The Stanley Report
Waltham, Volume 4, No. 11 November 2009
In This Issue
Waltham Corner
Upcoming Events
About Rep. Stanley

Tom Picture

Rep. Thomas M. Stanley
9th Middlesex District
 
Happy Thanksgiving
 
Nurses Hall 
 
Nurses Hall
 
 
 
Fall Chores
 
Bridge
 
 Leaves on the bridge
 
City Hall at Night
 
City Hall at Night
 
boaters 
 
 Boaters
 
canal
 
Canal 
 
Go Pats!
 
Go Pats!
 
cold beach
 
November beach 
 
Charles River Museum 
 
Charles River Museum
 
Dome
 
Dome
 
Fall leaves 
 
Waiting for the rake 
     
PHP Picnic
 
Prospect Hill Park Picnic
 
woods 
 
Woods 
 
Great Hall 
 
Great Hall, State House 
 
Cambridge Reservoir 
 
View of Cambridge Reservoir 
 
State House Tour
 
 If you'd like to visit the State House, please call 617-727-3676.

Contact Information:

 

State Rep.

Thomas M. Stanley

State House

 Room 167

Boston, MA 02133

(617) 722-2810

Thomas.Stanley@

 state.ma.us

Dear Friend:

It is my pleasure to deliver November's edition of The Stanley Report, my monthly update from Beacon Hill. Please feel free to pass this e-mail along to your friends, family and co-workers and let them know they can subscribe to receive my monthly newsletter by emailing me.  

Thanks for reading, and for giving me the opportunity to represent you in the legislature.  As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (617) 722-2310.

Sincerely,

Signature 

Thomas M. Stanley

 
News from Beacon Hill  
 
Fed's Social Security Error may bring $160M to MA
 
According to Massachusetts Health and Human Services Secretary Bigby, the federal government owes the Commonwealth $160 million for a Social Security policy that's been overlooked for 35 years.  At question is the way the Social Security Administration (SSA) handles disability claims.
 
Secretary Bigby said the SSA often declines applications for disability payouts on an applicant's first attempt.  If an applicant appeals the rejection, the state then covers health care costs for that person until the matter is resolved. However, if the applicant is ultimately approved, the SSA is supposed to reimburse the state for that interim coverage.

Since the SSA has acknowledged the error, Sec. Bigby said U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) attempted to insert a provision into the Senate's national health reform bill to reimburse MA and 30 other states to compensate for this error.

DCR to Hold Meeting on Beaver Brook
 
The Department of Conservation a­nd Recreation will hold a public meeting on the final draft resource management plan for the expanded Beaver Brook Reservation.  The meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 17th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the Mass. Audubon Habitat Education Center at 10 Juniper Road in Belmont.
 
At the meeting, DCR will present an overview of, and update on, a draft Resource Management Plan (RMP) for the Expanded Beaver Brook Reservation and solicit public input on the draft plan.  The main objective of the meeting is to enhance agency and partner coordination related to stewardship of resources and public recreation opportunities in the Reservation, which is part of the Western Gateway.  Toward that end, DCR will invite input on an RMP-based action plan.
 
The draft RMP can be viewed here and at local libraries and town halls in Waltham, Belmont and Lexington, and at the Habitat Education Center.  Written comments on the draft plan should be sent to [email protected], with "Beaver Brook Reservation" noted in the email subject line. 

Broadband Stimulus Award
  
The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded approximately $2 million in federal stimulus funding to aid in the development of affordable, reliable broadband Internet services for all communities in the Commonwealth.
 
This award will lead to the creation of a comprehensive, statewide database of broadband availability and an updated state map of broadband coverage. This project will help the state prepare for additional federal funding to build new broadband infrastructure that will bring high-speed Internet, or broadband, access to tens of thousands of households, businesses and community anchor institutions throughout the state - including the unserved and underserved communities of western MA and the Cape. The project could create as many as 3,040 jobs and would be in partnership with other state and local government entities, non-profits and for-profit companies.
 
Gov. Patrick designated the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, to lead the state's efforts to increase broadband deployment. In August 2009, the state applied for more than $100 million in federal stimulus funding, which was divided into two proposals focused on mapping and infrastructure development in western Massachusetts. Federal funding awards for broadband infrastructure deployment are expected to be announced on a rolling basis beginning mid-December 2009 through February 2010, and will be followed by one additional funding round.
 
The Massachusetts Broadband Data Mapping Project will develop a database of broadband availability and capability at the county, community and street level; put in place the tools, partnerships, and processes to keep the database current and accurate; make the public portions of the database easily accessible by the citizens, businesses and agencies throughout the state, while maintaining the security and integrity of the data; utilize stringent protocols and processes consistent with all state and federal legal requirements to protect confidential data; and provide regular updates of the data to the NTIA for inclusion in a nationwide database.
 
House Passes Saltwater Fishing License Legislation
 
Rep. Stanley joined his House colleaguesin passing legislation to establish a saltwater fishing licensing program in MA and ensure that any fees collected for licensing is retained for programs concerning the conservation and preservation of saltwater ecosystems in the state. Federal law requires a national registry of recreational fishing. To collect the necessary data for the registry, a state may implement a license program or the federal government will implement its own. 
 
Were this legislation not passed in the Commonwealth, the federal government has a pre-established saltwater fishing licensing program in place that would begin on January 1, 2010. Under the federal program, fees collected from licenses would be diverted to the federal government.  The legislation includes federally-allowed exemptions for those with disabilities, those under 16 years of age or over 59, and passengers on for-hire vessels. In addition, the bill includes two free fishing days which would allow anglers to fish without a license.  
 
House Passes Legislation to Support Veterans
 
Rep. Stanley voted in favor of passing legislation to provide MA veterans with improved services and support as they return from war during these difficult economic times. The bill establishes the Massachusetts Medal of Liberty to honor fallen service members and offers increased housing opportunities for veterans.
 
The Massachusetts Medal of Liberty award is intended to recognize the ultimate sacrifice of Massachusetts service members and will be presented to the next of kin of service men and women killed in action. The bill also allows the Commonwealth to partner with Home of the Brave, Inc., a newly created non-profit organization, to provided new housing for veterans. Home of the Brave will seek to access Federal funding for veterans housing that would have been otherwise unavailable.
 
Under this legislation, honorably discharged veterans will be given the opportunity to substitute appropriate military training and experience in occupational specialties in lieu of current state
permitting, licensing and certification requirements.  Following in the footsteps of the Federal Government, this legislation will allow disabled veteran-owned businesses to qualify for state contracts with rights similar to those of women and minority-owned businesses.
 
The bill also expands the "Welcome Home Bonus" program to give MA service members expanded access to monetary bonuses upon returning from duty. Under the new provision, service members who perform multiple tours of duty will receive a bonus upon return from each tour. Prior to this legislation, the bonus was only awarded upon a service member's return from his or her initial deployment.
 
Happy Veteran's Day!
 
November 11th was Veteran's Day!  I am especially grateful to all the men and women who have served and are serving our country.  The Massachusetts' Department of Veterans' Services website provides information on state and federal benefits, including details about where and how to apply. In addition to resources for veterans and their dependents, the website contains information for members of the Guard and Reserve who have been called-up to active duty. The website is regularly updated and expanded to better serve the Commonwealth's veterans and their families.  Please click here to learn more!   
 
November Workshops at MBHP

The Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership (MBHP) will host its monthly Apartment Search and Utility workshops on the 3rd Wednesday of November. The Apartment Search workshop is for people
who are looking to move but need some help and advice to get through the moving process. This workshop will take place on Wednesday, November 18th at 10am.  A utility workshop will be held on Nov. 18th at 11:30am. This workshop is for people who are worried about losing their utility serve this winter or those who have a large bill and would like some tips for lowering it.

MBHP will also host Parts 2-4 of the Home Buying 101 workshop sponsored by the City of Boston. This workshop is for people who are thinking about buying a home but who are not sure where to start. Part 2 is November 2, Part 3 is November 9, and Part 4 is November 16th.  All sessions are from 12-2pm.
 
Workshops take place at MBHP, 125 Lincoln Street, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02111-2503 (near South Station). To RSVP for these workshops, please contact Iris Sierra at 617-425-6650 or [email protected].   To learn more, please click here

House Passes Affordable Housing Legislation
 
Rep. Stanley voted in favor of passing legislation to preserve affordable housing and protect tenants living in publicly-assisted housing.  The bill allows the state and localities to purchase affordable housing units before they hit the open market. The legislation also protects tenants of affordable housing units by requiring that they be given 24 months notice of affordability termination.
 
House Passes Mixed Martial Arts Legislation    
 
Rep. Stanley joined his House colleagues in passing mixed martial arts (MMA) legislation that creates mandatory statewide safety standards as well as age and insurance requirements for MMA events.
The bill renames the State Boxing commission as the State Athletic Commission and empowers the new entity to issue licenses for MMA events across the state. Upon issuing a license, the State Athletic Commission is required to notify the municipality in which the event is scheduled to take place. According to the bill's "opt-out" clause, the municipality has seven days to prohibit the event by a majority vote of the city council or board of selectmen.
 
Invitation to Educators to Participate in NEBHE's New STEM PBL Project
 
The New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) has won funding for a new three-year project to improve science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education to help America develop homegrown sustainable technologies. The project, titled The Problem Based-Learning (PBL) for Sustainable Technology: Increasing the STEM Pipeline, will be funded by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program.
 
The STEM PBL project includes an intensive professional development opportunity for educators. Participants are eligible for CEUs and graduate college credit after successful completion of the distance-learning course.  To lean more, please click here.
 
DeNucci to retire

State Auditor Joseph DeNucci will not seek reelection in 2010, ending a 32-year career in elected office.  He has served as state auditor since 1987.  His retirement will add to the 2010 electoral activity already buzzing around a governor's race, a U.S. Senate campaign to replace Sen. Kennedy and a potential race for attorney general.  

RMV License Renewal Notification Site

The new Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) hopes to integrate many more technology-based features into the services that it brings to its citizens and commuters everyday.  Please click here to navigate directly to the RMV's official site to sign-up for the license renewal notification service. 
  
ARRA-Created Job Opportunities
 
Employers who create jobs using ARRA funding post new job announcements to the Commonwealth's JobQuest system. A wide range of stimulus-related positions--ranging from career counselors to communication specialists are available. This system is constantly updated, so residents should check back for new opportunities.  Please click here to access the website. 
 
Need Help?  Resources Available to Battle Economic Downturn
 
Mass.gov offers residents information on how to get help in tough economic times.  Please click here to access information on topics such as jobs and unemployment, housing and foreclosures, home heating and energy, gas prices and commuting, managing finances, health care and insurance, food and nutrition and business assistance.  
 
AARP launches new web tool to help lower drugs costs
 
AARP launched its new Doughnut Hole Calculator, a free web tool that can help residents "avoid the dreaded coverage gap" which can leave folks stuck with thousands of dollars in unbudgeted spending.  Click here to access this calculator.  According to the AARP, in 15 minutes visitors can view a graph of their out-of-pocket spending by month, look up lower cost drugs for their conditions, create a Personal Medication Record and print out personalized letters to their doctors to help start a conversation about safely switching prescriptions. 
 
Apply online for Food Stamps or Health Insurance and Health Assistance!
 
You may be able to complete a Food Stamps or Health Insurance and Health Assistance Programs application online. A simple screening survey asks questions about people in your household and compares your answers with the program rules. For more information, please click here
 
Job Opportunities with the Commonwealth of MA

There are a number of job listings posted on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts home page.  For more information, click here
.
Waltham Corner
 
Rep. Stanley celebrated Veterans Day at Whittemore School
 
Rep. Stanley attended a Veterans Day Celebration at Whittemore Elementary School on Tuesday, November 10th.  Other attendees included Superintendant Azar, numerous elected officials, veterans and parents. 

Whittemore

Public Meeting/Green Development
 
Are you concerned about development and overdevelopment in Waltham?  Have you thought about making sure that whatever is built on a parcel of land is good for today, tomorrow, and forever?  The Waltham League of Women Voters invites you to come and learn about good, better and best practices.
          
The League of Women Voters of Waltham will hold a public meeting on Green Development Tuesday November 17th at 7:30pm at the Waltham Public Library Lecture Hall.  The speaker will be Jedidiah Mannis, a lawyer who specializes in protecting green areas when designing new development.  He will give a brief presentation and then the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions.
 
Community Preservation Committee (CPC) Public Meeting
 
A Community Preservation Act (CPA) public meeting will be held Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 7pm in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) will review the State Match of FY 2009 Surcharge funds received October 14, 2009, and the estimated Surcharge funds for FY 2010. Allocations to the allowed categories of historic, community housing, open space, administrative and budget reserve funds will be made. City officials, the public and all concerned parties are invited to continue to give their input on matters pertinent to the Community Preservation Committee.
 
Mayor McCarthy Seeks Council Approval on the following three items:
 
Mayor McCarthy asked the Council to approve the appointment of Gerard Dufromont and Daniel Keleher to the Waltham Conservation Commission as permanent members to fill the vacancies left by Mary Giles and Edward Callahan.  
 
She also asked the City Council yo approve an appropriation in the amount of $68,500 for handicap projects in Waltham including police details, the maintenance of automatic door openers and associated wiring, sidewalk repairs and miscellaneous projects.  
  
Mayor McCarthy asked the City Council to approve grants to remove two underground storage tanks at 92 Felton Street (from the MA Department of Revenue), replace five low-flow toilets at 199 School Street (from the MWRA) and for the installation of photo voltaic panels at the Municipal Center (from the federal stimulus package). 
  
Fernald Reuse Committee Meetings
 
The Fernald Reuse Committee meets every two weeks at Waltham City Hall.  Rep. Stanley authored the legislation creating the committee and is an active member. The next full committee meeting is 12/3/09 at 7:00 p.m.  To read up-to-date information on Fernald Reuse, including legislation, historical information, photos, proposals, meetings dates and maps, please click here.
 
Waltham4Seatbelts now has a website

Please click here to access The Seat Belt Committee for Concerned Parents of Waltham Schools' new website.  The website was created by a group of parents in Waltham who advocate safety on school buses.
 
The website will include information concerning events involving the committee (and latest news as to what is happening); information on how to add your name to our email list for parents not yet on this email list or to join our committee (please encourage others that might share your concern to go to the web site and add their emails to our list); documents the committee has presented at various venues; documents and links with information on crash tests, expert testimonials, studies/reports, government recommendations, and the like.; and links to in-bus surveillance camera videos of various types of school bus crashes and crash tests. 
 
News from the Downtown Initiatve
 
The 2nd Annual Waltham Holiday Prelude weekend begins on Friday, Dec. 4th at 6:00pm with Mayor McCarthy officially lighting the trees on the Common at City Hall. There will be entertainment by the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra's Woodwind Quintet and the Waltham High School Chorus, and a visit by Santa!  The Waltham Lions Club will hold its Annual Roadblock to raise money for the Waltham Salvation Army.  There will be two Christmas trees decked out at two locations on Moody Street, one at Embassy Park and the other at Fahey Park, compliments of the Waltham Chamber. These trees will be lit throughout the Holiday season. Over the three-days of Prelude there will be events and activities in the downtown and throughout the city.
 
Folks are encouraged to participate!
 
Window decorating competition ~ Get creative and decorate for the holiday! Perhaps you can incorporate your business products into a holiday theme. Windows must be completed by Thursday, Dec. 3rd.  Judging by the DTI committee and certificates will be presented to the winners. Register to participate.
 
Gingerbread House building contest ~ Restaurants and hotels are invited to design and build an original Gingerbread house, Cottage, McMansion or maybe you'll want to go all out and build a Gingerbread village! Simply register that you will participate (free) and have your masterpiece ready and on display by Friday, Dec. 4th so Prelude visitors may take a city-wide, self-guided tour of the displays! Judging by the DTI committee and certificates will be presented to the winners.
 
Friday & Saturday evening Downtown Stroll ~ Visitors will be encouraged to take a walk along Moody and Main Streets to view decorated windows and holiday lights.
 
On Saturday, Dec. 5th , Mayor McCarthy and Santa will board the Waltham Trolley and will pick up passengers beginning at 10am at the Visitors Center on Carter Street and do tours of the downtown until 3:00pm. The trolley will be stopping at many locations that will be featuring special events such as the American Legion Family Fun Day, Gore Place Mansion Holiday Tea and Tour and many others.
 
Waltham Public Library ~ Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra's String Quartet, Waltham Room, Saturday, December 5th from 3:30 - 4:40
 
The Paine Estate ~ will be open for tours!
 
Retailers & restaurants are encouraged to hand out candy canes, lolly pops, small cups of hot cider or hot chocolate or you could give some sort of freebee with a purchase.  Retailers and restaurants are encouraged to offer special sales, special merchandise, special menus, etc.
 
Women's Danger Awareness & Self Defense Program
 
The Waltham Police Department (WPD) offers FREE Rape Aggression Defense Training to women (and their families) who live or work in Waltham.  The R.A.D. program is a women's self defense program that stresses risk reduction and has physical defense options. The physical defense options can be done by anyone! They are adaptable for any age or fitness-condition.  
 
The Rape Aggression Defense System is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women.  The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training.  R.A.D. is not a Martial Arts program.  Courses are taught by police officers who are nationally certified R.A.D. Instructors.  Each student is presented with a workbook/reference manual.  This manual outlines the entire Physical Defense Program for reference and continuous personal growth, and is the key to our free lifetime return and practice policy for R.A.D. graduates.
 
The program runs for 5 nights [one night per week], from 6:00 pm until 8:45 pm. Class dates are:  November 9, 16, 23, 30, and December 7, 2009.  The program will be held in Waltham at a location to be determined.  Students will be notified prior to the start of the program. 
 
Students must be 16 years old to attend this program.  Students under 18 must have permission from a parent or guardian.  Students should wear clothing that allows for physical training and freedom of movement, and please bring water.  A typical class is structured with class-time, a short video or lecture, and then instruction in physical techniques.  Ample breaks are included in the classes.  Class size is limited and is first-come, first-serve.
 
To apply, please go to the WPD website by clicking
here and click on R.A.D. (which is on the right side of the home page) and follow directions for registration.  Applications are also available at the front counter at the Waltham Police Station.  For additional information contact Sergeant Clare Schroeder at 781-314-3522, or Officer Stephen Taranto at 781-314-3526.

The Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra (WPO) 2009-10 Season

To purchase tickets online, learn more about the 2009-2010 season or learn more about the WPO, please click here
 
WPO

Curbside Leaf Vacuuming
 
Mayor McCarthy established a new leaf pickup policy.  Leaves will be vacuumed only once during the fall. Waltham's Recycling Department reminds residents that leaves will be vacuumed only once during the fall. Residents must have the leaves out prior to the Monday of your scheduled week for vacuuming.  To access the City's schedule for its Leaf Vacuum Program, please click here. The City encourages residents to bag leaves which will be picked up until 12/18/09 on your regular waste day.  Any questions, please call 781-314-3855.  

Recycling in Waltham!
 
There are many easy day-to-day things you can do to help the environment.  Learn more about what you can do to help. Information about recycling programs in Waltham is available by clicking
here
.  
 
Waltham Food Pantries:
 
COLLINS FAMILY FOOD PANTRY - operated by the Red Cross behind Red Cross offices at 867 Main St. every Thursday from 1 to 7 p.m. Call 781-642-7000 for more information.

GRANDMA'S PANTRY - operated out of Christ Church, 750 Main St., Waltham. For Waltham residents 60 years old or older on a fixed income. Open Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m. Food may be left at the church office; call ahead for hours (781-891-6012). Checks may be made out to ``Grandma's Pantry'' and sent to Christ Church.
 
SACRED HEART FOOD PANTRY - operated out of the Church Hall. Donors may leave food in the kitchen daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 781-899-0469 for more information.
 
KIDS F.E.A.S.T. - operated by the Salvation Army provides 55 children with a hot meal every day, and serves 300 families each month. Donors may leave non-perishable food at the office, 33 Myrtle St. Monday through Friday. Checks may be made out to the Salvation Army. Call 781-894-0413 for more information.
 
THE FOOD PANTRY AND SOUP KITCHEN - operated by the Immanuel United Methodist Church at 545 Moody St. is open Wednesday 9 to 11 a.m. Food donations accepted at the church entrance at the corner of Moody and Cherry streets from 2 to 6 p.m. Operated from the Methodist Church, 545 Moody St. under the direction of Dick Rogers of Middlesex Human Services. Rogers may be reached at 781-883-2050.
 
Tenant Advocacy Clinic at WATCH
 
The Tenant Advocacy Clinic provides one-on-one training and personalized assistance to any tenant with a housing related issue or question.  Tenants can drop in to receive assistance at WATCH (517 Moody Street) every Monday from 7 - 8:30 pm and every Thursday from 7 - 8:30pm.  Those who cannot come in person may leave a message on the Tenant Clinic Hotline and someone will return their call during Clinic hours: 781-891-6689 x203. The clinic is provided through a partnership between Brandeis University and WATCH.

 
Nonprofit Spotlight: Waltham Family School
 
The WFS is an Even Start Literacy Program which provides educational opportunities for children and their parents by integrating early childhood education, adult education and parenting activities in a comprehensive family literacy program.  WFS serves Waltham's families who have a preschool age child, age 3-5, and who want to work on improving their English language skills and strengthening their parenting and life skills.   
 
Waltham is one of seven communities in MA awarded a federal grant, funded through the Massachusetts Department of Education, for an Even Start Literacy Program. WFS is a partnership of the Waltham Public Schools and four key community agencies located in Waltham, including Breaking Barriers, Inc., the Parent Child Home Program, the Power Program and the Waltham Partnership for Youth (PFY).  For more information about the WFS or to learn if your family might qualify, please click here.

Rep. Stanley is a board member of the WPY and Advisory Board member of the Waltham Family School. 
 
Donate Your Books to More than Words Bookstore and Caf�!
 
Looking for somewhere to donate your books, CDs and DVDs?  Interested in hosting a book drive?  More Than Words Bookstore and Caf� is the place for you!
 
More Than Words is a nonprofit that empowers youth who are in the foster care system, court involved, homeless, or out of school, to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business!
 
By working as a team to manage their own retail and online bookstore and cafe business, our youth develop leadership, employment skills and self confidence as they prepare for their transition to adulthood!
 
Please contact Jennifer Stewart at 781-788-0035 or [email protected] for more information regarding book drives and donations or stop by 376 Moody St.
 
Council on Aging volunteers
 
The Council on Aging is looking for volunteers to deliver meals on wheels once a week.  The delivery process takes less than 45 minutes.  It's a great opportunity to help our homebound seniors. On-call volunteers are also needed. Please call Betty Giusti at (781)314-3499, ext. 3300.

National Archives

The National Archives is open to the public Monday through Wednesday and Friday from 7am - 4:30pm, Thursdays 7am- 9pm and the first Saturday of each month 8am - 4:30pm. The National Archives and Records Administration is located at 380 Trapelo Road in Waltham. 

City of Waltham website announces job openings 
 
Job opportunities are posted on the City of Waltham's website
 
City of Waltham posts a boards and committee meetings calendar of events
 

Click here for more details!

 
Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Waltham Calendar & Events (as announced in the Daily News Tribune)  

PET BEREAVEMENT
 
Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center of New England recognizes the important role pets play in people's lives and will offer a free bereavement support group for children and adults on the first Wednesday of every month, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at VESCONE, 180 Bear Hill Road, Waltham. Information: 781-684-8387.
 
OVEREATERS
Overeaters Anonymous, a 12-step program for recovery from over-eating, anorexia and bulimia, meets Wednesdays, 7 p.m., at St. Mary's CCD, 30 Pond St., Waltham. Information: 508-875-0001, select option #1.
 
PARENTAL STRESS
 
Parents Helping Parents hosts a free and confidential parent support group every Wednesday evening in Waltham. Come share your experiences and gain valuable support, parenting advice and encouragement from other parents in the group. Information: 1-800-632-8188; [email protected]; www.parentshelpingparents.org.
 
WALTHAM TOASTMASTERS
 
Toastmasters International meetings are on the first and third Thursday of the month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Meadow Green Rehab & Nursing Center, Trapelo Road. It is open to anyone at least 18 years old. Group works to help get over anxiety in public speaking and work on leadership skills. Call 781-894-7182 or e-mail [email protected].
 
9th Annual Death by Chocolate
 
The Rotary Clubs of Newton and Waltham Present "Death By Chocolate" to be held on January 31st, 2010 from 1PM - 4PM. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel - Newton, 320 Washington St., Newton, MA Tickets are $15 for Adults and $5 for children under 12 years of age. Free parking.  To learn more, click here.
 
SERVE MEALS If you are interested in volunteering your time to assist the Middlesex Human Service Agency in serving meals, please contact Dick Rogers at 781-894-6110.
 
HOSPICE Evercare Hospice seeks volunteers for friendly visits with hospice patients 1-4 hrs per week in Waltham. Free training provided. Call Marjie Rochon at 781-472-8641 or e-mail [email protected].
 
REAGLE PLAYERS Non-profit theater company Reagle Players seeks volunteers: ushers, dressers, reception, stitchers and much more. Share any skills. No formal experience necessary. Call 781-891-5600 to inquire or visit www.reagleplayers.com for information.

COMMUNITY DAY CENTER The Community Day Center seeks volunteers to tutor low to no income guest in literacy, GED, resume writing and computer skills including hunting for jobs on the internet. Bilingual Spanish and Portuguese speakers especially needed. Hours: Monday - Friday 1:30-4:30 or weekends at the Library. Call Rob Mark, executive director, 617-960-7793, www.communitydaycenter.com, [email protected].

MARISTHILL Maristhill Nursing & Rehab Center seeks volunteers to assist with Mass, Eucharistic Ministry, accompany people to medical appointments (no driving required), visit with elders, or share your unique talents and gifts in other ways. No experience necessary. Training, supervision, and support are provided. Call Maureen Andrew at 781-893-0240.
 
HOSPICE & ADMINISTRATIVE HELP VNA Care Choices needs volunteers to offer emotional and practical support to terminally ill patients and their families in many communities, including Waltham and Newton. Training and supervision provided. Call Nancy Barcelo, 781-890-4440, ext. 3471.
 
COMMUNITY LINKS Wayside Community Links, 118 Central St., Waltham, seeks volunteer to do street outreach and co-facilitate educational groups for adolescents. Spanish and Portuguese speaking candidates are especially needed. Training provided. Call 781-891-0555 Ext. 71 for more information.

NATIONAL HERITAGE MUSEUM, Exhibit on time
From waking to the rooster's crow to catching the 8 am train, how Americans judge and value time has changed over the centuries. For All Time: Clocks and Watches from the National Heritage Museum is a new exhibit at the Museum, 33 Marrett Road, Rte. 2A, Lexington, running Aug. 15-Feb. 21. It explores the story of timekeeping through spectacular objects drawn from the Museum's own collection - 95 clocks and 22 watches, ranging in dates from about 1700 to about 1930. For information, contact the Museum at 781-861-6559 or click here.
 
WEST SUBURBAN YMCA, Fall sports
The West Suburban YMCA, 276 Church St., has announced its new fall sports line-up. There are three new tennis programs: Toddler Tennis, Youth Tennis, and Adult Indoor Tennis. Rookie Soccer League, exclusively for 7 year olds, focuses on strengthening skill sets and learning team play. All games will be 3 v. 3, allowing for a lot of touches. Friday's Recess program combines all of your favorite recess-style games into one exciting, fast-paced, and fun program. Games include; Dodge ball, Nuke 'Em, Capture the Flag, Mat Ball, Speed Ball, and Floor Hockey. And, for the first time in the fall, one-day PRE-YBA Basketball Clinics. The clinics are open to children ages 5-8. For more information, contact Renee Gaudette at 617-244-6050, ext. 3012 or [email protected].
 
 WALTHAM LIBRARY, Land Trust book on display
The Waltham Public Library, 735 Main St., is currently displaying the Waltham Land Trust's conservation book. There are a wide range of topics, including a history of New England forests, endangered animals, solutions to global warming, a bio of Rachel Carson, and a video by Al Gore. You'll discover how to make your workplace greener - and your children, too. Featured in the display is material on The Waltham Land Trust, Waltham's own local group dedicated to preserving open space. This year the WLT celebrates 10 years of working to benefit the environment.For more information about the Waltham Land Trust and its activities, visit www.walthamlandtrust.org.

FATHERS, Comprehensive evaluations
The Boston Metro West office of Right at Home In Home Care & Assistance, a private duty home care agency, will be honoring elderly fathers in the community by offering free comprehensive senior care evaluations for any male over the age of 65 during the week before and the week after Father's Day. To schedule an appointment, contact Right at Home at 617-597-1500. For more information, go to www.bostonmetrowest.rightathome.net.
 
`YOU DON'T SAY' The Waltham Channel presents a new program, ``You Don't Say.'' Waltham residents are allowed 5 minutes of airtime to speak on topics that are important to them. Commercial content is not allowed. Information: 781-899-8834.

WALTHAM MUSEUM Experience the rich history of Waltham at The Waltham Museum, 25 Lexington St., open Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Admission $4, seniors and children under 12, $2. Information: www.walthammuseum.com.
 
BOOKS, CDs, DVDs If you are looking to donate your books, CDs and DVDs, or hosting a book drive, donate to More Than Words Bookstore and Cafe, 376 Moody St. More Than Words empowers youth who are in the foster care system, court involved, homeless, or out of school, to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business. Information: 781-788-0035; [email protected].

HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS Atrium Mall and the Mall at Chestnut Hill invite shoppers to help Homes for Our Troops, an organization that remodels or builds homes for soldiers returning from Iraq that have sustained severe injuries. The Giving Tree is at both malls Nov. 28-Dec. 24. Information: [email protected]; 508-823-3300.

SUPPLIES FOR TROOPS Waltham VFW Post 2152 and Ladies Auxiliary will be collecting donations to send to our soldiers in Iraq - Master Sgt. Kathrine Ortaga, Sgt. Chris Physic, Spc. Jeremy Bray, Spc. Paul Briggs, Spc. Daniel Fernandez, Maater Sgt. Kathrine Ortaga and 2Lt. Ryan Galluzzo. Items: www.carepackageproject.com. Information: 781-894-9243.

OPERATION SOLDIER Operation American Soldier is collecting items or donations for shipping costs. Soldiers have requested the following items: candy, cookies (small packages), snacks, microwave popcorn, powdered drink singles, socks (crew), T-shirts, toiletries (unscented), feminine products, blank note cards, playing cards, DVDs & CDs. We need help packing boxes, paperwork and more. Information: 617-504-0532.

BOOKS TO SOLDIERS Got Books can send someone who is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces overseas a care package full of books. To submit the name and address, visit www.GotBooks.com/troops. Got Books provides all books and also handles and pays for all labor and shipping costs. Information: www.GotBooks.com; 978-396-6026.

CLOTHING EXCHANGE The Waltham Clothing Exchange, 50 Church St., is closed until September. Information: 781-893-6240.
  
SATURDAY SOCIALS The French American Victory Club Saturday socials with the Country Masters are on the second Saturday of the month, 8 p.m. to midnight. Admission is $10. Information: 781-899-8195; www.favclub.org.
 
STUDENT ART Back Pages Books has installed artwork by art students of the Waltham Public Schools at its store, 289 Moody St. The artwork will rotate monthly. Information: 781-788-9988; [email protected].

About Rep. Stanley:
 
State Representative: 2001 - Present
City Council: 1998 - 2004, 2006 - Present
Council President: 2003
 
City Council Committees:  
Finance
Long Term Debt
Community Development
Veterans

House Committees:
 
Post Audit and Oversight
Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
Housing 
  
Education:  Suffolk University (MPA), Bentley College (BS - Management), Mass Bay Community College (AS - Business Administration)
 
Board Member: Waltham Partnership for Youth, Reagle Players, Warrandale Little League, Waltham Family School Advisory Board, Waltham Safe and Healthy Schools YRBS Steering Committee, Waltham Community Day Center (Honorary), Reach Beyond Domestic Violence Advisory Board, Safe Schools Healthy Students Initiative, Waltham Community Day Center (Active Honorary) 
 
Member: Lions Club, Sons of Italy, Democratic City Committee, Fitzgerald School PTO, Fernald Reuse Committee, Hardy Pond Association, Friends of Waltham Library 
 
Awards:
 
Work, Community, Independence - Human Service Advocate of the Year, 2008
COFAR - award recipient for support of people with mental disabilities, 2003
MassBay Community College Distinguished Alumni Award
WATCH CDC - Housing Advocate Award, 2007
Minuteman Senior Services - Certificate of Appreciation, 2006
Boston Bar Assoc., Greater Boston Legal Services and MetroWest Legal Services - Pillar of Justice Award, 2003
Shining Star Award, Edinburg Center 
 
Personal:
 
Married to the former Kimberly A. Bayliss
Children: Ryan, age 15, Parker, age 6