THE
July y 2011
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BILLERICAGREEN Summer Reading Edition
Lazy Hazy Reading Local Authors’ Poolside Books
Summer Coupon Savings Hot Deals and Offers for You!
Waterfront Memories Nutting’s Lake Yesterday and Today
Cobey’s Story A Doberman’s Courageous Battle
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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. All nominations must be received by midnight July 8, 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.
Art Direction Je Surette, Surette Creative A publication of The Billerica Green, LLC PO Box 492, Billerica, MA 01821 www.thebillericagreen.com Š 2011, The Billerica Green unless otherwise speciďŹ ed. 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 o locations For a complete list of drop-o locations: www.thebillericagreen.com
Back Issues $3 each, available at Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery and Classes, 12 Andover Road, Billerica and The Billerica Green OďŹƒces, 880 Boston Road, Suite 6A, Billerica. Call for hours of availability.
Cover Painted by Siobhan O’Connor, Art Student Intern Prints of Cobey available for $50/each Colleen Sgroi Art Gallery and Classes 12 Andover Road, Billerica. Call for gallery hours.
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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.
July 2011
Out On The Town Calendar Event Coordinator Taryn Gillis 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 Jerey Bernoth Ashley Martelli
Contributors Terry Christie-Erisman John Salemme Jennifer Chubb 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 Julie Kinscheck
Photo by Frank Lane
6
Cobey: A Story of Survival A Doberman teaches us what a fighting spirit is
Robert Burns Jared Smith Sandy Libby
Norma Cavicchio Dianne Bone The Learning Experience
Contents 12 Waterfront Memories: Nuttings Lake
6
Follow the evolution from vacation destination to now
16 Far and Away Karen West Kay Warren Krissy Whitehouse Paul Abrego Sandy Libby Sarah Libby, GLICA Sonia Lacombe The Livseys
Lose yourself in a young couple’s tour of the world
In This Edition
12
Ask Dr. Gina Historical Perspectives Our Native Traditions Scat Chat Voice of The Artist Out On The Town Kids’ Creative Connection
Page 14
See more at thebillericagreen.com
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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 July 10, 2011 to qualify. We’ll contact our winner during the weekend of July 11 and deliver your Kindle to you. Good Luck!
Being appreciated for what you can do, not what you can’t do—that is what sets TILL apart. Proceeds from our candy sales go toward vocational training, development of artistic talents, and job coaching. Help us help ourselves. Together we can make a difference. The Billerica Green will give any company or store front who puts a TILL candy box on their counters 10% off their first month’s ad.
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2 / thebillericagreen.com / July 2011
From the Publisher’s Desk Relax your body. Exercise your mind. As we were putting together this month’s magazine, the “Summer Reading Edition”, I was scanning the internet for some stats on reading and the benefit to the brain. I know reading keeps us sharp and challenging our brains keeps it healthy. It was pretty neat when I came across information by a Dr. Soas in Cleveland, Ohio who said, “Consider your brain a muscle, and find opportunities to flex it. Read, read, read.” (We at the Billerica Green are obviously always looking out for YOU!) Even though it’s summer, take time to catch up on that reading you’ve been meaning to do. Grab a book or a Kindle. What about an adventure or a romance? The possibilities are endless. This month, we invited two authors to submit our features and we’re sure you will like these. We also read and reviewed three distinctly different books by local authors which you may want to bring to the beach with you. We’re giving away our second Kindle to promote reading electronically. Plus we pointed you to some outdoor places and activities worth checking out. Just wanted to give a call out to a few great ladies. First, thank you to our talented summer art student intern, Siobhan O’Connor. She painted the beautiful cover of our friend Cobey the Doberman who you’ll read about inside. I also wanted to extend best wishes to Tammy Martorana of Trendy Turnaround who closed her doors in June to spend more time with family. We also wish Woods Real Estate all the best since they recently opened up their 4th office in Tewksbury. As usual, thanks to my team who work hard to make the Green look beautiful. Couldn’t do it without you. Don’t forget to send in your Heart of Billerica nominations. Help us honor the everyday people and unsung heroes out there who otherwise would not seek any recognition. Plus, feedback is always welcome. What topics would you like to read about? Tell us so we can make the Green even better. Call me at 978-808-2361 or email me at liana@thebillericagreen.com. Keep reading, Billerica. I think your brain is showing!
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July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /3
Letters to the Editor Dear Liana, June 18 marked the class of 1956 holding their 55th class reunion luncheon. The significance of the class of ‘56 was that we were the first senior class to graduate from the then brand spanking new Billerica Memorial High School. It was a great thrill for the class as we all had gone to the old schools around town like the Ditson, Pollard, Old Howe and the Howe (now the town hall). To have your senior year in the new high school was to us beyond belief. Everything new and shiny, all the class rooms on one floor, nice auditorium and cafeteria and a new gym. The committee: myself—Fred Kenyon, Robert Smith, Marcia Wakefield Duggan, Janice Lucia Ekberg, Bill McNulty, Anne O’Brien Howard, Barbara Whelan Christianson—have worked hard to make this the best ever. The theme of the luncheon/ reunion was Historic Billerica with many historical ornaments being raffled off. The class consisted of 125 students with 52 coming to the luncheon from as far off as New Mexico, Texas, Washington state, Tennessee, and half the state of Florida! I guess they were getting out of the heat. Of the 52, we had 38 class mates with 12 spouses and 2 guests. We had a lot more who just couldn’t make it due to health reasons and travel difficulties. Thank you, Fred Kenyon Billerica To The Editor, The Billerica Emblem Club awarded scholarships of $500 each to six worthy Billerica seniors to the colleges of their choice. The scholarships have been awarded by the club for many years and it is one of their main fundraising events. The following seniors were awarded the scholarships: Cody Anderson, (Member), Betty Anderson’s Grandson; Shannon McInerny, (Member), Donna McInerny’s daughter; William Harris, Connor Elmore, Nicole Erickson, Eric Hughes, (Member), Grace Collins’ Grandson. Congratulations to all the seniors! Priscilla Ellis Billerica Hi Liana, Billerica Green Thumb, Inc., would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to EMD Serono employees who volunteered in assisting us with preparation and planting our garden. This is the second year we had the pleasure of their help. We would also like to thank Pat Zapert, Director of the Billerica Community Alliance for her continued time and devotion to us through Billerica’s annual Green Up/ Clean Up event. Additional support was given by several others throughout the community.
The Salt Box Nursery has given us annual support with their professional advice and a 15% discount on all excellent quality seeds and seedlings. Arthur Morrissey, Billerica Compost Committee, and Barbara Morrissey, Town Meeting Representative, have provided continuous support with instruction, planning and assistance. Rome Capobianco donated his time and equipment by the pick up and delivery of our compost and tomatoes, as well as tilling for us. Billerica Housing resident, Paul Ruggiero gave of his time and muscle by assisting with pick up and delivery of plants, tools, and supplies. Great thanks and appreciation goes to the New England Grassroots Fund, (NEGF) for their support and their generous award of a $1000 grant which funded our garden this year. Special appreciation goes to Liana Measmer, Publisher and Editor of The Billerica Green Newspaper for her interest in our organization and media coverage of the event. And last but not least, thank you Billerica Housing Commissioners for your continued support and guidance. Jayne Morgan, Treasurer Billerica Green Thumb Billerica, To the Editor, Mark Hasbrouck, a Billerica High graduate, has been diagnosed with Amyloidosis and will undergo stem cell surgery and treatments this summer at Boston Medical Center. (Visit www.amyloidosis.org for more info.). We are hosting a fundraiser on July 16 at 7 pm at the Polish American Vets Club, 201 Coburn St., Lowell to raise awareness for “Amyloidosis” and tickets are $20. Checks are payable to: Mark’s Amyloidosis Fund, P.O. Box #6 Billerica, MA 01821. For information, contact Amy Hasbrouck Mancini at 978-425-2760. Thank You, Judy Hasbrouck Dear Editor, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in the 20th annual Billerica Cystic Fibrosis Walk. This year, the walk was a HUGE success and a record-breaker with the amount of money raised and number of actual walkers. Thank you to all the local companies that made corporate donations and all the local businesses that made donations to the site raffle. A special thanks to all the teams, walkers and the many volunteers. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to next year’s walk. Thank You, Cheryl Steele Billerica Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
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A Commitment to Protect StonehamBank Combats Identity Theft By Liana Measmer
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At a recent Shred-It Day, hosted by StonehamBank three years running, the topic of identity theft was the ‘buzz’, as car after car pulled up, and people brought bags and boxes of documents to be destroyed. “We plan to continue this,” said StonehamBank Billerica Branch Manager Rebecca Scott. “It offers our customers and the community an opportunity to protect themselves.” According to www.ezinearticles.com, the most commonly used method of stealing another’s identity is dumpster diving for a bank account statement. This was why Scott and Marketing Director Josh Mahoney both encourage customers to shred anything with names or social security number and recommended e-statements and e-billing as a way to combat identity theft. One of the more recent scams came to light following a reported debit card compromise at Michael’s Craft Store. Scammers were calling people to tell them their card had been shut off and they needed to give out personal information over the phone. Scott advised hanging up and calling the bank to confirm this information was accurate. StonehamBank’s live call center (888-402-2265) always has a rep available after hours to answer questions. Sometimes, if a call isn‘t placed, an email can be tailored to look like the bank when it really isn’t. “Never give info over the phone if you didn’t initiate the call,” said Mahoney. Mahoney pointed out that many times identity theft happens at the hands of someone known to you. This is especially true for senior citizens and he recommends ensuring all private documents be put away and not left out on counters or kitchen tables. “Anything you leave out is fair game,” warns Mahoney. Mahoney said call the bank immediately if you think your information has been compromised. He explained that once an account is compromised, the scammer will start with small transactions before attempting a large transaction. “We can usually limit the damage if we know,” said Mahoney. “It’s never too late to call.” StonehamBank hosts Shred-it day at their branch on Boston Road each spring following tax season and an identity theft workshop for senior citizens in the winter at the Council on Aging. For more info, call 978-715-1311.
Voice of the Artist
What Am I Needing?
By Colleen Sgroi
This week I finished a three month tele-seminar course called ‘The Feminine Shift’. Twice a week, I listened to amazing women speak about how to live in our own authentic self. Whenever there is a paradigm shift, it seems the pendulum will swing far to the right and then to the left before settling in to the balance of being centered. This happens to awaken us to change. In this case, we are talking about women living and working from their core feminine self with confidence that who they are as woman is just what the world needs. We can co-create together with the masculine and be accepted as equals. I so see this happening everywhere I look and I am finding that the more I live from my own authentic self the easier life becomes. It is as if our life is a river. When you look at the flow of the river and you want to go tubing, would you put your tube in the water and start paddling up stream? Of course not. You get in the tube and enjoy the ride. We accept that the river is taking us down stream and we go with the flow. That is how I see each of our lives and the moment we try to be what others want us to be or what we think they want us to be, it is like trying to paddle upstream and we can feel the struggle. When I start to feel myself struggle with anything in life, I am learning to stop, take a deep breath and ask, “What am I needing?” This one question brings me back to myself and I find myself flowing down stream again. Saying what we need and loving our true self is the shift we all need to make so that our own unique self can shine and bring light to the world. This week when you find yourself stressed, afraid, or upset, ask yourself this one loving question “What am I needing?” Write to me at Colleen@colleensgroi.com and tell me what is shifting inside of you. Colleen is a teaching artist at ColleenSgroi Gallery & Art Classes - ColleenSgroi.com
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /5
Wish you had a Well-Trained Dog?
Enriching Every Step of Their Way TLE’s Fun Approach to Learning By Liana Measmer
The word ‘Enrichment’ is defined as ‘endowing with desirable qualities’ which defines a philosophy The Learning Experience Child Development Center adheres to when incorporating their seven different enrichment classes into their cutting-edge daily curriculum. It is this attention to excellence that drew the Gunda family to open this bright, big, beautiful center at 210 Treble Cover Road in North Billerica. Co-Owner Jaishri Gunda was running a successful home day care when she decided to open her own center. She and her husband Nilesh explored what was the best environment for early child hood education and care. “The Learning Experience presented itself as a perfect fit with its indoor playground and excellent curriculum,” said Nilesh. “We both love kids and are extremely passionate about their care and growth in the early stages of their development.” A strong commitment to providing the best for their students, the Gundas and their staff at The Learning Experience really stand behind the curriculum and enrichment programming which is included at no extra charge to TLE families. “We’re the only ones that do it,” said Melody Gawron, TLE Director. Since literacy is so critical, Fun with Phonics is taught daily to preschoolers. According to TLE, valuable teaching strategies paired with fun, hands-on activities like music and movement, big books, individual small readers, writing exercises and games connect language awareness to the world of the three and four year olds. The enrichment programs compliment the curriculum by rounding it all out. Suddenly Science is conducted in a hands-on laboratory style, teaching predictions and encouraging questions. Movin’ and Groovin’ is a fitness program taught by an accredited instructor that promotes exercise. A Start to Art allows students to work with various mediums as well as immerses them in culture and art history. Marvelous Math introduces applications, principles, and abstract concepts. This summer, children get a passport to learning as TLE launches its ‘Summer Time Safari’ program. Each day has such themes as Wacky Water Day or Mexican Hat Dancing and gives children the sense of being on a fun safari while teaching them about their world. There is still room to sign up so call 978-667-5437 or email billerica@tlechildcare.com for more information or to pick up your registration forms today.
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Before heading out for your vacation destination this summer, swing by Massage ME and Bodyworks at 655 Boston Road, Suite 3B for their Summer Sizzler events. Back by popular demand, these mini-spa days are a quick pick-me-up, with a reasonable cover charge that gets you feeling rejuvenated and out the door in an hour or so. Scheduled conveniently anytime between 9 am- 8 pm on either July 21 or Aug. 18, the $35 cover charge includes a mini massage, a mini facial and kissable lips treatment, and an ion foot detox bath. Before you leave, you even get $10 in ME Dollars for future services. The mini-massage includes long relaxing gliding strokes that stretch the muscles and offer compression to sore spots. The mini-facial features BeautiControl spa treatment products which is gentle for all skin types. It includes a foaming mousse cleanser, exfoliating facial scrub, a masque for extraction, a cleansing tonic and a moisturizing day crème. This entire line is also available at Massage ME ‘to go’. “We can use it here and you can take it home for an at-home skin care regime,” said Debbi Fubel, Licensed Massage Therapist and Co-Owner of Massage ME. If you are heading out for a night on the town, the kissable lip treatment is a must. First, a lip masque is gently applied which removes toxins left behind by lipsticks and then followed by an emollient crème which brings out your lips’ natural color. The Ion Foot Detox Bath doesn’t just soak and relax your feet. The process actually detoxifies the entire body which gives an overall sense of well-being. After your soak, your feet are rinsed and you can choose either aromatherapy or frozen margarita foot crèmes which are applied for you. “It’s amazing,” said Fubel. For more info or to reserve your ME time, call 978-663-3149 and make your Summer Sizzler appointment today.
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A Story of Survival By Terry Christie-Erisman
I
n early March 2010, just shy of his 7th birthday, our Doberman Pinscher, Cobey, seemed to have developed an intermittent limp in his left front leg, which at the time was not of great concern. Being the consummate athlete, he’d had his share of strains and sprains and always recovered; this time we didn’t expect it to be different. As fate would have it, he was already scheduled for his annual exam, so during his visit, we brought it to the vet’s attention, anticipating nothing more than a sprain. Twenty minutes and an x-ray later, the vet returned with a somber look on her face, then said, “Cobey has bone cancer.” The words were paralyzing… Panic stricken, the questions began: Were they sure? Was he in pain? How long did he have? We stood in silence while she explained that osteosarcoma is a very painful, fast moving cancer, and can be fatal within weeks to several months of the time of diagnosis. The only way to alleviate the pain would be amputation, but the only chance to save his life, would be to follow the surgery with chemotherapy. But before we could proceed, more testing would be needed to be sure that the disease hadn’t already spread; and, time was of the essence. The following afternoon, we were in Boston for Cobey’s additional testing. As we waited, surrounded by a mental fog, I tried to envision the road ahead and what life would be like for our beautiful, athletic boy if he indeed was a candidate for the surgery. I knew this would prove to be one of the most difficult decisions we’d ever have to make. Thankfully, all results were negative, indicating that we had caught the cancer early. It’s hard to describe how much happiness and unconditional love Cobey has brought into our lives, and we were
determined to do whatever it took to return him to good health and a happy life. Our decision had been made… Five days later, after hugs and kisses, and with tears in our eyes, we placed Cobey (and his Teddy) into the hands of the surgeon. The surgery was successful. Several days later, we arrived to take him home: emotionally, we thought we were prepared; we were not. Our handsome dog’s appearance was now heartbreaking and difficult to look at, but he didn’t seem to notice. All that seemed to matter was that we were back, and he was going home. Over the next few weeks, he was lethargic and depressed, which caused us to question our decision. But as the days passed, we began to catch glimpses of the boy we used to know. As he was slowly regaining his strength and confidence, we were distressed by the fact that it was time for his chemotherapy to begin.
Staff at the oncology clinic were wonderful and immediately smitten with Cobey. Over the next 6 months, he would receive his treatments at three-week intervals. Each time we’d arrive at the clinic, true to his spirit and personality, Cobey was always happy to see everyone, and he’d quickly learned the drill: He’d find his mat, settle right in, and then look up at everyone as if to say “Can we please just get on with it?” To our relief, except for some weakness and loss of appetite, he tolerated the treatments. As the weeks passed, we were devoted to helping him regain his strength and stamina. Soon enough, he was back happily running on the wooded trails and chasing his ball at the park, just like in the old days! In fact, if you saw him running, you’d never believe he was tri-pawd! Life was finally getting back to normal. Then one day last fall, while running in the park, Cobey ruptured an Achilles’ tendon on his left rear leg. After consulting the vet, we learned that surgery was the only option, and that recovery for would be difficult for a four-legged dog, but a tremendous challenge for one who’s already at a deficit. Again we agonized over the best course
of action; but considering all he had been through, and his utter will to survive, we knew that we couldn’t let this stop him. In January, his tendon was re-attached and stabilized with external rods and multiple pins through the bone, which remained in place for another three months. After removal of the hardware and several months of convalescence and therapy, in true Cobey Style, he’s on his way back again! From his initial struggle to coordinate his newly configured body, continuing through his most recent challenge, his strength, determination, and will to live has been unlike anything we’ve ever experienced; he has taught us never to give up. None of us know what life has in store, and Cobey’s message is simple: “Love unconditionally, live each day to the fullest, and when life knocks you down, get up, brush yourself off, and just start over.” If we hadn’t had the courage to give him this chance, we would never have realized the joy in his message, and sadly would have lost out on time to come and the happiness of spending each new day… with Cobey. Cobey continues to live his happy life with Terry Christie, owner and training director of Canine Magic Dog Training Company in Billerica, and will continue to touch the lives of everyone he meets, for many years to come. For a video diary of Cobey’s journey, go to youtube.com/user/gadooman. Choose “see all” and scroll to the bottom.
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /7
Conserving Water Equals Homeowner Savings By Liana Measmer
265 Boston Rd. Billerica, MA 01821 (Located behind Chris’ Ice Cream Shop)
With potential fines of up to $25,000/day looming on the horizon for failure to comply with Mass Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) water conservation requirements, now is the time to conserve and incorporate money saving measures which could make a difference on homeowners’ water bills. This would also bring us in line with the DEP required 65 gallons of water usage per person/per day. Although over 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is water, 97 percent of that water is saline, leaving only three percent of fresh water. Of that three percent, 2/3 is frozen in glaciers and polar ice caps, which leaves only one percent of all water fit for human consumption. An average family in Billerica uses about 120,000 gallons of water per year so utilizing low flow fixtures and appliances can reduce that number, saving homeowners about 20 percent on their water bills. According the Water Conservation Oversight Committee, currently in Billerica, there is a Stage 2 water ban in place until October 1 for non-essential watering on odd/even days. To conserve on outdoor watering, some ideas could include: • Wash your pets outdoors in an area of your lawn that needs water. • Apply water only as fast as the soil can absorb it. • Aerate your lawn at least once a year so water can reach the roots rather than run off the surface. • Catch water in an empty tuna can to measure sprinkler output. One inch of water on one square foot of grass equals two-thirds of a gallon of water. • When you give your pet fresh water, don’t throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your trees or shrubs.
Making better drivers for tomorrow.
1-978-66-DRIVE
(Sources: www.wateruseitwisely.com)
Look Who’s ho o s Here! Who’s this? Want to find out? Check out our online photo gallery at thebillericagreen.com to get the REST OF THE STORY.
As Pay 540 d n A s$ le A t t i L
We can’t make them do their homework, But we can make them better drivers. Full program includes: - 30 hours of classroom instruction - 12 hours driving time (We pick you up!) - 6 hours observation time - 2 hour parent class - Drivers Education Certificate
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Email: info@billericaautoschool.com
8 / thebillericagreen.com / July 2011
&+,/' &$5( 352*5$06 ~ IN COLLABORATION WITH BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS ~
BTU Supports Boys & Girls Club Programs By Liana Measmer
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 2IÀFH RI (DUO\ (GXFDWLRQ DQG &DUH DQG DUH SURIHVVLRQDOO\ VXSHUYLVHG * Coverage for early release, half days, professional days and most holidays are included.
OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY JULY 12TH 6:00-7:30PM
6SDFH LV OLPLWHG 5(*,67(5 12: For more information contact us at www.billericabgc.com or 978-667-2193 x103
Billerica Boys & Girls Club 27th Annual Golf Tournament 18-HOLE GOLF TOURNAMENT (SCRAMBLE FORMAT) 7:00 A.M REGISTRATION (COFFEE, DONUTS & PLAYER GIFT PACKAGES)
8:00 A.M TEE OFF (SHOT GUN)
1:00 P.M COCKTAIL RECEPTION (CASH BAR) DINNER, AWARDS CEREMONY, AUCTION & RAFFLES
SPONSORSHIPS
Opening Doors
GOLD $1,000 (4 GOLFERS, TEE & GREEN SIGN RECOGNITION)
ENJOY A DAY OF FUN AND RELAXATION WHILE SUPPORTING A GREAT CAUSE; ALL FUNDS RAISED WILL BE USED TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL AID TO NEEDY FAMILIES IN OUR CHILDCARE PROGRAMS
SPONSORSHIPS
PRESIDENTIAL $300 (TEE / GREEN SIGN RECOGNITION)
GOLFING
$400 PER FOURSOME $110 PER GOLFER
HELP US REACH OUR GOAL OF $40,000 FRIDAY AUGUST 12, 2011 BILLERICA COUNTRY CLUB, 51 BALDWIN ROAD
For more information call 978-667-2193 x102 or www.billericabgc.com
A focus on achievement and a focus on opportunity could very well be the reason BTU International Inc. and the Billerica Boys and Girls Club are teaming up. BTU International, Inc., a global supplier of advanced thermal processing equipment, recently made a $2,000 donation to support the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Billerica. The donation has been designated to support the club’s educational programs, including ‘Power Hour’. “Support from companies like BTU International is vital to the breadth and strength of the Boys and Girls Club programs,” said Roy Nagy, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Billerica. “We appreciate this generous gift from BTU.” Nagy explained that the’ Power Hour’ is the Club’s after school homework hour where children, in the quiet atmosphere of their Learning Center, are supervised by an elementary school teacher. This teacher provides tutoring and homework help twice each day. The students earn points for participation which are applied toward field trips, pizza parties, and special activities for the leading point earners. “We also track report cards and focus on areas where improvement is needed with 20-30 kids daily earning points,” said Nagy. BTU staff person Jolanda Creech noted how impressive the club’s programming was. Chairman and CEO of BTU International, Paul van der Wansem also applauded the Power Hour. “We are pleased to extend our support to the Billerica Boys and Girls Club. Their educational ‘Power Hour’ is an excellent program that provides great benefit to the local youth,” said van der Wansem. “Our company has been in Billerica for over forty years, and the strength of these community programs helps us to recruit and retain high quality personnel at BTU.” When asked to comment further on the connection between studying hard and having opportunities available, Creech noted because of the company’s size, with 400 employees worldwide, of which 175 come from the greater Billerica area, so often they draw locally to fill their positions. These include job opportunities in their research lab, engineering department, accounting department and sales offices. “The more education the kids get, the better it is for all of us,” said Creech.
Got Books? Get Cash! GOT BOOKS Reseller Generates Big Funds for Non-Profits By Ashley Martelli, Correspondent After you read a book, where does it end up? On your shelf collecting dust? Wouldn’t it be nice to donate it to a charitable cause? Well, now your books can make a difference. Since 2007, Got Books, Inc., the locally run used book reseller, has paid $1.13 million dollars to hosts with bins, which are non-profit cooperators like schools, town halls, or churches. When these containers fill up, Got Books Inc. purchases the contents inside and gives the money to the hosting organization. Bob Ticehurst, president and founder of Got Books Inc. and Used Book Superstore Inc. and Billerica resident, explained Got Books repurposes donated books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, and records after sorting at the company’s 69,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Wilmington. Then the books get sent to Got Books’ sister company, Used Book Superstore, or even get sold online. When asked what Ticehurst loves most about Got Books, he revealed that, “Our business model fits with the new American economy where the trend of reusing and repurposing goods increases every day. Readers want to be sure that their used books find a good use.” Beth Learson, mother of two and a supporter of Got Books states, “We use the bin all the time at the Ditson school. Emily and Brian love to give the books to other children who will enjoy them. Plus, I feel good because I don’t have to put the books in the trash.” Vikki DiPerri, the Ditson Elementary Association President explains, “The Got Books bins at the schools are actually there for The Partners of Education. We put this money in the general fund and it is used towards activities for the children in the school.” President of Kennedy Elementary school’s PTO, Lori Aquavella, comments, “The Got Books bin has helped the Kennedy School raise some extra money. All money raised goes to the PTO and is used for educational programs.” She added that she wished people would stop vandalizing the bin. For more information, visit www.GotBooks.com, www.UsedBookSuperstore.com or call Got Books at 978-416-8288.
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /9
Recreation Adventures tures Summer Programs for All By Robert Burns, Correspondent
When the school year ends, fun and learning doesn’t stop at the Billerica Recreation Department. This summer, they are offering a wide variety of programs to engage young minds and keep kids active. Donna Hansen, Program Coordinatorr at the Billerica Recreation Department, hass been organizing many programs that teach children new skills. “There is a program forr hing for everyone,” Hansen said. every age range here. We try to have something For the outdoor lovers, Still River Outfitters runs several programs at Micozzi Beach that teach safe, recreational kayaking skills to people of all ages through games and activities. Parents can accompany their children or parents and children can learn on their own. Theater fans will enjoy the Summer Stageworks program offered by Cindy Haggerty. Here, students will brush up on their acting skills, participating in skits and improvisation while learning how to use costumes and props to act for both the stage and the camera. This drama camp is offered in two sessions at the Locke Middle School. One for children in kindergarten up to the second grade, and one for kids in grades three through six. For the budding engineer, Wicked Cool For Kids has several programs that teach kids anything from robotics to rocket launching. The Mindstorm classes teaching children how to program robots, is offered at the Locke Middle School. Wicked Cool Rocket Science, teaching students how to build their own solid fuel rocket, launches them from the Lewis Building on Boston Road. Athletic kids, ages 7 to12, are welcome to participate in Thundercats Sports or Skyhawks Sports programs. Thundercats Sports stress teamwork and learning while keeping kids active. At the Locke Middle School, kids participate in coed games of soccer, baseball, basketball and there are also girls only sessions available. Skyhawks Sports offers no pressure, just lots of fun. Children work on developing skills and drills in sports like baseball, basketball, and soccer at the Lampson Recreational Complex. These are a few of the many great opportunities available for children this summer through the Billerica Recreation Department. The entire summer brochure as well as registration information can be found online at www.town.billerica.ma.us.
Get Ready for Summer!
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Billerica Farmer’s Market Promoting Local Agricultural Community By Liana Measmer Although the idea for a Farmer’s Market in Billerica originated in 2009, it will finally be actualized this summer. Farmers from Billerica and beyond will make their fresh produce, baked goods, sauces, meats and even live lobsters available every week out on the Senior Center lawn at 25 Concord Road. From June 27 to October 24, every Monday afternoon between 3–7 pm, anyone who comes through the center can expect to see colorful fruits and vegetables, crafters tables and live entertainment, making this a bustling and lively community setting. “It has to be all about fun,” said Wayne Smith, Market Manager. Smith, organizer of the Community Gardens in Vietnam Veteran’s Park, is part of the collaborative organizing committee consisting of Kay Johnson, Tonya Urquizo, Phyllis Savage, Eric Read and Jerry Johnson. This volunteer group has logged in multiple hours of preparation by working closely with town officials, visiting other farmer’s markets, and obtaining necessary permits and certifications. “It’s been a learning process,” said Kay Johnson. Johnson, an active member of the Billerica Garden Club, explained having a farmer’s market gives people the opportunity to purchase quality produce that is minimally or completely pesticide free. This allows the buyer to make a connection with the person who grew it and the farmer can answer questions about preparation or shelf life. “We want farmers and vendors to be successful,” said Smith. A few things Smith and Johnson want everyone to remember: (1) Don’t expect out of season produce; (2) Bring cash; (3) expect to pay for the quality you are getting; and (4) no early birds please. The starting bell will ring at 3 pm, signifying the start of the market, since farmers need time to set up beforehand. There is still room for vendors who want to apply for a space and volunteers are needed for set up and break down. For more information, visit them on Facebook or at www.billericafarmersmarket.org.
June 27th – October 24th Mondays, 3 – 7 pm Senior Center, 25 Concord Road Special 4th of July Appearance The Hoop Doctor, Allyson Makiej hosts a Hoola Hoop/Costume Party Folk Singers Marie Duprey & Michael Ross www.billericafarmersmarket.org
10 / thebillericagreen.com / July 2011
Out On The Town 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 – 15
Billerica BMX www.billerica-bmx.com 781-791-4507 Visit the website for information on races, camps and fundraisers.
Billerica Cat Care Coalition
www.BillericaCatCareCoalition.org July 23, 8am – 12pm Informational Table at the Carlisle Farmers Market, Rt. 225 in Carlisle right next to Kimball’s Ice Cream. July 16, 10am – 2pm Summer BBQ Agway, 24 Maple Rd, Chelmsford. Adoptable kitties arrive at 11 AM. All donations go toward medical care and food for our ferals and fosters.
The Billerica Community Alliance www.billerica-alliance.org. June 1 – July 31 Amateur Photography Contest Theme is “Billerica Places & Faces.”Free contest, open to all, maximum of two entries per person. Photos must be original and cannot be digitally enhanced or altered. Photos must be of people or places in Billerica and must have been taken in the past twelve months. Only amateur photographers can participate. First prize is a $100 gift certificate to Ritz Camera. For more information, see the Community Events page of our website.
The Billerica Council On Aging
25 Concord Road, Billerica 978-671-0916, www.billericacoa.org Open Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm Sign up for scheduled activities at the front desk Monday, July 4: closed Internet Class: Tuesday, July 5 at 10:30 am Walking Wonders: Wednesday, July 6 at 8:45am. Meet at the Fox Hill Cemetery. Senator Donnelly’s Office Hours: Wednesday, July 6 at 9:30am. From Digital Camera Onto Your Computer Part I: Wednesday, July 6 at 1pm. Caregiver Support: Wednesday, July 6 at 10am. Horseshoes: Thursday, July 7 at 10am. LRTA Senior Charlie Cards: Monday, July 11 at 10am. Get your free Senior Charlie Card that gets you discounts on bus and rail fares. Beginner 1 Computer Class: Monday, July 11 at 10:30am. Podiatrist Appointments: Tuesday, July 12 at 9:30am
Veterans Support: Tuesday, July 12 at 10:30am. From Digital Camera Onto Your Computer Part 2: Wednesday, July 13 at 1pm. SHINE Appointments: Wednesday, July 13, 9am. Grief and Healing Support: Wednesday, July 13 at 11am. Reiki Clinic: Thursday, July 14 at 9am. Reiki Master Rosemarie Bass and her staff. Make appointments at the Senior Center. Pharmacy Clinic: Thursday, July 14 at 10am. Dr. Chin of Walgreens’ Pharmacy will check to make sure all your prescriptions are compatible. Signs & Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Monday, July 18 at 10am. Better understand the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis presented by Dr. Alan Marks, Rheumatologist from Emerson Hospital, Concord, MA. Hearing Screenings: Wednesday, July 20 at 9am. Atlantic Audiology will do free hearing screenings and hearing aid cleanings. Intergenerational Program, Part 1: Wednesday, July 20 at 9:30am. Seniors and middle-schoolers join in getting to know one another. Must sign up at the center. Book Club: Tuesday, July 26 at 12:30pm. The book, Call the Darkness Light by Nancy Zaroulis will be discussed with facilitator Kathleen Kelley. Meditation: Wednesday, July 27 at 10:15am. Facilitator Marion Goddard. Intergenerational Program Part 2: Wednesday, July 27 at 9:30am. Ice Cream Social: Wednesday, July 27 at 1pm. Billerica Crossings will provide delicious ice cream and toppings; be sure to bring the grandkids! Reiki Clinic: Thursday, July 28 at 9am. 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 July 3 and August 7, 1 – 3pm
Billerica Lions Club www.billericalionsclub.org Joan DiOrio, mamajd@aol.com Affordable Festival on the Common Monday, July 4, 10am – 2pm Spinners Game/Gator Pit Tuesday, July 19 William H. Flaherty Memorial Golf Tournament Meadow Creek Golf Club, Dracut July 25, 7:30 am Tee Off For info, call 978-663-8314
Billerica Memorial High School – Class of 1991 20 Year High School 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. Join the “BMHS Class of 2001” Group on Facebook!
Billerica Moose Lodge Carnival Themed Family BBQ Saturday, July 16, 12 – 6pm Members: $5.00 Non-members: $3.00 Children are free. For more information contact Crystal Peverill: CLPeverill@ hotmail.com or 978-771-1117
Billerica Recreation Department 248 Boston Road, 978-671-0921 billrec2@town.billerica.ma.us www.town.billerica.ma.us (click on Recreation) Additional information and updates about these and other programs 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, golf. Family Fun Fishing Saturday, August 6, 9am – 12pm Micozzi Beach, Middlesex Turnpike $2.00 pp, bait provided. Prizes will be given for the younger anglers in different categories during the event. 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. Go whitewater rafting on the Kennebec River! This overnight adventure at the Magic Falls Complex in West Forks, Maine includes an overnight stay at the Dead River Lodge, Pizza Party Dinner, Mini Breakfast and BBQ lunch, and wet suit if needed. Registrations must be received by August 19! Minor League Baseball Tickets Lowell Spinners at LeLacheur Park, Lowell. Saturday, July 9 vs HR Renegades – 5:05 PM Game (Logo Baseball Giveaway) $15/ticket (Hot dogs and drinks will be served at your seat behind home plate)
Sunday, July 17 vs Durham Bulls – 1:05 PM Game PAW SOX at McCoy Stadium, Pawtucket RI. $11.00 / ticket Tuesday, August 16 – 7:05 PM Game AL/ NL NYP All Star Game at LeLacheur Park, Lowell. $17.00 / ticket (Hot dogs and drinks will be served at your seat behind home plate) Upcoming Motor Coach Tours July 17: Block Island; Roundtrip ferry between Point Judith, RI and Block Island. Luncheon at National Hotel; narrated island tour, browsing and shopping. Cost: $89 pp July 18–20: Baltimore with Red Sox Games; 3 day/2 night, Reserved seats for two games at Camden Yards; stadium tour; breakfasts; 2-hour narrated Baltimore city tour; narrated Harbor Cruise, browse Harbor Place. Cost $399 pp /twin. 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 Summer Concerts Unless otherwise noted, all concerts will be held on the Town Common at 7pm. Great fun for the whole family! Concerts sponsored by the Friends of Billerica Recreation, Inc. July 4: BBQ, Music & activities Independence day celebration 10am – 2pm. Sponsored by Billerica Lions Club. July 5: GOOD OLD BOYS July 12: RAMPAGE TRIO July 19: BEATLE TRACKS July 26: THE RISEN August 2: RHYTHM MECHANICS August 9: JOHN PENNY BAND Billerica Library Ice Cream Sundae 6: 30pm August 16: FOUR GUYS IN TUXES August 23: FRONT PAGE August 30: ANDY HEALY BAND Sponsored by the Irish American Club
Bodacious Ladies 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.
Boys and Girls Club of Billerica 19 Campbell Road, Billerica 978-667-2193, www.billericabgc.com Great Futures Pre-K Open House July 12, 6–7:30 pm
Golf Tournament August 12, 7 am Registration; 8 am Tee-Off Billerica Country Club, 51 Baldwin Road Call for information about our summer camp.
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. Four weeks to pick from: July 7-15, July 18-22, Aug. 8-12, Aug. 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.
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 and Sunday School: 10am Little Angels Playgroup for preschoolers: Wednesdays 9:30 – 11:00am Bible Study: Thursdays 10:30 – 11:30am Special Wednesday Night Summer Worship Services, all at 7:30pm: July 18: Celtic Worship July 30: Bluegrass Worship July 27: Spiritual Revival with communion and potluck dinner Vacation Bible School: Monday July 18 through Friday July 22, 9:00am – 12:00pm Ages 5 years to entering 6th grade. Registration is now open. Space is limited, so please register soon. The cost is $25 for the week. Scholarships are available. Registration forms may be obtained by calling the church at 978-663-8433.
Mark Hasbrouck Amyloidosis Fundraiser Polish American Veterans Club 201 Coburn St. Lowell Amy Hasbrouck Mancini 978-425-2760, amymancini@comcast.net July 16, 7:00pm – 1:00am Donation: $20.00. Mark Hasbrouck, Billerica High School graduate, has been diagnosed with AL Amyloidosis and is undergoing stem cell transplant and chemotherapy treatments this summer at Boston Medical
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /11
Wishing you a Happy & Safe Summer!!! Center. Raise funds and awareness for “Amyloidosis.” Join us for a special fundraising night; entertainment, raffles, food, and fun! Checks can be made out to: Mark’s Amyloidosis Fund P.O. Box #6, Billerica, MA 01821. Please visit www. amyloidosis.org for more information. For tickets or donations, contact Amy Hasbrouck Mancini.
Merrimack Repertory Theatre 132 Warren Street Lowell 978-654-7595, Box Office: 978-654-4MRT berube@merrimackrep.org www.merrimackrep.org Improvisational Theatre Week July 5 – 8, 9am – 4pm, Grades 6 – 8 and 9 – 12 Two-Week Performance Seminar July 11 – 22, 9am – 4pm, Grades 6 – 8 August 8 – 19, 9am – 3pm, Grades 4 – 5 The Young Company July 11 – 29, 9am – 5pm, Grades 9 – 12 One Week Theatre Camp August 1 – 5, 9am – 3pm, Grade 1 – 3
$349,900 8 rms, 30K sf lot, Immaculate, refinished hardwood
$379,900 5 bdrms, 3 bths, Billerica Center, In-ground pool,
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$324,900 level 25K sf, landscaped lot, cabinet packed kitchen, 3 seasons porch.
$339,900 East. Refinished HW flrs, 8 rms, finished basement, fireplaced living room.
$279,900 West. Great opportunity. 3 bedroom gambrel with 3 seasons porch addition.
$218,500 Burlington line, 3 bdrms, 1.5 bths, Ditson School District, updated systems.
Middlesex Community College www.middlesex.mass.edu Summer Session II July 5–August 4 Sprint Program for Incoming Students June 13–August 4 Register for fall classes. For information, call 1-800-818-3434. Classes start September 7.
Sistacamp The Bennett Public Library 3 Concord Road July 11 – 15 and August 8–12, 7:30 am – 3:30 pm Contact Karla DiChiara, sistacamp@aol.com
The Learning Experience 210 Treble Cove Road, Billerica 978-667-KIDS (5437) www.thelearningexperience.com Red Cross Blood Drive July 18, 2-7 pm
TOPS Chapter #253 linda.rebel13@gmail.com Tuesdays 5 – 7pm Taking Off Pounds meeting in town hall on Tuesdays starting with weigh-in times 5 – 6pm, meeting starting at 6 – 7pm. Contact linda. rebel13@gmail.com for more information. Now is the time to become healthy!
2nd Annual Ride for Bella Steve and James Tavern 187 Rockingham Road, Derry, NH July 10, 8 am, $25/motorcycle, $10/passenger For info, Contact Peter Roarty, rideforbella@yahoo.com
Call us TODAY! 978-671-4466 $272,900 Commuters dream! Bright & Sunny, Hardwood flrs, fireplace, Many upgrades.
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478 Boston Road, Billerica, MA 01821
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12 / thebillericagreen.com / July 2011
waterfront memories Nutting’s Lake: Yesterday and Today By Angie Orenstein, Staff Writer Current-day photo by Gail Lucozzi, ASA Photographic Historical photos courtesy of David D’Apice
ummer is here and that means Nutting’s Lake will be sprinkled with people boating and fishing and taking a refreshing swim at Micozzi Beach. While many Billerica residents enjoy all the lake has to offer, it doesn’t compare with the mid-1900s when hundreds of families spent their summers in cozy cottages along the shore, frolicking in the water, and indulging in the many activities of a bustling vacation community. Beginning around 1915 and ending sometime in the late 1950s, Billerica was a haven for multitudes of city-dwellers escaping their homes in or near Boston for some cool fresh air, rest and relaxation. At the height of popularity, during the mid-1930s, the lake population tripled during the summer months. Off-season there was less than 3 thousand people living in Billerica and only about a dozen families living year-round on the lake. “Billerica was considered a resort town in its time—in the 30s and 40s,” said Bob Kinsman, president of the Billerica Historical Society. “Nutting’s Lake was a pretty active lake in its day—a destination resort.” Billerica’s proximity to Boston made travel fairly short and sweet, even with early automobiles, and there were also trolleys and the Boston Maine railroad, which had recently been extended. The 40-minute train ride from Boston to Billerica cost 60 cents. Many railroad workers and mill workers lived in the area and they, too, craved a vacation spot. While a few of the vacationers could be considered well-off, many were middle class workers from Boston suburbs seeking some much needed time away. Cottages, or camps, could be rented for as little as $5 per week or $10 per month. Some vacationers didn’t rent or own—they camped out along the lakeshore. “There were a lot of reasons for people to be here,” said Kinsman. “It was a pretty vibrant community at the time.” At the beginning of each summer, young people who lived on the lake anticipated the arrival of the vacationers, who joined them in group games of kick-the-can, or stories told around a roaring campfire. There was an open air theater on Lake Street for minstrel shows and amateur performances, and several boathouses that served as social centers in the evenings for parties, dances, and sports competitions. Billerica resident, Helen Potter, was born and raised on Nutting’s Lake. She remembers swimming every day and fondly recalls going to the boat house for dancing and movie viewing,
S
“Frankenstein” being her favorite film. She said the kids would proved to be an obstacle, they built the causeway cutting through often buy a cola and a bag of Sandy’s potato chips, which were the center. The road itself did not become the major highway it was homemade in a building opposite the Howe School. Potter recalls intended to be, but once the lake became a popular vacation spot, that there were two stores on the south side of the lake and two the causeway proved very useful for vacationers travelling around stores on the north side. Sheridan’s on the south side was the local the area. hang out for teens, featuring two pinball machines. As the big band era drew to a close, many dance halls, includ“The Nutting’s Lake residents (Lakers) were very close and ing the one at Nutting’s Lake, shut its doors for the last time. By still are close,” said Potter. “The lake experience was unique.” the end of World War II, Billerica’s lively vacation community was Francis Dolan, a prominent speculator in real estate developnearing its end. The lake area developed a reputation for drawing ment who owned a store that rented boats in bad elements – drinkers who vandalized and to the tourist, also operated a bowling alley, committed arson. In the 1960s, the neglected Micozzi Beach, at Nutting’s roller skating rink built on the water, and lake became highly polluted and in 1973 swimLake, is open seven days a week dance hall with beautiful lakeside porches. ming was prohibited. In the mid-1970s, several during the summer months with The dance hall, located on the northern shore organizations began working to improve the lifeguards on duty. The faciliof the lake and usually filled to capacity with lake area by cleaning up the water and rehabilities include a bathhouse, sand jubilant teens, featured big band orchestras volleyball court, basketball hoop, tating the homes. All lake homes were tied into that could be heard across the lake on warm tot lot, wheelchair accessible fish- the town’s sewerage system in the 1980s and by summer evenings. Stretching out from Dolan’s ing pier and picnic tables. Special the mid-1980s, swimming was allowed again Store was a large, wooden dock often occupied events are offered throughout with surrounding homes seeing an increase in by merry groups of families swimming and property values. the summer. A parking pass is fishing. Today, Billerica’s population stands at required and may be purchased At L.B. Perry’s, another lakeside store about 40,000. The Nutting’s Lake area is one at the beach or the Recreation which became Nutting Lake’s Post Office, vaca- office. Summer rentals of fishing of the town’s oldest neighborhoods with many pe tioners could lease boats and cabins as well as rods, canoe permanent residences, several of which are the oe and beach or purchase soda, candy, cigarettes, lunch and ice volleyball courts original cottages, situated along the shore line. cream. Throngs of people congregated on the If you look closely at these rustic bungalows, able. are available. yo may still see a family name plaque secured outdoor porch, lit at night with oil lamps, and you ca gathered inside in the parlor-style sitting area with benches made caringly above the front door, commemorating th of birch logs. the beloved vacation home it once was. or Popular entertainment included Fourth of July and Labor Day festivities, canoe races, swimming contests, and beauty pagSOURCES: eants. Groups of tourists gathered along the Middlesex Turnpike— LIBRARY ARCHIVES: FEB. 6, 1980 ARTICLE FROM MERRIMACK VALLEY ADVERwhich at that time was a dirt road referred to as The Middlesex TISER AND FEB. 7, 1980 ARTICLE FROM BILLERICA MINUTEMAN Causeway—to watch. “NUTTING LAKE NIGHT, HISTORIC SOCIETY MEETING JAN. 30, 1980” (LAKE The Middlesex Causeway itself was manmade by the MiddleRESIDENTS INTERVIEWED ON TAPE) sex Turnpike Corporation. Originally Nutting’s Lake was one big IMAGES OF AMERICA – BILLERICA (A BOOK FROM THE BILLERICA HISTORICAL body of water without a division in the middle. In 1805, the state SOCIETY) of Massachusetts decided to build a road from Boston to Southern NH and planned to collect tolls to cover expenses. The road layout followed the Roman Imperial style, which means straight through the countryside regardless of obstacles. Since Nutting’s Lake
POSTCARD HISTORY SERIES – BILLERICA (A BOOK BY DAVID A. D’APICE, PAST PRESIDENT OF THE BILLERICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY)
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /13
A Teacher’s Heart Tobin Reminisces About Three Decades of Learning By Liana Measmer In her typical energetic style, Patricia Tobin, Dutile Elementary School Principal climbs into the basket of the famous ReMax company balloon with her administrative assistant, waves happily to the large crowd below and is hoisted up. Her confidence is the same whether in a balloon basket or a meeting in her office reminiscing about her career, both as a teacher and an administrator. She will retire in June after 36 years at the Dutile but will remain available to her successor, Chris Balzotti, as needed. Tobin’s first job out of college was at the Dutile as a fifth grade teacher where she spent 18 years in room 18. In addition to being a teacher, Tobin was a devoted wife, busy mom and a Billerica High School coach. “I loved every minute of the teaching,” said Tobin. In 1992, Tobin’s principal left on medical leave following a serious car accident. For some time, the position remained vacant and Tobin noticed the school falling into disrepair, which was a sign that leadership was lacking. She had earned her Master’s degree in Administration and applied for the position, first as the interim, then as the full time principal. She never left. Although the educator in her could not be squelched, she saw her role now as one of a facilitator for her teachers, surrounding herself with the most skilled team of teachers possible. “Teachers must be valued,” said Tobin. “ It’s the principal’s job to help teachers find the path to understanding.” Tobin is most proud of a few key accomplishments. In the mid-1990’s, when MCAS started, the Dutile was one of only three schools in the state which had no failures on the standardized tests. Tobin was never intimidated by the MCAS since she and her teachers had previously used the MEPA and Iowa tests as measurement tools to track where improvements were needed. “We’re teaching to the child, not teaching to the curriculum,” said Tobin. Her other achievement was the portfolio. Partnering with teacher Joanne Brown, the portfolio concept was a way to track writing progress throughout the year and help a student’s future teacher get a better sense of a student’s level. As a result of the success of portfolio, five other schools picked up the program and now it is applied town wide. You can take the teacher out of the classroom but you can’t take the classroom out of the teacher. After retirement, Tobin plans to continue working at the Merrimack Educational Collaborative where she currently teaches in a principal licensure program. However, Tobin wants her legacy to be one of always creating the desire to learn, using the tools available and being a resource to others. “We are all learners,” smiled Tobin. “Every day I learn something new.”
Little League Golf Tournament Raises Needed Scholarship Funds By Liana Measmer For Corey Donovan, Eddie Newton, and Pat Aker it all started out as fun and turned into a passion. These three college sophomores played Billerica Little League baseball from as far back as they could remember. This year they were three of the seven recipients chosen for the Billerica Little League Annual Scholarship. These three young men, who received and used their scholarship money this year, are attending college at UMass Amherst and Merrimack College. The funds were raised at the annual Little League Golf Tournament, this year held on June 6 at the Billerica Country Club. League President Keith Farrow explained this is the eighth year the event has run and it has allowed the League to give out an average of seven scholarships per year. This year, the event brought in about $6,000 and saw 100 golfers on the course, which is up from 65 last year. “This is people wanting to help kids,” said Farrow. The League recognized Sportography from Marlborough as a major sponsor this year alongside other supporters like Brunelle Electric, Liberty Bell restaurant, Flir Systems, Mitre Corporation, and both 99 Restaurants in Billerica. After golfers enjoyed a morning out on the course, they were treated to lunch at the Country Club with a chance to win a variety of raffle items. For more information about Billerica Little League, visit www.billericalittleleague.org.
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Perusing the Pages Poolside Local Authors Feed our Need to Read By Jeffrey Bernoth, Correspondent Curling up with a good book by the pool or on the sand is a summer tradition so many look forward to. Especially when we can enjoy the talent and skill local authors share through their stories and their insight. For a good read, be sure to tuck one of these books into your tote bag next to the sun block and Red Sox towel. Skim our excerpts here but get the whole story at www.thebillericagreen.com before you head out for the beach.
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Life Wins! By Dr. Eugene R. Widrick This summer, whether it’s your custom to cool off in pools, oceans, or lakes, why not also take a dip in that pondering pond of spiritual literature? Life Wins!, a slim book of sermons written and collected by Eugene R. Widrick, is a soothing meditative journey, brimming with positivity and unabashed sincerity. Dr. Widrick, better known as Woody, served as Head Minister of the Carlisle’s First Religious Society for twenty-four years, and is now Minister Emeritus. The editors of the book, Linda and Alex Beavers, having known Woody for 25 years, asked him to publish some of his sermons. “I always thought of Woody as a writer who spoke as opposed to a speaker who types his notes,” says Alex. Woody wasn’t sure how he’d go about making a book, but when they volunteered to help he was keenly interested. Woody served as minister of a Unitarian Universalist Association congregation, and the sermons reveal his all-encompassing acceptance of other doctrines and ideas. Indeed, the UUA’s aim is to promote reason and tolerance while embracing a free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Woody weaves the inherent wisdom of all his sources into an immense tapestry that makes for thoughtful reading and beneficial reflection. To find out more about Woody’s philosophy that religion is more about living than just believing, read Jeffrey’s Life Wins! review in its entirety at www.thebillericagreen.com.
Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid: A Survival Guide for Ordinary Parents of Special Children By Patricia Terrasi Konjoian and Gina Terrasi Gallagher When it comes to parenting, the book market abounds in volumes that claim to hold the secret to raising children. However, the authors’ disclaimer on Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid: A Survival Guide for Ordinary Parents of Special Children, reads “[w]e are not in any way experts on parenting children with disabilities.” Be that as it may, sisters Patricia Terrasi Konjoian and Gina Terrasi Gallagher have written a hilarious book on parenting that has received praise from numerous publications, field experts, and, off course, parents. “The response for the book has been tremendous,” says Gina. “Parents with special needs children really seem to rally around the message. So many special parents have felt isolated and judged. This book was validation that they weren’t alone.” That validation is a credit to the content of Patty and Gina’s story, and they seem to hold nothing back. They bravely handle the accounts of their daughters’ illnesses (one is autistic continued on next page
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The Toulopoulos family, owners of the popular neighborhood eatery Newtowne Grille at 838 Boston Road, celebrated the grand opening of Olde Towne Liquors, a one-stop-shop they call “the entire experience.” The store at 292A Cambridge Street in Burlington features specialty meats, cheeses and breads in addition to wines and spirits.
and one is bi-polar) and the wider effects they have on family life. And they carry it out with humor. Each page of this book is loaded with jokes, and true anecdotes of their own with some gathered from other parents, ranging from cute misunderstandings to welcomingly bizarre behavior. Want to meet these other parents who openly admit their imperfections too? Check out the humorous tales of foibles which Jeffrey Bernoth recounts from Gina and Patricia’s accounts at www.thebillericagreen.com.
Do What You Do To Survive: A Stroke of Luck By Paul Grassia (Paul G.) Paul Grassia, better known as Paul G, suffered a stroke in 1990 that left him paralyzed on one side of his body. In the beginning of his book entitled Do What You Do To Survive: “A Stroke of Luck” Paul recounts the events of that first morning in his new apartment when he woke up feeling not quite right. He fell on the floor hard as he got out of bed, and he fell harder against a cabinet in the kitchen while making coffee, and then, bleeding, he fell in the bathroom getting ready to shower, in order to get ready for work. The reader might be tempted to ask, in this first chapter, why on earth would you consider going to work? But as you read along, and you get to know the man, you begin to understand his point of view, and you get a strong sense of his fighting spirit. The book, in a fitting arc, chronicles his fall, his attempts at rising above, his minor setbacks, his little victories, and finally his utter triumph. The book is a great read, and the try, try, and try again thrust befits the story behind the book as well. “Most people thought I was crazy,” said Paul, who sent his manuscript to over a hundred publishers before he decided to just print it himself in Charlestown. “They said I ought to have taken the 320,000 dollars and buy a house or something. All but one guy disagreed with me.” Find out who that was, how far reaching Paul G’s book has been, what it means to be a rebel, and the philosophy of hope he lives by when you visit www.thebillericagreen.com and get the rest of the story.
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How to lose weight and keep it off! Reach your goal weight with a physician-supervised program Submitted By Medi-Weightloss Clinics Whether it’s losing 10 pounds to get in shape for a wedding or losing 100 pounds to save your life, weight loss isn’t easy. The medical professionals at Medi-Weightloss Clinics® say their goal is to make it as easy as possible by providing a simple plan that’s individualized for each person according to their medical history, goals, and food and exercise preferences. Many of their patients have tried other weight loss programs but have not succeeded until they try Medi-Weightloss Clinics®—the company whose slogan is “The One That Works!” What makes Medi-Weightloss Clinics® different from other weight loss programs? It’s medical weight loss- there are no pre-packaged meal replacements or fads! The program is physiciansupervised and is based in medicine, nutrition, fitness, education, and motivation. The three phase program has worked for thousands of patients across the country; collectively, they’ve lost over 1.6 million pounds! On average, a patient can expect to lose 7 pounds their first week and 2 to 3 pounds each week thereafter for the first month. Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is for people who want a healthy, professional, and clinically proven way to lose weight without resorting to fad diets or invasive surgery. “This program changes lives,” says nurse practitioner Susan Lee. Your first visit is approximately 90 minutes including a comprehensive bariatric examination. Our medical team will conduct a physical, EKG, body fat analysis, and obtain blood work. The nurse practitioner will review your goals and create a customized plan including diet and exercise, as well as offering vitamin-based injections, supplements, and an FDA-approved appetite suppressant. Our patients receive weekly consultations to monitor and assess their progress. “We have cutting-edge technology that allows us to measure not just how much weight you’ve lost, but how much was water weight and how much was fat,” said Dr. Jeanne Kilp. Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is committed to seeing patients keep the weight off and offers a Wellness program. “Our biggest goal is for patients to not only achieve weight loss, but learn how to keep it off for life,” said Dr. Jeanne Kilp. For more information or to schedule your Initial Consultation, contact Medi-Weightloss Clinics® in Chelmsford, located at 4 Meeting House Road at 978-984-0744, or visit their website at www.mediweightlossclinics.com.
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Far and Away:
A Young Couple’s Tour of The World
The world awaits and love is grand. My wife and I, while younger and free-spirited, decided to explore it so we quit work, took our savings, flew faraway, and returned penniless. Our dream was to travel from China to England without flying and, after 117 days, 8,000 miles, and 18 countries, we succeeded. It all began in the far east. Our midnight, rainy arrival in Hong Kong left us disoriented, jet-lagged, and wet. Dwarfed by skyscrapers and cocooned in fluorescent lights, we were smothered by the humidity but knew we needed sleep. Our hotel was acceptable, until we saw our windowless cell, tiny beds, closet-sized bathroom, and resident insects. Nonetheless, we did the necessities – ferried to Kowloon, stood atop Victoria Peak, and escaped to Lamma’s beaches. Stepping off the train into China a week later, we saw differences between both worlds. Crossing the “border” from Hong Kong, everything seemed older, neglected. Guilin was our destination, where we adjusted to the real China – where donkeys pull loads instead of trucks, bicycles outnumber cars, and whole families ride on mopeds. We cruised the Li River to Yangzhou, surrounded by mountains which resembled camel humps and upturned ice cream cones. Next was Xi’an, a city encased in ancient walls, and home to the Terracotta Warriors, an enormous army of life-sized statues. We walked the Great Wall, glimpsed Mao in Beijing, and a month after arriving, boarded a Mongolia-bound train. Mongolia is empty. Waking to the train’s rhythm, the only thing outside were fields and occasional men on horseback. Ulaanbaatar, the capital, looked and smelled like a campground. Its outskirts were dense with smoke and yurts, and a horse tethered to each. Ulaanbaatar’s core
was sterile, with Soviet monuments standing alone while Mongolia looked beyond, on the steppes. Forests welcomed us to Siberia, as did Russian soldiers who boarded the train, shut all curtains, and prohibited talking. All our belongings were torn apart and searched, our passports were taken, and some people were even forced off. Hours later, our passports were returned and the train headed to Listvyanka, which is home to sturdy people. Children pumped water from wells, men chopped wood, and toothless grandmothers sold vegetables. Beyond, Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest body of water, guarded the town while mountains towered above. Baikal’s opposite shore was beyond sight, with its frigid water a mile deep. Deep in Asia, Irkutsk was refreshingly European. The train moved west for three days through forests, with abandoned factories and cabins being the only rare interruptions. We crossed rivers and cities before an inconspicuous stone marked Europe. Asia was behind us. A day later came Moscow. Red Square, overlooked by St. Basil’s, is now filled with tourists, and not Stalin’s tanks. We visited Lenin, left for St. Petersburg, got lost in the Hermitage, and saw the Czar’s palace. At that point, we were ready to leave Russia. We ferried to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania next. Their capitals: Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, have walled old towns that haven’t changed since medieval times. Cobblestone alleys weaved between towering steeples yet we went on to explore the Soomaa swamp, the region’s countryside and coast. While visiting Poland, Warsaw’s skyscrapers surprised us. Krakow was beautiful, its square lined with candlelit restaurants and clattering horseshoes echoed from afar. The rural towns, with cozy homes and gardens, were a paradox to the nightmare of Auschwitz. Its awful gas chambers and crematories were inconceivable under such peaceful blue skies. After visiting Levoca and Kosice of Slovakia, Buda and Pest, we then trained to Sarajevo. It was a decade since the war, so security concerns loomed, but after arriving we immediately saw the
By John Salemme Photo By The Salemme’s [Edited By Liana Measmer]
needlessness of our worries. Bosnian people, who cannot be outranked in kindness, asked to help us, kissed our cheeks, thanked us for visiting, and took us into their homes for tea. Sarajevo is beautiful and set in a valley, with Mostar set south, showcasing its fairytale Turkish Bridge which arches over a deep and swift moving, emerald river. Although the buildings in Bosnia were covered in bullet holes and sidewalks were shattered from mortars, the people weren’t. As Americans, many thanked us for helping end the war, but always asked, “Why did you take so long?” 250,000 Bosnians died in the five year war; in the end, the Serbs were defeated by NATO in days. Next, we traveled to Dubrovnik on the Croatian coast and bathed in the Mediterranean Sun, before ferrying to Italy, to visit Rome and Venice. Money was low, but, wanting to visit more countries, we quickly hit Austria, lunched in Liechtenstein, borrowed money in Zurich, and celebrated our anniversary in Paris. I’ve visited Normandy before, but my second visit was no less moving than the first. Standing on Omaha Beach, watching children swimming, it’s impossible to imagine the beach’s 1944 carnage. Above us , in 9,000 American graves with many unknown men, I was reminded of freedom’s price. We took a ferried from France to Portsmouth, finally arriving in Britain. We stayed with a friend in Nottingham, and after two nights in London, flew home, not yet absorbing what we’d done. I often try to explain what our adventure was like, but words do it little justice. Which always leaves me wondering: are only the young and free-spirited allowed such freedoms, or do we all have the same possibilities hidden within us?
The Old Turkish Bridge, Mostar, Bosnia
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /17
Scat Chat
Singing in the Summer
By Julie Kinscheck
In addition to singing professionally, I am also a voice teacher here in Billerica and some of my students and I plan to perform at the Bennett Library on Sunday, July 31st at 4pm. For any musical performance with vocals, the singer is the center of attention; but what makes their performance great? Here are some quotes from some of my students and quick tips from me, the teacher. Ten year old Corrina Jarzynka advises: “Relax and pretend you’re in your room. One way to keep your voice in shape is to eat kinda like on a diet; not too much chocolate. More on the healthy side, fruit and veggies.” She makes several good points! Singing is communication. When you are in front of an audience, you want to relax. By relaxing I mean overcoming your fears so you can focus on what you are singing instead of the crowd looking at you. Also, what you eat and how much water you drink can make a huge difference in how well your voice works. Caffeine, acidic and spicy foods can dry out and irritate the cords so they will cover themselves with mucus and make you sound scratchy or hoarse. TIP: Drink LOTS of water! Water will thin the mucus and hydrate the cords. You will sing more freely and sound cleaner. Adult student Diana Wick writes: “You need to loosen your laryngeal gap, smile when you sing and use your diaphragm.” Important to technique, your cords need to be flexible- that means loose-to work well. It is very important to warm up your body (some simple stretches are good) and loosen the muscles in your face, jaw and neck. Then we do gentle vocal warm ups, engage our diaphragm muscle, and smile. Smiling actually lifts the sound to a better vocal placement; the emotion shows on your face and comes through in your vocal technique. Finally, six-year-old Alicia Kearney puts it all together: “Once you get it, you can do it.” After you have prepared by warming up, worked on technique and learned the words, now you can give it your all. Your teacher will be proud as you shine like a star! Julie Kinscheck is a Billerica singer/songwriter, recording artist and voice and guitar teacher. Contact her for lessons or booking at julieksings@comcast.net or 617-686-7075. Visit www.julieksings.com.
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Our Native Traditions
Native American Naming Ceremonies
By Sarah Morning Flower Libby Greater Lowell Indian Cultural Association
Giving names to individuals differed from what is done in modern society today. When a child was born, they would not be named right away. The Elders of the community, especially the grandparents, would give great thought to a name. Females named the girls and males named the boys. They would watch the child, see the first physical, emotional, and spiritual traits, and consider outside influences. The moon under which they were born, the weather during the child’s birth and what was going on in the community at that time were considered. Once all of that was taken into account, the grandparents would name this child. Names were not given for life as ours are today. As this child grew and evolved among the tribe by coming into adulthood, marrying, aging and gaining other wisdom, his or her name may be changed by the Elders during a ceremony. At birth, the grandparent would pray and bless the child, introducing this child to the Creator and tribe so the Creator and tribe would know who they were. Coming into adulthood wasn’t at a specific age, since each person varied. However, once the tribe noticed them, a new name would be chosen in regards to the kind of person they were becoming. During this naming ceremony, the elder men or women would explain the responsibilities at this age among the tribe to this child/adult. They would set life goals for this person in hopes it would lead this person on the right track to be productive and responsible adults. Today, since people sometimes do not find their native ancestry until later in life and may be older, incorporating the native ways into their world may mean asking an elder to give them a name. Some children born into the culture are sometimes given a modern name, so their grandparents will still give them a native name as well. As time goes on, we as a people do not forget our ceremonies or culture but hold dear to us what has been done for thousands of years. Some customs may vary but they are never lost. We continue practicing these so the next seven generations will also have this knowledge. Every tribe across the U.S. had various ways rituals were done in their community. These are of the Eastern Woodland Peoples who resided in Billerica and the surrounding towns. For more information, visit www.glica.net.
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Congratulations to Alicia Clark! She was our very ďŹ rst Kindle Winner for June 2011. The correct answer to June’s Riddle was Caldwell Photography on Page 18. This month we had 250 entries which were CORRECT! Thanks to everyone for playing! Good News! We’re doing it again in July—another Kindle! Ready to try for it? Here’s the riddle:
A night on the town Is easy to ďŹ nd. With live bands and free pool, Who’s up for ‘Buzztime’? Email us the ad, your phone number and the page number to billericagreen.ipods@gmail.com. Entries must be received by midnight on July 10 to be eligible. We will ONLY get in touch with the winner and will post the results in the NEXT Billerica Green in August. You will hear from us by July 11 for delivery. 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 Billericaa Green family or team members may enter this contest. GOOD LUCK!
Celebrity Messenger of Hope Cancer Survivor Robin Roberts Wows at MCC Forum By Angie Orenstein Dancing to the strains of “Rockin’ Robin�, Robin Roberts, ABC’s Good Morning America co-anchor and guest speaker at Middlesex Community College’s Annual Celebrity Forum, energetically made her way from the back of the Lowell Memorial Auditorium and vivaciously greeted audience members as she took the stage on June 10. Speaking comfortably and humorously, Roberts gave an engaging hour-long presentation about her broadcasting career and her successful battle against breast cancer. Four years ago, Roberts, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, she decided to use her affliction to help others. “I wasn’t sure I was going to share but my Momma said, ‘Make your mess your message’. I was blessed to be a messenger,� Roberts said. Roberts has written two best-selling books: From the Heart: 7 Rules to Live By and its sequel: 8 Rules to Live By. She said she was grateful for the support of many good friends, including her co-worker Diane Sawyer. Roberts earned a communications degree from Southeast Louisiana University, where she was a star on the women’s basketball team. With the goal of being a sports journalist, she took small but smart steps to get to where she wanted to be, including
taking a job as an announcer at a country music station. “It’s all about putting yourself in position for good things to happen, and being willing to make necessary sacrifices,� said Roberts. “You have got to dream. It doesn’t cost you anything.� First an on-air job at ESPN and later Good Morning America, Roberts earned several Emmy awards for each. She’s has interviewed famous people like President Obama, Barbara Streisand, and Lady Gaga. She accompanied First Lady Laura Bush on a mission to raise awareness about breast cancer in the Muslim world, and joined President Bill Clinton in Africa to report on the AIDS crisis. “I know I will stay in broadcasting. I like being a messenger,� said Roberts. “I can’t imagine doing anything else.� During the question and answer period at the end, Robin light-heartedly answered questions about walking the red carpet at the Academy Awards, getting goose bumps while covering the Royal Wedding, squelched the rumor she was going to be a guest on Dancing with the Stars, and gave credit to Lowell for being the hometown of The Fighter’s Mickey Ward. For more information about this and other Middlesex Community College programs, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu.
You and Your New Puppy – Housebreaking Jennifer Chubb, ABCDT
Now that you have your new little bundle of joy at home, use these valuable tips on house-breaking to assist you in getting your new relationship off to a great start! Crate training your puppy from day one will be a valuable tool in the house-training process. Puppies need to eliminate after eating, drinking, playing and sleeping. It is important to note that in general, puppies can only hold their bladder for their age plus one – if puppy is 8 weeks old, they can probably not hold their bladder for longer than 3 hours (2 months plus one). Puppies should not be neglected and forced to break their instinctive aversion to soiling their sleeping area. It is important to make sure that someone is available to take the puppy out on a regular schedule so they are not forced to soil their crate. If all family members are out of the house for long periods of time, a pet sitter should be hired to give the puppy the potty and exercise breaks that it requires. You should set up a routine by feeding the puppy specific amounts of food and water appropriate for their age and size at meal times and removing any remaining food after 10–15 minutes. You should then take them out to an established elimination site where you will use a cue word or phrase to let the puppy know what you are asking them to do. Give them 10–15 minutes to eliminate fully with the time being used to encourage them to go potty with no play or walks until that is completed. Potty breaks need to happen after eating and drinking, upon awakening and after play. If pup does not go within 10–15 minutes, they should be brought back inside and closely monitored for any signs of getting ready to go such as sniffing, circling, squatting or wandering off. If they cannot be monitored, they should be put back into their crate and then taken back out within 15–30 minutes to try to potty again. Jennifer Chubb is the owner of Peace of Mind Pet Care Solution. Contact her at www.peaceofmindpetcare.net or call 978-835-2269.
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /19
Historical Perspectives
Elizabeth Palmer Peabody: America’s Early Educator
By Mary Camilleri The Billerica Historical Society
She owned a bookstore; she was a marriage broker; she was a writer and she began the first kindergarten in the United States. Who was this woman? Elizabeth Palmer Peabody was born in 1804 in Billerica, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Nathaniel Peabody, a physician, and Elizabeth Palmer. Her early years were spent in Salem, Massachusetts and she was greatly influenced by her mother’s take-charge demeanor. Her mother ruled the roost. Her mother was a great proponent of all children, male and female, having an education. Elizabeth and her six siblings attend her mother’s home school. She used the school in her home to supplement the family income. The family then moved to Lancaster where her mother opened a girls’ school. Elizabeth and her sisters, Mary and Sophia, looked forward to enjoying the last years of their childhood; however Elizabeth was put in charge of the school soon after it opened. At sixteen, she was an unusually gifted teacher because she was able to communicate with the students who had the same passion for learning. Ms. Peabody opened the first kindergarten in the United States in 1860. Prior to this, kindergartens were largely confined to Germany. She visited Germany for the purpose of studying their methods and saw the kindergarten concept as advantageous because the children were exposed to lessons in hand/eye coordination, politeness, cleanliness, self-control as well as understanding numbers and geometric forms. Ms. Peabody was very well educated, cultured and independent as well as respected by her peers. She died January 3, 1894 at the age of 89 and is buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord, Massachusetts. The school systems in the United States have her to thank for having kindergartens in most public and private schools. Please visit us at www.billericahistory.org or call 978-667-7020 for more information.
Coming Soon‌ To a Living Room Near You BATV brings the message home By Jared Smith, Correspondent What if you could learn to make your own television show? You could create your own sitcom, deliver the news, or promote your cause. Become an actor, a writer, director, or a news anchor. Well, at Billerica Access Television, you can! “BATV offers the community free access to the powerful medium of cable television, where they can get their ideas out,â€? said Karen Sennott, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator at BATV. For only twenty dollars a year, any individual who lives, works, or represents an organization in Billerica can become a member at BATV. Memberships include access to all of the equipment you need to make your own television show, record a sporting event, or spread your message. “BATV offers the community a voice,â€? said Alex Shure, BATV’s Programming Coordinator. “Sure, you can go out and stand on a soapbox in the town center, but your thoughts, opinions and creations couldn’t be brought to over 12,000 homes in town without public access television.â€? Not only will BATV provide the lights, cameras, and studio, but their friendly and knowledgeable staff will also educate you on how to use all of these tools. Free classes at BATV include Studio Production, Digital Camcorders, Intro to Editing with Final Cut Pro, and many others. “BATV is also a place where the community can learn something that they might not otherwise have access to,â€? said Shure. Members of BATV have used the station as a creative avenue, a publicity vehicle, a source of fund-raising, recruiting, or simply to spread awareness. One excellent example is the Billerica Cat Care Coalition, which has gained awareness through Public Service Announcements on BATV. “What I enjoy most at BATV is helping people make connections and to reach out to the community,â€? said Sennott. “It’s a great place to work.â€? Community seems to be what BATV is all about and is helping Billerica grow by providing programming that is of local interest. For info on memberships, programming, events, and classes, visit www.BATVINC.org.
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20 / thebillericagreen.com / July 2011
Kids Creative Connection Kids Around Town
Sea Animals www.thelearningexperience.com
Locke Nature’s Classroom 7A students chose a turtle dissection as their class.
Adam Kearns, Susanna Gillis and Stephen Papsedero tried to be the first ones to spray the cones at the Kennedy School’s recent Field Day in June.
David Lapusata shows the very beginnings of his candle he dipped in wax.
Luck Poetry Contest is Here: Enter and Win! Luck poetry is meant to bring out that little bit of pride within yourself. It can be simple and straightforward or complex and riddled with hidden meanings that make the reader stop and think. Most of all, the purpose of luck poetry is to show you that not everything has to rhyme to be a poem, and that anyone can be a poet. It just takes that couple of seconds to put thought to words and words to paper. Anyone can be an artist and that is what a poet truly is, an artist of words. Now let’s paint a picture, shall we? A luck poem comprises of a 7 letter title with 7 lines of words and each line containing 7 words. Firefly A million tiny lights in the sky Mixing with the cosmos, dancing and swaying Singing the most beautiful song without words. A tiny glow matched only by stars, Taking you back to a different world. A summer night in a child’s past. A night of dancing with the fireflies. Each person who enters is allowed one entry and you must be a Billerica resident. There are three categories: ages 4–7, ages 8–11, and ages 12–15. Submit your poems with your name, phone number and age on the back to the Billerica Public Library Children’s Room for entry. It should be on a piece of standard size printer paper, and feel free to decorate the page. Turn them in any time before July 25th. When you turn in your poem, you will receive a tootsie pop and your poem will be displayed on the wall at the Library. At the end of the contest, the winner of each age group will be published in The Billerica Green September edition. They will also be invited to a pizza and ice cream party where they can talk about poetry with Megan Libby, the creator of Luck Poetry, and receive a prize of $10 each!
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blue ringed octopus blue whale crab fish electric eel great white shark
David Nickles, Courtney Teehan, Amanda Burns try to build a boat that will float.
Wanda Nordlie and her son, Joe, completed the Survivor lap during opening ceremonies of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Billerica at Lampson Field. This tenth annual overnight event saw 38 Billerica teams raising almost $55,000 toward cancer research and treatment.
I
harbor seal horseshoe crab manatee narwhal parrot fish
pink dolphin sea lion sea turtle starfish sting ray
Our Experience at The Relay for Life On June 4, we did the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. We were on Team Nena and we were remembering our grandmothers: Yaya (Nena) and Grandma (Mary). We walked and stayed overnight. It was a lot of fun (most of the time). Q: So, why did you do the Relay? Jarred: To honor Yaya and to raise money for scientists. Julia: And Grandma. We wanted to walk to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Jacob: And to fight cancer. Q: What was the best part about Relay? Jarred: All the events were fun. I got to go swimming and fishing. Julia: I never had a favorite. I liked it all. (Except all the walking!) Jacob: Yeah, all the events. And I like the walking. Q: What was the hardest part about the Relay? Jarred: The Luminarias. Because it’s tough to think about the ones you’ve lost. Julia: The Luminaria. Because it was so sad. Jacob: The Luminaria. It was sad. When they called Yaya and Grandma’s names, I cried.
Is it St. Patty’s Day already? NO! This skit, played out during Atlantis Playmakers Summer Studio, 380 Cambridge St. Burlington, is only one activity students explore. There is also costume making, screen writing and direction. Call 978-667-0550 or visit www.atlantisplaymakers. com for more info.
Q: What would you say to Yaya and Grandma if they were here? Jarred: I miss you. Julia: I love you. Jacob: I cried because I miss you. Q: Would you do Relay again? Jarred: Yes! Julia: Uh Huh! Jacob: Yeah!
3 J’s Corner
July 2011 / thebillericagreen.com /21
Ask Dr. Gina
Positive Outlook Creates Overall Well-Being
Next stop: college tuition
By Dr. Gina Aguayo, Ph. D.
Most of us do our best to maintain a positive outlook on life. However, this can become a challenge when facing increased stress or the addition of new responsibilities. When your positive outlook starts to sag into pessimism, you may begin to feel physical affects as well. Changing the way you interpret events can affect your overall well-being. Thinking about events in a more positive manner may improve your physical and mental health, making it easier to manage the stresses in your life, which in turn, helps you to feel successful, leading to more positive regard for self, which improves the way you feel. Think of it as a cycle of reinforcement. So, how do you find the silver lining in stressful situations? There is no easy answer to this question. Every situation is unique and requires you to analyze it on its own merits. During your analysis identify what you are gaining from the change (e.g., parents need to be in assisted living- you gain time because you have reduced your caretaking responsibilities), and focus less on the negative aspects of the change (e.g., additional work duties with no raise-see it as an opportunity to demonstrate your abilities and then at review time show your successes as evidence for a raise). By making these minor adjustments you may find that you are feeling more energized because you are expending less mental energy on the negative aspects. In addition, you may well feel your physical self improve due to reduced muscle aches, few headaches, and more energy to be active. Using your mind to benefit your overall health seems like a no-brainer! Dr. Gina is a practicing clinical Psychologist at Billerica Counseling Center. If you would like Dr. Gina answer your questions, please email her at drgina@billericacounselingcenter.com.
Frozen Summer Celebration
Prepare for the future with help from MetLife. Each year, your child gets a little closer to college—and closer to those rising college costs. That’s why back to school time is a great opportunity to evaluate your college savings and investment options. Don’t miss the bus on preparing for your child’s education. Call your local MetLife representative today:
Frank Hynes Financial Services Representative 330 Boston Road, Unit 6 North Billerica MA 01862 (978) 528-6046 fhynes@metlife.com
From BATV’s Cooking with Norma and Dianne Summer is here and it’s time to perfect your outdoor parties with homemade frozen desserts. This convenient recipe will satisfy any sweet tooth in the sweltering heat.
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Frozen Peanut Butter Pie Ingredients ½ 8-ounce package (4 oz.) of cream cheese, room temp 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter ½ cup milk
9 oz. of Cool Whip 9-inch graham cracker pie crust Canned or jarred mandarin oranges as a garnish (optional)
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Directions In a large bowl, place the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peanut butter and whip until creamy. Then add the milk a little at a time, whipping as you go. When fully incorporated, the mixture will be smooth but somewhat thin. Then you put the cool whip in all at once and fold until everything is mixed together. You may see some very light streaks of a little browner color. That’s okay. It’s ready to pour into the pie shell. Put it into the freezer for at least four hours. The pie will have the consistency of ice cream and you must store any remaining pie in the freezer. Note: You can use any flavor pie shell you like, including a regular baked pie crust. Just make sure it’s completely cooled. When I make this I make two. I double everything and then I can use the whole package of cream cheese, one 12-ounce and one 6-ounce container of Cool Whip.
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TBG ClassiďŹ eds in The Billerica Green HELP WANTED Full Time Machinist Needed. Ability to work independently with Prototrack millers and lathes. Master cam and machining center experience required. Small shop environment. BeneďŹ ts include medical, vacation, sick time and holiday pay. Please fax cover letter and resume to 978-667-9093. $5,000+ A MONTH, NOT REAL ESTATE. Home business, no mandatory monthly product buys. Provable payouts, free training
material. 370+ products and services. Please contact Regional Director, Ronald Couming at 978-606-5432.
REWARDďšźMISSING CAT Longhaired female, mostly white on chest, face with black, brown, grayish on back, tail. Last seen on Whiting St., but could be anywhere. Timid, may be lost/disoriented from storms, trapped/hiding in shed, under deck, etc. Please call ANYTIME with ANY information. Thank you very much!!! 617-905-4331.
1 week workshops acting, drama, comedy & more for ages 8-15 & 5-8, & PreK Play T/Th www.AtlantisPlaymakers.com 978-667-0550 380 Cambridge St (Rte 3A) Burlington
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.