If it’s sunny out, hot dog guy Don Cowan is ready to roll.

When the warm weather rolls in, so does Don Cowan, owner of Brian’s Father’s Hot Dogs. “I have one son. Guess what his name is?” quips the 61-year-old Methuen native, whose hotdog cart and cheerful smile have been familiar sights in downtown Andover for nearly a decade. And nowadays, when Hollywood needs hot dogs, Cowan has become the big screen’s go-to guy.

Why did you leave the printing business to sell hot dogs? I owned A+ Printing in Reading for 10 years. When my largest account went bankrupt, they took me with them. But a friend of mine sold hot dog carts and hooked me up.

So how famous are you? I was in two movies: Ghosts of Girlfriends Past with Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Garner, and I have my picture with Jennifer Garner on my refrigerator to prove it. And then I was in The Proposal with Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds.

How did Hollywood find you? I also sell hot dog carts and trailers. The production team wanted to rent one, and I told them that I don’t do that. They would have to rent me and the hot dog cart. It was a package deal.

Tell me about your customers. I’m not good at names, but I’m real good at what people will order. I have one individual that comes and sees me every single Saturday. He gets one hot dog with relish on the bottom and a bag of chips. I have to open his bag of chips for him, I have to pop open his soda for him, put a straw in there, and then he sits down. No matter what I’m doing, even if I have a mile-long line of people, I know I have to take care of this guy.

What’s your favorite part of the job? It’s a lot of fun because of the people. I mean what’s the worst thing that can happen when you’re serving a hot dog? You drop it…so you give them another one!

What do you do when a thunderstorm hits? Pack up and go home. You’ve got to remember that the umbrella is metal. I’m a lightning rod.

Who are your favorite customers? Well, obviously the ones who eat a lot. There’s one guy who looks up and down the street to make sure his wife’s not coming. He’s not supposed to be eating hot dogs.  —Alexandra Pecci, photograph by Bob O’Connor

Precious Meets Exotic

Want to Get Away?
A quiet, romantic setting close to home is right around the corner! Enjoy one of our many Jacuzzis and then cuddle up in front of a glowing fireplace. Top it off by reserving a massage for Two and in the AM enjoy breakfast at the pancake house (1 block from the Inn). Country Garden Inn & Spa, 101 Main Street, Rowley, 1-800-287-7773, countrygardeninnandspa.com

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom
Did I tell you recently how much I appreciate everything that you do for me?  You are always there for me when I need you.  When I had the twins, and when I had the flu.  You magically appeared and made everything ok.  All these gifts express my deepest gratitude and love for everything you have done and continue to do for me and my family. Healing Baskets, Manchester-By-The-Sea, 978-526-1229, healingbaskets.com

Nothing Average About It
Not your average store and not your average museum shop. The award winning Peabody Essex Museum Shop sells unique, interesting, fun, and unusual items from stylish jackets, chic jewelry, and engaging children’s toys to decorative home décor. Treat yourself, spoil your friends and delight your family with gifts that stimulate the mind, invigorate the senses and enrich ones spirit. Peabody Essex Museum Shop, 161 Essex Street, Salem, PEMshop.com

Stack ‘Em
Stackable rings and bangles enameled by hand in gold vermeil or rhodium plated embellished with ZC. Colorful, artful, contemporary. Rings are $30-$40. Bracelets are $48.00-$65.00. J. Mode, 17 Front Street, Salem, 978-744-7007, jmodefashions.com

Looking For a New Hair Stylist?
These stylists have the talent commonly found on Newbury Street! The prices are affordable and you avoid hassles like traffic and parking problems.  They are thoroughly trained at Bumble and bumble in New York on new trends and techniques. This busy salon is open seven days per week and even has childcare on the premises. spa ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley Street, Methuen, 978-682-9772, nijoli.com

Spring Cleaning
If packaging isn’t enough, you need only smell these handmade soaps from Saipua to fall in love.  Carefully crafted in small batches, Saipua soaps are olive oil based and filled with calming ingredients like rosemary, mint, and tea tree oil.  This fabulous find exfoliates the skin with crushed sea salt and nori seaweed.  Find Saipu soaps at Roost, a new boutique in downtown Salem. ROOST, 40 Front Street, Salem, 978-744-HOME, roostsalem.com

Who Needs a Gym When You Have Shoes!
The Habari in Chocolate from MBT not only looks great but helps you stay looking great too. MBT’s specially designed outsole exercises a large number of leg muscles that in turn stimulate your metabolism and burn extra calories. Additionally MBT’s can firm your abdominal, leg and buttock muscles (just in time for swimsuit season!). So, stroll about town getting fit and looking fabulous. Why go to the gym when the gym can come to you? JL Coombs, 1 State Street, Newburyport, 978-462-2262, and 45 Main Street, Andover, 978-470-8121

Renew and Refresh Your Home For Spring
Studio KC, a full service interior design and decorating firm is focusing this spring on delivering high end design to those with limited time and budgets. We’re taking the headaches out of the interiors process with time saving interiors and decorating packages. Call for a consultation! Studio KC, 978-998-4578, kristina@studiokc.biz

True Boutique Experience Without High Priced Tags
Addicted is a charming contemporary women’s clothing boutique located right on Swampscott’s waterfront. The shop aims to bring some of the best and most innovative brands presented in a friendly, stress-free atmosphere.  Addicted is carrying lines that appeal to a wide variety of ages.  All items are under $100! Modern fit, contemporary attitude and affordable prices! Addicted, 148 Humphrey Street, Swampscott, 781-598-5700, shopaddicted@verizon.net

New at Rouge Cosmetics… The Clarisonic Opal™
The Clarisonic Opal™ Sonic Infusion System is the newest skin care innovation from the lead inventor of the Sonicare™ Toothbrush. Opal provides an immediately noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, and firmer, brighter, more hydrated skin under eyes, by combining sonic frequency, and a gentle kneading motion to maximize the transfer of serum into the epidermis. Rouge Cosmetics, 322 Derby Street, Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com

Nautical Nuance
Aptly named the “Botticelli Cuff”, this striking adornment is forged of sterling silver and brass and encrusted with pearls and white topaz.  Handmade in the heart of NYC by Echo Of The Dreamer. Their pieces are a refined celebration of nature and will surely awaken the dreamer in you.  Echo’s collection and more can be found at Jambu.  Jambu – Inspired Jewelry, 38 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead, 781-639-9600, jambujewelry.com

Get ready for the 6th Annual Hair of the Dog Wine & Beer Tasting, a benefit for the Methuen MSPCA on Friday evening, April 30th , from 6 to 9 p.m. Hosted for the fourth year in a row by the Essex Art Center at 56 Island Street in Lawrence, the tasting will also feature an art show of works by over 20 Merrimack Valley artists.

In an effort to build on last year’s successful event, which had over 350 attendees and raised more than $10,000 for the Nevins Farm, the event this year will be even bigger and better. We’ve expanded the space this year to include Chester’s (which is right next door through the courtyard) giving us more space for attendees, artists, food and of course wine and beer! As usual the event is jointly sponsored by Essex Art Center in Lawrence and the owners of Andover’s Shawsheen Village Liquors, Michael and Sheri Helman and Whole Foods Market Andover.

The wines and beers will be donated, as always, by the Helmans. Whole Foods Market Andover, is back again this year and is providing another array of delicious appetizers for everyone to sample.

A wide range of artists will have works on view and for sale. They include jewelry makers, potters, painters, sculptors who work in clay, and artists who work in fabric. In keeping with the animal theme, some are even bringing animal-themed art.

Come meet the artists and the Helmans (but not their pets, and don’t bring yours, please). Have some food, a little wine and beer, and listen to the live music of the White Street Band, a Chicago style blues band with a rock and roll edge, while you contribute to a good cause.

The cost of attending the tasting will be $30 at the door or $25 in advance. Tickets can be purchased at Shawsheen Village Liquors, 4 Poor Street, Andover, (978) 475-3636; at the MSPCA, Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway (Route 28), Methuen, (978) 687-7453, Ext. 6105; or online at www.mspca.org/nevinsfarm.

One hundred percent of all ticket proceeds go directly to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm. Ten percent of all wine and art sales will also be donated to the shelter.

For more information, go to www.shawsheenliquors.com and click on “Good Wines for Great Causes.”

Teams of twelve riders each pedaled for two hours, with each member donating $100.00 (minimum) to ride. All proceeds from the event have been donated to the William L. Lane Cancer Management Center… A great cause, and one very dear to the owner of the clubs, as he has battled (and won) against cancer this past year. This year’s spin-a-thon in Methuen rasied$ 35,000 for the William L. Lane Cancer Management Center.

Another spin-a-thon also took place at Latitude Sports Club’s Salisbury location, and raised $50,000 supporting area school athletic programs and a fight against childhood obesity.

For more information, or additional details about funding these programs, please call Eric Lever of Latitudes at: (978) 462-5662, or visit: www.latitudesportsclubs.com

Noted exceptional personel: John Grossi (owner); Eric Lever (General Manager of Latitude, Salisbury); Ralph Bagarella (General Manager of Latitude, Methuen); and Dave DeRosa (Marketing Director).

The event will be hosted by the Essex Art Center, located at 56 Island Street in Lawrence.

The benefit event comes at a time when three MSPCA animal care and adoption centers in other parts of the state are being closed. The closures will be coupled with downsizing at the organization, which in 2008 lost over $11 million, more than 25% of its endowment. “That loss makes it more important than ever for people to come out and support us this year,” said Sheri Helman, who with her husband, Michael, owns Andover’s Shawsheen Village Liquors. The Helmans founded the event and donate all the beer and wine for the tasting.

Last year, Hair of the Dog raised more than $8000 for Nevins Farm. Once again, 100% of all ticket proceeds will go directly to it; so will 10% of all liquor and art sales. In addition, one of the dog-friendly wineries whose wines are being featured will donate $1 for every bottle of its wine sold at the event.

The winery is Hugh Hamilton of Australia, parent company of JimJim, whose namesake is a canine and whose website proclaims: “This is God’s own country for growing grapes and being a dog.” Featured wines from that vineyard will include “The Rascal,” a shiraz; “The Scallywag,” an unwooded chardonnay; and the new blend, Knick Knack Paddy Wack Ossie Red.

In all, there will be 50 wines from four continents, and crafts beers from some of the best small breweries in the country. There will also be appetizers, donated, prepared, and served by Whole Foods Market Andover.

Last year, Whole Foods became a sponsor of the event, attended by nearly 300 people.

In keeping with the MSPCA’s statement of belief, this year will feature an animal-friendly menu. That means any meat served will be from sources independently confirmed to follow minimum standards pertaining to the humane treatment of animals—i.e., “Certified Humane.” Whole Foods meat department standards themselves stipulate no antibiotics ever, no added hormones ever, and a vegetarian diet for all farm animals. In addition, Whole Foods works only with local farmers and ranchers who raise animals humanely and naturally in a free-roaming setting.

As always, a wide range of artists will have works on view and for sale at the tasting. The artists include jewelry makers, potters, painters, sculptors who work in clay, and artists who work in fabric. In keeping with the animal theme, some are bringing animal-themed art.

Also, back by popular demand, the White Street Band, a Chicago style blues band with a rock and roll edge, will provide live music.

Tickets for attending the tasting are: $25 at the door, or $20 in advance. Tickets can be purchased at Shawsheen Village Liquors, 4 Poor Street, Andover, (978) 475-3636; at the MSPCA, Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway (Route 28), Methuen, (978) 687-7453, Ext. 6118; or online at: www.mspca.org/nevinsfarm

For more information, please visit: www.shawsheenliquors.com
and click on “Great Wines for Great Causes.”

Start Time: 18:00
Date: 2009-05-01
End Time: 21:00

By Karen Sackowitz

Methuen City Hall

History is a big deal in methuen. Just walking the streets can turn into a living lesson and for the residents who now call this town home, much of the growth seen over the years can be attributed to the work of three men.

Edward Searles, Charles Tenney, and David Nevins controlled great fortunes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These three millionaire philanthropists worked to build the town of Methuen, leaving behind an architectural legacy which lives on in structures such as City Hall, Nevins Memorial Library, Presentation of Mary Academy, and the Tenney Gatehouse at Grey Court Park.

Last year, the mayor’s office introduced two new walking tours. The Mill Tour starts at the Spickett River Falls and leads to several mill buildings which stood during the city’s manufacturing boom of the early 20th century. The Millionaire Walk showcases the architectural jewels left to the city by the Searles, Nevins, and Tenney families. Matt Kraunelis, chief of staff in the mayor’s office, says the tours allow visitors and residents to see the values of a different time reflected in the structures.

“People were generous back then,” Kraunelis says. “They wanted to leave a legacy.” New legacies are being born, too, with businesses such as The Loop, an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that is a top regional destination.

Across the street from The Loop sits a perfect example of Methuen’s ability to balance growth with a commitment to community. Mann Orchards, a long-time family-owned business, sold a large chunk of its land in 2007 to accommodate a new Target store. While some worried about what would become of their favorite produce spot, concerns were quickly put to rest as the Mann family constructed a stunning new version of their signature red barn shop, just up the road. “They could have just taken the money and run,” says Kraunelis. “Instead, they chose to reinvest it back into the community.”

Residents of Methuen also value the town’s ethnic diversity. Italian immigrants and their families populate the Valley section of town, where resident Lana Grelle’s family eventually settled after coming to the United States from Italy.

“It’s a really close-knit community,” she says. “Wherever you go, there is always someone willing to lend a hand.” Grelle says there is something else people love about her neighborhood: Borrelli’s on Merrimack Street, arguably the best Italian deli on the North Shore.
“Years ago, people would go to the farms and small butchers for fresh food,” she explains. “Borrelli’s is the only one left and has the best food around.”

The Hispanic population centered in the Arlington neighborhood of town benefits from the tremendous efforts of Methuen Arlington Neighborhood (MAN Inc.). A grassroots organization, MAN Inc. was the driving force behind last year’s opening of a new community center where young people can congregate to do homework, socialize, or attend Saturday programs.

Looking for outdoor recreation? Forest Lake is the summer hot spot, where residents can cool off or enroll their children in swim lessons taught through the city’s recreation department. When the snow flies, hardy outdoor types can be found ice fishing, or cross-country skiing on a network of trails in the area.

Methuen residents also have access to excellent health care right in town, thanks to Holy Family Hospital, where staff and services are continually added to ensure top quality care in a community hospital setting. And for our four-legged friends, shelter services can be found at the Nevins Farm MSPCA, a sprawling state-of-the-art facility that offers care and adoption services, as well as a world-renowned equine ambulance program.

If you just wrapped up a holiday season full of frenzied shopping or festive dining, you probably spent some time in Methuen. If you didn’t, you are in luck. There is so much more to this town that can draw you back, no matter what the season.

The Details
Date of Settlement: 1642
Date of Incorporation: 1726
Zip Code: 01844
Population: 43,789 (2000 Census)
Total Area: 23.1 square miles
Median Household Income: $59,831
Public Schools: Methuen High School, Donald P. Timony Grammar School, Comprehensive Grammar School, Tenney Grammar School, Marsh Grammar School
Private Schools: Presentation of Mary (HS), Fellowship Christian Academy (HS), St. Monica Elementary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel School (elementary), St. Ann’s Elementary
Notable Residents: Robert Frost, Steve Bedrosian (MLB), Jimmy Pedro (Judo Olympian), Susie Castillo (Miss USA 2003)

Methuen Memorial Music Hall

Methuen Memorial Music Hall

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first performance of the Great Organ in the Methuen Memorial Music Hall. To see and hear this handcrafted masterpiece is to witness a truly stunning historical treasure. Originally built in Germany in 1863, the Great Organ was first installed at the Boston Music Hall, now known as the Orpheum Theater in Boston. By the early 1880s, however, the musical landscape of the city had changed with the introduction of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. When the growing BSO needed more space, the organ was removed. Methuen millionaire Edward Searles purchased the organ in 1897, refurbished it, and built the hall in Methuen. Used exclusively for personal entertainment until his death in 1920, the organ was eventually obtained by influential organ builder Ernest Skinner, who began presenting public performances in 1931. Today, people can still enjoy the majestic sounds of the Great Organ through a summer recital series, as well as concerts held from May to December. The Methuen Memorial Music Hall is also home to the Methuen Young People’s Theatre summer program, in which children rehearse and perform a full-scale Gilbert & Sullivan operetta.

DINING

New Tokyo Steakhouse
Grab a seat on the hibachi side of this Japanese cuisine favorite and watch as expert chefs flip, catch, chop, and grill your handpicked ingredients to perfection, right at your table. Not the sit-near-the- flames type? The more subdued table side of the restaurant offers up a tasty array of sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, katsu, udon noodles, hot pot, appetizers, and desserts, as well as a full sushi bar. When you’re ready to wash it all down, a fresh pot of green tea is never far away, nor is a strong glass of sake, depending on your mood. 70 Pleasant Valley St., 978-725-8888, newtokyosteakhouse.com.

The Rosario 1859 House
Step inside this local favorite and you will immediately feel the charm of an old-fashioned Main Street tavern. The building, built in 1859, was originally constructed to house The Methuen Company, a textile manufacturer. In 1922, it was purchased by The Methuen Club, an organization of local businessmen in need of a gathering spot. Over the next several decades, the “Club House,” as it was known, gave the gentlemen a place to play cards and billiards or even bowl in the alleys built on the basement level. Today, The Rosario 1859 House serves up pub fare in a relaxed and family friendly atmosphere. Those who visit during the cold weather months are also treated to a roaring fire in the dining room’s center hearth. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a lively spot to gather with friends on a Friday night, owner Miguel Rosario and his attentive staff aim to please. Offerings include everything from burgers to filet mignon, fresh seafood to potato skins, as well as an extensive wine list to compliment any choice. 12 Hampshire St., 978-738-9900, rosariothe1859house.com

The Loop
If it’s big, friendly chain restaurants that you seek, The Loop should be your destination. Not Your Average Joe’s, a stone’s throw from the Loews Theater complex, is a terrific spot to enjoy creative but casual cuisine before or after the movie. Not catching a flick? Kick back on the patio in the warmer months for outdoor dining and people watching. Across the parking lot is TGI Friday’s, a great spot for watching the big game with a beer, a burger, and a lot of new friends. At Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse, hearty portions are served up hot and fast in an old-fashioned lodge setting. Also, mechanical animals “speak” intermittently, providing endless entertainment for antsy little ones, if not some eye-rolling from the staff. 90 Pleasant Valley St., 978-946-9333, attheloop.com/methuen.

SHOPPING/TO DO

Guitar Garage
Guitar expert Jack Galvin specializes in selling guitars from some of the world’s largest retailers, not to mention bluegrass instruments, drum kits, wind instruments, amplifiers, and a host of accessories for the serious musician or the weekend jam band. Not sure what to do with that new Fender? Not a problem. Guitar Garage offers lessons for beginners on up, taught by formally trained professional musicians. 4 Hampshire St., 978-682-9630, theguitargarage.com.

Mann Orchards
Mann Orchards is the oldest business in Methuen, having started out as a small farm in 1877. Through many decades, and thanks to the dedicated efforts of several generations of the Mann family, it remains a local favorite, unsurpassed for fresh produce and homemade baked goods. Their newer, larger location has allowed for the addition of Country Lunches, a weekday offering of soups, salads, sandwiches, and quiches made onsite. Don’t forget to pick up a famous Mann apple pie to bring home, too; there’s a reason Ruth Mann’s family recipe has been around for 50 years. 27 Pleasant Valley St., 978-683-0361, mannorchards.com.

Forest Lake
With the snow flying in full force, it’s time to bundle up for an afternoon of old-fashioned fun at this local recreation spot where laughing children on ice skates are as common a sight as ice fishermen perched waiting for that cold water catch. In the warmer weather, boaters find their way to the shoreline ramps to take to the water, while swimming lessons are in full swing come summer vacation. The lake is for residents only, but fishermen from all over are always welcome. Ridgewood Ln., 978-983-8590, cityofmethuen.net.

The Loop
Longtime residents who remember the site of the old Methuen Mall can tell you what a phenomenal boost this outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex has provided their city. Stores like Gap, Gap Kids, Old Navy, and Bath & Body Works are a draw for residents of the Merrimack Valley and beyond, as are restaurants like Not Your Average Joe’s, Friday’s, and Bugaboo Creek. A state-of-the-art Loews Cinema houses twenty movie screens, while next-door neighbor Starbucks caters to the “kick back and caffeinate” crowd. Borders offers a cultural twist, with an extensive selection of books and music, an in store cafe, and musical entertainment. For everyday needs, it’s a short jaunt between Stop & Shop, Home Depot, and Zoots dry cleaners. One of five such venues developed and managed by The Wilder Companies of Boston, The Loop also participates in community-based events and programs, such as showcasing local art or offering horse-drawn carriage rides for families during the holidays. 90 Pleasant Valley St., 978- 946- 9333, attheloop.com/methuen.

For more information, please call: (978) 685-8878, or visit: www.methuenfestivaloftrees.com

Start Date: 2008-11-22
Start Time: 00:00
End Date: 2008-12-06
End Time: 00:00

With five locations on the North Shore, Latitude Sports Clubs has the best quality and diversity of exercise equipment. Executive pools, indoor tracks, and award-winning exercise classes present myriad ways to keep in shape.

Readers’ Choices: Cedardale Health and Fitness, Haverhill; Yang’s Fitness Center, Andover; Manchester Athletic Club, Manchester

For the past 35 years, Borrelli’s Italian Deli has been a staple for fine deli products across Massachusetts. Famous for its sausage and cold cuts.

Readers’ Choice:
Henry’s.Beverly – Shubey’s.Marblehead – Crosby’s.Georgetown