Bruce Cook, a Westwood resident for over 60 years, has made a lasting impact on the community as one of Westwood's most beloved crossing guards since 2011. Tied to Westwood since the second grade, Bruce Cook has touched the lives of hundreds of children, parents, and community members.
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By Tom Leyden
Photo By: Rick Bern Photography
There's a calmness when Bruce Cook arrives on the scene for work each morning, a still akin to water in a pot on a freshly-lit burner. You know, soon enough, the water will reach a boiling point, as will this stretch of Nahatan Street, but in those first few moments as Bruce surveys the scene, he is serene, appreciative and focused on the task ahead.
Like the water, the morning activity slowly crescendos to a furious bubble. A bright sun rises from the east beyond the high school, offering a glare that balances promise and potential danger at the same time. With each minute, the volume of cars increases as sleepy children leave their homes and head for Thurston Middle School, with Bruce eagerly waiting to help them safely navigate the route.
His manner is deliberate, with movements and mannerisms rehearsed and perfected over the course of a 12-year career as one of Westwood's most beloved crossing guards. Bruce Cook does not seek attention, but his dedication to positivity and the well-being of our children demands it. Many cherish their daily interactions with Bruce, and hundreds more see the face and probably say, "I know that guy. But I don't really KNOW him."
How could you when you simply drive by? A passing wave can't possibly open the door to someone's personality, heart or inspiration.
Bruce's family moved to Westwood in the mid-1950s, when he was in second grade. He attended Sheehan when it was Pond Plain and Thurston when it was Westwood Junior High, ultimately graduating from Westwood High School in 1967. His roots are deep and his dedication to our community is unwavering. After spending more than 25 years on the corner of Chamberlain and Pheasant Hill, he moved across the street in 1981, from his childhood home to his current house, with his wife, Jenni, and two boys, P.J. and Jesse.
Bruce and Jenni met at church. They are faithful, well-read and thoughtful. Bruce attended the American Institute of Banking and spent more than 40 years in security and life safety in the banking industry.
"Many times I thought that I survived because of my memory," said Bruce as we sat at his dining room table over a cup of coffee. "A question would be asked about something, an incident or procedure from the past, and somebody would inevitably say, 'Go ask Cookie.' In fact, I was copied on an email one time. Somebody was asked a question and he responded to it, and he ended his email by saying, I got the answer from the official bank archives - Bruce Cook's memory."
Like many of us, Bruce faced the prospect of reinvention when his job was eliminated, in 2011, after more than four decades. He was prepared for the transition, ready for something new and was already feeling the tug of public service.
"Do you remember the movie Forrest Gump, when Forrest is running? At some point he stops and says, 'I'm tired, I want to go home.' I said to a colleague at the bank, 'I've been here 40 something years. I'm tired. I want to go home. I want to go home and do something different while I'm still young enough to do it.' She said, 'That makes me sad, but it's a good attitude.'"
The bank's loss was Westwood's significant gain, as a man who bleeds green and white has fully dedicated the next dozen years, and many more to come, to community, His kids, his friend's kids and a new generation of students he learns more about each morning and afternoon will parade through his crosswalks until the day he retires.
Bruce's morning shift positions him on Nahatan Street, controlling traffic near Thurston and the Senior Center and assisting walkers from The Maze, each of whom he greets with a smile, a high-five and a word of encouragement. In the afternoon, Bruce moves to the intersection of High Street and Mill Street, shepherding parents and children across a busy stretch of 109, slowing traffic and making sure distracted drivers don't make a tragic mistake.
"The job definitely has its moments because you do get people who don't want to stop, or I'll stop one side and look to stop the other side, and the one who I'd stopped first will zip through," he said. "So you have to be paying attention to everything that's going on around you all at once. I never sit in my car, because I feel like I might miss something if I'm sitting in the car keeping warm or keeping dry. Regardless of the weather, I will stand out there. I never turn my back on a car and I never turn my back on a kid, because that's just when something will happen."
Bruce recently published a memoir of his time as a crossing guard entitled, "Between The White Lines." This touching excerpt encapsulates a man who is guided by a deep faith in God and committed to his neighbors, young and old.
At the elementary school crossing post where I was first assigned, a mom had three daughters who crossed with me. Each morning as they crossed the street, mom called out "I love you."
One morning I told her that she made my day with her callout to her daughters. The memory of Sandy Hook and other school tragedies lurked subconsciously in her mind and she, herself being a teacher, wanted her daughters to hear those three simple words in case a tragedy struck before day's end. It is a terribly sad commentary that such a thought must pass through a mom's mind as she sends her children off to school. God, help us!
No community is immune to acts of violence. Violence takes many forms and has many contributing causes - loneliness, social isolation, bullying, and despair are real issues today. They are factors that can lead to serious and sometimes fatal consequences. Those consequences are not necessarily school shootings. Consider suicide, which is a leading cause of death in teens and young adults.
How does this apply to me as a crossing guard? Simply put, my daily interactions with every student must convey a message that he and she matters.
Every day, the first point of school contact for most students is a school bus driver or a crossing guard. It's a face to face interaction in the partnership that exists between the schools and those of us who are charged with getting students safely to school.
I strive to set a positive tone for each student's day. The students who arrive at my crosswalk each morning receive a smile and a "good morning" along with any other words that seem appropriate to the moment. "How are you today?" "Have a good day!" "Welcome to a new school day!" "Do your best today!"
In the afternoon I ask students about their day. I tell them to have a fun afternoon and I remind them that I will see them in the morning. We share smiles. We may laugh.
Some days we share "high fives." These are simple actions, simple phrases, but they are said and done on purpose.
Can I empathize with a student who perhaps is having a challenging day and offer some measure of encouragement? Are there students at my crosswalk who feel lonely or isolated, or are afraid or worried? Do some just appreciate a warm smile?
I remember one morning at an elementary school when the school bell rang. The students lined up and entered the school building. My shift was over. I was about to leave when I was surprised to see a student all alone in the empty school yard. I walked over and asked him if he was okay. He said yes, but the expression on his face told me otherwise.
We walked around the building to the main entrance. I walked slightly ahead of the student. Every few steps, I looked back at him. He was lingering. At the entrance a teacher appeared and opened the door. I told her that I had found the student alone in the school yard. She thanked me and took the student in hand. Whatever might have been on that young person's mind, he was now in a safe and caring place.
My care for the students at the crosswalk extends beyond getting them safely across the street. They aren't just students crossing the street. They are kids with names and faces.
They are people with hopes and dreams. I want to encourage them with kindness and care and a sense of community at my crossing post because for them, what happens today counts forever.
My favorite benefit of this job is that it follows the school calendar. I don't work in the summer. How nice it would have been to have summers off when my sons were school boys. We would have had so much more time together to play.
From time to time a television news station will feature a story about a crossing guard who has served her or his community for many years, and continues working into their 80s and 90s. A few acquaintances have told me they expect I'll still be standing guard at a crosswalk when I'm 90. Time will tell. For now, I have no plans to close out my time as a crossing guard.
I would like to serve as a crossing guard for as many years as I spent in the corporate world. Unfortunately, age and time are against me. Being a crossing guard is far more fulfilling to me than a white collar job in a corporate office. Every day at the crosswalk continues to be an adventure. I love this job, I love the kids, and I love serving them each day.
Oh, the precious memories. I remember a story that a mom told me some years back. One Sunday afternoon she was taking her daughters to the schoolyard playground. Cars rushed by as she stood patiently at the crosswalk. None of the drivers were yielding to her. Her three-year old daughter looked up at her and asked, "Mom, where's Bruce?"
Somewhere on the horizon a morning awaits when I won't be at my crossing post. Another child will ask, "Where's Bruce?"
One day it will be time for me to retire. I expect it will be a bittersweet day. I will stop traffic one last time to let one last student cross the street. I will exchange one last "high five." And then I will turn in my badge and my police radio, and hang up my uniform.
What I won't be turning in will be the wonderful memories of the kids I have served, the parents I have met, and the experiences that have marked my career. They will be with me forever.
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You can find Bruce's book, "Between The White Lines," on Amazon.com. It's a lovely, wholesome read for the entire family and provides great insight into a life of service to the residents of our town. I encourage you to pick up a copy and share it with your children.
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Learn more about the people and businesses in Westwood as Tom Leyden hosts a series of one-on-one conversations.
By Rachael Botelho, Westwood High School Class of 2026
When you think of the word faith, what comes to mind?
It could be thoughts of religion, prayer, or even hopes for some kind of change. All of these things are true. Faith is the basis of people's lives. Whether you practice religion or not, there is some type of faith in your life. When you have faith in someone or something, you put your trust in something else. In times of need or hardship, people need some kind of refuge because internalizing their problems can be hard on their mental health.
At times, stress can become an overwhelming factor in a person's life, and it can distract from the pieces of life that are truly important. Growing up in a religious school at a young age, I never really realized the impact that my own faith could have on my life. In elementary school, the class would read our prayers aloud: one prayer in the morning, before each meal, and finally it was expected that we pray to our guardian angel before bed.
I never really paid much attention to the prayers when I was younger because as a first grader, I had my mind more set on eating my bag of goldfish rather than blessing it. However, once I reached middle school, I saw some of my closest friends turning to faith for a sense of peace and serenity away from the distractions of everyday life. As a little sixth grader, I looked up to some of the senior girls and how hard they worked to be the best version of themselves. Mesmerized by the overall radiance and determination some of these girls had, I observed them and the looks on their faces at mass. I noticed the deep thought in their faces throughout prayer and the reflective way in which they received communion. That was the moment I realized that faith was not just about attending a Sunday mass or absent-mindedly reading a prayer out loud, but it was about the way in which a person decides to live their life and who they decide to lean on in times of need.
Transitioning out of a Catholic school, I began to recognize the diversity of faith even within the small town of Westwood, with over six different houses of worship within the center of town and the profound influence faith had on people's lives. When practicing a faith (and especially during prayer), burdens are lifted off of a person's shoulders by taking time to reflect on a situation. This is a healthy way of recognizing that while there may be struggle, faith is something that cannot be lost and instead can sustain you through the trials of life. Especially in current situations where people are being persecuted for their faith, it has become even more prominent in people's lives.
This is why I am always grateful to live in the town of Westwood where faith is such a big part of people's lives. From one of Westwood’s many local parishes, St. Margaret Mary, where I go for Sunday mass and enjoy the music of the live guitarist that plays along with the mass, to Temple Beth David where my close friend attends; we both find comfort in our faith in the town of Westwood.
She describes her experience as “a great place to connect to my faith where I recite prayers and enjoy watching the services.”
Faith helps us take a minute to reflect on life, and it can have a significant impact on our mental health because it gives us a time to calm ourselves down, focus on the now, and be in the moment. This is a big aspect of faith because it allows us to face each trial of life with a more positive outlook. Everytime I get too stressed out, I take a moment to reflect on the situation (which seems easier said than done), but after trying it a few times, it can significantly impact how you view what may seem like a burdening situation.
Faith directly impacts mental health, and having a community that supports various faiths is so important because with faith comes instilled virtues of kindness, love for others and yourself, and perseverance no matter the trials you might face.
By Tom Leyden
The 7th and 8th Grade Mass Elite Football teams once again enjoyed success, advancing to the FBU National Championship Tournament in Naples, FL.
In the 12 years that Mass Elite has been competing on the regional and national stage, the expectations have been getting higher and the results on the field have been impressive.
"We're getting better players coming to try out," said PJ Vande Rydt, a Westwood resident, coach and founder of the program. "Everybody wants to play for Mass Elite now. There's been more competition as far as All-Star teams, but everybody wants to come out and play for Mass Elite because of the players we've advanced into both private schools and into the Division One college level. Our level of play has increased dramatically and we're putting better players on the field."
The 7th and 8th grade teams won regional titles in Newport in early December before making the trip to the Elite Eight in Naples. Composed of players from around the region, the Mass Elite teams have set a standard of excellence that demands commitment from both players and parents.
Michigan guard Zak Zinter, named a First Team All-American this year, is among those who played in the Mass Elite Football program, along with his brother, Preston, who recently finished his freshman year at Notre Dame. The kids have witnessed those success stories and are realistically hoping to play at a high level, themselves.
"Every year we have kids come back and come to our camps," said Vande Rydt. "This year, Preston Zinter came back and spoke to the kids and for them to see someone like him, or his brother, or Kalel Mullings, or Ronan Hanafin, who's a Clemson, come out and speak, that's huge.
They know these guys have played in the program. They strive to be like them, and there's definitely kids, especially on our seventh and eighth grade teams that definitely have Division One potential."
Unfortunately, both the 7th and 8th grade teams fell short in the championship. The 7th grade team lost in overtime to Maryland and lost to the two great teams of Georgia and Utah. The 8th grade team had a huge win against Southwest Florida (40-30), but ultimately lost in two close games with Maryland and Utah. While both teams did not come home with a championship, they are continuing to grow and advance within the league.
Congrats to the players and coaches for completing another fantastic season.
By Tom Leyden
It's always refreshing to sit across the table from high-energy people who are enthused by what they do and fully committed to their work, which was exactly what I experienced when I had the chance to connect with Nicole Mollica, the Director of Admissions at Archbishop Williams High School, and Ryan Roach, Admissions Assistant. Filled with belief in what their school offers, each shared an interesting perspective on the current state of Catholic education in greater Boston and how Archbishop Williams fits into the equation.
"That's a loaded question, but a question we've been getting a lot, especially since last fall and winter," said Mollica, in her third year leading the admissions department. "There were a few private, Catholic high schools in the area that closed last winter. A couple were single-sex schools and a couple were co-educational schools. So, as families start to begin the high school search process for their student, they are looking for certainty of the longevity of the school and available options for their students in terms of rigorous academics, extracurricular involvement and athletics. Being a co-ed, Catholic Grades 7 through 12 school, we are one of the few remaining and we're doing really well."
"Just joining the team a few months ago, I'm learning more and more about the school each day," said Roach. "The whole culture at Archbishop Williams is great. It's an environment where everyone gets along and cheers each other on, whether it's athletics, theater - whatever. Just having that family environment is unique and sets us apart."
Students at Archbishop Williams are surrounded by solid, updated infrastructure and a faculty committed to building character and intellect concurrently.
"We've put $20 million into campus improvements over the last 10 years," said Mollica. "We want families to trust that their student will be comfortable here and thrive as they pursue getting into the college of their dreams."
The 7th and 8th grade classes are typically capped between 70 and 90 students, and each high school class expands to approximately 150.
"We want to keep our classrooms small so students really get to know their teachers well and have that personalized support as they make that adjustment to a significantly larger school," said Mollica.
The regular application deadline for the 2024-25 school year is February 1, and the admissions team is always eager to answer any questions families might have. You'll hear a friendly, engaging voice on the other end of the line who has the answers to your questions.
"Our President, Dennis M. Duggan, Jr., Esq., a proud alum of the AWHS Class of 1970, calls this our 'Second Golden Age,'" said Mollica, "We're really doing well, we're proud of who we are and what we're providing to our students and families. It's a great community to be involved with."
Listen to my full conversation with Nicole Mollica and Ryan Roach by visiting the Westwood Living Podcast Network, available on SoundCloud, Spotify, Amazon, Buzzsprout and YouTube.
Nearly a year ago, the Westwood Town Clerk’s Office and Council on Aging came together to bestow a special honor upon Carmella "Millie" Hunt, recognizing her as the newest recipient of the revered Boston Post Cane. In this time-honored tradition, initiated by The Boston Post in 1909, the symbolic cane is presented to the person who holds the distinction of being the town's eldest member. Millie held the honor as Westwood's eldest until December 14, when she passed away at the incredible age of 103.
The tradition of the cane began in 1909 when Edwin Grozier, a publisher of The Boston Post, forwarded to the Board of Selectmen (in 700 towns across New England) a 14K gold-headed ebony cane with the request that it be presented with the compliments of The Boston Post, to the oldest male of the town to be used by him as long as he lives (or moves from the town), and at his death handed down to the next oldest citizen of the town. The cane would belong to the town and not the man who received it. Not until women gained the right to vote in 1920 did the Post finally give its blessing for women to possess the cane in 1930.
Due to the historical value of the cane, it is kept in a glass case at the Westwood Council on Aging with each recipient's name inscribed on a plaque next to the cane. At the ceremony, Millie was presented with a gold replica pin of the cane as a keepsake of this momentous occasion.
Millie's daughter, Lucette, shared that "[The ceremony] was quite a celebration and we were all very honored that she held the title as the oldest in town." Less than a month before her passing, Millie celebrated her 103rd birthday.
Having called Westwood home since 1959, Millie certainly earned her retirement from preparing and serving lunch in the former Pine Hill School cafeteria during the years that her three children attended to working 18 years in the administration office of the Westwood Public Schools Superintendent. Cheers to a life well-lived and thanks to Millie for giving so much of herself to our town. We are grateful.
Thanks to Lucette Nicoll for nominating Carmella to be this month’s Senior Spotlight! If you would like to nominate a Westwood Senior Citizen to be featured in a future Senior Spotlight, please contact Westwood Living Content Coordinator, Diana Bezdedeanu, at dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com
By Kaleena Murray, Amplified Insurance
Building a successful service-based business is, at its heart, developing a community of people who work well together. A people business needs people who care not just about the customer, but each other as well. At Amplified Insurance Partners, we strive to create a culture of collaboration, belonging, and community - both within the workplace and within the local community at large.
Valued Members of the Workplace
Showing employees that they’re valued members of the workplace doesn’t take any grand breakthrough or initiative. It’s all the small things practiced consistently and, over time, baked into our culture. A comprehensive approach to employment communicates that employees are valued every day they come to work.
A positive onboarding experience introduces employees to the company culture and helps them quickly find their place. The first priority for new team members is to meet other team members! Meet and greets give space for introductions, storytelling, and how their role impacts the greater vision of the organization. Just as important as learning the day-to-day work is learning about each other.
Annual engagement surveys make sure we’re intentional about seeking employees’ feedback. While everyone is encouraged to share their thoughts at any time, an annual survey ensures that important feedback isn’t lost in the day-to-day, formalizing feedback to gain perspective and make changes. When it comes to giving feedback, every employee’s voice matters. An open-door policy, where all employees are encouraged to ask and share, extends to the senior leadership team and even the CEO directly.
The result is a strong cross-collaborative community that demonstrates a dedication to helping others. Relationships between employees and managers are strong and supportive, contributing to a culture of community.
Participating Members of the Local Community
When our internal community thrives, our customers and the broader local community do too. In recent years, our business has sought to promote good causes throughout Boston and Western Massachusetts.
Clothing, toy, and food drives take a collective effort to support those who are in need. Employees with a good, or sometimes not-so-good, swing participate in a multitude of charity golf fundraisers. And we’re all behind the local Parkway Little League initiative!
If any employees have a particular cause that they’re invested in, those open feedback channels aren’t just limited to business. We’re always open to ideas in or outside of the office.
At our core, Amplified is passionate about providing an exceptional experience for both our employees and customers alike. We lead with our dedication to helping others, guiding how we provide easy insurance solutions to individuals and businesses, our community involvement, and how we continue growing each other.
By Abby Stern
I was a newlywed; 2001 was the year, and we moved into our first ever home.
We chose Westwood for the close proximity into Boston, the reputation of the school system and for the smaller town feel. For 23 years we have called this town our home.
We raised our two boys here.
We spent our early years at the Tot Lot and School Street Playground. I joined the Westwood Young Women’s Club as a new Mom and met so many other new Moms; many who I still see around town to this day. I have fond memories of the Winterfest held each year and can still picture the community coming together to decorate holiday cookies and play games inside of the high school.
I soon learned about the convenience of Roche Brothers, our favorite Chinese restaurant (shout out to Westwood Jade), Lamberts salad bar, the friendliness of the CVS pharmacists, trick or treating in the MAZE was the place to be and how nothing beat a spring afternoon at Bubbling Brook. Westwood quickly became home.
My sons went through the Westwood Public School system. They both started at the Westwood Integrated Preschool (and we are all so fortunate to have been taught by the late Kathy Scales; lovingly referred to as Ms. Kathy; who left a permanent impression within my heart.) Following was Deerfield, Thurston Middle School and WHS; all which not only gave my kids a solid education; but also taught them about friendships, community and self advocacy.
Over the past 23 years I have seen University Station come to life, Islington get a facelift, and now the merging of Deerfield and Hanlon schools. We have seen stores and restaurants come and go but there is one thing that has remained the same; our love of the town.
Our kids are in college now and we are turning a page. We are not sure what that next page will look like but for now, we are saying goodbye to the town where we have lived for over two decades.
I thank you for welcoming us.
I am honored to have met so many of you through our kids, PTO meetings, early days on the playground, friends of friends and finally; through Westwood Living.
Thank you, Westwood, for such amazing memories.
If I could leave you with a final word it would be this; In this crazy upside down world; please stay kind to each other.
Publisher's Note - Abby Stern was the original Content Coordinator for Westwood Living, joining the team before the first issue went to press in May, 2022. That leap of faith does not go unrecognized and her commitment to our early growth was key to our success. I wish Abby, Derek, Jared and Jeremy nothing but positivity in their journey ahead and we will always remain connected thanks to our Westwood bond. Thank you, Abby.
Abby Stern the original Content Coordinator for Westwood Living and Westwood resident for 23 years.
By Dr. Kurt Hofmann, Boston Sports & Shoulder Center
As winter blankets the world in a serene layer of snow, it also ushers in a season that poses unique challenges to our bodies, particularly our upper extremities. From slipping on icy sidewalks to engaging in winter sports, the risk of upper extremity injuries increases during this time. Understanding these potential injuries and taking preventive measures can help individuals navigate the winter months safely.
One common upper extremity injury during winter is the result of slips and falls on icy surfaces. Icy sidewalks and driveways become treacherous pathways, and an unexpected slip can lead to injuries such as wrist fractures, sprained elbows, and shoulder dislocations. The instinctive reaction to break a fall with outstretched arms can place immense stress on the wrists and elbows, making them susceptible to injury.
To mitigate the risk of slips and falls, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Investing in ice cleats or slip-resistant boots can significantly reduce the chances of losing footing on icy surfaces. Additionally, being mindful of surroundings and avoiding rushed movements can help prevent abrupt falls that may result in upper extremity injuries.
Winter sports enthusiasts also face an increased risk of upper extremity injuries. Whether skiing, snowboarding, or engaging in activities like ice hockey, falls and collisions can lead to injuries ranging from shoulder separations to wrist sprains. Proper equipment, including helmets and wrist guards, is essential to minimize the impact of falls. Learning and practicing proper techniques, especially for activities like skiing and snowboarding, can also contribute to injury prevention.
Snow shoveling is another winter activity that poses a risk to the upper extremities. The repetitive motion of lifting and throwing snow can strain the muscles and joints of the shoulders, arms, and back. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as rotator cuff injuries may find snow shoveling particularly challenging. To prevent injuries, it's important to use an ergonomic shovel, take frequent breaks, and use proper lifting techniques, such as bending the knees and keeping the back straight.
Cold temperatures can exacerbate certain upper extremity conditions, such as arthritis. The joints may become stiffer and more prone to pain in colder weather. Individuals with arthritis or other chronic conditions should take extra precautions during the winter, including keeping joints warm with layers and staying active to maintain flexibility.
Preventive measures extend beyond the physical realm to include maintaining overall health. Adequate hydration, a balanced diet rich in nutrients, and regular exercise contribute to overall well-being, making the body more resilient to the challenges of winter. Staying physically fit can also enhance muscle strength and joint stability, reducing the likelihood of upper extremity injuries.
In conclusion, winter's chill brings with it a set of challenges that can pose risks to our upper extremities. Understanding the potential injuries and taking proactive measures to prevent them are essential for a safe and enjoyable winter season. Whether it's navigating icy sidewalks, participating in winter sports, or handling snow removal, a combination of awareness, proper equipment, and a focus on overall health can help individuals protect their upper extremities and embrace the beauty of winter with confidence.
By Tom Leyden
It didn't take long for Patrick Otey to fall in love with basketball. His dad, Michael, instilled the affection for roundball, which is obvious when you pull into the family driveway in Westwood and see an illuminated half-court.
Around the Otey's kitchen island, I sat with Patrick, a 6'5" freshman in high school, along with Michael and his wife, Ilana, chatting about an exciting present and an even more promising future for the young man who's ranked as Massachusetts' #1 prospect in the Class of 2027.
Patrick is currently enrolled at Cambridge Arts, Technology and Science Academy in Braintree, a boarding school focused on pairing high-end academics with a serious athletic regimen, preparing some of the world's best athletes for a future in collegiate sports. The CATS Academy basketball program competes in the NEPSAC Class A division, one of the top high school conferences in the nation. It's not unusual for some of the biggest names in college basketball to stop by for a game.
"It's an international school, with people from all over the world," said Patrick. "It's a cool experience, and we get to know people from all different types of countries. It's a boarding school, so it's prepping me for college - doing my own laundry, a lot of independence."
The structure of a jam-packed schedule is also preparing Patrick for what's ahead - regular wake-up calls in the 5 o'clock hour with workouts and practices scheduled tightly around study opportunities. Keeping grades up is a key to overall success, and Patrick has all A's and B's on the report card.
"Patrick's self-motivated. That's the best part," said Michael. "Academically, he seems to understand what he needs to do. He needs to be as good as he is in basketball, as he is academically. If you don't have those two, you're not going to get to the level he wants to get to."
It's clear if Patrick stays on the current course, he'll have his choice of college to attend. Already, he's received a number of scholarship offers from some of the top programs, including Providence.
He's also had the chance to represent Brazil in the FIBA 16U competition, the highlight of his fledgling career.
"Playing with the Brazilian team was one of the best experiences I've ever had in my life," said Patrick.
"I went to San Paolo, trained with them for two weeks. I barely knew the language, so it was kind of weird, but there's obviously people that could speak English, so that was helpful. It was so professional - I felt like I was in the league."
"I'm very amazed at how far he's gotten," said Ilana. "I know the point that he is at right now, and it's moving so fast. He's an extremely hard worker. School is very challenging. They have all that structure, but there's still a lot of time dedicated to basketball. He is doing well, considering the way that works."
Patrick already is giving back, as he hosted a camp in Brazil in late December. He embraced the country's basketball culture and wanted to engage with younger players. Back in the U.S., he's focused on his club basketball season, competing with the Expressions Elite team in the Nike circuit, consistently drawing the attention of college coaches and improving his skills every day.
Thanks to our partners at Islington Pizza for presenting Patrick with a gift card to celebrate his accomplishments. If you want to nominate someone to be a future Dental Arts of Westwood Athlete of the Month, email Diana Bezdedeanu at dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com
Patrick is one of the nation's most highly-rated players in the class of 2027.
By Kristen Dooher, R.N.
It's flu season, and strengthening your immune system is paramount. Three key nutrients - Zinc, Vitamin C, and Glutathione - have emerged as champions in boosting immunity. With their support, navigate this cold and flu season with confidence and resilience.
Zinc: An Essential Mineral for Immune Defense
Zinc, an important trace mineral, fortifies your immune system, significantly contributing to the production and function of white blood cells, the body's chief line of defense against infections. Additionally, it assists in the formation of antibodies designed to counteract harmful pathogens. With flu season upon us, ensuring adequate zinc levels is becoming increasingly vital.
Zinc plays a pivotal role in immune health. It's crucial for the development and function of key immune cells like neutrophils and T-cells. Zinc also regulates inflammation, ensuring it aids rather than harms the body. It has antiviral properties, is proven to inhibit the replication of certain viruses, and aids in wound healing and tissue repair.
Vitamin C: Your Immune System's Best Ally
Vitamin C is a crucial antioxidant, vital in fortifying the immune system. It plays a pivotal role in stimulating the function and production of white blood cells, essential for warding off infections. This vitamin may curtail the length and intensity of cold and flu symptoms. Beyond simply boosting the immune system, Vitamin C enhances the skin's defense against pathogens.
Vitamin C is a robust antioxidant that protects immune cells from damage and ensures their optimal function. It boosts the production of white blood cells and aids in collagen synthesis, strengthening skin barriers. While not preventive, Vitamin C can lessen cold symptoms and duration, enhancing the immune system's ability to handle various pathogens.
Glutathione: The Immune System's "Master Antioxidant"
Glutathione stands distinguished as the "master antioxidant" in our body. It plays a crucial role in shielding cells from oxidative stress and assisting in detoxification. For a strong immune response, balancing antioxidants and free radicals is essential. Glutathione champions this cause, ensuring optimal function of immune cells and offering enhanced defense against flu viruses.
Glutathione stands out as a leading antioxidant, shielding immune cells from oxidative damage and supporting the function of vital T-cells and B-cells. It aids in detoxification, enhancing liver function, and removing toxins. Glutathione balances immune responses, preventing overactivity that can lead to chronic issues. Studies suggest its supplementation strengthens immunity, especially in compromised systems, and offers potential antiviral properties.
Hydration: Staying Hydrated is Essential for Immune Health
Adequate hydration is essential for various reasons, such as regulating body temperature, ensuring joint lubrication, preventing infections, delivering nutrients to cells, and maintaining proper organ function. Additionally, staying well-hydrated can enhance sleep quality, cognition, and mood. It is vital for feeling good and maintaining good health.
Navigating Flu Season Proactively
Flu season invariably brings challenges. To strengthen your defenses, consider integrating IV therapy, supplements, or a mix of both into your wellness approach. Adopting a proactive wellness strategy positions you better against the peak of the flu season.
By Ariel Dangelo, Nightingale Wealth Solutions
How does a cool $13 million dollars sound for Christmas? This holiday season, we had the pleasure of welcoming a new client who was truly astonished to discover the extent of their inheritance. This remarkable windfall was the result of years of diligent saving and astute investing by their mother, whom we'll refer to as Cinthia.
Cinthia's journey took an unexpected turn when she faced serious health challenges that necessitated memory care. Her two devoted children, Rob and Meredith, found themselves tasked with unraveling the complexities of her estate, which consisted of over 30 accounts, spanning various types including checking, savings, money market, CDs, IRAs, Roth IRAs, and non-qualified accounts (in addition to a few properties).
Upon our initial assessment of Cinthia's estate, it became evident that she had not established any trusts, leaving her vulnerable to a substantial estate tax burden upon her passing. To address this concern, we collaborated with our estate and tax planning attorney, Matt Guanci, to establish an Irrevocable Grantor trust. Meredith, entrusted with power of attorney, then began the process of transferring assets into this trust.
Working closely with our team, Meredith and Rob successfully consolidated the numerous accounts into five streamlined accounts, categorized by owner and taxation type. This strategic move not only centralized their assets but also shielded them from probate and saved them millions in estate taxes, thus resolving the primary challenge facing Cinthia's estate.
The next crucial step was determining how to manage this newfound wealth. Rob and Meredith engaged in a series of exercises to determine their financial goals, their intended spending, and the legacy they wanted to leave for future generations. After deciding to set aside $5 million to preserve for future generations, we structured a private placement life insurance policy, owned by the irrevocable trust.
For this purpose, we selected a Defender Trust, known for its durability across generations and stringent criteria for fund usage. This approach not only created an investment vehicle with tax-free gains for an entire generation but also ensured funds could only be utilized for specific, trustee-approved purposes, such as medical expenses, education, business ventures, and marital & child support.
This strategic maneuver is expected to result in this portion of the family trust to be valued at approximately $600 million upon Meredith's passing, all free from taxation.
Given the significant long-term gains on the remaining assets, we implemented a direct indexing strategy to strategically tax loss harvest the account. This approach preserved their asset allocation while reducing capital gains exposure.
In the case of their valuable real estate, a charitable remainder trust was the ideal choice, as the property had appreciated significantly, exceeding $3 million, and was mortgage-free. We recommended short-term renting of the property to generate passive income to cover Cinthia's memory care expenses, which exceeded her Medicare and pension coverage. The expenses related to property repairs and updates could be deducted from this income, further minimizing taxes. Upon eventual sale, the trust will receive payments over 20 years, with the remainder allocated to charitable causes. To safeguard any remaining equity, a secondary, smaller life insurance policy was established, payable to the trust upon Meredith's passing.
Working with families like Rob and Meredith's showcases our expertise in tax mitigation, asset protection, and wealth accumulation strategies. Initially overwhelmed by the intricate details of their financial situation, they found solace in our clear and comprehensive plan. Together, we've created a generational legacy in Cinthia's name, a testament to her life and the bright future she envisioned for her family.
One of the most moving moments of 2023 was witnessing Meredith's emotional reaction, stepping out of our meeting briefly, as she never imagined such a transformative outcome for her family. It's experiences like these that remind us why we are dedicated to what we do.
**All client names and identifiable factors have been changed**
Securities and advisory services offered through Packerland Brokerage Services Inc., an unaffiliated entity - Member FINRA & SIPC.
By Lynn Taylor
When nine-year-old Brendan Dooher recently walked into the Westwood Public Library with his parents and brother, he was surprised to see his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins all waiting for him. It was not until he saw some photos he took, prominently displayed in front of the staircase, that he understood why they were there.
The third grader at the Sheehan School had recently checked out one of the library’s drones, and used it to take photos of well known landmarks around Westwood. The library staff was so impressed by his photos of his school, Buckmaster Pond and Blue Hills at sunrise, that they decided to print some of them and show off his hard work.
“I was really surprised and happy,” Brendan said. “I had fun playing with the drone but I didn’t know that the library would put up my pictures.”
In addition to drones, the Library of Things has a multitude of items that can be borrowed by using your library card. For kids, there are puzzles, games, and learning kits like the Alphabet Learning Locks and a Bug Discovery Kit. The Social and Emotional Learning Collection includes a Calm Down Kit, a Feelings and Emotions Grab and Play Game, and a Building Empathy Grab and Play Game.
The adult collection has an array of items to be used around the house, on the go, for education, or just for fun. They have a blood pressure monitor, playing cards and a checkers set with Braille, and even a walking cane and pocket translator. Book clubs can get materials to help facilitate their meetings, and the musically inclined can check out instruments like ukuleles, keyboards, and drum sets.
If you’re heading outdoors, there are beach tents and canopy tents to keep the sun off of you, and bike pumps, pickleball sets, and flag football kits to keep you active. During the winter weather, karaoke sets, mahjongg, and jenga sets will keep you busy while indoors. Brendan likes to play hockey, but if you’d rather do arts and crafts during the colder months, there is a Cricut printer and knitting needles available to borrow as well.
For technology lovers, there are portable DVD players, bluetooth speakers, Go Pro cameras, and converters to digitize old camcorder tapes. There is even a Nintendo Switch for gamers. Of course, there are always books, movies, and a variety of programs happening at the library as well.
For Brendan and his family, the metal detector is another popular item to borrow. They especially enjoy it when his grandfather throws coins into the sand on the beach for them to find. With so many items available to borrow, there is something for everyone.
The Westwood Public Library, located at 660 High Street, is open seven days a week. The Islington branch at 273 Washington Street is open Monday to Thursday.
Congratulations, Brendan, for being this month’s Standout Student! Nominate a future Tinsley Team Standout Student of the Month by emailing Diana Bezdedeanu at dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com and if you'd like to give back to your community and sponsor a regular feature in Westwood Living, contact Tom Leyden at tleyden@bestversionmedia.com
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