JUNE 2024

 
The sweet science of boxing that always keeps giving. Launching punches onto the heavy bag, learning how to utilize footwork and head movement as you approach the bag from different angles. Best of all, hitting something over and over while never getting hit! It takes time to master many of the skills used in boxing, but the amount of progress you’ll be making and the fun you will have makes the time fly by.
 

THE PHYSICAL
Increase your heart health, lower your blood pressure, assist in weight loss, build strength, endurance and agility. Also, strengthen your core and build lean muscle while becoming more coordinated and athletic.
 

THE MENTAL
Over the past several years there has been a shift when discussing the benefits to a boxing workout. A shift that has the psychological benefits of hitting the bag at the forefront of the discussion. Boxing fosters confidence, concentration and resilience. Boxing builds self-awareness and helps relieve tension and stress. These benefits are now the headliners! Many believe the greatest gift from a boxing workout is its benefit to a person’s mental health. Taking what weighs on you and leaving it on the bag. It may sound cliche’ but it’s real and you can ask anyone who has experienced a true boxing workout. Removing the stress and releasing the endorphins by hitting something that does not hit back is a no brainer! Becoming both physically and mentally stronger while learning a lot about yourself along the way makes a boxing workout more than just a workout, it’s an experience!
 

Growing up, to me, the sport of boxing was just that, a sport – physically demanding and mentally tough. You had to be willing to step into a ring and face the individual across from you. Now, as a coach I am able to see it as much more than a sport. It’s an outlet for so many people of all ages, backgrounds, shapes and sizes. I may not know what every member is leaving on the bag, but what I do know is that I consider it a privilege they chose us as the drop-off spot for whatever was weighing on them.
 

Whether you’re having a great day or a not so great day, find your way to a heavy bag. You do that and there will be more better days ahead!
 

 
Many of us go through a stretch in life wondering if our talents are being maximized, thinking back to a time in our lives when we prioritized something we love, but somehow that something has fallen off. I’m talking about singing, or acting, or drawing, or playing sports, or simply being more active. We find ourselves on a singular track and say, “I know I can do more. I just have to find that sweet spot.”
 

That exact dynamic led to the birth of Exerpysch, an adolescent physical and mental health studio owned and operated by Syndi O’Connell, a former basketball player at Walpole High School and Hobart and William Smith College. Sydni loves to exercise and stay fit and her studies, after basketball, earned her a Master of Science in Applied Educational Psychology from Northeastern, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Grad Study in School Psychology. From 2017-21, Sydni settled in as a school psychologist in the Newton public school system, and learned how to help navigate the minds of students.
 

“I once worked where a student would show up and walk into the room and not speak. Nothing,” said Sydni. “It made for a long 50 minutes. My supervisor was saying, ‘There’s gotta be something we can do for this kid. How are we gonna help him?’ This school had a gym, so they sat in the gym on rowing machines side-by-side and just casually started rowing. The kid, he started talking like crazy. It was incredible. That was a pivotal moment for me where I realized, it’s not always effective to have the kid just come and sit down. Some kids can, sure, but to just come and sit and look at you across the room? They just came from math class, they’re headed to their science test and you have this 30 minutes and you say, “Talk to me. What’s going on?’ Right? That doesn’t work for a lot of kids.”
 

Through a series of grassroots experiments like that, Sydni learned she could be effective in the adolescent mental health space by combining her passion for exercise with her expertise in psychology. She would not only serve kids more effectively, but enhance her own fulfillment.
 

Exerpsych’s studio was opened on Hartford Street, next to Universal Power Yoga in the back of the plaza on High Street featuring ARCH Orthodontics and Comella’s. Sydni had a home to bring her magic to life.
 

“It’s the happy chemicals,” she said when I asked what makes exercise the secret elixir to get kids to open up. “You hear about serotonin and dopamine that go into the brain – that’s one aspect of it. Then, in many ways it’s a distractor for kids. They come in here anxious, all worried about things that are going on outside of here in school. Exercise shifts their focus to something else. There are so many benefits.”
 

For a woman who competed on the court through college, the end of Sydni’s athletic career came to a halt quickly. Finding this way to stay physically engaged while also engaging mentally with people she’s qualified to help was a home run… or in her case an, “And One!”
 

“I’ve always been a helper,” said Sydni. “I’ve always been fascinated by human behavior and what makes people different – what makes them act differently. I think all kids can benefit from meeting with a mental health professional. So as I learned about how effective the combination of exercise and psychology is, I figured combining my two passions would be a great way to break down a natural barrier.”
 

Sydni works with small groups and individuals, starting relationships with a get-to-know-you session and evolving into a series of sweat sessions where the ice is cracked and the happy chemicals are released, making it easier for all to connect.
 

“Ultimately, it’s just meant to be a feel good space,” she said. “You walk in the door, the music is blaring, we have six stationary bikes over there. It looks like a spin studio, honestly. We ride to the music, just have fun, and then the other side of the studio is our zen space.
 

We sit among the fairy lights and chat with one another, maybe play a game. The whole space is just meant to make you feel good.”
 

Listen to my full conversation with Sydni in Episode 100 of the Westwood Living Podcast, found on the Westwood Living Podcast Network across SoundCloud, Spotify, Amazon, Buzzsprout, YouTube and Facebook.

When Westwood Living was launching, the first person I called to become a potential sponsor was a financial planner, a stranger to me by the name of Aaron Buczek. After a number of attempts to connect, we finally got something on the schedule and spent about 45 minutes together, getting to know each other and learning a bit about each other’s businesses.

As I walked out of Aaron’s office, it turns out I was the one closer to making a commitment. During our conversation, he told me about the work he does as president of the Rotary Club of Westwood and asked if I would be interested in joining the organization. That’s how the friendship began.

For almost two years now, I’ve been able to watch Aaron lead the Rotary Club, effectively delegating duties while organizing meetings and events. We’ve worked together with a small, but mighty, team to bring a number of initiatives that benefit Westwooders to life. It’s been a pleasure.

Meanwhile, Aaron’s day job has kept him quite busy. Since we first met, his team at Edward Jones moved into a brand new office on Washington Street in Islington, nestled between The Muffin House and Neroli Ristorante, which has been a boon to his visibility and ability to directly connect with Westwood residents.

“You don’t think in this field of financial planning that people just pop in or stop by,” said Aaron as we sat in his office. “But believe it or not, I have had more than a handful of clients walk by and just stop in. I’ve had some people reach out and say, ‘You know, I drive by your office every dayon my way to work. I think it’s a sign. Let’s get together.'”

When you do get together with Aaron, you immediately notice his engaging personality and ability to connect. Relationship is the most important word in financial planning, and Aaron has a knack for connecting with people. He also understood the importance of becoming a
Certified Financial Planner® and dedicated a good portion of his life over the last year to getting that done.

“I started studying in August of, of 2023, and I passed the exam in March of 2024. It was eight months of intense focus and studying,” he said. “Knowledge is so important in this industry, especially with the world of the internet and social media. People have the tools and resources. You can be your own financial planner, right? Heck, you can be your own accountant, you can be your own lawyer, you can be your own doctor if you really want to be. So showing folks the value of the knowledge that I have and the CFP® to me going through that process. It was a 1000% improvement and increase in the knowledge I have.”

 And while being a CFP® is a huge difference-maker, that doesn’t mean the average person truly understands its importance and value.

 “A question I get a lot is, ‘What does that mean?'” said Aaron. “I got my CFP® and that didn’t change anything in terms of my salary or income. What it allows me to do is serve my clients at such a higher level and have a more broad understanding of the different components of true planning. Everybody thinks we just manage assets and manage investments and quite frankly, that’s a very important part of what we do, but it’s the least important part in the grand scheme of things. Now I have a lot more knowledge about estate planning, about taxes, and I can have conversations with my clients that I couldn’t have before. So hopefully that opens the door for me to serve them better and serve new clients. When people see that designation, they recognize I’ve taken the time to really build my knowledge. This industry is about relationships. You have no shortage of options when it comes to picking a firm to work with and an individual person across all of those areas. Ultimately, people will work with individuals they get along with and they enjoy being around.”

Away from the office, Aaron stays very engaged in the busy lives of his daughters, Saxin and Ilex and his wife, Allary. They love to camp together and enjoy some of the amazing baked sensations Allary creates through her company, Al Runs On Cake – macarons, truffles, muffins, bread, cake and more. A coop full of chickens also keeps them busy, and yes, I stop by the Edward Jones office each week to pick up my fresh dozen eggs. Really, it’s just a nice guaranteed way for me to see Aaron and his assistant, Susan, who warmly greets me at the door – but the eggs are incredible.

Listen to my full conversation with Aaron on the Westwood Living Podcast Network, available on SoundCloud, Spotify, Amazon, Buzzsprout, YouTube and Facebook.

 
Every few months, we host Ladies Night Out events where women grab their girlfriend, join us for dinner and learn about the unique challenges that face women specifically in retirement. It’s no surprise that these events sell out in days and end up with a long waiting list, this is information women need and want to know. One of the questions that I always start out by asking is, “Why is money important to you?” I always get the same answers. Independence. Freedom. Not being a burden. Peace of Mind. Security, etc. I have asked this same question when we put on our co-ed events I will get totally different answers from the men in the room. Pay off the House. Buy a Boat. Quit my Job. Pay for Kids/Grandkids College. Travel. If I were to ask the room full of women though if they want to travel, I am always met with an overwhelming “yes!”. So why is it that women aren’t answering that way?
 

This is because inherently women are more value based, and men tend to be more goal based. This isn’t to say that it isn’t important for men to have independence or a sense of security, of course it is. Just like women want to pay off their house and travel. What it means is that they are approaching their planning and decision making differently. In my experience as an advisor this is what is usually at the heart of why couples have so many disagreements and tension surrounding their finances (and why I joke that I am half marriage counselor and half financial advisor)
 

This is also why it’s vitally important that women have a seat at the table and are actively engaged with their financial advisor. The unfortunate truth is that 80% of women will die single, while 80% of men die married (1). And 80% of widowed women switch financial advisors within a year of their spouse passing away because they weren’t involved in the relationship with the advisor and their plan wasn’t designed for them or with them in mind (2).
 

That is why when we work to put together a financial plan, we always require both spouses to be at the table and engaged at least through the completion and implementation of their plan. When we have couples that are unaligned, we also have a process where each spouse has a one on one and then has a meeting together to find where the friction is coming from. And I will tell you that it’s always the same place. A discrepancy between their values, a/k/a the why behind how they are making decisions.
 

We recently had a couple come to see us, Bill and Cathy. They had just retired and Bill having always dreamed of spending his retirement fishing with his sons and grandkids at their New Hampshire Lakehouse went out and bought a boat, he of course needed a trailer and a truck to pull the boat and decided to finance everything for what he thought was a great rate. Cathy was very upset that he had gone out and done this on his own. For Cathy, she is now going into her retirement with debt and that infringed on her sense of financial security. This is where we come in.
 

There is a way (usually) when we work with couples like Bill and Cathy where both spouses can get exactly what they want in retirement. It’s through good planning that we can demonstrate whether Bill can/should buy the truck and boat and if that should be financed or paid for with their assets. We also show women like Cathy if her financial plan has the fortitude to stand the test of time, healthcare, inflation, and enjoy a great retirement (including the boat). We have dozens of stories just like Bill and Cathy’s and how we have helped them get aligned and start working together for a better future. If you are feeling unaligned or uncertain about your retirement and want to ensure that you are on the right track, then visit our website and book a complimentary consultation. Ladies, if you are interested in attending one of our Ladies Night Out Events, (next two are in June) send us an email, check out our events page on our website or follow us on social media!
 

Names have been changed for confidentiality.

 
1. (2020, August 17). Estate Planning for Women | Why Sooner Is Better Than Later – Lefkoff, Duncan, Grimes, McSawin, Hass & Hanley, P.C. Lefkoff, Duncan, Grimes, McSawin, Hass & Hanley, P.C. https://lefkoff-duncan.com/estate-planning-for-women-why-sooner-is-better-than-later/
2. ca. (n.d.). Why 80% of women leave their advisors when they lose their husband. Advisorpedia. https://www.advisorpedia.com/advisor-tools/why-80-of-women-leave-their-advisors-when-they-lose-their-husband/#:~:text=Women%20will%20also%20inherit%20the,year%20of%20their%20husband’s%20death.

Securities and advisory services offered through Packerland Brokerage Services Inc., an unaffiliated entity – Member FINRA & SIPC.

 
As a dentist, I understand the challenges parents face in getting their kids to take care of their teeth. Dental hygiene is crucial for everyone’s overall health, and instilling good habits early can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here are some tips, tricks, and interesting alternatives to make dental care fun and engaging for your little ones.
 

Lead by Example: Children often mimic their parents’ behavior. Make sure you demonstrate good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing regularly. Show them that taking care of your teeth is important and part of your daily routine.
 

Choose Kid-Friendly Tools: Invest in toothbrushes and toothpaste designed specifically for children. Let them pick their favorite colors or characters to make brushing more enjoyable.
 

Make it a Game: Turn brushing and flossing into a game or challenge. Use timers or play their favorite song to make sure they brush for the recommended two minutes. You can also create a reward system for consistent dental care habits.
 

Educate with Fun: Teach your kids about the importance of dental care using fun and interactive methods. There are plenty of books, videos, and apps that explain oral hygiene in a way that’s engaging for children.
 

Try Alternative Techniques: For kids who are resistant to traditional brushing, consider alternatives like electric toothbrushes or water flossers. These devices can be more exciting and may encourage better compliance.
 

Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for taking care of their teeth and celebrate their milestones, such as losing a tooth or completing a dental checkup without any issues. Positive reinforcement can reinforce good habits.
 

Involve Them in Shopping: Take your child with you when buying oral care products. Letting them choose their toothbrush, toothpaste flavors, and floss can give them a sense of ownership over their dental routine.
 

Set a Routine: Establish a consistent oral care routine that includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. Consistency helps reinforce the habit and makes it easier for kids to remember.
 

Make Dental Visits Fun: Regular dental checkups are essential. We love working with kids and have created a child-friendly environment.
 

Lead by Positive Encouragement: Avoid using fear tactics or negative language when discussing dental care. Instead, focus on the benefits of healthy teeth and gums, such as a bright smile and avoiding painful dental problems.
 

Try these tips and tricks! Dental care can and should be a positive and enjoyable experience for your children. Remember, starting early and making it fun can set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health habits.

You’ve probably driven along Route 109 and laughed to yourself as you pass from Westwood into Walpole, then Dover, then Medfield in the course of about 90 seconds. That stretch is truly one of our state’s most unique signatures. In the stretch of 109 that separates Dover from Walpole – with Dover to the north and Walpole to the south, you’ll find a new apartment complex that’s been a work-in-progress for more than four years.
 
The Pastures at Dover were designed and constructed by CorMC, LLC, with Paul McGovern spearheading an effort to get the project to the finish line and tenants in apartments by early June.
 
As we sat across from each other in the model unit on the first floor of 61 County Street, Paul and I chatted about the timeline, the history and the challenges associated with developing a new residential property.
 
“It’s been quite a process,” said Paul. “There were actually two, more or less, derelict houses – there were people living in them up until probably 2018, but they were in very poor condition. We acquired the site at the end of 2019 and started the permitting process early in 2020. It’s a multi-phase process. The first thing you have to do is go to the state for site approval, which probably took close to a year. Then we worked with different departments in the town of Dover to get a comprehensive permit, which again took probably close to a second year. Then, as we have some wetlands at the back of the property, we also had to work with the Dover Conservation Commission. So basically we spent close to three years from the time we purchased, getting the permits before we actually put a shovel in the ground. We started on-site work in January or February of last year, 2023, and here we are, May of 2024, and we’re almost finished.”
 
Construction and development are in Paul’s blood, dating back to the days he spent as a youth in Ireland’s County Leitrim.
 
“I grew up on a farm in rural northwest Ireland, and we were extremely self-sufficient,” said Paul. “My dad built sheds for cattle and all of that, and he did it all himself. So basically, since I was a kid, I’ve been dragged out of the house to help at various construction tasks. As it turns out, it’s something that I have always enjoyed doing. I actually graduated from college as a teacher and I was teaching construction studies and technical drawing back in Ireland, but after four years I left that and went straight into the construction industry. I’ve been working in residential construction for quite a few years since then.”
 
While large-scale projects are certainly within the bandwidth of what Paul and his team can handle, there’s a special draw to residential projects, which he thoroughly enjoys managing.
 
“My background is in residential construction, both new build and remodeling,” he said. “My preference is for more significant additions. We do kitchens and bathroom remodels, but typically I’m looking for the slightly bigger projects where we’re adding a floor onto a property, adding on over a garage, giving people more space. One of my favorite things to do with homeowners is to come up with a vision of how to bring an older house back to life.”
 
The Pastures at Dover project is full of life and ready to welcome the public. As we went to production with this issue of Westwood Living, eight of the 34 units were already leased, with another nine reserved as affordable units as part of the Massachusetts 40B program. You can find one, two or three-bedroom apartments and a development that offers a number of amenities, including temporary office space, a dog run, a dog-washing room, a fully-equipped gym, a community room and patio.
 
“We knew it was important to include amenities that address the way people live today,” he said. “It says a lot that we’ve signed up so many people already given that it’s still a construction zone. We’re looking forward to our official opening.”
 
Paul and his wife, Gio, live in Needham with their children, Ben and Anna. He’s eager to meet more people in the Westwood community and is always willing to show off The Pastures at Dover to anyone who’s interested. Just reach out to set a time.
 
Listen to my full conversation with Paul McGovern in Episode 104 of the Westwood Living Podcast, found across SoundCloud, Spotify, Amazon, Buzzsprout, YouTube and Facebook.

 
As the sun dances upon the glistening surface of pools, lakes, and oceans, the allure of swimming beckons both young and old to embrace the refreshing embrace of cool waters. While swimming offers boundless opportunities for fun and relaxation, it’s paramount to prioritize safety at all times. Whether you’re dipping your toes in a backyard pool or diving into the vast expanse of the sea, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable aquatic experience this summer.
 

Learn to Swim: The first and most fundamental step in swimming safety is learning how to swim proficiently. Enrolling in swimming lessons, whether as a child or an adult, equips individuals with essential water safety skills such as floating, treading water, and proper stroke techniques. By becoming confident and capable swimmers, individuals can navigate aquatic environments with ease and minimize the risk of accidents.
 

Supervision is Key: Never underestimate the importance of vigilant supervision, especially when children are swimming. Designate a responsible adult as a designated “water watcher” whose sole focus is to monitor swimmers without distraction. Keep young children within arm’s reach at all times and never leave them unattended near water, even for a moment.
 

Know the Water: Different bodies of water present unique challenges and hazards. Pools may have shallow and deep ends, diving boards, and slippery surfaces, while natural bodies of water can conceal underwater obstacles, strong currents, and sudden drop-offs. Before swimming, familiarize yourself with the water’s depth, currents, and any potential hazards, and always heed warning signs and lifeguard instructions.
 

Buddy System: Swim with a buddy whenever possible. Having a swimming companion provides an added layer of safety and ensures that someone is available to assist in case of an emergency. Encourage each other to stay within designated swimming areas and to communicate openly about any concerns or discomforts while in the water.
 

Wear Appropriate Gear: Choose swimwear that is comfortable, well-fitting, and appropriate for the intended activity. Life jackets or personal flotation devices are essential for inexperienced swimmers, children, and individuals participating in water sports such as boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Ensure that life jackets are properly sized and fitted to provide adequate buoyancy
 

Practice Sun Safety: Sun exposure is an inevitable part of outdoor swimming, so it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF before entering the water and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
 

Stay Hydrated: Swimming can be deceptively strenuous, leading to dehydration if adequate fluids are not consumed. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming to stay hydrated and replenish lost fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can increase the risk of dehydration and impair judgment while swimming.
 

Know Emergency Procedures: In the event of an emergency, knowing how to respond swiftly and effectively can make all the difference. Learn CPR and basic water rescue techniques, and ensure that emergency contact information and the location of the nearest medical facilities are readily accessible. Always have a first aid kit on hand and know how to use it.
 

By following these essential swimming safety tips, you can enjoy the water with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken proactive steps to protect yourself and others from potential risks. So, dive in, make a splash, and savor every moment of aquatic adventures this summer, but always remember: safety first, swim second.

By Deepak Viswalingam

This past February, Westwood High School tragically lost an incredible coach, educator, and inspiring person in Mr. Tim Chant, or, as I know him, Coach Chant. He was not only the wellness department head at the high school but also an experienced coach and athlete in multiple sports. Although there are many others in Westwood, perhaps some of you, who knew Coach Chant much better than I did, I want to share his indelible impact on my confidence.

Soccer has been my favorite sport to play and watch for a long time, but I always felt like my passion far outweighed my talent. Entering the boys junior varsity tryouts, my belief in my technical ability and athleticism was at its lowest level. At the close of the freshman season, I felt reasonably proud of my performances, but after a lengthy hiatus from the game in the offseason and a poor summer league showing, that confidence evaporated. My anxiety about the upcoming tryouts increased when I learned of the vacancy in the coaching position.

At the JV tryouts, I first met Coach Chant, who graciously decided to fill in as coach for the year despite his role as wellness director. I was struck by his pragmatic approach to the tryout process: his desire to win was evident, and he made it clear that he wanted to select the group of boys that would let him do so. Yet simultaneously, he gave off a warm approachability that soothed my worries, despite my rough start. He noticed and appreciated my talent and personally advised me to be more aggressive in my playing. Throughout the tryouts and the season, he would praise players—make them feel special—for any skill or effort they displayed. He found the ideal equilibrium between high expectations and encouragement needed for a developing a young JV team. That made him special among coaches, and I am sure my fellow teammates would agree.

But what made Coach Chant special to me in a way I will never forget was his empathy. Because of a musical activity I was committed to, I had to miss practices and games every Friday. For a coach who needs to choose a small team of twenty or so kids from a pool of more than thirty, my situation was far from ideal. When I decided to let him know if this was a complication, he gave me an amicable smile, listened attentively, and told me that he would think about it. The following day, he approached me and assured me of my potential as a player and of my place on the team. He said that he understood the challenge of balancing multiple interests.

It was then that I experienced empathy in its purest form. For a competitive coach like Mr. Chant to listen to my situation and give me a chance is remarkable. It is something he certainly did not need to do. Just like he did not need to step in and coach our team. And in his many years at Westwood, before I knew him, I know that he acted out of the same selflessness.

On the field, the season was a great success, with only one loss in fifteen games. To add to the victory, the talented graduates of Coach Chant’s JV played a central role in the most successful varsity season of the past few years this past fall.

Exiting the season, I was left with a lasting impression of his confidence, competence, competitiveness, empathy, and selflessness. These traits will forever remain in my memory of him, and I hope in your memories as well. If you knew Coach Chant, I hope this serves as a reminder of his unique character. If you did not, I hope this relays to you his touching impact. I want to leave you with a final memory—another one of the things he did not need to do but did nonetheless.

As I was exiting his office after receiving a certificate for being on the team, he compassionately reminded me about where I started and all the improvements that I made throughout the season. I was never the most gifted, assertive, or physical player, and Coach Chant knew that. But he also knew how to make me feel proud.

Thank you, Coach.

By Diana Bezdedeanu
 
“I might be biased. But I think that Wind Ensemble is one of the most valuable electives offered [at Westwood High School]. Not only can you build your resumé, but you have the opportunity to be part of a music-making machine. So although there is value in options for electives, and it’s beautiful that we have so many options, I just think if people knew how good Wind Ensemble really is, maybe more would choose it.”
 

This powerful sentiment was expressed by Deepak Viswalingam, Westwood High School junior, who, along with fellow WHS Class of 2025 member Conor Tsang, was accepted into the Massachusetts Music Educators Association (MMEA) All-State Music Festival in March. Deepak received the highest score of any clarinet player that auditioned, while Conor received the second highest score amongst all tenor saxophones.
 

Conor began playing the alto saxophone in fifth grade, drawn to the allure of its melodic resonance, later switching to the tenor saxophone in middle school.
 

“I had seen older band kids playing the saxophone, and I thought it was cool,” Conor reflected. “It quickly became a part of who I am, especially as I started to delve into competitions and commit more time to playing.”
 

Similarly, Deepak’s affinity for the clarinet blossomed in elementary school, though in fourth grade.
 

“The clarinet has a really mellow sound, especially in the lower register, and it’s very unique and beautiful,” Deepak mused. “After hearing it, I knew instantly that this was the instrument I wanted to play.”
 

There are five MMEA districts in Massachusetts: Central, Eastern, Northeastern, Southeastern, and Western. Westwood is in the Eastern district, along with 20 – 30 other schools. Before the All-State Music Festival, there is a festival for each district, which includes all instruments from strings to winds to percussion to voice. Each student is given a piece of music to prepare, and a set of scales to memorize. In addition, during the audition, each student is presented with a couple of lines of computer-generated music that they have about 60 seconds to “sight-read” and then play as accurately as possible. Judges then tally up individual scores, and the highest members from each group of instruments get invited to audition for All-State, where this process repeats all over again. At Eastern districts, Conor and Deepak each received the highest score for their respective instruments.
 

They say practice makes perfect, and that couldn’t be more true when it comes to playing an instrument.
 

“Focusing on the fundamentals applies to every single musician, no matter what instrument you play.” Deepak emphasized. “Whether that’s scales or long tones, practicing the fundamentals at every level is so important. Also important – private teachers. The Prodigy program at Westwood, which we are both part of, has many good private teachers, but you can also find teachers around the greater Boston area. They’re the ones that hold you accountable and share about different opportunities, including the festivals.”
 

Looking ahead, Conor envisions music as a lifelong passion, a source of solace and joy amidst the tumult of life.
 

“It may transition into a hobby post-high school,” Conor admitted. “But I can’t imagine a life without music, so I might think about joining an ensemble in college to keep the melody alive.”
 

For Deepak, classical music has become a cornerstone of his identity, fueling his aspirations beyond high school.
 

“Over the past few years, I’ve developed a very strong passion for classical music, especially orchestral music. It’s probably the only thing I listen to these days. And I also play in an orchestra. So although I probably won’t go to music school, I plan to play in a community orchestra for my entire life.”
 

As they prepare to assume leadership roles in Wind Ensemble for the 2024 – 2025 school year, we have no doubt that Conor and Deepak are committed to encouraging underclassmen to further their music passion.
 

Congratulations Conor & Deepak for being our June Featured Artists! If you’d like to nominate an artist of any sort to be featured – music, acting, painting, drawing, sculpture, etc. – please email dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com

By Rachel Milbury
The Milbury Method

As June rolls in, we may realize we have a little less time for ourselves and more time with our kids.

Let’s make the most of it. As summer time rolls in and kids are transitioning towards school vacation, we may feel the precious time we delegate to our fitness routine could end up going to the wayside. Instead, I encourage you to include your little (or big) rascals, no matter how resistant they might be, into your daily routine. Make exercise a family affair. Include your kids in daily walks, with or without your canine friends. Point out the beautiful greenery, the sunsets, and the flowers while you can. Interest your kids in seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Signing up for a local CSA is a great way to get kids excited about nutritious fruits and veggies harvested at your local farm. Include the kids in preparation of these fruits and veggies and they will be more likely to try them out.

Plan some outdoor backyard family workouts. Make it fun! How many rounds of 10 squats, 10 pushups, and 20 jumping jacks can each of you do in 10 minutes?!

Regardless of how you choose to spend your spring and summer, make fitness and nutrition a priority for you and your family!

By Charlotte Scolaro

Publisher’s Note – This month, our Standout Student feature is actually authored by the person we are honoring. Charlotte Scolaro is a junior at Westwood High School who is working on completing her Girl Scout Gold Award, focusing on educating Westwood residents about the attributes of composting, which is a relatively simple task that can be done at home while also having a big impact on the environment. As part of her project, Charlotte has developed a school curriculum and presented it to elementary school students, including a game to show students what can and cannot be composted. The goals of her project are to increase knowledge on composting as well as increase the amount of families who compost within the town of Westwood.

When it comes to sustainability, we need to talk trash! According to the EPA, landfills are the third-largest source of methane emissions in the United States. This chemical is a primary contributor to global warming, a crisis the entire world is affected by.

Composting organic waste can help mitigate these emissions. The U.S. Composting Council estimates that composting one ton of organic waste can save 0.25 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. That is almost the same amount of combined food waste and yard waste that a family of four produces annually! In 2022, the population in Westwood was 16,231, so we are talking 1,020 tons of carbon dioxide emissions would not be released into the atmosphere if we all start composting today!

Composting takes as little as 10 weeks and will create a fertilizer for your plants that is porous and full of nutrients. Composted soil also improves water-holding capacity, reducing dependency on watering and decreasing the incidence of plant disease and your water bill. Composting does not take a great deal of time and minimizes your household garbage. The nutrient-rich “super soil” is great for use in the garden, lawn, and house plants.

By composting household food instead of putting it in the trash, organic matter is eliminated from the waste stream. This nutrient-rich matter can help grow your vegetables while reducing methane.

One small act can have a big impact – choose a way to compost today.

There are three options when it comes to composting. Westwood residents can purchase a backyard compost bin from the town website, hire a compost service, or self-compost by building a structure. The bottom line is that simply adding appropriate food scraps into a bin and mixing them periodically or having them collected has a significant impact on the environment.

If you are thinking about composting at home, here are some helpful tips to get started:

Choose a Method

Purchase a static or tumbling compost bin, such as the Earth Machine bin offered on the town’s website. These bins are relatively large, almost 3′ by 3′, and will be assembled upon order and can be picked up at the Carby Street location. I can also deliver the bin if you need assistance.

Hire a service such as Black Earth Compost, and they will provide a bin on wheels that can be collected curbside either weekly or biweekly.

Build a compost waste collection area in your yard with wood or bricks and a cover. For the bin’s location, it is suggested to choose an area with some shade so the material doesn’t dry out.

What To Compost

Add green materials such as fruit and vegetable scraps, used tea, coffee grounds, crushed eggshells, grass clippings, green plant cuttings, old flowers, and weeds.

Brown materials to add include straw, paper cardboard, dry leaves, and woody prunings.

Cut larger items into smaller pieces to help them decompose faster.

What NOT to Compost

Don’t put diseased plants, pet droppings, cooking fat, glossy paper, weeds with seeds, dairy, fish, and plastic fruit labels.

Avoid adding meat and bones unless you have a larger compost system.

Layer Materials in the Compost (Only needed if you are using a Self-Built Composting Pile)

Start with a base layer of mulch or old potting mix for air circulation and drainage.

Alternate with layers of green and brown material

Add water after each layer to keep the pile moist but not soggy. Finish with a layer of soil or finished compost to help reduce odors.

Spin or mix the compost every week or two. Another option is to poke garden stakes or plastic pipes through the pile to allow air in.

Cover the compost bin’s top to keep in heat and moisture, which are essential for the process.

Have Patience

In 10 weeks, you will have your new, homemade fertilizer!

A highlight of the annual Little League Baseball and Westwood Youth Softball Parade is watching the current varsity teams line up on the baselines of Morrison Field, players wearing their uniforms, looming large over the kids who will someday follow in their footsteps. For many of these Wolverines, including senior baseball standouts Elliott Harris and Alex Dayton, it’s easy to recall when things were the other way around.
 

“You always look back at your Little League experience,” said Elliott. “It was great playing on this diamond, coming out every night with your friends. Whether it’s either watching the game, playing in it, or just being around. It’s a great atmosphere here. Snack Shack’s fun. You look back at these times and yeah, you just reminisce.”
 

“My best memory from Little League? In third grade I won the championship for the minor leagues,” said Alex. “That was a lot of fun.”
 

Head coach Brian Whelan has watched the group mature through the years and was feeling confident as the Wolverines jumped out to a fast start. “Those guys accomplished a lot last year,” he said. “They had some success and I think they realized some of the younger guys could step up this year and we’ll see how that works out. Time will tell.” Harris is best described as the Wolverines’ sparkplug. “I pitch, I play shortstop and I’m the lead-off hitter,” said Elliott. “I set the tempo, set the tone – whether it’s either starting the game on the mound, leading off the game or playing defense. Just setting the tempo, getting the guys ready to get out there and get it done.”
 

“He is very vocal,” said Alex. “He took charge against Dover. We had a little bit of a scrap and he made it clear they weren’t gonna be able to push us around. He’s a good player who just carries himself really well.”
 

Harris will attend Quinnipiac University next fall and hopes to make the baseball team as a walk-on. If not, he’ll play club ball to stay engaged. Dayton, meanwhile, will continue his baseball career at Wentworth Institute of Technology.
 

“Probably the best hitter in our league right now,” said Elliott. He plays amazing defense. He’s amazing at the plate and on the mound, all around. Good kid and you can see how the team really rallies behind him. He a great leader, great friend, great teammate.” Coach Whelan likes to keep things in perspective, and constantly reminds his players about the true priorities they should be focusing on. “It’s game and it should be fun and the outcome’s going to be the outcome, but you’re kids only for a short, short amount of time,” he said.
 

Elliott and Alex, who’ve been playing together for years and did a great job leading this year’s squad, understand that and have continued to build on the great tradition of Westwood baseball.
 

Some day in the future, they may visit the alma mater and watch the kids play who idolized them on this beautiful spring morning in 2024.
 

Congratulations, Elliott and Alex! 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