Fenway Park- Boston, MA

 

“I believe in the Church of Baseball. I've tried all the major religions, and most of the minor ones… I've tried 'em all, I really have, and the only church that truly feeds the soul, day in, day out, is the Church of Baseball.”  (Annie Savoy, Bull Durham)

For those who consider baseball a religion, surely Fenway Park is the old, beloved and highly respected “Grand Cathedral.” Here are a few tips to for your trip to Fenway Park.

Directions

Of course, the best place to start is “How Do I Get There from Here?”  This link will provide you with directions via automobile, subway, commuter rail, and bus along with parking information.

Game Day

If you’re going to a game, my best advice – GO EARLY!! Yawkey Way is closed prior to games, providing a unique atmosphere one will not find at any other ball park. Check out the Red Sox Team Store where you will find the largest selection of Red Sox souvenirs and memorabilia. Find someone who is signing autographs at Autograph Alley. Dance in the street to the Dixieland sound of the Hot Tamale Brass Band, who have performed before every home game since 1999. Catch the pre-game Dennis & Callahan show at the NESN Stage. Do it all, and even more.

History

Have your picture taken with the “Teammates” statue of four Red Sox Hall of Famers - Ted Williams, Bobby Doerr, Dom DiMaggio, and Johnny Pesky.  You could have your picture taken with the Ted Williams Jimmy Fund statue which depicts Williams with bat in hand, placing his hat on the head of a boy with cancer. This statue is a fitting tribute to the legend and the Jimmy Fund, which is the official charity of the Red Sox. Both statues can be found outside the Gate B entrance at the corner of Ipswich and Van Ness Streets.

Have a favorite player?  Commemorative bricks of players past & present can be found at Gates B & C. This link will provide you with the locations.

Want to really get to know Fenway Park? Check out the official Fenway Park Tour. The tour lasts about an hour and your stroll around the park may include a visit to the Hall of Fame, the Press Box, the Right Field Roof Deck, the Green Monster Seats and even the warning track. Bear in mind that the stops are subject to availability. Fenway Park Tours are conducted year round. They begin at the top of the hour (9-5). On game days, the tours are conducted only up to 3 hours prior to game time. Know the game schedule when planning your tour.

Food

Hungry? Maybe you are a traditionalist – hotdogs, Cracker Jacks, and beer?  Of course you can get that at Fenway. Fenway’s cuisine has come a long way! You will find clam chowder (Legal Seafood), lobster rolls, tacos, meatball subs, cotton candy, kettle corn and even vegan choices! Not a beer fan? How about wine or frozen margaritas? For the chillier games, you will find the line at Dunkin’ Donuts is longer than the beer line. This link will provide a list of the concession stands at the park.

I hope you enjoy your day at the ballpark and can come to appreciate all that Fenway Park brings to Boston history and baseball history!

Pembroke Celebrating 300 years

 

As a resident of Pembroke for 37 years, I am proud to share with others the good news that my town is celebrating its 300^th anniversary this year.  Like so many towns in the South Shore, Pembroke has grown from a small community to a well-populated and bustling area with much to offer its residents.

The various committees working on the anniversary celebration have planned numerous events that should provide  fun for all attendees.

Some of the events planned are as follows:

Please visit the website at www.Pembroke300.com for all up-to-date info.

There is a limited edition Pembroke 300^th calendar available at the Pembroke Center library and the DPW office.

There are raffle tickets selling for $5 each for the Pembroke 300^th Anniversary Quilt which is on display at the Pembroke Center Library.

Suggestions are being requested for items to put in the Pembroke Time Capsule.

I am sure that these events will be well attended by many proud Pembroke residents willing to share stories relating to the rich history of the town.

The Launch at Hingham Shipyard

 

Otherwise known as “the Launch at Hingham Shipyard,” this little treasure is worth checking out and getting to know. Despite the far distance from my house, I make the journey at least once a week.

History

During World War II, 227 warships were made at the Shipyard for use in battle. Recently, Samuels & Associates began developing at the shipyard and have transformed it into an outdoor mall rivaling the Derby Street shops.

What it has to offer

If I went through all of the stores and options open at the Shipyard, this would be either a boring list or a shadow of their website, so I’ll go through what brings me to the shipyard.

Red Mango

The first store that ever sparked my interest was Red Mango. I had never had frozen yogurt before, but when friends brought me to this new dessert experience after a trip to Nantasket beach, I was instantly hooked. Not only does it have excellent  flavors, the store is self-serve (priced by weight). Red Mango is the #1 reason I drive the 12 miles and 30 minutes to Hingham.

Wahlburgers

What better precursor to Red Mango than a restaurant owned by the Wahlberg family? As soon as Wahlburgers opened up I could tell it was a hit; mainly by the hypnotic smell and the line of people out the door. Moderately priced, the burgers are fine quality, the shakes taste great, and the fries are the reason I keep going back.

Panera

Need I say more? Before Wahlburgers sparked my interest, Panera was my restaurant of choice. Good options, fast service. Superb choice if you have picky eaters or vegetarians in your party. Not much to say about this South Shore classic.

Patriot Cinemas

Although I’ve never actually seen a movie here, I’ve heard it’s a great option for dinner and a movie nights. On the topic of movies, what is remarkable to me is that the Shipyard hosts free outdoor movies every Thursday night in July and August. Here is the program of events.

The Moorings

If you don’t live in Hingham/Weymouth and don’t want to commute all the way to this shopping mecca, why not move there? There are homes for sale right in the middle of the plaza. And what is convenient is the commuter ferry to Boston right at the Shipyard. Now this location is like a double edge sword when it comes to insurance. Not only is it condominiums, it coastal too. Check with your independant insurance agency to make sure your home is fully protected at the best price.

Shopping

There are many stores like Bed Bath and Beyond, CVS, and Eastern Mountain Sports that people might be interested in. I have never gone shopping there so I can't really offer a complete review.

Overall

The Shipyard is a great place to go to get some shopping done, go out for a bite to eat, and spend time with friends. The parking situation is exponentially better than at Derby Street Shops. There’s always spots open and if not, there is a nearby parking lot waiting for your car to rest. Traffic is a minimum.

Every time I make the trip, it is worth it.

Treat yourself to a concert date with the Plymouth Philharmonic

 

Whether you’re new to Massachusetts or been here a while, if you want to hear some wonderful  music without the hassles of in-town drive, parking, and an expensive meal, consider the Plymouth Philharmonic.  It's conveniently located on Court Street in Plymouth, just a mile off Route 3.

The Phil, as its fans refer to it, has great music without the hassles of a trip to Boston or New York.  They play both in Memorial Hall right on Court Street in Plymouth, and at the Duxbury Performing Arts Center near the high school.   Prices are reasonable, with tickets running from $20 to $50 for the Christmas shows, depending on where you’ll hear the music.

The Christmas concert, Holiday Pops, is an annual favorite, playing this year on Saturday evening (8PM) and Sunday afternoon (3PM), December 10^th and 11^th.   Park right behind Memorial Hall, or across the street for free and walk a few steps into historic Memorial Hall.  Tickets are still available as of December 4^th.  Let music director Steven Karidoyanes describe why he selected Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols and other seasonal treats.  His easy-going  yet professional approach to his music gives the show an intimate feel.

The concerts in March are a treat if you like a chorus, and tickets start at under $10.  The Family Concert on March 4^th features the Plymouth Children’s Chorus; the Power and Glory concert will feature the 250 voice High School Choral Consortium.  

A word on the seats at Memorial Hall: make no mistake, this is an older venue, so legroom is limited and the seats are small, especially in the balcony.  Do yourself a favor and try to get on the floor or in the mezzanine sections for a more relaxed seat.  It’s worth the expense.

More details about the Phil are available on-line, but the best way to really know what it’s about is to find your way to a concert.   For the prices, bring a friend.  You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Converting an Out of State License

 

Converts Wanted: How To Change Your Out-of-State Driver’s License

If you recently moved to  Massachusetts from another state, here are a few tips for converting an out of state driver’s license to Massachusetts.  The Commonwealth gives you 30 days to convert your license. 

While you are unpacking your boxes, you may want to keep in mind some of the documents outlined below that you will need to convert your driver’s license. There is also a  license application form to complete either on-line before you go to the Registry of Motor vehicles or click here to print a copy to complete to take with you.

You will need to make a visit to one of the Registry’s branch  offices to complete the transaction and have your photo taken for your new Massachusetts license.

You may also be wondering if you can register your car in Massachusetts  before you change your license. The answer is absolutely “yes”. Plate registration and auto insurance may be secured before you change your license but it is expected that you will convert your license in 30 days.  Our agency www.agordon.com can assist with the vehicle registration paperwork, offers free runner service, and provides auto insurance options.

Here is information provided by the  Registry outlining  the documentation needed if you are 18 years or older with an out of state license. For a complete list of acceptable documents, click here.
 

These are the types of documents needed:

• Out-of-state License. If your out-of-state license DOES NOT have a photo, you must present acceptable photo ID from the Acceptable Identification Documents List.
  
  *Note: If you do not have your out-of-state license to surrender, you must provide a photo ID from the Acceptable Identification Documents list of identification AND a certified driving record not more than 30 days old from the state where you currently hold your License..

• Document proving date of birth
  
  
• Document proving signature

• Document proving Massachusetts residency
  
  Note: An out-of-state License presented as one of the ID documents can be used document to confirm signature OR date of birth. It CANNOT be used to confirm both.

• A Social Security Number (SSN) that the RMV can verify with the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) as having been issued to you OR an acceptable Denial Notice from the SSA. If you present a Denial Notice, you must also present proof of acceptable visa status, an I-94 (Record of Arrival and Departure), and a current non-U.S. Passport.

• All documents must be originals. Photocopies will not be accepted. You must also clear a check through the National Driver Register and pay the required fees.

• If you have a previous Massachusetts License that expired four or more years ago, you are required to show all of the identification listed above.

• If you have a license from Canada, Mexico, or US Territory ( including Puerto Rico), you must present a driving record not more than 30 days old.

Converting your driver’s license is one step you will take in becoming a Massachusetts resident. Our agency can help you sort out the information needed to convert your license and insure your autos and home. You can request a quote by calling us at 781-659-2262 or online at www.agordon.com.

MA Locations: Hanover

 

The Town of Hanover is a rural suburban town of approximately 14,000 residents.  It has a good school system with all school buildings either new or recently renovated for today’s technology.  Take a ride on Cedar Street and see the brand new High School that is in the finishing stages!

Hanover was originally settled as part of Scituate but became its own entity when a new Church parish was needed in 1727.  The Town Government is a strong Town Manager/Open Town Meeting.  Although it is not on the coast, the town is known for water.  The southern border is a tidal freshwater river system known as North River and Indian Head.  You can navigate to the Atlantic Ocean from there and  fresh water mussel grows abundantly in one of only two areas in the state.

The Town has a very active youth sports system and a new five million dollar sports facility which will open next spring in South Hanover.   The town has a very active equine community with trails for walking and riding abundant.  Hanover’s Seniors are served by many affordable housing options and a new Senior Center in Mid Town.

The John Curtis Free Library was added to and renovated in recent years to be the South Shore’s premier Library.

Although the housing market crisis has not completely passed over Hanover; the town has done well with overall foreclosure and valuations.  All of these factors and it’s access to Boston and Cape Cod, shopping and hospitals, forests and beaches make Hanover a wonderful place to live.

If you recently moved to Massachusetts,  visit agordon.com/newhomebuyer for tips on purchasing new home owner’s insurance.   Also check out our Auto page for auto insurance deals and information, as well as our Whiteboard series for great general tips.

Welcome to Whitman

 

If you’re from a small town and have recently moved to Whitman, then you’re sure to feel at home here.  With a population of 14,000 residents in a 7 mile square radius, you’ll make new acquaintances in no time!

The Toll House Inn, established in 1709, invented Toll House cookies in the late 1930’s. Although the Toll House burned completely down in 1984, their sign and landmark still remains on Bedford St.  (Rte 18).

Park your car only once downtown and avail yourself of many merchants and services within close walking distance.  Banking, coffee shops, restaurants, drug store, hair salons, dry cleaners, post office,  town hall, churches  and other merchants and services are just too numerous to mention. Walk over to our newly renovated Lower Town Park; it is listed as one of the 1,000 greatest places in Massachusetts by the state legislature. The Old Colony Commuter Rail, a short walking distance from downtown, provides rail service from Plymouth to Boston.

For the youth of Whitman, there are organized sports teams, active scout packs and a recreation commission that provides many activities. The Recreation department also oversees our swimming programs at our town pool, located at the Lower Town Park.

The Whitman Senior Center, also located downtown, provides many activities, trips and daily meals.

Some of the downtown restaurant favs are McGuiggan’s Irish Pub, Tea Time Cookies, Venus Café (great pizza!), Ted’s Place (seafood).  On Rte 18 is also the infamous Peaceful Meadows Ice Cream (dairy barn open year round).

Last December, Whitman just celebrated their 17^th year Winterfest. Always held on a Saturday in December, the downtown streets are closed for their festival. Parades, fireworks, caroling, contests, etc. fill the day and though through the night.  www.whitmanwinterfest.com

Whitman hosts an annual Fourth of July Field Day at the park, with a road race, carriage or bike decorating, pie eating contests and other events.

The Town of Whitman was incorporated in 1875. As a primary South Shore residential community, it has retained much of its rural character.   

If you are  moving to Whitman or any town in Massachusetts, see our  website to view our whiteboard videos at  www.agordon.com. The videos provide valuable tips if you are new to Massachusetts or buying a new home.

And if you’re thinking of moving to town soon, visit agordon.com/newhomebuyer for tips on purchasing new home owner’s insurance.   Also check out our Auto page for auto insurance deals and information, as well as our Whiteboard series for great general tips.

Great Outdoor Opportunities in Halifax/Hanson

 

Are you looking for a place to fish, hunt, do some bird watching, walk the dog, bike or ride your horse?  Halifax shares this treasure with Hanson.

There are parking areas off Elm Street in Halifax and Hawks Avenue in Hanson, but try not to block the walk thru for the equestrians at the Elm Street lot.  There is lots of wildlife and is well known by birders for the Heron, Egret, Osprey,swans, ducks, geese and lots of small birds.  You’ll have to get up pretty early to see deer but you can usually find their tracks.  The wildlife is more evident in the warmer months when you can find snakes, Muskrats and Snapping turtles.  You will find some hunters this time of year at Burrage and the adjacent trails, so be cautious and wear orange. If you’re walking a dog, be sure to keep it leashed.

Sorry, no ATV’s are allowed since this is a Wildlife Management Area that was purchased by the state in 2002.

Maybe we’ll see you there!  Enjoy and please don’t litter.

 For more info:
http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/maps/wma/southeastwma/burragepondwma.pdf

And for insurance information and relevant resources, visit the A G Gordon Website.

And if you’re thinking of moving to town soon, visit agordon.com/newhomebuyer for tips on purchasing new home owner’s insurance.   Also check out our Auto page for auto insurance deals and information, as well as our Whiteboard series for great general tips.

Temporary Plates

 

Buying a vehicle out of state and wondering if you can use temporary plates in Massachusetts? If you are a Massachusetts resident the answer is a definitive no. The Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents reports that the Registry of Motor Vehicles issued a formal statement regarding whether paper or temporary plates are permitted on vehicles purchased by Massachusetts residents from out-of-state dealers.

The letter reads:

“Massachusetts does not issue temporary registration plates for its own residents but it does recognize temporary registration plates validly registered in other states to non-residents of Massachusetts who are temporarily operating in this state (assuming the plates are not expired or suspended.) Thus, a Connecticut resident operating a motor vehicle in Massachusetts on validly issued temporary Connecticut registration plates is OK, but a Massachusetts resident operating a newly purchased motor vehicle in Massachusetts with validly issued temporary Connecticut plates is not. A Massachusetts resident who purchases a motor vehicle in another state must apply for and attach valid Massachusetts registration plates to the vehicle before he/she can drive the vehicle back to Massachusetts.”
For more relevant information and risk management solutions, visit the A. G. Gordon website.

Recently Moved to Massachusetts? 

Visit agordon.com/newhomebuyer for tips on purchasing new home owner’s insurance.   Also check out our Auto page for auto insurance deals and information, as well as our Whiteboard series for great general tips.

Public Transportation on the South Shore: Getting from Here to There

 

As much as we all love the South Shore there are times we want to and need to get out.  In fact, many of us find ourselves daily on the South East Expressway commuting to work and wondering what that commute may be like.  There are several public transportation options available that may make the commute more predictable and also less stressful.

While everyone’s situation is different, one of the following might make your commute a little more palatable.  Please refer to the online sites for detailed rates, schedules and other information- to ensure the alternative transportation works for you!

The two commuter lines that emanate from the South Shore are THE OLD COLONY and the GREENBUSH Lines.  One spur of Old Colony originates in Plymouth or Kingston, travels to Halifax, Hanson, Whitman, Abington, S. Weymouth, Braintree, UMA Boston and ends at South Station, Boston.

The Greenbush Line originates In Scituate, travels to N. Scituate, Cohasette,  Nantasket  Junction, West Hingham, East Weymouth, East Braintree, Quincy Center, UMass Boston and ends at South Station.

Origination to South Station takes about an hour and prices for the commuter train vary depending on distance from about $2 to $9 and there is generally a charge for parking at lots.

Two Commuter Boats travel from Fore River Shipyard in Quincy and Hewitt’s Cove in Hingham to Boston’s Long Wharf and Rowe’s Wharf respectively for $6 each way.  For $12 the boat goes to Logan airport where one picks up a Massport shuttle bus to complete the trip to the airport terminal.  A third Boat from Hull, Ma also goes to Boston.

The Logan Express Bus is yet another way to get to the airport from Braintree, MA for about $10 per trip.  Get dropped off or park in Braintree and let the bus driver deliver you to your terminal and pick you up at the airport when you return from your trip.

The “T” Red Line that originates in Braintree is a relatively inexpensive alternative and runs quite frequently.  Park for about $8/day or get dropped off and picked up at the parking garage.  This particular line goes directly to Cambridge, Ma and connects to the other Subway lines in Boston.

Again, please refer to all the above online sites for current detailed and updated information.  The above is a summary to inform and remind that there are alternatives to driving when making a commute north to Boston!

But whether you choose to travel by car, boat, train, or helicopter, visit the A. G. Gordon, Inc. website for insurance resources or to get a quote. Our job is to make insurance make sense.

If you own a home in the South Shore and are interested in lowering the cost of your insurance, click to www.agordon.com/home.

If you don't want to utilize the public transportation or prefer driving, check out our auto insurance.