Rabies case confirmed in Wayland raccoon
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has confirmed at least one case of rabies in a raccoon in Wayland. According to DPH representative Anne Roach, the animal tested positive for the virus last week.
Statewide, 19 animals tested positive for rabies between January and March, according to DPH, including 12 raccoons, five skunks, one bobcat and one bat. That's up from 15 animals during the same period in 2012.
Rabies is a very serious disease that affects the brain and spinal cord of mammals, according to the DPH's website. Rabies is caused by a virus and almost always causes death.
Roach said it is important to keep a safe distance away from any animal that is behaving strangely and to call the proper authorities. For more information, visit the DPH rabies website.
Contact John Swinconeck at johnswinc@gmail.com. Follow @johnswinc on Twitter.
Concord shop operator, stormchaser dies in Texas while tracking tornadoes
Christopher M. Curtis II, the manager of the West Concord 5&10 who was never happier than when he was chasing tornadoes, died in his sleep early Tuesday morning in a hotel room in Texas, family members said.
Curtis was traveling with a group tracking tornadoes in Oklahoma, his ninth annual tour, and had written a column for Boston.com's Your Town Concord site about the fatal storm in Moore, Ok., shortly before he died.
"Sunday afternoon I was looking at a very short-lived tornado out of my van window touch down perhaps 50 feet from me near Viola, Kansas,'' Curtis wrote. "It was thrilling, and as always profoundly affecting.''
Referring to the Moore, Ok. storm Monday, Curtis continued: "Nature humbles us, in ways both beautiful, and horrific. Today has been about horrific.''
Curtis, who graduated from Brookline High School and went to Cornell University, began working at the 5&10 in 1989. The store has been in the family of his stepfather, Maynard Getchell-Forbes, since 1951. Curtis had managed the store since the mid-1990s.
Even before he began chasing tornados nine years ago, he was fascinated by the weather.
“A thunderstorm was a big occasion for Chris,” Getchell-Forbes said. “If you wanted a weather forecast, you didn’t go to weather.com, you went to Chris because he could tell you for several different zip codes what the weather forecast would be.”
Friday, before Curtis left for Oklahoma, he stopped by Concord Outfitters to say goodbye to his friends.
"He saw that the weather was turning and he was really excited to get out there," said Andy Bonzagni, the store's owner. "You never know if you're going to intersect that storm. "
Some of Curtis's photos from previous storm-chasing trips are still for sale at the noa gallery on Commonwealth Avenue, down the street from the 5&10. One small photo from Medicine Lodge, Kansas is dated May 12, 2004. A stuffed version of Wally the Green Monster, the official Red Sox mascot, sits on a fence post with a funnel cloud in the distance.
“The first tornado I ever saw,” Curtis wrote. “Wally enjoyed the view.”
Another picture shows a brilliant orange sky against a rocky bluff. Curtis and his group were in south Texas and had chased a storm nearly to Mexico. As they returned north, they saw they sun set over an empty valley, and Curtis took some photos.
“This is Big Bend National Park, and the air was sweet from wildflowers,” he wrote. “Nature doesn’t need to be roiled up to be beautiful.”
After Curtis died, friends who knew him from chasing storms began posting messages about him on facebook. It brought comfort to his friends and family at home.
“In hindsight, it’s nice for me to think that he had this whole community,” said Miles McCloy, a good friend, and the fishing manager at Concord Outfitters. “He talked about it all the time.”
Concord Currents, What’s happening in town this week
Starting with terribly sad news this week. Storm chaser, West Concord businessman, Boston pro sports enthusiast, and all around great person, Chris Curtis, died in his hotel room in Oklahoma this week while on his traditional storm chasing expedition. Over the years on his vacation, Curtis had witnessed horrendous storm damage, often joining in recovery efforts from the campers he and his compatriots drove around in.
Apparently Curtis, 49, suffered a heart attack while blogging about the devastation he had seen as massive tornados hit Moore, Okla. Curtis was the manager of the West Concord Five and Ten, a great raconteur and knowledgeable local historian. He will be missed by anyone that walked into the iconic store and asked for advice. He was one of those guys that always seemed to know the answer to whatever your question was, and he spoke in a gentle, thoughtful way.
Tributes to Curtis have been pouring in on his Facebook page, and among various online news groups in Concord.
It’s Memorial Day weekend, and in Concord that means a parade and tribute to fallen soldiers. The Public Ceremonies and Celebrations Committee announces that observances will be held on Monday, May 27 with a Muster at Rideout Field for 9 a.m. and Ash St. at the St. Bernard’s Cemetery for 11:30 a.m. The morning ceremony assembles at Rideout Field on Laws Brook Rd. at 8:30 a.m. and proceeds to Kenneth Dunn Square for the flag raising and brief ceremony at 9. At 11:30AM, the parade re-assembles at Garrison/Ash Street for the afternoon ceremonies. The parade proceeds first to St. Bernard’s and Sleepy Hollow cemeteries. There is a short ceremony at each location. The parade will pause at the Knoll at Sleepy Hollow to acknowledge Veterans buried there. The Parade then continues to Monument Square for the reading of the Roll of Honor at approximately 1:15 p.m. All veterans are encouraged to join in the march.
May 25 is the Asparagus Festival at Verrill Farm starting at 11 a.m. Celebrate the arrival of the first crop of the season. Join Steve Verrill in the asparagus field to learn about the history, planting and picking of the crop - then harvest a few stalks of your own! Asparagus-themed buffet lunch under tents beside the farm stand! Farm Stand Chef Kevin Carey offers tips and a demo on asparagus preparation. Everyone leaves with a bunch of freshly picked Verrill Farm asparagus. $25 per person. Space is limited. Call to make reservations. Prepayment required. 978 369 4494.
The School Committee meets on Tuesday, May 28 at 6 p.m. at the Ripley Building.
The Friends of Minute Man National Historical Park are hosting a garden party on Wednesday, May 29 at 2 p.m. at the Buttrick Mansion, 174 Liberty St. Dress up in your chicest garden party attire and don your favorite fascinator for lemonade, light refreshments and a hat contest. Tickets: $25.
Friday and Saturday, May 31 and June 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Concord Museum is hosting a Garden Tour which has become a New England tradition for garden lovers. Each of the eight private gardens reflects the individual interests and passions of the owners and their families and will inspire new gardeners and accomplished landscapers. Call 978 369 9763 for tickets. Tour maps given out on the day of the tour.
24th Annual
COA CINEMA Friday Afternoons at 2 p.m. in the Lecture Hall.
May 24 – FLIGHT An airline pilot saves almost all his passengers on his malfunctioning airliner which eventually crashes, but an investigation into the accident reveals something troubling. Starring Denzel Washington; directed by Robert Zemeckis. (Drama, 138 minutes, 2012; Rated R for language, substance abuse and nudity)
June 7 – JOYFUL NOISE
A small town choir sets out to win The National Joyful Noise competition despite overwhelming odds. A story of faith and determination by the choir leaders, Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton, and the young talent who give their all to beat the competition for the grand prize. (Comedy/Music; 118 minutes, 2012; Rated PG-13)
Playscape at Ripley Presentation and Discussion at COA Friday, May 24 at 1 p.m. The Playscape at Ripley is a nature park for all ages and abilities being built in Concord on town land in the historic East Quarter. It will be a unique, special spot that invites all to play, relax and interact with their environment. Its design will purposefully connect individuals of all abilities with nature, and encourage young and old to get outside! On May 24 representatives from the Playscape will show the acclaimed movie "Mother Nature's Child," at the COA. Afterward, Al Robichaud will lead a discussion about the benefits of outdoor activity for seniors and the role grandparents can play in connecting children to the natural world. Participants will be invited to share their input and suggestions. Please call to sign up. No fee.
Jim McManus and Holly Harrison are exhibiting at the Albright Art Gallery on Main Street through July 28 with a reception Saturday, June 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibit is called “Strata: Meaning between the lines.”
News from the MBTA: Track improvements on the Fitchburg Commuter Line, which runs through Concord, will require the suspension of weekend service from Fitchburg to South Acton through mid-November. In August, the weekend suspension will extend to Concord, Lincoln and Weston.
Work has begun on adding a “flyover” on Route 2 from Crosby’s Corner in Lincoln to Route 2 westbound in Concord. That means single-lane traffic along the heavily traveled highway, although MASS DOT is trying to limit the crunch to off-peak hours. Plan ahead for any trips that require you to traverse Route 2 to Route 128.
There is a new exhibit at Gallery 111 inside Frame-ables at 111 Thoreau Street. Local painter Bobby C. Poole exhibits this month. His panoramic oceanscapes and strong angular scenes of nature reflect his lifelong fascination with the natural world. Early on his family was associated with the Wildlife Protection Agency in North Carolina, an influence which endured through to his professional work as an architect and exhibit designer. He’s become increasingly specialized in aquarium architecture and exhibit content, having been involved with the development and design of projects for aquariums beginning with the National Aquarium in Baltimore and subsequently progressing to facilities in such far flung cities as Osaka, Singapore, Genoa, and Lisbon, as well as aquariums closer to home such as the aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee; Alaska Sea Life Center; and the National Marine Life Center in Bourne, Mass. In his own words, “My professional architectural and exhibit design career developing major aquariums worldwide has reinforced my love for the natural world and the lessons it offers us about who we are as an integral component of the global ecosystem. This professional focus for almost 40 years has provided me the privilege to visit and study the elements of the natural world creating an abundance of conceptual and visual references for my paintings.” His work is on view until June 1, Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 5:30, Saturday 9:30 - 5:00. For more information, look here. Meet Poole at the May 18 Art Walk from 2 to 4 p.m.
Plan ahead! The library book sale on the lawn is June 1. It’s an absolute must, where you can find books for every family member, DVDs, CDs, even VHS movies. Plus sheet music and old musty hard covers and hundreds of paperbacks, all donated by the community and sponsored by the Friends of the library.
Concord Carlisle High School will dedicate a day of Community Service in honor of the late David Prifti, a former teacher at the High School on June 3 at the Harvey Wheeler Community Center. Several volunteers will plant the flower boxes and fix shrubs and bushes for the Summer months.
CSA Shares at Verrill Farm
Verrill Farm’s new Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program offers ‘shares’ of the farm’s fresh produce for $25 per week for 20 weeks, June 20 – Nov. 21, with an up-front payment of $500. As a welcome for joining, every new CSA member will receive a coupon for a free 8” fruit pie.
“We are introducing a Verrill Farm CSA this year and have designed it so members will benefit from the variety of our crops,” says farm owner Steve Verrill, “and, because of all that we do at the farm, we are able to add extras unique to our CSA.”
CSAs have become popular because they provide an opportunity for consumers to partner with a local farmer by committing to purchase a ‘share’ of the farm’s crops ahead of the season. Some weeks, Verrill Farm’s CSA will offer choices including baked goods and other items made in the stand kitchen. CSA members will also receive weekly recipes and tips on handling produce as well as exclusive farm tours and pick-your-own opportunities. To join, pay by phone, mail or in person using a credit card or check. Information here.
Another CSA opportunity
Have you wanted to try a community-sponsored agricultural (CSA) program? First Root Farm in Concord has CSA shares available for the 2013 season. We farm on 2.5 acres of historic farmland in Minute Man National Historical Park using organic and sustainable growing practices. We grow over 30 different kinds of vegetables including pick-your-own peas, cherry tomatoes, and flowers. We are looking forward to an exciting season full of delicious produce and we hope that you will join us! Regular CSA share: 21 weeks June- October $650Extended CSA share: 25 weeks June- November $750 With additional flower bouquet share and winter share options. Pick ups Tuesdays 3-7 pm OR Saturdays 2-5 pm on the farm955 Lexington Road Concord, MA 01742 For more information and to sign up, please visit us or email firstrootfarm@gmail.com.
Dispatch from China!
Here’s a chance to donate to a program that provides eye glasses to young students in China. This effort is spearheaded by Caitlin Moss, CCHS Class of 2007 who is currently a 2011 - 2013 Teaching Fellow at Manghuai Middle School as part of Teach for China.
“This is my last semester teaching in China, and I am also participating in a
project that is happening at 12 Teach For China schools, which will bring
free eye exams and glasses for those who need them to our elementary and
middle school students,” Moss writes. “We are partnering with an organization called Education in Sight, and are fundraising so that we can provide exams and
glasses for free. Eye care is unavailable in many areas of rural China, and
what's more, most of our students can't afford glasses anyway. Unfortunately, this becomes a major challenge for them in the classroom if they can't see the board!”
Moss writes that the program has reached 60 percent of its $1,000 goal, “and a
number of wonderful folks from Concord have donated, including friends and
teachers from high school. Here is the link to the fundraising website.
“We've got a few more weeks to go until we will start eye exams at our school,” said Moss.
Interested in playing rugby? The Lincoln Sudbury HS Girls Rugby club is welcoming new members, including high school girls from Concord and Carlisle!
LSRHS Rugby founded a girls team in the spring of 2007. They are actively recruiting young, athletic, high school aged girls to
join the team. For more information:
- Check out the team website or Contact Head Coach Sarah Greeley at sarah_greeley@lsrhs.net
. There will also be Rookie Rugby (flag rugby) this spring, offered through Sudbury Parks and Rec for any kids in grades 5-8. You have to register through Sudbury Parks and Recreation.
Seed sharing. With the arrival of spring, Concordians with a green thumb can take advantage of the, dare we say, groundbreaking new Seed Lending Library, and learn about this first-in-the-state initiative. The mission of the Concord Seed Lending Library is to collect and share bio-diverse, locally-adapted plant seeds, cultivated by and for area residents. There is an active advisory board and a strong commitment to ‘grow’ the Seed Library starting this season with easy-to-grow varieties that thrive locally. See here for more information.
Betsy Levinson can be reached at betsy.levinson@gmail.com.
Concord-Carlisle girls lacrosse: Patriots hand one to Colonials
Information in this report was provided on behalf of the CCHS girls lacrosse program.
In a must win game to continue their quest for the Division 1 North playoffs, the Patriots allowed a 4 goal half time lead to slip away losing 15-14 to the Shrewsbury Colonials on Tuesday. It was a tale of two halves for the Patriots who took control for the first half of the game.
CC midfielder Becca Olsen dominated in the Shrewsbury end tallying 4 goals within the first 15 minutes of play including a beautiful stick check on the Colonial, scooping the ball and firing it to the back of the net.
Allie Barrett, Emma Mahoney, Jenna Carlton, and Cassidy Hale all provided additional tallies for CC as Johanna O’Neil provided them with 6 draw controls and 2 ground balls. Meanwhile CC defenders Lucy Fell, Madeline Leahy, and Brianna Stout coupled with senior Captain and goalie Maddie Holmes played a staunch, resilient defensive game making the Colonials work hard for every goal they could muster.
A Patriot yellow card allowed the Colonials to take an early lead of 3-2; however, once the teams regained balance, CC managed the ball better and went into half with a solid 9-5 lead.
The second half was all Shrewsbury; however, the Colonials made adjustments in their game plan, gaining more draw controls and modifying to a fast break game which stymied the Patriots.
The Colonials went on a 7 goal run to take a 12-9 lead as Coach Morrison called for a time out. Following the stop in play, the Patriots resumed play with a goal each by Mahoney and Hale to bring the game within one.
Shrewsbury responded with three straight fast breaks to push out to a 15-11 lead. With just over 4 minutes remaining and a second time out, the Patriots began to gain momentum again as Hale, O’Neil, and Mahoney all fought to win crucial draw controls. Kate Wyeth, Olsen, and Hale then followed through with needed tallies to bring the Patriots within back one a goal.
At 15-14 and just over a minute remaining, CC had to win the draw control for any chance to tie the game. And they did as Hale won the ball and raced down field toward goal spotting Barrett to her right.
Barrett-- seeking a must needed goal-- then drove to goal cutting between two Colonial defenders and firing a perfect bounce shot to tie the game. Unfortunately a questionable charging call was announced by an official negating the goal and giving Shrewsbury possession.
The Colonials then effectively went into stall mode for the remaining minute to win the game as time ran out.
"It was a tough way to lose," said Coach Morrison. "We had two goals called back in the second half with our season on the line. The kids never gave up, and like they have all season they fought and competed to the bitter end."
Concord-Carlisle girls lacrosse: Patriots end season on high note
Information in this report was provided on behalf of the CCHS girls lacrosse program.
After losing to Shrewsbury Monday by one goal thus dashing any hopes for a Division 1 playoff run, the Patriots (8-9-1) rebounded in a strong fashion Tuesday by defeating #10th ranked Framingham (14-4) with a score of 15-13 at Doug White Field.
CC looked both strong and confident in their final game as they competed at the highest level against an athletic and stealthy Flyer team. Once again junior captain Allie Barrett led the charge wracking up 5 goals and 2 assists while Becca Olsen and Emma Mahoney both added 3 goals each.
Back in the lineup for CC were starters center Hannah Dudley who collected 1 goal, 5 draw controls, and 3 ground balls and sophomore Lexi Goodhue who had 3 tallies of her own with her distinct crease roll from around the net.
The Patriots battled the high powered Framingham offense matching them goal for goal through the first fifteen minutes of play but with just over 10 minutes remaining in the half and CC up by one, they managed the first notable lead as a Framingham shot hit the CC cross pipe.
The Patriots grabbed the ensuing ground ball then quickly transitioned down field for a tally. Moments later, Johanna O’ Neil would win the draw control and pass off to Kate Wyeth speeding down the right side of the field who’s perfect pass assist to Becca Olsen split the seam of two Framingham defenders.
Olsen found the back of the net giving the Patriots a bit of breathing room and a 3 goal lead. Both teams battled for goals through the following minutes but CC continued to chip away at extending their lead.
With confidence growing, the Patriots went into the half up by five at 14- 9.
As expected, Framingham came out fast and furious to begin the second half. CC Goalie Conley Ernst made several early key stops to help keep the Patriot lead. Though unsuccessful, the Patriots continued to create scoring opportunities of their own including a breakaway shot, three free positions, and a high pipe shot.
Both teams then buckled down and a defensive battle ensued as each offense could only muster one goal before the ten minute mark of the half. Once again CC defenders Lucy Fell, Johanna O Neil, and Madeline Leahy played smart resilient defense awhile freshmen defender Brianna Stout continued her aggressive prowess.
Down 15-10 with 11 minutes remaining, the battle tested Flyers were determined to not give up and continued to grind out plays while going on a 3 goal run to bring the game within two.
But CC would again match them goal for goal as Patriot’s Mahoney and Barrett each notched scores to help stave off any remaining Flyer attack.
The Patriots maintained the ball for the final seconds as the clock ran out thus ending their 2013 season.
Coach Morrison looked back on the season, "We had some very close losses over the year, none more bitter than the one goal loss to Shrewsbury yesterday. Yet this team was always resilient and battled to the end, and today they were rewarded for that effort by beating one of the top ten teams in the state. Kate Wyeth, Maddie Holmes, Lucy Fell, Halle Burns and Miranda Gaehde are terrific athletes and wonderful people. The Class of 2013 has laid the foundation for CCHS Girls Lacrosse to reach greater heights in the near future."
- Based on the win-loss record of their opponents, laxpower.com determined that the Patriots ended their season with the fifth most difficult Division 1 Girls Lacrosse schedule in the state only behind Andover, Westwood, Notre Dame, and Lincoln Sudbury.
- In spite of significant injuries to several starters, the Patriots lost 2 games by only 2 goals and 3 games by only 1 goal.
- The Patriots will be returning 16 of their 21 Varsity players in 2014.
- The Junior Varsity team under Co-Coaches Amy Carlton and Helen Lyons completed a very successful season with a 14-4-1 record.
- The Freshmen team under Head Coach Jenn Frizzelle and Asst. Coach Nancy Campbell had a perfect undefeated season with a 12-0 record.
Tornado damage is 'horrific,' Concord storm chaser says after Oklahoma twister
Chris Curtis, who ran the West Concord Five and Ten in Concord, was in Oklahoma as part of a storm-chasing group. Shortly after he wrote this column about the Oklahoma tornado Monday night, Mr. Curtis died in his sleep, family members said.
From the road in northern Texas. May 20, 2013.
I’m in our chase van driving south on I-35 toward Dallas. We have rooms booked for the night just north of the city and will be pursuing yet another system of severe weather tomorrow (Tuesday) in that area. Today we woke up in Shawnee OK, perhaps a mile or so from where a powerful tornado destroyed dozens of homes and killed two people. Our group leader lives in Shawnee, and his wife was at home and evacuated to a local shelter during the storm. Their home was spared, but tonight in Moore OK many others were not so fortunate.
Moore is next door to Norman OK, which is our ‘base camp’ when we assemble together to chase storms each spring. We have friends there who work in hotels and restaurants we frequent, and others who live in the area. While on the road today we were shocked by the reports that we could only observe in glimpses. We went south, driving right through Moore, this morning; along with hundreds of other storm chasers who all saw the same data and felt that the unpopulated areas well south of Oklahoma City was the smart bet today. A few did decide to stay north, and last we heard many were aiding in search and rescue efforts.
Sunday afternoon I was looking at a very short lived tornado out of my van window touch down perhaps 50 feet from me near Viola, Kansas. It was thrilling, and as always profoundly affecting. Nature humbles us, in ways both beautiful, and horrific.
Today has been about horrific.
It is hard to put into words how we all feel right now; maybe our experience last month in Boston gives me a unique perspective. The first bomb that Monday went off in front of the building where my father used to work, and a few doors down from Old South Church, where my mom was ordained and on many Sundays gave sermons. The car chase that Thursday night ended about a block from the house where I lived as a young boy in Watertown. It was a week of horror, and a week where Boston stood up tall and strong, and showed good in the face of evil.
Tornadoes aren’t evil, they are random acts of nature, but the literal effects can easily be far worse. Moore will now become the only town to ever be hit twice by an EF-5 tornado, and an EF-4 as well, in 1999 and 2003.
As chasers we do more than observe and record some of the extremes of nature. The internet has allowed us to collectively create a large network of trained and experienced people who are available to the National Weather Service both in reporting what we see, and also at times being available to answer questions from them directly. We all use GPS and radar to show our locations and contact information in real time. And even on a day like today, when most of us saw the same data and all made the same wrong guess, a few saw things differently and were there on the ground when this worst possible scenario unfolded. I have no idea tonight if chasers helped report the initial funnel cloud faster than it may have been otherwise, but I wouldn’t be surprised. Even an extra minute can save scores of lives in a situation like that. May of 2012 saw the fewest tornado-related deaths in the US in recorded history. Calm weather had much to do with that, but tornadoes did happen, and chasers were out there on their own dime doing their best to pitch in.
I wish we could do more. Maybe tomorrow we will be in the wrong place at the right time, and have the chance to do our part. I know that any of my many chaser friends feel exactly the same way.
Concord-Carlisle girls lacrosse: Patriots pull a magic act on Marblehead
Information in this report was provided on behalf of the CCHS girls lacrosse program.
The CCHS Girls lacrosse team (6-8-1) put on a show of their own Friday defeating the Marblehad Magicians (14-1-1), 17-8 at Doug White Field.
The Patriots who are battling for a Division 1 playoff berth took control of the game early and never looked back. Senior Captain Kate Wyeth led the Patriot charge notching 5 goals while Allie Barrett and Becca Olsen supplied three goals each. Freshmen Cassidy Hale also punched in 2 goals with 2 assists as fellow classmate Sophie Shipe potted a goal.
Sophomore Conley Ernst was once again remarkably defiant in net. The Patriot netminder made 6 solid saves on 9 shots in the first half, some during early critical early stages of the game that allowed CC to push out to a sizeable lead before the half. Ernst would end the game with 9 saves on 16 shots for a 56% save average.
This may have been one of the Patriots best 50 minutes of overall balanced play this season. It was a solid team effort on both sides of the ball as the defensively Johanna O’Neal, Lucy Fell, Madeline Leahy, and Halle Burns continuously harassed Marblehead causing turnovers then collected ensuing ground balls and transistioned them up midfield to the offense.
The return of Captain midfielder Allie Barrett from an ankle injury was significant and immediate for CC as the junior scored two of the first three Patriot goals and helped CC set the tone for the game.
Marblehead, who had entered the game ranked as one of the top 20 teams in the state by various polls and newspapers could do little to gain any traction or momentum as CC took control outbattling for the ground balls and playing mostly mistake free lacrosse.
At the half CC led 10-3.
The Magicians managed a short spray of 3 consecutive goals early in the second half to bring the game within for at 10-6 however CC’s offense responded well to the challenge as Wyeth & Olsen both doubled up with tallies while Mahoney, Hale, and Carlton all found the back the of net.
With five minutes remaining and a 15-8 CC lead, Marblehead attempted to press the Patriots stalled offense by doubling up on CC ball handlers. The Patriots executed well however eating up valuable clock time while still notching two final empty net goals.
"We really needed that win," said CC Coach Paul Morrison. "Conley Ernst was the difference for us in goal early in the game, and then the team settled down. Captain Kate Wyeth had a monster game for us and led the way to keep our playoff hopes alive."
Concord-Carlisle girls lacrosse: Patriots push past Buccaneers
Information in this report was provided on behalf of the CCHS girls lacrosse program.
Junior Becca Olsen collected four goals to help pace the CC Patriots (7-8-1)past the Bedford Buccaneers (4-9-1) 18-6 in Sunday’s makeup game.
After initially allowing two goals to the Buccaneers’ back on May 9th under threatening skies, CC poured on the offense with three goals in the next three minutes of play before the skies opened up resulting in a game postponement.
The Patriots picked up where they left off during Sunday’s makeup game dousing their opponent with eight goals to Bedford’s one.
Goals came fast and wide spread throughout the game from ten CC players including Kate Wyeth (3 goals), Allie Barrett (2 goals), Emma Mahoney (2 goals), Cassidy Hale (2 goals), Catherine Gouchoe (1 goal) Mirande Gaehde (1 goal) and Amelia Johnson (1 goal) and Johann O Neil (1 goal) while Sophomore attack Jenna Carlton led the team with 6 points on 1 goal and 5 assists.
The Patriots continued to show their balanced team approach on both ends of the field as junior Tessa Dibble, senior Lucy Fell, and freshmen Madeline Leahy and Briana Stout all made defensive contributions.
Barrett and O’ Neal supported the midfield play with a combined 7 ground balls. Conley Ernst minded net for the Patriots during the first half of play allowing only 2 goals, while Freshmen goalie Kayla Milofsky provided the same stubborn play in net the second half.
Coach Morrison- that win was much needed for the Patriots. "We are in a win or go home mode right now. If we want to make the playoffs we can't lose another regular season game. I thought Kate Wyeth led us again, and she has really picked up the team down the stretch. Jenna Carlton having 5 assists is a trend that the whole team needs to pick up on to make us more dangerous. It was great to see Miranda Gaehde, Amelia Johnson, Catherine Gouchoe, Tessa Dibble, and Kayla Milofsky make the most of their opportunity out there."
Concord Currents, What’s happening in town this week
Get set for the 7th annual Concord ArtWalk on May 18 Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Concord Center, Thoreau Street Depot District and West Concord Village - 978-369-3120. Visit the 45 participating businesses to see displays of art, demonstrations, receptions, and enter drawings. Music on the lawn at the Visitor Center at 58 Main Street by "Them City Ducks" at 11 a.m. and "Snow Crow' at 2 p.m. Visit the shops, galleries and studios of the three villages in Concord and be inspired by the arts. Sponsored by Cambridge Savings Bank.
Hear the Concord Orchestra Pops Concert on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 17, 18, and 19 at 51 Walden Street. Friday and Saturday is at 8 p.m. and Sunday is at 2 p.m. You will be treated to the music of Lebedev, Sibelius, Dvofrak and Saint-Saens. Veronia Kenny plays Handel’s Oboe Concerto No. 3, and there will be a singalong to “My Fair Lady.” Tickets $30/$25/$10. See here for more information.
On Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m. get a ticket for the Concord Chorus’ Spring Concert at 8 p.m. at St. Camilla Church, 1175 Concord Turnpike, Arlington. See here for more information. Ludwig van Beethoven's majestic and gentle "Mass" in C is an intimate testament to his personal faith and a work that he claimed was "especially close to my heart". The concert will also feature Joseph Haydn's rarely heard "Salve Regina" in E, a lyrical and spirited work for sopranos, chorus and strings. This concert marks the Chorus's first collaboration with the Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra, one of only four cooperative orchestras in the country and an ensemble which has played a distinguished role in the history of the arts in Boston. General Admission $25; Seniors $20; Children and Students $10.
May 19 Sunday, 7 p.m. Sarasa at First Parish - Parish Hall, 20 Lexington Road - (617)429-0332 - www.sarasamusic.org. Music of Dvorák and other folk inspired works. Tickets $27 General Admission; $20 Senior; $12 Student; Free for Children.
May 19 Sunday, 2 p.m. Period music from the Haydn and Handel Society. Concord Museum, in Daniel Chester French Hall - Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road - 978-369-9763 - www.concordmuseum.org Inspired by Thoreau’s flute in the Concord Museum collection, the performance features works for flute and strings, including the Mozart Flute Quartet No. 1. Founded in Boston in 1815, the Handel and Haydn Society is America’s oldest continuously performing arts organization. By reservation; $25; $20 Concord Museum Members. Register online or by phone.
The selectmen meet on Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at the Town House.
At the Council on Aging:
Join in on the Fun at the WIQH - COA JazzFest! Friday, May 17 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Remember the “Good Old Days” when music was simple and you enjoyed Jazz artists like Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw and Tommy Dorsey? We’re going to bring you back in time this month with a fun-filled afternoon of good food and great music. WIQH, Concord Carlisle High School’s radio station, will be broadcasting from the auditorium here at the Harvey Wheeler Community Center, while the popular jazz band, The Russ Wilcox Jazz Group, performs. The Russ Wilcox Jazz Ensemble is comprised of upcoming musicians who have been featured at many prominent venues, including The Kennedy Center and Lincoln Center. Come and enjoy a catered lunch while the band plays and WIQH disc jockeys broadcast! This delightful afternoon is being partially funded through a generous contribution from the Concord Friends of the Aging. Cost to attend will be $5 (cash) per person. Seating is limited, so please call, as soon as possible, to sign up and to let us know if you will require our van.
COA CINEMA Friday Afternoons at 2 p.m. in the Lecture Hall.
May 24 – FLIGHT An airline pilot saves almost all his passengers on his malfunctioning airliner which eventually crashes, but an investigation into the accident reveals something troubling. Starring Denzel Washington; directed by Robert Zemeckis. (Drama, 138 minutes, 2012; Rated R for language, substance abuse and nudity)
June 7 – JOYFUL NOISE
A small town choir sets out to win The National Joyful Noise competition despite overwhelming odds. A story of faith and determination by the choir leaders, Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton, and the young talent who give their all to beat the competition for the grand prize. (Comedy/Music; 118 minutes, 2012; Rated PG-13)
Lunch Bunch to Burton’s Grill, Westford Tuesday, May 21, Leaving HWCC at 11 a.m. Join us for lunch at Burton’s Grill, located in Westford’s new Cornerstone Square Shopping Center (near the new Market Basket). Burton’s prides itself on using only the freshest, most premium ingredients, never compromising commitment to quality. They make the best burgers! Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available. Cost of the van is $3 and everyone will pay for lunch on their own. Please call to sign up.
Playscape at Ripley Presentation and Discussion at COA Friday, May 24 at 1 p.m. The Playscape at Ripley is a nature park for all ages and abilities being built in Concord on town land in the historic East Quarter. It will be a unique, special spot that invites all to play, relax and interact with their environment. Its design will purposefully connect individuals of all abilities with nature, and encourage young and old to get outside! On May 24 representatives from the Playscape will show the acclaimed movie "Mother Nature's Child," at the COA. Afterward, Al Robichaud will lead a discussion about the benefits of outdoor activity for seniors and the role grandparents can play in connecting children to the natural world. Participants will be invited to share their input and suggestions. Please call to sign up. No fee.
News from the MBTA: Track improvements on the Fitchburg Commuter Line, which runs through Concord, will require the suspension of weekend service from Fitchburg to South Acton through mid-November. In August, the weekend suspension will extend to Concord, Lincoln and Weston.
Work has begun on adding a “flyover” on Route 2 from Crosby’s Corner in Lincoln to Route 2 westbound in Concord. That means single-lane traffic along the heavily traveled highway, although MASS DOT is trying to limit the crunch to off-peak hours. Plan ahead for any trips that require you to traverse Route 2 to Route 128.
Astronaut: Paintings by Scott Listfield. Through May 26 at the Albright Art Gallery, 32 Main St. Listfield juxtaposes serene daily settings with humanity’s technology and offenses. His vignettes of modern society and post-apocalypse serve as entry points into thoughtful sociological observation. These vignettes reveal our quotidian from the perspective of an ideal outsider/insider: the anonymous astronaut. This exhibit reminds us that even when treading familiar ground, we never experience the same moment twice. And the viewer is left wondering “What would Astronaut do?” Regular gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 pm, and also by appointment.
There is a new exhibit at Gallery 111 inside Frame-ables at 111 Thoreau Street. Local painter Bobby C. Poole exhibits this month. His panoramic oceanscapes and strong angular scenes of nature reflect his lifelong fascination with the natural world. Early on his family was associated with the Wildlife Protection Agency in North Carolina, an influence which endured through to his professional work as an architect and exhibit designer. He’s become increasingly specialized in aquarium architecture and exhibit content, having been involved with the development and design of projects for aquariums beginning with the National Aquarium in Baltimore and subsequently progressing to facilities in such far flung cities as Osaka, Singapore, Genoa, and Lisbon, as well as aquariums closer to home such as the aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee; Alaska Sea Life Center; and the National Marine Life Center in Bourne, Mass. In his own words, “My professional architectural and exhibit design career developing major aquariums worldwide has reinforced my love for the natural world and the lessons it offers us about who we are as an integral component of the global ecosystem. This professional focus for almost 40 years has provided me the privilege to visit and study the elements of the natural world creating an abundance of conceptual and visual references for my paintings.” His work is on view until June 1, Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 5:30, Saturday 9:30 - 5:00. For more information, look here. Meet Poole at the May 18 Art Walk from 2 to 4 p.m.
Plan ahead! The library book sale on the lawn is June 1.
Concord Carlisle High School will dedicate a day of Community Service in honor of the late David Prifti, a former teacher at the High School on June 3. Several volunteers will plant the flower boxes and fix shrubs and bushes for the Summer months.
CSA Shares at Verrill Farm
Verrill Farm’s new Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program offers ‘shares’ of the farm’s fresh produce for $25 per week for 20 weeks, June 20 – Nov. 21, with an up-front payment of $500. As a welcome for joining, every new CSA member will receive a coupon for a free 8” fruit pie.
“We are introducing a Verrill Farm CSA this year and have designed it so members will benefit from the variety of our crops,” says farm owner Steve Verrill, “and, because of all that we do at the farm, we are able to add extras unique to our CSA.”
CSAs have become popular because they provide an opportunity for consumers to partner with a local farmer by committing to purchase a ‘share’ of the farm’s crops ahead of the season. Some weeks, Verrill Farm’s CSA will offer choices including baked goods and other items made in the stand kitchen. CSA members will also receive weekly recipes and tips on handling produce as well as exclusive farm tours and pick-your-own opportunities. To join, pay by phone, mail or in person using a credit card or check. Information here.
Another CSA opportunity
Have you wanted to try a community-sponsored agricultural (CSA) program? First Root Farm in Concord has CSA shares available for the 2013 season. We farm on 2.5 acres of historic farmland in Minute Man National Historical Park using organic and sustainable growing practices. We grow over 30 different kinds of vegetables including pick-your-own peas, cherry tomatoes, and flowers. We are looking forward to an exciting season full of delicious produce and we hope that you will join us! Regular CSA share: 21 weeks June- October $650Extended CSA share: 25 weeks June- November $750 With additional flower bouquet share and winter share options. Pick ups Tuesdays 3-7 pm OR Saturdays 2-5 pm on the farm955 Lexington Road Concord, MA 01742 For more information and to sign up, please visit us or email firstrootfarm@gmail.com.
Dispatch from China!
Here’s a chance to donate to a program that provides eye glasses to young students in China. This effort is spearheaded by Caitlin Moss, CCHS Class of 2007 who is currently a 2011 - 2013 Teaching Fellow at Manghuai Middle School as part of Teach for China.
“This is my last semester teaching in China, and I am also participating in a
project that is happening at 12 Teach For China schools, which will bring
free eye exams and glasses for those who need them to our elementary and
middle school students,” Moss writes. “We are partnering with an organization called Education in Sight, and are fundraising so that we can provide exams and
glasses for free. Eye care is unavailable in many areas of rural China, and
what's more, most of our students can't afford glasses anyway. Unfortunately, this becomes a major challenge for them in the classroom if they can't see the board!”
Moss writes that the program has reached 60 percent of its $1,000 goal, “and a
number of wonderful folks from Concord have donated, including friends and
teachers from high school. Here is the link to the fundraising website.
“We've got a few more weeks to go until we will start eye exams at our school,” said Moss.
Interested in playing rugby? The Lincoln Sudbury HS Girls Rugby club is welcoming new members, including high school girls from Concord and Carlisle!
LSRHS Rugby founded a girls team in the spring of 2007. They are actively recruiting young, athletic, high school aged girls to
join the team. For more information:
- Check out the team website or Contact Head Coach Sarah Greeley at sarah_greeley@lsrhs.net
. There will also be Rookie Rugby (flag rugby) this spring, offered through Sudbury Parks and Rec for any kids in grades 5-8. You have to register through Sudbury Parks and Recreation.
Seed sharing. With the arrival of spring, Concordians with a green thumb can take advantage of the, dare we say, groundbreaking new Seed Lending Library, and learn about this first-in-the-state initiative. The mission of the Concord Seed Lending Library is to collect and share bio-diverse, locally-adapted plant seeds, cultivated by and for area residents. There is an active advisory board and a strong commitment to ‘grow’ the Seed Library starting this season with easy-to-grow varieties that thrive locally. See here for more information.
Betsy Levinson can be reached at betsy.levinson@gmail.com.
Teachers union president's dismissal sparks protest in Concord
CONCORD — Several hundred protestors, including many parents, gathered in Monument Square on Tuesday to rally around Concord teachers who contend their voice has been bullied into silence by the school administration.
The catalyst for the protest was the decision by Thoreau Elementary School Principal Kelly Clough not to renew the contract of veteran third grade teacher and Concord Teachers Association President Merrie Najimy.
Barbara Lehn has been a teacher with Concord's school system for 25 years. She said she has known Najimy since she was hired 18 years ago. She said the idea that Najimy could have been found deficient in every single area of her evaluation as suspect and "laughable."
"The evaluation system that exists has been misused and abused," Lehn said. "It's not because of her teaching, but because she is president of the Concord Teachers Association. … Merrie has been an exemplary teacher."
The action against Najimy is just the latest blow to the relationship between Concord teachers, and a group of parents who support them, the School Committee and administration.
On April 22, Town Meeting rejected a warrant article, brought forth by citizens petition, urging Concord's two school boards to "make new changes in the central administration of the school department to ensure a good faith effort toward greater transparency and fiscal responsibility."
Teachers and parents both referred to the 2012 TELL Mass survey of Massachusetts schools. According to TELL Mass, only 10 percent of Thoreau teachers agreed that there was an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect in the school; and only 18.5 percent said they thought that school leadership consistently supports teachers.
Speaking to the Concord School Committee Tuesday after the rally, resident Cheryl Kirkpatrick told the school board that issues were not isolated only to Thoreau School. She cited the low MassTell rankings, and stated that the district needs to start measuring climate every year.
Parent Kathryn Oh warned the administration and the school committee that parents would stand by Najimy, should her contract not be renewed.
"As parents, we will stand by her to the very end," Oh said. "We will hold all of you accountable, for all the pain and suffering [inflicted] upon the teacher and us, the community. Because we are suffering now."
Speaking to the School Committee, Concord resident and former school committee member Paul Horwitz, said "something's wrong with the process."
"People elected to this committee need to seriously think about that. It's not a question about whether we agree or disagree with your decisions. … It's the atmosphere in which we communicate. That's not the Concord way."
"Of course we're disappointed and discouraged about it," Superintendent Diana Rigby said, after the School Committee had adjourned. "We work really hard to promote teacher leadership, and we just have to work a different way for teachers to be more satisfied."
According to Rigby, each school is analyzing TELL Mass data to identify areas of improvement. Rigby said she is also working with the teacher's union on analyzing the data as well as "reviewing strategies to implement to increase teacher leadership opportunities."
Rigby said, “We're asking the teachers, 'What's not working, why not, and what would you do differently?'"
Najimy said in an interview that there has been a change in the past few years as to how the administration relates to its teachers. Increasingly, she said, teacher expertise has been marginalized, and the superintendent's leadership style has left many teachers out of the decision-making process.
"We want a relationship with the administration and the School Committee," Najimy said. "We just want our expertise to be acknowledged."
As to her own future, Najimy said she remained "cautiously optimistic" that, with two newly elected Concord School Committee members — Johanna Boynton and Kathleen Snook — that the administration could be instructed listen to teacher concerns.
Thoreau third-grade teacher Brad Bennette was not so optimistic, and said that, after 17 years of teaching, he's had enough. Bennett announced to protestors that he was resigning "in large part because of the corroded climate" of the district. He said he would not be returning, citing mistreatment of teachers and parents.
Teachers, he said, have become targets of the district's "union-busting" strategy.
"Respect is a two-way street," said protestor Kerry Barber, of Concord. "That's not what we're seeing in schools these days. Teachers are not feeling respected by the administration. They deserve so much more."
"I want to see accountability from the School Committee," Barber said.
"Teachers have noticed there was an erosion in our voice," said Matthew Goldberg, president of the Concord-Carlisle Teachers Association. Goldberg said that the administration has lacked transparency in areas ranging from the proposed demolition of the school's transportation building, to so-called top-down initiatives. "Merrie's situation highlights that."
Concord-Carlisle High School social studies teacher Johanna Glazer objected to mandates that were distributed by leadership with little input by teachers to the curriculum.
"The message we're hearing from the administration is that teachers don't matter," she said.
John Swinconeck can be reached at johnswinc@gmail.com.
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