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THE

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BILLERICAGREEN August 2011

Fall Youth Football Preview Get Ready for Gridiron

Summer’s Still Here Beat the Heat with Cool Treats

Billerica’s Beautiful Gardens Step into Backyard Getaways

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The Billerica Green is now accepting nominations for

The Second Annual Heart of Billerica Awards Last year, we gave out ten awards, honoring remarkable unsung heroes.

Help us recognize those with heart once more.

Do you know someone like this?

Someone who truly has heart? A neighbor? A student? A mentor? Who do you know that enriches our lives just by living theirs? We Want to Know!

Here’s how to tell us: Please describe in 200 words or less how this person demonstrates true heart. They should be a citizen or someone who works in Billerica doing something for Billerica.

Although you can’t nominate yourself, you can nominate someone else. Adults can nominate children and children can nominate adults. Parents can’t nominate their own children.

No public figures, political leaders, etc. will be considered.

Mail nominations to The Billerica Green, PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821, or email an attached text document to publisher@thebillericagreen.com. Nominations must be received by midnight August 10, 2011.

All nominations will be reviewed by a selection committee. Recipients will be chosen, notified and announced in the August edition. Their stories will be published in the September edition.

An awards ceremony will be held in early September to celebrate those with heart. Location to be announced.

Inquiries can be sent to the email address above or by calling The Billerica Green at 978-808-2361.

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 news, columns, letters, or submissions email editor@thebillericagreen.com or call 978-808-2361 Subscriptions Non-Billerica Residents: 12 issues, $25 email mailing address to: subscriptions@thebillericagreen.com or mail with check payable to The Billerica Green The Billerica Green, PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821 Drop off locations For a complete list of drop-off locations: www.thebillericagreen.com Back Issues $3 each, available at Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery and Classes, 12 Andover Road, Billerica and The Billerica Green Offices, 880 Boston Road, Suite 6A, Billerica. Call for hours of availability.

Cover Photo by Gail and George Lucozzi, ASA Photographic www.asaphotographic.com Art Direction Jeff Surette, Surette Creative

Be a Cut Above The Rest Die Cut Business Cards

Ad Design Colleen Sgroi, Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery and Classes Ryan Winters, Thought Machine Design To inquire about advertising, call 978-808-2361 or email advertising@thebillericagreen.com For insert mailing services, call 978-808-2361 or email greendirectinserts@ thebillericagreen.com. Deadline: The 10th of each month.

To submit Calendar/Out On The Town events, email events.thebillericagreen@gmail.com or complete the online calendar form at www.thebillericagreen.com Deadline: The 10th of each month Writers Angie Orenstein Jarred Measmer Julia Measmer Jacob Measmer

Jeffrey Bernoth Ashley Martelli Robert Burns Jared Smith

Contributors Jennifer Chubb Norma Cavicchio Dianne Bone The Learning Experience Adria Orenstein Columnists Anjali Wali Atty. Jennifer O’Brien Billerica Clergy Assn.

Billerica Historical Society Brian Panarese Colleen Sgroi Dave Gagliardi Dr. Gina Aguayo Greater Lowell Chamber John Salemme

Photo by Frank Lane

Sandy Libby Karen West Nora Fiore

Caldwell Photography RCS Computer Solutions Dept. Of Public Works, Water Division Lisa Fudge Julie Kinscheck Karen West Kay Warren Krissy Whitehouse Paul Abrego Sandy Libby Sarah Libby, GLICA Sonia Lacombe The Livseys

Fall Art Classes

Contents

August 2011

Out On The Town Calendar Event Coordinator Taryn Gillis

6

Cultivating Eden and Restoration Station Billerica’s best gardens beg you to explore

12 Fall Youth Football Preview Pop Warner and Junior High offer football for all

6

16 Sunny Adventures Sweet treats and cool hangouts mean summer is still here

In This Edition

12

Voice of the Artist The Sunny Side of The Street Caregiver’s Circle The Marketplace Passport Possibilities A Higher Calling 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.

Start week of September 19th

mixed media • cartooning • drawing furniture painting • oils • acrylics • watercolors homeschool • mommy & me • adults • teens

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Guess the Riddle on page 18...

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!

Have an Affair with the Bennett Billerica center’s crown jewel - an event setting like no other. An intimate historical space available for rental: • Meetings • Reunions • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Showers • Weddings

For more information, visit www.bennettpubliclibrary.org.

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.

Till Central Inc 267 Boston Road #2, North Billerica, MA 01862 978-663-5094 • tillcentralbillerica@tillinc.org

2 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

From the Publisher’s Desk Positive News Sells

I was sitting in a restaurant recently which boasts TV’s in every corner. I looked up to see the daily news flashing across the screen. Every place in the world the anchor focused on, reported someone else’s demise. Murders. Assassinations. Car accidents.

Natural disasters. Scandal. So much pain and suffering. So much destruction. When I could tear my eyes away for a second, I realized my hand had flown up to my mouth in horror.

Then I thought about The Billerica Green and how positive news sells. Regardless of what is going on in the world, it’s nice to know that in your hometown, there are lots of things to celebrate. Lots of things that are good. Lots of things to find comfort in. Here at the paper, we strive to bring those things to you. To show you all that is good in Billerica and beyond.

It’s been a hot summer around here but there has been no shortage of good things happening around here. The Farmer’s Market took off and is bringing something new each week into Billerica. Don’t despair if a lot of farmers haven’t made an appearance yet. As harvest continues to happen, more and more produce will arrive.

August will prove to split our focus. A sort of ‘in-like-the-lion-out-like-the-lamb’ thing. We open with summer but we wrap up with Back-to-School so we tried to tackle both. In honor of the Farmer’s Market and the ensuing harvest to come, we looked at Billerica’s gardens. Our own Garden Club quietly beautifies a lot of the public space we take for granted. Plus, don’t you love the shed on the cover? The Parker family ‘s passion for their yard and their shed is undeniable. We went on to begin a fall youth sports series by looking at two youth football options. Should football players be grouped by weight or by age? You decide.

Lastly, don’t forget to send us any last minute Heart of Billerica Awards nominations. We have received many heartwarming letters about local people with character and heart. Deadline is August 10th.

As usual, I am thankful for the best team around who also make a difference every day, here and in their worlds. (Thanks everyone. I couldn’t do it without you.) Share your feedback with us as it is always welcome. Plus let us know about the topics that matter to you so we can make the Green even better. Call me at 978-808-2361 or email me at liana@thebillericagreen.com.

Keep cool and keep reading, Billerica,

Traditional Service meets Smart Technology.

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Price Reduction! Lovely Center Entrance Colonial.

Fireplace living room, hardwood floors through out the first floor. Plenty of space in the kitchen with center island. 4 spacious bedrooms with a full bath in the master bedroom.

Relax on extra large deck over looking private and beautifully landscaped lot.

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Beautifully maintained. Newer kitchen with custom cabinets, imported Italian tile kitchen floor. Expandable lights over island for lighting or warming. Open concept is perfect for entertaining. Hardwood floors thru out. Sliders off dining area to deck overlooks well manicured fenced in yard with inground pool and cabana. Lower level finished for inlaw potential, extended famly or use just as a famly room.

Rachel & Robert Van Dinter

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Alexandra Trofim

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John Saladino

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August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /3

Letters to the Editor To the Editor, Billerica School Lunch has lots of news for the next school year. We are proud to have Meal Magic POS in all schools. POS (point of sale) allows students and parents to view and manage student lunch accounts from the comfort of their home by creating an on line account at www.sendmoneytoschool.com.

Also as a time saver, free/reduced lunch applications are available online for the 2011-2012 school year at www. lunchapp.com in mid- August. All families must fill out one new household application each year or when there is a change in income. Student’s eligible in June will continue their free/reduced status until the end of September or when a new application is submitted.

Through www.sendmoneytoschool. com, online prepayments can be made to your child’s School Lunch account by credit card with a S2.99 per transaction (a transaction could be one child or several children) charge. There is no charge for sending in cash or check or using the site to check the available balance or the purchases made by your children. Call the office if you do not have your child’s unique account # (different than a PIN) for the online system.

Lastly, First Lady Michelle Obama introduced a new online resource www.

ChooseMyPlate.gov in June 2011. This site provides practical information to help consumers build healthier diets with resources and tools for dietary assessment, nutrition education, and other user-friendly nutrition information. As Americans are experiencing epidemic rates of overweight and obesity, the online resources can empower people to make healthier food choices for themselves and their families.

For more information, check out our website at Lunch.Billerica.k12.ma.us or contact the Billerica Public School’s Food Service Office at 978-528-8782.

April M. Laskey, SNS Food Service Director Billerica Public Schools To The Editor, The Billerica Police Athletic League (PAL), in association with ALS Massachusetts Chapter, is sponsoring the Lt. William C. West Jr. ALS Memorial Road Race on Sunday, September 25, 2011, at the Billerica Irish American Club at 616 Middlesex Turnpike.

The Kids Mini-Fun Run (ages 10 and under) begins at 10 am, while the 5K Road Race/5K Walk begins at 11 am. Awards will be given to the top male and female runners. Registration on race day will take place from 8:30 am to 10 am.

Pre-Registration fee is $15, but on race

day it is $20. For seniors (65+) the cost is $10, and for kids the fee is $5. There will be a BBQ with entertainment after the race.

Proceeds benefit ALS, as well as scholarships in memory of Lt. William C. West Jr. Please call Officers Dale Sarno or William West at 978-667-1212 for more information, or download a registration form at www.billericapal.org. Hope you will be running or walking with us!!!

Thanks, Nancy Higgins Billerica Police Department Hi Liana, The Hajjar School was grateful to receive a generous donation of ice cream from Orchard Hill Ice Cream for their 5th Grade Ice Cream social in June.

Samantha Boucher and Joseph Dinsmore were on hand to happily receive the ice cream donation from Orchard Hill.

Thank you, Heather Dinsmore Hajjar 5th Grade Committee Coordinator

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Hi Liana, The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Billerica is going to be taking advantage of a generous rebate program offered by National Grid to retrofit the lights in the clubs swimming pool. In the program, new energy efficient lights will be installed increasing the lighting in the pool while reducing annual energy costs. The cost for the program is almost $5000 but the club only needs to pay $3000 with the rebate from National Grid absorbing the balance.

Jerry O’Connor, a member of the Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors, generously volunteered to fund the clubs contribution to the program as a donation.

Thanks, Roy Nagy, Executive Director The Boys and Girls of Greater Billerica Hi Liana, Two Buoys Lobster is excited to be able to offer Fresh Fish and Scallops, in addition to Lobster, starting at the July 18th Billerica Farmers Market. We have just received word that Fred and Donna Penney, Billerica residents, have received permission to sell fish. Fred and his son are 2nd and 3rd generation lobster men. Fred works with the Mass. Dept. of Fisheries on studying the life cycle of lobsters. He’s a very knowledgeable person to talk to about the health of our marine life off the coast of Massachusetts.

Thanks, Kay Johnson Co-Market Manager Billerica Farmer’s Market

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4 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

The Marketplace

Business Expo Brings Marketing to Life

By Danielle Bergeron President, Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce

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Landscape design, construction and maintenance Perennial Gardens & Flower Beds Hardscapes & Waterscapes Walkways & Patios When you are looking for something different, we can add color on a budget.

On Sept. 22, the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce will host our 16th Annual Business Expo. This is the perfect opportunity for businesses to take their marketing efforts and bring them to life for over 1,000 people that are in attendance.

Over 80 booths and businesses are represented at the Expo every year and it’s always exciting to see what exhibitors do to make their booth stand out. Some simple ways to attract consumers to your booth include offering product demonstrations, giveaways, raffles and something to tantalize their taste buds.

A raffle is an effective way to capture email addresses for future promotions, along with giving out coupons and discounts for attendees to redeem at a later date. Another great reason to showcase your business at the Expo is the opportunity to stop by 980 WCAP’s live Expo broadcast. And for those of you who aren’t camera shy, Lowell Telecommunications will be capturing the event to replay on cable access television throughout Greater Lowell for several months following the Expo.

Drawing people to your booth doesn’t have to start at the Expo. Invite people in advance to visit you and the other exhibitors. Create a marketing piece that can be posted on Facebook and Twitter and shared via email. Also, target specific people and personally call to invite them to stop by. If every exhibitor asked 5 people to come we’d have almost 500 more people at the Expo.

The Greater Lowell Chamber expands our outreach efforts every year to ensure that the Expo continues to grow and benefit our members. In addition to print media, we also use radio, television and social media to get the word out and invite the public to attend. We’ve also begun to target neighborhood groups and other untapped groups and organizations to strength our relationships and enhance B2C opportunities for our members.

We cordially invite you to come and see what the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce’s 16th Annual Business Expo is all about. Everyone is welcome to come to this free event to stroll from booth to booth to sample delicious local bites, talk to local businesses and maybe even pick up a pen or a reusable bag along the way. If we make a conscious effort to shop, eat and conduct business locally we’ll collectively reap the benefits!

A signature landscape and waterfall design by The Fudge team at Affordable Landscaping. Typical of the Affordable, these landscapers blend man-made beauty with natural elements to come up with the perfect backyard get away.

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• Consider such things as soil and light conditions when planning and designing.

• Mix compost or peat moss into the soil to improve it before planting.

• Limit the amount of lawn area devoted to grass.

• Choose from the many types of lowwater-using trees, shrubs and flowers.

• Install drip and trickle irrigation systems for areas needing water.

• Effectively use mulch like pine needles, shredded bark or leaves in a three inch deep layer.

• Regularly maintain your landscape with properly timed pruning, fertilizing and pest control.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /5

Friends Get Together at MicKee’s

Golden Jade

By Liana Measmer Sure, at MicKee’s you can play a round of pool, or enjoy a mountain of spicy nachos while overlooking Nuttings Lake. Just remember: it’s more fun if you bring a friend.

Maybe you and your friend want to catch the latest scores. At MicKee’s the game is ALWAYS on. With 27 TV’s, you’re bound to catch the play of the day.

Whether it was game seven of the Stanley Cup playoffs or extra innings in a Red Sox game, you’ll be in good company. The ambiance is friendly so you’re not the only one who can feel the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat.

“You’ll want to cheer or cry together,” smiled Bartender Chris Buckland.

For a mini-getaway with your friend, make your way upstairs past Elvis, Kate Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable to the classy subdued function room. An oak bar, curving past windows which are shaded by contemporary valances, perches you overlooking the lake. Or sit in the high backed solid wood chairs at one of the four tables. The lighting is low and you can enjoy your dinner, a martini and conversation. A deep plush couch with rich tapestried pillows envelops you should you choose to sit back and have your own personal flat screen TV to watch. Overall, the feeling of a den surrounds you, whether you are chatting or tossing a couple of darts at the corner board.

“It’s a nice quiet space,” said Buckland.

When you and your friend are ready to rock and tear up the dance floor, head to the dining room. With a well worn parquet floor, you know a lot of dancing goes on here on the weekends. Karaoke and a DJ are featured on Thursday nights with no cover charge. For a nominal $5 cover Fridays and Saturdays, you can listen to some of the best music around. MicKee’s is proud to support local bands by hosting them here.

“It gets people here on the weekends,” nodded Buckland. “It’s very popular.”

There’s some blues and occasional metal but overall, you can expect great rock music which packs the dance floor each night. You may want to come early to stake out the best spot before the band starts their set at 9 pm.

Whatever you decide, make MicKee’s On The Water your choice for local nightlife this weekend. For more information on their extensive menu, daily specials and complete entertainment schedule, visit www.mickeesonthewater.com.

Keeping Home Computers Secure

By Ron Couming, RCS Computer Solutions The only truly safe computer is the one left in the box and not attached or exposed to the internet. That being said, it’s obvious most people keep their computers plugged in. While there are steps you can take to increase your computer and internet safety and experiences, you cannot know those steps without learning them.

RCS Computer Solutions, www.RCSComputerSolutions. com, a Billerica based and founded company is holding a FREE 1 hour class on Monday, August 22 and again on Monday, September 19 in the Billerica Public Library from 7:30–8:30 pm. This class is open to anyone who wants to learn more about their home system security.

This class will help you understand what a virus is, how a worm hurts your machine, and the damage adware, malware, and spyware can do to a hard drive. You will learn ways to protect yourself from these and other types of malicious activities your computer can be subjected to via the internet.

Also, aspects of parental controls will be discussed: what they are, how they work, and if they are right for you. Lastly, identity theft, which is a major concern, will also be covered.

Please visit the Billerica Public Library website at www.billericalibrary.org and sign up on their calendar for this FREE Computer class. Although not required, attendees are encouraged to bring a fully charged laptop to participate interactively.

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6 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

Cultivatin Eden

T

Garden Club Transforms Acreage into Seasonal Enjoyment

o some, they’re simply flowers but to others, the beautiful blossoms planted around town by The Billerica Garden Club hold much more meaning. Kay Johnson, Garden Club Advisor, became a little choked up as she told about a Billerica resident with cancer who stopped to tell her the yellow daffodils in the town common “made her day”. The yellow daffodil is the symbol of the American Cancer Society.

Garden Club members do mass plantings around the cannon and other spots in the town common, which is surprisingly two and a half acres in size, said Johnson. Daffodils are a popular choice because they propagate and multiply quickly. Club members plant one thousand daffodil bulbs each October.

Besides the common, The Garden Club is also responsible for planting, watering and weeding many other locations throughout town such as the Memorial Walkway at the high school, dedicated to students who have passed away. They also care for the approximately one hundred Veteran’s Squares containing buckets or barrels filled with flowers, and various traffic islands. There are currently 111 members of the club and they are asked to sign up to take turns tending to the different spots.

Often members will choose to adopt an area near their home.

Garden Club members also help maintain a Community Garden located near Vietnam Veterans Park, where Billerica residents are welcome to apply for a section to grow their own vegetables. There are over 20 plots and currently a waiting list. Johnson said people from a variety of different ethnicities plant crops there and it’s interesting for everyone to share tips and try foods from a different culture.

“In the club, everyone shares their plants,” said Linda Haley, Garden Club President, who joined the club 14 years go. “We all travel around with trowels and pots. You never know when you’re going to get a free plant from someone.”

By Angie Orenstein Photos by George and Gail Lucozzi, ASA Photographic

Restoration Station

The Parkers’ Passion For Their Shed

By Angie Orenstein

Twelve years ago, Pam and Roger Parker bought their house on Anniversary Way from Roger’s brother and sister-in-law.

At the time, there was overgrowth and the trees and landscape needed a lot of work. In the backyard, sat an old tool shed built in the late 1960s by Roger’s brother. Pam and Roger owned animals so the small shed became a place to sleep for ducks, turkeys, a goat and a miniature horse.

As the years went by, The Parkers widened the driveway, planted flourishing gardens, and installed picturesque fencing with rock water fountains.

Sadly, during this time, their horse passed away and their goat, which had become a friendly family pet, was stolen. Since the shed was no longer needed as an animal barn, Pam suggested taking it apart but Roger had a vision. He wheeled the shed to the side yard, at the top of the driveway and fixed it up.

“It’s an old shed. It’s unique and it has character. It took on its own identity,” said Roger.

The shed renovations included painting it a light natural blue color, building a window box, flipping the door around to feature the older barn door look, and planting shrubs and flowers around the outside.

Pam spruced up the shed by adding a soft light bulb above the window box, attaching a trumpeting angel on the front, and hanging a vine wreath on the door. The wreath, she explained, can be pulled and stretched into shape so that a seasonal decoration can be placed in the middle.

Currently there’s a pineapple; in the fall she’ll switch it to a pumpkin.

In the yard around the shed, there’s always a need for watering, weeding, and changing things around, but Roger said he’s getting to the point where maintenance will be minimized by such things as planting perennials. Even mowing is less necessary since he’s replacing grassy areas with gardens, and using artificial grass in some spots.

“God gives me the ideas and I provide the shovel,” said Roger. “Slowly and surely it molds itself into place.”

There are also many important community projects The Garden Club is involved with, including Garden Therapy, held once a month at The Life Care Center and Bright View’s Alzheimer’s unit, as well as four times per year at Billerica Crossings. Johnson said club members arrive with flowers and supplies to help the elderly residents make their own floral arrangements.

“You get a lot out of it. It’s a nice program,” said Johnson. “It’s something they’ve created themselves and they’re proud of it.”

The club also erected a Butterfly Garden at Billerica Crossings, created all the floral arrangements and corsages for this year’s Council on Aging Senior Award Banquet and Annual Sweetheart dinner in February, honoring couples who have been married for 50 plus years. During the busy holiday season, The Garden Club decorates the Clara Sexton House with both fresh and dried flowers and fruits, in a historically accurate manner. They also decorate the bandstand for the Holiday Festival.

An exciting new endeavor which began at the end of June is The Billerica Farmer’s Market, taking place every Monday afternoon from 3 – 7 p.m. on the Council on Aging lawn. As the founding sponsor, The Garden Club organizes, sets up, and takes down for the weekly event, which features products from local farmers, food vendors, crafters, artisans, and even a fresh seafood stand.

“On average produce is trucked 1,500 miles,” said Johnson. “People are making conscious decisions to buy and eat locally-grown only.”

The Garden Club does not receive town funding so they rely on grants and fundraisers with their biggest fundraiser being the annual plant sale held in May. Johnson said many organizations in town are extremely supportive including the Council on Aging who lets them use their ideally-located front lawn for various events, Griggs Farm, who provides plants at wholesale cost, and Cabot Corporation, where they’ve been holding their monthly meetings free of charge for the past 20 years.

At their monthly meetings, which are held throughout the year, there are guest speakers and workshops on such garden-related topics as birds, beekeeping, lavender making, and water usage. The club awards a $500 scholarship once per year to a student studying landscape design or a biology related field.

Not surprisingly, many of the club members have beautiful gardens at their homes, so on occasion they offer garden tours to show off their hard work and pride and joy.

The Billerica Garden Club began in 1929 and last year they hosted a big event, which included Garden Club members from surrounding towns, to celebrate 80 years. Club members include men and woman of all ages—from new mothers to senior citizens, one of whom is 96 years old, said Johnson. She said often families of multiple generous are members and enjoy gardening together. Johnson, who has been a Billerica Garden Club member for five years and previously a member of the Burlington Garden Club, began gardening as a child with her grandmother who showed her how to make partridgeberry bowls for the holidays.

For more information about the Billerica Garden Club or if you would like to join, contact Linda Haley at 978663-2743 or jlhaley3@verizon.net. You can also find them and some of their beautiful gardens on Facebook. To learn more about the Billerica Farmer’s Market visit www.billericafarmersmarket.org.

Late Summer Gardening Tips

August is not ideal for planting because it’s too hot and plants will burn up in the sun. It is, however, a great time to start thinking about and planning your garden for next spring. The Billerica Garden Club offers these helpful suggestions: • Start preparing for winter. If you currently have a garden, • Walk through your garden or look at other gardens and late summer/early fall is an ideal time to deadhead or think about what you like and don’t like (types of flowers, pinch off dead blooms, collect the seeds from them, and colors, layout, etc.) put the seeds into an envelope for planting in the spring.

• Take notes and draw out a diagram or design.

This is an alternative to buying seeds from the store.

• Prepare your garden for next spring by putting down newspaper, grass clippings, or black plastic to block weeds. • Make your own soil by composting.

Chucking It All

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /7

The Sunny Side Of The Street

265 Boston Rd. Billerica, MA 01821 (Located behind Chris’ Ice Cream Shop)

By Dave Gagliardi

When I first got into vegetable gardening, I never imagined that one day it would turn into a battle between me and Mother Nature herself.

I got into gardening when I was around ten years old. My grandfather had a large vegetable garden in our back yard and one day, as I was watching him spread a truckload of cow manure, I asked him if I could plant something myself. He handed me a handful of what looked like pumpkin seeds and told me to plant them a couple of inches deep along the edge of the garden and told me that I could keep anything that grew from those plants. The seeds turned out to be Blue Hubbard Squash seeds and I ended up growing some of the biggest squash I had ever seen. After that I was hooked.

When I bought a home of my own, one of the first things I did was to start a vegetable garden. Everything went great until about ten years ago when a family of woodchucks moved in under my shed which sits right next to my garden. When one day, I came out to find my garden decimated, from that moment the battle between us was on.

I tried just about every kind of trick in the book to keep them out. I sunk a fence two feet deep and I spread dog hair around the perimeter of the fence but neither worked. I even bought (believe it or not) coyote urine that was “guaranteed” to keep them away but it just made the backyard smell like a subway station. I also tried moth balls but that made the back yard smell like my aunt’s closet. Friends suggested all kinds of things, from using a .22 to trapping them. I can’t shoot animals and with my luck if I put out a trap, I would end up catching a skunk. (A couple of years back a skunk DID get under the shed and died, but that didn’t stop them either.)

I ended up trying to smoke them out with something I bought at an Agway store. The smoke was supposed to chase them out and keep them out. Genius that I am, it wasn’t until after I had lit it that I realized I had just put a burning flare under my wooden shed with gas powered equipment inside. Luckily, nothing happened to the shed and it didn’t keep them away.

I finally gave up and moved my garden closer to the house where the woodchucks won’t come. It was small and didn’t get the kind of sun it needed so this year I finally gave up. The woodchucks now come out occasionally to mock me and I’m sure my grandfather must be laughing from heaven.

Making better drivers for tomorrow.

1-978-66-DRIVE

Billerica Pop Artist Ria Hosts Benefit for Bella

By Jeffrey Bernoth, Correspondent Use your talent and strength for the good of others. That’s what local Billerica teen pop artist Ria Eaton is doing for Bella Tucker, an eight year old gymnast from Londonderry, NH who contracted a life threatening virus, resulting in the amputation of all of her limbs.

Imagine being med-flown to a hospital, only hours after an Easter Egg hunt, and learning you had come down with a very serious infection. This was Bella’s reality.

On Easter Sunday 2010, she contracted Streptococcus Pneumonia Sepsis, and although she recovered from a five-day coma, the infection caused extensive tissue damage requiring a series of surgeries.

Eaton got wind of Bella’s story and performed at a benefit show for the child last July. “It just wasn’t enough,” says Eaton. “I wanted to do more to help the little angel.”

After recently performing at the Sad Café in Plaistow, NH, she decided that the venue would be a great place to hold a benefit concert for Bella. “Benefit for Bella” will take place on Sun., Aug. 14 at the Sad Café from 2-6 PM, and Eaton hopes to “pack the place.”

Bella has the love and support of her siblings, parents, and townspeople, and with a positive attitude, has been able to make strides in adjusting to her new life. After seven months at Children’s Hospital Boston and Spaulding Rehabilitation, Bella returned to find her family’s house, thanks in part to the people of Londonderry, renovated with a welcoming crowd gathered for her arrival.

She has returned to her old friends at South Elementary School and texts and plays games with friends like any other child might, in large part due to her association with Next Step Orthotics and Prosthetics, where she receives her new prosthetic legs and arms.

It is due to her strength and resilience that she grows, and as she does, her prosthetic limbs need to be replaced. This is an expensive process, only partly covered by her mother’s insurance. This is why Eaton wants to help by hosting this benefit.

Tickets are $15 and Eaton has packed the bill with talent. Among those confirmed are Joey Grieve, Charadeface, Pacifists at War, Amanda McCarthy, Rachel Neves, Ernie Maurissant, and Eaton herself. There will also be a raffle with all of the proceeds going to Bella.

For those who can’t make it to the event, donations can be made to Friends of Bella (www.friendsofbella.org), since every dollar counts. Eaton figures if everyone could give up one Dunkin Donut stop or McDonald’s stop, and donate this to Bella’s fund, it would make quite the difference.

As Pay 540 d n A s$ le A t t i L

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Full program includes: - 30 hours of classroom instruction - 12 hours driving time (We pick you up!)

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Pay in Full and Receive a 10% Discount With Coupon Expires August 31, 2011

Email: info@billericaautoschool.com

8 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

CHILD CARE PROGRAMS ~ IN COLLABORATION WITH BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS ~ EARLY BIRD *

Boys & Girls Club Monday through Friday 6:30am until school bus pickup

GREAT FUTURES PRE-K NEW THIS FALL!

FUN CLUB *

Boys & Girls Club 2, 3 & 5 Days Available AM & PM Sessions

Each Elementary School Monday through Friday School dismissal until 6:00pm Our programs are licensed through the Office of Early Education and Care and are professionally supervised. * Coverage for early release, half days, professional days and most holidays are included.

OPEN HOUSE

TUESDAY AUGUST 9TH

6:00-8:00PM

Space is limited.

REGISTER NOW! For more information contact us at www.billericabgc.com or 978-667-2193 x103

When you know your child has the best possible eyesight, it makes you smile.

• Of the 20% of children who have a learning disability, 70% have vision problems • Many children who are labeled as having learning problems have never had their eyes checked • Vision impacts motor skills and social development • The key is identifying these children and getting them the care they need • These conditions are treatable and preventable

Dr. Goldman is great with all kids.

Make an appointment today!

978-663-3100 SHAWSHEEN VISION ASSOCIATES

Dr. Richard A. Goldman 1 Andover Road Billerica, MA 01821

www.richardgoldmanod.com

Voice of the Artist

Celebrating Art

By Colleen Sgroi

I am coming up on my tenth anniversary of the opening of Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes. In September 2001, we had our grand opening, beginning of what would prove to be some of the happiest career days of my life.

We have classes for children Kindergarten thru twelfth grade as well as adult, senior discount and home schooling focused classes, too. This year, I am excited to say I have teamed up with the Karyn Button Memorial Foundation to start a “YES to Art” Scholarship fund for those who need a bit of financial help.

Hundreds of creatively gifted students have come through our doors. Some have come for one session and moved on while others have come and grown with us for years. One such student is Siobhan O’Connor. Siobhan is the young lady who did the beautiful cover painting of the Doberman for last month’s Billerica Green.

Siobhan has been a student with us since 2006. She was in the fifth grade then and a joy to have in my class. She showed talent from the very beginning, advanced into the teen class with Michael Vieira, and is now in his adult evening class.

When Liana Measmer, Billerica Green publisher, informed me the Green wanted to feature a teen’s art on the cover for the July issue, I immediately thought of Siobhan. When I asked Michael if he had anyone else in mind, he agreed with me.

This past year she was painting a portrait of her friend that was just stunning. When her friend’s dad saw the painting, he asked to buy it. Both Michael and I are very proud of her and hope she continues to use her gift to bless the world with art and beauty.

As for my tenth anniversary, I am planning a big celebration at the end of September with amazing sales, give-a-ways, student bonus discount cards and the unveiling of my latest painting! Watch for upcoming information, since I would love for you to come celebrate with me ten years of creative service and beauty to our community.

Sign up for our new fall classes at Colleen Sgroi Gallery & Art Classes, 12 Andover Road, Billerica, MA at www.colleensgroi.com or call 978-667-1009.

Managing the College Price Tag Free Workshop Makes Saving Simple

By Liana Measmer With college costs still climbing despite the economy’s slow upturn, saving for your child’s education can feel overwhelming so some take no action. Some think this will make more financial aid and grants available.

Not necessarily so, said MetLife Financial Planner Frank Hynes.

For most people, funding college is a combination of grants, loans, out of pocket payments and savings. Some college loans are based on financial need so if a family has assets and a good income, this decreases their eligibility for low interest loans and grants. With no savings, a larger part of the bill might be funded by higher interest loans which don’t usually offer any deferred payment options. This could result in your child leaving school with a larger debt which could take years to repay.

Hynes said that it’s never too late to start saving and a systematic plan is the best way. By having college savings for your child, you will need fewer loans. One of the most popular savings vehicles available is the 529 plan.

529 investment plans are named after section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. There are two types of 529 plans: prepaid and savings. Prepaid plans allow one to purchase tuition credits, at today’s rates, and Savings plans grow at the rate of the market’s performance. Most 529 savings plans offer a variety of age-based asset allocation options where the investments become more conservative as the beneficiary gets closer to college age.

“529 has the most tax benefits,” said Hynes.

Money from a 529 plan can be used for tuition, fees, books, etc. required for study at any accredited college, university or vocational school. The appeal to the 529 plans is they are affordable, with a range of a little as a $15/month contribution, all the way up to $13,000/year/ child saved.

On Sept. 22, at the Billerica Public Library, Hynes will host two free college savings workshops, morning and afternoon. He will discuss the complexities of financial aid; setting up systematic savings plans; different assets vs. the financial aid formula; a cost analysis; and available resources to parents. Visit www.billericalibrary.org for more information. Or Call Frank M. Hynes and Associates, a MetLife Office, at 978-528-6046 to rsvp.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /9

Caregiver’s Circle

Caregiving When Sick In the everyday living, it is easy for me as the caregiver to become forgotten. My mom has everything provided for her. She is well taken care of, having her every need met. The bills are paid. There is food on the table. Mom is surrounded by people at her day program who interact and challenge her. She laughs easily. It is I who instead of going out with friends is off running to another doctors’ consult.

I wish when medical crises arise, I could be affected or she affected but not the both of us at the same time. It makes the medical needs juggling very draining.

At a recent caregivers’ support group meeting, I voiced my concerns of not doing enough. I spoke of a night where I was sick, hearing aids off, and I could hear mom coughing.

I got up to check on her and sure enough, mom was asleep but coughing.

I told Carol, “This is illogical. With my poor hearing, how on earth am I hearing her?”

Carol smiled when she said, “It’s like being a mother; you hear your child coughing. In this case, you hear your mom. When the need is there, an instinct, a sense is what hears.” The gift of encouraging words and the feedback of others dealing with similar experiences is such a great relief. A common thread of caregiving is: you have to take care of yourself. I’ve heard this and I know I have talked of its importance here; still the value of being healthy, I cannot stress enough.

One of the best pieces of advice I have received is to keep a notebook of appointments.

In this notebook, I write comments made by doctors regarding medications, notes to myself about the diagnosis, and anything I think is important about the follow up needed. In closing, my learned by experience advice: don’t expect your memory to keep every detail on instant recall, reassuringly, with a few pages turned, the most important details are at your fingertips.

An informative book I found presented in an easy to read manner: Caring for the Caregiver, sponsored by Parke-Davis. And a gift for the caregiver is to join a caregiver’s support group and surround yourself by others who will help keep you laughing.

COA and RMV Partner for Senior Driver Safety

Get Ready for Summer!

W

e all love our “Toys”... Boats, RV’s or Motorcycles often rank highest among the most prized possessions. Unfortunately, not knowing how, when and where to use a bike, boat or jet ski could leave the owner responsible for physical damage of their boat or bike or for someone who is injured while riding. Some questions:

d 11x e y t o V genc A e c

n ura lerica/ s n I il Best GreaterlmB sfordeys

• Are my “toys” already covered by my auto or home insurance?

Cheket Surva) r ic (Maof Amer

• Are there any mandatory insurance requirements for my boat, jet ski, or motorcycle?

• Do I really need physical damage insurance on that old motorcycle or boat?

• Are discounts available for insuring my boat and jet ski with the same company?

• What insurance do I need if I park my camper trailer for the entire season at a campground?

Call us. We can answer all of these questions, and more.

655 Boston Road, #1, Billerica 978-667-2541 www.mvins.com

By Jared Smith The safety of senior citizens driving can be a sensitive subject. Luckily, there are many ways to educate drivers and their families on how to keep safe behind the wheel. Right here in town, the Billerica Council on Aging (COA) provides various educational programs and transportation services.

“Maintaining one’s independence is so important, and being able to drive is a key factor in maintaining ones independence,” said Donna Popkin, COA Director. “As we age, driving abilities change and we need to pay attention to driving safely.”

The COA has done a lot to help senior citizen transportation. Not only have they partnered with the Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) to get a van, but also work with volunteers drive seniors to medical appointments in adjacent towns. The LRTA also comes to the COA annually to process Senior “Charlie Cards”, which can be used to ride the LRTA and MBTA at a reduced fare.

“For any age, driver fitness plays a big role in driver safety,” said Michelle Ellicks, the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Community Outreach Coordinator. “Stay physically fit and mentally fit.”

Annually, the RMV offers free trainings in driver safety run by Ellicks. This program teaches the warning signs of unsafe driving, something important for friends and family to know as well.

“Driving seems to be a very personal subject for all ages, not just seniors,” said Ellicks.

“Many people, regardless of age, feel that the privilege of driving means more than just getting from ‘Point A’ to ‘Point B’.”

Response to the COA programs and services for senior citizen drivers have been very positive. As of July 1, there will be additional van service hours due to high demand from this increasing population. The 2010 U.S. Census showed an increase of 49% in the senior population 60 and over since 2000.

When assessing their driving ability, seniors and their families should consult a doctor about medical conditions. In some cases, certain medical conditions or medications may cause drowsiness or slowed reactions.

Families and friends of seniors can encourage them take advantage of refresher courses such as the RMV’s safe driving program, AAA’s mature driver program, or AARP’s driver safety programs. For more information about these programs, visit: http://www.mass.gov/ rmv/seniors.

Every Monday until October 24th 3 – 7 pm Senior Center, 25 Concord Road

Freshest Sweet Corn, Tomatoes Squash, Meat, Honey, Eggs, Baked Goods, Crafters and Entertainment www.billericafarmersmarket.org

10 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

Out On The Town Anytime Fitness

Brick Kiln Plaza, 99 Chelmsford Rd., 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 Upcoming Events: Summer Vacation Theatre Workshops: weekly, July 11 – August 26.

For ages 5 to 15

Billerica BMX

www.billerica-bmx.com, 781-791-4507 Visit the website for information on races, camps 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.

No Blood Pressure or Pharmacy Clinic, Senator Donnelly Office hours, History Lecture or Book Club in August.

Caregiver Support: Wednesday August 3, 10am SHINE Appointments: Wednesday August 3, 9am Dr. Downs’ Podiatrist Appointments: Tuesday August 9, 9am Veterans’ Support Meeting: Tuesday August 9, 10:30am Grief & Healing Support Meeting: Wednesday August 10, 11am Intergenerational Program “Yesterday & Today”: Wednesday August 10, 9:30am – 11:15am Reiki Treatments: Thursday August 11, 9am Blaire House, Tewksbury: “Learn what Blaire House has to Offer You”. Monday August 15 Hearing Screenings: with Dr. Sarah Kashi of Atlantic Audiology. Wednesday August 17, 9am Meditation: with Marion Goddard. Wednesday August 24, 10:15am Reiki Treatments: Thursday August 25, 9am Free Ice Cream Social: Wednesday August 31, 1pm. Ice Cream and toppings provided by Billerica Crossings.

NEW VAN HOURS: Monday & Friday: 8:30am – 3pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:30am – 4pm. $2.00 Round-Trip. Van provides seniors with rides to medical appointments and errands in Billerica only. Call Ruth at 978-6710916 x229 to schedule an appointment. A 2-day notice is required.

Respite Care Companion Program: This program helps families care for their loved ones, allowing elders to remain at home as long as possible. The dependable Respite Companion staff can care for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other health conditions requiring

supervision and will come to the home to prepare light meals, help with shopping lists, provide transportation and help managing their bundles.

For more info, please call Jeanne Teehan at 978671-0916 ext: 226.

COA TV program, Forever Young: A new monthly TV program available on Comcast Channel 8 and Verizon Channel 31. Hosted by Donna Popkin and Paul Hogman. Features information relevant to senior citizens and their caregivers.

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 House 36 Concord Road Sunday August 7, 1 – 3pm

Billerica Memorial High School Class of 1991 20 Year HS Reunion, Saturday, November 12 www.newenglandreunions.com/html/reunions/2011/bill_91(1112).phtml

Billerica Memorial High School Class of 2001

10 Year High School Reunion, Saturday, September 17. Please send your updated addresses to: Ambika Wali ambika.wali@gmail.com. Don’t forget to join the “BMHS Class of 2001” Group on Facebook!

Billerica Recreation Department

248 Boston Road, 978-671-0921 billrec2@town.billerica.ma.us www.town.billerica.ma.us (click on Recreation) In addition to programs that include beach volleyball, adult soccer, basketball, yoga, pilates, tennis, golf, and Zumba, we will be sponsoring the following programs during the summer.

Additional information and updates about these can be found on the website.

Youth summer camps and programs: Pre-School: Discovery (Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday); Tiny Hawks Sports; Tiny Tots Tennis; Mini-Hawks; Kiddie Cat Sports; Youth: SuperStars (with extended hours); Amazing Art; Neighborhood Parks; Lego Fundamentals; WEDO Robotics; Summer Science Spectacular; Lego Mindstorms, Wicked Cool Rocket Science; Summer Stageworks; Sky Hawks; Thundercats; recreational basketball; tennis, and golf.

FAMILY FUN FISHING Saturday, August 6, 9am – 12pm Micozzi Beach, Middlesex Turnpike, $2.00 pp, bait provided. Anyone 15 years of age or older

may need a license to fish but are welcome to participate.

WHITEWATER RAFTING IN MAINE September 4 – 5, $102.00 pp, At Magic Falls Complex in West Forks, Maine includes meals, and wet suit if needed. Registrations must be received by August 19!

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL TICKETS Lowell Spinners at LeLacheur Park, Lowell.

Tuesday, August 16, 7:05 pm Game AL/ NL NYP All Star Game. $17.00/ticket (Hot dogs and drinks will be served at your seat behind home plate) UPCOMING MOTOR COACH TOURS August 13: Deerfield River Float; Motor coach to Deerfield River for 8 mile float with splashes of whitewater, riverside snack and barbeque dinner. $129 pp 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 with a visit to National Baseball 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.

SUMMER CONCERTS Unless otherwise noted, all concerts will be held on the Town Commons at 7pm. Great fun for the whole family! Concerts sponsored by the Friends of Billerica Recreation, Inc. August 2: RHYTHM MECHANICS August 9: JOHN PENNY BAND Billerica Library Ice Cream Sundaes, 6:30pm August 16: FOUR GUYS IN TUXES August 23: FRONT PAGE August 30: ANDY HEALY BAND Sponsored by the Irish American Club

Boys and Girls Club of Billerica

Bodacious Ladies

131 Boston Road (Tanden Plaza), 978-262-2258 www.growingminds-preschool.com Fall Open Houses: August 13, 10am – 1pm and September 10, 10am – 1pm

Dot Balestrieri 978 930-0599, dotbalestrieri@yahoo.com Branson Country Show and Lobster Fest Day Trip on August 3. Motor coach transportation, Lobster Fest and show at Chez Josef, country music and line dancing, tour of Quabbin Reservoir. $89 per person. Contact Dot Balestrieri for reservations and information.

19 Campbell Road, Billerica 978 667-2193 x103, www.billericabgc.com Fall Open House: August 9, 6 – 8pm

Colleen Sgroi Gallery and Art Center

12 Andover Road, Billerica 978-667-1009, www.colleensgroi.com Summer Art Classes – Art & Your World. Using art to appreciate the world around you. Two weeks to pick from: August 8 – 12, August 15 – 19, 9am – 2pm, ages 7 to 12. $325 per wk. 20% off 2nd child (look for $20 off coupon). Adult and teen classes too.

Fall Art Classes – begin September 19. Sign up online or call to register.

Courageous Catholic Women

St. Andrew Catholic Church, 45 Talbot Avenue, North Billerica Fran 978-387-3155 or fmb0427@verizon.net CCW meets on the second Monday of the month in Fr. Wilson Hall at 7pm. Meetings are free and open to all interested women in the greater Billerica area.

First Congregational Church

Reverend Catherine Adams, Minister 18 Andover Road, Billerica 978-663-6264, www.firstcongo.org Sunday Worship: 10 am Little Angels Playgroup for preschoolers: Wednesdays 9:30 – 11am Special Wednesday Night Summer Worship Services, all at 7:30pm: August 3: Worship through Art August 10: Hymn Sing August 17: Taize Worship

Frank M. Hynes and Associates

330 Boston Road, N. 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.

Growing Minds Preschool

Karrie Stang’s Gotta Dance

99 Chelmsford Rd., #3 (Brick Kiln Plaza), N. Billerica, 978-671-0400 Fall Registration Open Houses!

August 16, 5 – 7pm, August 17, 3 – 5pm, August 20, 10am – 2pm September 3, 10am – 12pm

Kids Safety Day

Chelmsford Elks, 300 Littleton Rd., Chelmsford Ice Cream Social August 28, 12 – 4pm. Lots of fun activities for the children, all food sold for less than $4 each. Come see what the Elks do for the community and for children.

Lt. William C. West Jr. ALS Memorial Road Race

Billerica Irish American Club 616 Middlesex Turnpike 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 will take place from 8:30am to 10am. Pre-Registration fee is $15.00, on race day it is $20. For seniors (65+) the cost is $10.00, and for kids the fee is $5.00. Please call Officers Dale Sarno or William West at 978667-1212 for more information, or download a registration form at www.billericapal.org

Massage ME and Bodyworks

Bradford Place, 655 Boston Road, Suite 3B, Billerica, 978-663-3149 Summer Sizzler: August 18, 9am – 8pm

Lowell General Hospital

Lowell General Hospital, Clark Auditorium, 295 Varnum Ave., Lowell World Breastfeeding Week event: Tuesday August 2, 4:30 – 7:30pm. This FREE event is open to mothers currently breastfeeding and pregnant women planning to breastfeed. Activities include: Ask the Experts, Infant Massage and Prenatal Relaxation, information tables, games, prizes, refreshments. This celebration is hosted by Community Teamwork Inc.’s Lowell WIC Program and Lowell General Hospital. For information or Registration request call 1-877-544-9355 or visit us at www.lowellgeneral.org/health.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /11

“Need a new home before the school year begins...We can help!!!

Merrimack Valley Food Bank

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 and more! All to support the programs of the Merrimack Valley Food Bank. Dinner only: $30, served at 6:30pm. For more information contact Debbie Callery at 978-454-7272 or dcallery@mvfb.org

RCS Computer Solutions

www.rcscomputersolutions.com 978-606-5432 Keeping Your Home Computer Safe Monday, August 22 and September 19, 7:30 – 8:30pm. FREE Workshop at the Billerica Public Library, 15 Concord Road.

The Learning Experience

210 Treble Cove Road, Billerica 978-667-5437 www.thelearningexperience.com Family Fun Day August 7, 10am – 2pm Bounce house, face painting and many more activities.

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Merrimack Repertory Theatre 132 Warren Street Lowell 978-654-7595, Box Office: 978-654-4MRT berube@merrimackrep.org www.merrimackrep.org Two-Week Performance Seminar August 8 – 19, 9am – 3pm, Grades 4 – 5 One Week Theatre Camp August 1 – 5, 9am – 3pm, Grades 1 – 3 Musical Theatre Week August 1 – 5, 9am – 4pm, Grades 9 – 12 August 8 – 12, 9am – 3pm, Grades 6 – 8 Two-Week Performance Seminar August 8 – 19, 9am – 3pm, Grades 4 – 5

Call us TODAY! 978-671-4466

Kim Cook Broker/Owner

Kathy Murphy Manager

Lori McGuerty

Diane Marcolongo

Tiffany Fahey

Rebecca Hogan

Charles Lanphere

Addie Finley

Dan Alperin

Mindy Alperin

Tom Vincent

Michele Garber

Lisa Hannon

Maryann Ferguson

Joanne Clark

Jonathan Power

Kathleen Scheibel

Sharon Anzivino

Damodar Mange

Kerry Stap

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Pick up The Billerica Green at these convenient locations: Town Hall, Council on Aging, Billerica Public Library, Recreation Dept., Pro-Fitness Plus, Realty World Advtg., BATV, Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery, Boys & Girls Club, North Billerica Commuter Train Station, GE Sensing Cafe, Woods Real Estate, Enterprise Bank – Towne Plaza & North Billerica, Euro Deli, K-Nine Comforts, Stoneham Bank, Nuvera Fuel Cells, Chelmsford Public Library, Tewksbury Public Library

478 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 01821

www.cookandcompanyre.com

12 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

From ThePresident Sidelines Shares Pop Warner Updates

By Robert Burns Photos by George and Gail Lucozzi, ASA Photographic Billerica Pop Warner, a staple for youth football players in the town, is now in its 44th year of operation and has seen some big changes in recent history.

Playing in Pop Warner’s Eastern Massachusetts Conference, Billerica children ages 5-15 can participate in football and cheerleading in a travel league against towns within the Merrimack Valley. Practices are several times per week, with games being played on weekends.

For Rocco Magliozzi, Pop Warner has been a part of his life for many years. Starting out as a player, he has worked his way up the ladder, from a coach to Vice President of the league to his current position of league President.

“There have been several improvements to the league both on and off the field,” Magliozzi said.

Home games are played at Billerica’s Lampson Field, which in the last 5 years has seen some renovations.

“We put down a new field and last year added a new announcer’s booth,” said Magliozzi. “This year, we plan on adding a new snack booth.”

The league now offers an event to give more kids the opportunity to see if Pop Warner football is for them. For three years now, the league has run a spring clinic during the last week of school. The clinic is free and open to everyone, and takes place right at the Lampson Field.

As for fundraisers, Pop Warner holds many events over a year’s time.

“Each fundraiser helps us to keep our registration costs low, and they help with the cost of running the league” said Magliozzi.

Events include a Bingo each Wednesday night at the

Billerica Elks, cash calendars, raffles, catalog fundraisers, and an annual golf tournament. This year’s golf tournament, open to everyone, will take place Sept. 16 at the Billerica Country Club.

All in all, Billerica Pop Warner is striving to make youth football a better experience for everyone, by keeping costs down, renovating Lampson Field and offering a variety of clinics. This fall, they will look towards another successful season.

Registrations for the league are still open. For cheerleading, they close after the second week in August. For football, they close after Labor Day. For more information, please visit Pop Warner’s website www.billericapopwarner.org

Junior High Football for All

By Angie Orenstein It’s not easy being told you can’t play a sport because you’re too big or too small, but The Billerica Junior High Football League has no weight restrictions so any student in grades six, seven and eight can join. Kids play alongside other kids who are the same age as opposed to the same size and that combination equals success, said Coach Bob Innis.

Innis said sometimes parents express concern that players will get hurt because they are not separated by weight, but through research on this topic and from his extensive coaching experience, he has found that there are no more injuries in leagues without weight restrictions than those where there are.

Innis and fellow coach, John Talutis,

both feel that playing football according to age group is better because players are in the same bracket of physical development and same level of maturity.

“We needed a program where everybody could play regardless of size,” said Innis. “If they sign up, they can play. We don’t refuse anybody.”

When Chad Dellaporta was in middle school, he played on Innis’ team for two years and is now a sophomore at Billerica High, playing varsity football.

“It was a great experience,” said Chad.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for Billerica Junior High Football. I loved it.”

Innis and Talutis, who grew up in Billerica and have been best friends since childhood, connected with fellow coach John

Barbarosa and went on to make Billerica a member of the Northeast Junior High Football League in 2007. This fall will be their fifth season coaching and they are strict on age limits, requiring players on the league to be younger than 14 but not starting before the sixth grade.

Each year they have about 38 players, many of whom go on to play at the high school level. The Northeast Junior High League recently merged with the Seacoast League, with 19 teams competing from September through November. There will be nine games played this year and practices begin in August.

The goal of the league is to get junior high students prepared to play high school football so they spend a lot of time teaching

fundamentals and individual techniques.

This ensures the kids really understand the game itself and each of the positions.

A banquet is held at the end of each season where they give out trophies and letters, and feature a former NFL player as a guest speaker. They also give an award to the most improved student athlete, a player who has worked hard to bring up his grades.

“It’s time for us to give back,” said Talutis. “What’s rewarding to us is to see a kid who never played before play with us and start out in varsity as a sophomore.”

For more information about Billerica Junior High Football, call John Talutis (978479-5021) or Bob Innis (508-572-8224) or visit www.billericafootball.com.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /13

Memorable Moments Senior Portrait Tips

Billerica Driving School

By Caldwell Photography

We give you the Green Light to getting your license

Are you considering a high school senior portrait? This is perhaps one of the most important things you will do over the next several months. Record moments that are special to you before you leave home. Getting a professional quality portrait taken, that will mark this momentous time in your life, is a very important part of this.

Remember, you do not have to use your schools “official” studio for your senior portraits. You have the right to choose the photographer you wish. The “official” photographer MUST accept your yearbook proof even if they did not take it themselves. We deliver yearbook proofs to all local high schools, so there is nothing to worry about.

For girls, choose the colors and outfits that you feel best in. If you like an outfit, it’s probably because you look good in it, so make sure to bring it. We suggest that you bring both casual and formal clothing options. Dresses, sweaters and blouses offer a more traditional look.

Bright colors, patterns, jeans or shorts offer a more contemporary look. Consider both long sleeve and sleeveless styles with a sweater or jacket to compliment the top. Avoid strapless or very short sleeves for all of your clothing choices. Upper arms can be very distracting to the eye. We want your friends to look at your face in your portrait.

The guys should consider a variety of clothing options that represent both traditional and casual looks. A suit or sport coat with a button down shirt and tie is a nice option for a more formal look. You may also want to consider medium to dark sweaters as they photograph well. For casual or outdoor photos, choose something comfortable; generally jeans, shorts, shirts and sweatshirts or sweaters work well. We recommend you avoid clothing with stripes and sleeveless shirt options.

For more tips or to view our senior portrait gallery, visit us at www.caldwellphoto.com.

To schedule your session, call for an appointment at 978-663-7080.

Surrounded by staff and family, Lisa Luther, Owner of Realty World Advantage at 880 Boston Road, celebrated nine years in business with an appreciation night at her office. 100 guests enjoyed karaoke, wine tasting, and cookout fare, regardless of the rain.

For more infomation about Realty World Advantage, call 978-667-1848.

Sweeter by the Dozen: How many volunteers DOES it take to organize a golf tournament? The COA saw 90 golfers cross the green at the Billerica Country Club on June 27 and raised just over $6200 toward programming at the senior center. Seen here are L-R rear: Bill Foley, Ellen Haines, Nick Rosa, Jo Leary, Onorio Cerrato, Nancy Cerrato, and Margarita Kaliviotis. Seated are L-R: Cynthia McCormack, Patricia Coy, Annette Devine, and Marie Morrison.

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Benvenuto Studenti a Growing Minds Preschool

By Liana Measmer Since young children learn through play, scientific studies have shown their capacity to master another language comes much easier to them than for adults. This is because they don’t get bogged down by verb tenses and grammar. It’s just new and it’s just fun.

Growing Minds Preschool, located at 131 Boston Road in North Billerica, encourages creativity, confidence and independence, but Owner Caroline Mango also incorporates Italian as a foreign language into the core curriculum.

“Growing Minds and their staff showed great care and support for my child, not only educationally but also emotionally,” said parent Stefanie Binette about her daughter Kylie’s experience at the preschool. “It’s AMAZING to hear my five year old singing full songs in a COMPLETELY different language than her own!”

According to www.brighthub.com, statistics show that young children who study a second language perform better academically in verbal skills, logic and math, with a better understanding of the English language. They learn to respect other cultures earlier as well as show an interest in their own heritage.

You can learn more about the Growing Minds curriculum and tour their sunny classrooms by attending one of the upcoming Back-to-School open houses scheduled on Aug. 13 or Sept. 10, from 10 am–1 pm. For more info, visit www.growingmindspreschool.com or call 978-262-2258.

Promoting Your Child’s Independence and Self-Confidence • CPR/First Aid Certified Staff • MA Certified Preschool Teachers • MA State Frameworks Guide in Language, Art, History, Science, Math, Technology, and Motor Skills • Exposure to Italian as a foreign language

There’s Still Space in Our Summer Camp Program for August!

Visit our OPEN HOUSES on Aug. 13 and Sept. 10, 10 am-1 pm

(978) 262-2258 131 Boston Road Unit # 9 Tanden Plaza South North Billerica, MA 01862

14 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

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Staying and Playing at K-Nine Comforts Vacation Boarding for Your Dog’s Safety

By Liana Measmer As much as you would like to bring your dog with you on vacation, sometimes you can’t.

However, K-Nine Comforts can help.

In addition to their pet supply and grooming store at 265 Boston Road in North Billerica, co-owners Bettie Murphy and Susan Incagnoli maintain a spacious kennel at their Tyngsboro location at 10 Old Tyng Road. For your convenience, your dog can be dropped off in Billerica and then transported to Tyngsboro.

The K-Nine Comforts kennel holds up to 50 dogs, with their areas maintained separately. In addition to their meals and lots of attention, the animals get daily play in the yard. Walks are an additional fee of $10.

Small dogs and senior dogs are kept in their own areas. The kennel provides bedding although the owners are required to send their pooch’s favorite toys for entertainment and their own food to prevent any possible allergic reactions.

Dogs with special needs are also accepted. A fair number of diabetic dogs have stayed and epileptic dogs on their medications have also been boarders. Owners simply leave their veterinarian’s phone number in case of emergency in addition to any instructions with meds.

The dog simply has to have their rabies, distemper, and canine cough vaccinations up to date.

Titers are also accepted.

If you book a five day stay with K-Nine Comforts, you get one day free with our coupon in this edition of The Billerica Green. A reservation ahead of time is required so call either Billerica at 978-663-0175 or Tyngsboro at 978-649-6391.

Billerica Motorcycle Rally Helps Kids with Cancer

By Liana Measmer

It is hard enough for an adult to suffer with cancer but when a child is stricken, entire family dynamics change. Dual incomes are dropped to one. Money is re-assigned so parents can travel and stay overnight with a sick child. Household tasks are not done and siblings make sacrifices. Everyone rallies around the child fighting cancer and it takes its toll.

Three years ago, when the Billerica Police Department became aware of a Billerica family in need with a child who was diagnosed with cancer, they contacted Cops for Kids with Cancer. This charitable organization was founded in 2002 by Boston Police Captain John Dow, a cancer patient himself. This organization raises and awards funds to help lighten the load on these families in need.

On July 17, BPD hosted a two hour motorcycle rally that started at Kelly’s Harley Davidson on Boston Road and ended at the Irish American Club on Middlesex Turnpike for a barbeque. There were 140 riders who raised about $6500, all of which goes either directly to families or to Mass General Hospital’s and Tuft’s Medical Center’s child oncology units.

“We appreciate when Billerica runs this for us,” said Robert Faherty, current Chairman of the Board of Cops for Kids with Cancer.

Faherty is a busy man. When he and his board of volunteers are not organizing and attending fundraisers like dinners, golf tournaments and rallies, Faherty is meeting with families in need and delivering $5,000 checks to them. He also organizes an annual boat ride, complete with a lights and siren escort through Boston for the children in these cancer hospital units.

In 2008, 16 families were served. That number climbed to 36 families in 2010. As of this summer, Cops for Kids with Cancer has awarded $150,000 so far for 2011.

“We raise money anyway we can,” said Faherty. “Each year we are getting bigger and giving more.”

Faherty stated families should apply for assistance through their local police department. In Billerica, that contact is Officer Gerry Roache. The local police department will then submit forms to the organization for review.

“Local police know them and they know their local police,” said Faherty.

For more information on donations or the organization, visit www.copsforkidswithcancer.org or call the Billerica Police Department at 978-671-0900 to speak to Officer Roache if you or someone you know has a child with cancer and is in need.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /15

Passport Possibilities

Billerica Arts Council Brings Ideas to Fruition

By Ashley Martelli

Iceland is Hot

By John Salemme

March leaves us yearning for summer, but by August we grow tired of the heat. Iceland isn’t the frigid place its name would have you believe. In fact, Reykjavik, the capital, has warmer winters and receives less snow than Boston.

During summer it may be the perfect place to escape our scorching humidity. The weather is mild and dry, like those perfect late-September days we all love, and the sun barely sets. It’s only four hours away by plane, and due to misfortunes the island country has been experiencing – economic and natural – it’s hungry for tourist dollars, so it’s less expensive to go now than ever.

Reykjavik is the largest city in Iceland, but is by no means large. It’s more like a small town, with pleasant clean streets and bright colorful homes decorating the hills. There are boutique hotels to stay at, and along Laugavegur, there are numerous shops and cafes that can keep your attention for days. If you’re into Viking history, there is much to see, including a huge statue of Eric the Red. The club scene is insane. And if you’d like to eat whale, you can have it, freeze-dried and preserved since the ban.

Outside the capital there are endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it’s hiking, horseback riding, cycling, or drinking beer under the midnight sun. The countryside is beautiful, mountainous, and so green. There are few trees, but the pastures and fields of wild flowers make up for it.

The North American and European tectonic plates split the country in two, with a clean divide between the continents in the form of a deep trench. The massive Golfoss waterfall tumbles through a sharp ravine plus there are gushing geysers (an Icelandic word) and natural pools of bubbling mud and boiling water, which leaves visitors questioning the country’s name. And don’t forget to take a dip in the Blue Lagoon – a lake of hot, cream-blue water resting in a lunar landscape of black volcanic rocks.

Iceland isn’t the place I thought it was. It’s very different from what I imagined. And I think you’ll be surprised, too.

With their vision for healthier and more vital communities square on the radar, The Billerica Arts Council (BAC) wants everyone to know they don’t just fund art. The BAC, a branch of the Massachusetts Arts Council (MAC), brings enrichment programs to schools as well as funds projects around Billerica. They seek to create a central place for the arts, sciences, and humanities, thus making communities more livable as well.

“It is a lot of fun working with the council members and learning how this worthy program works,” stated Billerica Arts Council President Sharon Lapham. “The BAC has been with the MAC’s grant program since 1995 and at least 30 Billerica citizens have served on the council throughout the years.”

Lapham pointed out that funding stretches out to cultural activities, senior programs, science exhibits, and even Yankee Doodle Homecoming.

The importance of art education is pivotal. When the ‘No Child Left Behind Act’ was passed, they listed the arts as one of the “core academic subjects” of public education. Research shows art education is associated with improving math, reading, critical thinking, and verbal skills and is beneficial for children, teens, adults, as well as the elderly.

Some exciting and fun school programs have been previously funded by the BAC. In March 2010 at the Hajjar Elementary School, the Historical Perspectives Program brought in an actor depicting Abe Lincoln. He had third graders square dancing and discussing reading, chores, and leadership.

In October of 2009 Mark Kistler—popular cartoonist and nationally renowned author/ illustrator, visited the Kennedy Elementary School, advising, “stretch your imagination!”

To be considered eligible to receive funding, the organization should be non-profit 501(c)3 incorporated by the state of Massachusetts. Yet, some elementary schools, libraries or community groups could be eligible as well. These grants are then determined by a competitive panel review.

“Since I have been a member, each year the council has given approximately 26 to 30 applicants enough money to at least partially fund their grant projects,” Lapham mentioned.

“We have many creative individuals that just need help with some of the costs.” The Billerica Arts Council meets the third Wednesday of every month, at BATV on 430 Boston Road and are open to the public. For more information, please visit www.massculturalcouncil.org.

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16 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

Sunny Adventures Great Brook Offers Farm Fun

Road Rebels Car Club Makes a Spark

By Nora Fiore, Correspondent

By Karen West, Correspondent

Looking for a place to have some outdoor fun? Look no further than Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. Just under a half hour drive from Billerica Center, Great Brook has something for everyone, no matter your age.

Meander through the trails on a journey of discovery, either on a fast paced bike trip or trotting along on a horse. The trails twist and wind through woods and fields, cranberry bogs and meadows. If you’re not into hiking, you can always bring a canoe and your fishing pole and visit one of the ponds.

Nestled in the middle of this breathtaking acreage is a dairy farm that has been in existence for more than 60 years. The farm was originally started by a Mr. Smith, Owner of Concord Lumber. Smith also bought the 39 properties that abutted, for the purpose of starting this dairy farm.

In 1974, the state of Massachusetts bought the land. Twenty years ago, the Duffy Family leased the farm and proudly operate it today as part of the Cabot Co-op.

“We are one of only 180 diary farms left in Massachusetts, compared to 820 about 20 years ago,” Mark Duffy said.

Holstein cows were the original cows on this farm, prized for their ability to produce milk, and today is no exception. There are 160 cows on the farm now and usually two calves a week are born. Free tours are available on the weekends and during the week by appointment.

Also on the farm grounds sits a popular ice-cream stand. This ice cream stand is open mid-April until October 31 from 11am until dark, weather permitting (no lightning or downpours). The ice cream is all natural and is provided by Bliss Bros. Ice Cream from Attleboro, MA. They also host birthday parties and gatherings.

Heading into the fall, check out Great Brook’s other programs. Fishing programs in August, Down on the Farm in September, and Cranberry Harvest in October, just to name a few. So, whether you visit the petting zoo or the farmer’s market, if you are young or young at heart, you will find something to fit your style at Great Brook. For more info, visit: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/gbfm.htm.

They just don’t make cars like they used to. As if it is a scene straight out of American Graffiti, several area car clubs roll in and lineup; their chrome glistening. The engines’ rumblings blend as the music of Chuck Berry, spun by DJ Chappy, pumps through the speakers.

Every Tuesday from 6 to 8 PM, beginning in early May throughout September, they gather at VIP Auto Parts in Billerica and all residents are welcome. On a recent night this summer, the total car count was in the 90’s, still not yet topping the highest count of 128 in a former year. It’s anticipated that this number will be beat this year.

Classic cars are truly a love for club members, possibly bordering on an obsession for some. Jerry Buckland of Billerica has owned his 1941 Ford Club Coupe for twenty-three years. Modifying his Coupe with a bigger engine to keep up with others on the highway, he took it from its antique stock condition to its current hotrod status, which now allows Buckland to race it at New England Dragway.

Mike Gluck of the Road Rebels Car Club owns a 1969 Cadillac M+M Endloader. To be clear, Gluck drives a hearse; emblazoned with silver flames. He usually gets one of two very different reactions from passersby.

“It’s mixed. If they’re into the car scene; it’s the thumbs-up,” explained Gluck. “ If they’re not, they just kind of look at you. I’ve had people yell at me thinking it’s disrespectful, but I don’t do it to be disrespectful.”

The Road Rebels have been cruising since 1957, but when the gas crisis hit in the 60’s, the club petered out until 1991 when Billy Sacco decided to jump start it once more. As club president, Sacco has been a car enthusiast since a boy and has personally owned 372 cars in his lifetime.

The Road Rebels don’t discriminate on the type of cars allowed as some clubs might. In fact, if you want to be a Rebel, you only need to have a pre-1972 automobile on the road or a work-in-progress and, of course, pay your annual dues.

Upon arrival, every club car receives a raffle ticket for the chance to win door prizes. When the number of showing cars reaches 30 or more, clubs present at least two awards each week: President’s Choice, Club Choice and People’s Choice. Raffle proceeds go toward hosting annual events such as a cookout at the Mystery Springs Living Center on August 14 or the sock hop on September 17 at the Lo Kai Restaurant.

The Rebels, now with a cause, also donate a portion to cancer research. It is something that Sacco is personally vested in after beating bladder cancer; all the while still performing his duties as club president.

As stated, any resident is welcome to come to VIP to peruse the hotrods, proudly on display.

On July 1, Sheriff Peter Koutoujian spoke with a few of his youth cadets during his public safety academy graduation. 167 children from Billerica and Burlington attended this summer camp program the last week of June. Other speakers included Billerica Police Chief Dan Rosa and Billerica Firefighter Phil Tammaro, both of whom congratulated the group and encouraged students who wanted to explore public safety careers.

We All Scream for ICE CREAM!

By Liana Measmer and The Billerica Green Team Any way you dish it, you can’t deny it. We love our ice cream. Did you know Americans consume an average of 23 quarts of ice cream each year? Billerica loves it too so, WHO’S got the best ice cream in town? We visited Piece Ah Cake at 737 Boston Rd., Augusta’s/Orchard Hill at 599 Boston Rd., Friendly’s at 510 Boston Rd., and Chris’s at 265 Boston Rd. Each shop had friendly service and correct orders with 20 varieties or more flavors to choose. However, each shop varied in presentation and flavor and that’s what matters most.

Strawberry

Our taster was looking for lots of chunks of strawberries and a smooth texture. Orchard Hill had the biggest chunks (“Very Yummy Strawberry”) while Chris’s Ice Cream had the most generous portions for the price.

As for novelties, our taster noted Chris’s shaved ice (not slush) and Piece Ah Cake’s ice cream cannolis.

Chocolate

Our taster was tied between Orchard Hill for the creamiest (“Very Creamy”) and Piece Ah Cake for the most chocolate flavor (“Very Chocolately). Piece Ah Cake impressed with the best presentation while Chris’s impressed with the best value—the most generous portion for the price. Orchard Hill does not take debit or credit cards so bring cash.

Snickers/Totally Turtle

This taster wanted vanilla, caramel, and peanuts all in the same bowl. Yet each establishment had a different name for this type of ice cream. Her favorite? Chris’s Ice Cream, hands down, with the gooiest caramel, the creamiest vanilla and the most generous portion for the price. Friendly’s newest flavor was Cotton Candy Pop Rocks and Piece Ah Cake featured the Blizzard of ’78 with 20 ice cream scoops.

Oreo Cookie

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

With their presentation, their nicest shop and most generous size, Piece Ah Cake impressed this team of tasters. However, Orchard Hill, whose outdoor seating was a little close to the parking, had the softest pieces of Oreo cookie as well as the creamiest ice cream. Don’t forget your cash at Chris’s since they don’t take debit cards.

You’ll be hard pressed to find chocolate chip cookie dough in ice cream around here by THIS name. Calling it chocolate chip cookie dough generally gets you chocolate chip ice cream WITH cookie dough. Orchard Hill calls theirs Tollhouse. This taster preferred chips that had more of a bittersweet flavor and lots of dough.

Orchard Hill had lots of dough and chips while Piece Ah Cake had more of dough.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /17

MSEC Luau Brings Sunny Smiles

By Liana Measmer What do you get when you take 28 students from Merrimack Special Education Collaborative (MSEC), add umbrellas, leis and music? A luau celebration worth mentioning.

On July 17, students and staff volunteers got together in the warm sunshine at the Billerica Country Club, donning bright tropical prints, to enjoy pizzas, hula dancing and much anticipated socialization. This group, from the adult Today and Tomorrow program, had chosen a luau as a way to use some of the programming money raised at golf tournaments this year.

An elliptical machine to aid with physical therapies had also been purchased for the students by the funds raised this year.

MSEC is a Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education approved public school entity, providing academic, therapeutic and vocational services to individuals referred by local school districts and social service agencies. The Today and Tomorrow Work Services program assists individuals turning 22 to continue to receive support in order to work in the community. Community based day services and employment support services are offered, with MSEC’s job development team building business partnerships and assisting people with disabilities find employment.

Sharon DiMattia, MSEC Vocational Instructor, noted that this event was a great way for the students to see each other outside of school. She thanked the Winchester Knights of Columbus, Stoneham Bank, and the Billerica Country Club for their support of this day.

“We want them to have an opportunity to be social,” said DiMattia. “They look forward to it.”

For more information about MSEC, visit www.merrimackcollaborative.org.

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Walk Toward Burn Prevention Second Annual Fundraiser Supports Shriner’s

By Liana Measmer It seemed fitting to host the 2nd Annual New England Walk for Burn Awareness on Father’s Day. On the day so many express gratitude to their own beloved guardians, their Dads, Public Safety officers and firefighters joined forces to raise awareness about burn injuries and prevention.

On this sunny Sunday, 350 walkers and their families came to Castle Island, Boston for a two mile walk, organized by the Shriners Hospitals for Children® – Boston, the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Burn Foundation and the Boston Fire Fighters Local 718 Burn Foundation. Billerica’s own Phil Tammaro, firefighter and burn survivor, was one of the organizers representing the IAFF Burn Foundation. He’d also organized a team from Billerica, with other Billerica Firefighters on hand for the day.

Senator Ken Donnolly, a retired firefighter himself, was among the dignitaries who welcomed the crowd and congratulated the organizers. He thanked all firefighters for what they do.

“Firefighters see first-hand what happens,” said Donnolly, as he prepared to join the walkers.

Following the IAFF bagpipers, many burn victims, their spouses, their children and even

SHOP & STAY

their pets began the walk. Thirty minutes later, Caleb Donovan of Medfield was one of the first to finish the loop. When asked, he said he walked in support of his mother, Lisa, who works at Shriner’s and is a burn victim as well.

Following the walk, everyone enjoyed ice cream cups donated by Hood and the Shriner’s Clowns made their rounds to visit and play with the children.

Dale Calverley, “Fix-It Clown”, from Wayland said he became a Shriner’s Clown ten years ago and loves it. He volunteers at the hospital a few times per year and involves his own children. He sees his role as recapturing childhood for young burn victims and knows he’s done a good job when he sees a kid brighten up.

“We get paid in smiles,” said Calverly.

More than $30,000 was raised at the Boston event to benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children® – Boston, the IAFF Burn Foundation and the Boston Firefighters L-718 Burn Foundation. Key sponsors included The Boston Blazers, The Pine Tree Burn Foundation, and fire departments from all over MA, ME, RI, and CT. Each year in the U.S. more than 500,000 people suffer burn injuries. For more information about the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Boston, visit www.shrinershospitalsforchildren. org.

(based on availablility)

Call today to Shop & Stay 270 Concord Road, Billerica, MA 01821 978-670-7500

CURVES WORKS WITH SILVERSNEAKERS®

CELEBRATING OUR 10TH ANNIVERSARY 199 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 978-663-3450 New members only. Offer based on first visit enrollment, minimum 12 mo. c.d./e.f.t. program. Discount applies to initial service fee. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. © 2011 Curves International, Inc.

18 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

Only have an hour?

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Socializing Your Puppy WE SALUTE THE LOCAL

By Jennifer Chubb, Owner Peace of Mind Pet Care Solutions

Puppies and dogs need to be socialized to the big wide world so that they won’t be afraid of new situations, objects, sounds, people and other animals. Dogs should be socialized when they are puppies — it’s critical to their lifelong emotional wellbeing and their ability to be comfortable in the world.

Do not let your puppy be around other unvaccinated animals until he is vaccinated as he may pick up diseases (such as parvo, distemper, and hepatitis) that can be fatal to puppies. Puppies can safely be around other vaccinated animals in your home. You can introduce him to your family by having a small party where he can become accustomed to different types of people (loud/quiet, young /old, tall/ short) as well as people wearing hats, glasses/ sunglasses, helmets, coats, gloves, etc. You should take the puppy on short car rides, so she’ll be a good traveler from an early age.

Be careful to make all of your puppy’s socialization experiences positive. If something or someone seems to frighten your pet, introduce that object or person more slowly, and associate the object or person with positive things. For example, if your puppy is afraid of someone wearing a big hat, have that person offer treats to the puppy so she associates the hat with something good.

You should also gradually introduce your puppy to a variety of household items and sounds, such as the vacuum cleaner, the TV and radio, the sound of children’s toys, and electrical appliances.

Start early with getting your puppy comfortable with handling and grooming. Touch all her body parts: Open her mouth, look in her ears, hold her tail for a moment, handle her feet, toes and nails. Friends and family should handle the puppy too. Use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise to introduce a brush, comb and nail clippers.

Finally, to enhance your dog’s socialization skills, attend a basic training class where you will learn how to communicate with your new family member. If you are conscientious about socializing and training your puppy, he will be happier and more comfortable in our busy, often chaotic human world. For more information about pet care, contact Jennifer Chubb, Owner of Peace of Mind Personalized Pet Care Solutions at www.peaceofmindpetcare.net or 978-835-2269.

WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE HERO DISCOUNT POLICE, FIREFIGHTERS, TEACHERS, ACTIVE MILITARY PERSONNEL, AND THEIR FAMILIES ARE NOW ELIGIBLE FOR SUPER SAVINGS AT ANYTIME FITNESS! Stop-in today for a complete list of eligible heroes and discounts available.

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Editor’s Take: Pro-Nails Shellac Nails Long Lasting Manicure without Acrylic

By Liana Measmer

After sending my team to get manicures in February, I wanted to know what the hoopla was around the gel manicures. I did not know what it was but once I got one, I was hooked.

I spend a lot of time typing (big surprise as an Editor, right?) so I can’t get a traditional manicure because I will chip my polish quickly.

Gel nails are a form of artificial nail application. Gel can be applied directly to the nail bed then are cured under a special UV light to harden the gel. This method is great for strengthening your natural nail, while allowing your nails to grow.

I compared gels and acrylics online and learned gels are smoother because of no applied glues. Plus they can be more flexible and leave no impressions on the nail like acrylics. However, if your nails are splitting, peeling, or damaged, acrylics are a better alternative.

Pro-Nails in Towne Plaza at 700 Boston Road came recommended from customers who liked that there was no wait, plenty of stations and the Shellac Nails brand gels.

I wanted to try their gel pedicures which are a specialty plus I heard they use non-acetone polish remover to take off old gels as to not damage nail beds.

According to their website, Shellac, created by Creative Nail Design, are a hybrid of gel manicures. When I arrived at Pro-Nails, my technician took time with me in the massaging pedicure chair, prepping my feet. First, she rubbed alcohol over each one of my nails and applied a UV basecoat. Then I took turns with each foot (and later each hand) under their small white UV dryers, allowing the gel to cure. Then she applied two coats of gel polish followed by a clear gel topcoat. Each coat was cured under the UV dryer before applying the next coat. She did this with each hand and each foot.

The result? Glossy, protected nails that have withstood everything that I’ve dealt them. Keyboard typing. Opening car doors quickly. Lifting a soda can tabs. Zipping and buttoning children’s clothing. No chipping or breaking. Plus my toes still look perfect, weeks later.

Pro-Nails is running a special until September on Shellac Nails: ten percent off with their insert flyer. Stop by Pro-Nails at 700 Boston Road or call 978-262-0001 to schedule an appointment or visit their website at www.pronails.net for more information or services and coupons.

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /19

A Higher Calling The Billerica Clergy Association

Seeds of our Faith

On June 23rd, Holiday Inn Tewksbury-Andover threw a grand re-opening celebration for clients, officials, and management. The hotel, which had been temporarily the Tewksbury Inn, was re-instated by Holiday Inn following the completion of renovations.

Marketing Director, Stephen Nass, seen far right here, said he appreciated customer loyalty and he was really proud of their product. Around 200 guests attended and met the owner of Twin Tier Hospitality, Sattish Duggal, who came from Pennsylvania for this party. Duggal said it was all about ensuring guests keep coming back. Also in this photo are Tewksbury Selectman David Gay, State Rep. Jim Miceli, General Manager Don DuPaul, and Senior Vice President of Holiday Inn Operations Vincent Sano.

c

To get traffic to your business, Green means GO! Advertise with us!

By Frank Lustwerk-Dudás Baha’i Faith

Why do we – essentially spiritual beings – live in a physical world? This is one of the basic questions that religion strives to answer. Simply put, the answer is that the physical world teaches us spiritual truths.

In our physical interactions with parents, spouses, children, the boy or girl next door, we learn the spiritual truths of love, kindness, trustworthiness, justice. Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, put it this way: “Out of the wastes of nothingness, with the clay of my command, I made thee to appear, and have ordained for thy training every atom in existence and the essence of all created things (Hidden Words, 32).”

What training lessons lie hidden in our gardens? Beyond the obvious symbolism of our scriptural gardens — Eden, Paradise, Gethsemane — are there lessons in our own back yard, or in the clumps of flowers down the street? It strikes me that no garden of beauty or plenty comes without an investment: though the product may be intangible, like “beauty” or “pleasure,” the investment of dirt, seeds, and sweat is quite physical. The work of my neighbors, who tend the small garden where the roads meet, brings me joy as I wait at the stop sign.

We can extrapolate this to the rest of our lives: the rewards we value require investment and patience, and our assessment of value is often tied to the effort we make. There is a balance in this, a sense of justice, and a repeated interplay of physical and spiritual realities.

In gardens, we seek design, proportion, a blending of colors, sizes and shapes. In the garden of the world, there is a design that blends people of different colors, sizes, and shapes, and it is the variety of these colors and abilities that makes our world an earthly delight.

How we nurture this garden, how we work to ensure that all of its flowers can express the potential invested by God in their seeds, is a measure of how fully we have lived. That we share a single garden with a myriad of other flowers is a deeply spiritual truth: “Ye are all the fruits of one tree, the leaves of one branch, the flowers of one garden (Bahá’u’lláh).” That truth must inform all of our actions.

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20 / thebillericagreen.com / August 2011

Kids Creative Connection Big, Kid e b a n n o , You’re G s be there , an’t alway

Around The World By: Aachal Gunda A puzzle about places and fun facts about them

Across 3. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain 6. 98% of this place is covered in ice 7. One of the 4 corners in the U.S.A. 8. First Spanish American colony to declare independence in 1811

Down 1. The Sydney Opera House 2. Contains the Sahara Desert (2 Words) 4. The city of love 5. Famous for the Taj Mahal

Let’s Talk about it With Julia

By Julia Measmer

Junior Journalist: Meeting Donna Hansen Q: What is your job here at the Rec. Department?

A: I am the Recreation Program Coordinator.

Q: What do you do?

A: I work with teachers and staff to offer a lot of fun, exciting things for people of Billerica to do.

Q: What kinds of programs do you look for?

A: We look for things for people to have fun with like games, sports, exercise, music, fishing, or guitar lessons.

Some people like to watch things and some people like to do things.

Q: What are popular programs in the summer?

A: Popular programs in the summer are camps, sports camps, Lego camps, tennis, and playing in the water at the beach or Manning State Park. Plus our tickets to Six Flags, Water Country and movie theaters are popular too.

Q: What are popular programs in the fall? Where are programs held?

A: In the fall, people like guitar lessons, exercise classes, cooking classes and different things. We rent the schools, tennis courts and basketball courts.

Q: How can people sign up?

A: We let people know in different ways: the Billerica Green, our website, Facebook, our email newsletter, BATV, newspapers, and our booklet on the town website.

o Ic this was s h is w I h g , kid Thou o is hope, nna be big You’re go a star, All I can d u grow. h yo You’ll be As I watc pets, r a c d e r e, Walking d forget m r, n fa a it d a e k e a h ied.

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THE GAMER’S DEN Terraria: Land of Adventure

Know Your Puffle: Disney’s Club Penguin

By Jarred Measmer

By Jacob Measmer

On rainy days when I’m not fishing, I like to play on my laptop. My favorite game is Terraria. It’s a 2D side scroll computer game that is fairly new. Re-Logic created it and the principle behind Terraria is to be an explorer who creates a character and a world, which you customize.

Your world is basically where your character is. There is no way to beat the game and it is never ending. You start with copper tools and make a shelter. While travelling in your world, there is a guide character. When you get close to him, you right click for a help menu.

The object of this game is to survive, get armor, and find good items like accessories to your armor.

Some things you might do would be mining ore to make better armor and tools. Since it is a constant journey, you will explore during the day and night.

In the daytime, you meet harmless animals but night time brings bigger challenges like zombies.

I would suggest watching the trailer on www. terraria.org. You should be at least 13 years old so ask your parents first.

What is a puffle? It’s a small round character on www.clubpenguin.com.

It’s a penguin’s pet. It walks around your igloo and walks around with your penguin. Puffles are kind of magical because they can move with no legs and they can bounce with no hands. In Club Penguin books, they talk but in the game they don’t.

They are different colors too. In the game, the yellow one sings; the red one is shot from a cannon; the purple one dances; the green one flies with a propeller hat; the blue one bounces on a ball; the white one makes snow and skates; the black one skateboards; the orange one has a wagon that turns into a monster truck; the pink one jumps rope and the brown one builds things. On Club Penguin, there is a pet shop where you can buy puffles.

You can sign up for free on club penguin or you can get a membership. Your parents can click on ‘Parents’ on the home screen that tells them all about it so they know kids are being safe.

3 J’s Corner

August 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /21

Summer Garden Dinner

By Norma Cavicchio, from BATV’s Cooking with Norma and Dianne

Congratulations to Rakhee Tailor!

(Seen here with her two favorite helpers!)

She was our Kindle Winner for July 2011.

The correct answer to July’s Riddle was MicKee’s on the Water on Page 5. This month we had 245 entries which were CORRECT! Thanks to everyone for playing!

Here’s a great summer family recipe that my mother used to make when I was little.

Considering our local Farmer’s Market, it calls for lettuce, new potatoes and new peas which, in Maine where I grew up, were harvested just in time for July 4.

Cool Tuna Supper

8 new potatoes about 21/2” in diameter 1 large can of water-packed tuna, drained and flaked 1/2 large Vidalia onion, chopped 1 cup of mayonnaise 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped 1 cup of new peas – boil one minute and immediately run under cold water. Salt and pepper to taste 6 lettuce leaves approximately 6” x 6” in size or two smaller ones overlapped Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and boil until tender. While they are cooling, mix all other ingredients except the lettuce in a large bowl. When the potatoes are cool, fold them into the mixture and scoop onto the lettuce leaves. Makes 6 servings.

Billerica loves reading so we’re doing it again in August-Another Kindle! You must get the answer correct to this riddle:

Summer Sandwiches to go, Ham, Cheeses or Turkey.

Grab an ice cold soda too, You’ll enjoy! ‘Cuz it’s FREE! Who 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 August 10 to be eligible. We will ONLY get in touch with the winner and will post the results in the NEXT Billerica Green in September. You will hear from us by August 12 for delivery.

Substitutions: Crab meat Crumbled bacon Chicken Capers Additions: Shrimp Dill Salmon Chopped scallions

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!

Now Offering TBG Classifieds in The Billerica Green!

Karrie Stang’s

Selling stuff? Need Help? Lost Your Pet? Offering Services— babysitting, plowing?

Run a TBG Classified ad and let EVERYONE know!

It’s simple: 1. For $30 per ad of 50 words or less, we’ll run it for a month.

2. For only $5 more, we’ll BOLDFACE your header.

3. Fill out your form online at www.thebillericagreen.com and pay online with secure PayPal. 4. Mail your ad and check— payable to The Billerica Green: The Billerica Green PO Box 492 Billerica, MA 01821 5. Questions? email advertising@thebillericagreen.com or call 978-808-2361.

Help Wanted

Lost & FOUND

Sales Rep Position: Join fastest growing local sales force. The Billerica Green seeks motivated reliable reps to grow with us.

Commission based. Increased income potential. Sell more, make more. email advertising@thebillericagreen.com or 978808-2361.

Lost Dog: Named Spot. Lost since June.

12 in the Middle School vicinity. White poodle. Curly coat with black/brown markings. Lost tags in escape but has collar. Last seen June. 14 Main/Cross St. area.

Family misses him. Info call 978-555-5555.

E L P SAM E L P SAM

Writers Needed: The Billerica Green has freelance writer positions available. Competitive pay based on word count. liana@ thebillericagreen.com or 978-808-2361

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Brick Kiln Plaza (Rte. 3 Exit 29) 99 Chelmsford Rd. # 3, N. Billerica, MA 01862

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THEATER – MUSIC – COMEDY – DANCE – IMPROVISATION – STORYTELLING & WHATEVER YOU DO! NOW ACCEPTING ACTS – WWW.NEFRINGEFESTIVAL.COM

TIX: www.NEFringeFestival.com 978-667-0550

380 Cambridge St (Rte 3A) Burl.

A town guided by character.

Citizens driven by heart.

To you, we say Thanks!

There are those who live by their hearts and our town is better because of them.They are gracious and enjoy contributing their time or their talent.They are advocates for the less fortunate or they encourage others to soar from behind the scenes.They are self-sacrificing, helpful, and believe they receive more than they give.They are not notable leaders or great speakers or public figures.They are everyday people who do the right thing every day because it’s the right thing to do.

Do you know someone like this? Someone who truly has heart?

A neighbor? A student? A mentor? Your babysitter? Who do you know that enriches our lives just by living theirs?

We want to know!

It’s that time again!

The Billerica Green is now accepting nominations for

The Second Annual Heart of Billerica Awards to be held in September 2011 (Location TBA).

Last year, we gave out ten awards, recognizing and honoring remarkable unsung heroes who quietly make a difference one simple act at a time. Help us honor those with heart once more.

Details and nomination guidelines are found on the inside front cover.