Stoneham Notes
GMI
Stoneham Notes
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Good Friday concert
Musicians from Stoneham Memorial Adventist Church, located at 29 Maple Street, will present an Easter concert at the church on Good Friday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m.
The concert will retell the Passion story from the Last Supper to the Resurrection through Scripture and music. Vocal and instrumental ensembles and soloists from the church will perform a variety of music including hymns, spirituals and music of Bach, Brahms, Mozart and Walton. Admission is free and the church invites everyone. An offering will be taken to benefit victims of the tsunamis.
Benefit of Hope
Richie Petrillo, who grew up with the Kelly family on Hancock Street, has been diagnosed with a cancer know as Spindle Cell Sarcoma that he has battled for over a year.
A Benefit of Hope will be held for Petrillo at the Woburn Elks, 295 Washington St. in Woburn Saturday, March 19 at 7 p.m. Cost: $25 in advance; $30 at the door - includes a buffet, DJ and raffles. Proceeds benefit Richie and his family with medical expenses.
For information, call Tammi at 978-667-9960 or e-mail adonaghey@hutchinsonmedical.com. For donations, make checks payable to: Richie Petrillo Benefit of Hope and mail to: 16 Irene Ave., Billerica, MA 01821.
St. Patrick Parish Auction
The St. Patrick Parish Auction Committee has been busy preparing for the Annual Auction to be held on Saturday, March 19, at the Crestview, 36 Montvale Ave., Woburn. The evening begins at 5 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. The evening will include dinner, music, games, a Live Auction, a Silent Auction, a Chinese Auction and a Cash Bar.
There will be two separate raffle drawings the evening of the Auction. The first raffle drawing will be for the 50/50 "Pot of Gold" Raffle ($10 each or 3 for $25) and the second raffle drawing will be for a 26" Panasonic LCD television with a Yamaha digital home theater system and the second prize drawing for an Apple Ipod ($10 each or 3 for $25).. Raffle tickets can be purchased in advance and you do not have to be present to win.
Those interested can purchase tickets for either raffle by contacting Donna Tarquinio at 781-662-7089 or Patrice Fitzpatrick at 781-665-0657 or by stopping by the Rectory.
The following sports Items will be auctioned during the evening.
Patriots Items
Teddy Bruschi Autographed replica Jersey
Adam Vinatieri Autographed replica Jersey
Larry Bird Autographed Jersey
Tom Brady Authentic Autographed Jersey
Troy Brown Autographed replica Jersey
Tom Brady Official Autographed Helmet
Ty Law Autographed replica Jersey
Teddy Bruschi Autographed Foot Ball
Rodney Harrison Autographed 8X10 Framed
Mike Vrabel Autographed 8X10 Framed 2005 Super Bowl TD Catch
Corey Dillon Autographed 16X20 Framed
Pats Dynasty Collage
Brady / Bruschi Dynamic Duo Collage
Adam Vinatieri Autographed Snow Bowl Kick Framed
Red Sox Items
World Series Ball Signed by all 25 Roster players and Terry Francona
Manny Ramirez Autographed Baseball
Carl Yastrzemski Autographed Baseball
David Ortiz Autographed Baseball
Curt Shilling Autographed Baseball
Jason Varitek Autographed Baseball
Trot Nixon Autographed Baseball
Johnny Pesky Autographed Baseball " We did it Ted"
Doug Mienkavitch Collage from last out of World Series
Johnny Damon 16X20
Varitek / Foulke Dual signed photo Last Out
Bronson Arroyo Autographed fight with Arod
The Curse Reversed Collage
Red Sox / Pats Season to Remember Collage
Carlton Fisk Autographed 16X20 Collision with Thurman Munson
Manny Ramirez Autographed 8X10 Framed
David Ortiz Autographed 8X10 Framed
Curt Shilling Autographed World Series Pitching Rubber
Ted Williams Autographed 16X20 Framed
Sopranos Autographed Graveyard 16X20 Framed
Meet the Candidates
The Stoneham Chamber of Commerce will hold a "Meet the Candidates Night" on March 22 at Town Hall. The event will run from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Hearing Room.
Residents will have the opportunity to meet the candidates for Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Board of Health, Planning Board, Board of Assessors, Moderator, Library Trustee and Housing Authority.
For more information, call 781-438-0001.
Library art
In honor of School Art Month, the Stoneham Public Library invites visitors to its March show.
This exhibit is presented by the Stoneham School Department and features all grades. A wide array of works showcases the students' individual talent and creativity. A variety of visual styles and techniques is offered.
College admission program slated for April 6
The Stoneham High School Guidance Department will hold an Introduction to College Admissions and Future Planning Program for college-bound juniors and parents on Wednesday, April 6 in the high school's cafeteria.
The event will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Kent Rinehart, director of Undergraduate Admissions at Bentley College, will be present to answer questions
Stoneham Elks to hold dance
The Stoneham Elks will sponsor the rock and roll band "Replay," who will perform Saturday April 9 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Stoneham Elks, 471 Main St. in Stoneham.
Replay plays the greatest hits from the seventies and eighties.
The show is a benefit for the Linda Reinhold Sinclair scholarship fund. This fund is for Stoneham High graduates who wish to obtain a career in nursing. A hot and cold buffet will be served.
A cash bar will be available and will be staffed by Elks members.
The Elks will also be raffling 2005 Harley Davidson "Road King Classic" motorcycle. Only 300 tickets at $100 will be sold for the raffle and it is first come first chance.
The bike can be seen at Stoneham Ford during normal business hours. For more information or to purchase a Harley Davidson raffle ticket call Bob Sinclair at 781-438-5254 or the ELKS at 781-438-9883.
Resident leads Malden Catholic
The Board of Trustees have selected the new Malden Catholic headmaster. For the first time in our school's 73 year history, we'll be led by a lay person - Thomas Arria, Jr. of Stoneham.
Arria is currently the principal at Pope John High School in Everett.
Library gets disability books
The Stoneham Public Library recently received a donation of ten new books from the Jeremiah Cromwell Disabilities Center in conjunction with the Yawkey Foundation.
The "Special Needs Collection for Parents and Educators" includes books in a range of subjects from autism and cerebral palsy to Fragile X syndrome and traumatic brain injuries. The new collection is currently on display in the Junior Room of the library and a complete list of all titles can be found both in the library and online at www.stonehamlibrary.org/children/booklist.
Classical night at Library
The Friends of the Stoneham Public Library will present an evening of music at the library, 431 Main Street, on Thursday, March 17, following their brief business meeting.
Cecile Grobe, concert pianist and composer, will perform in the Marcy Room at 7:30 p.m. Grobe received her formal training at the Julliard School of Music, where she was a student of Lonny Epstein, Mozart specialist, and Carl Friedberg, the last surviving student of Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms.
After completing her studies, she went on to pursue a career as a concert pianist, performing at recital halls such as Carnegie and Julliard. She has been hailed by critics as a pianist of "unerring sensitivity," with "disciplined romanticism," the keynote of her style.
The performance is free, and is open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
St. Patrick's auction March 19
St. Patrick's Parish will hold their annual auction Saturday, March 19 at The Crestview, 36 Montvale Ave. in Woburn.
The event will take place from 5 to 11 p.m. and will include games, a dinner, music, a live auction and silent auction and cash bar.
Tickets can be obtained by contacting Rob Coles at 781-279-3379.
Texas Hold 'Em tourney
A Texas Hold 'Em poker tournament will be held Saturday, March 19 at the Masonic Building, 70 Topsfield Road, Ipswich, to raise money for the Hospice House being built by Hospice of the North Shore in Danvers
Advance registration is required. Registration begins at 5 p.m., with the tournament starting at 6 p.m. Entry fee is $100, with two $50 re-buys allowed in the first hour only. The tournament is open to 100 players. Players must be 21 years old and show ID at the door.
Prizes will be given to the top eight players, with a top prize of $5,000. There will be a complimentary buffet, a cash bar and raffle prizes.
To register, visit www.caponespokertables.com, go to "see schedule" and "March 19, 2005."
Garden Club to meet March 17
The Stoneham Garden Club will meet on Thursday, March 17, at Whip Hill Manor.
A light luncheon will be served at 12:30 p.m. by hostess Ann Desmond and her committee, followed by a brief business meeting. For our program this day, club member and master gardener Ron Doyle will present "Gardening Basics," information on preparation and selection in the garden, with tips on maintenance.
He will also answer any questions at the end of his program. Guests are welcome. Those attending are encouraged to contribute to the Scholarship Table and also bring ink jet cartridges for our recycling program. For further information, please call Jane at 781-438-9529.
Seniors to give input
The Stoneham Council on Aging and Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) will host a discussion with seniors at the Stoneham Senior Center on March 30 at 11 a.m.
Staff from MVES will ask seniors for their thoughts on issues such as immediate community needs, Social Security, housing and current services for elders. All seniors, age 60 and over, are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served.
The discussion is designed to identify the concerns and needs of elders in the Stoneham community. Mystic Valley Elder Services will use this information to develop programs and services that will better meet the needs of caregivers and older adults in Stoneham.
Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc. (MVES) is a private, non-profit organization that provides information and access to a comprehensive range of services that address age-related needs. MVES serves over 10,000 individuals annually in the communities of Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, and Wakefield.
For more information about MVES services, please call (781) 324-7705 or locate them on the web at www.mves.org.
Resident a golf volunteer
Stoneham resident Mark Almeida will serve as chairman of this year's Transportation Committee at the 25th Bank of America Championship, which takes place June 20-26, at Nashawtuc Country Club in Concord.
Nearly 1,500 volunteers divided among more than three dozen committees, ranging from transportation to scoring to leader boards and a host of others, are needed each year to stage the golf tournament.
This marks Almeida's fourth year as a volunteer committee chairman and fifth as a volunteer.
Almeida has been playing golf for 15 years, usually "wherever I can," and his favorite course is Spanish Bay.
Time to chatter
The Chatterbox Club will hold its meeting on Thursday, March 17 at noon at the Jenks Senior Center in Winchester. Installation of new officers will be held followed by a St. Patrick's Day luncheon.
Decals are cool
Sen. Richard Tisei, R-Wakefield, is co-sponsoring legislation that will lead to the issuance of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom decals for veterans' license plates.
"We must recognize the service and the sacrifices of the men and women of Massachusetts who are serving in the war," said Tisei. "We need to recognize these brave individuals and this is a great way to do so."
Over 50 lawmakers from across the state have joined Tisei in pushing for this measure.
Official decals for WWI, WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War Veterans are currently available to qualified veterans, as are decals for other major engagements, such as Grenada. The decal modifies the veterans' plate, available via special order through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The RMV provides the decals to allow veterans to specialize the general Veterans plate to reflect their tour of duty.
Service members taking part in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible for Veteran status under Massachusetts' definition of a Persian Gulf Veteran, which includes those serving from Aug. 2, 1990 until present. An end date has not yet been placed on the conflict, allowing these new veterans to qualify under the old definition.
The bill sets up a commission to report back to the Legislature with a decal design and implementation plans by December 31.
Pottery painting new in town
Stoneham resident Christine Lanza recently launched a new pottery painting business for clients in and around the Stoneham area, including Wakefield, Melrose, and Reading. Called Pottery at Your Place, Lanza literally brings a pottery painting studio into the homes of residents.
Modeled after such highly successful home-party businesses like Tupperware, MaryKay and Pampered Chef, Pottery at Your Place brings ceramic painting into the client's home, office or gathering place and provides as much or as little help and advice as the participants desire.
"My clients turn a white piece of pottery into their own personal pieces of art and memories that can be given as gifts or kept to enjoy," said Lanza.
Lanza is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst with a degree in Fine Arts and Interior Design. She spent many years with corporations and consulting firms handling interior design, furniture and artwork selection, and space planning projects for companies such as Partners Healthcare System, John Hancock Financial Services, Children's Hospital and Boston College.
For more information about Pottery at Your Place, contact Lanza at 781-662-9817 or visit the Web site www.potteryatyourplace.com .
Garden Club to meet March 17
The Stoneham Garden Club will meet on Thursday, March 17, at Whip Hill Manor.
A light luncheon will be served at 12:30 p.m. by hostess Ann Desmond and her committee, followed by a brief business meeting. For our program this day, club member and master gardener Ron Doyle will present "Gardening Basics," information on preparation and selection in the garden, with tips on maintenance.
He will also answer any questions at the end of his program. Guests are welcome. Those attending are encouraged to contribute to the Scholarship Table and also bring ink jet cartridges for our recycling program. For further information, please call Jane at 781-438-9529.
New bank face
Janice T. Houghton, president and CEO of StonehamBank, recently announced the appointment of Kerri D'Antuono as sales and service assistant branch manager of the Billerica branch..
D'Antuono joins StonehamBank from Boston Federal Savings Bank in Burlington, where she held a variety of positions over the years. Most recently D'Antuono covered Boston Federal's Burlington and Billerica branches as floating assistant manager.
"Kerri's is a perfect fit for StonehamBanks Billerica branch team. Her vast knowledge in retail banking, years of experience in customer service and commitment to the community align perfectly with StonehamBank's philosophy." said Houghton.
D'Antuono is a lifelong resident of Billerica and graduate of Shawsheen Valley Technical. She currently attends New England College of Finance in Boston. During her spare time D'Antuono dedicates many hours assisting the Billerica Youth Football Program and National AIDS Foundation.
"It's exciting to be part of a community bank that recognizes the importance of giving back. I'm very fortunate to be a part of StonehamBank's commitment to the community," she said. "With over 30 years of support in Billerica and more than 117 years in business, StonehamBank is a company I am proud to represent."
New Hall of Fame members
The second induction of the Stoneham High School Athletic Hall of Fame for the Class of 2004 will be held on Saturday, April 2, at the Montvale Plaza, Montvale Avenue, Stoneham. Social Hour is at 6:30 p.m.; Dinner at 8 p.m.
This year's inductees are:
Herant John Adzigian - Class of 1931---Football, Basketball, Baseball.
Don Whiston --- Class of 1945---Hockey.
Jack French --- Class of 1963--- Football, Basketball, Baseball.
Greg Wright --- Class of 1966 --- Football, Hockey, Track.
Mike McLaughlin --- Class of 1974--- Football, Wrestling, Baseball.
Joe McLaughlin --- Class of 1975 --- Football, Hockey, Wrestling, Track.
Alice Barry --- Class of 1976 --- Field Hockey, Basketball, Track.
Terese Kwiatkowski --- Class of 1979.
Scott Boretti --- Class of 1981 --- Soccer, Hockey, Baseball.
Christine Carr --- Class of 1989 --- Volleyball, Softball.
Maria Zarella --- Class of 1993 --- Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Track.
T.J. Sheedy --- Class of 1994 --- Soccer, Hockey, Baseball.
Boys Basketball Team ---1972-1973 Middlesex League Champions.
Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased at the Stoneham High Athletic Office, 149 Franklin Street, Stoneham. For questions and information, feel free to contact the Athletic Office at 781-279-3806.
Kid focus at Library
Stories & More is a 45-minute program for children in Grades K-2 combining stories, activities and a craft. This month's program, "Excellent Eggs", will be held on Tuesday, March 22 at 3 p.m. Registration is required
Creative Kids is a 60-minute program for children in Grades 3-5 combining stories, activities and a craft. This month's program is inspired by April Fool's Day and is called "Who's Tricking Who?" It will be held on Thursday, March 24 at 3 p.m. Registration is required.
Elementary School Book Group will be meeting on Wednesday, March 23 at 4 p.m. to discuss Clifford's "Help! I'm a Prisoner in the Library". All elementary school students are invited to attend. No registration is needed.
The Teen Book Group will be meeting on Monday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss Christopher Paolini's "Eragon". All teens are invited to attend. No registration is needed.
Registration for Spring Storytime sessions will begin at 1pm on Monday March 21. The following programs will be offered for eight weeks from April 5 through May 27: Baby Lapsit for 12-24 months with an adult on Wednesdays at 10:15a.m. Tales for 2s with an adult on Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. Tales for 3s with an adult on Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. Storytime for 4s & 5s on Thursdays or Fridays at 10:15 a.m.
Police issue solicitation policy
In keeping with his policy, Police Chief Gregory O'Keefe issues press releases periodically to make citizens aware of active solicitation in Stoneham so that citizens can make informed, personal decisions as to which, if any, organizations they wish to donate. O'Keefe received a notice from the Massachusetts Environmental Police Officers' Association that they are currently conducting their Annual Fundraiser.
Residents of Stoneham will receive telephone calls requesting that they purchase tickets to a comedy basketball game between the M.E.P.O.A. Allstars and the Harlem Rockets on Saturday, May 14, at 7 p.m. at Malden High School. If you choose to donate to this organization they will send one of their drivers to deliver your tickets and pick up your contribution.
The Stoneham Police Department does not endorse any charity or fundraiser.
Ascolillo shoots, scores
In December, Stoneham's Anthony "Tony" Ascolillo successfully challenged other local 8 - 9 year old boys at the Boys and Girls Club to advance as a competitor at the Elks Metro North District Competition held in January at the Ferrydale School in Everett.
A total of 6 finalists, representing Stoneham Elks Lodge #2211, journeyed to the Metro-North District competition in Everett. 5 of these 6 placed in the competition with Tony winning the 8-9 year-old division and advancing to the State Competition held in Maynard.
The Elks National "Hoop Shoot" Free Throw Program is America's largest non-commercial co-educational sports program. Over 3 million boys and girls participate annually in this event throughout the states. This spirited competition gives youngsters an opportunity for character and skill development; healthy athletic competition; social relationships; quality family time; camaraderie; and travel with minimal expense to participants and parents. The parents of finalists at the state, regional and national levels attend the competition as guests of the Elks.
The "Hoop Shoot" contest is conducted in several tiers to qualify for the National Finals: the Lodge contest, the District contest, the State contest, and the Regional contest. After competing in the Lodge, District and State levels, Finalists get a chance to become a national champion with their names permanently inscribed on the Elks Plague in the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.
For more information, contact the Stoneham Elks Lodge at 781-438-9883 or visit www.elks.org/hoopshoot.cfm.
Pinewood Derby
For millions of Cub Scouts across the country, March and April make up the runoff season for the Pinewood Derby. The North Shore District of the Yankee Clipper Council of MA final runoffs races are Saturday, March 19 at 11 a.m. at the Liberty Tree Mall in Danvers.
"The goal of the Pinewood Derby is for boys to have fun while teaching them a lot of skills for life: like good sportsmanship, woodworking skills, getting a project done and team work," said Robert Dabrowski, owner and CEO of Tire Warehouse Tires and Auto Parts of Keene, NH, which has donated over $40,000 worth of trophies, medals, and other materials to the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby troops throughout New England for the 2005 season.
Each participant gets a kit that consists of a piece of wood, four nails and four wheels. The rest is left to the creativity of the kids. Trophies are awarded to the fastest cars, the best workmanship, most outrageous and most creative.
For information, call Jon Keating, District Executive at 978-372-0591 or visit www.yccbsa.org.
Resident excels Matignon
Matt Kervick of Stoneham was named to the Catholic Central All-Star Team. Kervick is a junior at Matignon High School and has played a pivotal role in the development of the team this year and aided younger less experienced players in becoming better. Kervick is an honor roll student and also will play on the golf team in the spring.
Hospice House gets new name
VNA of Middlesex-East has named its Hospice House in Reading the "Sawtelle Family Hospice House" in honor of major benefactor Richard Sawtelle. A long-time supporter of the agency's work and mission, Sawtelle was the lead donor to the agency's $1 million Hospice House capital campaign. Sawtelle said his gifts were made in honor of the excellent care given by the VNA of Middlesex-East nurses.
"Richard Sawtelle is a very special friend of this agency," said Merry Beth Rucker, CEO/executive director. "He is unsurpassed in his generosity and support of our work.. His many charitable gifts over the years have helped us grow to meet the needs of the community."
The Sawtelle Family Hospice House is located at 320 Haverhill Street in Reading and provides a "home away from home" for individuals facing terminal illness. Since opening in November 2003, nearly 200 patients and their families have received care. VNA of Middlesex-East provides home care and hospice services to 28 communities north and northwest of Boston, including Stoneham.
Classical sense
Stoneham resident Farrah Ridore will perform with the Greater Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras (GBYSO) in its 2005 Concert Series. Ridore plays cello for the Intensive Community Program and is currently a student at Ecole Bilingue. She is the daughter of Leon and Marie Ridore. GBYSO, an independent organization housed at Boston University's College of Fine Arts.
Students are accepted to one of the GBYSO program's orchestras according to their ability and experience. The orchestras include the Senior Orchestra, Repertory Orchestra, Junior Repertory Orchestra, Preparatory String Orchestra, and Intensive Community Program. GBYSO students come from throughout New England to rehearse weekly from September through June at the university's College of Fine Arts. The orchestras perform each year in some of Boston's finest venues, including Sanders Theatre, Symphony Hall, and BU's Tsai Performance Center.
St. Patrick's '05 auction
The St. Patrick Parish Auction Committee has been busy preparing for the Annual Auction to be held on Saturday, March 19, 2005 at the Crestview, 36 Montvale Ave, Woburn.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. and will include dinner, music, games, a live auction, a silent auction, a Chinese auction and a cash bar. There will be two separate raffle drawings the evening of the auction. The first raffle drawing will be for the 50/50 "Pot of Gold" Raffle ($10 each or 3 for $25) and the second raffle drawing will be for a 26 inch Panasonic LCD television with a Yamaha Digital Home Theater System and the second prize drawing for an Apple Ipod ($10 each or 3 for $25)..
Raffle tickets can be purchased in advance and you do not have to be present to win. You may purchase tickets for either raffle by contacting Donna Tarquinio at 781-662-7089 or Patrice Fitzpatrick at 781-665-0657 or by stopping by the Rectory.
St. Patrick Parish was founded in 1887 and has been responsible for the implementation of humanitarian programs that serve the towns in our surrounding community. Currently, there are more than 30 programs (such as family crisis intervention programs, respite care relief, transportation to and from medical facilities and food pantries, visitation programs for homebound individuals, etc.).
Services are provided to more than 4,800 families, regardless of faith including the elderly, homebound individuals, less fortunate families, individuals in crises and a CYO program that involves approximately 300 local youth. The money raised at this event will benefit the many programs the parish runs.
Tickets are on sale now. The tickets are $25 per person. Tables of 12 can be reserved in advance. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Rob Coles at 781-279-3379. MasterCard and Visa will be accepted the evening of the auction.
Flu shots available
The Stoneham Board of Health, 136 Elm St., is now offering Flu Shots during walk-in hours only.
Walk in hours are Tuesdays 9 to 11 a.m. for all residents who want to reduce their risk of getting the flu. You must bring proof of residency.
If you have any questions, call the Stoneham Board of Health at 781-438-0501.
Tsunami relief fund raiser
A collaborative of Medford youth and parent groups is working together to raise money for Save the Children's Tsunami Relief Fund. An Indoor Yard Sale and Café will be hosted by the Brooks School PTO Helping Hands Committee, the Brooks School Kids Care After School Enrichment Program, Roots & Shoots Medford Community Service Club and the Congregational Church of West Medford Youth Group.
The Indoor Yard Sale and Café will be held at the Congregational Church of West Medford, 400 High Street (Route 60), on Saturday, Feb. 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All yard sale goods will be appropriate for children: toys, games, books, videos, DVDs, software, and a myriad of other items. Craft and face painting booths will be available. Fresh, home-made baked goods will be available for sale. Hot lunch dishes will include a choice of Thai dishes, hot dogs, and soup. All are invited to stop in to shop and have lunch.
For more information, contact Christine Ellersick at 781-483-3520 or Patti Thibault at 781-393-7563.
Demerjian wins award
By unanimous vote Paul Demerjian, local franchise owner of Kitchen Tune-Up, won the Kitchen Tune-Up "Kitchen of the Month" contest.
Demerjian refaced a kitchen for customer Maureen Flammia of Longfellow Road in Melrose in solid 3/4" raised panel Cherry wood with an Amber finish (stain), hand-rubbed with a Mocha Glaze.
"I am very excited about this award," said Demerjian. "We have completed a lot of cabinet refacing and wood cabinet restoration work in both Stoneham and Melrose and I am grateful to those and surrounding communities."
To set up a free in-home consultation to beautify kitchens, call Demerjian directly at 781-224-1220. To find out more, visit the company's corporate Web site at www.kitchentuneup.com.
Tisei backs diabetes bill
A bill allowing students with diabetes to treat their disease on their own during school hours was recently signed into law by Gov. Mitt Romney.
The bill seeks to have all public school districts follow a uniform practice when it comes to dealing with students with diabetes, a potentially life-threatening disease in which blood sugar levels can become to high or too low and needs to be monitored closely.
"I am pleased that the governor has signed this important bill into law," said Sen. Richard Tisei, R-Wakefield. "This will make it much easier for the children having to deal with this terrible disease, and this may help keep their families at ease when they are away from home."
Nationally, about 206,000 people under the age of 20 are diabetic, according to a survey available from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases located in Maryland.
Hospice support
Hospice Care, Inc. support groups provide a safe place to express feelings, share experiences, learn about grief, and move ahead in one's grief process. All meetings are free of charge and are held at Hospice Care, Inc., 41 Montvale Ave. in Stoneham.
Support group meetings take place on Jan. 18, Jan. 25 and Jan. 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Pre-registration is required For dates, registration or additional information, call 781-279-4100
New motorized scooter law
Police are advising operators and parents of minors of a new law governing the use of motorized scooters.
The highlights of the law, effective immediately, provide as follows:
The operator must be 16 years of age. The operator must have a valid drivers license or learner's permit. The operator must wear Registry of Motor Vehicles approved protective head gear The operator must signal by hand his/her intention to turn or stop. The vehicle cannot exceed 25 mph. The vehicle cannot be operated after dark.
Stoneham Police Chief Gregory O'Keefe cautions all citizens to read the entire law before purchasing or operating such a vehicle, since the above highlights do not incorporate all the regulations and provisions in the new legislation.
The new legislation is available to the public as The Acts of 2003 - An Act Relative to the Regulations of Motorized Scooters - Bill Number MA03RHB1544.
Fund-raiser in full swing
The North Suburban Family Network's fund-raiser "Change for a Change" has been going on since January.
A program of Hallmark Health which is funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Education through the Melrose Public Schools, the Family Network is a parent education and support program for families with children birth through the age of three living in Stoneham, Melrose and Wakefield. The program has experienced budget cuts for the past two years. Through fund raising and collaborative efforts, parent workshops and programs continue to be provided. Donating something as little as the small change that accumulates in your pockets, at the bottom of your handbag, or on your bureau can help make a big change for families who benefit from services provided by the Family Network.
Bring it down to the North Suburban Family Network, located at 263 Foster St. in Melrose, whenever you'd like or call to arrange pickup. For more information or to request a special "Change for a Change" label, call the Family Network at 781-662-2722.
Submitted by the North Suburban Family Network
Stoneham resident teaches about disaster relief
Stoneham resident Marge Hartnett, a Red Cross disaster relief volunteer, recently spoke to the second grade students of the Reeves Elementary school in Woburn.
She talked about being a volunteer for the American Red Cross, examples of disasters and about the services provided by the Red Cross to disaster victims. The second grade students of the Reeves school recently learned about the hurricanes in Florida and decided they wanted to help. The students collected 2000 cans and bottles and presented a check for $100 to the American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay for national disaster relief.
Hartnett accepted the check presented by second graders Alyssa DiLorenzo and Bailey Moore.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers that provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
For more information about the American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay, visit the chapter's Web site at http://www.bostonredcross.org or call Ruth Kucij, North Area Program Manager, at 978-531-2280.
Melanoma support group
Emerson Hospital and the Massachusetts Melanoma Foundation have formed the Greater Concord Melanoma Support Group for those afflicted with melanoma. The group will meet at the Massachusetts Melanoma Foundation, 66 Commonwealth Ave., Concord.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, with over 50,000 new cases diagnosed each year. During the last 10 years, melanoma has increased more rapidly than any other cancer. The support group is intended to help provide knowledge and education to those diagnosed with melanoma and support them through their treatment. The group will be led by Annabelle Bitters, licensed social worker.
"The Massachusetts Melanoma Foundation was formed to support people with melanoma by providing coping skills, reduce feelings of isolation and restore hope regardless of the stage of diagnosis," comments Deb Girard, executive director. "We felt a strong need for a support group located in Concord so that patients can meet at a convenient location to support each other."
The Concord group will meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
For more information on this or other Massachusetts Melanoma Support groups, contact Deb Girard, executive director at 978-371-5613 or visit dgirard@massmelanoma.org.
Soccer balls for kids
Citizens Bank of Massachusetts has announced it is providing 5 to 8-year-olds in the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association with more than 38,000 soccer balls.
The fall initiative will reach 115 Massachusetts communities where Citizens does business. In Stoneham, 375 local children participating in the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association are receiving the balls.
Resident honored for aid to blind and dyslexic
Stoneham resident Donald Cochran was honored by Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic for his five years of volunteer service to the organization at a recent reception held at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge.
The organization (www.rfbd.org) is the largest national nonprofit group providing taped textbooks to people of all ages who cannot read standard print effectively due to visual impairment, severe dyslexia or other physical disabilities. More than 5,700 dedicated volunteers from across the country are the cornerstone of RFB&D and have recorded the 83,000 textbooks that comprise RFB&D's library.
The Boston Unit of RFB&D is located at 58 Charles Street in Cambridge. For more information, contact Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic at 617-577-1111.
Stoneham Police part of canister drive
The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association has joined forces with the Jimmy Fund to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients now and in the future.
"Jimmy fund canisters will be on display in local businesses in Stoneham from now throughout November", said Stoneham Police Chief Greg O'Keefe. "We have always relied on the generosity of the merchants and residents of Stoneham to make our fundraising for the fight against cancer a success."
The Mass Police Chiefs have played an essential role for the Jimmy Fund over the past 51 years, and continue to support the cancer research and care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston through the 2004 Jimmy Fund Canister Drive.
Located on countertops across the town, the canisters offer merchants' patrons an opportunity to join the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police in their quest to raise more than $300,000 for the Jimmy Fund in the coming months. Please join the Stoneham Police Department and the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association on the front lines of this fight.
For further information, contact O'Keefe at 781-438-1215 at the Stoneham Police Department.
Hospital accredited
Winchester Hospital's Breast Care Center has been awarded a three-year accreditation renewal in mammography as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology.
The ACR, headquartered in Reston, Va., awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer review evaluation of its practice. Evaluations are conducted by board certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR's Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report.
Winchester Hospital's Breast Care Center cares for more than 10,000 women each year. An expansion of the Center in late 2001 brought together a wide array of services in one location. Women have access to some of the most skilled professionals in the breast care field, as well as a full range of imaging, diagnostic and therapeutic services in one convenient location.
The consolidation of services allows for faster turnaround times and increased efficiency for patients, who may need anything from a baseline mammogram or ultrasound, to a biopsy, surgical evaluation, or follow-up treatment. It also helps to bring faster diagnosis, which can be crucial for women anxiously awaiting test results.
Winchester Hospital's Breast Care Center is located at Baldwin Park II, 7 Alfred St. in Woburn.
For more information about Winchester Hospital's Breast Care Center, please call 781-756-2308 or visit www.winchesterhospital.org .
Society looking for cats
The Stoneham Feral Cat Society is seeking the eyes and ears of the public in an effort to locate and control the feral cat population in Stoneham. Since forming in the winter months of 2002 over 100 cat's and kittens have been assisted by society members.
The mission of the Stoneham Feral Cat Society is to educate and assist the general public in the care and management of feral cats in our town. Members and volunteers are committed to making a difference in our community by introducing the Trap-Neuter-Return Program is a full management plan in which stray and feral cats already living outdoors in cities, towns and rural areas are humanely trapped, then evaluated, vaccinated, and sterilized by local veterinarians. This program is currently used worldwide by many organizations and found successful in managing and controlling the feral cat population in many areas. Kittens and tame cats are adopted into good homes. Healthy adult cats too wild to be adopted are returned to their familiar habitat under the lifelong care of volunteers.
A feral cat is an un-socialized cat. Either born outside and never lived with a human family, or a house cat that has strayed from home, and over time, has thrown off the effects of domestication and reverted to a wild state. Feral cats avoid human contact. When pet cats are forced to live outdoors, huge numbers die from exposure or accidents. The survivors often turn feral and, if they have not been sterilized, give birth to feral kittens. During her productive life, one female cat could give birth to 1-8 feral kittens per litter, and 2-3 litters per year. One female cat could have more then 100 kittens over a 5-year cycle.
Those who are concerned about feral cats in their neighborhood can contact the Stoneham Feral Cat Society today at 781-279-4652.
The Stoneham Feral Cat Society is a non-profit, all volunteer organization, which depends entirely on the support of the community. Donations of support can be sent to: Stoneham Feral Cat Society, c/o StonehamBank, Attention: Cheryl Hollander, 80 Montvale Avenue, Stoneham, Mass. 02180.
Indoor yard sale
A local nonprofit group is aggressively raising funds to underwrite community programs by coordinating an Indoor Yard Sale every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the rest of the summer (or until everything is gone. Shop rain or shine in comfort.
Purchase a grocery bag full of bargains and/or individually prices items at deep discounts. There's definitely "something for everyone" and no reasonable offers will be refused. Items currently on hand include many new name brand back-to-school supplies, new paperback books (many on summer reading lists), new children's videos and books on cassette, new wall paper rolls and craft kits, gently used office equipment, home décor, children's toys and much more. Visit early and often as new items are arriving weekly.
All the fun takes place at 38 Rear Montvale Ave., Suite G10. Free parking and handicapped entrance in the back of the building. The Indoor Yard Sale is offered by the National Coalition for Educational and Cultural Progams, Inc. (NCECP), a local nonprofit organization benefiting children by supporting parents and teachers since 1991. Questions about the yard sale or other community programs and services, please phone NCECP at 781-279-4658, e-mail ncecp@shore.net or visit the Web page www.ncecp.org.
Bereavement program
Dorothea O'Regan, a certified Reiki healing practitioner and a hospital-trained hypnotherapist, is offering free monthly programs to help people who have lost a loved one.
On the first Thursday of each month, Moving Through and Beyond Grief, will be offered at the Stoneham Senior Center from 9 to 10 a.m.
O'Regan developed this program through her own loss and in memory of her son, James Shaun O'Regan.
"Many people do not realize that grief is a pathway to healing," she said. "No one grieves the same way, no one can know someone else's pain and all the other emotions that can be connected to the loss of a loved one. My goal is to help people to know that grieving can lead to acceptance and healing. Acceptance includes how our life connected or did not connect with theirs and the myriad dynamics that existed or did not exist. Forgiving and releasing are important as we travel this healing path."
In addition to her certifications, O'Regan holds degrees Magna Cum Laude in Psychology and Secondary Education.
For more information, contact O'Regan at 781-438-7663.
RCN customers
Zoo New England would like to give special thanks to its members who have recently taken advantage of some of RCN's great new services. In addition to offering Zoo New England members outstanding service packages at attractive rates, RCN is donating $50 per connected member home to Zoo New England.
If you, or someone you know, are not yet subscribing to RCN's cable television, telephone, or high-speed Internet services, RCN has designed a specific contact number at 617-590-6646, just for Zoo New England Members and their friends and families. Call today to find out more about RCN's special offerings. If you mention Zoo New England while ordering, you'll be helping to support Zoo New England's conservation and education mission.
RCN's special offerings are currently available in the following areas: Arlington, Burlington, Brookline, Dedham, Framingham, Lexington, Natick, Needham, Newton, Roslindale, Somerville, Stoneham, Wakefield, Waltham, Watertown, Woburn, and in Boston: Hyde Park, Allston-Brighton, and West Roxbury.
Singing opportunity
Do you like to sing? The All Saints Episcopal Church choir at 79 Central St. offers opportunities for you with a full range of lively worship music from traditional to modern. No auditions are needed and all are welcome.
Come join the choir for rehearsals at 9 a.m. Sundays before the morning service and meet a congenial group. For more information, call 781-438-2776.
NSFN moves
The North Suburban Family Network (NSFN), a program of Hallmark Health, is moving to the Beebe School at 263 West Foster St. in Melrose.
Summer office hours will be Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with drop-in play running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day.
The NSFN is a community-based family education and support program funded by the Massachusetts Department of Education, through the Melrose Public Schools. The Family Network brings together families and the communities of Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield by helping to meet the needs of parents and caregivers of young children birth through age 3.
The NSFN offers a variety of parent/child playgroups, parent support groups and educational workshops. Family-fun events and drop-in play are two of our most popular programs. Families outside the three communities are welcome to attend any drop-in programs and registered programs if space is available.
Pediatric CPR is also offered for a nominal fee.
TheNSFN offers free passes to the Stone Zoo and Franklin Park Zoos.
For additional information, or to be added to mailing list, please call the office at 781-662-2722.
Cartridges fund-raiser
Don't give us money. Instead, please consider giving us your used cell phones and empty inkjet, laser, fax and copier cartridges. The National Coalition for Educational and Cultural Programs Creativity Recycle Center is inviting everyone to participate in this environmentally-friendly fund raiser that costs nothing to the donors but pays nonprofit groups for their efforts. The NCECP will even supply a collection bin and flyers for your office complex and/or you can designate a person to drop them off to us at anytime that's convenient for you.
"Cartridges for Kids" is an innovative way for nonprofit groups to reap benefits from the items normally discarded everyday by individuals and businesses. Help us bring change in our world by educating children and adults about the amount of waste thrown into landfills as well as creating monetary benefit to underwrite community programs.
NCECP is a nonprofit organization benefiting children by supporting teachers and families since 1991. The Creativity Recycle Center (CRC) at 38 Montvale Ave., Suite G10 offers exciting materials by the grocery bag full for projects in home, school, group, daycare settings and also offers deeply discounted new books and other school and office supplies plus a huge inventory of craft items.
Visit on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Free parking is handicapped and stroller friendly via the rear courtyard entrance. Other services include home study courses for credits, course reviews, and educational workshops at your site or ours.
To participate in the "Cartridges for Kids" campaign or learn more about the organization, please phone NCECP at 781-279-4658, email ncecp@shore.net or visit www.ncecp.com.
MacLeod named John Harvard scholar
The President and Fellows of Harvard College have designated Keith MacLeod as a John Harvard scholar for the academic year 2003-2004 in recognition of academic achievement of the highest distinction.
Keith MacLeod, a 2003 graduate of Stoneham High School, concentrates in History at Harvard.
New bookseller hits town
The Book Market, the nation's largest discount bookseller, opens its third temporary store this week in Stoneham at Redstone Shopping in the former Kitchens, Etc location (117 Main Street, Stoneham).
The Book Market, founded 12 years ago in Knoxville, Tenn., opened its 1,000th store this summer in Houston, Texas.
Store selections both in hardcover and paperback include best sellers, computer, cooking, fiction, health and fitness, religious, inspirational and an extensive collection of children's favorites.
