Mother Daughter Trip to N ew York City

As mentioned in the July 2009 issue, "Vacation One-on-One," read "Plan your Unforgettable Mother-Daughter Trip to New York City," by Carrie Wattu.

Please click the following link:

http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2008/1001/articles/008.html

Free Weekends at Salem Maritime 2009

Salem Maritime National Historic Site will be waiving its tour fees for three weekends this summer, in accordance with the National Park Service’s decision to waive entrance fees to the 147 national parks that charge an entrance fee. “Many Americans are facing tough economic challenges right now,” said Patricia Trap, Superintendent of Salem Maritime National Historic Site and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. “There has never been a charge to enter the National Park Service property in Salem, but I wanted to open our historic buildings to families who otherwise might not take a guided tour of Salem Maritime with one of our wonderful Park Rangers.”



The three fee free weekends are:

*
June 20-21, so that Americans will have a chance to celebrate Father’s Day in the National Parks.
*
July 18-19
*
August 15-16

Tours of Salem Maritime start from the Orientation Center, 193 Derby Street. Tour size is limited, and tours will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.



If you can’t visit during the fee free weekends, there are free activities every day of the week at Salem Maritime National Historic Site. On Derby Street, the historic wharves are open 24 hours a day and the grounds around the historic buildings, including the garden behind the Derby House and the Public Stores and Scale House exhibits are open from early morning until dusk. Free films on the history of Salem and Essex County are available at the Salem Visitor Center on 2 New Liberty Street, and the Salem Maritime NHS Orientation Center at 193 Derby Street. Free Junior Ranger programs are also available at the Orientation Center.



For more information, and a list of parks participating in the fee free weekends, please visit www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm. For more information on Salem Maritime NHS, visit www.nps.gov/sama.

19th Century C hildren's Circus in Amherst

Emily Dickinson Museum's 19th Century Children's Circus
July 11, 2009 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

This event will be held Saturday July 11th from 1-4 PM at the Emily Dickinson Museum.

Location: Emily Dickinson Museum, Amherst MA
Map It!

280 Main Street
Amherst, MA 01002

Musical Soup Fest: July 25th!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rhythm in the Roux…and Rock, and Funk…

CharacterCapers.com Formulates Fabulous First Fest


AMESBURY, MA-July 25, 2009 CharacterCapers.com will host Musical Soup Fest 2009, at Amesbury Sports Park, 12 South Hunt Rd, on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at 2 PM, to benefit Amesbury for Africa. Fest-goers will be entertained by the Bruce Marshall Group and many others. Bruce is known for his work with Toy Caldwell of the Marshall Trucker Band, and his more recent collaborations with James Montgomery.

Marshall will be headlining while other area notables such as Ed Sheer and Mario Perrett of “The Love Dogs”, as well as Ken Clark of the “Ken Clark Organ Trio, jam or trade of stage time with area favorites including Sweet Willie D, Abbie Barrett, the Toni Knott Band and others.

Musical Soup Fest was created by Lucia Vaughn of CharacterCapers.com, to promote the comedic, poetic, and musical talents in the Boston, North Shore and New England creativity bank, across many genres. The event will include a marketplace, food and fun activities for all ages. Amesbury Sports Park boasts the largest soccer facility in New England, OGO, and winter and summer tubing. Proceeds will benefit Amesbury for Africa.

Tickets are $10 in advance, available at Musical Soup Fest 2009 Tickets and $12 at the door or by calling Lucia at 603 396-4001

Family Fun at Northfield Mountain

Northfield Mountain
http://www.firstlightpower.com/northfield/publicprograms.asp
Programs for ages 8/10/12 & older

Independence Evening Paddle
Fri., July 3; 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
For ages 12 and older
Fee: Free with own boat, $25 with boat rental
Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960
Evening is a lovely time for a paddle.
Kick-off Independence Day weekend with an evening paddle exploring Barton Cove. We’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of a summer evening – insect hatches, warbling bird songs and the changing light as day fades into night. Barton Cove is rich with special places and stories including ancient waterfalls, historic log drives and dinosaur footprints from thousands of years ago. Perhaps a fledgling bald eagle will be ready for independence as this is often the timing of their first flight. Bald Eagles first built a nest on Barton Cove Island in 1989 and have nested on the island continuously since then. This program is appropriate for both beginning and experienced paddlers.
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Geology on the Riverboat with MA Department of Conservation & Recreation Interpreter Steve Winters
Sat., July 18; 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
For ages 10 and older
Fee: Adult $12, Senior $10, Child $6
Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960
Steve Winters has a passion for geology and a way of telling the stories hidden in rocks that make science come alive. The Eastern Border Fault, origins of the Connecticut River, the Jurassic dinosaur tracks, remnants of glacial geology from Lake Hitchcock, and the Barton Cove plunge pools are all things that might be observed and discussed during this 90-minute interpretive riverboat cruise.
========

Astronomy Conjunction
Fri. & Sat., July. 24 & 25
For ages 12 and older
Northfield Mountain will host the 27th Annual Connecticut River Valley Astronomer’s Conjunction. As in past years the weekend will be jam-packed full of slide presentations, talks, and Friday and Saturday night sky viewing through telescopes of all shapes and sizes. Check out the conjunction website at: http://www.philharrington.net/astroconjunction/. Or, to request free information and a registration form contact: Jack Megas, Astronomy Conjunction, 311 Surrey Road, Springfield, MA 01118 or e-mail Richard Sanderson at RSanderson@springfieldmuseums.org.
========

The “Happy Valley Locavore” at Harvest Time
Tue., Aug. 11; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
For ages 12 and older
Fee: Free
Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960
Meggin Thwing Eastman is a local food enthusiast, avid home cook and gardener, and the working mother of a young child. In addition to her busy life, she has shared her passion for cooking local foods since August of 2008 through her blog, “Happy Valley Locavore,” http:// happyvalleylocavore. blogspot.com/. Learn what inspired Meggin to blog and what she has learned over the course of the year through her pragmatic approach to eating locally. Meggin will share sources of both helpful information and great food she has discovered; which plants are “must haves” in her small home garden; and how she learned over the past year to use her home drier and chest freezer to preserve food to enjoy outside the growing season. Meggin will also provide a handout of four seasonal recipes and participants can bring their favorite recipe to swap and a local food snack to share if they would like.
=========

Unlock the Mysteries of Canning with Pat Shearer & Alison Wahlstrom
Sat., Aug. 15; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
For ages 12 and older
Fee: $20 (covers material cost and use of church kitchen)
Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960
Learn basic canning techniques by preparing a low sugar blueberry jam and zucchini relish and leave with samples of both products and the confidence to go forth and plan canning parties in your own home kitchen. Eating local skills like canning have been passed down in steamy farm kitchens for generations as young people spent time with their mom, grandmother or maybe their 4H leader. If you missed this experience, learn to can now with mother-daughter team Pat Shearer and Alison Wahlstrom of Northfield, MA. Pat is a long-time home canner, grandma and award winning 4H leader. Daughter Alison was the 4-H national winner of Foods and Nutrition in 1984 and says her 8 year old son knows more about “head space” than lots of adults! These delightful women will share canning tips, tricks, and stories around the kitchen stove at the Trinitarian Church in Northfield, MA. A list of what to wear and bring (including lunch) will be shared upon registration.
========

Electrofishing for Atlantic Salmon Fry
Fri., Aug. 21; 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
For ages 8 and older
Fee: Free
Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960
Here’s a unique opportunity to join MassWildlife’s Anadromous Fish Coordinator Caleb Slater as he does a population census of young Atlantic salmon in Mill Brook in Northfield. Dr. Slater and other biologists will be using an electric wand to stun fish for collection, counting young salmon of two age classes – those stocked in April of 2007 and 2008 – and releasing the young fish back in the stream. Participants will help measure fish and record data and well as learn about this fascinating fish. The results of this data will be used to estimate the number of salmon smolts that will migrate out of the stream heading to the ocean in the coming spring (April – May 2010).

Revolutionary War Day, Saturday, July 25th in Westminster, MA

Historical Happenings, a homeschool family owned and operated company, is hosting the first Revolutionary War Day of 2009 in Westminster, MA on Saturday, July 25th. Step back in time to the 1700’s and relive the American Revolution. This is a fun event for the whole family (ages 6 and up). Dress as a soldier or nurse, eat food from the time and re-enact the battles of the war. Choose to fight for the Colonists or the British, hands-on history at it’s best.

For more information or to register (pre-registration required) visit http://www.HistoricalHappenings.com

Free Family-Friendly Nights at the Isabella Gardner Museum in Boston

FREE Neighborhood Nights at the Gardner Museum celebrate art, music, and community with live performances and art-making activities for the whole family



Drawing inspiration from Isabella Stewart Gardner’s passion for all the arts, this summer’s free evening celebrations feature poetry, dance, and music performances and showcase local artists and performers.

Thursday Evenings, July 9, July 23 & August 6, 2009 | 5:00-8:00 pm | FREE for all!

Families enjoying art-making activities at the museum. Photo by Lisa Abitbol, 2009.



Boston, June 26, 2009 – The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum opens its doors to all this summer with a series of three free Neighborhood Nights filled with music and art and showcasing talented performers from surrounding communities.



A summer tradition now in its eighth year, these special evening celebrations feature an array of family-friendly activities, including musical performances, fun art-making projects related to the evening’s theme, and the opportunity to enjoy the museum at twilight.



Highlights of this year’s events include poetry, dance, bluegrass, jazz, and magic performances, as well as art-making activities in which visitors can create their own treasure chests, wind chimes, and jewelry to take home. Attendees can explore the museum’s three floors of galleries, and will enjoy free admission to this summer’s special contemporary exhibition, Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18).

Neighborhood Nights at the Gardner Museum take place on three Thursday evenings -- July 9, July 23 and August 6 -- from 5 to 8 pm. Admission is completely free and includes all activities and performances, as well as access to the special exhibition and the museum’s three floors of galleries.

This summer’s Neighborhood Nights are made possible in part through the support of Bank of America, the official school and community partnerships sponsor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

“Each summer, we look forward to welcoming our neighbors to the museum for these special events,” says Peggy Burchenal , Curator of Education and Public Programs. “Isabella Gardner dedicated her museum to the education and enjoyment of the public forever, and events like Neighborhood Nights carry on that legacy by bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together to explore the museum on a beautiful summer night.”

This summer’s Neighborhood Nights kick off on July 9th with “ Summer Palace ,” featuring jazzy contemporary poetry by LIFE and the swinging sounds of the Patrice Williamson Group alongside art-making activities including jewelry and treasure chests. On July 23rd, gardens are the theme: guests will enjoy seed planting and wind-chime making while getting down to the toe-tapping music of the Berklee Bluegrass Band. And on August 6th, celebrate the full moon with a strolling magician, a tarot card reader, an art activity incorporating found and reusable materials, and a performance by Adrienne Hawkins, Larry Roland, and Impulse Dance Company.



“ Summer Palace ”: Thursday, July 9 (5:00-8:00 pm)

Enjoy a summer evening of art, poetry, and music

· Listen to upbeat contemporary poetry by LIFE and let your dreams come alive.

· Create jazzy jewelry out of colorful pipe cleaners, wire, and beads.

· Decorate a mini treasure chest to store your own little treasures.

· Chill out to the feel-good vibes of the Patrice Williamson Group.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
–Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.



“Pleasure Gardens”: Thursday, July 23 (5:00-8:00 pm)
Celebrate Isabella Gardner’s love for plants, flowers, and gardens

· Our beautiful courtyard garden will inspire you to decorate your own flower pot.

· Plant seeds in peat pots to grow at home.

· Create a musical wind chime to enhance your outdoor space.

· Listen to the toe-tapping music of the Berklee Bluegrass Band.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
– Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18), the Gardner ’s current contemporary exhibition.
– Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.



“Full Moon Rising”: Thursday, August 6 (5:00-8:00 p.m.)

A magical journey from twilight to moonlight

· Meet and greet Joe the Roving Magician and see what magic happens before your very eyes!

· Take a peek into the past, present, and future with tarot card reader Kasey Robinsong.

· Create your own magical world in a box with different found and reusable materials.

· Enjoy Bass-Line Motion’s presentation of Analog Love in a Digital World featuring Adrienne Hawkins and Larry Roland with Impulse Dance Company.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
– Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18), the Gardner ’s current contemporary exhibition.
– Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.

Bank of America is the official school and community partnerships sponsor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . Additional funding for Neighborhood Nights is generously provided by the Louise Crane Foundation, the Mabel Louise Riley Foundation, and the Rowland Foundation. The Gardner Museum receives operating support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.



Special thanks to the museum’s Community Advisory Committee: Stephen Bell, John Hancock Financial Services; Allouma Clair and Marlene DaCosta, Beth Israel Hospital; Barbara Jones Finley, Dana Farber Cancer Institute; Crystal Moore, Mass General Hospital; Frank Oglesby, MBTA; Nicole Reid, Consultant; Alan Wade, Massport.



Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum • A Unique Environment for Learning • 280 The Fenway Boston MA 02115 617.566.1401 www.gardnermuseum.org • Tue.-Sun., 11 am-5 pm • $12 adults; $10 seniors; $5 students; $2 off with same day Museums of Fine Arts admission; FREE children under 18, everyone on his or her birthday, and all named “Isabella”• Built in the style of a 15th-century Venetian palazzo, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a magical place, unlike any other museum in the world. With three floors of galleries displaying over 30 centuries of art surrounding a lush indoor courtyard garden, this unique space fires the imagination and offers a one-of-a-kind experience and opportunity for learning and engagement in all the arts have to offer. In 2007, the Gardner Museum completed an important three-year, Department Of Education (DOE)-funded study into the effects of arts education on the development of critical thinking skills in young children. The study found that elementary school students from Boston public schools who visited the Gardner repeatedly to learn to look at and talk about art showed significant improvements in critical thinking skills crucial for learning. Gains in skills including close observation, interpretation, and problem solving demonstrate that visiting museums is a valuable learning experience for school-age children, and complements the education they receive in school. More information about this study and the importance of arts in education is online at: http://www.gardnermuseum.org/education/tta/tta.html.



#####

Free Family-

FREE Neighborhood Nights at the Gardner Museum celebrate art, music, and community with live performances and art-making activities for the whole family



Drawing inspiration from Isabella Stewart Gardner’s passion for all the arts, this summer’s free evening celebrations feature poetry, dance, and music performances and showcase local artists and performers.

Thursday Evenings, July 9, July 23 & August 6, 2009 | 5:00-8:00 pm | FREE for all!

Families enjoying art-making activities at the museum. Photo by Lisa Abitbol, 2009.



Boston, June 26, 2009 – The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum opens its doors to all this summer with a series of three free Neighborhood Nights filled with music and art and showcasing talented performers from surrounding communities.



A summer tradition now in its eighth year, these special evening celebrations feature an array of family-friendly activities, including musical performances, fun art-making projects related to the evening’s theme, and the opportunity to enjoy the museum at twilight.



Highlights of this year’s events include poetry, dance, bluegrass, jazz, and magic performances, as well as art-making activities in which visitors can create their own treasure chests, wind chimes, and jewelry to take home. Attendees can explore the museum’s three floors of galleries, and will enjoy free admission to this summer’s special contemporary exhibition, Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18).

Neighborhood Nights at the Gardner Museum take place on three Thursday evenings -- July 9, July 23 and August 6 -- from 5 to 8 pm. Admission is completely free and includes all activities and performances, as well as access to the special exhibition and the museum’s three floors of galleries.

This summer’s Neighborhood Nights are made possible in part through the support of Bank of America, the official school and community partnerships sponsor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

“Each summer, we look forward to welcoming our neighbors to the museum for these special events,” says Peggy Burchenal , Curator of Education and Public Programs. “Isabella Gardner dedicated her museum to the education and enjoyment of the public forever, and events like Neighborhood Nights carry on that legacy by bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together to explore the museum on a beautiful summer night.”

This summer’s Neighborhood Nights kick off on July 9th with “ Summer Palace ,” featuring jazzy contemporary poetry by LIFE and the swinging sounds of the Patrice Williamson Group alongside art-making activities including jewelry and treasure chests. On July 23rd, gardens are the theme: guests will enjoy seed planting and wind-chime making while getting down to the toe-tapping music of the Berklee Bluegrass Band. And on August 6th, celebrate the full moon with a strolling magician, a tarot card reader, an art activity incorporating found and reusable materials, and a performance by Adrienne Hawkins, Larry Roland, and Impulse Dance Company.



“ Summer Palace ”: Thursday, July 9 (5:00-8:00 pm)

Enjoy a summer evening of art, poetry, and music

· Listen to upbeat contemporary poetry by LIFE and let your dreams come alive.

· Create jazzy jewelry out of colorful pipe cleaners, wire, and beads.

· Decorate a mini treasure chest to store your own little treasures.

· Chill out to the feel-good vibes of the Patrice Williamson Group.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
–Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.



“Pleasure Gardens”: Thursday, July 23 (5:00-8:00 pm)
Celebrate Isabella Gardner’s love for plants, flowers, and gardens

· Our beautiful courtyard garden will inspire you to decorate your own flower pot.

· Plant seeds in peat pots to grow at home.

· Create a musical wind chime to enhance your outdoor space.

· Listen to the toe-tapping music of the Berklee Bluegrass Band.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
– Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18), the Gardner ’s current contemporary exhibition.
– Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.



“Full Moon Rising”: Thursday, August 6 (5:00-8:00 p.m.)

A magical journey from twilight to moonlight

· Meet and greet Joe the Roving Magician and see what magic happens before your very eyes!

· Take a peek into the past, present, and future with tarot card reader Kasey Robinsong.

· Create your own magical world in a box with different found and reusable materials.

· Enjoy Bass-Line Motion’s presentation of Analog Love in a Digital World featuring Adrienne Hawkins and Larry Roland with Impulse Dance Company.

· AND enjoy FREE admission to the museum including access to:
– Su-Mei Tse: Floating Memories (on view July 16-October 18), the Gardner ’s current contemporary exhibition.
– Summer courtyard garden display featuring lace-cap hydrangeas, Cape Primrose, and Delphinium.

Bank of America is the official school and community partnerships sponsor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . Additional funding for Neighborhood Nights is generously provided by the Louise Crane Foundation, the Mabel Louise Riley Foundation, and the Rowland Foundation. The Gardner Museum receives operating support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.



Special thanks to the museum’s Community Advisory Committee: Stephen Bell, John Hancock Financial Services; Allouma Clair and Marlene DaCosta, Beth Israel Hospital; Barbara Jones Finley, Dana Farber Cancer Institute; Crystal Moore, Mass General Hospital; Frank Oglesby, MBTA; Nicole Reid, Consultant; Alan Wade, Massport.



Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum • A Unique Environment for Learning • 280 The Fenway Boston MA 02115 617.566.1401 www.gardnermuseum.org • Tue.-Sun., 11 am-5 pm • $12 adults; $10 seniors; $5 students; $2 off with same day Museums of Fine Arts admission; FREE children under 18, everyone on his or her birthday, and all named “Isabella”• Built in the style of a 15th-century Venetian palazzo, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a magical place, unlike any other museum in the world. With three floors of galleries displaying over 30 centuries of art surrounding a lush indoor courtyard garden, this unique space fires the imagination and offers a one-of-a-kind experience and opportunity for learning and engagement in all the arts have to offer. In 2007, the Gardner Museum completed an important three-year, Department Of Education (DOE)-funded study into the effects of arts education on the development of critical thinking skills in young children. The study found that elementary school students from Boston public schools who visited the Gardner repeatedly to learn to look at and talk about art showed significant improvements in critical thinking skills crucial for learning. Gains in skills including close observation, interpretation, and problem solving demonstrate that visiting museums is a valuable learning experience for school-age children, and complements the education they receive in school. More information about this study and the importance of arts in education is online at: http://www.gardnermuseum.org/education/tta/tta.html.



#####

Surfing Beach Party on Friday, July 17 in Salem

SURF’S UP! BEACH PARTY AT PEM


Celebrate summer and bask in SurfLand
Friday, July 17, 2009 | 4:00 - 10:00 pm
Members FREE | Non-members $10





Inspired by the PEM’s acclaimed exhibition, SurfLand: Photographs by Joni Sternbach, the Museum will host an evening of beach related fun for all ages. Learn to surf from the pros, build sand sculptures, design your own surfboard, be dazzled by surfing cinematography, and dance the night away under the stars. Enjoy an array of summer fare, from veggie burgers and hot dogs, to fresh fruit and cool drinks. Highlights include:

§ Learn surfing techniques and New England surfing tips from Brickhouse surf school instructors.

§ Check out eco-friendly surfboard design and building demonstrations with Kevin Cunningham of Spirare Surfboards.

§ Build fantastical sand sculptures and learn advanced sculpting tricks from artist, Kristie Haupt.

§ Show off your skills and duel your friends on our arcade surfing simulator

§ Be swept away by our surfing film line up, including The Women and the Waves, Step into Liquid, and Surf’s Up





For more information visit www.pem.org

PEM is a world away and just 5 stops from Boston's North Station on the commuter rail!

Explore Adoption on July 18, August 1 and August 8 in Lancaster

Worcester, MA (June 2009): USAdoption Solutions, Inc., a non-profit agency specializing in recruiting, informing, training and supporting American families who will adopt our nation's foster children, announces their first-ever Adoption Class in MASSACHUSETTS!!!! They are seeking families to adopt children who reside in foster homes throughout the US. These are children of all ages, races and nationalities without families to call their own. USAS believes that EVERY child deserves a family and a place where they can be encouraged, supported, loved and empowered to achieve their fullest potential.



INTERESTED IN ADOPTION?



USAdoption Solutions is offering an Exploring Adoption Class on Saturday July 18, August 1, and August 8 from 10 AM to 5 PM in Lancaster, MA. Please call 800-ADOPT21 or email them at cathy@usadoptionsolutions.org for more information.

Carle Sargent

President

USAdoption Solutions, Inc.

(800) 236-7821 ext. 2

(508) 579-6802

carle@usadoptionsolutions.org

www.usadoptionsolutions.org

Mystic Seaport: FREE for Kids every Monday in July

Mystic Seaport Admits Kids for Free Every Monday in July

Mystic, Conn ~ Kids 17 and under will be admitted into Mystic Seaport for free every Monday in July (July 6, 13, 20 and 27).

This special month-long offer is limited to four children per one paying adult.

Regular Museum admission price for youth ages 6 - 17 is $15. A family with four children visiting Mystic Seaport will realize a savings of $60.

New family-friendly activities offered at the Museum this summer include Map Spot: Exploring the World of Maps, a hands-on exhibit providing opportunities for collaborative learning and play; a Nautical Instrument Cart that introduces basic navigation techniques and tools; and Restoring an Icon: The Charles W. Morgan, an interactive exhibit that interprets the preservation of the last wooden whaleship in the world.

Additionally, children can discover stars in the Planetarium, take part in a participatory play about whaling, play 19th-century games, explore the Children’s Museum and create their own toy boat keepsake in the Museum’s Hand-On History Program. Other Hands-On History workshops include wood carving, smithing, candle dipping, printing and scrimshaw carving. A fee of $5 is charged per workshop.

“Kids Free Admission Day” offer is not transferable and subject to change without notice.

Mystic Seaport is the nation’s leading maritime museum. The Museum is located one mile south of exit 90 off I-95 in Mystic, CT, and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $24 for adults and $15 for children ages 6-17. Children 5 and under are always admitted for free. For more information, call 888.973.2767 or visit www.mysticseaport.org.

# # #

Update on Fireworks: Friday, July 3

Add Rutland and Harvard to Friday, July 3rd!


FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2009

Gloucester:
The annual Horribles Parade is at 6 p.m., followed by fireworks over the harbor at 9:30 p.m.

Hingham:
9 p.m. (rain date July 5). On July 4, there will be the Recreation Commission Road Race at 7 a.m., followed by the parade at 10 a.m.

Natick:
7 a.m.-noon. Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at Sherrill Hall, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, East Central Street; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Flea Market on the Common. Shop for treasures and bargains; dealer spaces available for $35; 9 a.m. The 54th annual Parade will step off from the 9/27 Plaza and travels down Route 27 to Route 135 in Natick Center. This year’s theme will be “Celebrating the Great Outdoors in Natick,” and the grand marshals will be the following organizations: Natick Recreation and Parks Department; Natick Garden Club; and Natick DPW’s “Garden Girls,” Nancy Halpern and Jane Magee. For updates, visit www.natick4th.org.

Orleans:
Rock Harbor at dusk; rain date July 5. 508-240-2484.

Sharon:
The celebration begins with the bicycle and doll carriage parade at 4 p.m. (line up at Beech Tree Park at 3:45 p.m.). The parade will travel on Beach Street to the bandstand. The lakeside celebration will take place from 4-9 p.m. at Memorial Park Beach with music, entertainment, food concession tables and more. A bandstand concert will take place from 6:30-9:15 p.m., followed by fireworks. Visit www.sharonjuly4.com for information; rain date is July 5.

Attention: Fireworks in Harvard!

The fireworks at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard are on Friday, July 3rd and NOT on Wed., July 1st.
http://www.fruitlands.org/

More Fireworks 2009

Milford: July 3, 2009

Plains Park, 9 p.m. Rain date: July 5, 2009.

Monson: June 27, 2009
9:15pm, Quarry Hill High School. Rain Date: June 28, 2009.

Sun., July 5: Fireworks in Greenfield

Greenfield, Massachusetts: Sunday, July 5, 2009

Bring a picnic and listen to music. Fireworks start at 9:30pm and are launched from Poet's Seat Tower. Rain Date: Monday, July 6th, 2009.

Fireworks: July 4: Easthampton

Easthampton, Massachusetts: Saturday, July 4, 2009

Galbraith and Daley Fields for music and fireworks. Dusk

July 11th Fireworks in East Brookfield

East Brookfield: Saturday, July 11, 2009

Connie Mack Field, Connie Mack Drive, East Brookfield, MA 01515.

If it rains, the East Brookfield 4th of July fireworks will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2009.

July 3rd Fireworks in Harvard

Fruitlands Museum will host the fireworks in Harvard this year instead of at Bare Hill Pond. Parking will be free. A $5 donation is requested and/or make a donation of a bag of groceries for Loaves & Fishes. Handicapped parking will be available.

Enter through the south entrance at 5 p.m. where music by five local bands will kick off the night.

It should be a great night for families enjoy picnics on the grass. Catering from Quarterdeck Seafoods (lobster rolls, pulled pork, grilled salmon, and more) will be available.

The fireworks begin at dusk, sometime between 9 and 9:30 p.m.

fruitlands.org

Rabbit Hole Poetry Reading in Fitchburg: July 12

Rabbit Hole Poetry reading for children 12 and younger with an adult, 1 p.m. July 12 . Free. 805 Main St., Fitchburg. (978) 345-0040.

July 8th: Opening Day in Fitchburg Free Ice Cream

Opening Day at Marshall Farm in Fitchburg!
July 8th
11am - 7pm

Marshall Farm
340 Marshall Road
Fitchburg MA 01420

Free Ice Cream from 4pm - 7pm.
Ice Cream Parlor and Gift Shop.
978-342-4100

www.marshallfarm.com

Bummer: No Cookie Dough for you!

On June 19, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to the risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7 (a bacterium that causes foodborne illness).

Free G-Force Lobby Party: Sat., July 25: Bellingham

FREE G-FORCE LOBBY PARTY

Regal Cinemas Bellingham Stadium 14

Saturday, JULY 25TH from 12:30- 4:30pm





BELLINGHAM, MA.-Parents and children of all ages are invited to Regal Cinemas for a free, fun filled afternoon of face painting, games, giveaways, contests, prizes, music, raffles and other surprises! Regal Cinemas is joining together with several local area businesses for a “gadgets, gizmos and guinea pigs” themed party on Saturday, July 25th, from 12:30-4:30 p.m.

All proceeds from raffles and donations will go to the MSPCA.

The lobby event is FREE and does not include admission to a movie.

Regal Cinemas is located in The Charles River Plaza at 259 Hartford Ave.(rt.126) in Bellingham.

For more information, call 508-966-5096.

$5 Family Music Nights: Wednesdays in Bolton

Mr. Vic Live Music. Great Brook Farms, 356 Main St., Bolton. Every Wednesday, 6 - 7:30 p.m. Music, singing, dancing and fun. $5 tickets for the show. Call ahead for dinner.
978-779-6680. greatbrookfarms.com.

Mother's Day Giveaway Winners Announced

Thanks for your patience!

baystateparent is happy to announce the winners of our Mother's Day Giveaway!!

Barbara Andrews-Carlson, Shrewsbury
Shawna Mead, West Boylston
Lisa Nelson, Grafton
Shannon Haraldsen, Framingham
Shelly Fietz, Fitchburg
Michelle Maley, Grafton
Carly Ricard, Fitchburg
Martina Arndt, North Grafton
Jen Bricher, Shrewsbury
Mellisa Pratt, Shrewsbury
Tina Graham, Auburn
Laurie Dansereau, Natick
Justin Boyle, Webster
Barbara Alteri, Worcester
Betsy Rajotte, Sutton
Katie Schiff, Worcester

Butterflies in Boston Open in Boston this Saturday: June 13

June 13

Time of event: 10am-6pm

Location and address of the event: Franklin Park Zoo
1 Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA 02121

: When Butterfly Landing reopens for the season, guests will once again have the opportunity to stroll through this tranquil environment filled with nearly 1,000 free- flight butterflies. This tented, outdoor exhibit also features several garden beds, a waterfall and pond, and soothing surround-sound music. This seasonal exhibit is free with paid admission.



Cost of Event:$13 adults, $10 seniors; $7 children

Phone number of event: 617-989-2692

E-mail address of event: info@zoonewengland.com

Web site for event: www.zoonewengland.org

Renaissance Faire on June 13 & 14, 2009

June 13 & 14: Silver Kingdome Renaissance Faire. Ye Olde Commons
Charlton. http://www.kingdomfestival.com/.

Strawberry Picking Day in Lincoln is Sat., June 13

The strawberries are ready! This family day has been moved from June 20th to Sat., June 13: Strawberry Picking Day. Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pick-your-own berries, children’s activities, farmstand samples and farm animals. All Ages. Activities free with paid admission to the farm. A $6, C (2-12) $4. 781-259-2206, massaudubon.org/drumlin.
(p) 781-259-2176
(f) 781-259-2376
www.massaudubon.org

Babies and Summer Safety at the Prudential on Sun., June 14

Keep Babies Safe this Summer with Isis Maternity
Isis Maternity Boston Hosts Summer Safety Workshop, Sunday June 14

Boston, MA (June 2009) — Summer is right around the corner, and with all the travel and fun in the sun comes many potential risks to babies. Isis Maternity wants to prepare families for the season by offering a series of Summer Safety days at their centers throughout June and July. The next session will take place on Sunday, June 14 with a special workshop from 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm at Isis Maternity Boston located at The Shops at Prudential.
At 1:00 pm, local expert Dennis Finn will demonstrate and discuss the most important safety precautions and concerns caretakers need to be aware of during the summer months. Dennis Finn, EMT-B, BLS 1st Responder, teaches infant/child CPR and first aid classes at Isis Maternity.

Learn the best way to protect babies from the sun from choosing the right hat to selecting a safe and effective sunscreen. Hitting the road for a summer getaway? Discover which products will make family travel a safer and easier experience. Other topics covered will include water safety, CPR, first aid, and mosquito and tick prevention.

Throughout the day, Isis Maternity vendors will also be on hand to offer product tips, demonstrations, and free workshops on baby-proofing, car safety, and more. Attendees will also enjoy special savings on Isis Maternity products and classes.

This event is open to the public. Fees are $10 for non-members and free for Isis Maternity members. Non-mobile babies are welcome with advanced notice. Space is limited so participants are encouraged to register at www.isismaternity.com or by calling (781) 429-1500.

About Isis Maternity:

Isis Maternity’s mission is to support women and families as they prepare for the world of parenting. Serving over 35,000 families in the Greater Boston Area, they are committed to providing comprehensive and objective information, professional guidance and support, and a nurturing and caring environment through classes, products and private consultations that focus on prenatal, postpartum and early child development needs.

Founded in 2002, Isis Maternity has close relationships with Boston’s largest obstetric programs including Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Massachusetts General Hospital. Isis Maternity Center’s are located in Brookline, Needham, Arlington, and Boston. Each center offers experienced professionals including childbirth educators, lactation consultants, child development specialists, massage therapists and fitness experts. Isis Maternity also takes pride in its expert, knowledgeable staff ready to assist guests with class registration, retail products, and other needs.

Isis Maternity is proud to offer professional and parent-approved products, ready for real life from pregnancy to preschool. Isis Maternity retail stores support the information and advice given in their classrooms, workshops and consultations. Isis Maternity’s retail team handpicks only the finest, most innovative products that meet and exceed parent’s needs, making shopping for mom, baby, and gift giving easy and fun. Isis Maternity’s unique one-stop combination of exceptional products and services has even been recognized by the Retailers Association of Massachusetts.

Isis Maternity was recently ranked as one of the 500 fastest growing private companies in the U.S. by Inc.com. In addition, Isis Maternity was chosen by Working Mother as one of the 25 best small companies for women in 2007.

Isis Maternity is pleased to give back to its communities through their Community Fund. The Fund is used to help families of all means access services that prepare them for parenting. It also helps support Isis Maternity’s community partners, local benefit auctions, school fundraisers and charitable activities.

To learn more about Isis Maternity, visit www.isismaternity.com or call Ebben Communications Group at (781) 449-3244.

Mother's Day Giveaway Winners

Dear Readers,
It's Monday, June 8th, and I am working on packaging all the prizes from our May Mother's Day Giveaway and posting the winners online.
Stay tuned for a list of winners!
Carrie Wattu
editor

Sat., June 13: Trike a Thon: 11:30 a.m.

Lisa Bousbouras, owner of Mrs. B's Preschool and Kindergarten Inc. located at 199 West Mountain St., Worcester, invites families to attend their 3rd annual St Jude Children's Research Hospital Trike A Thon. This event follows a one week lesson the school conducts with preschoolers about bike/ street safety.
The children will ride laps around their rotary driveway and earn dollars for each lap by sponsors.
The school has RAISED OVER $5000 FOR ST. JUDES over the past two events.
Their goal this year is $3000.
While the school is small in numbers, Bousbouras says the families work really hard, plus the preschoolers learn a wonderful lesson about helping others.
"Our event also consists of a magic show, games and prizes for children and FREE Popcorn. We also accept 'walk in donations' on this day," says Bousbouras.

508 852 4727

Get Bargains or Sell your Stuff: Sat., June 13 in Charlton!

The Moms Club of Charlton is holding their annual HUGE Community Yard Sale. All proceeds benefit local food banks. If your kids are dying to make some cash (and you want to get rid of some clutter), rent a table for $15.

Saturday June 13, 2009
8 am -2 pm
lower level of Saint Joseph's
Church, H Putnam Road Extension, Charlton MA 01507
Huge Community
Yard Sale, sponsored by the MOMS Club of Charlton.
Over 50 tables of bargains including children's
clothes, toys, sports equipment, housewares, books, tools, crafts, and more.
To rent a table ($15 fee) call 508-248-9622.
Free admission.
Free parking.
508-248-9622
knorrman@charter.net

Vintage Baseball on Sunday, June 7th

Readers, for more June 7th family events, type in June 7th in our Blog search.



CONTACT: Bethany Groff

RE: Vintage Base Ball Triple-Header

DATE: Sunday, June 7, 11 am - 4pm

PHONE: 978-462-2634

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The wide open fields at the Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm are a perfect setting for a unique sports experience. Watch and cheer as the Essex Base Ball Club battles the Bristol Blues, and the Lynn Live Oaks. There will be a special kids game at 2 pm, with all kids invited to play. Using baseball rules from 1861, games feature underhand pitching, no gloves allowed. Snacks, baseballs, and cards are available for purchase. Grass field seating: bring blankets and lawn chairs, no reserved seating. Free Samples of Ipswich Ale will be provided courtesy of Mercury Brewing Company, and the Brewmasters of Ipswich Ale will take on the Essex Base Ball Club at 3 pm. Weather permitting, please call. A second game will be played on Saturday, October 3.

The Essex Base Ball Club revisits baseball’s earliest days with pre-Civil War rules. Learn about the customs, styles, and etiquette of baseball’s formative years. Players use equipment and uniforms appropriate for the period. Learn about “cranks”, “aces”, “cloud-hunters” and other period slang. Discover the origins of the game not through a book, but with a first-hand look at the vintage game in action. After the match, brave spectators have a chance to stand at bat. Learn more about the Essex Base Ball Club at www.essexbaseball.org.



About Historic New England

Historic New England is the oldest, largest, and most comprehensive regional preservation organization in the country. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the lives and stories of New Englanders through their homes and possessions. Historic New England is presented by the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities. For more information visit online at www.HistoricNewEngland.org.


Bethany Groff
North Shore Regional Site Manager
Historic New England
5 Little's Lane
Newbury, MA 01951
(978)462-2634
www.HistoricNewEngland.org

Short Survey!!! Win 1,000 or 4-Pack of Tickets to Six Flags New England

For spending a few minutes sharing your opinions in our reader survey, you will entered in a drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card.

Help our magazine better meet your needs by logging onto

http://www.readexsurvey.net/ppa/baystate.asp

Win Red Sox Vs. Yankees Tickets: August 22

baystateparent contributing writer, Christine Quirk, sent us this neat raffle for a cause dear to baystateparent: adoption. Check it out!

Win Red Sox and Yankees tickets for your family while supporting adoption: http://www.usadoptionsolutions.org/news/events.php




My name is Christine Quirk and I am the Massachusetts Chapter Director for USAdoption Solutions. We are an adoption agency based in Lancaster, Mass. and Albany, New York which only facilitates domestic foster care adoptions. We are currently doing our spring baseball ticket fundraiser raffle and I am writing to ask if we may put a link to this raffle on your Web site. You would not need to sell tickets nor handle money; we are only asking you to post our link.



The raffle runs through July 25 and grand prize is two tickets to the Red Sox/Yankees game on Aug. 22, including deluxe limo transportation and a Sox merchandise package. Second and third prize winners will receive pairs of Red Sox tickets or tickets to local games in Worcester, Mass. and Albany. Tickets are $3 each, 5 for $10 or a book of 10 for $20.



There are more than 115,000 children in the United States waiting for permanent homes – and 2,900 of them are in Massachusetts. Our goal is to find a loving, stable home for all these children. For more information on our agency, please visit www.usadoptionsolutions.org.



Thank you in advance for considering helping us to bring forever families together.

Mommies who Shop: June 10th

June 10, 2009
6-10pm
Regis College, 235 Wellesley St, Weston MA

Peruse a selection of handcrafted clothes, art, toys, books and gear for babies, kids and expecting moms by up-and-coming artists and designers. Ticket price include complimentary wine and food, spa, goodie bags (1st 200 attendees) and the chance to shop amazing designer lines - all on sale!

$20 per person

978-325-0220
info@mommieswhoshop.com

http://www.mommieswhoshop.com/

Free Boston Family Festival on June 6

WROR 105.7 FM to Host First-Ever
See New England Festival


Day-long Festival Celebrates Summer in New England



Boston, MA, (May 15, 2009) - Knowing that a challenging economy is forcing many to rethink their vacation plans, WROR 105.7 FM will host the first-ever See New England Festival on Saturday, June 6, 2009 on City Hall Plaza. This unique event will enable families to see all that New England has to offer in a fun, interactive setting perfect for the entire family.



From lobsters in Maine to the beaches of Cape Cod, See New England will feature exhibitors from local attractions, destinations, restaurants, theme parks, cruise lines, and much more. In addition to learning about everything New England has to offer, festival-goers will be able to book trips and purchase tickets to local attractions onsite at the Festival.



Featured exhibitors at the inaugural See New England Festival include Six Flags New England, Santa’s Village, Kimball Farms, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Attractions Group, Bay State Cruise Lines, Maine Beaches, Massachusetts Office of Tourism and Travel and much more.



“In a challenging economic environment, everyone may not be able to take that exotic vacation they had hoped for,” said Ken West, program director at WROR. “See New England will offer local families a chance to experience all the great vacation locations right in their own backyard.”



Adding to the festival experience, See New England will also feature family-friendly musical performances. Performers at this year’s festival include American pop girl group Girl Authority, Boston’s finest disco and funk cover band Booty Vortex, singer/songwriter and touring musician Johnny Ray and the Ultrasonic Rock Orchestra performing A Night At the Rock Opera.



All attendees will have the opportunity to enter to win a host of prizes at the See New England Festival. In addition, WROR’s Flagship morning show Loren & Wally will broadcast live from the festival from 10 am – 12 noon.



The See New England Festival will be open to the public on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. The Festival is accessible via public transportation. Take the MBTA Green Line to the Government Center stop. For more details, visit the MBTA website at www.mbta.com



All information about the festival, entertainment and a full list of exhibitors can be found at www.seenewenglandfestival.com

# # #

WROR 105.7 is owned by Greater Boston Radio, a subsidiary of Greater Media Inc., the parent company of 23 AM and FM radio stations in the Boston, Charlotte, Detroit, New Jersey and Philadelphia markets. Greater Media also owns a group of weekly newspapers in central New Jersey and several telecommunications towers located throughout the United States.

Salem: Sleeping Beauty Story, Ballet and Waltz: June 13

June 13, 2009

10:30am

Cornerstone Books
45 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA 01970
A princess, a spell and a kiss… the timeless and enchanting story of “The Sleeping Beauty”. Following a reading of the story, everyone is welcome to join in the ballet’s celebrated “Garland Waltz” and children will make their very own magic wand like the story’s famous Lilac Fairy. Presented by the Boston Ballet Center for Dance Education.

FREE
978-744-1831
info@cornerstonebooks-salem.com
www.cornerstonebooks-salem.com

Free New England Festival City Hall Plaza: Sat., June 6th Boston

baystateparent just received this late-breaking announcement. Spend the day in Boston, get some new travel ideas, see a Girl Authority concert and more!

WROR 105.7 FM to Host First-Ever
See New England Festival


Day-long Festival Celebrates Summer in New England



Boston, MA, (May 15, 2009) - Knowing that a challenging economy is forcing many to rethink their vacation plans, WROR 105.7 FM will host the first-ever See New England Festival on Saturday, June 6, 2009 on City Hall Plaza. This unique event will enable families to see all that New England has to offer in a fun, interactive setting perfect for the entire family.



From lobsters in Maine to the beaches of Cape Cod, See New England will feature exhibitors from local attractions, destinations, restaurants, theme parks, cruise lines, and much more. In addition to learning about everything New England has to offer, festival-goers will be able to book trips and purchase tickets to local attractions onsite at the Festival.



Featured exhibitors at the inaugural See New England Festival include Six Flags New England, Santa’s Village, Kimball Farms, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Attractions Group, Bay State Cruise Lines, Maine Beaches, Massachusetts Office of Tourism and Travel and much more.



“In a challenging economic environment, everyone may not be able to take that exotic vacation they had hoped for,” said Ken West, program director at WROR. “See New England will offer local families a chance to experience all the great vacation locations right in their own backyard.”



Adding to the festival experience, See New England will also feature family-friendly musical performances. Performers at this year’s festival include American pop girl group Girl Authority, Boston’s finest disco and funk cover band Booty Vortex, singer/songwriter and touring musician Johnny Ray and the Ultrasonic Rock Orchestra performing A Night At the Rock Opera.



All attendees will have the opportunity to enter to win a host of prizes at the See New England Festival. In addition, WROR’s Flagship morning show Loren & Wally will broadcast live from the festival from 10 am – 12 noon.



The See New England Festival will be open to the public on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. The Festival is accessible via public transportation. Take the MBTA Green Line to the Government Center stop. For more details, visit the MBTA website at www.mbta.com



All information about the festival, entertainment and a full list of exhibitors can be found at www.seenewenglandfestival.com

June 27 and 28: Skating in Boxborough

Fun Skating Show for the Family!

Come on out to the Nashoba Valley Olympia Skating Rink in Boxborough, MA on June 26, 2009 and June 27, 2009, and be a part of .......

"Skate for Sherry's House"

VIP Tickets (On-ice seating, buffet reception, and "meet and greet" with Caroline Zhang) - $30
Bleacher Tickets - $10

Tickets can be purchased by calling (978) 263-3450.
This event benefits Why Me children and families. Visit http://www.skateforsherryshouse.com/ for all of the details.

Free Clothing Swap in Worcester: Sat.., May 30

Free clothes! Love this!

Worcester's Canal District is having a clothing swap!
Sat., May 30
Drop off clothes at 138 Green St., from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Return from 1 - 4 p.m. to select free clothes to take home.
Take fashion risks for free!!!

Maps will be provided on special deals in the District for shoppers.

Check out the details at our sister publication, Worcester Magazine:

http://www.worcestermagazine.com/content/view/4123/

Family Fun: June 27 Leominster

This calendar listing did make baystateparent's June print edition. Check back often for up-to-date postings on what's fun for families!

Sat., June 27:

Summer Stroll is in Dowtown Leominster from 2- 6 p .m. The rain date is Sun., June 28th. This event features a parade at 2 p.m., musical skits from LHS Drama Club,
Johnny Appleseed Harmonizers, 50s and 60s music, Swing Dancing, Classic Cars, pony rides, food, art in the park. For more info, contact Sandie Chacon: 978-534-7525, x 260.

Plant your Pumpkins Now: Get Seeds Here!

By Lauren Passaretti, baystateparent Intern

These are not your average pumpkin seeds. They come from a locally grown 406lb pumpkin!
Spencer Carlin, 17, of Milford, MA had a vision while tending to his prize-winning pumpkin, creating a charity that would donate all profit of pumpkin seeds to a family in needL Pumpkins for a Purpose (PFAP).
His first "Pumpkin Patch Family" is from Milford, a family of four with two young daughters: Rachael, age 10, and Hannah, age 3.
Rachael was born needing three heart surgeries, and unfortunately after her third surgery, Rachael suffered from cardiac arrest and a catastrophic stroke. Rachael now has severe brain damage and every day struggles with uncontrolled epilepsy. Although everyday activities are challenging for Rachael, she manages to stay upbeat and caring, communicating through pictures and sign language. Her family is constantly searching for ways to keep her connected and actively participating in “regular kid stuff.” For Rachael this means riding her “big red bike.” However, Rachael has now outgrown her bike and without help from insurance, her family does not have the financial means to purchase another specially made tricycle.
Spencer hopes to make this possible though, and you can help. Minimum donation for a seed is $8.00; remember these are coming from an award-winning pumpkin! To purchase your own seed or to make a donation, simply make a check payable to Spencer Carlin and send it to him at 42 Bowdoin Drive, Milford, MA 01757
One seed per person due to limited supply.
By donating to Pumpkins for a Purpose in its first year, you can help this charity thrive and be able to adopt pumpkin patch families for years to come!

June 7th: Free Pre-Kindergarten Program in MetroWest

FREE PRE-KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM IN METROWEST

The MetroWest Jewish Day School Maccabees Club will meet on Sunday, June 7 at 9:30 a.m. All children entering any kindergarten class in fall 2009 are invited to attend the “Welcome to Kindergarten” gathering at the MetroWest Jewish Day School. The group will be led by MWJDS kindergarten teacher, Lauren Ayzenberg, who will integrate fun and creative use of art, music, Hebrew, math, and science. This program has no charge, but reservations are requested. RSVP to Sara Sinai, Director of Admissions, 508-620-5554 or sara.sinai@mwjds.org . MetroWest Jewish Day School, located at 29 Upper Joclyn Avenue in Framingham , is a pluralistic day school serving over 20 Metrowest towns and is accepting applications from students in grades Jr. K – 6. More information is available at www.mwjds.org .





Victoria Felson

MetroWest Jewish Day School

29 Upper Joclyn Avenue

Framingham , MA 01701

p-508.620.5554

f- 508-620.0945

www.mwjds.org

May 30:

The Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce presents the 23rd Annual...

HUDSON COMMUNITY FEST

Saturday, May 30th

9 am. to 3:30 pm.

SOUTH STREET

Downtown Hudson, Massachusetts

Celebrating Commerce, Community & Culture!





Schedule of Events

LOCATION KEY:

* CP: Cellucci Park Sound Stage
* MS: Market Street Stage...Unplugged
* SS: On South St.
* AR: On the Assabet River

9 am. JFK Middle School and Hudson High Jazz Ensembles.(CP)

Ride the Happy Wagon All Day! (SS)

9:30 am. to 2:30 pm. Ride a Bicycle Made for Seven and More, courtesy of Avidia Bank (SS)

10 am. Children's Sing-a-Long with Mr. Vic (CP)

Kensho Ryu Int'l Kenpo Karate Demo (MS)

Magic with SHIN until 1 pm., courtesy of Glenn Davis Architects (SS)

Bocce with the Hudson Rotary Club throughout the day! (CP)

10:30 am. Hudson Rotary Club Decorated Duck Contest (SS)

11 am. The Big Shoe String Band(CP)

Hudson Rotary Club Corporate Duck Race at the Washington St. Bridge. (AR)

Women of Note (MS)

Hudson Rotary Club Corporate Duck Race (AR)

12 pm. Animal Adventures(CP)

The Big Shoe Band (MS)

1 pm. Berlin Country Orchestra(CP)

MetroWest Tang Soo Do Karate Demo (MS)

Hudson Rotary Club Lucky Duck Race (SS) Women of Note @ the Unitarian Church

2 pm. L & M Rhythm Kings (CP)

3 pm. St. Michael Schools' Mega $50,000 Raffle Drawing at Hudson Catholic

3:30 pm. Fest Closes

Fest to go on, rain or shine. In case of rain, all entertainment will be in the Town Hall Auditorium.

For the kids ....Happy Wagon, Sing-a-Long, Animal Adventures, Sand Art, Temporary Tattoos, Face Painting, Arts & Crafts, Magic Show...

In the food court ...Hot Dogs, Hamburgs, Fenway Sausage, Pulled Pork, Smoothies, Barbecued Pretzels, Fried Dough, Hand Cut French Fries, Italian Ice and Ice Cream!

Over 100 Vendors

jewelry...T-shirts...soaps & potions...quilts...clothing from Australia, India & South America...Handbags...dolls...flip flops...fused glass...tie dye...free massage, etc...



On South Street

Miniature Tractors in Cellucci Park courtesy of Dave's Landscape

Breakfast Burritos and Burgers at The Horseshoe Pub

Visit HUD TV for your cameo

Enjoy St. Mary's Credit Union's Activity Center for Kids in the Cellucci Park

If weather permits, enjoy the Splash Park!

On Main Street

View the Arts Alliance Youth Art, too Exhibits at various storefronts

Free Beading and a Spectacular Sale at Serendipity

Seek in store specials throughout the day at The Salvation Army

Enjoy the Harmonies of Women of Note Barbershop Chorus at the Unitarian Church at 1 pm.

On Church Street

Free fingerprinting at the Boys & Girls Club from 9 am. to 3 pm.

On Felton Street

Stop by and relish the myriad of activities at the 1st United Methodist Church-- Yard Sale (9 am. to 2 pm), Youth Group Car Wash (9 to noon) and an Old Fashioned Chicken BBQ from 11:30 am. to 1:30 pm.

At the Rotary

Bring the Kids to the Fire Station Open House from 9 am. to 3:30 pm.

Seek out Great Deals at Hudson Art & Framing's Humongous Sidewalk Sale

Grab your summer reading at the Hudson Public Library Used Paperback & Toy Sale from 9 am. to 3:30 pm...rain location: children's library

Seek out more great deals at St. Luke's Yard, Concession & Bake Sale from 9 am. to 3 pm.

On Washington Street

BOGO 50% off if you mention this special all day at the Harvest Cafe.

Stop by Parente Service Center for a slice of Mrs. Parente's Pizza! It's sure to delight!

Restroom Facilities in Cellucci Park

Plentiful Parking in the South St. Municipal Lot and at Hudson Catholic (at the corner of Main & Broad).










· Sponsors




Free family entertainment throughout the day courtesy of the following sponsors...

Avidia Bank, Boyd Coatings Research & the Hudson Rotary Club

Murphy Insurance Agency, NETCO, St. Mary's Credit Union & Walmart

Better Accounting Services, Cain Electric, Citizens Bank, Country Glass & Home Improvements, Dave's Landscape Management Co., Glenn Davis--Architect, Hudson Appliance Center, L & S Kerrigan Insurance, Law Offices of Giannetti, Hastings & Sousa, Nashoba Blue, Parente Service Center, Stanis Insurance and Yates Law Offices.

KidsPlanet on Sat., May 30th at Boston Hatch Shell

2009 Radio 92.9 EarthFest To Feature Kids Planet, An Interactive Family Area
Musical Acts, Environmental Exhibits and Activities Create a Perfect Destination for the Entire Family

Boston, MA (May 14, 2009): >From family-friendly musical acts to face painting and food sampling, Radio 92.9 EarthFest is the perfect destination for families and kids of all ages. The 2009 Radio 92.9 EarthFest will feature The Kids Planet, an expanded interactive area offering family-friendly entertainment and activities. The 16th annual event is free and will be held on May 30th, 2009 from Noon to 5:00 pm at the DCR’s Memorial Hatch Shell in Boston. The Kids Planet activities begin at 10 a.m.

The Kids Planet will feature a wide variety of musical acts and entertainment as well as environmental activities and educational displays. Musical performances will feature family-friendly bands including; Sarah Wheeler and Little Groove, Michael and Marissa, The Bravo Brothers and Zumix. Additional activities in The Kids Planet range from face painting to healthy treats, compliments of Whole Foods Market, Stonyfield Farms and a variety of other vendors.

Throughout the day, families can wander through the Whole Foods Mercado. Inside, children can play with grocery-themed toys like squishy fruits and vegetables and wooden blocks shaped like grocery staples. Kids can learn about healthy eating with coloring sheets and an interactive display about the food pyramid. The Whole Foods bakery will even be baking up fresh chocolate chip cookies throughout the day for everyone to enjoy.

Ocean River Institute and Boston Harbor Alliance will both be onsite in The Kids Planet, offering educational awareness for all ages. Ocean River will offer families specific opportunities to make a difference in environmental education, science, and conservation. Boston Harbor Island Alliance will be promoting the use, enjoyment and awareness of the Boston Harbor Islands national park area and all the vibrant public spaces have to offer.

Musical performances on The Kids Planet stage will begin at 11:00 am. This year’s performers include:

* Zumix Guitar Ensemble, group members composed from Zumix, a non-profit, cultural organization dedicated to building community through music and the arts. Located in East Boston, MA, ZUMIX provides top-quality cultural programming as an alternative way for young people to deal with frustration, anger and fear, and as a method of building cultural understanding and acceptance in one of Boston's most diverse neighborhoods.
* Sarah Wheeler and Little Groove- Little Groove is quality, groovy, fun, and educational music for children that adults can enjoy along with their children. Sara Wheeler, the lead singer of Little Groove, has toured and performed her original music all over the world and has taken all of her knowledge from past touring, recording and production experiences and poured these ingredients into her new children's CD Building Blocks. Loved by both children and adults, Sara's children's music is both creative and extremely catchy. Little Groove released their debut CD in 2008 titled Building Blocks and has since been designated a 2008 Parents' Choice Silver Honor award winner. Little Groove is also a 2008 National Parenting Publications Award winner.
* A lifelong brother and sisterly love for music caused Michael and Marisa to combine their rockin' energy and start performing in public together when they were only 7 and 8 years-old. They look like twins and can finish each other’s sentences, but what is most intriguing is that their resume spans over 100 engagements, including performances in major cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Boston, Nashville, and Pittsburgh.
* The Bravo Brothers infuse excitement and education both on-stage and in the studio with their lively, comical, and creative performances. Brian Dwyer is an established, award-winning entertainer who has performed thousands of shows from coast to coast. Rick Pantano is an award-winning songwriter and talented multi-instrumentalist, Rick has traveled throughout New England as a solo artist, with various groups, and most recently performing as a Bravo Brother. The Bravo Brothers are committed to energizing families by sharing fun, educational, and interactive entertainment and can be counted on to deliver a performance that will please audiences of all ages.
* Zumix Divercity Band is composed of ZUMIX's songwriters who use their voices, rhythm, and energy to express what's on their minds. They take their messages to the street, performing locally and touring throughout the Northeast. From Hip Hop to Rock, students express themselves through a wide variety of popular music.



The 2009 Radio 92.9 EarthFest is committed to offering festival goers an opportunity to learn how they can make a difference and help save Planet Earth. The festival will feature exhibits and environmental displays, staffed by sponsors and non-profit environmental organizations from New England. A comprehensive recycling program will be put in place throughout the duration of the show and Mass Bike will be onsite staffing a free bike-valet program sponsored by International Bicycle, offering concertgoers an alternative to driving to the festival.

Radio 929 recommends festival goers ride their bikes or take the MBTA to the Hatch Shell. Take the Green Line to Arlington Street or take the Red Line to Charles Street / MGH. For more details, visit the MBTA website at www.mbta.com

For additional information on the 16th Annual Radio 92.9 EarthFest please visit www.earthfest.com.

# # #

May 30: Worcester Art Museum, 3 - 5 p.m. Plus free in the Morning

May 30
Art All State Reception
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

View artwork created by 145 high school juniors at the 22nd annual Art All State. Students were competitively selected from across Massachusetts to spend two days collaborating with a team of professional artists to create artwork inspired by the Museum's collections. All-State is collaboration between the Museum and the Massachusetts Art Education Association.

To learn more, contact information@worcesterart.com or visit www.worcesterart.org .




Museum Hours and Admission Fee


Gallery Hours

· Wednesday – Friday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

· Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.



Museum Admission Fee

* Members
Free



* Non-members

$10 Adults
$8 Seniors and College Students with ID
FREE for kids 17 and under
FREE Saturday Mornings 10am-noon. Sponsored by TJX Companies and National Grid.

Alice in Wonderland in Milford

Milford Performing Arts Center
The Area’s Only Family Arts Community
Proudly Presents
“Alice in Wonderland”

Davoren Auditorium
Milford High School
Friday June 19th at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday June 20th at 2:00 p.m.
Saturday June 20th at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday June 21st at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets in advance
Adults $15
Students/Seniors $12
Group of 15 or more $10

Tickets will be available at the door
Adults $18
Students/Seniors $15

Tickets Available Now at the MPAC Studio
150 Main St. Milford, MA
Call (508)473-1684
Sponsored by International Power America and in part by the Milford Youth Council and
the Massachusetts Cultural Council as administered through a grant from the Milford Cultural Council.

Still an Only Child: Life with my Adopted Brother

Have you read this story from Laura Richards in Framingham? It appeared in our monthly adoption column, Finally Forever, in April 2009. Lots of parents
commented on it. What do you think?

http://www.baystateparent.com/news/2009/0401/articles/006.html

BMI Screenings in September: What do you think?

Parents, what do you think about the Massachusetts Public Health Council
requiring all public schools to regularly perform Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings on students starting in September?

Recent data show that more than one-third of all middle school and high school students in Massachusetts are considered either overweight or obese

The kids won't be notified of the information regarding their weight but parents will be notified in writing.

Do you think this will help kids? Are you comfortable with this new procedure?

Free Acting Classes May 16 - 17 Ages 9 - 18

Director Jon Artigo will be holding his free acting classes on
Saturday May 16th - 12-1:30 pm - ages 14-18
Sunday May 17th - 12-1:30 pm - ages 9-13
More classes may be added if the need is there
Address is Printers Building / 44 Portland Street / 4th Floor / Worcester, MA 01608

Jon Artigo is an award winning director who runs acting workshops in Hollywood where he coaches actors such as Trevor Morgan (Jurassic Park, Glass House, Empire Falls), Mika Boorem (Dawson's Creek, Slumber Party, Blue Crush), and Lou Taylor Pucci (Thumbsucker, 50 Pills, Empire Falls). He also teaches at the Los Angeles School of the Arts and is a member of the American Screenwriters Association. His film Freedom Park was shot in Massachusetts and was a local media sensation in MA. His film We Got the Beat (starring Michael Copon) was was shot this summer and is currently in post production. Although he is a California native and lives in Los Angeles, Jon is committed to making all his movies in Massachusetts.

Sign ups will be on a first come first served basis. To register, please call producer Georgia Menides at Uncovered Productions 401-274-4076 (cell).