Globe North News briefs
High school salutes culinary arts teacher
July 16, 2009
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Billerica
Shawsheen Valley Technical High School has dedicated its bakery to Gary Levin, who taught culinary students at the school for more than three decades. Levin, 77, of Wakefield, retired last year. Over the years, Levin inspired many of his students, encouraging them to pursue careers in the culinary arts. Several of his students now work at prestigious culinary schools and fine restaurants around the globe. “Mr. Levin was a wonderful teacher who touched many of our students’ lives,’’ said Superintendent Charlie Lyons. “He taught here for 35 years. We felt it only fitting that we dedicate the bakery to him.’’ Shawsheen draws students from Bedford, Billerica, Burlington, Tewksbury, and Wilmington. - Brenda J. BuoteChelsea
CITY MANAGER SETS EXAMPLE - As his contribution to easing the city’s fiscal crunch, City Manager Jay Ash has given up use of a city car and dropped his city health insurance. City councilors last year authorized Ash to spend $35,000 to purchase a new car to replace his 2000 vehicle. Due to the city’s fiscal constraints, Ash held off on purchasing the vehicle and has now decided against it. Instead, with the help of a $5,000 stipend granted him by the council, he bought his own used vehicle. (His old car was transferred to the Department of Public Works pool). Ash said his family has switched to another health plan with higher copayments. The combined savings to the city was about $19,000. “I’m trying to lead by example,’’ said Ash, who last year waived a portion of his scheduled salary increase. - John LaidlerLynnfield
INTERIM CHIEFS NAMED - The Board of Selectmen named interim fire and police chiefs at its Monday meeting. Captain Joseph Dunn was named interim police chief, and Deputy Chief Francis Lennon was named interim fire chief. The two men will replace Paul Romano, chief of both departments, who is retiring on July 31. The board has indicated that it will move quickly to find a permanent replacement for the chief. - David RattiganNorth Reading
OUTDOOR MOVIES - It’s not the drive-in, but North Reading officials plan to keep the reels rolling at Ipswich River Park tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. with a screening of “The Karate Kid.’’ The popular 1984 drama starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, who offered the famous advice “wax on, wax off’’ to a young karate student in his performance as Mr. Miyagi. Entry is $3, and concessions will be available for purchase. Up next, on July 27, will be a screening of “The Land Before Time,’’ followed by “Back to the Future’’ on Aug. 3. - Richard Thompson
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