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A publication of The Billerica Green, LLC. ©2010 The Billerica Green unless otherwise specified. All Rights Reserved
Editor-in-Chief + Owner + Staff Writer: Liana Measmer For news or column submissions, e-mail us at liana@thebillericagreen.com.
Contents MAY/JUNE 2010 VOLUME 2, NUMBER 5
Art Director + Illustrator: Tony Luongo Staff Writers: Shawn Hutcheon Contributing Columnists: Diana Lombardo Colleen Sgroi Dr. Gina Aguayo Kay Warren Nora Fiore Kristene Whitehouse Brian Panarese Attorney Jennifer O’Brien Dave Gagliardi John and Sherry Livsey Pat Zapert Kathy Lynch Paul Abrego Jeff Parenti Todd Dellaporta Contributing Writers: Sandra Brigham Elise Celli Frank Hynes Alan Kessler Michael Macaris Michael Reed Dr. Richard Safier
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Forgotten No More Sixty years ago, the Korean War began, lauded as one of the launching points for the Cold War. Veterans from Billerica and beyond still talk about it like was yesterday.
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Our Field Of Dreams From Tom Glavine’s autographed painting to Babe Ruth’s equipment, there is something to see in every corner of The New England Baseball Museum
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. May/June 2010; Vol. 2, No. 5 The Billerica Green, LLC. P.O. Box 492 Billerica, MA 01821 www.thebillericagreen.com Subscriptions for non-Billerica residents: One year (12 issues) $15
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• By Shawn Hutcheon, Sports Writer
24
Hope Fighting Back Those touched by cancer tell their stories as they prepare to take their all night walk for the Relay for Life
27
Diabetes Boot Camp Noah’s mom got the news and cared for his diabetes at home. Now he
Contributing Photographers: Julia Van Kuilenburg Gail Lucozzi George Lucozzi
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had to venture out into new horizons–School • By Elise Celli
In this edition: Business to Business The Power From Within Teacher’s Corner Ask Dave Nourishment for Optimal Health
Green Handyman Billerica Media Beat Will Achieve The Playground
Please recycle when you are done enjoying The Billerica Green.
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A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Send us your Letters to the Editor. All letters become property of The Billerica Green, and those choosen for publication will be edited for clarity and length. Submit to letters@thebillericagreen.com.
WE ARE STRONG…WE BELIEVE…WE REMEMBER With Mother’s Day and Memorial Day coming, we at the Green chose to spend time this month remembering. Remembering people who are gone. Remembering the things they did or said. Remembering what is important. Remembering to love the ones who are here with us today. Since Little League Opening Day was in April, we decided to take a walk through time and check out the New England Baseball Museum. The memorabilia housed there spans decades. Visits are by appointment so make that call soon. In honor of Mother’s Day, we talked to a group of moms who have made the choice to stay home, either part time or full time because as they remind us all, “They are only young once”. At the Green, we are taking time for reflection and doing our part to fight a killer. Art Director Tony Luongo and I are siblings (in case you did not know) and our mom, Nena, is battling cancer right now. Tony is doing the Mooseman Triathalon for Lymphoma and Leukemia. I will be completing the Relay for Life at Lampson Field. We also got the privilege to talk to others whose lives have been impacted by cancer and heard about the one thing that keeps them going: HOPE. Memorial Day is important but it holds even more meaning when one is in the presence of a soldier. We got to talk to a group
of Korean War Veterans who will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Forgotten War. By our standards today, they went overseas as babies. However, the lessons they brought home shaped them into the men they became. As usual, we welcome your feedback. Good or Bad. We need to know how we are doing so we can continue to make the Green the best it can be. We are continually looking to grow our staff so if you might have an interest or some skills when it comes to writing or sales, let us know. Check out our FaceBook page. We will continue to post information there. And so can you! Enjoy the warm sun on your face. Spring is firmly planted in our backyards, Keep reading Billerica! Your Editor,
Liana Measmer liana@thebillericagreen.com
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Dear Editor, I just finished reading the latest edition and I have to tell you that you have created a highly visual and entertaining look at our community. From Tony Luongo’s illustrations, to the color photos, and on to the various features it has become what you were envisioning–a look at the town, it’s people and businesses. Informative, full of profiles and recognition (thanks for the spotlight on our Youth of the Year, Kourtni Hansen!) and nice ads (I discovered a couple of new places to get lunch) The Green has become a vital part of Billerica. Keep up the great work–we all benefit! – Roy Nagy Boys and Girls Club Good day, I enjoy reading The Billerica Green - its news - as with the library - is most interesting as are the shorter regular pieces like DAVE SAYS. In the last issue he wrote of Wills and Trusts. Very helpful. I wonder if sometime he could say something about having Living Trusts, their purpose and if one as one ages need to consider having one. Thanks. – Alan Seaburg Dear Voters, It was a long and exciting campaign. I enjoyed every minute of it. I’ve learned a lot from all of you and I hope you’ve learned a bit about me too. I know we did things a little different with this campaign. We proved that you can do more with less. We ran a low cost campaign using e-mails, a web site, and Facebook. I wish to thank the 2,000 plus voters that put their confidence in me and I am sorry we didn’t quite make the cut. I would ask all of you to now wish Marie and Dan the best of success on the school committee. Thank you again, – Sandra Giroux
Hi Liana, I would like to express to you the great enjoyment I receive every month when I read The Billerica Green. It is a very well written news magazine with interesting topics. My only wish is that it would be released to the Town weekly, rather than monthly! Best Regards, – Linda Meyer, Billerica I would like to thank everyone that voted for me in the April 10 election. I had the fortune of meeting a lot of wonderful people during the campaign and enjoyed all the discussions we shared. I would like to thank everyone that worked on the campaign; your help was the driving force that contributed to its successful outcome. I would also like to give a special thank you to my father, Nick, for all his efforts and hard work. Billerica is a wonderful place with lots of great people in it. I look forward to representing our town and its residents for another three years as your Selectman. Thank You – Michael Rosa To The Editor, Please not spray their dandelions. They are early sources of nectar and pollen to feed the honeybees as they awaken from their winter stupor. The Queen will be fed and the workers eat, but if the Queen dies, the hive will die. Beekeepers in the last two decades have lost a million hives. If you enjoy strawberries, blueberries, apples, pears, tomatoes, cucumbers, and Halloween pumpkins and other flowering fruits and vegetables, don’t spray. Bees will travel up to a mile from a hive for nectar and pollen. Lawn chemicals also make earthworms unhealthy and become poor quality food for the song birds. Live greener, be better stewards, Be Well! Thank You, – Beth Jennings Former Beekeeper, Nuttings Lake
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4 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
The Power from Within •By Liana Measmer
LIFE LESSONS THROUGH MAMI’S SMILE I’m the oldest of three. I was born in Cuba and came to the US as an infant with the one person in the world who loves me more than anyone. My mom. In Spanish, the word for mom is Mami (pronounced Mah-mee). Mami is the strongest woman on the planet. At least in my eyes. Mami is currently battling cancer. Her strength has never been more evident to me than right now. Through it all, she will smile. She has this amazing wide, warm smile. It’s where I get mine, you know. A smile that draws you in so you feel an instant connection. Whether life is good or she is facing challenges, Mami smiles and takes it head on. I’m so grateful to have reaped the beneďŹ t of her powerful genetics. I’ve not written anything yet about Mami because this isn’t about me. She’s the one with cancer. But my best friend has reminded me this is my mom so feeling sad, or scared, or angry, or shocked is natural. Mostly, I choose to reminisce. And try to smile. Mami left her native land not knowing the language perfectly with 40 pounds of clothing and an infant. I was sick and we needed to get out from under a communist government to make a better life for ourselves. Mami often says that knowing I
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needed to live drove her to ďŹ ght through her fears and face any adversity. Mami initially received ďŹ nancial assistance so when we did not have enough for our ďŹ rst Christmas, she applied to “Globe Santaâ€?. A generous soul purchased the small brown teddy bear that was loved for decades and who now sits tattered on my bookshelf as a reminder of where we came from. Regardless of these struggles, in our pictures, Mami smiles. Mami learned the language and went to computer school. Over time, she went to college and got a Bachelor’s Degree. Then a Master’s Degree. Then another Master’s Degree. All part time over many years while she was mom to me and my two brothers. In her cap and gown, Mami smiles proud. Her drive and energy have always been an inspiration to me. When Mami called on New Year’s Day to break the news about her cancer, I interrogated her. I wanted to know the who, what, when, where, and why of it all. She was positive and ready for what was to come. She was to undergo three rounds of chemotherapy to shrink her tumor. She’d bought the wig and froze her prepared meals. I could hear the reassuring smile over the line (I’m really familiar with that one, believe me) so I trusted she would lick this thing. How could she not? It was Mami. “I feel great,â€? she said. After we found out the three rounds did not shrink the tumor but rather it had grown, I was on the phone with my brother, crying. Why her? She’d always taken care of herself.
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Beside being Editor of The Billerica Green, Liana Measmer is a Licensed Social Worker, Billerica resident and Mom to three great kids.
After the traditional early morning parade, Little League teams made their way to Pollard Field for the 58th Annual Little League Opening Day ceremonies. It was a sunny day on April 24th for the hundreds of parents who lined the ďŹ eld with their young players from all divisions.
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I realized how much of an equal opportunity killer cancer is. It goes after everyone. I knew at that moment, Mami wasn’t smiling. She needed major surgery resulting in almost all of the cancer being removed. Except where it was too dangerous. For that, she’s required radiation. Although still positive, she is tired and has lost her appetite. I wanted to see her but when I got o the plane, I did not recognize her at ďŹ rst. She was thinner and paler. The wig was just about the right color but not quite the same style of her hair. When I hugged her, she felt little. Once back at her house, we shared a snack and conversation. I was dreading the wig coming o. She had lost hair and had opted to shave o the rest. When she took o her cap, her head was covered with small, white, peach fuzz. She pointed out her nicely shaped head. Then she showed me her large incision and explained how well it was healing. It was overwhelming but I tried to smile. Watching her has gotten me in touch with my mortality. We are not immune to life’s sometimes painful realities. Even so, I truly believe, like Mami, that life is 90 percent attitude and we can never, ever, ever give up. That is not an option. We can, however, smile through it since somehow, that just makes it better.
StonehamBank sta, partnering with Shred-it, braved a chilly morning on April 17 to oer document shredding to the community after Tax Day on April 15. Approximately 20 people came out to utilize this service. Shred-it then bales the shredded forms and recycles the paper.
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 5
Dave Says •By Dave Ramsey
TITHE, CREDIT COUNSELING Should I reduce my tithe? Dear Dave, My husband and I are on Baby Step 2 of your plan, and we’re working hard to pay off all of our debt. We’re Christians, but would it be a good idea to decrease our traditional 10 to 15 percent tithe while we work through the debt snowball? – Janelle Dear Janelle, I’ve studied Scripture on this subject for about 20 years and taught in Christian settings. But I don’t want you to take my word as the final authority. What we’re about to get into comes from God, not some guy with a radio show, okay? When you look up the Hebrew word “tithe,” it literally means tenth. Not 10 to 15 percent – a tenth. The book of Deuteronomy says to give a tenth of your net increase. In Proverbs, it refers to the tithe as first fruits, off the top, before anything else. About 1,200 years of protestant Christian teaching has focused on the idea that the tithe goes to the local church, because it’s the New Testament representation of the Old Testament storehouse. The storehouse took care of the Levites, which were the priests—or pastors— and the widows and orphans. Today, the New Testament church in your community is supposed to use it for the same kinds of things: pastor’s salaries and helping people who are struggling. Now, once we’ve said all that, the problem is that there’s enough toxicity in Christianity and twisted information that surrounds tithing to choke a horse! I want you to remember one thing, though. God doesn’t love you more just because you tithe more than the person sitting next to you. It’s not a salvation issue, either. We’re not going to get into performancebased legalism here. God thinks you’re cool! You’re his kid, and He’s going to love you even if you don’t tithe. But He knows what tithing does for us. It makes us focus on something other than ourselves. God doesn’t need your money, but He does want us to be loving and giving to the people around us. I wouldn’t stop or reduce my tithe if I were in your situation. When I hit bottom 20 years ago, I tithed all the way into bankruptcy court and all the way out. Just please keep in mind that you shouldn’t do this because Dave On April 29th at the state house, chiropractors from across Massachusetts spoke with their local legislators about the cost effectiveness of chiropractic care. Dr. Fischer and Senator Susan Fargo pictured here.
Ramsey gave you a “rule.” It comes straight from God, and it’s a loving father’s instructions as to what’s best for his kids! – Dave Say no to credit counseling services! Dear Dave, I have a friend with $30,000 in credit card debt, an $80,000 second mortgage, and a car loan. She makes about $70,000 a year, and is considering using a credit counseling service to help. They say they can negotiate her credit card debt down to almost half of what it is now, but there’s an 18 percent fee attached for their services. What are your feelings about this? – Frank Dear Frank, This is a bad idea for several reasons. For one thing, it will virtually destroy her credit with regard to buying a home. Almost every lending institution will look at using a credit counseling service as if she had filed Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Here’s something else to think about. Some of these “counseling” companies withhold credit card payments until the account is three to six months past due. Then, they contact the lender and negotiate to settle the bad debt. See where I’m going? That’s how they get negotiated discounts on credit card debt. Card companies don’t settle on your debts when your payments are on time. These services are always a bad idea, and sometimes they’re a complete scam. Some of them will go as far as to request power of attorney. Believe it or not, many people who are in debt are either naïve or desperate enough to sign this control over to them! Your friend needs to handle this herself, and the best way to do that is by making her money behave, and creating and living on a monthly budget. Tell her to sell some stuff, or pick up an extra job on weekends. It would probably be a good idea to sell that car she’s financing, and find a cheap, little beater to drive around, too. Regardless, she’s got some tough decisions and hard work ahead if she wants to free up her cash flow, and clean up this mess the right way! – Dave *For more financial advice, plus special offers to our readers, please visit www.davesays.org.
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6 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
Nourishment for Optimal Health •By Kathy Lynch, CHHC
WHAT PRICE A GREEN-CARPET LAWN? “Summer Vacation – A Time for Fun…and Caution” In June, school will be out. Children will be outside and have more free time. This month and next, I want to summarize the Stranger/Danger lessons we teach at the karate school. Hopefully, this outline will be helpful to your family. The rules rhyme so they are easy to teach and remember. As parents, add your own advice. What is offered here are highlights of our more in-depth Stranger/ Danger course. The Eight Rules of Stranger/Danger 1. Stay away from danger, don’t talk to strangers! A stranger is someone one you don’t know or don’t know well. This person can look like anyone. Adults should talk to adults. If an adult you don’t know talks to you, run away and tell your parents. 2. Remember the adults you trust, check with them you must! There is a pyramid of trust, with mom and dad, grandparents at the top. These are people who love you. Never go to a neighbor’s house without your parents’ permission. A neighbor is not in your pyramid of trust unless your mom and dad tell you he or she is someone you can trust. 3. It’s okay to yell, then go run and tell! If a stranger tries to hurt you, kick, punch, scratch, do whatever it takes to get away. Yelling, “Help! This isn’t my father (mother), this is a stranger!” is better than just yelling help.
be polite to someone you don’t know if your parents aren’t around. Being safe is more important than being nice. A stranger is not someone you have to listen to or trust just because he or she is an adult. 6. Walk where it’s bright, you’ll get home all right! Don’t take a short-cuts that put you in isolated places. Always be aware of your surroundings. It’s easier to stay safe if you can see what’s around you! 7. Don’t get in the car, run fast and run far! Never get in a stranger’s car! Unless you have permission from your parents, don’t get into the car of your friend’s parents. Your mom and dad will never send someone to pick you up unless they told you about it ahead of time. Talk to your parents about having a password. 8. Don’t lose your cool, remember the rules! If a stranger talks to you or you feel you are in danger, don’t panic. The best way to protect yourself is to remember what your mom and dad have taught you about staying safe and the Eight Stranger/ Danger rules, then act! Next Month: the ABCs of self defense and the Magic Rule of Stranger/Danger Safety. Have a great month! Alan Kessler
4. It’s safer with two, your buddy and you! Stay with a group. Don’t go places by yourself. It’s always better to have a friend along and more fun too! 5. There’s nothing to say, just walk away! If a stranger talks to you, walk away! You don’t have to
7 Marshall Street | Billerica, MA 01821 978-667-7774 508 Groton Road | Westford, MA 01886 978-692-0479 www.kesslerkarate.com
I remember moving into my new home. It was a pleasure to have a lawn around all four sides of my house! Before then I had lived in a townhouse connected to two other homes. My newly-purchased plot of land was more space than my family needed but the house came with a large plot. I noticed that some local homeowners had lawns that looked like thick green carpets. Before long, I was working with a landscaping company that maintained my lawn to look the same way. This meant fertilizer, pesticides, and herbicide treatments. I remember the little yellow flags that the landscaper put on our lawn cautioning children and pets to stay off the lawn for a day or so to keep them safe from the toxic chemicals. For a while, it didn’t faze me that much. I figured I would keep my family off the lawn for the designated period of time and we would be fine. What was I thinking?! These poisonous chemicals end up in our water, our food, and our bodies causing illness. A study conducted by Silent Spring Institute in Newton, Massachusetts, found that when they compared habits and practices of women in areas of high breast cancer incidence versus areas of low incidence, 65% of the women in high-incidence areas reported using professional lawn treatment service (pesticides and chemical fertilizers) compared with 36% in low-incidence areas. In a presentation at the National Hazardous Materials Management Conference on 11/14/2000, Dr. Alan Woolf, MD, MPH stated, “In 1999, there were 21,933 poisonings of preschool aged children in the United States due to pesticides.” Lawn-treatment chemicals get into the
Upcoming Events at the Karate School:
body through ingestion, skin contact, and inhalation. It wasn’t until I studied nutrition that this issue became so clear. I learned that everything we eat and drink affects our health and well-being. It isn’t a far stretch to see that everything we put on our skin affects our health. And, everything we breathe in affects our health. I very quickly came to understand that the lawn treatments were not worth the risk or expense. I no longer use chemicals on my lawn. It still looks green and wonderful – even with yellow dandelions, clover, and purple flowers. A “perfect lawn” is a matter of perspective. My children make bouquets of pretty yellow dandelions and purple flowers for me. Do they see them as “weeds?” No. They see them as a beautiful gift for Mom. With the increasing prevalence of disease caused by environmental toxicity, all living creatures are at risk. Ironically, children, pets, wild animals, and beneficial insects cannot read the cautionary yellow flags on the lawns. Besides, some pesticides do not degrade quickly and exist in the environment for a year or more. The Ecological Landscaping Association (www.ecolandscaping.org) is a great resource for finding healthier landscaping methods. I hope and pray that homeowners and businesses make the switch to toxin-free lawn maintenance for the benefit of all living creatures. What will you do? 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.
Frank M. Hynes and Associates, A Metlife Office, held an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Apr. 29 at their new office, 330 Boston Road, Unit 6, North Billerica. Town officials, the Billerica Community Alliance Board and the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce were on hand to celebrate.
Adult and junior promotions, May 1 Micozzi Beach Clean up, May 1, 9:00am–2:00pm Talent Show, May 8, 6:00pm–8:00pm Black Belt graduation, May 22, Timberlake Regional High School Karate Demo, Relay for Life, June 12, Lampson Field
This year the BMHS spring musical was “Joseph and The Technicolor Dreamcoat”, which showed nightly to a packed auditorium. The cast was met with thunderous applause. The cast also included a talented children’s choir, all dressed in rainbow colored t-shirts.
Time Travel Summer Camp for Children Starting in July! Expeditions to the Boston Science Museum, Pirate Museum, Stoneham Zoo, and more! Call Joann for details, 978-667-7774 ADVERTISEMENT
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Car Wash for Rec Dept., Masonic Temple, June 12, 10:00am–2:00pm
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 7
By Liana Measmer t is commonly referred to as The Forgotten War but Korean War Veterans will always remember. The weather. The canned meals. The fighting. The childhood innocence lost. Close to 500,000 US soldiers fought during the Korean war with over 36,000 US lives lost. This June 25 marks the 60th anniversary of the day Communist North Korea attacked Democratic South Korea by crossing a most famous latitude-The 38th Parallel-and starting the war. The Greater Lowell Korean War Veterans Association (GLKWVA), of which many Billerica vets are members, continues planning a commemorative banquet scheduled for June 27, which is slated to celebrate the lives and sacrifices of our soldiers and bring this Forgotten War very much back into our memories.
I
the two Koreas. North Korea unilaterally withdrew from the armistice on May 27, 2009. (Source: Wikipedia) On The Front Line Billerica resident Harry Norman served in the 5th Air Force Division. He graduated from high school and enlisted, later celebrating his 21st birthday while in Korea. He was in Korea from 1952 to 1953. As military police, his job was to guard compounds and radar sites. While on his watch, he remembers seeing the North Koreans in the distance and recalls always having his weapon on him and ready. “If anything happened, we were the first to have to take care of it,” said Norman. Norman recalls the Korean winters were brutal. He had no winter coat or sleeping bag at night when temperatures would plummet. A few blankets covered him, sleeping in as many clothes as he could find. Norman recalls losing a few fellow soldiers when a courier plane was shot down by guerrillas. Seeing that made him get closer to his living fellow soldiers. “It’s a comradeship with the guys,” said Norman. As a member of the GLKWVA, Norman plans to attend the anniversary and reminisce on an experience that impacted him for years to come. “I’m glad I served,” said Norman. “It was my duty to do it.”
Military Conflict, Political Divide The Korean War was between the Republic of Korea, supported by the United Nations, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, supported by the People’s Republic of China and the Soviet Union. The war began on June 25, 1950 and an armistice was signed on July 27, 1953 The war was a result of the political division of Korea. In 1945, following the surrender of Japan, the Korean peninsula was divided by American administrators along the 38th parallel, with United States troops occupying the southern part and Soviet troops Bob Enos was 18 years old when he occupying the northern part. Open served in the Army field artillery warfare began when the North battery on the front line. His Korean forces invaded South platoon moved around a Korea on June 25, 1950. lot, supporting other It was the first significant outfits, every three or armed conflict of the four weeks. He would Cold War. see incoming rounds 36,516- dead (including The United States from the other side 2,830 non-combat deaths) and was trained to came to the aid of the South Koreans. duck or keep on 92,134- wounded After early defeats at firing back. Being so 8,176- MIA the hands of the North young was frightening Korean military, a rapid at times but he believed 7,245- POW UN counter-offensive his training helped him repelled the North Koreans do what he needed to in the past the 38th Parallel and the moment. People’s Republic of China (PRC) came “You miss a teenage life because you to the aid of Communist North. The threat were in combat,” said Enos. of a possibly nuclear world war eventually Enos recalls how the Korean spring was ceased with an armistice that restored the so rainy and muddy. The mud was so thick, border between the Koreas at the 38th Parallel soldiers would sink in it. He also noted how and created the Korean Demilitarized Zone he learned to take nothing for granted. (DMZ), a 2.5-mile buffer zone between “You were lucky to get a shower every six
United States
weeks,” said Enos. “Clean clothes were few and far between.” Enos joined the GLKWVA four years ago and currently sits on their board. He is planning to attend the 60th anniversary celebration because he too, can’t forget.
meals they all ate. He had to eat so much beef stew overseas that when he returned home, he never had it again. Regardless of what he faced, he was happy he served his country overseas. “I’d do it all over again,” said Constanza.
Al Constanza joined the GLKWVA in 2003 and spends many Friday mornings at the McDonald’s in Billerica having coffee with his fellow vets. Nineteen year old Constanza served in 1951 and was part of an occupation force. He was an army soldier who experienced a lot of skirmish on the front lines. He recalls a time ‘the enemy’ got so close, his platoon was over run. The soldiers were having lunch when their sergeant turned their gun around and fired at an enemy tank that was headed right for them. He also recalls how Napalm would take out everything in its path and entering demolished villages where the foul stench of the dead was every where. Constanza recalls the “c” rations or canned
Honoring Our Soldiers On June 25, the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Boston will host a commemorative ceremony. In order to encourage and allow for vets to attend, the GLKWVA is hosting a banquet on June 27 at 1 pm at the Polish American’s Club in the Centralville section of Lowell. GLKWVA Banquet Committee Chairman Joe Dussault, hoping hundreds will attend, stated, “ We’re hoping we can put on a banquet that honors the Korean War veteran honorably.” For more information, contact Second Vice Commander Larry DeBenedictus at 978-667-7203.
8 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
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BILLERICA’S TRENDY BOUTIQUE: NEW CONSIGNMENT SHOP OFFERS BARGAINS When looking for a real deal, most look no further than their local consignment shop. A recent study showed that while shopping malls were seeing a decline in overall sales, consignment and thrift stores saw a 66.2 percent sales increase from January through August of 2008 as a result of the economy. Consignment shops not only have bargains on used clothes, selling your old clothes can get you cash or store credit. “This industry just keeps growing, but especially during slow times,” said Adele R. Meyer, the Executive Director of the National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops. “Once people find that great bargain, they’re hooked.” Tammy Martorana, owner of the newly opened Trendy Turnaround has always known about such bargains. An Andover resident with family in Billerica, Martorana opened the women’s and men’s clothing consignment shop at 880 Boston Road, Suite 7 because she wanted to offer another option for high end merchandise at reasonable prices. “I’ve always been a consignment store shopper myself,” said Martorana. Walking into Martorana’s classic boutique,
her accouterments are surrounded by soft lavender and lilac color schemes. With ironlooking candelabras, purple velvet changing room curtains and new wooden hangers, this shop looks like some place on Newbury Street in Boston. Martorana’s items with such designer names as Lia Sophia, Gucci, Coach, Nine West, and American Eagle, are gently used (many still with the original tags) and clean. Consignors are always welcome and receive 40 percent of the final sale price. Currently, Martorana is accepting spring and summer clothing, preferably no more than two years old with no stains or tears. As stated earlier, in addition to women’s clothing, Martorana is accepting mens clothing as well. “Clothing must be in perfect condition,” asks Martorana. “And consignments are taken by appointment.” Although she is currently open, Martorana’s grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, May 15 from 10 am to 4 pm. She is offering 20 percent off entire purchases for the day even though everything in the store is already a deal. For more information on store hours, call Martorana at 978-663-7700.
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As part of Billerica’s participation in National Alcohol Awareness Week, The Billerica Substance Abuse Prevention Committee along with the Health Advisory Council for the Billerica Public Schools presented a Town Hall Forum on April 15, giving the audience at the Buck Auditorium a lot of facts about children, families, and alcohol. Although some numbers were staggering, there is still hope. There are 28 million alcoholics in this country, with 8 million under the age of 18. Of those children, one out of eight come from alcoholic homes. Daughters coming from substance abuse families are more likely to become alcoholics and to marry one. Sons coming from substance abuse families are 70 percent at risk of becoming alcoholics due to genetics and behaviors. Every Friday and Saturday night for every tenth car coming at you on a highway - the person driving that car is drinking and driving. The guest speaker for the forum was Mr. Bill Phillips, the president and founder of New Beginnings, a drug awareness agency that focuses on the most current issues students deal with every day. His goal is to promote new strategies and approaches designed to keep students interested in addressing their issues.
Phillips has been developing and presenting workshops and programs at all levels of education for 22 years. His research and expertise include adolescent behavior and adolescent alcohol and drug abuse. His program has now been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in awarding him a government grant to continue his educational program and his work with young people. Phillips said addiction is a medically and scientifically recognized disease of the mind, body, and spirit caused by both environmental and genetic factors. Some of the warning signs that suggest substance abuse include a change in attitude toward rules and toward family members; a withdrawal from family functions; isolation; breaking curfew; becoming more secretive; blaming others for irresponsible actions; erratic sleeping habits (too much or too little); erratic eating habits; vagueness about company kept and where time was spent; suspicion of money or alcohol missing in the house, and a series of other concerns. Phillips’ advice for parents was to remember they did not cause the problem, they cannot control it, and they cannot cure the problem. Parents can be clear about how they feel and the limits they can live
with. Phillips also suggested parents learn all they can about chemical dependency, and understand what they think is problem drinking. Be clear how they feel about the use of drugs and alcohol and express concern as early as possible. All concerns are justifiable; this is their child. Set limits and do not continue to give second chances or cover up for them. Don’t condemn, judge or criticize or be afraid to ask questions but also don’t ignore the signs and think things will get better by themselves. Phillips, now in his 60s, knows about substance abuse from personal experience. Battling substance abuse as a teen and young man cost him friends and put him on the wrong road in life. But, his ability to overcome those struggles gave him an insight with kids facing the same problems — and how to help kids survive them. “You can get your life back and become a better person,” said Phillips. “You try to get them into a situation where they can get healthy”. For more information, the web site for New Beginnings is www.nbprograms. com. [Submission By Dr. Rich Safier, Assistant Superintendent and The Billerica Substance Abuse Prevention Committee]
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 9
WINDSHIELD WISE Your vehicle’s windshield is important in keeping you safe in the event of an accident and must be maintained. Its shields you from the weather and debris which is common during driving. It also serves to support the roof if the car rolls over, thus reducing the chance of caving in. During car design, special attention is paid to the windshield’s integration with the roof because of the protection offered. A small nick or a crack may seem minor at first, but given the right conditions, can easily spread across the windshield. Temperature changes or pressure can cause this, and if the crack crosses through your line of vision, it becomes a hazard. Billerica native Bill Bartel, owner of the new A.E.B. Glass, sees this sort of thing every day and knows the importance of maintaining windshields. This is why he started this completely mobile glass repair and replacement company. “The sooner you repair it, the better,” said Bartel. “If we catch repairs before they become replacements, it may just help lower our insurance costs.” Once he receives a call, usually within 24 hours, Bartel will come to your home or business to assess the situation. If the damage is minor, Bartel recommends windshield repair. He starts by using his very fine and
very sharp drill to make a clean hole in the windshield. Then he fills the hole with a glass resin followed by a pit resin. These resins are ultraviolet cured and dry in minutes. For any cracks larger than a half dollar, Bartel recommends windshield replacement. This simple process is important since the windshield serves as the backstop for the passenger side airbag. With the urethane oil based urethane automotive grade adhesives, cars that have windshields replaced require one hour to cure before driving. Regardless of repair or replacement, the integrity of the windshield, which was compromised, is almost completely returned to normal. Contact A.E.B.Glass, call (978)648-0564 or online at www.aebglass.com.
AT BRIGHTVIEW CONCORD RIVER IT’S ALL ABOUT BILLERICA Brightview Concord River, an assisted living community including a Wellspring Village for Residents needing alzheimer’s care at 199 Concord Road in Billerica, opened its doors on December 3, 2009. It is already flourishing with a vibrant group of Residents who are out and about in the Billerica community. Brightview Concord River residents moved to the community from Billerica, surrounding towns and from out of state; but what they have in common is enjoying the environs of Billerica. The Brightview Concord River van and drivers transport residents on trips to and from Billerica shopping sites, restaurants and community attractions and do not stop there. Residents from Brightview Concord River enjoyed a recent trip to Billerica High School’s spring production of Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat. They even got a back stage pass to have their picture taken with the star from the show. Regular trips are taken to Billerica’s fabulous Council on Aging center to participate in the variety of activities that they have there. Even the Billerica Garden Club gets in the act by coming to
Brightview Concord River on a regular basis to share their love of plants and flowers. There is no question that the Resident’s of Brightview Concord River love the town of Billerica. “I moved here from Burlington” said resident Angela Tansino, “and I love everything that Billerica has to offer”. Sisters Catherine Dobi and Shirley Maguire moved from Connecticut to be nearer their son who lives in Billerica. They find everything thing they need and enjoy going out in Billerica. If you have not yet made a visit to Brightview Concord River at 199 Concord Road be sure to call them at 978-262-1410 to take a look at this vibrant community. {Submission by Mike Reed BrightView}
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10 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
The Art of Excellence •By Michael Macaris
KIDS ROAD TO SUCCESS
SGROI ILLUMINATES BOSTON Local artist Colleen Sgroi has her work all over Billerica. At the Library. Town Hall. Even on the side of Enterprise Bank. This spring, she got to expand her horizons when she was chosen to hang her work at the Massachusetts General Hospital’s Yawkey Cancer Center through their Illuminations exhibit. For almost ten years, the work of several artists, representing various media, is put on display for four months at a time. The exhibit is intended to offer enlightenment and encouragement to patients, families, staff and friends as they receive care, provide care or accompany loved ones. “This represents the art and culture of our community,” said Dr. Bruce Chabner, Mass. General Clinical Director. “ They donated their time and put their precious work up.” Sgroi submitted her application last fall and was accepted by Illuminations over the winter holidays. Following the opening reception in March, the art remains hung throughout the halls of the hospital until the end of May. Sgroi, touched by cancer herself in her own family, chose pieces that were soothing. “I picked the most inspirational ones,” said Sgroi. Sgroi’s “The Christmas Play” and “A Peaceful Place” were hung in the Center
for Lymphomas, Sarcomas, and Leukemia. “A New Beginning”, the Noah’s Ark story, was proudly displayed in the Cancer Center for Children while “The Dance of Grace”, depicting women of color, was placed in the Gillette Center for Breast Cancer. “The Boston Swan” and “Country Living” also graced separate centers in the building too. Sgroi’s style tends to be a signature folk art and all her work can be viewed at her gallery at 12 Andover Road in Billerica. Call 978-667-1009 for gallery hours or visit her at www.colleensgroi.com
As a parent, what’s most important to you? I’m sure the current and future well being, success and happiness of your children are top priorities. The reality is once kids reach adulthood, some may struggle more than others. I’m sure there will be plenty of competition for good jobs in the future. So, what are the tools that your child needs to have a decent chance at success? All children are enrolled either in a public or private school where they will receive education that is knowledge based. The acquiring of this information is necessary in order to function normally in our society. Are the kids that do the best academically going to be the most successful? Not necessarily. Of course, many high academic achievers will do well but there are studies that show the most successful people in business were average students with above average motivation and people skills. Having a positive self-image (self-confidence), the ability to take on a challenge and some discipline could possibly be even more important than knowledge based information. How does one develop the good habits necessary to achieve goals that lead to selfconfidence? The bridge that turns thought into reality is a belief in oneself and the will to succeed. The great football coach Vince Lombardi once said “The difference from a successful person and someone else is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge but rather a lack of will”. Actions speak louder than words. Thought without action can be useless. It’s good habits that build the character and will to succeed. Good habits can take guts and be challenging to form, but serve us well.
Poor habits can be easy to form but make us lazy and our life difficult. Everyone starts developing habits early in life that mold who we become. Of course, a parent is the most important teacher a child will ever have. However, in today’s world, kids exposed to so much positive influence outside the family can also have a big impact. Kids will have many teachers and coaches during their life and hopefully many good ones who will be positive role models. As a parent, teacher or coach, never undervalue the impact you can have on a child’s life. Whether you’re a parent raising your own children or a teacher / coach building kids up, it’s important to practice what we preach. The best teachers lead and teach by example. Rewards should come as a result of real effort. In today’s society ,when often times everyone gets a star on their forehead just for showing up, the real achiever should not be overlooked. Ultimately, everyone will be responsible for their own actions. They will respond to whatever life tosses at them in their own way and become truly who they are. We can only do our best and hope the same for tomorrow’s leaders. Raising kids these days is a tough job, so stay diligent and wish your kids good luck. Someone once said luck is when preparation and opportunity meet. I do believe this is true. Michael Macaris is the owner and Chief Instructor of Michael Macaris Kung-Fu Academy at 306 Boston Road - No. Billerica, MA 01862 in Brown’s Corner. Call (978) 667-9660 to schedule a class today.
SKATEPARK SKATE-OFF A GREAT SUCCESS
Against all odds, a handful of teens with a vision put together an event and proved new ideas do work. The Billerica Skatepark Committee raised almost $2000 toward a new skatepark next to Lampson field at the Boys and Girls Club. On April 23,
between 10 am and 10 pm, more than 250 people from Billerica, Tewksbury, Lowell, and New Hampshire, ranging in age from 13 to their mid-20’s, registered to skate or hang out. Nineteen bands from all over, skateboard retailers, and dedicated parents and town officials came to help. There was a set of dueling grills serving up food all day, 2 skateboard contests and a dunk tank available for fun. One of the organizers, Joey Salem, noted the town has applied for a grant of about $150,000 toward the skatepark. When asked what he would do with such a large sum, Salem said, “Get and incredible skatepark.” Another skate off is in the works for the end of the summer.
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 11
YANKEE DOODLE PARTNERED WITH RECYCLE BUYING POWER How would you like to shop and save money, while at the same time help raise dollars for Yankee Doodle? This program is a win for you and for Billerica’s Homecoming. Yankee Doodle has partnered with Recycle Buying Power, an online shopping mall where you shop, save money, and Yankee Doodle also receives cash based on your shopping dollars. What are the benefits to you as a business or an individual? You earn “unlimited” cash back with no cost to join a club. There are over 3500 partner stores and over 35 million
products. There is the ability to comparison shop and product search. There is no restriction on resale. Use online coupons and still earn cash back. Join this revolutionary shopping cash back program - www.shopyankeedoodle. com(which links to http://www. marketamerica.com/billericayankeedoodle/ )and help raise dollars for Billerica’s Homecoming. Contact Joan at jparcewski@ comcast.net or at 978-663-5201. [Submission from Yankee Doodle Homecoming Committee]
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IMAGICA BRINGS HOME THE GOLD It should be no surprise that Imagica, an adult theater on ice skating team based out of the Skating Club of Boston, brought home yet one more gold medal. It seems to be the pattern for them. Since 2007, every time they compete, its pure gold. Imagica, where Billerica Realtor Carol Woods enjoys using her skating talents, just returned from Toulouse, France where they took part in the First Nations Cup for Ballet on Ice, held April 24 and 25. Odds initially were against them, as the Iceland volcano erupted just days before, sending ash into Europe. Imagica made it while six other novice, junior, and senior teams from the US withdrew because they were unable
ice. Coach Tasney Mazzarino, who had been a skater with Imagica in her 20’s, chose the under the sea theme because she likes mermaids. The focus this year was more on the costumes and less on the props, as they needed to remain simple and easy to transport. “The props break down and go into suitcases,” said Mazzarino. Imagica’s modus operandi is a humorous or comedic tone to their routine. This is something that has served them well but is not common in theater on ice. “We found our niche entertaining people,” said Mazzarino. Coach Amy Vecchio, who skated in
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Featured Homes to travel. The 2011 Nations Cup will be hosted next April by the Yarmouth Ice Club in Yarmouth, MA. So what does it take to get the gold? The team needed to stand out, so they practiced. Alot. Woods explained the team has been working on their routine since October. Over the previous summer, there was coaching and skating lessons. Regional judges were in attendance to give their critique, which the team used to tweak their routines. “We have all walks of life on the team,” said Woods. “Our common bond is skating.” The team skated a six minute ‘Lost At Sea’ routine, with costume changes on the
Disney on Ice, pointed out how dedicated the members of the team was. With jobs and families, Vecchio noted how evident it is they want to be here. “This is important to them,” said Vecchio. “They take it seriously.” Now that the team is home, they are setting their sights on their national competition in June. For that, they will perform this Lost At Sea routine again. When asked if she ever worries they won’t win, Mazzarino shook her head and replied,” It’s more to be remembered.” To see the team in action, check out Imagica’s website at www.imagicaonice.com.
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12 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
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How often have you opened a window on a warm spring day and taken a deep breath of fresh air? Drawn to how good that feels, perhaps you step outside to look around. What you see in your yard could enhance or ruin your calming vision. Sitting on a stone patio at a glass table under a canopy, sipping chamomile may conjure a relaxing image. Or perhaps imagine a bubbling pond surrounded by colorful flower beds. Or a path leading to a bench under a shady tree. Affordable Landscaping wants to bring this multisensory and soothing experience right onto your property. Owner Lisa Fudge believes your yard is one of your biggest investments. So why not make it everything you want? Plus, for
Fudge, she believes it’s all an issue of time or money when seeking to get away on a vacation. “If you have the time, you don’t have the money,” said Fudge. “And if you have the money, you don’t have time time.” Fudge has been in the business of creating beautiful spaces for 18 years. Attune to sounds like bubbling water and chirping birds, Fudge can enhance the nature around you. She will plant flowers or greenery that attracts hummingbirds, finches and cardinals. And it’s all done on a budget. The Affordable Landscape website at www.affordablelandscaping.info can give you some examples of custom backyard living. Or call today for an estimate at 978663-6271.
HELPING HIMSELF, HELPING HIS TOWN When Andy Brant was out for a ride in the back seat of a friend’s car in 1985, he never thought his life would change forever in a split second. Even though the car he traveled in was involved in an accident leaving Brant seriously hurt, he has not allowed his injuries to stop him from giving back to others. Brant’s back was broken and a serious hematoma in his skull required the removal of brain tissue. An eye injury required facial reconstruction and a tracheotomy was necessary in aiding his breathing. Subsequently, Brant spent the next nine months in a coma. When he awoke, his speech and ability to walk were severely impacted and he spent four months hospitalized while he recovered. He was transferred to the Spaulding Rehabilitation Center in Boston for six months where he learned to walk all over again.
“That was the greatest hospital,” said Brant. “They encouraged me that I would walk again.” After receiving a settlement, Brant moved out on his own and lived in an apartment. The pain of life post-trauma lead him to self-soothing yet destructive behaviors like alcohol abuse and engagement in unhealthy relationships. Brant vacillated between sobriety and drinking between 1999 and 2001, and five years ago moved into a sober apartment at the Twelve Step Education Program of New England at 317 Boston Road. Run by Executive Director Phil Malonson, this sober home requires residents to be drug and alcohol free in order to live there. Malonson noted that Brant is a terrific
resident who helps out by cleaning up around the house and yard. “He has more energy than anyone else in the house,” said Malonson. Because he now lives with a permanent limp, Brant finds riding a bike to be a a more soothing mode of getting around. While riding on Boston Road a few years ago, Brant noticed a significant amount of litter all along the sidewalks. Knowing a fall off his bicycle could be dangerous, Brant decided he would help out the town and pick up the trash all along Route 3A. Every morning at 6 am, Brant dons his fluorescent orange jacket and rubber gloves, grabs his plastic bag and starts picking. When Brant is walking along Boston Road, getting a beep and a wave feels like a thank you. And he appreciates that. He starts at his residence and works his way all the way to the town common. His endeavor takes him about two hours and he feels a sense of pride knowing others won’t get hurt on any glass or debris. “I’m a volunteer,” said Brant. “I like to help out.” Brant is now involved in the ‘Take 5’ program. This Recreation Department program was developed by local girl scouts and encourages residents to pick up five pieces of trash every time they are on a playground or ball field. Brant is looking forward to putting a ‘Take 5’ sticker on his bicycle. “If everyone cleans up, it will be a much better town,” said Brant.
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 13
TAKE 5 KEEPS BILLERICA BEAUTIFUL For their Bronze award, Girl Scout Cadette Troop 60576 had designed the ‘Take 5’ program. Backed by the Recreation Department, ‘Take 5’ asks anyone in a playground and ball field to pick up five pieces of trash before they leave. The signs are visibly at each location. According to Ivy Coughlin, the troop of eight girls saw a need and decided to do something about it. “We noticed a lot of trash around town and wanted to help,” said Coughlin.
To date, many people are involved in the program which gives the girls a sense of accomplishment. Coughlin enjoys seeing the signs around the community while Sarina Louro got involved so she could help the community. “It’s amazing we’ve come this far,” said MacKenzie Garnier. ‘Take 5’ now has a patch program as well. Anyone who completes the five tasks on the patch sheet, gets the a patch which looks like the signs. For more information, contact the Recreation Department at 978-671-0921
The Teacher’s Corner •By Diana Lombardo
ADVENTURES IN FACEBOOK “C’mon mom, please let me make you a Facebook page!” As a skeptical mom and teacher/enforcer of the “No Facebook in School” rule, I had steadfastly refused my daughter’s pleas. Why did I need one, for Heaven’s sake? Wasn’t that kind of stuff reserved for tweens and high schoolers to post on their latest crushes and that kind of thing? Besides, I had heard too many horror stories of teachers who had imprudently posted pictures of themselves engaging in “extra-curricular” activities – pictures which had been viewed by their students and which consequently led to their dismissal. So, my response to my daughter’s Facebook offer was always “thanks, but not on your life.” She must have caught me in a distracted moment about a month ago, though, because I apparently assented – and in a heartbeat, became the newest member of Facebook Nation. Much to my surprise, it’s a decision I have yet to regret and which, in fact, has reaped some wonderful and unexpected benefits so far. One of my first orders of business was to ensure the privacy of my page, as internet security has always been my chief concern with two tech-savvy daughters. With my own Facebook page, I wasn’t concerned about pedophiles or middle-aged men misrepresenting themselves and trying to garner personal information about me (actually, I’d probably be flattered!) but more worried about my students getting a peek into my personal life. In the classroom, I make a concerted effort to keep my private life private, other than occasional anecdotes about my pets or my kids. My daughter assured me that there were privacy settings on Facebook which limited that kind of access. So, with the proper settings in place, I posted a profile picture, uploaded some recent
snapshots of our cruise to the Bahamas, and started searching. Old high school classmates, college friends with whom I’d lost touch, former co-workers -- one by one, there they were! With a matter of a couple of keystrokes, I sent a “friend request” to each and within a day or two, heard back from most of them, “confirming” that they wanted to me on my “friend list.” This was nothing short of miraculous, to my mind – I never had the time or inclination to track down people I hadn’t seen in twenty or thirty years, since that can be a laborious and often fruitless process, but this was fun and effortless. Within the past couple of weeks, I have had lunch with my best friend from middle-school whom I hadn’t seen in fifteen years; shared enchiladas and margaritas (no pictures, please) with a UMass buddy who vanished from my life a decade ago; get daily updates and pictures on my British cousin’s new baby; and, the most wonderful benefit of all, have been able to maintain regular contact with my 18-year old college kid who doesn’t respond to phone messages – but who regularly “posts” to my Facebook page telling me she loves me, got an A on her latest research paper, and so on. You’ll never convince me that Facebook is an effective substitute for person-to-person interaction-- but it has enabled me, and countless others, to reconnect in a most unexpected and fulfilling way with people I thought I’d never see again. Yes, I’ll still continue to kick my students off Facebook when I see them using it in class – that’s my job. Just don’t tell them I’ll be hanging in cyberspace with them when the school bell rings! Diana Lombardo is a Billerica resident, mom of two and an English teacher with 15 years’ experience.
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14 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
OUT ON THE TOWN Kickin’ Cancer Fundraising Event
Concert on the Common
May 17: 5pm–9pm
Aug. 31: 7pm Sponsored by the Irish Club Andy Healy Band, Irish Music
Newtowne Grille, 838 Boston Rd. Billerica, Ma (978) 667-0021 Great Food, Great Prizes, Great Cause. Silent Auction, 50/50 raffle, and exclusive Triathlon coloring books ($2 donation). 20% of food sales go to support Tony Luongo’s participation in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Mooseman Triathlon in honor of his Mom. For info, or to donate visit www.luongoart.com.
Singles Dances May 16, 23, & 30, 7PM Billerica Irish American Club Sponsored by New England Singles Dance 508-660-5003
Joey and Maria’s Reunion May 21: Sponsored by Parker School PTO at the Billerica Irish American Club For Tickets and Info., call the Parker School 978-528-8610
Red Cross Blood Drive May 24: 2–7pm, Sponsored by The Irish Club, 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to make a reservation.
Clara Sexton House Open!1st Sunday of month 1-3pm Concord Rd.
Kesslers Karate Center May 22: Black Belt graduation Timberlake Regional High School June 12: Car Wash for Rec Dept., Masonic Temple, 10am–2pm June 12: Karate Demo, Relay for Life, Lampson Field Time Travel Summer Camp for Children Starting in July! Expeditions to the Boston Science Museum, Pirate Museum, Stoneham Zoo, and more! Call Joann for details, 978-667-7774
Celebrity Forum w/ James Cameron June 16: 8 p.m. Middlesex Community College Celebrity Forum 2010 An Evening with James Cameron – Academy Award-winning director Lowell Memorial Auditorium 781-280-3590 https://tickets.lowellauditorium.com
Billerica Lions Club www.billericalionsclub.org May 16: 10am Walk for Sight Fundraiser, Riverwalk in Lowell May 22: (rain date 5/23/2010) 8am to 3pm Annual Yard Sale, Billerica COA Lawn July 26: William Flaherty Golf Tournament, Meadow Creek Golf Club, Dracut, Info: Tony- 978663-8314
Elks Lodge
TILL Wheelchair Dancers
July 24: 10 am-4 pm 4th Annual Family Picnic Hudson Lodge #959, Tickets on sale now, $12 ages 13 and up, $6 ages 6-12, 5 and under FREE, Includes BBQ, Train rides, Bounce house, Soccer shoot, Dunk Tank, Lagoon of Doom,No tickets sold at the door, Info: State Chairman Dot Balistreri, 978-930-0599, harleyelk@comcast.net
June 12: 12 noon - 10 pm Dance for World Community Festival Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre Harvard Square Cambridge
Council on Aging May 4, 11, 18, 25: 9:30-11:30 am: Every Tuesday, Wisdom Works employment program for job seekers age 55 or older. Cover skills assessment, resume/cover letter, job search strategies, and social networking tools, such as Linked In, Monster, etc. Human Resources professionals volunteering to facilitate the four-session workshop held at 25 Concord Road. Registration fee $15. For information, call Marilyn Keating at 978-6710916, ext 223.
Real Estate Workshop May 12: 6:30pm Attention Buyers and Sellers! Learn valuable information! Woods Real Estate 700 Boston Rd
Annual Plant Sale May 8: 9am–1pm, Billerica Garden Club, Annual Plant Sale at the Billerica Senior Center 978-6675914BillericaMA@anytimefitness.com 978-6670300 May 1, 2010 Anytime Fitness Billerica Green Up/Clean Up Billerica http://www.anytimefitness. com/en-us/clubs/2230/Billerica-MA-health-club
WellSkills.com Nutrition Classes
What can you bring to the next potluck? Come to the 5-22 class for new inspiration!
WellSkills.com has schedule of events and FREE recipes
Recreation Department PLAYGROUNDS, 978-671-0921 Kids Konnection Butterfly Garden May 22 and 27: Prepping and Planting $1 Donations accepted toward purchasing plantsfor the new butterfly garden For Info, call The Rec. Dept June 3: 4:30–6pm, Everyone Social Media Marketing - Why and How June 5: 9-11 am Kids Konnection Clean Up Girl Scout Clean Up event June 8: 3:30–5:30pm, Grades 6 -12 Ultimate Frissbee clinic TBA
Billerica Homeschooling Association www.billericahomeschooling.com billericahomeschooling@live.com 978-362-2188 May 10: Billerica Homeschooling Association Play ground social Kid’s Konnection playground 11am-1pm May 14: Billerica Homeschooling Association Roller skating social Roller Kingdom/Tyngsboro 4-6:30pm May 26: Billerica Homeschooling Association Playground social and clean up project Kid’s Konnection playground 11am-1pm
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 15
Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce The Boys & Girls Club
Billerica Public Library
978-459-8154, www.glcc.biz
www.billericabgc.com
www.billericalibrary.org
May 11: 7:30 - 9 a.m W.I.S.E. (Women Inspiring Success and Empowerment) Annual Breakfast Wyndham Andover Hotel. 978-459-8154. May 12: 5-7 pm, Evening Mixer, Riverside Restaurant, Rte. 110 May 13:7:45 - 9:00 a.m Networking on the 3’s Automated Business Controls 15 Tyngsboro Rd., Ste. 2L, N. Chelmsford. 978-459-8154. May 18: 7:30 - 9:30 am 15th Annual Municipal Breakfast, Tewksbury Country Club, 1880 Main St., Tewksbury May 20: Grand Opening, Jewelry Gone Wilde 1229 Lakeview Ave. Dracut
May 7 & May 21: 6:30-8:30pm Family Fun Swim, Members & their families May 14: 6:30-8:30 PM Elementary School Students (grades K-5) Elementary School Dance June 4: 6:30-8:30 PM Members & their families, Family Fun Swim June 11: 6:30-8:30 PM Elementary School Students (grades K-5) Elementary School Dance June 18: 6:30-8:30 PM last day of school (should be Friday) Elementary School Students (grades K-5) Elementary School Dance - come celebrate the last day of school and the start of summer vacation! Adult Water Exercise Until June 19: Must purchase a punch card ($60 - over 60 years old; $70 - under 60), for any 10 water exercise classes. Must also get an activity card for $20 a year. If trying a class, or forgotten punch card, it is$8. Water Aerobics is one hour, provides less stress on joints, and is held at shallow end of the pool. Weights are provided for resistance. Aqua Jogging is 45 mins, both men and women, and held at deep end of the pool. Schedule Tues. and Thurs. morns 8 and 9 am and eves 7;15 and 8:15 pm. Sats. too at 7:30 am.
May 14: 7-11 pm, Tenth Anniversary Gala Celebration, Hors d’oeuvres, Cocktails, Dancing, Music, Kimberly Keating Quartet, Tickets $55/pp, Black Tie Optional, 978-671-0948 x101 May 6th: 7 PM Lowell Mills Boardinghouse Keeper May 13: 7pm, Italy With Tesoro Liz Bentz May 27: 7pm Dr. Leta Skalvold, Migraines Be Gone! June 5: 9am - 2pm Rain Date 6/6 Ditson School Scholarship Fund Fundraiser Sponsored by the DSA Multi-Family Yard Sale Event Ditson School - 39 Cook Street - Billerica http://ditson2.billerica.k12.ma.us/
American Cancer Society Relay for Life www.cancer.org www.relayforlife.org/billericama June 12-13:Lampson Field Upcoming Meetings At The Boys and Girls Club 19 Campbell Road, Billerica 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
Sons of Italy May 26: 7 pm, Member Recognition, Thomas Talbot Lodge, Concord Road, soi2268@yahoo.com
Anytime Fitness Moms Nite Out May 6: 4–8pm Anytime Fitness Moms Nite Out Billerica Mall 978-667-0300 http://www. anytimefitness.com/en-us/clubs/2230/BillericaMA-health-club
Julie Kinscheck Band www.julieksings.com/shows May 15: 7pm, Julie Kinscheck Band,Feature Performer, The Stable, June 13: 7pm,Julie Kinscheck Band, CD Release Party and Concert! Tickets on sale now! The Bull Run Restaurant, Shirley, MA, http://www.bullrunrestaurant.comn >>Continues on next page.
M i dd l e s ex C o m mu n i t y C o l l e ge
Celebrity Forum 2010 an evening with
James Cameron Award-Winning Director of Avatar, Titanic and The Terminator
8 p.m. Wednesday, June 16 Lowell Memorial Auditorium
ticket information Premier Seating . . . . .$39.50 Standard Seating . . . .$29.50
Tickets may be purchased: • Online at http://tickets.lowellauditorium.com • By calling LMA Box Office 978-454-2299 • At the Lowell Memorial Auditorium Box Office
For information visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/CF10. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
The TJX Companies, Inc. is proud to be our PRESENTING SPONSOR
16 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
Middlesex Canal Museum
Merrimack Repertory Theatre
My Moms’ Group
www.middlesexcanal.org
www.merrimackrep.org 978.654.4MRT
Volunteers needed to assist an experienced docent in greeting visitors 71 Faulkner Street, North Billerica 12:00-4:00 (or any combination thereof)
Sept. 9 – Oct. 3: The Reduced Shakespeare Company, The Complete World of Sports (abridged) Oct. 14 – Nov. 7: Four Places by Joel Drake Johnson Nov. 26: – Dec.19: Beasley’s Christmas Party, Adapted by C.W. Munger, from the story by Booth Tarkington Jan.6 – Jan: 30 , 2011: Tryst by Karoline Leach Feb. 10 – Mar. 6, 2011: The Exceptionals by Bob Clyman Mar: 17 – Apr. 10, 2011: Two Jews Walk Into A War... by Seth Rozin April 21 - May 15, 2011: A Picasso by Jeffrey Hatcher
May 7: 10:30am-1:00pm Spring Egg Hunt Pollard Field @ Kids Konnection Park http://www. meetup.com/moms-1069/
May 16: 2pm Middlesex Canal Association Annual Meeting and Lecture, Middlesex Canal Museum and Visitor Center
Women in Control Career Club 978-376-3978 Mondays starting April 26: for 10 weeks Women in Control Career Club For Unemployed/Underemployed Woods RE - 700 Boston Rd 10:30am - Noon facebook page - WIC Women in Control
Friday Night Open Mic www.uubillerica.org 978-667-3762 May 14: Sign up 7:30 pm Friday Night Open Mic / to benefit the Church First Parish Church in Billerica Center
Motorcycle Ride and Pig Roast –Autism Benefit May 22: Ride 9-12 Pig Roast 1-4 Billerica Rod and Gun Club, Pond Street, 978-479-2668
Billerica Media Beat •By Paul Abrego
NEIGHBORHOOD CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY In recent articles for the Green I have shown how to use your own camcorders at home to create great quality videos. But what about those of you who want to learn new about new technologies? Want to gain access to cutting edge professional equipment far outside of the average consumer’s normal pricetag? Well, BATV has just had the most significant equipment purchase of the last eight years as our new state-of-the-art Sony HVR-Z5U camcorders are finally here. So for those that aren’t already members at BATV, I am here to offer you a taste of the future of videography that is waiting for you in your own neighborhood. Why are our new camcorders so significant, you ask? Well, first off, field production camcorders are the most used equipment at BATV. From hockey and football games, to school committee meetings and plays, to enrichment programs and a plethora of Billerica events throughout the community, BATV members consistently use our field production equipment on a daily basis. BATV camcorders, in short, are the workhorses of our facility. These new
camcorders are not only workhorses; they will provide all of our membership with crisp and dynamic broadcast quality images not readily available to the typical consumer market. Secondly, we are delving into a solid-state flash technology that can only be described as revolutionary. Not only will the compact flash card recorder used with these cameras cut down editing time, it is an extension of the cameras themselves but they also lack a lot of tiny moving parts that can easily break over time. This direct-to edit (DTE) technology is fast, efficient and the basis of the newest wave of digital videography which BATV is now at the forefront. Thirdly, BATV is once again preparing for the future and the future is HD technology. Fortunately, our new Sony HVR-Z5U cameras address these issues and the BATV membership will be on the cutting edge of this emerging technology. At this time and for the foreseeable future, BATV does not broadcast in HD. However, the new cameras will enable users who want to archive their footage in HD the ability to
do so while also supplying us with a standard definition (SD) copy simultaneously. This is achieved through recording in HD on minidv tape while the compact flash recorder is recording in SD-our current broadcast quality. Therefore, the new Sony HVR-Z5U camcorders are truly a hybrid camcorder that will bridge the gap between HD and SD technologies while we wait for the next true step in our evolution: total HD conversion. When this happens is anyone’s guess as a myriad of factors enter into the equation. But when this does eventually occur, rest assured BATV will be prepared and our membership will already have a strong footing working in HD. Classes for the new camcorders will begin in Mid-May. If you would like to become a member of BATV please call BATV @ 978-663-2284. If you have any specific technical question for Paul please email him at pabrego.batvinc@ comcast.net Paul Abrego is Technical Coordinator at BATV and can be reached with questions or comments at pabrego.batvinc@comcast.net
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 17
MERRIMACK REPERTORY THEATRE ANNOUNCES 2011 SEASON
DIRECTOR AND PRODUCER JAMES CAMERON TO SPEAK AT CELEBRITY FORUM
Artistic Director Charles Towers Johnson, a compassionate and profound announced the company’s 32nd Season of family drama about an American family producing professional theatre for audiences at a crossroads. Next is the family friendly in the Merrimack Valley and Southern New holiday treat Beasley’s Christmas Party, Hampshire. After successfully expanding adapted by C.W. Munger from the short to seven productions this story by Pulitzer Prize-winner season, Merrimack Rep’s Booth Tarkington. Tryst, a 2010-2011 Season once again riveting romantic Edwardian features seven productions of thriller by Karoline Leach, contemporary works running opens the new year. Building from September through May, on its relationship with including one world premiere, Bob Clyman (Secret Order, two East Coast premieres and Tranced), Merrimack Rep will three regional premieres. produce the world premiere Opening the 2010-2011 of The Exceptionals, a smart Season, from the creators and compelling exploration of Merrimack Rep hits of parenthood in the new The Complete History of millennium. Hysterically funny America (abridged) and The and amazingly poignant, Two KAREN MACDONALD, THE NTED Bible: The Complete Word of ONE WOMAN PERFORMERTALE Jews Walk Into A War… by IN HER God (abridged), is the East MULTIPLE ROLES OF THE BLONDE, Seth Rozin follows. A Picasso by THE BRUNETTE, AND THE Coast premiere of the newest Jeffrey Hatcher, a cat-and-mouse VENGEFUL REDHEAD. PHOTO BY MEGHAN MOORE production by the Reduced game full of sly humor, sexual Shakespeare Company®, tension and suspense, concludes The Complete World of Sports (abridged). the season. Written by and featuring Reed Martin and Subscriptions for the 2010-2011 Austin Tichenor, this championship comedy season are on sale now through the box sprints through the world of sports at office at 978.654.4MRT and online at record-breaking speed. Also making its East MerrimackRep.org. Coast premiere is Four Places by Joel Drake
Middlesex Community College will roll out the red carpet to welcome this year’s Celebrity Forum speaker James Cameron. This award-winning director of movies such as: Avatar, Titanic, Aliens, Rambo and The Terminator, is slated to speak at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 16, in the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. In 2009, Cameron redefined movie making, while setting the new gold standard for high action, science fiction films, with his release of Avatar. The $2 billion, actionpacked, 3-D thriller even surpassed the success of his previous record breaking movie, Titanic, which won 11 Academy Awards. Those awards included Best Director and Best Picture. As a novice director and writer in the 1980s, Cameron wrote screenplays for many of his movies including: The Terminator, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger; Rambo: First Blood Part II, starring Sylvester Stallone; Aliens, starring Sigourney Weaver and The Abyss, starring Ed Harris. When he was 17, Cameron’s family moved from Ontario, Canada to California where he enrolled in
college and spent a lot of time studying the technology of movie special effects. This research eventually led him to make his own short films, enter the film making world, and ultimately make movie production history. Middlesex invites you to get a closer look at James Cameron the man and his three-dimensional movie-making world, by becoming a sponsor of this year’s program. The MCC Celebrity Forum is an annual event designed to bring well-known personalities to our region in an effort to enrich educational and cultural opportunities for area residents. Proceeds from the Forum raise funds for the Middlesex Community College Foundation. Tickets may be purchased online at http://tickets.lowellauditorium.com; by calling LMA Box Office 978-454-2299; or at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium Box Office. For information, visit their website www.middlesex.mass.edu/CF10 or see their advertisement in this edition. [Submission By Middlesex Community College]
Make It To Middlesex Bedford • MASSACHUSETTS • Lowell Three Summer Session Options SESSION I (4 days per week) June 1 - July 1 • Monday - Thursday • SESSION II (4 days per week) July 6 - August 5 • Monday - Thursday • SESSION III June 1 - July 20 (two days per week) • Tuesday/Thursday • or June 2 - July 26 (two days per week)
• Monday/Wednesday • Saturday Accelerated Session SUMMER 2010 June 26 - August 14
z Ask about our Summer Camps
It’s Definitely Worth The Trip! To register, call Middlesex Community College at 1-800-818-3434 or visit www.middlesex.mass.edu
18 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
CAPTION CONTEST
3
J’s Corner lk Ta ’s et L About It With Julia My Own Art
entails Today I made some sketch art. It . All ure black and white drawn objects in a pict sketch, you need is pencil and paper to do it. To shading. you are drawing the outline and some And sometimes, you can color it in. 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
LAST MONTH’S WINNER
Jake’s Green Corner
Recycling the New sp
aper
Here are some cool ways to recycle a newspaper: • Make a paper New Year’s hat with it • Cover the table w ith it when you are going to paint • Take the newspap er to the Salvation Army to wrap glassw are
eo Jarred’s Vid Game dTSoipnics at The Olympic Winter Mario an tendo DSI Games for Nin
I don’t know what we’re celebrating, how long we’ve been married (if we are), and I don’t want to get set on fire by this tiny candle. This is so stressful.
Congratulations to Sydney Herrick. 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.
e u go through th yo as g, n ii sk e In the alpin te for the skiing ga le o p e n o it h u game, st of speed. If yo o o b rt o sh a t 50 and you’ll ge h a time under it w s te ga e th l got through al ill win. seconds, you w
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 19
©2010 TONY LUONGO WWW.LUONGOART.COM
Mommy Angel Once upon a time, there was a child ready to be born. So one day he asked God: They tell me You are sending me to earth tomorrow. How am I going to live there Being so small and helpless? Among the many angels, I chose one for you. She will be waiting for you and will take care of you. But tell me, here in Heaven, I don’t do anything But sing and smile. That’s enough for me to be happy. Your angel will sing for you And will smile for you every day. And you will feel your angel’s love And be happy. How am I going to be able to understand When people talk to me, If I don’t know the language that men talk? Your angel will tell you the most beautiful And sweet words you will ever hear. And with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak.
And what am I going to do When I want to talk to you? Your angel will place your hands together And she will teach you how to pray. I’ve heard that on earth there are bad men. Who will protect me? Your angel will defend you Even if it means risking her life. But I will always be sad Because I will not see you anymore. Your angel will always talk to you about me and She will teach you the way for you to come back to me, even though I will always be next to you. At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from earth could already be heard. The child, in a hurry, asked softly: Oh God, if I am about to leave now, Please tell me my angel’s name. Your angel’s name is of no importance. You will simply call her Mommy. ~Author Unknown~
Kickin’ Cancer Coloring books available at The Kickin’ Cancer Fundraiser Newtowne Grill on May 17 from 5-9pm for a $2 donation
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20 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
OUR FIELD OF DREAMS:BILLERICA’S BASEBALL MUSEUM By Shawn Hutcheon, Staff Writer In the movie, Field of Dreams, Terence Mann tells Ray Kinsella why he needs to keep the baseball field he built in the middle of his farm in Iowa. “People will come, Ray… They’ll arrive at your door as innocent as children...longing for the past. Of course, we won’t mind if you look around, you’ll say...and it will be as if they dipped themselves in magic waters. The memories will be so thick...they’ll have to brush them away from their faces. The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It’s been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt, and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game. It’s a part of our past, Ray. It reminds us of all that once was good...and it could be again. People will come, Ray. People will most definitely come...” Fortunately, Iowa is not the only site to have a place that brings back memories that are spoken of in Field of Dreams. Existing at 71 Faulkner Street in the Faulkner Mills of North Billerica is the New England Baseball Museum. On the outside of the museum are two statues of young ballplayers, one is a pitcher, ball in hand, peering in to an imaginary catcher waiting to “get the sign.” The other statue is the batter, bat cocked and ready to take his best swing at the pitch. A sign is between the two with the words “N.E. Baseball Museum.” “We opened in 2003 in order to give recognition to people from New England
who played professional baseball, such as Harry Agganis, Carlton Fisk, and Tony Conigliaro,” Ron Pare, Owner and curator, explained about the museum’s purpose. The museum holds exhibits of autographed pictures and game used equipment and uniforms of those greats which were donated by friends of the players, family members, and the players, themselves. “Donations are gladly accepted,” said Pare. “We keep them for a season to display then return them to their owners.” Of course, a baseball museum cannot exist in Billerica without prominently featuring the images, hats, and signed baseball cards of Billerica’s own Gary Disarcina and Tom Glavine. An item Pare is very proud to display is a painting of Glavine. “A family friend of the Glavine’s painted it while he was with the Atlanta Braves,” explained Pare. “Tom signed it and his family donated it to the museum.” Disarcina played in the Major Leagues with the Angels, out in California. He’s been lauded as doing an outstanding job as manager with the Lowell Spinners. “He’s working with the Red Sox minor leaguers as a roving instructor,”said Pare of Disarcina. Word spread about the museum upon its opening and Pare found himself inundated with donated items from, and about, former players of the Boston Braves and the Boston Red Sox. The walls and display cases are lined with items that belonged to some of the best who ever played, including Johnny Pesky, Luis Tiant, Roger Clemens, Rico Petrocelli, Babe Ruth, and Ted Williams.
“A good friend of mine was a driver for Ted Williams,” Pare said. “He donated some of Williams’ things such bats and autographed pictures and balls.” One section that adds to the charm of the museum is the collection of photos and artifacts that were worn and used by the women who played in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League. The league which was made famous by actors Gina Davis and Tom Hanks in the film A League of Their Own. “Two of the women who played in the league, were here and brought the things people can see when they visit,” said Pare. There is something of interest to see in every nook and cranny of the museum. There
are more than bats, balls, and uniforms on display. One of the most popular items is the Red Sox train placed on top of a display case. “We play videos from events such as the 2004 and 2007 World Series, which the Red Sox won, of course,” Pare explained. “In 2004, we had the actual World Series trophy on display after the Red Sox won it. It attracted about 300 baseball fans and we hope to have it again.” The New England Baseball Museum is open to groups by appointment which can be arranged by calling 978-667-1380. Be prepared to brush those memories away from your face.
WATER CONSERVATION 2010: TREATING WHAT YOU’RE DRINKING It’s often not apparent to us to conserve, since we live in an area where water is plentiful instead of living in an area of drought. The Town of Billerica is our water supplier and our water is drawn from the Concord River, our water source. According to Department of Public Works Director, Abdul Alkhatib and Water Treatment Superintendent, John McGovern, Billerica uses over 4 million gallons per day. As residents of Billerica, you can expect that water drawn and provided to you is safe and healthy as thousands of dollars are spent to treat it first. Each year the town’s Water Division conducts extensive tests as per state and federal requirements. Often when we think of drinking water, we think of the Water Treatment Facility. The system delivering the water to your faucets is the Water Distribution System. Treated water is delivered through a series of pipes called Water Mains, from the treatment facility to standpipes and then to the service connection at your home or business. Billerica’s Water Treatment Plant
(BWTP) opened on May 18, 2006 and is still relatively new. It utilizes water pumped over two miles from the river and consists of three raw water pumps, a fine water screen and multiple valves. The treatment facility looks to treat dangerous contaminants. The contaminants the treatment facility scientists are looking for include: • Microbial, which are viruses or bacterias • Inorganic, which are salts or metals • Pesticides or Herbicides • Chemical • Radioactive When contaminants are found they are treated by a thorough process. The water is ozonated in order to remove the brown color. Ozone is stronger than Chlorine, decomposes into oxygen and produces low to no concentrations of any carcinogenic byproducts. The water then slips through a media gravity filter and any residuals are then pumped to the Billerica Wastewater
Treatment Facility (BWTF) for disposal. McGovern stated that the BWTP deals with half a million gallons of water per day and is set up for solids and contaminants but not oil spills. Aside from Ozone, water treatment also requires other chemicals including oxygen, carbon dioxide, fluoride, sodium hypochlorite, aluminum sulfate and ammonia. Potassium hydroxide was replaced by sodium hydroxide due to high costs. Alkhatib noted the DPW would continue to produce safe drinking water. “It’s important to understand the impact of chemical purchases,” said Alkhatib. “We can’t use more or less. We have to use what is necessary. You are dealing with people’s lives and safety.” The BWTP is open daily and staff are available to give
tours. Groups should contact the Water Division at 978-671-0957 Monday through Friday during the normal working hours of 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM to inquire.
GENERATIONS OF TRADE: BRINGING BACK THE ART OF COLLECTING Why do collectors start collections? What defines a great one and how can collecting change your life? Bruce Weeks Jr. of the Treasure Chest Sports Cards and Collectibles shop at 884 Boston Road may have the answer to these questions as he brings the art of collecting to Billerica. Weeks Jr. has been collecting sports cards since he was a child because he liked following the different players and learning their statistics. At age six, Weeks Jr. successfully sold his first baseball cards and was hooked on sales. Truth be told, his talent came to him honestly. He is a third generation of collectors and sellers so it was no surprise he would be good at it. “It’s a nice part of this hobby,” said Weeks Jr. Weeks Jr.’s father, Bruce Weeks Sr., has been a card collector since 1966. Sr.’s father, Ed Weeks was always a coin collector and flea market coin dealer. Once he saw his son and grandson doing well, the family sold trading cards lucratively. Over time, Weeks Jr. took over his grandfather’s business at card shows. Since his collection got to be more than a million cards, it made sense to open a store. Weeks Jr. will also carry apparel and memorabilia but he has a real treat for the sports card collector. Rows and rows of bins filled with trading cards are found all the way
around the store. It allows for the budding collector and even the sports aficionado, to take their time browsing as they look to complete their sets. “There is the stress relieving aspect because people like to come to the store,” said Weeks Jr. Baseball cards mean different things to different people. For some, they evoke thoughts of potential wealth. For others, it helps them go back to another time and place to compare the past with the present. Weeks Jr.’s will stock older cards in his store as well as new shiny unopened packages. Weeks Jr.’s vision for the future, which his father shares with him, is to create a network of collectors. He may even renovate a side room at the shop into a TV room so collectors can build common interests on the weekends while watching sports games. “People can come down on Sundays and relax while they watch an afternoon game,” said Weeks Sr. The Treasure Chest Sports Cards and Collectibles is currently in business but is planning the grand opening for Sat., May 15 from 10 am to 4 pm. They will have free Tom Glavine rookie cards available for anyone who makes a purchase. For store hours, call 978-362-1028.
SHAWSHEEN TECH RAMS JV BASEBALL TEAM OFF TO A GREAT START Rams JV Baseball have played seven games and already have a record of 5 wins against Ipswich 10-2; Greater Lawrence 7-2; Northeast Voke 180; Whittier Tech 5-4; Lynn Tech 13-0 and 2 losses Amesbury 9-2 and Arlington Catholic 3-2. Under the direction of Head Coach Brian McCarthy the boys have taken to the field with a desire to play great ball and come out on top. Meet the Rams JV Team. Derek Fedorchuk, Jeremy Leite, Austin Cummings, Paul DePlacido, Drew Barnard, Tyler Warner, Frank Murray, Nick Masse, Eddie Sullivan,
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May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 21
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BORN TO BE HEALTHY Dr. Sandy Chapnick and his wife, Dr. Honi Kawut want their patients to take with them a message of a healthy lifestyle when they leave The Billerica Chiropractic Office. This is a philosophy they live it at home, in their office, and out in the community. This is a consistent message, showing this wider view
of chiropractic care, which the couple have been giving for the 20 years they have owned their practice. The couple recently thanked all the patients and staff who have stood behind this vision at their 20th anniversary gathering. Chapnick pointed out there are two reasons people get sick. Not doing what they should or doing what they shouldn’t. He encouraged people to take a more responsible look at how they care for themselves. “In reality, people know what they
should or can be doing to be healthy,” said Chapnick. Chapnick sees the most important points of a healthy lifestyle to be proper nutrition, exercise, ergonomics, sleep, positive mental attitude, and a properly functioning nervous system. Chapnick explained that the nervous system controls everything and this is why the chiropractic alignment is important. “When the vertebrae are misaligned, not enough energy gets to the right place,” said Chapnick. When Kawut, his wife, sees a patient, she is interested in what they are putting into their bodies and her personal pet peeve is fast food. “Proper nutrition is key,” said Kawut. “You have to fill your body with good food.” Kawut will educate patients to take small steps like the best way to shop for their meals. If stopping the fast food is too hard, she will suggest adding a healthy choice into their diet, like baby carrots. She also encourages getting families, especially children, off refined sugar and wheat. “They notice big changes in their health,” said Kawut. “ The whole family nutrition picture changes.” In addition to their practice, the couple spend time out in the community. One can find Chapnick at a Billerica CARES meeting or at a Challenger League baseball game. Kawut can be found at the Challenger games as well. The couple’s two children, 14 year old David and 18 year old Arielle have been Challenger buddies and have enjoyed it.
WATER AEROBICS – NOT JUST FOR SENIORS By Cindi Michealsen, USWFA Master Water Fitness Instructor, Billerica Boys and Girls Club I have taught water aerobics for 18 years and have loved every minute of it. I always took aerobic classes to stay fit and strong, but after a series of operations left me weak, I tried water aerobics. I wanted to get back into shape quickly and boy was I surprised. It only took 3 weeks to get back into my pre-surgery state. I loved how the water massaged my muscles while giving me quite the workout. I was so truly amazed that I became a certified instructor. I have continued learning more and more about this amazing way to workout and I am now a master water aerobics instructor. I have seen so many people benefit from the water. Buoyancy takes the weight off of joints, so people with flexibility problems can move in ways they usually can’t. Those with limited movement due to arthritis, fibromyalgia, obesity, etc., can get a cardiovascular workout without the risk of jarring joints or falling. They hydrostatic pressure of water reduces swelling and inflammation in joints, making workouts easier and less painful. Exercisers get 12 times the resistance just walking through water. A 60-minute walk on
land burns an average of 270 calories, while a 60-minute walk in chest-high water burns an average of 528 calories. The ease of a water workout is deceiving because it gives a more thorough routine than just cardio. While targeting specific muscles, other muscles – your core, abs, and back – are constantly working to help you stay balanced against the turbulence of the pool, giving you a full body workout. Because of the resistance of the water, you are also getting muscular strengthening similar to weight training. I, myself, have been suffering with fibromyalgia for many years. My rheumatologist told me that if it weren’t for water aerobics, I would be bedridden. I have all kinds of students, both men and women, from athletes to joint replacement patients, pregnant women to seniors, which benefit from water aerobics. I have seen such major improvement in my students that I will never stop preaching about the power of the pool. I teach at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Billerica. The classes are held on Tuesday and Thursdays, both morning and evening, and Saturday mornings. Please call the Club at 978-667-2193 for more information.
Business to Business •By Pat Zapert
KEEP IT LOCAL If there is any message that our business organization, The Billerica Community Alliance, wants local residents to understand it is the value of keeping their business local. In an age of big box stores and rampant internet shopping, it is important to remember that the lifeblood of any community is its local businesses. Billerica is no different than most towns in northern Massachusetts where the lure of tax free shopping is only moments away. We often do not think about whether what we seek is available within the community. But when we spend our hard earned dollars out of state, it is really ourselves that we ultimately penalize. We may save on the cost of the individual item we purchase, but we are likely spending more to get to that big box store as well depriving local businesses of revenue and the commonwealth of the associated but dreaded 6.25 percent sales tax. We may all agree that we do not like the 6.25 percent tax and would like to see it rolled back or repealed, but we should try not to penalize those businesses who are legally bound to collect it. So why should you shop locally? Local businesses pay town taxes, donate to school fund raisers and local charities, and provide jobs. Without them many of the charitable organizations in town would suffer. You will also save time, gas as well as the environment by buying from local businesses. At a time when we are all increasingly conscious of the negative impacts our modern lifestyle has on the environment, this alone can be significant. You also contribute to making our community a more vibrant place to live. Local
businesses can offer a variety of products that are truly local and unlike what you might find in the big box stores at the mall. Local stores are also more likely to employ local residents, including those teenagers looking for their first job. Local restaurants are more likely to use locally grown produce, which then helps to support local agriculture. When you look at the whole picture, our support of local businesses helps drive the economy as well as making Billerica a more attractive place for new businesses to locate. In the end, we all benefit. The Billerica Community Alliance feels strongly about supporting local businesses and has used our Buy It in Billerica campaign to carry that message. In May, we will also be sponsoring a ‘Billerica Restaurant Weeks’ campaign to encourage local residents to dine locally. Participating restaurants will offer a 20 percent discount on food orders between May 16 and May 30. See our advertisement in this edition for the details and disclaimers, including the list of participating restaurants. We hope that many residents will take this opportunity to try a new restaurant or visit one of their tried and true favorites. The Billerica Community Alliance is always interested in expanding our membership which includes businesses, local organizations and individuals. If you are interested in joining us, contact the office at 978-667-4174 or email at info@billericaalliance.org. Pat Zapert is the Executive Director of The Billerica Community Alliance.
Lauri DiFraia and Christine Heider were pretty in blue. The Karyn Button Memorial Foundation held the Flash Back to Prom Night Fundraiser on April 17. The family was able to raise over $4100 toward donations to The Billerica Scholarship Foundation, www.donorschoice and now the Billerica Partners for Education.
The Penroses, Higgins and Thayers were definitely flashing back to the 80’s.
Karyn’s family-Andrea, Kirsten, and Denise pose under the arch with Karyn’s best friend Michelle Babaro.
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DOG BITE PREVENTION WEEK IS HERE From May 16 to May 22, Doggone Safe Inc., Train Up That Pup! and other organizations will be calling attention to one of the nation’s most commonly reported public health problems: dog bites. Half of all children will be bitten by a dog by age 12 and the majority of these bites are by the family dog or other dog known to the child. In recognition of Dog Bite Prevention Week, Doggone Safe and Train Up That Pup! offer tips for parents and dog owners to help keep kids safe: Tell Kids Dogs Don’t Like Hugs and Kisses – Teach your kids not to hug or kiss a dog on the face. Hugging the family dog or face-to-face contact are common causes of bites to the face. Instead, teach kids to scratch the dog on the chest or the side of the neck. Teach Kids to Be a Tree if a Strange Dog Approaches – Teach kids to stand still, like a tree. Trees are boring and the dog will eventually go away. This works for strange dogs and anytime the family dog gets too frisky or becomes aggressive. Supervise – As a parent, Don’t assume your dog is good with kids. If a toddler must interact with your dog, you should have your hands on the dog too. Even if your dog is great with kids and has never bitten – why take a chance? Train the dog –Take your dog to obedience classes where positive-reinforcement is used. Never pin, shake, choke, hold the dog down or roll the dog over to teach it a lesson. Dogs treated this way are likely to turn their aggression on weaker family members.
Involve older children in training the family dog while supervising. Don’t allow children to punish the dog. Condition the dog to enjoy the presence and actions of children using positive experiences. Owners Should Spay or Neuter Dogs – Neutered pets are calmer, healthier and less likely to be aggressive. Neutering prevents unwanted dogs that may end up in shelters or in less than ideal conditions where they may grow up to be poorly socialized or aggressive. Train Up That Pup teaches how to harness the drive and passion every puppy has for biting, jumping up, chewing, barking and redirect it to sitting, playing appropriately , waiting at doors, and calmly chewing on bones. In recognition of the dog bite prevention week, Train Up That Pup! will be offering a 25 percent discount on all four, five and six week Puppy Programs. The not-for-profit Doggone Safe organization’s mandate was based on jurors’ recommendations following an inquest into the mauling death of 8 year old Courtney Trempe in Ontario, Canada. Doggone Safe also provides victim support and administers the Courtney Trempe Memorial fund, in honor of her memory, to help provide trauma counseling (not provided by insurance) for child dog bite victims and their families. Visit www.doggonesafe.com for more information. For info on Train Up That Pup!contact Sandra Brigham 978.436.0318 or visit the website at www.trainupthatpup. com.
The Second Annual Library Scavenger Hunt proved to be yet another successful event. Sixteen teams of four participated in the three hour run on April 24 through town collecting such items as Annette Funiciello’s picture or a photo of a chalk outline on the sidewalk. In the end, The Buffet Beauties team, comprised of Beth Downer, Ellie Mooney, Elaina Downer and Katie Iovanna proved victorious with over 6,600 points. The Fugawi Tribe, with Dianne Bone, Joan Parcewski, Joan Pomerleau, and Carla Trottier, walked away with the coveted spirit award. The Billerica Green “Will Achievers”, who had a blast and looked cool in our matching t-shirts, were the only team with children which unfortunately came in last with about 3,200 points.
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
YOUR NEW PUPPY By Sandra Brigham Trainer and Behavior Consultant Get your puppy hooked on toys... and tire him out in the process. Fill a Kong puzzle toy with your puppy’s food and serve one at every meal. Gradually increase the difficulty level as your puppy learns to extract the food. Easy puzzle: Place puppy kibble plus a few smelly treats loosely inside and serve. Intermediate puzzle: Build an easy puzzle. Wedge larger treats loosely on top.
Advanced puzzle: Build an intermediate puzzle. Seal the opening with your puppy’s wet food, or a bit of cream cheese, mashed potato, or peanut butter. Sandra is the owner of Train Up That Pup! Reach her at 978-436-0318 or www. trainupthatpup.com.
24 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
Hope Fighting Back The Many Relay Faces of Cancer
By Liana Measmer
D
on’t be fooled. Hope is tough. It’s not some delicate thing. It’s durable. It can stand up to adversity and ask, “Is that all you got?” Hope gives those who are persistent, strength. When it comes to cancer, hope is part of the treatment. It has to be. Sometimes it is all a patient or their family has. There are many faces of cancer since it knows no bounds. Cancer is an equal opportunity killer that touches the life of the patient as well as those around them. However, with hope, many have overcome or are fighting back. Survivors or those left behind never forget.
What Is Cancer?
The American Cancer Society, the leading organization in the fight against cancer defines it as a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death. Cancer is caused by both external factors (tobacco, infectious organisms, chemicals, and radiation) and internal factors (inherited mutations, hormones, immune conditions, and mutations that occur from metabolism). These causal factors may act together or in sequence to initiate or promote carcinogenesis. Ten or more years often pass between exposure to external factors and detectable cancer. Cancer is treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. The National Cancer Institute estimates that approximately 11.1 million Americans
with a history of cancer were alive in January 2005 with about 1.4 million new cancer cases diagnosed in 2009. Regular screening examinations by a health care professional can result in the detection and removal of precancerous growths, as well as the diagnosis of cancers at an early stage, when they are most treatable.
The Relay For Life
One way many fight back is through the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. The Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length. In Billerica, The Relay for Life will be held on June 12 at the Lampson field next door to the Boys and Girls Club. Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a surgeon in Washington, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay has grown from a single man’s passion to fight cancer into the world’s largest movement to end the disease.
May - June 2010 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 25
Team Johnny
Billerica native, John Iozzo, is remembered for his love of life and Las Vegas. His daughter, 34 year old Jennifer Iozzo, got married in Las Vegas, recalling how it was a place he really enjoyed. John was always happy and was a great friend. “He was a great guy,” said Jennifer. John had been a healthy man, going to the gym and exercising, when esophageal cancer hit and he was diagnosed four years ago. This was a surprise since there had not been a history of cancer in the Iozzo family. Regardless, surgery was required and two thirds of his esophagus had to be removed to get the cancer. However, as a result John was able to fight it and live cancer free for over three years. In the fall of 2009, cancer reared its ugly head again and John’s doctors diagnosed him with advanced liver cancer. It was noted that he had many tumors. Treatment was attempted but it was too far along. Jennifer rallied to have him come home where six weeks after he was diagnosed, he died quietly on Oct. 4. “It was where he wanted to be,”said Jennifer. Jennifer wanted to do something to remember him so she formed Team Johnny and will be at the Billerica Relay for Life in June. She has formed the maximum size team and will be joined by 14 other friends and family members. Jennifer noted, if nothing else, she has learned that cancer can come back and can be vicious. But she stays upbeat and positive as she was taught by her dad. “I love my life,” said Jennifer. “Like my father, I try to be happy everyday.”
Family of Hope
Mike Grassia and his family are no strangers to cancer or the Relay for Life. His daughter, Amanda, was on the “Teens Against Cancer” team last year who walked the relay for her beloved teacher, Mrs. Cathy Cheney, who passed away after a long battle with cancer. Debbie, Mike’s wife and mom to their children, helped with fundraising. Debbie actually met Mike when she was working as a nurse at the oncology unit his father was a patient on many years ago. Mike’s father was a survivor of prostate and bone cancer. He later passed on from a stroke, which was not related to his cancer. She noted that back then it was less common but today, so many are touched by this disease. “Everyone you talk to is affected,” said Debbie. Last summer, when the family was supporting Amanda in the Relay, no one in their family had cancer. Since that time, Debbie’s father, Richard LeBlanc, was diagnosed in Dec. 2009 with a rare rectal melanoma and Mike’s brother, Joseph Grassia, is supporting his long time partner, Sharon Kenney, while she battles lymphoma. Currently, LeBlanc is cancer-free following surgery while Kenney continues making numerous visits to the hospital. “It’s interesting how things change,” said Mike. In addition to Amanda returning to the Relay
field this year, her dad will also bring his own team. Mike is nothing but proud of the seventh grade girls travel basketball team that he coaches. When an opponent’s father was diagnosed with cancer, his girls became involved in a fundraiser to help out. His daughter, Rebecca Grassia is on this team and Mike heard how the girls felt great about helping even though they were opponents. This sparked him to form the “Hoops for Hope” team which has almost 15 people already on it. The seventh grade girls will do the walk to raise money for cancer research. Mike will get them ready for this like he does on the court. “I believe in staying positive,” said Mike.
attitude, something she is well known for, is carrying her through. She is amazed at how many people have been touched by cancer and realizes it knows no bounds. She would encourage people to continue to become aware so more research can be done t o find a cure. For now, she will stay hopeful while facing her own challenge, planning to make a trip overseas to Spain someday. “You can’t sit down and die,” said Hammond. “You have to fight it.”
A Walk for Nena
There is still much to be done in eradicating this killer. You can help. To start a Relay for Life team, visit relayforlife.org/billericama for details.
When Nena Hammond, mom and grandmother to The Billerica Green staff, went to see her gynecologist in Nov. 2009, she was simply there for her annual pap smear. In addition to regular exercise and proper diet, Hammond had never missed her annual check ups. Every year, her results were negative. This year would be different. “I was never angry,” said Hammond. “Just surprised.” Hammond met with her doctor who reported abnormal results and scheduled her MRI and biopsy a few days later. The results confirmed that Hammond had a malignant sarcoma in her uterus as a result of fibroids turning cancerous. Following a PET scan, chemotherapy was scheduled. The plan was to shrink the tumor, followed by a hysterectomy. Hammond underwent three rounds of chemotherapy only to find through a subsequent scan the tumor had grown quite a bit. “The news wasn’t what I expected,” said Hammond. “It was discouraging in that moment.” Hammond’s doctors suggested five weeks of radiation but she preferred to move ahead to the surgery, which was completed in Mar. 2010. When the surgeon began, they noted the chemotherapy had softened the sarcoma, making it easier to remove. However, cancer was found in a lymph node too close to an artery to remove. Radiation therapy was scheduled to radiate that area. To date, Hammond is in the middle of her radiation therapy and her prognosis is good. Most days she is fine but noted feeling tired by mid day due to the cumulative effects of the radiation. When she feels down, taking walks with her husband, Charles, or talking to her nail technician, Judi Vairo, helps. “She’s a lot more reasonable than a therapist,” said Hammond. Hammond is grateful for all the well wishes coming her way and her positive
26 / thebillericagreen.com / May - June 2010
NOT JUST BAND-AIDS ANYMORE With National School Nurse’s Day right around the corner, it will surprise many about how much school nurses now do. Long gone are the days of just Tylenol and an ice pack. They are expected to handle an increase in much more serious health problems, like diabetes and life threatening allergies than ever before. Billerica Public Schools Director of Nurses Carole Butze’s main focus is ensuring the well being of every student. She expressed concern that in the past, due to budget cuts, nurses were shared between schools. This is no longer an option. She has to hire per diem nurses to cover field trips because school nurses are needed in the buildings. In the 2008-2009 school year, with the support of Dr. Anthony Serio, Butze applied for the Essential School Health Services Grant. This grant, funded by the Mass Department of Public Health, originated in 1993. The grant is aimed
at supporting high quality school health services or complaining of an emotional or mental health issues going on the trip because school nurses in as many schools in the Commonwealth as issue. The immunizations are all entered on the are needed in the buildings. The grant also possible. In 2008, Billerica came in first place system and the number of visits a child makes to allowed the nurses more training on the more and until 2019, will continue to receive this the nurse can be logged as well. Looking ahead, serious and current health or social issues--cyber bullying, suicide prevention, grant as long as legislature …In the Billerica Public School system, out of 6,180 improving communication continues to approve funding. The first year, the students this school year, 28 have diabetes, 73 have skills-- so they could better student care. grant totaled $120,000 but autism, 400 have asthma, and 200 have life threatening manage “We all need to be on the with the difficult economy, the second year it was allergies. In addition, school nurses are taking the role same page,” said Butze. of counselor when children come in with physical or This year School Nurse’s $98,400. Day is May 12 although The first year, somatic complaints due to stress… School Nurse Appreciation Butze’s goal was to get computerized. Up to that point, all records were Butze will design computerized health plans for Month is all of May. This day was established in 1972 because often people don’t understand maintained manually. This was concerning students with more serious conditions. because it limited nurses access to a child’s “It saves me a couple of hours,” said Butze. what nurses do. Butze thanks her staff, stating she is supportive and appreciative of them. For medical information, information which could “It saves our nurses even more.” The second year, Butze addressed the issue more information on National School Nurse save a child’s life in more serious cases. Now, monthly state statistical reports are easier to put of staff. She haas to hire per diem nurses to cover Day, visit the National Association of School together on how many children are injured, ill, field trips if there are students with medical Nurses at www.nasn.org.
FOR THE LOVE OF MOTHERHOOD When Christine Andaic and her husband decided to have children, they discussed Andaic staying home. A successful television producer, Andaic was little skeptical at first. “I loved my career,” said Andaic. What put her over the line was the reality of her schedule. As a producer, her hours were not set or conducive to routine so she would not see her children. When she decided to stay home, she knew she would benefit from the support of communicating with other mothers who were on the same boat. She joined ‘My Mom’s Group’, a social group of other stay at home mothers who get together a few times per week for play groups, Mom’s nights out, and group activities. Having this type of circle helps stay at home moms and their young children who might feel a bit isolated otherwise get connected with people like them. For Ashley Eisner, having moved to Massachusetts from Florida and living in a town house complex which did not have many other moms around, she found the socialization for her two year old Jerilynn was great. Plus, for Eisner, she was able to get parenting pointers. From one of her group message boards, she got a great pointer on brushing Jerilynn’s teeth which really worked. Plus she likes that the group is so large and active. “There is something to do everyday,” said Eisner. Aimee Jackman is a medical oncology surgical nurse who works two days per week and is home with two year old Chase and six month old Zoe. Although she enjoys being a nurse, she finds the juggling act between career and motherhood a challenge at times.
“Sometimes it’s hard to do both,” said Jackman. “But it is good to get out.” Jackman sees her son, Chase, do well with the other children since they live in a neighborhood of empty nesters. She wouldn’t want to miss this time with her little ones and she feels supported in a group who also feel the same. “They are only young once,” smiled Jackman. Amanda Minaker and her husband felt the economic crunch when he lost his job and was home with her for four months. Two year old Harper and three month old Isabella are regulars here since Minaker has been coming for a few years. Minaker is a strong spokesperson on motherhood, stating its a choice to be home. However, she finds the other mothers are a wealth of knowledge for her. And she feels completely comfortable. “It’s good to have other moms,” said Minaker. “We’re a community.” Andaic always says the group is as good as members make it, and is always welcoming new moms. She understands the discomfort sometimes for new people but she pointed out no one is judgmental here and encourages getting out of the house. Dues are $20 per year and that money covers activities or entrance fees to play spaces. In addition to taking care of the moms, they take care of each other as women. For Mom’s Night Out, they started a Sushi Club and are also doing a fashion swap. For more information or to register to join the group to gain access to the calendar and money saving coupons, visit their web page at www.meetup. com/moms-1069.
FUN ALL NIGHT LONG: BILLERICA BLAST KEEPS GRADS SAFE Statistics show April, May and June to be the most dangerous months for teens, accounting for one-third of the alcohol related traffic fatalities. Plus, 55 percent of car crashes involving teenage drivers during prom and graduation season also involve alcohol. However, here are some more facts: underage drinking is preventable, especially if no alcohol is provided to teens. The dedicated group of volunteers for the all night Billerica Memorial High School graduation party called Billerica Blast know this. And they remain committed to giving students one last walk through their school while providing a night jammed packed with exciting activities. For Lauren Parise, a nursing school freshman at Rivier College, she’d heard about the Blast since she was a sophomore at BMHS. A recent grad in 2009, Parise was looking forward to celebrating with her friends after she wore her cap and gown last June. Since Parise sees graduation as a little sad, she found this experience to give her some closure. Her favorite activities included the hypnotist, the walking magician, the psychic and all the inflatables. “It’s so well planned out with so many activities,” said Parise. “The gym looks awesome.” Marie Ratte has been volunteering for the Blast for six years. She started doing it when her children were in elementary school because she’d heard volunteers were needed. She currently has a freshman and a senior so she is involved in the planning stages but won’t be at BMHS this year. Senior parents are not allowed to attend with their kids. This is set up as a ‘pay it forward’ system where parents help out when their children are younger so when they have a senior, other parents step up to volunteer at the Blast.
“It supposed to be their night,” said Ratte. “But we are always looking for volunteers.” Tickets to the Blast are available at the Senior Breakfast for $10 each. Students sign up and provide a parent’s phone number. This is so, on graduation night, if this student no shows to the Blast, their parents can be notified. Students can expect to come in, starting about 11 pm and put their belongings in a safe place. They receive a t-shirt and raffle tickets for prizes ranging from gift cards to dorm fridges. Since it is a Hawaiian Luau theme, costumes are always available for funny photo opportunities. Of course, then there is the issue of food. Any type of food a grad can imagine is available. Chinese. Pizza. Chicken bites. Veggie Trays. Fruit Trays. Water. Slush. Sundaes. They definitely will not be hungry. They also will not be bored. Card games, ping pong, a mechanical bull, karaoke, an obstacle course and henna tattoos await in various locations throughout the school. Around 3 am, the hypnotist, who is a big hit, arrives. The entire night wraps up around 5 am with coffee and donuts provided for the grads. “We never have any issues,” said Ratte. “It’s wonderful.” Parise’s advice to seniors is to get there since it is a one-time event for them. Although she understood it was safer than being out with nothing to do, she and her friends simply looked forward to it because they knew how much fun it was going to be. “It’s totally worth it,” said Parise. For more information, check out the Billerica Blast on Facebook or email questions to BMHSBlast@yahoo.com.
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DIABETES BOOT CAMP: SCHOOL SUPPORT to bring to the meeting. I prepared a packet that contained everything Noah’s teacher would need in order for her to learn about the illness and I brought along material the nurse could distribute to other school personnel. Of particular concern to me was how to handle Noah going to the nurse’s office for his blood sugar check if he was already feeling “low” in the classroom. Rationally or not, I found myself worrying that he’d faint on his way to her office and remain unconscious before anyone found him! Noah’s new teacher had no experience with diabetes but she immediately set to work. She had a lot to learn but was committed to providing Noah with a safe learning environment. The nurse, having a solid understanding of the illness, was able to offer many suggestions that quelled my fears. She suggested a “wanted poster” of Noah that would be put up all around the school. The poster featured his picture and critical information regarding how to spot low blood sugar and what to do in case of emergency. To combat my fear about Noah’s walks to the nurses office, she suggested sending him down with a buddy! With every concern I raised, we worked to find a solution. We put a plan in place for Noah to come to the nurse’s office before snack, at lunch, before dismissal and as many times as needed in between. The fateful day arrived. The day I’d have to turn over my little guy to the care of others. I cried when he got on the bus. After all, there are no nurses on the bus! I steeled myself for a long day with my cell phone ready and waited for the first of what would be hundreds of calls from the school nurse over the years. But that day I didn’t get a phone call. That first day back to school Noah made it through without incident. I cried anyway; tears of relief and joy, knowing that Noah was in good hands in the Billerica schools. To be continued…
Billerica Recreation Department Announces Summer Concert Series: July 4 BBQ, Music & Activities Sponsor: Lions Club 10 am-12 noon, July 6 Good Olde Boys, July 13 Rampage Trio, July 20 Beatle Tracks, July 27 Our Way
PHOTO BY ASA PHOTOGRAPHIC
PHOTO BY JULIA VAN KUILENBURG
By Elise Celli My son Noah was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2003. In the first few weeks following his diagnosis the responsibility of caring for him bore down on me tremendously. Getting used to checking Noah’s blood sugars and calculating his carbohydrate intake, drawing up insulin and administering injections, constantly looking for signs of low blood sugars and checking his sugars during the night… it was a monumental adjustment. In addition, Noah’s diagnosis followed shortly after my divorce, so I had to go it alone while ensuring that his brother and sister were well taken care of too. The weight of this new burden was so fierce that I didn’t feel I could handle going out of the house. It was necessary for me to take along all manner of supplies to keep him safe and I obsessively worried that I might forget something critical. All of a sudden I felt like a first time mother again; instead of a midnight feeding, I had a midnight checking, instead of a diaper bag I had a diabetes bag packed with supplies to use in case of every possible contingency. Even so, I knew that ultimately we would have to venture out. So at first we took baby steps, going for short walks. Then we graduated to the neighborhood park. Eventually we chanced far away and exotic places like the mall! With each successful trip I became more confident that I could handle any diabetic crisis, whether in my home or out and about. Towards the middle of the summer I realized that I had to prepare for Noah to go to school with diabetes. I was just getting comfortable taking care of Noah myself so it’s little wonder that I was scared to let others take care of him. How would I be able to impress the critical nature of his illness to the school personnel? I rallied the way only Moms can. I called the school and made an appointment with the nurse and his new teacher. Then I gathered as much information as I could about Type 1 Diabetes
On April 6, seniors, friends, and families gathered for the 2nd Annual Senior Talent Show at the Council on Aging to be ‘wowed’ by great talents.
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The Green Handyman •By Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E.
WATERPROOFING Billerica homes were hit hard in the great March flood and some families suffered substantial property losses. Others basements had an inch or two of water while others remained dry. No family handyman – or professional, for that matter – could treat a basement to repel the amount of water we saw in March, which was the second most rainfall we’ve had in any month in over 100 years. However, the next big rain won’t be as big, and there are some things you can do to help keep your basement dry. How does water get in your basement in the first place? The rising water table. The water table is the level below ground at which the dirt is 100% saturated, or wet. (In extreme cases, like the flood, the water table can rise above the ground level and make puddles – or a lake! – in the yard.) When the water table rises up to the level of your foundation, your basement is at risk. Although concrete looks solid, it’s not waterproof. Water can easily seep through cracks, both large and small. But even a foundation that’s completely free of cracks can leak water. There are small air spaces inside concrete and water can wind its way through them when it pushes hard enough. To feel how hard water can push on the bottom of your basement floor, put a bucket in a swimming pool and push down with your fist. Do you feel it pushing back? The harder you push, the harder the water pushes
back. This buoyant force of water does the same -- pushing harder and harder on your house the more the water table rises. The simplest way to repel that water pressure is to apply a waterproofing product like Drylok. You apply it to concrete like paint. When it dries it feels a little like rubber and can keep out light to moderate levels of water pressure. Try this if you never get more than inch of water. A more effective treatment is a sump pump. A sump is simply a hole in the ground and a pump at the bottom sucks out water before the water table rises up to the basement. This usually involves breaking up part of your basement floor with a jackhammer, digging a hole, and connecting the pump to electrical service and a drain hose. This is hard work; professional installation is recommended. The most effective waterproofing treatment is a French drain. This method involves digging a trench around the inside perimeter of the basement, like a moat. This directly diverts water to the pump. A French drain lowers the water table around the entire house while a sump pump can only do it for a small area around the sump. As a youth, the Green Handyman spent a summer lugging bucket after bucket of heavy gravel into his neighbor’s basement to help build a French drain. Pass the Advil. Jeff rey R. Parenti, P.E. is a registered professional civil engineer living in Billerica.
ENTREPRENEURS ON WHEELS: WHEELCHAIR DANCERS GO INTO BUSINESS The ability to move our bodies can be something often taken for granted. However, this is something the residents of the TILL-Toward Independent Living and Learningprogram live with day in and out. For the past several years, the TILL Inc . day program, located on Boston Road next door to McDonalds on Bridge Street, has been assisting individuals with special needs to build skills in various ways while involving them in opportunities through the community to serve others. Through TILL, Dances with Wheels, a talented wheelchair ensemble group, started in 2006 as a small project intended to introduce different styles of sensory therapies through music and wheelchair dance. This was chosen as there was not much opportunity for those in wheelchairs to be involved in dance. “This was inspired by ‘Dances with the Stars’,” said Luis Salas, TILL Staff member and dancer for the wheelchair ensemble. Through the ensemble, the individuals have the opportunity to expand their performances while giving back to the community. With the cooperation of BATV, Dances with Wheels has traveled from Lexington to Lowell, dancing at various nursing homes, hospitals, and children’s facilities. Once the dance is over, the dancer invites a member of the residence to get up and join the dancer in one of the many musical scores. It was at the senior center in Billerica that the group received such a positive response that they realized they had something they could build on.
Townsend explained they now are offering the residents “They’ve inspired others to dance,” said Doug Townsend, more chances to give back to the community TILL Site Supervisor. through job skill development. The Last spring, the wheelchair ensemble program has developed “Candy made it to the big stage at the Central”, which has the TILL Billerica Memorial High School individuals filling baskets with auditorium in their first candy and leaving them at showing of the Dances with businesses. The baskets are Wheels “Smell The Roses” run on an ‘honor system’ production. Eight staff TILL Inc., Boston Road where the purchaser and residents ‘wowed’ leaves money in the the crowd with their email: tillcentralbillerica@tillinc.com basket and TILL dramatic turns and comes back twice per spins. The show month to refill and was produced in collect the money. conjunction with the Currently, TILL is Billerica Scholarship seeking additional Foundation and businesses to partner proceeds went to a All on the ‘Honor System’ with them as Candy scholarship to assist any handicapped Central Drop off sites. Please help fund raising efforts by TILL All proceed go toward graduating senior who Central. Supporting Special Needs TILL programs. wanted to future advance Individuals And Their “We’re all finding a themselves academically. purpose in life,” said Townsend. TILL’s next public performance Community Activities. “We are stretching people in telling is on them what they can do, and not in “The concept is to give individuals what they can’t.” the opportunities to do what everyone else does,” said Salas.
Candy Central
$3.00 Chocolate Roses $1.00 Candy $.25 Pops
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EXPLORING CREATIVE IMAGINATION: ATLANTIS PLAYMAKERS CAMPS ARE COMING Some researchers believe that creativity is the outcome of the same cognitive processes as intelligence. The word theater means a “place for seeing” and theater is a highly collaborative endeavor At Atlantis Playmakers, currently situated at 380 Cambridge Street in Burlington, MA, their teaching tenets are to explore, create and imagine. In addition to holding full theatrical productions, they also offer “studios”, theater camps for those age 2 through adult who want to explore their
creative side and h a v e fun. The studios are available for novice to pre-professional actors and are taught by coaches with backgrounds in theater and education. The current faculty includes teachers currently holding MA teaching credentials in education, special education, BA’s in theater and professional experience in theater. “It’s one of the few art forms that requires multiple people to make it happen,” said Artistic Director Kimberly Davis Basso
Founded in 1998 by Basso and her parents, Jeannette and Bill Davis, Atlantis Playmakers held their first performance at Billerica Town Hall. Basso graduated from Billerica Memorial High School and Holy Cross College in Worcester, MA. She has since worked professionally in theater around the country, including the Boston area as well as San Francisco and Miami. Atlantis Playmakers theater arts programs include one week workshops in acting, movement and theater games. Students spend time exploring different kinds of theater and story telling and then put their imaginations into these different worlds. After rehearsing a prepared script all week, students perform for family and friends at weeks end. “As a group, we create something new,” said Basso. Basso explained that theater also teaches other practical skills in a very collaborative and supportive environment. Students gain confidence in public speaking while learning to work with and rely on others. Plus, by “walking the shoes of another” while playing a character, students in turn learn a lot about themselves. “Anyone can do this, no question,” said Basso. “There is a place in theater for everyone.” Camps run from Monday through Friday starting in July and have upcoming themes like Wild, Wild West, Fabulous Fables, and Magic and Mayhem. Camp prices start at $20 and registrations are being taken via phone or online. Call 978-667-0550 or visit their website at www.AtlantisPlaymakers. com for more information.
What we’re working on for June: Dad and Grads: June is the best time to celebrate the leaders, young and old. We appreciate the ones who got us where we are today as we applaud the next generation of trail blazers.
The Great Outdoors: Water conservation. Recycling. Playgrounds. Trails. The call of the wild surely exists in Billerica and we are going to capture it all for you.
The Billerica Green Turns One and We Want To Celebrate You! What better way to mark our first anniversary but to thank this amazing town? We will host the First Annual Face of Billerica Awards. And we want YOU to make the nominations!
HOPE
Bring it to Others Join us to celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers! Survivors’ Lap and Opening Ceremonies American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Billerica Saturday, June 12, 12:00 p.m. Boys & Girls Club of Greater Billerica 19 Campbell Road, Billerica At Relay teams take turns walking around a track to raise funds for the American Cancer Society to help people stay well, get well, find cures and fight back. Special activities at Relay celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers, remember those we have lost, and give everyone the chance to fight back against cancer. For more details contact Rebecca Harnois at your American Cancer Society at 781-314-2678 or visit relayforlife.org/billericama.