Freshman Orientation at BHS Set for Thursday, Aug. 27

By Leave a Comment

Photo: Mr. Marauder.

The first day of school is always daunting, especially when it’s in a new building with people you don’t know.

In an attempt to ease those anxieties and make the transition from middle school a tad less stressful, the Belmont High School Connectors Program is sponsoring a Freshman Orientation for the approximate 300 raising 9th graders entering the High School on Thursday, Aug. 27, from 5 p.m. to  7:15 p.m. 

There will be a smaller Connectors event for upper-class transfer students on Friday, Aug. 28 at lunch time.

Events for the new students will include:

  • A student-led tour of the building,
  • Group meetings with guidance counselors,
  • Joining current students for a pizza dinner,
  • Parents are welcome for the opening panel from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Pre-registration or sign-up is unnecessary. 

The Connectors is a joint program of staff, teachers, students and the High School’s PTO to provide information, support and companionship so a new student’s adjustment to high school will go smoothly.

Swimmingly: Residents Swarm to New Underwood Pool Opener

By Leave a Comment

Photo: Off the slide and into the pool.

Lorraine Benoit had spent 10 hours on the job at the new Underwood Pool, literally opening the doors for the first day of swimming at the new $5.3 million facility on Monday, Aug. 10.

On a sunny, warm summer day, hundreds of Belmont residents – there was no official number because the counter was left in the front desk because it was so busy – entered the fence to take a dip in the two pools, rest on the grass banking and even voluntarily venture into the two bath houses to change and take a shower.

“Everything is ready to go. I’m just hoping everything goes well,” said Benoit, the pool’s manager who has been working at Belmont pools since 1964.

IMG_0219

For the early birds who came early, it was a chance to finally test the facilities which took nine months to build from ground breaking on a freezing cold November day.

“I’m here to swim laps,” said Jim Crawford, one of nearly two dozen residents – most of them pre-teens and younger – who waited patiently for the official opening at 9 a.m. 

“I figured I’d swim first thing in the morning and rest for the rest of the day,” said Crawford.

Julie Campisano brought her six-and-a-half year of twins who didn’t have to travel very far to reach the pool; they live across Cottage Street from the facility. 

IMG_0162

“We saw it being built all winter and couldn’t wait for it to be open. It’s so exciting,” said Campisano.

With many town officials present, including Town Administrator David Kale, the DPW’s Director Jay Marcotte and Health Director Angela Braun, the kids and adults marched in and much like when someone has a new car, tentatively entered the water, seemingly not wanting to spoil the new-ness of the premises.

But soon children where washing out of the slide, jumping off the diving board while the adults took a more placid approach, taking photos of their children or hitting the designated lap area.

“I’ve been coming here since I was a little kid and now I’m 73,” said Mary Turner, “from famous Waverley Square.”

IMG_0188

Turner, whose children and grandchildren all learned to swim at the Underwood, said she appreciated the chance to do laps “since you really couldn’t do that in the old pool.”

By 2 p.m., the pool was nearing capacity as blankets covered the grass and the sound of kids and splashing could be heard from School Street to well down Concord Avenue. While the crowds diminished by afternoon, people were still arriving as shade settled across the entire location.

IMG_0213

With the exception of the super slippery pool surface leading into the pools – especially noticeable in the “kiddie” pool when entering from the “zero entry” section – which required Department of Public Works employees to place bath and auto mats in the area, the “new Underwood” won a near universal thumbs up from residents.

“It’s been a great success, despite the little problem we’ve experienced,” said Anne Paulsen, chair of the Underwood Pool Building Committee, who stood drying off after test driving the facility. She said the slipping issue would be resolved after the pool is closed for the season when the contractor will apply a textured “sand” paint.

IMG_0190

Just after 6 p.m., Benoit was preparing for the umpteenth “deep end test,” in which young swimmers demonstrate the swimming prowess required to allow them to leap off the diving board into 12 feet of water. 

“It’s been fabulous today,” said Benoit, who praised the gaggle of lifeguards, many who had spent the entire day at the site. 

“Everyone did a great job today,” she said as she drifted over to the next group of youngsters ready to brave the test. 

Slip Sliding Away! New Underwood Pool Closed ’til Saturday, Aug. 15

By Leave a Comment

Photo: The problem area at the Underwood Pool is the smooth entry area for the kiddy pool.

Only one day since opening to rave reviews and a full house, the town has decided to temporarily close the new Underwood Pool until Saturday morning, Aug. 15.

But for those who visited the facility on Monday, the reason for the closure is fairly obvious. 

The three-day shut down will allow contractors and town employees to apply non-skid material to pool surfaces after several residents who first arrived at the pool Monday nearly slipped and fell since their feet could not grip on the smooth pool surface, especially at the entry of the “kiddy” pool. 

The Higginbottom Pool (located at Belmont High School) will be open for public and lap swimming Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, August 12-14, from noon until 8 p.m.  

For information on pool passes and future schedule updates, visit http://www.belmont-ma.gov/recreation

Underwood Pool Opens for Swimming, Fun Monday at 9 AM

By 2 Comments

Photo: It’s open.

After three years of planning, financing and a last-minute rescue, the new Underwood Pool will be open officially for swimming on Monday, Aug. 10 at 9 a.m.

Here are a few facts you should know about the pool:

FEES: (You can make your payment at the pool by check or cash, only)

Season Passes:

2015 Season: $150

Day Passes:

Adult: $10 Child: $5 – a child is considered to be anyone still in high school

Multi Pack: three day passes
Adult: $25 Child: $12.

2015 HOURS:

  • Aug. 10-Sept. 1: 9 a.m. to dusk.
  • Sept 2-3*: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Sept. 4-7*: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    *Dependent on weather and staff availability Please check the Recreation calendar or call 617-993-2768 for daily information.

PARKING:
Wellington School: When school is NOT in session, residents are encouraged to park at the Wellington School on School St, directly up the hill from the pool. These 75 parking spaces are closer and simpler than much of the Concord Avenue street parking. (Note: The parking lot entrance is on Orchard Street)

Concord Ave Drop Off: There is a new drop off zone on Concord Ave. You can drop off your family and gear at the drop off, and then we recommend parking at the Wellington School.

Cottage Street: Parking is allowed ONLY on the right side of the street. Please be respectful of your fellow residents and DO NOT BLOCK DRIVEWAYS! Drop off is not allowed on Cottage St.

Bicycle Parking: Bike racks are available for up to 36 bikes. Please use the bike racks; bikes may NOT be locked to the pool fence.

STORAGE:
Lockers: Lockers are available for day use only. There is NO OVERNIGHT STORAGE. Lockers will be cleaned out and the contents disposed of each evening.
Locks: You should provide a lock to protect your personal belongings. THE RECREATION DEPT. IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN PERSONAL BELONGING

POOL, DECK & LOCKER ROOM SAFETY:

Showers: A cleansing shower is required before entering the pool. Please apply sunscreen 30 minutes before entering the pool.
Rubber Pants: Children not yet toilet-trained MUST wear rubber pants in the pool. Pants are available for sale at the pool, $3/pair.

Dangerous Behavior

Running, pushing,  in or out of the pool, is prohibited. Head first diving is allowed only in the diving area. Jumping from the sides in NOT allowed in the family pool.

Water Toys and Equipment

  • Floatation devices (life vests, noodles, etc.), snorkels and masks are prohibited. Fins are permitted while lap swimming only.
  • Water guns are prohibited at all times.
  • Only small toys, like water balls and diving rings, are permitted.

Seating

Towels and blankets may be set up for sunbathing on the grass areas only, not on the pool deck.

General Safety

CELL PHONES MAY NOT BE USED IN THE LOCKER OR REST ROOMS.

Smoking is prohibited at all times on all pool property including grass areas and walkways.

Pool Management has the right to invoke other restrictions if there is a safety risk.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES:

Food and Drinks: Food and drinks are allowed only in the designated eating area. Patrons may bring food from home or order food to be delivered to the pool to be consumed in designated areas only. Coolers or open containers may not be stored in the eating or vending areas or on the deck.

Tables: Tables may not be reserved or held with towels or bags. They are first-come, first-served.

Glass: NO GLASS CONTAINERS ANYWHERE ON POOL GROUNDS.

This Week: Jamberries, Sciencetellers and Jungle Jim Set to Entertain the Kids

By Leave a Comment

On the government side of “This Week”:

  • The Temporary Net Metering Working Advisory Group is meeting on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 10-12, at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall. 
  • The Community Preservation Committee will be meeting to discuss possible projects for the next funding cycle in fiscal 2016 on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. in Town Hall. 
  • The Community Path Implementation Advisory Committee is meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. in Town Hall to discuss prioritize challenges the path faces.
  • The Underwood Pool Building Committee will meet on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss final issues concerning the new Underwood Pool that is now open to the public.

• Belmont Public Library’s “Chillin’ with Villains – Marvel Movie Series” continues on Monday, Aug. 10 at 6:30 p.m. with a screening of “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” in the Assembly Room.

• Pre-School Summer Story Time at the Benton Library, Belmont’s independent and volunteer run library, on Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 10:30 a.m. Stories and crafts for children age 3 to 5. Parents or caregivers must attend. Siblings may attend with adults. Registration is not required. The Benton Library is located at the intersection of Oakley and Old Middlesex. 

• Children Movies will be screened in the Belmont Public Library’s Assembly Room at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 11. Bring your lunch and a blanket to eat picnic-style.

• A special evening show of Superhero Training with Jungle Jim takes place on Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Belmont Public Library where Jim will lead kids of all ages through the rigors of what it takes to be a true superhero.

• Yoga for Everyone at the Beech Street Center from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Join Susan Harris, a registered yoga teacher and associate professor of Nutrition at Tufts University for this Iyengar-inspired class which practices yoga postures slowly and with attention to alignment and safety, adapted to the abilities and needs of individual students. Cost: $15/class. Non-seniors, beginners and experienced are welcome. This is a non-Council on Aging class held at the Beech Street Center. For more information, call Susan at 617-407-0816.

• Head off to a place where ‘super’ heroes exist with the Sciencetellers on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 2 p.m. in the Assembly Room of the Belmont Public Library. There will be several exciting, hands-on experiments for kindergarteners and elementary school students. 

• Four Guys in Tuxes will be performing at this week’s Payson Park Music Festival beginning at 6:30-ish p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Payson Park Playground, at the corner of Payson and Elm. 

• Local kid rock band Ethan and the Jamberries will perform classic songs along with original tunes on topics ranging from rocket ships to underwear in the Assembly Room of the Belmont Public library on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 10:30 a.m.

• Belmont Farmers Market, come rain or shine, on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the municipal Parking Lot in Belmont Center.

• It’s OTAKUrabu at the Belmont Public Library. Watch anime, do a craft/activity, plan for future events and nibble on some Japanese snacks (while they last – they’ll go fast) on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. in the Assembly Room. Provided free, thanks to the Friends of the Belmont Public Library. Just drop in, no registration required. Email librarian Kylie Sparks at ksparks@minlib.net for information or call 617-993-2873.

• “Love is Strange,” the critically acclaimed 2014 French-American drama staring Alfred Molina, John Lithgow and Marisa Tomei will be screened at the Beech Street Center, 266 Beech St., on Friday, Aug. 14, at 1 p.m.

Belmont Opens New Pool with Pre-Swimming Ribbon Cutting

By Leave a Comment

Photo: Belmont Selectmen Chair Sami Baghdady and Underwood Pool Building Committee Chair Anne Paulsen cut the ribbon to open new Underwood Pool on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015.

For Ellen Schreiber, the opening of the new Underwood Pool on Saturday, Aug. 8, was a bit like a dream come true. 

“We’ve been working on this two years and you have a vision in your head of what it’s going to look like, what its going to be. Then to see it come real is … unreal, it’s surreal,” Schreiber told the Belmontonian. 

IMG_0054

Ellen Schreiber (left, with her children) with Belmont Savings CEO Bob Mahoney and Anne Paulsen at the opening of the new Underwood Pool.

“I’ve been coming by the site every other day to watch the progress for months and month, just watching it take shape, from the first holes in the ground to the water filling the pools. It was fantastic,” she said.

Just nine months after a groundbreaking on a blustery and frigid November morning, hundreds of residents took the opportunity to tour the $5.3 million facility with its two pools – one designed for smaller children and the other with a lap lanes and a diving board – a pair of bath houses, a modern pump house, increased landscaping and lot of amenities. IMG_0151

“This will be my slide,” said one young resident as she scaled the top rung of the new twisting slide that will send children (and some adults) into the children’s pool. 

The new pool complex began three years ago through the urging from Peter Castinino, the retiring director of the town’s Department of Public Works. The project was funded with Community Preservation Act funds, money from Town Meeting and a successful debt exclusion in April 2014.

The project nearly collapsed in September 2014 when the original contractor abandoned the project requiring the building committee to raise $388,000 to meet the next lowest bid. It took only 45 days for the committee to raise a little more than $411,000 in October, in large part to the generosity of the Belmont Savings Bank Foundation which donated $200,000 and work by Schreiber who headed a community-wide fundraising campaign. 

“We have a lot to celebrate today as we begin a new life of the Underwood Pool,” said Anne Paulsen, the chair of the Building Committee. 

“It is the hope of the Building Committee that many generations of Belmontians will enjoy a respite on a hot day and lots of children will learn how to swim [at the pool],” she said.

The ceremony was a chance to fete the entire pool community, from town officials and entities such as the Community Preservation Commission to the Town Meeting, the Underwood family which supported the project, the architect (Thomas Scarlata of Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype, Inc.), general contractor (New England Builders and Contractors of Methuen) and the Underwood Pool Building Committee that shepherd the project to a successful conclusion.  

Special praise was bestowed on Belmont Savings Bank’s CEO Bob Mahoney and Schreiber who joined forces to raise the $400,000 shortfall when the first contractor left the project. 

“May I see you next time here with swimsuits on,” said Board of Selectmen Chair Sami Baghdady.

As a mother of two children who will use the pool, a member of the building committee, the person who spearheaded the last-minute funding and a recreational swimmer, Schreiber said the goal of the new pool was to make it a multi-aged pool with lap lanes, the slide, diving board, grass and sprinklers for the littlest kids. 

“There are a few places where I have watched my two children grow up. It was a life saver when my kids were young because I would meet my friends here and have real adult conversations,” she said.  

“With the new pool, we have a place where people can gather again. For me, it’s about community, a place where people can come together and everyone enjoys something,” said Schreiber. 

Letter to the Editor: Moderator Asks Town Meeting To Be ‘Positive and Constructive’

By Leave a Comment

Town Meeting Members:

In my eight years as Town Moderator I can recall few if any issues that have so aroused the passions of Town Meeting Members as the subject of [today’s] Special Town Meeting. I have taken advice from many people and spent many hours seeking to plan the meeting in order to focus the discussion in the fairest and most civil way possible.

Given the emotions surrounding this issue, I am concerned that the debate could easily deteriorate into accusations and personal attacks. While I will not allow that, I am making a special plea to each of you to keep your remarks positive and constructive. There are opposing opinions, of course, which is the point of a healthy debate, but one can make a strong argument for one’s position while still being respectful of another person and point of view. How we conduct ourselves tomorrow night will be important in allowing us to work together on this and the many important issues facing the town.

I urge your cooperation. Thank you.

Mike Widmer

Moderator

Summer Produce in Abundance at Belmont Farmers Market

By Leave a Comment

Photo: Belmont Farmers Market.
 
The Belmont Farmers Market welcomes August with all of the summer favorites are available in abundance. Corn, peaches, peppers, summer squash, and tomatoes are ripe and perfect for easy summer dinners. 
 
The market is open from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays throughout the summer and lasting until the final week of October. The market is located in the municipal parking lot at the intersection of Cross Street and Channing Road in Belmont Center.
Schedule of Events:
  • 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Tasting by Stone Hearth Pizza located in Belmont Center.
  • 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Storytime.
  • 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Art at the Market: Local artist Anne Katzeff will be guiding this perennial favorite market activity for artists of all ages and abilities, especially children. Plenty of art materials will be available, and together we will draw or paint whatever captures our imaginations: veggies, fruits, flowers, people, breads, snacks, you name it.
Monthly and Occasional Vendors: Boston Smoked Fish Company, Coastal Vineyards, Couët Farm and Fromagerie, and Seta’s Mediterranean Food,
Weekly Vendors: Boston Smoked Fish Company, C&C Lobsters and Fish, Dick’s Market Garden Farm, Fior D’Italia, Flats Mentor Farm, Foxboro Cheese, Gaouette Farm, Goodies Homemade, Hutchins Farm, Kimball Fruit Farm, Mamadou’s Artisan Bakery, Sfolia Baking Company, Stillman Quality Meats.
 
Food Truck: Jamaica Mi Hungry.

Belmont Gallery of Art Celebrating Tenth Anniversary with Retrospective

By Leave a Comment

Photo: The Belmont Gallery of Art. 

In July 2005, the Belmont Gallery of Art opened its doors to the public for the first tinmevc                                                                                                   exhibiting in the past decade more than 60 unique, compelling, inspirational shows and serving as a catalyst for raising the visibility and importance of the arts and artists here in Belmont and elsewhere. 

To mark its milestone anniversary, the BGA will stage a special 10 Year Retrospective Show, “10!” in September 2015, to honor the work of the many artists who made the gallery’s first ten years such a wonderful success. The exhibit will feature one work from each participating artist.

If your work has been shown in the BGA any time in the last ten years, we invite you to submit new work for inclusion in the anniversary show. We invite the Belmont Gallery of Art’s supporters to join us in celebrating the first ten years of what’s become one of Belmont’s most important cultural assets.

Please visit the BGA’s website at www.belmontgallery.org for more detailed info and art submission guidelines.

Key Dates for the “10!”show.
  • Deadline for submission: Aug. 31.
  • Announcement to artists of works selected: Sept. 4.
  • Drop-of of selected works at the BGA: Thurs., Sept. 17 and Sun., Sept. 20.