Ashland November 2015

Ashland localtownpages

Vol. 3 No. 4

Free to Every Home and Business Every Month

Art and Activism in Ashland An artistic and interactive perspective of the Nyanza Superfund site, now at the Ashland Library.

By Erica Brown, Contributing Writer When you are an artist there is something profound about growing up in a town that was home to the first colorant manufacturing plant in the country. This is Dan Borelli’s experience. At a young age, the study of color surrounded him. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) documenting the route of dye pollutants from the Nyanza Color and Chemical plant through his Ashland neighborhood in 1982, to dye toxins turning the snow Borelli played in blue and ponds he wadded in pink Borelli, and his town, were immersed in color.

Now, as director of exhibitions at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design, Borelli studies and documents multiple aspects of the Nyanza Superfund site located at the heart of his childhood home. The exhibit,

Building a community that supports a healthier, more physically active population is challenging and begins with a mindset of incorporating more physical activity

Video testimonials pull from community, government and Ashland families. (Photo/ Dan Borelli)

tial network of this expanded art project, which will soon encompass town streetlights and a future public garden. The exhibit at the Ashland Library is free and open to the public until Dec. 19.

ART AND ACTIVISM

continued on page 2

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November 2015

Safe Routes to School Program Creates Mindset for Physical Activity

By Deborah Burke Henderson, Contributing Writer

“Illuminating Futures: The Ashland & Nyanza Project,” is Borelli’s most recent work and offers a hopeful look forward, exploring how Ashland will use its spirit of activism to overcome the color that polluted it. The ‘walkshop’ is a combination gallery talk and tour of t Ashland and the spa-

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Celebrity walkers like Sparky, safety mascot for the Ashland Fire Department, join in on a Walking Wednesday. (Photo/submitted)

into life whenever possible. In 2013, Ashland started its Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program to increase children’s physical activity and train youngsters in proper pedestrian and bicycle safety. The program’s long-term goal is to help support a healthier lifestyle and ultimately, foster continued growth of a safe and sustainable community.

The Massachusetts SRTS program is an initiative of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) that encourages public elementary and middle school students to walk and bicycle to school.

Integral to the program’s success in Ashland are administrative assistant for Ashland Nutrition Services, Susan Palefsky, and Ashland Public School’s Nutrition Director Lisa Beaudin. The women

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“I am coming at this as an artist, the idea of how contamination becomes an identity shaper,” Borelli, who received two grants to fund the project from national art organizations, said. “Illuminating Futures” is aimed at helping Ashland residents come to grips with the severe effects water and soil contamination from the Nyanza colorant plant and its predecessors at the site have had on public health in the area.

Borelli chose the Ashland Library for this project because the thousands of EPA documents about one of the country’s first Superfund sites are housed there for residents to review. “This [archive of documents] was a result of direct activism from the Ashland community,” Borelli said, He marvels today at how this activism was accomplished without the internet, smartphones, and social media. It was the Ashland community’s persistent concern about the Nyanza pollution and questioning of local, state, and national government that prompted the public health study in 2006. This estab-

lished a direct correlation between the Superfund site and elevated instances of cancer in the area.

Proud of his community’s activism, Borelli said, “The collection at the library challenged our government to be open and transparent about pollution, it mentally projects a narrative on people.”

In another room of the library, visitors can see artifacts from the Nyanza Colorant Plant; yarn, dye cones, a series of artistic drawings and physical models, and an artifactual timeline that reflects the epic events surrounding Ashland.

There is also a new collection of books representing the activism that began in this small town just 22 miles outside of Boston. One of Borelli’s favorite’s is Henry David Thoreau’s, A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers, written in 1849. “Here Thoreau, an environmentalist before his time, writes about the topography and laments about industrialization.

Now this area is a superfund site,” Borelli said.

Alongside the EPA’s Field Repository of the Superfund site are video testimonials. Collected over recent years, these testimonials share stories from community members, government officials

and Ashland families. There is also a custom visitor’s table for people to sit down, listen, look at scrapbooks, review the selected books on display, and participate in a survey to relay experiences and thoughts about the project.

Nyanza Color & Chemical Co. was the last of a series of companies that started in 1917 manufacturing dyes, intermediates and textile chemicals in Ashland. The 35-acre site is a quarter-mile from the center of Ashland. Throughout its history, Nyanza has been a source of public health concerns and, in 2006, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health verified that Nyanza caused an elevated risk of cancer to Ashland residents. This history is the overall context of the art project and asks what is going on with the remediation today, how is public knowledge about the site disseminated, and how does a community regenerate from such catastrophe while acknowledging its past?

“This [public health problem] resulted from an era of carelessness that was consistent across the U.S.,” Borelli said He hopes “Illuminating Futures” will prompt all who view it to act to prevent a Nyanza Superfund site from

Published Monthly Mailed FREE to the Community of Ashland Circulation: 7,000 households Publisher Chuck Tashjian Editor Cynthia Whitty Sales Susanne Odell Advertising Sales Manager Lori Koller Advertising Sales Assistant Kyle Koller Production & Layout Susan Dunne Michael McDaniel Michelle McSherry Dawna Shackley Advertising Department

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Visitors can look at scrapbooks, review the selected books on display and leave notes in a survey section. (Photo/ Dan Borelli)

happening again. “Color and vibrancy didn’t just disappear, so where is it now and how is it being manufactured?”

In addition to housing the first colorant plant in the country, Ashland is also known as the birthplace of the electric clock. “In this place called Clock Town, it’s fascinating to consider the construct of time and how this site is still ongoing; we are basically just hovering in time now, and the future is unknown,” Borelli said. Video and

interactive maps included in the project take viewers on this time discovery, examining how two of the EPA cleanup focuses have been mediated, yet two remain unresolved. “The river and water plume contamination effects are ongoing and will outlive my generation,” Borelli said.

For more information about Borelli’s continued work on the Nyanza Superfund site, visit www.ashlandnyanzaproject. com/overview.

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November 2015

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continued from page 1 are passionate about keeping young people healthy and are dedicated to making the SRTS program work. Under their leadership, they secured critical support early on from Town Manager Anthony Schiavi and the School Superintendent at the time, Brooke Clenchy.

“Tony was very interested and saw great potential for making Ashland a more pedestrian -friendly community,” Beaudin said. “He has joined us more than once at 7:30 a.m. for ‘Walking Wednesdays’ as a celebrity volunteer who escorts children from our starting point in Montenegro Square to the David Mindess School.”

Early on, the women formed a SRTS task force, which meets monthly during the school day to keep the program on track. The task force is comprised of school staff and administrators, parents and members from the Police Department, Town Planner’s office, Ashland’s Sustainable Committee, School Committee and Board of Selectmen. Although there is no direct funding, the program receives invaluable technical and inkind support from Melissa Green, Massachusetts SRTS coordinator.

Physical Fitness, Pedestrian and Bike Safety To get kids moving and to teach pedestrian safety, the task force created “Walking Wednesdays,” a pilot program at the Mindess School for children in grades 3 through 5. This fall’s series was held in October. Administrators inform parents about the program through the school newsletter and invite them to participate. The youngsters receive stickers or trinkets, such as zipper pulls supplied

by MassDOT, for completing the 10-minute walk from Montenegro Square to the school. Last spring incentives included an opportunity to enjoy a free breakfast

Easy-to-follow chalk graphics define the walk route from Montenegro Square to Mindess School. (Photo/Cynthia Whitty)

Lisa Beaudin, Ashland Public Schools’ nutrition director, and Melissa Green, MassDOT’s SRTS coordinator for Ashland, talk up the Safe Routes to School program at the farmers’ market sustainability day.

(Photo/Cynthia Whitty)

after walking to school and eligibility for a prize drawing. Mindess School Principal Gregory Irvine pulled the winning walker’s ticket each week the walks were held and made announcements over the public address system, emphasizing the importance of walking as part of a child’s 60-minutes of recommended daily exercise.

“Over the course of three weeks of ‘Walking Wednesdays’ last spring, we saw increased participation each week,” Palefsky said. “We want to integrate the program into school activities and tie it into the overall goal of the town of becoming a more physically active community.”

The program also provides bike safety training. Extended Day Director Melissa MerconSmith helped facilitate a workshop for 4th and 5th graders who took part in the Extended Day Program at Mindess School. The students attended a workshop brought to the school by Mass DOT focusing on bicycle safety.

After the classroom program, the students were given the chance to practice and apply safety techniques while biking on and

around Mindess School grounds.

The task force is hopeful the program will spread to the middle school as well.

Task Force Offers Suggestions to Town Members of the task force offer suggestions to the Department of Public Works (DPW). Members help identify which roadways need fixing or where cross walk locations should be developed.

They are currently working to secure grant funding to hire a professional consultant in the public health, planning, and transportation field who could help communities such as Ashland become more active and livable.

Community Compact Makes SRTS a Priority This spring the town signed a Community Compact with the Baker-Polito administration. The agreement supports cities and towns as they implement self-selected best practices to strengthen their communities. Selectman Yolanda Greaves brought this concept to the town in August.

The Massachusetts SRTS pro-

gram was chosen as one of the compact’s three priorities.

“The Safe Routes to School program ties in beautifully with our Complete Streets policy to make streets more accessible for all modes of transportation,” Greaves said. “We are confident these initiatives will make Ashland’s streets more pedestrian and bike friendly.”

The SRTS task force was delighted to learn that the SRTS program was selected as a key priority for implementation. “This recognition by our state and local

leaders is very important,” Beaudin said.

Volunteers are needed year round to lead the pedestrian safety training sessions, which occur two consecutive mornings in November, help with “Walking Wednesdays,” or spread the word about building a community that supports a healthier, more physically active population. For more information about the SRTS program or to get involved, contact Susan Palefsky at spalefsky@ashland. k12.ma.us.

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November 2015

A note to our Ashland neighbors Dear Neighbor, Wasn’t this a fantastic summer? I can’t believe that it’s already been 90 days since we opened our Ashland Banking Center at 41 Front Street. The response to our grand opening as your newest bank couldn’t have been more encouraging. As you may recall, June 28th was a cold and rainy day but we still had a great turnout as many came to see Malcolm Butler for photos and autographs.

Since then, we have had the good fortune of meeting lots of new friends and welcoming new customers to the bank. In July we offered a short-term CD special, which was particularly popular here in Ashland. Many who opened a new CD with us also moved their checking account to us, as NB Checking is thought by many to be the best checking account in the state. No minimum balance requirement, no hidden fees, no jumping through hoops to qualify, and free access to any ATM in the world. Whatever any other bank charges you for using their ATM, we automatically reimburse to your NB Checking account.

Hopefully you have enjoyed the solar powered bench which we donated at the playground near our office. In addition we have donated to the Ashland Education Foundation to help bring new technology to the Middle School and provided additional support to the Ashland Lions Club golf tournament, the Arts! Ashland Alliance Dragonfly Festival, and the Ashland Emergency Fund. We’ve also proudly stepped up as the premier sponsor of the Ashland Farmers Market. And we’re not close to done. We wish to demonstrate to you that not all banks are the same.

We are fully committed to the notion that shopping local means banking local. And that we are as committed as you are to the vitality of this town. What’s important to you is important to us. That’s how local partnerships are defined.

In closing, please accept our sincere thanks for welcoming us to Ashland and providing us a chance to prove ourselves to you. We aspire to be your bank and to earn your confidence. If there is anything I or my staff can do for you, would you please contact me at DConti@NeedhamBank.com or at 781-247-6891? I look forward to seeing you soon.

Most appreciatively,

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November 2015

Page 5

Ashland High School Robotics Club Aims to Expand Knowledge of Robotics bers hope to inspire the next generation of creative kids so that the team may continue to grow and thrive when they become students at AHS themselves. The much-anticipated event is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Ashland Middle School cafeteria.

The public is welcome to attend.

All proceeds will benefit the local Make A Wish Foundation, an-

Club holds next public event, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Middle School.

By Olivia White, Student Writer, AHS Sophomore With all of the well-deserved publicity that our sports teams often receive, it is important to remember that there are many additional opportunities and clubs at Ashland High School (AHS). For example, are you familiar with the Robotics Club? If your answer is no, newly elected President Sabrina Liu wants to change that.

The promising sophomore has even designed her own curriculum “so that by the end of the year people will at least have some basic knowledge of robotics.”

Students are encouraged to join regardless of robotics experience … all that is required is an

other great reason to come out and show your support.

Coming in January, the Robotics Club will compete in the New England Botball tournament, a team-oriented robotics competition, hosted by UMass/ Lowell. Teams from all over the region try to escape elimination by having the last standing working robot. It is an amazing competition that draws schools from all over New England. If you or your friends are interested in learning more, stop by on a Tuesday and see for yourself how much fun science can be!

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AHS Robotics Club members prepare to demonstrate their designs at Ashland Day. (Photo/Cynthia Whitty)

interest in learning more. Members of the club will learn about the uses of different materials and important information on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to program their own scientific creations. Every Tuesday at 2 p.m. the team will combine their skills to create a variety of

robots using autonomous robotic designs and programming. These robots range in skill levels and are designed to solve various openended problems that can make our lives just a little bit easier.

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November 2015

Food, Gifts and Holiday Spirit: Special Ashland Farmers Market Offers One-Stop Shopping

By Cynthia Whitty Ashland Farmers Market is back with a special holiday market, Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ashland Middle School cafeteria, 87 W. Union St. (Rt. 135). Shoppers can stock up on foods and traditional delicacies from 25 food vendors for their Thanksgiving table. In addition, over 15 artisans will make finding the perfect gift just

a little bit easier with stocking stuffers, winter accessories and holiday-themed specials. Gift certificates for AFM will also be available from the market managers’ table.

Food vendors will include season favorites: Arcadian Farm from Holliston, Long Life Farm from Hopkinton, Medway Community Farm, Shady Pine Farm, Five Loaves Bakery, Ju-

Kids get creative at the market, especially on Pumpkin Painting Day in October. (Photo/Tiana Rutledge)

AFM provides an outdoor portable play area comprised of an Outlast Block set, thanks to the generosity of donors. (Photo/submitted)

lie’s Z Breads, Yummy Mummy Brownies and Bello Treats. For the first time at AFM, Country Desserts Bakery of Newton will offer fresh pies and the option of ordering on Saturday for Wednesday, Nov. 25, pickup.

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Papaya Shop, A Second Chance, Brookfield Candle Company, Brooklyn Bath, DAG Pottery and Early Bird Designs.

For a complete holiday market lineup and other up-to-date information, visit www.ashlandfarmersmarket.org.

More Than Just a Market The all-volunteer AFM started in 2012 and has grown each year. It is a popular meeting place for all ages each Saturday morning, mid-June to mid-October. Each Saturday, the market offers breakfast, lunch, and live music. In 2015, the market saw an average of 1,350 visitors, up 35 percent from last year, bringing a total of nearly 25,000 visits by shoppers to downtown. Special theme days and events throughout the season have been especially popular: Strawberry Fest, Farm

Day, Dog Day and the Labor Day Lobster Fest, with nearly 538 lobster rolls sold.

This year, AFM volunteers took on a number of special projects.

Reducing Plastic Bags: By all accounts, the “Got Baggage?” initiative was a resounding success. Vendors embraced the BioBags®, made from 100 percent biodegradable and compostable material that AFM provided. Some vendors purchased their own biodegradable bags.

Shoppers got used to bringing their own reusable bags or stopping by the Market Managers’ tent to borrow one. Local businesses donated full boxes of reusable shopping bags. AFM estimates that it received nearly 1,200 donated reusable bags,

ONE-STOP SHOPPING

continued on page 7

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

November 2015 ONE-STOP SHOPPING continued from page 6

including those from three of its sponsors—Middlesex Bank, Needham Bank and Purple Ink Insurance—and from realtor Bill Gath, the civic group We Love Ashland, and many individual customers.

AFM Board Chair Julia Chase said, “We will capitalize on this momentum to find other ways to bring more sustainability and less waste to AFM next season.”

Crowd Sourcing for Outlast Blocks: AFM touts itself as “a

fun, family destination,” with a weekly Kids’ Corner and many other activities for all ages. To further enhance the market, AFM took on an initiative this season to fund a portable kids’ play area.

A total of $1,620 was needed to fund an Outlast Block set, interlocking wooden blocks made for the outdoors. The group surpassed its goal by almost $400, Matt Marshquist, an AFM coordinator, said. In addition to crowd sourcing, the practice of raising funds online through a

large number of people, and in-person donors at the market, the Ashland’s Mom’s Club also made a generous contribution. See the complete list of donors on the AFM website, www.ashlandfarmersmarket. org/2015/08/12/outlast.

“We hope the blocks will provide a stimulating activity for our youngest visitors, who are naturally drawn next door to the skate park. The skate park has some rough edges and slippery surfaces, which are a cause for concern for parents of young children and AFM volunteers.

The Outlast Blocks will provide another way of experiencing free play for kids while at the market,” Marshquist said.

Thirty-eight generous online contributors and several offline contributors helped AFM raise $1,865. With the extra funds, AFM was able to purchase a storage box for the blocks.

Educational Outreach: This year AFM designated $1,000 in grants to give to organizations and community groups to further its mission to improve local food choices and public health.

Page 7

(Photo/Tiana Rutledge)

Through its first mini-grant program in the spring, AFM made awards to two applicants. The nonprofit organization’s Education Committee awarded $860 to the Ashland Middle School library for books and ebooks on nutrition, diet, exercise and local sustainability and $140 to

the Ashland Public Library’s children’s room for backpack kits, containing farmers’ market picture books for preschoolers and toddlers.

Based on this first success, schools and community groups should look for another mini-grant opportunity in January, 2016.

In addition to mini grants, AFM’s education committee sponsored a showing in June of the film, “Bag It: Is Your Life Too Plastic?,” and helped underwrite the use of BioBags for the market’s “Got Baggage?” campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags and containers.

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Page 8

November 2015

Art in the Library DOWNSTAIRS GALLERY “Drawings & Paintings”

by Deborah Bottomley November 3-28, 2015

Milford resident and artist Deborah Bottomley has been creating art since she was a young girl, inspired by both her parents and later her public school art teacher. She studied art in college, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Through the years she has had a variety of art-related jobs in private industry and as a musician.

Since 2011, she has focused on becoming a fulltime artist.

In Bottomley’s words:“Most of my work shares a common thread of being inspired by, or interpreted from, photos taken over the years.

I have ‘boxes’ of notes and photos that hold the mental tag of ‘I’m going to paint that someday.’

Some provoke a memory that touches my heart and, in the intimacy of painting, I am allowed a re-connection. Others convey an emotion, a spark, a glance whose meaning is left for interpretation.”

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Bottomley also does commissioned work from photos (portraits of people and animals and houses), as well as from live sittings. More of her work can be found at her website, www.dlbottomley.com.

UPSTAIRS DISPLAY CASE AND FIREPLACE AREA Through Dec. 19: “Illuminating Futures: The Ashland & Nyanza Project;” Dan Borelli, Exhibition Designer. This project began in 2010 by local art-

ist Dan Borelli as an arts-based research inquiry into the various histories surrounding the town of Ashland and its Superfund Site, the Nyanza Colorant Plant.

Funded by grants from ArtPlace America and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Our Town, the exhibition contextualizes the narrative of science and history with mappings, artifacts, and first-hand stories from people that were directly impacted.

Part of this exhibit will be housed permanently in the library.

Save the Date: Special Town Meeting Set for Nov. 17

By Cynthia Whitty A special town meeting is set for 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 17 at the Ashland High School Auditorium. As of this writing, the proposed articles include votes to: • Adjust the property tax exemption amount and eligibility for senior citizens •

Cover the cost for Mass. Water Resources Authority (MWRA) entrance fee for the town

•

Appropriate $450,000 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to the Ashland Housing Trust

•

Accept a gift of real property from the Megunko Transit District LCC, including up to 6 acres located off the MBTA Access Rd.

•

Amend the town’s bylaw regarding abandoned, junked and unregistered vehicles

•

Transfer the care and custody of a portion of Warren Woods to the Conservation Commission.

For up-to-date information and the town warrant when it is available, see the town’s website, www.ashlandmass.com.

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

November 2015

Page 9

Ashland Community Theater’s Original Comedy “Therapy Sessions” Debuts Nov. 19-21

By Cynthia Whitty Ashland Community Theater’s (ACT) newest stage production will feature short vignettes making up one story. “It’s about four therapists and their interesting, comedic patients,” Joe White, ACT’s founder and producer, said.

“The original comedy Therapy Sessions looks at the quirky side of people and their interesting dynamics. The show uses 23 different actors, the largest we’ve had to date,” White noted. “I like to create original material so actors can be more free to be creative. There is more pressure on the actors if the play is well-known.”

Therapy Sessions, written by White and Katy Shandler-Reynolds, both Ashland residents, will be held at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 19, 20 and 21, at the Ashland Middle School Theater, 87 W. Union

ACT prepares for its November production: (l-r) Kat Harvey, Joanne Connolly, Joe White, Aadish Joshi, Katy Shander-Reynolds and Rachel Castelberry. (Photo/submitted)

St. (Rt. 135). Tickets can be purchased in advance for $8 at www. ashlandcommunitytheater.com or for $10 at the door.

Join the Community Book Read Guest host, Ashland School Superintendent Jim Adams, will lead a discussion for all members of the community on the book, Mindset, The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dwek, Ph.D., and related topics, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m, Monday, Jan. 12, 2016, at the Ashland Library Community Room, 66 Front St. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Ashland Library.

In her book, Dwek explains why it is not just our abilities and talents that bring us success–but whether we approach them with a fixed or growth

mindset. She explains why praising intelligence and ability does not foster self-esteem and lead to accomplishment but may actually jeopardize success. With the right mindset, we can motivate our kids and help them raise their grades and reach personal and professional goals. Dwek reveals what all great parents, teachers, CEOs and athletes already know: how a simple idea about the brain can create a love of learning and a resilience that is the basis of great accomplishment in every area of life.

This summer ACT partnered with WACA-TV to create a miniseries, The Interns, another origi-

nal romantic comedy written by White and Shandler-Reynolds about four college interns who

work at a news station. The show can be viewed on WACA. ACT will continue its partnership with WACA-TV by filming Therapy Sessions in the winter.

White and Shandler-Reynolds plan to have both shows ready for purchase on Amazon Prime.

ACT produced its first show in the spring of 2014 with Relationships A-Z. The group “is committed to bi-annual productions that entertain, enrich, and educate Ashland and its surrounding communities and to giving adults and teens a chance to act, write, and stage original work,” ACT’s website said.

“We have tremendous support from the community. It’s exciting to be part of community theater,” White said.

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Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 10

Pastel Collection on Display at Needham Bank

November 2015

Ashland’s Lou Mancini: Youth Mentor and Artist

By Deborah Burke Henderson

Janis Luedke’s pastel collection, entitled “Poppies and Posies,” will be on display at Needham Bank, 41 Front St., through November. As an artist, Luedke uses nature as a fundamental theme. Her color palette and composition are greatly influenced by 19 years spent in the Southwest.

As an interior designer, her primary profession, she has a special emphasis on color consulting for sustainable and healing environments. The exhibit is co-sponsored by Arts!

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Affectionately dubbed “Mr. Ashland” by his wife Geri, Louis “Lou” Mancini is a powerhouse of energy who has devoted his life to teaching art, coaching and serving as a mentor to Ashland’s youth. In recognition of his 33 years as a caring educator at the Mindess and Middle schools and his continued commitment to coaching high school-level wrestling, cross country running, and track and field, Mancini was honored in September as Ashland Day “Citizen of the Year.”

Believing in the power of experiential learning, Mancini often engaged his young students at Mindess through school-sponsored activities that were enjoyable and promoted physical fitness and good sportsmanship.

His “Spooky” Run, still held every October, enthralls these youth with a course full of goblins, coffins, witches, and spider webs and, each spring, the “Mud” Run captivates these same youngsters with the enticement of running, jumping, and scrambling along a muddy course. To the kids’ and their parents’ delight, the Mud Run culminates with the children being hosed off by the fire department. Mancini has introduced thousands of young people to a lifelong involvement in sports and

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Lou Mancini loves mentoring young people through coaching track and field. (Photo/Deborah Burke Henderson)

active movement through this winning combination of fun and exercise.

Although retiring as an educator in 2010, Mancini coaches cross country and spring and winter track teams weekdays at Ashland High, where he continues to encourage young people. “I push them to always do their best and to keep plugging away at whatever they’re doing,” he said. It’s a life lesson he learned early on during his own college wrestling experience at Boston State College where he was a four-letter winner for the Warriors and one of the college’s legendary players, as described during his induction to the University of Massachusetts Boston Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.

Majoring in physical education and minoring in art served him well. Mancini became assistant wrestling coach at Boston State. His first head coaching job was in Woburn and, in 1974, his love of wrestling fueled the creation of Framingham South High School’s first team program where he served as head coach for three seasons. In 1977, Mancini became head wrestling coach at Ashland High School, and after receiving a certification in art from Framingham State, he was hired to teach art at the David Mindess Elementary School. In 2004, Mancini took over for the retiring art teacher at the Middle School and

LOU MANCINI

continued on page 11

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com have fun decorating the handmade tree house in the backyard, which doubles as a club house and as the final destination for the cross country runners participating in an annual Fun Run of his own creation.

Their challenge is to sprint around town locating each of Mancini’s signs and return to

LOU MANCINI

continued from page 10

the tree house, cross its bridge, and enjoy a huge container of candy and snacks.

Asked for words of advice to pass along to today’s youngsters, Mancini added with a smile, “If you find something you love to do and can turn it into a job, you will always love your work.”

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One of Mancini’s signs, part of the Ashland Historical Commission’s historic houses program. (Photo/Cynthia Whitty)

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began coaching the high school track team.

An Ashland native, Mancini grew up enjoying the outdoors, camping and hiking, and scouting in Ashland State Park.

Captivated early on by Boston Marathon sprinters streaming by his childhood home on Alden Street, Mancini promised himself he would run the race some day. He experienced his first victory at age 45 and successfully completed three subsequent marathons. Delighted to build a home here with his father’s assistance, Mancini chose a woodsy location reminiscent of his favorite boyhood memories. “Ashland has a great family atmosphere,” Mancini said.

Through his mentorship, young people realized that even though life has its ups and downs, fighting through adversity can bring success and a feeling of fulfillment. Giving back, whatever your talents, is another core belief Mancini hoped to instill in others.

“I have been blessed to be able to do the things I love most [wrestling and art] and carry those on through teaching and now coaching,” Mancini stated.

He is thankful for the impact of his parents’ strong values; a rewarding career; a beautiful family with his wife, three grown children, and five grandkids; and the opportunity to help shape and influence young lives, personally and professionally.

In 1982, Mancini established a sign business, Mancini Signs.

He credits his wife of 42 years with the suggestion to begin the business. Proudly carving each commissioned item by hand, Mancini painstakingly hand paints each work of art and adds touches of gold leaf paint and flourishes as his designs allow.

You’ll recognize his handiwork in the brilliant blue and gold “Welcome to Ashland” town signage, signs for the town forest, the Fish and Game Department, the Community Center, St. Cecilia’s Church, the site of the original Boston Marathon launch, and many other locations around town and elsewhere. He was also commissioned by the Ashland Historical Commission to design and create the signs for its historic houses program.

Mancini’s grandchildren now

Page 11

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Page 12

November 2015

The Pros and Cons of Historic Districts

By Julie Nardone, Contributing Writer Over the past fifteen years, Ashland’s Historical Commission has attempted several times to establish a Historic District in its downtown.

Each attempt was met with the same response from property owners: “I don’t want anyone telling me what to do with my property.”

Subsequently, Ashland is the only town in the area without a current or in process National Register District (NRD) or Local Historic District (LHD). A perplexing absence when The Massachusetts Historical Commission reports over 900 NRDs and over 200 LHDs across the state.

But does a historic district really restrict property owners from doing whatever they want to their own property?

Not necessarily. It depends on the type of district established.

Types of Districts For example, NRDs do not.

For the most part, these are symbolic federal designations that offer federal or state historic preservation tax credits for owners to restore and maintain their historic buildings. Property owners can still do anything they want to their buildings, even demolish them¾although they are probably

less likely since the designation is considered an honor.

The real benefits of NRDs, as reported in the Mass. Historical Commission’s pamphlet, “There’s A Difference,” and the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s website article, “Why Do Old Places Matter,” are psychological and economic.

1. They increase residents’ pride in their town.

2. They increase property values.

3. They attract developers wishing to readapt properties with tax credit incentives.

4. They attract business owners who prefer unique rather than cookie cutter properties.

5. They deter the demolition of historic buildings.

On the other hand, LHDs tend to include community appearance standards. It should be noted, however, that standards would be determined through a public hearing process. Interested members of the public and affected property owners would decide how strict or lax the standards should be. For example, property owners might be required to come before a local Historic District Commission for approval if they want to alter a buildings exterior. After taking comments from the public,

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the Historical Commission may or may not move forward. If they do, the standards are presented to the Board of Selectmen, followed by a two-thirds majority Town Meeting vote.

Reasons for Districts The main reason towns establish NRDs or LHDs is to protect and maintain the town’s architectural heritage, historic character, and sense of identity, usually in the downtown or in adjacent residential areas that contained the homes of former business owners and workers. For example, potential historic districts in Ashland might include the downtown, Fountain Street, Upper Chestnut Street, and the Telechron building complex on Homer Avenue.

Historic districts are especially important to have in cities and towns that want to attract visitors to their downtowns. People love to learn about an area’s history by taking self-guided or guided walking tours. They want to stay in historic hotels and inns that might have been frequented by someone famous. They want to eat in restaurants that used to be something else. They want to stop and read the historic signs that describe the significance of area as they pass by. If you remove the historical markers, you remove much of the

attraction to an area. Most importantly, you remove the built-in sense of place.

Think of your own travel habits. Do you visit cities and towns that consist of strip malls and 30-year-old drab beige buildings where nothing happened or do you gravitate toward places with interesting architecture and stories dating back hundreds of years?

Will Ashland Save Its Remaining Historic Buildings?

Ashland’s small inventory of historic buildings makes reviving its once-thriving downtown more difficult. If you look through the Images of America: Ashland series chronicling the history of small towns and downtowns across the country, you will notice that Ashland had some attractive two- and three-story buildings, hotels and shops. Many of these historical gems, including a massive factory complex on Pleasant Street and a Greek Revival Mansion where the police station stands, were lost to fire and demolition in the 50s, 60s and 70s. The dearth of historic buildings hurts Ashland’s ability to organically revive its downtown in several ways: Artists usually get downtown renaissance balls rolling by moving into lower rent

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historic buildings and creating art studios and galleries that generate foot traffic. Restaurant and boutique shop owners tend to follow.

The Importance of Historic Districts to a Town’s Culture In addition to historic districts, Natick and Marlborough also have cultural districts, along with 27 other communities in the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s (MCC) initiative to promote thriving cultural sectors. According to the MCC website, these districts attract tourism dollars, enhance property values and make communities more attractive to businesses.

In the future, Ashland might pursue one as well. However, any loss of additional historic buildings will make it more challenging to establish a cultural district. When MCC weighs whether or not to approve such districts, it looks to see if the applicant has preserved and readapted its historic buildings. If they have not, it is a tougher sell.

Again, cultural and historical districts attract community-benefiting development because they celebrate what makes a town unique.

It’s up to the people of Ashland to decide if they want to save its remaining historic buildings or build something new. A historic building can never be resurrected.

Its demise is permanent. For that reason, it might be prudent for the community to decide collectively which downtown façade avenue they wish to pursue.

For more information, visit the • National Register of Historic Places at nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com, • Massachusetts Historical Commission at sec.state.ma.us/ mhc/mhcidx.htm, and • Massachusetts Cultural Council at massculturalcouncil.org.

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November 2015

Page 13

How to Care For Your Granite Countertops One of the most popular countertop surfaces today is granite, a natural stone. If I had to guess, I would say that 80 percent of my clients select a granite for the countertops in their kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation— and for good reasons! Granite is durable, dramatically beautiful, and low maintenance—all of which are qualities that my clients look for in a countertop material.

But, what many people do not realize is that low maintenance does not mean NO maintenance. Here are some tips to properly care for your granite to insure a lifetime of performance and beauty from your stone. Remember, it’s always a good idea to speak with the company that installed your counters

for more information on protecting and maintaining granite.

Sealing Although granite is very hard and durable, it still has some porous qualities to it as it is a natural stone. To protect against spills and stains, it is recommended that you seal your granite countertops every 6-12 months, although many people go years between sealing with no issues. Natural stone sealer can be purchased at any hardware store or big box store. You just need to make sure that the label specifies it is for granite. Sealing is very simple. All you need to do is put a few capfuls of the sealer on your granite, rub it in with a clean cloth, and let it sit for the recom-

Haying Warren Woods

Doug Stephan from Eastleigh Farms in Framingham is haying the Warren Woods fields this fall. The hay will be used to feed the heifers at the farm. The fields have been hayed once a year for the past two years. (Photo/Cliff Wilson)

Cleaning While sealing might be a once or twice a year procedure, general cleaning should be done on a regular basis. Dusting should be done often to minimize scratches.

For general cleaning, it is best to use a mild detergent with warm water and a non-abrasive cloth.

(Anything abrasive could tarnish the polished finish of the granite countertops.) The soap you use for your dishes is typically fine. However, stay away from products that

contain acids, as they, too, could eat away at the polished finish.

Many people ask if it is okay to use Windex. The answer is both yes and no. The key is you must check the label. If the label says it is safe for granite or natural stone, then Windex away! However, certain Windex (and other glass cleaner) formulas do not say “granite-safe” on the label, so be sure to check before you spritz!

Protecting Although granite is hardwearing, it is still an investment that you should protect. Therefore, utilize coasters under drinks, trivets or mats under dishes, and placemats under dishes if possible. These extra protective measures will help prevent accidental staining and scratching and help maintain the inherent beauty of the natural stone.

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mended amount of time noted on the back of the bottle. Then, simply wipe it off. It is as easy as that!

(See sealer bottle for more thorough directions.) A trick to remember to seal your granite—do it on your birthday and “half birthday.”

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Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 14

November 2015

Reasons for an Override Committee

By Dan Conroy, Chair, Finance Committee The Finance Committee in June unanimously voted in favor of establishing an Override Study Committee. This article will be the first in a series in which we explain that decision and, in the process, provide information that will help voters make an informed decision if an override is presented to the town this year. We very much hope that this will be an interactive process. We welcome any and all questions and comments, and can be reached at financecommittee@ashlandmass.com, and, of course, at our meetings, which are open to all.

Structural Deficit The main reason we voted as we did is that it is clear to us the town is faced with a structural deficit. A structural deficit occurs when, year after year, almost invariably and regardless of whether the economy is in good shape or bad, the town’s

expenses increase more than its revenues. The fact that the increase in expenses will outstrip the increase in revenues is seen as being built into the structure of the town’s finances. By contrast, a simple deficit occurs when the town’s expenses exceed its revenues in a given year, but the deficit is not a recurring phenomenon.

With limited, well-defined exceptions, the town is not allowed to carry a deficit. It must have a balanced budget every year. So what does a structural deficit mean in practical terms?

At the most basic level, it means that in order to deliver the same level of services year to year, the town must consistently increase revenues and/or decrease the cost of providing the services.

In our case, because the town’s ability to raise revenues absent an override is quite limited, it means that over time the town will have to continue to reduce or cut services.

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• Established by Board of Selectmen in June after FY16 Budget Process • Consists of two members from the Board of Selectmen, two members of School Committee, two members of FinCom (advisory), School and General Govt Administrations • Charged with examining the possibility of an override: amount, structure, tax relief measures.

• Four subcommittees to look at different elements: Outreach, Tax Relief, Data Analysis, Long-Term Planning • Significant public input – Forums throughout summer and early fall Prop 2 ½ This is not surprising. Proposition 2½, after all, inevitably created a structural deficit (when Proposition 2½ was passed [in 1982], annual inflation was running around 13 percent). Limiting a town’s revenues necessarily meant that its expenses would have to be scaled back over time (precisely because local government budgets must be balanced).

As a result, it was hoped wasteful spending would be eliminated.

Implicit in the strategy, however, is the idea that once a town’s expenses have been scaled back to an appropriate level, when the fat has been cut from the budget, the voters will increase revenues by the amount necessary to maintain the remaining services.

The Town’s Budget Process Understanding that a structural deficit plays out over time is important. The annual budget process can hide the impacts of a structural deficit. Each year can become the new normal. At the public meetings of the Override Study Committee, many comments have been addressed to the importance of finding creative ways to overcome the

anticipated deficit in the FY17 budget. We agree wholeheartedly with those comments, and we are trying to find ways to address the anticipated deficit in the FY17 budget. That said, as a town we must recognize that this is not a one-year issue. Over the years, the town has taken many steps to reduce costs and increase revenues and yet we are still faced with a structural deficit. The Finance Committee did not vote in favor of the Override Study Committee because we were concerned with the FY17 budget. The town will pass a balanced budget for FY17. Without an override, the budget will almost certainly provide for a reduction in services. It may not be a draconian reduction, but it will be another loss in what we believe will be a continuing and (for reasons we will explain in our next article) accelerating erosion of services. We voted in favor of the formation of the Override Study Committee because we are concerned with this erosion, because we see it as the natural, inevitable consequence of our structural deficit, and because we believe that the town should be given a choice as

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to whether it should continue.

We want to stress, however, that the Override Study Committee has not finished its work, that there is no override proposal currently before the town or the Finance Committee, and that Finance Committee will not take a position on a particular override unless and until one is presented to us. The purpose of this article is to assist the town in having an informed conversation.

The course that these articles will take may well be influenced by the feedback we receive.

(Again, we love feedback.) That said, we anticipate that our next article will outline the steps the town has taken over the years to increase revenues and cut costs and explain why we believe the town will not be able to overcome the structural deficit by just continuing to cut costs. We also anticipate an article on why the very low rate of inflation we have experienced over the last decade or so has not eliminated the structural deficit.

Finance Committee members are Nancy Capistran, Daniel Conroy, Adam Elbirt, Maribeth Morrissey, Ryan Turncliff and Jack Walsh.

November 2015

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 15

Ashland Summer Reading Program Comes Close to One Million Minutes of Reading

By Elka Troutman, Ashland Summer Reading Program Coordinator The Ashland Summer Reading Program (SRP) recently concluded its 18th season! We made some big changes to the program this summer to let the kids have more fun and be less competitive with their reading. Students only needed to track their reading by minutes this summer, as our goal was to reach “One Million Minutes of Reading.” We did not quite reach one million minutes, but we came pretty close: Two hundred forty-seven kids read 621,054 minutes! This year,

every child participating in the program, not just the top readers, was eligible for lottery prizes at the end of the summer. We wanted the program to be more flexible, and to cater to readers of all levels and strengths.

SRP is sponsored by the Ashland Library and The Friends of the Ashland Library. This collaboration allows the program to be robust and efficient, while sharing knowledge and resources.

SRP raised $2,009 towards the purchase of new books, audio books and e-books for the library’s children’s section and

more than $1,863 towards the purchase of lottery prizes. In addition, $425 was donated for the purchase of office supplies and printing materials. In total, the program raised $4,297.

The library was very busy with readers this summer: 355 elementary school children (kindergarten to grade 5) participated in the national program, Every Hero Has A Story, portion of SRP. As the students progressed with their reading each week, they collected fun prizes and coupons. One hundred ten Read-With-Me tots (ages 2 to pre-school) also signed up and

First Annual Fun Run Around Town

collected prizes during the summer. Fifty students from grades 7 to 12 participated in the Teen Reading Program, and wrote 154 book reviews. Congratulations to all of our readers on a job well done.

A special thanks goes to the many volunteers who worked tirelessly to help make the 2015 SRP a resounding success, do-

nating valuable time, supplies, encouragement and support.

For a complete list of contributors and volunteers, see http://friendsoftheapl.com/ events/2015/10/2015_ashland_summer_reading_pr.html.

For more information, email AshlandSummerReadingProgram@gmail.com.

In Memory of Fred Kalloch Formerly chief of the Ashland Auxiliary Police, Fred Kalloch passed away on Oct. 2 after a period of declining health.

Kalloch was an army veteran from the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War, a member of the Framingham State Police, Deputy Marshal, Grand Marshal of Ashland and a member of the Ashland VFW, Post 2331. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing his guitar. Most of all he loved being with his family.

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The Friends of the Ashland Library (FAL) held its first “Fun Run Around Town”, a one-mile, family-friendly “fun run” around Ashland, on Oct. 17. Starting and ending at the library, the event attracted all ages and abilities. Runners learned about the community as they jogged to local landmarks, met community members who shared interesting facts, and collected stamps on a special card. At the finish line, they celebrated with live music by Ashland’s Road Dawgs, delicious snacks from The Carve, face painting by Skyrise Theater, giveaways, and more. FAL hopes that the Fun Run will become an annual event. (Photo/Ethan Gordon)

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Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 16

November 2015

Ashland Travels

There’s More to Miami Than You Realize!

By Howard Axelrod, Contributing Writer

Waking Up in Little Havana

My wife and I recently had an international flight that was scheduled to depart from Miami. We arrived a few days early to take in the sights. We decided to look into guided tours that focused on the highlights that are unique to this city. Two tours, Little Havana and the Art Deco District of South Beach, made it to the top of our list.

Little Havana is not a tourist destination. It is a slice of real life at the epicenter of daily Cuban activity in Miami. The best time for this tour is the morning when the area “wakes up.” You will enjoy a hot cup of Cuban coffee and delicious warm Cuban pastries with the “locals” at Yisell Bakery. You will be embraced by the endearing people who you will

ing spoken against Castro. He will greet you with a world-class smile.

You will have time to enjoy the professionally painted street murals that tell the story of the proud history of the Cuban musicians and entertainers who have made their indelible mark on the American, world, and Cuban cultural scenes. There are many unique memorial statues in the area, the meanings of which will be explained to you.

Your lunch will be at El Pub where the Cuban food is original, plentiful and delicious.

Converse with Cubans Many of the residents of Little Havana arrived here by crossing the perilous Gulf Stream waters on makeshift rafts, inner tubes, and leaky boats. Not all who left the shores of Cuba made it. The survivors will tell you their stories, some of which are heart wrenching and other heartwarming. Feel free to discuss the topic of U.S. normalization of relations with Cuba. Their opinions run the gamut from pro to con, but the conversation never escalates into a debate. You will drop by the area where dominos are played and chat with the colorful characters who you will meet there.

Perhaps you’d like to play? Feel free to talk about baseball, but be warned–you better know your stuff ! And whatever you do, do not leave without an ice cream from Azucar. To do so would be unforgivable.

My favorite hotels were the Breakwater, the Webster, the Kent, the Edison, and the Carlyle. Michaels is “well connected” here and took us to the private balcony on the roof of the Clevelander Hotel which offers a spectacular view of South Beach. She will treat you to the best Pina Colada in South Beach–take my word for it. You will see Versace Mansion where world renowned fashion tycoon Gianni Versace was shot to death on the front steps. I recommend taking this tour in the afternoon as the area is more active then and the light is softer for photographs.

Michaels picked us up and returned us to our hotel each day.

She was prompt, courteous, and a wealth of historical information. Having taken many private tours, these two are definitely unparalleled.

Axelrod is an Ashland resident,

A local Cuban American at the outdoor Domino paying area in Little Havana. (Photo/Howie Axelrod)

travel photographer, sometimes writer, and former high technology executive. He can be reached at highwind@verizon.net.

Art Deco Abounds

Don Pedro sits outside of his Cuban tobacco cigar company in Little Havana. (Photo/Howie Axelrod)

After some research, we chose Art Deco Tours (www.artdecotours.com), which is owned and operated by Christine Michaels.

We found that what separated this company from others were great reviews, rapid response, the pre-tour service provided by Michaels, and the very reasonable allinclusive price. These are private walking tours so it will be just your group and Michaels, which provides the best possible experience.

meet here, feel comfortable, and be part of the scene. You will be taken to the Don Pedro’s Cuban Tobacco Cigar Company where you will learn about the Cuban heritage of fine cigars and watch them being made from scratch.

Feel free to ask questions. You will most likely encounter Don Pedro himself sitting outside. He is a 3rd generation Cuban cigar maker now living in the U.S. Pedro spent 20 years in prison in Cuba for hav-

Aside from the night life that South Beach is known for, it is also a mecca for enthusiasts of Art Deco. According to the National Register of Historic Buildings, the area is home to over 800 Art Deco buildings, interiors, fixtures and furniture pieces, making the main drags of Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue a fascinating pastel spectacle. Each building and item tells a unique story, and Michaels is a resourceful historian in this area. You will have the opportunity to view many of these colorful hotels inside and out. These buildings and interiors are marvelous and indicative of the Art Deco “machine age” that overtook America in the 30s, 40s and 50s. (Remember the 50s cars? So cool!)

The Art Deco Egyptian Ziggurat style “frozen fountain” was once the decorative gilded window grill of the Norristown, Pennsylvania, theater.

It now resides in the lobby of The Wolfsonian-FIU in South Beach. (Photo/ Howie Axelrod)

November 2015

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 17

LIVING HEALTHY Laser Bladeless Cataract Surgery: Facts and Myths By: Roger M. Kaldawy, M.D., Milford Franklin Eye Center Each year, U.S. News and World Report publishes a list of the best Eye Hospitals in America. In 2015, the 5 best rankings are as follows: 1- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, 2- Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, 3- Wilmer Eye Institute in Baltimore, 4- Our own Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, 5Stein/ Doheney Eye Institute in LA. There are thousands of eye centers in the Nation, and those five were hand-picked by other ophthalmologists for excellence in eye care. What is one of the common denominators between all those state-of-the-art institutions? They ALL offer bladeless laser cataract surgery.

We are honored to have in Boston one of America’s top 5 Eye Hospitals, and the best Eye Hospital in the Northeast: The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is a center of excellence training scores of new Ophthalmologists each year and participating in ground breaking research. This fine Boston institution uses not only one but two femtosecond bladeless lasers. In fact, this Boston center teaches femtosecond laser cataract surgery daily to future ophthalmologists, and advertises what it does to the general public on the Infirmary website: http://www.masseyeandear. org/specialties/ophthalmology/cataract/laser-surgery. Yet, you may read rare, misinformed statements by some practitioners who do not understand or even use this advanced technology attributing false claims to “specialists,” none of whom practices in Boston. Don’t allow those practitioners to take you for a ride: The best Boston specialists have made their voice heard loudly and clearly: They are already performing laser cataract surgery.

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) is an interna-

tional, educational society with more than 9,000 members. Its mission is to advance the art and science of ophthalmic surgery and the knowledge and skills of ophthalmic surgeons. Eric Donnenfeld, MD, the past president of ASCRS, says the clinical benefits of bladeless femtosecond laser cataract surgery are fourfold: 1. The primary incision allows the surgeon to create a uniform and consistent threeplane incision with a self-sealing reverse side cut, which has the potential to reduce the incidence of endophthalmitis. (Eye infections after cataract surgery), 2. Incisions are more accurate, safer and reproducible, 3. Capsulotomies (Openings in the bag hosting the cataract) are more precise, and 4. the procedure is safer.

There are no eyes like yours, and there is no cataract procedure like customized bladeless laser cataract surgery for your eyes. Bladeless laser cataract surgery is a major advancement in cataract treatment, is FDA approved and embraced by top ophthalmologists here and around the world. Armed with this knowledge, you can now separate myths from clear solid facts.

In addition to producing precise cuts needed for surgery, the laser used in bladeless cataract surgery breaks up and softens the cloudy cataract, so there is less ultrasound needed to remove the cataract. Less ultrasound translates into less energy used inside the eye and clearer corneas, which in turn helps produce better vision the first day after the surgery. This becomes even more critical if you have a weak cornea or a small eye with a dense cataract.

Bladeless laser cataract surgery is not only used to perform delicate incisions with high precision, but it is also, more critically, able to correct corneal astigmatism with the laser, perform the opening needed in

the cloudy lens with reliability and precision and use the same laser to soften the lens and facilitate its removal. This circular opening is one of the most challenging steps for a surgeon to perform with his hands, and the laser makes this part precise and reproducible. The laser advanced bladeless precision and ability to correct astigmatism translates into outcomes that increase the likelihood of seeing well without glasses. When it comes to cataract surgery in 2015, there are different choices and strategies to achieve the best outcome. Bladeless cataract surgery is all about aiming towards better precision, more safety and excellent outcomes. Is this the best choice for you? This can only be determined during a direct discussion between you and your surgeon.

At Milford Franklin Eye Center, we use one of the 2 femtosecond lasers currently used

by Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary – the same laser used by the best of the best. We also offer the laser procedure free to all patients opting for a premium multifocal lens if they have astigmatism. No additional costs and no click fees. Now those are facts. Furthermore, we perform the procedure in a state-of-theart center where 65 other Boston surgeons operate and over 2,000 laser cataract procedures have already been performed.

We are proud to have been among the first to bring to you the same excellent eye care provided by the best eye institutions around the world…much closer to home.

The top five eye hospitals in the country offer bladeless femtosecond laser cataract surgery....so do we. Please remember: there are myths and then there are facts about this technology. Now, you know which is which.

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Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 18

November 2015

The following article was submitted in response to two recently published articles questioning the safety of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from wireless devices. Ashland Local Town Pages welcomes dialogue on a topic of importance to Ashland.

The Truth About Wireless Device Safety

By Adam Elbirt, Ashland Resident

Electromagnetic Fields in Our Homes Background electromagnetic field levels in the home are mainly caused by transmission/distribution facilities for electricity (power plants and power lines) or by electrical appliances. Electrical appliances differ greatly in the strength of fields they generate. Both electric and magnetic field levels decrease rapidly with distance from the source generating the field.

Fields surrounding household appliances usually are far below guideline limits.

At low frequencies, external electric and magnetic fields induce small circulating currents within the body. In virtually all ordinary environments, the levels of induced currents inside the body are too small to produce obvious effects. The main effect of radio-

frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields is heating of body tissues.

At normal operator positions, the electric and magnetic fields of devices such as television sets and computer screens are hundreds of thousands of times below guideline levels.

Cell phone users encounter field levels that are much higher than any levels in the normal living environment due to the strength of the field emitted by the phone and the typically small distance between the user and the phone.

However, even these increased levels do not appear to generate harmful effects.

Standards for low frequency electromagnetic fields ensure that induced electric currents are below the normal level of background currents within the body.

Standards for RF and microwaves prevent health effects caused by localized or whole body heating.

Due to a large safety factor built

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into the guidelines by the standardizing bodies, exposure above the guideline limits is not necessarily harmful to health. All wireless devices sold in the U.S. go through a formal Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval process to ensure that they do not exceed the maximum allowable Specific Absorption Rate level when operating at the device’s highest possible power level.

For more information on • electromagnetic fields, see Electromagnetic fields (EMF) (www.who.int/peh-emf/about/ WhatisEMF/en/index.html) and Electromagnetic fields and public health: mobile phones (www.who.int/mediacentre/ factsheets/fs193/en/index. html) by the World Health Organization, and • how the FCC regulates wireless device emissions, see Wireless Devices and Health Concerns (www.fcc.gov/guides/wirelessdevices-and-health-concerns).

Electromagnetic Fields and Your Health There is no doubt that shortterm exposure to very high levels of electromagnetic fields can be harmful to health. Current public concern focuses on possible longterm health effects caused by exposure to electromagnetic fields at levels below those required to trigger acute biological responses.

However, despite extensive research, to date there is no evidence to conclude that exposure to low level electromagnetic fields such as Wi-Fi is harmful to human health.

A large number of studies have been performed to assess whether cell phones pose a potential health risk. To date, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by cell phone use.

At the frequencies used by cell phones, most of the energy is absorbed by the skin and other superficial tissues, resulting in negligible temperature rise in the brain or any other organs of the body. Current research does not suggest any consistent evidence of adverse health effects from exposure to RF fields at levels below those that cause tissue heating. Re-

sults of animal studies consistently show no increased cancer risk for long-term exposure to RF fields.

Cell phones emit RF energy which can be absorbed by tissues closest to where the phone is held. The amount of RF energy a cell phone user is exposed to depends on the technology of the phone, the distance between the phone’s antenna and the user, the extent and type of use, and so forth. Studies thus far have not shown a consistent link between cell phone use and cancers of the brain, nerves, or other tissues of the head or neck. The data from studies in children with cancer do not support the theory that children are at greater risk than adults for developing brain cancer from cell phones.

For more information on cell phones and cancer risks, see • Cell Phones and Cancer Risk (www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/ factsheet/Risk/cellphones) by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) at the National Institutes of Health, and • Brain cancer incidence trends in relation to cellular telephone use in the United States

by Inskip, Hoover, and Devesa published in Neuro-Oncology, 2010.

Focus on Credible Research Many articles fail to follow proper scientific practice for data collection and analysis and are not an objective and balanced reflection of the current state of scientific knowledge in regards to electromagnetic fields. Examples of such work include the Atasoy study published in the Journal of Pediatric Medicine. The study’s findings raise questions about the safety of RF exposure from Wi-Fi devices for growing organisms of reproductive age. How-

ever, the study was performed on rats directly exposed to Wi-Fi 24 hours a day for 20 weeks, clearly not representative of safe and recommended Wi-Fi use. In the Barrie Trower report, the author claims that a minimum of 57.7 percent of schoolgirls exposed to low-level microwave radiation (Wi-Fi) are at risk of suffering stillbirth, fetal abnormalities or genetically damaged children. However, the data in this report was collected through a small sample of telephone interviews and personal conversations, not standard scientific research methods. Similarly, the BioInitiative Report claims that there is sufficient scientific evidence to warrant the selection of wired Internet. But the lack of scientific methodology in the report led the Health Council of the Netherlands to state that “the BioInitiative report is not an objective and balanced reflection of the current state of scientific knowledge.”

Final Thoughts There is no evidence to conclude that exposure to low level electromagnetic fields is harmful to human health and no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by cell phone use. Current research does not suggest any consistent evidence of adverse health effects from exposure to RF fields at levels below those that cause tissue heating. Finally, there is no scientific evidence establishing a causal link between wireless device use and cancer or other illnesses. In the future, if additional research findings come to light then we should evaluate those findings and if necessary adjust our position on wireless technology. However, at this time there is no scientific evidence linking wireless device use to health risks.

Elbirt has a doctorate in electrical engineering and 25 years of work experience that includes designing telecommunications systems required to meet federal and international regulations for electromagnetic field radiation and emissions.

November 2015

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 19

Sports Ashland’s Boys Soccer Team: Striving to Improve

By Ken Hamwey, Staff Sports Writer During pre-season practice, coach Mike Grimes was optimistic that his boys soccer team at Ashland High would improve on last year’s 4-14 record and hopefully qualify for tourney play.

Although six games remained on the Clockers’ schedule at the Ashland Local Town Pages deadline, it appears he was right on

a nucleus of players who display the attributes that Grimes requires for success. Those characteristics include being technically skilled, playing within a system, a desire to be a team player, being mentally tough, employing speed and quickness and being physically fit. The core group has executed the style of soccer that Grimes subscribes to.

“I want players who can be

“Ben has passion for the sport and a good competitive desire,’’ Grimes, who played soccer for four years at Stonington, Conn., High School, said. “He can control the ball and he knows his runs. Isaac is aggressive in goal, has a good mindset for the position and wants to improve.

Jordan is a very intelligent player who reads the game superbly.

John has great skills, is poised and leads by example.’’

Ashland’s soccer captains (l to r) are John Almeida, Ben Holman, Jordan Proctor, and Isaac Landry. (Photo/ submitted)

his team’s improved play, but a tourney berth remained a long shot. Ashland’s record was 3-72, a mark that involved several close matches. Ashland’s season will likely end by surpassing last year’s four-win campaign but also likely fall short of a tourney berth.

“Our 4-1 win over Medfield at the halfway mark was encouraging,” Grimes, who is also the Clockers’ athletic director, said.

“It shows that the kids have bought into our system and that we’re cohesive.’’

Ashland’s booters have improved this season because of

effective in a possession game, who can be patient with their passes and who want to improve in all facets of the game,’’ he emphasized. “The key is to have players who want to win and who are good teammates. If you get that, then you develop a culture of playing the game the right way.’’

The four Clockers captains are not only solid teammates and leaders, but also top-notch students. They include seniors Ben Holman (striker), Isaac Landry (goalie), Jordan Proctor (center back) and John Almeida (midfielder).

Two midfielders—senior Ryan Hemenway and junior Luke Nutting—are transition players Grimes admires. “Ryan is mentally tough, has found his confidence and has developed into a physical presence,’’ Grimes said. “Luke is solid in transition, works hard, and is technically sound. He excels in all aspects and has become a strong leader.’’

Seniors Jacob Crouss (forward), Tommy Licence (center back) and Liam Gallinagh (outside back) also have been key contributors. “Jacob has improved his overall skills from

last year,’’ Grimes noted. “He’s a good position player who knows his role. Tommy’s strengths are defense and toughness. His overall skills are vastly improved.

Liam has lots of heart and desire that have led to improvement.’’

Grimes, who became athletic director this fall after 11 years in the Natick school system, credits his players and administrative assistant Lindsay Duane for making it easier to serve Ashland in a dual role.

“To be athletic director and also coach is possible because of the players, our senior leadership and Lindsay Duane,’’ Grimes said. “When you have players with good work habits, that’s a plus. Our kids also give back to the community by helping out at the youth soccer level by assisting at practices and working at clinics. Lindsay is also a major plus, helping with scheduling and all other aspects A.D.s have to deal with.’’

Ashland’s soccer fortunes in the recent past have been like a volatile stock on the New York exchange—they have been up and down. The Clockers were

strong in the early 2000s, then down for awhile, and up in 2012 when they advanced to the sectional quarterfinals before bowing out of the tourney.

“Our goal will always be to qualify for the playoffs,’’ Grimes said. “And, we can achieve that objective if our players are skilled, passionate about the sport and eager to compete. Our seniors this year were all freshmen when the 2012 team had success.’’

Grimes, who has degrees from Keene and Fitchburg state, says that being away from athletics while working on his master’s and seeing his daughter get involved in sports at the age of five reinforced his desire to pursue athletic posts.

His first season as a head coach last year resulted in a fourwin campaign. This year there has been improvement and it is a good bet that Grimes will elevate Ashland’s soccer program in a positive fashion in the years ahead.

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 20

November 2015

Sports Ashland Field Hockey: Ready to Compete Against the Big Dogs

By Christopher Tremblay, Staff Sports Writer Ashland Coach Jenn Martel grew up and played field hockey for the Clockers so when the varsity vacancy opened up three years ago she jumped at the chance to coach her alma mater. It’s been an uphill battle the past two seasons, but the Ashland native is looking for the squad to turn the corner this year.

“Being a townie, it was great to come back and coach the team.

It’s a really big deal especially with that passion I had for the sport and the Clocker blood flowing through my body,” Martel said. “When I first took over, it was basically a new team learning the game; now they’ve bonded and are ready to make the move to compete against the big dogs.”

Last season, Ashland went 4-14; this year they’re improving.

Although still a long way to go, the Clockers are 5-7 and making strides accomplishing their goals.

According to Martel, the squad’s

first goal was to transition from defense to offense in a fluid motion while spacing out the team to make the field bigger and wider for the opposition. The second was to qualify for the tournament.

Senior captain Sam Leone has adjusted quite nicely to her forward position and is finally becoming confident in her ability to play.

“Sam originally thought that she was going to play defense, but I felt she was better suited as a forward,” the coach said. “Last year, she scored a couple of goals, but this year she is much more confident in herself and is near the top of the Tri-Valley League in scoring with 10 goals and 3 assists thus far.”

Another offense cog is playing the position for the first time this season. Junior center midfielder Lexi Maher has not only taken on the new role but has flourished in it. Her goal is to make the opposition run and she knows how to handle the position; her masterful

skills have enabled her to make Martel’s strategy work. According to the coach, the junior really understands the game and what is being asked of her.

Another newcomer to the center midfield position is Meghan Moriarity. Having played midfield on the junior varsity team last fall, Moriarity has not only made the jump to the varsity team but has been given a new

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position in the process.

“Meghan showed me that she had strong field hockey skills so we moved her to center mid,” Martel said. “She picked up the concept of the position really

fast despite having some slipups during the early part of the learning experience.”

In the backfield, the Clockers find themselves relatively young so Co-captain Leanna Klein’s experience is a big asset at center defense.

“We have a lot of new girls on defense this year, but they’re being coached by Leanna,” the coach said. “She has done a great job taking on the role of a captain and has kept the younger girls grounded and ready to play the game.”

Although only a few games below .500, the Clockers are in need of four wins in their final six to qualify for the state tournament and, while it’s going to be an uphill battle, it is one Ashland is looking forward to.

“It will be a challenge, but one that is not only possible but accessible,” the coach said. “If we keep our heads in the right mindset, I have no doubt that we can do it.”

Ashland Youth Lacrosse Ashland Youth Lacrosse (LAX) fields teams at a variety of age groups for both boys and girls, K to8th grade. Ashland Youth LAX focuses on teaching the game of lacrosse in a fun and supportive manner while keeping to the basics. “We feel that teaching the fundamental skills at the youth level go a long way in developing our players while building up town pride. We are trying to build off the culture of lacrosse present in this town since 1996,” Brian Kissane, vice president of Ashland Youth LAX, said.

Ashland Youth LAX offers two fall programs: Learn to Lax and Fall Ball.

Learn to Lax is a one-day free session held in early October to introduce kids who have never played before. LAX also holds a Q&A session for parents looking to learn

more. Fall Ball is held in October and November, where are mixed in with fun games.

These programs prepare kids for the spring season, which begins in April when a variety of teams from K to 8th grade participate in the Mass Bay Youth Lacrosse League competing against neighboring towns. “Lacrosse is a fastpaced and exciting game. The kids love it,” Kissene said.

For more information, visit www.ashlandyouthlacrosse.org.

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

November 2015

Page 21

Community Events Wednesdays and Saturdays 9:30 a.m: Take a slow, scenic, social bike ride with the Ashland Bike Club. ashlandbikeclub@gmail.com, www. ashlandbikeclub.com Fridays 7 p.m: Friends’ Friday Night Films at the Ashland Library, Community Room, 66 Front St. www.friendsoftheapl.com Through Nov 30 A collection of pastels, “Poppies and Posies,” by artist Janis Luedke at Needham Bank, 41 Front St. Co-sponsored by Arts!

Ashland Alliance. www.artsashland.org Drawings & Paintings by Deborah Bottomley, Downstairs Gallery, Ashland Library, 66 Front St. www.friendsoftheapl.com Through Dec. 19: “Illuminating Futures: The Ashland & Nyanza Project;” Dan Borelli, Exhibition Designer; Upstairs Display Case & Fireplace Area, Ashland Library, 66 Front St. www.friendsoftheapl.com

Monday, November 2 7 p.m: “Maximizing your Eligibility for Need Based Financial Aid for College” seminar focuses on financial strategies to help maximize students’ eligibility for need based financial aid for college and last minute financial strategies for families of seniors. Ashland High School Auditorium Tuesday, November 3 5 to 7 p.m: Ashland Business Association Networking Social hosted by The Residence at Valley Farm, 369 Pond St. (Rt. 126).

Refreshments. info@ashlandbusinessassociation.com, www.

AshlandFirst.com Friday, November 6 9 a.m to 8 p.m: Deadline to register to vote for special town meeting on Nov. 17. Town Clerk’s Office, Town Hall, 101 Main St. Saturday, November 7 Annual Boy Scout pick up of donated, non-perishable, non-expired items for the Ashland Food Pantry. Cara Tirrell, ctirrell@ ashlandmass.com, 508-881-0140 9:30 to 11:30 a.m: The Metrowest Alzheimer’s Partnership’s Fall Educational Forum for Care-

givers, Families and Professionals on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at the Callahan Senior Center, 535 Union Ave., Framingham.

Register by Nov. 4 by calling Lisa at the Callahan Center, 508.532.5980 ext. 2.

Sunday, November 8 2 to 3:30 p.m: The Gravestone Girls will present a virtual tour, “Welcome to the Graveyard,” of Ashland’s four cemeteries. Includes photographs taken in these special and interesting burying places, established in 1846, and charts the evolution of cemeteries and gravestones from the colonial era to the 21st c. Ashland Historical Society, 2 Myrtle St. www.ashlandhistsociety.com Thursday, November 12 7 to 9 p.m: Ashland Documentary Film & Discussion Series presents Microwaves, Science and Lies. Journalist Nancy Meritens and film director Jean Hèches show how the mobile industry creates doubt about harmful radiofrequency waves through the manipulation of science. Ashland Library, Community Room, 66 Front St. www. friendsoftheapl.com

Friday, November 13 7 p.m: Casino Night with the Ashland Education Foundation, Inc. at Kelly’s Restaurant, 28 Front St. Tickets: $20. Money raised goes to the AEFI Teacher Award Grants. www.ashlandeducation.org Tuesday, November 17 7 p.m: Special Town Meeting, Ashland High School Auditorium, 65 E. Union St. Wednesday, November 18 7 p.m. to 10 pm: Sip Shop and Spa, Ashland PTO, to fund Ashland educational programs. $5 admission. Amazing Things Arts Center, 160 Hollis St., Framingham. http://ashlandpto.com, www.facebook.com/ashlandpto Thursday, November 19 to Saturday, November 21 7:30 p.m: Ashland Community Theater presents Therapy Sessions, a comedy by Joseph White and Katy Shander Reynolds and directed by Kelly Fey. Ashland Middle School Theater, 87 W Union St. (Rt. 135). ashlandcommunitytheater@ gmail.com, www.ashlandcommunitytheater.com

ASHLAND GARDEN CLUB Visit our website: www.ashlandgardenclub.org Contact us at: info@ashlandgardenclub.org

Holiday Wreath Making Workshop with Paul Split

Come and have fun as Paul Split returns to instruct us on how to make our own 22” wreath. After selecting from a tableful of fresh seasonal greens, and an assortment of decorations, Paul will lead us through creating our own beautiful wreath.

Paul has been part of the Green Industry since 1971. He has been a principle of Walden Gifts and Nursery. Paul is the director of Horticulture at the Comcast Center for the Performing Arts, a teacher, lecturer and nationally recognized horticultural consultant. He has served as a judge at various flower shows in New England and lectures widely for gardening organizations and clubs.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2015 (NOTE: no snow date -­‐ If the workshop is cancelled due to impending bad weather, we will notify you and send a full refund.)

Time: Doors open at 10:00, program begins at 10:30 – 12:00 Place: Ashland Public Library, 66 Front Street Refreshments will be provided by Garden Club Members Pre-Regisration with payment is required.

Door Prizes ! !

Class size is limited to 25, so please send in your registration earlyl!

Name ________________________________

E-mail __________________________________

Phone ___________________________________ The fee of $35.00 includes all materials.

Amount enclosed:

_________________

Make checks payable to Ashland Garden Club.

Mail to :

Ashland Garden Club, P.O. Box 43, Ashland, MA 0172

Saturday, November 21 9 a.m. to 1 p.m: Ashland Farmers Market, 4th annual PreThanksgiving Market, Ashland Middle School Cafeteria, 87 W Union St. (Rt. 135). www.ashlandfarmersmarket.org Tuesday, November 24 7 to 9 p.m: Ashland Documentary Film & Discussion Series presents Mobilize: A Film About Cell Phone Radiation, which explores the potential long-term health effects, including cancer and infertility, from cell phone radiation. The film examines the most recent scientific research, follows national legislative efforts, and illuminates the influence that technology companies have on public health. Ashland Library, Community Room, 66 Front St. www.friendsoftheapl.com Tuesday, December 1 6 p.m: Ashland Business Association Holiday Party at Burnam’s Pub House, 366 Pleasant St. Cash bar, buffet dinner. Bring a wrapped gift valued between $5 and $10 for the Yankee Swap and food or cash donations for the Ashland Food Pantry. Cost: $25; $30 at the door. info@ashlandbusinessassociation.com, www.

AshlandFirst.com Saturday, December 5 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m: Holiday Wreath Making Workshop with Paul Split and the Ashland Garden Club. Space is limited.

Register in advance by sending $35 check to AGC, P.O. Box 43, Ashland, MA 01721. info@ashlandgardenclub.org, www.ashlandgardenclub.org Town Committees and Boards For times and dates, visit the town website, www.ashlandmass. com, and click “Public Meeting Calendar.”

Email your event, with “CALENDAR” in the subject line, by the 15th of every month to editor@ashlandtownnews.com. Events will be included as space permits.

Page 22

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

November 2015

School Menus Ashland Elementary Schools

Blessed Thanksgiving

By Rev. Larry Iannetti, Pastor, Federated Church of Ashland With the arrival of November and the Thanksgiving holiday, a holiday instituted by Abraham Lincoln at the end of the Civil War, we are reminded once more that it is time to “give thanks.” On the one hand, it seems odd that we might need such a reminder. I can recall as a child being reminded to thank those who gave me a gift for my birthday or other special occasion. I might have been reminded to thank those who paid me a compliment or showed me a kindness or performed some thoughtful act, like give me a ride home from school or from a little league game. Throughout my life I can recall many instances when I have overheard parents and adults frequently reminding their own children to say “please and thank you.” It seems that “giving thanks” is one of those life lessons that is passed down from generation to generation.

When it comes to the Thanksgiving holiday, we are reminded, as Americans, to express our thanks for what we have received and for the blessings which have come our way, for we have in fact been the recipients of God’s gracious generosity. Unlike when we were children, when others had to remind us to say thank you, and when we obediently expressed our perfunctory “thank you,” I would like to suggest that there is much to be gained if we truly learn to live our lives on a daily basis with a spirit of gratitude and thankfulness. As we make preparations, maybe this year we can remember on Thanksgiving Day to not only say our thanks to one another, and of course to the cooks, but also to begin anew, to live with hearts filled with gratitude to the God who has been so good to us!

Perhaps you might join us, on Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 25 at 7:00 p.m. for a Service of Song and Thanksgiving.

Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.

“Building A Brighter Tomorrow Out of a Healthier Today”

November 2015

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

2

3

4

5

Fri 6

Chicken Scampi Over Spaghetti

Ming’s Asian Sloppy Joes Oven Fries

Pizza Party!

Assorted Pizzas “V” Garden Salad

Mediterranean Cheese Tortellini Primavera “V” With Garlic And Fresh Herbs

Coconut Crusted Redfish Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes

9

10

11

12

13

Marvelous Mac and Cheese “V” With a side of Peas

Oven Roasted Turkey & Gravy, Savory Stuffing Honey Carrots Cranberry Sauce

No School Veteran’s Day

Mucho Nachos “V”

Classic Tomato Soup “V” Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Tortilla Chips with Seasoned Beef Cheese, Lettuce & Salsa Refried Beans

16

17

18

19

20

Surf and Turf!

Salmon Slider and Chicken Nuggets Cucumber and Apple Salad

Ashland’s Favorite!

Pulled Pork on a Bun (or not) Corn Bread Warm Apple Crisp

Pizza Party!

Assorted Pizzas “V” Garden Salad

Herbed Chicken And Broccoli Over Penne

Fish IN Chips Local Redfish Coated In Cape Cod Potato Chips!

Roasted Roots

23

24

25

26

27

Tuscan Lasagna Roll Ups “V” Garlicky Green Beans

Chicken or Vegetarian Burritos “V”

Half Day No Lunches Served

No School Happy Thanksgiving!

No School!

Relax, Reflect, Refresh!

Refried Beans, Seasoned Corn, Lettuce, Shredded Cheese and Salsa

30

Lots of Choices Daily!

PLEASE NOTE:

Breakfast Anyone?

Questions or Comments?

Kayem Light Hot Dog On a Bun

Don’t want the special of the day? We always have plenty of alternatives! Options always listed at the bottom of the menu.

If you have a food allergy please contact the Nutrition Services Department before purchasing a meal “V” is or can be made vegetarian

You know it is the most important meal of the day so don’t skip it! We serve breakfast every day at all schools. Check it out!

Contact Lisa Beaudin, Director of Nutrition Services (508) 881-0165

Vegetarian Baked Beans

lbeaudin@ashland.k12.ma.us

Breakfast $1.25 Reduced $ .30 Lunch $2.50 Reduced $.40 Milk $.50 Served Daily: Assorted Cold Milk, 100% Juice Cups, Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Menu subject to change without notice FREE SOUP WITH EVERY MEAL ON MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY (Friday’s soup is always vegetarian) Alternate lunches (including vegetarian items) available daily: Sandwiches, Salads, Fabulous Finger Food and Veggie Plates Mon: Pizza Tues: Pasta Wed: Chicken Caesar Salad Thurs: Warm Bagels Fri: Pizza This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Ashland Secondary Schools

“Building A Brighter Tomorrow Out of a Healthier Today”

November 2015

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

2

3

4

5

Fri 6

Chicken Scampi Over Spaghetti

Ming’s Asian Sloppy Joes Oven Fries

Pizza Party!

Assorted Pizzas “V” Garden Salad

Mediterranean Cheese Tortellini Primavera “V” With Garlic And Fresh Herbs

Coconut Crusted Redfish Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes

9

10

11

12

13

Marvelous Mac and Cheese “V” With a side of Peas

Oven Roasted Turkey & Gravy, Savory Stuffing Honey Carrots Cranberry Sauce

No School Veteran’s Day

Mucho Nachos “V”

Classic Tomato Soup “V” Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Tortilla Chips with Seasoned Beef Cheese, Lettuce & Salsa Refried Beans

16

17

18

19

20

Signature Salmon Burger on a Bun

Ashland’s Favorite!

Pulled Pork on a Bun (or not) Corn Bread Warm Apple Crisp

Pizza Party!

Assorted Pizzas “V” Garden Salad

Herbed Chicken And Broccoli Over Penne

Fish IN Chips Local Redfish Coated In Cape Cod Potato Chips!

Roasted Roots

Plain, Teriyaki, Buffalo or Honey Mustard – you top it!

Cucumber Apple Salad 23

24

25

26

27

Tuscan Lasagna Roll Ups “V” Garlicky Green Beans

Chicken or Vegetarian Burritos “V”

Half Day No Lunches Served

No School Happy Thanksgiving!

No School Relax, Reflect, Refresh!

Refried Beans, Seasoned Corn, Lettuce, Shredded Cheese and Salsa

30

Lots of Choices Daily!

PLEASE NOTE:

Breakfast Anyone?

Questions or Comments?

Kayem Light Hot Dog On a Bun

Don’t want the special of the day? We always have plenty of alternatives! Options always listed at the bottom of the menu.

If you have a food allergy please contact the Nutrition Services Department before purchasing a meal “V” is or can be made vegetarian

You know it is the most important meal of the day so don’t skip it! We serve breakfast every day at all schools. Check it out!

Contact Lisa Beaudin, Director of Nutrition Services (508) 881-0165

Vegetarian Baked Beans

lbeaudin@ashland.k12.ma.us

Breakfast $1.25 Reduced $ .30 Lunch $2.75 Reduced $.40 Milk $.50 Alternate lunches available daily: A Wide Variety of Sandwiches, Salads and Veggie Plates “V” Mon & Fri Pizza, Tues Chicken Patties, Thurs Burgers. Menu subject to change without notice FREE SOUP WITH EVERY MEAL ON MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY (Friday’s soup is always vegetarian) Served Daily: Assorted Cold Milk, 100% Juice Cups, Fresh Fruit and Vegetables This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

November 2015

Page 23

Todd Zukowski

at Prospect Mortgage

The Right Move.

Branch Manager NMLS #20384 www.ToddZukowski.com Todd.Zukowski@prospectmtgcom

(508) 543-5281 30 Mechanic Street Foxboro, MA 02035 Branch NMLS #320399 Todd Zukowski has been a strong member of the mortgage industry since 2000. He serves Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire and can originate a variety of loans including: FHA, VA, 203(K), conventional, jumbo, and refinance.

He was recently named, in Mortgage Executive Magazine, as one of the Top 1% of Mortgage Originators in the nation for 2014!

Todd loves being a Loan Officer because it is a win-win situation for him. He gets to be an instrumental and helpful part of one of the most important transactions in his clients’ lifetime. He truly enjoys his work helping buyers to get a home that they want.

He works with a team of local underwriters and closers who are extremely responsive and efficient. He and his team are very enthusiastic about what they do, and they are happy to help clients find a perfect loan for their unique financial situation.

He consistently remains in the list of Top 25 Mortgage Originators at Prospect Mortgage, and his dedicated team closes loans within 30 days on average.

Headquartered in Sherman Oaks, CA, Prospect Mortgage is one of the largest independent residential retail mortgage lenders in the United States. It is backed by Sterling Partners, a growth-oriented private equity firm with approximately $5 billion in assets under management and offices in Chicago, Baltimore and Miami.

In 2011, Prospect Mortgage was ranked number 2 on Mortgage –Executive Magazine’s list of the Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America and was a top 10 national home purchase lender in 2012.

What are his clients saying?

“Very easy to reach. Responds quickly and does a great job explaining all the details. Has kept process moving forward.” — Garth F., Holliston

“Working with Todd is always a great experience. The process is smooth, clear and expectations are met.

Thanks for all of the efforts!” — Aaron B., Hopkinton

“We were kept informed throughout the loan process. Todd made it very easy to get the forms done and into the risk department on time. Adjusted the criteria of the loan to fit our circumstances.”

— David L., Raynham

“Todd Zukowski went out of his way to come to my home to retrieve documents from me and to get my signature. He was extremely responsive and made the transaction go very smoothly.”

— Beth W., Natick

I am licensed to originate mortgage loans in the following state(s): MA, NH, RI. Loan inquiries and applications in states where I am not licensed will be referred to a Loan Officer who is licensed in the property state. Equal Housing Lender.

Prospect Mortgage is located at 15301 Ventura Blvd., Suite D300, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403. Prospect Mortgage, LLC (NMLS Identifier #3296, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) is a Delaware limited liability company licensed by MA Mortgage Lender/Broker License #MC3296; licensed by the NH Banking Dept.; and licensed by RI Licensed Lender #20021343LL, Loan Broker #20041643LB. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. Rev 4.15.15 (0415-2055) LR 2015-229

508.309.3538 158 Pond Street, Suite A Ashland, MA 01721 OakRealtyMA.com

Recent Sales in Ashland, MA

SINGLE FAMILY SALE PRICE 8 Waushakum Ave . . . .$217,000 11 Tri St . . . . . . . . . . . .$268,000 20 Prospect Heights . . .$269,500 166 Prospect St . . . . . .$315,000 40 Cherry St . . . . . . . . .$325,000 219 Prospect St . . . . . .$325,000 11 Bellview Hts . . . . . . .$359,900

SINGLE FAMILY SALE PRICE 14 Columbus Ave . . . . .$370,500 56 Green St . . . . . . . . .$400,000 31 Larcridge Lane . . . . .$549,900 96 Winter Street . . . . . .$574,900 71 Olive St . . . . . . . . . .$599,900 3 Wilson Circle . . . . . . .$820,000

“Y” We Are Thankful Fall is moving swiftly and it’s

suddenly November. We take time out of our busy lives to enjoy a great meal and some family time relaxing with loved ones. Before the craziness and stress of the holidays truly takes over, when people simply consider what it means to be thankful and often reach out to those who might need a helping hand.

In Ashland, we’re fortunate to have so many exceptional neighborhood organizations that support our town and provide their own helping hand. We here at Oak Realty are especially grateful this month for our good neighbors at the Metrowest YMCA. The Y offers community outreach specific to Ashland: family play groups, the launch of an after school program for elementary school students, Keefe Tech Y nights for middle school students, and the upcoming Ashland Fridays at our own middle school. The YMCA also collaborates with the Ashland Sporting Association to present the Ashland Half Marathon, using proceeds to sustain and develop the youth programs that have enriched our community.

In a continued effort to support all of these important programs, the YMCA is holding their annual Helping Kids in Need Auction this month, to help children and families in need of Y programs and services. The much-anticipated event will be held on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 at the Verve Hotel in Natick. Enjoy good food, lively music, and great company while supporting a worthy cause! For more information, go to http://www.metrowestymca.org/giving/auction.

We’re thankful to be part of a town where family is valued and youth programs are an integral part of our community. A place where we are happily raising our own kids. If you’d like to be part of such a vibrant town, call us. We’ll make sure you find your way home.

Buying? Selling? Not sure, but need to know more? Call us anytime.

We welcome your questions at

508 309 3538 or info@oakrealtyma.com.

Local Town Pages www.ashlandtownnews.com

Page 24

November 2015

Quick Weight Loss Results That Will Last A Lifetime Paul Baldassari initially needed some coaxing from his wife Janice Parisi to explore the possibility of joining New England Fat Loss (NEFL). He had tried several national weight loss programs over the past years, all with disappointing results. But Baldassari was open to a solution.

Weighing 250 pounds and entering a potentially harmful prediabetic stage, he needed the key that would help improve his overall health. The answer came with NEFL. Less than five months into the program, Baldassari lost over 54 pounds, and through the guidance of NEFL Clinical Director Dr. Dirk Johns, developed a healthy diet and lifestyle.

“I feel absolutely fantastic!”

Baldassari exclaimed. “It’s a shame I got myself that bad, but it’s a wonderful thing I found them.”

Results came quickly for both 64 year-old Baldassari and 56 year-old Parisi. In just 40 days, Baldassari shed 40 pounds and his wife lost 20 pounds.

Although they have completed the formal plan, the

Ashland residents continue to implement their improved eating habits. With New England Weight Loss, participants are educated not just on healthy food choices, but also following guidelines designed specifically for their body type and makeup, how to read food labels and how to prepare delicious meals without adding calories.

“The beauty of this program is that you can continue your lifestyle to a point,” Baldassari said.

“They teach you simple common sense things and encourage you every day.”

As Baldassari explained, New England Fat Loss is not your typical weight loss program. People want immediate results to stay motivated and NEFL does just that. It also does something unlike other plans; a guarantee of shedding 20-40 pounds in just 40 days! Their unique process starts with a full body scan, a body medical analysis and an information session explaining how and why their weight loss system is unique.

Baldassari was influenced

to join by his spouse, but future participants should consider this article their personal encouragement. Come with a partner or come alone. New England Fat Loss works for anyone looking to lose 15 pounds or 300 pounds.

A personal support system and day-to-day encouragement is waiting within the qualified staff at NEFL. New England Fat Loss is located at 22 South Street, Suite 204, in Hopkinton and at 188

Needham Street, Suite 255 in Newton. To learn more, visit www.newenglandfatloss.com or call 1-844-437-8446. To schedule a FREE consultation with New England Fat Loss book online at www.newenglandfatloss.com.

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By J.D. O’Gara Chuck Tashjian the property music-related, something that your grandmoth drove by she prospective Publisher Local Town at drew people from all different advertisers. er’s kitchen. of Last year, the volunteer in Hopedale5 Depot Street It’s cozy, Lori Koller, Pages, along with two-week time Within ages a and backgrounds. The reand there are members the Millis frame, Cultural Advertising years ago. just over six knew of smells (of this team Manager that the paper food cooking).” for the company,SalesCouncil brainstorming for sult? The Millis Film Festival. was going be a were “I thought to offer Hopedale success. aiman artistic, it would Liberatore cultural event that to This year, it’s back, and the make a cute residents “I couldn’t more than and her Second Annual Millis Film Fesa lotcould staff cook the premiere draw people from be more and we didn’tlittle market, all difof these the paper proud issue offerent two young tival’s got more support than have anydishes right all of the in thing like community hardareas of the men for month; they their mailboxes on the premthat in Hopedthe that they this make work ises. something ale,” says that put wasforth not ever from local businesses and connection hope to foster a new together, this to to their community. just “We do school, orhappen,” Mom and the Hopedale senior citizen or organizations. This year’s event, “Also says Koller.

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College Fair just he Road where a Ashland High $5.died Englan sation in another. as a fact March 21. in rish genealothat remain the turnout in Ashland. understand it other 20 Ponderosa would set for Saturday, is maintained with “This isic— Scots-I by the Union St. many people The Holliston equipment a no one Agricultural ashes was Bertul— say they exmild, at pleased epidem just a fun event Co-sponsored families readiness. for Organizers sometimes elley afraid flu of name K was atily life, state hasIt had in town, because been Event, of ther’s,” and Ashland

By John “His the 1918 io “Is gy Yet?”Commission’s Second increase in Spring town my she had the Buchan with the Ashland PTO Breezy Hillgenealo grandfa the pect to see an Annual dangerous.

– is scheduled is so supportive editor during of my for Farm. Photo courtesy year’s event, up. are times for March 22, Spring Famare experiencing to deal effectively to of agriculture,”“When Education Foundation, the tendees at this has stories, there and the staff from 12-4, of Holliston Certainly, we most standards. bility Paula Mark,show e passion a friendlder began. says in 2014 with at Dean, expeto return AgCom. new As with most of the storms, to have the same by member y Club5 of the Agricultural event began take long-tim would see the harsh winter valuable and expect of Jan- effectsDepartment of Public Works for Oliver tial Batche ther was able ed to with smile,d on page while a two sides. Some through most superb a residen at the who has livedwasn’tCommission geneaalog that her small goal of providing (cold) beauty, ion, named From October grandfa he was suppos continue offers . farm inour this coming. (DPW) has demonstrated of their to families with Holliston for has grown College Fair snowfall as now Animals – from just chickens 12 him, butland, information to be endured. uary, we did not see Y one page 4 in she The institut through College in fact, animal half ago. school Latvia, school naviwith years onstill continued on to families, in executing opCOMPAN others see a nuisance . The week period and a hadsays, that’s now, bees, alpacas, children in high to the right of Dean ial colare sure to see a unique last month. in herBertul a horse and They’re Over a three February, Ashland fortitude ING ARTS the ashes to.been Collegecourtesy century be what Snow Story rs Day The 4H leader School children or a day off from Holliston kids that husband’s family rabbit. of for generations.

PERFORM gating the path were a private, resident Dean, page 2 play, Foundey, then a Juniors. Photo the middle best man allowed learned and their own Oliver place presents 150 continued on six feet of snow. can someday hopes her families are portunity for The sees the ted its We this property, ther’s “When weFRANKLIN got for Dr. program received about has the capagoing to be a place pragmatist ge attic. celebra an academ it was inevitable for “ kids to grandfa just turned degree evapo- has school. The ourthat the town 2 19, what lege, named Colle come to reconnect “Is It Spring Yet?” see at the Collegeits days as 4-year includes y I was that College been page Fortunately, going event. As it Neighborhood DeanCare to turn it into to nature and Dean d on Day,” Februar Loss 2- and Dean cycle of water did last year from condena farm,”ershe learn that A Memory the day is sure manyAlzheimers & Memory old on “Founders continue season, and grown withwith says, 8th. around animals.” how to act s are years to as to be ration in one remind March explaining, rience of individuals ara staffing friendly Change is in the care its studentas they at one hour. students it refers Specializing Just a J.d. o’Gtrained 24-hour SPRIng Time ahead Care Byn Specially college(SAMM) and and today, personally is BOSTON WEST n Personal continued on Management the Presias many t Savings your clocks you know BOX page 6 How recognize(LMA) much guided with Medication e set Dayligh n Assistance to on, Administration social activities forget you or someon professional, THE BLACK THE instituti Limited Medication can eventheir stimulating e basis?

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which will take place on Saturday March 7, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. will feature 16 films, nine in the adult category and seven from Middle School filmmakers, The Film Festival will be held in the Roche Brothers Community room at the Millis Public Library, 961 Main Street, Millis.

Garzon adds, “Through Carol (Haggerty), an art teacher at Millis High School, we’ve been able to partner with Danielle Manion at the school, and that’s where a lot of these films are coming out of.

The festival is getting it out of the schools and into the community.”

The adult category encompasses more than high school films, however. Some came from adults outside of Millis, and this year, prizes reflect a growing interest from the community in the endeavor.

“We’ve had 16 local businesses step up to sponsor the

FESTivaL continued on page 2

Education Standards up for a Vote at Town Meeting

Prominent Naturalist to Visit Community

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By J.D. O’Gara prising of Medway High School Local Over 100 Medway High School students. The MHS Musical allows March 1, 2015 students from grades 9-12 will “go students to be directly involved in Business Every Month together” as cast members, dance acting, singing and dancing Freeon-to Every Home and 3 Vol. 4 No. ensemble, production crew and stage, playing in our pit band, and pit band for the musical, Grease various opportunities off-stage as this month, to be presented from well.

The cast alone for this producMarch 12-14, at 7:30 p.m.

The musical features an array tion numbers 50, says Christie, of characters, singing and dancing with another 50 students working their way through their senior year backstage as crew. Two students at Riddell High School. The show, will play in the orchestra pit, although due to the complexity of with music and lyrics written prehensive Assessment System,

By Grace allen by the music, “we have hired some

By Grace allen Jim Jacobs and WarrenaCasey, the MCAS test. toughiswinter, After professional musicians as well,” Do you know what tests your or full of energy and includes Norfolk resident Patrick look forward to community cancomsays Christie. child is taking this spring? One edy, romance, and the great sounds Touhey would like to put the immersion that a week of nature local resident thinks parents are Lead roles were chosen by auof the 1950’s. The popular brakes on the PARCC test and snow. The King educanew the doesn’t involverockabout uninformed dition, and these cast members inn-roll musical numbers, including force discussion of the new stanNational Honor Philip Science tion standards and the accompanyboth experienced and novice “Greased Lightning,” “We To- clude naturalist dards and whether or not the be hosting Society will Go ing tests being considered by the gether” and “Shaken’Nixon High theplayers. week of Norfolk and King Philip schools Brent at theduring state of Massachusetts. He hopes “I’ve School Hop” will have should implement them. Touhey audiSeveral eventsonly ever done acting at to 24.

March 17the to bring the polarizing issue to the Medway ence moving toare andHigh School,” says Cam theplanned beat. for the schools will be placing an article on the forefront at Norfolk Town MeetSwan, cast in the role as “Danny.”

“I’m really the Norfolk Town Meeting warrant excited to put area.on tri-town By renee ing and on the town election bal“I’ve never taken any voice lessons Common this production. It Nixon, Plant Core and to remove was something a renowned science lot. testing from the schools the students hadeducator, his life like that.” been angling for or anything has dedicated That is The United States is embark- PARCCWhile food vote. He is also The role, says Swan, is differin a anon-binding a number of years,” says director Turn, a where A Place To species research. basic need, and clothing to endangered ing on an unprecedented journey signa-are choice food ent from to get enough to residents many individuattempting and MHS English teacherforSpencer located in als struggle his high energy, in-anything he’s done in pantry Known to unify education standards for all on the to question the past. community. in the MetroWest Danny is “kind of commake ends to place the tures Christie. “When terpretive Nixon help. The Natick, steps in the music science thereby director shows, meet, students in kindergarten through relying this to townonelection plicated, he puts on this show for for the ballot “The organizatio (Kendra Nutting) the kindness was foundedorganization, which promote of others and I extensively sat down to travels 12th grade. Known as the Comto in 1979 by started by all his friends, spring. n was In but when you really over the summer, their most help them through residents we thought iteducation. environmental mon Core State Standards Initiatrying times. these actions committedJoe and Edna Natick had just a Natick couple Touhey hopes was the perfectaddition who fit, the to returned Gillis, perfect his research work tive, these standards set common from a will send a message to local school emergency to helping provideis tion in the score.” education benchmarks across the Caribbean,” vacaand publications, Nixon has apfood and committees and the State Departsaid clothing Each spring the MHSonMusical GrEaSE TV, radio, and in print country in order to prepare stupeared Lambert believes that when a PlaCe ment of Education: “We don’t for his work, “His passion presents a full-scale musical comto turn continued dents for college and the workscientists on page 2 media. his topics, students actually meet agree with the PARCC testing and continued on force.

The Naturalist-in-Residence knowledge about them, science with page 3 interact and Core curriculum.” He Lam- and vivacious, entertaining, Annsuccess The Common Core uses the Common local schools to return to the idea of Real Estate week was is our passion, your is our goal!! presentation becomes interesting and fun. wants the Partnership for Assessment of bert, a science teacher at KP and informational me think it Nixon’s expertise on wildlife and eduMassachusetts the pre-2009CELEBRAT ING for style was what made Readiness for College and CaHigh School and the advisor Home inventoryaisgreat opportunity for field research should prove eyecational state standards. would be reers, or the PARCC exam, to test the school’s Science National to students who spend at a record low !

Touhey is part of a group have learned the KP students and community opening students well how about Honor Society. Lambert hadandthe learning buyer ! most of their time if we could bring him here,” said new curriculum. In Massachusetts, EduCaTioN traveled to Alaska on a cruise demand is strong!!

IN BUSINESS the PARCC exam will eventually NaTuraliST continued on page 6 Serving and Nixon was the naturalist on Lambert.

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It’s been years in the making, but despite some major blocks and roadStation in delays, University Westwood is opening for business in finally

By J.D. O’G ahead with March. ara And with the approval. time, some At the name stores it comes some big line directory local Chuck Tashjian the area were concerned representatives servingwaiting aims to offer west area.

Natick residents the Metro for, including has been about giving Online visitors Wegmans Target (set to open the premiere a lot more than able to access an willMarch be 4, Roche Bros. advantage over the entire issue of on newspapage 13) and see related story townpages Both Wegmans local- per, as well as access Roche Bros of which will Wegmans, both this month; in their mailboxes links, coupons community were eventually and to secure beer he hopes able plex. Universityanchor the coma new connection to foster and classified for localbusiness es in the spring and wine licenses Station, when ads. fully to their community. Over Tashjian complete, of is expected Special Town 2012. Westwood 16,000 copies the tabloid-size neurial careerbegan hisinclude entrepreto approximately Meeting approved of the long-awaited 550,000 will be producedd newspaper of Photosite in 1999square as owner feet of retail project back in Millis, May, 2013. and restaueach month, ing to and these in laterspace, shift- along with offset printingrant will ground on Developers broke residential apartments free of chargebe direct mailed He then in the project 2004. expanded and more. six months later. his business and businesses to households to include University the production Station officially rendition in the town.

University paper will local telephone opens for of Future Station is of business in also be available The University directories developed being full format well in Station as the by in its Dover, Sherborn, 16 businesses, March as velopment, New England DeUxbridge news.com. at www.Naticktown- surrounding Target,and along with Marshalls/Ho including: sity Station, areas. As Real Eastern business owner, meGoods, isn’t Estate Nordstrom “This paper a small Rack, just going and National to be by is to let residents acutely the publisher opment.

Sports Author- a new shopping destination, Develof Natick ity, PetSmart, Epoch, a memory aware is also a community.

Michaels, it’s ity; on in their know what’s going area businessesof the Beauty, “We look forward care facilchallenges ULTA use both also Kay Jewelers, time expected to development The mixed- this to welcoming local says Tashjian,local community,” key audiences face inSmashburger, Starbucks, reaching open the in the making. In year. with their Famous Footwear, a blend of retail will feature projected Gables Residential 2007, this new and area residents project publication who envisions his funds or Fidelity to limited shopping destination,” stores, restauis to planning was put on hold due vechile’s Investments, to as rants, open a way recreation to David’s to stay abreast for readers whole town Dress reach the and residential 2015, according in late spring In 2008, and financial issues. Douglass Karp, president Bridal, Panera Barn, housing. of Natick. of all their England have to of New Wegmans and Charming towns Town Pages Local Bread, componentThe initial residential Development to New England from offer, was held up formal Development officials.

Charlies. coming said in news, nonprofitincluding town local nonprofit has also Situated of the project invited Additionally, representativein after a local state Station statement. “Universitya organization University town sports monthly news groups to submit on 120 acres, Univer- include Gables residential, will tion is called for s, and will feature a home addition will be an exciting new which 350,000expected to have Sta- rule petition to Accompany local businesses. listings. The articles and event 350 approve up to Westwood luxury to square publisher ment units, the liquor together ing the license for and brings source will also enWegmans at as well as apart- space available. feet of office a mix of popular be an easy-tonews rewhat was restaurants, then known Bridges use onThe project loCalto housing and stores, tion. This as Westwood Stahas been a wnPageS more.” long legislature happened just continued on as the was ready page 3 Pleasant STaTiON to move 1081 Pleasant St Auto St • Norwood continued on page

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