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Review Brooks & Crowley
February 2024
781-251-0555
www.brooksandcrowley.com
439 Washington Street Dedham, MA 02026
*Services Throughout Massachusetts
DRIVE KINDLY Little Acts of Kindness Are Worth It
Aesop once said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Small acts of kindness can make all the difference to someone, and a simple gesture can mean more than you ever know. It can be holding the door open for a stranger, paying for a coworker’s lunch, or just asking how someone’s day was. Every shred of empathy we give others is not wasted; it connects us to ourselves and each other. I’m lucky to have known many great believers in kindness who have done everything they could to enrich the lives of everyone around them. One of the kindest men I’ve ever met made random acts of kindness a part of his lifestyle. When he went to coffee shops, he’d buy coffee for the people in line. He’d pay for the cars behind him whenever he drove on a toll road. People aren’t used to it and tried to catch up to him, possibly to thank him. It got to the point where he’d have to pull off and hide! You don’t have to spend money on kindness, either. Joe, the gas station attendant near the office goes the extra mile in his job, and that’s enough. He makes friendly conversation, remembers everyone’s name, and ensures every customer is treated well. It’s just his personality and instinct to connect with others and improve their day. We can all stand to be a little kinder in the ways we interact with the people around us, even if it’s just a smile. Positive interactions with others create a cascade that goes further than you’d ever expect. “Small acts of kindness can make all the difference to someone, and a simple gesture can mean more than you ever know.” Kindness inspires kindness; when people see generosity and altruism, they return the favor. You can witness this effect through drive-thrus across America. People will pay for the person behind them, and that person will pay for the person behind them until you’ve got long chains of drivers buying coffee or lunch for each other. Of course, this is more
than just speculation. Studies show that people are likelier to do good deeds when they see others
doing them first. Even better, they don’t do it out of peer pressure.
Parking lots are an opportunity to make the world a better place. I was shopping around the holidays and got to a space at the same time as another shopper. I could tell it was going to ruin that person’s day if I took the spot. It wasn’t that important to me. Of course, I put on my signal like I was going to move for it and then pulled away. We both had a great laugh. I found another spot one minute later. As a personal injury attorney, I see acts of kindness all the time. Unfortunately, some intended acts of kindness can lead to accidents. Many times, someone will let another vehicle person cross, even if they don’t have the right of way. This can cause conflict and collisions, especially in busy areas.. Another common accident is when someone lets a pedestrian cross when they shouldn’t, such as on a street with two lanes in each direction.. The cars in the other lanes might not be able to see that pedestrian. That’s a dangerous situation. If you want to give random acts of kindness, follow the many rules we have in place to protect drivers and pedestrians alike. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. When you go out there on the road, try and help others with some random act of kindness. Give up the parking spot and walk a little more. Slow down and let someone go by. Pay for someone’s coffee. You can make the world better, one random act of kindness at a time.
–Neil Crowley
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Unlock History’s Strangest Secrets
Ancient Brews to Ghostly Winners!
History is more than just a chronicle of battles and treaties; it’s a rich tapestry woven with odd and almost unbelievable events that can mystify us now. A dive into the quirky corners of the past can reveal historical anomalies, including ancient beverages and victories from beyond the grave. Besides entertaining us, our history shows our ancestors as multifaceted, creative, and peculiar as we are today. The First Beer
the grave. Suffering a fatal heart attack mid-race, he miraculously remained in the saddle, and his horse, Sweet Kiss, crossed the finish line in first place. This extraordinary event remains the sole known instance in sports where a participant posthumously claimed the gold medal. A Smoking Monkey
Looking to the East, North Korea’s Pyongyang Zoo featured another oddity in 2016: Azalea, a smoking chimpanzee. Trained to ignite and puff on cigarettes, this chimpanzee was a peculiar draw
In ancient Sumeria, people were not just trailblazers in writing and architecture but also avid brewers. Archaeologists unearthed a 5,000-year-old Sumerian tablet depicting individuals consuming a beer-like substance through reed straws from a shared bowl. This ancient concoction, possibly the earliest known beer recipe, underscores the longstanding human passion for alcohol and communal gatherings. Racing to the Grave
for visitors. In sparking controversy over animal rights, Azalea illustrates the bizarre and often questionable ways humans have historically interacted with animals.
These stories demonstrate that the annals of history are not just repositories of
conventional wisdom and significant events but also a collection of the bizarre, the unusual, and the extraordinary. These peculiar tales help us gain a more nuanced and colorful understanding of our collective past, shedding light on the complexity and
One of the most astonishing stories in sports history involves jockey Frank Hayes. In a 1923 horse race at Belmont Park, New York, Hayes achieved victory from beyond
eccentricity of our history.
Ice is a constant threat on Massachusetts roads and walkways. It may be ubiquitous, but that doesn’t make it safe. Many Bostonians slip and fall on the ice. Hitting the concrete can be painful and even cause injuries, such as broken bones, concussions, and even more extreme issues. That’s why property owners can be held liable if someone gets hurt by slipping on ice. Who’s at fault? If you slip on ice on someone else’s property, there’s a good chance it’s not your fault. Ice is dangerous because it’s not usually visible. If you aren’t familiar with an area, you won’t know which places have and don’t have ice. That’s why it’s so important for owners to clear the ice using rock salt or chemicals. If they can’t remove the ice for one reason or another, they should put proper signage to ensure visitors can avoid it. The Aftermath If you slipped on ice and felt the property owner was liable, you should act (or ask a friend to help). For an attorney to file a lawsuit, there must be a case with evidence supporting negligence. The best way to Here’s What to Do Next Slipped on Ice?
do this is to document everything carefully. Take pictures of the site and pinpoint where and when the fall occurred. If there’s anything that shows negligence, make sure to get evidence. Keep an extensive record of medical costs, potential income lost, and anything else that negatively impacted you because of the fall. Lastly, call your lawyer. The legalities of liability are complex. Knowing who’s at fault or what to do after an accident is difficult. If you’re uncertain what to do next, an attorney can always help. Many don’t charge for a consultation, so don’t hesitate to ask. The only way to be compensated for injustice is to act, so contact us today.
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GREEN THUMBS, FULL HEARTS THE GARDEN PATH TO JOY
Environmental Impact: Tending to the Earth Responsibly Organic gardening is environmentally sustainable. By avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides, gardeners protect the soil and local wildlife. Home-grown vegetables mean fewer trips to the
Have a Laugh! Mental Health: Gardening is therapeutic. It reduces stress and promotes a sense of accomplishment. It’s also a source of new learning and curiosity. You may need to do some research to learn about the best zones for various plants and techniques to keep them healthy. Watching plants grow from seeds to harvest can be incredibly satisfying and a great way to boost mental well-being. active. Bending, planting, and tending to vegetables are excellent low-impact exercises that improve flexibility and strength. Plus, it doesn’t feel like you’re exercising because the activity is goal-focused. Healthy Eating: Harvesting your own vegetables ensures a supply of fresh, organic produce. This home-grown food is free from harmful pesticides and richer in nutrients, contributing to a healthier diet. If you have extras, you can share your harvest with others, helping to improve their diets, too! Retirement opens the door to new hobbies and activities. Among these, cultivating an organic vegetable garden could be a fulfilling and beneficial option. This activity provides your body with healthy exercise and fresh produce and can rejuvenate your mind and soul. Health Benefits: A Natural Boost for Well-Being Physical Activity: Gardening is a gentle way to stay
store and less packaging waste, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. So, by gardening, you’re participating in an eco-friendly practice. Social Connection: Growing Community Ties
Gardening offers opportunities to connect with fellow gardeners, share tips, and exchange produce, fostering a sense of community. Inviting grandchildren or neighborhood kids to the garden can educate them about where food comes from and the importance of sustainable practices. If you participate in a community garden, these benefits, in particular, contribute to a sense of well- being because you’re getting active in the community, making friends, and sharing your knowledge with others. It’s a win-win. Organic gardening in retirement is not just about cultivating plants; it’s about cultivating a healthier lifestyle, a better environment, and stronger community bonds. It’s a hobby that offers endless learning, joy, and satisfaction, making retirement not just a time to relax but also a time to thrive.
Marry Me Chicken Inspired by HealthyLittlePeach.com
This dish will have your guests going down on one knee to marry you … or this delicious chicken. Remember, the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach!
Ingredients
• 3 boneless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt and pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream • 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
directions
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Then add chicken. 2. Let cook for 6 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat on the other side. Remove cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. 3. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir sauce for 1 minute. 4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the mixture. 5. Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Add chicken back to the skillet, coating each side. Cook until chicken reaches 165 F.
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
439 Washington St. • Dedham, MA 02026
Inside THIS ISSUE
1 When (and When Not) to Help Others 2 Ancient Brews, Smoking Chimps, and Ghostly Wins! The Cold Truth of Ice-Slipping Liability 3 Retirement Bliss in a Garden Marry Me Chicken 4 What to Do in Dedham in February
What’s Going On, Boston? Wine Tasting, Photography Convention, and Farmers Markets
Dedham Winter Farmers Market Support local farmers in a cozy, warm indoor market. Find fresh produce, specialty foods, and more at Dedham town hall on 450 Washington Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market takes place every Wednesday, but there’s a special Valentine’s Day shopping day on Feb. 10. It’s a perfect place to find unique gifts from local artisans. EVOLVE — Professional Photographers of MA Convention For passionate and professional photographers, few events are as rewarding as EVOLVE. Expect three days of learning: seven speakers, nightly networking events, and more to help you grow as a photographer. The event is located at the Holiday Inn Boston on 55 Ariadne Road. It starts at noon on Feb. 23 and ends at 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 25.
Wine, Cheese, and the Pursuit of Happiness This event has a title that speaks for itself. The course is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Central Wine & Provisions on 384 Washington Street. You can learn more about cheese and wine pairings in a course taught by Jonathon Alsop, executive director of the Boston Wine School. Seats are very limited, so book tickets fast! If you can’t make it, the area offers other wine and cheese tastings, too. The event calendar changes, so check online for exciting late additions. There are concerts, sporting events, and more popping up all the time. You can search for many of them online, but you can also look at a local newspaper or ask a friend to discover more Dedham happenings.
Plenty is going on in Dedham. While many consider us a Boston suburb, our area still has plenty of events to attend. There’s nothing you can’t do in Dedham, so read on to see a few of the many events on this side of Norfolk County.
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