservation, landscape design or architecture, arborist, botanist, forestry, environmental science, land management or a field related to preserving our natural world. A copy of the Eligibility Information and Application Form is being forwarded to the following school Guidance departments: Millis

High, Xaverian Brothers, St. Sebastians, Nobles, Rivers, Dana Hall, Bishop Feehan, Marian High, Norfolk Agricultural, Tri County and may also be accessed through the MGC Scholarship link on the Millis Garden Club website (http://www.Millisgardenclub.org) .

Scholarship candidates should complete the Scholarship Application Form, together with necessary signature approvals, and forward the Application to your high

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school Guidance Department, for final approval. Completed applications must be received by the MGC Scholarship Committee no later than May 1, 2012. Please send completed applications to: Millis Garden Club P.O. Box 535, Millis, MA 02054 Attn: Dr. Susan Steele The Millis Garden Club Ken Nichols Memorial scholarship award for a 2012 graduating senior is $1,000 and will be announced on or around May 8, 2012.

DON’T MISS THE MAY PULLOUT SECTION CALL 508-533-4588

Local Town Pages

April 1, 2012

Page 5

Many Current Trends In Outdoor Living Amenities Are Captured In Easy To Install Pre-Packaged Kits

BY CHARLES H. GAMAREKIAN Thanks to a whole new crop of outdoor living conveniences, homeowners now crave all the comforts of indoor spaces — only Today’s diverse outdoors. lifestyles dictate what families want to add to patio plans. Among these are open-air kitchens, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, and what are commonly referred to as “outdoor rooms”. One factor that can easily raise the budget is the cost connected with installation, especially where quality, as it should be, is of paramount importance. As a manufacturer in the concrete pavingstone and wall systems industry, I have always helped do-it-yourselfers, landscape designers and professional contractors to address current trends in outdoor living and to turn “wish lists” into reality.

Cambridge Pavingstones with Armortec® and Cambridge Wallstones offers a comprehensive line of products for outdoor lifestyles that combine unmistaken quality, natural

Outdoor Living Trends / Page Two beauty and value with design versatility. However, we at Cambridge have eased the design/build factor with all-inclusive, pre-packaged design kits on our entire line of outdoor living products. For example, our fire pit kits are ready to install. Models are complete with grates for grilling, optional fire screens and galvanized, stainless steel covers while the outdoor fireplaces have dimensional cast stone surround options in a choice of colors.

There is even an L-shaped, openair kitchen kit with a stainless steel appliance package and a decorator-inspired, granite countertop included.

More adventurous cooking enthusiasts can opt for a Cambridge Outdoor Pizza Oven Kit that also bakes bread and roasts veggies with an old world, brick oven flavor derived from an authentic wood-fired oven. Choose a pre-packaged Cambridge Patio Pub & Bistro Table for seating and gathering and/or a Grill and Bar Module Kit for food preparation, all with tops in matching granite.

A pergola is typically an opensided, garden structure that consists of pillars that support a

partially open roof structure, such as latticework or a trellis. In contrast, a patio pavilion also has open sides but a closed roof. Both can convert an open patio into a sheltered outdoor room. Columns (pillars) can be anchored into the pavement or set on columns (pedestals) a few feet above ground level. If getting involved with building these kinds of structures seems to be a bit intimidating, Cambridge offers both pergolas and pavilions also in prepackaged kits. The structures are set on any Cambridge wallstone columns (sold separately). For added convenience, a pre-packaged column kit is available in a

variety of color options.

Outdoor Living Trends / Page Three Pre-cut and pre-packaged kits help professionals give you competitive pricing by reducing time and labor costs so you can be ready for greater outdoor living experiences this season. For more outdoor living ideas and the nearest distributor, visit Cambridge online at www.cambridgepavers.com . If you have any questions whatsoever, you can e-mail them to me, Charles Gamarekian, at cambridge@cambridgepavers.com.

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About the writer: Charles H. Gamarekian is the Chairman/CEO of Cambridge Pavers Inc., manufacturers of Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec®, Cambridge Wallstones and a full line of products for outdoor living. He is one of the founders and a current board member of the Interlocking Pavement Institute. Organized in 1993, ICPI is the North American trade association representing the inter-

locking concrete paver industry and considered by peer associations around the world as the leader in development and dissemination of technical information for design professionals and contractors. Mr. Gamarekian is recognized worldwide as an expert in his field and is a frequent speaker on the proper installation of pavingstones, wallstones and many outdoor living products.

Local Town Pages

Page 6

April 1. 2012

How To Prevent Lawn Damage Many homeowners aspire toward a pristine and lush lawn. For some a nice lawn gives them feelings of pride. Others believe a perfect lawn enables them to have the best-looking house in the neighborhood. Many homeowners spend hours outdoors perfecting their lawns or spend a good deal of money hiring professionals to make their lawn more appealing.

But just because a lawn looks good now doesn’t mean it will look good later. That’s because delicate grass can be damaged by a number of different factors.

attempt to peel it back. If it comes back easily like a piece of carpet, it’s likely grubs. Spotting grubs underneath is a sure sign these larvae are killing the lawn.

Using an insecticide for grub control in July can help kill off grubs that start hatching in August through September. Grub eggs do well in sunny patches of lawn that are well watered. More shade may deter them. There’s also the option of letting the lawn go dormant and not watering it, but you will be left with a brown, unappealing lawn.

Pet Urine Pets can also damage a lawn. Pet Preventing lawn damage includes cleaning up after pets, whose urine can cause discoloration in urine can create burnt patches and the yard. significant discoloration on the lawn, particularly if the dog or cat selves without your knowledge. So bodies, shorter tails and rounder underground larders. uses one area consistently as their this method is not foolproof. heads. They feast on everything Voles can be kept away with natTherefore, you should take added from bulbs, succulent roots, potty zone. ural vole predators, such as cats, ground cover, and even dead aniaction to maintain a lush lawn. hawks, owls and snakes. Mouse The best way to prevent urine mals in their paths. Their burrows traps can also capture voles when First, make sure that soil and damage is to walk your dog so that enable them to move around relabaited. You may also dig sharp malawn is in good health by fertilizhe or she will not have free reign tively undetected, typically until terials or chicken wire into your ing and taking care of it properly. of the yard. However, sometimes the damage has already been done. soil around planting beds to make Second, water can dilute urine and dogs get out or stray cats and dogs Moles, although they have a sim- it uncomfortable for voles and visit your yard and relieve them- neutralize its corrosive properties.

Some have found that diluted urine ilar-sounding name, are not related moles to tunnel through. can often act as a fertilizer to grass. to voles and look very different.

Moles can also be controlled Licensed Insured M O E You may have noticed that the out- They have a cylindrical body D R E . with traps. Finding active mole .A DING LIN side ring of a urine-burned spot is shape with velvety fur, very small L .

L I tunnels will help you place the C A BU OR G often greener than the healthy or invisible ears and large paws for P. & traps effectively to either kill or Franklin, MA lawn. Try to dilute the urine prior digging. Moles often feed on simply contain the mole. The live to 8 hours having elapsed for the earthworms and other small inverVINYL SIDING • REPLACEMENT WINDOWS animal can be relocated to a site tebrates found in the soil. The burbest effect. where they won’t cause trouble. rows they create are essentially Burrowing animals Lawn damage can occur through traps for the worms, who fall into Moles and voles are among the the burrows, where moles easily a number of different factors. Findmore common lawn damage culaccess them. Moles often stockpile ing out the cause can help you find prits. Voles are small rodents that worms for later consumption in an effective treatment. resemble mice but have stouter

Grubs Grubs are not very lawn-friendly.

Grubs are actually the larval stage of different types of large beetles.

These worm-like creatures feed on the roots of grass and are able to kill large sections of the lawn in a relatively short amount of time. It can sometimes be difficult to discern whether grubs, drought or another other pest has damaged a lawn. One way to check is to grab a portion of the damaged lawn and

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Millis Garden Club Presents Free Program on Rain Gardens Mark your calendars now so as not to miss The Millis Garden Club’s FREE April program, Wednesday, April 18th at the Veteran’s Memorial Building, 900 Main St. (Rte. 109), Millis. Join us at 6:15 p.m. for a period of hospitality as we enjoy some savory and sweet treats - bring your own recyclable cup for your beverage to show your support of the environment. This environmentally friendly program will begin at 7 p.m. Please note that this will NOT be recorded for presentation on the Millis Cable Network so you must

attend to take part.

Rain gardens are landscaped areas that contain, filter, and soak up storm water runoff. Capturing water from rooftops, driveways and patios allows water to slowly infiltrate back into the ground and helps to prevent erosion, flooding, and the potential for pollutants to reach sensitive water resources.

Come learn how to figure out the size of your garden and the appropriate plants to choose. We all want gardens that are low-maintenance, that provide food and habitat for

wildlife, and of course, gardens with 4-season-interest. You can have a beautiful garden and help to protect our water supply. Our presenter, Chris Gavin, is a member of the Millis Conservation Commission and works as a landscape designer, having completed her Certificate in Landscape Design at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University in 2002.

We look forward to seeing you – bring a friend and help us to make a difference in our environment.

Local Town Pages

April 1, 2012

Page 7

Things To Know Before Building a Deck Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau Housing Survey indicate that homeowners annually spend billions of dollars improving outdoor living areas.

levels. Though many people associate decks with one level, it’s possible to have a multi-level deck if you simply don’t have enough room to build a deck that will be big enough to meet all of your needs. A multi-level deck can break up those long flights of stairs while ensuring you will always have somewhere to go to escape the sun on a hot day.

One of the most popular ways to do just that is to add a deck to a home. Decks are beneficial in many ways. Grillmasters love decks because they make the perfect place to set up a grill and a table and cook for family and friends. Those who simply love being outdoors find decks the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun or idle away the evening hours.

* You will want to protect the deck. Decks are a costly investment, and you will want to protect that investment. If you’re building a wood deck, keep in mind the sun will beat down on the deck for most of the year. You can protect the deck by painting it. Paint provides sunscreen for the deck, stopping the sun from breaking down the material. Once you’ve finished painting, apply sealant, whether it’s oil- or water-based.

But homeowners who want to build a deck should know a few things before that process begins. * Permits are necessary. Unless the deck is going to be especially small, you will likely need a permit to build it. Before buying any materials or consulting any contractors, make certain you know which permits you need and how to get them. If the proper permits are not secured before the project begins, you might have to tear down the whole project and start all over again. * Decks don’t have to go on the back of the house. If the back of your house sits in the blazing sun all day, then it’s probably best to build the deck elsewhere, and that’s perfectly alright. So long as the property and permits allow, decks can be built on the side of a home as well, and putting a deck on the side might be more com-

fortable. * Decks don’t have to be made of wood. It’s easy to assume all decks are made of plain wood. However, decks can be made out of a wide variety of materials, natural or synthetic. Pressure treated wood is perhaps the most popular material for decking because it’s not very expensive. But manmade materials

that are a mixture of recycled plastic and wood bits or sawdust are also popular because they require no maintenance. But homeowners should know that manmade materials can get hot in the sun, which will require those enjoying the deck to wear shoes. * Expect to do some digging. If you’re going to build your own

deck, expect to do some serious digging. Local building codes will dictate how deep you will need to dig for the pier footings, which support the deck’s weight. Just how deep you’ll dig depends on your climate’s specific frost line, but it’s safe to assume you’ll get a workout in when digging.

The addition of a half-bathroom is a popular project among homeowners, and it won't necessarily break the bank. If converting existing floor space into a half-bathroom, such a renovation can cost as little as a few thousand dollars, making the addition of a powder room one of the few home improvement projects where the value added to the home exceeds the cost of the renovation. Before deciding to add a half-bathroom, it helps to consider some of the pros and cons of the project.

Pros * Convenience: A half-bathroom is often added on the home's main floor or in the basement or attic.

This makes it more convenient for guests to use the restroom during a dinner party or when coming over to watch the big game in a basement home-theater area. * Problem-free: Half-bathrooms are smaller because they don't have a shower or bathtub. That means common bathroom problems like mold and mildew are not as big a concern as they are for full bathrooms. * More choices: Because mold and mildew aren't likely to present a problem in a half-bathroom, homeowners have more options at

instead of a bathroom.

Once the pros and cons have been weighed, homeowners who want to go forward with the project should then check with their local municipality to ensure the codes and requirements won't restrict their project. Size or window restrictions might curtail the project or limit what homeowners can do, which might change their minds on the project altogether.

their disposal when choosing floors and countertops.

Cons * Space: As their name implies, half-bathrooms are much smaller than full bathrooms. As a result, they tend to feel cramped. * Value: Though an inexpensive half-bathroom addition might recoup its value and then some at resale, the project won't add as much resale value to a home as a full bathroom addition might. * Loss of storage: If storage around the house is sparse, homeowners might be better off keeping the area designated for the half-bathroom as a storage closet

A deck makes a great addition to many homes, but homeowners should learn as much as possible about decks and what goes into building them before making any decking decisions.

* The deck can have multiple

Is It Time To Add a Half-Bathroom When it comes to renovating a home, homeowners expect to spend money. No home renovation or home improvement project is free, but some are less costly than others.

* Don’t forget fasteners. Fasteners will hide the screws for aesthetic appeal. But not all woods and fasteners are the right fit, as certain woods are only compatible with certain fasteners. Find out which fasteners make the right fit ahead of time. Because fasteners conceal the screws, they also make it possible to go barefoot on the deck.

The addition of a half-bathroom is a project that often makes practical and financial sense.

The addition of a half-bathroom often makes practical and financial sense. But before making any addition, homeowners must weight the pros and cons to make the best decision possible.

Local Town Pages

Page 8

April 1. 2012

Shopping For a Garden Storage Shed Storage space is often a coveted commodity. Apartment dwellers seek out more closet space, homeowners may desire more acreage, and even children may want more space for their toys and belongings. The purchase of a storage shed could alleviate some clutter issues and move items outdoors — creating more space.

Household garages are no longer as popular for storing vehicles. Instead, garages are used to store the extra items that do not fit inside the home. Many people even turn to self-storage units for extra storage space. According to the Self Storage Association, the storage industry earned roughly $20 billion in revenues across North America in 2010. It has also been the fastestgrowing segment of the commercial real estate industry for the last 30 years and is considered to be recession-proof.

Garden storage sheds present another place where individuals can keep items out of sight but easily accessible. As garages fill up with belongings quite quickly, many homeowners think about a shed purchase to at least keep outdoor lawn and garden essentials in their own place.

The process of purchasing a shed

is not as simple as finding the least or most expensive type on the market. There are other factors that come into play when selecting a shed. * Appearance and design: Although the function of a shed is to store items out of sight, the shed itself will be in full view in a yard.

Therefore, plenty of homeowners prefer something that has just as much aesthetic appeal as it does storage capacity. An unsightly shed can affect the overall appearance of a property, or even hurt the sale price for homeowners thinking about putting the home on the market. It’s important to select a shed in a price range that also complements the style of he home so it coordinates with other features.

Some people choose to have a custom-built shed that can replicate the architectural style of the home and even features the same siding and finishing materials. * Size: Sheds come in a variety of sizes, from compact lockersized sheds to large buildings that may even double as a garden room, pool room or kids’ playhouse. Homeowners should keep in mind that the size of the shed may have to meet local municipality rules for additions or structural changes to a property. A larger

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Sheds can offer much-needed storage space in a home’s backyard.

shed may require a permanent flooring material, such as concrete, and may be subject to permit applications and inspections, whereas a smaller shed may not have such stringent requirements.

Furthermore, certain towns actually may restrict the size and placement of a shed if it interferes with traffic visibility or impacts a neighbor in a negative way. * Siding materials: Sheds are constructed of various exterior materials. Some of the more affordable options are metal or plywood and particle board. However, these materials can be easily compro-

mised by rain and snow. The most maintenance-free materials are vinyl or molded PVC-type plastics. However, these may look like cookie-cutout units and may not have as much visual appeal. Cedar and wood are popular siding choices but won’t be maintenancefree. They need upkeep and also tend to be more expensive. But the cost may pay for itself in durability as well as an attractive appearance. * Minor enhancements: Touches like decorative architectural features, window boxes, shutters, or even simply planting shrubs and annuals around the shed can make

it an integral part of the landscape instead of simply an eyesore. Double doors will ensure large pieces of equipment can fit inside the shed. The addition of a pressuretreated ramp at the entryway provides easy access to the shed as well.

Storage sheds can provide muchneeded space for homeowners.

Certain features as well as cost need to be factored into the decision before purchase. Homeowners should compare chain home improvement stores as well as private retailers to find a shed that is the best fit.

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Annual CRWA Cleanup April 21

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 13

Millis Amvets Care Package Effort Continues

April 1st Medway Lions’ Breakfast

Volunteer Groups Needed in Upper Watershed Area The Charles River Watershed Association will hold its annual cleanup on April 21, from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. The CRWA seeks volunteer groups to help clean up different areas along the river and its tributaries. In Medway and Millis, the area to be spruced is known as the Upper Watershed. The Cleanup involves volunteers picking up trash at over 100 different cleanup sites along the Charles River and its tributaries.

If you or a group you are organizing would like to participate in this year's Cleanup, visit http://www.crwa.org/cleanup.html.

The Charles River Cleanup is organized by a collaborative of groups interested in keeping the river and our communities clean and healthy, including Charles River Watershed Association, Charles River Conservancy, The Esplanade Association, the City of Newton, Senator Brownsberger’s Office, The Trustees of Reservations, Emerald Necklace Conservancy, and MA Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Each collaborating organization helps coordinate volunteers in a particular region of the watershed.

For more information, contact Elise Leduc, Charles River Watershed Association, (781) 788-0007 x303, or Email cleanup@crwa.org.

Run Your Inserts With Us! Call Lori Koller (508) 934-9608

The Medway Lions Club will host its Annual “All You Can Eat” Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, April 1st from 8 a.m.-12 Noon. The event will be held at Medway High School on 88 Summer Street.

The cafeteria-style presentation will include pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, baked beans, fruit, and Joe’s “famous quiche,” as well as a variety of beverages.

March saw 51 care packages leave Millis for Afghanistan thanks to the efforts of local Amvets vol-

unteers, from left, Susan Tabarani, Dennis Zicko, Stephania Tyler, Dustin Perkins (just back from

Afghanistan), Tamra Nevins, Barbara Phillips, Ken Phillips, Martha Barry and William Barry.

Firefighters Ball to Be Held at Medway V.F.W. May 12th Come one, come all to the Firefighters Ball! The Annual Medway Firefighters Ball will take place on Saturday, May 12 at the Medway V.F. W., 123 Holliston Street in Medway, from 6 p.m. until midnight. The night’s festivities will

include dinner and drinks with a short awards ceremony, as well as a DJ and dancing and a number of raffles and prizes. The event is open to the public, and tickets are $25 per person.

Tickets are available at Medway Fire Station 1, 44 Milford Street, Medway, or by calling (508) 5333211. Ask for Tom Erwin or Brian Tracy. Emails may also be sent to firefighterballmfd@gmail.com.

A professional photographer will be available for pictures taken with the Easter Bunny. Coloring contest and raffle prizes will be included.

Cost is $7 for adults and $5 for Senior Citizens and children age 10 and under payable at the door.

Choate Park Camp Register now for sumemr camp at Choate Park.

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Page 14

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April 1. 2012

Young Medway Artists’ Work Featured at Worcester Museum Sunday, March 11th was a big day for five young students from the Burke-Memorial Elementary School of Medway. Bailey Condon, Madison Grimes, Zaid Bhatti, Caleb French, and Caroline Dickie, all attended, with their families, the opening reception of the Youth Art Month Exhibit at the Worcester Art Museum. In celebration of Youth Art Month, their artwork hung for all of March, along with many other creative student art works from surrounding towns.

Art teacher Christine Moyer, along with their own classroom teachers, was very proud of her students. When asked about her favorite part of this event, Mrs. Moyer responded, " I love to see a child light up when they realize

that they are indeed an artist in one way or another. If they can do art, they can do anything!" Here is what these young artists had to say.

Bailey (3rd grade) " I was really surprised that my art was going to be in the museum."

Madison: (kindergarten) " I liked my art."

Zaid: (3rd grade) " I was happy that I could go in the museum and that I really did good on it."

These Medway students had their work featured at the Worcester Art Museum.

Caleb (4th grade) " It was really fun to do my birch tree and when I found out it was going into the museum, I was super excited."

Enter Medway Pride Day Logo Design Contest by April 1st

Caroline: (4th grade) " I felt really happy and excited about my art going into the art museum."

Victory Lane Show to Benefit Andrew Devlin Scholarship The friends and family of Andrew Devlin, a Millis resident who died in 2001, invite the public to attend a benefit show to support a scholarship in his memory. On Saturday, April 7th, local musicians will perform at Victory Lane in Millis. The event begins at 7 p.m., and will include performances by a host of local musicians, including Millis resident Maryanna Devlin; Ridden, a trio of Millis High School graduates, and more.

Voluntary donations will be collected during the show, and all proceeds will go the Andrew Devlin Music Memorial Scholarship Fund. Andrew Devlin was a Millis High School student and a talented musician who loved his family,

friends, and community. He passed away at the age of 18.

A scholarship fund has been established at Middlesex Savings Bank. The Devlin family is working with staff at Millis High School to award the scholarship to a student who is seeking higher education in music, in honor of Andrew’s spirit. Those who cannot attend the show on April 7th may send donations to Middlesex Savings Bank, 36A Milliston Road, Millis MA 02054. Checks should be made payable to "The Andrew Devlin Music Memorial Scholarship Fund.”

Visit the “Andrew Devlin Scholarship Fund Show at Victory Lane” Facebook event page for more details.

Happy Easter!

Medway Pride Day 2012 is on, and aspiring designers are encouraged to try their hand at developing the official logo for Medway Pride Day 2012. The winning logo will be used on the pins for the button raffle as well as on t-shirts sold the day of the event.

Medway Pride Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 19 at the Charland Field behind Medway Middle School, 45 Holliston Street.

Anyone who would like to enter

the logo design contest should submit a signed black ink or pen design on white paper.

contact Susan Alessandri at (508) 321-1430 or via e-mail at susan.alessandri@gmail.com.

The deadline to submit is April 1, 2012, and designers can e-mail their work to susan.alessandri@gmail.com, or drop it off in person at 8 Dean Street in Medway. Submissions that don’t meet these criteria will not be judged. The winner will be announced in late April.

Medway Pride Day is an annual celebration that brings the town’s residents, businesses and community groups together for a day of entertainment, food, fun and the chance to shop some local vendors.

For the most up-to-date information on Medway Pride Day, please visit www.medwaypride. org.

For more information about the Medway Pride Day logo contest,

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April 1, 2012

Church of Christ in Millis to Hold Candidates Night The Missions Committee of the Church of Christ in Millis will sponsor a Candidates Night on Monday, April 30, at 7 p.m. All candidates for local office will be invited to attend. The only contested race is for Library Trustee.

Other contests may be announced later. Each candidate will make a

statement, and there will be an opportunity for those attending to ask questions. Donna Cabibbo will serve as moderator. Refreshments will be served. The Church of Christ is on 142 Exchange St. in Millis. For more information (508) 376-5034 or visit www.millisucc.org.

Medway Trivia Night to Support AfterProm Party April 22 On April 22, Mickey Cassidy’s will host a Trivia Night at 7:30 p.m. to benefit the Medway High School After-Prom Party. Register a team of 6 to 8 friends and neighbors by April 12th at a cost of $10

per person (checks payable to MSHSA). A prize will be awarded to the winning team. For details, see the MSHSA flyer found in the School/Community Bulletin section at www.medwaychools.org.

Millis UCC Free Dinner and Movie The Church of Christ Congregational, 142 Exchange St. Millis, will offer free monthly community Dinner and Movie Nights on Friday, April 20 and May 18. The event is sponsored by the Missions Committee and Men’s Fellowship Group and is held in Fellowship

Hall. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. followed by a family-friendly movie. The Dinner and Movie Nights are open to the public and all are invited to attend. For more information, call (508) 376-5034 or visit the Church websitewww.millisucc.org.

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Medway 300th to Kick Off with New Year’s Eve Gala The Medway 300 Committee is finalizing plans for the 2013 yearlong celebration of the Town’s 300th Anniversary.

A series of Signature Events will take place during the course of the Tercentennial Year, and planning for these events is moving forward at a rapid pace.

The countdown has already begun for the Gala Kick-off Event, a fun and festive 2012 New Year’s Eve Party, which will be held at The Glen (formerly known as Glen Ellen).

The evening’s theme will be

Medway Through-out the Decades. A DJ will provide a multi-generational range of music for listening, dancing and singing that spans the decades from the glitzy 20’s and sedate sound of the 40’s, to the wild and crazy 50’s and 60’s to the music of the 80’s and the present. There will be some unique items to auction, the food will be delicious - heavy hors d’oeuvres --- and there will be some surprises!!

According to the New Year’s Eve Party Committee Chair, Linda Reynolds, proceeds from the auction will help fund other Medway

300th activities.

Please visit Medway300.com and leave a message if you have any items that you are willing to donate. The committee is looking for signed sports paraphernalia, sports tickets, a weekend at a vacation home or various other goods and services.

Keep your eyes out for news on other Medway 300 Signature Events. The Medway 300 Committee invites Medway residents who’d like to participate to signup on the Medway 300 website Medway300.com.

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April 1 Medway Lions All-You-CanEat Pancake Breakfast, 8 a.m. – 12 noon, Medway High School, 88 Summer Street, Medway, will include pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, baked beans, fruit, and Joe’s “famous quiche.”

Includes Easter Bunny with professional photographer, coloring contest and raffle prizes. $7 adults; $5 seniors and children under 10.

Deadline for Medway Pride Day Logo Contest. Pride Day to be held Saturday, May 19 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Charland Field behind Medway Middle School, 45 Holliston St., Medway. Logo designs should be in signed black ink or pen design on white paper, and designers can e-mail their work to susan.alessandri@gmail. com, or drop it off in person at 8 Dean Street in Medway.

April 3 The United Regional Chamber of Commerce luncheon featuring U.S. Sen. Scott Brown, Franklin Country Club, 672 East Central St., Franklin, at noon. Registration and pre-payment are required. $35 for Chamber members; $45 for non-members.

RSVP to any Chamber office by March 26: (508) 222-0801, (508) 528-2800, or (508) 695-6011.

April 6 Purr-fect Cat Shelter Bake Sale, Bellingham WalMart, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., visit www.purrfectcatshelter.org

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April Calendar of Events Passover Begins, Sunset

Street, Millis

April 7 Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Oak Grove Farm, Millis, 1 p.m. sharp,

rain or shine, Children divided into several age groups. Parents, bring your own cameras for a photo with the Easter Bunny.

Children, bring your own baskets.

Medway Lions Bottle & Can Drive, Medway Oil Co., Broad Street, Medway, 9 a.m. Redeemables should be placed at curbside by 9 a.m., brought to Medway Oil, Broad Street by 11 a.m. or placed in the Lions bottles and cans shed in front of West Medway Liquors on Main Street at residents’ convenience.

All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast, 8-10 a.m., Federated Church of Norfolk, Rte. 115 & Main St., Norfolk, Adult-$7, Sr. $5, Child under 10-FREE. For info., call (508) 528-0262 or visit http://www.fcon.org April 8 Happy Easter April 12 Homes for Heroes Seminar, 7-8 p.m., N.E. Signature Realty, Main

April 13 Medway Senior Expo, Medway Council on Aging, Senior Center, Oakland St., Medway Lions District 33K sponsor Eyemobile, free eye screenings from 9 a.m. – Noon, Meteorologist Harvey Leonard of Channel 5 featured guest speaker, plus entertainment, raffles, prizes and a free lunch courtesy of Roche Brothers.

Harlem Rockets Vs. Millis Firefighters, 7 p.m., Millis High School gym, $8 student/$10 in advance through the Millis Recreation Dept., $10 student/$12 adult at door April 14 Millis Beautification Day, cosponsored by Millis Garden Club and Millis Lions Club, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., registration at 7:30 a.m. outside Veteran’s Memorial Building, 900 Main St. The Lions Club EYE MOBILE will be onsite.

Volunteers must wear work gloves and are requested to bring a rake, marked with their name. Children must be accompanied by an adult. To volunteer, contact Karen Spath (508) 376-1122 or karen12349@verizon.net. For

more information on the Millis Lions Club, visit http://www.millislionsclub.org or about the Millis Garden Club, visit www.millisgardenclub.org.

April 17 Massachusetts Divorce-What to Know Before You Go, 7 p.m., Divorce Collaborative LLC, 9 Summer St., Ste. 201, Franklin. Space is limited. Please register in advance at clientsupport@divorcecollaborative.com or call (508) 346-3805.

April 18 Rain Gardens 101, featuring Chris Gavin, landscape designer and member of Millis Conservation Commission, Millis Garden Club program, 7 p.m., with hospitality beginning at 6:15 p.m.

(Bring your own recyclable cup), Veteran’s Memorial Building, 900 Main Street, Millis April 19 Millis Lions Trivia Night, 6 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m. start, St. Thomas Large Hall, next to Mobil, Rte. 109, Millis, Includes snacks, cash bar, 50/50 raffle & prizes; $10 per person (teams up to 8 players) All proceeds support local Lions charities. For more info., call Dennis (774) 212-3193.

April 20 Free Dinner & Movie Night, The Church of Christ Congregational, 142 Exchange St. Millis, dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a family-friendly movie. Spon-

April 1. 2012

sored by the Missions Committee and Men’s Fellowship Group and held in Fellowship Hall. Call (508) 376-5034 or visit www.millisucc.org April 21 Spring Fling Craft Fair, 10 a.m.

– 3 p.m., Franklin Elks Club, 1077 Pond St., Franklin. Approximately 50 crafters and vendors, $1 admission includes 10 free door prize tickets. Admissions donated to charity. Event organized by Creative Craft Shows.

April 22 Trivia Night at Mickey Cassidy’s, Proceeds support Medway High School After-Prom Party, 7:30 p.m., Register a team of 6-8 friends by April 12 for $10 per person (checks payable to MSHSA). Prize awarded to winning team. For details, see MSHSA flyer found in School/Community bulletin section at www.medwayschools.org.

April 26 School Committee Candidates Night, 7 p.m., sponsored by The Millis Parents Advisory Council, visit www.millispac.com.

April 30 Candidates Night, 7 p.m., Church of Christ, 142 Exchange St., Millis, Candidates for local office invited to attend to meet public, Library Trustee is only contested office in Millis. For more information call (508) 3765034 or visit the Church website: www.millisucc.org.

Tools of the Mind Creators Visit CFB Kindergarten Classrooms Innovators Hope to Use School as Model for the Northeast

BY JASON D. PHELPS, PRINCIPAL Clyde F. Brown Elementary School, Millis Many early childhood educators have known that in order for students to be successful in doing “school,” there are certain prerequisite skills that make them more likely to find this success. Additionally, much research exists to support what these teachers have always known – those students who are able to self-regulate their responses to social, emotional and cognitive situations have a greater likelihood of finding success in school. Also, the research shows that these self-regulation skills, sometimes called “executive functioning skills,” while not present in all children as they start school can certainly be systematically taught to all children, thereby maximizing their chances for academic success

in later school years. One program dedicated to this developmental mindset is the Tools of the Mind Program.

Tools of the Mind is a developmental early-childhood program that focuses on teaching young children in preschool and kindergarten specific skills, or “tools” that help them to self-regulate their behaviors in the classroom. This research-based program is heavily influenced by the work of Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky, whose work with young children is predicated on the notion that if children are systematically taught to use mental tools when they learn, they become “in charge” of their own learning in a purposeful and intentional way. This also works for acquisition of social and emotional skills as well – when taught the “tools” of how to navigate envi-

ronmental situations, children then become “masters of their own learning.”

On February 29 and March 1, Dr. Deborah Leong and Dr. Elena Budrova, creators of the Tools of the Mind program, visited Clyde F. Brown Elementary School along with their colleague Dr. Catherine Snow from Harvard University to observe the successful implementation of the Tools of the Mind program in all Kindergarten classrooms at CFB. As educational researchers at Metropolitan State College of Denver, Leong and Budrova have designed an impressive early childhood learning program that encourages children to use mental “tools” to help them solve problems, both academic and social/emotional, in the classroom as well a master greater developmental self-regulation, which enhances

focus and learning for all students.

CFB became involved in the Tools of the Mind program this school year through a research grant; Tools seeks to gather data about successful student achievement as the program is implemented. Because of this research grant, CFB Kindergarten teachers received extensive ongoing training, coaching, and materials, and have been working diligently to implement this program. The results we’re seeing are remarkable!

The creators of Tools were so impressed with what they saw during their visit – they commented on the effective instructional practices they saw in all classrooms, as well and how well self-regulated the young students are, and how actively they engage with one another during learning activities.

Dr. Leong shared with me that she would like to have CFB serve as a model school for program implementation within the Northeast region, and she would like to share videotaped mini-clips of classroom instruction showcasing the work done by teachers and students at CFB with other educators across the nation. This recognition for hard work well done is rewarding for our teachers and our school; however, seeing our young students flourish as independent and well-regulated learners who are ready for engaging and rigorous work is the real reward – there’s just no stopping them now!

Read more about the Tools of the Mind program at: http:// www.mscd.edu/extendedcampus/t oolsofthemind/index.shtml

April 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Hop on Down to Oak Grove’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt Oak Grove Farm’s Bunny Trail will once again be filled with edible eggs on Saturday, April 7 at 1 p.m., rain or shine, thanks to the Millis Recreation Department. Children will be divided into several age groups. Parents are invited to bring their cameras for a special photo with the Easter Bunny himself. Come rain or shine to this free event, and bring your own basket!

Millis Lions Trivia Night Come and test your knowledge for a good cause at the Millis Lions Trivia Night, St. Thomas Large Hall (next to Mobil on Rt. 109) on Thursday, April 19, 2012.

Doors open at 6 p.m., with a 6:30 start. The night will include

snacks, a cash bar, 50/50 raffle and PRIZES. Admission is $10 per person, with teams up to 8 players.

All proceeds support local Lions Charities. Call Dennis for more information at (774) 212-3193.

Millis Cultural Council Announces Arts Grants

Millis Celebrates National Poetry Month April 2012 This year, the Millis Public Library (MPL), the Friends of the Millis Public Library (the Friends) are working with the Millis Public Schools and the greater Millis community to put together a comprehensive program for April’s National Poetry Month that touches all age groups.

For Children Grades K-4 & Families: Poem in Your Pocket Day Tuesday April 24th at 4:30 p.m. at the Millis Public Library Every year during April, The Academy of National Poetry chooses a day during National Poetry Month as “Poem in Your Pocket Day.” On this day, students and adults alike are encouraged to carry a favorite poem in their pocket to share with families, friends and coworkers. In 2012, PIYPD falls on Thursday, April 26th. Join us the Tuesday before for a family event where kids and their parents select favorite poems from our poetry collection to copy, illustrate, and put in their pockets.

The Friends have also put together poetry/rhyming worksheet activities for use at local preschools. Elementary teachers will incorporate discussions of poetry into their regular classwork, and student poetry will be featured during morning announcements.

For Teens and their families: Poetry Coffee House Monday April 9th at 6 p.m. at the Millis Public Library Students in grades 5-12 are invited to submit original poetry for display at our Poetry Coffee House. This event will feature their original poems, readings by Millis residents, and light refreshments. To submit a poem for display please email Rachel Silverman (Children and Youth Services Librarian at the Millis Public Library) rsilverman@ minlib.net or Patsy Divver (School Librarian at the Junior High/High School Media Center) pdivver@ millisps.org For Adults: Common Threads: Nine Poets and a Wealth of

The Millis Cultural Council, in partnership with the Massachusetts Cultural Council, is pleased to announce the Local Cultural Council (LCC) Arts Grant recipients for 2012. The grants promote diverse cultural experiences for local residents.

For more information about the grants or The Millis Cultural Council call (508) 376-7057 or visit the council’s listing on the town’s website at www.millis.org.

Readers - 2012 Thursday April 12th at 7 p.m. at the Millis Public Library This program, created by the Mass Poetry Organization, aims to have 10,000 Massachusetts citizens reading and discussing nine poems by nine poets who work currently or have worked in Massachusetts. The Library event will include a leaflet containing the 2012 poems, video of poets reading their poems and poems from those no longer with us, and a discussion guided by Mass Poetry organization materials. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Millis Public Library and light refreshments will be served.

In addition to the above activities, the Friends of Millis Public Library have donated $150 ($50 to each of the public school libraries and to the MPL) to enhance those libraries’ poetry collections. The Friends and the MPL hope this is just the first of many National Poetry Month collaborations across the Millis community and its public institutions.

It’s easy to see why we’re considered one of New England’s finest healthcare providers, offering Post-Surgery Rehabilitation along with Short & Long Term Skilled Nursing Care. All within Small, Home-Like Settings...

The 2012 grantees are: Stonybrook Wildlife Sanctuary; The Corvairs, who will perform during Millis Carnival Weekend; Comic Steve Henderson, who will perform at The Council on Aging; The Friends of the Millis Public Library museum pass program, The Millis Public Library’s Mother Goose on the Loose program; The Millis Theatre Group, The Millis Potpourri Garden Club; The Millis Girl Scouts 100th anniversary celebration; Author Bruce Watson, who will speak about the Sacco and Vanzetti trial, which has ties to Millis, Potter Richard Hamelin, who will participate in the Cultural Council’s October Arts Festival; and Pianist Scott Tooker.

Page 17

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508-648-7087

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Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 18

THE PURR-FECT CAT SHELTER Pet of the Month

April 1. 2012

Millis Girl Scouts Lead the Pack at Operation Snowflake

“Rex” Is Looking for a Home with a Friend

Four girls from Millis Girl Scout Cadette Troop 74920 proved their outdoor worthiness this year at Operation Snowflake, the premier Girl Scout Winter camping competition held at Camp Greenbriar in Acushnet, MA. The girls received first place in three events. Here pictured from left to right are: Tessa May, Katy Golden, Olivia Lynch and Irene Koisten.

Behind Tessa is their troop Leader Sherrice Golden.

Daily Visits

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“Rex” is an older kitten that was living out of a dumpster with another kitten. The Purr-fect Cat Shelter trapped this uniquely black and white marked domestic short hair two days after his buddy. As with all cats we assist, Rex was whisked off to the veterinarian for exam, testing, neuter and vaccines. After surgery, he spent some time in one of our foster homes and has made great strides socializing.

“Rex” is now at the shelter, and after a bit of an adjustment to the new surroundings, he is playing and doing very well. Although not fond of being picked up, he loves to be groomed and would make a great pet, especially with the companionship of another cat.

Visit our website to view and read about cats currently available for adoption. All cats and kittens are examined by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered,

tested for feline leukemia and FIV, dewormed, given age appropriate vaccines and microchipped prior to adoption.

Applications are available online at www.purrfectcatshelter.org or by calling (508) 533-5855.

Delicious fundraiser! Don't miss our Bake Sale Friday, April 6 at Wal-Mart in Bellingham, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A variety of baked goods will be available as well as the Purr-fect Cookbook, a great gift!

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April 1, 2012

Golf Tournament Planned for April 23 First Annual Tournament to Raise Funds for Young Children of Lost Millis Firefighter Spring is here, and soon will be the time to hit the green for the First Annual Tommy Wainwright Memorial Tournament, to be held at the Glen Ellen Country Club on Monday, April 23. Golfer registration will begin at 12:15 p.m. with an 18-Hole Shotgun Start at 1:30 p.m. Players can return between 67 p.m. for a cocktail hour, with a buffet dinner, awards & raffle beginning at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets are $120 for a single player/$480 per foursome, or for those attending the dinner only, $35 per person. In addition to tickets, holes may be sponsored for $100 and provide a great way to advertise your business or organization.

gratefully being accepted.

Tommy Wainwright was an oncall firefighter for the Millis Fire Department as well as a local landscaper. He left his wife of 5 years, Danielle, and three daughters, Delaney, Neely and Raleigh, all under the age of 4, at the time of his sudden death.

Checks payable to “Tommy Wainwright Memorial Golf Tournament” can be mailed by April 15, 2012 to 165 Farm Street, Millis, MA 02054 Attn: Mike Wainwright To sign up, or for further information, contact Mike Wainwright at (508) 509-0338 or tjwmemorial@yahoo.com.

Donations of raffle prizes are

Millis School Candidates Night The Millis Parent Advisory Council will sponsor a Meet the Candidates Night on April 26th.

Candidates running for school

committee will be onhand to answer questions.

Page 19

Obituaries PLYMOUTH: Barbara “Joyce” Barrett, 86, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2012 surrounded by her loving family at Plymouth Crossing, Plymouth, MA. Born in Medway, she was the daughter of the late William Martin and Agnes Green (Corbett) Holden and graduated from Medway High School in 1943. Wife of the late Royden “Boots” Barrett, she is survived by a son Ernest G. LaCasse and his wife Sandy of Rockhill, SC, 3 daughters Irene D. Luby and her husband Gerard of No. Falmouth, Laura L. James and her husband Gary of Plymouth, and Carolyn R. Hanley and her husband Patrick of Mentone, AL, a sister Elizabeth “Betty” Barrett of Millis, and 3 grandchildren, Kenneth B. LaCasse of Charlotte, NC, Richard A. Lunn Jr. of Fairhaven, MA and Jennifer J. James of Plymouth, MA. Private funeral services were held at Christ Episcopal Church in Medway and burial took place at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Millis. If desired, contributions in Joyce’s memory may be made to “Christian Foundation” c/o Beacon Hospice, 32 Resnik Road, #3, Plymouth, MA 02360. For additional information, go to www.robertsmitchell.com.

MILLIS: Stephen A. Bradbury, 57, of Millis where he has been a resident for 20 years, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at his

home. Born in Norwood, he was the son of the late John J. Bradbury Sr. and Margaret E. (Kennedy) Bradbury. He graduated with the Dedham High class of 1973. Mr. Bradbury had been employed by Minute Man Press for over 20 years and traveled extensively throughout the world. He was an active member of Boggastow Fish and Game Club.

He leaves his 2 sons, John J. Bradbury 2nd and Gavin F. Bradbury and their mother Katie (Clewes) Bradbury all of Millis, brothers; John J. Bradbury Jr. of Norwood, David W. Bradbury of Kentucky and Jerrold M. Bradbury of Dedham, sisters; Robin A. Bassett of Randolph and Denise A. Ellis of Walpole and the late Debora A. Hestmark, as well as many nephews and nieces. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Millis, and burial followed at Brookdale Cemetery in Dedham. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mr. Bradbury’s memory may be made to the Bradbury Children Education Fund, P.O. Box 224, Millis, MA 020540224. See www.robertsmitchell.com for additional information.

MILLIS: Dorothy (Fisette) Hansen, age 85, of Bellingham, former longtime resident of Millis, passed away on March 7, 2012 at Milford Care and Rehabilitation after a lengthy illness. Born on November 21, 1926 she was daughter

of the late George and Alice (Smith) Fissette. Beloved wife of the late Theodore Hansen, she is survived by her daughters and son, Linda E. Thompson and husband Kenneth of Lynnfield, Glenn J. Hansen of Millis, Karen M. Ciaramicoli and husband Arthur of Hopkinton, and Laura J. Chapman and husband George of Uxbridge; ten grandchildren, Joanne, Matthew, Elissa, Gregory, Erica, Alaina, Katie, Christie, Michael, and Jack; and seven greatgrandchildren, Andrea, Nicholas, Devin, Emily, Tessa, Chase and Kaia. In addition, she is survived by a brother Bob Fissette and his wife Connie from Amherst NH, sister Eleanor Brinkman of Nashua, NH, sister Marjorie Lovejoy of Nashua, NH, sister Beatrice Wiltsie of California and nine deceased siblings.

Dorothy is also survived my many loving nieces and nephews. Dorothy was a Communicant of Christ Lutheran Church of Natick. She graduated from Plymouth State College in 1947 and was employed by Pratt Whitney in Connecticut and Arnold Green in Natick as a metallurgical supervisor. Funeral services were held at Christ Lutheran Church, Natick. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to the Christ Lutheran Church, 113 Union Street, Natick, Ma 01760.

See www.robertsmitchell.com for additional information.

For more informations, visit www.millispac.com.

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FRP

Business Law

• All Entity Formations • Contract Drafting/Negotiation • Start-Ups/Counseling • Business Succession Planning • Acquisitions/Sales • Compliance • Litigation

Real Estate Law

“A lawyer’s time and advice are his stock in trade”.

Abraham Lincoln

• Mortgage Lending Services • Residential/ Commercial • Buyer and Seller Representation • Title Services • Represents Cash Buyers/Real Estate Investors

Estate Planning

• Wills • Probate of Estates • Trusts • Power of Attorney • Health Care Proxies www.glennjmurphylaw.com • 508-397-5508 Law Office of Glenn J. Murphy • 165 Main Street (Suite 109) • Medway MA 02053

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Medicaid and Veterans subsidies available. Sunday, 1-3 Prices as of 12/1/2011 and subject to change.

Call 508-634-2440 for a brochure.

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Sometimes a little help makes a large difference.

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 20

April 1. 2012

Sports Where Are They Now? Christiansen: A Dynamic Athlete For All Seasons

BY KEN HAMWEY Lisa Christensen was dynamic when she was earning 15 letters at Medway High and starring in three sports in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The 5-foot-4 Christensen was Lisa Duncan then and to see her play soccer was like watching the energizer bunny. She was a nonstop striker who just kept ticking.

She scored 175 goals in six seasons, qualified for the Olympic Development Team at 14, was a six-time Tri Valley all-star and was named the league MVP her senior year after tallying 50 goals.

Christensen also was a capable point guard in basketball and she split six years between catcher and shortstop in softball where she hit .400 and got her share of home runs.

“I loved soccer,” Christensen said. “I relied on speed and a strong leg kick. But my top attribute was being aggressive. I’d slide for the ball and stay focused going for it. I remember practices when no one wanted to be in goal when I was charging toward the net.’’

Medway flirted with .500 seasons during Christensen’s era but never qualified for tourney play.

“I was grateful for the chance to

compete and to have enjoyed lots of positive experiences,” Christensen said. “I always strived to play my best and play with passion. But, the goal was to have fun and not fret about a loss or missing out on the tourney.’’

Christensen, who was a four-time Milford News all-star and a twotime selection by the Boston Globe, enjoyed competing with teammates like Lisa Williams (sweeper) and Betsy Price (midfielder). She also liked playing for John Frascona.

“Coach Frascona was encouraging, he was dedicated and he was a terrific motivator,” Christensen said.

Basketball wasn’t Christensen’s strong suit but she compiled decent stats on teams that hovered around .500. She averaged 6 points, 6 assists and 4 steals per outing.

“I started as a freshman and sophomore,” Christensen said. “I could drive to the hoop, but my strength was defense. Bob O’Neil was our coach, and he was great to play for.’’

Starting out as a catcher in softball for coach Harry Romsey, Christensen played six varsity seasons. She moved to shortstop, where her fielding skills and strong arm could be utilized.

“I was capable on defense because I was aggressive,’’ she said.

“My top thrill in softball was playing in the TVL all-star game as a seventh grader and getting a double against players who were mostly seniors. One of my best games was a two-homer outing against Millis.’’

Christensen was a five-time Milford News and TVL all-star in softball.

After graduation in 1991, Christensen enrolled at UMass-Dartmouth and played only one year of soccer. A kidney injury kept her out of action her senior year in softball at Medway and forced her to wear an abdominal brace when she competed in college.

“I had a good freshman year,” she said. “I scored 30 goals at striker and was named rookie of the year. We even got to the ECAC Tournament.’’

Christensen transferred to Framingham State the next year and devoted all her time to academics.

She graduated from FSC in 1998.

“I got married the year I graduated, then worked for two years at Burke Elementary School in Medway,’’ Christensen said. “When my children came along, I decided to be a stay-at-home mom.’’

Lisa Christensen was a 3-sport star in Medway back in the late 80’s and early 90’s, when she was Lisa Duncan. Today, she teaches the same team spirit to her children.

Christensen and her husband (Steen) have two children and live in Mendon.

“The discipline one learns from sports is so valuable,” Christensen emphasized. “It makes me a better parent. I can teach my kids to work as a team and be role models, too.’’

Christensen has no regrets that championships didn’t occur during

her competitive days. She loved the small-town atmosphere Medway provided and admired her teammates and coaches. She even remembers opposing fans heckling her as she’d get off a bus for a soccer match. She just wasn’t marked on the field.

She was Lisa Duncan then and she truly was an offensive machine in soccer.

Preschool & Youth Soccer Open in Millis Registration by April 11 The Millis Recreation Department is offering an introduction to soccer for 4-5 year olds with a focus on fun and learning to participate in a team sport through practice and in 6-on-6 games. Coaches are needed! The fee includes T-shirt Registration form MUST be in by APRIL 11th to ensure placement on a team. All others will be put on a waitlist and will be placed ONLY where there are spots available, and a $10 late fee will be applied.

Clyde Brown School Field

Ages: 4-5

Sundays, 4/29 - 6/10 (no games 5/27)

6 weeks

Practice begins mid-April

Fee: $55

Games TBD (mid-afternoon) *COACHES: Draft will be held Wednesday, April 11th at 6-8 p.m. in Room 130 of Veterans Memorial Building. Please volunteer to be a coach and participate in your child's soccer experience. ALL COACHES MUST FILL OUT CORI FORM.

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April 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 21

Sports Millis Keeps Busy With Co-op Ventures For 3 Sports

BY KEN HAMWEY

in the same rinks, competing in summer leagues, and attending camps and clinics. Tri-County and Millis use the Franklin rink as home ice and that wouldn’t change with Bellingham. Both Bellingham and Millis are agreeable to merge if the numbers allow it and we can’t sustain a program on our own.’’

Chuck Grant is gearing up for co-op mode.

The Millis High athletic director, who has three of his school’s sports involved in ventures with other teams, will be re-applying for boys hockey to remain aligned with Tri County, and he’ll soon be making a personal appearance to keep football merged with Hopedale. The other sport that has a coop link is girls’ hockey, but one more year remains before a decision is made to continue with Ashland-Medway.

Grant indicated that Holliston High’s numbers in hockey also are down and that partnering with the Panthers was possible.

“We’d lean towards Bellingham because they asked first,’’ Grant said. “May seems like the time

The Co-op Review Board of the Mass. Interscholastic Athletic Association has informed Grant that the Millis-Hopedale merger needs clarification if it’s to continue.

“The board thought Millis’ number of 31 boys (sophomores to seniors) was enough to sustain the program,’’ Grant indicated. “But, that figure represents varsity-eligible players, not varsity-capable players. We’ve got about 21 boys who are varsity-capable, and that’s what needs to be addressed.’’

Grant said he wasn’t worried about the MIAA communication and that he was prepared to meet with the committee by mid-April to provide more details.

“I have not received any word that the co-op with Hopedale will end,’’ said Grant, who saw the football team improve to 10-2 last fall and qualify for the playoffs. “I remain hopeful that the merger will continue. The MIAA simply wants all the facts and I appreciate their being thorough and willing to make a fair decision.’’

Boys’ hockey, however, could be in for a major change. Millis has

Leo and I would meet. We’ll know specific numbers then and we’d decide if we need to apply.’’

If a new co-op plan with Bellingham were to occur, then all of the Mohawk players would be required to be part of the MillisBellingham mix. If the Millis-Tri County merger were to end and no new partner was found, then the Mohawk players still competing would be grandfathered in and remain with Tri County.

A date of Sept. 26 is the deadline for applying for a co-op plan in hockey.

Millis Athletic Director Chuck Grant has found success in mergers with neighboring towns’ teams, and he seeks to continue the collaboration.

played in a co-op venture with TriCounty for the last six years but that agreement has ended.

Whether a seventh season will be approved is the great unknown for Grant, primarily because TriCounty may be able to sustain its own team.

The 2011-12 Tri County-Millis squad had 22 players, 11 from each school.

“I’m not sure what the exact count will be for next year but the magic number will be in the 24-27 range,’’ Grant said. “If Tri County has that many players, I’m not sure how much support the MIAA would give us. If we’re not approved, then we’ll have to go shopping.’’

Grant already has had informal talks with Leo Dalpe, the Bellingham athletic director, about potentially merging for hockey. Next

season, Millis will have about 10 boys out for hockey and Bellingham, which had 22 boys (jayvees included) this year, will lose 10 skaters.

“We’re losing quite a few players and it looks like there’ll be a maximum of about only five new recruits,’’ Dalpe said. “We’re going to need more players and Millis looks like a good match. Chuck has more experience dealing with co-op programs, so if we move into more detailed discussions, I’ll lean on him for direction.’’

Millis would prefer to remain with Tri-County but if a merger doesn’t work out, Grant likes the link to Bellingham, especially if the Blackhawks’ numbers dwindle.

“Hockey is a cult-like sport,’’ Grant said, emphasizing how players know one another from skating

Spring/Summer 2012 May 7th through August 31st WE ARE OPEN YEAR ROUND!

“MAY 1st THROUGH MAY 6th” (WE WILL BE CLOSED FOR ICE REFURBISHING)

!! Call Arena for any further schedule changes!!

“PUBLIC SKATING” Monday–Friday 9:00 AM TO 10:50 AM **Starting June 18th – Aug.31st there will be no am P.S. Monday–Friday 1:00 PM TO 2:50 PM Saturday: 7:00 PM TO 8:50 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM TO 2:50 PM

***Rates: Adult: $6.00

Child: $5.00***

“PUBLIC HOCKEY” Monday–Friday 11:00 AM TO 12:50 PM

***Rates: Adult: $6.00 (Goalies free)

“FREESTYLE” Mon.-Fri. 6 AM to 8:50 AM Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 3 PM to 4:50 PM Weds. 3 PM to 3:50 PM June 18th through August 31st (Freestyle AM time will be 6am to 10:50am)

*** May12th *** Starts all additional WEEKEND PROGRAMS such as,

“ADULT/CHILD HOCKEY

Registration Still Open for Medway Lacrosse 2nd & 3rd Grade

By J.D. O’Gara Time hasn’t yet run out to sign up for a Medway instructional program in lacrosse for children in second and third grades. Players will meet once

a week, on Saturday mornings, for about an hour and fifteen minutes to learn the sport of lacrosse from parents as well as varsity level high school boys and girls. The emphasis on the program is to have fun.

A $50 registration fee covers the cost of the stick and ball.

For more information, visit www.medwaylax.com or email chip_brooks@verizon.net.

“Adult” Public Hockey, also Fridays at 5 pm!

Along with additional, Freestyle hours

“LEARN TO SKATE” Session 4 begins 3/27 & 4/4/12

“RIvERSIDE SPORTING GOODS” Rentals, Sales, Custom Orders & Skate Sharpening We buy and trade used skates

508-528-6700 **CLOSED: Easter (4/8/12), Memorial Day (5/28/12) and July 4th (7/4/12)** ALL HOURS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGES! Please call the broadcast menu for any changes to our schedule!

WEB: www.norfolkarena.com

One Dean Street Norfolk MA

508-520-9200 Visit our website www.norfolkarena.com

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 22

April 1. 2012

Medway Lions Major Sponsor of Medway 300 Medway 300 Committee Chair Steve Richardson, pictured left, accepts a ceremonial check for $20,000 from Medway Lions President Brian Fox, pictured right, for the Club’s Platinum Sponsorship of Medway 300, the Tercentennial celebration of Medway’s incorporation kicking off on New Year’s Eve.

Run Your Inserts With Us! Call Lori Koller (508) 934-9608

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ardwood Floors

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For more information call LORI KOLLER at 508-934-9608

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

April 1, 2012

Page 23

If It’s Not .gov, It’s Not Social Security Don’t Fall Victim to a Scam

BY KRISTEN ALBERINO Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Quincy, MA When you go on a road trip, you need to follow the signs to arrive at the right place. Going online can be very much the same. Look for the “.gov” at the end of the web address — if it isn’t .gov, it isn’t the real Social Security website — www.socialsecurity.gov.

Countless consumers nationwide

are victimized each year by misleading advertisers who use "Social Security" or "Medicare" to entice the public to use their services. In many cases, these companies offer Social Security services for a fee, even though the same services are available directly from Social Security, free of charge.

These services include: updating a Social Security card to show a bride's married name; replacing a Social Security card; and

getting a Social Security number for a child.

These for-profit businesses may cleverly design their websites, so when people use Internet search engines, their advertisement pops up. They may even make their advertisement look similar to the real Social Security website. And some of these sites, at first glance, appear to be affiliated with Social Security. But upon closer examination, these are for-profit companies

home

charging individuals for a service that is provided free by Social Security.

For instance, a quick Google search on “replacing a Social Security card” brings up paid advertisements for websites that charge a fee just to get an application for a new card. That service is absolutely free from Social Security.

The law that deals specifically with misleading Social Security

ASK the REALTOR

by E. “Cappy” Capozzoli

Thinking of buying or selling a home?

Let me help you through the process!

No Day Like Today!

FOuR bEdROOMS, MOVE In REAdY

dave Matthews Century 21 Commonwealth dave.Matthews@CommonMoves.com

direct 508-964-6540

Stacey & Adam ask, “Can you advise us on the future direction of mortgage rates?”

www.buyMetroWestHomes.com

That’s a very common question that I’m asked, and if I knew the answer I could be making millions on Wall St. trading bonds and currencies futures.

No one can tell you for sure where rates are headed, however I can tell you with 100% accuracy where rates have been, (see the chart below).

A Happy Home for You and Your Pony!

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This beautiful 4 bedroom Colonial also features a stall horse barn on its 1 acre lot, 3 season room, hardwood floors, 2.5 baths.

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For more information, you can read our publication What You Need to Know about Misleading Advertising at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10005.html.

E.R.A. Key Realty Services

MARKETPLACE

29 LEXInGTOn LAnE, MILLIS • $347,500

and Medicare advertising prohibits people or non-government organizations, like for-profit businesses, from using words or emblems that mislead others. Their advertising cannot lead people to believe that they represent or are somehow affiliated with or endorsed or approved by Social Security or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (Medicare). But that doesn’t stop advertisers from trying.

It’s easy to see that rates are scraping along the lowest levels in 30 years (actually they are the same level now as they were back in 1960, that’s 52 years ago!).

Most people take months deciding on which house to buy and then decide on their mortgage in just a few minutes. It’s important to remember that a family may live “IN” their home for many years and they must also live “WITH” their mortgage as well. so choose wisely and take your time when selecting a mortgage.

(Please contact me for a free 100 year color chart of 30 year mortgage rates) Mr. Capozzoli has been a Ma. real estate broker for 35 years.

You are invited to submit your real estate questions by e-mail cappy@erakey.com or (508) 596-2600 or U,S, mail.

My web site is cappyatmyhouse.com. It is interactive for research of any town, any price.

Situated in neighborhood of prestigious Red Gate Estates. 1 Ac. wooded level lot, with sidewalk at the road, easy access to town plazas, schools and churches. Handy commute to train to Boston or major rtes to Boston, Providence, Worcester.

Medway: $208,000

74 Main Street, Medway, MA 02053 Direct: 508-533-6060 • Cell: 508-341-7652 • www.classicprops.com

E.R.A. KEY REALTY SERVICES, 707 Main St, Millis Carolyn Chodat Owner/Broker

Information is for general purposes only Always consult your attorney.

Local Town Pages www.millismedwaynews.com

Page 24

April 1. 2012

FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

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