Town Crossings--Local News

Boxford/North Andover people

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Building havens
North Andover resident Thomas Lee helped Boston Red Sox Gold Glove first baseman Kevin Youkilis raise money that helps families of children undergoing cancer treatments. Specifically, the money goes to an organization called Christopher's Haven.

A Broader View column: Pint-sized problem solver

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Just when I was starting to despair over the price of groceries, when the price of filling my gas tank suddenly became what my grocery bill used to be; just when I had started to lose sleep wondering how we'll actually be able to send four kids to college a decade from now, my son has found the solution to all of life's troubles.

SALUTE TO SENIORS: Class of 2008

Tue, 13 May 2008 22:07:00 EDT

Complete coverage of the class of 2008. The section includes class photos, multimedia, highlights, messages, a list of graduates and more. Check back for more stories as the seniors attend their proms and graduate.

News digest

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Boxford seeks affordable housing applicants
BOXFORD — The town is soliciting applications for vacancies in its stock of affordable housing, which typically happen about once a year. The five-page applications are due by 4 p.m. Monday, July 21, at Town Hall.

Sit down, and watch their 'Guys and Dolls': Boxford teens fill local musical

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

This summer, Boxford 13-year-old Ian Tengler has been hanging with an unsavory character called Harry the Horse. He's learned how to place bets, gamble with dice, and warn his gambling buddies about the police with slang terms.

Council on Aging activities

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

NORTH ANDOVER Senior Center
HOME is a government-sponsored initiative serving Massachusetts citizens age 62 and older who are in danger of losing their homes due to foreclosure. If you or someone you know is facing this situation, you can get counseling and help.

Mosey on in and grab some grub: YMCA Dallas Night features ponies, barbecue, country music

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Calling all cowboys and cowgirls: the Andover/North Andover YMCA invites you to saddle up for a boot-scootin' good time at the 13th annual Dallas Night family barbecue.
The family-friendly event usually draws around 400 people, many in cowboy hats, bandanas and other Western garb, for an outdoor cookout, music, dancing and other activities for pseudo-Texans young and old. The event is open to the community, YMCA members and nonmembers alike.

7 local students graduate from Austin Prep

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Austin Preparatory School celebrated its 43rd commencement this year with Headmaster Paul Moran awarding diplomas to 110 graduates of the Class of 2008. Austin's 1,200 seat Multi-Purpose Facility was filled to capacity as the graduates, friends, family, faculty and staff gathered to celebrate the occasion.

In brief

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Plenty of horsing around in Boxford on Saturday
Saturday, July 19: BTA/BOLT Dressage and Horse Show, beginning with fitting and showing at 8 a.m. Events include jump classes, trail ring events and the "egg and spoon" competitions that require youths to walk, trot or jog their horse while balancing an egg in a spoon. Spectators are welcome to the private field in Boxford. For information or directions, visit www.btabolt.org.

Local footballers crowned county, state champs

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

After a season of ball drills and hard work, several local youth soccer teams have emerged as top dogs in their divisions.
The North Andover Red Fury, a team of 14-year-old boys, are state champions after defeating a team from Brookline in an overtime game during the last weekend in June. The team finished the spring season undefeated, with championships in the Salem State tournament, the Danvers Invitational Memorial Day tournament, the Pingree ECYSA League Championship and the State MTOC Championship.

Time for a dip: Local swimming holes provide low-cost relief

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT

With gas prices hovering around $4 per gallon, residents and families have a close-to-home opportunity to enjoy time at the beach: the town ponds.
Both Stevens Pond in North Andover and Stiles Pond in Boxford are open and staffed with lifeguards and offer swimmers a large, roped-off section of water, giving parents some peace of mind as they sit in beach chairs nearby.

Council on Aging activities

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:31:00 EDT

In brief

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:31:00 EDT

Free summer concerts at Ashland Farms: Two free concerts will be held as part of Ashland Farm at North Andover's summer celebration of music. The fun begins at 5 p.m. with a hamburger and hot dog barbecue, and the music starts at 6 p.m. Don't forget to bring your blanket or lawn chairs. Please RSVP at 978-683-1300.

News digest for July 10

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EDT

Boxford libraries cut hours, budgets
BOXFORD — It's going to be a bit harder for Boxford residents to curl up with a good summer book — or even get a book for the sofa near the fireplace this winter.

A Broader View: New England is a state of mind

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EDT

I heard myself saying the words just yesterday: "It's way too hot outside."
This from a girl who claims, at least for nine months of the year, that we live in the most forsaken territory in all the land — the frozen tundra, the land that Mother Nature forgot with its blizzards and hurricanes and springs that sometimes never come.

Summer has arrived: Students ready for freedom of school vacation

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:24:00 EDT

Last Tuesday, students at Franklin Elementary lined up in their classrooms, counting down "five, four, three, two ... one!" as the bell rang at 11:40 a.m.
June 24, a half day, was also the last day of school in North Andover, and once the bell sounded, the youth flooded the hallways, headed toward vacation. Cries of "have a good summer" from students and teachers mixed with the ageless rhyme "no more pencils, no more books, no more teachers' dirty looks" as Franklin students boarded school buses for the last time this school year.

North Andover Soccer Association provides annual scholarships to former players

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:08:00 EDT

The North Andover Soccer board has recognized several high school seniors who played for NASA over the years by presenting them with scholarships. "These individuals not only excelled in their studies but also gave their energy and time to NASA and the town of North Andover," according to the group.

Correction

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:08:00 EDT

Due to a spelling error in the list given to Town Crossings from Masconomet High School, there was an incorrect spelling in the Masconomet 2008 graduation list, printed in the June 12 edition. The nam

Taken out to the ballgame Young musicians play at stadium for PawSox

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:07:00 EDT

Boxford's Spofford Pond Elementary School Band played at McCoy Stadium recently before a Pawtucket Red Sox baseball game. Under the direction of Andrea Monty, the band, consisting of fifth- and sixth-graders, played "Take Me Out To The Ball Game," the national anthem and several other numbers.

Local swimming holes open

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:06:00 EDT

Stevens Pond on Pleasant Street in North Andover is now open for the summer, through Aug. 22.
The pond is available to North Andover residents only and is open rain or shine, seven days a week, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

10-year-old's patriotic design to be sported by runners

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:05:00 EDT

When hundreds of runners and walkers hit the pavement for the 29th annual Boxford Fourth of July Road Race, they'll all be wearing T-shirts with a design by Boxford fourth-grader Sarah Scherbak.
"I'm going to feel really special to know that it was mine," said Sarah, 101/2, with a giggle. "It's going to be really exciting because my picture will be everywhere."

Broader View: The workplace envy of a stay-at-home mom

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:23:00 EDT

A friend of mine recently landed a job. A good job, and one in her intended field. After staying home for almost a decade to jump start the lives of her daughters, she is breaking new ground.
Sure, I know many women who never left working at the office, and I know many who did. Some who are part-time, and others have managed to work from home. Some became consultants in their areas of expertise; a few became sales experts in "new" areas of expertise — cosmetics, pricey entertaining must-haves and jewelry. No offense, but these are the ladies to whom I give a quick wave and duck away from, because they are very persuasive at swaying their friends to host sales parties under the guise of a "ladies night out." They pronounce, with a big grin, "No pressure! It's just to have fun!"

Library group hosts author, annual event

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:22:00 EDT

The Friends of the Boxford Town Libraries hosted its annual meeting and spring luncheon recently at the Georgetown Club. About 150 people were in attendance to hear New York Times acclaimed author Leah Hager Cohen speak.

Go Wild with library's Friends at July 4 parade

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:22:00 EDT

Boxford residents are invited to show their patriotic spirit and love of "Wild Reads" with the Friends of the Boxford Library on July 4. The group is looking for people to march with it in Boxford's town parade.

In brief

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:21:00 EDT

Boxford summer park program launches for second year: The Park Program at Stiles Pond is back this summer, and registration is open to children entering kindergarten through seventh grade. The program is designed to provide social and creative activities for children in a safe, supervised recreational atmosphere at Koster Field, next to Stiles Pond in Boxford.

Council on Aging activities

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:21:00 EDT

If I were president

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EDT

Just recently I went to Washington D.C. I walked the mall. I saw everything, monuments, museums, the White House and more. When I was visiting I had an opinion on what I saw, like if I were president what would I do to change things or if I would keep it the same. I enjoyed seeing Washington D.C. and everything that goes on in it on a daily basis. Washington D.C. is a beautiful city so I decided to write "If I were President" essay so I can relate what I just saw.

Mother's tea goes retro ... to days of manors

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Century Preschool in North Andover was filled with royalty recently at a special year-end mother's tea. The event had a castle theme, and students, age 2 years and 9 months through 5 years, sang dressed as "lords" and "ladies" for an audience of proud parents and grandparents.

Seniors: Volunteer, get break on property tax

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EDT

Are you a North Andover senior citizen willing to volunteer time in exchange for a tax break? The North Andover Council on Aging/Senior Center is taking applications during the months of June and July for the Fiscal Year 2009 Senior Citizens Property Tax Work-off Abatement Program.

Girl's tree poster takes state prize

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EDT

For 11-year-old Zahra Fatehi, nature conservation is a work of art as well as a work of heart.
The North Andover youngster recently took third place in the Massachusetts Arbor Day Poster Contest, combining two things she loves: art and environmentalism.

News digest

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:13:00 EDT

Interim principal hired for Thomson Elementary
NORTH ANDOVER — A principal search at Thomson Elementary School came up empty, so the district has tapped a familiar face to lead the school.
Gregg Gilligan, assistant principal at North Andover High School, will take over as interim principal at Thomson after John McAleer retires in a few weeks.

Broader View: This Mom needs pair of big-girl glasses

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:07:00 EDT

It has become increasingly evident to me that both my hearing and vision have become...less than perfect over the past few years. Despite the glaring signs, I remain in denial, still wearing the magnifying glasses you can get free at CVS when you purchase a vat of Metamusil.

In brief

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:06:00 EDT

Blood drive: There will be a Red Cross community blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, held at the North Andover Knights of Columbus hall, 505 Sutton St., North Andover.
Blood type "O" is especially needed by the Red Cross. Donors at the North Andover blood drive can enter a raffle for a Red Sox tickets prize pack or an $100 gas card.

Students in the news

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:06:00 EDT

Bucknell University conferred nearly 900 bachelor's and master's degrees during commencement ceremonies May 18. Degrees were awarded for studies in liberal arts and professional programs in engineering, education, management and music. The following Boxford student was among the graduates:

Events Calendar

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:05:00 EDT

Thursday, June 26
"Wild Reads" Summer Reading Program at Memorial Hall Library begins the week of June 23. Programs are available for children, teens and adults. Call 978-623-8401, ext. 31, or visit www.mhl.org for more information and a complete list of programs.

Chinese folklore draws students into world of dragons, giant squids

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:46:00 EDT

Dragons, a talking giant squid and magical, wish-granting fish visited elementary students in North Andover last week, as youngsters were transported to China through a show by the Tanglewood Marionettes.

In brief

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:57:00 EDT

Townwide yard sale: The North Andover Solid Waste Advisory Committee will hold its third annual Townwide Yard Sale on June 21 and June 22. Residents are invited to plan their own yard sales and advertise it through NASWAC's network and outreach. The committee will prepare the list of households holding sales on June 21 and/or June 22 and post them throughout the community.

Council on Aging activities

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:55:00 EDT

NORTH ANDOVER Senior Center
Memoir writing classes: Fridays, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. starting on June 20. This class is facilitated by Edith Fenton and is called "Writing Your Life, One Story at a Time." This class is very informal, writers may choose to do the assignment or not. The papers are not corrected for spelling or punctuation so you can be yourself. Writers can choose to read what they wrote in class or not. Come in and give it a try and decide if it's right for you. There is no fee for this class, it is donation only. For more information, call Barbara at 978-688-9560.

A Broader View: Dispelling the boredom

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:55:00 EDT

My kids are at the point where they are counting not the days but the hours until summer vacation starts. I'm looking forward to having the gang home for a couple of months. I'm also taking bets on which kid will say the dreaded words first and how long it will take to say them. You know what I'm talking about. It is a distant, pained whine from the other room: "Mooooooommm, I'm so bored."

Students in the news

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:53:00 EDT

Austin Preparatory School Headmaster Paul Moran announces the following local students have made the honor roll for the third quarter of the 2007-08 academic year. Distinction indicates no grade lower than A- and honors indicates no grade lower than B-.

Education In brief

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:52:00 EDT

Gleed honored
Sandy Gleed was named the 2008 Pristash Award winner. This award was established in 2006 to recognize individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary contributions to the educational system in North Andover. A cocktail and award ceremony was April 10 at Top of the Scales. All proceeds benefit fund Pristash Scholarship at the High School.

A Broader View column: How to embarrass your child without even trying

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:48:00 EDT

One of the tough things about parenting — and there are many — is that kids expect you to act like a responsible grown up at all times. So when I recently got caught doing the-kids-are-finally-in-bed" jig outside my oldest daughter's bedroom, it was difficult for her to understand that this seemingly childish act does have some grown up significance. This dance is simply a visual reminder for my husband that we have approximately seven minutes to party it up before we fall asleep watching a rerun of "Life with Jim."

Council on Aging activities

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:29:00 EDT

NORTH ANDOVER
Yoga: The North Andover Senior Center will offer evening yoga classes, taught by Cheryl Cronin, starting Thursday, June 19, from 5 to 6 p.m. This class is open to the public and is followed by Weight Watchers. The class runs for 11 weeks and is $44 for the session or you can pay $6 per class.

In brief

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:28:00 EDT

Special concert: The Merrimack Valley String Orchestra, a regional group of young musicians, will perform a spring concert Friday, June 13, at 7 p.m. at Merrimack College's Rogers Center for the Arts off Route 114 in North Andover.

Events Calendar

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:27:00 EDT

Thursday, June 12
The Mother Connection and Mom Corps presents Moms Going Pro (Again), for moms in transition, 6:30 p.m. networking, 7 to 8:30 program, the Lanam Club, 260 North Main St., Andover, with local life/career coach Maureen Weisner and local Boston representative Nadia McKay, $15 advance, $20 at the door, business casual (no jeans); www.themotherconnection.org/payfee to register.

Broader view: Flexing the "No" muscle

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:47:00 EDT

I need to take a lesson from my son. He is 3 and is excellent at proclaiming his independence in a very concise and determined way. In a word, "No!" His "No" muscle is the strongest one he's got.
Truth be told, I'm jealous. While this response often lands him in a time-out, I secretly harbor admiration for anyone who can so deftly and definitively rebuff a request. Say it with me. "No!" See? It feels good to say it out loud, even if it is just practice.

40th birthday celebrated by youth: Preschool hits milestone

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 01:50:00 EDT

There were no "over the hill" jokes to be found at one recent 40th birthday party in Boxford.
Students, families and staff of the Village School in Boxford celebrated the institution's 40th anniversary on May 29 with cupcakes, an inflatable moon bounce and plenty of kid-friendly fun.

In brief

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 01:02:00 EDT

Masconomet graduation announcement
Due to the capacity of the Masconomet fieldhouse and fire regulations, admission to the Masconomet graduation ceremony on June 6 is by ticket only. There will be no general admission to graduation this year. The graduates will have a limited number of tickets for their family and friends. Everyone who wishes to attend the ceremony must get a ticket from a graduating senior.

Town crossings standing file BN.PEOPLE

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT

Steven Crespo, M.D., of Boxford is among the new members to the Caritas Holy Family Hospital Board of Trustees.
Crespo is board certified in emergency medicine and serves as chief of the emergency department at Holy Family. He received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at The Medical College of Pennsylvania. Before coming to Holy Family, Crespo was briefly the associate chief of the emergency department at Caritas St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Boston. Prior to joining Caritas, he was with the Boston Medical Center and The Medical College of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Council on Aging activities

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT

The Council on Aging Board of Directors meeting is held on the second Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. The next meeting is June 10 in the Senior Center conference room. All are welcome to attend.