June 2010 designed and illustrated by Tony Luongo

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Contents

June/july 2010 Volume 2, Number 6

A publication of The Billerica Green, LLC. ©2010 The Billerica Green unless otherwise specified. All Rights Reserved

Editor-in-Chief + Owner + Staff Writer: Liana Measmer For news or column submissions, e-mail us at liana@thebillericagreen.com.

Art Director + Illustrator: Tony Luongo Staff Writers: Nora Fiore Jenn Gervais Pat Graham Shawn Hutcheon Contributing Columnists: Diana Lombardo Colleen Sgroi Dr. Gina Aguayo Kay Warren Nora Fiore Kristene Whitehouse Brian Panarese Attorney Jennifer O’Brien Dave Gagliardi John and Sherry Livsey Pat Zapert Kathy Lynch Paul Abrego Jeff Parenti Todd Dellaporta Contributing Writers: Sandra Brigham Frank Hynes Alan Kessler Michael Macaris Middlesex Community College Billerica Cat Care Coalition Contributing Photographers: Gail Lucozzi George Lucozzi Advertising Sales: Liana Measmer Pat Graham Shawn Hutcheon Nora Fiore Phone: 978-808-2361 E-mail: ads@thebillericagreen.com June/July 2010; Vol. 2, No. 6 The Billerica Green, LLC. P.O. Box 492 Billerica, MA 01821 www.thebillericagreen.com Subscriptions for non-Billerica residents: One year (12 issues) $15

6

Traveling the Road of Success The five top scoring grads in Billerica take the demands of school in

6

stride while looking ahead to the future.

12 Pride and Joy

Chris Swimm was a weekend dad who was thrust into full time fatherhood.

Yet he wouldn’t change a thing.

20 Real Sportsmanship

This Memorial Day soccer tournament showed visiting teams Billerica

is serious about winning.

• By Pat Graham, Sports Editor

12

26 A Moment Of Silence

Memorial Day’s reverent and solemn ceremonies captured.

In this edition: Dave Says Green Handyman Will Achieve The Playground Caregiver Circle Voice of the Artist

Sunny Side of the Street The Traveling Gourmets Ask Dr. Gina Pet Peeves The Body Elite

What is our favorite color?

(Actual model may vary.)

Find the answer to the riddle in one of our ads. E-mail your answer, which ad, and name and contact info to liana@thebillericagreen.com and if you are right you will be entered to win an iPod. All entries must be received by June 25. The winner will be selected and announced in our next edition.

Printed on 50% post-consumer recycled paper. Keep the cycle going.

Please recycle when you are done enjoying The Billerica Green.

20 26

/ thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

A Letter from the Editor

Send us your Letters to the Editor.

All letters become property of The Billerica Green, and those choosen for publication will be edited for clarity and length.

Submit to letters@thebillericagreen.com.

Welcome summer! Keep that sunshine coming!

Another busy month comes to a close at the Green and we’ve got so much to tell you. We went after all things sunny and warm.

All the favorites-walking, running, swimming, biking-are all here through the Rec. Department so check it out.

Lots of cleaning up was going on around town this month. It seems that almost everything close to the center got a face lift. Be sure to look around at all that the big corporations and the volunteer groups did to make Billerica more beautiful.

Important people got top billing this month. Dads who bring balance and fun to their families shared their stories. Our graduates from the class of 2010 told us about their big dreams and how they plan to travel the road to success. Their stories are truly inspiring.

Tony, our Art Director, completed the Mooseman Triathlon in under 2 hours on June 5. You can read all about his journey for Kickin’ Cancer in honor of our mother. We’re happy to announce two new additions to out team. Pat Graham, a sports correspondent from the Lowell Sun, is now our sports editor. Our own pet peevist, Nora Fiore, will be covering news for us now. We also want to thank MEC for their great delivery service. It’s a win-win for everyone.

We’ll be running a contest each month and we need YOU to participate. We’ve hidden an answer to the riddle,”What is our favorite color?” in one of our ads. You now know the riddle but have

to search for answer. Email your answer to liana@thebillericagreen.com and you could win an ipod--just in time for summer.

All entries must be received by June 25. The winner will be selected and announced in our next edition.

Lastly, we are planning a big party and YOU’RE invited! The Heart of Billerica awards will commemorate our first year in business by recognizing the unsung heroes who make this town a great place to be. Read about it on the back page of this edition, which will explain what to do.

As always, thanks to my staff and contributors for without you we could not do it. Also, please send us your feedback. Good or Bad. We want to hear how we are doing so we can continue to make the Green the best it can be.

Keep Reading, Your Editor,

Liana Measmer liana@thebillericagreen.com Photo by Gail Lucozzi ASAPhotographic.com

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

To The Editor, Let me thank you for such an awesome paper. The Billerica Green is full of information and is the talk between mom’s on the playgrounds and at school.

–Jennifer Boudreau Billerica Dear Editor, On behalf of the residents, staff, family, and friends of New England Pediatric Care, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for your contribution to our 17th Annual “Cool Kids” Road Race/Fun Walk. Your very generous donation helped us realize a profit of $12,000. This money goes directly to providing our residents with recreational and entertainment opportunities that improve the quality of their lives.

It was an honor to to have your support and include The Billerica Green on the back of the official “Cool Kids” tshirts and banners displayed on race day.

Your generous donation of your services helped us increase community awareness and exposure of who we are. Thank you for the ads and wonderful article!

Your support was very much appreciated, thank you.

Best Wishes, –Laura Kirk Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor To The Editor, It’s been a pleasure working with you to help keep the Billerica Blast in the news around town. Lauren [Parise], my daughter, was very excited that you called her for an interview. We will definitely keep you in mind for future stories.

–Barbara Parise and Laura Farrell Hi Liana, The latest water conservation article was excellent and I loved the sign image.

Perfect. Thank you so much for giving the issue such nice publicity.

–Fred Liberatore To The Billerica Green, There are many great organizations in Billerica who quietly go about the business of helping people in the town.

One of these is the Billerica Community Alliance with Pat Zapert who came to help us at the BHA community garden at 13 River Street.

They arranged to have the EMD Serono Company, a high tech pharmaceutical research operation off the Middlesex Turnpike to come in and work the soil to get ready for our third season.

It was really a lot of fun mingling with these scientists, some of whom had never put a seed in the ground before.

They topped off the day by presenting us with a beautiful bench which we all signed.

What can we say? We are truly grateful to all. Thank you.

–Robert B. Austin, President Billerica Green Thumb, Inc. To The Editor, What is a Liberty Pole? A Liberty Pole is a tall wooden pole erected on a town common or square just before and during the Revolutionary War. A red cap seen on top of the pole was a call for townspeople to meet and vent or express their views regarding British Rule.

Around 1976, the Billerica Colonial Minute Men erected a Liberty Pole on the town common. On Sunday morning, May 30, 2010 after BCMM participated in the Grave side memorial services we provided much needed maintenance to our Liberty Pole. With a new coat of stain and a bright new red cap, the Pole looks brand new.

Please take a look at it the next time you pass by the common.

–Billerica Colonial Minute Men Dear Editor, Our town playgrounds are a reflection on our community. They are a great place for our children and families to get exercise, make friends, and just plain have FUN!! We now have the Kids Konnection Playground, Kohlraush Park, Vietnam Veterans Park, Micozzi Beach Playground, the Lampson Field Playground/ Skate Park (in development), a new Playground in Pinehurst coming in June and Manning State Park Facilities.

If you are unsure where these are, go to the Billerica Recreation Department’s website to find out.

As these parks have evolved, so has the need to care for them…from cleanups, to fixing vandalism, to regular maintenance, to improvements. It is amazing how many people in our town are coming forward and working hard! From kids “Taking 5”, to companies installing equipment and planting trees, to Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, to individuals.

It takes a community to watch over them and keep them beautiful. A BIG THANK YOU GOES OUT TO YOU! To all that use these places, please be our eyes and ears. Speak up if something is not right, report any thing broken to the Recreation Department or call the Police if you need help. This goes a long way to helping make our community a great place!

Sincerely, –Sandy Libby Playground Coordinator Billerica Recreation Department

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/ thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

The Voice of the Artist •By Colleen Sgroi

Abundance Thinking or Scarcity Thinking?

I had lunch with a friend I had not seen in a few years. As we were catching up on what was going on in each of our lives, I told her how impressed I was with her web site and her courage to step out in building her own video business.

With much sincerity, she replied, “Colleen, I want to thank you for believing in me and my talents back some ten years ago.

The grant I received from the Arts Council, that you were on the board of, along with your generous praise and interest in my film

project, is what I built my business on.� She went on to say, “The film I created from that grant was all I had to show-case my talents to prospective clients.�

Then she said something that intrigued me, “Some people live from abundance thinking and others live from scarcity thinking. Those who live from abundance have the frame of mind that there is more than enough to go around and they give from that place. You, Colleen, are one of those people.�

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say otherwise. For example: Let me ask you a simple visual question. Are you ready?

Answer the question before you read on: What color is a yield sign?

Most everyone, including myself, answered yellow. The real answer is white and red. This change in colors of yield signs happened in 1975. So, now that you are aware of the colors of a yield sign, you will forever notice they are white and red.

This is how awareness works. Once you see, you can never not see. This is the point where you can begin to make changes in your thinking with phrases like, I can, I want, or I will. In this spirit I see how I can help a fellow artist because there is more than enough people in this world who will prefer my work over theirs and theirs over mine.

How wonderful!

Colleen is a teaching artist at Colleen Sgroi Gallery and Art Classes on 12 Andover Road, Billerica, MA www.ColleenSgroi.com (978) 6671009 email Colleen@ColleenSgroi.com

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Over the years, I have discovered scarcity has to do with fear, uncertainty and selfdoubt where as abundance has to do with love, hope and confidence. Abundance thinkers focus on what is possible and appreciate what they have while reaching for what they want in life. This is because they believe there is a never ending source, so they offer the same to others. Scarcity thinkers focus on what they don’t have, what they might lose, and what hasn’t worked so they take themselves and others right out of the game before it even begins.

As I look deeper into this concept of thinking from abundance, I realize we all have moments of both types of thinking.

So, how can we turn our scarcity thinking into abundance thinking? The first thing is to start by just noticing what you say and think. You may be wondering how just noticing can change how you think.

We all have ways of thinking that we take for granted as being true, even when there is evidence all around us that would

Now that we’re enjoying the summer sun, the smell of the grill firing up reminds us cookout season and our favorite fare is back.

Corn on the cob. Mom’s potato salad. Burgers and chicken.

Polish Butcher Shop Kielbasa.

The latter is a delicious option to experience since many people usually purchase their meats at the grocery store. The Euro Deli at 653 Boston Road (Inside the Fill N’ Chill, across from Towne Plaza) carries 13 different varieties of home made kielbasas which will prove to be the talk of any party once they hit the table.

Kielbasa is generally pork which is smoked and seasoned. Store bought kielbasas tend to be fattier and processed with sodium to ensure higher shelf life but can cause flames to jump up on the grill when sliced open. The polish kielbasas Kelly and Ray Nurzynski, Euro Deli owners, carry are more compact with less fat. Choose from the Country Style, Wedding Style or Homestyle, each with different levels of smoky flavor. “It’s not a mass production product,� said Ray. “It’s hand made.�

These Central European sausages hail from some of the best Lithuanian, Russian, Polish and German recipes. One can choose from Kielbasa links or rings, where one and

a half pounds will more than satisfy five hungry people. To best enjoy kielbasa, slice it on an angle before grilling and serve it up

with a Dijon mustard or horse radish. Add a green salad or sauerkraut, some roasted potatoes and you have a complete meal. “It’s all about the flavor,� said Kelly.

For those wanting something in a bun, The Euro Deli also carries seasonal grilling kielbasas which are a little longer than a hot dog but far more flavorful. The store receives their kielbasa orders on Thursdays and, since this is a time sensitive product best eaten shortly after delivery, the couple recommends purchasing your kielbasas on a Thurs., Fri., or Sat. “When it comes in, the store smells like a smoke house,� said Ray. “It’s so fresh.�

For more information or to order party platters, call the Euro Deli at 978-435-9995.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

Dave Says

•By Dave Ramsey

Self-Employed & No Free Meals Real estate agent vs. for sale by owner Dear Dave, What are the advantages of using a real estate agent versus going the for-sale-by-owner route when it comes to selling a home?

–Seth Dear Seth, I’ve had a real estate license for 30 years.

If I were to put my personal residence on the market today, I’d use an active real estate agent who really knows his or her stuff in the marketplace. I’d gladly pay them their commission, too.

Now, why would I do that if I could just sell it myself and save the commission cost?

For starters, if I do a for-sale-by-owner, or FSBO, I’m only getting my place in front of buyers I can attract from seeing a newspaper ad, Craigslist, and anyone who happens to drive by the house. If you go with a highoctane real estate agent, you’ll have the advantage of being exposed to their entire pool of buyers. More importantly, you’ll be in the MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, database. There, you’ll immediately have thousands of potential buyers. So, who do you think will have the best chance of selling your house? Market exposure is everything in the real estate game!

And think about this: Even if you went the FSBO route every time you moved, you might do three or four of these transactions in a lifetime. A good agent closed three or four deals last week! They’ll know all the ins and outs of buying and selling a home, and they’ll walk you through every step of the process. Research has shown that between basic mistakes, pricing errors, and lack of negotiation skills, you’ll cost yourself more than the agent’s commission by trying to sell it yourself.

Trust me, you’ll get a much better deal— with a lot less hassle—by using a top-flight real estate agent!

–Dave Self-employment for the summer?

Dear Dave, I’m a college student in Utah, and I compete with lots of other students for summer jobs. Do you have any suggestions for debt-killing work?

–Anonymous Dear Anonymous, My best suggestion for debt-killing work in that kind of situation has always been selfemployment. You’ll make a lot more money cutting grass, walking dogs, or detailing cars.

You can control your time, too. Plus, you’ll make a lot more per hour than you will at any mall job. By the time they take taxes and everything out of that, you’ll almost wish

you hadn’t bothered!

A few years ago, I knew a couple of college guys who pooled their money and bought a pressure washer and some other equipment to start a business. They came to the house, washed and re-sealed our driveway, and I paid them a few hundred dollars apiece for the job. It took all day, but they walked away with their pockets full of money. You’d have to flip a lot of burgers to match that!

You can make some serious summer cash if you’ll look at yourself as a small-business owner and not someone’s employee. I’m not going to lie to you. If you take this route, you’re probably going to be involved in some pretty hard work. But the truth is, you’ll never make really good money without doing some pretty hard work!

–Dave The free dinner that wasn’t!

Dear Dave, How do you feel about the free trips and dinners timeshare communities offer as part of their sales pitches? Isn’t it a little like playing with fire?

–Diane Dear Diane, You’re close. I think it’s more like playing with fire while you’re sitting in a puddle of gasoline!

Listen, there’s nothing good about a timeshare. They have no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Besides, in most of these deals the food is bad and they’ll stick you in a room that’s not so hot, either. Timeshares are one of the few consumer products that have a 97 percent dissatisfaction rate. It’s virtually impossible to find someone who’s glad they bought in to one of these things!

I know people play games with this scenario. They think they’ll get lots of free stuff by just sitting through a sales pitch and then saying no. But why in the world would you want to waste vacation time or even one weekend of your life letting some salesperson twist your arm?

Plus, you’ve got the added problem that most folks aren’t as tough a sell as they think they are. If you’re not careful, you’ll end up agreeing with the guy on a couple of silly things, zoning out while the presentation wears on, and next thing you know, you’re driving away as a timeshare owner!

Don’t take a chance on getting stuck with one of those things, Diane. It’s a dumb idea!

–Dave *For more financial advice, plus special offers to our readers, please visit www.davesays. org.

/ thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Traveling The Road To

Success

By Liana Measmer

T

here is a road with many things to be aware of. A curve called failure, a loop called confusion and caution lights called family. However, with a spare called determination, an engine called perseverance, and insurance called faith, one can’t help but arrive to a place called success.

The five highest ranking high school scholars seen around Billerica will step foot on this road following graduation this year. They each have their own map, are full of determination and are donning their best courage for the ride. It seems nothing can stop them as they embark on this journey since that is what success truly is, more so than simply a destination.

The Musician Goes Electric Ever since attending elementary school at the Hajjar, Ryan Cantalupo, one of the Co-Valedictorians from Billerica Memorial High School (BMHS), has had an affinity for strings. On a guitar, that is. In the fourth grade, Cantalupo started playing the acoustic bass and moved nicely to the electric guitar and bass in high school.

Since music is his favorite past time, Cantalupo has gone

on to form bands with his close friends. Interested primarily in metal and punk music, Cantalupo’s band called “Since the Fall” brought five seniors together who share his interest in making music. He has carried his love of music into the world and is now teaching at BLT music Center in Billerica Center as a guitar teacher.

“I now have nine students,” said Cantalupo.

Cantalupo has always been a diligent student. With the highest GPA in the school (shared with Caitlin Hill), Cantalupo’s favorite subject is physics. However, he is humble and realistic enough to realize he still had to work at his studies. Some subjects came easily while some required that he put in a lot of work.

“I had to pull all nighters sometimes,” said Cantalupo Cantalupo like physics because he can apply it to engineering, which he will major in at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) after moving in on Aug. 22.

He is currently saving his earnings as a guitar teacher to use at school and someday hopes to own a recording studio.

Cantalupo will take the stage at the Tsongas Arena on June 8 with a speech he calls a “giant metaphor”. When pondering what the recipe to success is, Cantalupo believes it takes hard work with a purpose.

“You have to do what you are passionate about,” he said.

Competitive Edge Co-Valedictorian Caitlin Hill likes to compete. She’s good at it. She should be. She’s been on three sports teams each year at BMHS her entire high school career. As a young student, Hill tried many different sports but settled on gymnastics through the All Star Gymnastics center. She enjoyed it and began competing in the third grade. In High School, Hill has excelled in diving, gymnastics, and track her Freshman, Sophomore and Junior year. She became the diving and gymnastics captains this year.

“I really wanted to do high school sports,” said Hill.

Hill is a second generation BMHS graduate following parents were good students like she’s been, diligently completing challenging homework assignments and setting aside study time each day. Hill’s favorite subject is chemistry and this will be her focus as she goes on to college, attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the fall. She plans to pursue a career in environmental chemistry upon graduation.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

“I like the elements and how they work together,” said Hill.

When Hill isn’t running on a field or swimming in a pool, she is working. On the weekends, she’ll be spotted at O’Connor’s Hardware Store and this summer she will also work a second job as a gymnastics teacher through the Lexington Recreation Center.

Although her speech on June 8 will be more a collection of memories, she wants her classmates to know its all up to them. Being successful doesn’t need to be stressful but it does require drive and self-motivation.

“Don’t rely on your parents to tell you to do it,” said Hill. “YOU have to be willing to do it.”

to reach their goals.

“If you’re not planning for your future, your hard work doesn’t amount to anything,” said Comfort.

Business Champion Lyndsay Robinson, Shawsheen Valley Technical High School’s Valedictorian for 2010, attributes her success to many things. An inspiring older sister, her Business Technology teachers who helped her, and her co-op supervisor, Attorney Jamie Hartounian of Billerica, who taught her about practicing law. It all got her out of

America, a student run organization, Robinson has become skilled public speaking, winning speech contests through local organizations. She has also been the president of Shawsheen’s National Honor Society and stayed active in sports like tennis, swimming and track.

“I have benefited from joining the groups at the Shawsheen,” said Robinson.

Robinson has learned a lot through her internship in Niki Tsongas’ office and she hopes to also become a politician some day. To prepare, she will attend St. Anselm in New Hampshire this fall as a political science major. Robinson is proud that, from just under 30 scholarship

Future Doctor It has never been a surprise to see Lizelle Comfort with a book in hand.

Since the BMHS Salutatorian was in elementary school, she has always enjoyed reading and studying. In her elementary school enrichment courses, she completed detailed projects on topics like probability and recalls a favorite one on Descartes.

When she wasn’t reading, Comfort was ice skating, taking dance or on the slopes skiing.

Comfort has studied Spanish, which is her favorite subject. Now that she has been to Madrid and has hosted two exchange students from Spain, she hopes to minor in Spanish when she gets to the University of Miami on Aug. 18. Her major, however, will be biology. She took it for the first time her Freshman year and especially likes anatomy and physiology. Comfort plans to get into a pre-med program to later apply to medical school. She hopes to specialize in obstetrics/gynecology or oncology.

When considering who her role models were, Comfort said there have been many.

However, she believes it has been her own ambition and choices that have helped her be successful. Her studies have come easy to her and her routine included an early bedtime so she could get up in the morning around 4 am to write papers.

“I didn’t need to study as much,” said Comfort. “I just got it.”

Comfort works at Gymboree in the Burlington Mall and plans to save her money for school or to take a trip to Europe to visit friends in Italy, Germany, or Madrid. Comfort will speak before her fellow classmates at her graduation and hopes to inspire them all by encouraging them to have plenty of ambition in order

Photo by Gail Lucozzi ASAPhotographic.com

her shell and brought her to where she is today.

“Shawsheen has completely changed my life,” said Robinson.

Hoping to someday practice international law at The White House in Washington, DC, a seven year old Robinson asked mom for scholarly advice.

Hearing the best law school was Harvard, Robinson proceeded to plan ahead. An old shoe box with a slot, covered with construction paper and “H A V A D LAW FUND” written on it served as her first bank until she was old enough to open the savings account she has today.

“You have to remember who you are,” said Robinson.

Robinson has come a long way.

Through the Business Professionals of

applications, she was awarded 16 from organizations like The Lodge of the Elks, The Lions Club, Comcast and the National Honor Society.

“The Tech opened new doors for me,” said Robinson.

When she isn’t working this summer, Robinson plans to curl up with one of her favorite ‘Twilight’ series books and take a break before September is upon her.

“I’m looking forward to it,” said Robinson about relaxing.

A Style All Her Own Salutatorian Jaclyn Robichaud exudes both courage and style. As a design and visual communications student loving art, she has focused on technical illustration,

web design and computer animation for four years because she has always loved art. In the fall, Robichaud will attend Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston in order to receive her Bachelors Degree in Fashion.

“Most of my life I wanted to be a fashion designer,” said Robichaud.

As a child, Robichaud carried a notepad around to sketch dresses. Recently, she taught herself to use her sewing machine and made her own prom gown. Royal blue, backless with criss-cross straps and pleats attached to a train, Robichaud took 30 hours with the design and creation of this dress she proudly wore.

Robichaud describes her style as ‘quirky’ and not always embraced by classmates. Although she was teased initially, it came to pass that her style would catch on and others would think it was “cool”.

“It seemed like I was six months ahead of it,” said Robichaud.

Robichaud reads up on a lot of designers as her taste changes. Currently, she has narrowed her favorites to Betsy Johnson, known for her handbags ; Christian Siriano, who is ‘Avante Garde’; and Seth Aaron, whose punk fashion Robichaud prefers even for herself.

“My aesthetic is I like to mix hard and soft with a lot of juxtaposition,” said Robichaud.

Robichaud enjoys studying history.

Although she finds colonial clothing and fashion from ancient Egypt especially intriguing, she feels overall, history is important because it helps us look at the past as to not repeat mistakes in the future.

Robichaud works at TJ Maxx as well as turning a jewelry-making hobby into a small business. She sells pieces she makes, along with scarves and hats she crochets, at local craft fairs and shows. She used what she has learned in her studies and as a young entrepreneur to encourage her fellow graduates when she stood before them at graduation.

“It was my first speech but I felt good about it,” said Robichaud.

/ thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

MetLife congratulates the new graduates.

Each new chapter in life brings new ifs. MetLife can help you prepare for the ifs in life through products and services for every stage—from education planning to insurance and retirement. To learn more about what MetLife has to offer, or for personalized assistance, contact your MetLife representative.

Frank M. Hynes & Associates Registered Investment Advisor Financial Services Representative 330 Boston Road Unit 6, North Billerica, MA 01862 (978) 528-6046 fhynes@metlife.com

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY 10166. 0805-XXXX L05084414[exp0510][All States][DC,GU,MP,PR,VI] PEANUTS © UFS, Inc.

The Fit Results Gym is Now Open!

Michael DiCicco, gym member, asks staff Dee Dee Dorrington for assistance in getting his Results Profile updated. The Results Profile is the gym’s automated personal trainer program that prints out a new workout each time a member signs in.

Divorce and Retirement Plan Proceeds Unfortunately, divorce is increasingly common in our society. Because divorce entails the dividing of assets, some of which have tax implications, it is important to be aware of potential “tax traps” when you begin planning. One such trap in the area of retirement plan assets is the existence of vested account balances.

In the past, with traditional defined benefit plans, the plan participant was promised a retirement benefit, but he or she had no vested retirement account balance. However, with the shift toward defined contribution plans, vesting for employee contributions is immediate, and vesting for employer contributions builds quickly. Consequently, as more Americans participate in 401(k) plans and other defined contribution retirement plans, dividing vested retirement plan assets in divorce situations has created complex financial issues.

Protect Yourself with a QDRO A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) is a judgment or order that involves child support, alimony, or property rights pertaining to a spouse, former spouse, child, or other dependent. A QDRO can be used to establish one spouse’s right to part or all of the other spouse’s retirement plan(s)—and to ensure that the recipient spouse pays the tax.

To be protected through a QDRO, it must specify the following: • The name and address of the plan participant and the “alternate payee” (typically, the participant’s spouse).

• The name and account number of each retirement account involved.

• The percentage (or dollar amount) of each plan that is to be paid to the alternate payee.

• The period of time or the number of payments covered by the QDRO. The QDRO must be a part of the divorce decree or a court-approved property settlement document. The decree should also specify that a QDRO is being established under Section 414(p) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and the particular state’s domestic relations laws. Intent to establish a QDRO is insufficient; it must be spelled out in the divorce papers.

Getting divorced can be “taxing” enough, but it need not be made more difficult by mishandling the division of assets in a retirement plan. And, although this particular decision does appear to provide room for straying from the precise wording of the statute, applying the proper language in a divorce decree may help ease some of the inevitable complications that can arise, facilitating a smoother transition for all involved. Qualified legal advice should be obtained to help ensure that any desired planning actions are worded and structured properly.

This article appears courtesy of Tammy O’Brien Donohue Tammy is a Registered Representative offering securities through MetLife Securities, Inc.(MSI) (member FINRA/SIPC), New York, NY 10166. Insurance and annuities offered through Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY 10166. MSI and MLIC are MetLife companies. She focuses on meeting the individual insurance and financial services needs of people in Billerica. You can reach Tammy at the office at 330 Boston Road U-6 North Billerica, MA 01862 978 528-6046. MetLife does not provide tax or legal advice. Copyright © 2010 Liberty Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. L0210091158(exp0311)(All States)(DC)

Pet Peeves

•By Nora Fiore

Hurry Up and Relax

Michael Ganchi from Tewksbury utilizes the cable TV screen on his treadmill while going for a run.

Janet Smith of Billerica comes to Fit Results to build her healthy lifestyle.

She likes the Results Profile because of the direction and flexibility it gives her.

Diane Douglas and Rich Mackay, dressed in period clothing, came from the Historical Society to present colonial artifacts to the Ditson Elementary School students. This was in conjunction with the third grade’s Colonial America units. Dee MacGuire, third grade paraprofessional, noted this curriculum also includes field trips to Lexington and Concord as well as a visit to Old Sturbridge Village.

As the weather turns warm and balmy, I must admit I can’t wait for school to get out. No more getting up at 6 am and yelling, “Hurry up! You’re gonna be late!” No more fighting over getting homework done or “Mom, have you seen my shirt?” I so look forward to the leisurely days by the pool, drinking an ice cold lemonade or fiddling around in the garden.

No vegging out in front of electronics for us. No way. We’re going to volunteer and grow our own veggies. Maybe paint the shed that was built 3 years ago. Oh wait, I know.

We can challenge our minds with some great books. Okay, stop laughing. It could happen.

Well, it’s all true, except the part about lying by the pool. Or the lemonade. Oh yeah, and the garden. Yeah right, like that will happen.

More likely it will be kids sleeping late

and staying up late and maybe reading. Stop smirking! Then possibly a flurry of “Can we go to the mall?” Or “Can my friends come over?” Or “Can I have a pool party?” By the end of the summer, I usually need a vacation from the kids’ vacation. However, mixed into all that chaos which is summer there will be campfires with s’mores, fireflies and hikes.

There’s Fourth of July parades with fireworks, and cook outs with friends and family.

I love summer. It gives me a chance to hang out with my kids and reconnect. We laugh and watch movies and talk for hours.

This time is so precious. Before long, the kids will be grown and on their own. So enjoy your watermelon sticky hands and all. Love the insanity that comes with summer. Eat that ice cream cone or watch a sunrise at the beach but most of all enjoy your kids!

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

Kickin’ Cancer One Step At A Time: Luongo Honors Mother with Strong Finish Thunderstorms, then hot and humid.

Not the ideal weather to swim almost a mile, bike more than 27 miles and run six plus.

Although the swim was cancelled because of the lightning, Tony Luongo wasn’t letting that stop him as he embarked on the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society Team in Training Mooseman Triathlon on June 5 in Bristol, NH. He had the females in his life to consider. His wife, Kim. His daughter, Alex.

And his mother, Nena Hammond. In his age division, Luongo would manage to come in 46 out of 63 with a time of one hour, 51 minutes and 17 seconds.

“It doesn’t hurt because Mom is fighting cancer,” said Luongo. “The pain of running doesn’t even come close.”

It was New Year’s Day when Hammond called and broke the news to her youngest son. She had fibroid uterine cancer and was due to embark on three rounds of chemotherapy. After that, surgery to remove the tumor would be scheduled. Followed by weeks of radiation.

An athlete, Luongo had considered completing the triathlon before but lacked the right reason.

Now, he had all the motivation he needed to begin training.

“I had to do something,” said Luongo.

For six days per week, Luongo trained.

Five of those days, he trained alone. On Saturdays, he trained with a team of ten.

The people on the team were training for the Hyannis Triathlon. Wanting to support them Luongo signed up for that race too which will run on June 17.

“They are great people honoring their lost or fighting loved ones,” said Luongo.

“Very committed.”

When considering how to do his part for cancer research and treatment, Luongo knew it needed to be something requiring endurance. He’d been active all his life and this felt natural to him. According to

Hammond, Luongo always wanted to be outdoors as a child.

When he was on a family vacation, he was always in the water swimming.

Or racing up a mountain alongside h i s ©2010 Tony Luongo www.luongoart.com

By Liana Measmer

older brother, Rocco Luongo. At Christmas time, a weight set was usually on the list.

“He feels better when he is exercising,” said Hammond.

Beside the physical demands, Luongo had to raise money for this cause. He pledged to raise $2700, with three quarters of that going straight to research, treatment and cures. Initially, he sent letters and emails to friends and family seeking support.

Hammond’s co-workers and colleagues then pitched in the greatest amount in her honor and Luongo organized three restaurant fund raiser dinners. In the end, he was able to raise $4800 which was more than he expected.

“We had an overwhelming response because of Mom,” said Luongo. “Her coworkers were very supportive.”

Hammond was overwhelmed with how her son took initiative to fight cancer in her

honor and is very proud of him. The fact that he took on something bigger than both of them warmed her heart and confirmed for her she’d got it right in raising him.

“It humbled me,” said Hammond. “I didn’t expect it.”

>

Read about Tony’s training and/ or donate to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society visit his web site at www.LuongoArt.com.

After recuperating, Luongo plans to set his sights to complete a few more triathlons this year and in November run the Manchester Marathon in NH. In 2007, he ran it in honor of his son, Noah. This year he will run in honor of his daughter, Alex.

Luongo said, “I’ll finish because it would hurt a lot more, and for a lot longer having to tell my kids that I quit.”

And having finished the Mooseman for Hammond, he wants her to remember not to quit either.

“Love you, Mom,” said Luongo. “Keep fighting it. Your grandkids like seeing you.”

Total money raised for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

$100,000 To learn about Team in Training visit their web site www.TeaminTraining.org

The amount of money raised by The New Hampshire group of Team in Training since February.

The amount of money raised by Tony (with the help of many generous hearts).

$4,800

10 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

We Got Talent: Kessler’s Show Celebrates Everyone

Stranger/Danger, Part II the ABC’s of Self Defense Last month I discussed the Eight Rules of Stranger Danger. The rules rhyme and are easy for children to remember. To further help children remember important Stranger/Danger concepts, this month the ideas are linked to something familiar–the ABCs. Definition: A stranger is someone you don’t know or someone you don’t know well. They can look like anyone. A teenager can be a stranger.

A–Avoid Potentially Dangerous Situations.

The key word is potentially. Not every stranger who stops and asks for directions is dangerous–but he could be. If your parents aren’t with you, run away!

B–Be Calm It’s not easy to stay calm when you are scared.

If you are approached by a stranger take a few deep breaths. Remember you don’t have to talk to anyone you don’t know. Don’t fall for a stranger’s tricks. Run away!

C–Communicate with Confidence Don’t walk with your head down. If a stranger approaches you, tell him in a strong voice to go away. It’s OK to talk to an adult that way–you don’t know him. He shouldn’t be talking to you. Run away!

D–Don’t Make a Bad Situation Worse If a stranger starts talking to you or comes too close, that is a bad situation. You make it worse by not remembering what to do. Keep calm. Don’t talk to him or listen to what he is saying. Run away!

E–Escape, Do Whatever it Takes!

A stranger might grab your arm, tell you to come in his car or he’ll hurt you. Fight! Scratch! Hit him with your book bag! Kick! Yell, “This isn’t my father!” If you fight, there’s a good chance you’ll get away!

F–Flight is Better than Fight Fight only when you have no other choice. It is always better to run away.

G–Get Away, Just Get Away If you drop something while running away from a stranger--a school book, a game, a favorite hat or toy--don’t go back to get it! Keep going! The only thing that has real value is you. Everything else can be replaced.

H–Hit Hard, Hit Fast, Hit Quick If you have to fight, strike quickly. Surprise is important. If you pinch a stranger on the inside of his upper leg he’ll let you go. Then run!

Last Month I promised I’d share with you the Magic Rule. It works in all situations, even at school. It is actually a question:

What would my mom and dad want me to do?

• If a stranger approaches you, would your mom and dad want you to talk to him?

• If a stranger offers you a ride, would your mom and dad want you to get in his car?

• If a stranger offers you a gift, would your mom and dad want you to take it?

• Would mom and dad want you to pick on someone at school?

See how it works–just like magic!

Have a great and safe month!

Alan Kessler 7 Marshall Street | Billerica, MA 01821 978-667-7774 508 Groton Road | Westford, MA 01886 978-692-0479 www.kesslerkarate.com

Upcoming Events at the Karate School: June 12, 10am–2pm

Car Wash at the Masonic Temple in Billerica, fund raiser for Lampson Field (rain date, June 19) June 12, 3pm

Lampson Field, Karate Demo, Relay for Life Summer Time Travel Camp!

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No one complained. Although it was a cozy crowd of over 100 people present for the Alan Kessler’s Karate Center first ever Talent Show at the dojo, everyone cheered for each of the thirty acts performed (summarized here). The children wowed the large group with magic, comedy, song and dance performances.

At three and five years old, quite possibly the youngest magicians ever to perform “The Magic Egg Trick”, were Liam and Emmett Daley. And what talent show would be complete without comedy from none other than Jonny Kaul, opening the show with hysterical shtick he’d written himself, but using material provided unintentionally by his family.

Nadine LaFave, in her adorable Scooby Doo costume, sang the theme song from Scooby Doo while Anita Gulia sang a sweet “Farfallina” accompanied by her Dad on guitar.

Briana Buckley and Victoria Brown sang “Something Like a Party” while Darwin Ricci Nash rocked the house to “A Punk”.

Cultural dances were performed by Arushi Kalpande who did an Indian folk dance “Jai Ho,” and Avani Agrawal who danced to the

Indian classical song “Mela Prapti”. Faith Brodowski gave a look at dance over the decades in “The Evolution of Dance”, and had the crowd in stitches with her antics.

As art is also a big talent, students were well-represented in this area as well. Jake Bray showed his dinosaur fossil, and Jeffery Davis described his dinosaur sculpture.

Seamus Cunningham proudly displayed his painting too.

Musicians were next, coming out in strong numbers to showcase their talents.

Grace Lemire played “May Song” and “Long, Long Ago” on viola, and Malerie Glasser played “Hunter’s Chorus” also on viola. Julie Kamanirshi sweetly played “Hot Cross Buns” on harmonica.

Antonio Gulia played Mozart on piano, and Meagan Scannell closed the show with Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” on guitar.

Everyone received an “I have talent” button as well as a trophy to commemorate the event. Refreshments were provided

by Wendy Kessler, and all proceeds were donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

The Sunny Side of the Street •By Dave Gagliardi

Remote Possibilities I am beginning to get the feeling that the world of electronics is advancing faster than my ability to keep up. The iPhone, iPod and Kindle have replaced the cell phone, CD player and books. I suspect the recently introduced IPad will eventually replace the laptop before I ever get a chance to learn how to use all of the features on mine. Something happened recently, however, that may have given me a little better understanding about my place in the electronic world.

Recently my wife Jo and I were babysitting our granddaughter, Melanie.

We were in the living room at my daughter and son in-laws home where my son in-law has a huge TV mounted on the wall. To control the TV, he has one of those Super Deluxe Remote-All’s which are popular now.

It has about a thousand buttons on it and apparently controls every electronic device known to man.

It has a little screen on it like you have on your cell phone. The screen lit up when I pressed the “on” button but nothing happened with the TV. I pressed on the screen where it said TV but again nothing.

I then noticed a row of buttons, each about the size of a grain of rice, running next to the screen. I pressed the top one and got sound but no picture. I pressed the second button and the radio came on. I tried pressing the “on” button again and everything went dead.

Frustrated, I began pressing buttons wildly

and things started to happen. The garage door went up, the front porch light went on, my car started but nothing happened with the TV. I put the remote down and started looking through the manual which by the way is about the size of the yellow pages.

Melanie came along and picked up the remote. She walked over to the TV and pressed an illuminated blue button on the front of the TV and it came on. She then started pressing buttons on the remote and suddenly there was sound and picture!

(Melanie is only 16 months old.) Before I could stop her, she pressed more buttons and everything went dead again. Like an idiot, I spent the next several minutes following Melanie around the room hoping she would hit the same sequence of buttons again so I could see which ones she pressed. Jo has still not stopped laughing about this.

I was looking through a drawer one day and came across the remote for our first VCR. I noticed it only had nine buttons on it. I picked up my FIOS remote and noticed that it, like the Remote-All, has a thousand buttons, most of which I neither use nor even know what they are for. I looked back at my old VCR remote with its nine buttons and started wondering if the electronic world had really passed me by or I just came from a world where less was more and maybe that’s okay.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 11

An MCC Evening with Ken Burns : Acclaimed Documentary Filmmaker Due to a scheduling conflict, the Middlesex Community College Celebrity Forum 2010 will now feature acclaimed documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, who

will replace director James Cameron as this year’s speaker. Burns’ award-winning documentaries include “Baseball,” “The Brooklyn Bridge,” “The Civil War,” “Jazz” and most recently “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.”

The Middlesex Celebrity Forum with Ken Burns will be held, as previously scheduled, at 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. Celebrity Forum ticket holders may use their current tickets for the Ken Burns event, or return their tickets in person or by mail to the Auditorium Box Office to obtain a refund. (Please return tickets by Monday, June 14.) Mail to: Box

Office, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell, MA 01852.

Tickets to MCC’s Celebrity Forum are $39.50 a n d $29.50, and can be purchased online at https://tickets. lowellauditorium.com or in person at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office, 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell. For group sales of 15 or more tickets, call the LMA at 978937-8688 ext. 225. For information on corporate sponsorship opportunities, contact Dennis Malvers, MCC Dean of College Advancement, at 781-2803590.

The MCC Celebrity Forum is an annual event designed to bring well-known personalities to the area in order to enrich educational and cultural opportunities for residents. Proceeds from this event help to raise funds for the MCC Foundation.

Presenting Sponsor of this year’s Celebrity Forum is once again The TJX Companies, Inc. Past speakers at the Middlesex Celebrity Forum include: Walter Cronkite, Colin Powell, former President George H. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush, Rudy Giuliani, Barbara Walters, Tim Russert, Geena Davis and Jay Leno.

[Submission by Middlesex Community College]

Our Own Donna Hansen from the Billerica Recreation Department strutted her stuff with her flute in the Reading Civic Band concert held on May 9 at the Wood End School, Reading. This band played ‘Name that Tune’ with the crowd and showed off how diverse their talent is when they played the themes to Kojack, Jaws, and Mario Brothers.

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Girl Scout Daisy Troop 63138 and Junior Troop 60675 got together to run the 2nd Annual Someone Special and Me Tea. The two troops raised money to go to the movies and go camping. The theme this year was endangered species and each table had a hand drawn picture of either a polar bear, snowy owl, leather back turtle, or howler monkey.

According to organizer Jennifer Dagenais, it wasn’t just a ‘Mommy and Me’ in order to allow for a favorite grand parent or dad to come as well. 31 people were in attendance and all enjoyed finger sandwiches, juice, tea and cupcakes. The girls did a lot of the work setting up, serving, and cleaning up afterwards.

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12 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

A Dad’s Pride– His

Son’s Joy

Elaine Tucelli:

“You know someone is a Great Dad when they walk in the house and are greeted with the most excited children. “Daddy...

Daddy’s home” cries the 3 year old as he barrels by the 75lb Lab who is running back and forth wagging his tail knowing that soon he will be going for a walk. Then the 9 year old is so excited to share a thought about some moment in his day and the Great Daddy takes time to listen to every detail. The Great Daddy’s wife looks and smiles and says, “I am so glad you are home...” Rob, Thanks for being such a Great Dad and Husband. We love you BIG!”

Sherry Capen-Mitchell:

By Liana Measmer

H

e held his ‘Number Three Baby’ in his arms and was amazed, looking at little Dylan. Dylan, born on March 3rd of 2003, thus the ‘Baby Three’ title, was actually Chris Swimm’s first biological son.

He and Dylan’s mom would split up shortly thereafter that in 2006, relegating Chris to becoming a single weekend dad. Chris never faltered though, always staying close to his son and would ultimately be awarded full legal custody of Dylan in the summer of 2009. It was a reunion Chris would not trade for the world.

“He’s a loving kid who loves his daddy,” said Chris.

For Chris, being a full time single dad poses its challenges. Initially, when Dylan arrived, the two them needed to get to know each other all over again in this new way. Dylan had to become accustomed to a structured home where homework was completed and bedtimes were adhered to.

“It can be hard for me to get him to focus,” said Chris. “He doesn’t want to stop playing with his friends.”

However, the rest of the time is pure fun. Chris ensures Dylan is active in sports.

Hockey, baseball, and riding his bicycle keep Dylan busy. Chris enjoys taking him to see the Lowell Devils or fishing where the two guys bond quite well.

“We do a lot of fun stuff together,” said Chris.

Another challenge is daily routines.

Chris works long hours as a Constable so he relies on his parents and his girlfriend to help him care for Dylan. Mary Lou Swimm loves watching the two of them together. She describes Chris as a father and a dad.

“A dad will show interest in activities and will take him places,” said Mary Lou. Whether she is watching them play baseball outside or Dylan is curled up with his dad talking ‘man to man’, she is always

proud of Chris’s dedication to his son.

“He’s amazing,” said Mary Lou. Michelle McMullen would pipe in similar sentiments. Chris’s sweetheart for a year now, McMullen calls Dylan ‘her own’.

She watches how Dylan looks up to Chris and how Chris includes Dylan in everything he does.

“Dylan idolizes Chris,” said McMullen.

“He always wants to be good for dad.”

These days, its a pretty sure bet Dylan and Chris are on the baseball field. Dylan is playing Little League for the first time and is proving to be a natural at bat. Dylan especially likes indoor golf and being on the Braves hockey team. He looks to his dad to be there.

“He is the best dad,” Dylan said.

What can you do today to be a better dad?

(From the blog article: The Difference Between a Dad and a Father on www.slowdownfast.com) 1. Check in with your family during the day.

2. Spend time each day, just hanging out and giving your children your undivided attention.

3. Make time at least once a week to have some fun together.

4. Talk and teach your positive values.

5. Balance boundary enforcement and support.

6. Special tip for married dads: Nurture your marital relationship.

7. Finally, cut yourself some slack. (source:www.prnewswire.com)

“My husband Todd is a great dad of 3 girls: Kaylia 13, Savannah 6, and Isabella 4 years old. He spends every free moment with them whether it’s playing Guitar Hero, teaching them to ice skate or playing dolls. He is their Superhero Daddy.”

Chris Healey:

“I wish I knew. Patient, strong, good sense of humor, generous with your time, the ability to let your kids see that we’re not perfect, and never forget that you’re a teacher because your children are always learning. This is what I strive to be.”

Sonia Lacombe:

“I definitely think my husband, Stéphane, is a Best Dad. He’s a wonderful, hard-working guy. He works hard at a financial firm all day, but always hustles home for family dinner. He’s very hands-on with our almost three year old daughter Sophie. He’s never missed one of her doctor’s appointments and he’s always up for a tea party or taking care of baby dolls. He’s also very handy around the house and is extremely patient with Sophie as she trails him with her mini Black & Decker tools. To top it off, he is Eco-Dad, teaching Sophie all about being green. She loves helping him put food scraps in the compost and taking water from the rain barrels to water the garden they planted together. I couldn’t imagine a list of Billerica’s best dads that didn’t include him. Thank you for the opportunity to brag!”

From Facebook and Beyond...

What Makes a

GREAT DAD?

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 13

Newtowne Feeds The Heart Of Billerica It may not be pricey but it is classic. The Newtowne Grille at 838 Boston Road is a neighborhood sports themed restaurant that was built on the premise of taking care of its own.

Beside boasting talented chefs who aren’t afraid to try new things, third generation owner Mike Toulopoulos and his family also believe that being supportive of the community is very important. It’s not uncommon to see school organizations or local politicians booking the downstairs dining room for their functions or fund raisers.

“We keep it local since Billerica has a lot of families,” said Mike about his customers.

The first Newtowne location was built at 1945 Mass Ave. in Porter Square, Cambridge.

Socrates Toulopoulos opened the doors in 1966 and later got his sons, Bill and Nick Toulopoulos, involved in the family business as well. The idea was to create a comfortable sit-down setting where people could “have a place for some pizza and beer”.

Still on Mass Ave., the Newtowne, named after the original colonial town now separately Newton and Cambridge, has gone through many changes in the last year. Given its location, it’s common to see many students gracing tables and enjoying Thursday Night Trivia.

Since the Toulopoulos family was nearby, running Olde Towne Liquors in Burlington, they heard through the grapevine that Billerica’s Antonio’s restaurant closed its doors. Having many customers from Billerica, they also heard there wasn’t a relaxed eatery in town like the Newtowne so it would be a

welcome change.

“This type of place was missing,” said Mike.

Having just celebrated two years in business on May 5 this year, the restaurant looks much like it did upon opening following six months of renovations. The staff consists of family and their employees who come to work and stick around. This is because they too are treated like family. Mike’s aunt, Leslie, has no problem guiding and teaching the young wait staff in her own comfortable fashion, showing them she cares.

“Its easier to get involved because people know each other,” said Mike. “There is always a family presence.”

This year on Aug. 9 at the Billerica Country Club, The Newtowne, in partnership with Old Towne, will sponsor their Second Annual Golf tournament. Proceeds will go toward creating a scholarship fund to be divided between Shawsheen Technical High School and Billerica Memorial High School graduates.

The entry fee is $85.00 per individual and customers are welcome to play.

“Last year we had 86 golfers,” said Mike.

Even though this is a ‘happening’ place for adults with Wed. night Karaoke, Thurs. night Trivia, and a DJ on the weekends, the staff stays true to families. Even with 10 ounce popular Lone Star burger, menu items aimed at pleasing children are now being added too. And, regardless of the many cars in the lot, there are never long waits for tables, even during the busy weekends.

“Don’t let the lot fool you,” said Leslie, “We are family oriented.”

Ireland Forever It’s the translation of the famous Gaelic phrase, Erin Go Braugh! Irish descent or not, you too are welcome at The Irish American Club, an inviting place to socialize and make friends. Tucked up on the hill at 616 Middlesex Turnpike near Micozzi Beach, this club combines solid community values and connections with opportunities to kick back and have fun.

When it opened it’s doors in the mid 1970’s, The Irish American Club had a large following. With a membership of over 2000 people, there was never a loss of volunteers for big events or smaller functions.

Members Mary McCann and Betty Riddle fondly recall the Irish Festivals they volunteered at. Riddle did it all-from cooking to selling tickets to running the dances. The Noel Henry band was always a sell out and she could often be found helping them as they would go on stage to perform.

Riddle came and still comes because of the camaraderie of the members.

“As long as the club’s been there, I’ve been there,” said Riddle. “The people are nice.”

McCann loved the music, which was so reminiscent of Ireland. When she wasn’t volunteering to help with festivals, she was volunteering to do something else. St. Patrick’s Day, with its annual corned beef and cabbage meal served at the club, has always

been a day she looks forward to. Plus she added that the New Year’s Eve dinner and dance each year gives everyone a place close to home where they can celebrate.

“We’ve enjoyed every time we’ve been there,” said McCann, speaking also for her husband Jack.

Now, until the end of the year, the club is offering half priced memberships to people age 21-45. Members who want a place to have fun can look forward to the upcoming ‘Halfway to St. Patty’s Day’ on Sept. 25.

Or, if staying community focused is your preference, members can inquire about blood drives or ways to reach out to veterans, who are always free.

“We always recognize our service men and women,” said Lynn Tonks, Club member.

Associate memberships are available for anyone not of Irish heritage and membership forms are available at the club. Stop by MonFri between 10 am and 2 pm or call 978663-3900 for more information on other upcoming events or on how to join.

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14 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

The Body Elite

•By Brian Panarese, B.S. Professional Fitness Trainer

Factors of Fitness We hear the word fitness used all the time.

It’s more common to hear it in a sentence today than it was 50 years ago. But do you really know what the term means or the factors that go into making a person physically “FIT”?

Physical fitness consists of components that have a relationship with good health.

Makes sense but let’s break it down and define each component to better understand. The components are defined as body composition, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, muscular endurance, and strength.

Body Composition: This is the ratio of lean mass (muscles, bones and connective tissue) to adipose tissue or fat. These need to be in the right proportion in order for you to function properly. A bad body composition ratio would be similar to a small, four-cylinder car (lean tissue) towing an 18-wheel cargo box (adipose fat tissue). The little engine would be struggling.

Reverse the ratio and make it an eight cylinder, car towing a wheelbarrow then we would have no struggle at all. A body builder is an extreme example (and not necessarily a healthy one) of lean tissue to fat ratio.

Cardiovascular Fitness: This is the ability of the lungs and heart to take in and transport adequate amounts of oxygenated blood to working muscles. Done properly this allows muscles to perform activity over a long period

Out on the Town Singles Dances June 13, 20, 27: 7PM Billerica Irish American Club Sponsored by New England Singles Dance 508-660-5003

Clara Sexton House Open!1st Sunday of month 1-3pm Concord Rd.

Concert on the Common Aug. 31: 7pm Sponsored by the Irish Club Andy Healy Band, Irish Music

Kesslers Karate Center June 12: Car Wash for Rec Dept., Masonic Temple, 10am–2pm June 12: Karate Demo, Relay for Life, Lampson Field Time Travel Summer Camp for Children Starting in July! Expeditions to the Boston Science Museum, Pirate Museum, Stoneham Zoo, and more! Call Joann for details, 978-667-7774

of time. In other words you have lots of energy, don’t get tired and are not huffing and puffing.

This would be a sign you are in oxygen debt and your heart and lungs are trying to catch up. A marathoner is an extreme example of a person with good CV endurance.

Flexibility: There are two factors in flexibility, that of the joint (bone, tendon and ligament) and that of the surrounding muscle tissue. Proper flexibility is the natural range of motion each joint and muscle can go through without pain or damage. Inactive, inflexible people have a difficult time doing the simplest of tasks such as putting on a coat. You should be able to go about your day, starting with getting dressed, without difficulty performing any task you try. A gymnast is an extreme example (and not always healthy) of flexibility.

Muscular Endurance: This is the ability of muscles to perform repeated contractions under a load for an extended period of time.

When the heart and lungs do their job and deliver fully oxygenated blood to a muscle, it should have the ability to use it fully for an extended period of time. If they lack muscular endurance, it means the muscle fibers and cells lack the ability to use the oxygen and make contractions happen. Therefore, after repeated contractions, lactic acid builds up causing your muscles start to burn and

finally stop moving. A carpenter hammering nails repeatedly would be a good example of arm and shoulder muscles which have good muscular endurance.

Strength: This the force which a muscle exerts against a resistance. This action is usually short in duration, with only a few lifts.

An example of strength would be the ability to lift a full case of water bottles into the trunk of your car.

To be healthy and FIT you need to posses all of the above components in the proper balance. A person who is overly flexible will be injured when trying to perform strength tasks due to the instability of the joints. A marathon runner may have excellent cardiovascular endurance but may lack muscular endurance which means small, repetitive tasks will quickly fatigue them.

These are just a few examples but if you want to be HEALTHY and FIT, make sure your routine takes into account ALL of the above components so you can balance your “FIT” body.

Elks Lodge

Recreation Department

July 24: 10 am-4 pm 4th Annual Family Picnic Hudson Lodge #959, Tickets on sale now, $12 ages 13 and up, $6 ages 6-12, 5 and under FREE, Includes BBQ, Train rides, Bounce house, Soccer shoot, Dunk Tank, Lagoon of Doom,No tickets sold at the door, Info: State Chairman Dot Balistreri, 978-930-0599, harleyelk@comcast.net

PLAYGROUNDS, 978-671-0921 Kids Konnection Butterfly Garden May 22 and 27: Prepping and Planting $1 Donations accepted toward purchasing plantsfor the new butterfly garden For Info, call The Rec. Dept June 3: 4:30–6pm, Everyone Social Media Marketing - Why and How June 5: 9-11 am Kids Konnection Clean Up Girl Scout Clean Up event June 8: 3:30–5:30pm, Grades 6 -12 Ultimate Frissbee clinic TBA

Summer Concerts on the Common Unless otherwise noted, all concerts will be held on the Town Common at 7:00 PM. Bring dinner, blanket, lawn chair and your dancing shoes! Concerts sponsored by the Friends of Billerica Recreation, July 4 Celebration: 10-2: BBQ, Music & activities sponsored by Billerica Lions Club July 6: Good Old Boys July 13: Rampage Trio July 20: Beatle Tracks July 27: Our way Aug. 3: Rhythm Mechanics Aug. 10: John Penny Band: Library ice cream sundae: 6:30-8:30 pm Aug. 17: Four Guys in Tuxes Aug. 24: Front Page Aug. 31: Andy Healy Band

Brian Panarese, B.S. is the owner and trainer for The Body Elite Professional Fitness Training Company. He can be reached at body.elite@ verizon.net

Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce 978-459-8154, www.glcc.biz June 15: Networking at Noon: Costco Wholesale, DWHighway, Nashua Free for all Chambers Members.

June 22: Lowell Spinners 450 Aiken Ave., Lowell

The Boys & Girls Club www.billericabgc.com June 18: Last day of school cookout for our drop-in members (ages 8-18).

June 18: Dance cancelled.

Billerica Public Library

Hajjar Elementary School

www.billericalibrary.org

June 26: 8 am - 2 pm Playground Build, 59 Rogers St. 12 Volunteers Needed. Contact Sandy Libby Playground Coordinator 978-671-0921 psplaysafe@yahoo.com

June 17: 7 PM Astrology Workshop, Billerica Public Library

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 15

The Traveling Gourmets

•By John and Sherry Livsey

Eat Some More at Mangia Mangia

Courtesy Photo

You’ve probably driven by it hundreds of time. You may have even been curious and likely thought about stopping in to try it.

Right in the center of Billerica is Mangia Mangia, a quaint little Italian place known for its fresh Italian cuisine. If you’ve already been, then you know this little gem has fantastic food at a great value.

We went with the kids on a Saturday night and though it was busy, we were promptly seated. It’s a small, intimate restaurant with an old world feel. The brick walls are adorned with prints of Italy and wine. There is a small waiting area in the front corner where you could have a drink while waiting for a table.

We began our evening with some fried calamari and fresh marinara for dipping. It was light and delicious. We chose not to tell the kids it was made from squid and they

enjoyed every morsel.

For dinner, the kids each chose the pop corn chicken with French fries. We were impressed it was fresh chicken, not the typical frozen fare the kids usually end up with. It was so scrumptious, there was only one small piece left over at the end of the evening between the two of them.

Since there are so many wonderful options, John had a hard time deciding. He finally went with the server’s suggestion of Seafood Fra Diavalo since it was her favorite dish. She was so pleasant and had a fantastic sense of humor, John was so glad he went with her idea. It was loaded with mussels, scallops, and shrimp. The spicy sauce was so flavorful, John finished every bite of his huge meal!

My choice of lobster and shrimp scampi

<< The Billerica Partners for Education had a successful night at the Fights for Education. The event saw 300 people in attendance at the Lodge of the Elks, raising $12,000 for the organization. It was a real crowd pleaser when the 20 fighters who participated threw those left hooks and ducked their way through 10 bouts.

An Evening with Ken Burns Acclaimed Documentary Filmmaker www.middlesexcanal.org

Merrimack Repertory Theatre www.merrimackrep.org 978.654.4MRT Sept. 9 – Oct. 3: The Reduced Shakespeare Company, The Complete World of Sports (abridged) Oct. 14 – Nov. 7: Four Places by Joel Drake Johnson Nov. 26: – Dec.19: Beasley’s Christmas Party, Adapted by C.W. Munger, from the story by Booth Tarkington Jan.6 – Jan: 30 , 2011: Tryst by Karoline Leach Feb. 10 – Mar. 6, 2011: The Exceptionals by Bob Clyman Mar: 17 – Apr. 10, 2011: Two Jews Walk Into A War... by Seth Rozin April 21 - May 15, 2011: A Picasso by Jeffrey Hatcher

Atlantis Playmakers 380 Cambridge St Burlington MA 978-667-0550 July 12- Aug. 27: Summer Studio Theater Programs for Kids of All Ages July 24- Aug. 7: 8pm Comedy “Bright Ideas”

by Eric Coble, 380 Cambridge St BurlingtonDate Change Reminder July 25-Aug. 7: Bright Ideas by Eric Coble 8pm: Thurs., Fri. and Sat. Originally scheduled for production in June.

Open Call for Performers

2010 New England Fringe Festival Festival runs Labor Day through Columbus Day Oct.7: Hosting performances Columbus Day Weekend Oct. 11: BEST of FEST performance Registration free for short acts, $15 for longer acts 978-667-0550 or info@NEFringeFestival.com

Summer Sports Tickets available!

LOWELL SPINNERS July 18: 1:35 pm: Aberdeen Ironbirds (Orioles) Aug. 28: 5:05 pm: Staten Island Yankees (Yankees) LeLacheur Park $15.00 / ticket-incl.hot dogs and drinks No Transportation Provided

was absolutely wonderful. This dish is offered with the option of marinara or Alfredo sauce. There was so much seafood in each of these dishes, it’s no wonder there was a large group of people waiting to have dinner here by the time we were finished eating. The scampi sauce was ideal on this warm spring evening with a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio. I would love to try it next time with each of the other sauces.

Mangia Mangia has fantastic brick oven pizza and a full take out menu, as well as catering services. There is ample parking in the rear of the building and it would be a wonderful addition to a concert on the common this summer. Whether you are a first timer or a frequent visitor, we highly recommend stopping in the next time you are driving past Billerica’s Green. << Pretty Flower GirlsJulia M., a student at the Kennedy Elementary School, and new friend Melissa D., a student at the Vining Elementary School, welcome summer with sunny smiles and daisies.

Billerica Homeschooling Association www.billericahomeschooling.com 978-362-2188 June 15: 10:30am -12:30pm Playground Social, Simonds Playground/Burlington June 16: 11am-1pm Strawberry picking, Parlee Farms/Tyngsboro June 25: 10:00am-11:30am Library Social, Billerica Public Library/Children’s Room June 29: 5pm-dusk Summer Kick Off Celebration, Great Brook Farm/Carlisle

St. Andrew’s Parish www.saintandrewbillerica.com 978 663 3624

PAW SOX June 18: 7:05 pm: Columbus Clippers July 9: 7:05 pm: Rochester Red Wings McCoy Stadium, Pawtucket RI $11.00 / ticket - No Transportation Provided

Dec. 4, 2010: 10:00am-4:00pm St. Andrew Rectory Advent Fair 2010

NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION June 26: 7:30 pm: Chicago Fire Aug. 7: 7:30 pm: DC United Gillette Stadium, Foxborough $22.00 / ticket - No Transportation Provided

http://stannes-billerica.org/Calendar.htm 978-6777147

Billerica Lions Club

TILL Wheelchair Dancers

www.billericalionsclub.org

June 12: 12 noon - 10 pm Dance for World Community Festival Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre Harvard Square Cambridge

July 26: William Flaherty Golf Tournament, Meadow Creek Golf Club, Dracut, Info: Tony- 978663-8314

Strawberry Festival-Cookie WalkCraft Fair

June 19: 9am-2pm St. Anne’s Church, 14 Treble Cove Rd. N. Billerica

16 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Straight Off The Boat: Gloucester Fish Delivered Right to Billerica Cape Ann Fresh Catch, a program of the Gloucester Fishermenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wives Association, will be delivering locally in Billerica on Thursdays for an abbreviated season until the end of July. CAFC is now expanding

its Community Supported Fishery into the Merrimack Valley area by delivering fresh, locally-caught seafood like it already does to area residents across Eastern Massachusetts.

Interested participants in the program become members by purchasing a share of fish at the beginning of a season. They then

receive weekly deliveries from a delivery truck at a predetermined location in their area.

Overall, CAFC is a collaborative effort between local fishermen and shore-side residents; the program serves to promote local fishermen, provide the highest quality fresh, locally caught seafood to consumers, promote sustainable fishing practices, and keep the public informed on the important issues that impact the local fishing community.

CAFC fishermen receive a higher-thanmarket price for their catch, helping them to stay in business during these difficult times. In return, CAFC consumers are provided with the highest quality seafood and are also granted the peace of mind that comes with supporting one of the oldest industries in New England.

For more information on the program and to stay updated on this Billerica delivery site please visit www.capeannfreshcatch.org.

The Library 10th Anniversary Gala, Straight Out Of Hollywood

FREE

2010 May/June Vol.2, No.5

State Senator Ken Donnolly, State Representative Bill Greene, and Library Director Barbara Flaherty share a laugh before Greene read the citation congratulating the library and its staff for 10 terrific years.

TouChEd BY

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Back Issues

Once the limo drove off, Kathy Meagher and Liz Bentz, Reference Librarians, along with their spouses prepared to take the walk up the red carpet.

available at

SGROI ART GALLERY $2. ea. while supplies last.

12 Andover Rd. Billerica

Current Issues available at

The Library, Boys and Girls Club, N. Billerica Commuter Rail Station, GE Sensing Cafeteria, The Rec. Department, Town Hall, Council on Aging, Pro-Fitness, Realty World Advantage BATV, Batian Peak

COA Staff Member Carol Wood and her daughter, Valerie Bergeron played the parts of Joan and Melissa Rivers, greeting everyone at the door once they climbed the stairs into the building.

Parker Elementary School Principal Dr. Barbara Wittenhagen shares a toast with former Planning Board Chairman Paul Marasco and his wife, Gail Razzaboni.

Billerica Green Owner, Liana Measmer, and her beau, Keith Keller, made a grand entrance to the party.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 17

The Green Handyman

•By Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E.

Smart Summer Lawn Watering Your lawn looks perfect every year. Or, you want to improve the greenness of your grass by a few shades. What does this take?

Water. And lots of it.

Lawn product company Scotts recommends you water your lawn one inch per week. This doesn’t sound like much at all, but when you spread this amount over a large area, it adds up very fast. Accordingly, regular lawn watering is expensive and – ironically – not at all “green,” environmentally speaking.

Here’s an example of how much H2O we’re talking about. Let’s say you have a quarter-acre of lawn, which would be typical for a house with a half-acre lot. One inch of water equals 907 cubic feet, or nearly 6800 gallons.

To put this into perspective, a 21’ round pool holds about 11,000 gallons of water.

So using “only” an inch a week, more than a swimming pool’s worth of water, is what ‘s required every two weeks. Also, if you water for four months of the year, that’s over 115,000 gallons, enough to serve the basic water needs of 1,775 people for a day. And with the town charging $2.30 per 100 cubic feet, that will cost you $350!

It’s also important to remember that water coming naturally – in the form of rain – counts. In the summer lawn watering months, we average between 3 and 4 inches of rain, almost enough to cover what the lawn products people want you to use.

The Green Handyman does not water his lawn, and almost all of it is an acceptable shade of green. However, if you simply must have the greenest lawn on the block, here is

how you can still save some water: Buy a rain gage. Better yet, get several since they’re cheap, and scatter them throughout the yard. Water until the gages get up to one inch, dump them out, and repeat the following week.

Don’t water the driveway or the street.

No matter how hard you try, they won’t turn green. Adjust your sprinklers so none of the spray hits pavement, to prevent a tremendous waste of water.

Water in the early morning. Any later in the day and you will lose much of what you sprinkle to evaporation, and it will never make it to the lawn. Watering at night is not good for the grass.

Let it grow! The higher you let the grass grow, the longer the roots will get, and the plants will stay greener longer with less irrigation. Set your mower wheels so the deck is at its highest setting.

Follow the Stage II Water Ban. The water ban is unrelated to how much rain we get.

Instead, it’s intended to manage peak water demands – when the days are very hot, the demand for treated water stored in the water tower spikes as people pour water on their yellowing grass. The odd-even water ban diffuses these spikes, ensuring that everyone has enough for basic needs.

Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E. is a registered professional civil engineer and lives in Billerica.

Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E. is a registered professional civil engineer living in Billerica.

All your landscaping needs done with a woman’s touch.

SpeciALizing in Landscape design, construction, and maintenance perennial gardens Hardscapes Waterscapes Walkways & patios For a full list of services please visit our website.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

It was a cool night on May 4 but the auditorium was sweltering. New ‘state of the art’ audio/visual equipment had been installed to make it easier for everyone to hear each other at Town Meeting. However, technical difficulties sent officials scrambling for good, old fashioned speakers as Reps. from the back row were heard repeatedly calling out, “We can’t hear you!” The problem was resolved for the remainder of Town meeting and reportedly had simply been the result of a bad switch.

Town Officials setting up speakers since Representatives in the back of the auditorium could not hear.

BMHS Chorus opens spring Town Meeting on May 4

978-663-6271

18 years in business in Billerica

www.AffordableLandscaping.info

18 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Art In Action: Local Artist Features Billerica Students Local Artist Noredin Morgan knows talent when he sees it. He has lead many adults and children to bringing out their ideas, thoughts or feelings through their creative pieces. In order to further encourage them, he has showcased their works in local galleries alongside his. This has sent the message that they matter, their work has impact and has given them a sense of pride, regardless of their age.

On May 5-14, Morgan featured drawing, video, and mixed media works designed by Vining Elementary School students titled “Billerica: Time and Place” at the 119 Gallery in Lowell. In partnership with art teacher Karen Pearson though grants from the Billerica Cultural Council (BCC), BATV, and the Billerica Partners for Education (BPE), these works were the students’ impressions of what Billerica means to them.

“This was my third show with the kids,”

said Morgan.

Morgan, whose art has been displayed and sold in Massachusetts, Bermuda and Egypt, creates figurative portraits made in an expressionist manner. Morgan, a Billerica resident of Egyptian heritage, conveys his perspective of the social and political environment in the world through his paintings and graphic arts. Currently, the artist has an active exhibit, running until July 30 in the Henderson Hall Gallery on the Bedford campus of Middlesex Community College.

“I always use art to register my takes on surrounding environments that allow me to voice my personal view of the world,” said Morgan.

It all started when Morgan was walking through the Vining Elementary School during the 2008 election primary season and he spotted students’ works of art. Colorful masks donned the hallways and Morgan was intrigued. He was in the process of planning

an art show at the 119 Gallery with his own masks he had designed and he believed these pieces would be a valuable addition to the exhibit.

“I learned art from art,” said Morgan. “Give a man a mask and he will give you the truth.”

After getting permission from the Vining faculty and successfully including the Vining masks in his exhibit at the 119 Gallery, Morgan was approached

by Vining principal Maureen O’Hara to try it again. After receiving two grants awarded by the BCC and the BPE, work on the exhibit called “Hope” began in Feb. 2009.

Do you think that soccer will ever become recognized as a major sport in the United States?

Angela Sargent from Billerica– “No…because it’s taken a long time for us to get it. It’s definitely gotten better in the last twenty years, but there’s still a long way to go.”

Leanne Banks from Wilmington– “Eventually…I mean…every kid in America has played soccer at some time in their lives, so you would think that it has to at some point.”

Nancy Jewer from Billerica– “My answer is ‘No’ because there are too many other sports that are more popular and people tend to go for the more popular sports.”

“They were to express their ideas on Obama, the new hope” said Morgan.

The final result was four 2x4 foot panel murals as well as selections of sketches and drawings.

The 119 gallery exhibit from June 2-6 was a great success. Two months later was when work on Billerica: Time and Place began.

For more information about the artist, access information about the MCC exhibit and to view some of his current works, www.finear tamerica. com/profiles/noredin-morgan.html.

All Around The World: Sixth Grade students donned colorful garb and offered up ethnic foods to parents and teachers outside the Locke Middle School on June 3 as they presented their International Day projects.

Ryan Phelan explained what part of Ireland his family came from.

Sean Buckley and Jarred Measmer proudly displayed their Egyptian Pyramid of Giza.

Mike Egan dons grand dad Andrew Chalmer’s kilt for his Scotland presentation.

Carlee Mitchell and Marissa Dimino were lovely in their colorful Thai dresses.

A furry hat and sour apple pie awaited parents at Joe Ripa’s Belarus display.

©2010 Tony Luongo www.luongoart.com

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 19

All your landscaping needs done with a woman’s touch.

SpeciALizing in Landscape design, LAST MONTH’S construction, and maintenance perennial gardens Hardscapes Waterscapes Walkways & patios

3 J’s Corner Five Things I Love About My Dad

WINNER

For a full list of services CAPTION please visit our website.

CONTEST

1. He’s funny.

2. He’s nice.

3. He’s awesome.

4. He takes me fishing.

5. He taught me how to ride a dirt bike.

Love, Jarred

The new iGenie app is amazing.

Congratulations to Steve Hesse. The winner of last month’s caption contest.

Thank you to everyone that participated.

Read all of the entries at www.thebillericagreen.com/blog and submit a caption for this month’s contest.

Five Things That Are Great About My Daddy

1. He’s creative.

2. He’s a good chef.

3. He rides bikes with me.

4. He reads me stories and I read to him.

5. He gives great hugs and kisses.

I love you, Julia

Five Best Things About Dad

1. He takes us camping.

2. He gardens with us.

3. He plays with us.

4. He takes us swimming.

5. He gave me a ride on the tractor.

Love and hugs, Jakie

978-663-6271

18 years in business in Billerica

Write a caption for this cartoon. If we like yours the best we will print it in the next edition of The Billerica Green. Submit your caption online at www.thebillericagreen.com/blog

www.AffordableLandscaping.info

20 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Memorial Day Sportsmanship

By Pat Graham, Sports Editor The eyes of the soccer world will be focused on Johannesburg, South Africa starting this week as the 2010 FIFA World Cup gets underway.

However, over this past Memorial Day weekend, the vision quest of many in the Merrimack Valley youth soccer community was centered on Vietnam Veterans Park. The Annual Memorial Day tournament, sponsored by the Billerica Youth Soccer Association, was back.

While many people were finalizing and fulfilling their weekend travel and grilling plans, forty-two teams from thirteen cities and towns converged upon our humble little metropolis of Billerica to showcase their soccer skills and to have fun doing it. Billerica had several teams entered, and it was quite common to see two teams from the town squaring off against each other as neighbor vs. neighbor or classmate vs. classmate. Several surrounding communities were also well represented, with teams coming from Wilmington, Reading, Burlington, Tewksbury, Andover, Wakefield, Winchester, Melrose, Woburn, Westford, Revere and even a team from Dedham.

Tournament Coordinator Nancy Jewer was very happy with the turnout.

“We love having the local towns represented, but it’s especially nice to

have teams from Revere and Dedham take the time on a holiday weekend to make the trip.”

The tournament was set up into three divisions for both boys and girls (8 years old and under, 10 years old and under, and 12 years old and under) and each team was guaranteed to play at least three games over the two day period. The 8 and 10 year old teams were strictly on a recreational basis, meaning that there would not be a champion crowned in either division. Instead, at the conclusion of each contest, the teams would exchange patches with each other. The patches were emblazoned with either their town’s name or youth soccer association logo, which was a nice gesture for players, exchanging these mementos after their hard fought battle was carried out on the field.

The U8 players also had to contend with playing on the ‘big kids’ field for the first time, since the size of their fields are larger than half the size of the one that they played on in this tournament.

Mental and physical adjustments were made, and the mighty 8 year olds conquered the larger pitch without issue. The 12 year old divisions declared champions through semi-final and final rounds. The U12 Boys Division boasted Revere while the Billerica girls took it with the U12 Girls Division one Bandits and Division 2 Bobcats proving victorious.

There was no shortage of colors at Veterans Park to say the least. It was as though someone had dumped a big bag of Skittles candy onto the five-field facility. The color didn’t stop with the jerseys though, as several of the female participants took to ‘painting’ their hair with streaks of pink, blue or green to match their respective uniforms. A couple of the Billerica girl’s teams even went so far as to break out the face paint. There were uniform numbers, paw prints, rally cries of town pride and even the occasional ‘cute boy’ initials.

Creativity was running wild!

A lot of non soccer related sports activity was also taking place as well.

At one point, you could see a football being tossed around, a couple of guys playing catch with a baseball, two teens with lacrosse sticks, and even some aspiring young cheerleaders practicing a pyramids. There was even a four generation picnic going on during a well-earned break in the action, capping off the abundance of entertainment on this sun drenched weekend.

Nancy Jewer and her committee worked hard in organizing this fantastic event.

“As soon as the last whistle blows, we start planning for next year’s tournament.” said Jewer. “Hopefully we’ll get more responses a little sooner than at the deadline date. Some teams cut it really close.”

Playing In The Big Leagues Now

By Shawn Hutcheon, Sports Writer There are times when athletes are discussing sports, and the following statement can be heard, “No one plays for the love of the game anymore.”

That statement is always debatable, but there can be no question it doesn’t fit when one talks about the newest not-so-Little League team in Billerica. The Big League team, consisting of players aged 16-18 years old, has athletes who play because they love the game of baseball. It is also because one passionate coach in the community felt players, who for various reasons do not play high school baseball, needed to have their own team. Bernie Hoar approached John R. McBride, a Billerica High and Tufts University athletic star, and together they came up with the idea of putting together

this team and having it compete against other teams from the Merrimack Valley.

“Billerica Little League president, Gil Ynostroza, caught wind of our idea and offered to have the team sponsored by them,” Hoar explained.

The team plays every Sunday in a league which includes two teams from Methuen, two teams from Andover and one from North Andover. This season, a fourteen game schedule, which began on April 26 with one practice per week, keeps these boys active.

The league is hoping to expand next season, with teams joining from Lowell, Lawrence, and Tewksbury.

“We are here to support the kids,” said Hoar.

It all started when Hoar spoke to McBride about this last fall and he got excited to get involved. Flyers went to the high school

coaches and information was posted on the Little League website. Initially, fourteen players responded and were put them on the team since there were no tryouts. McBride hopes to have two teams next season.

It was during a cold and blustery spring day when the bats first came alive for the Indians, as they opened a big lead against a solid Methuen Blue team. One contributor to the offensive explosion was seventeenyear old Ryan Franchi, who also plays ball in the Yawkey League and Billerica own junior Little League’s Braves.

“It’s pretty cool,” Franchi said of the new team and league, “We get to experience new positions and I’m improving as a baseball player each week.”

Eighteen-year old John Montgomery picked up some key runs batted in before leaving the game with a hip injury. He

responded in similar fashion when asked about his experience with the newest baseball addition inside his town.

“It is a competitive league.” He said, “The coaches are great guys and we learn a lot of new things.”

Cheryl Philippon, mother to team member Billy Miles, said her son was excited when he heard about the new team and league. “He received a text from one of his friends about this and he was thrilled.” she explained. “He talked about it for days.”

Toward the end of May, the Indians had the same amount of wins and losses, but improved each week as a team and individuals. The players have fun playing and the coaches enjoy teaching them since the passion they have for the game is what it is all about.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 21

Jonathan

Gabby

Jonathan and Gabby are two of the many kittens available from Billerica Cat Care Coalition in June. It is kitten season and we’ve brought into foster care many litters of kittens born to feral mothers. The moms have been spayed and returned to their home locations once their kittens were old enough. However, we are socializing the kittens and looking for homes for them. Please complete online applications at www.billericacatcarecoalition.org and we’ll contact you to help you find the right kitten for your family.

Fresh Perspectives: Marshall Middle Gets A New Look What do you get when you put a group of motivated eco-savvy middle schoolers together with an energetic mentor? Positive change people notice.

Dawn Baniewicz-Press, science teacher at the Marshall Middle School, is an avid environmentalist.

Caring for the earth and her surroundings is something near and dear to her heart.

This interest is what drew her to starting the Environmental Club at the Marshall with a handful of her eighth grade students.

Together they have explored ways to improve the local area while learning about the earth as a whole.

At the beginning of the school year in October, school librarian Mary McLaugh came to Baniewicz-Press with information and an application for a community based grant from Home Depot. Baniewicz-Press went to her club, who included students Katharine Playter, Alison Higgins, Brianna Cassidy, and Brendon Riel. They put their heads together and decided on the most obvious project.

“We wanted to redo the front of the school,” said Baniewicz-Press.

At the time, the front of the Marshall Middle School was overgrown in some areas and sparse at best in others. What was there was not blooming and the mulch needed an overhaul. The students got excited about competing for the grant money and after running the idea by the Billerica Garden Club and local landscapers, they submitted the application.

“Everyone was helpful and interested,” said Baniewicz-Press.

The winners were due to be announced around Valentines Day. They simply had to sit and wait. Months passed and February came and went. By the time March rolled around, Baniewicz-Press was sure they had not won.

Susan St. Cyr, Garden Club member and a Marshall student’s mom, contacted Pat Zapert at the Billerica Community Alliance to tell her about the club and what they were attempting to do. Zapert, the Executive Director of the BCA, contacted BaniewiczPress shortly thereafter to inform her EMD Serono would be interested in sponsoring their project for Green Up/Clean Up in May and they would step in. Baniewicz-Press was thankful to Chris Nesman at EMD Serono and Keith Hoffman from Eastern Brothers Landscaping for all their help.

“What is here is greater than what the grant would have awarded,” said Baniewicz-Press.

When all was said and done, the Marshall had fresh mulch, different ornamental grasses, Rhododendrons, Dogwoods, Azaleas, Daylilies, Iris, Hostas, Hydrangeas, Coral bells, hydrangeas, and tulips the environmental club planted. To keep everything thriving, the students are bringing gallon jugs to school to water every day.

For Playter, Higgins, Cassidy and Riel, being part of this club allows them to be outdoors, make the school look better, have new experiences, and have fun.

“Helping out is just a bonus,” said Cassidy.

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Your New Puppy

By Sandra Brigham Get your puppy used to being alone Follow these steps to help your puppy learn that alone time is relaxing and fun: 1. Tire your puppy out with a rousing game of fetch, hide ‘n seek, or a stimulating walk.

2. Introduce food-stuffed puzzle toys in a safe, comfy, puppy-proof place like a crate, exercise pen, or behind a baby gate.

3. Start with brief sessions (1-5 minutes) in your chosen location to practice puppy alone time.

4. Graduate to longer practice sessions and schedule brief departures (1-20 minutes) to retrieve mail, water plants, or empty the garbage.

5. Keep arrivals and departures low key. No good-byes. No clues that you are leaving or returning.

Sandra is the owner of Train Up That Pup! Reach her at 978-436-0318 or www. trainupthatpup.com.

22 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

T T T T T T T Volunteering In Her Blood:

Judy Rogers Is Billerica’s

Senior Citizen of the Year T T T T T T T

A

lways doing it 100 percent. This is the only way Judy Rogers, a Billerica resident for 46 years, knows how to experience anything. As loving wife, devoted mother to two sons, proud grand mother of four, former business owner, and volunteer, Rogers believes she always receives more than she gives.

This was what she told the crowd at the 2010 Billerica Council on Aging (COA) Senior Citizen of the Year awards banquet on May 7. As one of 11 nominees, Rogers was expected to exemplify selfless community service to seniors as well as the town at large. Rogers was in pretty close company since William Foley, Helen Gentile, Dorothy Grossman, Jeanne Hogman, Eileen Kelley, Kathleen Reid, her husband Robert Rogers, Patricia Sawyer, Ellie Shea and Leo Shea also were recognized for the many contributions they have made as well.

Rogers and her husband are well known for their successful store, Rogers Auto Parts. After years in Brown’s Corner, they opened a second location on Boston Road, in the same plaza as Mazmanian Rugs. Later, they opened a third store where Car Quest (behind Beef master) now sits.

The couple juggled parenthood and owning this business. Rogers recalls she did whatever was needed to make it successful, from managing the office, to mixing paint, to delivering parts. In order to ensure the business was always running, one of the pair was always at the store, thus requiring sacrifices to be made.

“We took separate vacations,” recalls Rogers.

As a mother, Rogers was very involved in her two sons’ activities. From teaching CCD, to chairing the Kennedy Elementary School PTO to coaching soccer to leading a cub scout troop, her presence was always felt in their lives.

When the family could take time off, they traveled or played on a bowling league.

“I enjoyed it,” said Rogers.

Rogers first found the COA in its old location at the now Recreation Department site when her mother needed a place to go for activities, resulting in socializing over lunch and bingo. When Rogers realized the center needed help, she volunteered to answer the telephone in the reception area.

“It was nice people had a place to go,” said Rogers.

After officially retiring in 2003, Rogers began coming to the COA but could barely sit still. Although she liked taking the bus tours with her husband and fellow seniors as well as crocheting with the knitting club, volunteering again called out to her. She had to get involved and has worn many hats. From

helping as a receptionist, to greeting seniors browsing the gift shop, to now assisting with bingo and chair aerobics, Rogers finds joy in every minute.

“I like everything I am doing,” said Rogers. “The center is awesome.”

If Rogers was to encourage others, she would point out the satisfaction of team work and close friendships volunteering gives her when she does this with others like her. Plus she feels she is supportive to others. This is the welcoming spirit she brings to the chair aerobics she leads as well as to the diet buddy support group.

“It’s a way for people to talk to others and stay motivated,” said Rogers.

Currently, along with her husband, Rogers is a member of numerous organizations. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Lion’s Club, and is a Trustee in the Elks Lodge Emblem Club. She especially enjoys being on the bandstand committee at the COA since she sees so many seniors having so much fun.

“It feels good helping others,” said Rogers. “I can’t imagine not being active.”

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 23

Celebration of Excellence: Enterprise Bank Recognizes Inspiration and Success profit business because of their ‘Coats for Kids’ and ‘Belle of the Ball’ prom dress programs helping under privileged children and donating $7.6 million in cleaning services. The Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence was the non-profit Community Service Award winner, where they proudly announced all their club members from the Class of

have the right attitude,” said Bruschi.

Bruschi spoke about everything a winning team

needs. He praised Drew Bledsoe for doing the right thing unselfishly for the organization by staying on and being a team player after, upon return from an injury, he found his job had gone to Tom Brady. Bruschi went on to illustrate how to the team first when in 2001, the New England Patriots opted to forgo individual introductions at the Super Bowl and stepped out announced as a unified team.

2009 are now enrolled in college. This has not happened before.

The George L. Duncan award went to Trinity EMS which has grown to 250 employees, 70 vehicles, and 60,000 calls annually. Trinity staff rely on their employees and believe, through financial donations and sitting on numerous organizations and boards, they are called to bless others.

There was barely a dry eye in the house when John Thibault, a member from the judging committee who was recovering from a serious stroke, introduced the keynote speaker from his seat. Unable to stand comfortably, Thibault thanked his wife, Elaine, for saving his life and praised the health care he received that brought him back. When explaining how certain abilities and senses were slowly returning, he clearly had not lost his sense of humor which had the crowd roaring.

“I haven’t forgotten all you people who owe me money,” he smiled.

Moments later, from the back of the room, the keynote speaker made his way through the crowd to shake Thibault’s hand.

Tedy Bruschi, NFL superstar and stroke survivor, miraculously returned to play for the NFL in 2005 following a stroke. Bruschi, #86, was with the New England Patriots for 13 years and now is a spokesman for the American Stroke Association.

“You will only receive full recovery if you

Create Community

Packing the Lowell Memorial Auditorium on a gloriously sunny day, Enterprise Bank brought together some of the most inspiring people and businesses from the surrounding communities for their 2010 Celebration of Excellence night. According to CEO Jack Clancy, the goal was to laud the passion, vision, commitment, people and sound business strategy it demands to create success. This night well exceeded any expectations as every one in the audience shared the inspirational stories and good news brought forth by those being honored.

The judging committee had a difficult task narrowing down the 151 nominations they received. Joanna Lau of Lau Technologies thanked the finalists for the opportunity to learn from them.

“You touch a lot of lives,” said Lau. “The ultimate benefit is to the people who see you tonight.”

Three finalists were awarded Business of the Year. The Konarka company, acknowledged as a leader in solar technology, donated solar panels to partners in Haiti following the earthquake devastation. Family owned Medstar Ambulance grew from three employees to 230 employees and now provides $1.5 million in free care every year by ‘putting the patient first’. Countryside Veterinary Hospital offers progressive veterinary care through their dedication to pets and their owners.

Entrepreneur of the Year went to two women who have made a profound impact on their community. Franky Descoteaux owns the Mambo Grill restaurant, Humanity women’s affordable clothing boutique and Monkey’s ice cream shop. She visits her businesses daily and seeks to make them more profitable and comfortable for employees.

Susan Leger Ferraro, founder of Little Sprouts Daycare, also owns The Leadership and Literacy Foundation, Imagine That, and Peace, Love and Happiness LLC. Her vision was always to work with others to unleash their potential.

“Leaders are only as effective as who they surround themselves with,” said LegerFerraro. “We inspire others to find their light and make it contagious.”

The Community Service award went to Dr. Dan Asquino of Mt. Wachusett Community College who shared his favorite Desmond Tutu quote encouraging everyone to do their little bit of good right where they are. Anton’s Cleaners received the Community Service award for a for

Bruschi then told the story of the dark moments of his stroke when, as a 31 year old athlete, he lost his memory, field of vision, and required heart surgery. He feared his career was over.

“I wasn’t a football player in my mind,” said Bruschi. “I was trying to get back so I could be a healthy husband and a healthy father that would be able to play with his children. No one would have blamed me if I had just rode off into the sunset.”

Being a fighter though, Bruschi did not give up.

He worked hard to recover and eight months later walked back onto the football field with his wife’s blessing and all his doctors’ approval.

He was later a recipient of the 2005 NFL’s Comeback Player of The Year award and authored ‘Never Give Up’, the inspiring story of his amazing comeback.

“It’s how you deal with adversity that matters most,” said Bruschi.

Member FDIC

As the leading, independent business bank with deep roots in the community, and strong local ties throughout this region, Enterprise Bank continues to fuel the local economy, consistently reinvesting resources in the communities we serve.

Our Billerica teams are proud to actively champion the needs of the Billerica community and to create opportunities for greater financial success.

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24 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Water Conservation is Everyone’s Job You use it all the time. Turn on the shower or run the faucet to brush your teeth.

Flush the toilets or load the washing machine to wash your clothes. Turn on the hose to irrigate your lawns. It’s in the pipes and sinks and pools. You need it to live since it makes up 60 percent of your body mass. Lots of recreation is near it or by it or on it.

It’s water. And WHAT we have is ALL we have. It’s all part of the water cycle. Did you know that you possibly could be drinking the same water Napoleon drank? It’s recycled and new water is never made. That’s why conserving it is more than a good idea; it’s a necessity.

Conservation should be an everyday habit. As the population grows, so does the demand on clean drinking water.

“Our 2009 per capita was 72 gallons

per person each day,” reported John McGovern, Billerica Water Treatment Plant Superintendent.

Until further notice, The Department of Public Works will maintain the enforced Stage II Town Wide Water ban on outdoor water usage, effective from May 1 to October 1. The ban imposes fines on residents who do not follow the usage allocation schedule, allowing odd-numbered houses to water on odd-numbered days and even-numbered houses to water on even-numbered.

Why such a push in the summer for conservation? Because it is the season the river is at the lowest but it’s the season where demand is the greatest. Historically, there is less rain and more evaporation.

72 gallons may not seem like much but it rose from 63 gallons in 2008 thus

making it necessary to keep up conservation efforts. The state and federal authorities want Billerica to limit how much it uses to 65 gallons RGPCD or residential gallons per capita day.

When less water is drawn from the river, less needs to be treated. By reducing how much needs to be treated, thousands of dollars are saved annually in the town budget as well as reducing how much water is wasted.

For more information on town wide water conservation programs, visit the DPW office at town hall. You can also call 978-671-0955

or visit their website at www.billericadpw.org.

Corporate Citizens Bring About Big Changes

By Liana Measmer Look around you. You will see something new. Something fresh. Something different.

On May 26, two large local corporationsAmerican Science and Engineering (AS&E) and Millipore sent teams of volunteers to converge on Billerica and spruce up the place.

AS&E’s volunteers, 130 of them, were busy at the Council on Aging (COA), The Library, The Recreation Department, and the Boys and Girls Club. Millipore’s 30 employees spent the day at Manning State Park preparing it for the Memorial Day weekend opening, as an extension of their Earth Day celebration. Organized in partnership with the Billerica Community Alliance, these companies put their back into it.

AS&E: Divide and Conquer The COA got new mahogany benches in the shade as well as fresh mulch and landscaping to the exterior. Inside, the hallways were lined with ladders and drop cloths while all the walls got a fresh coat of paint. Even a new storage area was built for securing supplies.

“If it wasn’t for AS&E’s contribution, we would not have tackled this extreme make over,” said Donna Popkin, COA Director.

Next door at the library, paint was in order that day. The downstairs meetings room, three bathrooms, the corridor and two upstairs study rooms all got face lifts.

Director Barbara Flaherty noted this had not been done in ten years and was a necessary update. Flaherty was impressed with how organized the teams were and pointed out how much planning such a project required.

“It looks clean and fresh,” said Flaherty.

“We really appreciate it.”

The Boys and Girls Club got a new post and rail fence, brick walkway, and landscaping. AS&E’s donation to the center was over $11,000. Director Roy Nagy noted all their work would improve pedestrian traffic, beautify the area and improve the overflow for the club and athletic teams.

“This is a major improvement to this entire area,” said Nagy. “It’s impressive.”

Upon entering the large open hall at the Recreation Department, one could see all the board games, Legos and paper stacked out in the open due to lack of proper storage. Well, no more.

In addition to a sorely needed coat of paint, cabinets and huge shelving units were installed, allowing for proper storage of supplies and opening up the space. Director Peggy HannonRizza was thankful for the difference it made.

“It was a little thing that made a big impact,” said Hannon-Rizza.

AS&E, who produce advanced x-ray inspection systems, read through the town’s Green Up/Clean Up wish lists in the winter and, with their $25,000 donation, aimed at helping seniors and veterans this year. Jodie Roy, organizer for the AS&E teams, said more and more volunteers signed up wanting to help and even community volunteers joined in. With work sites closer together, it made it logistically easier to manage. Roy was touched by the number of people who came into the COA just to thank them for what they were doing.

“It’s really good work,” said Roy. “And so appreciated.”

Millipore: Environmentally Conscious Although Earth Day is officially in April, staff from Millipore’s Sustainability and

Facilities Departments believe we should care for and about our world every day.

Known for being pioneers in life science research, Millipore is also a strong supporter of improving the environment.

Johanna Jobin, Sustainability Programs Manager, chose Manning State Park as a location to work in because it got staff outside and engaged.

“As part of our values, we think its important to give back,” said Jobin.

The day began about 10:30 am when 30 volunteers tackled the overgrown roads and parking lots at Manning. Front end loaders were on hand to move quite a bit of debris either to the edges of the lots and walkways or into a dumpster to be hauled out. The water

park was prepared for the many children who would be running through during the upcoming hot summer months. Even outside the park, along Route 129, was raked to make the entrance more welcoming.

By 3:30 in the afternoon, the lot was clear and the paths pristine. Recreation Department Director Peggy Hannon-Rizza was thankful to Millipore for preparing this busy space for the season.

“We don’t have the resources,” said Hannon-Rizza. “We rely on volunteers.”

At the end of the day, Town Manager John Curran and Selectman Bob Correnti commented on how impressive all the improvements were and thanked our corporate neighbors for giving back to Billerica.

“They’ve shown what it means to put it into action,” said Correnti.

On May 11, business leaders, town officials and local politicians gathered to officially congratulate the staff and residents of Brightview Concord River Assited Living Development where almost 40 seniors now call this home. Executive Vice President Paul MacMillan, seen in the photo holding the scissors, thanked all his associates for their hard work. Executive Director Mike Reed was lauded as compasionate and caring and Brightview staff were described as the Dispensers of TLC.

t a C g n i s s i M

Clawdette, 9 yr. old tuxedo cat, Missing from Christina Ave. since May 19, Wearing Red Collar. White markings face, chest, and paws. Reward being offered if found. Call Elizabeth and Paul Costa 978-262-0263

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 25

Get Out and Ride Now is the season to take a relaxing ride on the many local paved bike paths. Or, for a greater challenge, a mountain bike up a wooded trail with wide knobby tires makes for a solid work out. Even children’s bicycles need tune ups from time to time. Whether amateur or professional, riders of all levels should consider the life of their bicycles and care for them properly.

Sorely lacking in Billerica has been a well equipped and certified bicycle repair shop.

Until now.

86 Cycles, located on Billerica’s west side, is the brainchild of Doug Scheer. After mountain biking in college, Scheer was hooked and found how skilled he was at fixing his own equipment. In July

2009, he made a trip to Oregon’s United Bicycle Institute and completed a two week professional mechanic’s course. In April 2010, Scheer was certified in Advanced Wheel Building and Suspensions, as well as becoming a certified wheel builder of DT Swiss wheels.

“I wanted to learn 100 percent properly,” said Scheer.

Scheer points out there are numerous factors to consider in ensuring the life of your bicycle. First check that your bicycle chain is clean and well lubricated. Next, properly adjusted brakes always ensure safety. This entails lubricating brake cables and adjusting pads to prevent squeaking or chatter.

On higher performance bikes, knowing how to adjust the wheels can help them last longer. Scheer points out the quick release handle doesn’t always need to be tightened so hard it’s a struggle to undo. If releasing the handle leaves an imprint on your palm, it’s too tight.

“It can cause premature wear on the ball bearings inside the hub,” said Scheer about a tight quick release handle.

Scheer can often be seen truing or tightening spokes. By doing this, it ensures the wheel is even all the way around. This can bring a longer life to tires and rims.

“It’s best done at the shop,” said Scheer.

Scheer is proud to announce he has the same accounts as local bike shops, which truly makes him a one-stop shop for all your bicycle needs.

“I can get a better price on anything,” said Scheer.

Special order parts and a quick turn around time on repairs make 86 Cycles worth visiting. Contact Doug Scheer at 978761-8883 or visit his website www.86cycles. com for more information.

Flip City Gymnastics Wins 17 First Place MASS State Championship Titles Top Row Left to Right: Isabella Santiago, Sophia Fruciano, Alexa Bezjian, Jamie Sharp, Alyssa DeSilva, Devin Collins, Alyssa Wink, Hannah Gero, Olivia Cameron Bottom Row Left to Right: Alyssa Amato, Kara Lipman, Allison Jordan, Madelyn DiGesse, Renee Locke, Samantha Murgo, Erin Huckins Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Jennifer Strange, Nicole Bianco (Rookie), Caitlin Sheehan, Christina Fruciano, Rachel Warner, Kasie Conti (Rookie), Juliana Casella, Tara MacMullin, Alyssa Spurrell, Aimee Locke, Ashley Hilliker, Maggie Sabella, Sydney Matai, Andrea DiCiaccio, Julianne Perkins, Marisa Bourgeois, Kate Wiggins, Fiona Maxwell, Annie Cowen, Kailey Cunha, Brooke Amato, Jocelyn Ferraro, Abigail O’Keefe, Hailey Bourgeois, Allison Casella, Julia O’Keefe, Abigail Campbell, Lauren O’Keefe, Not shown: Lynn Jean

26 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

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A Moment of Silence. Memorial Day in Billerica Is a Time to Remember. jROTC students and Colonial Minutemen fall in line to march to the grave site. kVets from the VFW wave to the crowd from an Army Truck. lSelectman Marc Lombardo salutes those who gave their lives. mA ROTC student reflects. nVFW Vets listen intently to blessings at Solomon Post on Route 3A. oGeorge Similaris played TAPS at each stop along the way. pBillerica Police Honor Guard stood tall behind the podium on the library steps during Memorial Day ceremonies.

qChief Warrant Officer Richard Woodlock called us all to instill Memorial Day traditions in our upcoming generations. rVeterans from the various wars saluted the wreaths at the WWI and WWII Memorial on the Billerica green. jiChief of Police Dan Rosa (with one of his officers) saluted while the National Anthem was sung. jjBillerica Police set the mood at the Annual Billerica Memorial Day Parade. jkA patriotic pooch shows his colors proudly. jlA Billerica High School Marching band drummer keeps the beat.

June - July 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 27

The Art of Excellence

•By Michael Macaris

A Road to Weight Loss America currently has the highest percent of its population overweight than ever before. Some studies suggest we rank #1 worldwide in this category. The weight loss industry is a billion dollar entity. Hundreds of new products come into the market each year but the problem persists. Why is this?One reason is people start programs with good intentions but don’t have a solid game plan or an understanding of what lies ahead. This I believe leads to failure. Here is some information which can be helpful for success.

Focus more on decreasing body fat rather than losing weight. Muscle burns fat so exercise using different muscle groups.

Nourish your body with high fiber, nutrient dense foods. Not only is the fiber from fruits and vegetables full of phyto-nutrients but its volume gives one a satisfied feeling.

Stay away from sugar and high fructose corn syrup. If you feel like eating something sweet, have whole fruit. Also, you should keep away from unhealthy saturated animal fats and hydrogenated oil which is trans fat.

Don’t overeat but rather eat only when you’re hungry. Be consistent with exercises, like walking. These recommendations come from doctors who study obesity and are interested in health as well as weight management.

This isn’t rocket science and Americans don’t need more techniques or products to address this issue. What we need can’t be bought. It’s called discipline and motivation.

If you want to have success at long term weight loss, focus on a healthy lifestyle which includes fitness that builds cardio endurance and strength.

If you’ve been inactive, are out of shape, want to lose weight and haven’t worked out for a long time, its not easy. I say this because I see so many ads saying how simple it is, complete with fitness models smiling while demonstrating the program. I’ve always thought that fitness is serious business and requires laser- like commitment, discipline and consistency to make solid gains. It’s tough and that’s what lies ahead. People need to know that and be prepared.

Many people use food and drink to feel better when under stress. If you’re on a program and have a stressful day, stay in control of your food. Don’t miss your workouts for the same reason. Use self control with meal size and try to stop eating before you feel full. Often times, it takes ten minutes to feel satiated after a meal.

You probably don’t need to eat as much as you think. Be careful when going out to eat and know what’s in your meals. I wouldn’t recommend buffets unless you have the discipline to not overeat. As I mentioned before, remember sugar and high fructose corn syrup are bad.

Studies show most people who lose weight permanently are those who focus on living a healthy lifestyle rather than just losing weight. I believe the former is a more powerful motivator. I also believe that anyone can improve their fitness level to any degree they want to if it’s important to them.

Michael Macaris is the owner and Chief Instructor of Michael Macaris Kung-Fu Academy at 306 Boston Road - No. Billerica, MA 01862 in Brown’s Corner. Call (978) 667-9660 to schedule a class today.

Title Insurance: Why It’s Important

By Lisa Luther, Realty World Advantage What is Title?

Title is the evidence, or right, that a person has to the ownership and possession of land. It is possible that someone other than the owner has a legal right to the property.

If that right can be established, that person can claim the property outright or make demands on the owner as to its use. There can be any number of problems that remain undisclosed even after the most careful search of public records. These are hidden “defects” and sometimes are not discovered for months or years after you purchase your home. As a result, you may have to spend substantial money to on a legal defense to protect your rights.

The Lender already requires Title Insurance, so won’t that protect me?

There are 2 types of policies to consider.

A Lenders policy is one which your lender

will require that you purchase. This type of policy only insures that the lender has a valid, enforceable lien on the property. However, it does not protect you.

An Owner’s policy is designed to protect you from title defects that existed prior to the issue date of your policy. It also covers the full cost of any needed legal defense of your title.

How much will Title Insurance cost?

There is a one time premium directly related to the value of your home, paid when you purchase it. However, it continues to provide complete coverage for as long as you or your heirs own the property.

For more information on Title Insurance, an internet search of ‘Title Insurance Info in MASS.’ will list numerous options like www.titleinsurancesavings.com or www. pilgrimtitle.com. Or contact your local Realtor for the company they prefer.

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28 / thebillericagreen.com / June - July 2010

Its Your Nature: Outdoor Fun for All Ages

By Liana Measmer Looking for something to do? The Recreation Department has some exciting program offerings this summer, available for any one from energetic small children to active seniors citizens.

Fitness For All Situated behind near Raytheon off Concord Road is the Middlesex Community College Fitness Trail system. This trail can be found tucked in the scenic woods of the Bedford campus and consists of a l.25 mile, 10-station Fit-Trail with a separate .75 mile loop around a tranquil pond. Supported by an MCC Foundation Grant, the trails traverse the perimeter of a frog pond, pass through stands of pine forest, and wind through open meadows and fields. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a 15-minute break from your daily routine, MCC’s Fitness trail could be the place for you. This winding path is perfect for hiking, walking, jogging, mountain biking, birding, skiing, snowshoeing, photography, meditating, reading and relaxing.

“This is a terrific trail and we are excited about increasing use of this wonderful resource,” said Jonathan Crockett, MCC Student Activities, Fitness and Recreation Coordinator.

DCR Places to Go The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is steward of one of the largest state parks systems in the country. Its 450,000 acres is made up of forests, parks, green ways, historic sites and landscapes, seashores, lakes, ponds, reservoirs and watersheds. The DCR offers their Mass ParksPass that allows for unlimited day-use parking access to state park facilities which the Billerica Rec. Dept. now has available.

Take it out for a night or the weekend.

It’s good at any DCR park. Stay local at the Great Brook State Farm in Carlisle.

Or venture to South Beach State Park in Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard, Upton State Park in Northbridge, or Plum Island State Reservation in Newburyport. Visit www. mass.gov/dcr for more information.

Day Trips at a Discount A quick visit to the Rec. Department at 248 Boston Road could land you on a water slide or a roller coaster in no time. They have discount tickets available to such favorite family attractions as Water Country in Portsmouth, NH or Six Flags new England in Springfield. Need more excitement than that? How about a white water rafting trip in scenic Maine? For about $148, you could be hanging on tight and riding the waves. Call the office at 978-671-0921 to inquire about other available trips.

No Excuse for Boredom Kids sitting around with nothing to do? No excuse! Especially when The Rec. Department has such a wide variety of camps with slots still available. Whether your youngster is athletic, scientific, or just wants to make new friends, Billerica Recreation makes a variety of camps easy to access. Mini hawks and Sky Hawks has baseball, soccer, and basketball. Project Quest and Project Adventure offer the working parent an all day option. Or get specific. Kids can try cooking or drama or building models that run with Legos or K’Nex. “We have a lot of flexibility in staffing if our numbers increase beyond what we expect,” said Donna Hansen, Program Coordinator.

View the 2010 Spring and Summer Program brochure online, at www. town.billerica.ma.us click on Recreation Department Documents.

Caregiver's Circle

•By Kristene Whitehouse

Lie to Me Sometimes it is easy to be brave. There are days when I am so sure of what I am doing, I have no doubts. Then, there are the days that I am so scared. It is the questioning every decision that gets me into trouble. My mind is second-guessing, from the ‘Am I doing right by Mom?’ to the ‘Have I done enough?’

The sadness is gripping, because it is more than sadness. It is grief: a mourning that comes and stays with you like an unwelcome visitor. The tears do not come, nor do the words. I struggle for days that become weeks. I, the one who is never at a loss of words, cannot express myself. I laugh at me. I am looking for peace, comfort, understanding but I cannot give myself these. I’m too busy fighting my reality.

Sometimes I sit with her, listening to her talk with the dog. I watch her play in time with Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune. She talks back to the television and gives answers to the Jeopardy questions.

I listen and I watch Mom. I feel like I’m eavesdropping as I try to store up good memories.

This is a piece of the care giving journey that I suspect most of us have difficulty with--grieving the living. Mom is still with me. I do not want to wish away a single day. But how do I laugh, how do I dream and move on with my life when she is no longer with me? How do I grow and change as a person when she is already gone to me?

Will she still recognize me tomorrow? How do I protect her from losing me?

Sometimes I feel so alone. I can’t let Mom see me cry. I can’t tell her how much she has changed. What do I say? I want my mommy back? There is no point. Mom is safe in her world. I laugh with her when she laughs. I’m present with her in the moment. I have to give her that security blanket. Mom is losing more cognitive function. I already know this road, it only goes one way.

This shift in topic may seem abrupt. I’m sick: stupid double ear infections, no big deal in the whole scheme of life. I need a minor surgical procedure done. My hearing should come back and stabilize again. The dizziness and vertigo usually take a couple of days to settle down afterwards.

After listening to me complain, my best friend, Michele, summed it up beautifully: “Sometimes, we just want our mommy.”

At this point, I’d take anyone telling me that it will be okay. Tell me it’s going to get better. Lie to me. She realizes Mom isn’t here to hold my hand through times of sickness anymore; I’m on my own with the next medical crisis. I can hear her voice cracking and still, Michele says: “This, too, shall pass.”

The following are books I have found helpful: Howard Gruetzner’s “Alzheimer’s: A Care giver’s Guide and Source book”, Susan Beerman & Judith RappaportMusson’s “Elder care 911, The Care giver’s Complete Handbook for Making Decisions” and Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins’s “The 36-Hour Day”.

Grand Opening Blowout!

Lots of excitement could be felt at 880 Boston Road when Trendy Turnaround and Treasure Chest Sports Collectibles celebrated their grand opening on May 15.

Trendy Turnaround, which now carries clothes for ‘Tweens (sized girls/teens 10 and up), saw regular numbers double while shoppers at the Treasure Chest happily left with free Tom Glavine rookie cards. Seen in the photo are Kyle (9) and Ryan (6) Walker who were trying really hard to keep to their budget.

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Ask Dr. Gina

•By Dr. Gina M. Aguayo, Ph. D.

Identifying Childhood Depression Father’s Day is right around the corner, flowers are blooming, the weather is getting warmer, and everyone is counting down the days until summer vacation (for different reasons of course). Most children are looking forward to school ending and having a fun summer.

But what if you notice that your child seems to be less enthusiastic than his friends about school ending? Or, she is becoming more isolated than in the recent past? Or your son has been missing more school lately because of vague physical complaints? Perhaps you have been seeing signs of depression.

Not all children who are depressed will look depressed. You may find that your son has become very moody or irritable.

Your daughter may be restless, having a hard time staying focused on any one task. Sometimes depression is expressed as low self-esteem and setting unrealistic expectations for oneself. The variation in symptom expression is as individual as the person and the disorder. This article will focus on the signs and symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder.

Depression is one of the most common psychological difficulties children and adolescents experience. At any given point in time, approximately five percent of children and adolescents in the general population will be experiencing depression, which means that in a classroom of thirty students, one is clinically depressed. Think about how many classrooms exist in our schools. Left untreated, the depression, will resolve within two years from its onset.

Engaging in therapy will help to reduce this amount of time by teaching the person new coping skills and modifying the maladaptive thoughts associated with depression. In addition to therapy, medication is also an option for helping to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Every parent, teacher, coach, or neighbor has the ability to help a child who may be depressed and find the resources he needs to overcome his difficulties. The symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder are the same for children and adults. However, children tend to express their distress through behaviors rather than words.

It is also more difficult to know if a child is depressed because of the range of normal behaviors associated with different developmental stages; in other words, is this “just a phase” or is it something more. Some of the behaviors associated with depression are: sadness, grumpiness, or an irritable mood, decreased or no enjoyment in activities or hobbies he used to enjoy, sleeping too much or too little, changes in weight and appetite, feelings of hopelessness or guilt, and thoughts of suicide or death. These symptoms may be displayed as: withdrawal and isolation, vague physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches, joint pain, etc, but with no solid reasons and occurring more regularly than in the past), rage, low energy, boredom/apathy, crying spells, drug/ alcohol use, impulsiveness/recklessness, and giving away prized possessions.

Taken individually, many of the symptoms and behavioral changes listed here are also a normal part of the developmental process. Therefore, it is important to remember that not all changes in a child’s mood and behavior suggest psychological distress. If your child displays three or more of these symptoms consistently for two weeks or longer, you may want to contact your family doctor or licensed mental health professional.

Gina M. Aguayo, Ph.D. is co-owner and Director of the Billerica Counseling Center and has been a practicing Psychologist for 10 years.

If you have further questions please email her at gaguayo1@hotmail.com

What we’re working on for July: Beat the Heat:

Go on an adventure to find the best spots for keeping cool this summer.

The Howe School:

The site for a future museum, this red brick gem holds the history of education in Billerica.

Chasing a Dream:

Whether a young author or a bicycle rider for cancer research, folks find their passion and use it to make a difference.

t r r o a e n o H ith H w e s o h t

The Heart of Billerica

It sits at the center, at our very core. It works hard but often goes unseen and taken for granted. It’s vitally important and we can not live without it.

Our Heart. Some of the most common sayings in the world include the word ‘heart’ in them: from the bottom of one’s heart and with all one’s heart to name a few.

As The Billerica Green prepares to celebrate our first birthday, we want to recognize and thank those with heart. Who make a difference by touching all our lives simply by living theirs. They have their heart in the right place and truly are the heart of this town.

So, we need to hear from YOU!

Guidelines for nominations: 1. This is not a popularity contest. We want to hear about the unsung heroes-not the best business or the best civic leader. Do they help others? What contributions (not monetary necessarily) do they make?

2. Adults can nominate adults or children (except parents can’t nominate their kids). Children can nominate adults. You can’t nominate yourself.

3. We need a descriptive explanation of why this person demonstrates real heart for Billerica. We know a lot of people are great just because but we need to know more. Your description should not exceed 200 words.

4. Your nomination should be mailed to the Billerica Green, P.O. Box 492, Billerica MA 01821 or e-mailed to liana@thebillericagreen.com. They must be received no later than Sunday, August 1st, 2010.

5. All nominations we receive will be reviewed by a selection committee and, depending on the number received will depend on the number of winners.

6. The recipients will be chosen, contacted and their stories told in the September edition of the Billerica Green.

7. An awards ceremony will be held on the town common shortly there after (exact date tba) and all are welcome to attend.