editor@southboroughnews.com

Archived Page 14

August 12, 2007 to  August 18, 2007

August 18, 2007 - Linda Hubley.  As tropical storm Erin diminishes leaving Texas flooded, Hurricane Dean winds up and heads into the Caribbean. Hurricane Dean, currently a Category 4, is expected to attain a Category 5 storm strength as it roars through toward Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. That will make it one of the stronger storms to hit the area. So now that the hurricane season seems to be heating up, are you ready?

Being storm ready or disaster prepared should be an essential part of your daily life. No one knows when a disaster might strike. In the New England area we seem to be the safest from tornadoes, fires and earthquakes. But those can strike here just as they strike other parts of the country. We are definitely more prone though to power outages, snow storms, wind damage, flooding and coastal damages. Although it seems rare for hurricanes to hit the New England area. It just depends on the season. New England has been hit repeatedly since colonial times and records were kept. There have been infamous hurricanes that have hit Massachusetts such as the hurricane of 1938, Edna, Carol, Donna, Gloria and Bob just to name a few.

In preparation for a hurricane, possible evacuations from low-lying areas or power losses you should have an emergency disaster kit available for both persons and pets. Essentials of a kit would be manual can opener, canned food, dried fruit, non-perishable food, batteries, battery- operated radio, flashlight, bottled water, matches, sterno, prescription medicines, extra diapers, formula & baby wipes; first aid supplies and personal hygiene items. More info on emergency disaster kits can be located at

http://www.mass.gov/Eeops/docs/mema/HurricaneSupplyList.doc

http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_3_,00.html

http://www.southboroughfire.org/ (click the green Emergency Management button)

For pets, it can be a different story. Many shelters will not take pets in with the people. It would be wise to pre-plan for your pets care and/or evacuation ahead of any disaster. Many pets that were left behind in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina met untimely deaths due to drowning, starvation and lack of care. Take your pet indoors, do not leave it outside on a leash or in a cage. If you can, make prior arrangements with a kennel or locate a hotel where your family and your pet will be welcome if you have to evacuate.

If for some reason you do not evacuate and you must stay in your home, plan on having the above supplies but also add to it for a pet emergency disaster kit. Items to keep in such a kit would be copies of the pets paperwork such as health certificate showing dates of shots such as rabies. Have a photo of your pet to show if the pet ends up in a pet shelter or gets lost. Make sure you have canned or bagged pet food, water, pet medicines, leash, halter, lead, harness, pet carrier or crate available. Most shelters require a cage or carrier. Include a pet first aid kit, food and water bowls, grooming tool, small pet toy, plastic bags, baggies or kitty litter/box to pick up after your pet.

Pets will be frightened during an emergency. They should always be secured. Most likely there would be new sights and smells and lots of action depending on the pets location. If you are at a shelter and your pet gets nervous or tends to nip make sure you bring a muzzle. For more information on pets in emergencies there is a group of citizens that was formed in 2003 right here in Southborough. The website is:

www.southboroughanimaldisasterpreparedness.org

Or check out the State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team at http://www.smart-mass.org/

So be smart and prepare for emergencies for yourself, your family and your pet(s).

August 18, 2007 - Reminders from St. Matthews Church.  There is no 11:00 AM Mass on the following Sundays, 19th and 26th.  Upcoming activities include the St. Matthew's Annual Parish Picnic on Sunday September 9, 2007 at Split Rock Site at the Hopkinton State Park.  There is a St. Matthew's Newcomers Social on Sunday September 16th and definitely save the date Monday, September 10th for the annual St. Matthew's Golf Tournament.  Sponsors and foursomes needed!

Almost Time?

August 18, 2007  - A snow plow sits idly at the MBTA lot awaiting the mounds of snow.  Some people might think of snow plowing operations today as the weather is cooler.

Do you have a loved one in the military serving overseas?  If you have a family member serving in Iraq, Afghanistan or another country you may contact the Southborough Veterans' Officer, Irene Tibert at 508-481-0210.  She will see that they get packages, support and recognition.  Please contact her if you would like to have your loved one supported locally.

Stick em up

August 18, 2007 - A Walking Stick Bug climbs a Paper Birch Tree.  Adult Walking sticks look just like a stick being brown to greenish brown.  The Nymphs are green.  They usually are pretty motionless during the day but are active at night eating leaves and plant sap.

August 17, 2007 - A Great Blue Heron cautiously wades through the millpond in search of food.

ARHS Boys Cross Country try-outs and practice will be at 3:00 PM at the ARHS bleachers on the following days: August 27, 28, 29, 30 & 31. 

ARHS Girls Cross Country try-outs and practice will be at 2:00 PM at the ARHS bleachers on August 27 & 28.

ARHS Girls Volleyball tryouts/practice: 8/23 & 8/24 9:00 - 11:30 AM and 1:00 - 3:00 PM gyms 1 & 2; Saturday 8/25 9:00 - 11:30 AM gyms 1 & 2; 8/27 & 8/28 3:00 - 5:30 PM gyms 1 & 2; 8/29, 8/30 & 8/31 2:45 - 5:15 PM.

Algonquin Regional High School Golf tryouts and practice will be held Thursday 8/23 at 2:30 PM at the Juniper Lakeside.  They will meet again at 2:30 PM at Juniper Lakeside on Monday, 8/27 and Tuesday 8/28.

 Algonquin Boys Soccer tryouts and practice are scheduled for Thursday August 23, Friday August 24, Saturday August 25th from 9:00 AM to 11: AM and from 2 PM to 4 PM at the high school.  They will meet Monday and Tuesday August 27th and 28th from 3:00 PM to 5PM at the high school.

Algonquin Cheer Leading practice and tryouts will begin Thursday, August 23 and Friday, August 24th in the Dance Room at ARHS from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Algonquin Freshmen, JV and Varsity football tryouts/practices begin  6:00 AM to 8:30 AM and 5 PM to 7:30 PM Monday August 20 and 21.  Freshman Football will be  August 22, 23, 24 at 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM and again at 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM while Varsity and Junior Varsity Camp starts at 6:00 AM on those days. Saturday 8/25 Freshmen meet 8:00 to 10:30 AM. Varsity JV camp and scrimmage return at 5:00 PM  Monday 8/27 and Tuesday 8/28 all levels meet 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

00:01 speeding, Presidential Road  More Police log

Having fun

August 17, 2007 - The photos are posted on the Library page from yesterdays Mr. DJ's Ultimate Kids party.

FIRST  WEST  NILE  VIRUS  POSITIVE  MOSQUITO  

Boston  —  The  Massachusetts  Department  of  Public  Health  (DPH)  announced  today July 31, 2007,  that  West  Nile  virus  (WNV)  has  been  detected  in  mosquitoes  in  Massachusetts  for  the  first  time  this  year.  The  mosquito  sample  was  collected  on  July  26  in  the  town  of  Berkleyin  Bristol  County.   

In  2006,  there  were  three  human  cases  of  WNV,  with  no  fatalities.  While  WNV  can  infect  people  of  all  ages,  people  over  the  age  of  50  are  at  higher  risk  for  severe  disease.  WNV  is  usually  transmitted  to  humans  through  the  bite  of  an  infected  mosquito.  "Although  this  type  of  mosquito  is  unlikely  to  bite  humans,  it  reminds  us  that  the  virus  is  present  in  our  environment,"  said  DPH  Director  of  Communicable  Disease  Control,  Dr.  Al  DeMaria.  "You  can  help  reduce  mosquito  populations  around  your  home  and  neighborhood  by  emptying  anything  that  collects  water.  And  remember,  it  is  never  too  late  to  start  making  the  use  of  personal  protective  measures  a  habit."  People  have  an  important  role  to  play  in  monitoring  for  WNV  and  protecting  themselves  and  their  loved  ones.  

Be  Aware  of  Peak  Mosquito  Hours  –  The  hours  from  dusk  to  dawn  are  peak  biting  times  for  many  mosquitoes.  Consider  rescheduling  outdoor  activities  that  occur  during  evening  or  early  morning.  Otherwise,  take  extra  care  to  use  repellent  and  protective  clothing.  Clothing  Can  Help  reduce  mosquito  bites.  Although  it  may  be  difficult  to  do  when  it’s  hot,  wearing  long‐sleeves,  long  pants  and  socks  when  outdoors  will  help  keep  mosquitoes  away  from  your  skin.  Apply  Insect  Repellent  when  you  go  outdoors.  Use  a  repellent  with  DEET  (N,  N‐diethyl‐m‐toluamide),  permethrin,  picaridin  (KBR  3023),  or  oil  of  lemon  eucalyptus  [p‐methane  3,  8‐diol  (PMD)]  according  to  the  instructions  on  the  product  label.  DEET  products  should  not  be  used  on  infants  under  two  months  of  age  and  should  be  used  in  concentrations  of  30%  or  less  on  older  children.  Oil  of  lemon  eucalyptus  should  not  be  used  on  children  under  three  years  of  age.  

Drain  Standing  Water  –  Mosquitoes  lay  their  eggs  in  standing  water.  Limit  the  number  of  places  around  your  home  for  mosquitoes  to  breed  by  either  draining  or  getting  rid  of  items  that  hold  water  Check  rain  gutters  and  drains.  Empty  any  unused  flowerpots  and  wading  pools,  and  change  water  in  birdbaths  frequently.  Install  or  Repair  Screens  –  Some  mosquitoes  like  to  come  indoors.  Keep  them  outside  by  having  tightly‐fitting  screens  on  all  of  your  windows  and  doors.  

Dead  crows,  blue  jays  or  robins  may  be  a  sign  that  WNV  is  circulating  among  the  birds  and  mosquitoes  in  an  area.  Call  1‐866‐MASS  WNV  to  report  a  dead  bird.  By  reporting  dead  birds,  you  can  play  an  important  role  in  monitoring  WNV.   

More  information  is  available  on  the  DPH  website.  Information  about  WNV  and  EEE  is  also  available  by  calling  the  DPH  recorded  information  line  at  1‐866‐MASS‐WNV  (1‐866‐627‐7698).  

Do the Limbo

Do the Macarena

August 16, 2007 -  More photos will be online on the Library page later this week from Mr. DJ's Ultimate Party.

From the Planning Board:  

Dancing with Mom

August 16, 2007 - Moms were surprised yesterday listening to Mr. DJ when he sent the children out to search for mom and then ask them to dance. The Southborough Library ended their summer reading with Mr. DJ's Ultimate Kids Party.

Which Way Did They Go

August 16, 2007 - Looking for where there might be food coming from these geese on Bigelow Road look a bit confused.

Prepping

August 16, 2007 - Peter Phaneuf compacts the soil around the base of the All Wars Monument in preparation for the new facelift the Monument has been approved for at this year's annual town meeting using CPA funding.

08:43 EMS Sadie Hutt, A 29, C30, 1 LT, 2 Firefighters  More Firelog

    While copying the police logs the last few weeks, I've noticed an increase in domestic violence calls, arrests or investigations.  They appear to be a cross section of town geographically and financially.  It seems it doesn't matter if you are well off or just about making it domestic violence crosses all genders, religions, cultures and wealth status it doesn't discriminate. Domestic Violence ends up affecting more than just a few lives.  It affects families, children, in-laws, friends and relatives. Depending on the scope of the violence it can even affect taxpayers as arrests are made and the case goes through the justice system.  If physical abuse, that requires a doctor or hospital there are costs associated with the case.  Those professionals such as Doctors & nurses, Fire and Police personnel and even lawyers that are touched by domestic abuse cases can be impacted by the emotional strain that they forge.  Therefore, I am running once again this very important article to let you know that there is help and assistance out there.

      August 15, 2007 -  from a June 27, 2007 editorial by Linda Hubley -  Have you ever been hit, verbally and emotionally abused or sexually assaulted and didn’t know where to turn? Domestic violence can be physical, emotional, sexual, neglect or something outside these defines. Well now there is a new place to turn if you encounter any of these actions. The Southborough Police Department recently launched a new program for domestic violence. Officer Meredith K. Lobur is the first to hold the designation of Domestic Violence Officer in Town. It is also the first time ever that Southborough Police have had such a program. I spoke with her this morning to learn more about the program and help the Southborough Police Department spread the word about the new domestic violence program. First and foremost, Officer Lobur said all inquiries or complaints will be kept confidential. She encourages all people in an abusive relationship to contact her at the Southborough Police Department. The program is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and she is on call for when situations arise involving domestic violence. She can help with restraining orders, legal situations, referrals and discuss other available options. Officer Lobur goes on to say that the new domestic violence program works with the courts, the District Attorneys office, Community Service programs and battered women’s shelters.

     Southborough Police Officer Lobur said that she and Sergeant Jane Moran are the only two female officers on the Southborough Police Department and both are certified in sexual assault investigations. By law, victims of domestic abuse can request to speak to just a female officer and the police department has to honor that request. Officer Meredith Lobur is reaching out to all persons that have or are in an abusive relationship to contact her. To request help you need not be married, can be in a same sex relationship, teen dating situation or a parent/child relationship. Neither does it matter your residency or immigration status. You do not have to be a  Southborough resident to seek this assistance. Officer Lobur says she takes an holistic approach to domestic violence and reminds all that the Southborough Police can be part of the solution and are very accessible with this new program in place. If you would like to contact her call the Southborough Police Department at 508-485-2147 and ask for Officer Meredith Lobur or Email her at mlobur@southboroughpd.com

What more to say

August 15, 2007 - The Red Sox need a little more help as the summer winds down.  The sign should be changed shortly to welcome the children back to school.  In two weeks students will be back to class.

Cordaville Millpond Dam

August 15, 2007 - The Sudbury River running low has little water spilling beyond the dam off Route 85 by the MBTA lot.

August 15, 2007 - Also at the library don't forget that you can get cool passes to a variety of museums and venues.  These passes are donated by the Friends of the Southborough Library.  These passes can either reduce the costs or allow the pass holder in free.  They are: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. $5.00 will be charged for up to 4 visitors; Roger Williams Zoo in Providence Rhode Island 50% discount admission. Museum of Fine Arts Boston, 2 passes @ $5.00 admission fee each.  Worcester Art Museum pass admits 4 patrons free of charge; Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Boylston, each pass admits 4 persons; Museum of Science Boston, a discount pass for up to 4 people (not good for Omni Theater or Planetarium.  Other passes available include Discovery Museum in Acton, MA which admits up to 3 people @ 50% off admission; Ecotarium in Worcester admits 2 adults @ $4.00 and kids/seniors @ $3.00, children under 3 free; Children's Museum in Boston up to 4 @ $2.00 per person; Davis Farmland, Sterling, MA pass admits up to 6 people @ $8.95 per person (not valid weekends and holidays, pass valid at megamaze weekdays in August only); Massachusetts State Parks Pass and the New England Aquarium at Central Wharf in Boston for $7.00 per visitor (passes not valid during July and August on whale watches or Harbor cruises).  Passes are available on first come, first serve to holders of Southborough Library Cards or Southborough residents who have cards at other CWMARS libraries.  You may reserve passes in advance.  Call or visit the Southborough library for more information on the passes available.

Red Bull

August 14, 2007 - Zeus a Red Belted Galloway bull is back at Breakneck Hill Conservation land.

Sharp Landing

August 14, 2007 - A dragon fly lands on the needles of a blue spruce.

Southborough meetings August 13, 2007 to August 17, 2007

Vultures Upside-down

These Turkey Vultures were sitting in the dead tree over the Cordaville Millpond.  It was an interesting shot to see their reflection in the still waters of the pond.  They remained their quite a while before one by one they flew off to another dead tree in the woods on the other side of the pond.

Senior Center Weekly Schedule

There were plenty of bees around the Purple Loosestrife at the Cordaville Millpond.  The Loosestrife is very invasive and you can see it marching in and filling the pond more and more with every passing year.  Although very beautiful, it takes up habitat of our native plants and has little value to our native wildlife.

ARHS Boys Cross Country try-outs and practice will be at 3:00 PM at the ARHS bleachers on the following days: August 27, 28, 29, 30 & 31. 

ARHS Girls Cross Country try-outs and practice will be at 2:00 PM at the ARHS bleachers on August 27 & 28.

Gated Ramp

August 13, 2007 - New gate and posts mark the new access ramp for the Southborough Fire Department's emergency boating access should there be an emergency in that section of the Reservoir system.

Check out our Advertisers

August 13, 2007 - Don't forget to check out the Southborough News advertisers.  They help to keep this site up and running.  Looking to upgrade to a larger house or different neighborhood? check with Lorraine Estella of Realty Executives. She will help you find what you are looking for.  Have you been feeling very fatigued watching the stock market slip up and down? Maybe you need a good massage so check out Shannon at Peaceful Minds to put your mind and body at ease.  So you have your house but you are thinking of adding an addition, sunroom or perfect garage? Give Jeanette at Thomson Architects a call. Your little girl or boy keeps begging you for dance lessons.  Where do you go? Check out Annemarie's Dance Centre.  Annemarie is celebrating her 30th year and if you sign up for the pre-school classes and mention you saw it on the Southborough News, she will waive the registration fees.  I thank both my advertisers and my readers for making Southborough News the number one online source for Southborough, MA. Thank you, Linda.

The Wild Bunch

August 13, 2007 - Just kidding.  A great group that consists of L-R Police Officer Kevin Landry, St. Mark's Minister Craig Lister, Police Officer Rick Mattioli and Police Dispatcher Joe Bennett.  Photo was taken earlier at the Senior BBQ sponsored by the Southborough Police Department.

August 12, 2007 - Submitted by reader Carol Willoughby, these balloons were taken in Hudson, MA at the third annual Hot air Balloon Fest  as a scholarship fundraiser.  The Balloons were sponsored by the Hudson Elks where they also lifted off.

Like old Times

August 12, 2007 - Two old trucks sit on a lawn on Deerfoot Road.  The Red truck advertises Deerfoot Farms, once a very popular and well-known farm in Southborough.  Deerfoot farms was started by Joseph Burnett in 1854.  Much of the farm was razed in preparation for the reservoir system.   The farm was famous for its dairy products and later sausages.  One special Guernsey cow named Deerfoot from the farm, was selected to go to Antarctica and Little America with Admiral Byrd on his 1930 expedition.

Near Perfect reflections

August 12, 2007 - The Cordaville Millpond is very still reflecting back almost a perfect image.

ARHS Girls Volleyball tryouts/practice: 8/23 & 8/24 9:00 - 11:30 AM and 1:00 - 3:00 PM gyms 1 & 2; Saturday 8/25 9:00 - 11:30 AM gyms 1 & 2; 8/27 & 8/28 3:00 - 5:30 PM gyms 1 & 2; 8/29, 8/30 & 8/31 2:45 - 5:15 PM.

Baby Turkeys

August 12, 2007 - These youngsters were spotted in a backyard on Parkerville Road.  There have been a lot of sightings recently of Turkeys with flocks of babies.

MBTA sign

August 12, 2007 - Sign at the MBTA station gives a history lesson of the Cordaville Woolen Mill and the history that Southborough played in the textiles era.  The parking lot sits where the old mill used to be.  The mill eventually fell into disrepair, fires and vandalism over the years after it had closed.