Thanks!

Thanks to all who came out to the Halloween Parade!!

Please send in any pictures, and we'll post them!  Without names!

WEST END HALLOWEEN PARADE TODAY!!

The West End Community Center, 

Agenzia Real Estate and Teresa T. Gaetos are sponsoring this years 

Halloween Parade! 3-5pm!

Meet us on the Big Lawn at 3pm and we'll gather our group of super heroes, animals, pirates, princesses and other halloween gouls and goblins for a trick or treat down 

Thoreau Path to the West End Community Center for

BWANA IGUANA Reptile Adventure's
Repatiles and more!!

Don't forget to bring a bag for the kids to collect their treats from our Neighbors and Friends!!

****Neighbors and Friends, don't forget to bring candy and treats for the kids to collect on their way up the path!***

Bring a snack to share and we'll have some little crafts and coloring while the reptiles slither on in!  :)

See you ALL there we hope!

Winter Playgroup Anyone??

We are considering starting a West End Parent's Playgroup again this Winter.

I have changed the settings below the blog post.  Could you check the day that would work best for you?
It will be in the morning at the West End Community Center.  I think that we are considering Thursdays.

It will be a parent/caretaker based playdate where we can play with toys and have a little adult conversation while the kids play!

Checking a day will also let us know that people are interested in joining!!

Rain Rain Go AWAY!!

It's SO dreary! Stay dry everyone!

According to Channel 7...

Today

Rain arriving between 9am-11am. That rain will be locally heavy along the south shore/Buzzard's Bay/Cape this afternoon. Temps from 57-64. Increasing northeast wind 10-20 mph.

Tonight

Evening rain will be heavy at times before tapering off well after midnight. 1-3" of likely. Mild with lows from 57-63. Northeast wind becoming south 7-17 mph.

Read more: http://www1.whdh.com/weather/#ixzz1bF4qSSsZ

The Advent School Open House

The Advent School 

 is celebratng its 50th Birthday!
We invite you to our Fall Open Houses
at
15 Brimmer Street, Beacon Hill
Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 9:00 ‐ 11:00 a.m.
Sunday, November 20, 2011, 2:00 ‐ 4:00 p.m

Please contact the Admission Office 

at 617.742.0520 ext. 20 for more informaton
15 Brimmer Street
Boston, MA 02108
99 West Cedar Street
Boston, MA 02114

Halloween Parade THIS SUNDAY!

Join Us At Our Annual

Halloween Parade

Sponsored by the West End Community Center,  

Agenzia Real Estate, and Teresa T. Gaetos

Sunday October 23^rd from 3-5pm

Meet at “the big lawn” in costume at 3PM.  We will parade and trick or treat (so bring a bag!) our way to the Community Center for

Bwana iguana

reptile adventure

Bring a snack to share, and we’ll see you there!

*** Neighbors, please bring candy so the kids can trick or treat on their way to the Community Center.  Meet us on Thoreau Path (near Pace’s). This is our chance as a neighborhood to have Halloween for the kids!***

Halloween Parade!

It's official, our Annual Halloween Parade will be
Sunday, October 23rd from 3-5pm!

Bring your kids in costume, with a bag, and we'll trick or treat our way up to the West End Community Center for a quick activity, a snack and BWANA IGUANA Reptile Adventures!!

Encourage your neighbors to bring candy to the path for the kids to trick or treat!!

I am going to get posters around the neighborhood for our event!
Hope to see everyone out there!!!

If you can bring a snack to share, it would be much appreciated!!

MEET THE SCHOOLS FAIR IS TONIGHT!!!

Charlestown Mothers Association Presents:
Meet the Schools Fair
(Pre-K through 8th Grade)
THIS INFORMATIONAL EVENT IS 

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

DATE: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2011
TIME: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Charlestown Community Center
255 Medford Street, Charlestown, MA 02129

PUBLIC SCHOOL? PRIVATE SCHOOL?
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL? PAROCHIAL SCHOOL? CHARTER SCHOOL?

Deciding where to send your child to school at ANY AGE is an important
decision. Families need as much information as possible.
You will have an opportunity to meet and talk 1:1 with close
to 50 school representatives from public, private, independent,
parochial and charter schools in the Boston area.
The night will include separate sessions on: “How to Navigate the Boston
School System” and “How to Navigate Private/Independent Schools.”

Book Fairs Everywhere!

It's Book Fair time for most of the schools!

The Warren Prescott, 50 School St, Charlestown has theirs which started last Friday, through this coming Friday, September 30th at 2pm.  There is a wide array of Scholastic Books and knick knacks to your child's delight.

The Learning Project has theirs Saturday, October 1st from 11-3pm, at 107 Marlborough St., with activities for children and families, throughout the building.  They will have a bake sale table and a gourmet grilled cheese bar, courtesy of Bacco’s Wine and Cheese in the Back Bay.  In addition to the day’s activities, we have a wonderful selection of used and new books for children and adults and a raffle featuring tickets to the Bruins.  The selection (and bargains!) can’t be beat.  

 I am sure the other schools are having them too, so send in the info, and we'll spread it around!

Family Music Makers at the West End Community Center

Family Music Makers

Classes are every Friday from 9:30-10:30, starting on September 2nd.

The first class on Friday, September 2nd, at 9:30 am is free!!
Come check out what Family Music Makers is about!

Sign up for classes at:
http://www.familymusicmakers.com/classes/875.html

Family Music Makers is a musical journey designed for children aged newborn through 4 and their caretakers. Kids sing, play percussion instruments and dance as they learn musical behaviors, gross motor movement, and socialization with other children. "Fun for the entire family! This mixed-age family jam session explores many different ways to be musical with our original hits, traditional favorites and songs you can groove to! Children and grown-ups delight in the magic of this musical discovery room."

For more information, check out the Family Music Makers website http://www.familymusicmakers.com/

Meet the Schools Fair - Monday, September 26th

Charlestown Mothers Association Presents:

Meet the Schools Fair
(Pre-K through 8th Grade)

THIS INFORMATIONAL EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
DATE: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2011
TIME: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Charlestown Community Center
255 Medford Street, Charlestown, MA 02129

PUBLIC SCHOOL? PRIVATE SCHOOL?
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL? PAROCHIAL SCHOOL? CHARTER SCHOOL?

Deciding where to send your child to school at ANY AGE is an important
decision. Families need as much information as possible.
You will have an opportunity to meet and talk 1:1 with close
to 50 school representatives from public, private, independent,
parochial and charter schools in the Boston area.

The night will include separate sessions on: “How to Navigate the Boston
School System” and “How to Navigate Private/Independent Schools.”

Light refreshments will be available at the event. 

For more information, please contact
Sue Lacey at Sue.CTownMeetSchools@gmail.com

FREE Musuem Day Saturday, September 24th

In the spirit of Smithsonian Museums, who offer free admission everyday, Museum Day is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian magazine in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Ticket...for free.

Read more: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday

And check out the list of museums here: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/museum-search/?state=Massachusetts

Curiosity Day at the Boston Public Library - Copley

700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02116
Phone:    (617) 536-5400
Dates:    Saturday, September 24, 2011 - Saturday, September 24, 2011
Hours:    11AM-1PM
In/Outdoor:    Indoor
Cost:    FREE

Celebrate Curious George's birthday! Saturday, September 24th is Curiosity Day at the Boston Public Library!

Join Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, WGBH, and the Boston Public Library for a free, fun-filled, family event. Meet Curious George, too.

The event includes story readings, songs, and arts & crafts; screenings of the Emmy-Award Winning PBS show; and cake and cupcakes with the Man with the Yellow Hat at 12 noon.

No registration required. Please note that event staff will *not* be taking pictures. Guests are welcome to take photos using their own cameras or cell phones.

My Apologies

I have been blogging my email...and apparently they have not been posted.  Will look into this ASAP and get all those post out to you!

Boston City Councilor

Mike Ross Presents:

ICE CREAM SOCIALS

GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY:

BEN & JERRY'S

                                                

Monday, August 8th

10:00 A.M.

Amy Lowell Apartments

65 Martha Road

North End Music and Performing Arts Center
BOSTON R.O.C.K.S & NEMPAC
Present....
FREE Summer Music Outdoor Workshops!
 
Mayor Menino's R.O.C.K.S. Grant and North End Music & Performing Arts Center sponsor FREE Thursday Morning INTERACTIVE CONCERTS & Workshops @ NEMPAC!
 
 
What? Each week performers and music educators will present a new genre of music. Children will participate in games, activities, dances, and instruments. Teachers will encourage children to explore their own creativity through music and dance.
 
When? Starting THIS WEEK! July 14th, Thursday morning- 10:30am 
 
Who? North End Music Instructors, ZUMIX Boston African drumming, Opera Boston Singers, Jeremy Sarzana, Broadway guest actresses.
 
For? Designed for children and young adults of all ages. Parents are welcome to join as well!

 
*THURSDAY MORNINGS*
July 14th- August 31st
10:30- 11:30am
Outdoors on The Prado/ In-back of the Eliot School on Charter St.
 
 
 
 
July 14th- Opera showcase w/ 3 Boston Opera Stars!           

July 21st- Rock Band with Jeremy! Can you Jam?                           

July 28th- Mozart Opera Workshop!  Opera singers Sherri Snow, Seth Grondin, and Ralph Garcia take the stage!                          

August 6th-So you think you can dance?! Learn Choreography to "You Can't Stop the Beat!" from "Hairspray"

August 11th- Luck of the IRISH! Fiddle with Dana Price, hear a few Irish Songs from Sherri and learn how to Folk Dance! 

August 18th- ZUMIX features African drumming and vocalist Fred VanNess sings African Spirituals

August 31st (Wed)- Contemporary& Pop "North End Idol" open mic
                                               

 We hope you will join us for these fun, educational, interactive workshops for the summer! 

North End Music and Performing Arts Center
The Prado
Boston, Massachusetts 02113
617-227-2270
For more information please contact ssnow@nempacboston.org

2.  We have a couple more FREE TUESDAY night concerts on the Prado - thank you to those of you who have come - and to those of you who have given such glowingly great feedback - and to our most generous sponsor of these shows.   Next Tuesday at 7 pm you can come out and see Jeremy Sarzana, Brian Bernhardt, and Chris Schroeder on Guitar, Percussion and Trumpet/Vocals respectively.  Details below.  Bring a picnic dinner or snacks, and enjoy a fabulous FREE evening out.  Last night's concert was AMAZING.

The North End Music & Performing Arts Center presents a FREE Summer Concert Series on the Prado!
OPERA AND BROADWAY NIGHT- TONIGHT!!!
 
Schedule:
 
TUESDAY's from 7-8pm
"The Prado", or The Paul Revere Park, Cross streets are Hanover & Clark Street
 

TONIGHT! July 12th
- Opera & Broadway Night with Vocalists Sherri Snow, Chris Schroeder, Fred VaNess, Ralph Garcia, and Pianist Rachel Carpentier  
 
Repertoire includes musical theater duets from Children of Eden and Phantom of the Opera, and Operas duets from Don Giovanni and Carmen. 
 
Solo selections include Italian Opera Arias, Neopolitan Songs, and several Broadway numbers
 
*Special piano performance from Adult NEMPAC student Aubrey Labourr 
 
July 19th
-Contemporary selections from Vocalist and Trumpeter Chris Schroeder, Guitarist Jeremy Sarzana, and Percussionaist Brian Bernhard
July 26th
- Jazz Variations featuring Greg deBourgknecht, David Corcoran, Hilary Noble, Gary Fieldman and Scott Boni 
 
 *Rain dates will be held in August.
 
For further information please contact the Events Coordinator- Sherri at Ssnow@nempacboston.org
Sincerely,
Sherri Snow
North End Music and Performing Arts Center
 
3.  Today, we completed week 2 of our summer theatre workshops for kids - AWESOME doesn't give it justice...  If  your kid between 7 and 13 wants to join - it's not too late.  Each week is an independent workshop - don't worry if you haven't come yet.  See details on our website:  www.nempacboston.org.
 

'Tomorrow is our Summer Musical Theater Workshop Orientation! We hope your child can join us for a fun, 8 week program of Music, Theater, and Dance. Official casting will take place after the orientation. 

We hope to see you at 4pm at our NEMPAC studios to begin this summer's workshop!

If you have a few weeks that you cannot make the workshop- it's OK....individual music & dance rehearsals are scheduled in advance to prepare for any absences. 
 
July 6th- August 24th
Wednesdays 4- 5:30pm
Ages 7-13
@ NEMPAC
 
Featuring Shows:
Mary Poppins
The Music Man
Aladdin
Annie
The Sound of Music
Hair Spray!
 
Stage Director: Sherri Snow
Music Director: Rachel Carpentier
Choreographer: Hilary Denison
 
Special Guests include: Photographer to take Individual Actor/Actress FREE Headshots!
&
Visit from Broadway actress Meredith Pyle!
 
 
Weekly Schedule: 
 
4- 4:45pm- Music Rehearsals/Voice Class
4:45- 5pm-  Choreography and Group Theater
 
 
To Register:

Contact Sherri @ Ssnow@nempacboston.org
or call 617-227-2270.
Space is limited- sign up today!
 
www.nempacboston.org
 

Chiara

FREE Friday Night Flicks @ the Hatch Shell

July, 2011

Friday July 15, Sunset (8:19 pm)
"MEGAMIND"

Friday July 22, Sunset (8:14 pm)
"Despicable Me"

Friday July 29, Sunset (8:07 pm)
"How To Train Your Dragon"

August 2011

Friday August 5, Sunset (7:59 pm)
"Tangled"

Friday August 12, Sunset (7:50 pm)
"Toy Story 3"

Friday August 19, Sunset (7:40 pm)
"Rango"

Friday August 26, Sunset (7:29 pm)
"Iron Man 2"

Chiara

Sundays!

The CHARLES RIVER CONSERVANCY 
& the DEPARTMENT of CONSERVATION & RECREATION present:
the 3rd annual

SUNDAY PARKLAND GAMES!

Sundays, July 10th - September 25th

@ Herter Park on the Charles River
(1100 Soldiers Field Road)

Games & Athletic Activities:
2:00pm – 5:00 pm

Yoga: 
5:00pm – 6:00pm

Charles River Wellness Initiative for Seniors: 
4:00pm – 5:00pm

What:

The Charles River Conservancy and the Department of Conservation and Recreation invite families and members of the community to join us for our annual Sunday Parkland Games series!  Each Sunday afternoon, between July 10th and September 25th, 2-5pm, Allston's Herter Park (1100 Soldiers Field Road, additional parking available at 1175 Soldiers Field Road) will be set up for games, sports, and other athletic activities such as badminton, bocce, volleyball, cycling, tennis, running, walking...and more!  These activities are completely FREE, open to the public, and designed with the help of Knucklebones, a Cambridge company that inspires people of all ages to enjoy athletics...for the love of play!  At 5pm, the Conservancy will host free yoga sessions, taught by certified instructors.

Beginning this summer, Sunday Parkland Games will offer a new program to engage local seniors: the Charles River Wellness Initiative for Seniors. The Conservancy will lead a walk along the Charles River, beginning at 4pm, aimed at improving the health and well-being of our senior citizens, providing a unique opportunity for social interaction in a beautiful outdoor setting, and encouraging cross-generational communication.  These walks are free, open to the public, and do not require registration.  To join us, please meet at the Charles River Conservancy's info tent at 4pm.

Why:

Being active is the key to optimal health and to reducing the risk of preventable diseases such as obesity.  Parklands along DCR's Charles River Reservation are a natural space uniquely suited to spending time outdoors, within Boston.  By continuing the Sunday Parkland Games program for a third year, the Charles River Conservancy hopes to make the river's Parklands "more active, attractive, and accessible for all" by encouraging families to come together to enjoy them and appreciate their natural beauty.  All are welcome to pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy a day outdoors on the banks of the Charles!
Herter Park has green space, playgrounds, picnic tables, an outdoor theater, and plenty of parking.  Its large parking lot and open paths make it a prime location for bicycle riding, running, and in-line skating.  The 2011 Sunday Parkland Games will be situated between the recently remodeled Artesani Playground and Charles River Canoe & Kayak.  Herter Park has something for everyone!  All activities are free of charge and the program does not require registration - anyone can attend, and all are welcome to participate.

Where:

With the exception of Sunday, September 11th, all activities will take place in Herter Park, located at 1100 Soldier's Field Road in Allston.  This new location is in closer proximity to residential areas and will allow the Conservancy to work more directly with residents of Allston-Brighton, as well as offer additional free programs.  On September 11th, the Sunday Parkland Games will take place upriver from the Weeks Footbridge on the Charles River off of Memorial Drive in Cambridge (the location of the 2009 and 2010 Games).

Additional Information:

For more information, please contact our Director of Outdoor Wellness, 
Dr. Alexios Monopolis, at anm@thecharles.org  

Weekly updates and weather cancellations will be posted on our Facebook page.
Chiara

FUN for TOMORROW!!!

The Friends of the Phillips Street Play Area invite you to the:
 
PICNIC IN THE PARK SERIES
Ice Cream Social and Jazz Music by Dan Foley and Friends
 
Tuesday, June 28th
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Phillips Street Play Area, Beacon Hill
 
Bring your picnic baskets and enjoy a fun evening outdoors with neighbors and friends.  Free ice cream and music.
 
For a full summer event schedule or more information please visit www.phillipstreetplayarea.com or email friendspspa@hotmail.com. 

Chiara

Drink any one?!!

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORS, FRIENDS, LOCAL AREA PROFESSIONALS, AND ALL OTHERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN A RELAXING AND FUN AFTERNOON / EVENING HAVING DRINKS, MAKING NEW FRIENDS AND ENJOYING $1 OYSTERS AT WEST END JOHNNIES!!

DATE: Thursday, June 23rd.
TIME: 5:30 pm – whenever
PLACE: West End Johnnies
ADDRESS: 138 PORTLAND ST. BOSTON, MA
Note: West End Johnnies also offers a full lunch and dinner menu.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE!!!

West End Community Center

Phillips Street Playground Events

The first "Picnic in the Park" event scheduled for tomorrow, June 14th has been postponed until June 28th due to bad weather.   
 
The Friends of the PSPA is pleased to announce Free Summer Programs and Community Events
taking place at the Phillips Street Play Area in Beacon Hill.
  This year, the Friends group will host a "Picnic in the Park Series" to be held Tuesdays from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. 
Bring your picnic basket and join friends and neighbors for a fun evening outdoors. 
There will be special entertainment at each picnic including musicians, magicians and other local entertainers.
 
 
Summer Programs and Community Events 2011
 
June 14th - Picnic in the Park Series - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Jazz night featuring the cool sounds of Dylan Foley and Friends (POSTPONED TO JUNE 28th)
 
June 28th - Picnic in the Park Series - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Ice Cream Party - Join Friends and Neighbors for an "Ice Cream Social"
 
July 12th - Picnic in the Park Series - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Jeff Jam - Sing-along with musical performer Jeff Jam as he plays family favorites
 
July 26th - Picnic in the Park Series - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Stunt Planes and Gliders - Learn the basics of flight and aerodynamics and build your own stunt planes and gliders in this MAD SCIENCE Workshop
 
August 9th- Picnic in the Park Series - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Tilly the Clown - Have fun sharing the silly antics of Tilly the Clown with magic and balloon sculptures           
 
Sept 10th - Back-to-School Swap - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
 
Oct 22nd - Second Annual Harvest Festival - 12:00pm - 3:00pm
 
Attached is a full summer schedule.
 
For more information or to join the Friends of the Phillips Street Play Area, please email friendspspa@hotmail.com , visit www.phillipsstreetplayarea.com or contact Cindy Sullivan 617-785-9458.
Chiara

FREE Arts and Crafts Saturday, June 11th

Bring the kids to the West end Museum for some arts & crafts!!

Children's Workshop with Traci Jansen
Saturday, June 11th at 12:30pm
At the West End Museum

7-11 years old

Traci Jansen, head of children's programming at the Middlesex Museum will be offering a child friendly introduction to the Middlesex Canal. It will include a short lecture about the canal, a role play of canal personalities, as well as paper boat building. Participants will use maps, drawings, and models to learn about this engineering marvel. Please reserve your space with Traci Jansen at middlesexcanal4kids@gmail.com

Chiara

It's that time of year again!!

THE SCOOPER BOWL!!

Tuesday 6/7 thru Thursday 6/9
12 noon - 8pm

Enjoy all you can eat ice cream at Government Center to raise money for cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! More than 30 flavors of ice cream!

$8 for adults
$4 for children 3 -9 years old
Children under 3 are FREE!!

Chiara

Touch A Truck

Sunday, June 5th
10am - 1pm

FREE event sponsored by the Charelstown Mother's Association.

Location: Bunker Hill Community College Parking Lot

There is NO on-site parking!!

Chiara

Measels at the Aquarium

Quoted from Boston.com:

BOSTON -- Health officials warned recent visitors to the New England Aquarium that they may have been exposed to the measles after a volunteer was positively diagnosed with the virus.

The Boston Public Health Commission on Friday reported that a 17-year-old Vermont resident was contagious when they volunteered at the aquarium on May 19 and May 22.

The Commission's Infectious Disease Bureau said anyone who was at the aquarium's main building after noon on those days may have been exposed to the virus.

Anyone who was in the building during those times and who does not know if they are immune to measles was advised to refrain from public activity until 21 days after the exposure, according to a Health Commission news release.
The aquarium was working with health officials to minimize the chance of infection spreading.
The latest outbreak of the measles in Massachusetts has state health officials concerned.

"It really is a real worry for us. We have not had this many cases since 2006. We've had 17 cases so far this year and 12 since May 1," Massachusetts of Public Health Dr. Al DeMaria said.

With measles on the rise, the Department of Public Health said young children, anyone who works in health care or anyone who plans to travel should get vaccinated.

Health officials said they believe the source of the outbreak is from people traveling out of the country, who haven't been immunized.
An infected person can easily spread the airborne disease, and doctors say anyone returning from a trip with symptoms should call their doctor.

The vaccine is widely available and should be considered for anyone born after 1957.
Measles is a very contagious disease that usually lasts a week or two and can cause serious problems such as ear infections, pneumonia, swelling of the brain in some people, especially pregnant women, infants and those with weakened immune systems, according to health officials.

Adults are also at increased risk for severe disease and may need to be hospitalized due to complications, health officials said.

The DPH said measles looks and feels like a cold at first. A cough, high fever, runny nose and red, watery eyes are common. These symptoms start about 10 days after infection. A few days later, a red blotchy rash starts on the face first, then spreads to the rest of the body.

FYI from an email from momsrising

Quoted: (not from me :) )

This week I found out my son's car seat probably contains neurotoxins and carcinogens! (1)

I thought my little boy was safe when I buckled him into his cozy car seat.

But then I saw the news.  A study just published in the journal "Environmental Science & Technology" found that the majority of foam samples from baby products  (like car seats, changing pads, and infant carriers) were laced with toxic flame retardants shown to be neurotoxins and carcinogens. (2) Yikes!

After reading this information, my first instinct was to ransack my bedrooms and closets, and make sure not a single shred of foam was left in my house. But after a deep breath (well, maybe a few deep breaths), I realized there's a better, long-term solution, for all of us.  

We need Congress to effectively regulate toxic chemicals in this country and make it easier for us to keep toxics out of our homes and lives.

*Please ask your U.S. Senators to immediately co-sponsor, and urge your leaders to support, the Safe Chemicals Act today!  http://action.momsrising.org/go/958?akid=2764.1554137.lOlEQq&t=4

When I read about this new foam study, I was super shocked that toxic chemicals are in so many children's products.  I was also blown away by the information about the double-dose of chemicals kids get through both touch AND through the air. (3) That means my asthmatic son is exposed to toxic chemicals through both his skin while he sits in his car seat AND through his lungs as he breathes the air around his car seat.

The neurotoxins and carcinogens in many flame-retardant foams aren't just in baby products, they're also in our couches and chairs.  In fact these toxins are so prevalent, a recent study found them present in nearly 100% of the U.S. population.  And these toxins have been shown to cause reproductive, thyrod, endocrine, developmental and neurological disorders including decreased fertility, birth defects, learning disorders, and hyperactivity in animal studies. (4)  

(To learn about how to reduce your family's exposure to these chemicals, check out the information in the P.S. below.)

The Safe Chemicals Act is a much needed update to our not-so-current toxics legislation, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1976. In 1976, we didn't know as much about how toxic chemicals can migrate into our bodies and accumulate causing health issues now or decades later. Under the outdated TSCA, the EPA has only been able to require testing of a few hundred of the 62,000 chemicals that have been on the market since TSCA was passed, a number that has increased to 85,000 chemicals today. (5)

Thirty-five years after this law was first passed, the Federal Center for Disease Control has found that every American carries hundreds of these chemicals through their blood and tissues. These chemicals aren't just in our bodies; they're in our babies too. Just last year, the President's Cancer Panel found over 300 contaminants in the umbilical cord blood of newborn babies. (6)  It's clearly time to update this outdated toxics law!

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Medical Association (AMA) have already spoken up for our kids and have come out in favor of toxic chemical reform, but now our leaders need to hear from you. (7)

Our kids deserve safe toys and car seats, and parents shouldn't have to worry about the products they buy.

Here's that link again to ask your Senator to cosponsor the Safe Chemicals Act:

http://action.momsrising.org/go/958?akid=2764.1554137.lOlEQq&t=6

And please pass this link along! We need lots of parents to speak up.  Together we can protect a lot of families and a lot of kids from harmful chemicals.

 Wondering how to reduce your family's exposure to this type of toxic chemicals?  Here are a few steps you can take:

1) Keep dust levels down by wet mopping and vacuuming with a HEPA filter
2) Purchase baby products and furniture filled with cotton, polyester, or wool instead of polyurethane foam
3) Avoid products that use polyurethane foam and have a TB117 label which likely contains chemical flame retardants
4) Contact manufacturers to inquire whether retardants were added to products

Some manufacturers state their products do not contain halogenated flame retardants, including (but always double check each product): BabyLuxe organic pads and mattresses, BabyBjorn baby carriers, OrbitBaby strollers and car seats, and Boppy nursing pillows.

You can read more about practical tips for reducing your family's exposure to toxins by going to these great sites:

Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families

Green Science Policy

(1) Freeman, Dan "Baby products contain toxic flame retardants, study says: Are kids at risk?," CBS News, May 18, 2011

(2) "Identification of Flame Retardants in Polyurethane Foam
Collected from Baby Products,"  Environmental Science & Technology (PDF).

(3) Ibid.

(4) Green Science Policy Center

(5) The Safe Chemicals Act of 2011: Introduced Today, Legislation Would Protect American Families from Toxic Chemicals.

(6) Kristof, Nicholas, "New Alarm Bells About Chemicals and Cancer," New York Times, May 5, 2010

(7) "Pediatricians Urge Tougher Chemical Safety Law," CNN

There is a Tornado Watch!!

There is a tornado and severe thunderstorm watch in Suffolk, Essex, Worcester, and Norfolk counties until 8pm tonight!!

Please be safe!!

Chiara

Children’s Workshop with Traci Jansen

Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 12:30pm

@ West End Museum

Traci Jansen / Head of Children's Programming at the

Middlesex Canal Museum

Ages 7-11 Years Old

FREE
 

This child friendly introduction to the Middlesex Canal will include a short lecture about the canal, a role play of canal personalities, as well as paper boat building.  Participants will use maps, drawings, and models to learn about this engineering marvel. Please reserve your space with Traci Jansen at middlesexcanal4kids@gmail.com. 

Check Out the Events our West End Museum is offering!!

Middlesex Canal Show Programs at the West End Museum

June 1 – July 9, 2011

Middlesex Canal Show Opening
Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 1:00pm – 4:00pm
@ West End Museum
Refreshments & Entertainment
FREE

Bulfinch’s Granite Buildings / Museum Talk
Monday, June 6, 2011 at 6:30pm-7:30pm
@ West End Museum
Duane Lucia / Executive Director of the West End Museum
FREE

26-Mile Bike Tour of the Middlesex Canal
Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 9:30am – 4:00pm
@ West End Museum to Billerica
Bill Kuttner / Tour Guide
Participants responsible for one-way train fare

Billerica Day: Middlesex Canal Museum Visit
Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 9:30am
@ West End Museum to Billerica
Duane Lucia / Coordinator
Participants responsible for round trip train fare

Children’s Workshop with Traci Jansen
Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 12:30pm
@ West End Museum
Traci Jansen / Head of Children’s Programming at the
Middlesex Canal Museum
Ages 7-11 Years Old
FREE

"Common Boston: Walking Tour of the West End"
Saturday, Jun 18, 2011 at
@ West End Museum
Jim Campano / West End Museum Founder
FREE

2-mile Walking Tour of the Charlestown Mill Pond
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 6:30pm
@ Sullivan Square Station to West End Museum
Bill Kuttner / Tour Guide
FREE

Museum Talk: “A Longer Journey Than I ever Imagined”
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 6:30pm
@ West End Museum
Tom Raphael / Executive Committee Chairman
Middlesex Canal Commission
FREE

Film: “The Canal That Cut Boston In Two”
Friday, July 1, 2011 at 7:00pm
@ West End Museum
Roger Hagopian / Filmmaker
FREE

Lunch Hour Artist Talk: “The Incredible Ditch”
Friday, July 6, 2011 at 12:00pm
@ West End Museum
Tomas Dahill / Artist
FREE

Fun Stuff for the weekend

MFA Playdate
Friday, May 27th at 10:30am
Museum of Fine Arts
Adults free with museum admission; kids Free

Bring your toddler or preschooler for a drop-in, read aloud storytime followed by a short tour of specially selected art that both kids and adults enjoy.


The Pool at the Clubs at Charles River Park OPENS!!
Saturday, May 28th
Let's hope the weather cooperates!


ICA Playdate
Saturday, Mau 28th from 10am-4pm
Institute of Contemporary Art
100 Northern Ave
Free for families with up to 2 adults accompanied by a child 12 and under

Take part in sketching, familt games and music on Boston's harbor walk in front of the ICA. Then visit the galleries and join a contemporary arts scavenger hunt.


Family Drop-In
Saturday, May 28th from 11am - 1pm
Arnold arboretum
125 Arborway
Free

The whole family will enjoy scavenger hunts, science investigations, craft activities, stories and guided walks


Memorial Day Open House
Monday, May 30th from 10am - 4:45pm
Museum of Fine Arts
465 Huntington Ave
Free

Free general admission to the museum, including free admission to the Chihuly exhibit!

It is almost Memorial Day weekend??

We saw the sun last weekend and there are hopes of sun tomorrow... Let's hope it's true!!

I'm SOOO tired of all of this dreary weather!! The pool at Charles River Park opens this weekend! Let's hope we have some good weather!!

Chiara

MIT Museum

Thanks Karyn!

Not sure if you have been but the MIT Museum is pretty cool for the older kiddies. Matthew (4.5) loved it but not so much the little ones. It is short walk from Central Square T, but we drove at 10:00 today and there were plenty of street parking spots just in front. Under 5 is free. Adults are $7.50
web.mit.edu/museum/

Correction!!!!!

Sorry everyone!

I had a listing that EarthFest was both saturday and Sunday, but apparently it was just yesterday!!!

MY APOLOGIES!!!

Chiara

Fun stuff for TODAY Sunday, May 22!

The second annual Book, Toy and Bake Sale

Phillips Street Playground (Phillips St on Beacon Hill)
Sunday, May 22, 2011
2:00pm - 5:00pm
Come support the Phillips St playground. But a cd, toy, or some lemonade!
Many events are scheduled including music performances, a "Picnic in the Park" series taking place on Tuesday evenings with various forms of entertainment, and the Fall Harvest Festival. 


EarthFest
12-5pm at the Hatch Shell
FREE
Music, performers ans environmentally friendly products and green organizations.

Interesting Websites

Ok, so as the result of a lazy morning because my son isn't feeling well, I have some websites to share!


The first is Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families.
 Here's a excerpt from their site:

Americans assume that chemicals used to make ordinary products are tested for safety — but they are not. From baby bottles made with bisphenol A (BPA) to carpets containing formaldehyde, dangerous chemicals are in our homes, places of work, and the products we use every day. With each new scientific report linking toxic chemical exposure to a serious health problem, it becomes more obvious that the law intended to keep harmful chemicals in check — the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1976 — is not working.
Now, we have the chance to fix this problem — and to protect future generations from serious harm. By updating TSCA, Congress can create the foundation for a sound and comprehensive chemicals policy that protects public health and the environment, while restoring the luster of safety to U.S. goods in the world market. To be effective, TSCA reform should:
Take immediate action on the most dangerous chemicals
Current laws aren't protecting us from chemicals that are building up in our bodies and threatening our health. These persistent, bioaccumulative toxic chemicals should be phased out of commerce. Our exposure to other toxic chemicals that we know can cause serious health problems, should be reduced. Green chemistry research should be expanded, and safer chemicals favored over those with known health hazards.


The Second is Toygaroo.

From this website you can rent toys and send them back to be disinfected before they visit another family.  This would help solve the huge toy room I have!

See what you think!!

Children's Toys & Bake Sale

WHAT: Adult & Children's Book Fair including
DVD's & CD's, Children's Toys & Bake Sale
WHEN: Sunday, May 22nd, 2011
WHERE: Phillips Street Play Area, Beacon Hill
(Behind 19 Phillips Street - Between Garden Street and Andersen Street)
TIME: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
WHY: To support summer programming at PSPA

If you are interested in making a donation, we are accepting books, cd's, dvd's & children's toys. Great reason to clean out your space!
Drop off location is at the Vilna Shul, 18 Phillips Street
on the following dates and times:
Tues. - Thurs. May 3rd-5th, May 10th-12th, May 17th-19th from 10:30am - 5:00pm
Sunday May 8th, 15th and 22nd from 9:00am - noon

For assistance with drop off or info, contact
Marcy Axelrad at 617-448-7490 or friendspspa@hotmail.com

RAIN LOCATION:
Vilna Shul, 18 Phillips Street

Chiara

Pawtucket Red Sox Games!

Would anyone be interested in getting a group together to go this summer??
let us know!  Leave a comment below!!

View home game schedule

Kids can Bowl FREE through the summer!!

Kids can bowl two free games every day this summer with the 'Kids Bowl Free' Pass. For ages 15 and under.

(You can also purchase a family pass. The Family Pass that includes 1, 2, 3, or 4 adults. You are not required to buy a family pass in order to get free kid's passes.)

How to get your free kid's passes
1. Vist the website of a bowling alley near you:
Participating bowling alleys in Massachusetts
2. Register directly on the bowling center page (The registration is valid only at the bowling center where you register and cannot be used at any other bowling center unless otherwise noted.)

3. Once the program has begun, you will get a weekly email that contains a link to your coupons and family passes for that week.

Are you thinking about joining the pool this summer???

If you are, The Clubs at Charles River Park is offering a special deal!

Pre-Summer Membership Sale

Join by May 21st and get four free guest passes* with each adult summer membership purchased! Get started by filling out the form below to grab your free one-day club pass. Our summer season begins Memorial Day weekend!

Take advantage of this deal before it's too late!
Click here to go to The Clubs at Charles River Park

West End Community Center Stuff!

Free Entry to the Museum of Science

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Afternoons beginning at 2:30 PM

Free admission for RACE: Are We SO Different and Exhibit Halls

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons (March 2 through May 12, 2011) starting at 2:30pm- Main Lobby Check-in Table.

Residents of the cities listed below will be admitted free to the Museum to view the RACE exhibit on Tuesdays , Wednesdays and Thursday afternoons starting at 2:30 during the run of the exhibit.The only exception is the Massachusetts April school vacation week (April 19, 20, 21)
The cities are: Boston: (Allston, Back Bay, Brighton, Charlestown, Dorchester, East Boston, Fenway/Kenmore, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Mission Hill, North End, Roslindale, Roxbury, South Boston, South End, West End) Cambridge, Everett, Malden, Revere, Somerville, Chelsea, and Quincy.
Residents will show a valid picture I.D., such as driver's license, Mass I.D. or passport. Children and teens 3-17, accompanying adults with I.D. will have free admission as well. In the case of college students not having the I.D. forms mentioned above, the accepted I.D.'s are a student picture I.D. and a utility bill with their name and address on it.
No pre-registration is required. Just show up with your I.D Please contact James Boyd in Community Relations at jboyd@mos.org with any questions.

---

Family Music Makers

Fridays 9:30-10:15 A.M.
Family Music Makers is a musical journey designed for children aged newborn through 4 and their caretakers. Kids sing, play percussion instruments and dance as they learn musical behaviors, gross motor movement, and socialization with other children.
Classes are ongoing. Register at www.linx-usa.com or call 781-235-3210. Registration includes a CD of songs from Family Music Makers' own locally recorded repertory.

---

Youth Droppin' In

Sundays from 2:00-5:00

Youth drop in center for kids 10-15 of age. A safe, fun, learning environment which will provide homework help as well as broaden their horizons by expanding upon things they are learning in school. We incorporate regular physical activity into our youth program. Occasional field trips to the Museum of Science and the Aquarium will both educate and enlighten participants.
Please contact our Youth Program Coordinator, Merlyne Pierre at mp@westendcommunitycenter.com with any questions about this program.

It's a rainy day...

and the forecast for the week looks like it's going to be cold and rainy...

According to channel 7, this is what the forecast is:

Sunday: Cloudy with scattered showers, embedded downpours, but some dry stretches too. Highs a few degrees either side of 60. Cooler coast. Temps slide back into the low 50s late as winds turn NE.

Monday: Cloudy with a few showers, drizzle. Cool & raw. Highs along the coast near 50.....55 inland.

Tuesday: Cloudy with periods of rain. Cool & raw. Highs along the coast near 51.....57 inland.

Wednesday: Cloudy with periods of rain. Cool & raw. Highs along the coast near 52.....57 inland.

Thursday: Cloudy with periods of rain. Cool & raw. Highs along the coast near 53.....58 inland.

Friday: A few breaks of sun? Possible. Still scattered showers around, perhaps a thunderstorm. Highs in the upper 50s coast, mid 60s inland.

Saturday: Better, clouds, some sun, a passing shower of thunderstorm could pop. Highs low 60s coast, near 70 inland.

Spring Hunt/ Mother's Brunch

It was great to see all of you today!!
I hope the kids had a good time!

Welcome some new parents to the group, and please pass along info about us with other neighbors! We will try and get some flyers up soon!

We hope to see everyone outside as the weather gets nicer! Please let us know about things you hear about so we can share it with everyone!

Check in here at the blog and check for updates!

Don't forget the West End Children's Festival is in August!! We are looking for Volunteers to help plan the fun!! Contact the West End Community Center at 617.670.1900 or Tatiana at tm@westendcommunitycenter.com

Chiara

Race to Nowhere Reminder!!

Friends and Neighbors, 
 
A reminder that the screening of the provocative film Race to Nowhere on Thursday May 19th at 5:30 and 7 at the Warren-Prescott Auditorium. As you may have read, this film is sweeping the nation and is becoming a "must-see" for parents and educators. Its last Boston screening sold out in a week. It has been covered on every major news source. It can ONLY be seen through limited screenings.

Both screenings, at 5:30 pm and 7pm on May 19th, will be at the Warren-Prescott Auditorium. We encourage you to invite friends and buy your tickets today.  $10 online and $15 at the door. Spread the word.

Tickets can be purchased at,
For 5:30 http://rtnwarrenprescott530.eventbrite.com
For 7:00 http://rtnwarrenprescott7.eventbrite.com  

Here is an article from the NY Times http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/education/09nowhere.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=race%20to%20nowhere&st=cse 

We hope you will join us with friends for the film and the conversation. It is sure to inspire lots of food for thought. 
Chiara

Happy Mother's Day!!

I hope all you mother's have a great day!!

To the most rewarding and challenging job!!

Enjoy!!

Race to Nowhere

Friends and Neighbors,

We are happy to announce a second neighborhood screening of the provocative film Race to Nowhere on Thursday May 19th at 5:30 and 7 at the Warren-Prescott Auditorium.

As you may have read, this film is sweeping the nation and is becoming a "must-see" for parents and educators. Its last Boston screening sold out in a week. It has been covered on every major news source. It can ONLY be seen through limited screenings.

Both screenings, at 5:30 pm and 7pm on May 19th, will be at the Warren-Prescott Auditorium.

Tickets are limited and we imagine that they will sell out quickly as word spreads in the community (They sold out at CWT in a week) . We encourage you to invite friends and buy your tickets today. Spread the word. Tickets can be purchased at,

•  For 5:30 http://rtnwarrenprescott530.eventbrite.com

• For 7:00 http://rtnwarrenprescott7.eventbrite.com  

Here is an article from the NY Times http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/education/09nowhere.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=race%20to%20nowhere&st=cse 

We hope you will join us with friends for the film and the conversation. It is sure to inspire lots of food for thought.  

Spring Hunt and Mother's Brunch

Hi everyone!

I hope you have all marked your calendars to join us for our Annual Spring Hunt at 10:30am and this year we are going to head to the West End Community center for our Mother's Brunch at 11am.

Please meet us by the playground by J.Pace and we'll start from there! Please bring a bag or basket or something to put the eggs into. If your kids don't want to keep the actual eggs, we will have a bag to collect them for next year!

If you can, and would like to, please bring something to share for the brunch. There will be some fruit and goodies there, but we love the personal touches of treats from the community!

Hope to see you all there!
Contact me for questions or if you can help us out! Westendparentsgroup@gmail.com.

Thanks!

From the Friends of Phillips Street Playground

The Friends of the Phillips Street Playground is again going to run a used book sale on Sunday, May 22, 2011 from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. 

The sale will take place in the Phillips Street Park (behind #19 Phillips Street on Beacon Hill). 

This year, the event will include the sale of used books for adults and children, DVD's of all types, CD's, Children's toys and a bake sale and lemonade stand run by some of the children in the community.  We will be posting fliers around the city and the event will be publicized in various papers and on-line. 

All proceeds from this sale will go to pay for children's programs that are taking place this spring and summer in the Phillips Street Park on Beacon Hill. 

We have many events scheduled including music programs, picnics in the park with various forms of entertainment, and the fall harvest festival, so we definitely need to raise some money to cover the costs of these events.  The purpose of this email is to make you aware of this event early so that you mark it on your calendar and attend and to suggest that you go through your books, dvd's, cd's and kids toys (clear the clutter out of your house) and donate them to this event. 

The drop off for your items is as follows:

Where:    Vilna Shul- located at #18 Phillips Street on Beacon Hill

Time:      10:30-5:00

Dates:     Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday May 3,4,5,10,11,12,17,18,19 and Sunday, May 8,115 and 22 (early)

If you are not able to drop off your items, please call me at

617-448-7490 and we will arrange to pick them up.