The Boston 100

 

Wicked Good Bostonian #17: Rick ‘Nifty’ Middleton

Rick Middleton at a charity hockey game.
Rick Middleton is the Bruins Alumni Association President. He poses with (L to R): Former New England Patriot Matt Light, Bobby Loffredo and Erik Deneault at the 4th Annual Light Heroes Charity Hockey Game at Providence College.

The biggest misconception about Bostonians?
They’re all democrats.

How do you feel about the movement to get you into the Hall #NiftyHOFno16?
I’m honored that people are behind me.

Favorite spot in Boston?
Tresca’s in the North End, owned by my teammate Ray Bourque.

What’s one of your favorite hockey memories?
I had the honor of coaching the 2002 US sled hockey team, who were huge underdogs, and we won the gold. There may be a movie in the works.

Predictions about the 2018 Bruins?
They’re a strong, well-balanced team. They look like they could go all the way.

– Devin Thompson, The Boston 100

 

Stone shopping in a forest of tranquility

Dawn Carroll
Posing with petrified wood. This amazing natural process creates stone from wood, and ultimately, beautiful pieces of art.

While picking through heaps of geological wonders for a recent project, I came across a collection of petrified wood. From the Greek root meaning, literally, “wood turned into stone,” this is a plant that fossilizes in the Earth. Without oxygen, the wood is replaced by opal, calcite, pyrite and silica.

Petrified wood is known for its super powers – it’s able to stabilize, strengthen, calm and inject wisdom. This makes for a perfect stone for a busy household, a conference room or a feature wall in a front entry. Alternatively, frame it on the wall as a simple, beautiful decor piece.

– Dawn Carroll, Stone Designer and Co-Founder of Over My Shoulder Foundation

 

Jogging your memory: Boston Marathon milestones

Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon has been around for over a century - check out some of the amazing milestones below.

With Patriots’ Day around the corner, the city is preparing to celebrate the 122nd anniversary of the world’s oldest annual marathon, the Boston Marathon. Here are some of the milestones that the race has seen over the years to jog your memory as to why we love it so much:

1897: The very first running of the Boston Marathon.

1924: The distance for marathons is standardized at 26.2 miles.

1969: The race is officially moved to the third Monday in April.

1966: Roberta Gibb is the first woman to run the marathon.

1975: The wheelchair division is developed.

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Day in the life: Olivia Mahidashti, public relations intern

Lenny Zakim Fund Casino Night
Working the Lenny Zakim Fund Casino Night event.

As entry into the workforce becomes more and more competitive, many turn to internships to gain experience and differentiate themselves from other applicants.

A typical day as an intern at Goodwin Group PR involves drafting press releases, creating media lists and staffing events. I enjoy being a part of a small office and getting to learn first hand from the owner and CEO.

At Goodwin, being an intern is far more than just fetching coffee. I’ve had the opportunity to attend amazing events like Matt Light’s Fools Night Out and meet Nene Leakes at the Lenny Zakim Fund Casino Night.

– Olivia Mahidashti, Goodwin Group PR

 

Staycation – what to do with your kids during break

Kids looking out the window
If you're not traveling for April break, make the most out of the events in your backyard.

Sometimes, the most relaxing vacations are the ones where you stay at home and take time off from the daily grind. But, if you have kids, finding ways to make a staycation exciting for them can pose a big challenge. If you are staying in Boston this April vacation, here are some ideas to keep things fun for the family:

• Check out the Wild Vacation Week at the Franklin Park Zoo.
• See Sesame Street Live! at Agganis Arena.
• Cheer on the runners in the 122nd Boston Marathon.
• Head to the Museum of Fine Arts for an April Vacation Adventure.

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Sustainable dining – Boston’s farm-to-table restaurants

Basket of vegetables
Farm-to-table is becoming more popular with new restaurants getting behind this sustainable method. Check out these great farm-to-table restaurants in the city.

Organic farming and food production is one of the major ways to reduce harmful human impact on the environment. Farm-to-table eating ensures your food is fresh while enhancing quality of life for our whole society.

In honor of Earth Day on April 22, check out these ten local, sustainable restaurants and consider adding one to your regular rotation. Delicious food and saving the Earth— what could be better?

1) Henrietta’s Table
2) Freshii
3) Life Alive
4) Cocobeet Juice Bar
5) EVOO
6) Post 390
7) Whole Heart Provisions
8) FoMu Ice Cream
9) Sweetgreen
10) Dig Inn

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR


More: Food

 

Spring support: Help nonprofits this April

Line of people with linked arms
New Year's resolutions typically focus on oneself, but take time this spring to help others and your community.

With Earth Day and the official start of spring, April is one of the best months of the year to focus on the health and wellness of your community. It’s also national awareness month for several great causes and the incredible nonprofit foundations that benefit them. Here are a few to keep in mind when you’re looking for ways to give back this month:

Autism Awareness Month
• Autism Research Institute
• Organization for Autism Research

Defeat Diabetes Month
• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
• Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

Donate Life Month
• American Transplant Foundation
• Donate Life America

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Even though it’s still cold outside … tick season is upon us

A forest of trees
It’s never too early to protect yourself and your pets from Lyme and other tick-related diseases.

Despite snow hanging around in April, tick season is here in Massachusetts. Although they’re usually a year-round problem (they come out anytime there’s a warm up), the season is March-May and August-November. It’s not just woods and tall grass – ticks are everywhere.

Some tips to help protect yourself and your pets this season:

• Pet flea and tick collars last 6-8 months.
• Topical sprays like OFF do repel most ticks.
• Tuck your pants into your socks when walking in the woods or tall grass – you may feel a bit odd, but better to be protected than infected.

– Tara Goodwin, The Boston 100

 

Debunking chiropractic myths

An xray
If you've never experienced a visit to the chiropractor, I urge you to give it a try. Your aches and pains will thank you.

Admittedly, I was skeptical the first time I went to my chiropractor. But, after experiencing the visit for myself, I’m a firm believer that they’re nothing short of miracle workers. I have had neck pain, back pain and even headaches all solved with a few simple visits.

There are tons of myths deterring people from having their issues checked by a chiropractor – they aren’t real doctors, once you start going you must continue for life, it’s dangerous and it hurts – but they are myths.

I encourage everyone to experience the practice for themselves and get your body back in line.

– Josh Sarnowitz, The Boston 100

 

Is your job killing you? Office wellness for health

Man meditating in an office chair
Wellness in the office is important. With so much sitting and screen time, we need to make sure we take breaks for our health.

Is your job killing you? According to the Annals of Internal Medicine, sitting for long periods can be a risk factor for early death. Move every 30 minutes.

Align your eyes with your computer monitor, or risk excess neck strain, disc herniation and headaches. Consider a standing desk.

Too much screen time? Everything from cyber sickness, text claw, eye strain and overeating is attributed. Detox often.

Good news: Corporate wellness programs are shifting from smoking cessation and weight loss to caring for the whole person. New initiatives focus on workplace design, employee engagement and development classes – attractive for job seekers.

– Margrette Mondillo, The Boston 100

 

Defeat diabetes with ice cream

A mug of ice cream cones
Even if you have diabetes, there are options to enjoy a sweet treat every once in a while.

April is Defeat Diabetes Month, but sometimes it can be hard to find low-carb, low-sugar alternatives, especially when it seems like everyone is stocking their freezers with ice cream for the warm weather to come. If you’re diabetic, or just watching your sugar intake, here are some ice cream brands and flavors that let you indulge:

• Breyer’s Deliciously Rich & Creamy, fat free creamy vanilla.
• Stonyfield Organic nonfat frozen yogurt Gotta Have Java.
• Edy’s Slow Churned butter pecan (no sugar added).
• Edy’s Slow Churned Fudge Tracks (no sugar added).
• Any Halo Top flavor, all are made with organic stevia.

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Boston Instagram influencers you need to follow

A smartphone
Influencers can give you the best insight for fashion, food and more.

Most of our lives revolve around social media. We defer to our online communities for advice on just about everything we do, whether that’s the restaurant you pick this Friday night or the spinning class you take Sunday morning.

Instagram has become a trusted resource due to the volume of influencers providing captivating photos, inspiration, advice and tips. Follow these well-known, Boston-based Instagram accounts to know what to eat, wear or do in the city:

Fitness motivation: @noaddedsugarbyjillian, @maxnottfit
Scenic shots of the neighborhood: @brianmcw, @igboston
Travel inspiration: @blarejune, @blovedboston
City eats: @bostonfoodies, @imdatingfood
Life + style: @kerriemburke, @mackenzienoelm

– Devin Thompson, The Boston 100

 

Social Media Etiquette: Instagram

Instagram
Instagram users are smart and want to see authentic content, not flashy advertisements. Is your brand or business using its profile in the most effective way?

Known as the “cooler” social media platform, Instagram gives people what they desire at their core when it comes to social media – a place to engage and connect through images and videos, without having to be buried in all the “Facebook craziness.”

Good rules to follow:

1. Use influencers strategically: Allow them to create their own content to showcase your brand in an authentic way.
2. Instagram allows you to communicate directly with each comment – do so.
3. Use hashtags wisely and make sure they connect with your business.
4. Take the time to put out quality images and videos.

– Taylor Ketchum, Jones PR

 

What motivates today’s ‘knowledge workers?’

A man and woman meeting
Leaders should think of creative ways to interact with their employees to help drive, motivate and engage their teams.

The authoritative management style is fading.

These days, many jobs involve knowledge work, where an employee’s main contribution is subject matter expertise. Consequently, a manager’s role is evolving into more of a “team leader” or “motivational coach.” To motivate employees to succeed, it is important for leaders to focus on:

– Connection: Employees want to feel connected with others. Leaders should create opportunities for employee engagement and collaboration.

– Culture: Monetary rewards can be short-lived. Employees seek experiences and meaningful purpose. If a company’s mission and values resonate with employees, they will genuinely care about the results of their own performance.

– Christina Norton, Revenue Management Solutions

 

Personal assistants aren’t just for the rich

A woman folding clothes
What do you need help with? Don’t just consider what’s typical. A housecleaning service is just going to clean your house, but a house assistant or house manager may also do your laundry.

You don’t need to be wealthy to hire a personal assistant. Just smart.

A personal assistant or house manager can help you eat healthier, improve your relationships or build a business. How’s that for return on investment?

Using a service like Care.com allows you to hire based on a job description you create, which may include meal prepping, errand running, housework and other tasks. Be specific with the description to get the right fit. Always call references and use the option to perform a background check. Stop spending time on tasks you don’t like and outsource like a boss.

– Marcey Rader, Work Well, Play More

 

Wicked Good Bostonian #16: Jackie Connally

Jackie Connally of WBZ-TV interviewing Thomas Smith, a Journey Forward Boston Marathon team member.

Are you from the Boston area?

I was born in Holyoke, grew up in Chicopee, then stayed around Boston after graduating from BU.

How did you get into the news industry?

After switching to broadcast journalism at BU, I got an internship at Ch.7 and they eventually hired me.

What do you love about your job?

It’s different every day.

What is your favorite restaurant in Boston?

I don’t have a favorite, but I love seafood!

What do you do for fun in the city?

I love walking around, seeing all the changes and finding new places to explore.

– Josh Sarnowitz, The Boston 100

 

How to prevent common running injuries

runner stretching
Running can be hard on your body. Here are some common injuries in runners and how to prevent damage.

Running is a great activity, but improper training can cause injuries and setbacks. Dr. Elizabeth Matzkin of Brigham and Women’s discusses common injuries and their solutions:

Runner’s knee: Knee pain caused when the kneecap moves around, rubbing against other structures

• Solution: reduce mileage, cross-train and strengthen thigh muscles

IT band syndrome: Pain on the lateral part of the knee from overuse or improper form

• Solution: cross-train and improve form

Shin splints: Pain on the front or side of the shins during or just after running

• Solution: cross-train and stretch thoroughly before and after running

– Cindy Peterson, executive director, Brigham and Women’s/Mass General Health Care Center

 

Couture stone design and ‘earthing’ décor

Buddha statue
Cumar's stone base sits under a beautiful Meichi antique. (Photo courtesy of James Horner)

Finally, meditation rooms are demanding space on blueprints. A dynamic leader in “calm” design, Meichi Peng focuses on areas specifically for rejuvenation. Stone is an essential ingredient found in most of her peaceful spaces.

By using stone, Meichi feeds into our need for “earthing,” reconnecting us with the energy of the earth by using natural “grounding” décor. Cumar was recently able to work with Meichi, creating a marble base for one of her museum-quality Asian antiques. By using stone with an antique, we were able to complement the calming artwork, creating a piece suited for healing and peace.

– Dawn Carroll, Stone Designer and Co-Founder of Over My Shoulder Foundation

 

Day in the life: Sean Camire, personal trainer

I’ve been a competitive athlete my entire life so becoming a sports specific trainer was a natural progression. Athleticism is a craft and there’s nothing I am more passionate about than mastering that in the form of my clients.

I treat all my clients like they’re athletes because we should always be striving to optimize our body’s performance, regardless of whether that’s on a field or not.

Spending an entire day in the gym may seem horrifying, but I truly love what I do. It’s amazing to know that you are helping someone live a full, happy and healthy life.

– Sean Camire, Healthtrax Fitness and Wellness – Hanover

 

Easter and Passover activities you might not know about

Easter and Passover have many mainstream traditions - check out some of these ideas you might not think of.

Although it doesn’t feel like spring yet, it’s technically here, and with that comes the first well-known holidays for the Christian and Jewish faiths – Easter and Passover. Both are rooted in tradition, but we wanted to share some activities people might not think about during these festive celebrations.

Easter:

• Send Easter lilies – they represent the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• Read the story of Easter – gather with family and revisit history.

• Host your own egg roll competition.

Passover:

• Clean your entire home.

• Watch a Passover movie.

• Make a Matzoh house – like a gingerbread house but use chocolate, honey and candy.

– Josh Sarnowitz, The Boston 100

 

Herb gardening 101

herbs
Herb gardening is a fun, practical hobby to enhance your cooking and liven up your home.

An herb garden can be a great investment if you’re an aspiring cook or just looking for something to liven up your home. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your garden:

1) Choose easy, low-maintenance herbs like basil and chives.

2) If you’re planting indoors, pick a sunny spot like a windowsill and invest in high-quality soil to support growth.

3) Make sure you know how much water each of your herbs needs and create a watering schedule.

4) If you plant outside, use a fence to protect your herbs from hungry critters.

– JoJo Gutfarb, The Boston 100

 

Running tips part 2: Fueling the run

fruit
Fuel your running with the right foods.

When I first started running, I struggled to find the right fuel my body needed and when it needed it.

A light snack that provides the body with important carbohydrates is ideal before running. Some healthy options include a banana, organic granola bars, toast with peanut butter or a small serving of oatmeal.

The best time to eat before a run is almost always dependent on the runners and how fast their body digests food. If you know your stomach is sensitive, give it enough time to settle. Remember to always experiment with your pre-run meal before race day.

– Devin Thompson, The Boston 100

 

A healthy twist on Caramel deLite Girl Scout cookies

girl scout cookies
Who knew Caramel deLites could be healthy? Try this recipe to add some nutrition to this Girl Scout Cookie favorite.

Even if you forgot to celebrate National Girl Scout Day on March 12th, I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of their delicious cookies. I hate to be the one to tell you this, but these cookies aren’t as innocent as the faces who sell them.

One of my personal favorites is the Caramel deLite – a caramel and toasted coconut-covered cookie. While a serving size may only have 130 calories, these are chock full of ingredients that have no nutritional value.

Instead of risking your health for a treat, enjoy my rendition of a healthy Caramel deLite!

– Amanda Santucci, The Skinny Spice

 

Looking forward to an ‘Amazing April’

charity raffle
Enter for a chance to win great prizes and support two nonprofits making a difference for young people.

Boston sports fans could be in for a treat next month with the “Amazing April” raffle from The Light Foundation and the Bridgewater State University Foundation.

Four lucky winners and their guests will be heading to TD Garden for a Celtics or Bruins first round playoff game, Fenway Park for a Red Sox-Yankees game, or the finish line at the Boston Marathon.

Proceeds benefit the two foundations, helping to develop the next generation through scholarships and programs to inspire learning and leadership. For more information and to enter for your chance to win, head over to www.lightupbsuraffle.com.

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Spring market real estate trends

Amy Mizner
Amy Mizner of Benoit Mizner Simon is an expert on what millennials are looking for when moving to the suburbs.

Even though it doesn’t look like spring, the real estate market is in full bloom for sellers. According to Amy Mizner, principal of Benoit Mizner Simon & Co., overall low inventory in and around the Metro West area has created a huge pool of buyers all seeking their dream home.

Millennials moving from the city to the suburbs are looking for the 3 C’s:

• Condition – Turn-key properties in excellent condition.

• Comfort – Large, open floor plans.

• Convenience – Walking distance to the town center, train, schools, restaurants, etc.

Putting your home on the market? Be sure it appeals to next generation buyers!

– Tara Frier, The Boston 100

 

Beauty survival guide for the cold

beauty products
Even though it's now spring, the cold weather is still here, and your body needs a little help.

Aside from posing a threat to one’s emotional wellness, the cruel freezing air can wreak havoc on your hair and skin. Finding ways to combat Mother Nature’s relentless desire to rob the atmosphere of every ounce of moisture is key to surviving this harsh season. Below I’ve put together a list of my favorite winter-worthy beauty products that are sure to help you do just that.

1) First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
2) Nelson J Moisture Healing Mask
3) Carmex Lip Balm
4) Bare Minerals Skinlongvegity Eye Cream
5) Beauty Counter Plumping Face Oil
6) Kitten Soft Soaps

– Susie Light, Keeping The Light House

 

Social backlash to social apps

smartphone screen
Users now have a lot more input and ways to voice their opinion when an update goes wrong - and developers are listening!

One of the benefits of social media engagement is that it gives people the opportunity to provide feedback when they dislike changes made to their favorite outlet.

Recently, this has been in the news in light of a Snapchat update that garnered so much negative feedback that users started a Change.org petition to reverse it. Now with more outlets on the rise, executives must take user feedback seriously if they want to survive this competitive market.

Could Instagram be leading the way by bringing back chronological order? Rumors say this may be the case. Maybe Snapchat will follow suit!

– Hannah Fier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Why adaptable employees have an edge in today’s workplace

Sarah Gibson of Accent Learning and Consulting explains why adaptability is a key skill in today's workplace.

The ability to adapt to rapidly changing work situations and the flexibility to overcome obstacles is a game-changer.

Why employers want it: Today’s fast-paced business environment requires employees who are open to change, willing to take initiative and don’t get emotionally sidetracked when plans go awry. “Adaptable employees can manage conflict and change more effectively,” says Sarah Gibson of Accent Learning and Consulting, based in Wisconsin.

How to gain it: Become a continuous learner. Embrace change. Seek ongoing development opportunities to help you stay relevant in an ever-changing business world. “It’s a lifelong learning process,” says Gibson.

– Rebecca Konya, The Wisconsin 100

 

What’s a micro-influencer?

How can your business crack Instagram's new algorithm?

The recent changes on Instagram make it harder for marketers to engage their audiences. Rather than listed chronologically, posts are now based on the number of likes, comments, views, shares, saves and direct messages. High engagement signals to Instagram that the content is what people want to see.

So how can marketers and users crack the Instagram code? Forbes suggests using micro-influencers – everyday consumers who have a significant following on social media (between 1,000-10,000 followers). They’re more likely to become authentic advocates for brands, so they’re an essential, emerging tool for marketers to relay their messaging.

– Becca Hartleib, The New Orleans 100

 

Should employers allow mental health days?

Most managers acknowledge the importance of time off, and more companies are now encouraging "mental health days" separate from vacation or sick time.

Should a “mental health day” count as a paid sick day? Last year, a viral tweet from a CEO showing support for taking mental health days put this topic in the spotlight.

Operating under high stress, which we can measure within an organization, limits employees from performing at their highest capacity, much like physical illnesses. Time off to manage stress or anxiety will improve employee productivity and morale and may reduce health care costs over time.

Managers should not only encourage their employees to take mental health days, but they should also model this behavior by taking their own days.

– Marty Petty, The MPETTY Group