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August 1, 2013
Introducing Our First Edition
Ashland Farmers’ Ashland Resident Patty O’Neil Might Be “The Hero” Market Has Big Impact on a Small Suburban Town
BY REBECCA KENSIL, EDITOR
Ashland resident, mom, and reality show junkie Patty O’Neil, 46, saw an application for “The Hero” reality show that her son, Alex, had left open on the computer one night last November. She browsed through the application, reading about how the show would be hosted by “The Rock” Dwayne Johnson, who is known as a professional wrestler and for several blockbuster movies. And she read about epic challenges that would be a part of the show.
Then she thought, “I’m going for this.” So she filled out the application, and the next day the phone rang. It was the media company.
moved to a $6 million home that producers dubbed the Pent House. From there, the contestants began challenges filled with temptations to test their bravery and integrity. This was all to win the title of “America’s Hero,” which would be decided on by the audience July 25. While there, O’Neil tested limits and overcame fears.
“I used to be afraid to fly. I can fly like nothing now,” she said. “I’m not terrified of heights anymore, but I can’t explain further other than to say that fear has been conquered. I got self-confidence that I never had before. I lost 22 pounds since the show. And just again, just with a little bit of confidence anyone’s life can “The Hero” reality show contestant Patty O’Neil and her boss Richard Arminio, owner of Richard Francis Salon in Ashland, pose change. It’s pretty unbelievtogether for a photograph. Photo Credit: Photo/Rebecca Kensil able.”
After two months of what she described as grueling interviews, which included many Skype sessions and a lot of paperwork, she flew out to Los Angeles as a finalist. Out of 20 finalists, she made the cut as one of the nine contestants. She was just the mom they were looking for: hardworking with three jobs: a full-time salon assistant at Richard Francis Salon, a realtor at
RE/MAX Executive, and a holiday ringer at Macy’s.
O’Neil also described working with the Rock, who motivated and mentored contestants along the way.
She was sent to Panama, where the show would be filmed. After a few days in a Panama hotel, the nine contestants were
BY CYNTHIA WHITTY, WRITER This summer Ashland Farmers’ Market (AFM), held each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 125 Front Street on the grass across from the Ashland library, is drawing Ashland residents and groups together. The sheer numbers are impressive. According to steering committee members Rob Moolenbeek and Florence Seidell, AFM has 16 premier sponsors, 35 food vendors (up from 16 last season), 22 participating community organizations, 19 kids’ corner programs, 18 live music programs, 25 artisans, 8 theme days, a dozen high school kids volunteering for community service credits and over 40 adult volunteers. On opening day, June 15, 1,400 people visited; 600-900 are expected to visit each Saturday throughout the season. Locals know downtown for its congested traffic, due in part to the train dissecting Main Street. There are businesses, but you rarely see many people walking, strolling or bicycling. Now, on Saturdays downtown bustles
HERO continued on page 3
FARMERS continued on page 2
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FARMERS continued from page 1
with walkers, bikers and baby strollers destined for the green grassy AFM space. The train, experienced while walking on the grass and not from the confines of a car, causes no delay and is more amusing than objectionable. Helping to set up 7:30 to 8 a.m. each Saturday is volunteer Catherine Brudtz. “It’s kind of a kick. Everyone is working together and having a good time,” said Brudtz, who also serves on the AFM artisan and events committee. “The vendors tell us they like the energy here.” Brudtz first got involved in 2012, when the market started, helping to set up and break down. “This is a community-oriented space. It’s important that everyone feels welcome,” she said. Born and raised in Ashland, Brudtz noted that the market is “a positive force in town, one that we all can benefit from. AFM is providing a way for people to connect.”
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Sharon Kane, allergen-friendly cooking teacher, cookbook writer, and recipe developer, will demonstrate how to make lacto-fermented vegetables at AFM’s Health and Nutrition Day, Sept. 7.
Because of relationships she made at last year’s farmers’ market, Brudtz has gotten involved in other community activities, such as attending the library’s Documentary Film & Discussion Series and participating in Transition Ashland, a movement to develop community resilience and self-reliance through local actions and team projects.
Front St. “On that day, I saw hundreds of people swarm onto Front Street. In March, after completing the renovation of my space and setting up the shop, I reached out to AFM to help with promotion. I’ve greatly benefited from my association with AFM; on the first day of the market this year, 40 new people walked into my shop! I heard them say, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t know you were here. I never came down to Front Street before. Thank you for bringing a cool shop to Ashland!’” Price now plans to create a community patio with music on Friday nights, offer fitness and health classes and possibly, with the cooperation of other Front Street businesses, a series of Front Street Family Fun nights in September. She currently offers weekly co-ed yoga classes. A writing class is running for four sessions in late July/early August.
In addition to residents, business owners are feeling the impact of the farmers’ market.
“I want to make a living, but I am also interested in giving back to the community,” Price said. “The number of people coming to downtown Ashland now is a dream.”
On AFM’s opening day in June last year, Lisa Price was working in the space she had just purchased for her shop, The Red Dress at 54
The market will hold several theme days this year. One of the participants in AFM’s Health and Nutrition Day, Sept. 7, is Sharon
Production & layout Gorette Sousa Michelle McSherry advertising dePartment 508-533-NEWS (6397) Ad Deadline is the 15th of each month. Localtownpages assumes no financial liability for errors or omissions in printed advertising and reserves the right to reject/edit advertising or editorial submissions. © Copyright 2013 LocalTownPages
A dozen high school kids volunteer for AFM. Pictured here from left to right: Mikayla Morse, Donald York, Taylor Carson, Kitzia Diaz, Yariana Diaz, and Grace Lee. Photos/Cynthia Whitty
Kane from Ashland. Calling herself “an allergen-friendly cooking teacher, cookbook writer and recipe developer,” Kane will demonstrate how to make lactofermented vegetables, live food with bacteria and enzymes. Through her books and demos, she shares her own journey in diagnosing and treating celiac disease. Kane said she is excited about being asked to participate in AFM. “As a consumer,” she said, “I love that AFM is a happy place. I go even though I have my own vegetable garden. I just want to be there.” “I was never drawn to downtown before. The AFM gives me hope,” Kane said. Kane wants to find a commercial kitchen in Ashland soon to make a gluten-free sourdough bread mix she recently perfected, and sell it at AFM next season.
Publisher Chuck Tashjian editor Rebecca Kensil sales Lisa Kittrell Ashland
August 1, 2013
Lisa Price, owner of the downtown shop, The Red Dress, notes that her business has benefited from the AFM.
In the meantime, AFM volunteers are working to complete an ambitious season of programs: Dog Day, complete with a dog parade and show, Aug. 3; All About the Arts, Aug. 24; Health and Nu-
trition Day, Sept. 7; and Vintage Ashland Day, Oct. 5. According to AFM coordinator Moolenbeek, “We are succeeding in building community, enlivening the downtown and helping local businesses thrive. We want Ashland businesses to ‘play off of’ us. I was thrilled to hear one market visitor recently say, ‘I went to Sunnyside, then to the farmers’ market, then to The Red Dress, and then to the library. I never before would have made four stops in downtown before the farmers’ market began!” The Ashland Farmers’ Market opened in 2012 to provide a venue for local farmers and small businesses to sell their products; provide greater access to fresh, local produce; increase awareness about nutrition and sustainable agriculture and build community while contributing to a vibrant town center in downtown Ashland. The market runs each Saturday through Oct. 19. For a complete list of vendors and programs, to sign up to receive weekly specials or to volunteer, visit ashlandfarmersmarket.org.
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August 1, 2013
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The ABA Sizzlin’ Summer Membership Special Runs Through August 31 July 15, 2013 The Ashland Business Association (ABA) has launched a Sizzlin’ Summer Membership Special. New and lapsed members can join through August 31 for $50 for a year, a $25 savings. Business owners who live or work in Ashland, especially home business owners, are encouraged to join. To sign up online, visit www.AshlandFirst.com or
programs to business owners. Meetings are free of charge and open to ABA members and guests. Business people living or working in Ashland are encouraged to join the ABA to take advantage of its many benefits.
contact an enthusiastic ABA ambassador at info@ashlandor businessassociation.com 508-380-0555. The ABA is a member association that meets every other month in the Ashland Library Community Room, 66 Front Street, to provide networking opportunities and informational
HERO continued from page 1
“There are no adjectives to describe the Rock,” she said. “He is epic. He is dazzling. He is inspirational. He is everything you would think he is, and then there is more, so there is no word even created for him. He was out of this world to me. He changed my life.” Now that she is back from filming, she reflects as she watches the show unfold on television. “It’s like looking in my own head with the memories,” O’Neil explained. “I try to explain it to my husband, but it just got lost in translation. So, when I see it, it’s like, ‘See that’s what I was telling you!
The next meeting will be Tuesday, August 6. Early networking is from 6:30-7 p.m. The pro-
That’s what I remember, Bob. This is the site I saw.’ So, it’s really cool. It’s also great, because I never got to see what the other contestants were saying during their one-onone interviews. I definitely saw a different side of people that I didn’t see in Panama.” She explained that the other contestants initially saw her as the weakest link. “And I agreed with them,” she reflected. “And it’s funny to see how at this point of the show, their minds are changing. That I’m not the weakest link. So, it’s cool to hear all the nice things that they say. And I can take their criticisms as well, which makes you stronger.”
gram, featuring “DRESS for Success” by Melanie Lewis of Silpada Designs at the library and an annual ice cream social at Tasty Treat, runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. DRESS is an acronym for Daily Routines for Excellent Service & Sales. Melanie will discuss how business owner can prepare for optimum service and customer results each day.
Melanie Lewis of Silpada Designs is the featured speaker at the next ABA meeting, Aug. 6 at the Ashland Library, 66 Front Street.
One of the parts that O’Neil really enjoyed about filming was that the show’s successful missions earned money for the American Red Cross. “That’s to me, everything,” she stated. “They are the greatest organization to raise money for. I’m very proud to have been a part of that.” Now O’Neil waits to find out who won the title of “The Hero.” The winner is revealed August 1 on TNT at 8 p.m. Tune in to see her on the finale. She stated, “I hope Ashland thinks that I represented them in a way that they are proud of me.”
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August 1, 2013
Learn About the New Ashland Bike Club BY REBECCA KENSIL, EDITOR A new bike club in Ashland, which is open to everyone, is all about bringing neighbors in and out of town together for a bike ride to socialize, exercise, learn, and even advocate for change. The bike club, consisting of about 45 members, meets almost every Saturday morning for a social bike ride around 9 a.m. The membership has grown since the first Bike Club ride on April 28 when Joel Arbeitman started the group and there were just three bikers. “What we try to do is keep the entire group together on our rides,” Arbeitman stated. “Our emphasis in trying to build community is on social riding, not on racing.” People of all ages, ages 5 to 79, ride together each Saturday, pacing, stopping, and cycling through the roads. Sometimes the club rides locally through scenic Ashland streets, and sometimes they travel all the way to the Upper Charles Trail in Milford. Although the group rides together, people who want to ride shorter distances can choose to only ride a mile or two, while some may continue for a three hour ride, which often includes stops for ice-cream at picnic tables or a snack by a lake. And while the speed is based on the slowest rider, the faster ones can
ride out front and just wait for the group to cruise to the next turn.
is Massachusetts do a better job training both drivers and cyclists.”
Arbeitman explained how the club has brought people together: “What we found is, that number one, everybody gets to know everybody very quickly. And that’s a really great thing. These are people that you would never normally meet just going through life in town. I’ve been here for years and most of these people are brand new to me.”
New bicycle infrastructure is also a top priority for Arbeitman. He and some group members are advocating for a bike path in Ashland that would connect to the Upper Charles Trail. Now that Arbeitman has a growing group of members, he hopes to use this bike group as a model for other towns that could start a club. His big vision is to have a bike path in Ashland and surrounding towns that connects to the Upper Charles Trail, creating a 27 mile path. He hopes that Ashland main streets and Massachusetts roads become a safer place for everyone.
In addition to helping neighbors meet each other, Arbeitman teaches bicycle safety to group members. First, everyone on rides has to wear a helmet. He also looks for the safest roads for biking, since many riders may not yet be comfortable biking alongside cars. Before each ride, he briefly goes over bike safety such as the proper way to wear a helmet and use hand signals. In addition, he discusses how to safely ride on a bike path, which is also busy with walkers, dogs, and skaters. “One of the real concerns is that not enough cyclists have learned safe riding technique,” Arbeitman said. “When you read the statistics nationally, and in Massachusetts as well, when there are bike collisions, 50 percent of the time cyclists are at fault. And 50 percent of the time, the car drivers are at fault. What I’d really like to see
In addition, Arbeitman found in his research that walking and biking helps local businesses and property values. “So I think that beyond wanting more bicycle infrastructure, for safety, and just having a fun resource nearby, there really is a value to local communities,” he stated. Arbeitman described why people like to join the club: “While most people cite their primary reason that they are looking for exercise, I think what really happens is that they soon find they made a lot of new friends. And I really think that is the nicest aspect.” RonsTire.com
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Joel Arbeitman is an avid bike rider. He started the Ashland Bike Club to bring the local community together, teach bike safety, and improve bicycle infrastructure. Photo/Cynthia Whitty
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August 1, 2013
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New Town Manager Tony Schiavi Has Ambitious Goals for Ashland BY CYNTHIA WHITTY, WRITER Ashland’s new town manager Tony Schiavi started fulltime this summer but has been coming to town regularly for meetings since January. “I’m familiar with people and departments, which is making it easy for me to get up to speed fast,” he said in an interview recently. Schiavi is also familiar with the area. As a boy, he lived in Holliston and used to hay the fields in Ashland, Holliston and Sherborn on land that made up his family’s dairy farm. A US Air Force colonel, Schiavi spent his career in the military in leadership positions. He explained how he is ready for his new challenge as the Ashland town manger. “I have organizational and team management skills, experience in public safety and public works and in bringing people together,” he said. Working in municipal government was his goal after retiring this year. For the past 20 years, he served in the Air National Guard on Cape Cod, the second largest base of its type in the country. In the last few years, after serving as wing commander, he was promoted to executive director of the Massachusetts Military Reservation, where the Air National Guard is located. “It’s like running a town, with services, finance and contracting,” according to Schiavi. “The National
Guard is unique in that it is based in the community. As director, I got to know local town administrators and got broad experience working with state and federal officials.” Top among Schiavi’s ambitious list of goals is improving communication among town committees and between the town and the community. To this end, he will have an open door policy. “I will try to be as accessible as possible to folks in the community.,” he said. “People can call or email and get on my calendar. It’s good to hear about problems. I can’t fix something if I don’t know it’s broken. It’s also good to hear when we are doing things well.” In addition, Schiavi wants to start a citizen’s academy where Ashland residents can be exposed to town government. He explained, “An academy can increase the knowledge base of the community and help to bring in new folks to serve on committees.” He also wants to hold community forums, make financial presentations more clear and understandable, revamp the town website to make it easier to find information and use social media like Facebook and Twitter to better connect with the community. “People have busy lives. We need to figure out ways to reach out to them,” he said.
His other goals include starting a capital improvement planning committee, start looking at a new public safety facility, get a new police chief on board, and attract businesses to Ashland that fit with the its character. “What is the vision for Ashland? Creating a broad vision statement – a target – and driving everyone in the same direction is crucial,” he said. “How do we go about implementing this vision? A comprehensive plan can help pull it all together. Getting buy-in from the community is critical. It’ll take a lot of meetings and dialogue, and a good facilitator. Communication is key.” Schiavi said, “I’m very excited to be part of the team, contributing to the community and making it prosper.”
Town Manager 1: New Town Manager Tony Schiavi has set many goals to help Ashland grow and prosper. Photo/Cynthia Whitty
While other people move to the Cape upon retirement, Schiavi plans to live in Ashland “to experience the community.” In addition to a new town manager, Ashland has other new management team members: assistant town manger and finance director, Michael Herbert; town planner, Nat Strosberg; DPW director, Dave Manugian; and interim police chief, Stephen Doherty. To reach Tony Schiavi, send an email to aschiavi@ashlandmass.com or call his office, 508881-0100, ext 612.
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August 1, 2013
ABA Scholarship Awarded to Joe Peine and Amanda Albert BY REBECCA KENSIL, EDITOR During June, the Ashland Business Association (ABA) awarded its two annual $1,000 scholarships to Joe Peine and Amanda Albert, recent graduates of Ashland High School (AHS). The ABA award scholarships are awarded to high school seniors living in Ashland who best demonstrate motivation,
creativity, work ethic, and business/community interests. “I feel very honored to be awarded the ABA scholarship,” Peine said. “I am especially appreciative of this award because I hope to own my own business one day.” Peine demonstrated motivation through his school and community
activities. He founded and served as president of the AHS Science Club, which promotes science and learning among elementary school students. In addition, he was a member of the MIT Leadership Training Institute and the National Honor Society. He also published a scientific paper in 2012 that was accepted by the BioRob, a biomedical robotics conference in Rome, Italy, where he presented his research. He will attend John Hopkins University in the fall. “I will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, and plan on attending graduate school after that,” he said.
Amanda Albert, shown here with ABA scholarship chair Adam Sachs, is one of the ABA scholarships winners.
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Albert also showed motivation, constantly giving back to the community and school. Eight years ago, Albert and her sister started the Food For Thought program for her sister’s bat mitzvah project. The girls collected used children's books that were in good condition and distributed them to local food pantries and homeless shelters. After her sister graduated from high school, Albert continued to run the program. Although she hasn’t worked on it for two years, the service continues in the town. In addition, Albert worked for the
ABA scholarship committee members Beth Null and Adam Sachs congratulate Ashland High School student Joe Peine (center) on being a winner of the 2013 ABA scholarship. Photos/Leslie Marci
past four years at Annemarie's Dance Centre as an assistant, working with a classroom instructor to demonstrate dances and help students ages 7 to 14. She has danced for 15 years, since age 3. “I was very honored to be awarded the ABA scholarship,” Albert said. “I was excited to hear my name called. I didn’t know I had won that one. I was really excited and happy to find out I got that.”
Albert will attend UMass Amherst this fall undecided but hopes to pursue communications or marketing. ABA Scholarship Committee members are Adam Sachs, chair (Centinel Financial Group), Bill Gath (The Homes Connection of Metrowest), Leslie Marci (Ashland Education Foundation, Inc.) and Elizabeth Null (Learning Quest Education).
Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com
August 1, 2013
Page 7
Calendar Saturday, Aug. 3 Dog Day at the Ashland Farmers’ Market. Parade your dog! Dog show, dog treats, vet, grooming, and more. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 125 Front St., ashlandfarmersmarket.org. Tuesday, Aug. 6 Ashland High School Summer Band performs in the Ashland Summer Concert Series. 7-9 p.m., Stone Park Gazebo, Summer St., ashlandday.com Thursday, Aug. 8 The Documentary Film & Discussion Series presents “Eating Like a Nutritarian.” (77 min.) Dr. Joel Fuhrman introduces the building blocks of “Eating Like a Nutritarian” – someone who prefers nutritious food for the body. Dr. Fuhrman’s recommendations are designed for people who desire superior health and effective weight control and want to reverse and prevent disease. Special Guests: Leslie Barnett, HealthCoach, Barnett Wellness Consulting; Diana Pruzinsky, Health Coach, Diana Pruzinsky Nutrition. Viewers are invited to stay for discussion. 79 p.m., Ashland Public Library, Community Room, 66 Front St., free admission. Family Movie Night, every Thursday night through Aug. All movies are G or PG. Free popcorn for kids! Rain or shine. Stone Park Pavilion, Summer St., ashlandday.com. Saturday, Aug. 10 Ashland Farmers’ Market.
Hip Hop Dance Party at Kid's Corner (9:30-11 a.m.) 9 a.m.–1 p.m., 125 Front St., ashlandfarmersmarket.org
forms for the Ashland Summer Concert Series. Stone Park Gazebo, Summer St. 7-9 p.m. ashlandday.com
Tuesday, Aug. 13 Mason Tyler Trio performs at the Ashland Summer Concert Series, 7-9 p.m., Stone Park Gazebo, Summer St. ashlandday.com
Thursday, Aug. 22 Family Movie Night at the Stone Park Pavilion. All movies are G or PG. Free popcorn for kids! Rain or shine. 7 p.m., Summer St., ashlandday.com
Thursday, Aug. 15 Family Movie Night at the Stone Park Pavilion. All movies are G or PG. Free popcorn for kids! Rain or shine. 7 p.m., Summer St., ashlandday.com
Saturday, Aug. 24 All About Arts Day at the Ashland Farmers’ Market. Demos by artists, potter, painter, and people's mural. Annemarie Dancers perform. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 125 Front St., ashlandfarmersmarket.org.
Saturday, Aug. 17 Ashland Farmers’ Market. Patti of On the Edge Knife Sharpening. Bring your knives, scissors, pruning tools. 9 a.m. 1 p.m., 125 Front Street., ashlandfarmersmarket.org. Tuesday, Aug. 20 Railroad House Band per-
Tuesday, Aug. 27 First Day of School, Grades 1 – 12, Ashland Public Schools.
Songs for Ceilidh performs at the Ashland Summer Concert Series. 7-9 p.m., Stone Park
Gazebo, Summer St. ashlandday.com Thursday, Aug. 29 Family Movie Night at the Stone Park Pavilion. All movies are G or PG. Free popcorn for kids! Rain or shine. 7 p.m., Summer St., ashlandday.com Saturday, Aug. 31 Ashland Farmers’ Market. Ashland Music Association performs at Old North Music Stage. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 125 Front St., ashlandfarmersmarket.org.
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Page 8
August 1, 2013
Nutrition Film Series Finishes its Successful Second Run BY REBECCA KENSIL, EDITOR The Ashland library is feeling the success of the summer-long Nutrition Film Series, which was brought back by popular demand, according to Volunteer Coordinator David Whitty. When it debuted in fall of 2012, the series resonated so well with the community that a number of people asked for the series to be repeated. The films were replayed again but with some new requested ones this time around. The Nutrition Film Series is just a small part of the Documentary Film and Discussion Series, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Ashland Library and put on twice a month. The film nights are planned the second Thursday and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m in the Ashland Public Library Community Room. Two hours later when the film ends, viewers form a circle to discuss what they saw. Each person says what they want about the film, without interruption. Then the group breaks into general discussion. Everyone is free to talk to one another, ask questions, and interject. Special guests also add to the discussion. About 20 to 40 people have been attending each nutrition film, a record high for the documentary series. Whitty noted that many attendees suffer from health prob-
lems such as cancer, diabetes, weight gain, and heart tremors. He explained what people are getting out of the series. “Many people feel comfortable sharing their problems in the discussion,” Whitty said. “They either are trying a food and nutrition approach to their problem, or they are thinking about trying that approach, and they want information from the film as well as the benefit of the information that takes place during discussion.” Whitty described the information that attendees are learning and talking about: “It is information that makes people stop and think about the relationship with what’s called the standard American diet and many of the health problems that are at epidemic levels,” he said. “And that people have, and that if you and I don’t have them, we know people who do. We know people who have cancer or heart conditions or diabetes or are battling overweight problems and other kinds of very serious diseases. And so it gets people thinking about and making the connection between the agricultural system, the agri-business system of production, and the extensive processing of food. The processed foods that make up 80 percent or more of
what is in the super market isle.” Whitty noted that most people eat processed foods, ones that are high in sugar and high fructose corn syrup, and low in nutritional value. “The series relates the common diseases that people are battling to the diet in the foods,” Whitty said. “It encourages people to change to what is called a whole foods diet. That would be the diet that minimizes processed foods and maximizes fruits and vegetables and whole grains.” During discussion, Whitty said that viewers mention local ways that they are improving their diet. These ways include shopping for organic vegetables at the Ashland Farmers’ Market and growing food at the Ashland Community Gardens. But one thing that viewers are uncertain of is how to cook nutritious food. This information was requested by viewers during the last film series, so two films about this topic will be shown in August. Some of the common questions attendees have are: How do you prepare things that don’t use oil? How do you make a salad dressing without oil? “People now want how-to information,” Whitty said. These showings will be Thurs-
Many viewers of the summer Nutrition Film Series hosted at the library are shopping at the Farmers’ Market to improve their diet. Here Chef Charlie Jacobs of the Warren Conference Center and Inn cooked up clever ways to prepare carrots and other vegetables at the Ashland Farmers’ Market “Ode to the Carrot Day” in July. Photo/Cynthia Whitty
day, Aug. 8 for film “Eating Like a Nutritarian” and Tuesday, Aug. 27 for film “Secrets to Healthy Cooking.” Since this second run of films has been successful much like the first, another follow-up series will run in late 2013 or early 2014. The Nutrition Series is sponsored by the Friends of the Ashland Library and presented in cooperation
with the Ashland Board of Health, a first for a board of health in Massachusetts, the Ashland Farmers’ Market, Region 4A, the Ashland Medical Reserve Corps and Transition Ashland. The library, where the film series takes place, is located at 66 Front St., Ashland, Mass. For more information, call the library, 508-881-0134, or visit friendsoftheapl.com.
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August 1, 2013
Board of Selectmen Set Priorities for Upcoming Year BY CYNTHIA WHITTY, WRITER Better communication with the public and other boards and committees is one of the top priorities for the Ashland Board of Selectmen (BOS), according to incoming chair Yolanda Greaves. Greaves, who has over a year’s experience on the BOS and five year’s experience on the school committee, said that the Selectmen will visit other committees to get to know them and their needs and will invite them to their meetings. “There are many great volunteers in town, and we want to reach out to them, as well as to the public,” Greaves said. Reaching out to the public may include putting up a tent at the weekly Ashland Farmers’ Market, where BOS members will be available to talk, and holding public meetings at the community center to get public input.
“For example, we want to get input on what the public wants to see, if anything, at Warren Woods and the Weston Nurseries property,” she said.
user friendly; beginning the process to acquire a new town safety building; and creating budgets that reflect the town’s needs.
In her second year as a BOS member, Greaves has a better understanding of the needs of the town.
“We want to have our own BOS agenda several days in advance of meetings to be better prepared before we sit down at the table. We also want to make finances more understandable at town meetings,” Greaves said. “One other priority is to review the town manager next March or April, before the next town election.”
“Last year was difficult with many changes in management,” Greaves explained. “Now, with the new town manager in place, we all plan to move forward. Tony [Schiavi] is a breadth of fresh air, a positive force. We chose the correct person for the job.” She lists other BOS priorities as building a “strategic frameworks,” where the BOS will support other town groups like the new comprehensive planning committee in creating a vision; making the town website more
“My personal goal is to notice the positive work that so many volunteers in this town are doing and bring that with me to my job as BOS chair,” Greaves said. Other members of the BOS are Joe Magnani, vice chair; Steven Mitchell, clerk; Paul Monaco and Mark Juitt.
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Page 10
Benefits of Yoga BY ADELINE ALEX So many people do yoga, know of yoga or know someone
who practices yoga. A 2012 Yoga Journal study indicated that “8.7 percent of U.S. adults,
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The many benefits of yoga can help explain the interest and the 29% increase in the number of people practicing yoga. We live in a pressure-cooker environment that contributes to high levels of stress. There are many ways that stress can show up: back and neck pain, TMJ, headaches, sleeping difficulties, inability to focus, digestive issues, to mention a few. Yoga is very effective in reducing stress and developing portable techniques to cope with every day stresses. The practice of yoga also offers assistance in reaching a more positive outlook on life. Other benefits include:
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or 20.4 million people, practice yoga. Of current non-practitioners, 44.4 percent of Americans call themselves ‘aspirational yogis’—people who are interested in trying yoga.” The previous study (2008) showed that 15.8 million people practiced yoga. That’s an increase of 29%.
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August 1, 2013
• Greater energy and vitality • Sense of inner ease and wellbeing • Increased peace
calmness and
• Greater joy The many benefits of yoga, including the above list, are the side effects of yoga. The main purpose of yoga is found in its meaning. The word “yoga” comes from the ancient Sanskrit language meaning to “join or yoke together.” Yoga is a practice and discipline in joining your individual sense of self with your higher, fully conscious, infinite Self. Practitioners of yoga apply themselves to consciously unify body, mind, emotions and spirit. This leads to the discovery of one’s fullest potential. There are many paths or yogas to discover the infinite or your essential nature. Some of these other yogas include: • Jnana yoga – wisdom • Karma yoga – service
• Greater ease in breathing
• Raja yoga – meditation
• Greater ability to focus and concentrate
• Bhakti yoga – devotion
• Reduced sense of pressure and stress
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• Hatha yoga – harmonizing body and breath
In the West we are most familiar with Hatha yoga where the practice revolves around yoga poses and the awareness of breathing. There are many styles of Hatha yoga. Some are vigorous like a workout; some are hot; some focus more on the breath; some on the flow of poses; some are meditative; some are fast or slow. What’s important is to find a style that fits you. With all the media coverage of yoga it’s easy to think that having a perfectly strong, healthy, beautiful body that can twist into a pretzel is the point. But actually, the body and breath are tools to connect with your higher self through being aware. It’s not about how perfectly you can do a yoga pose. It’s about your inner state of awareness while in the pose. The purpose of all yoga is to turn inward to discover you inner essence, which is the source of all joy, love, healing, and wisdom. Stress relief through yoga is wonderful, and yoga offers more. You can reach Adeline Alex at Light of the Heart Yoga® (www.lightoftheheartyoga.com) or (508) 380-6903.
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Page 11
Creatives with Yarn Strike Ashland Public Places BY CYNTHIA WHITTY Can public art projects help perk up Ashland’s economy? Some Ashland art enthusiasts think so. At several spring meetups, artists from Ashland Creative, a group of local art enthusiasts, brainstormed ways to “wake up” the town. Mixed media artist and teacher at Starting Line Studio Andrea Green suggested a “Wrap It Up” art project, often called “Yarn Bombing” or “Guerilla Wrapping.” Green remembered her delight when she came across a brightcolored, multi-textured, yarnwrapped bench in Northampton, Mass., about a year ago. Ashland Creative artists liked the idea, and Green proceeded to get permission from town officials and collect yarn for the project. Yarn Bombers or Guerilla Wrappers, known in cities throughout the world, have struck locally in places like Boston’s South End, Providence, R.I., and New York City. They have wrapped everything from trees, to buses, to army tanks. According to Wikipedia, yarn bombing was recorded in May 2004 in Den Helder, Netherlands. Yarn bombing was about reclaiming and personalizing sterile or cold public places and used by groups worldwide, each with their own agenda. Early this summer, at the Ashland Library, a group of six ‘rogue’ artists –Dana Cox, Andrea Green, MR Fletcher, Sarah Kochanowski, Julie Nardone and Leah Marshquist – gathered at dusk to wrap lampposts. “I wanted something to make people smile, to capture their imagination and get them talking,” Green said. “Responses have been ones of praise, excitement. Something so simple worked to catch the fancy of town’s people.” The group is wrapping what are otherwise mundane objects in public places every few weeks throughout the summer. “It’s a way of bringing art to everyone, making culture accessible,” Green said. “Art is another way to build our local economy.” Project participant, Dana Cox, a creative director in the greater
Boston area who has a degree in architecture and design, believes “that every single creative, cultural activity adds to the whole and to the perception of the town as a growing place.”
maker, with a background in geology. Fletcher uses natural stones and quality metals in her work. “This art installation is a way to say, ‘Creativity abounds in Ashland!’”
Cox has lived in Ashland for ten years and said that this project helped to get her involved in the town for the first time. She noted, “It is possible to make a difference in Ashland – creatively, artistically, economically.”
Fletcher has many ideas for creative town projects. “I like functional art,” Fletcher stated. “We could have artistically made sandwich boards in our town center, for example, that would really grab people’s attention as they drove by. Or, handmade tubs for flowers. Or, we could hold a downtown street fair on a Saturday morning that complements the thriving Ashland Farmers’ Market.”
“People who see us wrapping stop and ask questions. They look and wonder. Both the process and the product are important,” Cox explained. “Our project is small, spontaneous and highly visible and suggests that people in town want to do some interesting stuff,” said MR Fletcher, an Ashland jewelry designer and
"Art drives the local economy more than most folks realize," said Julie Nardone, founder of the Off Center for Wild and Disobedient Creativity and an artist and writer. “Cities and towns all over the country have revitalized
Ashland Quilter Sarah Kochanowski wraps a lamppost with the help of young artist Miles Marshquist. Photos/Andrea Green.
their downtowns through the addition of art galleries and art centers. People don't visit a downtown to see apartment buildings or parking lots. They come to see something beautiful, something out of the ordinary that piques their curiosity.” Nardone and others hope to have an art center in Ashland someday.
With 250 artists on the Ashland Creative mailing list and endless ideas and energy, one can expect more surprise wrapups and other art projects in Ashland this summer and beyond. For more information or to be involved in future projects, email giulietta@giuliettathemuse.com or call 508-380-8799.
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August 1, 2013
Fox 25 Visits Ashland on Zip Trip
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August 1, 2013
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August 1, 2013
Sports Baker Returns to Bellingham as Athletic Director BY KEN HAMWEY STAFF SPORTS WRITER Names like Hugo “Scooch’’ Giargiari, Phil “Smokey’’ Moresi, Harold “Grump’’ Walker, Clem Spillane and Bill Cunis resonate loudly in Ashland’s athletic circles. They played, they coached and they were immersed in sports administration at the interscholastic level. They excelled in a variety of venues and today they’re a Who’s Who among Ashland’s legendary sports figures. A name that should be included in the mix is Dennis Baker, a lifelong Clocker who graduated from Ashland High in 1966. Baker starred as a three-sport athlete, won his share of games as a coach and he worked for 12 of his 36 years at Bellingham High as its athletic director. The 64-year-old Baker made news in June when he came out of retirement after six years and agreed to return for a second stint as Bellingham’s athletic director. He was chosen from a pool of 39 candidates. “I’ve always enjoyed working with student-athletes,’’ Baker said. “And, although I’ve lived in Ashland all my life, Bellingham is my second home. Taking this position offered me a chance to return to educational athletics. I had offers to work at other schools but Bellingham has always been a special place.’’
Baker, who has coached softball for the Blackhawks for 15 years, plans to continue in that role next spring. The forward-thinking administrator, however, has some specific goals he wants to achieve in the year ahead.
from Maryland in 1971 with a degree in education. Baker’s late father (Arnold), who had been an Ashland Selectman for 35 years, encouraged his son in athletics. Arnold Baker coached the Ashland-Holliston Legion baseball team for 18 seasons before giving way to his son for the next 10 years.
“I want to keep user fees at $125 per student and coaches will be evaluated in an on-going process,’’ Baker emphasized. “I want to know what our coaches’ expectations are and how they can increase participation. My primary goal is for our teams to be competitive.’’
“I also coached Ashland High varsity baseball for 14 years (198295),’’ Baker noted. “I had a chance to coach my two sons (Dennis Jr. and Matthew). We won three Tri Valley League titles and got to the South Sectionals once.’’
Baker’s one-year contract started on July 1 and runs until June 30, 2014. During his previous 12-year run as athletic director, Bellingham won four state titles, including two Super Bowls, one in boys basketball and one in field hockey.
Baker’s sons aren’t much different than their father. They’re deeply involved in athletics. Dennis Jr., who teaches special education in Hopkinton, is the Hillers’ varsity softball coach and an assistant in football. He also coaches the Ashland Legion team. Matthew, who coaches jayvee baseball in Ashland, works in athletic administration at Framingham State University.
Baker’s 3½ decades working in Bellingham has been rewarding and his presence for the 2013-14 school year should prove to be a plus. Those from Ashland who know the Baker name can attest to his firm roots and the glorious times he provided for Clocker fans. The 6-foot-2 Baker excelled in baseball, football and basketball before heading off to the University of Maryland on a baseball scholarship. He was a two-way end in football, a center in basketball and an outfielder/first baseman in baseball. A Dual County League all-star in football and baseball, Baker was the sixth man on the
“Since 1971, there has been a Baker coaching the Ashland Legion team,’’ Baker said. Lifelong Clocker Dennis Baker returns to Bellingham as the athletic director. Photo/Pauline Hamwey
1964 Clocker hoop squad that lost to Holliston in the state finals. In 1966, he helped Ashland win a state crown in baseball by defeating Norton.
“Although we lost to Holliston at the old Boston Garden, it still was such a big thrill to play on the parquet floor,’’ Baker said. “Baseball was my favorite sport and being on a state title team was a major thrill. We had a good core group in Mark Iarussi, Jimmy Poole and Earl McLaughlin. And, Clem Spillane was a very motivating coach and a strong disciplinarian.’’ The scholarship to play baseball at Maryland was no fluke. Baker hit .500 in the cleanup slot for the Clockers. And, he could also hit for power. Finding the adjustment a bit overpowering in the Atlantic Coast Conference, Baker played only a year of freshman baseball, then focused on academics, graduating
Now, Baker has returned to Bellingham and will be involved with hiring coaches, budgeting, scheduling and facility management. The good news for Bellingham is Baker’s learning curve — there won’t be one for the veteran A.D. “I never thought I’d be replacing Leo (Dalpe), who replaced me six years ago,’’ Baker said. “He did a good job and he was greatly respected at all levels. I plan to do what’s best for Bellingham and also what’s best for the Tri Valley League.’’ Dennis Baker’s second stint as the Blackhawks’ A.D. is now under way and for the Ashland native who says he bleeds black and white, he seems comfortable with his decision to return to his “second home.’’
Our Ad & Editorial Deadline is the 15th of each month, for the following month’s issue.
August 1, 2013
Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com
Page 15
Sports Ashland Sr. Babe Ruth Team Hopes to Finish Strong BY CHRISTOPHER TREMBLAY, STAFF SPORTS WRITER After having lost to Medfield two games to one in the Central Mass Sr. Babe Ruth League North Division Finals last summer, Ashland was looking to come back this season with a vengeance and put that heart-breaking loss behind them. Midway through the season, Ashland is still chasing Medfield in the North Division, but by no means giving up. “We’re returning a team that is very similar to the team that lost to Medfield last year,” Ashland Coach Kyle Wilson said. “Right now we’re 9-3 and in second place behind Medfield, who’s 10-2, but our goal was not to finish in second place. We’re here to win the whole thing.” Earlier in the season Ashland took to the road and defeated Medfield 4-2, and the two teams will clash one more time before the regular season ends this time in Ashland. A win for Ashland could give them the North Division as they head to the post season. “As the season winds down we’re looking to finish out strong and pull into the tournament with momentum,” the coach said. Ashland has not lost two games in a row thus far this season; the
main reason being the pitching staff. Nick Cunningham has led the team on the mound, posting a 5-0 record with a sub 1.0 ERA while tossing a no-hitter; Zach Blecher and Thomas Schelling have the other four wins. As the trio continues to rack up the wins for Ashland, each brings a different style of pitching to the mound. Cunningham, the team’s ace, is a power pitcher with a good curve ball, while Blecher has decent velocity and change. Schelling is more of a contact pitcher who lets his defense get the easy outs behind him. Together the three are leading the charge at overtaking Medfield atop the division. With the pitching staff doing their job at keeping opposing batters at bay, the Ashland batters are trying to do just the opposite when they step into the batter’s box. “We’ve got our self a decent hitting lineup, “ Wilson said. “There are a few key guys that are consistently putting the wood on the ball, while others are doing all right but having trouble keeping it going night in and night out.” Leading Ashland at the plate is third baseman Mike Lichtenstein, who is not only rock solid at the hot corner but is hitting with power at the plate. Lichtenstein is cur-
On July 12, Ashland was at home hosting Medfield. Photos/ Christopher Tremblay
rently hitting .375 as the team’s cleanup hitter and leads the team with 9 RBI. “This league uses wood bats, so a lot of kids coming from high school, where they are allowed to use aluminum, struggle, but not Mike,” the coach said. Batting right behind Lichtenstein in the lineup is John Ciampaglia, a power hitting outfielder. Ciampaglia, who sees time in both left and center field is hitting just above .300 with a majority of his hits going for extra bases. Pitchers Cunningham and Blecher can also swing a big bat for the offense. Blecher is batting .450 from the second slot in the Ashland lineup, where he has produced a ton of singles. According to the coach, he’s a smaller athlete with good speed that gives him a
lot of bunt and infield hits. Behind the plate, Ashland relies on catcher Derek Masionis. Not only has he been a clutch hitter at the plate, but he’s rock solid behind the plate. Unfortunately, playing hockey he was injured and is just getting back to 100 percent.
His arm strength keeps runners honest. The rest of the Ashland team consists of Christian Rieck (1st base), Colin Nanatovich (outfield and short), Jeremy Bhandari (right field) and Shamus Reardon (DH – power hitter with a lot of big clutch
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August 1, 2013
Localtownpages Seeks to Connect Community BY J.D. OÍGARA Chuck Tashjian aims to offer Ashland 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 6,800 copies of the tabloid-sized 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.Ashlandtownnews.com. “This paper is to let residents of Ashland 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-touse 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 will be able to search their own town 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 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 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... We plan on being community focused and community based. “We have a proven track record”, we have successfully launched papers in Holliston Medway/Millis, Norfolk/Wrentham, Franklin, and Norwood, with this premier issue of Ashland, Local Town Pages now has a reach over 55,000 homes and business each month. Readers are invited to submit Articles, announcements and story ideas to editor@Ashlandtownnews.com Or by calling (508) 533-News. The deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month.
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