March 2010 designed and illustrated by Tony Luongo by Luongo Art

FREE

March/April 2010 Vol.2, No.3

A TOWN OF DIVERSITY Billerica Shows Its Culture

A CHARITABLE HEART Residents and Businesses Reach Out

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT Making Sports Available For All PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID AYER, MA 01432 PERMIT NO 20

Billerica’s Premier Monthly News Magazine

Bullying Prevention:

An Adult Responsibility I have been involved in anti-violence curriculum and emotional learning for many years. Before opening the karate school, I represented the Jefferson Center for Character Education as their Sports Division, VP. We adapted the Center’s STAR program to the marital arts. In the almost ten years our karate school has been open in Billerica, I have heard numerous times from my students about incidents of bullying. Let me give you one example: one of our students, a girl, was grabbed around the throat by a boy on her bus. This was a life threatening situation. At our school, we teach Stranger/Danger and as part of that, discuss how to handle a bully. Use your voice. Walk away. Defend yourself. I appreciate last month’s articles in The Billerica Green by Nora Fiore and Diana Lombardo. Here’s my bottom line: Bullying prevention is an adult responsibility. It is the obligation of all adults—parents, teachers, administrators, bus drivers, staff—to make sure our children have a safe environment in which to learn. Children should not be asked to create this environment themselves. The Billerica School District, in its Student Handbook under Harassment Policy, section B, defines bullying and sets out the procedure for investigating and punishing acts of bullying in all its forms. This section is comprehensive and effective—if implemented. It does no good to have resources if we, as adults, don’t use them to assert our children’s rights.

If a child is bullied at school, the first thing to do is report it to any staff member. That individual is then required to report the incident to an administrator. A Complaint Investigator is assigned who investigates the claim of bullying. Other steps follow. What happens here is that adults, not children, are working to create a safe atmosphere at school. We, as parents, shouldn’t be reluctant to protect our children by requiring the schools to follow their own rules. In this age of standardized testing, it is in the schools’ self-interest to keep bullying to a minimum. In the U.S., over 160,000 kids skip school annually because they are afraid of bullying. Do you think that diminishes test scores? Grades? Graduation rates? Yes, children need to stand up for themselves by using a command voice, blocking a punch, or having a snappy come-back. But the best lesson in this regard is to know the difference between tattling and telling a parent what happened so he or she can inform the school. A child who does this isn’t trying to get someone in trouble, just standing up for her right under Billerica’s Harassment Policy not to be bullied or battered on the school bus. That’s my thoughts for this month. All my best, 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:

Haiti Day– March 6, 4-6 PM

Free pasta dinner! Free admission! Come and bid on Haitian Art, proceeds to aid Haitian relief efforts.

Murder Mystery Theatre – March 13, 6 PM

Oriental Cuisine, live musical performances, a fun, Who-Done-It, with a prize for the winning detective! Adults $14.Children, $10, proceeds to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Call for reservations, 978-667-7774

Cake Auction for Pal – April 3, 2-3:30 PM

Make a cake! Buy a cake for Easter! All proceeds to benefit the Billerica Police Athletic League. ADVERTISEMENT

March/April 2010 Volume 2, Number 3

Contents

Editor-in-Chief + Owner + Staff Writer: Liana Measmer For news or column submissions, e-mail us at liana@thebillericagreen.com. Deadlines for submissions are the first week of the month. Art Director + Illustrator: Tony Luongo Staff Writer: Jenn Gervais 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: Billerica Cat Care Coalition Alan Kessler Frank Hynes Sandra Brigham Contributing Photographers: Gail Lucozzi George Lucozzi Advertising Sales: Liana Measmer For our ad rates or to place an ad, call us at 978-808-2361or e-mail us at liana@thebillericagreen.com Deadlines for advertising is the first day of the month. Mar/Apr 2010; Vol. 2, No. 3 The Billerica Green, LLC. P.O. Box 492 Billerica, MA 01821 www.thebillericagreen.com Subscriptions for non-Billerica residents: One year (12 issues) $15

Our Beautiful Bennett

One building and one vision brought one town together for one cause

Kessler’s Rallies Town for Haitian Relief

The Best of Both Worlds

Read how spaghetti and art made for a successful event • By Jenn Gervais, Staff Writer

Indian family values and American customs brought together by love

The Challenger League

This Little League Division makes baseball available to all • By Shawn Hutcheon, Sports Writer

Meet Your Candidates

Their platforms outline everything you need to know before you hit the polls. Get the complete story ONLINE!

In this edition: Teacher’s Corner Voice of The Artist Ask Dave The Flower Lady Pet Peeves Caregiver’s Circle Court’s In Session Sunny Side of The Street Will Achieve

Traveling Gourmets Out on The Town Business to Business Notes From General Sound Green Handyman The Playground Nourishment for Optimal Health Billerica Media Beat

/ thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

A Letter from the Editor Hey Billerica...Your Culture is Showing! In our newest edition of the Billerica Green, we found a lot of places where Billerica was showing its cultural side, both locally and globally. We have a beautiful representation in this town of diversity through the faces of those who live here. We got a glimpse inside the life of a local Indian family who has blended their Indian values with American customs. To open our minds and hearts to diversity, Billerica CARES is sponsoring a diversity week through the public schools during the last week of March. We looked at the arts and how they enrich us. The TIL Wheelchair Dancers graced the floors of the Council on Aging in February and award winning Irish Set Dancers put on a show at the Irish American Club in March. The Merrimack Rep Theatre is always a great place to catch a play and two artists exhibited their talent this month in town- Tom Dahill from The Middlesex Canal Association and our own Tony Luongo (www.tonyluongo.com) from The Billerica Green. We wove our American culture into the paper through our politics and baseball. Our candidates for Selectman and School Committee sent along their platforms to get us ready for Election Day on April 10. So mark your calendar and don’t forget to VOTE! Be sure to check out Shawn Hutcheon’s story on the Little League’s Challenger Division too. We took a walk back in time and did a complete historical feature on our beautiful Bennett Library, which is still today a centrally located cultural center right here on Boston Road.

Some folks in town stretched their hand across the world charitably to help others in need. Julie Kinscheck’s Night of Hope event raised money for Hope Worldwide while local businesses like Kessler’s Karate Studio hosted relief for Haiti. NEWSFLASH!...With all our new growth, we now have a great opportunity to grow our website as a compliment to our paper. In addition to blogs, features and giving businesses another terrific option for advertising, we will now be posting stories and columns online too! We wanted to expand and give our readers yet one more place to enjoy Green stories. Look for our ‘teasers’ that will direct you to our online content. Remember to follow us on Facebook. We plan to utilize our page for all our extra photos that we didn’t print. So, if we take your picture, it might just grace The Billerica Green Facebook Page in the future! Share your feedback with us since we want to make The Billerica Green the best it can be. If you want or need news or event coverage, contact us at 978-808-2361 or at liana@ thebillericagreen.com. As always we are looking for a variety of writers with fresh ideas. Enjoy, Billerica and be happy because Spring has arrived!

Liana Measmer liana@thebillericagreen.com

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

Letters to the Editior 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. “Liana,I just would like to pass on a note of gratitude for all you have done for me and my new business. Your suggestions and guidance have been a great source of learning for me as I begin my second year of operation. The Teen Night was a huge success and I plan, with the help of “The Green”, to run another one soon. What I find sets you far apart from other publications is the personal touch you have with your advertising clients. Most print publications end the relationship once the ad is placed, you have demonstrated genuine interest in my business and actually make a personal appearance, on several occassions I might add, to many of my events held at PuttAround. I plan to continue my successful relationship with your publication in the future and again, my sincerest thanks to you and your first class organization for all your help.” – Sincerely, Steve Lynch, PuttAround Mini Golf “Dear Editor, I am writing this letter in support of Paul Marasco for Selectman. As Chairman of the Planning Board, Paul has demonstrated sound judgment on critical development issues in town, and fairness to both proponents of development and to the residents of Billerica. The residents are always his top concern. Paul’s innate knowledge of how to resolve issues, solve problems and use common sense has gained respect for the Planning Board, which is one of the best-run boards in town. He is a true leader, stays focused on the issues and works in a professional manner. I believe he will bring these skills to the Board of Selectmen, where both sound judgment and leadership are needed in these difficult economic times. His motto is ‘Bringing Billerica Together’ and I believe he can do it! I urge you to cast one of your two votes for Paul Marasco in the April 10th election.” – Thank you, Ellen Rawlings

“To the Editor, I am writing this letter in support of Bob Correnti, candidate for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. As a life-long Billerica resident and educator for the past 34 years, I have seen Bob’s accomplishments from his commitment to our senior citizens, schools, and welfare of our children. On several occasions, Bob created a forum allowing my voice to be heard on town and neighborhood issues. When you call Bob, he listens, responds, and gets results! This is the type of Selectman I want working for our town! I strongly urge you cast one of your two votes on Saturday, April 10, 2010 to re-elect Bob Correnti as Selectman. We need to keep Bob working for us!” – Paula M. Perry, Billerica, MA “To the Editor, My name is Sally Gould. I support and endorse Michael Rosa for re-election to the Billerica Board of Selectmen. Michael is a good person and genuinely cares about the town and its residents. Michael is always professional and knowledgeable. Michael stays on top of new developments and ideas to save the town money such as the recycling program he was instrumental in putting in place. Michael is a qualified and successful candidate with a proven track record in making Billerica a better place to live. This is our opportunity to re-elect a leader who will continue the excellent work he has done for us.” – Sincerely, Sally Gould “Dear Editor, I wanted to thank you for the article you wrote for the January/ February edition of the Billerica Green. We are continuing to make progress towards our goal of having a new Skatepark in Billerica. Your paper has helped us increase awareness of the efforts underway by our Committee to install a skateboard park at the Lampson Recreation Complex. We also at this time would like to thank the BATV program –Eye on Billerica who helped increase awareness and bring community members together to support our cause. One of the fundraisers we are currently planning is a Skate Festival at Lampson field on April 23, 2010. Thank you again for your support, – Brian Violette, Co-President, Billerica Skatepark Committee

/ thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Caregiver's Circle

â&#x20AC;˘By Kristene Whitehouse

The Olympian Sometimes in the day to day routine of care giving, I become stressed and mom becomes lost. I can see this in the others I know who take care of their loved ones. We become desensitized to the needs of the one most dependent on us. It is one thing to logically know what to expect, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;whyâ&#x20AC;? it is happening, but it is another to make the changes necessary in my own behavior to counteract what I deem as a shortcoming within myself. The tiring responsibilities of care giving include considering the medical needs, chasing doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needed followups, keeping medications straight, or something as simple as a cold and cough needing current medications (especially blood pressure meds.) cross referenced for contradictions. And, in the midst of all this is a person who simply wants to tell me all about her day. Rachel is momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary home health aide. She has a grace in her, a quietness in the caring and even love as Rachel bathes mom with her bed bath. I hear mom recite her dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events. She tells Rachel, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I won a medal in the Olympics today. I got a

trophy too. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m an Olympian.â&#x20AC;? As I write now, the smile comes as do the tears. I heard all about momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day when she first arrived home. I asked what she had for lunch even when I knew the answer. I listened to the words but I did not hear. It is Rachelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gift to me, to teach me how to caregive. I have learned to be an outsider in my own home. I stand just beyond the doorway of momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedroom and I listen. The bills can wait, dinner can wait--the acknowledgments of â&#x20AC;&#x153;look at me, look at what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve accomplishedâ&#x20AC;? is in the here and now. By tonight much of the details of the day will be lost. Mom will not remember what game it was her medal was won in. And, you know what? It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t important. The pride, that moment of glory, that is what is important. Angel Homecare provides us with Rachel and they are contracted by Elder Services of Merrimack Valley. Angel Homecare can be reached at 1-978-475-2244 or www. angelhomecare.com and Elder Services of Merrimack Valley can be contacted at 1800-892-8090 or www.esmv.org.

#OMMERCIAL "ANKING !T 9OUR #OMMUNITY "ANK 3TONEHAM"ANK PROUDLY PRESENTS OUR DEDICATED COMMERCIAL BANKING PROFESSIONALS SERVING -ASSACHUSETTS AND 3OUTHERN .EW (AMPSHIRE /UR TEAM HAS OVER YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE PROVIDING THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF SERVICE SOLUTIONS AND ADVICE #ALL US TODAY TO SPEAK WITH ONE OF OUR EXPERIENCED COMMERCIAL LENDERS

#OMMERCIAL ,ENDING s "USINESS "ANKING

2OBERT "ROWN 6ICE 0RESIDENT RBROWN STONEHAMBANK COM

%DWARD $OHERTY 6ICE 0RESIDENT EDOHERTY STONEHAMBANK COM

7ILLIAM /LSEN 3ENIOR 6ICE 0RESIDENT WOLSEN STONEHAMBANK COM

%D !LLAN 6ICE 0RESIDENT EALLAN STONEHAMBANK COM

(OUR 4ELEPHONE "ANKING s WWW STONEHAMBANK COM

-ONTVALE !VE 3TONEHAM -!

"OSTON 2D "ILLERICA -!

2EDSTONE 3HOPPING #ENTER $ -AIN 3T s 3TONEHAM -!

This February, Sistacamp hosted 40 girls for two days at the Bennett Library over school vacation week. The girls played board games, sang, gave each other pedicures, and held a talent show. Organizer Karla DiChiara is planning another Sistacamp for April vacation next.

Marshall Middle School students raised $1,118.30 for the Billerica Food Pantry. The collection was made during a recent spirit week and a check was presented to Ken Buffum, Veterans Office Director and Organizer for the Food Pantry at The Old Ditson School.

The Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner

â&#x20AC;˘By Diana Lombardo

College for All? As their final year in public school draws to a close, I worry about my 12th graders. The majority of my students will go on to fouryear colleges â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but for a lot of these kids, this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily the appropriate next step. Is college for everyone? Should it be? As a teacher, I work to equip my graduating seniors with the skills they will need in college, but often I worry about the relevance of what is being taught, even in my own classroom. Sure, being able to read critically and write effectively are important skills regardless of whether one enrolls in college or enters the workforce right out of high school. However, I am currently teaching Elizabethan poetry to a group of rather reluctant 18-year olds, many of whom complain that Shakespeare et al has absolutely no relevance to their teenage lives. There are times when I tend to agree, despite my love of literature and firm belief that students benefit from exposure to complex and challenging material. Is understanding iambic pentameter the best use of my kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time during these dwindling days of senior year? Should we instead be focusing on more practical â&#x20AC;&#x153;life skillsâ&#x20AC;? right now, such as how to balance a checkbook or develop a household budget? After 16 years of teaching this age group, I have come to see that college is not the right choice for every kid. Schools pride themselves on the number of graduating seniors enrolling in college; guidance counselors urge students to apply to their â&#x20AC;&#x153;reach schoolsâ&#x20AC;?; parents swell with pride when those letters of acceptance turn up in the mailbox. But sometimes it seems like the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dreams and goals get lost in the shuffle.

Some kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really want to go to college, at least not right out of high school, but are afraid or embarrassed to admit this. Years ago, when I first began teaching, I had a bulletin board in my classroom labeled â&#x20AC;&#x153;College Acceptancesâ&#x20AC;?; when my seniors would hear from their colleges, they would proudly tack their names and accepted colleges up on that board. Yet, inevitably, there would be a handful of kids who â&#x20AC;&#x153;never got aroundâ&#x20AC;? to itâ&#x20AC;Śand now, I think I know why. With your peers, parents, and community all expecting you to take that next step, who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel awkward and out of place if college wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t in your future? With the average annual cost of a fouryear private college approaching $40,000 per year, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it make sense to ensure that this is the right next step for our kids? Whose dream is it, really â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, or ours? We push our kids to excel, to set goals, to challenge themselves. My own daughter is in her first year at UMass, and while I am proud that she has come this far, I am realistic also. The time may come when she decides that college isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t right for her, and I will do my best to respect and support that choice. Sometimes I think about those kids who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put their names on my bulletin board, and I wonder where they are now. I hope they are happy and successful in their chosen fields, regardless of whether or not college was part of that plan. Diana Lombardo is a Billerica resident, mom of two and an English teacher with 15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience. Readers are invited to submit education related questions for future columns to Diana at teacherscornerbillerica@gmail.com.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

Dave Says

•By Dave Ramsey

Responsibility Leads to Wealth Responsibility leads to wealth. Dear Dave, Why is it that some people have enough money for pizza, lottery tickets, cable television and cigarettes, but they don’t buy something as inexpensive as renter’s insurance, and then they expect someone else to bail them out when a fire destroys their home? – Keith Dear Keith, This kind of behavior falls into the Stupid Tax category. It’s an aggravating thing, but at the same time there’s something about fire that elicits sympathy from me. Even if there’s stupidity involved in what happened, it’s such an emotionally devastating event. But I think it’s important to talk about what you’ve brought up. Let’s put it another way. Why are there people who get mad at others for building wealth, or expect other people to bail them out after they’ve behaved irresponsibly? Ninety percent of America’s millionaires are first-generation rich. They started with nothing, and instead of buying lottery tickets and smokes, they saved money and bought things like renter’s insurance. They kept things like car insurance and health insurance in place, so that if they totaled their car or had to have an operation, they could pay for it instead of filing bankruptcy! In other words, they were responsible. They stayed out of debt because they were mature enough and responsible enough to delay pleasure, and then after years of living this way, they looked up and discovered they were millionaires. That’s how it happens. You delay bits and pieces of fleeting pleasure for a quality life in the future. Now, you don’t trade away all momentary pleasures. You don’t have to completely give up fun to win with money, but you trade impulsive, immature decisions and purchases for the reward of a better life later. Most poor people delay none of the pleasures. They live only in the moment, and that’s why they stay poor. If they want a better washer and dryer, they’ll rent-to-own instead of saving up for a little while and buying a decent, used combo in the classifieds. I understand that bad things sometimes

happen to good people, and you can end up broke that way, too. But I firmly believe that in most cases, it’s not that they don’t have the money, it’s more a case of they don’t have a vision for the future. They surrender a great life down the road for “Thank God it’s Friday. Oh God, it’s Monday!” – Dave Buy or wait? Dear Dave, I’m 18, and I have a job making $30,000 a year. I’ve also got about $40,000 in stocks and $10,000 in savings. I want to buy a house in the near future. Should I pay cash and buy it outright, or is a 15-year mortgage okay? – Sam Dear Sam, I love the idea of paying cash for a house, but I’m even more impressed that you’ve got $50,000 you could put toward a house and a job making $30,000 a year at age 18. Man, you’re really kicking it! It’s a great time to buy a house. Interest rates are low, and prices are great. But the thing that keeps sticking in my mind is that you’re still just 18 years old. Now, there’s nothing wrong with being 18, but there’s also nothing wrong with waiting a few years and getting a little more life experience under your belt before you saddle up with a mortgage. At times like this, I think about what I’d tell my own 18-year-old son. And honestly, I think I’d advise him to wait and let life happen for a while. I’m not putting you down because you’re 18. You’ve done some amazing things. But I think the best thing would be to keep piling up cash, then take a look and see how you feel and what your life is like in two or three years. You’ve got lots of time and a huge head start already. Plus, there will still be plenty of properties out there. Then, when the time is right, either pay cash or do a 15-year, fixed-rate mortgage. And if you take out a mortgage, make sure the monthly payments are no more than 25 percent of your takehome pay! Great job, Sam! – Dave

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

March is Red Cross Blood Drive Month! Dustin Shea stopped by the Thomas Talbot Masonic Lodge to donate blood. The Masons run blood drives every eight weeks and Boy Scout Troop 30 is always on hand to help donors get juice or rest after giving blood.

Pick Up One of Our

IRISh WhISkE! yS Today

Admiral Nelson Rum Smirnoff Vodka Flavors Ketel One Johnnie Walker Red Label Svedka Vodka Smirnoff Red Captain Morgan Tangueray Crown Royal Grey Goose Belvedere Baileys Hennessey Dewars Jameson Michael Collins Bushmills

750ml $12.99 $14.99. $23.99 $26.99 $14.99 $18.99 $25.99 $28.99 $32.99 $31.99. $26.49 $44.99. $23.99 $25.99 $22.99 $21.99

WINES

1.75L . $44.99 $23.49 $24.99 $30.99 $37.99 $53.99 $58.99 . $39.99 . $45.99

3 bottles Mix & Match 5% OFF 6 bottles Mix & Match 10% OFF (Excluding current discounted wines.)

BEER SPECIALS

Rolling Rock 18 pk. glass $10.99 Miller Lite and Coors Light 24 pk. cans $17.69 Bud & Bud Light 24 pk. loose $17.69 NIPS Smirnoff Flavors Parrot Bay Coconut Baileys Flavors

Tisdale.........................................750 ml $4.99. .or 3 for $12.00 Barefoot......................................750 ml $6.39 or 2 for $12.00 Columbia Crest Two Vines...........750 ml $7.99. .or 3 for $20.00

50ml $1.00 $1.00 $1.00

/ thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

One Small Building Houses One Large Vision

Our Beautiful Bennett By Liana Measmer

“…Yesterday was a red letter day in the annals of the ancient town, Being marked by an event of no little importance as affecting the future welfare and progress in culture of its people. The completion and formal dedication of a public library and reading room, to share in the advantages of which all responsible inhabitants of the place are entitled, for a fee that is merely nominal…” –The Dedication of the Bennett Public Library. The Saturday Evening Mail. Saturday, October 29, 1881. Billerica Centre.

The Bennett Public Library, Billerica’s first public library, sits as it always has in glorious and stately repose at the north end of the town common on 3 Concord Road. This architectural gem is Gothic in style, built of Philadelphia faced brick, trimmed with Nova Scotia freestone and topped by a slated roof. Its pointed spire is showcased by a surmounted prominent turret. No longer our library, the Bennett has undergone numerous permutations, thriving and filling an important role as Billerica’s cultural meeting center. As of September 2009, there were an estimated 122,356 libraries of all kinds in the United States. A few hundred years ago, libraries were a rare commodity and practically non-existent. However, one prominent family had a vision and blazed a trail for years of service and learning for anyone calling Billerica home.

Classics for All Eleanor Richardson, of Billerica, was born on September 11, 1794. Joshua Bennett, who was born on November 27, 1792, had been a teacher in Dorchester, MA and later was in business in Boston at the firm of Bennett and Felton. He went on to accumulate large properties like the future Vilna Shul (Boston’s Center for Jewish Culture) in 1835 and later built tenement blocks on Boston’s Phillips Street in 1855. Joshua met Eleanor and they were married on October 8, 1815. They resided with their daughters, Rebecca and Ellen, in Bennett Hall, a large sprawling estate situated at the corner of Boston Road and Good Street. Although in Billerica, the Bennett’s maintained their connection to Boston, sending the girls to school at Mount Benedict in Charlestown, MA at the Ursuline Convent.

A cultured wealthy family, The Bennetts were familiar with books and libraries. Having been in Boston, it was no doubt a common trip for Mrs. Bennett to go to the Boston Public Library, which opened in 1854 and was the first municipally supported public lending library in the United States. Libraries at the time consisted of private collections housed in churches or people’s estates. These social libraries were reserved for visitors to the church minister or for the wealthy who allowed those in their circle to view their books. The first social library in Billerica came to be 1772 with the second one incorporated in 1807. Building a Legacy Mrs. Bennett realized her life long dream of establishing a local public lending library when, in 1879, she learned that a few citizens, lead by Fredric

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

P. Hill, had decided to form a library association since no public one was available. She quickly became interested in their cause. Having lost her husband in 1865, an elderly Mrs. Bennett, age 85, planned to make a donation in his memory for the plot of land and the building in the sum of $5,000 but would seek matching appropriations from Town Meeting. Upon going before the body, Mrs. Bennett was turned down. Town Meeting, which convened on May 11, 1880, “declined with thanks by a majority vote.” However, some of the minority, who did not want to lose the opportunity of this free gift, expressed their desire to join the association to allow for the project to go forward. Thus the Bennett Public Library Association, still in existence today, was born. The land had originally been owned by the Bowers sisters, the daughters of William Bowers who were described as “three maidens of great worth but eccentricity.”. They are best known for founding and managing the Bowers Fund, money which had been used over the years to help residents in financial need. The Bowers’ sold the land to the Osborn family, who in turn sold the approximate 10,000 square foot plot to the Association for the whopping sum of $1.00. Building of the Bennett commenced in the winter of 1880 and was finished with ample time before the dedication in October 1881. The bill for the Bennett, its furnishings and the initial collection of books through multiple donors came to $9,500. In 1881, the building itself was about 36 feet by 44 feet. There was a vestibule, an “ample hall”, a “director’s room”, a reading room, and a cloak room. The reading room had a wide mantled fireplace with a bust of Homer, and was a contribution of William Warren, Esq, Mrs. Bennett’s sonin-law. The large, beautiful and prominent stained glass rose window at the front of the building was a gift from Joshua A. Holden, Mrs. Bennett’s grandson. By 1892, the library collection had grown to 1,700 volumes. The Historical Society needed more room to house its collection and the library trustees, ensuring the Bennett remained accessible to all, offered a lifetime membership of $5.00 per person. In 1894, to accommodate this growth, Ellen and Rebecca enlarged the library for about $4,000 by erecting more shelves and adding the back room now called the Adams room.

The Town Wakes Up Over time, the Bennett took on more and more of the town’s collection. Before 1920, sums of $40 to $60 per year were appropriated to the Bennett from the town budgets for the purchase of books. It took until 1923 before the Town began subsidizing the Bennett, initially for the sum of $500 per year. To make libraries available to other areas of town, two branches opened in the mid 1940’s and 1950’s at the Ditson School in Pinehurst and in the Talbot Mill area of North Billerica. In the 1960’s, because they were running out of space, a loft above the Adams room was built. Older books were boxed and stored in the attic of the Pollard School on Andover Road. Each time a new book was purchased, an old one came off the shelves. After a children’s story hour started and library traffic increased, a bookmobile was purchased to open up building space and get books to readers living in the outer corners of town. Their annual reports throughout the 1960’s documented this growing problem. The Association begged local government to take this seriously, citing the library had outgrown town need 25 years prior with a jump in registered library card holders from 5,000 to 10,000. In response, in1969, the Town Library Building Committee was formed. For the next 10 years, this dedicated group studied, fund raised, and returned to Town Meeting numerous times until the first municipally funded Billerica Public Library opened in 1980 at the site of the current Council on Aging. On a warm day in April 1980, for about three hours, more than 300 people stood shoulder to shoulder for more than 1000 yards to move the Bennett to the new Billerica Public Library. Groups participating included the Garden Club, the Boy Scouts, the Campfire and Rainbow Girls, and the Knights of Columbus. They passed cartons behind the old town hall to the new library. This saved the $3,800 it would have cost to pay a mover. A New Age No longer needed as a library, the Bennett began a new chapter by opening its doors to educational programs and cultural events. These programs were well publicized and attendance by children and adults alike was widespread. In an effort to continue to serve the community, The Bennett has welcomed such groups as The Boys and Girls Club,

The Billerica Museum, the Lions Club, and Atlantis Play makers. By the early 1990’s, a century of age and activity had taken its toll on the building, and an aggressive restoration campaign began. Heating, electrical and water systems were replaced inside while outside the original slate roof and building masonry was repaired. In 1999, with a grant from Welch Foods, Inc. and a portion of the Association’s trust, the building’s signature steeple was rebuilt. In 2004, the interior was redecorated in period color, adding wall coverings and draperies and in 2005, a deck was added to the rear of the building for more functional flexibility. A year later, turn of the century replica fixtures replaced the very inelegant fluorescent lighting which was added in the 1960’s. In addition, exquisite oriental rugs and original artwork from the library’s collection re-established their places of honor in the main hall and the Homer reading room. Today, the Bennett hosts numerous weddings, showers, birthdays, graduations, and business meetings. The next big restorative project will be renovating the windows and panes. Anyone interested in seeing restorations photos, joining the Association, or reserving the Bennett for a function can visit their website at www.bennettpubliclibrary.org. This architectural gem was as much a gift in 1881 as it is today and, nothing better sums this up than the last paragraph of Mr. Fredric P. Hill’s poem, read at the dedication over a century ago:

But here we have a better deed To mark a nobler woman’s fame; God grant this building long may stand To prove our Eleanor’s good name.

References 1. Gertrude and Terry Trent, Bennett Public Library Caretakers and Association Board Members 2. David D’Apice, Former Billerica Historical Society and Bennett Public Library Association Member 3. Ms. Ellen B. Hazzard, Descendent of Mrs. Eleanor Bennett and Bennett Public Library Association Board Member 4. Saturday Evening Mail. Dedication of the Bennett Public Library. October 24, 1881 5. Kathy Meagher, Billerica Public Library Historical Librarian 6. Annual Town Reports and Reports of The Bennett Public Library Association, 19201924 and 1967-1973 7. Billerica Magazine, Volumes 1-4, 1912-1916 8. History of Billerica Massachusetts, Reverend Henry A. Hazen. Genealogical Register. 9. Http://bostonhistory.org/boston 10. Boston Globe. April 20, 1980. “Human Chain Moves a Library”. Douglas Crocket, Globe Staff. 11. Deed and Transfer of Bennett and Land in 1880. Recorded Nov. 13, 1884 12. Constitution of The Bennett Public Library Association. 1881. 13. Liz Bentz, Reference Librarian. Billerica Public Library.

/ thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Retirement: RISE to the Occasion By: Frank M. Hynes You know it will be here soon, yet you have not mapped out a strategy to provide a predictable and sustainable income stream that you cannot outlive. Too many times, retirees are looking for that one perfect investment to solve a more complex problem. Unfortunately, no investment will be perfect for everyone. In the past, Financial Advisors, Financial Planners, and investment professionals may not have exactly helped your decision. Consolidation is a buzz word often suggested by some professional as a key investment strategy. If you have more than 10 years before you intend to retire, I agree that this approach may simplify your life. If you are within 5 years of retiring however, this advice may only make sense if you need all of your retirement assets at exactly the same time. Think about it. If you are 60 years old and wish to retire at age 65, conventional wisdom generally says that you have a five year time horizon to grow your assets. That would be correct if you planned to spend all of your money at age 65. I would suggest that you should think of your retirement in steps. By breaking down your retirement into several steps, you can achieve what I refer to as RISE, (Retirement Income Step Enhancement). A RISE strategy modifies the way that you approach Retirement

distribution planning. It suggests the creation of multiple retirement accounts that can have distinct risk characteristics and give you the potential to continue to grow your assets. Each RISE strategy is unique to the particular individual, depending on his/her current assets, goals and objectives. An example would have you establish one account that may be conservative and provide a predictable stream of income for at least 5 years starting at your target retirement age. A second account could assume more risk to attempt to outpace inflation. As you approach the midpoint of depleting your first account, your second account can phase into a more conservative allocation to provide income after year 5. A third account can be positioned for long term growth and future income needed in 10+ years. Always keep in mind that any retirement strategy should not be a “set it and forget it” option, but one that provides opportunity and flexibility. Remember what your parents told you, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket”. Note: Neither MetLife nor any of its affiliates, employees or representatives provide specific tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor or attorney for such guidance. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY 10166. Securities products and investment advisory services offered through MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI)(member FINRA/SIPC), and a registered investment adviser. Branch Office: {330 Boston Rd u-6 North Billerica, MA 01862}. MLIC and MSI are MetLife companies. Frank M .Hynes & Associates are financial services representatives and financial advisers of MetLife. While the process of diversifying your assets across multiple asset classes can help to reduce overall risk, it does not eliminate market risk altogether. L0210091319[exp0610][MA,NH]

Fit Results Profile Offers Computerized Training For some, getting motivated to workout is a struggle. They mean well but don’t follow through. Some people can exercise at home while for others, the discipline of getting to the gym is what makes their workout happen. For some, motivation comes from the accountability of a personal trainer. For others, the direction of a clearly defined personalized routine is enough. What happens if the expense of a gym membership or a trainer is too high? Dave Innis and Joe Cameron of Fit Results considered this too. Billerica natives and long time proponents of health and fitness, the two friends decided to open their own gym after graduating from UMass Lowell with business degrees. Fit Results, located at 475 Boston Road in the big red barn, is a site holding great promise. The lower level will house all the newest weight machines while the upper level will have cable TV at each cardio machine. Fitness classes like Zumba and Yoga will also be available as well. The facility will also be a 24 hour gym with state of the art security systems to include hard wired panic buttons, central call stations for emergencies, a tailgate

system, and a handicap lift. However, Innis and Cameron’s reason for a 24 hour gym was more than just giving someone the option to workout at 2 o’clock in the morning. “The 24 hour concept is so people can schedule the gym around their lives,” said Innis. The shining gem in the Fit Results crown, though, is the Results Profile. It’s a computerized kiosk creating workouts based on an individual’s body type, fitness level, and fitness goals. The Results Profile is available to all and there is no additional cost outside of their membership. “It’s a computerized personal trainer,” said Cameron. It works at the first workout when the member enters their basic information like age and height. The Results Profile kiosk prints out a sample workout with six exercises. Since it’s introductory, it will gage the member’s strength based on their eight repetition maximum (or 8 rep max). As the member does each exercise, they write down the weight and reps they completed. Then they return to enter their data which is stored at the kiosk. “If you follow the same routine,

after three months, you plateau,” said Cameron. Each time the member comes in and gets a printed Results Profile routine, it will be new workout, designed to hit all the muscles in a different way. The Results Profile also takes into consideration caloric needs when it designs the next workout and if the member misses a day to do outside exercise, that data can also be included to the design. “The Results Profile is about constant progression,” said Innis. Cameron and Innis know they offer the three things that are critical for their members to reach optimal fitness goals. Having the right attitude. Supplying great equipment. Offering plenty of direction. For them, their satisfaction comes when members are successful. The grand opening for Fit Results is planned for April. However, to take a tour or sign up for a membership, come in or call 978-494-2467 or 508-423-5835. Open houses are scheduled for each Saturday in March on the 13th, 20th, and 27th. For more info, visit Fit Results on the web at www.MyFitResults.com.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \

A handful of elementary students enjoyed the first Middlesex Canal Museum school vacation enrichment day in February. Among numerous activities, they built boats and dressed in period clothing for skits. Parents who stayed to observe liked the local connection the MCM makes and agreed that learning and having fun can go hand in hand.

The Flower Lady

•By Kay Warren

Hostas a Gardener’s Best Friend If you are looking for a perennial with almost no work, the Hosta is perfect. This plant is not grown for its flowers but for its foliage. Hostas were named in 1812 for Austrian botanist Nicholas T. Host (17611834). Hostas have also been called Funkia after German botanist Heinrich Funck and Plantain Lily is another popular name for the Hosta plant. The Hosta is the perfect perennial for someone who is looking for a plant that requires little care because it has a great tolerance for shade and cold and resists many insects. The foliage comes in many color combinations of green, blue, some bright yellow and green and just about every shade of green. The Hosta plant ranges from a 3-4 inch plant to some that are a giant 22 inches long. This plant is ideal, whether you have a small or large area. When choosing an area for the Hosta, most prefer shade. Two hours of morning sun is good so that the color of

the leaf is at its best show. Hostas need some space between each plant to mature and water during dry spells. Yes, they can go in all shade but may not be as showy. As long as grass grows in the chosen area, so will the Hostas. If this is a new addition for you, before planting, add some good loam and other organic matter. Young Hostas need two seasons or more to mature and require regular watering during dry spells. In early spring before growth appears, established plants need a balanced, slow-release fertilizer around the crown of the plant. Do not allow fertilizer to touch plant eyes (center). Mature plants are easily divided and they can be planted almost anytime. Planting Hostas is something you can do with a friend and you may have friends that would gladly share their plants. With Spring coming, be on the lookout for local plant sales as these are another wonderful opportunity to purchase this popular plant.

Billerica Media Beat

Every Day Should Have Bright Spots. . .

They Can at Brightview

•By Paul Abrego Shot Composition: Creates Canvases of Moving Images Hello again, would-be videographers. I hope everyone got themselves a nice little tripod or camera stabilizer and have been diligently practicing their camera movements. Now let’s talk about shot composition. As an artist paints a canvas, they use composition and structure to draw the viewer’s attention to the intended subject matter of the piece. So too, the video artist can “paint” a canvas of moving images to tell as story and evoke emotions in their audience. Video shot composition, or the conscious effort to put together a video piece by design is a powerful tool to illicit emotion within the viewer. Most times, this is an unconscious nod to the viewer. Eye pleasing shots are what most film and television pieces are composed of. One thing that will always please the viewer’s eye is by leaving adequate headroom. Headroom means the amount of room between the top of someone’s head and the top of the frame or the screen. Most badly framed shots have a problem with headroom

and it’s the easiest problem to fix. Make sure that if you are filming a person, don’t cut off the top of their head or leave too much space between their head and the top of the frame. Similarly, nose room and space take into account the viewer’s natural tendency to be drawn to pleasing shots. Nose room means the amount of room on one side of the frame to the side of the subject’s face or nose. When a subject is turned away from the camera and looking or speaking to someone to the left or right, there should be space between the two. Not many people speak nose to nose but without proper nose room and spacing, two subjects would look like they were on top of one another. To combat this, always leave nose room on the side that the subject is facing. By trying these straightforward tricks (leaving adequate headroom, nose room and space between subjects), you’ll notice a real uptick in the professionalism of your videos. Paul Abrego is Technical Coordinator at BATV and can be reached with questions or comments at pabrego.batvinc@comcast.net

Assisted Living

“I can enjoy the privacy of my own apartment and also get the assistance I need with personal care and managing medications.”

ALzheimer’s CAre “The Wellspring neighborhood at Brightview can provide Dad with a higher quality of life than we ever thought possible.”

Brightview – where supportive care is wrapped in a lifestyle filled with potential.

978-262-1410

199 Concord Road Billerica, MA 01821 BrightviewConcordRiver.com Brightview intends to be certified as an Assisted Living Residence with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs pending completion of the certification process.

Come by for a personal visit anytime!

10 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Court's In Session

•By Attorney Jennifer O'Brien

Insurance Friendly Claims

I was a passenger in my friend’s car when she caused an accident and I was injured. I do not want to sue my friend but I still suffer from pain and I have incurred both medical bills and lost wages. I think I should be compensated but I don’t want to lose my friend. What will happen to my friend if I do pursue a claim?

Believe it or not, this situation is a common occurrence. Understandably, most people do not want to sue their friends even if their friend is the one who caused their injury. However, once people understand what is really involved in filing a claim for personal injuries, they often realize it is not as bad as it first sounds. Whenever someone is responsible for an accident, the insurance companies decide who was at fault. If your friend was found to be at fault, she is going to be assessed a surcharge regardless of whether or not you file a claim for personal injuries. If you do file a claim, you are filing not directly against your friend, but rather against her insurance company. Essentially,

you are asking her insurance company to compensate you because it’s driver caused you to be injured. Generally these claims go through an attorney’s office, but you can also represent yourself and deal directly with your friend’s insurance company. Usually after you are done treating for your injuries, your attorney will forward all of your medical bills, medical records, proof of lost wages, and proof of any out of pocket expenses to the other person’s insurance company, along with a demand for compensation. Negotiations take place thereafter and you can accept or reject any offer made. Most cases settle at this stage and your friend is not even involved. The only time you sue your friend personally is if you are unable to work out a settlement with her insurance company and you are forced to file a Complaint in court. Again, whether or not to file a Complaint is your choice thus if you are truly worried about your friendship, you can simply settle with her insurance company before it gets this far. If a Complaint is filed, your friend will not have to hire her own attorney, but her insurance company will hire one for her.

Though most cases settle prior to trial, if you do go to trial and get a judgment against her, her insurance company will also pay that judgment. The only exception to this is if your judgment exceeds her policy limits. Then it is your decision as to whether or not you wish to pursue her personally to collect any monies awarded over and above her policy limits. Insurance companies are in the business of making money and sometimes benefit by this exact situation where someone is legitimately injured but wont pursue a claim because she feels bad. Considering all the insurance premiums we all pay to insure our vehicles, homes, and businesses, it silly not to call on these companies to pay when we need them. Jennifer H. O’Brien is the owner of O’Brien Law Offices, a general practice located at 630 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 01821. She can be reached at (978) 262-9880 or at www.obrienlawoffices.org. This information should not be construed as legal advice nor is it intended as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney. No person should act or rely on any information in this article without seeking the advice of an attorney.

The Green Handyman

•By Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E.

Out of Many Stories, We are One: Diversity Day Teaches Enrichment We all have a story to tell. It is our story and no one else’s. No one else’s to judge and no one else’s to change. It just is. When facing others that are different in their ideas, religions, races, or genders, many think of tolerance. Billerica CARES, an organization that highlights the diversity that exists by raising awareness, increasing sensitivity, and enhancing the climate of respect in town, is challenging this manner of thought by hosting a Diversity Week throughout the elementary schools from March 22-26, with the capstone of the week being a Diversity Day at Billerica Memorial High School (BMHS) on Fri., Mar. 26. “In essence, we want to catch them when they are young before ideas settle in,” said Sandy Lanteigne, CARES Chairperson and BMHS teacher. The title for this week is “E Pluribus Unum” which in Latin means “Out of Many, One”. On every penny, this phrase suggests that out of many people, races, religion and ancestries emerged the single people and nation. The goal for the week is to celebrate how we all enrich each other. During the week, the elementary school cafeterias will serve foods from different cultures and music classes will look at dance throughout the world. Art classes will join

in by focusing on styles and types of art from other cultures as well. At the high school level, social studies classes will explore philosophies and theologies from around the globe. “We are all here and we all came from different places,” said Dr. Tony Serio, Superintendent of Schools. One focal point at the high school will be the keynote speaker, Dr. Diana Eck from Harvard University’s Pluralism Project. She will speak at an assembly and then will have her Pluralism students on a panel to answer questions. CARES chose religion as the point of pluralism on which to focus. However, the three main ones-Judaism, Christianity, and Muslim-are being discussed in terms of literature, culture and their impact on different nationalities. By reaching out to young people, a new way of seeing ourselves and others can be presented. Speaking to the senior class at BMHS takes into account that these graduates will soon be moving into and beyond their Billerica roots and be immersed in the diversity of the larger community. For more information on Mar. 26 or the entire week, visit the Billerica Public Schools website www.billerica.k12.ma.us.

Handy Under The Hood You are already saving money by maintaining your house yourself. Why not do the same with your car? Today we’ll cover some work you can do under the hood. Windshield wipers. Should you do it? Definitely. Tools required: none. It used to be you could replace just the refill, which is the rubber part that touches the glass, but those are hard to find now. So replace the entire blade about once a year. Be very careful which ones you buy – sometimes even the right and left sides have different part numbers. Have the auto parts guy help you. They snap right in so see the box for instructions. Lamps. Should you do it? Probably. Tools required: none. Why drag the car all the way to the shop just for a light bulb? Tell the auto parts buy exactly what has burned out – tail lamp, directional, headlamp, etc. Your owner’s manual (which is in your glove compartment – right?) will explain how to make the change. It is not as easy as changing a light bulb in your house because you are working in a tight space. But most bulb fixtures just twist out and bulbs just push in. Green Handyman tip: halogen headlamps burn very hot. Oil from your skin could cause them to break. Handle them using latex gloves. Air filter. Should you do it? Maybe. Tools required: none. These are harder to replace on newer cars because they can be squeezed

into hard-to-reach places. So take a look at yours and decide if you can get to it. Again, your owner’s manual will show you how. Usually the cover is held on by clips. While you are filtering, replace the cabin air filter, which in most cars is accessed through the glove compartment. Engine oil. Should you do it? Probably not. Tools required: Wheel ramps, wheel stops, oil catcher, ratchet, oil filter wrench. You can save a ton of money changing your own oil. The trouble is, it’s messy and doit-yourselfers working underneath heavy cars make me nervous. If you are willing to take it on, use real equipment from the parts store. Don’t use a rock for a wheel stop. And never, ever, ever use a jack for this type of work. I don’t care how stable it feels. Ease the front of the car up on to the ramps. You won’t be able to see the tires from the driver’s seat, so have an assistant outside the car look for you. Put the wheel stops behind the rear wheels. Use a giant piece of cardboard to catch drips. Line up your oil catcher, remove the plug, and don’t get splashed. (Tip: wear safety goggles.) Replace the filter and don’t forget to put the plug back in. Or to add new oil. (Don’t laugh!) Hang on to that used oil and bring it to DPW, which collects it twice a year Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E. is a registered professional civil engineer living in Billerica.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 11

Woods Real Estate

Woods Real Estate: Growing Billerica Through Excellence One may hear the tagline “Family Owned and Operated” when it comes to local business. Woods Real Estate literally embraces this concept with more than 16 agents and staff who’ve shown their commitment to making this real estate office into the successful multipurpose agency and school that it is today. Woods winning recipe is make your own agents family and help your colleague agents to grow. Keeping it in the Family It was late 1977 and George Sr. and Helen Woods were embarking on a new adventure. George Sr. was retired Air Force and the Woods family, now in Billerica from Watertown, along with their six children and were going into business for themselves. Helen got her real estate license and began working for a local agency. Eventually George joined her and together they were an unbeatable husband and wife team. The couple took great pride in helping others achieve their own real estate dreams of owning a home. “There is no substitute for service,” said Carol Woods, co-owner of Woods Real Estate. Eventually, over the years, their kids began to join the team. George jr. and John Woods began taking on management responsibilities and in 1999, George jr. and his wife Carol purchased Woods Real Estate from Helen. George Woods Sr. was a pioneer in the art of professional networking and he did it with a lot of spice. George’s spaghetti and meat ball lunches were very well known among the Billerica Real Estate community and were an enjoyable time for connections no one ever wanted to miss. “He would invite the whole town and they would all come,” said Carol. As the business grew, so did the workload. Carol, George jr. and John were working very hard and needed help. However, George Sr. had one hard and fast rule: only FAMILY works here. This was a challenge for the trio who had many talented friends who were successful agents. One such friend was Scott who, although George Sr. liked him, was not allowed into the inner circle. However, one day, George Sr. planned a spaghetti and meat ball networking lunch and had George jr. and Carol bring Scott. When they arrived, they were the only ones there. With a lump in his throat, George Sr. announced Scott as the newest member of the Woods Family and that this was his adoption day. This practice of adopting the agents into the company to maintain the integrity of the ‘Family Owned Business’ still goes on today. Every November, new Woods agents are treated to a spaghetti and meat ball dinner and are presented with their official adoption papers, making them a bona fide member of the family. As family, these agents take pride in their work and maintain the highest standard

of professionalism because they feel a sense of belonging in having such an important role in carrying on this tradition. “This is our way of maintaining family traditions,” said Carol. Open Door Policy Woods Real Estate is committed to helping everyone achieve their real estate dreams and goals. Not only the buyers and sellers, but also the real estate agents all over town. George jr. and Carol started the Woods Real Estate School three years ago which has brought people together with every facet of the real estate community. “This is not a hobby,” said Carol. “We live Real Estate.” As a branch of AAA Statewide Courses, the school offers pre-licensing classes that prepare the salesperson or agent for their statewide exams. Also available are Continuing Education Courses for the brokers who need to maintain their licenses. Through face to face and video supported classes, up to 20 salespeople or brokers can come to complete the required 2 hour modules. Having the school attracts new talent while offering convenience. For the buyers and sellers, Woods Real Estate School holds Real Estate Seminars once per month which offer one-stop-shopping by giving the necessary information to anyone looking to buy or sell their homes. An attorney, a home inspector, a mortgage broker and agents are on hand to give out packets, answer questions and if ready, help the buyer and seller fill out their contracts right on site. Woods Real Estate will often invite a variety of companies to come so specific needs are addressed. To better explain the tax credit, H &R Block was recently on hand to guide people. Other workshops included financing tips, staging, sale preparation and VA benefits. “Woods demonstrates the ability to get you from start to finish,” said Carol. Multi Service Agency In this day and age, to meet the needs of the general population with the face of real estate changing, Woods Real Estate is Loss Mitigation Certified. This allows for the handling of foreclosures and short sales, which are complicated processes to navigate. Carol is also a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. She has experience with reverse mortgages and has an understanding of the culture of senior generation. By offering such services, Woods Real Estate continually strives to stay on top of the current trends affecting the buyers and sellers who are achieving their real estate dreams and goals. For more information on Woods Real Estate and the services they offer, stop by their main office in Towne Plaza at 700 Boston Road, call 978-262-9665, or visit their website at www.WoodsRealEstate.com.

700 Boston Rd., Billerica, MA 01821 Towne Plaza 978-262-9665 www.WoodsRealEstate.com

33 YEARS

Professionals You Can Count on Since 1977.

Carol Woods

Frank Godjikian

Jacqueline Clark

Peter Danas

Debra McNutt

Joseph Hyacinthe

Yasin Jamal

Mary Cashell

Phil Laferriere

Annmarie Richards

Kevin Johnson

Janice Lund

Jessica Miller

John Woods

Lori Legnon

James Costello

Thinking of a new career? Call now!

CALL your real estate professional today! 978-262-9665 Ask your REALTOR® about the $8,000 Tax Credit Today! New Year! New Career! Sign up now for Real Estate School!

Featured Homes

16 Aynsley Circle, Billerica, MA 01821

$679,900 Carol Woods 978-337-4682 Carol@cbwoods.com

1 Sprague St, Billerica, MA 01821

$ 299,900 Frank Godjikian 978-265-6426 Frankg@cbwoods.com

Featured Agent Enthusiasm! Kevin’s high level of energy and commitment to excellence in service will insure certain success in your Real Estate transaction.

Call Kevin Johnson Today! 978-837-7524

Now is the time to catch the wave.

Real Estate Licensing Courses. Right Here. Right Now.

12 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

The Sea Wolves: A Swimmer’s Hidden Gem By Shawn Hutcheon, Sports Writer Billerica is known for its variety of youth sports organizations. There is baseball/softball in the spring, football in the fall, and hockey and swimming in the winter. Yes, that's right. Swimming in the winter.

The Billerica Boys & Girls Club has two teams for youth swimmers between the ages of five through eighteen that emaphasize fun and development, all the while in a winning atmosphere. The Sea Wolves and Sea Dogs are coached by Cheryl Farrell, Aquatics Director for the Boys & Girls Club for the last nine years. Farrell has a love of coaching as she has been doing it for nineteen years thus far. Farrell has five assistant coaches, who volunteer their time along with twenty parents who assist with meet operations each week. “My staff is awesome and the parents are great.” Farrell said. Carol Walsh is an assistant coach with the Sea Wolves. She swam collegiately at Salem State College and has two children, Kierra, age eleven, and Corban, age eight, on the team. Walsh explained the coaching philosophy revolves around teaching such life skills as seeking personal improvement while supporting team mates. This is all done in a family friendly and family oriented environment. "If you get better every day, then that’s all that matters," Walsh explained. "I think you could say we are the 'hidden gem' in town.” Farrell noted the swimmers also benefit from building lasting relationships in an environment with no pressure. “We encourage improvement and put their names on a list each week that shows how much they’ve improved," said Farrell. "There’s no pressure on

them to win.” This environment led to a group of young swimmers on the Sea Wolves who gave their maximum efforts at each and every practice and meet. They were rewarded with an undefeated season. One such swimmer is Stephanie Perrier,

age twelve, who is active in many ways. She plays flute and guitar but swimming is her favorite activity. She just completed her sixth season with the Sea Wolves. "My favorite event is the 100 meter medley.” Perrier said, “We get to see our friends and we support each other." Stephanie’s father, Jay Perrier, volunteers as a starter at the meets. He explained Stephanie has been involved since she was six years old and looks forward to every new season. Jay was also impressed with the coaches, Farrell in particular, expressing his gratitude for her dedication, strong work ethic, and passion. He applauded her team of coaches as well, calling them a 'tremendous supporting cast'. “She is why the entire program is as successful as it is," said Jay. "She brings these kids up from infant and toddler lessons and on through the swim team. Her passion for the sport and team shows in nearly every kid and always puts others before herself.” With the prevailing theme being personal improvement and fun, it is easy to see how this enthusiastic group love being together but yet will welcome newcomers. For youth who are interested in becoming members of the Sea Wolves, Farrell runs swimming clinics in the spring and summer where the strokes and rules used in meets are taught. For more info, visit the Billerica Boys and Girls website at www.billericaboysandgirlsclub. com. Or call Cheryl Farrell at the Club at 978-663-2193.

Ask Dr. Gina

•By Dr. Gina M. Aguayo, Ph. D.

Effective Communication Matters How many of you know someone that gets on your nerves? I would imagine everyone can name at least one person. I know I can! Everyone will, at some point, need to manage a difficult relationship. Difficult relationships come in all shapes and sizes and can include family, friends, co-workers, or individuals with whom you are interacting for a service (e.g., the help desk person at Comcast or the sales person at the mall). Learning how to effectively maneuver your way through a tough interpersonal situation may be the only way to find a silver lining to the interaction. The first step to managing others is managing ourselves. We must begin to understand that the only person you truly control is you. This does not mean that parents should toss in the towel when their kids push back against the rules. I’m referring to the idea that we are only in control of our own emotions and reactions to situations. Thus, no one can “make” you feel a certain way. Your emotional response may be automatic, but it is your response, not one someone forced on to you. For example, you may want your son to pick up his room. You began this interaction by asking him, perhaps on multiple occasions, to clean his room. When his room remained untouched, you found yourself getting frustrated and irritated because your request had been ignored. Before approaching him again, take a minute to take a deep breath and regain control of your emotions. Emotions are notorious for muddling up messages. Once you are able to speak from your head (cognitions) rather than your gut (feelings)

you are in a much better place to have a more productive verbal exchange. No one is immune to hurtful words; how we deal with these words is what makes the interaction worse or better. Dealing with the interaction is the next step in our quest for improved interpersonal relationships. Basically, we are talking about communication skills. Communicating effectively takes effort from all parties involved in the interaction. Your job is to convey your message as concisely as possible, in a manner that the receiver will understand, and avoid sending contradicting messages through your body language. Continuing with the example from above, asking your son to clean his room did not work. Your next attempt will need to be more forceful than the previous request. Your sentence structure should be short and to the point: I’m asking you to clean your room by the end of the day. Ask for a response in order to assess his understanding of your request: Jack, do you understand what I’m asking you to do in your room? Finally, be sure to keep your body posture straight and facing him during this interaction. You do not want to give the impression of indecisiveness or wavering in your request by looking away or slouching. Taking the time to think before you speak, being succinct, and asking for the other person to paraphrase your request, may help you to be a more effective communicator. 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.

Doug Townsend and Heather March Over one year a half ago, the wheelchair bound young adults of the TIL-Toward Independent Living--Program began dancing in their chairs. Today, the dance ‘troupe’ is on the road twice per month visiting local Children’s hospitals and facilities, senior centers and nursing home facilities. For TIL Director, Doug Townsend, it is rewarding but the TIL philosophy teaches the dancers they are giving back while enjoying an activity others take for granted. “This gives my individuals an incredible sense of purpose,” said Townsend. Doug Townsend and Allison Hill dancing

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 13

The Sunny Side of the Street •By Dave Gagliardi

A Medical Moment In the past I have written about the “Newsertainment” industry. For those of you who aren’t familiar with that term, it is how I refer to the CNN’s and Fox News’ of the world. The term could also be applied to local news. What was once a 15 minute update of local news, weather and sports by Jack Chase and Don Kent has now become an attempt to fill 90 minutes with anything that will keep our attention. One thing they have used to fill those 90 minutes is the “Medical Moment” reports. After watching them, they have me convinced that I should be dead. I am either too heavy, not getting enough sun, eating the wrong things or breathing the wrong air. That doesn’t mean that I don’t try to live well. For the most part I watch what I eat, exercise, and don’t engage in “dangerous behavior” but it never seems to be enough because they keep changing the standards on me. At one time the standard for weight for someone of my height was 165 pounds. Now they say it should be 155 pounds. I haven’t weighed that since birth. How many of you remember when the standard for blood pressure was 100 plus your age over 80? Now they want you too be around 120 over 70. Isn’t that borderline comatose? They say that everyone’s cholesterol level should be below 200. I am below that now so I suspect that they will drop that number very soon too. They will never let me get away with having

a normal number. What bothers me most about the “Medical Moment” is when Dr. Tim or Dr. Malika tell us that what we are eating or drinking is killing us. Then present a conflicting report a couple of nights later. One night it’s: “...The American Journal of Medicine says that red wine is good for you.” The next it’s: “...A Harvard School of Public Health report says that red wine is killing you.” White wine is good for you…. No, white wine is killing you…. No, white wine is good for removing red wine stains from carpets. It think it’s making me bi-polar. Another concern expressed by the “Medical Moment” doctors is that certain fish are higher in mercury content than others and should be avoided by certain groups of people. I was watching Modern Marvels the other night and they did a segment on the tuna industry and mentioned how tuna retains mercury and we should limit our intake to 12 ounces a week. The next segment was about how the Japanese pay bazillions of dollars for just the right tuna to serve their population in sushi bars and they consume more tuna that anyone else in the world. Yet no mention was made about any of their population dropping dead in the streets from mercury poisoning. Apparently they don’t have “Medical Moments” on their local news to tell them how sick they really are. Aren’t we lucky that we do?

The Voice of the Artist

Lincoln Liquors 199 Boston Rd. (Rt.3A), Treble Cove Plaza, Billerica

(978) 667-4773

•By Colleen Sgroi

I am sitting in a chair flying through the sky at 500 miles per hour. How amazing! I just spent a week in sunny Ft. Myers, Florida with my sweetheart Rob and his family. A week ago we left Boston in a snow storm. As we sat watching the snow come down waiting for our departure, there came a point in which we needed to make a decision whether to stay in Boston and fly out the following day or continue on and chance it that we may not make our connecting flight in Charlotte. Ours was the last flight of the night. While other family members began to change their flights, Rob asked me what I wanted to do. I said “Let’s keep going. Let’s go on an adventure!” We were both happy to imagine running for our connecting flight or discover what we could in Charlotte, NC. All was well-we were on vacation. I realize more with each passing day that I have a choice in how I can look at life: A creative adventure with joy in each moment or disappointment when things

don’t go as planned. Well, How do you choose a creative adventure over disappointment? I have found this to be possible with a few simple shifts in my thinking. The first is to stay present to what I want to create. For example: I wanted to continue on in my vacation so I opened myself to “vacation fun mentality” and suddenly it was fun to stay in Charlotte, NC unplanned and on vacation. Next, I have in the foundation of my thinking, “Everything happens FOR me not TO me.” This one simple thought is packed with all the creative possibilities that enables me to have joy over disappointment in any situation. Back home now and I am sitting in a chair (in my studio) imagining flying through the sky at 500 miles per hour. Next stop? Hawaii! Colleen is a teaching artist at Colleen Sgroi Gallery and Art Classes on 12 Andover Road, Billerica, MA www.ColleenSgroi.com (978) 667-1009 email Colleen@ColleenSgroi.com

BEER

Bos VIP ton DUNKIN’ Roa AUTO PARTS d DONUTS CVS STARBUCKS

BUD, Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light 30 pk. cans $19.99 + dep. Moosehead 12 pk. $9.99 Lincoln Liquors WINE TREBLE COVE PLAZA Forest Glen 750 ml. 2 for $9.99 Foxhorn 1.5 L. $7.99 Cavit 750 ml. $8.99 LIQUOR 750 ml. $19.99 Smirnoff Vodka 1.5 L. $22.99 Tres Rios 750 ml. $9.99 Woodbridge Wine 1.5 L. $10.99 or Whalers Rum 1.75L. $19.99 2 for $20.99 Blue Ice Vodka Absolute Vodka 750 ml. $20.99 (Cabernet, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Grigio) 40 Varieties of Nips 50 ml.$.99 when No additional discounts on advertised sale items. you buy 5 or more Treble Cove Road

Life, A Creative Adventure

(Across from Hess, VIP Auto Parts and CVS in the Market Basket Plaza, behind Starbucks)

FREE FREE Wine Beer

Tastings Tastings Every Sat. 11am-5pm

Every Fri. 5pm-7pm

% off

3 or more bottles of liquor or any case of wine!

% off

coupon

Candy, Cans of Soda, Chips, & Ice! (Limit 2 per customer Exp. 3/31/10)

14 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Out on the Town Billerica Recreation Department

American Cancer Society Relay for Life

Boys and Girls Club

www.town.billerica.ma.us

www.cancer.org www.relayforlife.org/billericama

19 Campbell Road, Billerica 978-667-2193 Child Care Update: Registrations for Childcare is still being accepted. Your child will be able to begin 2 business days after the paperwork is received. Boys and Girls Club Child Care Programs are licensed and administered under the auspices of the Office of Early Education and Care.

Mar. 28: 8:30 am

Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes

12 Andover Road Billerica, MA 01821

ColleenSgroi.com 978-667-1009

ARTCLASSES

foradults&kids

50% off a Colleen Sgroi painting or print with this ad

Breakfast With The Easter Bunny $5 per personShawsheen Valley High School Cafeteria, 100 Cook St., Billerica, Includes eggs and pancakes, music, face painting, crafts, hat parade and an egg hunt. Bring your camera to take a picture with the Easter Bunny. Tickets purchased at the door only.

Red Hat Society Attention ladies! Come join the Red hat Society! The Bodacious Ladies of Billerica would like to invite you and your friends to join our group. We enjoy each others company and we even donate to charities such as ALS, American Cancer, American Diabetes and the House of Hope. Call Queen Mother Virginia McGrath @ 978-667-7487 or contact her at bluedaddy@comcast.net.

Atlantis Playmakers www.AtlantisPlaymakers.com 380 Cambridge St Burlington, 978-667-0550 Registration for Summer Theater Classes-Ongoing Mar.13-27: Th, Fri, Sat at 8pm Mar. 20 & 27 at 4pm, Miss Firecracker Contest by Beth Henley

Billerica Public Library www.billericalibrary.org

Need another copy? The pies of o c a r t x Find e at these n e e r G a Billeric ocations. a l c Billeri

The Library The Rec. Department The Council on Aging Pro-Fitness, Town Hall Realty World Advantage BATV, Batian Peak

15 Concord Road, Billerica 978-671-0948 Mar. 11: 7:00 pm: Celtic Bells, Meeting Room Jerry and Nancy Bell are Parents Choice Award Winners who combine their twin loves of teaching and Celtic music to bring a high energy, multi-dimensional learning experience to their programs. Mar.25: 7:00 pm: All the President’s Women, Meeting Room The Delvena Theatre Company will be presenting a live performance looking into the lives (sometimes behind closed doors!) of some of our United States presidents, their wives, mothers, etc. April 15: 7 PM: Rory Raven “The Mentalist”: Have you ever had that crazy feeling that something bad was going to happen? Are you psychic? Learn about parapsychology and the attempts to document ESP, witness SPOON BENDING, and decide if you can trust your own eyes! Grades 9 - adult ONLY!! PLEASE NOTE GRADES. Online registration required starting March 15. April 29: 7 PM: Marie’s Home Improvement According to Do-It-Herself.com, 70 percent of women would like to know more basic household maintenance and repair. Ready to tackle projects on your household’s to-do list? Want to save money and build confidence through the process? Marie Leonard, owner of her own home improvement business, Marie’s Home Improvement, has been teaching home repair to women for years.

June 12-13:Lampson Field Upcoming Meetings At The Boys and Girls Club 19 Campbell Road, Billerica Apr. 7: Team Captain’s Meeting: 7-7:30 pm Planning Team Meeting: 7:45-8:45 pm May 5: Team Captain’s Meeting: 7-7:30 pm Planning Team Meeting: 7:45-8:45 pm T-shirt order deadline May 26: Planning Team Meeting: 7-8 pm June 2: Team Captain’s Meeting: 7-8 pm Bank night and pick up T-shirts Planning Team Meeting: 8-9 pm June 9: Planning committee meeting: 7-8:30 pm

Merrimack Rep Theatre www.merrimackrep.org 50 East Merrimack St. Lowell 978.654.4MRT 2010 Season Mar. 18-Apr.11: The Last Days of Mickey & Jean Apr. 22-May 16: The Blonde, The Brunette and The Vengeful Redhead Apr. 11: 1-4 pm: St. Theresa’s Women’s Club

Billerica Pop Warner www.billericapopwarner.org New this season! Unlimited-weight, midget “a” team, patriot division. Now accepting registrations for our Unlimited-Weight Division. Ages 11-13 must weigh a minimum of 105 lbs while maximum weight is unlimited. Players age 14 must weigh between 105 lbs and 165 lbs. For Info., call Rocco Magliozzi at 978-866-8852.

Billerica Junior High Football 508-572-8224 Fall Season Player Registrations Every Sat. in March 12 noon–3pm Recreation Dept Bldg

Billerica Little League www.billericalittleleague.org Apr. 24: Opening Day 330 Boston Rd, Billerica 978-670-1549 We are still accepting registrations for 2010 But our fees are $150 for a single player or $200 for two or more players. Players that will age 12, 14,15 & 16. Are subject to being placed on a Wait List. You can register on-line or download the registration form. In order to play Billerica Little League in 2010. A player MUST BE AT LEAST 6 years old by April 30. Players over the age of 16 on April 30 will be too old for this season.

Election Day Apr. 10: Polls open 8 am- 8 pm

www.billericabgc.com

Early Bird Program: Our before school program operates at the Boys and Girls Club from 6:30am until school bus pick up (our club is a bus stop for all elementary schools). Fun Club Program: Our after school program that runs from school dismissal until 6:00pm. This is held at each elementary school (grades k-5). Kindergarten Program: Our program operates in coordination with the school department. The children are at the Boys and Girls Club when they are not in school. For example, if they are in the AM session, they will go to school and be bussed to the Club between 11:00 and 11:45. They are able to stay until 3:00pm. If you need care after 3:00pm, we transport the children back to their school for Fun Club. If they are in the PM session, they come to the club in the morning after 7:45am until the school bus picks them up between 11:00 and 11:45 to take them to their school. If additional care is needed after sc ool, the children can be enrolled in the Fun Club program until 6:00pm. Swim Lessons update We are accepting registrations for our next session of swim lessons. For a complete list of fees, classes, schedules and availability visit the website. Looking for a local business? Find them in the

BUSINESS DIRECTORY online at www.thebillericagreen.com

Ye’ Olde Meeting House: Town Hall Meetings Mar. 15: 7pm: Selectmen, Conway Rm. Mar. 17: 7pm: Republican Town Com., Rm. 210 April 5: 7:30 pm: Board of Health, Rm. 210 April 10: Town Election Calendar: ELECTION DAY April 12: 7 pm: Selectmen, Conway Room

Real Estate Seminar 978-262-9665 Woods Real Estate, 700 Boston Rd., Billerica Apr. 14: 6:30 pm

Friends of Fox Hill Cemetery Wednesdays: 7:00 pm Would like to welcome new members In the beautification process of Fox Hill Cemetery. Meetings are held every month at the Billerica Town Hall 365 Boston Road, Billerica For further info, please call the Cemetery Dept. 978-671-0496

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 15

The Recreation Department hosted its first Summer Camp Expo at the Elks Lodge on Feb. 21 to bring in-town and out-oftown camp options to Billerica’s moms and dads. More than 15 exhibitors were on hand with information. Some well known favorites included the Sheriff’s Office Youth Camp and Flip City Gymnastics. Some new options included Thundercats, …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Council On Aging 25 Concord Road Billerica Respite Care Companion Program: The Respite Companion program helps families care for their loved ones with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other health conditions that require supervision, allowing elders to remain at home as long as possible. Companions will come to the home and prepare light meals, help with shopping lists, and can also provide transportation for errands and appointments for elders who do not drive or need help managing their bundles. Respite Companions are available to work anytime. Please call Lauren Gray at 978-6710916 ext: 226 The COA Van Service: Trips will now be available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Errands or medical appointments in Billerica ONLY. A 2-day notice is preferred. $2.00 fee/round trip. Call Ruth at 978-06710916 ext. 229. March-April: Income Tax Help: For Billerica residents 60 and older to complete uncomplicated Income Tax forms. Please call to make your appointments. Senator Ken Donnelly Office hours: First Wednesday of each month from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Starting week of March 15: New Computer Classes: E-Mail, Monday @ 10:30 a.m., Internet, Monday @ 1:30 p.m., Beginner 1, Wednesday @ 10:30 a.m. $35 for 6 weeks. Please sign up at front desk. COA Golf League: Swanson Meadow Golf Course will host this league; 60 years and older. Starting around April 15. Tee times- Mon. 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Senior rate for 9 holes with a golf cart is $22; with a pull cart is $15. There is limited membership. Register at the COA. The deadline for sign-up is March 15th. Contact Onorio Cerrato at oncerrato@ comcast.net 978-362-3406, Tony Cucchi at acucchi@verizon.net 978-663-8314, or Dick Tracey at traceymedprod@comcast.net 978-667-4620. March 16: 10 a.m.: Financial Check-up with Stoneham Bank March 18: SHINE Appointments Pool Tournaments: 1 pm: Women’s, March 19 and Men’s, March 24 Must be 60 years or older. Call Joe Towne at 978-663-2285 March 24: 6-8 pm: Wisdom Works: For job seekers age 55 or older. Human Resources professionals will facilitate the four-session workshop held at

the Billerica Senior Center, 25 Concord Road. Registration fee $15. Call Marilyn Keating 978671-0916, ext 223. March 25: 10 am: Pharmacy Clinic: Dr. Carlton Chin of Walgreen’s Pharmacy. Mar 25: 10 am.: Free History Lecture Paul Hogman will tell us the history and lives of the Vikings. Mar 30: 12:30pm Book Club Mar 31: 10 am Estate Planning April 6: 6:30 pm: Senior Talent Show! Showcase whatever your special talent may be: perhaps you can sign, dance, play an instrument, read poetry, or have a comedy act. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments served. Please contact Linda Kiernan at 978-617-0916 to sign up.

Billerica Public Schools and Billerica CARES http://billerica.k12.ma.us or 978-528-8500 Diversity Week and E Pluribus Unum Mar. 22-26: Cultural activities in Elementary Schools Mar. 26: Diversity Day at BMHS

Irish American Club 616 Middlesex Turnpike 978-663-3900 Mar 17: 11am: St. Patrick’s Day Mar 27: 8PM-12 Midnight: Andy Healy Band, Tickets $10 Mar 29: 2-7PM: Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday Nights: Rita O’Shea Irish Set Dancing, 781-665-3110 Thursday Nights: Line Dancing Grundy, Dancingbob@hotmail.com May 21: 7:00pm Joey and Maria’s Family reunion comedy dinner show - a spring fundraiser to benefit the students of the Parker School

Kesslers Karate Studio 7 Marshall Street 978-667-7774 Mar. 13: 6pm Murder Mystery Theatre, Oriental Cuisine, live musical performances, A fun, WhoDone-It, with a prize for the winning detective! Adults $14, Children, $10 Proceeds to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Call for reservations, 978-667-7774 Apr 3: 2-3:30pm Cake Auction for PAL, Make a cake or buy a cake for Easter, Proceeds benefit the Billerica Police Athletic League

Annual Easter Brunch Courtyard By Marriott Billerica 270 Concord Rd. Billerica 978-670-7500 April 4: Annual Easter Brunch Sittings 10 am, 12 noon and 2 pm RESERVATIONS REQUIRED! Adults $29.95, Seniors $26.95 Children under 12 $12.95, Under 3 free. For reservations call 978-670-7500.

8th Annual Food Drive www.curves.com Curves 199 Boston Rd., Treble Cove Plaza 978-663-3450 Entire Month of March: 8th Annual Food Drive Donate a full bag of groceries and join for FREE! Seeking non-perishable food & household products for the Billerica Food Pantry.

Billerica Health Fair Billerica Lodge of Elks 14 Webb Brook Road Apr. 10: 10am-2pm: Health and Wellness Information Exhibitors available. For Info, contact Annette Presseau at stitchlady.netti46@yahoo.com or join the Facebook group “Billerica Health and Wellness Fair”

New England Pediatric Care 78 Boston Rd. North Billerica 17th Annual Cool Kids 5K Road Race and Fun Walk May 2: 10:30 am Runners Entry Fee: $25 Walkers Entry Fee: $20 For Info, call 978-667-5123 or email Laura Pico at nepccoolkids@yahoo.com SEEKING SPONSORS!

Billerica Homeschooling Association

Fit Results

www.billericahomeschooling.com

www.MyFitResults.com

Mar. 26, Apr. 30, May 21: 10 am-12 noonHomeschooling Socials Billerica Public Library, Children’s Room Join us with some games or other quiet activities For more information, contact Jen Croce at billericahomeschooling@live.com or 978-362-2188

475 Boston Road, 508-423-5835 OPEN HOUSES: Saturdays in March! Mar. 13, 20, 27 10am-2pm

My Moms’ Group Mymomsgroupbillerica@yahoo.com Apr. 9: 10:15am: 3rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt Kohlrausch Park. N. Billerica Cost: $5 per child (includes egg hunt & pizza) RSVP: # of children at Mymomsgroupbillerica@yahoo.com

WellSkills.com Nutrition Classes

Lenten luncheons Mar. 17: Community Congregational Church 803 Boston Rd. Billerica (978) 663-3750 www.cccbillerica.org Mar 24: New Colony Baptist Church 30 River St., Billerica (978) 663-4773 www.newcolony.org >>Continues on next page.

3-6 3-13 3-20 3-27

Lifestyle Grocery Tour Desserts Greens

WellSkills.com has schedule of events and FREE recipes

16 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

SistaCamp pckelleher@verizon.net Registration for April 19-21Now being accepted! Mon.- Wed.: 8am-3:30pm $100/week or $35/day $150/ week for 2 or more sisters Limited to first 35 first come, first served

Karyn Button Memorial Foundation Annual Fundraiser www.karynbutton.com Apr 17: 7pm-12am 617-905-8956 Billerica Elks 14 Webb Brook Rd, Billerica

Kindergarten Vision and Hearing Screening Sponsored jointly by The Lions Club and Billerica Public Schools Mar 20: 8 am–12 noon BMHS Cafeteria. This is a FREE service. Registration Forms Available from Cathy Jenkins. Billerica Public Schools. 978-528-8500

Putt-A-Round Indoor Mini Golf

Billerica Cat Care Coalition May 14: 7-9 pm: Cat Care Coalition 6th Annual “The Cat’s Meow Chocolate Tasting & Silent Auction” Indian Ridge Country Club, Andover, MA Email the BCCC at info@billericacatcarecoalition.org

Senior Tea All senior citizens of Billerica coordially invited to attend! Parish Hall, 470 Rear Boston Rd, Billerica Peg 978-667-9733 Charlotte 978-663-2274

265 Boston Rd, Billerica 978-663-2422 Every friday night in March is Teen Night! 6-9 pm Costs $6 per person,Teens enjoy pizza, soda, unlimited golf. In a safe setting

Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce www.greaterlowellchamber.org 131 Merrimack St., Lowell 978-459-8154 Business Networking Events. For info, email ctravers@greaterlowellchamber.org Mar. 15: 5 pm: Evening Mixer Wyndham Hotel 123 Old River Rd., Andover $10-member; $20-non-member Mar. 16: 7:45-9am: Networking on the Threes Pozitively Young Salon and Spa, 9 Kendall Rd, Tyngsboro Free to Chamber Members

Merrimack Repertory Theatre Strives for Artistic Excellence

WHEN: Sunday, May 2, 2010 WHERE: New England Pediatric Care 78 Boston Road Billerica MA 01862 REgistRatioN: 10:30 am staRt tiMEs: Walkers: 12:30 pm Runners: 1 pm ENtRy FEEs: Runners: $25.00 Walkers: $20.00 For more information, contact Laura Pica 978-667-5123 nepccoolkids@yahoo.com

• USATF/RRTC Certified Course • All Participants are encouraged to raise funds to support“Cool Kids”at NEPC • Cool Kids T-Shirts (While Supplies Last) • Free post-race cookout w/Entertainment and Raffles AWARDS For Overall Top Male and Female Top Males and Females in the Following Categories: 19 & Under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60+

New England Pediatric Care (N.E.P.C.) is an 80 bed pediatric nursing home, offering comprehensive, posthospitalization stays, short-term admits, long-term admits, and residential care for medically fragile children with severe and chronic disabilities and young adults who range in age from birth to 22 years. Affiliated with the Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts-Medical Center, New England Pediatric Care is committed to providing the highest quality nursing, rehabilitation and education services in a sensitive, compassionate environment. To learn more visit http://nepediatriccare.org.

When you first see Pearl walk across the stage of the Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT), she is carrying her ball and chain. By the end of her journey, she is dressed in a floral pleated dress and heels. Even through her evolution from inmate to star, Pearl always holds onto who she is-genuine, direct yet caring-since she doesn’t know any other way to be. This story, “Black Pearl Sings!” is called an uplifting musical quest for personal freedom, and a journey to find the spotlight. In it, two very different womenSusannah, an ambitious “song collector” for the Library of Congress, and Pearl, a woman with a soulful voice, a steely spirit and incredible history-find each other as Susannah continues her search across the country for lost African-American folk music. In its recent run from Feb. 11 through Mar. 7, this production often filled the 308 seat MRT Liberty Hall theater which is adjacent to Lowell Memorial Auditorium in downtown Lowell. Founded in 1979, The Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s mission has always been to “advance the cause of human understanding by creating theatrical productions at the highest level of artistic excellence and making them affordable to the broadest possible community.” Merrimack Rep has served as a vital cultural, educational and economic resource

for the Merrimack Valley, Greater Boston and Southern New Hampshire regions. With annual attendance of over 40,000, Merrimack Rep produces exceptional works while offering a variety of discount programs for under served and lowincome communities, students and seniors. Over the last 30 years, Merrimack Rep’s education, outreach and discount programs have served over 200,000 students and senior citizens and have built working partnerships with more than 50 different community and ethnically based service organizations. The next production to hit the MRT stage will be the “Last Days of Mickey and Jean” running from Mar. 18 to Apr. 11. Commissioned just for Merrimack Repertory Theatre audiences, this new original comedy is a “retirement story with a twist”. Constantly on the run with his nolonger young girlfriend, an aging fugitive mobster is forced into early retirement, taking him away from the one thing he truly loves – his work. This production will be directed by Merrimack Rep Artistic Director Charles Towers. It will feature the talents of Jack Wetherall, Rae C. Wright, and Christopher McHale. Tickets for “The Last Days of Mickey and Jean” are on sale now and can either be ordered online at www.merrimackrep.org or by calling 978-654-4678. Groups of six or more save up to 25 percent and school groups can save over 50 percent.

By Jenn Gervais, Staff Writer On March 6, Alan Kessler’s Karate Center on Marshall Street held a fundraiser to benefit Haiti. Open to the public, the Karate school offered a free pasta and meatball dinner, and auctioned beautiful, traditional Haitian art created by children of Haiti. School supplies and basic-needs items were also collected. Alan Kessler, whose center has a strong history of community outreach, described the fund-raiser as a way to help children in need to grow. “We purchased the art from the Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) whose mission is to help Haitian children become the next generation of traditional Haitian artists,” said Kessler. “ Prior to enrolling in ACFFC, these children neither attended school nor ate on a regular basis. They do now, achieving self-sufficiency through the sale of their art.” The children involved in the ACFFC range in age from six to eleven. ACFFC is

a 50l(c)3 charitable organization located in Lake Worth, Florida and all proceeds from the auction will be sent to ACFFC for use in Jacmel, Haiti The event was a great success, with over 100 people in attendance enjoying the free dinner, donating supplies, and bidding on the various pieces of art. Overall $1500 was raised, all of which will be sent to ACFFC. You can still make a contribution to this very worthwhile cause. Donations can be sent directly to the Art Creation Foundation for Children, c/o Judy Hoffman--Profile Marketing Research #101, Lake Worth, Fl. 33463. In addition to monetary donations, the foundation is in need of art and school supplies, canned food, medical supplies (Band-Aids, etc), water containers, water, t-shirts, sweat shirts, shoes, and duffle bags. No contribution is considered too small to have a significant impact, considering that $60 provides an average of a full month of emergency health care for 60 children.

Kindergarten Prep Made Easy at Tiny Tikes In a day and age when children are expected to know more much sooner, many local preschools are stepping up to meet this challenge. One such center is Tiny Tikes Early Childhood Education Center. Tiny Tikes has two convenient Billerica locations at 258 Salem Road or 25 Bridge Street with small classes and experienced teachers. Tiny Tikes follows the Massachusetts Framework Curriculum which is developed with the local elementary schools and requires children entering Kindergarten to be proficient with letters, numbers, shapes, colors and beginning reading skills. “We do this so when they get here, they learn everything they need to know,” said Owner Debbie Kelley. Kelley will start introducing reading skills by the age of four so preschoolers can realize that letters have a sound and a name. For 30 minutes per day, Kindergarten preparation is done with students, both individually and as a group. Activities are intended to be fun; skills like letter recognition may be connected to a craft or to cooking. “When we did the letter ‘P’, we went next door and made pizza,” said Kelley, referring to Silvio’s Restaurant in the same plaza.

For Renee Smith, choosing Tiny Tikes was easy. All three of her children came here, with her youngest, Jocelyn, age 4, currently enrolled as a student. Renee had heard many positive things about the school from friends and she was relieved to know Kelley’s staff worked so closely in preparing the children for Kindergarten. Renee found the teaching staff to be reassuring and very attentive to the children’s needs. Twice per week, Renee would help her children with their homework which she found only reinforced what was covered that day or week. “The social aspect is important but they prepare them ahead of time so they get the basics down,” said Renee about the Kindergarten prep at Tiny Tikes. Renee noted that Jocelyn loves her books and loves to read. She will associate the story with the pictures sometimes while other times, she is working on her letter recognition and sounds. “She is looking forward to Kindergarten,” said Renee. “She wants to do well.” For more information about Tiny Tikes, visit their website at www. TinyTikesPreschool.com or call one of their locations near you: Salem Road at 978-663-7797 or Bridge Street at 978667-4411.

Create Community

Kesslers Rallies Town to Send Relief to Haiti

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 17

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. Billerica Branch 978-262-0123

EnterpriseBanking.com Billerica Green.indd 1

North Billerica Branch 978-262-0100

Enterprise Bank CREATE SUCCESS 11/09/2009 5:20:34 PM

18 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

CAPTION CONTEST

3 J’s Corner

Let’s Talk About It With Julia Making Friends

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

ing This month I’ll be talking about mak nds frie . friends. Like many of you, I have lots of king up To make them, first be friendly by wal tell them to them nicely and saying ‘hi’. Then r friend. your name. Ask them if they will be you nice to To keep them, play with them and be ! them. Have fun with your new friends

Jake’s Green Corner

LAST MONTH’S WINNER

Planting

Because Spring is co ming, its a good tim e to plant trees and gard ens. Planting trees is go od for the environmen t because it puts ba ck trees that people cut dow n. It also keeps our air clean and our earth grow ing.

eo Jarred’s Vid Game T:MipariosandLuigi’sPartnersinTime March Review S for Nintendo D

Just give ‘em back and we’ll pretend this never happened. Congratulations to Mark Rapoza. 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.

l 30 before rs to at least leve te ac ar ch r u yo t Get rew. If you don’ Sh ss ce n ri P er 0 you face the Eld tting to level 3 ge y B e. m ti g n it will take a lo damage because re o m t ic fl in to w you will be able e Princess Shre th en Th . er h ig u your power is h ch damage to yo u m as t ic fl in won’t be able to it! se is higher. Try en ef d r u yo se becau

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 19

Ingredients: 1 stick of butter (8 tbs) salted 2 ounces unsweetened bakers chocolate 1 cup of sugar 2 xtra large eggs 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup flour 1/4 tsp salt 3/4 cup of milk chocolate chips (believe us the unsweetened and dark choc are not good in this) Melted Bakers white chocolate squares

Libby Girls’ Winning Brownie Recipe

Directions: Mix all ingredients except the white chocolate and put in a 8 x 8 pan (a MUST!) Cook for 40 min. at 325° F When it has cooled melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over. EAT!

Chosen at the Library First Annual Chocolate Tasting Contest

Free coloring pages at thebillericagreen.com/playground.html

20 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Best both worlds

THe

By Liana Measmer

mbika Wali looked into the eyes of her fiancée, Manish Patel, proposing to her on bended knee, and knew she was ready. This moment marked the culmination of years of preparation by Ambika and her parents for the next chapter of her life. Ambika is a Kashmiri Hindu who grew up in a traditional Indian family in Billerica. Ambika’s parents, Neelam and Anupam, and her sisters, Anjali and Nisha, have happily lived their culture and traditions while immersed in America for more than 25 years. The family recently celebrated Ambika’s elaborate wedding in October 2009, a public display of more than beautiful fabrics, meaningful rituals, and heartfelt blessings. It was Ambika’s opportunity to show the world her strong family values and honor her parents while having the time of her life with the man of her dreams. AMERICAN BEGINNINGS This close-knit family was established long before children were born. Neelam and Anupam are from India, but their courtship began in the United States as students in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Anupam was a research student while

Neelam was studying fine art. What worked best between them was their instant ability to communicate on the important issues of life and their future. “He spoke my language,” said Neelam, looking lovingly at her husband. It was a match made in Heaven since they were cultural equals. Raised in the same region of India, they ate the same foods, spoke the same dialect, and shared similar beliefs. This made it easy for them to get permission to marry from their parents. In India, arranged marriages are commonplace. When young adults reach their early 20s, the expectation is to get married, and if no arrangement has been previously made, parents worry for their children’s happiness. For the Walis, all that concern was lifted once their parents met each other. They were instantly accepted and the couple was married in a traditional ceremony in India.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 21

Following their wedding, the couple returned to the U.S. They moved from Maryland to Wisconsin to Massachusetts, where they finally settled in Billerica to raise their three girls. CULTURAL VALUES Growing up, Ambika, Anjali and Nisha were exposed to the best of their Indian culture. The music and dancing. The jewelry and the beautiful clothing. The food and Hindu religion. But more than that was the values Neelam and Anupam instilled in them, the greatest being respect for themselves, each other, and their elders. Neelam and Anupam demonstrate respect toward each other always and thus taught their daughters about proper self-discipline. For example, Neelam told her children what she wanted them to hear and let it go. No nagging or defensiveness resulted in the girls obediently following through without struggles. The Walis believe children can be trusted to make the right decision when they are given an unshakable foundation of unconditional love. “They knew we were always there for them,” said Anupam. Paramount in Indian culture is respect for your elders. This is bigger than just loving a grandparent. It is Manish giving up his seat for his mother-in-law. Or Ambika following family traditions in her wedding ceremony. Or Neelam’s parents welcomed to stay in the family home indefinitely. This way of being is simply expected. Getting a solid education is also expected, so it was never an option to not earn a college degree. Neelam and Anupam taught their girls to live within their means and about the need for a degree, making them competitive in the marketplace. In high school, the girls were active in DECA, the high school business club, which taught them about business and finance. Business owners themselves, Neelam and Anupam modeled for their daughters how to be successful. LOVE IN ACTION Ambika and Manish met at Bentley College. Ambika was 19 years old and Manish was 21. Manish had been in the U.S. for 10 years when they met. His parents had emigrated to Brazil from India and Manish had grown up there. Ambika was studying corporate finance while Manish was an economics and finance major. They met through people who knew them well. “Friends in common brought us together,” said Ambika. In the Wali family, education came first, so Neelam and Anupam said they wanted their daughter focused on her studies. Plus, they would not entertain any boy for her until she had gained maturity. Their culture takes marriage very seriously. The Walis heard stories of girls bringing home boyfriends, only to break up and dash their parents’ hopes. This was a disappointment the Walis wanted to avoid. Where a suitor comes from is an important consideration in Indian culture. While Ambika’s family came from the Kashmir region, Manish’s parents were

Gujarati. Different regions in India held different rituals and dialects. While Ambika and Manish dated, they discussed their future, getting married, having children, and weaving Indian culture into the tapestry which was their American life. Over the next six years, Neelam and Anupam got glimpses of Manish. They heard about a boy who gave her a rose on Valentine’s Day. During recitals, they saw him when Ambika would invite Manish to her dance school. It was hard for Manish, as he longed to visit the Wali home and meet Ambika’s parents. However, Neelam and Anupam were firm in their belief that Ambika was not ready. The day finally came when the couple told their parents they wanted to marry. A dinner was scheduled at the Wali home and he was welcomed. The couple stayed up until 2 a.m., laughing and talking with the entire family. Shortly after, Ambika enjoyed a wonderul dinner with Manish’s parents and the two families approved. Manish then scheduled the proposal with Anupam for Nov. 20, 2008. Ambika, having grown up here and influenced by her own American friends, very much wanted the typical western proposal. It was emotional for her. “It was awesome,” said Ambika. “ It was very exciting.” FAIRYTALE WEDDING Once the couple was unofficially engaged, a venue and entertainment was booked. The ceremony was planned at the Westford Regency and not in a Hindu temple. Indian weddings are generally very large and temples are reserved for auspicious prayer. In India, many times, entire villages come to weddings, with the family expected to feed them all. At the end of January, Manish’s and Ambika’s families traveled to India to shop for the wedding clothes. They were presented with yards of intricately embroidered fabrics in rich reds, creams, and golds to choose from. Ambika chose a glorious red, the traditional color for an Indian bride to wear. Her wedding dress would be a sari with just as intricate a veil in sheer red to match. Manish chose his Chervani and looked absolutely regal with a red stole and matching turban. On June 27, 2009, the couple was formally engaged in Great Falls, Virginia at the Gandun, a ceremony where the couple exchange rings and receive blessings from their elders. It was also an opportunity for extended family members from both sides to meet. For the wedding, because many relatives were traveling a long distance, Manish and Ambika chose the Columbus Day weekend. The wedding would span over three days and every moment held precious meaning for both families.

After hours of preparation on Oct. 10, the two-hour ceremony began. After Manish was received by the Walis and taken to the mandap (the alter adorned with drapes of red fabric and a small holy fire receptacle), Ambika was carried in by family members like royalty on a palki. This palanquin is a wheeless transport sometimes seen on the backs of elephants. After the exchange of floral garlands, numerous prayers, rituals and blessings, the couple took the Seven Steps, or Sapt-Padi. The couple walks around the holy fire, making vows for virtues of prosperity, love, happiness, children, joy, and friendship. More vows and rings were exchanged next, with the couple sharing their first meal and then departing in the Vidaii, the farewell of the couple. Ambika says good-bye to her parents and siblings. This is a very emotional moment for Indian brides as they say good-bye to their parents and formally step into their new lives as wives. The couple later enjoyed a very American reception at the Cyclorama in Boston, but gave it their own special twist. Typically, newlyweds do their first dance to something slow and romantic. However, because Manish was raised in Brazil and Ambika runs a small dance school, their first dance was a spicy Latin salsa which had the crowd on their feet. Although mostly Western, the reception still showcased all that was Indian which made it a completely grand affair. There are approximately 100 or so Hindu families in Billerica who openly live out their beliefs. For the Walis, and now the Patels, this is a balancing act worth accomplishing for it gives everyone they meet a glimpse into this colorful culture, making life in our town so much richer.

22 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Saving Cats: How It All Began Nearly 6 years ago, our founder, who moved from another part of the country, was looking to help give back to the community. During her research, she happened across Billerica Animal Control. Through volunteer work there, she found not only were dogs in need, but cats were more so. The main issues were felines born as ferals (wild), abandoned or pets allowed to roam freely. All this had one thing in common – none were spayed or neutered. The result was a never ending cycle of overpopulation, sick or hurt animals with no one to care for them, hit by cars and left for dead. The path to help change this situation began with a single meeting at Billerica Public Library in 2004. With a little advertising, 22 people came to a meeting to begin the Billerica Cat Care Coalition, a no-

kill organization to help feral and abandoned cats and kittens. Today, we are 35 volunteers strong (continuing to add to our numbers), we have trap/neutered/returned hundreds of feral cats. We have also adopted out many abandoned cats and kittens or ferals who became socialized. An additional arm to our programs now includes educational resources, including contacts for low-cost spays and neuters for dogs and cats and information on how to care for feral cats. BCCC is 100 percent self-funded, thanks to our donors and fund raising events which are continuously on-going. (We average over $25K in veterinarian medical bills, as well as other related costs to keep BCCC up and running, each year). We are 100 percent volunteer-based, which means ALL donations go directly to help cats and kittens

Shawsheen Networking: Association Reaches Out to Unemployed Alumni With The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reporting in Jan. 2010 the unemployment rate for Massachusetts is 9.4 percent, the local unemployed are still seeking ways to find jobs and make connections. In an attempt to take care of their own, Shawsheen Valley Vocational Technical High School Alumni Association has been holding regular networking events to bring Alumni together to help each other. At an event in February at the Newtowne Grill restaurant, the alumni association set up speed networking where attendees would go table to table and do a one minute elevator pitch. “On an organizational level, we feel Shawsheen has incredible networking potential but never had an infrastructure,” said Frank Urro, Shawsheen Alumni Association member. Because of varied trades like electrical, carpentry, culinary arts, cosmetology and health professions, the networks can be richer and more successful. For Lisa Proctor, 1979 graduate, she attended this networking event to explore changing careers. She graduated from Shawsheen in culinary arts and now she is seeking to do more event planning. For her husband, Ray Proctor, this event is helping him find a job. He is currently looking for work in the carpentry field. The couple found the event helpful. “We have people keeping an eye out for us,” said Ray. Paul Glover from Tewksbury is a systems/network administrator who is not an alumni at all. Having been out of work since July 2009, he surfs the internet and

looks for local networking events to attend because it allows him to meet people and make connections. “I am looking to broaden my horizons with people,” said Glover. Stephanie Mancini, an organizer for many alumni association events, is working hard to get the word out about what they do. Her goals around the networking events is to have alumni pulling together for each other. Currently, the Shawsheen Facebook Alumni page has 1,500 people signed on and the Shawsheen website has another 700. Mancini pointed out they are also developing a business directory and giving out scholarships. Anyone seeking additional information should visit the Shawsheen Alumni Association website at www.shawsheenalumni.com. “We need to pull together,” said Mancini. “We’re here for everybody.”

Attorney Jamie Hartounian pitches a one minute elevator speech with Lisa and Ray Proctor at a Shawsheen Alumni Association networking event.

in need. Since BCCC is a federally authorized 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, donations are tax-deductible. As we grow, we hit different needs. Currently, our need is for a small commercial facility where we can house feral cats each month, prior to and after their spay or neuter surgeries. The facility does not have to be big (can be the size of a single garage bay), but, must include proper ventilation, temperature control, easy access and security. If you happen to know of a location for BCCC in Billerica,

we would be interested to learn about this. You can contact us by e-mail at: info@ billericacatcarecoalition.org or leave a message at the Billerica Town Manager’s office. To help defer our costs, we are holding our Sixth Annual “The Cat’s Meow Chocolate Tasting & Silent Auction” fund raiser on Friday, May 14, from 7 – 9 p.m., at the Indian Ridge Country Club, in their Grand Ballroom, in Andover, MA. This benefit event includes an evening of samples from chocolatiers, live music and a silent auction. For more information, contact us by e-mail at: info@ billericacatcarecoalition.org

Nourishment for Optimal Health •By Kathy Lynch, CHHC

3 Essential Components for Successful Weight Loss Are you interested in losing weight? Is weight loss difficult for you? Without including three psychological components to your plan, you will likely fail. These three essential components for losing unwanted weight are: belief, motivation, and commitment. Let us look at these components one at a time. Motivation Why do you want to lose weight? Your answer is very important. If you are halfheartedly interested in losing weight, you will get half-hearted results. You need a strong interest and a strong reason for losing weight to be successful. What is your motivation? Why do you want to lose weight? Is it for looks, health, or more energy? I ask you to move a level deeper than that. Why do you want to look better? Why do you want better health? Why do you want more energy? Think long and hard about the answer to these questions. Write down your answers on a sheet of paper and keep it handy. Your answers are strong motivators. If you get off track, re-read your answers. Belief You may be familiar with the phrase, “if you think you will fail, you will.” On the other hand, if you think you will succeed, you will. In order for you to reach a difficult goal in life, you have to believe you can. This belief has to come from deep within. It is not an “I hope I can lose weight” but an “I know I can lose weight.” Stretch beyond your limiting beliefs. Come from a place of confidence. Now, you might not know how to lose weight yet, but you can find out

how by learning from someone who has lost weight successfully. Think of someone you know who is healthy, eats well, and has lots of energy. Ask that person how they do it so you can model it. You need to believe it is possible for you to lose weight and then find out how to do it. Commitment Motivation and belief are essential but it is the implementation that makes things happen. You have to commit to get fit. You have to commit to learning what it takes for you to lose and maintain weight. I urge you to lose weight in a healthy way, for the long run. You don’t want to yo-yo or fast, binge, fast, binge, etc. You don’t want to exercise until you drop dead. You don’t want to go on some fad diet, not based on healthful principles. You don’t want to take diet pills or resort to life-threatening surgery. You do want to learn life-long habits that work for you. You want a dietary plan that includes nutrient-dense foods that nourish your entire body and give you boundless energy. You want lifestyle choices that become secondnature and promote balance and well-being. Find out what motivates you to lose weight. Believe you can do it. Then, commit to making it happen! Kathy Lynch is founder of WellSkills. com and the WellSkillsTM System, a proven step-by-step program to help busy Moms and their families reach life-long health, energy, and weight. If you want to learn more about local cooking classes, events, and resources, visit www.WellSkills.com. © 2009 Kathy Lynch, WellSkills.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 23

Your New Puppy By Sandra Brigham Socialize, socialize, socialize Invite a small group of quiet friends and calm children to meet your puppy during his regular dinner hour. Have your guests practice “sit” and reward your puppy’s social interactions and training efforts with pre-measured bits of his dinner kibble or other special treats. Sandra is the owner of Train Up That Pup! Reach her at 978-436-0318 or www.trainupthatpup.com.

Personal Pet Care Means Peace of Mind Jennifer Chubb of Peace of Mind Personalized Pet Care Solutions has always been an animal lover. As a child, she was the neighborhood “Pied Piper” of sorts, always bringing home a new pet. As an adult, she has always owned pets as well. However, working a demanding corporate finance job often kept her away from home and from her animals. The events of the last few years, though, made room for Chubb to pursue her desire of spending more time doing what she loved most: being with furry creatures, big and small. In 2007, Chubb took a trip to Kanab, Utah and discovered the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. This no-kill sanctuary was home to animals no one wanted. Chubb got there and immediately was volunteering walking dogs, petting cats, feeding horses and waking pigs, She especially like the sanctuary’s philosophies and felt right at home. “Everyone out there thinks like I think,” said Chubb. As a result if her trip to Utah, Chubb added members to her family. One was Sedona, a Lab/Pit mix, who arrived in Nov. 2007. Chubb began volunteering with the local cat coalition and regional feline rescue organizations which sparked her interest in starting her own pet care business. Given the current economic times, Chubb found herself at a crossroads in Nov. 2008 following her lay off from her corporate job. Chubb took some time to regroup and

made a decision. She realized that she was seeking a simpler life of spending more time with her animals, in her home, and with her friends. After interviewing with a few dog walking and pet care businesses, Chubb decided to try it on her own. By making her services available over longer hours, offering overnights, and charging competitive prices, Chubb found her endeavor to be successful. “People value what I do,” said Chubb. “They are comfortable with me and trust me.” Currently, Chubb works mostly in Billerica and Lowell, although she does work in other surrounding towns and has clients in Chelmsford and Wilmington. Her frequency in seeing pets varies from a few days to the entire week but she remains flexible always, especially around holidays and weekdays. “I do something that means a lot to me and people see their animals mean a lot to me too,” said Chubb. Currently, Chubb is finishing Dog Training School and is also becoming an animal trainer. She already has her certification as a trainer from Pet Smart. Her goal as a trainer is to help the owner build a bond with their animal and through this, she is keeping animals from being euthanized. “This is a family event and I include children,” said Chubb. “It builds a bond between family and pets.” For more information about Peace of Mind Personalized Pet Care Solutions, visit their website at www.peaceofmindpetcare. net or call 978-835-2269.

PUPPY SOLUTIONS FOR BUSY PEOPLE Our Private In-Home Puppy Training Program Is Designed For People With Busy Lifestyles We Bring Personalized Puppy Training Services Straight To Your Door No Driving Through Traffic, No Waiting For The Next Puppy Class Call Now To Schedule Your In-Home Puppy Training Program Today!

SANDRA BRIGHAM

978.436.0318 www.trainupthatpup.com

Pet Portraits A Gift. A Treasure. An Investment. (And they're just fun to look at.)

www.LuongoArt.com

24 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

The Traveling Gourmets

•By John and Sherry Livsey

Celebrate Your Irish at The Emerald Rose With St Patrick’s Day right around the corner, it was very fitting that we visit Billerica’s famous Irish Pub, the Emerald Rose. They were busy as it was a Saturday night, but our short wait was enjoyed in the bar. The dining room is very open and the décor is comfortable, yet elegant. It didn’t take long for me to adjust to the atmosphere of this lovely room and settle into a conversation with my husband. Our server

was so friendly and helpful throughout the meal, we were impressed with her attention to detail as she was so busy. She was one of the rare people who make you feel like you are visiting an old friend even though you just met. John ordered an Island Creek Oyster Stout and I got the Pomegranate Martini. He kept saying that he does not typically like stout, so I had to wonder what would possess him to choose this beer. He said it was because of how it was brewed with oysters and he had to give it a try. He loved it of course and the martini was delicious, just as I suspected it would be. For dinner, John had the Irish Seafood Stew which was full of haddock, shrimp, and scallops in a saffron stock. This delicious dish was similar to bouillabaisse but easier to eat as it lacks the clams and mussels. It was a wonderful dinner and I was lucky to steal a couple of bites before it was devoured! I chose the crab cake dinner with rice pilaf and mixed vegetables. The crab cakes were very flavorful and moist. I not only enjoyed them for dinner, but finished them the next day for lunch as there were three large cakes. The rice and vegetables were typical, but I enjoyed them with the crab cakes.

We completed the meal with a light, creamy lemoncello cake. Neither of us has ever had this before, so we split a piece. It was the highlight of the meal for me and I ended up ordering another piece for our babysitter which she immediately gobbled up when we got back. She was babysitting for free, so we felt the need to give her something. Frankly, I’d babysit for a piece of this cake! Everything on the dessert tray looked fantastic; it was so hard to decide but our server helped us make the final cut and I am so glad we took her advice. They had live music in the bar starting at 9 pm as they do every Saturday night. Also, starting Friday March 12 and bringing you right through St. Patrick’s Day, you can enjoy live Irish Music along with traditional Corned Beef Dinner, Smoked Pork Shoulder Dinner and I imagine there will be some beer. So we recommend that you put on something green, head to the Rose and celebrate your Irish…even if you’re not! Sherry Livsey is an Independent Wine Consultant with Traveling Vineyard. For a home wine tasting experience, contact her at sherrylivsey@comcast.net.

On Feb. 20, A Night of Hope was hosted at the Bennett Library by singer/songwriter Julie Kinscheck and her band, which featured her husband Ralph Kinscheck on Keys, Johnny Vicaire on Lead guitar and a host of back up singers. The band, along with the community’s generosity, raised over $600 to support Hope Worldwide programs which help orphans of Aids in Africa and bring medical missions to Honduran children. The evening’s theme song was “Hope For the Children,” a song the couple wrote several years back, inspired by Hope Worldwide and found on their 2006 “The Force” CD.

Fitting Fitness In: Trainer Mom Practices What She Preaches You can usually find Ann Zammuto standing alongside her clients at Pro-Fitness teaching lessons on balancing life and fitness while she’s pushing them to do more. This is a philosophy Zammuto has lived it herself. Owner of A to Z Personal Training, Zammuto has done the juggling act of motherhood, a career as a trainer, getting her degree and maintaining her physical fitness. She wants people to know it can be done. Zammuto will be an exhibitor at the upcoming townwide Health Fair at the Lodge of the Elks, 14 Webb Brook Road on Saturday, April 10. She she will be discussing body fat and will have materials available for attendees. Zammuto had always been into fitness, starting young as a dancer. As an adult, she was active and enjoyed sports like skiing. Zammuto lived in Colorado for a while, where she and he husband started their family. Over the next 20 years, Zammuto gained experience as a fitness instructor in a small gym and a Director of Fitness Programming at a large recreation center. After returning to Billerica and working at both Pro-Fitness Plus as an aerobics instructor and CISCO systems as a certified personal trainer, Zammutto knew it was time for more. She pursued her Bachelor of Science Degree in Exercise

Physiology. Zammuto felt a solid education in her field would gain her the additional knowledge she needed and as well as more credibility. “ I was getting more involved in the field and wanted more science in my career,” said Zammuto. Zammuto took seven years to complete her degree because she had three young children and her family life was a priority. She graduated with her degree in May 2009. During her years at school, Zammuto enlisted the help of her family. Her husband proof read her reports. and was there caring for the children so she could study. While at practices or activities for her children, Zammuto had her flash cards in hand, studying. At times, her children would test her while she drove them places. Sunday mornings, Zammuto would study for an hour in the library before the family would head off to church. “It was good for my kids to see me working hard and caring about my grades,” said Zammuto. Regardless of how busy she got, Zammuto made time to workout because moving her body relaxed her. Doing a little was better than doing nothing so she might do a partial workout versus a whole one. Or she may workout for half an hour versus the whole hour. Zammuto found her workouts centered and focused her. “It was a stress reliever,” said Zammuto. “It was really important to fit it in.” It is this same determination and understanding Zammuto brings to the gym floor now. Zammuto started her business at Pro-Fitness Plus on Boston Road and is now

a personal trainer. When meeting a client, she discusses their life outside the gym as well as their workouts inside. She tailors a program for them aimed at their success, taking into account what will work for them as individuals. She will work with someone who’s never worked out as intently as she might train a young athlete. Through it all she teaches balance. “I want everyone to feel comfortable starting at the level they’re at,” Zammuto said. “I want to help people feel they can do it.” Client Mia Gaska is a part of Zammuto’s weekly ‘boot camp’, where a group of women all work out together under her direction and are encouraged to push themselves. Gaska uses weights and intervals of cardio during a full hour. Gaska feels her workouts are well thought out and accommodate her strength and ability level. “Her great knowledge of nutrition creates balance between diet and exercise for maintainability and realistic results under her [Zammuto’s] careful watch,” said Gaska. Ryan Cassidy is a junior at Shawsheen Vocational Technical High School. He is an athlete whose main sport is wrestling. Zammuto put Cassidy on a training schedule that has developed his strength and performance. Cassidy praises the lifting routine and believes the food plan Zammuto monitors keeps him steady in his weight class. “Ann told me what to eat and when to eat it,” said Cassidy. “Listening to that advice, I always felt like I had energy and a full stomach.” For more information on her services or the upcoming health fair, you can call her at 978-729-0903 or email her at atoztraining@comcast.net.

Two Years of Spicy: Billerica Goes Mexican at Casablanca Whether it’s chimichangas, burritos, or arroz con pollo, residents in town have enjoyed authentic Mexican fare in their own back yard for a few years now, courtesy of the Cervantes family. As a thank you for two great years, Casablanca, located at 99 Chelmsford Road, will open its doors for an anniversary celebration on March 18 from 56:30 pm offering a free sampling of some of their favorite dishes.

Hailing from southern California, Sylvia and Margarito Cervantes were not strangers to the restaurant world. They had worked in food service and had managed a cafeteria. Their cousin had made his way to Massachusetts and done well on the south shore with his own restaurant, Acapulco’s. So in 2006, the Cervantes’ came for a visit to find out how. Seeing his success, the couple and their children decided to make their move from the warmth to the cold. For Silvia, it definitely was an adjustment but starting a business kept her too busy to notice. In 2007, they first worked for their cousin at Acapulco’s which gave them solid management experience. After a year, cousin David opened up Casablanca. There is one restaurant in North Andover and one in Billerica in Brick Kiln Plaza. The Cervantes run the one here. Middlesex Canal Association Member Currently, approximately Tom Dahill held an Artist’s Reception on 25 relatives, prior Acapulco Feb. 20 at the Middlesex Canal Museum. employees, and a few new He displayed both recent and classic pieces hires make up the very native of his work to numerous guests and friends. Latino staff. Luis Cobarrubias, the Cervantes’ nephew, came from California to work and

Marriott’s Touch of Spring: Bringing Families to the Table With the end of winter in sight, many families look to Spring and enjoying all that comes with that. The warmth. The blossoms. The holidays. Many people celebrate Passover or Easter as their religious observance. These holidays often bring families and friends together for gatherings. For many, this is a busy time. New outfits. Church or temple services. Meal prep. If the thought of spending hours cooking in the kitchen is tiresome, look no further than the Courtyard By Marriott in Billerica. On April 4, 2010, they will once again host their annual Easter Brunch. There are three sittings available at 10 am, 12 noon and 2 pm. These well attended buffets allow for people’s varied schedules. “We’ve held it every year since it [The Marriott] opened in 1999,” said Kris Frazee, Director of Sales. Perhaps the 10 am sitting allows for visiting family in the afternoon or the 2 pm sitting meets your church service needs. The 12 noon sitting tends to be the most popular because so many

want to have a relaxing lunch to enjoy the people they love most so make your reservations today as they are required. No matter the time, the extensive menu of hot and cold breakfast items as well as dinner choices are available for every sitting. In addition to cereals, pasteries and fruits, there are eggs and bacon or an omelet station for the person wanting to enjoy breakfast. Anyone on hand for dinner can choose from Chicken Saltimbocca, Herb Crusted Roast Sirloin, and Maple Glazed Ham. There’s even a children’s buffet is available with a variety spanning from French Toast Sticks to Macaroni and Cheese. “People come year after year because they love the ambiance,” said Frazee. As an added treat, the children will enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny and embark on an Egg Hunt. The whole experience is reasonably priced for adults at $29.95, seniors at $26.95, and children under 12 are $12.95. The little ones under three are always free. To make your reservations today, call the Marriott at 978-670-7500.

go to college. Although he agrees it’s hard work, he finds his customers very friendly. “It’s a good experience, said Cobarrubias. The menu hails from the family’s kitchens in Jalisco, Mexico. The meals are all cooked fresh and numerous items are recipes the couple grew up making. This coming year, be on the lookout for some new authentic dishes, like Sopa de Marisco, being introduced. “The local people are enjoying the food,” said Silvia. “We get a lot of compliments.” For Margarito, his greatest satisfaction is pleasing his customers. He knows they are getting a great meal and great service at a great price. “People leave happy,” he said. During the March 18 celebration, there will be a buffet with samplers or small portions of the family’s favorite menu items. For an hour and a half, these dishes are free and while you’re enjoying them, a Mariachi band will play for you at your table (weather permitting) while you get chances through a free raffle to win souvenirs and small door prizes. Overall, the couple noted how grateful they were for all their patrons. “We just want to thank the town for our two successful years,” said Silvia.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 25

26 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Challenger League: Making Baseball Available For All By Shawn Hutcheon, Sports Writer

It’s as American as apple pie. Baseball. If you grew up in the USA then chances are, at the very least, you have picked up a baseball and looked at it. Each Spring, Little League fields throughout the country are filled with young ball players who dream of playing at Fenway Park, Yankee Stadium, or Dodger Stadium. Unfortunately, some boys and girls may have had the same dream but were not included. Due to physical

Perhaps, the most unique part of the program is it allows for “Buddies” to be involved. The buddies, who are typically developing youth volunteers, assist the Challenger players on the field whenever needed. They encourage the players to make plays and bat but are always nearby to help. Two such dedicated buddies are Trystan Lavelle, who is thirteen years old and has been a buddy for three years, and Kiliegh Glavin, age eleven, who has also been a buddy since the league

Meet Your Candidates! OOOOO Now, you can get the rest of the story online. OOOOO

Independence, Dedication and Professionalism Marie Blanchette, Candidate for School Committee My candidacy brings a broad range of experience to this campaign. I have served as an elected Planning Board member, on our Finance Committee, a Town Meeting member for many years, and for the past nine years on our School Committee. I am presently serving as Chairperson of the Committee. I have demonstrated an ability to ask hard questions of the Administration and have been an independent voice on the Committee. …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Your Independent Voice Bob Correnti, Candidate for Selectman I’ve been privileged to serve three terms as one of your Selectmen. Being a Selectman is a unique opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. That’s been my focus every day I’ve served. I’ve enjoyed representing you and I want to continue working for you. You know my record getting results for seniors and veterans; fighting to give Billerica more local control against 40Bs; and fighting for all residents as an independent voice on the Board of Selectmen. …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Championing for Safety and Fiscal Sensibility

impairments, they could only watch their friends and siblings. That changed in 1989 when Little League Baseball established the Challenger Division. According to its website, www.littleleague. org, the purpose of the Challenger Division was to “…enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 5-18 to enjoy the game of baseball…” In 2007, two men involved with the Billerica Little League, Gil Ynostroza and Phil Doiron, believed a Challenger Division was necessary for the youth of Billerica, who were watching from the sidelines. “We have about sixty-six kids from town involved and we have all types of kidsautistic or in wheelchairs,” said Doiron, the player agent for the division. “They just need to get out and socialize.” Pam Cawthron, whose 15 year old son, Nicholas, has been a Challenger player since the division’s inception, enthusiastically endorsed the league. “I wanted to get him (Nicholas) involved with kids from the town,” she said.”He’s in a wheelchair and loves being pushed around. They grow as individuals.” Presently, there are six teams, comprised of ten to twelve players each. Score is not kept and each player bats and plays every inning. Benefits include players getting exercise and socializing but above all else, having fun.

began. Lavelle is an athlete who plays baseball, football, and basketball but every Sunday is at the ball field doing what, to him, amounts as a labor of love. “Every week I like to go down and bounce from kid to kid,” Tristan explained. “I love it.” Glavin is an outstanding soccer player and like her cousin, Lavelle, she can be found on the field with Challenger players each week. “I think it’s great. They get a chance to do what they want to do,” Glavin exclaimed. “I love it. It makes me happy.” The league welcomes players from outside of town as well and Doiron would like to see the division grow with more players from Billerica joining. “People can go on the Billerica Little League website at www.billericalittleleague. org and download the registration form until the season starts in April,” explained Doiron. Doiron also explained that corporate sponsorship is welcome as it allows for the division not to charge the players. “At the end of the season, we have a cook out and give award certificates to the buddies for their community service,” said Doiron. Nicholas Cawthron’s mother, Pam, sums it up about everyone involved with the Challenger Division, “They do their best and it gets better each year. They do an awesome job.”

Patricia “Pat” Flemming, Candidate for Selectman It will be a great honor to serve as your Selectman. I have always championed for the safety and fiscal sensibility. I worked diligently to get the Secondary Water Tower on Lexington Road totally revitalized, as it was a lead paint health hazard. I also brought the Billerica Dog Kennel up to code and made it safer for the workers and the animals. The Concord River Bridge on Boston Road is finally getting the infrastructure support it needs after I brought it to the attention of Town officials through …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Giving Back to the Community Sandra Giroux, Candidate for School Committee My name is Sandra Giroux; I am a candidate for the Billerica School Committee. I have lived in Billerica for more than 35 years and attended Billerica Public Schools. My daughter Rebecca is in the eighth grade at the Marshall School. Being involved and giving back to our community is extremely important. For a complete list of my community involvement, please visit my web site: www.sandragiroux.com. There must be a standard of excellence …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Bringing Billerica Together Paul Marasco, Board of Selectmen Candidate In these uncertain economic times, town government must control costs wherever possible. Solutions can be found in operational savings, boosting efficiency and making leadership an integral part of our town’s business processes. It’s about bringing balance back to town government that results in bringing Billerica together!!! I want to restore your confidence in our Board of Selectman. For me, it’s about leadership that fosters team work that gets things …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Experienced and Knowledgeable Leadership Michael S. Rosa, Candidate for Selectman My name is Michael Rosa and I am running for re-election to serve and represent the residents of Billerica and make this a better place for all of us. I enjoy helping people, and finding solutions that work, no matter how large or small the problem may be. I am not afraid to speak up and seek out answers for the benefit of our residents and community I am known for my work with the senior community, senior center, Veterans and working with residents …>>Continued on www.TheBillericaGreen.com

Getting Ready to Drive: Teen Workshop Outlines Rules of the Road Parents and teens preparing for their licenses need the facts about what is facing them out on the road and they got just that from local experts at a recent free teen driving workshop. Michael Larocque, Owner of the new Billerica Driving School, explained that in driver’s education, classroom time prepares the students for their permit/license test while the time behind the wheel gives them experience with becoming safe, courteous and responsible drivers being the focus. Junior Operator (Anyone under the age of 18) Law Highlights: • Passenger Restrictions: No one under 18 can be in the car with a junior operator for the first 6 months after they get their license. • Nighttime Restrictions: No one under 18 can drive between 12:30 and 5 am. • Speeding: For one ticket, anyone under 18 will lose their license, pay a $100 fine, be required to take an attitudinal restructuring class, retake their permit test, and pay a $500 re-instatement fee. “It’s not the age, it’s the experience,” said Larocque. Larocque touched on the three big issues to consider as a teen driver-seatbelts, alcohol, and cell phones. Wearing seat belts, designed to prevent the drivers and passengers from violently hitting the dashboard or from being ejected, are the law. As for alcohol, statistics show that one teen dies every weekend as a result of alcohol abuse. Larocque pointed out that anyone who is under age should not transport alcohol ever. Lastly, Larocque explained dangerous cell phone use in cars has reached epidemic levels. 1.6 million accidents in the USA are caused by cell phone use. Larocque noted when teens’ are on the phone, their minds are not on the road. “Talking or texting on the cell is equated to a .08 blood alcohol content,” said Larocque. Insurance requirements must also be a consideration for parents when a new driver is added to the household. Laurie Mancinelli and Cindy Traverso, Owners of MTM Brainerd Insurance, outlined what parents

should plan for. Mancinelli explained rates are higher for a new driver and a speeding ticket, which stays on a young driver’s record for six years, will increase costs. The type of car the teen is driving is a consideration when rates are set. “Don’t go out and buy a new car,” said Mancinelli. “Call your agent first.” Mancinelli outlined available discounts including driver’s ed, advanced driver training, and the good student discount, which applies to any student with a”B” or better average. Traverso pointed out that minimally, parents can probably expect to see an increase of about $800 per year on their insurance regardless. Sargent Martin Conway from the Billerica Police department reported there are bills being passed which would ban texting and would only allow hands free cell phone calls in the car. Conway urged the teens to raise their awareness on the roads. He recommended to look at other drivers while waiting at a red light. So often, even experienced drivers are not paying attention. Conway has seen people reading, shaving and putting on make up behind the wheel. Conway explained there have been multiple car accidents in town due to inattentiveness “Everyone has it in their mind that they are good drivers,” said Conway. “You think you’re invincible and think, ‘I know I can drive’ but you’re not.” Conway handles ticket appeals at the district court and explained the cost of the ticket, which can get to $100 or more, with up to $50 more in fees tacked on. Even if found ‘not responsible’, the appellate does not get a refund and can wait up to six months for a re-instatement class. Conway added that drag racing can raise a license suspension over one year. Conway handed out Registry of Motor Vehicles packets and encouraged everyone to sign the Junior Operator Contract which states both parties will follow through with laws, be safe and supportive. One item was the parents agreement to pick up their teen if they can’t drive home. Conway pointed out parents don’t mind going to a party to get their child but aren’t pleased when they get called to the station. Of course, Conway said this was always better than the worst case scenario. “On a few occasions I had to go to a parent’s home to tell them their child was not coming home.” said Conway.

The Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce held another successful Town Business Day at our town hall in February. Speakers from state agencies and town offices were on hand to offer support and share information with the more than 30 individuals and businesses who attended. UMass Design camp and Ziptivity. >>For the complete story, visit www.TheBillericaGreen.com.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 27

Pet Peeves

•By Nora Fiore

To Partner or Not to Partner: Have you ever had this great dream to have your own business, but you don’t quite have enough funds, so you do the obvious and find a partner? Sound like a great idea? Maybe they have something to help you and you have something to help them. Everything is wonderful and beautiful with flowers blooming and little bluebirds flying around your head. Everything is perfect until the bluebird of happiness craps on your head. Now, I’m not saying this always happens but it does a lot. Even though you’ve known someone forever and you trust them with your life doesn’t mean they’ll be easy to work with. If you should embark on this adventure, make sure your lawyer draws up all of your paperwork and crosses all the “t’s” and dots all the “i’s”. That way you can avoid any little surprises, like finding out your partner has drained the bank account and left $1 in it. That’s never pleasant to find. Then there’s the option of answering an ad for some one looking for a partner. Do your homework. Check out the person. Are they in debt? Are they going to take you to the cleaners? Believe me, you won’t get a freshly starched shirt out of the deal. Do

you like them? I mean REALLY like them. Would you hang out with them outside of work? If the answer is no, then I guess they are very different from you and it won’t work. Do they have the same ethics as you? No, I don’t mean you are a vegan and they’re a carnivore. I mean do they approach business the same way as you? For instance, you pay taxes and they don’t. I’m going to go out on a limb here to say that’s going to be a problem. It happens. Now, just because someone is different, doesn’t mean it won’t work. It could give you a fresh new perspective. It could open up a world of new ideas and opportunities but that brings me back to ethics again. New ideas are wonderful. They help you grow and make you think. However, if you two are completely at odds about how to run the business and you can’t compromise, I say “ Run, Forrest, Run!” Partnerships are tricky business and sometimes dirty business. Sometimes they work famously but don’t be hasty. Do your homework and wear a hat, just in case that bluebird of happiness decides to give you an extra special present.

28 / thebillericagreen.com / March - April 2010

Business to Business •By Pat Zapert

Small Business Support If you are already own or are thinking of starting a small business, there are great resources available to support you. Many people are not aware of these opportunities, so here are some you may want to consider. The Massachusetts office of the US Small Business Administration (SBA) is located in Boston. The SBA was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government. Their objective is to aid and assist small business concerns. Since the vast majority of businesses in Massachusetts and many other states are small businesses, their role is key to the economy. Among the services they offer are technical assistance, financial assistance and disaster assistance. In addition they provide support on helping small businesses become government contractors. They also offer assistance to special interest group business owners such as women, veterans, Native Americans and young entrepreneurs. For more information, visit their website at www.sba.gov or call their Boston office at 617-565-5590. For service that offers tremendous local value to small businesses, look no further than the Lowell Small Business Assistance Center. The center is a collaborative of UMass-Lowell, Middlesex Community College and the City of Lowell and is under the Community Teamwork umbrella of services. Located in downtown Lowell, the agency is celebrating its tenth year of operation during which it has assisted hundreds of clients. The center offers entrepreneurial training, crisis interventions, seminars and individual counseling. As part of their entrepreneurial online training, they have an online or live class called ‘Right Start’ which provides a solid educational foundation through three hour modules like Intro to Business, Marketing, Bookkeeping and Taxes,

and Business Law. Other seminar topics offered by the center include inventory control, business plan development, and protecting intellectual property. To learn more about the Lowell Small Business Assistance Center, see their website at www.lowellsmallbusiness.org or call them at 978-322-8400. The Northeast office of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (SBDC) located at the Enterprise Center at Salem State College provides business counseling and advising at both this site and at various other locations in the area. They also offer many Business Workshops, most of which are free. Upcoming workshops topics include Trends in Social Media, Web and Internet Marketing Basics, Effective Email Marketing and Financing Your Business. To learn more about the SBDC, visit their website at sbdc. salemstate.edu or call them at 978-542-6343. SCORE known as the “Counselors of America’s Small Business Owners” are a national association dedicated to helping small business owners form and grow their businesses. SCORE is headquartered in Virginia and Washington D.C., and has over 350 chapters in the United States. They have partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and have been in existence since 1964. SCORE has over 12,000 volunteers nationwide who work with small business clients. In addition to individual counseling, they offer online workshops and webinars on a variety of business topics from starting or growing your business, to financing, marketing and technology. You can also use their website at www.score.org. to find a local mentor for counseling. Pat Zapert is the Executive Director of The Billerica Community Alliance.

On Feb. 11, more than 70 couples who’ve been married 50 years or more came to enjoy the Sweetheart Dinner Dance sponsored by the Billerica Community Alliance. In addition to delicious sit down dinner, couples renewed their vows, and received proclamations from State Rep. Bill Greene and our Selectmen.

March - April 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 29

Notes from General Sound •By Todd Dellaporta

“Hallelujah” and the Huskies I got a call the other day from a loyal reader (and friend) about an online K.D. Lang performance of Leonard Cohen’s 1984 track, “Hallelujah”. Said Mrs. D, “I watched it twice - cried both times!” Hmmm, a lyrically abstract song with a brutally repetitive chorus that somehow has the power to bring a sane person to tears. This looks like a job for General Sound! The history of the piece is as complex as the emotions it invokes. Originally released on Cohen’s 1984 studio album “Various Positions” the song received limited praise. However, in recent years has been performed by more than 200 artists and has become Cohen’s most covered song. It is at this point (if you can’t recall the song) that you may want to set down the Billerica Green (don’t panic it will just take a minute) and type the following keywords into the search bar at www.youtube.com; Lang Hallelujah Juno. You will no doubt see a thumbnail of the eclectic artist looking a bit ominous in a long dark robe. At that point, turn up the speakers, tell the children to give you 5 minutes and then simply… enjoy. Singer Anjani Thomas called Lang’s performance “the ultimate blissful state of perfection.” I couldn’t agree more. While on the web visit www.kinagrannis. com. This talented newcomer has just released her 4th album and her voice and guitar skills are outstanding. There is a search bar where you can find “Hallelujah” which, despite a personal message from the artist mid-way through, is very nice.

Other artists who have covered what is now one of my favorite songs are John Cale, Jeff Buckley, Allison Crowe, Bob Dylan, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Alter Bridge (Myles Kennedy), Bono, Alexandra Burke and Rufas Wainwright (which by the way was part of the soundtrack to the animated hit “Shrek”.) The current band “Fall Out Boy” also incorporated the tune into their song “Hum Hallelujah” in their album “Infinity on High”. On January 22, 2010, Justin Timberlake and Matt Morris performed a duet of “Hallelujah” with Charlie Sexton on guitar in a live performance broadcast worldwide during the “Hope for Haiti Now” charity telethon. The performance has been released as part of an album on iTunes. The proceeds from which are donated to the charity. “What about the title reference to the Huskies?” you ask. Well, that’s just a little shout out to my BYB G5/6 basketball team who just finished an outstanding season and had a great time along the way. Mollie, Holly, Katia, Hannah, Katelyn, Emily, Kerrie, Angela, Kathryn, Haley and my power forward, Ameerah. You girls are the best! Thanks for a great season. Hallelujah! General Sound Entertainment has been providing clean, upbeat entertainment for the people of Billerica for almost two decades! To inquire about quality entertainment, Videography or Photography for your next event he can be reached at 508-572-6880, on the web at www.generalsound.com, or by email at info@generalsound.com

What’s Coming In April: Billerica Public Library:

A big anniversary and a exciting scavenger hunt make our public library the place to visit this spring.

Town Meeting History:

How was our local government formed? How are decisions made? Hear from Town Meeting Reps who remember when...

Heartfelt Stories:

Singers. Survivors. Athletes. They’re all here and we’ll tell you all about them.

We Remember:

Our soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. Read about how Billerica keeps their memory alive.

Caption Contest Winner Announced! Submit your Caption. Details on page 18.

Get on track to

ď&#x192;&#x17E;ght cancer

Start a Relay For Life Team! American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Billerica June 12-13, 2010 Boys & Girls Club of Greater Billerica 19 Campbell Road, Billerica Our community is joining together to celebrate survivors and caregivers, remember loved ones, and fight back against cancer at Relay For Life. During Relay teams take turns walking around a track overnight while raising funds for the American Cancer Society to help people stay well, get well, find cures, and fight back. Special activities, ceremonies and entertainment make it a fun and moving experience for everyone. For more details contact Erik Langhoff at your American Cancer Society at 781-314-2646 or visit relayforlife.org/billericama.