By now, the panic usually starts to set in; it’s now less than a one week countdown before the three month school vacation begins and I haven’t signed my children up for any summer activities.
In the past, I’ve had no need to fear because I signed up as soon as I received the town recreation brochure; but something is very different this year.
It could be because my kids are a little older now and don’t drive me as crazy when they’re in my presence together for more than five minutes. No, that’s not it.
Perhaps it is because I’m a little older now and I’ve changed. I like spending every waking moment with them. No, I don’t think that’s it either.
Maybe it’s because I haven’t had a single second to even think about it and figure it will all fall into place when the time comes; that could definitely be it.
Or, I’m not worried at all because I’m sure we can come up with plenty of things to do on a day to day basis and if I have to work, I’m sure I can find a babysitter; now, that’s not realistic.
Here’s the real deal – summer is coming – help!
Is there a camp moms can escape to?
Why not change things around a little bit and instead of the kids going to camp, moms get to go.
A camp where there is no whining; nutritional meals are served three times a day; a personal trainer keeps us in shape; tanning does not cause wrinkles; everything is free and there is no time limit.
Moms can come and go for as long as they need to. We can skype with our kids if we need to. Dads would be able to handle everything on their own, balancing work and family, just like moms do on a daily basis.
If this kind of camp really existed, I have a feeling none of us would come home.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I love my little chicks, but the mother hen can sometimes use a break and certainly deserves one once in a while.
It’s nice to fantacize.
Seriously, I don’t know what I’m going to do this summer.
But, my number one goal is to try to have fun and relax with my perfectly behaved brood.
Who am I kidding?
I’m signing up for that mommy camp as soon as I find out if it exists.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
This old house
For the past seven months my family has been simultaneously living in and renovating our 47-year-old multi-level style home.
The first time my husband and I laid eyes on this house in April 2009, there was something about it that immediately peeked our interest. It definitely wasn’t the smoke-stained wallpaper, smelly shaggy carpet, lemon yellow master bath barely big enough for my five-year old; or the Pepto-Bismol pink half bath about as big as a broom closet; the dungeon-like basement with red-orange carpet, dark paneling, and an orange vinyl wet bar; or the centerpiece of the first floor – a very dated two-sided white brick fireplace, rusting with age.
Somehow we were able to see beyond these cosmetic issues and look at the house with a vision of what we could make it look like. It was a great shell with a lot of potential.
We were drawn to the corner lot location in a quiet storybook neighborhood; the driveway which could fit about ten cars; the closets and storage space; the central air and two car attached garage; the large sunlit bow windows; but most of all, we couldn’t resist the “bargain” price tag.
Since July, we’ve gutted the original gloomy kitchen and installed fresh, new cream-colored cabinets with a seven foot granite eating island; all the wallpaper has been removed and the plaster underneath sanded and painted; the odor-filled carpet has been ripped up and the hardwood floors underneath re-finished with a high gloss stain; the fireplace in the living room has been transformed using medium-density fiberboard, crown molding, wainscoting and marble; and the basement is a much brighter, friendlier place for the kids to play now that we’ve added recessed lighting, tile flooring and painted the paneling a lighter cream color.
Taking on a project like this has been a great challenge, especially since we have never done anything like this before. There were many bumps along the way, but we managed to get through the first phase and learned a lot during the process.
There is still more work to be done; but for now, we are taking a much-needed break. It’s nice to finally live in an environment free from work boots, sawdust and the annoying sounds of drills and hammers.
We can sleep a little better not having to worry about all the choices and decisions; but most of all, it a tremendous relief for our very tired checkbook.
The first time my husband and I laid eyes on this house in April 2009, there was something about it that immediately peeked our interest. It definitely wasn’t the smoke-stained wallpaper, smelly shaggy carpet, lemon yellow master bath barely big enough for my five-year old; or the Pepto-Bismol pink half bath about as big as a broom closet; the dungeon-like basement with red-orange carpet, dark paneling, and an orange vinyl wet bar; or the centerpiece of the first floor – a very dated two-sided white brick fireplace, rusting with age.
Somehow we were able to see beyond these cosmetic issues and look at the house with a vision of what we could make it look like. It was a great shell with a lot of potential.
We were drawn to the corner lot location in a quiet storybook neighborhood; the driveway which could fit about ten cars; the closets and storage space; the central air and two car attached garage; the large sunlit bow windows; but most of all, we couldn’t resist the “bargain” price tag.
Since July, we’ve gutted the original gloomy kitchen and installed fresh, new cream-colored cabinets with a seven foot granite eating island; all the wallpaper has been removed and the plaster underneath sanded and painted; the odor-filled carpet has been ripped up and the hardwood floors underneath re-finished with a high gloss stain; the fireplace in the living room has been transformed using medium-density fiberboard, crown molding, wainscoting and marble; and the basement is a much brighter, friendlier place for the kids to play now that we’ve added recessed lighting, tile flooring and painted the paneling a lighter cream color.
Taking on a project like this has been a great challenge, especially since we have never done anything like this before. There were many bumps along the way, but we managed to get through the first phase and learned a lot during the process.
There is still more work to be done; but for now, we are taking a much-needed break. It’s nice to finally live in an environment free from work boots, sawdust and the annoying sounds of drills and hammers.
We can sleep a little better not having to worry about all the choices and decisions; but most of all, it a tremendous relief for our very tired checkbook.
Style make-over
Many experts in the fashion and beauty industry such as 55 year-old Robert Berberian, owner of Roberts Salon in Belmont, believe looking good makes you feel good and the right clothing and hair style can help men and women accomplish this.
“When you’re 50 you might not look 40, but you want to look good for your age. A 50-year-old woman can look damn good for 50,” said Berberian who has owned his salon for 31 years. Yolanda Cellucci, 75, of Lincoln, also known as the dress diva, former owner of bridal shop Yolanda Enterprises in Waltham, is one of his best customers.
Berberian has worked side by side with his wife, Elizabeth, 51, for 24 years. “I keep him young, he keeps me young,” she said, adding the anti aging collagen treatment facials she gets from their staff aesthetician, Maria Bartolomeu, has also helped her skin rejuvenate.
For her wardrobe, Berberian prefers to shop in smaller boutiques with good, personalized service and likes to wear youthful, conservative, but an eclectic combination of clothes that look good on her. “Just because it’s in style, doesn’t mean it’s going to look good on you,” said Berberian.
Family owned clothing store, Gould’s, located at 260 Great Road, has been in business for over 75 years, serving men and women 35 and up. Owner Marvin Gould, who has been in the business for 38 years, said the biggest mistake men and women fifty plus make is to resist buying for their body shape which changes as it ages. “You don’t wear a size, you wear a fit,” said Gould.
His father George and Uncle David opened the first store in Clinton, Massachusetts in 1934. Gould now co-owns the Acton store with his brothers Arthur and Lester.
His dedicated staff of over 20 years is all trained to be personal stylists. Pat Goddard, a buyer and salesperson for Gould’s since 1991, said she buys with an eye for their customers. “I know what they are looking for. If skirts are too short, they aren’t going to sell. I won’t buy the baby doll look. Our customer does not want to look pregnant again,” said Goddard.
Clothing changes as lifestyles change, added Goddard which is why she always finds out what her customer’s lifestyle needs are. “If they are not working, they might buy more jeans and use dressy sweaters with accessories,” she said.
Gould’s customer Tammie Burns, 51, of Acton, said she feels more self-conscious about what she wears now that she is over 50. “I’m more interested in wearing what I think is more flattering to my body than what is the style. I’m not comfortable with that,” said Burns.
Nordstrom is another retail store which is family owned. It started out as a Seattle shoe store in 1928 run by brothers Everett and Elmer Nordstrom. Johanna Easter, personal stylist manager for Nordstrom in Burlington, takes great pride in her customer relationships which has made her successful in her 8 ½ year career with the company. She starts by giving her clients a questionnaire to learn more about their lifestyle needs and personal taste.
“The critical questions for the more mature customer I work with are about their lifestyle. Are they really active, physically active, do they attend a lot of black tie events? Typically, they may have a museum or art gallery openings, they are on a lot of committees. They need to make a statement in their wardrobe,” said Easter.
It is also important to accentuate the positive parts of your body and minimize an area that isn’t so great, she added.
“If a female customer has a larger chest, she should wear an open neck line or v-neck. If she has a smaller waist, she will want to accentuate that by adding a belt. If she is petite, it is great to be monochromatic; wear all one color and accentuate the top with a great printed sweater or jacket. It gives a great illusion of elongating the body,” said Easter.
For her male customers over 50, Easter said weight in the belly tends to be an issue. She always makes sure she puts them in something slimming, not tight-fitting or too loose and baggy. For pants, she would choose flat front, not pleated.
Easter has four personal stylists whom she manages. She trains them how to set up a fitting room so customers do not feel overwhelmed. “We set it up so it is appealing visually, not over stimulating. We want to make sure the fitting room experience goes as smoothly as possible,” said Easter.
The personal stylist services at Nordstrom and Gould’s are complimentary. Alterations are done on site and most are free of charge. Both stores said they will work within any budget.
“When you’re 50 you might not look 40, but you want to look good for your age. A 50-year-old woman can look damn good for 50,” said Berberian who has owned his salon for 31 years. Yolanda Cellucci, 75, of Lincoln, also known as the dress diva, former owner of bridal shop Yolanda Enterprises in Waltham, is one of his best customers.
Berberian has worked side by side with his wife, Elizabeth, 51, for 24 years. “I keep him young, he keeps me young,” she said, adding the anti aging collagen treatment facials she gets from their staff aesthetician, Maria Bartolomeu, has also helped her skin rejuvenate.
For her wardrobe, Berberian prefers to shop in smaller boutiques with good, personalized service and likes to wear youthful, conservative, but an eclectic combination of clothes that look good on her. “Just because it’s in style, doesn’t mean it’s going to look good on you,” said Berberian.
Family owned clothing store, Gould’s, located at 260 Great Road, has been in business for over 75 years, serving men and women 35 and up. Owner Marvin Gould, who has been in the business for 38 years, said the biggest mistake men and women fifty plus make is to resist buying for their body shape which changes as it ages. “You don’t wear a size, you wear a fit,” said Gould.
His father George and Uncle David opened the first store in Clinton, Massachusetts in 1934. Gould now co-owns the Acton store with his brothers Arthur and Lester.
His dedicated staff of over 20 years is all trained to be personal stylists. Pat Goddard, a buyer and salesperson for Gould’s since 1991, said she buys with an eye for their customers. “I know what they are looking for. If skirts are too short, they aren’t going to sell. I won’t buy the baby doll look. Our customer does not want to look pregnant again,” said Goddard.
Clothing changes as lifestyles change, added Goddard which is why she always finds out what her customer’s lifestyle needs are. “If they are not working, they might buy more jeans and use dressy sweaters with accessories,” she said.
Gould’s customer Tammie Burns, 51, of Acton, said she feels more self-conscious about what she wears now that she is over 50. “I’m more interested in wearing what I think is more flattering to my body than what is the style. I’m not comfortable with that,” said Burns.
Nordstrom is another retail store which is family owned. It started out as a Seattle shoe store in 1928 run by brothers Everett and Elmer Nordstrom. Johanna Easter, personal stylist manager for Nordstrom in Burlington, takes great pride in her customer relationships which has made her successful in her 8 ½ year career with the company. She starts by giving her clients a questionnaire to learn more about their lifestyle needs and personal taste.
“The critical questions for the more mature customer I work with are about their lifestyle. Are they really active, physically active, do they attend a lot of black tie events? Typically, they may have a museum or art gallery openings, they are on a lot of committees. They need to make a statement in their wardrobe,” said Easter.
It is also important to accentuate the positive parts of your body and minimize an area that isn’t so great, she added.
“If a female customer has a larger chest, she should wear an open neck line or v-neck. If she has a smaller waist, she will want to accentuate that by adding a belt. If she is petite, it is great to be monochromatic; wear all one color and accentuate the top with a great printed sweater or jacket. It gives a great illusion of elongating the body,” said Easter.
For her male customers over 50, Easter said weight in the belly tends to be an issue. She always makes sure she puts them in something slimming, not tight-fitting or too loose and baggy. For pants, she would choose flat front, not pleated.
Easter has four personal stylists whom she manages. She trains them how to set up a fitting room so customers do not feel overwhelmed. “We set it up so it is appealing visually, not over stimulating. We want to make sure the fitting room experience goes as smoothly as possible,” said Easter.
The personal stylist services at Nordstrom and Gould’s are complimentary. Alterations are done on site and most are free of charge. Both stores said they will work within any budget.
Singing therapy
Every Tuesday evening for the past five weeks, Belmont parents have been meeting with teachers outside their classrooms.
Rather than having conferences, they are volunteers together in the second annual experiment of the Belmont Public School Fine and Performing Arts Department – the Parent/Teacher Chorus.
This unique group consists of 20 men and 47 women including Belmont Public Schools Director of Finance, Gerry Missal, retired Special Educator, Alison Goulder, Physical Therapist Debbie Dayton, the Director of Christ Lutheran Child Care and Nursery School Ronnie Johnson, as well as some married couples, a father and his daughter.
This is just a sampling of the mix of talented, experienced musicians and singers; and a few people who just like to sing in their car or shower, or have absolutely no singing experience, but just wanted an excuse to get out of the house or try something completely out of their normal comfort realm.
Directing this diverse, brave group is Music Specialist Christine Servilio who teaches at the Winn Brook Elementary and Chenery Middle Schools. She said she has been singing since she could speak and wanted a change of pace by working with this adult age group.
“It’s always interesting to do something for the first time, when no one has any pre-existing ideas or expectations,” said Servilio.
She also decided to take on the challenge to show students they won’t stop making music when they leave school.
“Music is a life-long experience – no matter what level of talent you have, you can always challenge yourself to grow a little bit more,” said Servilio.
Justin Roe of Belmont (originally from England) admits he has no singing experience, but his friend Amy Jones convinced him to give this experiment a try.
“I have been wanting to join a low-risk, novice chorus for quite a few years but have always found it too daunting,” said Roe.
“I am benefiting from some good music teaching and meeting some new friends in the community. I have never performed in public before, so there will be some good experiences for me in that,” he added.
Bruce Rosenblum of Belmont participated in last year’s experiment, “The Mamas and the Papas and the Teachers, Too” Band. He said he enjoyed playing his oboe again after a thirty year break.
“It was also a really great way to increase sharing the Chenery music experience with my 12-year-old son who plays flute,” said Rosenblum.
“Suddenly he was reminding me to practice last year instead of the other way around! So continuing this year with the chorus was just a natural extension of it,” he said.
Instrumental Music Instructor John McLellan is ecstatic about the response this year’s experiment has received.
“This ensemble is an experiment designed to provide another venue to allow our adult constituents an outlet for their musicianship.
“Primarily designed as an opportunity for us, the post-graduates, it serves also as an example to the young students that music making doesn’t have to stop on Graduation Day,” said McLellan.
On Thursday, Feb. 11, 7:00 p.m. in the Chenery Middle School Auditorium, the unveiling of this special group will take place at the Chenery Chamber Concert. Many of these adults will be playing on the same stage as their children and grandchildren in the Woodwind Symphony (35 students) directed by Sharon Phipps, the Brass Symphony (28 students) directed by John McLellan and the Percussion Symphony (8 students) directed by Mark Kohler, Berklee School of Music. There is no admission fee for this intergenerational performance.
Parents of Music Students, Inc. (POMS) is the sponsoring organizing behind this program, a non-profit parent-community organization created to support, enhance and enrich the Belmont Public Schools K-12 Music Program. For more information, visit http://www.belmont.k12.ma.us/art/poms/index.html.
Rather than having conferences, they are volunteers together in the second annual experiment of the Belmont Public School Fine and Performing Arts Department – the Parent/Teacher Chorus.
This unique group consists of 20 men and 47 women including Belmont Public Schools Director of Finance, Gerry Missal, retired Special Educator, Alison Goulder, Physical Therapist Debbie Dayton, the Director of Christ Lutheran Child Care and Nursery School Ronnie Johnson, as well as some married couples, a father and his daughter.
This is just a sampling of the mix of talented, experienced musicians and singers; and a few people who just like to sing in their car or shower, or have absolutely no singing experience, but just wanted an excuse to get out of the house or try something completely out of their normal comfort realm.
Directing this diverse, brave group is Music Specialist Christine Servilio who teaches at the Winn Brook Elementary and Chenery Middle Schools. She said she has been singing since she could speak and wanted a change of pace by working with this adult age group.
“It’s always interesting to do something for the first time, when no one has any pre-existing ideas or expectations,” said Servilio.
She also decided to take on the challenge to show students they won’t stop making music when they leave school.
“Music is a life-long experience – no matter what level of talent you have, you can always challenge yourself to grow a little bit more,” said Servilio.
Justin Roe of Belmont (originally from England) admits he has no singing experience, but his friend Amy Jones convinced him to give this experiment a try.
“I have been wanting to join a low-risk, novice chorus for quite a few years but have always found it too daunting,” said Roe.
“I am benefiting from some good music teaching and meeting some new friends in the community. I have never performed in public before, so there will be some good experiences for me in that,” he added.
Bruce Rosenblum of Belmont participated in last year’s experiment, “The Mamas and the Papas and the Teachers, Too” Band. He said he enjoyed playing his oboe again after a thirty year break.
“It was also a really great way to increase sharing the Chenery music experience with my 12-year-old son who plays flute,” said Rosenblum.
“Suddenly he was reminding me to practice last year instead of the other way around! So continuing this year with the chorus was just a natural extension of it,” he said.
Instrumental Music Instructor John McLellan is ecstatic about the response this year’s experiment has received.
“This ensemble is an experiment designed to provide another venue to allow our adult constituents an outlet for their musicianship.
“Primarily designed as an opportunity for us, the post-graduates, it serves also as an example to the young students that music making doesn’t have to stop on Graduation Day,” said McLellan.
On Thursday, Feb. 11, 7:00 p.m. in the Chenery Middle School Auditorium, the unveiling of this special group will take place at the Chenery Chamber Concert. Many of these adults will be playing on the same stage as their children and grandchildren in the Woodwind Symphony (35 students) directed by Sharon Phipps, the Brass Symphony (28 students) directed by John McLellan and the Percussion Symphony (8 students) directed by Mark Kohler, Berklee School of Music. There is no admission fee for this intergenerational performance.
Parents of Music Students, Inc. (POMS) is the sponsoring organizing behind this program, a non-profit parent-community organization created to support, enhance and enrich the Belmont Public Schools K-12 Music Program. For more information, visit http://www.belmont.k12.ma.us/art/poms/index.html.
Ban on texting and cell phone use while driving
Massachusetts is getting very close to joining 19 other states in a national movement to ban junior operators (16 and 17 year olds) from texting and cell phone use while driving. All other operators of motor vehicles would also be banned from texting and required to use a hands-free or voice activated device when using a cell phone while driving.
According to the bill, drivers could only text “if the vehicle is stationary and not located in a part of the roadway intended for travel.”
A first offense by a Junior operator would result in a 180 day suspension of their license or learner’s permit and a $100 fine; a second offense would result in a one y ear suspension and a $250 fine; and a third offence would be punishable by a one year suspension and a $500 fine.
State Representative Charles Murphy said it is difficult to say when a final bill will be reached. “It won’t be finalized until the Senate acts on it and it’s in the works. We understand the importance of it,” said Murphy.
Burlington resident and parent Barbara Hospod said she is in full favor of it becoming a law.
“These ‘phone calls’ need to be kept within the confines of safe and acceptable places to use cell phones. Driving while texting or talking is not one of them and should not be tolerated,” said Hospod.
Her daughter, Kyla, is a senior at Burlington High School who admits she texts and talks on her cell phone while driving.”
“I know it’s a bad habit and it’s something I wish I could stop,” she said.
Her friend, Alyssa McNeill, also a BHS senior, recalled her mother took her cell phone away from her for two weeks because another parent caught her texting while driving; but now that she has it back, she confessed she is still guilty.
If it became a law, both Hospod and McNeill said they would have a reason to stop.
”I have nothing to tell me I can’t do it,” said McNeill.
BHS Associate Principal Mark Sullivan believes out of the 300 or 400 students who drive, 70 to 90 percent of them text and/or talk while driving.
“I get as many text messages in a month as these kids get in an hour,” said Sullivan.
BHS Senior Peter Milinazzo said he manages to keep both hands on the wheel while texting. His eyes are down but on the road at the same time. “I have never been to a point where my eyes are off the road for more than three seconds,” said Milinazzo.
He agrees it should become a law. “Texting should be banned. It can be just as bad as drunk driving,” he said.
Grant Gough, another BHS senior does not agree with the ban on cell phone use because he talks more than he texts and he uses his speaker phone. He believes hands free devices such as the blue tooth cause brain tumors.
Burlington Police Traffic Safety Officer Bernie Schipellitti is also the owner of a local driving school and teaches about the dangers of cell phones in cars to students every day.
“Statistics are showing that the act of being on the phone is the problem, as the same part of the brain is being used to talk and drive. That’s why motorists using hands free devices still crash a lot, too,” said Schipelliti.
Jim Tigges, Burlington police officer, said he was actually hit (off duty) by a 16-year-old female driver who ran a stop sign and hit his minivan.
“It was alleged that she may have been either on the phone or texting while driving but that wasn’t confirmed,” said Tigges.
He was out of work for five months and needed him surgery.
“My back and hip will never be the same,” he said.
According to the bill, drivers could only text “if the vehicle is stationary and not located in a part of the roadway intended for travel.”
A first offense by a Junior operator would result in a 180 day suspension of their license or learner’s permit and a $100 fine; a second offense would result in a one y ear suspension and a $250 fine; and a third offence would be punishable by a one year suspension and a $500 fine.
State Representative Charles Murphy said it is difficult to say when a final bill will be reached. “It won’t be finalized until the Senate acts on it and it’s in the works. We understand the importance of it,” said Murphy.
Burlington resident and parent Barbara Hospod said she is in full favor of it becoming a law.
“These ‘phone calls’ need to be kept within the confines of safe and acceptable places to use cell phones. Driving while texting or talking is not one of them and should not be tolerated,” said Hospod.
Her daughter, Kyla, is a senior at Burlington High School who admits she texts and talks on her cell phone while driving.”
“I know it’s a bad habit and it’s something I wish I could stop,” she said.
Her friend, Alyssa McNeill, also a BHS senior, recalled her mother took her cell phone away from her for two weeks because another parent caught her texting while driving; but now that she has it back, she confessed she is still guilty.
If it became a law, both Hospod and McNeill said they would have a reason to stop.
”I have nothing to tell me I can’t do it,” said McNeill.
BHS Associate Principal Mark Sullivan believes out of the 300 or 400 students who drive, 70 to 90 percent of them text and/or talk while driving.
“I get as many text messages in a month as these kids get in an hour,” said Sullivan.
BHS Senior Peter Milinazzo said he manages to keep both hands on the wheel while texting. His eyes are down but on the road at the same time. “I have never been to a point where my eyes are off the road for more than three seconds,” said Milinazzo.
He agrees it should become a law. “Texting should be banned. It can be just as bad as drunk driving,” he said.
Grant Gough, another BHS senior does not agree with the ban on cell phone use because he talks more than he texts and he uses his speaker phone. He believes hands free devices such as the blue tooth cause brain tumors.
Burlington Police Traffic Safety Officer Bernie Schipellitti is also the owner of a local driving school and teaches about the dangers of cell phones in cars to students every day.
“Statistics are showing that the act of being on the phone is the problem, as the same part of the brain is being used to talk and drive. That’s why motorists using hands free devices still crash a lot, too,” said Schipelliti.
Jim Tigges, Burlington police officer, said he was actually hit (off duty) by a 16-year-old female driver who ran a stop sign and hit his minivan.
“It was alleged that she may have been either on the phone or texting while driving but that wasn’t confirmed,” said Tigges.
He was out of work for five months and needed him surgery.
“My back and hip will never be the same,” he said.
Choosing art for your home
Interior Designer Carol Friedman of Design Resource in Harvard refers to art in a home as “the frosting on the cake”. For the past 18 years she has been buying and framing artwork for her clients which she believes is a necessary component of a room, completing the big picture.
“Art is all part of the finished product,” said Friedman.
She works closely with owner Lawrence Powers of Powers Gallery in Acton to select art that not only coordinates with the color and style of the space where it hangs; but also something which feels right emotionally and visually.
“Don’t settle unless it’s really moving you,” she said. Powers couldn’t agree with her more.
His business started in 1964 and has grown over the years from a simple home-based frame shop into a gallery representing over 100 artists from all over New England.
“Artwork is a reflection of yourself,” said Powers who compares art to music.
“Everyone likes to listen to music. When you surround yourself with artwork, it is like having visual music,” he said.
Acting like psychologists, Powers and his staff guide and educate customers during the process of shopping for a frame, a print, or an original work of art.
Quality art and frames is what Powers is proud to provide. “Buy something lasting, that brings you joy and will get handed down. It won’t end up in a yard sale,” said Powers.
Framing equally important as the art
David Smith, owner of Winchester Art and Frame specializes in conservation framing as well as frame and art restoration and the sale of fine and decorative art. He is past president of the New England Professional Picture Framers Association (NEPPFA) and currently serves on the board at the national level. He is also an international judge and has participated and won several international competitions for the PPFA.
Customers seek his expertise in deciding what kind of frame or mat to choose for their artwork. He always asks where it will hang to get a feel for the room’s setting and decor.
“Most of the time, frames cost more than the art,” said Smith.
He uses ultra-violet glass and alpha-cellulose mats which are paperless. This helps maintain the quality and life of the artwork. “Inferior materials will create acid burn or cause fading,” said Smith.
Both Powers Gallery and Winchester Art and Frame provide full service to their customers, from helping them choose the artwork and/or frame to putting the nail in the wall and hanging it in their home.
Powers Gallery “Do and Don’t” Recommendations:
Don’ts
1. Don’t be afraid to mix abstract with representational artwork. The unexpected adds a powerful and refreshing note of interest to a room.
2. Don’t hang artwork that is too small for the space. Consider scale; small pieces can be grouped together to create a bold look that fits the space better and breaks it up so that it no longer seems too large.
3. Don’t neglect older artwork. Restoration and/or reframing can breathe new life into old artwork.
4. Don’t hesitate to take artwork home “on approval”. It is the only way to know if the artwork is right for your home.
5. Don’t let friends talk you out of something you really love. Art is so personal. It should speak to you, trigger an emotion, remind you of something you enjoy.
6. Don’t choose a frame which overwhelms the artwork; choose a frame which coordinates with the environment of the room, but doesn’t distract from the art being displayed.
Do’s
1. Do hang your artwork at the appropriate height; 60” from floor to the center of the painting is a good standard used by many installers.
2. Do use archival framing materials and conservation glass when framing your artwork. Also, use custom framing to enhance your artwork and complement the style of your room.
3. Do mix media in a room. Consider mixing oil paintings with works on paper and sculpture in the same room. This adds interest and is the beginning of a collection!
4. Do let original artwork be the finishing touch of style to your room. Just as jewelry makes an outfit.
To learn more, visit www.powersgallery.com or www.winchesterartandframe.com.
“Art is all part of the finished product,” said Friedman.
She works closely with owner Lawrence Powers of Powers Gallery in Acton to select art that not only coordinates with the color and style of the space where it hangs; but also something which feels right emotionally and visually.
“Don’t settle unless it’s really moving you,” she said. Powers couldn’t agree with her more.
His business started in 1964 and has grown over the years from a simple home-based frame shop into a gallery representing over 100 artists from all over New England.
“Artwork is a reflection of yourself,” said Powers who compares art to music.
“Everyone likes to listen to music. When you surround yourself with artwork, it is like having visual music,” he said.
Acting like psychologists, Powers and his staff guide and educate customers during the process of shopping for a frame, a print, or an original work of art.
Quality art and frames is what Powers is proud to provide. “Buy something lasting, that brings you joy and will get handed down. It won’t end up in a yard sale,” said Powers.
Framing equally important as the art
David Smith, owner of Winchester Art and Frame specializes in conservation framing as well as frame and art restoration and the sale of fine and decorative art. He is past president of the New England Professional Picture Framers Association (NEPPFA) and currently serves on the board at the national level. He is also an international judge and has participated and won several international competitions for the PPFA.
Customers seek his expertise in deciding what kind of frame or mat to choose for their artwork. He always asks where it will hang to get a feel for the room’s setting and decor.
“Most of the time, frames cost more than the art,” said Smith.
He uses ultra-violet glass and alpha-cellulose mats which are paperless. This helps maintain the quality and life of the artwork. “Inferior materials will create acid burn or cause fading,” said Smith.
Both Powers Gallery and Winchester Art and Frame provide full service to their customers, from helping them choose the artwork and/or frame to putting the nail in the wall and hanging it in their home.
Powers Gallery “Do and Don’t” Recommendations:
Don’ts
1. Don’t be afraid to mix abstract with representational artwork. The unexpected adds a powerful and refreshing note of interest to a room.
2. Don’t hang artwork that is too small for the space. Consider scale; small pieces can be grouped together to create a bold look that fits the space better and breaks it up so that it no longer seems too large.
3. Don’t neglect older artwork. Restoration and/or reframing can breathe new life into old artwork.
4. Don’t hesitate to take artwork home “on approval”. It is the only way to know if the artwork is right for your home.
5. Don’t let friends talk you out of something you really love. Art is so personal. It should speak to you, trigger an emotion, remind you of something you enjoy.
6. Don’t choose a frame which overwhelms the artwork; choose a frame which coordinates with the environment of the room, but doesn’t distract from the art being displayed.
Do’s
1. Do hang your artwork at the appropriate height; 60” from floor to the center of the painting is a good standard used by many installers.
2. Do use archival framing materials and conservation glass when framing your artwork. Also, use custom framing to enhance your artwork and complement the style of your room.
3. Do mix media in a room. Consider mixing oil paintings with works on paper and sculpture in the same room. This adds interest and is the beginning of a collection!
4. Do let original artwork be the finishing touch of style to your room. Just as jewelry makes an outfit.
To learn more, visit www.powersgallery.com or www.winchesterartandframe.com.
Experience the world of tea drinking
Stephen Murray, owner of British Delights in Westford, associates having a cup of tea as a way to sit down with somebody else and share your problems. “In England, if people have problems the traditional response is to sit down and have a cup of tea,” he said. Originally from Sheffield, England, Murray started his business ten years ago to provide people from his country who moved to the states with their favorite teas and everything that goes with them including biscuits, candies, cups, strainers and kettles.
He has observed the main difference between his tea-drinking culture and the American coffee-drinking culture is the amount of time people spend sitting and talking to any body. The ritual seems to be to grab a cup of coffee and run, he said.
For Murray, tea is a much more pleasant drink than coffee, not only because of his background, but also because of how it makes him feel.
“With coffee, the caffeine kicks in quickly and gives you a jolt. With tea, the caffeine is released much more slowly. It is not a harsh stimulant. It has a gentle effect on the body rather than giving you a sudden rush,” said Murray.
To learn more about British Delights, visit www.britishdelights.com.
Tea varieties
Unlike coffee, tea has many different varieties to choose from. Like tasters of fine wine, tea connoisseurs know the taste they are looking for. It may be from a specific region or a particular blend and for the best brewing results and optimal flavor, it needs to be made with fresh, loose leaves in a pre-heated bone china cup, explained Janice Zazinski, Manager of Peet’s Coffee and Tea in Lexington.
If you’re not a tea connoisseur, Zazinski and her well-trained, highly tea educated staff may turn you into one.
Another option for any one interested in learning more about tea is Teavana, located in the Burlington Mall. It is one of over 100 stores nationwide which sells 99 different types of tea blends made from white, green, oolong, black and rooibos teas imported from 11 different countries including Japan, China, Argentina, India, Korea and South Africa.
The ceremony of making tea
The process of preparing fine tea is like a ceremony which may also enhance one’s mood. Zazinski describes it as the “zen moment of the day” when you take your first sip after taking five minutes to prepare the perfect cup of tea.
Teavana sells an enamel-coated, cast iron tea pots to brew and serve tea which Manager Jillian Calixto said is the best method because the heat is distributed within the pot and it brews the tea evenly. Matching ceremonial 4 ounce tea cups are also available which provide “just enough to drink so you always have hot tea,” added Calixto.
For more unique tea tools and accessories, visit www.teavana.com.
Tea lovers’ favorites
Joan Macbeth, 74, of Lexington, has been drinking tea for the past 20 years and meets friends at Peet’s in her neighborhood every day for her afternoon tea ritual. “I make it part of a cocktail hour to sit down, and relax,” said MacBeth.
She switched to tea because coffee started bothering her and she had to give up alcohol when she got diabetes. Her favorite tea blend is Assam Extra Fancy and she prefers to brew it loose. “The tea bag doesn’t do it,” added MacBeth.
Marcia Gens, 50 of Lexington is fairly new to the world of tea. She used to drink it occasionally, but enjoys it more now and believes it makes her feel more alert. She drinks black tea in the morning and green tea in the afternoon. She read it is good for your brain. “Anything that says memory, I’m always all over that,” said Gens.
Norman Lux of Westford changed from 25 years of drinking coffee to tea and says it has changed his life. He thinks it helps stimulate his thoughts. His favorite is Teavana’s white with oolong with honey. He still drinks black coffee in the morning, but tea every afternoon and night.
He has observed the main difference between his tea-drinking culture and the American coffee-drinking culture is the amount of time people spend sitting and talking to any body. The ritual seems to be to grab a cup of coffee and run, he said.
For Murray, tea is a much more pleasant drink than coffee, not only because of his background, but also because of how it makes him feel.
“With coffee, the caffeine kicks in quickly and gives you a jolt. With tea, the caffeine is released much more slowly. It is not a harsh stimulant. It has a gentle effect on the body rather than giving you a sudden rush,” said Murray.
To learn more about British Delights, visit www.britishdelights.com.
Tea varieties
Unlike coffee, tea has many different varieties to choose from. Like tasters of fine wine, tea connoisseurs know the taste they are looking for. It may be from a specific region or a particular blend and for the best brewing results and optimal flavor, it needs to be made with fresh, loose leaves in a pre-heated bone china cup, explained Janice Zazinski, Manager of Peet’s Coffee and Tea in Lexington.
If you’re not a tea connoisseur, Zazinski and her well-trained, highly tea educated staff may turn you into one.
Another option for any one interested in learning more about tea is Teavana, located in the Burlington Mall. It is one of over 100 stores nationwide which sells 99 different types of tea blends made from white, green, oolong, black and rooibos teas imported from 11 different countries including Japan, China, Argentina, India, Korea and South Africa.
The ceremony of making tea
The process of preparing fine tea is like a ceremony which may also enhance one’s mood. Zazinski describes it as the “zen moment of the day” when you take your first sip after taking five minutes to prepare the perfect cup of tea.
Teavana sells an enamel-coated, cast iron tea pots to brew and serve tea which Manager Jillian Calixto said is the best method because the heat is distributed within the pot and it brews the tea evenly. Matching ceremonial 4 ounce tea cups are also available which provide “just enough to drink so you always have hot tea,” added Calixto.
For more unique tea tools and accessories, visit www.teavana.com.
Tea lovers’ favorites
Joan Macbeth, 74, of Lexington, has been drinking tea for the past 20 years and meets friends at Peet’s in her neighborhood every day for her afternoon tea ritual. “I make it part of a cocktail hour to sit down, and relax,” said MacBeth.
She switched to tea because coffee started bothering her and she had to give up alcohol when she got diabetes. Her favorite tea blend is Assam Extra Fancy and she prefers to brew it loose. “The tea bag doesn’t do it,” added MacBeth.
Marcia Gens, 50 of Lexington is fairly new to the world of tea. She used to drink it occasionally, but enjoys it more now and believes it makes her feel more alert. She drinks black tea in the morning and green tea in the afternoon. She read it is good for your brain. “Anything that says memory, I’m always all over that,” said Gens.
Norman Lux of Westford changed from 25 years of drinking coffee to tea and says it has changed his life. He thinks it helps stimulate his thoughts. His favorite is Teavana’s white with oolong with honey. He still drinks black coffee in the morning, but tea every afternoon and night.
New outdoor recycling barrels in Burlington
Visitors to Burlington will now notice a new addition next to all the town’s outdoor trash barrels – a tall green metal bin with a very visible recycle symbol on it for the disposal of bottles and cans.
According to Recycling Committee Chair Gretchen Carey, 100 of these new recycle bins were purchased for a total cost of $17,000 which was completely funded by Burlington’s Department of Public Works, using funds from the recycled cardboard and paper account.
“As recycling has increased due to the automated trash system, we recycle more paper. The amount more than doubled this year. Now we have funds and what better place to use funds than to do more recycling,” said John Sanchez, superintendent of the Department of Public Works.
Carey said she initiated the request to purchase the bins because she heard residents complaining they wanted to recycle at outdoor facilities, but couldn’t.
The new recycle bins are located next to trash barrels at all Burlington’s parks, fields and outdoor areas such as the Town Common.
Each of them cost $170, said Carey. She chose the style because it is a see-through basket and thought it would help people understand what they are supposed to throw into it.
“It’s sturdy. It will last. I like the symbol on the side. The lid has a smaller hole so you can only throw certain types of things in,” said Carey.
The bins arrived the week of April 26 and the Recreation Maintenance Superintendent Doug Gillingham has already noticed them getting filled, although he has also noticed some of them had trash mixed in with the bottles and cans.
“It’s going to be a learning process. People aren’t used to it. They have a tendency to throw all trash in barrels, “said Gillingham.
“We’ve done what we can and now we need to ask the public to use them appropriately and frequently,” said Carey.
The Recycling Committee’s next project is to make sure every classroom in Burlington has recycling bins for paper and plastic. The Burlington Rotary Club is donating $1,300 for the purchase of 200 bins for all the schools to use, in addition to the bins they currently use, said Carey.
Her Committee is also planning a “Greening Burlington Day” to take place this summer, “a town clean up day,” said Carey.
For more information about the Burlington Recycling Committee or to join, visit www.burington.org/Recycling/index.html.
According to Recycling Committee Chair Gretchen Carey, 100 of these new recycle bins were purchased for a total cost of $17,000 which was completely funded by Burlington’s Department of Public Works, using funds from the recycled cardboard and paper account.
“As recycling has increased due to the automated trash system, we recycle more paper. The amount more than doubled this year. Now we have funds and what better place to use funds than to do more recycling,” said John Sanchez, superintendent of the Department of Public Works.
Carey said she initiated the request to purchase the bins because she heard residents complaining they wanted to recycle at outdoor facilities, but couldn’t.
The new recycle bins are located next to trash barrels at all Burlington’s parks, fields and outdoor areas such as the Town Common.
Each of them cost $170, said Carey. She chose the style because it is a see-through basket and thought it would help people understand what they are supposed to throw into it.
“It’s sturdy. It will last. I like the symbol on the side. The lid has a smaller hole so you can only throw certain types of things in,” said Carey.
The bins arrived the week of April 26 and the Recreation Maintenance Superintendent Doug Gillingham has already noticed them getting filled, although he has also noticed some of them had trash mixed in with the bottles and cans.
“It’s going to be a learning process. People aren’t used to it. They have a tendency to throw all trash in barrels, “said Gillingham.
“We’ve done what we can and now we need to ask the public to use them appropriately and frequently,” said Carey.
The Recycling Committee’s next project is to make sure every classroom in Burlington has recycling bins for paper and plastic. The Burlington Rotary Club is donating $1,300 for the purchase of 200 bins for all the schools to use, in addition to the bins they currently use, said Carey.
Her Committee is also planning a “Greening Burlington Day” to take place this summer, “a town clean up day,” said Carey.
For more information about the Burlington Recycling Committee or to join, visit www.burington.org/Recycling/index.html.
Dangers of "Children Online"
Belmont parents and public school staff had the opportunity to learn about internet safety from two experts in the field at a workshop on May 3, 2010 in the Chenery Middle School auditorium.
Marje Monroe and Doug Fodeman, co-founders of Children Online, a consulting company devoted to the safety of children and teens online, presented “Realities, issues and solutions”, based on their combined 50 years of experience in education and counseling and recent research findings from internet surveys of 3000 students in grades 4 through 8.
“Kids are embracing technology. It is part of their life and culture; but it is filtering down to younger and younger children. We as parents need to put on the brakes and say, ‘hold on. Enough is enough,’” said Fodeman.
Children Online’s research has found kids in fourth grade are on Facebook and the most popular websites are YouTube and Facebook for all ages. Kids in grades 4 through 12 have virtual friends they never met in person, added Monroe.
“This year bullying and harassment are very high,” she said.
“Kids need boundaries,” is the message both Fodeman and Monroe wanted to get across to the audience which included Chenery’s Headmaster Deborah Alexander, the Lower School Assistant Headmaster Heidi Johnson and Guidance Counselor Carla Hawkins.
Monroe said kids say things on line they wouldn’t do in person because it’s easier to be mean when you are not looking at someone’s face. “Anonymity enables kids to bully and harass,” she said, adding “they also believe they won’t get caught.”
Fodeman highlighted websites which are owned by reputable, well-known brand name companies such as Nickelodeon and Disney. However, many of them are not designed in the best interest of kids and their sole mission is to make money, he said.
Nickelodeon owns “Addicting Games” which is another popular site for kids in grades 3 through 8. One of the games is “Perry the Perve” which he was shocked to learn shows partially naked women. Another game, “Tickle Me,” shows a live person on her bed.
“Stardoll.com” is another website Fodeman and Monroe were disturbed by and said there are many on-line doll sites visited by young girls.
Farmville is another popular game on Facebook which has also attracted the attention of scammers who put up surveys and quizzes coaxing private information such as cell phone numbers.
All of these kid’s sites have ads which pop-up or are on the sidebars which look like mini-games, but they are actually scams. When a child clicks on the link, they may download a virus such as spyware or malware onto the computer which will slow it down like molasses and can find out all the private log-in information such as bank accounts and passwords, said Fodeman.
“Make no mistake, our kids have no idea how successfully they are being targeted,” he said.
Monroe expressed great concern about kids growing up socializing on line. Even her own eight-year-old son told her, “Mom, I have a date on Club Penquin. We’re meeting in a nightclub,” she said.
Chenery Librarian Karen Duff organized the presentation and was pleased with the turn-out. The more parents who understand and engage with their children on these issues, the healthier our children’s behavior will be online and off.
Headmaster Alexander said this presentation is “just the beginning of a series of workshops and discussions on the appropriate use of technology by middle school students. We were delighted with the turn-out, and we hope that future opportunities include even more parents.”
For more information visit, www.childrenonline.org.
Helpful tips
Fodeman and Monroe offered an abundance of helpful tips for parents such as:
- Children shouldn’t have a computer in their bedroom until at least age 15. Computers should be in a public area of the home.
- Instruct children not to share their cell phone number or e-mail address on any websites.
- Kids should never give other kids their password.
- Kids should not be chatting on-line. Parents should shut this feature off.
- Kids should be at least 16 if they want a Facebook account.
- Instant messaging should not be allowed until 6th grade.
- Parental contraol software is recommended.
- Instant messaging should only be allowed in a public space and the time should be limited.
- Teach children never to use instant messaging when they are angry, hurt or upset. They should get off and use the phone
- No group instant messaging. Instant messaging is the single greatest area for harassment on line.
- Kids should not make friends on line
- If your child has a Facebook account, you should know their password. You do not necessarily have to be their friend on line because that is an image you may not want to present
- Educate kids about privacy marketing and to be media savvy (teach them the difference between .com, .gov. and .org).
- Always take cell phones at the door when there is a sleep-over party. Many sexting issues are the result of cell phones at parties when kids take provocative pictures.
- Prohibit downloads without your permission.
- Prohibit uploading videos and photos without your permission.
- Always encourage kids to talk to you when they are bullied, scared or uncomfortable.
Marje Monroe and Doug Fodeman, co-founders of Children Online, a consulting company devoted to the safety of children and teens online, presented “Realities, issues and solutions”, based on their combined 50 years of experience in education and counseling and recent research findings from internet surveys of 3000 students in grades 4 through 8.
“Kids are embracing technology. It is part of their life and culture; but it is filtering down to younger and younger children. We as parents need to put on the brakes and say, ‘hold on. Enough is enough,’” said Fodeman.
Children Online’s research has found kids in fourth grade are on Facebook and the most popular websites are YouTube and Facebook for all ages. Kids in grades 4 through 12 have virtual friends they never met in person, added Monroe.
“This year bullying and harassment are very high,” she said.
“Kids need boundaries,” is the message both Fodeman and Monroe wanted to get across to the audience which included Chenery’s Headmaster Deborah Alexander, the Lower School Assistant Headmaster Heidi Johnson and Guidance Counselor Carla Hawkins.
Monroe said kids say things on line they wouldn’t do in person because it’s easier to be mean when you are not looking at someone’s face. “Anonymity enables kids to bully and harass,” she said, adding “they also believe they won’t get caught.”
Fodeman highlighted websites which are owned by reputable, well-known brand name companies such as Nickelodeon and Disney. However, many of them are not designed in the best interest of kids and their sole mission is to make money, he said.
Nickelodeon owns “Addicting Games” which is another popular site for kids in grades 3 through 8. One of the games is “Perry the Perve” which he was shocked to learn shows partially naked women. Another game, “Tickle Me,” shows a live person on her bed.
“Stardoll.com” is another website Fodeman and Monroe were disturbed by and said there are many on-line doll sites visited by young girls.
Farmville is another popular game on Facebook which has also attracted the attention of scammers who put up surveys and quizzes coaxing private information such as cell phone numbers.
All of these kid’s sites have ads which pop-up or are on the sidebars which look like mini-games, but they are actually scams. When a child clicks on the link, they may download a virus such as spyware or malware onto the computer which will slow it down like molasses and can find out all the private log-in information such as bank accounts and passwords, said Fodeman.
“Make no mistake, our kids have no idea how successfully they are being targeted,” he said.
Monroe expressed great concern about kids growing up socializing on line. Even her own eight-year-old son told her, “Mom, I have a date on Club Penquin. We’re meeting in a nightclub,” she said.
Chenery Librarian Karen Duff organized the presentation and was pleased with the turn-out. The more parents who understand and engage with their children on these issues, the healthier our children’s behavior will be online and off.
Headmaster Alexander said this presentation is “just the beginning of a series of workshops and discussions on the appropriate use of technology by middle school students. We were delighted with the turn-out, and we hope that future opportunities include even more parents.”
For more information visit, www.childrenonline.org.
Helpful tips
Fodeman and Monroe offered an abundance of helpful tips for parents such as:
- Children shouldn’t have a computer in their bedroom until at least age 15. Computers should be in a public area of the home.
- Instruct children not to share their cell phone number or e-mail address on any websites.
- Kids should never give other kids their password.
- Kids should not be chatting on-line. Parents should shut this feature off.
- Kids should be at least 16 if they want a Facebook account.
- Instant messaging should not be allowed until 6th grade.
- Parental contraol software is recommended.
- Instant messaging should only be allowed in a public space and the time should be limited.
- Teach children never to use instant messaging when they are angry, hurt or upset. They should get off and use the phone
- No group instant messaging. Instant messaging is the single greatest area for harassment on line.
- Kids should not make friends on line
- If your child has a Facebook account, you should know their password. You do not necessarily have to be their friend on line because that is an image you may not want to present
- Educate kids about privacy marketing and to be media savvy (teach them the difference between .com, .gov. and .org).
- Always take cell phones at the door when there is a sleep-over party. Many sexting issues are the result of cell phones at parties when kids take provocative pictures.
- Prohibit downloads without your permission.
- Prohibit uploading videos and photos without your permission.
- Always encourage kids to talk to you when they are bullied, scared or uncomfortable.
Middle schooler's life changed
Philip M. Arcaro, 12.5 years old of Burlington was born three months premature and diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy and epilepsy; but this hasn’t stopped him from pursuing his dream of becoming a television producer.
Arcaro was recently named Burlington Cable Access Television’s Video Voyager of the year, an accomplishment which has made him, his family and teachers gleam with pride.
“Philip is a kid who has been on an IEP his whole life and has progressed to full inclusion and doing very well academically (with support and extra time),” said Mary Beth Arcaro, Philip’s mom.
However, since he has begun Video Voyagers this past fall, she has noticed a tremendous improvement in his conversation skills and has noticed he is able to have more conversations one on one because he is more confident in what he is saying.
“This program has given Philip such a boost and his self esteem is through the roof, the staff treat Philip with respect and love his dedication,” said Mary Beth Arcaro, Philip’s mom.
Since 1999, Burlington Cable Access Television has been offering a free after school program for students in grades 6 through 8 interested in learning more about the field of television production. They meet ever Wednesday of the academic calendar from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the BCAT studio.
“That’s what we’re here for, to have someone like Phil have his life change, makes us feel good about what we do,” said Jennifer Dodge, BCAT executive director.
The Video Voyager of the Year award is given to a participant in the program who exemplifies three “r”’s, respect self, respect staff and respect the equipment, said
Tad Stephanak, BCAT production coordinator.
“I like going to Video Voyagers. It helps calm me down after a stressful day because everyone is respectful to me and everyone treats me the way I like to be treated,” said Philip.
His mother is very impressed with the professionalism of the staff who Philip has worked with. “As a parent of a special needs kid who’s had different experiences of his life of people looking at him differently or treating him differently because of his disabilities over the years, I love it. It makes me feel like I know he’s in a safe place,” said Arcaro.
Stephanak refers to Philip as a “BCAT savant” and admits they nicknamed him “Philm” because his middle initial is “M”.
“His parents must have subconsciously knew ahead of time when they named him,” he said.
Video Voyagers trains students how to do every job involved in the television production process, both behind and in front of the camera, including how to direct, run the cameras, use the switcher, do the graphics, lighting, sound, editing, story boards and acting.
“Everyone learns to do everything and gets hands on experiences,” said Stephanak, adding they learn to work as a group and interact with each other as a team.
Don’t be surprised if you see Arcaro behind camera at a local event these days.
“Phil has taken the intiative to do other things. That’s what the program is about,” said Stephanak.
Arcaro recently video taped the Marshall Simonds Middle School Spring Concert. He especially enjoys producing skits like the Redd Sock show.
“Every night when I go to sleep, I see myself working at BCAT ten years later from where I am, doing the show, working in the control room,” said Arcaro.
He hopes to film track and field meets for Burlington High School in the near future.
Mary Beth said she wouldn’t be surprised if more kids like Philip start doing these things.
“It’s a nice place for kids to have an outlet that’s positive. It helps them focus on something they might build into a career,” she said.
For more information about Video Voyagers or to sign your middle school student up, visit www.bcattv.or or call 781-273-5922.
Arcaro was recently named Burlington Cable Access Television’s Video Voyager of the year, an accomplishment which has made him, his family and teachers gleam with pride.
“Philip is a kid who has been on an IEP his whole life and has progressed to full inclusion and doing very well academically (with support and extra time),” said Mary Beth Arcaro, Philip’s mom.
However, since he has begun Video Voyagers this past fall, she has noticed a tremendous improvement in his conversation skills and has noticed he is able to have more conversations one on one because he is more confident in what he is saying.
“This program has given Philip such a boost and his self esteem is through the roof, the staff treat Philip with respect and love his dedication,” said Mary Beth Arcaro, Philip’s mom.
Since 1999, Burlington Cable Access Television has been offering a free after school program for students in grades 6 through 8 interested in learning more about the field of television production. They meet ever Wednesday of the academic calendar from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the BCAT studio.
“That’s what we’re here for, to have someone like Phil have his life change, makes us feel good about what we do,” said Jennifer Dodge, BCAT executive director.
The Video Voyager of the Year award is given to a participant in the program who exemplifies three “r”’s, respect self, respect staff and respect the equipment, said
Tad Stephanak, BCAT production coordinator.
“I like going to Video Voyagers. It helps calm me down after a stressful day because everyone is respectful to me and everyone treats me the way I like to be treated,” said Philip.
His mother is very impressed with the professionalism of the staff who Philip has worked with. “As a parent of a special needs kid who’s had different experiences of his life of people looking at him differently or treating him differently because of his disabilities over the years, I love it. It makes me feel like I know he’s in a safe place,” said Arcaro.
Stephanak refers to Philip as a “BCAT savant” and admits they nicknamed him “Philm” because his middle initial is “M”.
“His parents must have subconsciously knew ahead of time when they named him,” he said.
Video Voyagers trains students how to do every job involved in the television production process, both behind and in front of the camera, including how to direct, run the cameras, use the switcher, do the graphics, lighting, sound, editing, story boards and acting.
“Everyone learns to do everything and gets hands on experiences,” said Stephanak, adding they learn to work as a group and interact with each other as a team.
Don’t be surprised if you see Arcaro behind camera at a local event these days.
“Phil has taken the intiative to do other things. That’s what the program is about,” said Stephanak.
Arcaro recently video taped the Marshall Simonds Middle School Spring Concert. He especially enjoys producing skits like the Redd Sock show.
“Every night when I go to sleep, I see myself working at BCAT ten years later from where I am, doing the show, working in the control room,” said Arcaro.
He hopes to film track and field meets for Burlington High School in the near future.
Mary Beth said she wouldn’t be surprised if more kids like Philip start doing these things.
“It’s a nice place for kids to have an outlet that’s positive. It helps them focus on something they might build into a career,” she said.
For more information about Video Voyagers or to sign your middle school student up, visit www.bcattv.or or call 781-273-5922.
The real crisis in town
Saturday, May 1, 2010 seemed like just another ordinary day, although it seemed too good to be true. There wasn’t much to do or much we felt like doing.
My kids enjoyed playing in the driveway. My husband dug into his yard work routine and I went about doing the usual dreaded household chores, laundry, and paperwork while periodically checking up on the kids and the husband.
Little did we know, things were about to drastically change – the way we brush our teeth, wash hands, do dishes, make coffee, cook, water the lawn and even the way we purchase bottled water – not just for an hour, not just for a day, but for an unknown period of time.
It’s kind of like the people who were recently stranded because all the flights to Europe were cancelled indefinitely due to the volcanic cloud of ash from Iceland.
Or even like the recent abundance of rain which flooded so many of our basements and caused ordinary days to turn into days we had to baby-sit automatic sump pumps, search for sold-out wet vacs and wait for the plumber to come.
Many would agree, 2010 has been a very unusual year, particularly when it comes to mother nature.
But nothing can compare to April 29, 2010, the day we experienced hurricane-like gusts of wind, so strong, you felt like your car would fly away.
So evil and unpredictable, it caused a tree to fall on an innocent nine year old boy, minding his own business, playing basketball outdoors in his neighborhood with his friends.
It somehow chose him, causing a fatal injury.
In times of crisis like the recent water main break, we must stop and think about this loss and how it has affected this family in our town.
Every day we should remember him and hope he is in a better place. A world where he will not get hurt any more. A world where he can play safely. A world where we will see him again.
It is tragic when something like this happen. It puts everything in a totally different perspective. The water crisis was nothing more than a nuisance. That child should still be here today. Words cannot do enough justice to express what this loss means.
May his parents and sister find strength from his memory and the support of relatives, friends and neighbors.
May his spirit live on in all our hearts.
My kids enjoyed playing in the driveway. My husband dug into his yard work routine and I went about doing the usual dreaded household chores, laundry, and paperwork while periodically checking up on the kids and the husband.
Little did we know, things were about to drastically change – the way we brush our teeth, wash hands, do dishes, make coffee, cook, water the lawn and even the way we purchase bottled water – not just for an hour, not just for a day, but for an unknown period of time.
It’s kind of like the people who were recently stranded because all the flights to Europe were cancelled indefinitely due to the volcanic cloud of ash from Iceland.
Or even like the recent abundance of rain which flooded so many of our basements and caused ordinary days to turn into days we had to baby-sit automatic sump pumps, search for sold-out wet vacs and wait for the plumber to come.
Many would agree, 2010 has been a very unusual year, particularly when it comes to mother nature.
But nothing can compare to April 29, 2010, the day we experienced hurricane-like gusts of wind, so strong, you felt like your car would fly away.
So evil and unpredictable, it caused a tree to fall on an innocent nine year old boy, minding his own business, playing basketball outdoors in his neighborhood with his friends.
It somehow chose him, causing a fatal injury.
In times of crisis like the recent water main break, we must stop and think about this loss and how it has affected this family in our town.
Every day we should remember him and hope he is in a better place. A world where he will not get hurt any more. A world where he can play safely. A world where we will see him again.
It is tragic when something like this happen. It puts everything in a totally different perspective. The water crisis was nothing more than a nuisance. That child should still be here today. Words cannot do enough justice to express what this loss means.
May his parents and sister find strength from his memory and the support of relatives, friends and neighbors.
May his spirit live on in all our hearts.
Calling all carpenters...
Now, I’m sure this time of year a headline like this would make people wonder, am I talking about carpenter ants or carpenters?
Well, I’ll talk about carpenter ants in a future column. This one is about carpenters.
In our current economy, you would think they would be returning calls, showing up for appointments and giving timely estimates.
However, this has not been the case with my prospective project bidders.
I can honestly say for the past 4 months, I have been in the process of looking for someone to hire for several possible spring projects such as new windows, exterior paint, roof repair, new doors, a built-in entertainment center, and bathroom renovations.
I’ve lost track of how many strangers I’ve welcomed into my house, shown the possible work to be done while they took notes and measurements; some even took photographs.
I spent two to three hours each with many of them.
I believed they were reputable. I got some names through referrals and some from the Belmont phone directory. Out of at least ten different contacts, I heard back from 4. Out of these 4, I had to send a few e-mails before getting the final numbers in.
With regard to the other 6, they seem to have dropped off the face of the earth.
I guess they aren’t interested in the potential renovation of two bathrooms ($20,000 plus), or the new windows ($5,000 plus), the built in ($3,000 plus), the exterior paint ($6,000 plus), roof repair ($1,500 plus), etc.
Perhaps they are just too busy, lazy, went out of business, got sick, got a new job, thought the work was too challenging, too easy, forgot about it, or lost my number?
Not to mention, a few of the ones who did get back to me, gave me the most ridiculous, outrageous figures. One well-known window company quoted me $4,200 for one single double hung window. Another one quoted me $8,200 just to install 13 windows at $1,200 each.
I was very pleased with a company I used for a past construction project, so I contacted them before any one else to line up the next job for them. They kept saying they would call me, but they didn’t. I even ran into the owner somewhere and he promised to call me. He never did. I gave him the benefit of the doubt and called him. I’ve called them a total of 4 times. Finally, we made an appointment. Would you believe, they never showed up and didn’t even call?
I do not understand someone could be so busy, after already getting over $25,000 of business from me as well as referrals, they wouldn’t keep an appointment or have the courtesy to call if they couldn’t make it.
I have much better things to do with my time than wait around and waste time with people who apparently do not need my business. They must be busy enough. They must not need the money.
I wonder what they will do when the business slows down. Will they finally get around to calling me back?
I don’t agree with this theory – if a carpenter is in high demand, they are too busy and don’t have time to call you back; you have to keep chasing them.
I believe good customer relations matters and a phone call only takes a few minutes. If you’re so busy, you can afford to hire a secretary and keep potential customers.
If someone doesn’t get back to me, I give them a few more chances; but after one or two unreturned calls or e-mails, I move on.
I’m sure eventually I’ll find someone who cares about the work I have for them.
Well, I’ll talk about carpenter ants in a future column. This one is about carpenters.
In our current economy, you would think they would be returning calls, showing up for appointments and giving timely estimates.
However, this has not been the case with my prospective project bidders.
I can honestly say for the past 4 months, I have been in the process of looking for someone to hire for several possible spring projects such as new windows, exterior paint, roof repair, new doors, a built-in entertainment center, and bathroom renovations.
I’ve lost track of how many strangers I’ve welcomed into my house, shown the possible work to be done while they took notes and measurements; some even took photographs.
I spent two to three hours each with many of them.
I believed they were reputable. I got some names through referrals and some from the Belmont phone directory. Out of at least ten different contacts, I heard back from 4. Out of these 4, I had to send a few e-mails before getting the final numbers in.
With regard to the other 6, they seem to have dropped off the face of the earth.
I guess they aren’t interested in the potential renovation of two bathrooms ($20,000 plus), or the new windows ($5,000 plus), the built in ($3,000 plus), the exterior paint ($6,000 plus), roof repair ($1,500 plus), etc.
Perhaps they are just too busy, lazy, went out of business, got sick, got a new job, thought the work was too challenging, too easy, forgot about it, or lost my number?
Not to mention, a few of the ones who did get back to me, gave me the most ridiculous, outrageous figures. One well-known window company quoted me $4,200 for one single double hung window. Another one quoted me $8,200 just to install 13 windows at $1,200 each.
I was very pleased with a company I used for a past construction project, so I contacted them before any one else to line up the next job for them. They kept saying they would call me, but they didn’t. I even ran into the owner somewhere and he promised to call me. He never did. I gave him the benefit of the doubt and called him. I’ve called them a total of 4 times. Finally, we made an appointment. Would you believe, they never showed up and didn’t even call?
I do not understand someone could be so busy, after already getting over $25,000 of business from me as well as referrals, they wouldn’t keep an appointment or have the courtesy to call if they couldn’t make it.
I have much better things to do with my time than wait around and waste time with people who apparently do not need my business. They must be busy enough. They must not need the money.
I wonder what they will do when the business slows down. Will they finally get around to calling me back?
I don’t agree with this theory – if a carpenter is in high demand, they are too busy and don’t have time to call you back; you have to keep chasing them.
I believe good customer relations matters and a phone call only takes a few minutes. If you’re so busy, you can afford to hire a secretary and keep potential customers.
If someone doesn’t get back to me, I give them a few more chances; but after one or two unreturned calls or e-mails, I move on.
I’m sure eventually I’ll find someone who cares about the work I have for them.
Where is Belmont headed?
Why Belmont? This is a question many people ask when I tell them I moved from Burlington, Massachusetts to Belmont this past August.
My answer has been something like, “because we were attracted to the location and it has a reputable school system.”
Moving to Belmont was a long term personal goal of mine and my husband’s which we were finally able to achieve after a long, two year, on and off search with a very patient realtor. It was our mid-life move.
It’s only about 20 minutes from where we used to live; a couple of towns over, but many of our friends and neighbors said they were sorry to see us go. “We really liked you,” one said.
I’ve kept in touch with many of them via e-mail, phone and visits during school vacations. Maintaining friendships takes effort from both sides and unfortunately, I have lost touch with some people.
Luckily, I’ve started to make some new friends in my new town, but I never realized how difficult it would be for me to start over. The kids have adjusted much better than mommy.
There are a lot of things I miss about Burlington. Parking was never an issue any where. Market Basket was in two convenient locations (Billerica and Burlington).
There was a drive-up Dunkin Donuts on almost every corner.
The roads were nice and smooth and you didn’t run into any unexpected detours.
The cost of living was also much lower in Burlington. There was no recreation membership fee. Bussing for all students was free. There were no user fees for athletics or fine arts.
Garbage day was also cleaner in Burlington with an automated trash system requiring all residents to use only one barrel provided by the town; and there were recycling bins next to every trash barrel in all the outdoor parks and fields and in every classroom.
The two “B” towns are indeed very different.
What I like about Belmont is its proximity to Boston, Cambridge and Arlington; the very quaint town center; the architecture; multi-cultural community; the many options for outdoor parks; and the ice cream trucks outside the schools.
But, most of all, I’m very impressed by the quality of instruction in the Belmont Public Schools.
However, I am very concerned about the budget issues in Belmont, particularly in the schools. We moved here for better schools and I’m sure many other families moved here for the same reason.
I can live with the bumpy roads, limited parking and user fees. .
But, the question keeps popping into my head, “Why Belmont?” and I can’t help wondering where is Belmont headed?
My answer has been something like, “because we were attracted to the location and it has a reputable school system.”
Moving to Belmont was a long term personal goal of mine and my husband’s which we were finally able to achieve after a long, two year, on and off search with a very patient realtor. It was our mid-life move.
It’s only about 20 minutes from where we used to live; a couple of towns over, but many of our friends and neighbors said they were sorry to see us go. “We really liked you,” one said.
I’ve kept in touch with many of them via e-mail, phone and visits during school vacations. Maintaining friendships takes effort from both sides and unfortunately, I have lost touch with some people.
Luckily, I’ve started to make some new friends in my new town, but I never realized how difficult it would be for me to start over. The kids have adjusted much better than mommy.
There are a lot of things I miss about Burlington. Parking was never an issue any where. Market Basket was in two convenient locations (Billerica and Burlington).
There was a drive-up Dunkin Donuts on almost every corner.
The roads were nice and smooth and you didn’t run into any unexpected detours.
The cost of living was also much lower in Burlington. There was no recreation membership fee. Bussing for all students was free. There were no user fees for athletics or fine arts.
Garbage day was also cleaner in Burlington with an automated trash system requiring all residents to use only one barrel provided by the town; and there were recycling bins next to every trash barrel in all the outdoor parks and fields and in every classroom.
The two “B” towns are indeed very different.
What I like about Belmont is its proximity to Boston, Cambridge and Arlington; the very quaint town center; the architecture; multi-cultural community; the many options for outdoor parks; and the ice cream trucks outside the schools.
But, most of all, I’m very impressed by the quality of instruction in the Belmont Public Schools.
However, I am very concerned about the budget issues in Belmont, particularly in the schools. We moved here for better schools and I’m sure many other families moved here for the same reason.
I can live with the bumpy roads, limited parking and user fees. .
But, the question keeps popping into my head, “Why Belmont?” and I can’t help wondering where is Belmont headed?
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