FREE November/December 2009 Vol.1, No.4
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS
SHOP AROUND TOWN GREAT LOCAL DEALS AND UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS
TURKEY DAY RIVALRY WILL BMHS TAKE DOWN CHELMSFORD?
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November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 1
A publication of The Billerica Green, LLC. ©2009 The Billerica Green unless otherwise specified. All Rights Reserved
Editor-in-Chief + Owner + Staff Writer: Liana Measmer
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 VOLUME 1, NUMBER 4
Contents
For news or column submissions, e-mail us at liana@thebillericagreen.com. Deadlines for submissions are the first week of the month. Art Director + Illustrator: Tony Luongo Contributing Columnists: Dr. Gina Aguayo Todd Dellaporta Nora Fiore Dave Gagliardi Jenn Gervais Sandra Giroux John and Sherry Livsey Diana Lombardo Attorney Jennifer O’Brien Brian Panarese Jeff Parenti Colleen Sgroi Contributing Writers: Edna Chalmers Exit Homestead Realty Jenn Gervais Frank Hynes Frank M. Hynes Associates Joan Parcewski Billerica Cat Care Coalition
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Nov/Dec 2009; Vol. 1, No. 4 The Billerica Green, LLC. P.O. Box 492 Billerica, MA 01821 thebillericagreen.com www.thebillericagreen.com Subscriptions for non-Billerica residents: One year (12 issues) $15
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For 14 years, The Holiday Festival Committee has brought the awe of the season home to us.
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Shopping Economics 101: Keep Our Billerica Dollars Local Just 1% of our income invested in the town could bring back millions • By Jenn Gervais
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Three Great Reasons to Be Grateful
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A Local couple shares how they stay sane and grateful three times over.
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Contributing Photographers: Gail Lucozzi Jim McFeeley Kimberly Willmott 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.
A Town’s Gift For You: The Joy of The Holiday Festival
One Of A Kind: Billerica Boasts Specialty Items Galore Check out these gift ideas that everyone on your list would love to get.
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Turkey Always Tastes Better When You Win The Billerica and Chelmsford High Football Rivalry–Served up special on Thanksgiving Day just for you.
In this edition: The Sunny Side of The Street Family Matters Dave Says Ask Dr. Gina Court’s In Session Green Handyman Notes from General Sound Voice of the Artist It’s Better Than You Think
Will Achieve The Traveling Gourmets Pet Peeves Power From Within Teacher’s Corner The Body Elite Calendar of Events Out on the Town The Playground
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR HELLO AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Okay, who’s listening to their Christmas carols? (Gasp!) Yes, I said Christmas because that’s what we celebrate in our house. What do you celebrate? Write me and tell me about your traditions because I’ll enjoy reading about them. I love this time of year. Everyone is a little more generous and smiles a little more. Like Karen Carpenter sang, “...It’s that time of year when the world falls in love...” Again, thanks to all for the feedback we received over the last month. The congratulatory as well as the constructive criticisms. It’s through you sharing what you like and what you don’t that we grow and get better and better. If you like what you see (or even if you don’t), email us/me or call me at 978-808-2361. Since our last edition, we’ve been scoping stuff out for you EVERYWHERE! We stopped by the Council on Aging Holistic Fair. We went to the Parker School on Character Day. We had fun at the Kennedy School Haunted House. We judged at the Lion’s Club Speech Contest. We met the folks organizing ‘Operation Honoring our Heroes’. We partied at the Manny Raposo Memorial fund raiser for cancer, where Wood Real Estate raised over $1,300. We learned about self defense through the Police Department’s R.A.D. Program (Rape Aggression Defense). We had dinner with Professor Eck from Harvard University and heard about her Pluralism project. We hung out at BATV with high school kids in the Video Club. We went to the first Shawsheen Alumni Association ‘Ram Roast’. I can’t wait for this month!! The Holiday Festival is approaching fast. Never gone? It’s AMAZING! The Tree Lighting on the common is breathtaking. The holiday decoration displays in the Library get you in the holiday spirit. Photos with Santa at the Bennett are great fun too. Plus, the town is buzzing with lots of activity. Church bazaars. Organizations putting on plays or organizing charities. Check out our CALENDAR OF EVENTS and OUT ON THE TOWN pages for upcoming events. In this edition, we got the scoop on the Holiday Festival. We spent time talking to
a family with triplets who’s pretty thankful. We got pumped up about the upcoming Billerica and Chelmsford Football rivalry game on Turkey day. We went around to the different shops in town hunting down some specialty items and uncovered some deals for you along the way. As always, remember that this paper is and will continue to be free to residents. Currently we are mailing to 17,002 Billerica homes, apartments, P.O. Boxes, and businesses as well as numerous out of town folks who paid for a subscriptions. We go out every month on or around the THIRD week of that month. If you want your submissions in, we need them by the first week of every month. Thank you to my awesome columnists and photographers; Tony, my brilliant Art Director; Media News Printing who always goes the extra mile; and the many hard working local businesses that have signed on with us. Please frequent their shops and establishments to keep Billerica dollars here, ESPECIALLY at the holidays. If you have some ideas you want to pitch or an upcoming story you want covered, email me. I am still looking for sports writers, senior writers and kid contributors. To You and Yours from Us and Ours...Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!
Liana Measmer liana@thebillericagreen.com
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Ask Dr. Gina •By Dr. Gina Aguayo, Ph D.
TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE BILLERICA GREEN:
Put your running shoes on, the holiday season is here. The holidays usher in a time of parties, gift-giving, and family gatherings. All of these things are wonderful to have in our lives. It’s the getting ready and planning for them that makes it a stressful and hectic time of year. It would seem to make sense that this column should then be focused on how to make it a bit more tolerable. My quick fix is to suggest planning in advance, getting as much help as you can from those around you, and taking care of yourself. I’m guessing that many of you go and go and go and never think about taking time out for yourself. Or, if you do think about it, you feel guilty and selfish that you would take a moment to do or buy something you enjoy when so much “must” get done. This logic is decidedly skewed. Part of what makes this time of year so special is that we are all giving to each other and letting others know how important they are to us. If we are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, over-tired and under appreciated, then how do we expect
to accomplish our tasks and feel good about them too? We need to re-evaluate what giving really means. I always use the analogy of a checking account when working with people who are doing for others and feeling angry or frustrated while going through the motions. I explain that in order to give of themselves, they must first have something to give, just like when they write checks. If there is no “money” in the “account”, then there is no “money” to “pay” for the purchase. Before you get into the “red” during the holiday season, let’s take a look at how to keep your account in the “black”. First, recognize that taking care of yourself is a priority. You need to put yourself on the To Do list. If what you need is always falling to the bottom, or more likely, off the list, how will you have any energy or desire to do for someone else? Begin to re-prioritize by making a point to meet your needs in simple, speedy, and affordable ways. Second, develop some ideas of what would be a nice “treat” for yourself. Do you
I work in Billerica and today received The Billerica Green. I can not tell you how happy I was when I opened the first page and saw a picture of Dave Ramsey!!! I took his Financial Peace University course at the New Colony Baptist Church and it changed my life. It is so hard to find Dave related courses, classes, columns anywhere in the northeast, so thank you for including Dave Says in your paper. I hope more and more people will come to learn the amazing things he can teach people about their financial situation! Please keep including his column in your paper!!! – Kristen Johnson, Billerica I wanted to mention that I was impressed by Tony’s excellent illustrations. Glad to promote your new publication! – Fred Faust Edge Group Inc., Lowell Liana and Tony, Your magazine is a great success! It’s awesome. Thank you both very, very much. – Carol Woods Woods Real Estate, Billerica
enjoy watching a particular television show? How often do you take a bath just to relax? Does reading relax you? Will speaking with friends or family help you to feel better? You do not need to spend money or a lot of time in order to meet your needs. For example, spending an extra 5 minutes in the shower enjoying the feel of the hot water is a simple way to make a “deposit” into your account without making major changes to your schedule. It also reinforces the idea that you can do for yourself without taking away from your normal responsibilities. Finally, make a habit of taking time for yourself at least once per week. It takes planning and determination to routinely engage in new behaviors so it is important to be aware of how often you are “treating” yourself. During this busy time of year, everyone is short on time. Do not neglect yourself because of everything else that you have to do. By taking care of yourself during the holiday rush, you will have a better chance of maintaining your Christmas cheer through the coming weeks.
We recently received our copy of The Billerica Green, and we loved it…it looks FANTASTIC! Congratulations and we wish you much success! – Kimberly Keating-Posco Global Organizational Development Program Manager Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, Andover I am very excited to be apart of your new Billerica Green and anticipate great results of more people knowing about my Art Gallery and Classes. Thank you Tony. You are very talented and I can see creativity must run in your family. I love, love The Billerica Green logo! – Colleen Sgroi Sgroi Art Gallery, Billerica My compliments on your publication…fabulous job ! I am beyond impressed! Best of luck with the paper…the buzz is all positive! Well done! – Heather Morey Creative Photography, Billerica
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THE RAMS ROAST A COLLEAGUE AND RAISE SOME MONEY Only three years young, the Shawsheen Regional Vocational Technical High School Alumni Association is always looking for ways to get the word out about their goals. This year was no dierent as they hosted the ďŹ rst ever Ram Roast in early November. Duane Cleak, long time science teacher and hockey coach, was the willing victim of light hearted razzing by colleagues, former students and friends. The group of approximately 70 people present were celebrating Cleak’s retirement from Shawsheen after 27 years on sta. A Woburn native, Cleak received his teaching degree from Colorado State. He became a teacher at the Kennedy Junior High School in Woburn for eight years following his graduation. In Jan.1983, Cleak walked down the hallowed halls of the Shawsheen with some trepidation. He had developed a less than favorable opinion of what a vocational student would look like. But what he found pleasantly surprised him. These students were organized. They alternated weeks of shop with weeks of academics and did so with poise and skill. Once they graduated, Cleak said they were ahead of the curve since they were so much better prepared for the work force. “Our kids are so unique because they can handle academics so well,â€? said Cleak.
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Outside the classroom, Cleak is as passionate about hockey as he is about science. Two years following his arrival at Shawsheen, he became the Junior Varsity coach and had continued guiding boys on the ice for the last 25 years.
Shawsheen players are part of the Commonwealth Athletic Conference and Cleak worked hard to get the players in an aggressive non-league schedule so they would be prepared should they make it to a hockey tournament. With a gleam in his eyes, Cleak proudly boasted how the team went to state ďŹ nals last year and played on the ice at the TD Bank North Garden in Boston. Shawsheen played Shrewsbury and lost but did so gracefully. Cleak praised the boys for how digniďŹ ed they were in wishing their opponents well. “I can’t think of a higher compliment than seeing that group of boys and how they conducted themselves,â€? said Cleak. After a delicious pasta dinner provided by the culinary department of the Shawsheen, the roast began. Cleak was brought on stage and seated in a “throneâ€? built by the wood shop students. Initially, he was crowned with a fabric cap complete with curly ram horns. However, upon hearing who would be roasting him, Cleak opted instead to don a hockey helmet and athletic supporter (i.e. cup) for additional protection. One by one, colleagues came to the podium. Due to Cleak’s clean image, they did the best they could to come up with enough material. Dick Barris, soccer coach and English teacher, teased Cleak about shoddy driving skills, after a sharp turn on the golf course resulted in tossing math teacher Jim Byrnes from a golf cart. Culinary teacher Meg Costello noted his dietary changes after he survived a heart attack some years back and called him a “culinary pestâ€?. Teacher Don Ayer teased Cleak about his obsessive compulsive cleanliness while Special Education Specialist Nancy Sym told a story of this science teacher’s naivetĂŠ as to how
subways in Boston actually worked. This was following a trip to the city for a professional training they attended together. “If this doesn’t constitute needing an IEP, I don’t know what does,â€? said Sym, getting a roar from the crowd. Shawsheen graduate Dan Venezia of Venezia Electric was one of Cleak’s former hockey players. He told of how Cleak was in charge of managing who went on and o the ice at games and called Cleak the “best doorman in the Commonwealth of MAâ€?. Superintendent Charlie Lyons recounted how he and Cleak got into a heated discussion when Cleak advocated for sta to have the right to wear jeans on casual Fridays. Lyons didn’t go for it. “He’s a terriďŹ c human being,â€? smiled Lyons as he assured the crowd he and Cleak were still very close. Once everyone sat down, Cleak got up and chastised the graduates for having no life since they were at a roast on a Saturday night. “Didn’t we teach you anything?â€? Cleak laughed. He wrapped up his rebuttals by looking straight at Lyons, smiling, and stating he was sure if he was a woman with a ďŹ rm derrière, he would have been allowed to wear jeans on Fridays. The crowd cheered him on. Alumni Association President Stephanie Mancini was pleased with the outcome of the Roast and explained the association’s mission. The association seeks to help alumni reconnect to their roots while acknowledging excellence among the graduating classes. They also seek to oer scholarships to graduates and hope to eventually establish the ‘Purple Pages’, a business directory of graduates which would assist people in ďŹ nding contractors, businesses and services among each other. In addition to the Roast, the association established a Hall of Fame for graduates. Criteria included graduates who went ahead in their trade and also stayed connected to the community as well as the Shawsheen. Their ďŹ rst Hall of Fame last year saw 11 inductees. Mancini is seeking more nominations for the next one in 2010. Last year, the association was able to award three scholarships to students. The Legacy scholarship goes to a child of an alumni. The Vocational Achievement scholarships are given to students who did well in their shop but was not necessarily at the top of their class. It could be a student who showed the most improvement . “We’re trying to ďŹ nd all those kids,â€? said Mancini. For more information on how to join or get reconnected with former classmates, visit their web site at www.shawsheenalumni.com.
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Dave Says •By Dave Ramsey
AMBITION, SAVINGS & UNEMPLOYED Balancing Ambition and Contentment Dear Dave, How do you balance ambition with contentment? – Fran Dear Fran, This is a really good question! To be honest, I don’t believe they require balance. You thought ambition was the opposite of contentment, didn’t you? I don’t look at it that way. It’s not like a teeter-totter. They don’t have to balance out, because they’re not on the same spectrum. I’m content and ambitious. I’m content with what we have and what God has entrusted to us. On the other hand, I’m not content to sit around and do nothing just because we’ve been blessed. To me, that kind of attitude is not contentment, it’s apathy. I do what I do because I’m passionate about helping people. You can have peace and contentment and at the same time be a real go-getter—the kind of person who still moves stuff around and makes things happen. They’re not inconsistent concepts. I think problems are created when ambitious people are driven by a lack of contentment. Let me ask you this: Do you think Jesus was content? Do you think He was ambitious? The answer to both questions is yes! You’d have to be pretty ambitious, I think, to take on the sins of the world. At the same time, do you know of anyone else who had more contentment than He did? More than anything, I think it has to do with what’s driving your ambition. If discontentment or a quest for “stuff” is the motivating factor, then maybe they are on the same spectrum. But I think that’s a really bad way to live your life. You can get tons and tons of stuff, but no matter what you get or how much you get, you’re still not going to really be happy until you find contentment! – Dave Prioritizing Saving as an Adult Dear Dave, I’m 20 years old, and I’m working my way through college. I’ve never been in debt, and I’ve already got a good emergency fund in place. But it seems like there are so many things to plan for down the road. How do you prioritize and manage saving for a better car, investing, marriage, kids and everything else in life? It all seems so overwhelming. – Eric Dear Eric, You’ve done a great job so far! I’m glad you’re looking toward the future, too. You’re right, it can be overwhelming if you look at all these things as if they have to be
accomplished today. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to do everything right now. It’s great to have a plan, but you’re just 20 years old. You’ve got plenty of time to decide what’s important to you and plan accordingly. All the things you mentioned are great goals. But, in my mind, finishing college is your number one priority right now. Then, let’s look at the other stuff. If you have a girl you’re crazy about, marriage may be next on the list. If your car is about to roll over and die, the next step may be a better vehicle. Don’t be too intimidated, Eric. Things are often easier to deal with when you break them down into smaller components and address them individually. Nobody can do four or five things at once, and do them all to the best of their ability. Just decide what matters most, put it at the top, and list everything else in descending order of importance. Then just go down the list, and knock them out one after the other. That’s how you eat an elephant, Eric. One bite at a time! – Dave Using the Emergency Fund Dear Dave, My husband and I are debt-free, and we’ve got a fully funded, six-month emergency fund in place. The problem is that he lost his job last month. I’m still working part-time and bringing home $150 a week. But we’re unsure if we should cut our budget down to bare bones or continue living like normal since we have so much saved? – Jennifer Dear Jennifer, You definitely want to live on as little as you can. This way, the money in your emergency fund will last longer. You may be bringing in $600 a month—and that’s okay for a part-time job—but it’s not nearly enough to run a household. It’s beans and rice time, girl. This means no vacations, no movies, no restaurants, and no $100 sneakers for the kids. In other words, no life until he finds another job and you guys are on your financial feet again. Keep the lights on and food in the pantry. Those are your priorities right now. I’d rather see you go into crunch time now without completely draining your emergency fund before he goes back to work. This is the living, breathing definition of an emergency, Jennifer. Praise God you guys were smart enough to plan ahead. So yes, use it; but be wise. Spend only when it’s absolutely necessary! – Dave *For more financial advice, plus special offers to our readers, please visit www.davesays.org.
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A Town’s Gift For You.
EXPERIENCING THE JOY OF THE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL By Liana Measmer
C
lose your eyes. Make a wish. Turn around. Want to experience Pure Joy? Billerica’s Holiday Festival gives this to you. The annual crowd-pleaser reminds us that THIS is the season to experience joy. We all may have had some ups and downs this year and are certainly looking forward to some holiday cheer. What better way to do this than to share the season with your family and friends? The Senior Citizen Dinner at the Council on Aging. The Home for the Holidays tree displays at the library. The Annual Tree Lighting on the common Pictures with Santa at the Bennett Library. These events provide some of the purest joy this season can offer. And it’s all right here in town.
BILLERICA’S FINEST For the last 14 years, Billerica’s Holiday Festival has been raising the town’s pride and spirits. Organized by a committee of about 20 people, planning for these fun, free festivities starts back in February. From printing flyers to organizing bucket trucks. From stringing lights to contacting raffle donors. From passing out elf hats to dressing up in character (Nope, that’s really Santa on the fire engine, thanks to
the Elks Lodge), it’s a 100 percent volunteer organization. And there is always room for more helping hands. “There are plenty of volunteer opportunities,” said Michael O’Brien, Holiday Festival Committee chairman.
BEHIND THE SCENES Before the festivities can begin, a lot of work happens that few notice. For starters, the lighting has to be arranged. On the large spruce in the center of the common, 3,000 lamps (or bulbs) have to be strung and checked. In addition, there are lights on the smaller trees, the library and the trees in front, as well as those in front of the Council on Aging. Work begins on Nov. 5 and it takes about three weeks to string the lights up. A lot of the lights are replaced because they’ve been damaged by the wind or time has taken its toll. To get high into the trees, ladders won’t cut it. Bucket trucks have to be driven right up onto the common. A reliable contractor is necessary and Venezia Electric, headed by Dan and Bob Venezia, have been the ones the committee has depended on for the last five years to install and remove the light displays. As you circle around the common, they can be spotted up in the trees. When the common was completely dark a few
years back, they came right out in the bitter cold and fixed it. Five years ago, the electrical service needed updating. Lou Antonellis, business agent for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) #103, organized the labor force for this very big task. IBEW workers ensure everything is in tip top working order by maintaining the infrastructure upgrades. As a major sponsor of the Annual Tree Lighting, this labor from the IBEW is donated to the committee. “They have a passion to do a good job,” said O’Brien.“We are thankful.”
GOING GREEN With efforts to be more environmentallyfriendly, the Holiday Festival Committee continues its quest to switch all the incandescent lighting on the common to LEDs . LEDs, which are available for home lighting as well, burn more efficiently and last longer. Because they last about 10 times longer, energy consumption is cut by 90 percent. “Over the next 10 years, we will stop 50,000 lamps from going into landfills,” said O’Brien. Billerica is actually one of the first towns in Massachusetts to move toward LED tree lighting. O’Brien pointed out that the state
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 7
festival in Boston actually took their recommendation and modeled the State House Tree Lighting two years ago after Billerica’s. At this time, Billerica has replaced about half of the bulbs with LEDs. With help from a Selectmen’s Community Funds Grant, last year the committee was able to purchase more and more bulbs to improve efficiency. In 2008, Nortel Networks gave the $4,400 which allowed for the purchase of 5,000 LED lamps. “Going with new technology means less wear and tear on the equipment,” said O’Brien.
THE DONORS MAKE IT HAPPEN You won’t find any line item in the town budget for this. It is funded by many generous donations and raffle sales. Last year, there were 167 donors whose contributions ranged from cash, paying for such things as lighting and services, to Home for the Holidays items like trees, baskets or décor for the library raffles. “They’ve been supportive since day one,” said O’Brien about the annual donors who return year after year. In mid November, the library is transformed into a holiday winter wonderland, with a display making Billerica rival bigger cities and towns. Breathtaking trees boast matching décor, from base to tippy top, in satiny reds and creamy winter whites. Gold balls or silver ribbons reflect the blinking lights and throw sparkles on walls and ceilings. Every year it takes $30,000 to make all the events happen. In addition to the donors, raffle sales make up the difference. That’s where residents come in. Taking a chance to win is simple. About 3,000 raffle ticket sheets of 21 tickets are printed every year and it’s only $5 per sheet. Raffle tickets can be purchased at the library. “All $5 goes toward the events,” said O’Brien. Twenty-one chances can get you a completely decorated Christmas tree BEFORE the holiday, some of which are so creatively done. A tree with pet treats. (My favorite two years ago was covered in gift certificates. All my 21 chances went in that canister, thank you very much.) A cooking tree. A tree covered in school supplies. Even if you can’t use it all, they are easy holiday gift ideas which are staring back at you. Give some away and share the joy. Twenty-one chances can make it possible to pick up that lighted wreath you always admired. Or use your twenty-one chances to take home “Pampering-in-a-Basket.” Original pieces of artwork can be enjoyed. Or try for a holiday lawn decoration like a blinking green palm tree, perfectly suited for any Billerica lawn. Here’s your chance to get more of those decorations you meant to grab up this holiday season but you just didn’t have the time. The good news is you can start purchasing raffle tickets on Nov. 20, with the raffle running until the drawing on Dec. 14. Winners are contacted by telephone, with time to spare before the big days come. For raffle ticket sales times, check the schedule on BATV or pick up a schedule at a local store, restaurant or establishment around town.
ALL THE LIGHTS ARE BRIGHTLY SHINING The Annual Tree Lighting kicks off on Dec. 5. To take care of those who don’t tolerate the cold, the Sons of Italy prepare a delicious dinner for our treasured senior citizens at the Council on Aging, starting at 4 p.m. There is a chorus present for entertainment and then, perched in the
windows, they watch the best show in town on the common right before the switch is thrown. For more information, seniors should contact Senior Center Director Donna Popkin at 978-671-0916. For the rest of us, there isn’t a bad spot either on the common or in front of the library for experiencing the tree lighting. Feel free to start with cookies and hot cocoa available at the Masonic Hall. The program begins at 4:30 p.m. with Christmas carols and karaoke on the library front steps provided by Crystal Entertainment of Townsend. “They are so professional,” said O’Brien. Last year, the DJs blew bubbles everywhere and kept the children’s attention with their vivid inflatables. Then the crowd was “wowed” by the New Colony Baptist Church Children’s Choir. This year, a second choir will be added. Following the singing, a much-anticipated holiday express, i.e. fire truck, arrives on the scene. Carrying wellknown guests of honor, it loops around the common and stops right in front of the library steps. You will certainly recognize Mickey, Minnie, and a maybe even a dancing Gingerbread cookie. But the night would not be complete without a grand entrance by the big guy himself. With his red furry coat and white beard, Santa stands on the steps, wishing the crowd a Merry Christmas and waving to the squealing multitudes of young fans. Perhaps even to the big fans as well who can’t contain their giddiness. And then, when the anticipation can’t seem to rise any higher, a giant switch is thrown at just about 5 p.m. In a flash, the entire common is awash with glorious light. Bright whites and multi colors like warm reds, vibrant greens, cool blues too. Everything is aglow. The trees. The bandstand. The library.
It’s in that moment you will hear it. The collective gasp. Then a uproarious cheer goes through the crowd followed by thunderous applause. Find the closest tiny face. Their smile and laughter is completely intoxicating and utterly contagious. You won’t be able to help but smile and laugh as well.
SMILES WITH SANTA On Dec. 12, right next door to the First Parish Church, Santa makes yet one more appearance at the Bennett Library. Stop by and have some cookies while your children have their photos taken with Santa. With both provided by the festival committee, there is no charge for the event but a donation to the food pantry, which can be monetary or a food item, will be appreciated. In these difficult economic times, the committee wanted to be sensitive to keeping this a free event. Santa’s visit is arranged for and donated by the Graham Family. For more information on all the Holiday Festival events, check out www.billericaholidayfestival.org. For many in Billerica, this is the official start of the holiday season. Come and be a part of the joy. You won’t want to miss it.
8 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
LIVING HUMANELY WITH CATS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD From the Billerica Cat Care Coalition Feral cats are members of the domestic cat species, but are not socialized to humans and are therefore not usually adoptable. Cats have been living outdoors near humans for more than 10,000 years. They typically live in groups called “colonies” and have strong social bonds with their colony members. Like all animals, feral cats make their home where they find shelter and food, often in close proximity to humans. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is an effective and humane way to stabilize feral cat populations. Cats are humanely trapped and taken to a veterinarian, where they are neutered and vaccinated. Kittens and socialized cats (cats who are friendly to humans) are placed into loving homes. Healthy, adult feral cats (cats who are fearful of human contact) are returned to their colony site, where they are often provided continuing care by volunteers. Trap-Neuter-Return works. No more kittens. Their lives are improved, and the population stabilizes and declines over time. The behaviors and stresses associated with mating, such as yowling and fighting, stop. TNR saves towns and cities precious tax dollars since volunteers do the work and preventing future litters from being born cuts down on the number of site visits Animal Control must make. For additional information on Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) or to volunteer, contact www.billericacatcare coalition.org or www.alleycat.org.
This month we are featuring two lovely adoptable black and white cats. Their markings give them the nickname of ‘Tuxedo Cats’. Please consider inviting them to be a member of your family. My name is Poptart and I am 2 years old. I’m a Special Needs Kitty as I do have problems with my sinuses. Sometimes I need medication to help me with my breathing and upper respiratory system. As a young kitten I was quite sick with an upper respiratory infection. As a result I have lost the bone in my nose. Despite all my problems that I had when I first came into foster care, I’m a great kitty and love to get into a lot of mischief. I especially love to play in water. I get along well with other kitties. If you have room in your heart for me, please send in an application for me and you won’t be disappointed. My name is Charlotte and I was dumped with my two kittens at someone’s house in a carrier. I don’t know what I did to deserve being uprooted from my home. I’m a little black and white sweetie who is spayed & up to date on shots. According to the vet who treated me, I was probably born in July of 2008. I am negative for FIV & FELV. My kittens have been adopted into wonderful home and now it is my turn to find a family who will love me. If you think I would fit into your home, please send in an application for me. All cats and kittens require an on-line adoption application be completed and sent before consideration before an adoption can take place. Our on-line application can be found at www.billericacatcarecoalition.org. All listed cats are neutered/spayed, FIV/ FeLV negative, up to date on their shots, and house trained.
SURVIVAL IS THE GOAL: R.A.D. COURSE TEACHES VIABLE SELF DEFENSE Statistically, it happens. And it happens here. Rape and assault reports, although no where near national averages, have gone up in the last few years. According to Citydata. com, in 2007, reported rapes in Billerica were up 50 percent from the prior year with reported assaults also on the climb. The numbers, in reality, are tiny because rape is one of the lowest reported crimes due to the stigma and shame involved for the victim. It’s for this reason that Billerica Police Officers Tara Connor, Dale Sarno, and Craig Groguen take educating the public through the R.A.D. program so seriously. R.A.D. stands for Rape Aggression Defense Systems and is an internationally recognized basic physical self defense program. It teaches women to acquire self defense education in a short period of time. The main objective is to teach women and those likely to be assaulted, like the elderly or children, to develop their skills so they will remember them should they be attacked. “We want them to escape,” said Sarno. “We don’t want them to become victims.” At a recent class in November, a group
of nine women and teens attended the four night course. The first night was classroom instruction, followed by two nights of practicing self defense techniques, and wrapping up on a last night with scenarios. That’s where participants get to practice what they learned. Sarno explained that attendance commonly consists of mothers and daughters, especially young adults heading off to college. “We want them to know how it feels to make contact,” said Connor on the first night of physical demonstrations. In the class, attendees are taught that rape and assault is not about sex but about power and control. Nationally, one in three women can expect to be sexually assaulted in her lifetime. However, many times, women think this sort of thing happens to some one else. “You ARE ‘some one else’ to the person sitting next to you,” said Connor. Going on the premise that each individual is the one solely responsible for their own safety, R.A.D. seeks to raise awareness by lowering risks. The instructors also give examples of how to recognize risk as well as avoid it.
An officer for 23 years, Groguen spent five years in the crime prevention division and he explained how to maintain safety in the home. He listed simple tips like eliminating ‘silhouetting’ by not hanging sheer drapes and maintaining window level shrubbery which keeps perpetrators from hiding. “This is how people are victimized everyday,” said Groguen. With national statistics placing girls between the ages of 16 and 19 as four times more likely to become assault victims, Connor spoke at length about the realities of date rape. Some simple tips which can protect these girls included asking him for his phone number instead of giving her number out. Or limiting the amount of information listed on social networking websites. Connor advised letting someone know of your plans before going out and as well as being aware of the limitations of restrictive clothing, especially high heels. She
also listed necessary precautions to consider when exercising outdoors. Connor explained these are all positive ways to reduce risk although nothing is 100 percent fool proof. “We’re trying to eliminate opportunities,” said Connor. The three officers explained the need to practice the techniques since if attacked, there may only be one chance to defend oneself. Sarno stressed how it is about getting away. Connor suggested positive visualizations as a way to recall the techniques. Groguen reiterated the importance of calling for help. “Don’t be afraid to let the police do their job,” said Groguen. According to the R.A.D. website, this is the largest network of its kind with over 7,000 instructors teaching at various colleges, universities, and municipal law enforcement agencies. R.A.D. has trained more than 300,000 women since the program began in 1989. For more information on upcoming classes, visit the Billerica Police website at www.billericapolice.com or the Police Athletic League (PAL) website at www.billericapal.org.
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 9
GET BACK IN THE GAME
DR. KARL B. FISCHER JR. TREATS PEG NICOSIA’S SPINAL PAIN IN HIS OFFICE IN CHELMSFORD.
It’s all part of sports. Athletes know it. If they are going to play, they risk getting hurt. Swollen knees. Injured backs. Twisted ankles. The good news is they don’t have to stay in pain. Dr. Karl B. Fischer jr. of the Chelmsford Chiropractic Center has over 20 years of experience and has seen about 4,000 of them walk through his doors in that time. Although he treats everyone, he prefers athletes because of their commitment to self care. Fischer has been the official sports chiropractor for the US Men’s Curling Championship in Lowell, the Virginia Slims Tennis matches at the Tsongas Arena, and most recently the Tufts Women’s 10K race in Boston on Columbus Day. “Working with athletes is my ideal situation,” said Fischer. An athlete himself, Fischer discovered the benefits of chiropractic care following injury as a college soccer player. His knee had swollen to the size of a small balloon and the pain was intense. A top orthopedist explained that arthroscopic surgery was Fischer’s best option. However, the thought of losing time at school was unappealing so he went to a chiropractor. After close examination, Fischer’s chiropractor explained that proper alignment of the knee coupled with rehabilitative exercises afterward would return him to the field and classroom at a quicker rate and a lower cost. Over a month’s time, it took several visits to manipulate the knee but it restored full range of motion without surgical intervention. Fischer further improved his strength through exercises like bicycle riding, leg curls and leg extensions. “I was grateful to the chiropractor for fixing In conjunction with six other mom’s groups, My Mom’s Group, which covers Burlington and Billerica, was able to secure seven play spaces which, for the week of Nov. 9, allowed any child free admission if they brought a new book and new pair of pajamas to donate to the Pajama Program. All donations were delivered to local organizations affiliated with the Pajama Program. The Pajama Program provides warm pajamas and books to needy children, many waiting and hoping to be adopted. They are youngsters who do not know the comforts of parentsto tuck them in at bedtime. Many have been abandoned, abused, or neglected.
my problem,” said Fischer. “It felt fantastic once it was done.” In addition to athletes, Fischer sees numerous patients with various needs. The top three complaints he deals with are back pain, head aches and injured extremities. For all of these problems, Fischer treats them all the same way: via the chiropractic adjustment. “The chiropractic adjustment breaks the cycle,” said Fischer. Fischer believes that 90 percent of these problems are caused by spinal misalignment. Fischer explained we store stress in our backs. Women tend to store it in their shoulders while men store it in the lower back. Spinal misalignment can happen when we don’t sit correctly, have poor posture or turn our heads wrong. The spine moves and this can affect the nerves housed inside. Through a chiropractic adjustment, which is when the doctor finds a misaligned spot and presses down on it firmly, the pressure is taken off the spine. For Peg and Joe Nicosia of Hudson, MA, Fischer’s care has offered relief for over ten years. Joe had injured his shoulder playing softball and found Fischer to be very accommodating. Previously Joe came more often but now sees Fischer every three weeks for regular maintenance. Joe referred his wife Peg after an operated knee became dislocated. The pain bothered her and threw off her spine. Through her weekly sessions with Fischer, Peg is able to live relatively pain free. “I feel great,” said Peg following her adjustment. Fischer points out that follow up care after treatments is vitally important. He refers patients to professional gyms locally like Best Fitness, Gold’s Gym and Pro-Fitness Plus since these facilities offer the proper equipment for every condition and injury. Patients see a better recovery time when they exercise regularly. Fischer’s office is open Monday through Friday with hours until noon and then again starting at 3 p.m. Evening hours are also available each day to accommodate those who work. He accepts most insurance including Blue Cross or Medicare and will see patients of all ages. Call for an appointment today at 978-250-1500 or visit his website at www. chelmsfordchiropractic.com. The pajama p r o g r a m gratefully acknowledged the generosity of these play spaces: Edge Sports Center, Jump On In, Bay State Tot Stop, Mall Tots, Imajine That, The Tyngsboro Sports Center and Monster Mini Golf. For more information about the Pajama Program or to make a donation, go to: www. pajamaprogram.org
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10 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
THE LION’S ROAR By Joan Parcewski, The Lion’s Club
Don’t forget to do your shopping at the Children’s Room held at the St. Anne’s Fair on Saturday December 5th ~ this is my North Billerica stop. St. Anne’s is located on Treble Cove Road between Pollard Street and Boston Road. The shop will be open 9am to 2pm. St. Anne’s Fair is open to all, not just members. Your parents can visit the rest of the fair and our café while you shop. As you remember the children’s room is a magical place that allows anyone under the age of 16 to purchase presents for their family members for a $1.00 each present. As in the past, most of our gifts have a much greater monetary value than $1.00. The sentimental value is priceless when you see your parents and family faces when they open their special present you picked out just for them. With cut backs and layoffs (yes Santa has been touched too) I can say the Children’s
ILLUSTRATION ©2009TONY LUONGO WWW.LUONGOART.COM
FROM THE OFFICE OF ST. NICHOLAS
Room has been blessed by the kindness of friends, family and friends we hadn’t met before, and we thank them all, the room is well on its way on being stocked for you to shop. Your treasures will be wrapped before you leave so your parents can’t sneak a peek. Hope to see all of you at St. Anne’s on December 5th from 9am to 2pm. Any questions please contact Sandra Giroux at 978.621.1112.
The Lions Club International is the world’s largest secular service organization with over 1.3 million members in 203 countries and its growing. Founded in the US in 1917 by Melvin Jones, a Chicago businessman who, a believer in community service, coined the phrase, “You can’t get very far until you start doing something for somebody else.” Lions programs include sight conservation, hearing and speech conservation, diabetes awareness, youth outreach, international relations and environmental issues to name a few. Lions club is not just for adults. For youth, there is the Billerica Leos Club. Freshman, sophomore, junior or seniors (up to the age of 18) can join and the Leos Club offers young adults an opportunity join the more than 114,000 youth in 139 countries who serve their communities as Leos. The Billerica Leos support the many projects of the sponsoring Lions Club including the Walk for Sight, Billerica’s 4th of July celebration, Kindergarten eye screenings (held in March each year), Billerica Yankee Doodle Homecoming, as well as their own chosen project(s) each year. The Billerica Lions Club is busy holding numerous events. Most recently on Nov. 4, it held its Speech Contest at the Town Hall. The winner moved on to the next level of competition which will be held on Dec.2 at 7pm at Town Hall in the Selectman’s meeting room. The winners from several area club contests will be competing for the regional competition scheduled for later in December.
This an annual program allows all Billerica students in grades 10, 11, or 12 to participate. There are cash prizes for the winner at all levels up to the state winner. Also, the Billerica Lions Club sponsors the Peace Poster Contest which is international and is for all youths ages 11, 12, and 13. Both the Locke Middle School and Marshall Middle School students have provided entries in the past. Each year the contest consists of an original theme and this year it’s “The Power of Peace”. The entries incorporate a variety of mediums, including charcoal, crayon, pencil and paint. Over 350,000 young people worldwide participate in this contest. Several years ago, a participant from Billerica was among the 23 merit award winners. The district contest is being held on Nov. 30 at the Holiday Inn in Tewskbury. The winner from that contest will move onto the multiple district contest in MA and then to the International. All entries will be on display until mid-December at BATV in Billerica Center. Membership to the Lions is open to the public for a nominal membership fee. Membership meetings are held the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Marriott Courtyard on Concord Rd at 7pm. If you are interested in learning more about membership, contact Membership Coordinators Gordon Gibb 978-663-8804, Joan DiOrio 978667-2501, or Annette Presseau 978-9853878. For more information on how to join the Leos, contact Leo Advisors Joan Parcewski at 978-663-5201 or Joan DiOrio 978-667-2501.
Billerica Lodge No .2071: Billerica lodge of Elks held it’s Annual Children’s Halloween Party Monday Oct 26th, over 125 Children and their parents had a wonderful time with a DJ, Costume Prizes, Food, and naturally a bag full of Treats upon leaving. The parade of costumes was the highlight of the evening as trick or treaters marched around the lodge showing off their costumes and hoping to win. Once again the Billerica lodge showed that Halloween can be fun and safe.
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 11
SHOPPING ECONOMICS 101: KEEP OUR BILLERICA DOLLARS LOCAL By Jenn Gervais A recent article called “Support Local Business” by John Balco of The Harvard Post discussed the advantage of shopping locally. The idea is not to spend more money, rather to redirect some of our current spending to Billerica businesses. Have you ever thought about the impact the way you shop impacts local Mom and Pop shops here in Billerica? I hadn’t either, until I read Balco’s article. Balco’s message bears repeating, and consideration for what redirecting a tiny amount – just one percent - of our purchasing power could mean here in town. This requires a little number crunching, so bear with me. Billerica Facts : 1.Population of Billerica: 41,884 2.Median Household Income (2007): $83,270 3.Average Income per Capita: $30,000 4.One Percent of average income per capita: $300 5.One Percent of median household income: $850 6.Average household size: 3 people 7.Estimated number of families:13,900 If, over the course of the year, each family spent one percent of our income in Billerica, we could generate $11.8 million dollars in revenue locally! Spread out over 12 months, that’s $25 per person per month, or $75 per family per month, given the average of 3 people per family. That’s about one trip to a local restaurant, a really nice pair of sneakers, or a couple pair of jeans. My guilty pleasure happens to be an almost-daily cup of ice coffee from one of the big business coffee shops which runs me between $2-3 a day. Over the course of a month, that comes to approximately $60 to $90. However, if I bought my coffee from an independently owned coffee house, that would be equivalent to my family’s one percent reallocation to local businesses. Although I may (gasp!) have to get out of my car rather than go through the drive through, the $11.8 million dollars is worth the extra effort.
Of course, not everyone’s going to do this. Nor is it likely I’ll never visit one of the big box coffee shops. But looking at these numbers really drove home the point to me. I see this as a great example of how the seemingly small actions of an individual – collected together – can make a real difference in the community around us. But what happens when we forget about the little businesses? The recession’s been hard on us all, including these local businesses. What happens when local businesses go under? There are a couple impacts to us as a community. First, if enough go out of business, buildings become vacant, so less attention is paid to their upkeep. Taken to an extreme, Billerica could have more vacant malls on our hands. Another impact is probable that some number of Billericans become unemployed when local companies fail. Speaking of employment, I’d like to suggest local businesses reciprocate loyalty in return to Billerica residents. If you have a job opening, and all other qualifications being equal, one candidate is from Billerica, consider giving them the job rather than to someone not from here. Using state averages and the 2008 census on Billerica population, there’s about 3250 people unemployed currently in Billerica. Our loyalty to local businesses, and theirs to us, could result in more work opportunities for local citizens. A more solid business climate for all the individually-owned businesses in town is a self-sustaining cycle. Of course, I’m over-simplifying small business economics, but I pose it as food for thought the next time you need to pick up an item or two. Consider doing your shopping at a business here in town. I’m not saying you’ll never see me shopping at the various Marts or the big box stores. It is a recession after all, and we’re all trying to stretch our dollars. However, you will see me more frequently at locally-owned businesses here in Billerica. I’ll soon be a regular at a local coffee house, rather than at the closest coffee drive through window. I really hope to see you there.
Brightview’s Community Sales Director, Lynn Schwatzman, meets Betsy Brouillette, Nurse Case Manager from Lahey Clinic, during Brightview’s recent networking gathering. There were over 30 vendors present, including companies like Senior Helpers and New England Wheels, whose services would be available to new residents moving into Brightview Concord River Assisted Living upon its opening in early December.
Every Day Should Have Bright Spots. . .
They Can at Brightview
ASSISTED LIVING
ALZHEIMER’S CARE
“I can enjoy the privacy of my own apartment and also get the assistance I need with personal care and managing medications.”
“The Wellspring neighborhood at Brightview can provide Dad with a higher quality of life than we ever thought possible.”
Brightview – where supportive care is wrapped in a lifestyle filled with potential.
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978-262-1410 £ Ê V À`Ê, >`ÊUÊ iÀ V>]Ê Êä£nÓ£ ÜÜÜ° À } ÌÛ iÜ V À`, ÛiÀ°V Brightview intends to be certified as an Assisted Living Residence with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs pending completion of the certification process.
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12 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
CALENDAR OF EVENTS November Nov. 21: Get Out and Vote! 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Parker School Referendum At your precinct polls. Nov. 21: Craft Fair 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Life Care Center of The Merrimack Valley 80 Boston Road, North Billerica Crafters interested in a table Call Tammy Hamilton at 978-667-2166. Nov. 28: House of Hope Fund Raiser 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Unique Boutique Boston 99 Chelmsford Rd North Billerica, MA Proceeds of sales go to The House of Hope Emergency Family Shelter and providing services for homeless women and their children. For more info, call 978-667-6300 Nov. 28: Snowmobile Open House and Swap Meet 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Billerica Motorsports & Marine 6 Riveredge Road kari@billericamotorsports.com (978) 667-1518 www.billericamotorsports.com
December Dec. 3: Blood Drive 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Billerica Scholarship Foundation - BMHS Billerica Town Hall Auditorium 365 Boston Road 1-800-448-3543 (to schedule an appointment; walk-ins welcome) www.givelife.org
Go to thebillerica green. com and fi ll out our calendar fo rm. It will be online and maybe in print next month.
Dec. 5: Christmas Open House 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm The Historic Clara Sexton House 36 Concord Road The event is FREE. The Billerica Historical Society will hold it’s annual Christmas Open House on Saturday, For more information call (978) 667-7020
Dec. 12: Elks Hoop Shoot 8:00 am Marshall Middle School 15 Floyd Street For Boys and Girls, ages 8-13 Best scores qualify to advance to Western MA and the national finals in April 2010
Dec. 5: Church Christmas Fair 9:00 am – 2:00 pm St. Anne’s Church 14 Treble Cove Road, North Billerica Crafts, Baked Goods, Santa, Luncheon Cafe, Homemade Candy, Wreaths, Silent Auction
Dec. 16: Sons of Italy meeting 7:00 pm Installation of new members. If you are interested in joining the Lodge or attending a meeting, contact Joan Parcewski at jparcewski@comcast.net or Onorio Cerrato at oncerrato@comcast.net for more information.
Dec. 5: Adults Hand painted Ornaments Workshop 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery 12 Andover Road, Billerica, MA www.colleensgroi.com Dec. 6: : Pet Photos with Santa 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Billerica Cat Care Coalition Petco 51 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington
Dec. 17: Annual Winter Floral Night 7:00 pm Elks Lodge 14 Webb Brook Rd. Ticket cost: $25.00. Purchase tickets by 12/10/2009. Contact Pat at 978-667-6029 Bring scissors. A professional florist provides materials and step-by-step instructions. This year’s centerpiece is a gingerbread house. All proceeds help provide scholarships to Billerica residents.
Dec. 12: Meet and Greet the Cats 11:00 am – 2:00 pm Billerica Cat Care Coalition Agway 24 Maple St, Chelmsford
EDITOR’S TAKE...ON 7 NANA SUSHI When I went into the restaurant to take some photos, I was enthralled by the signs I saw. “Sushi: Edible Art.” I watched the Sushi chef, Skye, working diligently to make colorful portions of raw fish. Never having eaten it before, I was intrigued. He took a wooden sailing ship, hoisted the mast and with the precision of a surgeon, cut thin slivers of different types of raw fish which he delicately draped over balls of rice. With greens and the quick transformation of a lemon slice into what looked like a swan, he began to lay out his creations. Skye explained that he was working with Shrimp Tempura, Striped Bass, Tuna, Salmon, and Tako (or Octopus). It all looked like a detailed work of art. I turned to owner,
Jack Lu, and let him know that THIS would be my dinner tonight. He cut me a deal and off I went. I opened the tray and gazed at it all. I was not sure where to start. But I figured I should use chopsticks. I started with the shrimp tempura. It had been rolled in vegetables and a coating (which looked like breading) along with rice. I tried not to think about eating RAW fish. I took a bite. Friend of mine (a sushi connoisseur) had told me that sushi has a mild taste and is not at all fishy-tasting. He pointed out that the fish is super fresh which makes it so easy to palate. The shrimp tempura was delicious. The combination of fish and extras was balanced and flavorful. It was even crispy. It
was gone in a heartbeat. I tried the sea bass, tuna with rice and the salmon with rice. I worried about the texture but was pleasantly surprised at how firm it was. Definitely not flaky like cooked fish but smooth and mild in flavor. It was really good! Then, I braved the Tako. Again, very nice. Not rubbery or fishy tasting. It too was firm but in a completely different way. So what’s my take on this? I know I’m hooked ,and the manner in which it was prepared at 7 Nana made it look really beautiful. I would recommend anyone not having tried sushi before to have some. Like I said earlier, you will be pleasantly surprised.
October-November 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 13
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 13
Woods Real Estate 700 Boston Rd., Billerica, MA 01821 Towne Plaza 978-262-9665 www.WoodsRealEstate.com
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CONTEST WINNERS TEACH US LESSONS ABOUT PEACE By Joan Parcewski, The Lion’s Club This year the Lions Club Peace Poster theme was “The Power of Peace”. Students and art teachers from the Marshall and Locke Middle schools were called upon to submit entries as part of this annual contest. The interpretations of the theme were, as usual, amazing and made it very difficult for our judges to make their final decisions. There were oceans of colors in pastels and blues. Lots of rainbows were depicted and the students clearly had very original ideas. The judges for this year’s contest came from a variety of backgrounds - Carol Bertolucci (Enterprise Bank), Sharon Lapham (chair of Billerica Arts Council), and Wayne Smith (retired engineer). With 42 entries and a mission to pick a winner, a runner up, and three honorable mentions from both schools, they had their work cut out for themselves. The winners were: (1) from the Marshall Middle School - MacKenzie Garnier and (2) from the Locke - Chris Cook. One showed windmills, blowing bits of peace to all. The other had the dove of peace with flags from the world in its beak, covering the globe with peace. Both entries have been sent on to the next round of judging on November 30th.
The winner from that contest will move on to the state wide contest and then to the international contest. At the international level, there will be a total of 24 winners with the first place winner winning a cash prize of $2500 and a trip to the United Nations with their family. Runners up from each school were (1) from the Marshall - Larry Keegan and (2) from the Locke - Jessica Feely. And congratulations also go to Honorable Mentions - (1) from the Marshall - Alycia Longuemare, Nick Blanchard, and Brice Spinosa and (2) from the Locke - Cailee Mitchell, Phoebe Hannon, and Brooke Kuzmich. It was challenging to judge so many excellent entries. All entries are on display at the BATV studios in Billerica center until mid December. A reception was held for all the students and their families on November 10 as the Lion’s way of saying thank you for participating and to allow the club to meet some of the students and their families personally. Our congratulations also go out to all the students who participated for they are all winners in our eyes!
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14 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
Three Great Reasons
T
hey say your life can change in an instant. You blink and nothing is the same. This could not be more true for Attorney Jennifer O’Brien and her husband, Andy Bencic, proud parents to a set of eight month old triplet boys. The boys were conceived spontaneously which is rare as most triplets are born as a result of fertility drugs. Mikey, Brady, and Charlie are precious to say the least. But O’Brien and Bencic, who valiantly fight the exhaustion and round the clock feedings, learned new lessons about what was really important in life. And they wouldn’t change a thing. The couple met at Michael’s Harborside in Newburyport in 2005 and b e g a n dating. Bencic was originally from Buffalo, New York and
To be Grateful
O’Brien is a local Billerica gal. “All I went in there for was a hamburger,” laughed Bencic, tongue-in-cheek.. This couple, in their 30’s at the time, were active, young and loved their freedom. O’Brien came from being a talented soccer player while Bencic was a running back in college. They traveled and went on their boat. They had friends their own age who were married with children. But this was not the lifestyle they chose. In fact, the mere sound of a baby crying could send them running the other way. “We were not kid people,” said O’Brien. In April 2008, the couple married and planned to simply have only one child. They were able to get pregnant four moths later and O’Brien said she continued her active lifestyle of
playing soccer and leading exercise classes. She in no way was prepared for what she heard the day she saw her doctor for a preliminary ultrasound. First they found one heart beat, then another and finally a third. Bencic had joked that if they had children, multiples would send him packing his bags. O’Brien recalls coming out of the examination room to tell her mother in the waiting room, looking as white as a ghost. However, something maternal inside her kicked in. Once the hospital staff began talking with the couple about “reducing”, which means the couple would need to chose a fetus they would not carry to term, O’Brien and Bencic could not pick one. They began researching triplets and found out triplets had a high rate of developmental problems. Not all three always survived. But they chose to go forward. First off, O’Brien was advised to gain substantial weight by eating 3,000 to 4,000 calories per day. “I was up for the challenge,” laughed O’Brien. She gained over 70 pounds but still remained active until the end of the pregnancy. At 27 weeks, one of the water sacs broke and she went to the hospital for seven days. The medical staff gave her magnesium to stop the contractions and she came down with pneumonia. At 28 weeks and four days, O’Brien’s was wheeled into the operating room for a c-section. With 30 doctors and nurses in the room, one by one the babies were born. “It was the happiest day of our lives when we heard the first cry,” said Bencic. First came Charlie at 3.5 pounds, followed by Brady at 2.8 pounds and lastly was Mikey at 2.1 pounds. They were all well over a foot long and had their lungs developed enough to breathe on their own. They were put into incubators and whisked away to the NICU. Over the weeks that followed, O’Brien and Bencic learned all the ins and outs of bathing, feeding, and holding these tiny babies. Neither had any prior experience
By Liana Measmer
with children. The couple sang the praises of the patient staff of doctors and nurses that guided them. “They taught us everything,” said O’Brien. “They were so nice.” The boys were transferred from Boston to Lowell General Hospital, and three months later, were moved home. Then the work began. More so than with only one child, the couple began sleeping in shifts. Their work schedules were adjusted with Bencic, a manager for a local trucking company, working evenings so O’Brien could maintain her law practice. Friends and family flocked to the couple’s home to lend much needed helping hands. They rotated the boys from floor to crib to play seats. Or they had one in their arms at all times. To balance this, two days per week, the boys now attend daycare. This allows the couple some much needed down time to finish housework or get extra sleep. “You have to keep your sense of humor,” said O’Brien. Other big adjustments included maneuvering the giant triple stroller everywhere and trading in their beloved pick-up truck and Maxima for a Dodge Caravan. They change about 30 diapers per day and go through one can of formula daily as well. The boys now eat solid baby food and the couple count out 63 little jars as they drop them in the recycling bin every night. Quickly outgrowing their two bedroom townhouse, the family is looking to move to a four bedroom house so they can give each boy his own room. As much as they weren’t ready for an instant family and are both in agreement they won’t be having anymore children, they know life will get easier with each new developmental stage the boys hit. They know their boys and are a well oiled machine when it comes to routines. O’Brien and Bencic can’t imagine life with out their little sons. “We love these guys,” said O’Brien as she rocked Charlie to sleep. “They make us laugh everyday.”
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 15
ENTERPRISE BANK STAYS ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY At a time of year when the focus leans toward holiday giving, its fitting to look back at how others give year round. At Enterprise Bank, their staff spend countless hours giving community service back to the very town they work in. As part of their professional development, Enterprise Bank employees are encouraged to volunteer for local organizations. The expectation is participation in one club or group. But the personnel go above and beyond. Ever yone is active in three or more organizations or clubs. Not because they have to but because they want to. “We want to be part of the community,” said Pamela Anastasi. “It’s a great way to know people and what’s going on in town.” Anastasi, Vice President for Commercial lending, can be seen at Rotary luncheons or Community Alliance workshops. She also is a member of BATV and is a big sister through the Dutile Big Brother/Big Sister program. The same goes for the two branch managers, Joy Beaubien-Harmer and Margarita Kaliviotis. No matter what community event you are attending, they are there. From Council on Aging golf tournaments to the Yankee Doodle Parade,
these women spend entire days connecting with the public and having a great time doing it. They especially liked having teams at Team Trivia Night or putting arrangements together at Floral Night. They have been seen at the Senior Citizen of the Year Awards night or the Sweetheart Dance for Seniors on Valentine’s Day. And, if you were a runner in the William West Memorial Run, they probably were the ones handing you water and cheering you on. B r a n c h Service Specialist Doris Pearson is a resident as well as an employee. She sees it as a way to give back to the town that has given Enterprise so much. The bank supports their employees in this regard by giving them the time off they need to stay active in the community. This in turn allows staff to support the local activities and events in a personal way. “There’s nothing wrong with putting a smile on someone’s face,” said Pearson. Enterprise Bank has two conveniently located branches in Billerica. Next to Towne Plaza at 674 Boston Road. Or minutes from Treble Cove Plaza at 223 Boston Road. Check out their website at www.EnterpriseBanking. com for more information about their products and services
At least you have your health.
Create Community
GIVING MORE THAN THEY RECEIVE:
Member FDIC
As the leading, independent business bank with deep roots in the community, and strong local ties throughout this region, Enterprise Bank continues to fuel the local economy, consistently reinvesting resources in the communities we serve. Our Billerica teams are proud to actively champion the needs of the Billerica community and to create opportunities for greater financial success. Billerica Branch 978-262-0123
EnterpriseBanking.com Billerica Green.indd 1
North Billerica Branch 978-262-0100
Enterprise Bank CREATE SUCCESS 11/09/2009 5:20:34 PM
16 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
DONATE & Download
HELP KIDS IN HOSPITALS! SMILE!
Donate/Order the 2009 Christmas Alphabet Coloring Book and help children smile. 100% of the proceeds (after printing and shipping) go towards providing coloring books for children in hospitals during the holiday season.
Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving (and football)
pilgrims football plymouth rock mayflower family
To order and for more information go to thebillericagreen.com
turkey apple pie giving thanks mashed potatoes
Download a free sample page, along with other coloring pages at thebillericagreen.com/playground.html
warm cider remembering fresh rolls gravy honoring cranberry sauce
e c u a s y r r e b n a r c p
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How to Catch a Large Mouth Bass
3 J’s Magical Reindeer Feed Recipe (For Sharing) 1 cup Rolled Oats 1 cup Cheerios© 1 cup Red, Green and Silver (or Clear) Sugar Cookie Crystals Mix this all together in a bowl, scoop ½ cups into snack sized zipper baggies and staple this poem to the bag: Sprinkle this in your yard on Christmas Eve night. The light of the moon will make it sparkle bright. As Santa’s reindeer fly and roam, this will guide them to your home! Then give it to all your friends (great kids’ holiday party favor) so they can attract Santa’s Reindeer on Christmas Eve Night too!! Merry Christmas! – Jarred, Julia, and Jacob
By Jarred, Age 11
Catching Large Mouth Bass is simple. All you need is: a fishing rod, some large hooks, braided or mono filament line, and bobbers. Find a good spot with good cover. Then cast. Bait is important too. Shiners work best. GULP shiners work too. GULP Shiners are a plastic bait that Bass, Crappie, and Pickerel love. When you are Bass fishing, you may c a t c h a Perch or a Pickerel or a Crappie. Fishing for Bass is fun to do especially when you know how to catch them.
We Went Camping By Julia, Age 7
When we went camping this summer, we went fishing. I didn’t catch any fish. We made campfires. We roasted marshmallows over the fire. We went to the beach near our camp site. We went swimming. Oh, and we bought ice cream at the place near the beach. And when we were fishing, we fought a bait stealing turtle. We tried to catch him. Oh, and all of that was at Pawtuckaway Camp. It was fun! I want to go next year!
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 17
Julia, 7
QUICK CANDIED SWEET POTATOES OR YAMS The perfect complement to a Thanksgiving dinner. Stop-top method: Step 1: In large skillet, simmer together for 5 minutes, ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed, ½ cup orange or pineapple juice, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons butter or margarine and a dash or two of cinnamon. (Amounts may be doubled if more cans of sweet potatoes or yams are used)
©2009Tony Luongo www.luongoart.com
Step 2: Add a 1 lb-2oz. can of sweet potatoes or yams. Turn heat low; cook, uncover, turning occasionally, 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are well glazed. Oven method: Follow Step 1 above. Step 2: Place potatoes in greased shallow baking pan; add syrup. Bake uncovered, turning now and then, at 400 degrees F, for 20-25 minutes. Makes 5-6 serving.
3 J’s Corner Their Holiday Favorites
Jarred: 1. Spending time with my family 2. The delicious food 3. Decorating everything 4. Seeing all the attractions 5. Opening my presents
Julia: 1. Baking cookies with Mama 2. Sledding with Daddy 3. Making pancakes with Grandpa in Ohio 4. Telling Santa what I want for Christmas 5. Opening my presents
Jacob: 1. Presents 2. Presents 3. Presents 4. Presents 5. Presents
18 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
OUT ON THE TOWN
Billerica Holiday Festival www.billericaholidayfestival.org
Ye’ Olde Meetinghouse Town Hall Meetings
Police Athletic League (PAL) Fall Programming
Nov. 20: 6:30-9:00 pm: Donor’s Reception at The Billerica Library Nov. 21– December 13: Home for the Holidays holiday decoration display at the Billerica Library; Raffle tickets on sale at the library for chances to win the decorations or Holiday trees Dec. 5: 3:00 pm A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens presented by the Twinning Group, First Parish Unitarian Church Dec. 5: 4:30 pm: Tree Lighting Ceremony on the Common with music and a visit from Santa and friends Dec. 12: 11:00 am - 2:30 pm: FREE Pictures with Santa at the Bennett Cultural Center (located before the library on the right) Dec. 14: Holiday Festival Raffle winners announced Dec. 31: 4:00-8:00 pm: Family First Night at Town Hall. Theme: Evening with Dr. Seuss.
Nov. 23: 7 pm: Planning Board, Rm. 210 Dec. 2: 7 pm: Historical Commission, Rm. 110 Dec. 7: 7 pm: Selectmen, Conway Room Dec. 7: 7 pm: Board of Health, Rm. 210 Dec. 9: 7 pm: Conservation Commission, Rm. 210 Dec. 14: 7 pm: Planning Board, Rm. 210 Dec. 16: 6 pm: Substance abuse Prevention Committee, BPS Central Services Conference Room Dec. 16: 7 pm: Republican Town Committee, Rm. 210 Dec. 16: 7:30 pm: Water Oversight Committee, Rm. 110 Dec. 17: 7 pm: Billerica Democratic Town Committee, Town HallDec. 21: 7 pm: Selectmen, Conway Room Dec. 28: 7 pm: Planning Board, Rm. 210
www.billericapal.org
BATV www.batvinc.org
The Billerica Cat Care Coalition
Dec. 17: 7 pm: BATV Youth Video Club is holding it’s premiere! Video club members and their families are welcome to attend. 978-663-2284
www.billericacatcarecoalition.org Dec. 6: 11 am to 5 pm Pet Photos with Santa at PETCO, 51 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington
Street Hockey and Flag Football Will continue while the weather holds. See your child’s coach for updates
Billerica Green Art Director and Illustrator, Tony Luongo, will be BATV’s visiting artist for January 2010 and will show his work at a gallery opening reception on Thursday, Jan. 7 from 6:30-8:30 pm. (Snow date: Jan. 14th) Please RSVP if you plan to attend to liana@ thebillericagreen.com. Hope to see you there!
ARTCLASSES
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A service of the Executive Office of Transportation
Sons of Italy
The Billerica Boys & Girls Club Celebration of Past Presidents
During October Italian American Awareness month, the Lodge recognized many of its past presidents including Fred Ciampa, Cosmo Cavicchio, Bob Correnti, Betty Sarcia, Linda Matte, Mickey Ouellette, and Pat Flemming. In the spring, a similar event will be held. If you are a former president who was unable to attend the November meeting, please contact club secretary Joan Parcewski at jparcewski@comcast. net or 978-663-5201.
Starting in January, regular meetings resume on the fourth Wednesday of the month. All meetings are held at the Thomas Talbot Lodge in Billerica Center at 7pm.
Colleen Sgroi& ArtGallery Classes
www.commute.com/ridematching
Register with Mass Rides or view your online profile today and automatically be eligible to win two tickets to see The New England Patriots vs. The Carolina Panthers Dec. 31 at 1 pm 1-888-4commute
The Lodge continues to seek members for its Junior Lodge named in memory of former Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Robert J Calabrese. Several more members are needed in order to install the lodge before the end of the year. Members can come from the community at large. The Junior lodge is supervised by the local club as well as by the Grand Lodge of MA. Applications are available from the Italian teachers at the high school as well as through the lodge by contacting the secretary Joan Parcewski at jparcewski@comcast. net or at 978-663-5201.
Meet the Man Behind the Brush
Mass Rides
Nov. 22: End of Season Party Trophies will be awarded. Check the website for times and location. Open Gym registration coming soon. For Jan. 2010 check the website for details.
Dr Robert J Calabrese Junior Lodge (ages 10–18)
What if he promises to smile?
Check out the "Calendar of Events" for more things to do.
Join our e-mail list to be notified of special promotions from our local vendors at www.TheBillericaGreen.com and follow us on facebook too.
19 Campbell Rd., Billerica, MA 01821 978-667-2193 www.billericabgc.com The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Billerica provides recreational, educational and social development programs at our Main Club at 19 Campbell Road and in afterschool sites located at the 6 elementary schools in Billerica. Scholarship funds are available to assist children from families who genuinely cannot afford the fees. The Club is a local affiliate of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America - the nation’s oldest and largest organization with a primary mission of service to youth from at-risk circumstances. With more than 4,000 local clubs in all fifty states, more than 4.8 million children are served annually by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Child Care Update Registration for Childcare is still being accepted. Your child will be able to begin 2 business days after the paperwork is received. Boys and Girls Club Child Care Programs are licensed and administered under the auspices of the Office of Early Education and Care. The Board of Directors of the Club, recognizing that the present economy is placing many families in a tight financial bind, has voted to keep the rates for the program the same in 2010 as in the past year, despite increasing costs to the club. Early Bird Program: Our before school program operates at the Boys and Girls Club from 6:30am until school bus pick up (our club is a bus stop for all elementary schools). Fun Club Program: Our after school program that runs from school dismissal until 6:00pm. This is held at each elementary school (grades k-5). Kindergarten Program: Our program operates in coordination with the school department. The children are at the Boys and Girls Club when they
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 19
are not in school. For example, if they are in the Am session, they will go to school and be bussed to the Club between 11:00 and 11:45. They are able to stay until 3:00pm. If you need care after 3:00pm, we transport the children back to their school for Fun Club. If they are in the Pm session, they come to the club in the morning after 7:45am until the school bus picks them up between 11:00 and 11:45 to take them to their school. If additional care is needed after school, the children can be enrolled in the Fun Club program until 6:00pm. Childcare payments can now be made online at www.billericabgc.com. Swim Lessons update We are now accepting registrations for our next session of swim lessons. For a complete list of fees, classes, schedules and availability visit the website at www.billericabgc.com. Sign Up for Our Email List Winter is coming and so is the snow. Be prepared for Weather Cancellations & Closings by signing up for our email list at www.billericabgc.com.
Billerica Recreation Department 248 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821 978-671-0921 www.town.billerica.ma.us Youth Programs Special programs include Bejeweled and Family Science Nights. The annual Breakfast with Santa is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 13 at Shawsheen Valley Technical High School. Adult Programs Recreational Basketball and Volleyball are held at the Marshall Middle School on Monday and Tuesday nights respectively with “drop-in” rates available each night. A special Bejeweled Too class is scheduled for Nov. 23 for those who would like to create a crystal bead bracelet in time for the holidays. A Ballroom Dance Refresher class is scheduled for Dec. 4. Snowboard and Skiing Registrations for Ski Lessons at Nashoba Valley are not being accepted for both Youth and Adults. Lessons will begin the first week in January. Youth grades 6–12 can register for the Friday Night Skiing at Wachusett Mountain which will begin January 9th. A $15 discount is available for those who register before December 1 though all forms and registrations required before December 31. Billerica Playbill Discounted tickets to area theaters are available for matinée or evening performances at Lowell Memorial Auditorium to: Holiday Pops (Dec. 12: $58 Balcony B) Rain ~ a Tribute to the Beatles (Jan. 27: $44 Balcony D) STOMP (Feb. 24: $44 Balcony C ) Le Grand Cirque (March 19: $44 Balcony H) Girls Night: the Musical (April 16: $44 Balcony C)
Tickets to Rogers Center at Merrimack College for Hansel & Gretel Marionette Theater (Feb. 6: $11), A Tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes (May 1: $26) are also available.
Dec. 28: 6:30 pm: Reading is Magic–Ed the Wizard (all ages) Online registration required.
Professional Sports
Dec. 29: Family Friends Audubon Ark–Winter Survivors (various times and age requirement)
Trips to Boston Bruins and Celtics games at the TD Bank Garden have also been scheduled for December through March with prices to include both the transportation and tickets to the game. Bruins Game Tickets are: Feb. 4 vs. Canadians ($65) March 29th vs. Sabres ($55) Celtics Game Tickets are: Dec. 18 vs. 76ers ( $60) , Feb. 27 vs NJ Nets ($60), March 24 Nuggets ($90). Motor Coach Tours While many of the fall day tours are filled, registrations for the day trip to Bright Lights at Forest Park (Dec.13) are still being accepted. Overnight trips are available for NYC with Radio City Music Show (Nov. 21-22), NY City & Atlantic City (Dec. 6- 8) and New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills (Dec. 18-20). New trips for January through May of 2010 are now available for registrations including Luncheon/ Matinée trips to see WICKED and Jersey Boys at Providence Center for Performing Arts, St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the Cape Cod Irish Village and a special tour of Newport’s Blithewold Mansion with lunch cruise on the Vista Jubilee. Order forms these trips are available on the internet as well as the Recreation Department Offices at 248 Boston Road. Additional trips will be announced as they are scheduled.
Billerica Public Library Sunday hours: Sunday hours will be 1 pm to 5 pm and will be in effect from November through midApril. Our regular weekly schedule will be Mon.Friday 9 am to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday 1 pm to 5 pm Adult Programs: Book Group: Third Wednesday of every month, hosted by Priscilla Vaughn, Assistant Director. Movie Group: ‘Popcorn and a Movie’ hosted the 2nd Thursday of every month by Liz Bentz, Librarian. Children’s programs Nov. 30: 10 am : Sing Along With Scott (ages birth–3 years old) Online registration required. Dec. 3: 6:30 pm: Stories From Snowy Lands (ages 3 and up) Online registration required. Dec. 4: 3:30 pm: Time Travelers–Pearl Harbor (grades 3–8) Online registration required. Dec. 5: 10 am-3 pm and Dec. 7: 11am-7pm: Holiday Make-N-Take (all ages–Drop-in) No registration required. Dec. 10: 3:30 pm: Passport–Canada, Our Neighbor (grades 1–8) Online registration required.
Check the website for updates.
The Council On Aging Dec. 1: 10 am: Learn about national parks in your backyard with Lowell National Historical Park Ranger JoAnn Marcos. She will also discuss the senior lifetime pass program that will give you free or reduced entrance fees to over 391 national parks, battlefields, seashores, monuments and historic sites nationwide. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 2: 1 pm: International Potluck Club. To participate you must bring: a main dish, a dessert, or a vegetable dish for 6 to 8 people. This can be from any international cuisine. If you are making a hot dish, it should come in already heated. Please have serving utensils that are marked with your name to accompany your dish. Coffee and tea will be provided. Sign up sheet at the front desk. Limited to 50 people. Dec. 2: 11 am: New Session of Beginner Line Dance Class. The fee is $35 for 8 weeks. We need 12 to start class. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 3: 10 and 17: Free SHINE appointments: serving the health information needs of elders. Dec. 3 and 17: 10 am –12 noon: Postage Stamps on Sale at the Senior Center . Rachel Nepomuceno from the Pinehurst Post Office will be at the senior center to sell postage stamps for your holiday mail. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 5: 4 pm: Billerica Seniors Only: Tree Lighting Dinner. Delicious meal sponsored by the Sons of Italy and The Billerica Tree Lighting Committee. Tickets are available at the front desk of the COA.Fun, food and beautiful holiday light display! This event is FREE. Dec. 7: 11 am: Holiday Billerica Bandstand. Come enjoy lunch and dancing. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Reserve your spot and get your ticket for $4.00 at the reception desk. Please carpool if possible. Dec. 8: 10 am: “Diabetes, Medicare and Possible Free Shoes for You”, presented by Freedom Shoe Company. You are invited to join us for an informational talk about diabetes, proper foot care, and how you may qualify for sneakers or shoes and custom inserts AT NO COST TO YOU! Please join Lynn Sheehan, Certified Fitter, to find out! Please bring your insurance cards with you as well as Primary Doctors’ name and phone number. Sign up at the front desk.
CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE
COME AS OUR GUESTS!
Dec 11-13th, 2009 Seating is limited. We have a full house every night. Call 978-667-7774 to receive your complementary tickets!
NEED ANOTHER COPY? e es of Th i p o c a r Find ext Green at these a Billeric ocations. a l Billeric
THE LIBRARY THE COFFEE EMPORIUM TOWN HALL PRO-FITNESS
20 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
OUT ON THE TOWN CONTINUED
Dec. 9: 10 am: Medicare Advantage Plan 2010, presented by Susan Cripps of Merrimack Valley Elder Services. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 11: 10 am: CVS Prescription Management. Learn how to manage your CVS prescriptions on line. Presentation by George Pettineli. This is only for those seniors who have CVS prescriptions. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 14: 10 am: “Do You Have a Health Care Proxy?”, presented by Tammy Hamilton of Billerica Life Care. This simple document allows you to name (an agent) to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable. Sign up at the front desk. Dec. 16: 10 am: Holiday Luncheon. Usher in the holiday season with the wonderful voices of the Locke Middle School Chorus at 10:15 am and then stay to partake of a delicious lunch courtesy of Cabot Corporation. Tickets are available at the front desk. Dec. 17: 10 am: Pharmacy Clinic with Dr. Carlton Chin of Walgreen’s will help you make sure your current medications are compatible. Sign up at the front desk.
First Parish Church Unitarian Universalist 5 Concord Rd. 978-663-2293 uu-info@uubillerica.org Regular Services: Sundays at 11 am Thanksgiving Services: Sun., Nov. 22: 2 pm Children’s Christmas Pageant: Sun., Dec. 20: 11 am Christmas Eve: Thurs., Dec. 24: 7 pm
School News
Red Hat Ladies
Billerica Memorial High School
Dec. 8: 7–11pm
School Skating Programs: Anyone interested in the skating program should contact Mrs.Cathy Jenkins at 978-528-7911. Her office is located at BMHS, Data Processing Suite, Room 3262.
Fifth Annual Christmas Party $20.00 Per Person Knight of Columbus Hall Main St. (Route 38) Tewksbury MA
After School Tutoring: Tutors for math, science, and languages available Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays in the school library.
Includes: Dinner, Music, Fun, Laughter and the “All Women Comedy Review”
Yearbook: Senior pictures for the yearbook must be submitted to Ms. Chebook or Ms. DaSilva by Jan. 5, 2010. They must receive the picture on disk.
With the size if clothing and age appropriate if it’s a toy. All the gifts will be donated to the “House of Hope” for battered and homeless women and children.
Locke Middle School Nov. 23: 5 pm – 8 pm only: Whiffle Tree Candle Fund raiser pick up at the school. If you can not make it, have a friend pick up your order. Since these orders are breakable, we can not send them home on the buses. Ditson Elementary School Dec. 5: 10 am – 12 noon: Ditson Holiday Fair: This is a fun day where Ditson parents and children come to enjoy many fun activities and the kids can shop for their family and have their gifts beautifully wrapped by volunteers. Parents enjoy the bake table, crafts, raffles, book table, etc. Some of the festivities planned for the children include face painting, button making, cookie decorating, tattoos, pictures with Santa and MORE! Donations and volunteers are still needed. Maura Sardella at 978670-3797 or maura_sardella@hotmail.com. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Vining Elementary School
Billerica Youth Lacrosse Spring 2010 Registration Registrations are currently being accepted for the 2010 Spring Season for the girls and boys programs: -Boys In-house (Grades 1-4) -Boys Travel (Grades 5-8) -Girls Travel (Grades 2-8) The Boys House League is a progressive introductory program to the fundamental skills and concepts of lacrosse and includes a weekly game and a reversible jersey for a reasonable cost ($50 fee per child). The Boys and Girls Travel Leagues cost is $100 if registered before Dec. 1st. Registrations are now being accepted on a first come, first served basis until all team rosters are filled. The number of teams at each level need to be determined before Jan. 1st. Registration forms are available on the lacrosse website www.billericayouthlacrosse.com
Reading Incentive Program: The Vining School Reading Incentive Program began in November. Children are asked to read for 20 minutes a night at least 10 nights a month. They will receive a small prize for their participation. Monthly Reading Incentive Program forms will be sent home to log the time your child has read. Look for the program information and log sheets in your child’s folder. If you have any questions, pleas contact Denise Moore 978-362-2187 or DeniseMoore2001@ hotmail.com. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Coats for Kids: Now and runs through Jan. 9, 2010. Please donate your gently worn coats and jackets of any size to help those in need this coming winter (no rips, broken zippers or permanent stains, please!). Our collection box will be located inside the main entrance of the school. Contact Laureen Sloman at 978 439-5141 or by e-mail at EricLaurSloman@comcast.net with questions.
Bring a wrapped gift marked, woman, boy or girls,
Also we are asking that each group donate a basket full of Holiday cheer for our raffle table as you so graciously have in the past. These baskets are a highlight at our party. Please checks out to: Bodacious Ladies Mail to: Lady Dorothy Balestrieri 6 Forest St., Billerica, MA 01821 If you have any questions or concerns please contact Lady Dorothy at harleyelk@comcast.net or 978-930-0599
St. Andrew Catholic Parish Nov. 26: Thanksgiving Evening at 7 Pm: Eucharist for Families and Friends Dec. 24: Christmas Eve at 4 Pm: Vigil Eucharist sung for families and children with tableau Dec. 24: Christmas Eve at 10 Pm: Solemn Christmas Eve Eucharist sung with choir Dec. 25: Christmas Day:10 Am: Solemn sung Eucharist of the Nativity of the Lord
Billerica Arts Council www.massculturalcouncil.org
The Council meets on the third Wednesday evening of the month and welcome the public at these open meetings. Every year each town in Massachusetts receives money from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to be distributed by their local councils to accepted applicants. Our council received 32 grant applications this year, and each event or performance that we fund will be for the benefit of Billerica citizens. For more information call Sharon Lapham at 978-667-1330.
Billerica Scholarship Foundation Dec. 3: 2 pm – 7 pm: BMHS Blood Drive Billerica Town Hall Auditorium 365 Boston Road Sponsored by the Billerica Scholarship Foundation and Billerica Memorial High School. Donors may
enter to win a flat screen TV and more from Best Buy! All donors will receive a $5 coupon for Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. This blood drive is part of the Bob’s Discount Furniture $100,000 High School Heroes Scholarship Program. Your donation will help make a vital contribution to the community by helping to maintain an adequate blood supply and it will help the High School compete for scholarships sponsored by Bob’s Furniture. The more blood units donated, the greater are the chances of winning scholarships for BMHS students. To schedule an appointment for your donation, call 1-800-448-3543 or visit www. givelife.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Merrimack Repertory Theatre www.merrimackrep.org 2009-2010 Season Heroes by Gerald Sibleyras, adapted by Tom Stoppard, November 19 – December 13, 2009 Fabuloso, A Play by John Kolvenbach, January 7 – January 31, 2010 Black Pearl Sings! by Frank Higgins, February 11 – March 7, 2010 The Last Days of Mickey and Jean by Richard Dresser, March 18 – April 11, 2010 The Blonde, the Brunette and the Vengeful Redhead by Robert Hewett, April 22 – May 16, 2010 Merrimack Repertory Theatre 132 Warren Street Lowell, MA 01852-2208 Phone: (978) 654-7595 Fax: (978) 654-7575 Box Office: (978) 654-4MRT
The Billerica Green Jan. 7: Meet the Man Behind the Brush Billerica Green Art Director and Illustrator, Tony Luongo, will be BATV’s visiting artist for January 2010 and will show his work at a gallery opening reception on Thursday, Jan. 7 from 6:30-8:30 pm. (Snow date: Jan. 14th) Please RSVP if you plan to attend to liana@thebillericagreen.com. Hope to see you there!
The Elks Lodge Nov. 19: Thanksgiving Senior Dinner. Senator Ken Donnelly will be in attendance. Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Basket Deliveries to families- 8:30 am Dec. 4: Annual Children’s Christmas Party 6-9 pm Dec. 4 + Dec. 5: Fire Engine Driving Santa and Friends around town Dec. 5: Christmas Baskets, Toy Deliveries around town.
October-November 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 21
EXIT REALTY RAISES $7,500 FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH EXIT Realty of New England recently held their Fourth Annual Golf Event to benefit the Jimmy Fund and DanaFarber Cancer Institute. To celebrate, an evening featuring dinner, dancing, silent auction and prizes took place on Oct. 16 at the Hillview Country Club in North Reading. EXIT Realty of New England announced that this event generated over $7,500 toward Breast Cancer research and treatment. Jeanette Tighe, Wilmington resident and Regional Vice President of EXIT Realty of New England, runs this annual event. “The EXIT Realty Family is proud to be affiliated with the Jimmy Fund / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to benefit breast cancer. I offer my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed in any way to the success of this event,” said Tighe. Tighe has
been working with the Jimmy Fund DanaFarber Cancer Institute Charity for over thirteen years. Tami Bonnell, EXIT Realty’s US President, was also in attendance. “I am so proud of the work done by all of our EXIT associates. They really give time and money to worthwhile causes like Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund,” said Bonnell. On a local level, Billerica’s own EXIT Homestead Realty office rallied their team in support of cancer research. “We were happy to be a part of this important event”, said Edna Chalmers, Owner of EXIT Homestead Realty. EXIT Realty has over 1,300 locations across North America. In Billerica, visit EXIT Homestead Realty at 5 Andover Rd., Billerica, MA. For information about listing, call 978- 439- 5566.
Pet Peeves •By Nora Fiore
THE ART OF DE-STRESSING Well folks, here we go, full speed into the holiday season. Everybody hates waiting in long lines and rushing around, so I thought I would share some tips I have received from all of you. There is a very funny comedian named John Pinette that touches on this very subject. He talks about being in line behind a woman with a very large purchase and at the end of her sale, she says “Now, I have the coupons somewhere...” as she rifles through her purse. To this, the comedian responds “Get out of line!” in a voice that sounds like something from the Exorcist. You all know you’ve wanted to say the same thing. That’s what makes it so funny. So, here is Tip #1: Make a list . Then, Tip #2: Clip your coupons to your list for each store, assuming you have a list. Another way to make your shopping excursion quicker would be Tip #3 : Call ahead to the stores that would have what your looking for and see if it’s in stock. And dare I say, ask them if they can hold it for you because you’ll be right there. Now if you do this, you actually do have to go right there if you really want the item. Tip #4: Map out your route for shopping. I know it sounds crazy but if you start at the furthest point away from your home and work your way back, you get to relax sooner. Plus it helps to know where your going so you don’t backtrack and waste precious time when you
could be watching a movie with the family. So now you have your items and you’re in line. What to do here? I know, Tip #5: Write out your check with all the store info. That way, all you have to do is fill in the amount when you get it. Have your money or your credit card out and ready. This will expedite things for everyone involved and make for happy people. Another helpful tip is to take the clothes off of the hangers as you place them on the counter or in your carriage. You could even fold them with the price tags showing. I mean, if your in line, what else are you going to do? What? Watch your kids? Tip # 7: Get a babysitter, go while they’re in school or in bed. You can’t find a sitter or afford one? That’s okay. I’ll bet some of your friends are in the same boat. You can babysit while they shop and vice versa. What? You hate to shop? Oh, but you love to bake? Well, Suzie over here loves to shop but hates to bake, and she needs three dozen cupcakes for her son’s class. See where I’m going with this? She shops for you and you bake for her. Then everyone’s happy. If all else fails, use the internet. Just remember: The holiday season isn’t about who gets or gives the most. It’s about giving and receiving love. So, when your fretting over getting the perfect gift for a loved one, maybe just maybe a simple gift from the heart is what they really want. Happy Holidays everyone!
EXIT Homestead Realty “Real Estate Solutions” 5 Andover Rd., Billerica, MA 01821 Ph: 978-439-5566 Fax: 978-439-0583
Mission Statement It is the goal of EXIT Homestead Realty to provide superior Real Estate Service and to lead the Real Estate Industry to a higher level of professional and ethical standards of practice.
Our Real Estate Solutions Team
Andrew & Edna Chalmers Broker Owners
EXIT Homestead Realty has expanded our Real Estate Solutions Center. David Morey – Greenpark Mortgage Christine Morgan Law Office of Christine Morgan Michael Longo – The Concord River Group Harris Real Estate School Coming in December
www.ExitHomesteadRealty.com EXIT Homestead Realty wants to wish Billerica residents a
Happy
Thanksgiving! BURLINGTON: 3 Shamrock Drive $549,000 Elegant Classic Dutch Gambrel in exclusive newer Burlington Center cul-de-sac development. Completeley upgraded in ‘06. Beautiful home w/5 lg. BR Master has Private Balcony. Gorgeous LR w/granite gas fplc, bay wind. Elegant formal DR. Huge finished bsmt w/fplc. Gleaming hdwd flrs. Make this your Dream Home for the Holidays. Walk to Town Center, schools and shopping. LOWELL: 53 North Billerica Road $119,900 Lovely condominium complex on the South Lowell/ Tewksbury line. Very nice 2 BR w/fully applianced eat in kitchen. All new windows in ‘07 and new roof in ‘05. A/C, extra storage & laundry facilities in lower level. Heat & hot water included in condo fees. Great location! Convenient to major highways, public transportation, shopping, & park. Pet friendly!
BILLERICA: 547 Boston Road $299,900 This 9 room 4 bedroom ranch home is rich in personality with hardwood floors, wood paneling, nice flowing floor plan.
CALL
TODAY! 978-439-5566
22 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
Holiday Shopping Guide
One of a Kind
Billerica boasts specialty items galore By Liana Measmer
W
hy would you go anywhere else but your own backyard? Billerica holds treasure upon treasure for the biggest shopping season of the year. Take a stroll down the aisles of our shopping guide and feast your eyes on a variety of unique gifts your family and friends would love to get. This time of year is one of giving with excitement as well as receiving with gratitude. The variety offered in these shops makes it simple to do this so you can stay close to home. So, enjoy!
When planning a holiday office gathering or a luncheon, consider trying a party platter from The Euro Deli. Tucked away in the back of the Fill N’ Chill gas station at 653 Boston Road, this hidden gem has a vast selection of European gourmet and polish meats. There is authentic polish Kielbasa for your grill, an array of polish breads, potato pancakes, and Pirogies. Their Kopytka, which is a potato dumpling, can be found in their frozen foods section. Just thaw it out and enjoy. And if you love cheeses, there are nine to choose from. “Gift certificates are always available,” said Owner Ray Nubrynski.
Get Your Motor Running Off Route Four, behind the Riverview Restaurant is Billerica Motorsports. A family run business since 1951, this store started as a boat rental shop and eventually introduced motorcycles and snowmobiles in the mid 1980’s. For some, a new dirt bike, quad, or snow mobile may be at the top of their wish list for Santa. But even more popular are all the accessories the shop carries. A pair of riding gloves run about $50 while coats or helmets can cost around $100. And of course, a gift certificate is always sure to fit. “We sell a ton of gift certificates during the holidays,” said Doug Shepherd, Sales Manager. Right now, the shop is running a special on snow mobile gear by Choko. Get the boots, snowmobile pants and jacket, and a helmet for $399. For even more deals, check out their other specials at www.billericamotorsports.com.
If you have a career woman on the list, look no further than Laura’s Hair Design at 330 Boston Road (behind Sal’s Pizza). She has a jewelry corner that is stocked full of original pieces. Chunky, accent jewelry and gleaming rhinestone brooches are what all the celebrities are all wearing today. A colorful dramatic piece of jewelry, running you about $20, can change the entire look of an outfit. “Put this on and it makes your top look completely different,” said owner Laura Carroll. Her customers agree. Fran Kuchinski drives down from Nashua, NH to have her hair done every month and never leaves without a new piece of jewelry. She is impressed by the selection and enjoys treating herself this way each time she comes in. “You buy something and you don’t see it some place else,” said Kuchinski. “Everything I’ve bought, I’ve loved.”
Cool Stuff To Wear When you walk into Pei Ma’s Silver Cloud store in Treble Cove Plaza (199 Boston Road), you’re overcome by one familiar smell. Leather. Ma’s got lots of it and he’s very proud of his selection of boots. He carries a wide selection of western boots, work boots and motorcycling riding boots. “Boots differentiate us from others stores,” said Ma. High end brands include Justin, Chippewa and Tony Lama. Boots in the mid price range are the Road Wolf and Durangos with the least expensive brands of Dan Post, Dingo, and Laredos available. Western wear boots continue to grow in popularity with those who love country while others are influenced by fashion. “Young ladies will get into a pair of cowboy boots because they like Taylor Swift and she wears them,” said Ma. Work boots come in a variety of styles to meet the needs of the work being done. Some are steel-toed, some are insulated, some are waterproof. When purchasing work boots, its also important to look at the tread and whether a sole is rubber or leather. Whatever your questions, Ma can answer them. And if he doesn’t carry what you are looking for, he can special order it. However, before you leave, check out his bargain corner, where most of the boots are up to 50 percent off. “In the bargain corner, the trick is to find your size,” said Ma.
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 23
Dreams Come True for Girls It may look tiny as you pass by it every day but the Baby Me Doll Shop on Boston Road near Towne Plaza is a big maze of hallways and individual rooms, showcasing dolls, collectibles, bears, porcelain, and specialty baby gifts you will never find in any big box store. They have been in Billerica for 26 years and carry best sellers like Madame Alexander, Caroll, and Ashton Drake dolls. But the latest and greatest are The American Girl Dolls. These are popular with girls as young as five or well into their teens and come as a complete kit at Baby Me. One stop shopping for an American Girl Doll here gets you her carrying trunk, the doll of your choice, an extra outfit, and a brush. For a huge savings at just under $200, sold separately, these items will cost you double that. To dress your Molly or Ivy doll, look no further than Baby Me’s doll clothes and accessories. They are not the same label but they are made to fit the American Girl Doll beautifully. Choose from pajamas for dreaming or ballet tutu’s for dancing. There’s even a horse back riding outfit, complete with riding boots. “If you’re not particular about the label, the prices are good,” said Tiffany Stavros, Baby Me Co-Owner.
Collectibles Create Holiday Memories There is always a sense of new excitement when you open up your decoration crates and boxes to see all your memories of holidays past. So often, each irreplaceable trinket brings you back to another place and time in your mind, and you remember where you were or what you were doing when you bought it. The Paper Store in Treble Cove Plaza (199 Boston Road) is the only one in town to carry the Hallmark Keepsake Ornamentstm with choices that span every flavor and side of life. If you have an athlete, favorite sports stars like Tony Romo and Johan Santana are available. Or maybe classic Christmas TV characters like Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman will grace your tree. Some folks like to remember movie classics like the Wizard of oz, Star Wars or Raiders of the Lost Ark. Or new TV characters like Hannah Montana, Ben 10, or The Jonas Brothers are what they seek. Want to recall a favorite hobby this year? There’s grilling, traveling, power tools and coffee pots. Or personalize your ornament with a family picture or the names of every member of your household. And of course, commemorate the new house, the new baby or the new pets. On average, these ornament run about $15 each and are popular items every year. “They are very cute,” said Store Manager Corrie Guild. “They’re hard to resist.”
The Wagon Shed at 344 Boston Road (across from Pro-Fitness Plus) is a classic country and antique gift shop that is packed full. Literally. There is some thing to see at every turn. Hanging on the walls. Lined up on tables. Stacked up on shelves. For the holidays, Owner Brenda Colvin proudly displays her Byers Choice Carolers collectible dolls. They are all American made and the average customer who collects these has been doing so for a very long time. They all stand with mouths open as if they are sweetly crooning everyone’s favorite songs. “We have the best selection of anyone else,” said Colvin. Set in the Dicken’s era of the late 1800’s, these adorable decorations portray a simpler life from another time. Choose from shop keepers to various Santa Claus’s. However, in keeping up with the times, there is now a Soccer mom and her soccer kids. Socially conscious, one can get a set dedicated to breast cancer research or the Salvation Army. Part of the proceeds from the sales of these go to the respective organizations. Averaging about $60 a piece, there is one for everything.
Holiday treats to savor and enjoy For the person with the sweet tooth on the list, there are truffles from Dante’s Confections, also in Treble Cove Plaza (199 Boston Road). Owned and operated by the Falcone family, this shop makes everything right on site and ships their delectable delights all over the country. So what is a truffle exactly? It’s a solid chocolate shell on the outside (white or dark) with a variety of frothy and crème fillings on the inside. Once you try one, you’re hard pressed to stop there. Dante’s carries 27 flavors and the most popular ones are milk, dark, white, caramel, raspberry, and Tiramisu. Keeping in line with the economy, Dante’s has not raised their prices and offers a mini gift pack of 12 different flavors for $18. “Holiday prices are the same from the last two years,” said Co-owner Marisa Falcone. Since chocolate is king at Dante’s, other holiday favorites include chocolate drizzled pizzelle, monstrous peanut butter cups, and chocolate dipped strawberries. Orders start coming around Thanksgiving and don’t stop until after New Year’s. These are popular gift items at office parties as well as family celebrations.
24 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
SPARKLE AND SHINE GET READY TO SPARKLE!
Parties, parties, and more parties. For Thanksgiving. For Christmas. For Hanukkah. Gatherings with friends or family and events at the office. So often, there is more things to do and more people to see. This holiday season, why not look your very best and SHINE! At Laura Carroll’s Laura’s Hair Design at 330 Boston Road, she offers popular beautiful rhinestone hair accessories at discounted prices. The bridal pins are a favorite item that are great for festive parties, or popular for bridal parties and proms. What you’d pay $7 and up for per piece at the bigger malls, Laura carries for $2 per piece or three for $5. Choose from red, sky blue or classic glittery rhinestone silver. “It’s a lot cheaper than going to the Burlington Mall and buying them off the cart,” said Carroll. Also available at Laura’s are sequined clutches and handbags. These go perfectly with your special occasion dress and come in a variety of colors and sizes. Carroll purchases these items from New York City designers and only carries a few of each style so you’ll stand out at your holiday party or event. These too are also popular for bridal parties and at prom time.
GORGEOUS HANDS AND FEET WORTH SHOWING OFF At Cuc “Kim” Tran’s Natural Nails Salon at 420C Boston Road, you will feel like a million bucks. With five massaging pedicure stations and years of experience making women feel beautiful, Tran and her friendly staff of four nail technicians will pamper you and help you feel rejuvenated. Linda Thompson has been a customer of Tran’s since she opened in September 2008. She believes that the Deluxe Pedicure is the way to go because of the attention to detail the technicians perform. Her favorite part is the massaging with the gel mask and lotion, although the sea salt scrub is exhilarating too. “Your legs and feet feel so refreshed,” said Thompson. “ This is one of the few salons I’ve been to that do this.” For the holidays, nail art is popular. Helen Jaskiewicz, who has also been a long time customer, will have a snow man or snowflake painted on around this time of year and she is always impressed at how long it lasts. No matter what her needs are, Jaskiewicz is always seen and taken care of right away with almost no wait. “It’s just awesome here,” said Jaskiewicz. “Kim is very friendly and accommodating.” Always a sure fit, gift certificates are also always available.
THANKSGIVING 300 STRONG AND GROWING: ELKS DINNER FOR SENIORS STILL A BIG HIT DICKENS COMES TO BILLERICA By Joan Parcewski
BILLERICA TWINNING GROUP For the second year, the Billerica Twinning Group will host JT Turner in Dickens “A Christmas Carol”.The performance has been moved this year to the First Parish Church (the white church in Billerica Center) and will be held the afternoon of the tree lighting. JT is a professional actor, director, storyteller and stage combat choreographer. He is a member of Actors Equity, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American Federation of TV and Radio Artists. He acts on stage, in film, and TV and radio with much of his work as voice-overs. JT is also the director of Moonlight Productions, Inc., a non-profit theater company. The afternoon will kick off with Victorian carolers on the steps of the First Parish Church at 2:45pm. The performance will kick off at 3pm and will run 90 minutes with a 10 to 15 minute intermission. During the break, the Victorian carolers will perform once more. The audience is encouraged to
join them in song as we all get ready for the tree lighting ceremony at 5pm. During the performance, in a separate room at the church, there will be storytelling with George Fennell (from BATV fame) and other activities for children under age 12.All the children who attend will be able to take something home with them as a memento. Admission is free thanks to our co-sponsors (the Holiday Festival Committee and Billerica Access Television) and a grant from the Billerica Cultural Council, an agency of the the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The Dickens show itself is geared for children in grades 5 and up as well as adults and seniors. For those who did not see JT’s performance last year, don’t miss out this year! During and after the performance, light refreshments will be offered for a nominal fee as the excitement builds for another spectacular lighting of the common. Who better to share that with than Scrooge and all his new found friends!
Everybody loves turkey. And right before Thanksgiving, you can find volunteers at the Elks serving up a lot of it. For over 40 years, The Elks have hosted their annual senior citizen’s Thanksgiving dinner to anyone in the community 60 years old and up. It’s always free to seniors and they flock to the lodge in droves to savor traditional holiday fare with hundreds of their closest friends. “We never advertise this. It’s all word of mouth,” said Dot Balistreri, Elks News Editor and member. Always held on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, residents from Billerica Crossings Assisted Living, Merrimack Valley Life Care Center, River Street senior housing, and Talbot Street senior housing join other seniors from around town for three hours of celebration. Mr. Jack’s catering in Billerica, who donate their time, cook dinner which consists of turkey, stuffing, mashed potato, gravy and cranberry sauce. A DJ plays their favorite tunes and before they leave, a holiday bread of banana nut or cranberry nut will be raffled off as a parting gift to enjoy later. Carol Harris and her husband, John have been coming for six years. They know a many neighbors and friends who come a long too and they will all sit together. Although Harris will celebrate Thanksgiving with her children on the actual holiday, this is a nice way to kick off the season. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Harris. “The food is delicious and we look forward to it.”
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 25
The Voice of the Artist •By Colleen Sgroi
GIVING IS THE GIFT At the tender age of three, I moved from the city of Medford to, what my grandma Nora use to call the sticks, Billerica. Sixteen years later, I married and was off to explore new lands, returning only to visit my parents. Another sixteen years passed and as fate would have it I found myself back in Billerica. Already an established artist working from my home studio, I was sending my art out to galleries, collecting royalties through my New York art publisher and enjoying doing what I love, creating art. Shortly after moving back home, I saw a notice in the local paper offering grants from the Billerica Arts Council. Having never written a grant before, I decided to jump in and explore. My efforts paid off and I received my first funding to create what was to be the first of many Billerica paintings and limited edition lithographs. Billerica being more of a sports town rather than a cultural town, I had many naysayers who thought signed and numbered prints would not be a big seller. I, however, believed our town pride would say differently. I set up a booth at Yankee Doodle Homecoming. The day before the weekend, a photo of my new lithograph depicting our town center graced the cover of our local paper. The next morning, when the parade was over, the town pride I believed in, descended upon my booth and there I sold half the edition for a total day sale of one hundred prints. The remainder of the edition sold out in less than a year. Repeatedly people approached me, “Colleen what are you going to paint next?”
Realty World Advantage is a designated Toys for Tots drop-off. They are located in the plaza at 880 Boston Road. Bring an unwrapped toy for a child in need and make their Christmas shine a little brighter.
I began to see how my art could make a difference in our town. Each following year, I created a new painting along with limited editions that would benefit a different organization in town. The truth that “in giving, we receive” became so clear as I began to share my vision of a gallery and art center with my community friends. Sandy Wilson from the Enterprise Bank said, “Colleen, I want to make this happen for you”, and I got a loan to open Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes at Faulkner Mills. Then again, two years later, when I was going through some personal hard times, Fred Ciampa, CPA offered me space in his building for a third of what I was paying at the Mills, which enabled me to stay open and continue to offer art and classes to the families in our community. I receive such joy knowing that adults and children are discovering their own creative expressions through the teaching artists at my art center. I am honored to have my art displayed in so many businesses and homes in our town. Most of all, I am thankful for a hometown that has embraced my art, and me, the artist, helping me to see that “giving is the gift”. To quote Vincent Van Gogh, “The more I think, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.” Colleen is the owner of Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes at 12 Andover Road in Billerica Center. You can see more about Colleen’s gallery and classes at www.ColleenSgroi.com.
26 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
Court's In Session
Notes from General Sound
•By Attorney Jennifer O'Brien
•By Todd Dellaporta
OBTAINING A WILL, MADE EASY
Q.
I am scheduled for minor surgery in the upcoming month and it made me think that maybe its time I got my affairs in order by finally executing a Will. Is it really that important?
A.
Obtaining a Will is something that people know they should do but often put off. The procrastination is usually caused by a combination of lack of time, lack of funds, and a reluctance to face their own mortality. Usually after executing a Will, they realize that the process was relatively painless and wonder why they held off so long. In Massachusetts, when a person dies without a Will, state law determines who will receive his assets and how much each person will receive after all debts and expenses have been paid. If a person is married, and has no children or other living blood relatives, his spouse will inherit his entire estate. This is usually not problematic but takes away a person’s right to leave certain assets or personal property to a specific individual or charity. If a person is married and also has children (or grandchildren from a deceased child), his spouse will inherit 50% of his estate and his children (or grandchildren) will inherit 50%. This may be problematic especially if the children are young and are still dependent on the living spouse. Most people in this situation would want their entire estate immediately available to their surviving spouse to use as they deem fit. If a person is married and has living relatives other than children, the spouse receives the first $200,000, and then divides the remaining balance equally (50/50) with that relative. This is true no matter how remote the relative, which is concerning for most people, as it could include a 3rd cousin on the West Coast that you never even met. Customarily, the order in which these remote relatives will inherit will be as follows: 1) parents; 2) siblings; and 3) next of kin (closest living relative). One of the most basic decisions to make in executing a Will is who gets what. A Will can be as specific or as general as you want. For example, you may simply leave all your worldly possessions to your
spouse or, you could include a provision that gives your daughter your grandmother’s wedding ring, your son your boat, and your favorite charity $1,000. Another decision will be who to select as Executor. Since this person will undertake important duties, such filing certain paperwork in Probate Court, paying off creditors, and making decisions about what to do with cars, real estate, and personal property, it makes sense to select someone who is not only trustworthy but also extremely organized. Another important decision to make if you have children is who will care for them in the event of your demise, as well as who will be in charge of maintaining/distributing any assets left to them. If none of these decisions are made in advance, the court will make them for you. Creating a Will is not complicated but just requires you to take some time to think about to whom you want to leave your assets in the event of your death. You must then set a little time aside to discuss and sign your documents with an attorney if you chose to retain one. While costs vary, generally an attorney will charge between $150 and $350 for the execution of a simple Will. If cost is an issue, it may pay to shop around and inquire about pricing from a few different attorneys in your area before scheduling an appointment. Although other complex estate planning is more involved and thus pricier, a simple Will is relatively easy for an attorney to create and thus shouldn’t cause you to break the bank. Though you won’t be around to see it, you can “rest” assured knowing you have made things as easy as you could for your family, while guaranteeing they are provided for in the manner you intended. Jennifer H. O’Brien is the owner of O’Brien Law Offices, a general practice located at 630 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 01821. She can be reached at (978) 262-9880 or at www.obrienlawoffices.org. This information should not be construed as legal advice nor is it intended as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney. No person should act or rely on any information in this article without seeking the advice of an attorney.
AND YOU COULD BE IN THEM. EVERY MONTH THE BILLERICA GREEN IS DELIVERED TO 17,000+ MAILBOXES (ALL HOMES, P.O. BOXES, AND BUSINESSES). LOCK IN YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE NOW FOR THE DEC/JAN ISSUE OF THE BILLERICA GREEN TO MAKE SURE YOU'RE IN. CALL 978-808-2361
CHRISTMAS CAROL HISTORY We wish you a Merry Christmas, we wish you a…Oh, Hi! Don’t mind me. I was just doing some holiday decorating. What’s that you say? Bah Humbug!?! Well, I know just the thing to turn that frown upside down! Holiday music! Let’s face it, whether you’re the person who merrily drags out the boxes of decorations the day after Thanksgiving, or you wait until around the December 22nd, you can’t deny the way music can bring on holiday cheer. Now, before you tear out my column and use it to light the Yule log, Christmas music doesn’t have to be old, stale or stuffy. In fact, despite the classic charm of the holiday tunes from Bing, Nat, Frank and Dean, there are some wonderful upbeat and fresh holiday songs from more contemporary artists like Kenny G, Dave Matthews, Eve 6 and Rob Thomas. Even AC/DC has blessed us with a song called “Mistress for Christmas” although it may not be the perfect background music as Aunt Bessie passes the sweet potatoes. Where did it all begin? I’m so glad you asked! The word “carol” originally referred to a circle dance, “carola,” performed without singing at all. When words were added, they were used only as accompaniment to the dance. In the case of the first Christmas hymns, they were sung to the melodies of Jewish temple psalms. Carols enjoyed further development way back during the Middle Ages and further evolved through the tradition of strolling carolers at Christmas. These started long ago when beggars sang carols to seek handouts of food and drink. In England, wandering Yule singers were rewarded with an invitation to enter and have a cup of hot spiced ale or wine. My best suggestion is to give contemporary holiday music a listen. Sure, Christmas has become too commercial and yes, you may be paying down those credit cards until next December, but why not give the music a chance to move you? The newest holiday songs are modern and follow current musical style so they may be much more enjoyable than the stuff Mom used to make you listen to. Check out www.accuradio.com/ holidays/ where you can stream free music from a dozen or more different genres, all free. Check out the “Jazz” station and especially the “Seasons new releases”. So, while writing this article, I found myself struggling with the politically correct substitution of the word “Holiday” in place of the word “Christmas”. While that subject could certainly become the topic of an entirely additional column, in my mind, that’s just not necessary. I truly feel that Christmas, materialistic as it may be, has become more than just a Christian holiday. Much of the splendor of Christmas is simply an American tradition. It is to that part of Christmas that this article is directed. As for the specific religious traditions of the season, I think most people accept them as a wonderful part of our Nation’s diversity, and when saying “Merry Christmas” I certainly don’t think they mean disrespect toward any other culture. As far as I’m concerned it just seems a little strange to go pick out a “holiday” tree. With that said, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and furthermore, a Happy Guru Nanak’s Birthday (Bikarami, Sikh), Eid-al-Adha (Islam), Hanukkah (Jewish), Death of Prophet Zarathursta (Zoroastrian), Kwanzaa (African), Old Christmas Day (Armenia), Ashura (Islam), Lunar New Year (China, Vietnam, Korea, Tibet), Solnal (Korea) and of course a very merry Losar (Tibet). Let’s see Bing fit all that into a holiday song! It’s funny, as I was writing this column, listening to accuradio’s streaming “New Releases” channel; I suddenly realized I was listening to “I Have A Little Dreidle”. I rest my case. Keep music in your life and have a wonderful holiday season! Todd DellaPorta, is the owner of General Sound Entertainment, and has been providing clean, upbeat entertainment for the people of Billerica for almost two decades. To inquire about quality entertainment, Videography or Photography for your next event call 508-572-6880, visit www.generalsound. com, or email at info@generalsound.com.
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The Sunny Side of the Street •By Dave Gagliardi
THANKSGIVING IN A BOX In a society where lives have become busier and busier, it has become common to look to others to perform many of the tasks that were once thought of as routine. Take Thanksgiving dinner, for instance. Many more people go out for dinner than years ago. Some stick to the traditional dinner, while others have chosen a different route. This is what I refer to as “Thanksgiving In A Box.” For the last several years, there has been a fully cooked “Thanksgiving In A Box”, available at your local grocery store. It consists of a fully cooked turkey, pre-made stuffing, mashed potatoes, string beans, butternut squash and cranberry sauce. All of which comes to your local market, frozen, in a box. Your grocer thaws it out, box and all, and then presents it to you to take home and serve your family. You’d be surprised at how many stunned faces there are every year when the customer realizes that they still have to heat the turkey. I don’t know why they think it would be hot or what they were going to do to keep it that way until Thanksgiving afternoon. But after 35 years in the business, I am more amused than surprised at these types of reactions. The “Thanksgiving In A Box” did not go over very well when first introduced but has become increasingly popular in recent years, although I cannot figure out why. As dinners go, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner is a relatively easy one to prepare. So why would anyone want to serve their family what is for all
intents and purposes… leftovers? Think about it. Everything is already cooked. It has been frozen, thawed, then you will reheat and serve it. In my house, that IS leftovers! Has anyone out there accidentally overcooked a turkey? How dry was it? If you take a turkey and cook it, it loses some of its moisture. Freeze it then thaw it and it loses more. If you cook it again, I can’t imagine it not being as dry as sawdust, no matter how much gravy you put on it. Some people may consider the “Thanksgiving In A Box” to be a time saver but if you are considering going that route, please read further. I have decided to give you some cooking tips that we use in our home to make the job of putting together a decent Thanksgiving meal a little easier. First, take the turkey itself. We started using cooking bags to cook our turkey a couple of years ago on the recommendation of one of the meat cutters I work with. It cuts the cooking time almost in half so you don’t have to get up a 5am to put the turkey in the oven. It also helps keep the breast from drying out because the moisture is contained in the bag. My wife Joanne prepares butternut squash by cutting the squash in half, removing the seeds and placing it face down on a cookie sheet and baking it for 30 to 40 minutes. The skins peel right off after it is done thus saving time and aggravation. Then she prepares it as you would a boiled or steamed squash.
GET ‘EM WHILE THEY’RE HOT: COA HOLIDAY RAFFLE IS ON With budget cuts being as they are, groups and organizations around town are getting pro-active and creative in order to fund their programs. Friends of the Council on Aging is no different. However, for them, they go with what is tried and true. Following the kick-off at Yankee Doodle in September, the COA is actively selling their popular Holiday Raffle tickets. Four years running, this raffle is their major fund raiser that has been a sell out every time. With only 1200 tickets sold, there is a 100 to1 chance of winning. “That’s a lot better than the lottery,” said Nick Rosa, President of the Friends of the COA committee. First prize is $2,000, second is $300, and third prize is a total of ten $50 winners. For a mere $10 a piece, these tickets go fast. The winners will be drawn on Dec. 11 at the COA and contacted immediately. Volunteers will be found at locations all around town selling over the next six weeks. At O’Connor’s True Value Hardware store, you can pick up your tickets on Oct. 24 and Nov. 14, 15, 21, and 22. Tickets will also be available at the COA, home football games, and the three Market Basket locations on Boston Road/Route 3A. Volunteers to sell tickets are welcome. Contact Priscilla Ellis at 978-764-5427 if you are interested in helping out.
As for the stuffing, I must confess we cheat a little. We start out by using Stove Top stuffing mix as a base. Then we cook up a 12 ounce package of sausage meat and add diced apple and celery. When the sausage meat is cooked, we fold it into the stuffing mix. If you don’t let anyone see the box, they will never know. Jo also makes a twice baked potato recipe made with eight mashed potatoes, one cup of sour cream, and four ounces of cream cheese folded together. It can be prepared 24 hours in advance and then baked at 350 degrees for 45 minutes the next day. These are just a few ideas from our kitchen to yours. I hope they help make your Thanksgiving a happier and easier one.
“Out on the Town” has your Holiday Happenings
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The Body Elite •By Brian Panarese, B.S. Professional Fitness Trainer
WHY EXERCISE WITH WEIGHTS I’ve been a fitness trainer for 33 years and it always perplexes me when I hear strange ideas about weight training from the general public. “I don’t want to look like a man”, says a petite female client. “I don’t want to get TOO BIG,” says a male client. Well, my response to both of those comments is, “DON’T WORRY, that won’t happen.” Research has shown us exactly how much more beneficial exercising with weights really is. Weight training is not done only with dumbbells and barbells but select weight machines like Nautilus. There are also rubber bands or rod resistance machines like Life Fitness or Bow Flex. And finally we have air driven and spring loaded machines that all push the muscle to exert force. It’s mind boggling the variety of resistance devices there are out there today. Immediately when you think of weight training, you think of people in sports who are looking to get bigger or stronger. But there are many reasons to lift weights. Muscle burns fat, raises our metabolism and powers our body just like an engine in a car. The more muscle you have the easier it is to get around. Plus weight training is also for those looking to lose fat. Although muscle weighs more than fat, you will not lose as much body weight as people think you have when you weight train. WAIT! Before you turn the page, finish reading this, although muscle weighs almost three times more than fat, I have had female clients drop three pant sizes and improve their strength and posture with only losing eight pounds on the scale. The scale shows us only one aspect of the body and that’s the total weight BUT not the composition. Also, a study done more than 10 years ago on elderly female nursing home patients showed that weight lifting, even up to three pounds, was good enough to slow and even reverse Osteoporosis. These women actually increased their bone density and some of
these women were in there 90’s! To illustrate, let’s look at the anatomy of a muscle. It has a middle called a belly, and two end points called the “origin” and the “insertion”. When a muscle contracts, the fibers glide and pull on one another like a tug of war to shorten the muscle fibers, thus bringing the insertion and the origin closer together. It sort of like raising a drawbridge, in a sense. The muscle has to be anchored to the bone that it wants to move. The tie down mechanism is called a tendon. The sheath or thin outer layer of bone where a tendon anchors will thicken and call for calcium when there is any force exerted on it. So now after an oversimplified explanation, you’re wondering just how muscles grow to a greater size if most people lifting weights are average or slightly above average size, right? It’s only under EXTREME, almost inhuman force, that the muscle cell can actually split into two smaller cells and then grow back to its original size and then some. Therefore, those who lift extremely heavy weights with ultimate exertion during each repetition will grow their muscle to huge proportions. To go back to the beginning of the article, it takes a certain type of program and person to get BIG muscles and IT’S NOT EASY TO DO. A proper weight-training program starts with a short 5-10 minute warm up period. During this period, it is the intent to move the majority of blood from the digestive tract and lungs out to the muscles. When a muscle contracts for a series of reps under a small force, there is a call for increased oxygen. And, what brings oxygen to a muscle but blood! The volume of blood a muscle can pump during a contraction increases as the heart muscle gets thicker and stronger from repeated weight training. So, want more muscle? Want to lose three pants sizes and be healthier? Well then, WEIGHT TRAIN!
Members of Billerica CARES hosted Professor Diana Eck of Harvard University’s Pluralism Program to discuss issues of diversity in town. Professor Eck will be the keynote speaker for the March 2010 Diversity Week at Billerica Memorial High School.
Reiki Masters Rachel Brochu, Lou Burke, and Ann Marie Fischer perform Reiki on Carol Rosa during the Council on Aging’s recent Holistic Health Fair held on Oct. 28. Other specialists like Chiropractor Sandy Chapnick and Sound Therapist Eric Carlson were on hand to offer attendees alternatives to traditional treatment and pain management. COA staff member Lauren Grey pointed out there was a lot of opportunities for people to experience something new.
The Teacher’s Corner •By Diana Lombardo
SURVIVING SENIOR YEAR For my twelfth graders, late November typically sees a significant uptick in stress as the first semester draws to a close and the pressures of applying to college become more intense. Recently I surveyed my senior students to find out how their parents could best help them during the college application season. With their permission, here are a couple of their observations: “The best thing that my parents could do is maybe know more about the whole process so they could help me stay on task to get stuff done.” “I’d like them to be on me more to do everything right away so I don’t procrastinate. My parents are nervous as well which doesn’t help…” The “to-do” list for the college-bound Billerica senior (84%, according to recent statistics) is daunting. We expect our kids to take the SATs; collect letters of recommendation; complete the college essay; and, of course, apply to the chosen colleges. Adding to the pressure, many of our kids are student-athletes, are involved in extracurricular activities, and/or have part-time jobs. It can all seem pretty overwhelming from a 17year-old’s point of view. This is a time when our teenagers need our guidance and input the most, but frustratingly, seems to be the time they push us away. One of my students put it this way: “It helps when my parents are there for me when I need them, but let me do things on my own when I don’t.” That, in a nutshell, is the dilemma facing those of us with teenagers. So, how to communicate the importance of senior year without endless nagging and tearing one’s hair out? If your child hasn’t done so already, urge him/ her to seek out the services of the high school guidance office. They are a tremendous resource and can help keep your child on track during this year. Your child should already be familiar with his guidance counselor and received some assistance with regard to post-graduation plans, be it college, work, the military, etc. Guidance counselors work hard to reach every graduating senior, but some kids can be elusive. Ensure your child isn’t one of them.
Does your child have a senior year “action plan”? This is essential, not just for the collegebound, but for every graduating senior. Help your child put a plan together, with clear tasks and dates. Deadlines are coming fast and furious for college and financial aid applications. Does your child have a resume written? This can be very useful for applying to college, a summer job, or a career after high school. Letters of recommendation from teachers, guidance counselors, coaches or employers should also be in the works. It never hurts to obtain these now, even if they’re not used immediately. As an English teacher, I require all my seniors to write a college essay – not just the ones applying to college. Ask your child how the essay is progressing. Even if the essay is never submitted to any institution, it still represents, ideally, the very best writing the student is capable of. Typically the college essay asks students to discuss a significant achievement or obstacle, an individual who has had a major impact, or future plans. This kind of self-reflection is never wasted. As the parent of a senior, it still remains vital to stay in touch with your child’s teachers. At my school’s parent-teacher nights, we typically see a drop-off in the number of senior parents who attend, which is understandable—who’s not tired of attending these events year after year? However, no parent wants to be surprised when they learn that their kid is in academic distress, after repeated assurances from the child that “everything is fine.” Now isn’t the time to let those lines of communication lapse. May will be here before we realize it, and this final year of high school will reach its end. Stay informed, stay supportive, and stay positive! Diana Lombardo is a Billerica resident, mom of two and an English teacher with 15 years’ experience. Readers are invited to submit education related questions for future columns to Diana at teacherscornerbillerica@gmail.com.
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The Power from Within •By Liana Measmer
MORE PRECIOUS THAN GOLD I love writing columns. Although personal, I consider them therapeutic and besides, I love telling stories. As I prepare for the holidays I am reminded there is something special about Christmas. Sometimes it changes things. Or people. This column may be crafted far before the first snowflakes fall. But regardless, I just got an early Christmas present and it’s more valuable to me than gold. It was at a recent family gathering. I like family gatherings, as well as hate them. I like them because I get to see people. I hate them because I get to see people. I like them because people I love are there and we spend time together. I hate them because people I love are there but we may have been estranged or not getting along. It’s tough to deal with if you let it. I learned a long time ago that I had a choice. I could choose to stay home because being around those who aren’t speaking to me can be uncomfortable. Or I could get out of myself and remember that the gathering was not about me. And that I was there to celebrate someone else. And I was lucky enough to be invited. So I go and I face those folks who don’t talk to me. Sometimes it’s no big deal. Other times I have to remind myself that the day has a beginning, a middle and an end. I smile warmly. I talk to the other people. I eat all the yummy food. I sit on the couch and snuggle my kids. I’m always glad I went. This particular day was the baptism for my niece. I was at the church when I spotted relatives seated at a distance. Some of which had not spoken to me for years. I glanced over. Then I looked again. And again. Geez, Liana. Quit staring! Kind of like a car wreck. You’re sure you shouldn’t look but you just can’t help it. The service ended and we made our way to the baptismal font. I noticed that my
grandmother who I’ve missed very much was standing nearby, chatting with my children, speaking to them loud enough for me to hear. I sat with my children and she sat in front of us. Then, all of a sudden, she turned around, looked me straight in the eye and said, “Good Morning. The children sure have grown.” I replied to her good morning and we spoke about the children briefly. It was odd. I could hear my voice but was that really me? No words had been uttered between us for some time since I’d been too fearful to approach her. I could feel the welling up in my throat but I ignored it. Later back at the house, she was part of a discussion about The Billerica Green. She asked for copies to read at home later. We sat in the same room, eating our brunch and sharing the same conversations with others about nothing in particular. And then, as I stood in the hallway observing the goodbyes, over my mother’s shoulder she said, “Good bye. It was nice to see you. And your enthusiasm over your paper.” She even used my name. I bowed my head, said thanks, and fought back the tears. It was the best get together I’d been to in a long time. You know, sometimes life has a funny way of handing you little surprises when you least expect them. The best part is you never know where they will come from or when they will arrive. But when they do, you stop, smile, and realize how blessed you truly are. I don’t need to know what comes next after today. I just want to revel in the glow of what happened. For me, it’s enough. Have a beautiful Christmas everyone. I hope life tosses you a surprise or two this holiday season. Beside being Editor of The Billerica Green, Liana Measmer is a Licensed Social Worker, Billerica resident and Mom to three great kids.
The TILL Wheelchair Dancers won BATV’s Member’s Choice Program of The Year for their “Smell The Roses” performance last spring at BMHS. Other winners included Connor McCarron for the Junior Member Award and Bernie Hoar for Excellence in Access. The Billerica Community Choice Award winners were: ‘It’s that Outdoor Show’ for 3rd place; ‘Bernie Hoar Live’ for 2nd place; and ‘Police Beat’ taking 1st place.
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The Green Handyman •By Jeffrey R. Parenti, P.E.
THE MANY USES OF WD-40 This Christmas, what do you get for the aspiring handyman or lady? What would make a great gift for that new toolbox? A hammer or screwdriver? A wrench or pair of pliers? Maybe a small saw or a box of nails? None of the above. The best starter tool for any new handy person is…Spray oil. That’s right. Spray oil – or as it’s commonly known by its brand name WD-40 – is cheap and has more than 2000 “official” uses. Also, even the most clumsy apprentice handy person can’t possibly themselves with it. When oil is squirted on anything, it will work its way into teeny tiny spaces. It seems to find where it needs to go all on its own. I can demonstrate how amazing the stuff is. I always keep a can of WD-40 in my truck at work. Last week, I was trying to unlock the door of a utility box. When I tried to put the key in the keyhole, it wouldn’t go. The contractor that painted the box painted
right over it. I chipped away what I could with a flat-head screwdriver, but there was still thick, black paint deep inside the lock. I grabbed my WD-40, sprayed it inside the keyhole, and left it overnight. The next morning I put the key in the lock, and with some wiggling it went all the way in. I tried to turn the key, and when it wouldn’t budge, I sprayed it once more. Open sesame! WD-40 does it again! (Bonus tip: never use a pliers to turn a key inside a stiff lock. You ‘ll break the key and then you’ll be in big trouble. The Green Handyman learned this tip the hard way.) Armed with a can of spray oil, you can repair a whole bunch of annoying problems around your house you have been meaning to get to for months, maybe years. (If Dorothy had a can of WD-40 rather than old oil can, she would have fixed the Tin Man in under five seconds.)
THE BILLERICA SPELLING BEE From the Billerica Partners for Education The Billerica Spelling Bee, powered by the Billerica Partners for Education is open to students enrolled in the Billerica Public Schools in grades three through eight. Our purpose is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives. This new event is intended to encourage and celebrate academic excellence in our community. Event Schedule and How It Works Enrollment • Return by Friday, November 13, 2009 – enrollment forms are due to your teacher. • There is no cost to participate in the Billerica Spelling Bee. Study Period • November 14, 2009 – December 20, 2009 • Study for the Billerica Spell Check, the qualifying test for the Billerica Spelling Bee • Students who enroll in the Spelling Bee will receive more information on the test and study tips Billerica Spell Check • Week of December 21, 2009 • Enrolled students will take the Billerica Spell Check qualifying test during normal school hours Spelling Bee Participants Announced • Wednesday, January 6, 2010 • Grades 3 – 5: The top two scoring spellers per grade will be announced and will represent their school. • Grades 6 – 8: The top six scoring spellers per grade will be announced and will represent their school. Billerica Spelling Bee • Saturday, February 6, 2010 from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm • The top scoring spellers for each grade will compete in a town wide competition with a top speller crowned. • A final round of competition among the grade 5- 8 winners will end with the crowning of the Billerica Spelling Bee Grand Champion. Visit www.billericaspellingbee.org for more information or e-mail contact@BillericaSpellingBee.org to contact the event organizers.
First up, that creaky door. The creak is usually caused by a sticky hinge pin. Make sure you have a rag before you spray. If you squirt too much, it will drip and stain your carpet. Insert the red straw into the nozzle. Touch the business end of the straw to the gap between the pin and the top of the hinge. Now squeeze the trigger as briefly as you can – you don’t need much to do the job, and too much is messy. Move about a quarter of the way around the gap and squirt again. Do this a few times. Don’t worry about aiming at the exact location of the squeak – the oil will ooze down and coat the entire pin. Repeat with the other hinges. Next, open and close the door ten times. This will work the oil around. Viola! The creak will be history. And while you are there, spray some oil on the rag and rub down the strike plate and the latch, and then squirt inside the latch mechanism.
Push it in and out a few times. Now the door will close and latch smooth as silk. What else is sticky, noisy, or stubborn around the house? Whenever one thing rubs another, eventually it will need to be lubricated. WD-40 is an excellent cleaning agent, too. Use it to remove stickers, skid marks on floors, crayon, and gum. Keep a can with other household cleaners for tough jobs. You can also try it to help remove rust from garden tools or your kid’s bike after he left it out in the rain. Squirt, then scrub with steel wool. It isn’t easy to improve on spray oil, but the people at WD-40 have improved the can. The detachable red straw – which I frequently misplaced – is now permanently attached. What are you waiting for? Go oil something! Jeff rey R. Parenti, P.E. is a registered professional civil engineer living in Billerica.
Family Matters with Ed and Sandy •By Sandra Giroux
COMMUNICATION BRINGS PEACE “Christmas! The very word brings joy to our hearts. No matter how we may dread the rush, the long Christmas lists for gifts and cards to be bought and given, when Christmas Day comes there is still the same warm feeling we had as children, the same warmth that enfolds our hearts and our homes.” Joan Winmill Brown For families, the holiday season can be either a difficult one or an enjoyable one. Much of the success of a holiday period depends on how a family communicates with one another. In the chaos of the season, we may forget the niceties once in a while. It is amazing how one small act of kindness can affect others. And it is contagious, not only in your family but in all who see your kindness. We have all heard the words “Over the hills and through the woods to Grandmother’s house we go”… but does it ever say which Grandmother? I translate this to be which side of the family? If you have this choice you should be thankful! You are lucky enough to have multiple generations in your family. However, for some there is the added stress of deciding which family to visit on which holiday? In my family, I have the best of both worlds. With few exceptions, I don’t have to choose. My biggest dilemma is usually who I visit for dinner and who has dessert. If there is a change in plans, both families have been very understanding about sharing time. It all comes down to communication. Next, is the question of how to decorate for the holidays which can go smoothly when we communicate. We use an alternating method to decide which style the tree should be decorated. And of course, we are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Ed and Beck like the
flashy colored lights and as many ornaments possible while I go for the minimalist approach—fewer white lights, muted gold and sage ornaments, and the occasional embroidered snowflake. I know the biggest stress during the holiday could be me. I over stress about finding the perfect present for every one. I want to make sure every one loves the presents picked for them. Ed is constantly reminding me of how could they not when so much thought goes into them. This is how we balance each other. As a family we know that presents don’t make Christmas, they just add to the fun and merriment. According to Bob Hope: “When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest thing—not the great occasions —give off the greatest glow of happiness”. As Christmas Eve approaches and the last minute details are done, we rush to church. Then there is an amazing calm that ascends because everything is done except the celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. For us, it is the birth of Christ and the time spent with family and friends. What an amazing present we are given! The following morning, the amazement is overwhelming every year, the tree giving off its glow of peace. What amazes me more is how every one looks forward to Ed’s traditional special pancake breakfast, one reserved for only the most special of days, even before we open presents. After breakfast and before we start our day of merriment, there is always time for the traditional wrapping paper toss. As we gather before starting our rounds, I like to think of a quote by Burton Hillis, which sums it up best: “The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: The presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.”
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DELIVERING A TOUCH OF HOME TO A SOLDIER OVERSEAS
Holiday time comes quickly here and so many are fortunate enough to share it with family and friends. However, for our soldiers overseas, holiday time can be a lonely time being so far away from all they know. That’s why Operation Honoring Our Heroes was started by Jean Proctor in 2003. This Burlington resident who works in Billerica as a Realtor, had a son in the Marines during Desert Storm. She wants the men and women in the Middle East to know they have not been forgotten. “We love them, we support them, we are so grateful to them,” said Proctor. Once Proctor’s son had returned, a customer shared how her own son had been injured in Afghanistan and asked for care package donations. Proctor gathered items and asked others to help. Each year, the list of soldiers’ names grew and Proctor began leaving drop-off boxes at local establishments. In Billerica, The Coffee Emporium on Boston Road always collected large quantities of items. In 2005, after inheriting the Community Service Club at Burlington High School, science teacher Alan McRae got involved too. He gave Operation Honoring Our Heroes a place to store the donations as well as a lecture hall to sort and fill boxes. As years have passed, the Community Service Club has solicited support from local businesses through letter writing campaigns. “What we do is guided by what we get,” said McRae. The group will solicit names of soldiers from churches, local newspapers, and word of mouth. Once all the donations are collected, Proctor, McRae, the Community Service Club, and members of surrounding communities come and sort everything. Then, by the end of the first week of December, the packages are shipped out to ensure they arrive by Christmas.
Locally, organizations and schools are taking part in this wonderful charity. Students at the Parker Elementary School tied this charity event in with their literacy programs right around Halloween. Students had “Character” day where they dressed up as their favorite storybook character and brought in donations. Lead by Diane Percuoco, third grade teacher, students got copies of the list and excitedly participated. Each child who donated got to place a star on a large mural sized paper flag hung in the hallway as a reminder of our soldiers patriotism “No matter what you bring, you’re recognized the same way,” said Dr. Barbara Wittenhagen, Parker Principal. As a result of the public’s generosity, last year, 150 care packages went out and Proctor guesses the same will be shipped this year as well. For more information on donation items or to volunteer to help, contact Joan Proctor at 781-272-4848 or Alan McRae at 781273-7020. To view thank you letters from our soldiers abroad, go to https://home. comcast.net/~honorourheroes/index.html/.
The deadline for donations is November 25th Most Needed Items • AT&T phone cards with
450 minutes or more • Gold Bond medicated powder • Sun screen
• Lip Balm • Snack bars and granola bars • Baby wipes • Dried fruit • Powdered drink mixes • Stationary and pens or pencils • Sugar free chewing gum • Red Sox or Patriots
hats and T-Shirts • Beef Jerky • Frisbees and footballs
Drop-off boxes Locations • Burlington Town Hall • Billerica Town Hall • Winchester Town Hall • Woburn Town Hall • Winchester VFW • Burlington Sons of Italy • Burlington High School • Century 21 Travis Realty, Billerica • Northern Bank, Billerica • Coffee Emporium, Billerica
PATTERSON’S IS KEEPING OUR ROADS SAFE David Patterson has towed a lot of cars for various reasons and he’s all about seeing safety on the roads. That’s why six months ago he became an authorized service center for Intoxalock, a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID), which is required by Massachusetts law to be installed into every car owned by drunk driving offenders. “I like to see people and families on the road safer,” said Patterson. “It’s the innocent people that get hurt.” Chapter 90 of MGL states that BAIIDs need to be installed for a period of two years prior to re-issuance of the offender’s license. During that time, the BAIID will require recalibration once per month by Patterson in order to monitor readings. These mobile breathalyzers are connected to the ignition and require clean blood alcohol content (BAC) readings in order to start the car. If there is any detection of alcohol at all, the ignition will not turn over thus stopping the
car from moving. The Intoxalock features fuel cell technology with easy to read LED screens. For additional information, contact Patterson’s Automotive at 978667-2884 or visit Intoxalock’s website at www.intoxalock.com.
32 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
Turkey Always Tastes Better When You
Win
THROW A LITTLE GRAVY ON CHELMSFORD/BILLERICA FOOTBALL AND SERVE IT UP By Liana Measmer
TT
his year, the Chelmsford Lions will walk onto the Billerica Indians’ turf for the annual Turkey Bowl, a tradition that spans as far back as 1927. Having won last year, they hope to take the honors again in 2009. But Billerica will be a tough rival to take down as they have been enjoying a 7-1 season. Both teams look good and are focused, with their heads in the game. They know the code: the NEXT game is the BIG game. Not ones to think too far ahead, they have already squared off against other opponents like Andover, Tewksbury, and Lowell. But IT is always in the background. IT is always on the back burner. Thanksgiving looms, waiting for them. And they come for one reason alone. To WIN. Period. “This IS the kids’ super bowl,” said Dave Lezenski, Billerica Memorial High School Athletics Director. “It’s a great community event.” The biggest game
Turkey Bowl T-Shirts featuring this illustration available to order online at www.thebillericagreen.com
ILLUSTRATION ©2009TONY LUONGO WWW.LUONGOART.COM
all season for some of these players, they get how important it is. Rich in tradition and attended by thousands of alumni, when these high school players step onto that field and look around at the oceans of fans, sometimes with as many as 15,000, it hits them. And the adrenaline rushes. Everything they worked so hard for all season begins and ends on this day. One team may go on to the play-offs. And one team may go home. So how do they get ready for such a momentous experience? It starts with their coaches, who also get it. Coaches who give back to their communities. Who are committed and care about the program. Coaches who develop skills. Coaches who have heart. “You can have a group of all-stars,” said Lezenski. “I’d rather have a team.” In Chelmsford, the Lions are lead by Coach Bruce Rich. A Chelmsford alum himself, Rich has lived the rivalry first hand. He played football and played against Billerica. Ironically, he also married into a Billerica family so he played against as well as coached against family members. “The Billerica game is the highlight of the year,” said Rich. Rich proudly boasts a hardy opponent against the Indians. These Lions were Division 1 Super Bowl Champions in 2007 and saw the field of Gillette Stadium, thanks to Bob Kraft. In the last ten seasons, this team has won six Merrimack Valley Conference Championships. Although right now they are 4-4, they are ready for the challenge. “Billerica is always in our sights,” said Rich. “We want to win fairly and not embarrass anyone.” Rich also coaches by the belief that you play as many of your guys as you can each game. The goal of the sub varsity coaches is to develop the players and ensure the boys have fun. Rich praised his coaches, who have years of experience and have been great role models. He knows that these players learn a lot more than just how to run and pass out here. “They learn discipline, responsibility, team work and how to handle adversity,” said Rich. “They pick themselves right back up.” Connor Adley, (#23) Senior Fullback, and Joe Gennaro, (#5) Junior Running back, grew up “hating” Billerica.
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 33
“We respect every team,” smiled Adley. “Except them.” Both having played football since elementary school, they love the sport. They acknowledged the game is intense and feel everyone expects them to win, especially with all the alumni present. It’s a game they both look forward to. “When you get out there you realize you’re rivals,” said Gennaro. Head south on Route 3 and you see Billerica stand proud. Stroll out onto the football field behind the school, and you find a committed group of young men running and blocking. Wanting no concentration broken, long time head coach Peter Flynn directed all conversation to the art of football solely. “You jinx yourself,” said Flynn. “You never talk about your opponent until that time.” Having retired as a teacher coach from Billerica this past year, he stayed on as head coach. This is a position he knows well, since he’s held that title since 1990. And it’s a title he loves. Almost as much as he admires his players. In his 20 years as coach, Flynn has lead Billerica to three conference championships and two super bowl wins. Flynn has watched this team grow and develop over four years and sees better line men with better stances. He noted they are healthy and are getting better and better the more they play. He attributes their drive to consistency in practices and keeping their attitude positive. And he is thankful for a great coaching staff that cares about the kids and wants success for them. Flynn recalls about as many as 20,000 in attendance at a few Turkey Bowl games, calling it a great rivalry. Although the team lost last year, he believes everything comes in cycles. He simply will get the players to their peak performance right before kick-off. “I respect Coach Rich and his team,” said Flynn. “Both programs are very competitive.” Quarterback Nick LaSpada (#7) attributes team success to the great relationship between the coaches and players, who are all his friends off the field as well. LaSpada believes he learns a lot about what matters
most from Coach Flynn, who stresses the importance of being a gentleman and staying out of trouble. LaSpada described pre-game time in the locker room as serious and focused, explaining there is no smiling and the only talk is about football. But that all changes once they see the other team. “On the field, we’re screaming, yelling and going nuts,” LaSpada smiled. “We cheer each other on.” Senior line backer Jimmy Holland (#3), is pretty pumped up about playing, coming off an injury last year. He too is focused the week before a game, especially on the defense as the coaches go over the films and plays with them over and over. During the week, there is a lot anticipation for the game but once he starts playing, it all happens so fast. “It’s all reaction time,” said Holland. Wayne Bolz (#9),defensive back, can’t believe the time has flown this season as fast as it has. A football player as soon as he could walk, he started with the Billerica High program as a freshman. Bolz admitted he treats every game like a play off and relies on his team players to be as committed as he is. “You’re focused on your position and there are ten other guys on the field doing their job,” said Bolz. “Just do your job and you’ll be all set.” Clyde Carmant is a newbie to football in comparison to some of his team mates. A long time basketball player, he was encouraged as a freshman to try football because of his size. Now a captain and a senior, Carmant loves football and is close to his team. In retrospect on a recent game against Lowell, Carmant attributes Billerica’s win to hard work and he applies this philosophy to every game. “The key to success is to work hard,” said Carmant.
“We worked hard and we beat them. We worry about ourselves and not the other team.” All the football teams play, with freshmen and junior varsity playing in Billerica against Chelmsford the Saturday before Thanksgiving, at 10 a.m and noon. The Turkey Bowl will begin Thanksgiving morning. Visit Chelmsford High’s website at www. chelmsford.k12.ma.us or Billerica High’s website at www.bmhs.billerica.k12.ma.us for the correct start time and location of the big game.
34 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
KIM WILLMOTT PHOTO
BEHIND THE SCENES: BATV VIDEO CLUB OFFERS KIDS A DRAMATIC ALTERNATIVE
MODIFYING YOUR MORTGAGE: THE FACTS Edna Chalmers of EXIT Homestead Realty In Partnership with The Concord River Group Any homeowner who is concerned about making their mortgage payments and wants to stay in their home should consider applying for a loan modification. Under a loan modification the borrower renegotiates terms of the loan to lower the monthly payment to one more affordable to them. The Obama administration is actively supporting loan modification by offering cash incentives to lenders. The current real estate crisis and resulting wave of foreclosures continues to rise with 1.9 million filed in the United States during the first half of 2009. Although Massachusetts has not been impacted to the degree of Arizona, Florida and Nevada, the crisis here is severe enough with over 13,000 foreclosures filed since the beginning of the year. Even Billerica has been affected with 85 filed since January and 8 in the last month alone. Loanmodificationispartofacomprehensive effort to by the Obama administration to stem the tide of foreclosures. According to Ben Bernanke “In this environment, principal reductions that restore some equity for the homeowner may be a relatively more effective means of avoiding delinquency and foreclosure.” The HAMP program, (Homeowner Affordability Modification Plan) offers cash incentives to servicers and lenders for each loan they modify. Under the plan, borrowers may have their loan modified by (1) lowering interest payments to as low as 2%, (2) extending the length of the loan to as long as 40 years or (3) reducing the principle through either forbearance or forgiveness. Mortgage payments are typically adjusted to no more than 31% of the borrower’s gross income. Any borrower applying for a modification must pass a three month “trial period” during which they successfully make their new, lower payments on time. At that point they are eligible to have their loan permanently modified. Once modified, HUD guidelines call for a waiving of all late and administrative fees and a reinstatement of the loan in good standing. Property owners apply for a loan modification in two step process, (1) qualification and (2) approval. All Fannie
Mae or Freddy Mac backed loans must be reviewed for a modification through the HAMP program. Anyone who is already in foreclosure and qualifies for the HAMP program must be considered for modification before foreclosure can proceed. Most lenders will consider modification even if the mortgage is not owned by Fannie Mac or Freddy Mac. Owners do not have to be late in paying their mortgage to qualify but must meet a series of requirements including: • Property is their primary residence • Mortgage issued before Jan 1, 2009 • 1st mortgage of 729,750 or less • Having trouble making monthly payment • Current payment more than 31% of gross income • Must show financial hardship Once qualified, a homeowner will be approved for a modification on a conditional basis for three months. If they meet the terms of their newly modified loan, the loan then becomes permanent. Loan modification is something homeowners can do themselves. The only exceptions are variable rate mortgages or those that have been written without any income verification. Those mortgages are more likely to be in violation of the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) or Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA). The most important thing for anyone considering modification to know is to not pay in advance for a loan modification. Unfortunately, there are many companies that take advantage of homeowners with loan modification “scams.” Some companies will claim astounding success rates and offer “money back” if they are not successful. Anyone who is concerned about foreclosure or interested in loan modification should (1) understand their options, (2) contact their lender and most importantly, (3) take action. If you would like free information on loan modification or other options available, please call us for a free consultation at 800494-4971 ext 106 or visit our website at www.ConcordRiverGroup.com The Concord River group has partnered with EXIT Homestead Realty to provide another great Real Estate Solution for all our clients, friends and families.
For Courtney Houston, her once per week who enjoy being behind the camera as well stint in front of the cameras at the Billerica as in the control booth directing the show. Access TV studios gives her an outlet for The students are introduced to set design her dramatic skills. A freshman at Billerica and the use of props and Mixon ensures the Memorial High School, Houston has been scripts they write are always acted upon. a singer and performer for some time. She’s “They love that prop room,” Mixon been a BATV member for almost one year laughed. “We build an environment based and has worked on three video projects. She on group consensus and my suggestions.” comes to the BATV video club each week to Always having been a fan of movies, get together with friends. Mixon studied theater education in college “I enjoy working on videos and I’ll be and was trained in theater at Emerson writing a skit,” said Houston. College in 2002. He’s worked with a teen Houston is one of improvisation group and is eight high school students who come to BATV every Wednesday afternoon at four o’clock to learn how to run the cameras and edit the tapes after performing skits with classmates. Run by BATV staff member, Tom Mixon, the group’s focus is to learn something new about the equipment, or even themselves. “I feel like we have a lot of options for students to BATV video clu b--Tom Mixon work with,” said Mixon. explains use Middle School of the editing student Megan equipment to “We put cameras in their Atkins Marshall hands right away.” Started again in Sept., there are currently currently working on a production four groups. On Tuesdays, fifth to eighth of “Alice in Wonderland” in Sudbury. graders meet. And on Wednesdays, middle The culmination of all the weekly hard school students and high schoolers attend. work is a video premiere. Usually only held Originally the groups had been all together once per year, this time around there will but now there are two groups per day split be two-one this December and one in the by age, which Mixon states makes the spring. In the past, they were compilations, groups run more smoothly. Although he spoofs and longer pieces. This year there likes keeping the numbers low, Mixon never is one project everyone is working toward turns anyone away. New students can join from all the groups. The premiere will be any time and Mixon engages them held on Dec. 17 at 7 pm and immediately. there is a lot of footage ready to be edited. “The rehearsals as well as the show are important,” said Mixon. The group isn’t stopping at their premiere. From Jan. to May, the group will be working on a movie. This production will take the students through further script writing, auditions, rehearsals, and more editing. Mixon noted oup 11-09 gr the students are very e th ith w runs lines Club-Mixon o committed to completing this. de Vi V BAT “If new kids “It’s about the effort and quality they put walk in, I’m a firm believer in in,” said Mixon. “It comes off their energy.” adaptation,” said Mixon. Any middle school or high school student Mixon has a variety of interests in the interested in joining the video club should groups he works with. There are students contact BATV at 978-663-2284 or visit their who are more dramatic and prefer to take on website at www.batvinc.org. You can also more acting roles. Then there are students email BATV at batv.batvinc@comcast.net.
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 35
MAKING IT TWICE AS NICE: CASHIN TEAM MERGES STYLE WITH RELAXATION Escape. Escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday demands. Escape from the stressors of everyday life. From loud family and loud traffic. For a few hours, escape to a place where you can feel and look your best. Rejuvenated and energized and beautiful. Escape to Shear Art Hair Designers and Day Spa. What had already been a full service salon owned and operated by Billerica native Donna Cashin for over 30 years, Shear Art now features Spa Utopia, a Day Spa, run by Dena Cashin, Donna’s daughter. Dena, a aesthetics graduate of Catherine Hynds, joined the Shear Art establishment five months ago and promises an ‘out-of-the-ordinary’ experience with her facials and massages. “Everything goes away for a few hours and it’s just you,” said Dena. “It revitalizes you.” Donna is very proud of her daughter’s enthusiasm and recalls she too has always been passionate about beauty. It all started for Donna when she was old enough to hold a comb and it had always been her dream to
Downstairs at Spa Utopia, clientèle can choose from American or European facials, waxing services, nail care, and massage. Mother and daughter help each other by booking appointments and making referrals. Shear Art also boasts nine stylists and two receptionists, many of whom are family members. Donna sang the praises of her staff, describing them as talented, well educated, hard working, and conscientious. Donna has always supported their education so they could stay current with the latest techniques. “I appreciate their loyalty and dedication,” said Donna. To enjoy all that Shear Art has to offer, call Donna at 978-667-8948 to schedule an appointment. For facials HEATHER MOREY PHOTO or other skin care services, contact Spa Utopia at 978-808-9206 and Dena Boston Road location for 25 years now. will help you escape. Even though they are “I can’t remember when I did not have a available year round, at holiday time, gift pair of scissors in my hands,” said Donna. certificates offer the reward of relaxation and Through the Shear Art salon, patrons can style to the women or men in your life who enjoy specialty hair cuts and state of the art are too busy to take care of the ones that hair care products, like color from Affinage. matters the most. Themselves. own her own salon someday. Donna was a stylist t the age of 18 and a few years later, went on to manage a series of “Hairs to You” salons in Billerica before opening her own shop in 1979. Donna has been at her 622
36 / thebillericagreen.com / November-December 2009
The Traveling Gourmets
It's Better Than You Think
•By John and Sherry Livsey
•By Jenn Gervais
G’VANNI’S ITALIANO
DON’T FORGET THOSE DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS
CLASSIC NORTH END ITALIAN FARE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
As December first quickly approaches, it will mark the beginning of what I think of in my extended family as “The Birthday Season, take two”. Strangely, most people on my side of the family were born either in May and June or in December and January. I fall into the second group, as does my daughter. My husband, the lucky dog, was born at the end of May. Why is he so lucky to be born in nice weather rather than at the cusp of winter? This is best answered from a child’s perspective – which I’ve since outgrown. Okay, I admit it, I’ve outgrown it for the most part but I still hate birthday gifts wrapped in Christmas paper. It makes me feel like an afterthought. Having been a winter baby, I saw the advantages of Spring and Summer birthdays to include: •Birthday pool parties – enough said. •No presents wrapped in Christmas paper. •Presents celebrating the upcoming summer season. •Family get-togethers, solely to celebrate YOUR birthday. December babies have been heard to express some pet peeves about their chilly birth date as: •No separation between holiday celebrations and celebrating our birthdays •Limited options for outdoor birthday parties •Snowstorms or colds and flu that force parties to be canceled •Jokes that our birthday gifts are really just Christmas presents we’re given ahead of time •Celebrating December birthdays at holiday gatherings, since “we’re all going to be together anyways”. This commentary was added by my 10-year-old self, by the way. Still, I’ll admit there are some really great things about being born in December like: •People are often in festive moods, which bubbles into our birthday celebrations.
Years ago, G’Vanni’s location was inhabited by another Italian eatery. We have a bit of history with this location as our second date was at one of the cozy tables for two and our rehearsal dinner for our wedding was in the back room. So, it is with fond memories that we planned our dining experience for this month. An authentic Italian bistro is exactly what Billerica needs and G’Vanni’s is delivering with its authentic North End style eatery. Currently, they are offering different specials each night which range from $1.99 up to $6.99. They also offer their “veally good deals” for the lunch and early dinner crowd with an extensive selection for under ten bucks. Although they were busy tonight (a good sign on a Wednesday night), we were seated right away in their intimate dining room. Our server took our wine order and our warm, fresh bread was promptly delivered. The house wine was a lovely sangiovese and paired nicely with the caprese salad as well as our main meal. As we sipped our wine and dipped our bread in oil, Frank Sinatra crooned over the sound system. It was a relaxing opportunity to catch up as we had left the kids home with a sitter for the evening. After the salad, John had the veal saltimbocca and I went for the special; spaghetti and meatballs with garlic bread for a mere $3.99! The meatballs were full of flavor and just the right texture. The veal was delicious with the perfect blend of mushrooms, prosciutto, and cheese. The pasta was so fresh and filling on this crisp fall evening. If you are looking for authentic Italian cuisine, save time, money and hassle and stay here in Billerica. Head to G’Vanni’s and check out their veally good deals. They can’t be beat for value or flavor and the parking is free! Salute! Sherry Livsey is an Independent Wine Consultant with Traveling Vineyard. For a home wine tasting experience, contact her at sherrylivsey@comcast.net.
•Truth be told, we feel like we get more presents at Christmas than other kids. •Parents born in December, with children also born in December overcompensate. I can vouch for this one personally. Just ask my daughter! My husband does a great job making both my daughter and me feel special on our birthdays. There are some intangible benefits worth mentioning, too. For those with December birthdays before Christmas, receiving presents on our birthday feels like a preview to Christmas morning. As a kid, I used to think the first December snowfalls were special events sent especially to recognize MY birthday. If the first snowfall actually occurred ON my birthday, bonus! I knew I was in for a very special day. December babies are in really good company. Famous December musicians include Mozart, Beethoven, Sinatra, Keith Richards, Christina Aguilera, Frank Zappa, and Ozzie Osborne. Talk about a diverse group! Then there are December babies who became world leaders like Emperor Akihito, Mao Tse-Tung, Woodrow Wilson, Joseph Stalin, and King John among them. Infamous December businessmen like Walt Disney, Alexandre Gustav Eiffel, J.P. Getty, and Howard Hughes aren’t to be ignored. We’ve delivered some power-hitter entertainers this month as well including Steven Spielberg, David Carradine, Brad Pitt, Denzel Washington, Ira Gershwin, Neil Simon and Donny Osmond. Then there are those in a league all their own. Nostradamus. Sir Isaac Newton. Tiger Woods. Bart Simpson. And of course, for my family, the most precious December birth of all. The birth of Jesus. Given that it’s impossible to change the date of one’s birth, maybe there are worse things than being born in the month of December. I wish my adult self could have passed that information onto my child self. Or maybe I always knew.
ASSET ALLOCATION: A KEY TO PORTFOLIO SUCCESS For many investors, investing typically begins with one stock or mutual fund. Over time, other selections are added because many people understand it may not be prudent to invest everything in a single security, even if it has a “blue chip” reputation. However, just “spreading money around” in a haphazard way may create only an illusion of diversification. If you have assembled a “hodgepodge” portfolio, you may not know the extent to which your investments are (or are not) consistent with your objectives. How do you go about setting up a framework which tailors your investments to your particular circumstances? A sound portfolio management strategy begins with asset allocation – that is, dividing your investments among the major asset categories of equities, bonds and cash. Since each type of investment category has unique characteristics, they rarely rise or fall at the same time. Then, you can make finer distinctions within each asset category (i.e., diversification). Combining different asset classes could help reduce risk, although it doesn’t eliminate market risk altogether. Still two nagging questions remain: What factors guide the asset allocation process? How much of a portfolio should go into each category. To answer the first question, the main objective of asset allocation is to match the investment characteristics of the
various investment categories to the most important aspects of your personal investment profile – that is, your tolerance for risk, your return and liquidity needs, and your time horizon. Investing according to your risk tolerance will help keep you from abandoning your investment program during times of market turbulence. One way to measure your risk comfort zone is to ask yourself how much of a loss in a oneyear period you could withstand and still stay the course. Finding an appropriate match for you means balancing your tolerance for risk against the different volatility levels of various asset classes. For example, if you have a low tolerance for risk, that fact may dictate a portfolio that emphasizes conservative investments while sacrificing the potentially higher returns that usually involve a greater degree of risk. Return need refers to the income and/or growth you expect a portfolio to generate in order to meet your objectives. For example, retirees may prefer a portfolio that emphasizes current income, while younger investors may wish to concentrate on potential growth. Your personal time horizon extends from when you implement an investment strategy until you need to begin withdrawing money from a portfolio. For example, a very short time horizon (less than 5 years) is probably best served
by a conservative portfolio emphasizing safety of principal. On the other hand, the more time you have to invest, the greater risk you may be able to withstand because you have time to recover from market downturns. The short answer to how much of a portfolio should go into each category is that asset allocation is more a personal process than a strategy based on a set formula. There are guidelines to help establish the general framework of a welldiversified portfolio. Building an investment portfolio that is right for you involves matching the risk-return trade-offs of various asset classes to your unique investment profile. One final point that is worthy of emphasis – when you put together your own asset allocation strategy, you should combine all your assets (i.e., your investments and retirement savings). That way you can ensure that all your assets are working together to help meet your goals and objectives. Pursuant to IRS Circular 230, MetLife is providing you with the following notifi cation: Th e information contained in this document is not intended to (and cannot) be used by anyone to avoid IRS penalties. Th is document supports the promotion and marketing of insurance products. You should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. MetLife, its agents, and representatives may not give legal or tax advice. Any discussion of taxes herein or related to this document is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be complete or cover every situation. Tax law is subject to interpretation and legislative change. Tax results and the appropriateness of any product for any specific taxpayer may vary depending on the facts and circumstances. You should consult with and rely on your own independent legal and tax advisors regarding your particular set of facts and circumstances. Copyright © 2009 Liberty Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. L0409032994(exp0510)(All States)(DC) Th is article appears courtesy of Frank Hynes. Frank is a Registered Representative off ering securities through MetLife Securities, Inc.(MSI)(member FINRA/SIPC), New York, NY 10166. Insurance and annuities off ered through Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY 10166. MSI and MLIC are MetLife companies. He focuses on meeting the individual insurance and financial services needs of people in the Billerica area.
You can reach Frank at the office at 655 Boston Road U-3B, Billerica, MA 01821 (978)528-6046 fhynes@metlife.com
November-December 2009 \ thebillericagreen.com \ 37
AN OLD FASHIONED COUNTRY HOLIDAY
For many, the holidays begin once they have stepped onto the Whiffle Tree Property. Nestled back off the beaten path on Andover Road is where you will find this classic Country Store and Candle Company. Founded in 1969 as an old fashioned country store and gift shop, two generations later, it looks much like it did back then. Unique from any other place in Billerica, The Whiffle Tree shop is described as a cornerstone in town. “You have to go out of your way to find us,” said Owner Stephen Blinn. “We’re a destination.” There is so much to see and enjoy year round on this beautiful piece of land. In the Spring, bring your own jugs and containers to fill at their natural spring. EPA tested, approved, and certified, this water comes from a protected source and is excellent quality. For only 40 cents per container, it’s an inexpensive and a very fresh option. During warm weather, visitors are also welcome to come and sit by the pond where ducks, wild turkeys and deer can be spotted on a regular basis.
“You can get away from the rat race,” said Blinn. However, the fall and holiday season are peak around here and the Whiffle Tree continues to become more famous for their candles. The Whiffle Tree Candle Company is right on site and all candles are hand crafted with 100 percent American made materials. Although they appeal to the ‘country’ customer, these fragranced candles are sought out year after year. Only two years young are the personalized gel candles. For $25 each, these candles are a votive within a votive. The inside votive has a personalized band of photos around the outside, provided in advance by the buyer. They can be holiday scenes or pictures of family members. These votives are dropped inside larger candle holders and filled with gel candle material. When the wick is lit, the glow shines through the pictures and throws shadows and highlights through the various scenes. Once the gel candle burns out, simply drop in a tea light and you can continue to enjoy this personalized treasure for months to come. It takes about seven to ten business days to create one so, email your images early to ensure they will be ready to give as very individualized and unique gifts for colleagues, family and friends this holiday season. Visit the Whiffle Tree web site at www.whiffletreecandles.com.
COMING TO YOUR MAILBOX IN DECEMBER New Year, New View, New YOU: BE successful as you step outside ‘the box’ next year and look inward, outward and ahead to those areas you resolve to improve.
Domenic’s Story: Seven year old Dominic has battled Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) his entire life. Regardless of all the hospital stays, he always keeps his sunny disposition. Find out what he got from the Make-A-Wish foundation that made him feel just like every other other kid.
Taking work outs to the edge: Winning body building contests and leaping from the top rope is some of the fun (and work) local boy Jason Barrett does to stay in shape.
The Middlesex Canal Museum at Faulkner Mills: The Middlesex Canal,dug by hand from the Merrimack River in Lowell to the Charles River in Charlestown, runs through town passing the Faulkner Mills. Visit the museum to see how one of town’s more prominent families put Billerica on the map with their renowned cloth mills.
GETTING YOUR BACHELOR’S DEGREE AT MIDDLESEX IS SMART Middlesex Community College now offers more options to students who want a four year degree. At a recent Admission Open House, held on Nov. 14 at the Bedford Campus Center, 591 Springs Road, MCC graduates were on hand to meet prospective students while division deans, faculty and staff explained the new Weekend College and transfer options available with four-year colleges or universities. MCC also offers financial aid, tutoring, disability support, and honors opportunities. Prospective students were encouraged to take a tour as well as participate in various breakout sessions tailored to meet their specific academic needs and interests.
Want more information about Middlesex? Call 1-800-818-3434 or visit their website at www.middlesex.mass.edu.
279 Boston Road North Billerica, 01862 978-262-1414 • Fax 978-262-0133
“The Veally Good Deal”
Your Dining Outlet™ SOUP
Noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
ITALIAN CRESPELLE
Zuppa Del Giorno ........................ cup $2
99
bowl
4
$ 99
Soup of the day
APPETIZER
SALADS
Bruschetta .................................................................................. 6
$ 99
Tuscan style garlic bread with chopped tomato, fresh organic basil, red onion and shaved parmesan
Caesar ..............................................................................................$599 With classic romaine parmesan garlic dressing and croutons
(aka Quesadilla) Served with fries Marinated Chicken .......................................................$699 Smoked Tuscan Beef Brisket ............................$899 Italian Meatball ..................................................................$799
BURGERS Served with fries
G’Vanni’s ...........................................................$899 Classic Cheeseburger ..................................................$699 Calamari Fritti .....................................................................$999 Insalata with bacon, lettuce, tomato Baby spinach, mushrooms, gorgonzola cheese, toasted walnuts, Italian hot peppers, fried golden squid
craisins, crispy prosciutto
Chicken Burger ..............................................$799 Antipasti Freddo ..............................................................$999 Insalata Mista ........................................................$299 / $499 Cajun with grilled pineapple, red onion, and tomato Chef ’s selection of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables Mixed greens with garden veggies and balsamic dressing
Stuffed Mushrooms .....................................................$799 Caprese ..........................................................................................$899 Fried Fishburger ................................................................$899 with tarter sauce Wing Zings or Wing Dings .............................$699 Classic Italian tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil and xvoo With blue cheese
Chicken Fingers ................................................................$699
*Salads with Chicken add $3 or Shrimp add $4
ITALIAN SANGWEECH
Fresh homemade chicken tenders with a spicy blue cheese sauce
Served with fries
Salt and Pepper Calamari .....................................$999
Italian Cold Cuts ................................................................$699
Coconut Shrimp ...............................................................$999
Veally Good Deal Wines
P.C.S. aka Pigs Can Swim ...................................$899
Veally Good Deal Bottle Wine ...$1499
Mussels red, white or spicy...................................$999
Veally Good Deal Glass of Wine .$499
Fried Calamari with fusion sauce
Scampi Loco Pazzo .......................................................$999 Crazy garlic shrimp in spicy red sauce
Crabcake ...................................................................................... 9
$ 99
Jumbo lump crabcake
with orange marmalade horseradish agri dolce sauce Scallops wrapped in bacon Fresh P.E.I.
Classic on crusty bread
American Chickolo .........................................................$899 marinated chix, pickled eggplant, roasted peppers, stinky provolone
Billerica Cheesesteak ...................................................$799 Grilled onions & mushrooms and the whiz
Eggplant Parmigiana ...................................................$599 Chicken Parmigiana .....................................................$799 Meatball Parmigiana ...................................................$699 Veal Parmigiana ..................................................................$899
Veally Good Deal Entreés Stuffed Shells .........................................................................$499 Spaghetti and Meatballs .........................................$799 Spinach and Cheese Manicotti .....................$899 Cheese Ravioli ......................................................................$699 Pizza 12'' add $1 for topping ............................................$599 G’Vanni’s Famous Meat Lasagna ..............$999 Linguine with Red Sauce ......................................$599
Sirloin Tips with dirty rice .............................................$999 Pork Tips with dirty rice ....................................................$899 Lamb Tips with dirty rice ................................................$999 Eggplant Parmigiana with Ziti ............................$599 Chicken Ziti Broccoli with Ziti ..........................$899 Chicken Parmigiana with Ziti ..............................$799 Chicken Piccatta or Marsala with Ziti ......$899
add a small salad $2.99
Veal Parmigiana with Ziti ...........................................$899 Veal Piccatta or Marsala with Ziti ...................$999 Shrimp Scampi with Linguine .................................. $999 Clams with Linguine, red, white or spicy ...................$999 Mussels Fra Diavolo with Linguine ..................$999 Fish and Chips .....................................................................$899