Holliston December 2012 by Local Town Pages

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Holliston Vol. 1 No. 1

Postal Customer Local

Free to Every Home and Business Every Month

DEC. 1, 2012

Introducing Our First Edition BY

ELIZABETH RICKETSON

The Holliston Stroll will celebrate its 11th year on Saturday, November 24, 2012. The Holliston Business Association sponsored event grows annually with a record turnout in 2011 of roughly 6 thousand people according to Fiske’s General Store proprietor John Paltrineri. The Stroll has a very rich history dating back to when David Hofstetter was HBA President and working with John and Donna Cady of The Candy Cottage. A decision was made to create in downtown Holliston an “Open House” atmosphere, serving a duel purpose by making it a catalyst to thank their customers while bringing people in the doors of local Holliston businesses. The emphasis was to create a “Festive Evening” according to John. Local businesses quickly signed on by opening their doors, holding raffles, promotions, free food, wine tasting… making for a wonderfully relaxing and fun evening where people meet friends and other local families on the downtown streets of Holliston. The doors are open for residents, visitors

2012 Holliston Holiday Stroll

various locations designated for the Community Action Fund a very worthwhile charitable giving opportunity serving the residents of Holliston in a challenging economy. John Drohan emphasizes the idea of shopping locally by “looking here first”. The HBA looks to help businesses stay in business and thrive. For information about the HBA and becoming a member please go to: www.hollistonbusinessassociation.com The Holliston Holiday Stroll coincides beautifully with Small Business Saturday. A perfect day all around!

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Kensil.

and all that want to enjoy all that Holliston has to offer. I sat down with current HBA President John Drohan and we discussed what the past four years have looked like at the HBA. John’s vision for the HBA is to have an organization with business networking capabilities, helping to generate business in Holliston with an emphasis of giving back to the

town and having a charitable mission. John credits the hard work of Kim Bloom-Draper, Jane Gilfoy and Milton Cohen with expanding the vision of the HBA. The key is to support local business and give back to the community. A real focus and passion for John is the HBA Community Action Fund, a discretionary fund for Youth and Family Services assisting

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Holliston families in financial crisis. Continued efforts by the HBA are being planned to expand this mission. The HBA has held some very successful fundraising events (The Comedy Show last spring and the Brew Fest this fall) and while the Holliston Holiday Stroll is not a fundraising event per se, one will find passive donation boxes sprinkled around town at

As John so succinctly put it “The Stroll is a Street Party”, family event, 75 plus local businesses are participating, raffles, free food, live entertainment, 2 Trolley’s and a tree lighting at Blair Square! … and of course an appearance from Santa! The Stroll has expanded to Jordan Hall where business owners, without a storefront,

HOLIDAY STROLL continued on page 4

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The Holliston Pantry Shelf BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON What can I tell you about the Holliston Pantry Shelf that you may not already know? Well, I am hoping to share information with you through a series of articles over the next several editions. I had the distinct pleasure and honor to meet with Carl Damigella, President of the Holliston Pantry Shelf and Amy Porter, the Holliston Pantry Shelf Publicist, at Coffee Haven to discuss the Holliston Pantry Shelf and our ongoing commitment to work together each month to keep information and updates about the Pantry freely flowing. To include all that was discussed during our initial meeting is virtually impossible. Speaking with Carl and Amy I would soon learn about a deep passion and commitment to the Pantry so as to serve the residents of the Town of Holliston. The Pantry’s unparalleled success is due to very smart business acumen

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but with a lot of heart and soul. To us, the Pantry appears to run not only efficiently but seemingly effortlessly, the reality is that their success is due to the very hard work and devotion of many tireless volunteers that make our Holliston Pantry Shelf so extraordinary. Simply stated, the Pantry is seeing a sharp rise in weekly participation by Holliston residents, demand for food is high, increasing costs of groceries is concerning and yet we have fellow town residents who are in need and have not utilized a benefit we all share by living in Holliston. This is our Holliston Pantry Shelf and it is in existence to meet the growing needs of our community. The Pantry is completely dependent on private financial and food donations; meaning there is no other source of income, grants, government funding (state or federal) etc…Our Pantry is unique and independent because there is a tremendous dedication to allow individuals and families to choose their own groceries. The ability to shop weekly (operating hours are five days a week including one evening, year round); products for specific dietary needs i.e. diabetic sugar free groceries and gluten free items. Food is continuously monitored for freshness, expiration dates and food rotation is done frequently. Great care is taken to insure all food items are perfect for consumption. The shelves, freezers and every available space in the Holliston Pantry Shelf are meticulously stocked and cared for. We discussed that the Pantry is concerned about meeting the needs of all residents, including those that may not be able to physically get to the Pantry, so arrangements can be made for a volunteer to deliver to those who require it. Efforts across the board are made to insure that all residents have access to the services they need. How does the Holliston Pantry Shelf manage month to month? This is very challenging and has become increasingly difficult. Biweekly shopping trips to local grocery stores are not easy while working within a very strict budget, anticipating residents’ needs and rising costs makes spending an exercise in caution. Not only is the need for financial and food donations great but we need donors to broaden our thoughts on what to donate. The Pantry is extremely appreciative of all donations but Carl and I dis-

cussed the need for all items we use in our daily lives. There are many items that are always in demand: canned meats, peanut butter, spaghetti sauce, pasta. Yes, these are some of the items that may quickly come to mind when we think about making a food donation, but let us remember personal hygiene items, paper goods, toilet paper, soap, toothepaste, . . . even juice boxes for school lunches as Carl suggested “juice boxes fly off the shelves and usually only come in a package of four”. Coffee and tea are precious commodities in the Pantry and quantities are extremely limited. Pet food too! Dropping off food donations is made easy, even after hours, by a very convenient box located outside the Pantry building. Please be mindful not to include perishable items in the exterior donation box. Financial donations are based solely on whatever an individual feels comfortable giving. Every penny is utilized so there is no donation too small or unappreciated since the money begins working immediately. Carl mentioned that some companies will match an employee’s charitable donation so that is also a very attractive option. Financial donations can be made in person, by mail and even on the Holliston Pantry Shelf website. The holidays are drawing very near and the Holliston Newcomers Club have some wonderful programs, with the Pantry, in full swing providing Thanksgiving

Day baskets to customers making it possible to enjoy a festive meal including a holiday favorite turkey and all the fixings! Please visit the Holliston Newcomers Club website for additional information on their outreach programs: www.hollistonnewcomers.org. Preparations, by the Pantry, are already underway for the Christmas food boxes. Carl and Amy are currently anticipating approximately ninety boxes but this number may increase as it often does this time of year. Anyone interested in donating a turkey should consider dropping it off, at the Pantry, after Thanksgiving and prior to Sunday December 16, 2012 when the boxes will be made. If you have any questions on drop off times or logistics please contact the Pantry. Amy explained to me how easy the process is to apply for assistance, making food readily available for all of our residents that are in need. The objective is to make sure all Holliston residents, in need, have an adequate food supply. A concern we all shared is that some residents may be making a choice between purchasing their medication in lieu of food and that is not something the Pantry wants anyone to have to do.

Application process as stated on the Holliston Pantry Shelf website: How to use the pantry... Any Holliston resident in need may use the Pantry by obtaining a Pantry

December 1. 2012 Card through the Town Clerk's Office at Town Hall. A resident completes a brief form, providing name, address, number of people in the family, and telephone number. The Town Clerk confirms that the resident is listed in the Census and mails the Pantry Card to the applicant. Residents must present the card every time he/she shops. The card does not have the resident's name on it thus allowing users to remain anonymous. During the holiday season we all recognize the need to help and the generosity of the people that make up the town of Holliston is astounding. Giving to and supporting the Holliston Pantry Shelf cannot be emphasized enough and the need is not solely dedicated to this holiday season but to each and every month of the year. Sustained community involvement will keep our cherished Pantry working beautifully and allowing them to do what they do so well – caring for Holliston residents!

Hours of Operation: Mon - Fri 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weds 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. * In case of inclement weather, we will follow Town Hall closure * Holliston Pantry Shelf 23 Water Street PO Box 6662 Holliston, MA 01746 Phone:508-429-5392 www.hollistonpantryshelf.org

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 3

Localtownpages Seeks to Connect Community BY J.D. O’GARA Chuck Tashjian aims to offer Holliston residents a lot more than the premiere issue of localtownpages in their mailboxes this month; he hopes to foster a new connection to their community. Over 5,000 copies of the tabloidsized newspaper will be produced each month, and these will be direct mailed free of charge to households and businesses in the town. The paper will also be available in its full format at www.hollistontownnews.com. “This paper is to let residents of Holliston know what’s going on

in their local community,” says Tashjian, who envisions his publication as a way for readers to stay abreast of all their towns have to offer, including town news, nonprofit organizations, town sports and local businesses. Accompanying the news resource will be an easy-to-use online directory serving the Metro west area. Online visitors will be able to access the entire newspaper, as well as access community links, coupons for local businesses and classified ads. A feature of the new website is an online telephone directory. Town residents

Holliston “Toys for Tots 2012” BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON One of Holliston’s most successful holiday programs is Toys for Tots. I spoke with Officer Matt Stone about the details of the Toys for Tots program in Holliston and he was very happy to report the tremendous response in giving the Town of Holliston has seen since its inception in 2009. The program has grown significantly over the past few years providing toys for children in need and we have been recognized and designated by Middlesex County to be an official drop off center. We currently have a storage pod located at the Holliston Police department to collect all of the donated

items. Donations can be made at the front door of the Holliston Police Department, 24 hours a day, up until December 20th. Donation details are: unwrapped gifts, non-violent items please and remember to also include gifts for older children ranging in ages from 12 to 18 years. Matt mentioned that Gift Cards are acceptable in any denomination and a great option for the older kids. Please note: an opportunity to donate items to the Holliston Toys for Tots program will be possible at Jordan Hall during the Holliston Holiday Stroll on Saturday, November 24, 2012.

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will be able to search their own towns for individuals and businesses, without automatically getting a list of businesses not in their immediate area. Tashjian began his entrepreneurial career in 1999 as owner of Photosite in Millis, later shifting to offset printing in 2004. He then expanded his business to include the production of local telephone directories in the Dover, Sherborn, Uxbridge and surrounding areas. As a small business owner, the publisher is acutely aware of the challenges area businesses face in reaching key audiences with their limited

with expert columns, advice articles and even recipes of the month. Tashjian is encouraging students from the high school to find a voice through the new monthly... Tashjian does think information about Holliston can be lost in papers that serve a wider region. “With other papers,” says Tashjian, “you’re lucky if there are one or two articles about the actual town. We plan on being community focused and community based.” “We have a proven track record”,

we have successfully launched papers in Medway/Millis, Norfolk/ Wrentham, Franklin, and Norwood, with this premier issue of Holliston, Local Town Pages now has a reach of 50,000 homes and business each month. Readers are invited to submit Articles, announcements and story ideas to editor@hollistontownnews.com Or by calling (508) 533-News. The deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month.

Advertising budgets “Having a monthly paper makes sense. It keeps stories relative to Holliston,” says Tashjian. “This keeps residents and businesses closer together.” The local advertising “helps those people support their local businesses, which in turn supports the community.” Local Town Pages has also invited local nonprofit groups to submit monthly news articles and event listings. The publisher also encourages local merchants to offer tips from their experience

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December 1. 2012

Fifth Annual 5K and Fun Run Raise Extra Funds for Playground BY REBECCA KENSIL A partnership brought the community together for a morning of races and a celebration of efforts. Mission Possible Holliston, a nonprofit with a mission of providing recreational space for kids of all abilities, and Miller School Playground Committee have successfully reached their fundraising goal to begin building a playground at Fred W. Miller Elementary School (grades 3-5). This benchmark was celebrated at the 5K and Kids’ Fun Run at Holliston High School. The speeches, which followed the 5K race, announced the big news. Miller Elementary School Principal David Keim announced that at town meeting on the Thursday before the race, the remaining $106,000 was voted and approved through the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). “Thank you everyone for coming

out and participating in this. This will take us over the top,” says Keim. Keim says they will be purchasing items with a goal of building in April so that the playground is finished before the end of the school year. After his speech, the 14 first-place winners were announced. The firstplace winners were William Harrington, Male 1-11; Sophie Ryan, Female 1-11; Matthew Simonelli, Male 12-19; Anna Foster, Female 12-19; Michael Kelley, Male 2029, Joanna Westland, Female 2029; Stephen Smith, Male 30-39; Jackie Kelley, Female 30-39; Keiron Tumbleton, Male 40-49; Maureen Tumbleton, Female 40-49; Glenn Miller, Male 50-59; Kristin Foster, Female 50-59; Gil Peters, Male 60+; Karin Oleski, Female 60+. Even some of the day’s organizers took part in the race, such as Keim. He revealed his time.

“My time was 27 minutes even. It was better than I thought I was going to do. It was about an 8:30 mile, versus a nine minute mile. So I was happy with it,” says Keim. After the announcements, the Kids’ Fun Run began, where it was stressed that everyone was a winner. And it was a huge turnout. Keim says, “We do have more kids than we’ve ever had before.” According to President of Mission Possible Holliston Stephanie Collier, there were over 500 preregistered Fun Run and 5K runners. Previous fundraising efforts helped to fund the playground. Mission Possible Holliston and Miller School Playground Committee raised more than $109,000 with a jump-a-thon, basketball game, children’s spring carnival, and dodgeball tournament. Other funds came from the Buy a Brick program and donations. All of these fundraising ideas were inspired by the completion of a similar playground in town: the Good Will Park. In collaboration with Holliston Park and Recreation, Mission Possible Holliston completed that playground in June. “The goal of us partnering with them was so they didn’t have to reinvent the wheel,” says Collier. “They took all of our fundraising suggestions and things that had been successful out of the project, and independently and seamlessly implemented them to begin fundraising for their project.”

Runners at the finish line of the 5K. Photos by Rebecca Kensil

HOLIDAY STROLL continued from page 1

can participate and promote their businesses. Expanding even further, there will be a tent on the Congregational Church green that was generously donated by Ahronian Landscapes. This year MacArthur Farms, Arcadian Farms and Newfound Farm will be participating in the Stroll and located in the tent. East Holliston is buzzing with several businesses participating – Salone DeBella, Bertucchi’s, Lost Art of Life, Serena’s Grooming, Hills Antique Clocks and Berry Bon Bon. Holliston Family Pharmacy will have a juggler, weather permitting, and balloon animal maker, from 2:30-4! We now have two Trolley’s making their stops throughout the downtown area making it very easy for everyone to get to all destinations participating in the Stroll. Not only does the

Trolley make travel easy but extremely festive as we have the good fortune of two singers, Ira Kittrell and Katie Frassinelli, serenading all riders while en route to their stops. The Holliston Holiday Stroll schedule is full and there truly is something for everyone. In true Holliston fashion I was graciously welcomed to sit amongst the Holliston Holiday Stroll Committee members, at Pajamajo’s over the past two weeks, to learn about the Stroll plans. One quickly learns how much volunteer effort goes into making this annual event such a tremendous success and enjoyed by so many people. I want to extend a very big thank you to Diane Marrazzo, owner of The Grapevine, for being the Chair of this amazing committee of many wonderful and dedicated people. I enjoyed working and meeting all involved and cannot wait to attend this year’s Stroll event!

Children stretching before the Fun Run.

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December 1, 2012

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Wright, of RE/MAX Executive Realty. “Winning this award is a tremendous accomplishment. Robin continues to raise the bar in real estate, making us, and this community proud.” RE/MAX is one of the leading real estate franchise companies with the most productive sales

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December 1. 2012

The Walk Against Breast Cancer BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON I did not know Maryellen Anne Miller who lived a far too brief life but has left a profound legacy in the fight against breast cancer. Maryellen sadly passed away on March 18, 2008 leaving four children and countless people that loved and admired her. When I first went to the Walk website to prepare for this article I was immediately struck by Maryellen’s beauty and obvious spirit. Reading the Walk tribute and dedication to Maryellen, in her memory, one cannot help but have feelings of the heart brought to the forefront of your thoughts. Turning such tremendous struggle and sadness into what is now so easily recognizable as a major fundraising vehicle to raise the necessary funds for Dana Faber Cancer

Institute breast cancer research and patient care. Despite breast cancer and possibly because of it Maryellen worked tirelessly with a group of dedicated women to making sure her illness was not in vain. Along with Maryellen the founders of the Walk Against Breast Cancer are Maryellen's sister, Maryann Marcoux, Kathy Chisholm, Katie Connors, Denise Cronin,Jayne Jones, Pam Poor and Dawn Waddell. Dedicating her efforts and of those around her Maryellen wanted to create a community event and to give back to those at Dana Faber Cancer Institute that were responsible for her extraordinary care. It cannot be emphasized enough that as Dawn Waddell so clearly said to me “ The Walk is a local event that

makes a big impact.” I would agree since to date, over $459,000 has been raised in just the past ten years. In 2012 alone the Walk raised $52,000 in donations. Just to remember and reinforce the philosophy and intent of this incredible organization 100%, of donations, goes to DFCI. Phenomenal! This year there were 480 participants with a large population of students. While not everyone walks for breast cancer, in particular, they do walk to fight cancer since many of our lives have been touched by this illness. The Walk is growing annually in participants and dollars and we are very fortunate it is right here in Holliston. We don’t have to travel far to participate in a Breast Cancer Walk people can stay local and make a big difference.

Dawn expressed to me that the community has really embraced this event through sponsorships, volunteers and participants making it possible to donate 100% of the donations to DFCI. The Walk event is a very dynamic day from registration in Town Hall, the five mile walk to the festivities on the Congregational Church green including speakers, raffles, silent auction, breast cancer information, food and the Wooden Pink “Ribbon of Recognition.” The Ribbon of Recognition is a place for people to write a message to honor a loved one or a group of people according to Dawn. A quilt made from Walk event tee shirts, from all of the previous years, was a purely unexpected act of kindness from an artist, She was so touched by the event that it inspired her to create the quilt and it certainly made for a wonderful Silent Auction item. The Walk was honored to have the following speakers this year: Dr. Kathryn Ruddy, researcher and clinical practitioner at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Speaking about direction of Dana Farber research and developments in breast cancer. Amy Berg, a Holliston resident and five year cancer survivor, spoke to the crowd as well.

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I had the pleasure of speaking with Amy Berg on the phone today to talk about her experience with breast cancer. Seven years ago and five days prior to the Walk Amy, age 39, was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of breast cancer. Amy had previously been a sponsor for the Walk and had participated in it but now it took on a very new meaning for her. Thinking she might not participate a dear friend and a Walk founder, Denise Cronin, convinced Amy to join her. Amy shared with me an incredible memory from that day. On the day of the

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Walk, when survivors were being announced, Amy was pushed to the front of the crowd by friends and taken, by the hand, by Maryellen Miller who proceeded to tell her “it is going to be alright.” Maryellen was correct it was going to be alright. Amy sees this day as her “cancer coming out party” since she hadn’t made it public that she was diagnosed with breast cancer just days before. A second opinion and one challenging to digest since it lead to extensive surgeries, five months of chemo therapy and seven weeks of radiation but beyond it all Amy credits DFCI as “a place of hope.” Amy’s care at DFCI was unparalleled since all of her healthcare providers were “amazing” as she told me. Happily, Amy is moving forward and is healthy, exercising and enjoying her wonderful family. Amy responded to her own strong intuition that something might be wrong and she was correct. Amy now encourages women to get checked “even if it is just for piece of mind.” You will see Amy participating in the Walk with her family each year and she has generously offered to talk with other women and answer any questions she can about her journey. Amy can be reached at amy_v_berg@yahoo.com. Mark your calendars since next year’s Walk date has been set for:

October 20, 2013 Donations can be made year round on the website: www.hollistonwalks.org The website is a great resource with so much information about sponsorships, volunteering, participating…I encourage everyone to go to this fantastic site and join in since this is an amazing Holliston event organized by dedicated and devoted women working hard to support DFCI research and patient

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Backstage at Prana Center BY REBECCA KENSIL After reporting full-time locally for two years and then in Washington D.C. for eight years, Roberta Weiner became a freelance writer in Holliston, giving herself the time to switch her acting and yoga hobbies into a career. After she completed two yoga certifications, Weiner and Nick Morana opened Prana Center, a yoga nonprofit, in 1998. The studio now operates seven days a week, has additional yoga instructors, provides acting classes and summer camp for chil-

dren, and showcases performances. Her career in writing has helped her run the nonprofit. For instance, she writes her own marketing materials. In addition, she has co-written plays that the children can perform. “If I didn’t so this, maybe another career could have been an English teacher. I am a writer, and I do just love the kids’ literature,” says Weiner. She remains dedicated to using the old classics that she grew up reading, such as Anne of Green Gables,

Pollyanna, and Little Women, as a way to educate. “She really saw a niche for children’s theater,” says Julie Murphy, acting teacher at Prana Center. In addition to using her writing skills for the business, her knowledge of yoga helps her manage stress. Weiner says, “People ask me, ‘how you direct a play with 85 kids in it and never raise your voice?’ It’s yoga. It gives you patience.” She also uses the yoga to manage children’s stress and anxiety.

The Alices in Alice in Wonderland

“What I do is more the calming down and getting them to learn techniques to settle and not be nervous before they take a test or they have to talk out loud in class,” says Weiner. Murphy notes that the acting helps kids, too. “When the show goes up and they do an incredible job, it’s so great for their self-esteem,” says Murphy. The acting teachers and kids will be coming together to present free shows for the 11th annual Holiday Stroll, organized by the Holliston Business Association, on Nov. 24. The shows will include a preview of Little Women, the upcoming show in February and March, and a retrospective from Alice in Won-

Performance of Alice in Wonderland

derland, the recently performed show. The performances are held in the studio at 1:30, 1:50, 2:10, and 2:30 p.m. When Santa arrives, a new children’s chorus in collaboration with singers from the Senior Center will perform Christmas carols. “To throw adults into the mix, I’m excited for that. We’ve never done that before,” says Weiner. Prana Center recently won most participants at Celebrate Holliston, where 85 kids marched to promote Alice in Wonderland. There were Alices dressed up to march: Alice when she shrinks, Alice when she grows, and regular-sized Alice. The Mad Hatter, Tweedledee, and Tweedledum also marched.

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December 1. 2012

Holiday Stroll Glimpses and Previews to the Holliston Holiday Stroll 2012 BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON The following is a sampling of all that is to happen at the 2012 Holliston Holiday Stroll: Festival of Wreaths: participating businesses will display a decorated wreath on the door of their business with a place to leave a raffle ticket and a winner will be announced at a later time. You do not have to be present to win. Winners will be notified and names will be posted on the HBA website. Raffle tickets can be purchased at the following locations: Coffee Haven Fiske’s General Store

Raffle Tickets are 5 for $2.00 and 15 for $5.00 “Snowman”: each participating business will have a uniquely named Snowman located somewhere in their store. Don’t be shy, head on in and try to locate this adorable Snowman since he could be anywhere! Once you have spotted the Snowman, be sure to include the name on your map. Collect 15 Snowman names and you are eligible to win one of eight $25 Gift Certificates. Also, collect 15 Snowman names plus get your map stamped at Jordan Hall and you will be entered to win a $100 Gift Certificate. Vendors in Jordan Hall and the Tent on the Green are participating in a raffle for the Holliston Pantry Shelf during the Stroll. Vendors

Jordan Hall The Grapevine

Tues-Fri 9-5 Thurs Eve Till 7 Sat 9-5 Sun 12-5

Credit Cards Accepted

31 Union St. • Holliston (near CVS)

508-429-2124

508-429-1000 410 Washington St. • Holliston, MA Housecalls Available by Appointment www.HillsAntiqueClockRepair.com

The 2012 Annual Holiday Stroll at The Bird In Hand $

- Stroll Event 50 Gift certificate to be won!

• Earn a raffle ticket for every $25 you spend to enter the draw*. • Come join us for this festive event to start your Holiday shopping. • We are open 10am-7pm. • Browse our lovely Holiday merchandise, pottery, jewelry, scarves, accessories and more. • Many of our lines are ‘Made in America’ by women-owned businesses. • Shop local, and ‘American made’ for your Holiday gifts this year. • Bring a friend, enjoy mulled wine and cookies, and keep the cheer here! *Winning number will be posted on Facebook and in the store. Draw takes place at the end of The Stroll.

763 Washington Street • Holliston, MA • 508-429-0053 www.facebook.com/thebirdinhandholliston

will be donating an item for the raffle, the items will be on display in Jordan Hall from 12 noon to 5 pm at the Pantry Shelf table, and winners do not need to be present to win. Deb Steiner’s Paws 2 Celebrate will be selling Holliston K-9 treats and donating 50% of their sales to the K-9 Cesh Fundraising Efforts. Tough Love Massage will be offering clients FREE 10 minute neck and shoulder massages. Flawless Boutique “will be featuring children’s makeovers, a raffle, giveaways and yummy goodies.” Century 21 Commonwealth will be hosting the Gingerbread House Contest as well as participating in the Snowman and Wreath Raffle. Handout information will be available on the local housing market and home safety tips. Soul Spirit Studio will be launching Hugs from Holliston at the Holliston Library from 1 to 5 pm during the Stroll. Soul Spirit Studio is planning on having 1000 fleece blankets “wrapped in a hug” for those in need. “We are looking for 50 people to commit to helping secure 20 blankets. It is a great project for schools, neighborhoods, scout troops, and families. During the Stroll we will have fleece blankets out for the making and also a drop off for finished blankets.” Soul Spirit Studio will

be offering a Music, Movement and More class at 1:30 pm and a children’s yoga class at 3:45 pm. Kamala Boutique on Union Street will be having fundraising events: Kate Lamontagne has designed and made 100 unique necklaces to benefit the Holliston Pantry Shelf. For each $30 necklace sold $10 will be given to the Pantry Shelf and there are new necklace designs for 2012! In addition, Kate has designed one very special necklace, to be awarded as a drawing prize on December 15th. For each dollar donated to the HBA Community Action Fund one gets an entry into the drawing. The Bird In Hand will have an in-store raffle: with every $25 spent one raffle ticket is earned which enters customers into a grand drawing for a $50 Gift Certificate. The Candy Cottage will be sampling different chocolates, candies (something for everyone’s sweet tooth). Studio D will be offering $10 haircuts during the Holiday Stroll and ALL proceeds will be donated to the Holliston Pantry Shelf. Fiske’s General Store will be open from 8 am to 8 pm on November 24th! All day long there will be free raffles for fun prizes and special discounts on select items. From 12 noon to 7 pm enjoy sweet treats and balloons for Strollers. Children can get FREE

Holliston Spirit Glitter Tattoos from 3 to 6 pm! This reporter’s special request: please wish Fiske’s a very Happy 150 Years in business in Holliston this January. Much more to come on that celebration! Newfound Farm will be offering pony rides! They will be located on the green at the Congregational Church from 12 to 7 pm and we will be offering pony rides from 2 to 4pm. They will be asking for a $5 donation to the Holliston Pantry Shelf for each pony ride. Please visit their booth - Newfound Farm is an Equine Learning Center in Holliston that teaches children the fundamentals of horsemanship and to appreciate nature and animals. Tree Lighting and Smores!At 5 pm at Blair Square, the site of our beautiful Gazebo, there will be a tree lighting sponsored by Holliston in Bloom - a very festive event with the delicious addition of smores! There is so much more, so much to tell as there will be a multitude of fun events to explore and see Holliston businesses shine. Trolley’s make it easy to get around so don’t hesitate to stop by your favorite Holliston spot. But be sure to stop by somewhere new since there will be so much to explore and experience!

Trolley 1 Stop 1: Washington Street at Charles Street Stop 2: Washington Street at Elm Street (Conregational Church, Jordan Hall, Green and St. Mary's) Stop 3: Church Street at Railroad Street Stop 4: Hollis Plaza on Central Street Stop 5: Fiske's Parking Lot

Trolley 2 (East Holliston Express) Stop 1: Stop 2: Stop 3: Stop 4:

East Holliston Express Congregational Church Curve Street ( behind Bertucci's) Family Pharmacy

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 9

Holiday Stroll Celebrate Holliston’s Dynamic Duo By Rebecca Kensil “I felt like I was the town’s prom queen,” says Pam Zicko, Celebrate Holliston’s female Citizen of the Year and lifelong resident. She rode in a friend’s convertible, a black 1966 Lincoln Continental, at the front of the town’s parade with Andrew Porter, male Citizen of the Year. Both winners belong to the Lions Club, so they were escorted by Lions Club members. In the ride, she waved to children on the sidelines. Then she received her award and gave a speech. She says, “It was really, really fun.” But Zicko wasn’t the only winner in her family that day. Her husband, David Ullenbruch, was walking around during the celebration when someone called him to the chili booth. To his surprise, he found out he had won best chili for Holliston Grill, the restaurant he owns. Their son, Jonathon, also helped prepare the winning chili.

Together, the family manages Holliston Grill, which just celebrated its 10th anniversary. On the way out of the restaurant, a customer commended the winning chili. “I was the only person who didn’t know it was the award winning chili, and I was sitting right by the trophy. And I said, ‘Boy, Dave. This chili is really good.’ And then he says, ‘Well, it is award winning. Look at the trophy, ’” says Carlton Zeigler. While he didn’t reveal his recipe, Ullenbruch says it’s essential the chili isn’t hot, so everyone can enjoy. “You can add hot sauce, but you can’t take it away once it’s in there,” says Ullenbruch. On her success, Zicko is still overwhelmed by the big win. She was so surprised when she found out by phone in Maine that it took multiple phone calls for her to be convinced. Zicko says, “I’m still wondering why.”

Here are some reasons: Her involvement includes 12 years on the Holliston Finance Committee, seven years as a Holliston Lions Club member (currently the 3rd Vice President), and 18 years as a member for South Middlesex Opportunity Committee (SMOC). Zicko also helps at the Senior Center. The duo commended each other’s accomplishments. “I think he’s doing a great job. I think what he’s done here in keeping this place up, he is so busy. From the time he comes in here, this man gets up every morning at 4:15 and is here at 5:15, 5:20 every single day that we’re open,” says Zicko as she laughs, “I’m not. I think you’ve done a wonderful job.” Ullenbruch says, “We both have.” To celebrate, the Holliston Grill will sell $2 chili during Holliston’s upcoming Holiday Stroll on Nov. 24. Pam Zicko and David Ullenbruch holding their awards at the Holliston Grill. Photo by Rebecca Kensil

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Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 10

December 1. 2012

Holiday Stroll TRC Glassworks Artist: Tim Commerford BY

ELIZABETH RICKETSON

Many of us have basements in our home where we store our memorabilia, bicycles, holiday decorations, and of course where our furnaces and water heaters are working hard. I want to tell you that in artist Tim Commerford’s basement magic happens. Behind the mesmerizing flame and meditative hum of the torch Tim sits in quiet concentration while creating the most beautiful uniquely designed glass blown objects. Impressive to say the least that at the young age of 17 Tim is so artistically skilled and dedicated to his art of glass blowing. Even

more amazing is the fact that Tim’s passion for glass blowing started at the early age of 8 while watching a glass blower at a local craft fair. Paying close attention and totally captivated by this art form Tim watched the glass blowing artist for nearly three hours. Tim knew then that glass blowing was what he wanted to do for his art form and has not looked back. Tim attended the Diablo Glass School in Boston to get some of the basics down but was soon able to strike out on his own, worked with a fellow artist for a period of time and now has settled into his own studio at his home in Holliston. Tim explained to me that his

glass blowing process is different from the traditional glass blowers. Asking him how so, Tim told me traditional glass blowers use a furnace and he works with a torch. Thinking that would limit Tim to working on a smaller scale I was incorrect since in fact, Tim has the flexibility to work both small and large scale. Fascinating and a luxury to get the opportunity to watch this young gifted artist work I was amazed at his ability to work with a solid object manipulating it with heat and human breath to create an interesting and beautiful piece of art. I posed the question to Tim about what fascinates him about his art and he said “taking a solid and turning it into something completely different.” This is precisely what he accomplishes with ease, precision, focus and an extraordinary creative eye. The pieces are gorgeous and watching Tim infuse some pieces with color made for even more interesting observation on my part. I was so completely intrigued by how Tim worked, his glass blowing process and the final products. Tim devotes an average of five hours each day to his art. Currently Tim is creating beautiful Vials, that can be hung or worn as a necklace, Icicles and Decorative Ornaments.

Tim will be making his debut appearance at the Holliston Holiday Stroll, on Saturday November 24, 2012, where he will have a table at Jordan Hall with items for sale. Stop by and meet Tim while at the Stroll since his work is a must see.

If you would like to learn more about Tim, his work, items for sale then please contact him at: Phone: 508-808-5413 trcglassworks@gmail.com Facebook: TRC Glassworks

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Fiske’s General Store ‘MOST EVERYTHING

Make Fiske’s your first stop for: • Specialty chocolates • Holliston Apparel • Unique toys, games & gifts This holiday season, don't forget to 'Shop Small' and spend local. Support the local businesses that support you and your community. 776 Washington St. Holliston, MA 01746

Phone (508) 429-4041 Fax (508) 429-1686

www.fiskesgeneralstore.com

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 11

Holiday Stroll The Candy Cottage

Chocolates • Truffles • Fudge Gift Baskets • Nut Free Chocolates 841 Washington Street • Holliston, MA 01746 (508) 429-5544 • thecandycottage1950@yahoo.com www.TheCandyCottage.biz

Hours: Monday:10 - 2 Tuesday: 9 - 7 Wednesday: 9 - 5 Thursday: 9 - 7 Friday: 9 - 4 Saturday: 9 - 3 Sunday: Closed

Learn-to-Skate & Learn-to-Skate Hockey for tots, children, and adults at Loring Arena in Framingham. Registrations now being accepted for our Holiday and Winter sessions.

785 Washington Street – Holliston

508.429.2232

www.studiodholliston.com - studiodholliston@verizon.net Holiday Hours Mon-Sat 10-5:30 Sun 12-5

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The Grapevine Unique Gifts & Treasures

Spend $50 during The Stroll

and receive a FREE Gift while supplies last! 21b Charles Street • Holliston, MA 01746 thegrapevineholliston@verizon.net

508.429.3637

44 CENTRAL ST., HOLLISTON, MA 01746

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76 Railroad Street • Holliston, MA

508-893-8075

Mon - Fri 6-5, Sat 7-3, Sun 7-2 Serving a variety of coffees, teas & bakery items as well as Café Lattes, Cappuccinos & Hot Chocolate. Cold drinks available too! Enjoy a light breakfast or Soup & Sandwich in our comfortable dining area.

Kids Books, Best Sellers & New Releases, Great Gifts for the Holidays!

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your purchase! Valid on the day of the stroll only. (Nov. 24)

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416 WASHINGTON STREET, HOLLISTON

www.SaloneDeBella.com | 508-429-2287

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Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

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Holiday Stroll

Page 12 December 1. 2012

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 13

Holiday Stroll

Magic Show performed by Great Scott Productions Two Shows 2:00 and 3:30pm performed at St. Mary’s Hall

The Tent at East Holliston 1:00-5:00pm Performance by Wiki3, Crazy Hair styled by Salone De Bella, food sampling from Bertucci’s Restaurant

Pejamajo Café Featuring live music throughout the event

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus 3:00pm Santa’s fire truck arrives on Charles Street and reads The Night before Christmas

Gingerbread House Display 1:00-5:00 pm entries will be on display and judged at Century 21. Must be submitted by Nov. 19 to the Grapevine (508-429-3637) Holliston Fire Department and K9 Unit 1:00-3:00pm Apparatus display and introduction of the new K9 unit dog Cesh

Handbell Concert Two shows 4:30 and 5:30pm at Congregational Church Holiday Tree Lighting and Smores 5:00pm at the Gazebo in Blair Square Holiday Treats and Specials At the Tent on the Green, Jordan Hall and all participating businesses

This year the HBA is sponsoring a “Snowman on the Shelf” contest. Participating businesses will name and hide the snowman. Strollers will be encouraged to find 15 snowman names which will put them into a raffle for one of the ten $25.00 “Holiday Stroll Gift Certificates.”

A Festival of Wreath fundraiser for the Food Pantry Participating businesses will hang their decorated wreaths on their doors. Strollers can purchase raffle tickets and place them in the designated boxes for the wreath of their choice. Winners will be announced the evening of The Stroll.

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 14

December 1. 2012

Beauty and the Beast BY MEGAN JENKINS

The Holliston High School drama department cordially invited the community to “be their guest”

at their 2012 rendition of the beloved classic “Beauty and the Beast.” This family friendly musical opened on Thursday night, No-

vember 16, 2012, with an additional performance on Friday evening. The audience experienced the adventure, excitement, and romance of this dramatic production. Holliston High School seniors Nicole Wexler as Belle, Patrick Murphy as Gaston, Nate Burkett as the Beast, and Matt Koshivas as Mourice take the Holliston High School stage for their last high school musical production. Cast member, Andrew Emmons said, “This production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ is a childhood favorite” and has been “fun, seeing as it is the largest production we’ve done so far.”

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Students from first through 12th grade have been rehearsing for the play since September and are eager to put on the show. Kathy Skerry, mother of one crew member and one cast member said, “I think you’ll be very impressed.” An impression is exactly what the cast and crew are trying to make, especially after last year’s production of “Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat” set the bar very high. The cast did their final dress rehearsal Wednesday night in order

Cast members: Cogsworth - Nick Lynch, Lumier - Alessandro Arena DeRosa, Babette - Erin Bishop, Madame de la Grande Bouche - Randy Stopa, Mrs. Potts - Sarah Yarashus, Gason - Patrick Murphy, Lefou - Ben Rutberg Monsiour D'Arque - Andrew Emmons Ensamble members (from left to right) - Mai Hartwich, Cara Wehmhoefer, Caitlin Willis, Becky Tierney, Rachel Harris, Meg Dooley, Meghan Holland, Nolan Murphy. Photos by Jessica Polny

to prepare for opening night. Local senior citizens attended this final run through after their National Honor Society sponsored pasta dinner, and the production got its first reviews. Senior citizens, Shelia Love and Beverly Cray agree that they “expect it to be fabulous. Last year was fabulous, and the year before, and the year before...we expect it to be just as good.” After the full dress rehearsal, Allen McWilliams, another senior

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citizen said,“It was great. I really liked the scenery, and the costumes are fantastic.” From the detailed sets and scenery to the intricate costumes and makeup, the cast and crew pulled out all the stops to make the production a hit. Another senior citizen added, “My favorite part? Well I couldn’t tell you. It was all amazing.” The production is off to a great start, and with positive reviews already given, it seems that Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night viewers are in for a treat. The cast members seem to agree the response from audience members will be positive due to the quality of the show. Emmons said, “The rehearsals have been long and hard, but the reward is so amazing. It makes it all worth it.”

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Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 15

Floaters and Flashes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Common Complaint John F. Hatch, M.D.

vision. Other causes of photopsia include trauma both direct (blow to the eye) and indirect (sudden deceleration as in a car accident). If flashes occur in both eyes at the same time without floaters, then a migraine is often to blame, even if there is no headache.

Symptoms of floaters and flashes are a common complaint in an ophthalmologistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office. Although it is more common in patients over 40, it can occur at any age. The eye goes through many changes as we get older and one of those changes occurs in the vitreous. The vitreous is a clear, jellylike substance inside the eye that helps give the eyeball its round shape. The vitreous can go through changes due to aging, trauma or inflammation. The most common change is due to aging and is called syneresis. When this occurs, the vitreous, a semi-rigid jelly, becomes more liquid-like and cells that are normally clear, clump together to form discreet opacities that move within the clear jelly. When light shines into the eye, these clumps cast a shadow onto the light-sensing retina. The shadows appear as balls, strings, dots or cobwebs and are referred to as floaters. As the name suggest, floaters move around within the visual field creating the sensation of bugs or dust, but no matter how hard you try to look directly at them, they move away. Vitreous syneresis is the most common cause of floaters. Usually they only appear in one eye at a time and occur without warning. Since some causes of floaters may represent a serious eye problem such as hemorrhage or inflammation, it is recommended that all patients with new onset floaters be seen by an ophthalmologist for an exam within a few days. There is no treatment necessary for vitreous

syneresis but the symptoms of floaters may persist. In some patients, it is quite distracting, but in most the symptoms slowly subside as the vision center in the brain learns to ignore them. A smaller percentage of patients complain of flashes as well as floaters. In addition to floaters from vitreous syneresis, the jelly

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For more information or to make an appointment at MilfordFranklin Eye Center, call 508-4737939 in Milford, or 508-528-3344 in Franklin. Offices are located at 258 Main St., Milford, and 391 East Central St., Franklin.

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may separate from the retina in the back of the eye. This is called a posterior vitreous detachment, or PVD. When the vitreous contracts and pulls away from the retina, it often tugs on the retina. When the retina is stimulated mechanically, it causes flashing lights, or photopsia. The flashes usually appear in an arc-like pattern in the peripheral

The doctors, technicians and staff at the Milford-Franklin Eye Center have more than 20 years experience in taking care of patients with floaters and flashes. We also have a laser on sight as well as a retina specialist, Kameran Lashkari, M.D., available to help if a procedure is required.

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Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 16

December 1. 2012

HHSPTSA Christmas Tree Sale 2012 BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON The Holliston High School Parent Teacher Student Association is a nonprofit organization which is getting ready to commence with their annual Christmas Tree sale to benefit two Holliston high school seniors by awarding a scholarship to both a male and female student. Annually two scholarships are awarded, each spring, to high school seniors that have successfully met the criteria developed by the HHSPTSA. To be eligible for a HHSPTSA Scholarship a Holliston high school student and /or a parent of the student must volunteer to sell the Xmas trees by fulfilling selling shift hours. A shift is defined by volunteering to sell Xmas trees in a two hour block of time. For each shift volunteered for and completed an entry will be added to the scholarship drawing which will take place at the end of the 2013 academic school year and will be awarded at Senior Night. One is welcome and encouraged to volunteer for as many shifts as possible. As Dawn Waddell stated “It is about how much time you want to commit to it!” Volunteering can be a family affair meaning if a parent volunteers for a shift their student’s name will be entered into the drawing. Best yet make it a parent /student volunteer effort and while you are adding to your personal entries it is a great way to spend some festive time together for a great cause! This is not an event for seniors only. ALL Holliston High School students are welcome to volunteer and begin adding to their scholarship entries. This is a cumulative effort for students to win so industrious seniors sign up soon and often but Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors it is never too early to get

your name in the hat so jump in and start volunteering! It takes roughly 100 volunteers to fill all shifts so there are many opportunities to try to win the coveted scholarships! Dawn Waddell mentioned an additional gift of giving – people may purchase a Christmas tree which will in turn be donated to the Holliston Pantry Shelf for a Holliston family to receive and enjoy this Xmas Season. Fantastic! The details of this event are: Holliston Location: Woodland Street near Depot Liquor. When: Thanksgiving weekend to the week of Christmas (based on inventory). Hours: Thursday and Friday evenings from 4 pm - 8pm. Saturday and Sunday daytime hours from 10 am– 6pm. Prices range from $25.00 to $75.00. Trees are available in a variety of sizes and types: 6 to 10 feet in height. In stock are Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir & Douglas Fir. Please contact Dawn Waddell to sign up or with any additional questions at: dhwaddell@gmail.com Or go directly to the Wiki site: http://hhspanthers.wikispaces.com/HHS+Tree+sale +sign-up

Acorn Alpaca Ranch Open Farm and Holiday Boutique On December 1st & 2nd, Acorn Alpaca Ranch at 99 Acorn St., Millis, will host its annual Holiday Open House. Visitors can drop by between 10 AM and 4 PM to visit the friendly alpacas in the Ranch Barn. The Ranch, in addition to breeding and selling the alpacas, offers yarn made from the fiber of their own alpacas as well as luxurious, warm, non-allergenic garments

made from alpaca fiber. These items make great gifts to jump start your holiday shopping and warm up someone’s holiday and winter. Among the soft alpaca clothing available will be alpaca socks, scarves, mittens, hats and other warm products. For knitting and crocheting there is a wide variety of both natural and dyed colored yarns.

Those who have ever thought of owning alpacas can talk directly to Bob and Louise Hebeler about alpaca care, husbandry and how to get started. With a wide choice of Alpacas for sale the time to start is now. As in years past, we will be looking for names for some of our newest baby alpacas (called crias). An Alpaca Teddy Bear will be awarded for the best name submitted on each day of the Open House.

Acorn Alpaca Ranch is located at 99 Acorn Street in Millis. Directions can be found on our website

at www.AcornAlpacaRanch.com or call us at 508-294-7085.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 17

Signs Go Up Remembering Those Lost THE STAFF AT THE HOLLISTON REPORTER BY

Local American Legion Post #47 gives final honors to the fallen ... Legion member Steve Bradford hangs posters and flags Saturday at Finn's Field on Hollis Street.

Legion member Steve Bradford hangs posters and flags Saturday at Finn's Field on Hollis Street. After pausing for a group picture the vounteers are assigned to the sections of Washington and Concord Streets by Steve Bradford. He has taken on the role of organ-

izing the posting of signs that Mayor Blair prints out by hand over the course of several months. The blank posters are donated twice a year by Roger Gandini. Once the assignments are made, the volunteers organize into groups and head out to the street with staplers, hammers and nails. Posting signs between Marked Tree and Highland were Walter McGrath and Tom Blair. Hanging signs on Washinton Street beyond Highland was assigned to Steve Napolitano, his son Phil, and Angela Bray. Downtown posters were hung by Selectman Jay Leary with Ellen and former Police Chief Bill George.

flags at each lamp pole as Bob Nemet and Roger Gandini followed behind them, hanging the posters.

East Holliston was covered by two teams. Representative Carolyn Dykema helped Ellen Austin and Bob Nemet Jr. place posters and

Omar Martin and Victoria Corcoran hung posters from Bertucci's towards the Sherborn line while Steve Bradford and Jim Carbino worked from the Sherborn line back towards Omar and Victoria.

The Concord Street team included Charley Roberts, Margaret Kadlick, and Herb Krauss. Since Memorial Day, 2012, the world has lost 218 defenders of democracy -- heroes from The United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Georgia, and the USA. We can show our appreciation by exercising our democratic right and voting on Tuesday.

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 18

Timothy Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Foundation: Therapy through Philanthropy By Rebecca Kensil â&#x20AC;&#x153;It does sort of make you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing something. You feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re keeping your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory alive,â&#x20AC;? says Kevin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, a Timothy Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Foundation trustee. Managing the Timothy Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Foundation, which has raised money for scholarships and leukemia and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nonprofits since its inception in 2008, has been therapeutic for the Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell parents, Joanne and Kevin, who lost their son, Timothy, 10, to acute myeloid leukemia that year. The giving began in 2007 when people in town realized Timothy was sick. Todd Kiley, Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gym teacher and Holliston Highâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football coach, knew Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story and worked with gym teacher Jason MacDonald to organize â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jump for Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Team.â&#x20AC;? This fundraiser raised $58,000 for Timothy, so he could choose which charities to donate the funds. Some money funded the Siblings Program in its pilot stage at Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital while the majority went to Make-A-Wish Foundation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, that made everybody feel good. And it certainly made Timothy feel good,â&#x20AC;? says Kevin. Inspired, the parents asked Timothy about creating a foundation, and the planning began. Four months before Timothy passed away, the nonprofit was its own entity. Through the founda-

December 1. 2012

Asa Whiting House is 200 Years Old

tion, scholarships were arranged for Hollistonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high school graduates who planned to study medicine, nursing, or physical therapy. Since the foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception, it has given over $100,000 to charities and $15,000 in scholarships. September has special meaning for the Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connells because it is the month of Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth and death, so the parents are busy remembering and fundraising. September is also childhood cancer awareness month. The parents sell Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite chocolate cake, and much of the community comes out to mix, bake, frost, clean, wash, box, and deliver. The family also sells Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ties, a tie designed by Timothy that he won through a fundraiser for the Jimmy Fund. The parents also held a raffle at Celebrate Holliston. Just over year ago, in October, a new fundraiser was created by a Holliston High junior as a community service project for National Honor Society. Max Athy approached the Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connells, and together they began planning Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trot 3K road race. The event was successful, and Athy organized the project again this October with a determination to raise more money. And he did. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We went from 250 participants last year to about 470 this year,â&#x20AC;? says Joanne. The parents say he raised close to $12,000 this year. Altogether, the family has raised

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Photos courtesy of holliston reporter Timothy O'Connell

over $200,000. Now they approach the time of the year when the family sits with the other trustees and plans where to give funds. When theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not busy with their foundation, Kevin and Joanne also ride in the Pan Mass Challenge for a team named Pedals for Pediatrics and serve as board members. This charity focuses on pediatric oncology at Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital. In addition to funding nonprofits and scholarships, Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents use the foundation to simply remember him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The foundation just gives us a chance to talk about him from time to time,â&#x20AC;? says Kevin. The family also remembers their son and his interests in simpler ways. Their dog, Madden, was named after Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite football video game, and pictures of him in baseball uniform or reading the sports section of the newspaper are prominent in their home.

BY PAUL SAULNIER

As the members drifted in and took their seats in the great room, speakers prepared to relate a little history of Holliston and surrounding towns. Martha DeWolfe, a descendent of the Bullards, attended the celebration and brought a few copies of her book on the Bullards (and Holliston) entitled, Privy on the Porch and Pigs in the Basement, now available from the Library. Society President Judy Grosjean introduced the speakers. Carol Kosicki, who helps keep the society library current and available to residents who want to do research on their house or relatives from Holliston, gave a very detailed account of the families in early Holliston, including Charles Flaff, the original owner of the

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house, which was sold to the society by Charles Cole. Martha talked about her book which took 20 years to write. It is an amazing collection of facts from the early settlement of the the Holliston area. In 1812 a stage coach ride to Haverhill took a whole day, and babies were not expected to live past the age of one. A broken hip back then was a death sentence. Cotton was not known in north until much later. Aprons were often made of wool, which was less apt to catch fire from the hearth. In 1812 the population of Holliston was only 783.

Sheila Adams made a presentation on women's clothing in fashion, including Martha Washington and the Adams' First ladies. After the presentations, Judy organized two teams from the audience to compete in a trivia game that was a big hit with everyone.

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

December 1, 2012

Page 19

Veterans Gather at Town Hall BY BOBBY BLAIR

128 of the town's veterans joined together Saturday for services and the Seventh Annual Veterans Day Dinner at Town Hall. Former Holliston Police Officer David Sullivan a Marine Veteran came over from Milford. Al Wehr drove up from the Cape and Freddie Bray made the trek

down from Maine. The man who donates all the poster board for the Legion's tribute to those killed arrived up from Brewster again donating his time as a cameraman. There would be nearly 70 years in age difference between those represented from different generations and wars on this the 237th birthday of the Marine Corps.

Veterans look on as Dan Volovcin the town's youngest veteran present and John (Babe) Johnson the town oldest veteran present prepare to place the wreath. There were short speeches from Rep. Dykema and Selectman Jay Marsden. Joe Sibotti would sound taps.

The annual dinner is sponsored by the local American Legion, Lions Club and VFW Post. (Photos courtesy of Holliston Reporter)

Veterans gathered on town hall steps for a class photo.

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Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 20

December 1. 2012

Sports Chipman An Unsung Hero For Holliston Grid Squad BY KEN HAMWEY, STAFF SPORTS WRITER Tom Chipman has been a bright, shining light for Holliston’s football team. The 5-foot-9, 190-pound senior started out playing on special teams as a sophomore, then he became a key component for the Panthers as a junior when he thrived as an inside linebacker. When the 2012 season rolled around, he was faced with a challenging decision. Chipman was asked by coach Todd Kiley to move to center to fill the void left by Jake Battersby, who had graduated after becoming the offensive lineman of the year in the Tri Valley League. A captain, Chipman displayed true leadership. He not only accepted his new assignment, but he also strived to master the nuances that come with the dual role of snapping the ball and blocking. “I had been a center in Pop

Warner football but I really had to re-educate myself playing center,’’ Chipman said. “I spent the summer at two camps trying to learn as much as I could at center. I’ve got some good instruction from Jim Perry (line coach), and I definitely think I’ve improved.’’ Kiley would be the first to weigh in on how effective Chipman is anchoring the middle of the offensive line. “Tom loved playing linebacker but he was willing to sacrifice for the good of his team,’’ Kiley emphasized. “He’s a terrific athlete who has handled the toughest position on the field with success. Playing center is demanding because your snaps have to be accurate, then you go into blocking mode. Tom helped us fill a big void.’’ Chipman and the Panthers, who were 7-3 before their Thanksgiving Day game against Westwood, were in contention to secure a

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playoff berth and possibly advance to another Super Bowl appearance. “I strictly played on special teams when we beat Cardinal Spellman and won the Super Bowl in 2010,’’ Chipman said. “Last year, as a starter at linebacker, I played on another TVL championship team but we lost in the playoffs to Concord-Carlisle. Since I don’t think I’ll be playing football in college, I’d love to wrap up my career at Holliston with a Super Bowl win.’’ A good student, Chipman plans on studying business, possibly at UMass-Amherst or at the University of Rhode Island. When he’s on the football field, there’s little doubt he’s taking care of business. “Moving from linebacker to center was helpful for our team,’’ Chipman said. “We have plenty of quality linebackers and we really needed to replace Jake. Our motto at Holliston is ‘We are one.’ It just wasn’t me who sacrificed. Another captain, Steve Hennessy, could have been playing quarterback but he switched to defensive end. It’s all about serving your team.’’ Chipman is also acutely aware of the importance of football chemistry and he sees that attribute prevalent in Holliston’s offensive line that includes guards Austin Barrett and Don Murphy and tackles Chris Miller and Chipman’s brother Mike. “Our line works well together, the chemistry is good and we’re all good friends,’’ Chipman said. “When we lost our first two nonleague games this season, we regrouped, knowing that Auburn and Stoughton were strong teams. Those losses prepared us for the TVL schedule and we strive to keep improving.’’ When Chipman played linebacker last year, he excelled, espe-

cially in the Thanksgiving Day game against Westwood. He intercepted his only pass of the season and made his share of tackles. His best game this season at center was a flawless effort against Hopkinton. “When playing linebacker, you need to be instinctive, tough and have a nose for the ball,’’ he said. “At center, it’s more about focusing on technique. Your legs have to be moving in sync with the snap. That means moving towards the area where the block takes place. I’m more relaxed at center because I’ve slowed down my emotion and become comfortable with the transition.’’

Admiring his coach, Chipman rates Kiley as a skillful leader “who prepares us well and keeps us motivated.’’ “Coach Kiley was a quarterback in college and he knows what communication is needed between a center and the quarterback,’’ Chipman said. “I’ve worked with our QB (Matt Jeye) on things like timing and where he likes the ball.’’ Chipman, who admires NFL pros like Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs of the Baltimore Ravens, is wrapping up his final days as a Holliston gridder. He’s been a superb leader as a captain and he’s demonstrated the value of sacrificing for his team’s greater good.

December 1, 2012

Local Town Pages www.hollistonnews.com

Page 21

K-9 Cesh, Holliston Canine Unit BY ELIZABETH RICKETSON On the 2012 Holliston Holiday Stroll schedule you will note that at 12:30 – 12:45 Officer Matthew Stone will be introducing and speaking about our very new and exciting Holliston resident: K-9 Cesh! Cesh, the son of a Dutch Shepherd (mother) and Belgium Malanois (father) is only 10 months old but is already working and training hard to become our very own on staff police canine. Cesh is actually a new breed of dog with only 3 such breeders in the country. Cesh’s dog breeder is also the K-9 trainer, Assistant Deputy Superintendent, at the Plymouth Academy of the Plymouth County Sheriff’s department. This working breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, obedience and accuracy. Currently Matt and Cesh are training in Plymouth Monday through Friday, but are nearly at

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the half way point. When we are introduced to Cesh at the Holiday Stroll this year, they will be at the 9 week mark of a 16 week program. This program is state of the art since typically dogs do not start training until 1½ years of age but Cesh is already training hard at 10 months. Cesh is bred to be a working dog and the hope is he will be gainfully employed at the Holliston Police department for approximately 10 years. Typically this is the average that is being seen of other working canines of this particular breed – very impressive! Cesh eats only out of Matt’s hand, no dish, this is in part to solidify an extensive bond between the two but as Matt stated: “hunger is the greatest motivating factor” meaning Cesh is rewarded with food after he works and Cesh works a significant part of the day. No treats for this working dog but have no worries as Officer Matt assured me Cesh eats very well since he is always

working so the food rewards are continuous. The initial idea of having our own K-9 Unit in Holliston was presented to our police chief, town and selectman since we have often had to call on the services of the town of Ashland and the state police to come to our aid for different incidents in the Town of Holliston. A dedicated and determined Holliston group quickly jumped into fundraising mode and within less than one year’s time $20,000 was raised through fundraising and private donation. The extraordinary work by Lisa Zais was instrumental in propelling the Friends of Holliston Canine Fund forward and, along with a very hardworking group of people met with astounding success. I had the opportunity to speak with Andrea Minihan whose volunteering efforts and dedication to continue raising money for the ongoing costs that will be incurred by Cesh as he diligently

and devotedly works for the Town of Holliston is exciting and impressive. Andrea said it so well: “Cesh will help keep my officers a lot safer”. A grant for new canine units was received from Massvest-adog substantially assisting in the actual purchase of Cesh. Massvest-a-dog calenders will be sold at the Holliston Holiday Stroll for $10 featuring a K-9 and his officer. Massvest-a-dog is a nonprofit organization and Holliston’s canine unit will indirectly benefit from the sale of this calendar. New fundraising efforts are at work, more initiatives are in process, and a formal press conference date is soon to be set. Cesh’s Wish List: top of the list according to Officer Matt is a Training Bite Suit valued at $1800. Once purchased Matt, Cesh and a properly protected Holliston Police Officer will train daily utilizing this suit. This is

critical training for Cesh to insure proper response to situations that will require Cesh to react in such fashion. Donations can be made easily by a direct link on the Holliston Police Department, but donations by check are readily acceptable. Checks Payable to the Town of Holliston Canine Unit can be mailed to: Holliston Town Hall c/o Canine Unit 703 Washington Street Holliston, MA 01746 The Holliston Police Facebook Page is a fantastic town resource that Officer Matt updates daily including a valuable variety of Holliston information, events including Coffee and Cop . . . a very useful, informative and great way to know what is happening in town.

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