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BILLERICAGREEN September 2011
Lt. William West A Life of Caring and Courage
Billerica’s Yankee Doodle More Than Just a Parade
Powwow Celebration Native Traditions Next Door
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A publication of The Billerica Green, LLC PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821 www.thebillericagreen.com © 2011, The Billerica Green unless otherwise specified. All Rights Reserved. Publisher and Managing Editor Liana Measmer For information email liana@thebillericagreen.com or call 978-808-2361 Drop off locations For a complete list of drop-off locations: www.thebillericagreen.com Back Issues $5 each, available at For information email liana@thebillericagreen.com or call 978-808-2361. Make checks payable to The Billerica Green and mail to PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821 Photography To view professional photo galleries of The Billerica Green, visit www.ASAphotographic.com/BillericaGreen Art Direction Jeff Surette, Surette Creative
Ad Design Colleen Sgroi, Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery and Classes Ryan Winters, Thought Machine Design To inquire about marketing, call 978-808-2361 or email liana@thebillericagreen.com To submit online calendar/Out On The Town events, email events.thebillericagreen@gmail.com or complete the online calendar form at www.thebillericagreen.com Writers Angie Orenstein Jeffrey Bernoth Sandy Libby Jarred Measmer Ashley Martelli Karen West Julia Measmer Robert Burns Nora Fiore Jacob Measmer Jared Smith Contributors Jennifer Chubb GLICA Anytime Fitness Karen West Columnists Anjali Wali Kay Warren Atty. Jennifer O’Brien Krissy Whitehouse Billerica Clergy Assn. Paul Abrego Billerica Historical Society Sandy Libby Brian Panarese Sarah Libby, GLICA Colleen Sgroi Sonia Lacombe Dave Gagliardi The Livseys Dr. Gina Aguayo Greater Lowell Chamber John Salemme Julie Kinscheck Karen West
Mind your business.
September 2011
Photo by Frank Lane
Contents 6
Lt. William C. West A devoted family man and police officer, he was taken too soon by ALS
12 Billerica’s Yankee Doodle Read about our colonial history and the celebration that honors it
6
16 Powwow Celebration Explore native traditions and spiritual ceremonies close to home in Bedford
In This Edition
12
Voice of the Artist Court’s In Session Everyday Green Traveling Gourmets A Safety Thought Out on the Town Kids Creative Connection
See more at thebillericagreen.com
16
Printed on 50% post-consumer recycled paper. Keep the cycle going. Please recycle when you’re done enjoying The Billerica Green.
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Guess the Riddle on page 21... Win a Kindle! Find the answer in an ad. Email billericagreen.ipods@gmail.com with the correct ad and the page number. Entries must be received by midnight on August 10, 2011 to qualify. We’ll contact our winner during the weekend of August 12 and deliver your Kindle to you. Good Luck!
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Being appreciated for what you can do, not what you can’t do—that is what sets TILL apart. Proceeds from our candy sales go toward vocational training, development of artistic talents, and job coaching. Help us help ourselves. Together we can make a difference. The Billerica Green will give any company or store front who puts a TILL candy box on their counters 10% off their first month’s ad.
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2 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
From the Publisher’s Desk
Good Night Billerica. Thanks for the Memories! It is with mixed emotions I write this letter for it will be my last. This edition of The Billerica Green that you hold in your hands will be the final printed version. The Billerica Green is ceasing print publication. We re-organized last summer after the loss of our Art Director at the urging of so many. Over the last year, we worked hard to develop our design team, build close relationships with the businesses we served and raise the much needed revenue of $15K/month which was required. Our management team met regularly to brainstorm on cost cutting, marketing and growth. In the end, we gave you a beautiful, quality product that was enjoyed and we know we have done our best. The problem we encountered was our local economy, impacted by heavy media saturation in this town and a small pool of resources from which to pull. With six or more ad venues for businesses to choose from, there was only so many dollars to go around. Unfortunately, we also encountered the ugly truth that for every small business that started up, there was another small business shutting down. I have sat across the table from businesses who knew the value of marketing; they simply struggled to afford it. Equally, as the business owner, I too have given it my all for over two years. Every waking hour and ounce of energy. Often, at the cost of my health and my family. I have invested thousands that will never be returned. I hold no regret because I know we did something great here by bringing to light all that was good about Billerica. I want to thank my talented team for without them, we had nothing. Jeff Surette of Surette Creative and Michelle Surette of Stampin’ Up were my Art Director and Editor and are the epitome of team players. They ran ads, worked long hours, quickly turned around proofs, and made themselves available for anything needed. Bill Walker and Howie Shepherd of Media News Printing have been with the Green since its inception and were equally committed to our high quality standards, ensuring we looked perfect. Karen Rowe of Merrimack Special Education Collaborative organized her team of special needs adult students to deliver the Green to all our 22 drop off spots, timely and with smiles for everyone. My dear friend Colleen Sgroi of Sgroi Gallery and Art Classes has listened to me, blessed us with her art, and created ad copy that made our businesses shine. Ryan Winters of Thought Machine Design has done all his designs part time on the side yet, along
with being creatively talented, has been so easy to work with. Taryn Gillis managed pages of calendar entries to ensure everyone’s events were published. Having her as part of the team saved me hours and allowed me to put my energies elsewhere. Angie Orenstein is a talented and skilled writer who has brought a beautiful voice to all her pieces. The rest of the freelance team: Jeffrey Bernoth, Ashley Martelli, Jared Smith, Robert Burns, Karen West, Nora Fiore and Sandy Libby brought fresh perspectives to the paper. Gail and George Lucozzi of ASA Photographic have captured Billerica’s beauty through their lenses. They have been professional, always offering suggestions for making The Green even better. Thank you to all of our columnists who have wrote each month. Their ideas have spoken for the greater community and have been a tremendous contribution. Last but certainly not least, I want to thank my 3J’s-Jarred, Julia and Jacob. My children have been a large part of this endeavor, writing stories, attending events, meeting people, and sharing their mom’s excitement (sometimes). I love you, guys and am looking forward to spending time together. As for The Green, I will maintain the website (www.thebillericagreen.com) and will post photos, marketing info, calendar info and content. We have a Facebook page so be sure to ‘like’ us and get any updates we post. I will post information regarding the Heart of Billerica as well as merchandise-prints, t-shirts, etc. Back issues of The Green are $5 each and can be requested by calling me at 978-808-2361 or emailing liana@thebillericagreen.com. The Billerica Green address is: PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821. To view photos taken professionally for The Green, visit www.ASAphotographic.com/BillericaGreen. To our readers, thank you. For your kind words. Excitement over the iPods and Kindles. Story ideas. And support. We will miss you but remember: Keep Reading, Billerica! With Much Appreciation and Love, Liana Measmer Publisher and Managing Editor
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Letters to the Editor To the Editor, As we prepare to return to school, parents should be aware of the new immunization requirements for school children. Our Billerica Public Schools 2011 fall newsletter included this information. All students in grades kindergarten and grade 7 are required to have 2 MMR and 2 Varicella vaccinations prior to the start of school. Grade 7 students are also required to have a Tdap vaccine. This is a combination tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine. Students were offered this vaccine in grade 6 last year. The Billerica Board of Health supplied the school department with this vaccine.   Next year, grades K-1 and 7-8 will be phased in for 2 MMR and 2 Varicella vaccines and grades 7-8 will be required to have the Tdap vaccine. This will be the same progression that we followed for the Hepatitis B vaccine. A complete listing of required vaccines can be found at http://www.mass.gov/ Eeohhs2/docs/dph/cdc/immunization/guidelines_ma_school_requirements.pdf including those needed for college and the complete phase in schedule. Regards, Carole A. Butze, M.Ed., R.N., N.C.S.N. Director of Nurses Billerica Public Schools To the Editor, Registrations are now being accepted for the Billerica Skating Program’s 2011-2012 season. This program is open to children of all ages and classes will begin on September 24. Classes run until March 2012 and are held at the Hallenborg Ice Skating Rink on Good St. Billerica. For an application or more info, call Karen (978) 667-0893 or Paula (508) 5771242 Cell. We look forward to a wonderful year! Regards, Paula Sirignano Director, Billerica Skating Program To The Editor, The Wisdom Works Job Search Training Program helps adults 55+ learn the essential skills required for seeking employment in today’s competitive marketplace. The program was developed as part of a state wide initiative through the Executive Office of Elder Affairs in conjunction with Keystone Associates, a premier search firm in Burlington, MA.  The program is comprised of four, two-hour sessions during which job search strategies and employment goals are developed. The sessions are facilitated by Human Resource professionals who volunteer their time and expertise.
The Billerica Council on Aging (COA) is offering two new sessions to be held at the Billerica Senior Center. A minimum of at least six participants will be required for each workshop. Registration fee is $10 and payable to the Billerica COA. The two workshops will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11 and Oct. 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8. If you are interested in participating or want more information please contact COA Director, Donna Popkin at 978-671-0916, ext. 221. Thank you, Marilyn Keating Outreach, Billerica Council on Aging To The Editor, My daughter, Emma Skelton, is working towards earning her black belt this year. She is only six years old but has been studying karate at Alan Kessler’s Karate Center since she was 18 months. When students are earning their black belts, they are asked to complete a Community Impact Project. The project is of their choice but must make a positive impact and difference within their community or communities outside of theirs. This dojo is located at 7 Marshall Street right here in Billerica MA and the parking lot will be the location of the yard sale.  Emma, six, will be assisted by her brother Kelly who is fourteen and earning his second degree black belt. Emma is donating her toys (anything she does not “need�) in order to donate towards  cancer research. Emma is supporting the organization Voices of Hope and our dear friends the Wackowskis who are like family to us and both fighting cancer currently. We have participated in other cancer research fundraisers but have found that several of them used part of the donations for administrative and marketing costs to their organization. Voices of Hope ( www.voicesofhopeboston.org ) is a nonprofit theatrical organization founded 3 years ago for the sole purpose of raising monies for Boston’s Dana Farber Belfer Institute for Applied Cancer Research.  All proceeds go directly to Cancer Research.   Alan Kessler’s Karate Center is much more than a school of karate. They support charities, the community and teach how to give by example.  They’ve supported St. Jude’s, the Billerica Poice Athletic League (PAL), Victims of the Haiti Hurricane, the Historical Society, Kids Respecting Kids anti-bullying group, and the production of A Christmas Carol is open to the community as a way of give back at the holidays.  Just wanted to let you know about the gifts right in this area. My Best, Kathleen Skelton Billerica
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Enterprise Bank Spotlight: Margarita Kaliviotis By Liana Measmer
Community involvement and happy employees. This is what stood out for Margarita Kaliviotis when she started working at Enterprise Bank. This Branch Manager at 674 Boston Road came to Enterprise because of their reputation. Kaliviotis, originally from Greece, has been in banking since she was 18 years old. When she started in November 2008, she saw how supportive Enterprise was of the community and how much employees looked forward to getting involved. Kaliviotis is a member of many local organizations. She sits on the boards of The Friends of the Council on Aging, the Bedford Rotary, the Sons of Italy, the Community Alliance, and the Lions Club. “I chose the Lions Club because of their service both local and globally,” said Kaliviotis. On the Lions Club, Kaliviotis is a board member and volunteers at events. Their largest philanthropy is vision screening and they are well known in Billerica for hosting the annual kindergarten eye screenings. On an international level, the Lions send recycled glasses to depressed countries to give the gift of sight. It’s moving to hear about people losing years of their lives because they can’t see and then they get recycled glasses and their sight is restored. “It’s something we take for granted,” said Kaliviotis. To inquire about Enterprise Bank or any local organizations you read about here, call Margarita Kaliviotis at 978-656-5764 or stop by the Billerica branch near Towne Plaza at 674 Boston Road.
Gotta Dance is Performance Strong By Liana Measmer
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Heather Dinsmore and Karrie Stang go way back. They danced together at Patty Nichols studio in Brown’s Corner and now, since 2008, Dinsmore has been an instructor at Stang’s studio. Karrie Stang’s Gotta Dance Studio at 99 Chelmsford Road (Brick Kiln Plaza) will be celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, which is especially memorable, since they opened on Sept. 11. The studio has undergone many manifestations, from humble beginnings in a small church hall in Carlisle to a studio in Tanden Plaza in North Billerica to moving to its current location in Brick Kiln Plaza two years ago. Their upcoming open house is on Sept. 3 from 10 am to 12 noon. Stang has expanded to offering more classes and acquiring more teaching staff. Dinsmore pointed out that dance is not just known for its beauty and grace but for its athleticism. Through dance teams and Zumba classes, Dinsmore said, “Kids see so many more styles of dance.” Stang offers ballet, tap, hip hop, and jazz but now has included such original classes like choreography, Broadway jazz, and lyrical. In the choreography class, students aged teen and up can understand musicality and putting dance together. Broadway Jazz brings in acting and stage direction to introduce musical theater dance. Lyrical dance is contemporary and expressive but not strict like ballet. Also new this fall, Dinsmore explained that Gotta Dance is offering Homeschoolers day classes which are intended to give home schooled students the opportunity to socialize together. These classes are for students ages 5-10 years old. For adults, Gotta Dance is now offering wedding dance coaching, which are private lessons for any sort of dance style. On Sept. 3, Gotta Dance is having an open house from 10 am to 12 noon at the studio in Brick Kiln Plaza at 99 Chelmsford Road. Call the studio at 978-671-0400 for more info or visit the website www.ksgottadance.com.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /5
Back to School Special
Golden Jade Thai and Curry Tantalizing Your Tastebuds
at the end of September all items collected will be donated to local schools
By Liana Measmer You’ve come to know their store front and, even better, their signature meals. But Joy Luck Bistro is no longer situated in the Cumberland Farms plaza across from Brown’s Corner. Take a drive north on 3A to Tanden Plaza to meet their cousin, Golden Jade, and here is where you will find them. Related to the Joy Luck owner is Zen Zou and she recently opened Golden Jade at 131 Boston Road. When the restaurant needed to move, family ties ran strong and Zou took them in. Now talk of a merger, the two owners are working on combining the menus. Zou is no stranger to the family restaurant business; her father, grandfather and siblings each have owned one too. Originally from South China, Zou is also no stranger to great taste. “Everything is authentic and we cook everything fresh,” said Zou. In a time when consumers are looking at eating healthier, Zou and her family want people to know that Chinese food is still good for people. When deciding on healthy entrees, Zou looked to minimize greasiness by grilling spareribs or eliminating MSG in various dishes. To bring something new and savory to Billerica, Zou is introducing Thai meals as well as using curry. She offers red, yellow, and green curries and explains they vary in spiciness dependent on color. “Curry tastes and smells good,” said Zou. Zou explains that Thai sauces have coconut undertones which make them much sweeter. She also pointed out that Tofu and eggplant are staples in many of her recipes. She recommends a red curry with tofu while a yellow curry goes well with vegetables like string beans. Golden Jade at 131 Boston Road is open weekdays until 10 pm and weekends until 11 pm, plus will deliver within a four mile radius. They will fill large orders for group or corporate events but need the order one day in advance. Also, unique items like large trays of traditional Chinese vegetables are available for catering but may not be on the original menu. Call 978-671-5088 or 978-667-8888 to place your order today.
All in the Family
Allgaier Comes From Stylist Roots By Liana Measmer It only seemed fitting that Billerica resident Laurie Allgaier, a stylist with a chair at Carousel Cuts at 880 Boston Road, would become successful when it comes to hair. She should have. Both her grandmother and her father owned a popular salon in Arlington, MA for over 30 years. The Ritz of Arlington, where Allgaier helped out as a teenager, tended to cater to an older clientele. The customers got used to seeing a young Allgaier answering phones, cleaning brushes or sweeping floors. In 1987, Allgaier attended the Lowell Academy’s cosmetology program where she came out knowing how to be a salonist. Upon graduation, she worked part time at her dad’s salon and part time at Gail’s Salon, which also used to be in 880 Boston Road. She went on to be an instructor, teaching as a substitute, at the Shawsheen Vocational Technical High and the Lowell Academy. Although Allgaier is skilled in being a salonist, she especially loves coloring a client’s hair or having a new customer come in for a drastic change and trust her. Allgaier is skilled in a variety of color lines. She knows the difference between a water based vs. an oil based color and works well with blondes, whose light hair requires careful coloring. Allgaier recommends professionally done color and hair care. She compares this being like to a doctor who knows how to diagnose a patient and prescribe a treatment. Allgaier, can look at a head of hair and determine the damage and what is the best course of action. “I know what [my customers] need,” said Allgaier. Allgaier works with the Matrix, INOA, and Goldwell products as well as cuts and styles hair for all ages. Check out her ad in this month’s edition. To make an appointment with Laurie Allgaier, call 978-852-1197 or come to Carousel Cuts at 880 Boston Road.
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Lt. William C. West A Life of Caring and Courage When a loved one dies, we are left with a hole in our heart that is impossible to fill. For anyone who knew Lieutenant William C. West, they were touched and forever changed by him. This devoted police officer’s life was cut short three years ago when he was stricken with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
By Angie Orenstein, Staff Writer
On the Force with Pride
Bill West was born in Boston in 1937, the oldest of four children, and served in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1958. He married Angela Leone in 1963 and, after living in Los Angeles a few months, they returned from the golden state, built a home in Billerica and started a family. This included their three children: William, the oldest who also became a Billerica police officer, Kevin, and Karen. In 1968, Bill became a Billerica police officer and rose in the ranks to Lieutenant. He also became involved in the mid-1970s with building an addition to the police station, which at the time was located behind the town library. Part of his daily ritual was to check on the job and he would often take his young daughter, Karen, along with him. As an example of her father’s hard work and dedication, following a frightful incident and a trip to the ER, which turned out only to be stress, Karen recalls that on the way home from the hospital, the family stopped at the site. While Bill climbed a ladder up to the roof, Angela fretted from below, wondering if they were going to end up back in the emergency room. Richard Strunk, a retired Billerica Police Lieutenant, Bill’s neighbor, and best friend for over 30 years enjoyed Bill’s dry sense of humor. Equally, he noted Bill was always helping others before they even had a chance to ask. He said they often studied together as they moved up the ranks on the force and they even put together a police study guide and study group to help fellow officers. “Big Man had a big heart. He was a large person with a big personality and big presence,” said Strunk. “I couldn’t say enough about Bill that would praise him. You couldn’t find a sweeter guy.” Involved Family Man
Bill’s brother, Steve West, recalled being 12-yearsold when Bill, who had spent years gathering rare pennies for a collection while in the Navy, came home and gave the collection to him. Steve, who did not understand their value, went out and spent them at a local convenience store. Bill did not get mad at him which was another example of the kind of person he was. For Steve, a retired police captain who served on the Billerica force with Bill for 25 years, he still chokes up remembering. “The reason he was in the police department was to help people. Everything about his family and the police – those were his two loves.” Detective William West, Bill’s son, still remembers his dad every day. “As I walk through the corridors of the Billerica Police Department, I always look to the framed picture of him mounted on the wall, which always brings back fond memories. Without question my father was always there for me when I needed him and I will never forget.” Throughout his life, Bill had an avid interest in a variety of hobbies including reading, studying ancestry, woodworking, and ballroom dancing. He and Angela had decided to visit Arthur Murray studios for an introductory lesson in 1986. Although he strongly lacked coordination, rhythm and timing, his family said that his determination was outstanding as was Angela’s patience. “He looked authoritative in his uniform but at the same time
Photo courtesy of Karen West
could be seen dancing in the halls with his Walkman on, trying to master the latest dance steps he learned at Arthur Murray,” said his daughter-in-law, Christine. “At the police station he was known as ‘Big Man’. I don’t think this nickname was meant to only refer to his stature. It referred to his heart, his compassion, his strength.” Caring about Community Service
After more than 30 years of service, Bill retired from the Billerica Police Department In 1993 at age 55. In 1999, Bill and Angela joined Alhambra, Diego Caravan 255, an international Catholic charity organization that assists the mentally-handicapped and runs can drives and entertainment functions. At the organization’s parties, Bill and Angela danced with the children and dressed as clowns, entertaining them with hand puppets. Taken Too Soon
In November 2007 tragedy struck when Bill was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and his condition rapidly deteriorated throughout the course of the next year. Bill’s son, Kevin, reminisced about a bus full of police officers, both active and retired, traveling to Cape Cod, where Bill and Angela had moved in the late 1990s, to visit with Bill after he was diagnosed with his illness. “It meant a lot to my dad,” said Kevin. “Our family is very appreciative of everything the Billerica Police have done.” Bill passed away in his home on the morning of December 11, 2008 at age 71, surrounded by much of his immediate family. In October of 2008 Bill and Angela had celebrated 45 years of marriage. “The thing that amazed me most in my dad’s final months is that I never heard him complain,” said Kevin. “He would just ask if everyone else was okay. Through his faith he showed courage until the very end. Until his last day I never stopped learning from him. He was always there for me.” Running to Find a Cure
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that paralyzes the body but leaves the mind intact. There are about 30,000 people currently dying of ALS in the United States and around 400,000 worldwide. This disease strikes young and old, male and female. Patients, on average live between two and five years after diagnosis and while there have been great strides in research there is currently no cure. In 2009, Billerica Police Athletic League (PAL), an international youth crime prevention program, renamed their annual scholarship road race after Lt. West and proceeds now also benefit ALS. About half the money raised goes to the Massachusetts Chapter of the ALS Association and two $500 scholarships are awarded to a Billerica student going to college and majoring in Criminal Justice. On Sunday, September 25, The Lt. William C. West Jr. ALS Memorial Road Race will be held at the Irish American Club on Middlesex Turnpike. The 5K road race/walk will begin at 11 a.m. and a kids’ fun run will be held at 10 a.m. for kids age 10 and under. Preregistration fees are $15 per person ($10 for seniors, $5 for kids); or $20 to register day of the race. All runners and walkers pre-registered by Sept 2 will receive a free t-shirt. Awards will be given and there will be a barbeque and family entertainment by Curtis Knight after the race. Visit www.billericapal.org or contact Dale Sarno or William West at 978-667-1212 for more information.
Interim Superintendent is Community Focused By Liana Measmer Bill Ryan wants you to come to him if you have a problem. Our Interim Superintendent of Public Schools, who was hired Aug. 1, will only be in Billerica for one year while the search committee finds the permanent replacement for Dr. Anthony Serio. However, Ryan plans to make an impact while he is here. Ryan is part of a lot of activity at Central Services these days as there are new administrators and old ones taking on new roles. “We’re quickly becoming a team,” said Ryan. Retired in 2009 from a 39 year career in education, Ryan, who heard Serio’s first replacement didn’t work out, considered this a great opportunity. So, he applied and was chosen as an interim. “It happened very quickly,” said Ryan. Ryan worked primarily in Acton/Boxborough where he had been a teacher before becoming Superintendent for ten years. During his tenure, his district saw a sharp increase in enrollments and thus needed to accommodate by adding more buildings and staff. “We had a lot of challenges,” said Ryan. Ryan learned that the communities owned their schools and, when new ones were built, they were built with that in mind. He knew families and residents would be gracing the halls as well. “We had to think about how to make them the center of the community,” said Ryan. Ryan has been spending time getting up to speed. He was sworn in on the Parker School Building Committee. He is getting to know the school committee members. He is trying to get out to each school as well as participate in community events. “I’m trying to meet as many people as I can,” said Ryan. Anyone with questions, should email him at wryan@billerica.k12.ma.us or call his assistant, Fran O’Donnell, at 978-528-7908 to make an appointment.
One Woman’s Path to Success
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /7
265 Boston Rd. Billerica, MA 01821 (Located behind Chris’ Ice Cream Shop)
Making better drivers for tomorrow.
1-978-66-DRIVE a jails and villains get out. Even though they have super powers, you have to go and capture them. Every time you beat an island you get a medal. I like it because you have to figure stuff out and it’s a lot of fun.
By Karen West Kathy Brosnahan thought the flyer she found on her car windshield at Market Basket was tacky marketing, but when she got another flyer again from Bay Path College in the mail, she wondered if it wasn’t some kind of sign. Brosnahan, a life-long Billerica resident, is not your typical college student. After obtaining her GED from Billerica Memorial High School in 1978, she self-taught to become a Certified Dental Assistant. She later secured a position in Concord as a Dental Assistant in 1991; a job she still holds today. The only additional schooling Brosnahan had was a 6-week course at Boston University for her Radiology certification. Brosnahan raised three children single-handedly and later, when her father suffered a stroke, Brosnahan took him in and provided his home-care. After his passing, she felt it was time to do something for herself. She had always wanted a college degree so she began to research adult women’s colleges that would fit her needs. Her search ended and another journey began the day she applied for the One-Day Bay Path College program, an accelerated, full-time degree program for women only held on Saturdays. Although there are three different Massachusetts sites of which to choose, Brosnahan attends on the Burlington, MA campus. She initially questioned whether she could balance school along with work and the financial debt that often comes with higher education. Now at 50, she is completing courses in Executive Business Management. “The most surprising aspect about returning to school is I’m able to do the rigorous course work,” said Brosnahan. She did so well she received perfect marks at the end of each session; however, trying to maintain that 4.0 GPA left her feeling as if she was missing out on something even more important -- her friends and family, which now include grandchildren. Being an admitted perfectionist, she struggled with “letting go” of that perfect ‘A’ but finally came to the conclusion that she needed to better balance her school work and home life. Brosnahan’s goal after receiving her Bachelor’s degree is to teach dental assisting, either on the high school or college levels, and continue working in pediatric dentistry, as she loves working with children. “Bay Path College allowed me to see myself as an intelligent, successful woman and I will have the degree to prove it!” said Brosnahan.
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CHILD CARE PROGRAMS ~ IN COLLABORATION WITH BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS ~ EARLY BIRD *
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99 Chelmsford Rd • Billerica, MA 01862 (978) 667-0300 • anytimefitness.com
Having A Safe Place to Grow for All 27th B&G Tournament Raised Needed Financial Aid By Liana Measmer It was encouraging to see this year’s Boys and Girls golf tournament on Aug. 12 have such a strong showing. Over $40,000 was raised by 108 golfers which will go toward offsetting costs of awarding financial assistance to club members who need it. To date, this was the most raised in the 27 years the tournament has run. According to the Boys and Girls Club website, this club offers programs and services which promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. After spending the morning on the course, golfers were treated to a lunch buffet at the Billerica Country Club and bid on numerous auction items. One new hot item that brought on a bidding war was the 99 Restaurant’s Tailgate Experience. They come to your home and host a cookout for you and nine friends. NMTW Community Credit Union came in first place with the best score of 57 and the Enterprise Bank team came in second place with 59. Golf Committee Chairman and Board Member Jim O’Connell pointed out that, although this is ‘for the kids’, each year the committee must get more creative when coming up with ways to fundraise. This year, a ‘Super Raffle’ was created. Decks of playing cards were used as the tickets and torn in half with chances at 14 different prizes. This brought in over $2,000 of the final number. The Boys and Girls Club was thankful to the 34 sponsors who donated $300 and the 10 who donated $1000. The Demoulas Foundation again was the Elite Tournament Sponsor with their $10,000 donation. Nine companies donated services and helped. “They are what puts us where we have to go,” said O’Connell about all the sponsors. For more info about the club and making a donation, visit www.billericaboysandgirlsclub.com.
Get Inspired at Anytime Fitness Open House By Anytime Fitness and Liana Measmer Stress manifests itself in many ways. For Kathy Aldred, stress meant gaining 45 pounds last year and taking its toll on her health. Recently, Aldred was a winner of one of Anytime Fitness’ worldwide ‘Feel Like a Million’ scholarship and was chosen because of her determination, generosity and inspiration. According to Anytime Fitness, approximately 1,000,000 individuals worldwide entered the “Feel Like a Million” campaign which encourages people to Win, Give, and Inspire. All of them had good reasons for wanting to join a gym. Paralegal, step mother, and caretaker to her recently deceased parents, Aldred was juggling a lot. In 2010, she joined Anytime Fitness and began a new lifestyle of healthy eating and working out many times per week. She lost 30 pounds and inspired her teen step daughter to lose over 20 pounds. “This story personally touched us because of Kathy’s inspiration to her daughter,” said club owner Wade Winters. “Teens go through such a hard time at that age as it is; it’s even harder when you’re overweight.” On Sept. 9 and 10, Anytime Fitness at 99 Chelmsford Road (Brick Kiln Plaza) will be hosting open houses and tours. On Friday, the open runs from 10 am to 7 pm. Saturday, the open house is from 8 am to 2 pm. This and many other motivational stories await. “My hope will be that someone reads this article and is inspired to join and begin a healthy lifestyle,” said Aldred. For more info about Anytime Fitness or the upcoming open houses, call 978-667-0300 or stop by at 99 Chelmsford Road (Brick Kiln Plaza) in North Billerica. Come in and be inspired! “Anytime Fitness is proud to support [Kathy] on her journey and privileged to have her as our member,” says Winters.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /9
Protected Beyond the Limits MVINS Check-up Offers Security By Liana Measmer With back to school season upon us, parents with teens are facing some hefty price tags. Tuition. Driving classes. Off-campus apartments. Young drivers. You may think that your homeowner’s insurance or car insurance will fully cover things like your student’s apartment or your teen getting behind the wheel. However, that may not be the case, which could mean even more money should an accident occur. The good news is that agents from Merrimack Valley Insurance (MVINS) at 655 Boston Road, Billerica are ready to answer your questions and walk you through your coverage options when it comes to life changing events. They can also make you aware of a variety of available discounts. “A policy can always be tailored,” said Tony Lucacio, Owner of MVINS. “ [People] should take advantage of all discounts by consulting with an agent.” Surveys report as many as 70 percent of college-age students owning or having access to cars. If brought on campus, parents need to consider where they park it, if they lend it to friends, and if they are willing to be the designated driver, in order to avoid damages. Although exciting for college students to live in an apartment while away at school, renting off-campus housing means protecting computers, televisions, bicycles or furniture, from being destroyed or stolen. Young drivers can’t wait to get their licenses, but consider this: if your teenage driver accidentally injures someone or damages their property, you could be sued. Even if your underlying policies provide liability limits, it is common for courts to award damages which exceed those limits. What can you do? Consider an umbrella policy. According to the MVINS website, umbrella insurance is typically purchased at a low cost to you, but will provide enough coverage so you shouldn’t have to worry about liability costs in the future. According to Lucacio, for as little as $175 per year, a million dollars’ worth of coverage can be purchased over and above standard auto and home policy. “Umbrellas are an inexpensive means of security,” said Lucacio. For more information on products from such quality companies as Safety, Plymouth Rock, Vermont Mutual, and Commerce Insurance, call 978-667-2541 or visit www.mvins.com today.
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Since beginning, Billerica’s Farmer’s Market has grown to offer a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, and baked goods. A great place for all ages, they also feature crafters and local entertainment. They are on the Senior Center lawn every Monday from 3 – 7pm until October 24th. Photo by ASA Photographic
Every Monday until October 24th 3 – 7 pm Senior Center, 25 Concord Road
Freshest Sweet Corn, Tomatoes THEATER – MUSIC – COMEDY – DANCE – IMPROVISATION – STORYTELLING & WHATEVER YOU DO! NOW ACCEPTING ACTS – WWW.NEFRINGEFESTIVAL.COM
Squash, Meat, Honey, Eggs, Baked Goods, Crafters and Entertainment
TIX: www.NEFringeFestival.com 978-667-0550
380 Cambridge St (Rte 3A) Burl.
www.billericafarmersmarket.org
10 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Out On The Town ACTORS Inc.
Marie DiCiaccio, Box Office Manager 978-984-3151 SANDBAG, STAGE LEFT (or, One Dead Dolly!) November 18, 19 & 20.Evening and matinee performances. At the Tewksbury Senior Center. Tickets $45 per person. Includes a buffet “all you can eat” dinner and the show. Group ticket discounts available. Reservations are required.
Anytime Fitness
Brick Kiln Plaza, 99 Chelmsford Road, N. Billerica 978-667-0300 Open House: September 9, 10am – 7pm and September 10, 8am – 2pm
Atlantis Playmakers
380 Cambridge Street, Burlington 978-667-0550, www.atlantisplaymakers.com www.nefringefestival.com New England Fringe Festival Registering acts of all genres – theater, music, comedy, dance, puppetry, magic, mayhem and more! Performance and matinee slots are available for Saturdays and Sundays September 17–October 2. For more info, call 978-667-0550.
Billerica BMX
www.billerica-bmx.com, 781-791-4507 Visit the website for info on races and fundraisers.
The Billerica Council On Aging
25 Concord Road, Billerica 978-671-0916, www.billericacoa.org Open Monday to Friday 8:30am – 4pm. Sign up for scheduled activities at the front desk. September 1: Men’s Group, 1p.m September 2: No Yoga, No Line Dancing, No Quilting, No Zumba. September 5: Closed on Labor Day. September 7: Caregiver Support Group, 10am; NO Office Hours for Senator Donnelly. September 8: Reiki Clinic, 9 am; Pharmacy Clinic, 10am September 9: New Zumba Class, 11:45am. $40 for 8 weeks. September 12: Return of Billerica Bandstand!, 11am, $3 per person; Beginner 1 Computer Class, 10:30am, $15 for 6 weeks. September 13: Podiatrist Appts, 9am; Beginner 2 Computer Class, 10:30am, $15 for 6 weeks; Chronic Disease Class, 12:30pm for 6 weeks. September 14: Grief and Healing, 11am; SHINE, 9am; Internet Class, 10:30am, $15 for 6 weeks. September 15: Email Class, 10:30am, $15 for 6 weeks. September 16: Zumba, 11:45am (2nd class) September 17: Yankee Doodle Parade, 9:30am
September 19: Learn about Lifeline from Winchester Hospital, 10am; Beginner 1 Computer Class, 10:30am; Billerica Golf League BBQ, noon September 20: Beginner 2 Computer Class, 10:30am; Chronic Disease Class, 12:30pm, Wisdom Works, 6pm September 21: Hearing Screenings, 9am; Internet Class, 10:30am September 22: Reiki Clinic, 9am; Pharmacy Clinic, 10am; Email Class, 10:30am September 23: Zumba Class, 11:45am September 24: Senior Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, 11:30am September 26: Beg. 1 Computer Class, 10:30am September 27: Book Club, 12:30pm; Beginner 2 Computer Class, 10:30am; Chronic Disease Class, 12:30pm; Wisdom Works, 6pm September 28: SHINE, 9am; Meditation, 10:15am; Internet Class, 10:30am September 29: History Lecture on “Covered Bridges”, 10am; Email Class, 10:30am September 30: Zumba, 11:45am NEW VAN HOURS: Monday & Friday: 8:30am – 3pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:30am – 4pm. $2.00 Round-Trip. Van rides to medical appointments and errands in Billerica only. Call Ruth at 978-671-0916 x229 to schedule an appointment. 2-day notice is required. COA TV program, Forever Young: Monthly TV program available on Comcast Channel 8 and Verizon Channel 31. Saturday 5pm; Sunday 7:30am; Monday 8:30am; Wednesday 6:30pm; Friday 12:30pm. For more info, contact Donna Popkin (dpopkin@town.billerica.ma.us) or Linda Kiernan (lkiernan@town.billerica.ma.us).
Billerica Historical Society
P.O. Box 381, Billerica Clara E. Sexton Memorial House Open Houses 36 Concord Road August 7, 1 – 3pm; September 4, 1 – 3pm; September 17; Yankee Doodle Homecoming, 9:30am – Noon; October 2, 1 – 3pm
Billerica Homeschooling Assn.
978-362-2188 www.billericahomeschooling.com September 7,14, 21, 28, 11am – 2pm, Playground Socials September 30,11am – 2pm, Not Back To School Picnic.
Billerica Lions Club
Joan DiOrio mamajd@aol.com or Joan Parcewski jparcewski@gmail.com September 6, Lions Club bi-monthly meeting September 17, Lions in Yankee Doodle parade/ volunteers for Yankee Doodle activities September 19, Lions at Farmers Market
September 20, Lions Dinner Meeting; Leos Club Member Installation September 27, Lions Board Meeting
Courageous Catholic Women
BMHS Class of 1991
20 Year HS Reunion, Saturday, November 12 www.newenglandreunions.com/html/reunions/2011/bill_91(1112).phtml
Saint Andrew Catholic Church, 45 Talbot Avenue, North Billerica Fran: 978-387-3155 or fmb0427@verizon.net September 12, 7pm CCW meets second Mon. of the month in Fr. Wilson Hall. Free and open to all interested women in the greater Billerica area.
BMHS Class of 2001
Ditson School Association
10 Year High School Reunion, Saturday, September 17. Send updated addresses to: Ambika Wali ambika.wali@gmail.com. Don’t forget to join the “BMHS Class of 2001” Group on Facebook!
Billerica Moose Lodge
ditson2.billerica.k12.ma.us September 13, 7pm The first DSA meeting is in the cafeteria and all Ditson parents are welcome.
First Congregational Church
Billerica Public Library
15 Concord Road, Billerica, 978 671-0948, www.billericalibrary.org The Life of a Honeybee Colony and its Beekeeper September 15, 7pm. Birgit deWeerd will talk about a year in the life of a honeybee colony.
Reverend Catherine Adams, Minister 18 Andover Road, Billerica 978-663-6264, www.firstcongo.org Sunday Worship: 10am Sunday School classes: 10am starting Sept. 18 Little Angels Playgroup for preschoolers: Wednesdays 9:30 – 11am Yankee Doodle New England Boiled Dinner: Saturday, Sept. 17, 5 – 7 p.m. Rally Day: Sunday, Sept. 18, 10am for all ages includes special service, Sunday School, followed by cookout with games and live music.
Billerica Recreation Department
First Parish Church
104 Boston Road, Billerica Craft & Vendor Fair Sunday, Sept. 18, 9am – 3pm $25 per table, bring your own table and tent. Contact Crystal at CLPeverill@hotmail.com.
248 Boston Road, 978-671-0921 billrec2@town.billerica.ma.us www.town.billerica.ma.us (click on Recreation) Upcoming Motor Coach Tours September 24: Bourne Scallop Festival; dinner, entertainment, shopping and more! Cost: $79 pp September 23 – 25: Adirondack Balloon Festival; 3 Days/2 Nights at Surfside on the Lake, meals, entertainment, cruises and Balloon Festival with fireworks. Cost: $469 pp/twin September 24 – 26: Buffalo with Patriots game; program includes 2 Nights at Hilton Fallsview Hotel, ticket to see Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills and more! October 1 – 4: Cooperstown and Lake George; 4 Days/3 Nights. Travel to Cooperstown, NY and visit MLB Hall of Fame & Farmers’ Museum. Scenic train ride, two nights at Lake George; meals including dinner show; boat cruise; and Saratoga Casino. $499 pp/twin.
Billerica Skating Program
Hallenborg Ice Rink, Good Street Billerica Karen 978-667-0893 or Paula 508-577-1242 Registrations being accepted for the 2011/2012 season. Open to all age children. Classes begin on Sept. 24 and go thru March 2012.
Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Center 12 Andover Road, Billerica 978-667-1009, www.colleensgroi.com Fall Art Classes – begin September 19.
7 Concord Road, Billerica Yankee Doodle Flea Market Saturday, September 17, 9am – 4pm (no early birds) Friday Night Open Mic September 23, 7:30. Refreshments available for purchase. Suggested donation $5. For info: Bob Leger 978-667-3762
Frank M. Hynes and Associates
330 Boston Road, North Billerica, 978-528-6046 FREE College Planning Workshop Thursday, September 22, 10:30am – 12:30pm and 6:30 – 8:30pm. At the Billerica Public Library Meeting Room, 15 Concord Road.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Mass.
Pat Leverone thomasleverone@comcast.net Billerica Girl Scout Information Night September 13, 6:30 – 8pm at the First Parish Church, 7 Concord Road. Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts welcomes all girls in grades K-12.
Growing Minds Preschool
131 Boston Road (Tanden Plaza), 978-262-2258 www.growingminds-preschool.com Fall Open House: September 10, 10am – 1pm
Karrie Stang’s Gotta Dance
99 Chelmsford Road, #3 (Brick Kiln Plaza), North Billerica, 978-671-0400 Fall Reg. Open House: Sept. 3, 10am – 12pm
Kennedy Elementary School
kennedy.billerica.k12.ma.us Read-A-Thon! Tuesday September 20 at Chilies
Night of Hope
Sunday, September 18, 7pm. Bennett Library, 3 Concord Road, Billerica Billerica concert and fundraiser benefitting needy children in Central America and Billerica! Featuring the Julie Kinscheck Band and local teen sensation RIA and others. Appetizers and presentation by Hope Worldwide included. $20 suggested donation.
First Annual ONE 27 GALA
October 8 Introducing One 27 Academies and to raise financial support for the construction of the One 27 Academy | Grace Children Center Naivasha
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www.RelayForLife.org/BillericaMA 781-314-2678 or Rebecca.Harnois@cancer.org October 5, 6:30pm Committee Meeting, Boys and Girls Club of Billerica November 2, 6:30pm Kick Off, Billerica Town Hall November 19 Bra Art Auction, TBA
Saint Mary’s Autumn Craft Fair
Saint Mary’s Church Hall, 796 Boston Road October 15, 10am – 4pm. You will find an assortment of great items to purchase. CRAFTERS NEEDED! Table rental is $25.00. Contact Janice at 978-667-0406, jamkem1@verizon.net or Nancy at 978-663-176, steeplesisters@aol.com.
Billerica $239,900 Adorable & affordable! 1 car garage. Brand new W-W in 2 bdrms & LR. All appliances stay. Central Air!!! Updated heating, hot water, roof & windows.
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
70 Concord Road, Billerica, 978-408-6927 Sacrament meeting 10am – 11:10am Sunday School 11:20am – 12:05pm Men and Women’s groups 12:15pm – 1pm Primary ages 18 mon. to 11 yrs 11:20am – 1pm
The Learning Experience
210 Treble Cove Road, Billerica 978-667-5437 www.thelearningexperience.com “Back to School” Open House September 10, 10am – 2pm. Visit and learn about the exciting new programs for the new school year.
Billerica $345,000 WANT A 1ST & 2ND FL FAMILY RM! 3-CAR GARAGE? 4 bdrms. Nicely landscaped lot w/ irrigation sys, stone walls and AG pool.
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The Visitor Center is on Faulkner Street in North Billerica. 978-670-2740 middlesexcanal.org MCA Board of Directors’ Meetings: First Wednesday 3:30 - 5:30pm. Members and the public are invited to attend. 9th Annual Middlesex Canal Bicycle Ride Saturday October 1: Meet 9am at the Middlesex Canal plaque, Sullivan Square T Station, follow the Canal route 38 miles to Lowell and return by train to Boston. Visit website for more details. Fall Walk. Sunday, October 16, 1:30pm Middlesex Canal, Winchester/Medford. ~4-mi. level history walk along canal route. Info on our website or Roger Hagopian (781-861-7868 to 10pm) L Robert Winters (617-661-9230; robert@ middlesexcanal.org).
Relay for Life American Cancer Society
Saturday, September 17th 12 to 4 pm
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Middlesex Canal Association
To join call Queen Mother Virginia McGrath of the Bodacious Ladies in Billerica at 978-667-8747 or email her at bluedaddy@comcast.net. No meetings, just lots of fun, laughs and activities.
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18th Annual Golf Tournament & Awards Dinner, Monday, September 12 Meadow Creek Golf Club, 80 Meadow Creek Drive, Dracut Registration: 12:30pm, Shotgun Start: 1:30pm. $800 per foursome includes green fees, cart, lunch & dinner. Dinner only: $30, served at 6:30pm. For info contact Debbie Callery at 978454-7272 or dcallery@mvfb.org
Red Hat Society
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Merrimack Valley Food Bank
www.rcscomputersolutions.com 978-606-5432 Keeping Your Home Computer Safe September 19, 7:30 – 8:30pm. FREE Workshop at the Billerica Public Library, 15 Concord Road.
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Billerica Irish American Club 616 Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica Sunday, September 25. The Kids Mini-Fun Run (ages 10 and under) begins at 10am, the 5K Road Race/5K Walk begins at 11am. Registration on race day 8:30am to 10am. Pre-registration fee is $15.00, on race day it is $20. Seniors (65+) the cost is $10.00, kids $5.00. Please call Officers Dale Sarno or William West at 978-667-1212 for more information, or download a registration form at www.billericapal.org
RCS Computer Solutions
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Lt. William C. West Jr. ALS Memorial Road Race
and for the orphans and street kids in Naivasha, Kenya. Dinner, great entertainment and silent auction and raffle. Tickets are $45 per person. For more info & tickets call 978.735.4668.
Look for our Sand-Art booth at Yankee Doodle Homecoming
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in Wilmington Read-a-Thon kickoff. Book basket raffles. Log onto the Kennedy School website for a Chilies flyer. Please bring the flyer with you.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /11
Billerica $315,000 3 bedroom, 2 full bath colonial. 1 car garage. Huge kitchen w/ corian counters, tile flooring & tile back splash. Fantastic neighborhood.
Billerica $459,900 In-law potential! Gorgeous fully aplianced kitchen. F-to-b living room. F-t-b master w/ vaulted ceiling, 3-season porch & skylight. Too many updates to list.
TOPS Chapter #253
linda.rebel13@gmail.com Tuesdays 5 – 7pm Taking off Pounds meeting, Town Hall, Tuesdays. Weigh-in times 5 – 6pm, meeting 6 – 7pm. Contact linda.rebel13@gmail.com for more information. Now is the time to become healthy!
Town of Billerica September 11 10th Anniversary Commemoration
Town Common Sunday September 11, 2011, 11am For more info, contact St. Theresa’s, 978-663-8816
Billerica $289,900 3 bdrm 2 bth cape. Master w/ walk in closet. 4 seasons rm. HW LR & DR. HW stairs. Finished lower level. New roof. . 1 car garage.
Call us TODAY! 978-671-4466 Independently owned and operated. Licensed in MA and NH
478 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 01821
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12 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Billerica’s Yankee Doodle More Than Just a Parade By Angie Orenstein Painting by Colleen Sgroi Most people, even young children, can belt out the famous patriotic song Yankee Doodle Dandy without even thinking about it, and our minds conjure images of the tune being played on a flute or fife or whistled by soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Yankee Doodle went to town, A-riding on a pony Stuck a feather in his hat, And called it macaroni. Yankee Doodle, keep it up, Yankee Doodle dandy Mind the music and the step, And with the girls be handy.
Ditson’s Revenge When it comes to the last verse, however, there are several variations, one which is believed to be a reference by British troops to Billerica’s own patriot, Thomas Ditson Jr. Yankee Doodle came to town, for to buy a firelock We will tar and feather him, and so we will John Hancock. Ditson, a young Billerica farmer during the Revolutionary War, went to Boston on March 8, 1775 to sell vegetables and buy a musket, a common purchase for farmers during those times. A British soldier sold him a musket but then called in British troops who accused Ditson of buying arms and trying to persuade a British soldier to desert. Ditson was stripped, tarred and feathered and paraded through the streets to the tune of Yankee Doodle. This punishment was not only humiliating but also painful and sometimes resulted in death, as the subject would first be shaved, then have boiling tar poured over him, covered by a cushion of feathers. Outraged citizens of Billerica banded together and joined the rebellion as Minutemen, along with Ditson who had survived his ordeal.
America’s National Song Yankee Doodle Dandy is considered America’s first national song, but its origins are clouded in mystery. Throughout the span of about 150 years, the lyrics were often changed and expanded upon, possibly having as many as 190 verses at one time, some even originating from The Netherlands. Traced back to numerous European tunes, the melody was originally thought to be a child’s nursery rhyme. The term macaroni refers to the flamboyant manner of dress that had become popular among English and European aristocrats. Dandy meant one with affected
manners and dress. Yankee was the British word of contempt for New Englanders. A doodle was a simple person from a rural area – how the British viewed the American colonists. The lyrics imply that the act of sticking a feather in your hat does not make you aristocratic. The ironic part is that this song, which was being sung by the British to ridicule the Americans, ended up being used by the Americans for inspiration to rally their own troops.
Yankee Doodle Town In recent times there has been some controversy over the song as some states argue over whom is the original Yankee Doodle. In 1988, Billerica Town Meeting voted to adopt the slogan “America’s Yankee Doodle Town”. Connecticut, who named Yankee Doodle as their state song, claims that their Governor Fitch is the original Yankee Doodle. The state of New York has challenged Massachusetts several times by sponsoring a bill to designate Rensselaer, NY as “Home of Yankee Doodle” because many believe that a British army surgeon named Richard Shuckburg wrote the song while observing colonial soldiers gathered at a fort located in Rensselaer.
Billerica’s Homecoming Celebration Every year since 1991, the Town of Billerica celebrates Yankee Doodle weekend, a community event taking place in September, which features fireworks, food vendors, crafters, flea market, music, games, group demonstrations, and a
homecoming parade. In its very first year, a resident named Barbara Hagan marched in the parade, proving strong historical significance because her great, great, great, great-grandfather was Thomas Ditson. This year’s festivities will be held the weekend of Sept. 16, 17 and 18, with the theme Community Time Capsule. Each year there is a different theme for the weekend but Reduce Reuse Recycle is a secondary theme that is always in place. At the recycling tent there will be a spot where people can donate items to send to military personal overseas and postage will be paid for. A list of needed items will be posted on the Yankee Doodle website. The variety of entertainment has changed from year to year but in keeping with the historical significance of Yankee Doodle, the weekend always features a Colonial Minutemen encampment made up of Minutemen Associations from surrounding towns that join Billerica’s to re-enact a colonial skirmish. This includes a re-enactment of the Ditson tar and feathering, safely using molasses in place of tar. Who is the victim who gets to be tarred and feathered? Usually a willing member of the community. Other events include the bike and doll carriage parade, cookie decorating, sand art, tug-of-war, donut eating, a magic act, canine show, and Mad Science of Boston who this year will present something new for the kids- their special slime machine. “The main concept is based around town pride, “said Joan Parcewski, immediate past president of Billerica Yankee Doodle Homecoming, “One weekend a
year everyone puts everything aside and just comes out and has a good time.” In the past, events were more spread out across town and there was also more taking place on Sunday. Now the vast majority of activities are held all day Saturday due to lower turnout Sunday. Another change, she said, has been adding a greater variety of food. Instead of just hot dogs and hamburgers, vendors who provide more unusual and ethnic foods are invited. One year a vendor served jambalaya, a spicy Cajun rice and meat dish. The parade begins on Saturday at 10 a.m. starting at the center of town and heading down Boston Road to Marshall Middle School. That section of Boston Road will be closed to traffic during the parade only. Events and activities are held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the fields next to and behind the high school and town hall. Fireworks take place at dusk at the Marshall Middle School but can also be seen from streets around the area. At the Marshall there will be food vendors, a band, and some other activities all beginning at 6:30 p.m. “Because there are more organizations in town, there is more participation,” said Parcewski. As a culmination of the weekend’s events, the annual Duck Race, a fundraiser for the Billerica Athletic Association will take place on Sunday at 5 p.m. with a truckload of rubber ducks being dumped into the Concord River off the Pollard Street Bridge. Ducks can be purchased throughout town and during Yankee Doodle weekend. For those with the winning ducks there are several prizes including a $3 thousand cash grand prize. The entire Yankee Doodle weekend costs about $50,000 so the committee relies on community grants and business sponsors. Donations are strongly encouraged and appreciated. They are also always looking for volunteers to donate their time to help run booths and perform other tasks. If interested in helping please contact one of the committee members listed on their website www.yankeedoodlehomecoming.org. On this site, there is also more information about Yankee Doodle history and a complete listing of events for Yankee Doodle weekend. *sources: Billerica Public Library archives
The Green Light to Great Driver’s Ed
BDS Instructor’s Real World Accounts Compliment Curriculum By Liana Measmer Billerica Driving School at 99 Chelmsford Road (Brick Kiln Plaza) doesn’t just teach teens for today. Their goal is to make them safe, courteous and responsible drivers for tomorrow. Their objective is to instruct in a way which is fun and entertaining while educational. Instructor Dennis Larocque has been teaching since he was 18 years old. Now at 24 years old, he still stands by his philosophy of understanding, not chastising and relating, not lecturing. The knowledge his students gain likely decreases the chances of costly, injurious or possibly deadly collisions. Peppered in his presentation of all the standard registry curriculum are Larocque’s experiences. He was a teen not so long ago and his stories illustrate the very points he tries to make. “It’s those times the kids enjoy the most,” said Larocque. When discussing speeding, safety, law enforcement and 911, Larocque tells the story of racing his pregnant sister-in-law to the hospital when her water broke and how his quick thinking got him a police escort in order to arrive safely. Then there’s the discussion of drinking and driving, with car crashes as the leading cause of death for teens and one out of three of those being alcohol related. Larocque shares how, as a teen, he snuck out of the house and ended up at a party where everyone was intoxicated. He had to call his parents to come and get him and was scared they might be angry. Larocque explains it wasn’t so bad and he encourages teens to call their parents in these situations. “They might be angry but they’d much rather get this call than from the police to identify a body,” said Larocque. Brandon Chasse of Billerica was asked to describe his driver’s ed experience at Billerica Driving School and he reported: “The Class was fun and I learned alot. Dennis is the coolest teacher.” David Chando of Billerica exclaimed, “Dennis is amazing!” To inquire about Billerica Driving School’s patient instructors and comfortable learning environment, call 978-663-8600 or stop by their classroom located at 99 Chelmsford Road in the Brick Kiln Plaza. You can also get info on their website www.billericadrivingschool.com.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /13
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An Affinity for Community
Weichert at Yankee Doodle, Sponsors other Local Organizations By Liana Measmer For Kim Cook, owner of Weichert Realtors Cook and Company, giving back is personal. This animal lover and sports enthusiast looks for ways to help out around town wherever her passion lies. Sponsoring youth lacrosse, Pop Warner football, Pop Warner cheerleaders, and Little League are only a few ways she enjoys engaging with her community. “I just love baseball,” chuckled Cook. Cook is also passionate about her hard working agents who will approach her with lots of opportunities to get involved. Through working as a Realtor, she has met coaches, other business owners and town leaders. She has supported the Friends of Music and the Billerica Police Union. She has helped the Cat Care Coalition and has sponsored a local Red Cross blood drive. All of this involvement helps Cook and her agents really know Billerica and this is information they pass onto her clients. If buyers have questions, Cook’s team is quick to answer them. “It’s caring about the community,” said Cook. “ I like to support as many as I can as a local business.” On Yankee Doodle weekend, Cook and her agents will be participating in the celebration by running a sand art booth. Having done this activity for three years, it’s evident Cook is excited to interact with all the families who will visit her table on Sept. 17 from 12-4 pm. “We make it fun,” said Cook. Historically, her booth has been near the fire station but she recommends checking the Yankee Doodle schedule for exact details. For more information about Weichert Cook and Company, call 978-671-4466 or visit their website at www.cookandcompanyre.com.
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14 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Pho N’ Roll Delivers Vietnamese Flavor to You By Liana Measmer
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Pat Phung is a success story. Traveling from Vietnam, he eventually made to Boston, graduated with an engineering degree, and worked in computers for some time. In 2001, Phung decided to go into the restaurant business. He used his mother-in-law’s recipes for inspiration and decided to cook his native meals for others. “She’s a good cook,” said Phung about his mother-in-law. Although Pho N’ Roll at 258 Salem Road also offers Chinese food (formerly the Twenty Eight Restaurant), Phung is confident his new Vietnamese taste will win over even the most staunch Chinese take-out consumer. “Don’t be afraid to try something new,” said Phung. So what exactly does ‘Pho’ mean? Translated: beef noodle soup. This staple of Vietnamese cuisine is a filling and popular item on the menu, no matter what time of year. Pho is prepared in an aromatic beef broth with scallions, onions, and cilantro and comes in a large bowl. It is served with bean sprouts, basil, mint and lime. “It’s a good size,” said Phung. “It will fill you up.” A lot of raw vegetables are used in Vietnamese cooking, keeping meals healthy and light. The Vietnamese salad is popular, featuring cooked meats with mint, basil, cabbage, and peanuts. Or try the Vietnamese ‘roll’ made with soft rice paper, which has been pre-soaked in water. This ‘paper’ has the consistency of cooked pasta and wraps around cooked meats, raw vegetables and traditional rice vermicelli. Fresh spring rolls can be made by the restaurant or order all your favorite fillings and roll them yourself, for a fun way to get your fingers into your meal. “Add as much as you like and do it the way you like it,” smiled Phung. Pho N’ Roll at 258 Salem Road is open weekdays until 10 pm and Sundays until 9:30 pm (closed Mondays). They deliver for $2 with orders of $10 or more within a 3 mile radius. Call 978-362-8269 to place your take out order today or visit www.phonroll.com to view their menu online.
Making the Impossible Possible Local Officer Perseveres on Reality Show By Karen West
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Jim Vaglica, Dani Henderson and Rob Robillard weren’t told by their superiors of where they were going or what to fully expect when they got there. These police officers weren’t dispatched to a motor vehicle accident or to a domestic disturbance call, but instead to Expedition Impossible, a reality show on the ABC network where teams face difficult challenges and situations each week. The Cops, their team , cross-trained very seriously with the biggest obstacle being the weather. Since they began at the end of January, they had a foot of snow on the ground each week. The team found themselves snowshoeing for aerobic exercise. Vaglica said, “We were all doing conditioning work, mixing up resistance training with weights and doing it at a fast pace.” The show took place in Morocco. Upon arriving at a resort, the teams were sequestered so alliances were not formed. However, the Cops bonded with the New York Fire Fighters and with the Fishermen from Gloucester. On the first day of competition, Vaglica faced a sand dune mountain which was harder than anticipated. It took the team four hours to climb and descend. Then they had to get on camels, which none of them had been exposed to. Trying to get some sleep at night was also challenging since setting up camp was rarely simple. Generally, teams would have to set up their own tents. For most part, tents just had the roof and no sides, so tarps were used if it rained. Bugs were everywhere and overall, people assumed every insect was poisonous. One morning Henderson woke up with a caterpillar on her pillow and her face swollen and red requiring the show’s medical team to administer Benadryl. The one time Vaglica felt as if he couldn’t continue was on Atlas Mountain. At 12,000 feet, he got altitude sickness and couldn’t do anything, but lay down. The teams were camping in the snow and Vaglica relied on his teammates to dry his boots and socks by the fire. “Our first goal was to make it halfway and once we made it halfway, we made a decent showing,” said Vaglica Vaglica had no contact with family and though he wanted to get back, he knew he’d miss the adventure. Vaglica described Expedition Impossible as an incredible experience. “As difficult as it was, I wouldn’t trade it,” he said.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /15
F.O.C.U.S Program Starts the Healing Process By Ashley Martelli, Correspondent Finding options for change, understanding, and safety (F.O.C.U.S) is a grant funded program that is associated with the Mental Health Association of Greater Lowell. This program offers FREE counseling and case management services to anyone in the state who has been a victim of crime and/or drunk driving—no proof of legal citizenship or health insurance required. An important part of this program is the client doesn’t have to be the primary victim— clients include immigrants seeking international asylum, spouses whose wives were sexually abused as a child, people who’ve witnessed crimes, or someone whose relative unfortunately got murdered. The crime does not have to have been reported to the police to access the services of the program either. Vannak Kong, the Bilingual Advocate at F.O.C.U.S., stated this program extends to anyone in the greater Lowell community and Merrimack Valley area and currently, has 30 open cases that are receiving case management and/or counseling services. “We don’t turn clients away, and our success is simply measured by the amount of people we serve,” said Kong. “We provide services to most age groups. The majority of our clients fall in the age group of 25-60.” The health counseling program is short term, lasting between six months and one year. Counselors assist with stabilizing clients’ lives and getting them active with community services in the area for when they finish with F.O.C.U.S. The case management program assists with applying for health insurance, accessing resources such as housing, shelter, or financial assistance, and social security. For those who need it, F.O.C.U.S. also offers an interpreting service available in English, Spanish, and Khmer. Other languages can be arranged as well. “Our clients report that this program was helpful and we frequently hear back from past clients who thank us and share positive feedback,” Kong discussed. An interesting fact is more women than men utilize the program, more men call asking about their services. If you would like some more information please call 978-458-6282 or visit their website at www.mhalowell.org/focus.
LSBAC Loan Fund Helps Small Businesses Flourish By Jeffrey Bernoth, Correspondent Starting your own business can be quite a difficult task; luckily there are programs such as the Lowell Small Business Assistance Center (LSBAC) to help you get on your feet and headed in the right direction. LSBAC is a subsidiary of Community Teamwork Incorporated (CTI) and its mission is to help ethnically and economically diverse groups to create and sustain small businesses. The center offers entrepreneurial training, workshops, technical assistance, and even a crisis intervention service. Training seminars are available to budding entrepreneurs in the form of six understandable sessions, which Executive Director Stacie Hargis describes as a “’toolkit’ to make sure everything is covered. LSBAC has recently announced its new Microloan Fund Program, which will be available to low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs of the Merrimack Valley. The loan, of up to $5000, can help benefit a micro-business (usually of five or less employees) that has been in existence for twelve months. There is variety of small businesses eligible for the loan; the borrowers could be a group of farmers or a little bakery that needs to pay for a piece of equipment. Microloans offer a unique and beneficial alternative to regular bank loans. Small business owners may not have experience with traditional banking or have had the opportunity to establish credit, and it’s not very often that big banks do the paperwork for small loans. Not only will a program like LSBAC distribute the loan, but will work with the entrepreneur to make it feasible and will be on hand to assist and perhaps even educate the borrower on the ins-and-outs of banking. In the end, big banks are happy too, because more people become accustomed to traditional banking as their businesses grow and they collect wealth. LSBAC’s parent company, Community Teamwork Incorporated, was started in 1998 with a mission to help low-income people become self-sufficient, and to steer them in directions that will benefit their lives. LSBAC was founded in 1998 by CTI, in conjunction with Middlesex Community College and Enterprise Committee, and has received numerous awards since its beginning. For LSBAC, the new Micro Loan Fund is a big step which will add an opportunity to assist businesses financially to its established reputation of providing great technical assistance. Eventually they aim to apply to the FDA to become an official lender. Until then, they are celebrating their opportunity to help others, or in other words, an opportunity to create opportunities!
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16 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Spiritual Circles... Native Traditions... Powwow Celebration By Sarah Morning Flower Libby Greater Lowell Indian Cultural Association Photos by Greater Lowell Indian Cultural Association
Powwows are a term a lot of people associate with Native American Indian culture today and are a great way to share with other peoples, both native and non-native. On September 17 and 18 at 12 noon, GLICA (Greater Lowell Indian Cultural Association) will be hosting our 29th Annual Bedford VA Powwow at 200 Springs Rd, Bedford, MA.
Your Local Hosts GLICA, a non-profit Native American Indian organization in the Merrimack Valley, started in 1960. We are a family orientated group of Native American Indians that come together to acknowledge and share our religion, culture, spirituality and traditions in accordance with the ways of our Ancestors. GLICA is composed of many different tribes of people from various Indian Nations. Our strength lies in our diversity and our ability to live in the present while holding on to the past and looking forward to the future of our people. Grand entry to the powwow is at noon both days. Admission and parking is free. It is one of the largest powwows in New England, with many different tribes represented. One can experience singing, drumming, dancing and native crafts for sale from East coast and West coast tribes.
Curative Ceremonies The term “powwow” is derived from the Narragansett word ‘pauwau’ which originally referred to curative ceremonies. The term soon passed into English as a word referring to any Indian gathering or as a verb meaning to ‘consult in council’. In Indian society, it came to mean a secular event featuring group singing, dancing and general gathering of native peoples. Historically, tribes in North America held summer ceremonies celebrating successful hunts, food gathering, or warfare. These ceremonies allowed people to give thanks, honor their deceased relatives, or deal with special honors such as name giving ceremonies, adoptions, and coming of age rites. Often such ceremonies involved dancing and feasting. These summer reunions took place at prearranged locations and dates. All tribal members would gather for social activities and religious ceremonies which reaffirmed unity, while clans and societies held their annual rites and found their cultural traditions strengthened.
A Way of Life Today Powwows are not just intertribal gatherings today. They are still a way of life that embraces diversity in our tribes. These events help to bridge national borders, as well as political, social, cultural, spiritual, and ideological boundaries. Today at powwows, Native people pay homage to past, present, and future generations from all tribes. They create a physical and spiritual circle in which many tribes may share their traditions, languages,
songs, dances, foods, and blessings. Perhaps most importantly, powwows represent cultural survival and the perseverance to celebrate and maintain Native identity into the 21st century.
Powwow Etiquette When experiencing a powwow there are some basic rules, just as it would be if someone was visiting any other ethnic, cultural, or religious event. We at powwow often refer to this as “powwow etiquette.” It should be noted that every powwow is different so the first rule is the most important. The key is respect, and many “first timers” don’t have access to the life-long teachings that we take for granted. The following are general rules to follow when going to a powwow: 1. Listen to the Master of Ceremonies. 2. If you want to take pictures, please ask permission first. 3. Please do not permit children to enter the dance circle unless they are dancing. 4. Do not touch anyone’s dance Regalia without their permission. These clothes are not “costumes”. Yes, we use modern things like safety pins because we are a “living” culture and our Regalia is subject to change. 5. Leave your stereotypes at home. (Yes, there are some blonde Indians!) 6. Most powwows do not allow alcoholic beverages or drugs. The powwow is a time of joyful gathering and celebration of life. 7. Remember always: Native American Indian dances are more than the word “dance” can describe. They are a ceremony and a prayer which all life encompasses and produce many emotional and spiritual reactions. Some dances are old, some are brand new... the culture continues to live and evolve. 8. Respect everyone, Non-Native and Native alike, especially ELDERS! Treat everyone with respect and kindness. Look out for the children. Treat everyone as you would expect to be treated. 9. Finally, have a good time! Above anything else, powwows are social events in which to see old friends and meet new ones. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and engage in conversation with traders, dancers, singers and other powwow participants. If you are curious and would like to know more or experience one for yourself, please join us. Many of us enjoy and embrace the opportunity to share our stories and history with people, young and old. Bring your family and have a great time. If you would like any further information about this event, please call Chief Tom Eagle Rising Libby at 978-677-7153.
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /17
On Aug 7, Bubbles the Elephant was on hand to greet the 40 people who came for The Learning Experience Carnival Day Open House. Here Colin Dahill who’s almost two years old, says ‘hello’ to his blue friend. Colin’s parents, Tracy and Steve commented that Colin loves the center and now knows his colors and numbers.
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Rising pop star and Billerica resident, Ria Eaton, brought seven young performing acts together to honor and raise money for Bella Tucker, the nine year old gymnast from Londonderry, NH who lost all her limbs due to a life threatening infection. The group, between admissions and raffles, raised just under $750 toward new prosthetics for Bella. Here Ria and Bella pose for a smile.
The New Golden Rule
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Voice of the Artist
By Colleen Sgroi
I read a quote today claiming to be the new golden rule for women: “We must do unto ourselves as we would do for others.” Let that sink in. Meditate on that for a bit and if you are a woman reading this you will know that if we ever would take care of ourselves like we take care of our families, friends and even co-workers we just may find peace and true happiness, but most of all we would find self-love. If you notice, the new golden rule does not say take care of yourself at the expense of others nor does it say take care of yourself, then take care of others. I can feel your hearts finding relief in my just pointing that out. So what does it mean? For me it means asking others for help. I find I am the first to help others and yet the last to ask for others help. I am becoming aware of how much I limit myself by doing this. By not asking for help, I limit all the options that are out there in the universe just waiting to come my way and I rob others of the joy of helping me. With awareness comes the grace to change how we do things. For until we see, how can we change? Maybe, for you, asking for help comes easy and the place that you struggle with is forgiving yourself. You may be quite willing to forgive others but forgiving yourself is another thing altogether. Alternatively, maybe you would buy anything for your loved ones but spending money on yourself is the last thing you do. If any of these things ring true to you, I ask you to try something new. Go out and buy something for yourself, just because. Let yourself off the hook for the unforgivable you have committed and ask for help just because you can! Loving ourselves will result in loving others... trust me on this one! Colleen Sgroi is a teaching artist at Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes, 12 Andover Road, Billerica. www.colleensgroi.com. You can continue to follow “Voice of the Artist” blogs at atreeisknownbyitsfruit.blogspot.com.
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18 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Everyday Green
A Safety Thought
Stay Cool and Hydrate
By Sandy Libby
As our parks continue to improve and develop, the need for shade and water is an issue that keeps being addressed. These two things really help us to stay cool, stay out of the sun, and hydrate, which makes the experience more enjoyable. When we put in the Pinehurst playground last spring, we were able to put it near some big shade trees. Then, thanks to AS&E, Kids Konnection Playground and Lampson Recreation Complex got lots of trees that we hope will develop and flourish. Joe Murray at JP Murray Landscaping has also helped a lot, from unloading large trees for planting to recently pruning along the front fencing at Micozzi Beach. Fortunately, we have two beautiful sites with maps and trails, Manning State Park and Vietnam Veteran’s Park, which are forests. There are trees of all kinds to be enjoyed at these sites and are naturally cool places to go all year round. Another great shade maker that is utilized a lot for picnicking and relaxing are our gazebos. The Kids Konnection’s shade structure was refurbished and Kohlraush Park got a big new gazebo thanks to the Boy Scouts. Another area that would benefit from one is the sandbox at the Kids Konnection. This is one of the many projects that are available through the Recreation Department for anyone interested in helping. Now, water is another thing that will regulate and is vital to your body. Manning State Park has the water park that is great for cooling off, but did you know that we’ve installed our first ever outdoor bubbler in Billerica this summer? Lampson Recreation Complex now has a water bubbler adjacent to the refurbished playground. It will soon be accessible for all sports goers in the area to enjoy. If funding allows, we hope to put one in at the Kids Konnection entrance also. So our safety thought brings us to utilizing the shade to get away from the harm and heat of the sun and drinking lots of water when exercising. These are important all year round and our parks should continue to develop to meet our community’s needs. Sandra P. Libby, M. Ed., CPSI is the author of “Hey! Let’s Play” a book on playground safety, a Certified Playground Instructor, and a S.A.F.E. certified educator. To reach her with questions, email her at psplaysafe@yahoo.com.
The Yesterday and Today Intergenerational Program, funded by a grant from Lahey Clinic, brought teens and seniors together to learn about their generational differences and similarities. Here Helga Raffaelo, Joe Allan, Barbara Kukas, and Rachael Hamwey try to figure out trivia questions on their last day together in August. Organizer Margie Doyle said the program brought ‘more understanding in a different way.’
The ABC’s of Being Green
By Sonia Lacombe
Always remember the three R’s... Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Bike or ride the bus instead of driving. Clean green with all natural products like vinegar and baking soda. Donate goods you can’t recycle or sell. Eat produce from the Environmental Working Group’s 15 Cleanest Fruits and Vegetables in place of produce from the Dirty Dozen list. Both lists are available at www.ewg.org/foodnews. Filter your tap water instead of buying bottled water. Go outside! Turn off the TV and video games and let your kids explore outdoors. Hit the local library or used book store for books, CDs, and DVDs instead of buying new. Install timers to automatically adjust your thermostat when you’re sleeping or out of the house. Juice up your cell phone with a car charger or computer USB port. Both charge more efficiently than a wall plug. Keep rain water, to water plants or wash your car, by installing a rain barrel. Launder clothes with ½ to ¾ of the manufacturer’s suggested amount for less waste and cleaner clothes. Make the most of each car trip by combining as many errands as possible. Nix meat at least once a week for better health and a reduced carbon footprint. Opt for energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs. Purchase energy-efficient appliances to replace old ones as they wear out. Quit topping off your gas tank. It’s bad for your health and the environment. Recharge your (rechargeable) batteries instead of using disposable batteries. Shower instead of taking a bath. Toss food scraps and yard refuse into a compost bin to make your own organic fertilizer. Utilize what you already have before buying anything new. Visit farmers’ markets to support local farmers while getting fresh, locally-produced food. Wash with fragrance-free soap. Using only fragrance-free personal care products helps avoid chemicals that are harmful to your health and the environment. X April 22, Earth Day, on your calendar. Then, check earthday.org for community cleanup opportunities. Zap away less energy by unplugging appliances, like toasters and coffeemakers, when they’re not in use. For more green living tips visit everyday-green.blogspot.com.
BMHS Sophomore Awarded National USAA Tribute By Jeffrey Bernoth, Correspondent Every year, the United States Achievement Academy pays tribute to outstanding students in grades 6 through 12 in schools across America by providing scholarship opportunities and by listing them in the nationally published Official USAA Yearbook. One such student is Billerica Memorial High School’s Priyank Patel who received his award for his abilities in the area of mathematics. Entering his sophomore year this coming fall, Priyank was pleased to receive his award and noted that math is his favorite subject. His hard work caught the attention of his math teacher at BMHS, Theresa Hamelin, who selected him to receive the USAA Award. “I selected Priyank because he is a highly motivated, focused student,” says Hamelin. “He’s very serious in his quest for knowledge and his work ethic is impeccable. I was impressed with his study habits and preparation for class. Priyank is a young man of outstanding character and potential.” Priyank believes in the importance of time management and the weighing of priorities when it comes to getting his schoolwork done. He sets aside time every night for his studies. “In high school, if you don’t study,” he says simply and seriously, “you just won’t pass.” Priyank, like other nominees, is now eligible to apply for USAA scholarships granted regionally. Though he has a few years to go, Priyank says that after high school he would like to study in the area of medicine. He knows the medical realm is vast, and is looking forward to the variety with surety that he will find one, if not many, areas to interest him. In the meantime, Priyank is participating in Billerica’s Sunday Night Hoops program. After having played Billerica Youth Basketball for many years, the sport is still his favorite thing to do. His favorite books are the Harry Potter series because he says he’s very taken with the world of fantasy. Priyank is looking forward to his junior year and this nomination has strengthened his already fierce resolve to succeed.
Mediation Pros and Cons
Q:
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /19
Court’s In Session
Under New Ownership! Formerly G’Seppe’s 279 Boston Road, Billerica, MA peppercorns-restaurant.com 978-262-1414
By Attorney Jennifer O’Brien O’Brien Law Offices
My wife and I have decided to get divorced after being married for 10 years. We don’t want to spend too much money on attorneys so we are thinking about going to a mediator. Is this a good idea?
A:
Many people who contact my office frequently ask me this very same question. Although I do both mediation and individual representation, my answer depends on the individual’s situation. Just like anything else, mediation has its pros and cons. The advantages of mediation are, first and foremost, cost. The mediator’s fee is generally divided equally between the parties. Rather than running to court and paying attorneys to advocate their interests, the parties will meet together with the mediator at her office, usually several times, and negotiate a deal. The mediator may also separate the parties during a portion of these meetings to speak with each party individually. While a mediator can tell the parties what a judge may do in Probate & Family Court, since she does not represent either party, she generally will not give legal advice. Certainly negotiating your own resolution can be better than having a judge order something of which neither party is satisfied. Since both parties want to feel comfortable with and trust the mediator, it is generally not a good idea for one party to meet the mediator ahead of time without his spouse. Mediation unfortunately also has many disadvantages. It is vital that both parties be open, honest, and do not withhold information, financial or otherwise. Additionally, both parties must be extremely amicable toward one another or communication can break down very quickly. If there is domestic violence or if one party is very passive, mediation could result in one party entering into an agreement she would not have otherwise if adequately represented by an attorney. Finally, if the mediation is unsuccessful, the cost will be greater than it would have been if the parties had retained their own attorneys, as they are now liable to pay both the mediator and their respective attorneys. Even if a divorce is successfully mediated, it is always a good idea for each party to have his own attorney simply review the proposed agreement before it is filed in court. For a nominal fee, obtaining a second opinion can save years of hardship down the road. Jennifer H. O’Brien is the owner of O’Brien Law Offices located at 630 Boston Road, Billerica. For info, call (978) 262-9880 or visit 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.
The Importance of Exercise for your Dog By Jennifer Chubb, Owner Peace of Mind Personalized Pet Care Solutions It’s no secret that exercise has a tremendous effect on our health. Some of the benefits of a regular exercise program include weight control, increased energy and strong muscles. Your dog will reap the same benefits of exercise which can help burn nervous energy and reduce boredom, making them less likely to be destructive or develop annoying behaviors such as excessive barking. Exercise is playtime in their minds and the bond that grows between you and your dog when you increase their playtime will make them love you all the more. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before you begin. Your dog should receive a routine examination to make sure their health is good and it’s safe to proceed with your exercise routine. Start with moderately paced exercise for 10-15 minutes a day and gradually increase time and distance as they get accustomed to it. This will give them a chance to build strength and stamina without straining muscles. Allow your dog to walk or jog on soft surfaces in the beginning. Soft or tender pads can become sore or tear under stress. Also be aware of hot surfaces in the summer that can burn their pads. If it is too hot for you to walk barefoot on, then it is also too hot for them. Make sure nails are trimmed so they won’t hang or rip. Always keep an eye out for signs of fatigue such as trouble breathing, excessive panting or a rapid heart rate. Be sure to keep plenty of water on hand. If your dog wants to stop, let him. Varying the types of activities such as walking, swimming, jogging, playing ball or chasing a Frisbee are great ways to keep them enthused. For a real change of pace, take your dog to the dog park to play with other dogs. He’ll not only burn lots of calories, but he’ll get to socialize and make new friends! If you work long hours or are unable to give your dog a once daily walk for a minimum of 15 - 20 minutes, you should consider hiring a professional dog walker to ensure that your best friend is reaping the benefits of daily exercise! For more information about our pet care and dog walking services, visit www.peaceofmindpetcare.net or call 978-835-2269.
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Kids Creative Connection Luck Poetry Contest Winners Chosen By Liana Measmer Surrounded by pizza and smiles, Dawson Waite, Sarah Perry, and Madelyn Allen shared their thoughts about writing. These three lucky kids were the winners of Megan Libby’s Luck Poetry contest she ran for her Girl Scout Silver Award. There were 30 qualified entries which were reviewed by three judges at the end of July. Libby noted more girls than boys entered and a majority of the entries were in the 8-12 year old range. The poems had to have seven lines with seven words in them. “More people are interested in poetry than I thought,” said Libby. Seven year old Madelyn Allen is a student at the Vining and she titled her poem ‘Flowers’. This was due to enjoying her summer vacation and seeing flowers starting to grow. She loves author Shel Silverstein’s poems and likes writing and drawing flowers. Dawson Waite is ten years old and wrote about weekends. This was because this was family time for him. This was Waite’s first poem and he’s decided he likes writing now. “I [tried to] think about all the things I really like and want to do all the time,” he said. ‘Secrets’ was the title of 12 year old Sarah Perry’s poem. She is more accustomed to writing rhyming poems and enjoys her language arts classes at the Innovation Academy in Tyngsboro. When asked if keeping secrets is hard, she smiled. “It depends on the secret,” said Perry. Megan Libby, assisted by her mother Sandra Libby, hosted a pizza party at Sal’s Pizza on Boston Road where certificates were presented to the winners. Libby plans to now submit her project to the Girl Scouts for approval and hopefully, receive her Silver Award.
Winner Ages 4-7 Madelyn Allen, Age 7 Flowers They are colorful, fragrant and bring smiles. Starting as a seed, water and sun. Bees take the pollen to make honey. A good gift for special things done. Petals long and short reach for sun. Place them all around for pretty decoration. Warm weather, longer days, laughing and playing.
Winner Ages 8-11 Dawson Waite, Age 10 Perfect Sleeping late, no homework, seeing friends; Weekends Creative, fun, using only my imagination; Legos Cookies and cream, sprinkles on top;Ice-cream Hotdogs and peanuts, singles and doubles; Baseball Swimming, diving, fun in the sun; Pools Cute and cuddly, big and small; Animals All are great but “family” is... perfect!
Winner Ages 12-15 Sarah Perry, Age 12 Secrets Life has many challenges: saving secrets, one Once given away, it is gone forever You can never take it back again Carefully tuck it inside your deepest memory Guard it with your mind and soul When you keep it safe, people appreciateWhy would you give that trust away?
Young Sailors
Let’s Talk About It With Julia
Gamer’s Den
By Jarred Measmer
By Julia Measmer
By Jacob Measmer
Beginner Boats
Junior Journalist
Poptropica.com
Over the past few months, sailing has become a rising interest and a lot of fun for me. Usually, I’m sailing on my dad’s Hunter H22, which is a 22 foot sloop. If you are just learning how to sail, there are other boats you should try first before jumping to a 22 footer. These boats are easy to manage and less expensive. I consider the most affordable to be the Sea Snark, starting at about $850. It’s easy to sail and it doesn’t usually flip over. The downside is it is made from Styrofoam. The Super Snark differs from the Sea Snark because it has plastic covering around the Styrofoam. These start at about $950. The Sunflower is longer than the Super Snark has a 55 foot sail and starts at $1200. All three boats are 50-55 pounds and are easy to car top. The Sunfish is a foot longer than a Sunflower and weighs about 83 pounds. They flip over if you don’t sit on them properly so be pretty careful especially if you are still new at this. You will need a good roof rack or trailer. Sunfish start at about $4200. The Optimist is eight feet long and starts at about $2000. It’s a jon boat which means it doesn’t have a pointed bow. It’s easy to cartop with ratcheting straps. Sailing is a good family activity once everyone gets the hang of it.
This month I interviewed Police Chief Dan Rosa. It was really cool. He gave me a tour of the police station. I got to see a holding cell and try CPR on a doll.
Poptropica is a virtual world where kids travel the islands of Poptropica. There are 21 adventure islands like Mystery Train Island, Shrink Ray Island, Red Dragon Island, Wimpy Wonderland, Wild West Island, Cryptids Island, and Early Poptropica. I have a few favorites. On Mythology Island, you meet Athena, Aphrodite, Zues and Poseidon. On Spy Island, you are a secret agent and you get to use different gadgets. On Time Tangled Island, someone destroyed the future and you have to go fix it. On Big Nate’s Island you get to walk around with Big Nate story characters like Teddy and Francis. On Super Power Island, a meteor crashes into a jail and villains get out. Even though they have super powers, you have to go and capture them. Every time you beat an island you get a medal. I like it because you have to figure stuff out and it’s a lot of fun.
Q: What does a police chief do? A: I’m in charge of the police department and ambulance and I manage the budget. Q: Did you start out as a police officer? A: Yes, I did. I was a patrol officer on the midnight shift. Then I was a DARE officer. Then a detective, a sergeant, a Lieutenant, and then Police Chief in 2001. Q: Have you ever arrested someone? A: I have. I did more of that when I was a patrol officer. What I miss most is the police work. Q: Are there jail cells here? A: Yes. We do hold prisoners here. They come, they get booked, fingerprinted and a picture gets taken. Q: Do you drive a police car? A: I do. It has lights and a siren but it’s an unmarked car. Q: What’s hard about your job? What’s exciting? A: Having to make the tough decisions is hard. It’s exciting never knowing what could happen on any given day.
3 J’s Corner
September 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /21
Congratulations to Travis Bordeaux! He was our Kindle Winner for August 2011. The correct answer to August’s Riddle was Route 4 Donuts on page 3. This month we had 195 entries which were CORRECT! Thanks to everyone for playing! Although we won’t be printing again (if you missed that info, read the Publisher’s Letter on page 2) we still have ONE MORE Kindle to give away. The winner’s photo will be posted on our website www.thebillericagreen.com. So, here’s the last riddle:
What do noodles, beef broth, rice paper, basil, vermicelli and mint have in common? Where would you find all these? Which ad am I? Email us the ad, your phone number and the page number to billericagreen.ipods@ gmail.com. Entries must be received by midnight on September 10th to be eligible. We will ONLY get in touch with the winner and will post the results online at www.thebillericagreen.com. You will hear from us by September 12th for delivery. Questions may be emailed to liana@thebillericagreen.com. Other rules apply: Billerica residents only please. No families or employees of the business selected for this Kindle, none of The Billerica Green advertisers, and no Billerica Green family or team members may enter this contest. GOOD LUCK!
Seen here are Sally and Digger McCaffery, part of the organizing committee for the Billerica Country Club Golf for a Cure Tournament, with a group of friends prepraing to tee off. This was the seventh annual tournament run by this non-profit organization, comprised of cancer survivors and their friends/family. This year, Golf for a Cure raised over $100,000, with $67,000 going to Greater Lowell Hospice. The remaining money is divided among fifteen local charities all focused on cancer research and treatment.
Route 4 Donuts Breakfast is Worth the Trip
Traveling Gourmets
By Sherry and John Livsey
We went to breakfast at Route 4 donuts this weekend and boy what a treat! We were so impressed with the clean, comfortable atmosphere of this adorable shop. With 10 flavors of iced coffee and homemade doughnuts, this little neighborhood, family run establishment is a nice alternative to fast food. I ordered the “Basic 1” which was 2 pieces of French toast, 2 eggs, 4 slices of bacon, and some orange slices. John ordered a sausage and onion omelet which came with 2 pieces of toast. He also ordered an amaretto iced coffee. It was nice to watch the food being prepared to order right behind the counter. The homemade quality of the food was apparent on sight. As I took my first bite of mouthwatering French toast, I was reminded of my mother cooking us breakfast on Sunday mornings when I was a child. With a dusting of cinnamon and confectioners’ sugar, this light and luscious toast just melted in my mouth. The crisp bacon and fluff of scrambled eggs were served on a separate dish so that the syrup didn’t run from the French toast onto the eggs. The fresh orange wedges added a healthy touch to the meal. John’s omelet was enormous and bulging with sausage, cheese, and onions. He chose the whole wheat toast on the side. He said the omelet was very fresh and delicious with a nice browning on the outside of the egg. We were later told that it was a 5 jumbo egg omelet which is equivalent to 8 regular eggs. Most customers, we were told, do not finish the whole thing (John did). Route 4 Donuts offers a sizeable breakfast and lunch menu including egg sandwiches ranging from $1.75 - 3.25 and Panini or wrap sandwiches ranging from $4.99 – 6.99. They offer 10 flavors of iced coffee including café au latte, peppermint, amaretto, cherry, Irish cream, French Vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, mocha, and coconut. The menu also includes 8 smoothie flavors and a variety of teas. The quality and quantity of food served at these prices is remarkable and really worth a visit.
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22 / thebillericagreen.com / September 2011
Please join the
Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce for the
16th Annual Business to Business Expo September 22, 2011 Radisson Hotel & Resort 10 Independence Drive Chelmsford, MA Admission is FREE and open to the public
Premier Sponsor
Sponsors
Business Awards Luncheon: Noon – 1:30pm Business Expo: 2 – 6pm ATTENDANCE IS FREE! Evening Mixer: 6 – 7:30pm
Taste of Greater Lowell, Business Resource Area, Costco Raffle & More!
Visit our website at www.glcc.biz for complete schedule or call Carol at 978-459-8154 for more information. facebook.com/greaterlowellchamber twitter.com/greaterlowellcc youtube.com/greaterlowellchamber tryitlocal.com/greaterlowell
Wooster Roofing, Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, PrideStar EMS