Bruce Male, 2012 Best In Show winner, returns his 1984 Delahaye 135 M Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet to the Misselwood property in preparation for the 2013 Concours d’Elegance.

Male’s 1984 Delahaye 135 M Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet

Bruce Male’s 1948 Delahaye 135 M Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet made its appearance at the 2012 Misselwood Concours d’Elegance, where it took the Ervin ‘Bud’ Lyon III Best of Show Award, named after the North Shore car collector and automotive entrepreneur who passed away early 2012. At auction, this car could probably feature between $200,000 and $300,000.

Delahaye, the automobile manufacturing company which was started by Emile Delahaye, has a history that goes back as far as 1845 and started out producing machinery for brick manufacturing and later stationary engines for industrial purposes that led to automobile production in 1894. Most of the cars produced were nondescript, but dependable. In 1935, Delahaye purchased Delage, a company known for turning out sports and Grand Prix cars, and that changed the direction of Delahaye. The Type 135 debuted in 1935 with in-line, six-cylinder, 3.2-liter engine equipped with triple Solex carburetors producing 113 horsepower. By 1945, the Delahaye was sold mostly in chassis-only form and many beautiful bodies were created by carrosserie including Chapron, Guillore, Saoutchik and one of those leaders of French design, Joseph Figoni.

The Type 135 is considered as one of the most famous and prestigious vehicles produced by Delahaye. In both design and racing competition, it was very successful. Designed in 1934 it was quickly entered into races such as the 24 Heures du Mans, the Monte-Carlo Rally, and the Paris-Saint-Raphael motor race, where it had great successes at being a competitive and reliable automobile.

We recently invited people to share the best advice their mom has ever given them. The responses were great (and numerous). As we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend and honor mother’s who are with us now, who have passed, and those who soon will be, we thought we would share some of the words of wisdom with you. Have a great day!

June D. Flood: Whether it be making a cake, constructing a project or living a purposeful life, the best advice my mother has given would have to be, “Read and follow the directions”. Not always easy but worthwhile when put to practice.

Judy Lu Lacey: “Just be happy”

Rosie Pietal: My mother always reminded me that everyone is equal. Regardless of wealth, skin color or gender!

Chrisse Santos: Use your head, its there for a reason!

Renée Gannon: When someone makes you mad or upset, don’t retaliate, just kill ‘em with kindness!

Rose Fisher: Be patient

Gilliane Melvin: Life is 10% of what happens to you, 90% on how you react to it. Having a positive attitude will always be beneficial no matter the situation is.

Elizabeth Carey: My mom loves John Lennon, so “Life is what happens to you when you’re busy making other plans.”

Tim True: Do your homework

Meg Erickson: Stand up straight and walk on the sunny side of the street!

Di Meade Hoffman: Treat everyone as you want to be treated, Everyone deserves it and you will reap the rewards.

Mikki L. Wilson: “Watch what you say to people, especially those you love, because you never know if those will be the last words they ever hear.”

Christine Cronin: To stay healthy, and respect and trust myself and not follow blindly because someone said “it’s the thing to do”. She is right, healthy and still giving great advice at 83!

Suzanne Marie DeWitt: “Life isn’t fair.” Her words didn’t make me happy at the time, but now I’m realizing how gentle teaching about this fact could help us all accept difficulty as it happens.

Gina Warner

Grafton resident, Gina Warner, will be taking part in The American Diabetes Association’s movement to Stop Diabetes® by riding in the annual Tour de Cure^®. This cycling event is happening on Sunday, May 19, 2013 at the Topsfield Fairgrounds in Topsfield, MA to help raise funds to change the future of diabetes and help stop this devastating disease.

Warner was diagnosed 39 years ago, just before her first birthday. When her husband asked what she wanted to do to celebrate her 40^th birthday, she quickly explained how she didn’t want a party. “But what I do want is for our family and friends to ride in the Tour de Cure with me.”

Warner chose to ride for many reasons. “I love to ride my bike and have been participating in triathlons for the last few years with the biking portion always being my favorite. Riding keeps me active and healthy. My children need to see that diabetes is in no way an obstacle and does not need to change your quality of life,” Warner explains some of her reasons. There are plenty of other reasons as well, including all of the diabetics in her family and the desire to one day soon find a cure.

Having been diagnosed in the 1970’s, Warner has seen how far modern medicine has come. “There was no blood sugar testing, no manufactured ‘human’ insulin but [instead] insulin from animals, no insulin pumps, glucose tabs, or CBGM systems,” Warner recalls. “Times have changed and modern medicine and technology were things that my friends and I with diabetes could only dream of when we were kids. It is because of the ADA and their continued research and commitment that those childhood dreams are now a reality.”

The money to fund this research, and more, comes from the help and fundraising efforts of communities across the nation. The Tour de Cure is one of these fundraising events.

Tour de Cure is designed for anyone from the occasional to the experienced cyclist with routes from the 15-mile family ride to 100-mile Gran Fondo, a century ride. The routes all feature rest stops with food to fuel the journey and volunteers to cheer riders on.

As a type 1, Warner rides in the Tour de Cure as a Red Rider. The purpose of the Red Rider program is to support everyone who lives with diabetes, type 1 and type 2, and showcases the courage it takes to live every day with this difficult disease. The Tour de Cure recognizes riders with diabetes as the heroes on the day of the event.

The Tour de Cure raises funds for the 26 million Americans living with diabetes through registration fees and pledges collected by the cyclists. To register, cyclists or volunteers can call the American Diabetes Association at 617-482-4580 ext. 3487 or visit us at www.diabetes.org/nsmedia.

The North Shore Tour de Cure is sponsored nationally by Gold’s Gym, Lilly Diabetes, and Bumble Bee Foods; Locally by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Summit Partners, Boston Scientific Corporation, North Shore Magazine, Mix 104.1, Amp 103.3, and WBZ News Radio; and Regionally by Subaru of New England.  Each Tour de Cure features a variety of routes.  The North Shore Tour de Cure routes include:

100 Mile Gran Fondo- This is an epic route including two timed segments for fantastic prizes, challenging climbs and a variety of terrain in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and on Cape Ann.

62 Mile Route- This challenging route travels through the beautiful North Shore and includes scenic countryside and local communities.

31 Mile Route- Riding this route, you will see picturesque Cape Ann landscapes with beautiful views and roads.

15 Mile Route- Great for avid and newer cyclists alike, this route will travel through charming North Shore countryside.

“Participating in the Tour de Cure will show my friends and family, and especially my boys, that when people come together, amazing things can happen,” Warner expresses. “All it takes is one pedal in front of the other and a great attitude.”

The Warner family is setting a great example. The boys are getting their whole school involved by fundraising and providing education about diabetes. “They have monthly school-wide meetings and the boys are presenting diabetes facts to the students and staff,” Warner says. As far as the fundraising aspect, “they will be selling bracelets for donations. The principal approved letting the teachers donate and in return they can wear jeans to school for a week.”

To join Warner in this year’s Tour de Cure, please visit www.diabetes.org/nsmedia to register. To visit Warner’s personal page, please visit http://main.diabetes.org/goto/warnerg.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

Meet the macaw behind the flowers on Nunan’s redesigned website and at the Spring Open House

Nunan’s Florist & Greenhouses launches new, interactive website and prepares for its Spring Open House on April 27 and 28

Jacob the Macaw has charmed Nunan’s Florist & Greenhouses’ customers for years. Now, with the launch of its redesigned website, Jacob’s fans from around the world can watch him on the JacobCam, and customers can view a real-time greenhouse and florist Instagram feed to peruse new arrangements, view the latest sprouts in the greenhouse and plan their next visit.

The new Nunan’s website also provides information about each of Nunan’s departments, gardening and floral tips and online purchasing options, making it a one-stop destination for floral, landscaping and gardening enthusiasts in the Georgetown area. The site also includes information about upcoming events and Nunan’s connection to the community, including Garden Club events.

Nunan’s is inviting the public to visit for its annual Spring Open House, meet Jacob and get ready for spring’s long-awaited arrival on April 27 and 28. Chat with owners Steven Flynn and Bill Guerrini and their knowledgeable staff about how to beautify your home, yard and office with lush greenery, and enjoy refreshments all weekend in the greenhouse. The festivities include:

• Kane’s donuts in the morning and hot dogs in the afternoon
• Free soil testing – just bring a sample to the Open House
• Free raffle for a $100 Nunan’s Gift Card
• America’s Most Popular Male Gardening Personality, Roger Swain, speaking on April 28 from 12-4 p.m.
• Kids’ Art Party to benefit Children’s Hospital in Boston on April 28 from 12-2 p.m.

“We’re very pleased with our new website, and we hope that our customers will enjoy using it to plan their gardens and choose floral arrangements,” said Flynn. “The open house is the perfect opportunity to ask questions and get expert advice on turning those plans into a beautifully-landscaped reality that they will enjoy for years to come.”

Nunan’s Florist & Greenhouses has been serving Georgetown since 1917. Located in the heart of Georgetown, Nunan’s carries a full range of plants, landscaping materials, floral arrangements and gifts. Visit Nunan’s at 269 Central Street, or for more information, visit www.nunans.com or call (978) 352-8172.

The American Diabetes Association is challenging riders to be part of the Stop Diabetes^® movement by taking part in the annual Tour de Cure^®, a cycling event happening on May 19, 2013 at the Topsfield Fairgrounds in Topsfield, MA to help raise funds to change the future of diabetes and help stop this devastating disease.

Cyclists from around the region will gather to participate in one of four routes at the event.  They will join more than 50,000 other cyclists and volunteers from across the country.  Individuals and teams composed of co-workers, family and friends are taking the ride of their life by helping raise funds for the nearly 26 million Americans with diabetes.  Tour de Cure is designed for anyone from the occasional to the experienced cyclist with routes from the 15-mile family ride to 100-mile Gran Fondo, a century ride. The routes all feature rest stops with food to fuel the journey and volunteers to cheer riders on.

“Many people will participate in the Tour de Cure for the stimulating competition, camaraderie and physical cycling challenge. But the real reward comes in knowing that every mile they ride and every dollar they raise brings us that much closer to stopping this disease that affects 360,000 adults in our community,” said Chris Boynton, American Diabetes Association’s New England Office.   “With diabetes growing at near-epidemic proportions, the need for funds has never been so great.” he added.

The Tour de Cure raises funds through registration fees and pledges collected by the cyclists. To register, cyclists or volunteers can call the American Diabetes Association at 617-482-4580 ext. 3487 or visit us at www.diabetes.org/nsmedia.

The North Shore Tour de Cure is sponsored nationally by Gold’s Gym, Lilly Diabetes, and Bumble Bee Foods; Locally by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Summit Partners, Boston Scientific Corporation, North Shore Magazine, Mix 104.1, Amp 103.3, and WBZ News Radio; and Regionally by Subaru of New England.  Each Tour de Cure features a variety of routes. The North Shore Tour de Cure routes include:

100 Mile Gran Fondo- This is an epic route including two timed segments for fantastic prizes, challenging climbs and a variety of terrain in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and on Cape Ann.

62 Mile Route- This challenging route travels through the beautiful North Shore and includes scenic countryside and local communities.

31 Mile Route- Riding this route, you will see picturesque Cape Ann landscapes with beautiful views and roads.

15 Mile Route- Great for avid and newer cyclists alike, this route will travel through charming North Shore countryside.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

For more information, please visit www.diabetes.org/nsmedia.

Maria Menounos celebrating with Elaine Ambeliotis, co-owner of Scosso Ristorante & Martini Bar

This past Saturday we headed to Scosso Ristorante & Martini Bar to celebrate the debut of Maria Menounos’s film ‘Adventures of Serial Buddies’. Happy to promote her film in New England, Menounos was able to enjoy the evening with family and friends. ‘Adventures of Serial Buddies’ is a witty comedy about Gregory, a devout Catholic who wants to kill evil people in order to grant them access to heaven, and Gary, an assembly worker at a trophy shop who wants to kill potential trophy winners. The two come across each other unexpectedly and join with others in a comedic adventure. Menounos, who plays an intelligent sorority girl, produced the film along with Keven Undergaro.

When comparing film to television Menounos noted, “Film is nice because if you really enjoy a movie you can watch it again and again. Once a tv show is over it’s gone and you move onto the next one. No one is ever going to say ‘wow I really want to watch Extra from three weeks ago’.” Menounos explained that film also allows her to explore her creative side, although it is a very intense project.

As far as her favorite part of the movie, Menounos said she enjoyed hearing people in the theater laughing and having fun. “If they laugh that means that the movie was a success.”

A Medford native and Emerson College graduate, Menounos enjoys visiting the Boston and North Shore area and always makes a point to stop in at Somerville’s Daddy Jones Bar, which is owned by a friend of hers.

Menounos says that she is very excited to create more films in the near future while continuing Extra.

On Tuesday, April 2, 2013, the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center hosts its “White Ribbon Breakfast” where former Senator Scott Brown and best-selling author Andre Dubus III will have a conversation that challenges negative, outdated concepts of manhood, will inspire men and boys to get involved and work together to end violence against women and girls.

“As we strive to end violence against women and girls in our society, it is critically important that men and boys be actively involved in that effort. The White Ribbon Breakfast provides men and women in our community with a unique opportunity to hear from two prominent men, whose lives have been affected by domestic violence. Senator Brown and Andre Dubus willlead us through a conversation that will challenge men and boys to take action in bringing an end to violence against women and girls,” says Suzanne Dubus, CEO, Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center.

The white ribbon has become a symbol of an international movement to mobilize boys and men to stop the violence, and ribbons will be distributed at the breakfast. Several other domestic violence prevention programs are holding similar events throughout the spring. The event is open to the public, but seating is limited and ticketsmust be purchased in advance.

The White Ribbon Breakfast Committee is co-chaired by Richard Bazirgan, a member of the Crisis Center’s Board of Directors and principal of Richard Dean Associates,Newburyport and Mark Welch, retired president of the Institution for Savings.  Welch will serve as moderator for the conversation between Senator Brown and Andre Dubus.

According to Welch, “Violence against women is really a men’s issue in many ways. In the vast majority of domestic violence episodes, the perpetrator is a man. In order to stop the violence, it is essential that men and boys be engaged in a conversation that will lead to changed behaviors

The Presenting Sponsor for the White Ribbon Breakfast is Chase & Lunt Insurance. The Anniversary Sponsor for the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center’s 30th anniversary year is the Institution for Savings.

On average, every day in the United States, three women are killed by their intimate partners. In Massachusetts since 2003, domestic violence homicide perpetrators have killed 261 people – 60% of whom were female domestic violence victims killed by male partners and 29% are friends and family members of the domestic violence victim.  In 28% of these incidents, the domestic violence homicide perpetrator also committed suicide.  As this incident shows, the presence of firearms increases the risk for more deadly violence.

Event Details: The White Ribbon Breakfast will take place, Tuesday, April 2, 2013 from 8:00am – 9:00 am at the Hope Community Church located at 11 Hale Street, Newburyport, MA.  A continental breakfast will be served and tickets will be available for purchase at $25 per ticket.  Tables of 8 may be purchased at a discounted rate.  Men and women are encouraged to attend this important discussion. To purchase tickets or reserve full tables of 8 please visit www.jeannegeigercrisiscenter.org or contact Kelly Majewski at the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center, tel. 978-465-0999 x14.

Simon Property Group Introduces Lifestyle Blog as Platform to Highlight Local Trends

This season, Northshore Mall is in search of a fashion forward shopper as the mall’s Simon Style Setter.  This cutting-edge fashion blogger will spotlight ready-to-wear trends and provide mix-and-match tips and hints for fashion and beauty aficionados alike.

Northshore Mall is looking for an up-and-coming blogger to join their team this summer to share tips, trends and the latest looks from the mall. The selected fashionista will divulge his or her fashion diary to Boston area residents and illustrate how to wear the season’s hottest trends around town.

Tailored for style-loving shoppers on any budget, the Simon Style Setter will receive insider access to beauty and fashion events, exclusive sneak peeks and more in exchange for doing what they do best – shopping and sharing all about it.

Northshore Mall’s Style Setter will join a team of trendy bloggers from across the country, including already established fashionistas from the Burlington Mall in Boston, King of Prussia Mall in Philadelphia, and Lenox Square in Atlanta.  In addition to adding a fashion blogger at Northshore Mall, Simon is also strengthening its online fashion presence by recruiting a total of 40 Style Setter bloggers nationwide.

Feeling up to the challenge? Trendsetters who find the joy in wearable trends and have an eye for panache are encouraged to visit simon.com/stylesetterapply  

The application will be available through March 1st.

Andover kitchen, interior design done by Sue Adams Interiors. Photo by Greg Premru 

Annual Survey and Analysis of 11 Million Monthly Houzz Users Reveals Top-Rated U.S. Home Pros

Howell Custom Building Group, (“HCBG”), has been awarded a 2013 “Best Of Houzz” distinction by Houzz, the leading online platform for residential remodeling and design.  Each month, 11 million homeowners use the popular online platform to research ideas, participate in discussions, and rate local remodeling professionals they’ve used.

“Houzz provides homeowners with an in-depth, 360-degree view of building, remodeling and design professionals through images of their work, reviews and an opportunity to interact with them directly in the Houzz community,” said Liza Hausman, Houzz’ vice president of community. “We’re delighted to recognize Howell Custom Building Group among our “Best Of” professionals for design as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”

Included in Howell Custom Building Group’s Houzz portfolio are a kitchen remodel in Andover, Massachusetts, a custom home in Boxford, Massachusetts, and a home renovation in Rockport, Massachusetts.

“At the suggestion of one of our customers, we began submitting our project photos to Houzz less than a year ago, figuring it was a good way to reach both homeowner prospects in our area as well as connect with home design professionals,” says Susan Howell, Director of Marketing for HCBG. “We never dreamed how enthusiastic a response we would get from the Houzz community or the number of project leads that would result from simply posting photos of our work.”

Howell Custom Building Group is the North Shore’s premier home builder, serving communities north of Boston on projects large and small.

Trustees of Reservations Announce 2013-2014 Crane Beach Parking Permit Stickers On Sale Now

The Trustees of Reservations announced today that sales of Crane Beach Parking Permits are beginning for the 2013-14 season.  Purchasing a 2013–2014 Crane Beach Parking Permit sticker will allow Trustees members (and everyone in their vehicle) to park at Crane Beach for no additional charge from May 1, 2013–April 30, 2014, offering a significant savings for frequent beach visitors. This is the third year of the Crane Beach Parking Permit Sticker program, and Trustees members are encouraged to take advantage of the early-bird price by purchasing a parking sticker for just $55, now through March 15, 2013. After March 15, members can purchase stickers for $80.

Peter Pinciaro, Deputy Director for The Trustees’ Ipswich properties notes, “The beach sticker is the best deal of the summer! With a sticker, quick visits any day of the week are no longer out of the question. You can load up a car full of friends and family for a full day of sun or pop by for a quiet walk in dunes… the beach is your oyster.”
 
Beach Sticker Details
The parking sticker is available only to current Trustees members. Membership in The Trustees starts at just $47 per year for individuals ($37 for students and seniors). Individual members may purchase one sticker. Family members ($67 annual contribution) and Contributing members ($125 annual contribution) may purchase up to two stickers. Supporting-level members ($165 annual contribution) and above may request up to two stickers at no additional cost when they join or renew their membership. For as little as $102, you can become a Trustees member and pay no additional admission fees at Crane Beach for an entire year.

Please note: While parking stickers offer great savings and convenience, they will not guarantee parking. As in the past, The Trustees recommend arriving early on weekends and holidays, carpooling and/or using public transportation. For visitors who choose not to become Trustees members, beach admission prices remain at $25 on weekends and $15 on weekdays. Members who choose not to purchase a parking sticker pay $10 at the beach gate on weekdays and $20 on weekends. After 3:00 p.m., all beach admission prices decrease by 50%.

What Makes Crane Beach Special?
Crane Beach’s mesmerizing views, clean and inviting waters, miles of pristine shoreline, and topnotch facilities make it one of the finest beaches and outdoor recreation destinations on the East Coast. The beach is open year-round, sunrise to sunset, with restroom facilities available and rangers on-site daily.  Dog walking and horseback riding is permitted on the beach in the winter months, from October 1—March 31. Visit www.thetrustees.org/greendogs for permitting and information.

During the summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day), the beach is fully staffed with rangers, lifeguards, and EMTs. The Crane Beach store, featuring refreshments and merchandise, is open daily as well as the bathhouses, with toilets and changing areas, and outside showers and picnic area. The beach staff provides transportation to the beachfront for mobility-impaired and challenged visitors.

Crane Beach is among the world’s most important nesting sites for piping plovers and The Trustees have been nationally recognized for their successful shorebird protection program. In addition to the piping plovers, Crane Beach also provides important habitat for rare plants, invertebrates, mammals, birds, shellfish, and finfish that live and nest among its tidal pools, coastal dunes and five miles of beautiful trails.

Trustees Membership Benefits
Membership and Crane Beach sticker and admission fees help support the critical work of The Trustees of Reservations, including the ongoing management, maintenance and care of special places like Crane Beach and other remarkable natural and cultural treasures on the North Shore and across the state.

As a Trustees member, not only do you enjoy significant savings at Crane Beach, but you’ll also enjoy savings on other Trustees’ programs and properties, including the Castle Hill Summer Concert Picnic Series, the Crane Wildlife Refuge Guided Kayak paddles, and the luxurious Inn at Castle Hill, just to name a few.

Purchase your Early-Bird Beach Sticker
To receive the maximum savings on visits to the beach all year long, The Trustees are encouraging members to take advantage of the early-bird discount by purchasing a $55 sticker before March 15. To purchase your beach sticker or for more details and information please visit www.thetrustees.org/cranebeach or call our membership office at 978.921.1944 x8801.

Members who purchase their parking permit stickers before March 15 will receive them in the mail in April.  Parking permit stickers purchased after March 15 can be picked up at the beach in May.

Anchors Away! 2013 Progressive Insurance New England Boat Show Docks at Boston Convention & Exhibition Center February 16-24. Hundreds of Boats and Accessories, Educational Seminars and Nautical Activities Await Winter-Weary Boaters and Families.

The 2013 Progressive Insurance New England Boat Show sails into the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, February 16-24, making a splash with sales on hundreds of the newest boats and accessories, plus a variety of activities for boaters of all ages. Climb aboard and compare more than 750 boats and hundreds of boating accessories for all budgets and lifestyles, including luxury motor and sailing yachts, sport fishers, performance boats, personal watercraft, angling gear, travel destinations and more.

Boat browsing and buying is just the beginning of the fun at the Progressive Insurance New England Boat Show, with a variety of hands-on activities and more than 180 educational seminars throughout the nine-day event. Experienced and beginner boaters can put their boating skills to the test at the Power Boat Docking Challenge and the Remote Control Sailboat Pond. DIY lovers can add new tricks to their trade at Fred’s Shed, a special section with hands-on clinics, demonstrations and one-on-one Q&A sessions with boating experts.

When: Saturday, February 16 through Sunday, February 24, 2013

Where: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St. Boston, MA 02210

Hours:

• Saturdays, 10am–8pm
• Sunday, February 17 11am–6pm
• Monday, February 18 10am-7pm
• Tuesday–Friday 1pm–9pm
• Sunday, February 24 11am–5:30pm

Tickets: $15 for adults; FREE for children 15 and under (when accompanied by an adult). Advance tickets can be purchased at http://www.newenglandboatshow.com/.

On Saturday, December 8th from 12-5pm, the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society will be  holding their annual Whisker Wonderland Holiday Open House. Stop by the MRFRS Headquarters at 63 Elm Street in Salisbury and enjoy the kitties and holiday goodies to benefit the organization. Maybe even pick up a holiday gift for your own feline companion. There will be cat toys and beds for purchase, and a few vendors selling holiday candles, handmade raised wooden cat bowls, dog and cat toys, wreaths and holiday plants, etc. An animal communicator will be attending for those interested, along with baked goods and delicious hot beverages.

Merrimack Premium Outlets

As the holiday season approaches, plan a visit to one of the area’s two Premium Outlet Centers® where you can get a head start on gift giving and do it all for less. Each center offers savings of 25% to 65% every day at impressive collections of designer and name brand outlets.  Discover Merrimack Premium Outlets in New Hampshire with 100 stores and Kittery Premium Outlets in Maine with 65 stores.

In Merrimack, save at Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store, Calphalon Kitchen Outlet, Calvin Klein, Coach, Cole Haan, Elie Tahari, Gap Outlet, J.Crew, Loft Outlet, Michael Kors, Nike, Reebok, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Puma, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour, Vineyard Vines, White House Black Market, Zwilling J.A. Henckels and more.

In Kittery, enjoy Adidas, American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, Brookstone, Calvin Klein, Chico’s, Clarks Bostonian, Coach, Cole Haan, Columbia Sportswear, Gap Outlet, Hanna Andersson, J. Jill, J.Crew, Levi’s Outlet Store, Nike, Old Navy Outlet, Reebok, Swarovski, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, Tumi

Don’t miss the After-Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness on Friday, November 23 through Sunday, November 25.  Some of the best deals of the year start at Midnight as Thanksgiving ends and run right through the weekend.

So, get your credit cards ready and be prepared to save! And then be prepared to brag about your great finds.  For the most up-to-date information including a complete list of stores at each center, directions, holiday hours and upcoming sales and events, visit premiumoutlets.com.  Be sure to register for the VIP Shopper Club to receive exclusive coupons and savings offers.  Membership is free.

Follow Premium Outlets on Twitter: @premiumoutlets and Facebook: facebook.com/premiumoutlets for the latest deals, store openings and more.

On Friday, November 23, most Simon Malls across Massachusetts will open their doors at 12:30 a.m. to launch the holiday shopping season!  This marks a change from last year’s 4:00 am opening for most Simon malls in the region.

Source: Simon.com

Mall at Chestnut Hill and Copley Place will open at 9:00 a.m.  All Simon Malls in New Hampshire – Mall of NH, Pheasant Lane Mall, The Mall at Rockingham Park and Fox Run Mall – will open at Midnight on Black Friday.

The malls will remain open until 10:00 p.m. to give shoppers all the time they need to take advantage of the holiday sales and promotions offered on Black Friday.

Shoppers can expect the following at Simon malls:

• Simon’s free Simon iPhone application that allows shoppers to check mall hours, special deals and promotions, download maps and directions, check gift card balances instantly, and much more.
• Greeters: All Simon Malls will have greeters on Black Friday and some will have them during peak shopping times during the entire holiday season; the greeters are a great resource for shoppers to check in to get the latest and greatest information about the deals and promotions being offered that particular day.
• The malls are hosting its Rejuvenation Station again this holiday season so shoppers have a place to unwind in big comfy chairs and sofas, take advantage of free WiFi, and experience a more indulgent shopping environment than ever before.
• Gift Wrap stations benefiting various local charities are offered.
• Holiday Entertainment: Local holiday entertainment including carolers, choral groups, and other merry-makers will perform for holiday shoppers, adding to the festive holiday family environment.
• Santa and Holiday Pet Photos will be available to families to capture the moment. Times differ from mall to mall; check simon.com and/or each mall’s Facebook page for ongoing updates.
• The American Express®/Simon Giftcard is a groundbreaking gift card available at Simon Malls across New England. The card comes in festive holiday designs, comes with no monthly fees or expiration date on funds, and is available in any denomination between $20 and $500.

Simon Malls include:

South Shore Plaza

250 Granite Street

Braintree, MA 02184

Burlington Mall

75 Middlesex Turnpike

Burlington, MA 01803

Northshore Mall

210 Andover Street

Peabody, MA 01960

Liberty Tree Mall

100 Independence Way

Danvers, MA 01923

Square One Mall

Route 1 South

Saugus, MA 01906

Arsenal Mall

485 Arsenal Street
Watertown, MA 02472

Auburn Mall

385 Southbridge Street

Auburn, MA 01501

Solomon Pond Mall

601 Donald Lynch Blvd.

Marlborough, MA 01752

Cape Cod Mall

769 Iyannough Road

Hyannis, MA 02601

Emerald Square Mall

999 S. Washington St.

N. Attleboro, MA 02760

The world’s premier political impersonators bring their Election Special to Massachusetts. Hosted by President Bill Clinton. Moderated by King Maker Donald Trump.

Politicos Comedy Brigade (www.politicoscomedy.com), the world-class political comedy troupe whose performers have been featured on Comedy Central and HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, is teaming up with Seacoast NH-based Drink Water Productions to bring America’s number one comedic Presidential debate to Steeple Hall at Mission Oak Grill on Saturday, November 3rd. The show features Barack Obama impersonator Maxwell Price (HBO’s Flight of the Conchords, NPR’s This American Life), Mitt Romney impersonator Jim Gossett (The Glenn Beck Program, Michael Savage Show), Bill Clinton impersonator Tim Watters (over 200 appearances on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno), and the only Donald Trump impersonator endorsed by the real Donald Trump, John Di Domenico (Disaster Movie, Meet the Spartans).

Renowned for their high profile publicity stunts and prolific appearances on stage, television, new media, and film, Politicos Comedy Brigade will be in town one night only at Steeple Hall at Mission Oak Grill, located at 26 Green Street, Newburyport, MA 01950. Doors open at 7:00pm at which time a bar menu will be available to patrons. Show time is 8:00pm. Tickets are available for $35 each at www.drinkwaterproductions.com or by calling 855-255-5750.

Politicos Comedy Brigade is the world’s greatest team of impersonators, character actors, and impressionists, featuring comedic portrayals of past, current, and future Presidents along with some of the most recognizable faces in American politics and pop culture today. Visit them at www.politicoscomedy.com

“Green” gift giving continues to be an increasingly popular trend among people looking for meaningful, thoughtful gifts that also give back.  As you think about gift ideas for family and friends this season, The Trustees of Reservations, the nation’s oldest statewide land conservation organization, suggest the idea of a “green gift membership” – a gift that not only shares your passion for nature, culture, the outdoors and protecting open space, but keeps on giving throughout the year. 

“We are pleased to see a consistent growth in gift memberships since we have been offering them over the last few years,” says Laurie O’Reilly, Director of Marketing and Membership. “Many of our supporters have appreciated knowing they can give a meaningful gift that also supports one of their favorite non-profit organizations.”

A Trustees of Reservations green gift Membership is the perfect gift for someone who loves the outdoors and also enjoys visiting, preserving, and protecting the scenic and historic landscapes and landmarks that define the character of our communities in Massachusetts.  Starting as low as $47 for individual members ($37 for students and seniors, $67 for families), a gift membership to The Trustees includes:

• Free/reduced admission to 108 Trustees properties (including popular destinations like the Crane Estate in Ipswich, World’s End in Hingham, the Old Manse in Concord, the Bryant Homestead in Cummington, Doyle Center and Community Park in Leominster, Bartholomew’s Cobble in Tyringham, and Cape Poge on Martha’s Vineyard)
• Discounts on stays at Trustees bed & breakfasts (The Inn at Castle Hill in Ipswich and the Guest House at Field Farm in Williamstown)
• Discounted fees for the hundreds of events, programs, lectures and workshop the Trustees offer year-round, for all ages
• The Trustees Property Guide, a 224-page guidebook to the organization’s 108 reservations—available exclusively to members
• A year’s subscription to our quarterly member magazine, Special Places, which will keep you up-to-date on important conservation, nature, history, cultural, and environmentally-important topics and events; and,
• In addition, if you purchase a gift membership for $125 or above, your gift recipient will also receive a special limited edition Trustees long-sleeve jean shirt. For more details and to ensure holiday delivery, please order gift memberships by December 14 at:978.921.1944 online at www.thetrustees.org.

The Trustees of Reservations announced today that Appleton Farms, the nation’s oldest working farm, is producing and selling their own cheeses and butter made from the milk of their registered jersey herd. The new dairy products are for sale in the dairy store, along with the farms milk, beef and eggs and other locally sourced products. The farm completed the construction and permitting process for their on-site dairy plant, located in the old bull barn behind the dairy barn, in mid-September.

Inspired by the lush pastures and historic buildings at the farm, new dairy products include: Great Pasture Pub Cheese -  a simple yet delicious spreadable cheese, Briar Hill Butter – barrel churned and hand packed, so good you’ll want to spread the butter on butter, and Jimmy’s Barn Ricotta –  fresh, light and creamy, not just for lasagna! Yogurt will follow in the coming weeks, along with two ripened cheeses: a triple-cream St. Andre-style cheese and an aged cheddar.

Founded in 1636, Appleton Farms was, for generations, at the forefront of the New England dairy industry, introducing dairy breeds from England to the United States, including Jersey and Guernsey. The farm was donated to the Trustees of Reservations by the Appleton family in 1998, with a primary goal of educating and engaging the public through sustainable, local agriculture. The sale of the dairy products marks an important milestone towards achieving that goal while also revitalizing the unparalleled dairy legacy at Appleton Farms.

Director David Beardsley reports, “After more than a year of dairy plant construction, planning and permitting, we are excited to have a fully functioning retail dairy operation that offers more locally produced food to the North Shore community. What lies ahead promises to be one of our best stories ever at the farm – local dairy products made at the farm, for sale at the farm, from the milk of cows raised and grazed at the farm. For years, staff and volunteers have worked hard to deliver on this promise of farmstead dairy products. We think you’ll find our cheeses and butter worth the wait. And, just in time for the holiday season!”

To visit the farm, enter the farm off of Route 1A (219 County Road) in Ipswich. For more information call 978.356.3825 (dairy store) or 978.356.5728 (office), or email appletonfarms@ttor.org. To learn more about the dairy operation visit the website at www.thetrustees.org/dairy or join us on Saturday’s at 3pm for our Meet the Cows program. (The program meets at the Visitor Center. Trustees Members: $4; Nonmembers: $5.)

FALL DAIRY STORE HOURS: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 2pm – 7pm; Tuesday & Friday: 11am – 6pm; Saturday: 11am – 3pm

Title: Team Lyn Evans, ‘Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’
Location: Boston
Link out: Click here
Date: 2012-10-14

Title: Lynn Museum Celebrates 115th Anniversary with the Bootleg Bash Fundraiser
Location: Lynn Museum, 590 Washington Street, Lynn
Link out: Click here
Description: Partnering with The Salem Jazz & Soul Festival, the museum will convert into a Roaring Twenties, speakeasy fundraiser to raise funds for their educational programs. Get your best flapper/gangster party outfit on and prepare to enjoy to swinging sounds of Miss Lydia Harrell and The LovelySinger Band. Raffle Roulette, a Speakeasy Photo Booth, silent auction, and cash bar will all be available to complete your 1920s night.

Tickets are $25 per person, while other sponsorship packages are offered to support the Museum’s fundraising goals. Please note that tickets may be purchased by check or credit card, but only cash will be accepted for drinks, food, and raffle tickets at the Bash, so please bring plenty of cabbage!
Start Date: 2012-10-13
Start Time: 7:00
End Date: 10:00