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Cover Contest Winners: The Gordon Family

WINTER 2015-HOLIDAY 2014 | FREE

By parents, for parents in the Greater Brockton Area w w w . c c b r o c k t o n . o r g

Sponsored by Community Connections of Brockton in alliance with Brockton’s Promise and the United Way of Greater Plymouth County

In thIs Issue:

Cover Contest Winners: The Gordon Family

» Holiday Happenings, pg. 4

» Save the Date: Leadership Conference, pg. 6

» Family Traditions, pg. 12

» Holiday Happenings, pg. 4

» Save the Date: Leadership Conference, pg. 6

» Family Traditions, pg. 12

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houghtful

-3-

Dear Brockton Area Parent,

Now we are almost through the first half of the school year and our children will be taking time off from lessons for the holidays. As parents, many of us may feel inadequate and unable to provide

our children with the kind of education they deserve which is why we are so grateful for the teachers who have them in their classrooms five days a week. They work tirelessly to give their students, our children, an understanding of math, science, languages, literature the list goes on! They teach them to read, write, and tell the difference between an equilateral triangle and an isosceles triangle. They correct their grammar and, in some cases, hand down discipline. In some schools, our children are given faith formation, too. But, we as parents are the first and best teachers for our children. The lessons in the classroom are best left to the teachers, but it is up to us to teach our children about gratitude, love and kindness. The holiday season and the following winter months are perhaps the best times to take with our families to explore how we contribute to the community in which we live. There is an abundance of blessings that fall upon our children during this season, food, presents, families, time off to play, celebrations and it's easy to allow ourselves to overindulge.

Whatever your family faith or traditions are for the winter holidays, we know that here at the Brockton Parents Magazine we'll be taking time to give thanks, thanks for all that we have, that we share, and that we are able to give to our children. And we give thanks for you, our readers you are our neighbors, our friends and families, our co-workers. This is lesson we can give our children that will serve them long past the different names of triangles: the lesson of community.

- The Brockton Parents Magazine Parent Volunteers

Table of Contents

In partnership with:

A special thanks to our advertisers:

» UMA Medical

» BAMSI

» Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan (BMCHP)

» Brockton Housing Authority

» Engaged

» HarborOne Multicultural Banking Center

» Jim Rober Photography

» Massasoit Community College

» Mi Fiesta Balloon Decor

» Network Health

» NY Life Insurance - Rodney Kornegay

» Old Colony YMCA

» Signature Health Care

» Simpson Springs

» Southeastern Technical Institute

» Steward Good Samaritan Medical Center

» The Family Center

To advertise in the Brockton Parents Magazine, please call Juliana Langille, Executive Director of Community Connections of Brockton at (508) 583-5631 or email us at magazine@ccbrockton.org. 18 Perkins St., Brockton, MA 02302

Infants/toddlers pg. 8-9

preschool/K pg. 10-11

elementary pg. 12-13

mIddle school pg. 14-15

hIgh school pg. 16-17

college pg. 18-19

WInter resources pg. 21

famIly center events pg. 22

-4-

KEEP GOOD GOINGLife Insurance. Retirement. Investments.

Rodney KornegayAgent, New York Life Insurance CompanyOne Lakeshore CenterSuite 202-204Bridgewater, MA 02324(508) 279-4462rtkornegay@ft.newyorklife.comrodneykornegay.nylagents.com

© 2013 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

#59 Continue fi lling your days with what you love.

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Some are just five foot two, but have a gigantic heart full of love. BMC HealthNet Plan is home to giants of all sizes, and we’re stronger for it.

Visit ChooseBMCHP.org to learn more.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS 2014friday, november 28, 2014 6 pmUSA Christmas Town, Tree Lighting, Legion Parkway, Brockton MA. Tree lighting at 6 pm. This is the best way to start the holidays. There will be Children’s crafts. Join the fun at the Downtown Brockton Tree Lighting Ceremony. Also bring your Santa Hat as there will be a Santa Hat Challenge. For more information visit: www.usachristmastown.org

saturday, november 29, 2014 activities starting at 9 am. USA Christmas Town Downtown Brockton Holiday Parade.Free pictures with Santa at 9:30 am, Treasure Hunt 9 am-12 pm. Parade starts at 1 pm. See Bands, Floats and so much more. Visit the International Food Court and Downtown businesses for that great holiday gift. For more information visit: www.usachristmastown.org

holiday craft Bazaar – city hall, 45 school st, Brockton ma 11 am – 4 pm Do some of your holiday shopping by visiting crafters. Grab a bite to eat or a sweet treat at any of the food vendors. Listen & participate in singing and much more!

shoe city video for vets – city hall, 45 school st, Brockton ma 10 am -12 pmResidents will be able to record a 60 second video message for family or friends serving overseas. This event is FREE and open to the public. Come and record a message to thank those who are serving our country.

thursday, december 4, 2014Holiday Wrap Up, Fuller Craft Museum, 455 Oak St, Brockton, MA 5:30 pm – 9 pm. FREEJoin us to make origami, ornaments, gifts and holiday treats out of recycled and reusable materials. For more information please call 508-588-6000 or visit www.fullercraft.org

saturday, december 6, 2014Jingle Bell Run, The Conference Center at Massasoit, 770 Crescent St., Brockton MA 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk to Benefit The Enterprise Helping Hand Fund. Registration time: 12 pm, Race 1 pm. Free lunch buffet, Raffles, Prizes for best costumes, Bid on great raffle items, DJ and Live band. Entry fee: $20.00 per adult, $10.00 per child or donation of non-perishable items.

Contact InformationWho We are:The Brockton’s Parents Magazine is comprised of an editorial collaboration of local volunteer parents. We meet once a month to discuss story ideas, plan the magazine and talk about topics of interest for parents in our community.

edItorIal team: KAREEN BLAKE, Parent Editor CLAUDIA CUNHA, Parent Editor, Distribution TeamJOSUE CUNHA, Parent Editor, Distribution Team CHRIS DRAVES, Parent Editor & Distribution Coordinator NICKI MEADE DRAVES, Parent Editor HERKINS FRANCOIS, Parent EditorLANTONIA FRANCOIS, Parent Editor MELISA GILLINGS, Parent Editor FABIOLA HYPPOLITE, Parent Editor PHILLIPE JUSTIN, Jr. EditorVANESSA LUNDY, Parent Editor CINDY MEDINA-SEPULVEDA, Parent EditorALLEN PERREAULT, Parent EditorMICHELLE MICELI, Parent Editor & Layout Team BETTY RADA, Parent Editor JAMES ROBER, Parent Editor & Photographer FELICITA SEPULVEDA, Parent Editor & Outreach Team LYNNE SPADEA, Parent Editor Edit TeamYOLENE WILSON, Parent Editor MARIA WILSON-SEPULVEDA, Parent Editor & Edit Team AMY WINSTON, Parent Editor & Edit Team

a specIal thanK you to: Kate Archard, Edit Volunteer Katie Cavanagh, Edit Volunteer Lauren DeFilippo, Edit VolunteerGail Delgado, Edit VolunteerMark Frey, Edit Volunteer Judith Guevara, Edit Volunteer Raegina Joyner, Volunteer Nancy King, Edit Volunteer Luz Laboy, Volunteer - Children's Activities Marcia Perry, Edit Volunteer Ann Rosen, Edit Volunteer Danyelle Roppolo, Edit Volunteer

contact us: Want to get involved? Want to advertise? Looking to write an article? Write, call or visit online! We meet the FIRST Thursday of each month at

5:30 PM. Light dinner and child care are provided.

Brockton Parents Magazine c/o The Family Center at Community Connections of Brockton18 Perkins Street | Brockton, MA 02302T: (508)-583-5631 | magazine@ccbrockton.org | www.ccbrockton.org

You Could Be on The nexT Cover!

Enter our facebook cover photo contest! • Email your family photo to

magazine@ccbrockton.org

• Photo with the most 'likes' will be featured on the next cover

The LET'S Go Build! Club welcomes you for a new season of play!

Club meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month.

Call The Family Center at 508-857-0272 for more details and to save your seat.

Happy Building!

Jay's amazing maze

JOIN US

Join us for the 5th annual South Shore Leadership Conference! 

This  FREE  conference  is  to  empower South  Shore  residents.  Our  goal  is  to build leadership skills to enable local residents to become actively engaged in advocacy work in their communities. 

Date:    Sat., March 28, 2015Time:    8:45 am - 5:00 pm Location:   South Middle School       105 Keith Ave Ext.          Brockton, MA 02301For more information:Visitwww.ccbrockton.com/programsevents/south-shore-parent-leadership-conference/

www.ccbrockton.org

South Shore LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

High-quality, affordable health care coverage for you and your family.

Network-Health.org • 888-257-1985

BAMSI is a statewide human service organization dedicated to “bringing people and services together.” Since 1975, BAMSI has delivered high-quality services to individuals and families throughout Massachusetts. BAMSI supports nearly 20,000 individuals a year, operating more than 100 programs. Our programs include a comprehensive network of services in the following areas: day and residential ser-vices; services for children, youth and fami-lies; behavioral health programs; elderly services; housing and essential services; and HIV services.

For more information, visit w ww.bamsi.org, or call us at

(508) 580-8700

A B O U T U S

BAMSI is a certified minority, non-profit organization.

CARF Accredited

How We Can Help You, Your Children and Loved One’s with Mental Health Challenges!

BAMSI’s Community Service Agency (CSA): The CSA of the Brockton Area is a community-based organization that facilitates access to, and ensures coordination of, care for youth with a serious emotional disturbance (SED) and their families. Who is Eligible? Youth up to 21 years of age and their families who meet the criteria for SED Youth who have completed a Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment

and have been determined to meet the appropriate criteria for CSA services Mass Health members with Standard or CommonHealth Coverage

How to Reach Us:

For more information, call (508) 587-2579, Ext. 20, or toll-free (877) 788-WRAP After-hours number: (508) 208-1482

BAMSI’s Whitman Counseling Center: The Whitman Counseling Center team is comprised of psychiatrists, nurses, behavioral health clini-cians, and social workers with a variety of backgrounds and specialties. We accept self-referrals as well as outside referrals. Our Services Include: Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Child and Family Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology Evaluations and Treatment Who Can Receive Help from the Team at the Whitman Counseling Center? BAMSI serves people of all ages who experience difficulties due to troubling psychiatric and/or emo-tional symptoms. Factors such as stress (current or past), life crises, problems in school, developmen-tal issues, mental illness, adjustment disorders, and substance abuse could cause these symptoms to surface. With flexibility as a focus, we offer to see clients at home, school, work and other commu-nity locations. How to Reach Us:

Whitman Counseling Center 288 Bedford Street, Whitman, MA (781) 447-6425

infant/toddler

the parent Zone - mommy & daddy care By: Anaya-Elon Pinney

You have been blessed with a bundle of joy, maybe even bundles. You do everything and anything to make sure that your little one(s)

have their basic needs met. You handle their clothing with tender, loving care; maintain a healthy supply of milk, solids, snacks…You keep the baby medicine cabinet stocked just in case and have child-proofed the house to the minutest detail. You rock-a-bye baby, read the kids’ stories, keep them educated and entertained. But, there remain one or two people you had forgotten about while being lost in baby translation. Yup, mommy or daddy got left behind, again, like a book in the series of a Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins series. What? You’ve never heard of them? That’s right you don’t even read leisure books anymore.

You have become lost in “The Twilight of the Parents Zone” with no hopes of ever coming out unless you truly begin to make a concerted effort. One, a-hem! one baby step at a time. Take me for instance, a self-proclaimed expert. I had one, then two, then three little ones within the span of four years. I cannot underscore the fact that I was TIRED. And, being a working parent outside of the home along with my spouse and fellow parent, we were now outnumbered three kids to two parents… six hands, feet and six teary eyes, five-pamper sets, four diaper bags, three crying mouths, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree…

I still, ten years later suffer from Mommy Brain remembering these early days. I literally had to retrain my brain to restore a bit of that loving feeling that I had lost. I had to let go of mommy guilt, spouse guilt, and woman guilt which so often becomes a part of the parental journey. Yes, I knew my life would never be the same. I went into this with both feet in, yet I had managed to keep my basic needs and personal

cares distant in an “eyes wide shut” sort of a way. Anything I’d done to maintain my nourishment and personal appearance had been due to my having to do this because baby has needs or spouse has needs, but what about my needs?

I came across this esoteric question today with this quote, “Sometimes you don’t realize you’re actually drowning when you’re trying to be everyone else’s anchor.” That was me to the point that my stress had begun to affect my health, my chronic fatigue had caused me to get drowsy at the worst of times, and others could see the effects of both while I was hard-pressed to dismiss these concerns with a I’ve got to keep things moving burnout mentality.

By moving so much it is only a matter of time before you stop being able to move at all. In the next episode of The Parents Zone, we will learn how to get back to our basic needs, one baby step at a time.

Bundle Up!

Babies typically need one more

layer than you're wearing yourself

to keep warm in the winter.

What’s going on?Brockton Public Library | Tel. 508-580-7890 ext. 301304 Main St, Brockton, MA - Children's Room

tIme for tWos - A program for two year olds and their parent/caregiver that includes stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs and simple activities. It will be held at the Main Library every Thursday, starting on Oct. 2 – Dec. 11, from 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. (Except for November 27). Please sign up in the Children’s Room.

Brockton public library -West Branch, 540 forest ave, Brockton maTel. 508-580-7894 10 am - 11:00 am Drop In playgroup

drop-In to play & learn WIth mother goose. Join us the last Monday of each month, Nov. 24, Dec. 29, 2014, Jan. 26, Feb. 23, Mar. 30 and Apr. 27, 2015. Come and learn about Dialogic Reading - one of the most powerful tools you can use to support your child's literacy development. For more information, please call Brockton CFCE Office at 508-580-7491 or email Joni Block: joniblock@bpsma.org

infant/toddler

gratItude or attItude By: Anaya-Elon Pinney

I could not believe it. I really should not have been surprised. We just got through Halloween as a family and now we’re going straight to Christmas; October to December; candy gifts to candied yams. Thanksgiving has been relegated to the backburner of holiday importance and relevance. Well, no, ladies and gentlemen! We’re bringing Thanksgiving back! And along with it the intrinsic value of giving thanks.

This is the holiday where as a child, my parents and teachers had taught me the importance of giving thanks and giving back just for the sake of knowing that we could if we really wanted to make a difference in the lives of those we loved or those we’d never even met.

The more I think about this month and this time of year the more I realize that this giving thanks and giving back should be regular traits for our little ones. Most former little people learned how to be grateful, respectful and show honor early. Somewhere in their youth they were taught to respect elders by offering them a seat on the bus, opening a door, or helping them bring in their groceries. They were taught to hold doors open for people of all sizes. They would shovel the snow from another’s walkway, help an invalid or check in on their neighbors from time to time. Oh, and the earliest lessons came in the forms of saying: “Hello; Goodbye; Thank you; No, thank you; Yes, please; Pardon me and excuse me.” Saying, “God bless you” didn’t get you fired or disdained and you could offer a person a tissue if they coughed or sneezed or help someone back up again without the fear of potentially catching a communicable disease.

I am amazed at how many children I see in public talking back to their guardian or teacher or downright refusing to listen to what their parent had just told them to do again and again and again. So as it appears that commercialism has downplayed or forsaken the importance of a holiday based on family, love and selflessness it has celebrated in its place disrespect, dishonesty and selfishness as ways worth getting the ultimate reward, of “What’s mine, mine, mine.”

It can take patience, repetitiveness and a whole bunch of time and love, but if the universal Golden Rule of treating others how we would like to be treated is to be truly learned it has to be truly applied starting as early as when your child begins to speak verbally or non-verbally, through words and through gestures and signs. Believe: Gratitude vs. Attitude, Good vs. Evil, Right vs. Wrong, Manners vs. Rudeness, it all goes hand in hand.

coupons and savIngsBy: April Levin, Official How to Shop for Free® Coupon Instructor/Blogger/Moderator

As a single mother of two young children on a low income budget, I

know how challenging it can be to make every day purchases. Most months I did not have enough money by months end to buy essential items. So I decided to use coupons, pairing coupons with store sales, and started stockpiling. By using coupons I was able to cut the costs of my grocery and drug store purchases, and I have been able to save thousands of dollars a year.

Most people buy essential items when they about to run out of them. I learned not to wait till I ran out. I learned the key never paying full price again is to shop for FREE and stockpile. On an average a week I save $100-150, most of my items are free or near free, leaving me to be able to buy other things we need!

With coupons, sales, and store rewards I have been able to get laundry soap at $0.50 or less and toothpaste, shampoo, tooth brushes, vitamins, toilet paper, paper towels, clothes and much more for FREE! My most favorite item that I get for FREE is Gas, yes FREE!

How I got started:» Collected coupons

» Followed local coupon blogs for help with sales

» Followed local Facebook Groups

» Couponed with a friend

If you are reading this article, my challenge to you is to pick up a Sunday paper at the Dollar store and start to change your life one coupon at time!

Submitted on behalf of HarborOne U, Community Education Division of HarborOne Bank, Brockton

preschool/K

Winter ActivitiesOUTSIDE:

Walk in the snowSearch for pinecones

Sledding! Make a snowman

INSIDE:Dance party!

Bake breakfast muffinsFinger paint

attentIon parents

Nutrition research study looking for children with intellectual/developmental delays ages 3-8The purpose of the Children’s Mealtime Study is to learn about the eating patterns, mealtime behaviors, and parent feeding practices of children ages 3-8 years who are either typically developing or have an intellectual/developmental delay.

The study involves one 2-3 hour visit at a UMass Medical School-affiliated site and parents complete a 3-day food record at home. During the visit children and parents are weighed and measured and parents complete a series of questionnaires on child eating patterns, behaviors, and their own feeding practices. Parents also receive training on keeping a food record at home to record what their child eats over three days.

Children with intellectual/developmental delays will receive cognitive testing and parents will answer additional questions about children’s developmental, adaptive, and social behavior.

Parents will receive up to $85 compensation in the form of a gift cards; children will receive a $15 gift card for their participation.

For more information contact Rosalie: Phone: 774-455-6521 or Email: Mealtimes@umassmed.edu

See our website at: http://tinyurl.com/ChildrensMealtimeStudy

UMMS IRB Docket # H00001420

What’s going on? Brockton Public Library, Tel. 508-580-7890 ext. 301304 Main St, Brockton, MA - Children's Roomstory hour (Ages 3 – 6) A weekly preschool story/craft program will be held at the Main Library on Wednesdays, Oct. 1 – Dec. 10 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Please sign up in the Children’s Room.

Brockton Public Libraray-EAST BRANCH, 54 Kingman St, Brockton MA 02302KIDS CLUB (Ages Birth-5) This probram is for a child who is not in any early childhood program and you are looking for something to do perhaps this playgroup is for you.6 week session Tuesday, 10 am - 11 am., Nov 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. Space is limited, please RSVP with Joni Block at 508-580-7491 or email joniblock@bpsma.org

Wiggly Wednesday at eXpressions Dance Studio, Tel. 508-857-6721 60 S. Skinner St, Brockton, MA 02302Event will be held the first Wednesday of each month from 11-12, free of charge for preschoolers (ages 2.9-5 years). Registration is requested but not required. For more information, please contact: Takeya Griffin, Director 508-857-6721 or visit their website: expressionsdancestudioonline.com

preschool/K

car cold Weather KIts are a n.e. WInter must have for famIlIesBy: Louis Hain, Property Mngr, NRT of Easton

When New England weather decides to unleash dropping temperatures, it’s important to be adequately prepared to be outside safely. Whether you are out and about and the weather turns unexpectedly nasty, or your car breaks down in the middle of a storm, being prepared will help make sure you and your family members stay safe.

Safety items can be carried in the backseat or the trunk, anywhere out of the way. A good way to store many smaller items is with an inexpensive backpack or duffle bag that zips closed. By storing items this way everything will stay collected and dry for when you need them most and can also be carried if needed. Larger items can be left loose for when they are needed most.

Here are some items that you may want to include in your emergency winter safety kit:

» A warm blanket or two» Jumper cables or emergency

jump pack» A small container of sand or kitty

litter for traction» A box of non-perishable food,

such as a box of granola bars» Extra gloves, mittens, and/or hats» A collapsible snow shovel» A strong flashlight (be sure to

check the batteries regularly!)» Road flares or reflective

emergency triangles» Backup charging devices for

cell phones» A small tool kit for

emergency repairs» Duct tape» First aid kit

By having these items organized and ready in your car, you will be prepared for any unexpected emergency that may arise in the winter months. Think ahead and be prepared to keep your family safe!

apple ‘n caBBage slaWGood Samaritan Medical Center Nutrition and Food Services

Here is a super easy and healthy recipe for your family to make and enjoy together any time of year. Cabbage, carrots and apples are all readily available for a low cost at every grocery store. Kids can help by shredding the cabbage, measuring and tossing all the ingredients together. In addition, this recipe should work with any dietary concerns. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

for the slaw:2 cups red cabbage, shredded1 cup green cabbage/ or lettuce, shredded1 – 1/2 apples, cut into matchsticks1 cup grated carrots3 green onions, slicedsmall handful cilantro

for the dressing:2 tbsp oil of choice (olive, corn, vegetable, etc.)2 tbsp honey2 tbsp apple cider vinegar juice of one lime (about 1 tbsp)salt & pepper to tastedash of cayenne

Directions:1. Prepare dressing by mixing together oil, honey, cider vinegar, lime juice, salt & pepper,

and cayenne. Set aside.

2. Combine red cabbage, green cabbage, apples, carrots, onions, and cilantro in large mixing bowl.

3. Pour dressing over mixture and toss well.

4. Serve chilled.

nutrition information for 8 portions:80 calories, 13g carbohydrate, 3g fat, 1g protein, 316 mg sodium, 2g fiber, 9g sugar

elementary

Brockton Public Library, 304 Main St., Brockton MA Tel. 508-580-7890 ext. 301. for the following events please sign up in the children's room.

lego club gadgets & gizmos - ages 5-12Join our new LEGO Club! In this FREE creative LEGO program, children are engaged in creating, building and playing with LEGO bricks. All materials will be provided. Register for December 8th and 13th. Space is limited.

NRT’s 3rd Annual Winter Expo at Sheep PastureNRT Sheep Pasture, 307 Main St., Easton MA, Sat., January 24, 2015, 10 am - 2 pmEnjoy a winter day of family fun at the NRT's Sheep Pasture this January! Meet the Boston Snow Dogs dog sledding team, enjoy great music courtesy of CBS radio, and try out a number of winter sports, from sledding to snowshoeing. Visit our vendors, get warm, and enjoy a snack with your family while you are here at the Sheep Pasture Cafe. For more information, visit the NRT's website at www.nrtofeaston.org and look for the Winter Expo in our events tab!

What’s going on? 15th Annual Lights on After-School Celebration Extended Day Program

During the first week of December, the Extended Day programs of the Brockton Public Schools will be participating in a nationwide celebration of after school programs. Visit the following sites:

mon, dec. 1: Davis 4:00-5:00 pm, Arnone 4:00-5:30 pmtues, dec. 2: Brookfield 4:30-6:00 pm, Raymond 4:00-5:00 pm, Baker 4:00-5:00 pmWed, dec. 3: Hancock 4:00-6:00 pm, Downey 4:00-6:00 pm, Gilmore 4:30-5:30 pm, Kennedy 4:30-5:45 pm, Huntington 5:30-6:30 pmthur, dec. 4: Angelo 4:00-5:30 pm, Barrett Russell 4:00-5:00 pm, George 5:30-6:30 pm

Each site will showcase activities, crafts and hands-on fun. Light refreshments will be served.

estaBlIshIng famIly tradItIons durIng the holIdays By: Chris Draves

Fall is finally upon us and Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years will be here before we know it. What are some of the family traditions that you look forward to every as the Holidays approach? My family looks forward to going to the same apple orchard and pumpkin patch every year to get our fall apples and our pumpkin for Halloween.

For Thanksgiving we usually host dinner at our house and invite our relatives to join us. Christmas dinner is also usually at our house, but sometimes we go to the house of a family member instead. We also attend a holiday party at a family member’s home who have made it their tradition to host a holiday party every year for family and friends.

Here are some ideas for your family to use to start your own holiday traditions.» Check out the holiday lights and scenes in your town or a neighboring town» See a local production of the Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol or go into Boston to see the Rockettes» Attend local holiday events (look in the paper or your town’s website)» Read a different Christmas book before bed each night or watch a Christmas movie or two every weekend (there is usually a movie on every

night from Thanksgiving to Christmas)» Visit Santa at the Mall and/or at Santa’s Village at Jordan’s Furniture» Start an Elf on the Shelf tradition. We do this with our daughter and she still loves it at age 7! Remember to find a different place for your Elf

to move every night and to decorate his hiding place.» Go sledding, ice skating, build a quinzhee (igloo) or a snow man any time there is snow since it may not last or snow again during the season» Go caroling in your neighborhood or at a local nursing home.» Make the same traditional meal for Thanksgiving and Christmas and have family members provide some of the items» Bake cookies and frost them with your children or grandchildren (this is still my favorite of all traditions from my childhood!)» Buy your Christmas tree from a local farm, take it home and decorate it with the whole family» Use an advent calendar to count down to Christmas or make one of your own with your kids» Spend time at a local food pantry or shelter or get involved with your church to help those who are less fortunate during what should be a

festive and thankful time of year» Send Christmas cards to family members, friends, coworkers, etc and let the children help write a family letter to include with the card

These are only a few of the many things you and your family could do during the holidays. Keep it simple and fun and everyone in your family will look forward to and cherish the traditions you establish for years to come.

elementary

famIly sKIIng and snoWBoardIngBy: Peter Deschenes

Family skiing is a rewarding and enjoyable pastime. Most winter outdoor clothing

should be fine for your first ski experience as you will not be going to the top of the mountain to learn. Choose to ski on a day that is not too cold or windy. Basic clothing includes warm socks, sweatpants, snow pants, two warm shirts, insulated jacket, hat, and two pairs of mittens. Avoid the temptation to overdress; pack additional layers of clothing to wear if needed.

Save money by bringing your own lunch, snacks, and beverages. I like to keep a drink and a snack in my pocket. If your child is having a mini-meltdown, chances are he needs a quick rest and some hot chocolate. Ski or snowboard equipment and helmets can be rented at the ski area or beforehand at a local ski shop. Make sure to try your boots and helmet on at the rental area. If they feel too tight, ask for a larger pair. Remember to relax and take your time as there is no need to rush.

The closest two ski areas are Blue Hills Ski Area (www.ski-bluehills.com) and Wachusett Mountain Ski Area (www.wachusett.com). Wachusett is farther, but has a better learning area. A day including beginner equipment rental, lessons, and a ski pass costs around $100 per person, but can be less expensive. Please visit the ski area’s website or call them if you have questions. Schools and community groups sometimes organize reduced priced ski trips.

I could barely ski when I was 12 years old. Now I can cruise down the mountain with my 5 and 7 year old children. It all started when my parents, who did not ski, packed up their four kids into the blue van for our first ski day. I hope you give it a try.

an a-maZe-Ing day for playBy: Michelle Pinto-Miceli

No matter what the weather is like outside, every day is an amazing day for play. There are many ways

you and your child or children can play. You may have rainy day games or outdoor clothing and gear for snowy days. When the sun is shining you might go outside for a walk. Play is important in the life of a child and can be equally as important in the life of an adult. When you share time together with your family, you create a safe and strengthened bond that brings you closer together. 

Here is an idea you can toy around with. This idea is great for any kind of day. You don't need a lot of supplies and you probably have some, if not all of them at home already. For the sake of this article, I am going to refer to LEGO building blocks, but this is not in any way endorsed by LEGO. It just happens to be the product I used to do this project with a local youth building club. 

What you will need:

» Base plate(s) - to build your maze on (we used 10in.x10in.)» Building bricks and assorted pieces - to make the maze structure and obstacles» Standard sized marbles - to run through your completed maze

Start by deciding on an entrance and exit. Make each opening three studs wide so that the marble can move freely through. Keep in mind as you and your young one(s) are building to keep your pathways three studs wide open throughout. This will be a challenge and you may need to explain this if your child is unsure of what that means. Once you've established the, enter and exit points, you can then begin thinking about where you want to build in obstacles and dead ends. This is where you can let your imagination run wild! Encourage imaginative building from your child and never underestimate the power of creativity! If you think this may be a bit too hard, look through some puzzle books with your child so he or she has a visual of what the end goal is; to get through the maze without being stopped.

This really is a great project for children. It challenges them to think ahead. They use their mental dexterity as well as physical dexterity to build their puzzle. Most importantly, they use their imagination. Their creativity can shine through and be absolutely brilliant! 

Once your maze is complete, pick up the base plate with the maze built on it and place a marble at the entrance. Slowly work the marble through your labyrinth to see if there are any places that need to be adjusted. Rework any spot that the marble should go through, but doesn't fit; as long as that point isn't meant to be a stopper. Once you put the final tweaks on your puzzle, have your child try to get the marble through. Ask questions about your child's creation as you work through his or her maze. This will encourage sharing thoughts of why the maze was built the way it was. It will be great fun to listen to your young one describe what the creation is supposed to be and what it is supposed to do.

I can't promise you perfection, in fact, I can offer you imperfection! This is how your child, and you, will learn different ways to build and enhance your creative abilities. By showing and telling each other about your creations, you will have questions, words of encouragement and lots of laughs. Make playtime a regular time and if you have fun with this project, you can embrace the maze and challenge others to play too!

middle school

What’s going on? Brockton Public Library | 304 Main Street | Brockton MA

tuesday tradIng card game nIghts Tuesday, Nov. 25th and Dec. 30, 2014 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. For ages 9-16

Bring Yu-Gi-Oh, DuelMasters, Magic, DuelMasters, or other game decks or trading cards to meet with other players. For more information contact Tammy Campbell at 508-580-7890 ext. 206.

BrocKton puBlIc lIBrary presents neW teen ZoneBy: Elizabeth A. Marcus, Director Our new Teen Zone is shaping up. If you’re a teen and you think Brockton Public Library is a dull and dreary spot with no place for you, think again. Better yet, visit our signature Teen Zone, located on the main level of the library. You will be delightfully surprised to find that we offer a room decorated in your style. You can borrow video games including Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo and more. We have graphic novels, magazines, and the latest teen novels. We even have a LEGO table to sit and build your dream machines. We have a space for art work by teens. We’ll be adding Internet-access notebooks. Courtesy of Brockton Library Foundation, we’re adding a large screen TV for viewing movies and holding game tournaments.

The Teen Zone premier was on Saturday, November 1st, which held its first ever Teen LEGO Club event. Our Trading Card Game Nights are now being held in the Teen Zone. And, we’ll be adding board game events for Scrabble lovers and more. Teen Zone is for teens ages 12-18 and it’s open from 2 pm until closing. There will be an inaugural event on Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 12:00 pm. Yes, of course you’ll still be able to get first rate homework help from our reference staff on the top floor. But if you’re simply looking for a place for you and your friends to meet and call your own, try out our new Teen Zone today. Teen Zone is located at the Brockton Public Library, 304 Main Street, Brockton, Mass. For more information, please call 508-580-7890 x101. For branch hours and locations, calendar updates, and online/downloadable products, check out our website: www.brocktonpubliclibrary.org

safe-guardIng your home durIng the holIday seasonBy: Amanda Sandoval, Assistant Program Coordinator, Brockton Mayor’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Coalition

Easily accessible prescription drugs have the potential to be misused at any time, but with families and friends coming in and out of our

homes throughout the holiday season, there are a couple of things you can do to safeguard your home.

1. Secure and lock up all prescription medications in a safe place.

2. Monitor what contents are inside your lock box. Take extra care if you store any type of prescription pain medication, as these are the most highly misused drugs.

3. Properly disposing of your unused, unwanted or expired medication is another key to preventing prescription drug misuse. Local drug take-back boxes are available in local communities to safely dispose of your medications. Aside from Avon & Brockton, all of the other surrounding towns have medication drop boxes located in their police station.

More specifically, as a parent it can be very challenging to distinguish between the normal ups and downs of the teen years and substance abuse. The behavioral red flags to keep alert of are: Loss of interest in their personal appearance and hygiene; secretive phone calls and text messages; mood swings- acting uncharacteristically isolated, angry or depressed alternating with euphoria; staying up all night and sleeping all day; missing valuables and money; lack of interest in hobbies or being around family and friends; and dropping one group of friends for another.

If you are concerned about a loved one’s prescription drug use, there are many local resources available. Visit www.opioidoverdoseprevention.org for more information.

Teen Zone Now Open!Check out the new space ( just for

teens!) at the Brockton Public Library.

a letter to my chIld – respect your eldestBy: Janis Lemieux

Dear oldest child,

I need to talk to you, to let you know that I appreciate you and fill you in on some of the sacrifices that have been made. The sacrifices that I want to talk about have been made by you and it’s important to acknowledge that.

When you were coming into my world, I worked to be ready. I prepared a place for you, chose a room theme, acquired all of the necessities and beyond. I read so many books. I spent many nights preparing myself for you. I went down the checklist of “must-haves” and got every item that I could. Then, at some point, I decided that I was ready for you. Ready for the spit-up, poop and drool. I was ready for the mess that would likely come with you. I was ready.

Now, 12 years later, I wonder, were you ready for me? Were you ready to be the recipient of perfect love through imperfect people? Were you ready to be the first child of a novice parent? Were you ready to be the first person in the world to introduce me to every parenting challenge on the planet? You made me a parent. Every “first” for you is a “first” for me. It’s hard to master an ever changing role. You bear the brunt of my learning curve. It’s time that I thank you for your patience and love. Thank you for pointing out the things that I could do better, even if your tone of voice is not ideal. I need to be honest when I’ve made choices for you that have been different for your younger siblings and to apologize for that. The truth is, sometimes I didn’t know what to do. Sometimes I had to take a chance or not. I have learned more about parenting through watching you handle life than from any book. Watching you conquer a challenge has taught me that your younger siblings could too. Your job is hard. You are a trail blazer.

You have taught me so much. I will always look back and hope that whether we agreed or disagreed on how I’ve handled the things we’ve encountered together, you know that I made the decisions I’ve made because of love. Love can feel over-protective. Sometimes love can risk too much. Love is the perfect thing in an imperfect world, given and received by imperfect people. Amidst all of what feels like unfairness or misunderstanding my goal has always been to love you and guide you. No matter how hard we have to work at every new experience, I will always be glad that I am your parent.

Sincerely,Your Imperfect Parent

middle school

BullyIng and clIquesBy: Anaya-Elon Pinney

I have a Facebook account and I’m a social media user. I am affected by what I read, see and hear on such sites on a regular basis. As much as I try not to take this medium seriously, rather to take it lightheartedly and fun, I had allowed myself recently to become incensed by a status post of my good friend.

To paraphrase what was posted, the daughter of my friend had informed her mother after arriving from school that she and two other schoolmates had found a table in the cafeteria to lunch upon when a few other girls already sitting at the table had decided to get up from their seats and not sit anywhere near them. Whoa! Was that really necessary?

My friend was infuriated, but very surprised that she was much more upset than her daughter had been with this occurrence. Is this normal behavior to be accepted? Consequently her status had ballooned into a thread of comments like, How dare they, How would they like it if I talk to their parents, the school, the PTA or lodge a complaint so that this needn’t occur again.

Bullying and cliques are nothing new, but they seemed to have intensified since we as middle aged parents were as young as the children we now raise. Not only has it continued on campus, it is now happening online and via text cell messages and emails. Our youngsters are now killing themselves over bullies and cliques when in days long past most kids would accept their low to high rankings in this caste, class system and accept that not everyone can be likable and not everyone will be accepted or liked and we cannot force these things either way.

Bottom line is I’d like to explore within the coming year what can and should be done depending on the best and worst case scenarios of bullying and cliques and from the perspectives of Brockton parents and their children. Let he/she who has an itching ear to hear, listen and speak, cast the first stones to end bullying once and for all.

Reducing School Sport Injury Tips

high school

Best indoor winter activities What’s going on?

Brocktron Public Libraray, 304 Main St., Brockton MA

lego cluB - gadgets & gizmos - Teens ages 13-18, 2 pm - 3 pmJoin our new LEGO Club! In this FREE creative LEGO program, teens are engaged in creating and building with LEGO bricks which will include robotics. All materials will be provided. Register for Nov. 1, 8, Dec. 6, 13 or any combination of the four sessions.

call 508-580-7890 x107 to register.

playing video games

Watching movies

Watching sports

reading a good book

BrocKton puBlIc school emergency and safety proceduresBy: Tobias T. Cowans, Brockton Public Schools Emergency Management Director

Brockton Public School (BPS) staff is trained to respond to emergencies and will react quickly. Our District personnel will act with the safety of the

students in mind, and school officials will always follow the directives of the police and fire departments.

In addition, BPS has an emergency plan as mandated for all schools by Massachusetts Law.  Parents must complete an annual emergency information sheet for each child. This form includes two other persons to whom the student may be released in the event of a disaster. In the event of a disaster, only a parent/guardian or the authorized person(s) would be able to come to school to pick up the child.

During the school year, on a scheduled basis, disaster drills are held for staff and students. The purpose of these drills is to prepare students and staff to deal with sudden emergencies. Students practice exiting, assembling, and appropriate behavior during emergency situations. Should an emergency occur at your child’s school, it is important that you are familiar with the following terms:

lockdown – All school interior doors are locked and students are confined to their classrooms and no entry or exit of the school is allowed. This takes place if there is a threat or possible threat inside the school. During an internal lockdown, the main entrance doors will be locked and a sign will be posted on the front door indicating that that the school is in an internal lockdown. If, there is no admittance to the building you will be referred to the Brockton Public School switchboard at (508) 580-7000 or you should call the school directly for information regarding this incident/drill.

stay-In–place – This is a precaution aimed to keep our students safe from potential hazards. The purpose of this action is to stop movement within the school. This procedure is implemented if it is determined that evacuation or dismissal could possibly place students at risk. Parents will be notified accordingly and should not simply come to the school until the situation or drill is deemed safe.

Building access/security – Brockton Public Schools seeks to maintain the safety of each of its students and provide a safe and clean learning environment. Please know that we take the safety of our students and the access to our schools…very seriously. Therefore, any person entering the school will be asked to check in at the main office and receive a visitor’s badge.

We added a high tech security machine (Lobby Guard) at Brockton High School. If, you are entering the high school, you will be greeted by a lobby guard security system. This system will scan your driver’s license and issue you a tag to proceed past the lobby. If, this is the case, plan to bring your driver’s license and prepare for extra time that may be need to get through Lobby Guard. This Lobby Guard security system will scan the license against a national computerized database and sex offender registry before issuing an entry tag. If, an outstanding warrant or other offense is reported… the entry tag will not be issued and a school official will be called to assist you. If, you are not permitted entry, your child can be contacted to come down to meet you upon presentation of appropriate identification.

At the intermediate level, parents are asked to leave items such as snacks, clothing, forgotten books and homework at the office for staff to deliver rather than have the parent take the item(s) to his/her child’s class.Disasters and emergencies can occur at anytime and almost anywhere. However, we do have control of and the ability to ensure the safety of our students with your help:

1. Receiving your cooperation during the morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up of your child from the school site;

2. Receiving your cooperation during and after any incident or emergency drill may occur; and equally as important.

Please be sure to provide us with your updated emergency contact information throughout each school year. For more information, feel free to contact your child’s school principal.

high school Key tIps and trIcKs for hIgh school students on applyIng for fInancIal aIdBy: Kendreia Perry - Talent Search Sr. Education Advisor, American Student Assistance

The time to apply for financial aid for college is one of the most anxiety-filled times for high school students and their families. The following are some key tips and tricks that will make the process of applying for financial aid easier:

1. Start to prepare for financial aid in advance. Gather the items you will be need to complete the financial aid application. Every student who needs financial aid is required to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) starting January 1 of senior year. Find out if the student will also need to file a CSS Profile, which is a separate financial aid application required by some institutions that take into account additional financial information regarding income and assets. In addition, parents are encouraged to file their federal taxes as early as possible because the sooner taxes are filed, the more accurate the financial aid awards will be. https://www.fafsa.gov

2. Apply on time. Understand that as college applications have deadlines so does financial aid applications. You must officially submit the FAFSA, and CSS Profile if applicable, by the earliest deadline of all the colleges the student is applying to. You submit one FAFSA and can list up to ten colleges that you want to receive your information. This must be done annually until you graduate from college.

3. Mistakes to avoid. A student does not have to apply for admission to a college before submission of a financial aid application. In addition, a student does not have to wait for a college acceptance before applying for financial aid. Remember, the earlier you apply for financial aid, the more funds may be available.

4. Utilize the tools provided for verification. Colleges verify all federal tax data for accuracy before they allocate and release funds to students. The easiest way to verify your information is through the FAFSA IRS Data Upload Tool. Students simply access parent and student tax information, if applicable, through connecting and transferring that data from the IRS website. This tool is available directly within the FAFSA and is available starting in February of the application year. You may also choose to obtain an official copy of an IRS Federal Tax Transcript for the most recent tax year and submit it to the college. www.irsdataretrievaltool.com/irs-data-retrieval-tool-step-by-step-instructions

5. Understand dependency status. Some students don’t fit into the standard category for being considered a dependent student. A dependent student needs parent information in order to have a financial aid application processed. However, some students have situations where they do not have to provide or can not legally obtain parent information. Some special situations include but are not limited to a student being an unaccompanied minor, a foster child, or even in legal guardianship which qualifies him or her to file a financial aid application independent of a parent.

6. The student has a right to appeal a financial aid decision. If there are important factors that were not taken into consideration or if the family’s circumstances have changed since the student applied that would affect the ability to afford to attend the college, let the financial aid office know in writing, immediately.

7. Always apply. Never assume because a parent makes a decent income that the student will not receive any financial aid. Every college awards financial aid differently and can take into account factors like if a student is first in the family to attend college when looking at funds. Subsequently, most scholarships require a copy of the student aid report from the processed financial aid application as a part of the scholarship application. Therefore, always apply because you do not know what aid may be available to you.

For more information: Get your FREE copy of College Planning eBooks at saltlive.org.

“three cheers for volunteers”By: Anaya-Elon Pinney

I remember it like it was yesterday. My first formal invitation to volunteer was while I was attending CCD religious classes at the elementary school formerly known as St. Edward’s (now known as Trinity Catholic Academy). I was fourteen, a freshman and well, I felt a little forced because it was presented as a requirement for my religious confirmation preparation.

Nonetheless I had a good friend of mine from high school who was experiencing similar prep at a different school. She mentioned her candy striping experience at the hospital formerly known as Cardinal Cushing (now known as Caritas Good Samaritan). She/ thought we’d make a great training team. So she introduced me to the Volunteer department for which she was a part.

Initially it felt awkward being of service in so many ways to invalids, shut-ins, the disabled as well as their visiting families. But, in time I felt like I was providing a good service to them and the hospital. I felt like I was doing something which really mattered for the first time outside of an educational, school setting.

Many school-aged youth begin their volunteerism through their membership in the/ Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts of America. Others may participate through their religious organization, community club, high school, hospital, temple, church and/or synagogue. Still others may offer their services at a local food kitchen, community pantry or senior citizens center.

There is so much our community offers in the ways of providing our youth with opportunities for personal fulfillment, spiritual enrichment, community participation and social responsibility as citizens and people of the greater Brockton area. What they give to others starting in their middle and teenaged years, willingly and sacrificially, they receive back in trifold as personal dividends/and long lasting capital gains.

The winter season offers popular and numerous methods for volunteerism as noted above. The holiday season, cold weather realities, and cultural traditions which often accompany them give way to thankfulness, gratitude, appreciation for and the awareness of not taking our blessings, talents and gifts for granted. Love, charity, and an outpouring of a true desire to help others who need help and/or are unable to help themselves are wholeheartedly some of the best early lessons we can afford our children for today, for yuletide cheer, for life and for our future generations one volunteer at a time.

What’s going on?

college

FREE THE e-HUB Workshops - First Friday of each month, 6-9 pm. Register by calling 508-844-3101 or email: Lfrancois@HLImprints.com. Space is limited.

Classes at HarborOne U – Brockton and Mansfield. Classes are open to the public and are free.. Brockton location: 68 Legion Parkway, Brockton, MA 02301, Tel. 508-895-1770Website: www.harboroneu.com/multicultural-banking-center/ Email mbcmain@harborone.com

December, 9, 2014 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Certified First Time Home Buyer Seminar - Seats available via link to NeighborWorks websiteDecember, 16, 2014 10:00 am to 12:00 pm The Career Compass: Practical Marketing Principles for Landing Desired Work

Mansfield location: 131 Copeland Drive, Mansfield MA 02048 Tel. 508-895-1300 Website: www.harboroneu.com Email: info@harboroneu.com December, 4, 2014 8:30 am to 10:30 am Integrating Google Tools Into Your Social Media Strategy January, 16, 2015 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Visioning Boot Camp January, 20, 2015 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Business Planning (10 Session Program)Registration available atwww.harboroneu.com/classes

What I miss about not going home on the holidays

Visiting with family and friends.

The smiles on my mom and dad's face when I walk in the door.

All of my mom's great cooking!

My aunt's pies and desserts.

vIsual artIstBy: Susie Shaw, Brockton Visual Artist Curator & Gallery Host I’m a self-taught Visual Artist raised in Brockton. To me Art is an outlet and that’s how it was introduced to me. I was raised by my aunt and grandparents; they are the reason why I’m always creating something. I’m an only child and I’d use drawing to keep me busy or to help with emotions. To keep me busy while we would travel they would give me a pen and paper. “Draw me a cat, a bird, a car, draw me that nurse, the school bus, draw me your grandfather”. Simple doodling back then was a technique I use and am grateful for now as an adult.

I have to say I paint with almost anything and I don’t just stay with one subject. I enjoy acrylics and glues. I paint portraits, landscapes, abstract, etc. Last February during Black History Month, I chose to read more African American leaders and performers then decided to paint portraits of them. This taught both me and my children about the vast people in our history that we don’t generally learn about in school.

After my grandfather passed, I realized how he used to press me to keep drawing and that I wanted to give back to my community. I volunteer for Brockton Arts which helps spread art culture through our city. It gives our residents a chance to attend events in our city as opposed to leaving Brockton to enjoy. I’ve donated, volunteered art supplies and classes to our Brockton youth. I call it “We Will Paint” and hope to continue that in the future through grants & fundraisers.

messIah early mornIng JaZZ servIce: a BlessIng for allBy: Rev. Jill Wiley, Community Minister, Messiah Baptist Church

Since its start six years ago, jazz worship at Messiah Baptist Church at 80 Legion Parkway has only grown in popularity, especially with young families. An 8am service is followed by a free healthy breakfast. The hour-long service of "music, meditation & movement" features a variety of jazz artists

each week. Many musicians come from Boston and are studying or have studied at places like Berklee College of Music and Boston Arts Academy. Minister of Music Herbert S. Jones organizes the music while Pastor Michael Wayne Walker regularly preaches. A dedicated team of volunteers including ushers, readers, media technicians and cooks, makes everyone feel welcome.

Today, when church attendance is often forsaken for sports demands and other obligations on Sundays, Messiah's 8am jazz service & breakfast offers a welcome spiritual option for families who are willing to get up early.

Every Messiah jazz service ends with a special blessing for children who attend. The congregation stands with hands reaching out and repeats together: "We love you, we bless you, we appreciate you---just the way you are." Everyone feels blessed.

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durIng the holIdaysBy: Soraya F. Présumé, M.S.W

During the Holidays People tend to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ Some seek a peaceful place to reflect and relax Countless of us work, work, and will never take

some time off Several of us believe it is the occasion to be with

our family members A lot of us choose to party and enjoy life

as never before More than a few feel so lonely, lost, sick, ashamed

and abandoned Many of us think it is the moment

for reconciliationAnd others feel it is the time for

giving and sharing.

During the Holidays Children everywhere wish for many things

Some wish mom or dad could be with them, not behind bars or else

Countless of children wonder why dad or mom is in a hospital bed

Several of them realize that life is no laughing matter

A lot of them don’t have a place to call home More than a few just need someone to say

“I love you” Many just want to smile and play and forget

their pains And others only wish to see a better tomorrow.

During the Holidays Should we wait to reconcile and celebrate?

Isn’t it time to realize, hey, let’s do this, we can. Come on, let’s make a difference Not just today, but day after day

Let’s help and love the people around us Husbands, wives, children, brothers, sisters,

Treat one another as today was your last day.

During the Holidays Remember those who do not have a place to live Keep in mind we are not better than anyone but

here by grace Learn to count your blessings and to be

a blessing to others Commit yourself to give and not expecting

anything in return Train yourself to be sensitive to someone

in despair. Understand and challenge yourself to find your

life’s purpose True memories can be a child’ smile beside the

challenges s/he faces

During the Holidays Let’s commemorate life

Tomorrow is just a mystery.

T H E H E A L T H Y C O O K

It’s a little-known fact: As the leaves start to fall, your vegetable prospects start to rise. Sweet

and earthy root vegetables, lush greens, succulent winter squash. These three recipes turn

autumn’s bounty into yours.

Got a question or suggestion? Write to Kate at healthycook@cspinet.org.

BY K AT E S H E R WO O D

Sautéed Greens & Chickpeas

Stewed Butternut Squash & Spinach

Per serving: calories 180 | total fat 9 g sat fat 1 g | sodium 170 mg | carbs 20 g

fiber 5 g | protein 7 g

Per serving: calories 140 | total fat 7 g sat fat 1 g | sodium 180 mg | carbs 18 g

fiber 4 g | protein 3 g

Serves: 8 Total Time: 20 minutesServes: 8 Total Time: 35 minutes

Per serving: calories 140 | total fat 7 g sat fat 1.5 g | sodium 130 mg | carbs 21 g

fiber 5 g | protein 2 g

Serves: 8 Total Time: 40 minutes

1 Tbs. butter

3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, thinly sliced

4 small carrots, sliced

8 radishes, halved

1 lb. turnips, peeled and chopped

1 lb. napa or savoy cabbage, cored and chopped (about 8 cups)

2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

2 pears, peeled, cored, and chopped

¼ tsp. kosher salt

freshly ground pepper

In a large, heavy pot, melt the butter in the oil over high heat. Stir in the onion, carrots, radishes, and turnips. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables are lightly browned in spots, 5-7 minutes. Add the cabbage, apples, pears, and ½ cup of water. • Cover tightly and reduce the heat to low. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes. • Remove the cover and increase the heat to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid cooks off and the vegetables start to brown, 3-5 minutes. • Season with up to ¼ tsp. of salt and pepper to taste.

Braised Root Veggies & Fall Fruits

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, diced

¼ cup golden raisins, minced

3 cloves garlic, minced

¼ tsp. garam masala

¼ tsp. black pepper

1 15 oz. can no-salt-added diced tomatoes

4 cups ½-inch cubes butternut squash

1 lb. baby spinach

½ tsp. kosher salt

In a large, heavy skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Cook the onion until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in the raisins, garlic, garam masala, and pepper. Add the tomato and simmer until thickened, 5-7 minutes. Add the butternut squash and 1 cup of water. Simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes. Stir in the spinach. • Season with up to ½ tsp. of salt.

Falling for Veggies

2 lbs. mixed baby cooking greens (kale, chard, spinach)

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

8 cloves garlic, sliced

¼ tsp. red pepper flakes

¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped

1 15 oz. can no-salt-added chickpeas, not drained

2 Tbs. red wine vinegar

¼ tsp. kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

Steam the cooking greens until tender, 2-3 minutes. Run them under cold water, then roughly chop. • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-low heat. Sauté the garlic until lightly golden, 1-2 minutes. Stir in the pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, chickpeas with their liquid, and the cooking greens. Heat through. • Remove from the heat, stir in the vinegar, and season with up to ¼ tsp. of salt and pepper to taste.

N U T R I T I O N A C T I O N H E A LT H L E T T E R ■ N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 1 1

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transactTeens can pay with their personalized debit card.

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MONTH TIME WORKSHOP TITLE SCHOOL & ADDRESS Tue, December 2 6:15pm South Zone: Kindergarten 2015-2016 Showcase Kennedy School, 900 Ash St. Thur., December 4 6:15pm Families First: The Emotional Rollercoaster of Preteens Ashfield Middle School, 225 Coe Rd. Fri, December 5 9:15am Raising a Reader Workshop Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Mon, December 8 6:15pm Fit Parents Night: Yoga and Group Meditation George School, 180 Colonel Bell Dr. Tue, December 9 6:15pm Northeast Zone: 2015-2016 Kindergarten Showcase Brookfield School, 135 Jon Dr. Wed, December 10 6:15pm notMYkid & Hidden in Plain Sight presentation Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Fri, December 12 9:15am Family Book Bag Barrett Russell School, 45 Oakdale St. Tue, December 16 6:15pm Fit Families Night: Terrific Tues Zumba Club Davis School, 380 Plain St. Fri, December 19 9:15am Family Book Bag Barrett Russell School, 45 Oakdale St. Fri, January 9 9:15am Raising a Reader Workshop Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Tue, January 20 6:15pm Fit Families Night: Terrific Tues Zumba Club Raymond School, 125 Oak St. Thur., January 22 6:15pm PS Special Education Department: Toilet Training and Other Activities of Daily Life Angelo School, 472 N. Main St. Fri, January 23 9.15am Family Book Bag Barrett Russell School, 45 Oakdale St. Sat, January 24, 11:00am All Schools: 2015-2016 Kindergarten Showcase & Family Event Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Tue, January 27 6:15pm Parents' Academy & Title I present Family Game Night Angelo School, 472 N. Main St. Wed, January 28 6:15pm BPS Bilingual Department/Two-Way Program 2015-2016 Kindergarten Showcase George School, 180 Colonel Bell Dr. Thur., January 29 6:15pm Families First: My Body, My Self - Preteens, Puberty & Body Image South Middle School, 105 Keith Ave. Ext. Fri, January 30 9:15pm Workshop Family Book Bag Barrett Russell School, 45 Oakdale St. Wed, February 4 6:15pm Parents' Academy & Title I present Family Game Night Kennedy School, 900 Ash St. Thur., February 5 6:15pm Families First: Preteens' Social Network - The Power of Peers West Middle School, 271 West St. Fri, February 6 9:15am Families First: Media and the Brain Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Tue, February 10 6:15pm Fit Families Night: Terrific Tues Zumba Club George School, 180 Colonel Bell Dr. Tue, February 24 6:15pm BPS Bilingual Department: ACCESS Scores & the LAT Process Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Tue, February 24 9:15am Raising a Reader Parent Workshop Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Thur., February 26 6:15pm UMASS Extension: Healthy Eating on a Budget Nutrition Workshop Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Fri, February 27 9:15am Workshop Family Book Bag Barrett Russell School, 45 Oakdale St. Wed, March 4 6:15pm Families First: Love & Limits in Early Childhood Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Wed, March 4 6:15pm Brockton GYM Zumba Night West Middle School, 271 West St. Fri, March 6 9:15am Dr. Seuss Literacy Celebration Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. Tue, March 10 6:15pm Families First: Bullies & Bystanders - Preventing & Diffusing Bullying Behavior Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Tue, March 10 6:15pm Brockton GYM Night: Nutrition Workshop Plouffe Academy, 250 Crescent St. Wed, March 18 6:15pm Family Cooking Night (5:45 PM) Arnone School, 135 Belmont St. Tue, March 24 6:15pm Fit Families Night - Terrific Tues Zumba Club Huntington School, 1121 Warren Ave. Thur., March 26 6:15pm Citywide Grade One 2015-2015 Showcase Gilmore ECC, 150 Clinton St. (6:00 PM) Thur., March 26 6:15pm Brockton GYM Fitness Night Ashfield Middle School, 225 Coe Rd. Sat, March 28 8:30am 5th Annual South Shore Leadership Conference South Middle School, 105 Keith Ave. Ext. Mon, March 30 6:15pm BPS Special Education Department: Social Thinking Angelo School, 472 N. Main St. * For the evening workshops the doors open at: 6:00 p.m. for registration. Programs begin at 6:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. * For the FAMILY nights the doors open at: 6:00 p.m. for registration. Programs begin at 6:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. * For the morning workshops the doors open at: 9:00 a.m. for registration. Programs begin at 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. * Free day care is provided for the evening workshops. * Pre-K students are welcome to attend the morning workshops with their parents. Literacy activities will be provided for the children by B.P.S. Early Childhood teachers during the Gilmore parent workshops. * Free day care is provided for the Barrett Russell workshops. To sign up to be on the email contact list or for additional information contact: Jane Feroli, B.P.S. Specialist for Parent Engagement 508-894-432, email: janeeferoli@bpsma.org

The Family Center

Winter 2015 Calendar of EventsThrough partnership and collaborations, The Family Center hopes to strengthen Brockton's families, neighborhoods and community, to increase parenting skills, neighborhood-based networks of support .

For more information or to register for any activity, please call 508-857-0272.

at Community Connections of BrocktonandSatellite at The Keith School

at Community Connections of Brocktonand Satellite at The Keith School

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS! www.ccbrockton.org *If you have any questions about the above activities or would like to register, please call (508) 857-0272*

Mondays - parents helping parents, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM The parent support group is run by two trained facilitators. A chance to vent and learn about resources to make you and your child feel better.

Mondays - homework help, 4:00 PM-5:00 PM Join us for homework help in math, reading, and writing with children and their parents. Parents will also learn great tips to help their child with their homework and web links to go to for free aids.

Tuesdays - yoga, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM Join us for relaxing and feeling refreshed. This is great for you mind, body, and spirit. Children are welcome.

Wednesday, Thursday - homework help, 3:30 PM-4:30 PMJoin us for homework help and tutoring in math, reading, and writing with children and their parents.

Wednesdays - nurturing father’s group, Next Session starting winter 2015 prior registration required for the Nurturing Father’s parenting group, 13 week program

Thursdays - get out, get active, and get connected! 4:30 PM-6:00 PM @ Lincoln Technical InstituteChildren activities, Tutoring, information/workshops for adults, and much more!

1st Friday of the month - e hub, 6:00 PM-9:00 PMA workshop for entrepreneurs to come together, share ideas, and spend time working on business startups or on-going business related projects.

2nd, 3rd, 4th Fridays of the month - let’s talk, (Nov 14th, 21st, 28th, Dec 12th, Dec 19th) 5:30 PM-7:30 PMPractice conversational English by discussing current topics in English.

2nd Saturday of the Month - Bilingual story time, 10:00 AM-11:30 AMSpanish/English - Stories and songs. Come join the fun!

Saturdays - portuguese classesThese classes are available to help those who wish to learn Portuguese. Please note: The classes will be held strictly in Portuguese. 1st Saturday of the month for Adults (6:00 PM-7:00 PM) 3rd Saturday of the month for Children (4:00 PM-5:00 PM)

3rd Saturday of the month - let’s go Build, 11:30 AM-1:00 PMJoin us for imaginative and creative building fun with LEGO’s. This is a creative and fun play where kids will be using standard LEGO bricks to build imaginative creations based on a particular theme.

Sundays - Brazilian dance classes, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM Brazilian dance classes are available beginning April 13th and continue every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month.

Accepting Gently Worn Children’s Winter Clothes, Boots and Coats

BALLOON ARCHES, TOWERS, DÉCOR & MOREBy Maria Wilson-Sepulveda

508-208-4569

Mifiestaballoon@hotmail.com

facebook.com/Mifiestaballoondecor

WHY DOES OUR SODA

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PURE SPRING WATER!It’s made with our

SIMPSON SPRING719 Washington St | South Eastonwww.simpsonspring.com

THE SIMPSON SPRING MARKETPLACEOur Farmer & Artisan MarketSaturdays 10am–2pm

*find us on facebook and twitter

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 12:00 p.m.- 1:00 p.m.

Massasoit Community College Buckley Performing Arts Center Brockton Campus

Admission is Free All are cordially invited to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information call the Office for Institutional Diversity at (508) 588-9100 x1309

The Office of Institutional Diversity at Massasoit Community Collegepresents the

13th AnnualMartin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Accepting Applications Now!. Dental Assisting . Heating, Ventilation & AC. Medical Assisting. Practical Nurse Program Day & Evening. Evening Adult Continuing Education Classes

Regi

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nline: www.sti-tech.org

SOUTHEASTERNTECHNICAL INSTITUTE

OPEN HOUSEDate: March 5, 2013

Time: 5:00 - 7:00 P.M.

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OUR OB TEAM IS GROWING NEAR YOU.Our Steward Medical Group obstetricians are now accepting new patients. They are experienced in high risk obstetrics and general women’s health including laparoscopic and robotic surgery.

Lucy Lomas, MD Scott Dreiker, MD 21 Bristol Drive Maureen Whalen, MD South Easton, MA One Compass Way 508-565-3411 East Bridgewater, MA 508-350-2990

With our Special Care Nursery partner, Boston Children’s Physicians, the Good Samaritan Medical Center family is committed to helping your family throughout the entire birthing experience, from pregnancy through delivery and even into the first year.

L-R: Maureen Whalen, MD; Scott Dreiker, MD; Lucy Lomas, MD

goodsamaritanmedical.org