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Review Brooks & Crowley
June 2023
781-251-0555
www.brooksandcrowley.com
439 Washington Street Dedham, MA 02026
*Services Throughout Massachusetts
The Best Way to Learn Is to Travel MY DAUGHTER CAME BACK FROM FRANCE!
making our way to Paris, we stayed in London for two days and spent time with my family. My relatives who no longer live in Ireland either came to the States or moved to England — it was great to catch up with them for a few days! Then, we took the bullet train under the English Channel to Paris to spend time with Katie. In two hours, fifteen minutes, we went from central London to central Paris! Once in Paris, Katie showed us around. We went to several hole-in-the-wall cafes and restaurants, some of her favorite museums and other places off the beaten path that tourists would typically not visit. It was so good to see Katie and hear about her experiences in Europe. When asked if she was homesick, she said that while there were things she missed about home (nothing big), she assured us that none of the students over there were homesick. With the family obligations complete, Diane and I spent a few days in Barcelona, Spain. This was our first time in the country, and wow, what a beautiful place! We got to see many landmarks and castles and learn more about the history of Spain. I felt like I was walking through a textbook. It was absolutely incredible. It’s mindblowing how you can discover new things and perspectives when traveling — I now know how people feel when they visit Boston! Traveling is one of the best forms of learning. While you can learn about different cultures and civilizations in a textbook or while sitting in class, immersing yourself in a country’s culture can help you gain more insight than
any book could ever do. I’ve traveled in Europe a few times, and each journey brings a different experience. I always learn something new about the places I’ve traveled and also about myself! I highly encourage everyone to leave their comfort zone and travel — you’d be surprised at how much you will learn. That’s one of the reasons why I was so happy when Katie decided to study abroad. While I missed and worried about her, I knew she would have a great time and gain independence as she traveled around unfamiliar places. She is much more worldly now since living in Paris. At age 20, she traveled to several countries, like Italy, Belgium, Scotland and Ireland! She even got to hang out with some of her relatives during her journey. Katie’s
Those who live in or near Boston, traveled to the city, or heard about its colorful history already know that Boston is like an American history textbook. The city has landmarks on nearly every corner, and if they could talk, just imagine the stories they could tell us about American history. I’ve lived in Boston my entire life, so I’m used to seeing the various “firsts” of Boston: first post office, first secondary school, first university, first public park, first police force, first subway, etc. — it’s like they’ve become a part of my daily routine. But I know when travelers come to visit, they are in awe as soon as they entrench themselves in the Boston culture and learn about the beginnings of our country. I got the same feeling recently when my wife and I traveled to London, Paris, and Barcelona. Every European country is like a massive history book — every place has a story. One of my daughters, Katie, studied abroad in Paris, France, this past semester. She returned home around Memorial Day weekend, and I couldn’t be more excited to have her home! She lived in Europe for five months, and my wife and I decided to visit her in April. Before “While you can learn about different cultures and civilizations in a textbook or while sitting in class, immersing yourself in a country’s culture can help you gain more insight than any book could ever do.”
travels have helped her mature and have a deeper appreciation for the things around her. I couldn’t be more proud of the woman she’s becoming.
So, instead of traveling to Epcot at Disney World to “visit” other countries, travel to those countries yourself! There are budget flights and accomodations available if you are vigilant. It’s one of the best ways to learn more about the history and culture of different places and also allows you to learn more about yourself.
What countries and other destinations are on your traveling bucket list?
–Neil Crowley
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THE ORIGINAL RAP BATTLES HOW DISSES BECAME POETRY
Long before diss tracks, rap battles, and “yo mama” jokes, there was medieval “flyting.” Defined as quick exchanges of witty insults, these poetic slights were popular in England and Scotland from the 5th to 16th century. Insulting someone in verse took immense effort and quick wits, and they were undoubtedly a performance you didn’t want to miss. Despite crude language and below-the-belt potshots, flyting became entertainment for royals and was dubbed “court flyting.” While these jests are not well-documented, one flyting event made
Low-brow and crass, these speedy insults were simply too entertaining for even kings and queens to ignore. If you’re wondering what exactly these two “gentlemen” were saying, we’d have to admit that it would be difficult to quote without including expletives and curses. However, one tame section can be shared here. Dunbar reportedly insulted Kennedie by saying: Maggoty mutton, gorged glutton, scurrilous certain heir to Hillhouse, Rank beggar, oyster-dredger, dismal debtor on the lawn, Lily-livered, soul-shivered, cheap as slivers in the millhouse, Bard baiter, thief of nature, false traitor, devil’s spawn. While these amusing fights were a form of entertainment, men also used them to influence the courts and improve their social profile while lowering others. So, as you can imagine, flyting could get intense (similar to rap battles and heated diss tracks).
history. The iconic exchange known as “The Flyting of Dunbar and Kennedie” occurred in the early 16th century between William Dunbar and Walter Kennedie. The two were performing their court flyting for the Scottish King James IV. Both men were known for their intellect and clever nature, and their flyting did not disappoint. This famous dialogue featured two firsts: using fecal matter as an insult and dropping the F-bomb.
Centuries have passed, yet some things never really change!
Can Social Media Affect Personal Injury Cases?
Did you know there are over 302 million social media users in the U.S. as of 2023? That’s around 90% of the population! While different social media platforms can help you connect with others, learn more about a topic, and gain news, they can also hinder you. This is especially true when dealing with personal injury cases. What you say can and will be held against you — even if you post it online! Here are three ways social media can negatively affect your personal injury claim. You could contradict your testimony. For example, if you’re claiming that you broke a bone or have limited mobility, posting a picture or checking in at a bowling alley, yoga class, amusement
park, and other events will not work out in your favor. The defense can challenge the injuries you claim and use them as evidence against you. Your posts can show what you’re capable of doing after receiving injuries. During your claim, you must list everything you can and can’t do because of your injuries. If your posts contradict the outlined activities, it can show the court what you’re capable of doing, which can decrease your claim and potential settlement. Comments and posts from your loved ones can affect you. The defense won’t only look at your social media accounts; they will also look at your friends and family’s accounts. So, although you may not make a post, if a loved one references you in something that goes against your statements, it can be used as evidence against you and can paint you in a negative light. Because what you post can be used against you in court, it’s vital that you refrain from posting on social media if you have a personal injury claim in the works. If you or someone you know would like information on how to protect yourself during this time or need assistance with a personal injury case, please don’t hesitate to contact your friends at Brooks & Crowley. We will do everything possible to help you get the compensation you deserve.
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Noncompetitive Kids Can Still Be Sporty! Less Intimidating and Just as Rewarding
While you may have enjoyed competitive sports as a child, that doesn’t necessarily mean your child will feel the same. Not every personality matches well with team sports and high-pressure competitive matches. Whether your child is shy or less competitive, there are still sports they can participate in and enjoy! Gymnastics Yes, gymnastics can be competitive ( think Olympic intensity ), but that doesn’t always have to be the case. Your kids can start gymnastics without having to compete. Beginning gymnastics often focuses on basic movements and stretches to gain flexibility. If your child develops a passion for the sport, they can choose to go competitive later at their own speed! Martial Arts Martial arts, such as karate and taekwondo, help kids improve their self-confidence and achieve personal goals. Martial arts can help your children develop their focus and
concentration while practicing self-defense skills. Some other martial arts styles your child might enjoy include kung fu, jiujitsu, capoeira, judo, and aikido. Swimming For kids who love diving into the water, swimming should be a sport to try. Like the rest of the listed individualized sports, the choice of joining competitions or a team is entirely up to your child. As they progress in their swimming journey, they may decide to start participating in competitive swim meets at the local YWCA/YMCA. Horseback Riding This equestrian sport is perfect if your kid loves animals! While it may be more pricey, many equestrian centers offer discounts or even free lessons in exchange for stable work. Your child may thoroughly enjoy caring for the horses when working in the stables, and in return, they can also take horseback riding lessons.
Rock Climbing Climbing, which debuted as a sport in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, can be done indoors or outdoors. Many rock climbing studios offer lessons for kids and ensure sufficient safety regulations. Rock climbing can lead to a lifelong passion for the sport and opportunities to compete in various events if desired later.
Have a Laugh!
Cherry Chia Greek Yogurt Bowls Inspired by HungryHobby.net
Need a quick, healthy snack? Check out this protein-packed yogurt bowl.
Ingredients
Chia Seed Jam • 2 cups Chelan fresh sweet cherries, pitted • 3 tbsp chia seeds
Greek Yogurt Bowl • 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp hemp seeds • 1 tbsp granola
• 2 tbsp honey • 1/4 cup water directions
Chia Seed Jam We suggest making the chia seed jam in advance and storing it in the refrigerator so you can quickly assemble these yogurt bowls all week. Using a potato masher, mash down the cherries. Place a small pot on high heat and add the cherries, chia seeds, honey, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn down the
heat and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Allow jam to cool before using or refrigerate. Greek Yogurt Bowls In a small serving bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with vanilla extract. Top the Greek yogurt with 2 tbsp cherry chia seed jam, hemp seeds, granola, and a few additional Chelan fresh sweet cherries, if desired.
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
439 Washington St. • Dedham, MA 02026 Inside THIS ISSUE
1 The World Is Our Textbook 2 The Colorful History of Medieval Smack Talk How Social Media Can Influence Your Case 3 The Best Sports for Your Shy Child Cherry Chia Greek Yogurt Bowls 4 What’s Everyone Doing in Boston This Month?
What’s Going On, Boston? 3 Summer Events for You to Enjoy
As the summer heats up, so do the events in Boston! You and your family can do so many activities this summer — especially in June! Here are some of our favorite events happening this month. Bunker Hill Day Parade June 17 Bunkerhill Street Facebook.com/BunkerHillDayParade Comedy at Back Bay Social June 22
Seaport Sweat: FREE Outdoor Fitness May 1, 2023 - Sept. 30, 2023 Seaport Common 85 Northern Avenue BostonSeaPort.xyz/events
Back Bay Social 867 Boylston St. BackBaySocial.com/Event/Boston-Comedy- Shows-At-Back-Bay-Social Are you looking for something that will make you laugh out loud? Look no further! The Back Bay Social holds a weekly comedy show every Thursday, including performances by people who’ve appeared on Netflix, Comedy Central, and HBO! This event is considered a “Critic’s Pick” in The Boston Globe, and for good reason! On top of a laughter-filled show, you can eat a mouth-watering meal and sip on top- notch craft beers and cocktails. Tickets sell fast, so get yours today!
Boston is rich in history, especially looking back at the American Revolution. One of the many battles that occurred here was the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775 — the first major battle of the American Revolution. Since 1786, families and friends have been enjoying the Bunker Hill Day Parade. The tradition is still strong as people from around the country come together to celebrate this battle and watch people march through Bunker Hill Street to honor the occasion.
Finding a gym that’s right for you can be challenging — not to mention gym
memberships can become costly if you aren’t using all of your membership’s benefits. But if you still want to remain active and not have to worry about the price tag, then the Seaport Sweat free outdoor fitness classes are for you! Each class focuses on a different body part or workout routine, and you can take HIIT, Pilates, Zumba, and other strength-training classes. All the necessary equipment is provided, so you only need to bring yourself! Visit the website to find the dates and times for specific classes.
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