As we look back at the attack on Pearl Harbor 69 years ago, and America's entrance into World War II, we cannot simply look at the casualty statistics to get the full impact of what the war cost. We already know the price: Millions of people died and nations all over the world were destroyed.  However, to hear a number in the millions doesn't allow us to grasp exactly what went on in Europe, Asia and Africa.  Sometimes, the story one survivor can tell of such a bleak time can provide us with more insight than any World War II history book. Melrose native and current Tewksbury resident Tom …

Sometimes you fight the law and the law wins.  Other times, if you fight the planning board, with a little help from your neighbors, great new small businesses arise in Tewksbury. Café Sicilia, located at 1300 Main St., is a success story that all food lovers should know about. On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to sit down at Café Sicilia with its 57 year-old owner, Joseph Mazzola.  Mr. Mazzola, who was born in Sicily, raised in East Boston and now makes his home in Tewksbury, has dreamt of owning his own café since he was a teenager.  At that time, Joseph worked in various sub shops and …

I spent a number of years overseas and one of the most frustrating myths I had to contend with from people of various countries was that America was a country with a complete void of culture. Many who've never had the opportunity to travel here look at the United States as McDonald's, Coca Cola and the Iraq War.  I can understand why many would feel that way, but I feel that their ignorance paints a picture of my homeland that is foreign to a native son such as myself.  Certainly America's culture may not be as old or evolved as many, we certainly have our share of localized cultural events…

When an individual immigrates to a new country they face the daunting task of adapting to life in their new home while trying to preserve the culture and language of their native land. As our nation of immigrants continues to grow due to a steady stream of immigrants from all over the world, many of America's newest residents make these tough decisions every day.  Most immigrants pursue their American Dream by learning English, getting work, learning our customs and living productive, healthy lives.  However, as the years go on, and their homelands seem further and further away, even the …