June 2012 baystateparent Magazine

JUNE 2012

FREE

baystateparent Massachusetts’

Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

SUMMER GUIDE 2012 • • • • • •

FIREWORKS FAIRS & FESTIVALS MUSEUMS OUTDOOR CONCERTS THEATRE AND MORE!

CAPTURED: 14 LOCAL RAD DADS

“No one survives something like this.”

PICKING UP THE PIECES ONE YEAR AFTER THE TORNADO

At Home with Boston’s Media Couple

SARA UNDERWOOD and MIKE MIKE FELGER Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010

MORE CHOICES

FROM YUMMY TO TUMMY.

fun with food | free Kidgits plate* | food drive

Saturday, June 16 Solomon Pond Mall

Auburn Mall

1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. Noon–2:00 p.m.

The Food Court Demo the new iCarly Groovy Foodie DS Game!

Presented by:

In association with:

2 JUNE2012

The Food Court

Not a member? It’s just $5 to join!

Visit Simon Guest Services for details. *While supplies last © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. ©2012 D3PUBLISHER. Nintendo trademarks and copyrights are properties of Nintendo. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

Opening Pre-Kindergarten September 2012 Bancroft’s Pre-K program fully integrates a curriculum that engages children ages 4–5 in a range of new learning environments that spark imagination, tap into curiosity, and encourage self-discovery.

www.bancroftschool.org/prek imagine

learn

create

lower, middle, & upper schools

discover

110 Shore Drive Worcester, MA 01605 508.854.9227 www.bancroftschool.org

BAYSTATEPARENT 3

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One Thousand Acres of LAKESIDE ADVENTURE

June Events

ily farm FUN! It’s hands-on, fam ne Extra Hours: Ju am–5pm, 30 Admission 9: m.

6p Farm closes at

covery Play, Endangered Livestock, Dis Rides, y Ha Water Spray ground, Pumpkins, g, kin Pony Rides, Apple Pic and more.

Weekend.

2 & 3 ‌. Sheep Shearing 9 & 10 ‌. Bug Weekend. r Weekend.

16 & 17 ‌. Splashtacula bring your 17 ‌. Father’s Day- Kids Dad Free! ekend.

23 & 24 ‌. Carnival We 23 ‌. Member’s Night. ekend.

30 & July 1 ‌. Robot We

r: Sign-up now fo ups s Birthday Parties s Gro Outings e s Sleepovers & s Privat

DavisFarmland.com 978-422-MOOO (6666)

Š2012 DFL&DMM

at by a child 12 years or younger Adults must be accompanied Davis Farmland.

Explore

our FAMILY PACKAGES! PuritySpring.com/baystate

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4 JUNE2012

FREE! $2

with . Expires 6/30/12. Not Valid Souvenir Cup of Animal Feeds. BSP6 S other Discounts or Package C H U S E T T

G S T E R L I N

M A S S A

Sky’s the limit.

Opening a MEFA U.Fund College Investing Plan account can help put dreams within reach. ®

®

As the official 529 college savings plan of Massachusetts, a U.Fund account may give you tax advantages you may not find anywhere else. And, with our new Multi-Firm Age-Based Strategy, you’ll have the flexibility of investing in a variety of funds offered

by Fidelity and several other companies.

With the college financing expertise of MEFA and investment guidance from Fidelity, you’ll get the strategies that may help your savings grow with your child.

Managed by:

To learn more, visit Fidelity.com/ufund or call 800.544.2776.

Please carefully consider the Plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. Contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest.

MEFA is a not-for-profit self-financing state authority that works to make higher education more accessible and affordable for students and families in Massachusetts through community education programs, college savings plans, and low-cost financing options. ®

The U.Fund College Investing Plan is offered by MEFA and managed by Fidelity Investments.

If you or the designated beneficiary is not a Massachusetts resident, you may want to consider, before investing, whether your state or the beneficiary’s home state offers its residents a plan with alternate state tax advantages or other benefits.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

Guidance provided by Fidelity is educational in nature, is not individualized, and is not intended to serve as the primary or sole basis for your investment or tax-planning decisions.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

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BAYSTATEPARENT 5

6 JUNE2012

BAYSTATEPARENT 7

Comprehensive and Caring Early Intervention Services for Children Birth to 3 Years Old Early intervention is crucial for a child whose development is delayed. Criterion programs provide support, education and individualized therapy services to help parents and caregivers promote their child’s maximum development.

We offer a full range of programs in the home or at our EI centers located in communities statewide. Our services include: s $EVELOPMENTAL %VALUATION s $EVELOPMENTAL %NRICHMENT 'ROUPS s (OME 6ISITS s 0ARENT 'ROUPS s 0HYSICAL /CCUPATIONAL and Speech Therapy s 2ESOURCES AND 2EFERRALS

Where Creativity Comes to Play New locations in

(855)EI4-KIDZ

!UBURN s (OLDEN s 7ORCESTER

criterionchild.com

& 2 ! - ) . ' ( ! - s ' ! 2 $ . % 2 s - ! , $ % . s - ) , & / 2 $ s 0! , - % 2 s 3 / 5 4 ( ( ! $ , % 9 s 7 / " 5 2 . s 7 ( ) 4 ) . 3 6 ) , , % s 7 % 3 4 2 /8 " 5 29

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our special guest Sara Underwood of Wellesley with daughters, Tessa and Emma Captured by Stephanie Piscitelli bellinipics.com

14

SUMMER GUIDE

Fireworks, outdoor concerts, fairs and festivals -- we’re kicking off summer with our listings roundup. Start planning summer in our June issue and continue your planning with our online calendar at baystateparent.com.

table

JUNE

2012

•

ANCHORED: AT HOME WITH SARA UNDERWOOD

Last July, FOX25 news anchor, Sara Underwood, stepped down to devote more time to her husband, talk radio host, Michael Felger, and their two daughters. “I gave up a lot for it, but I could never have imagined anything so beautiful.�

46

DIRTY LAUNDRY WITH STEPHEN RICH

“I’m so hot my teeth are sweating,� says Stephen Rich on his oh-so “magical�

Disney vacation with his wife and four kids. Unfortunately, it’s all-too-easy to relate.

the of the home

VOLUME

17

•

NUMBER

2

summer guide

in every issue 10 10 11 12 18 40 42 43 44

32

16 LET’S ROLL: Magic In Westford

WELCOME MEET THE COVER MODEL

18 OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

GUESTBOOK

28 AN UNLIKELY STROLL

FINALLY FOREVER: Shower Them!

CALENDAR

advertising directories 48 55 56 62

SHOW AND TELL BULLETIN BOARD PARTY PLANNER ADVERTISING INDEX

something special

DADS ROCK: Dick Hoyt of Holland

32 ANCHORED: At Home With Sara Underwood

FOREVER FENWAY ON MY PLATE: First-time Dad

36 TORNADO 2011: A Year Later And

CAPTURED: Rad Dads

46 DIRTY LAUNDRY WITH STEPHEN RICH 47 TAKE GOOD CARE: Summer Meals 58 JUNKDRAWERS 60 FIGHT LESS, LOVE MORE: The Overreator In All Of Us

They’re Just Starting To Heal

50 CAMP FULL CIRCLE

Let’s Roll appears in our Summer Guide this month.

sneak peek JULY AUGUST SEPT.

GRANDPARENTS BACK-TO-SCHOOL ARTS/EXTRACURRICULARS

Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010

(QUROO 1RZ IRU 6XPPHU &DPS

Early Education and Care Since 1913

www.guildofstagnes.org

All of our centers are NAEYC accredited • Enrolling children from 4 weeks to 12 years • Center Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Breakfast, Lunch and Snack Provided Center Locations Include Granite St., and Grove St. in Worcester, Charlton, Devens, Fitchburg and Gardner Family Care Offices In Devens, Leicester, Whitinsville and Worcester

BAYSTATEPARENT 9

smile when her daddy is there when she gets a goal in soccer.

- Jennifer Henderson, Bellingham

e m o c l e W Whether your husband has fifty shades of grey on top of his head or is completely bald, a loving, hands-on dad is where it’s at when it comes to sex appeal. There is nothing more attractive than a dedicated dad who does his share around the house.

The only steam I need is not from the scenes in EL James erotic (and let’s face it ladies, cheesy) bestseller but from the rug cleaner when my husband deep-cleans the rugs.

And there’s plenty of women in the Bay State who feel the same way this Father’s Day:

After serving 39 years in the US Army, Dennis Gregoire is a retired veteran who now works as a diesel mechanic with armored cars. He is a family man to the core and accompanies his daughter all over New England to pageants, princess tea parties and trips to meet all the characters she loves in her life, like Thomas the Tank Engine. Dennis believes that physical education is key, and he and his daughter take walks several times a week in the woods. His commitment to his daughter and her growth and development makes him the most incredibly sexy man that I have ever met.

- Amanda Taylor, Gardner

Being sexy is about being desirable. To a mom, there is nothing more desirable than a loving, hands-on dad for her child. From the moment our 10-year-old daughter, Emily, was born, Mark has spent every spare second doing what he loves - and what he loves (I mean, truly loves) is spending time with Emily. Mark does not care what other fathers are doing with (or more often, without) their kids. He believes that being a strong, understanding, guiding force in Emily’s life is what she deserves.

My husband Erick is such an awesome dad and that makes him so sexy! He is a firefighter and loves nothing more than to entertain our three children as well as many of our friends’ children at the fire station.

One of the things I love most about Erick is that he is willing to do just about anything for the kids. Somewhere around our second date, I was thinking he might be the one. So, I laid it out there, that if our relationship was headed somewhere serious he would need to agree to something. I made him take an oath to dress up for Halloween every year once we had kids. My dad did that when I was little and I loved it. To this day I can proudly say he has been one of the Three Little Pigs, the Jolly Green Giant, the scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz and several other hilarious characters. Also, this year he was responsible for hiding over 700 eggs for our neighborhood egg hunt.

I feel so blessed to have a husband who is as involved with the kids’ lives as I am.

- Heather Masera, North Grafton

- Melissa Bardsley, Worcester

Since the moment our daughter, Nicole, was born, my husband Corey has taken the time to be with her – even changing jobs to spend more time with her. There is nothing more attractive than seeing them camping in the backyard and going to car shows, but most of all seeing her

When my husband, Kevin Briggs, is not teaching and coaching, he is home making memories with our family. When Kevin and I met 3 1/2 years ago he knew our relationship came with an extra person, my son Dillon. Dillon now 6 is truly lucky to have Kevin as his stepfather. He treats

him as his own son with no questions asked. This September we were blessed with a baby girl, Lilyanna. Seeing Kevin with his baby girl is the most amazing sight in the world. We are so lucky to have this “hot dad” in our lives.

- Kelly Harper, Rutland Happy Father’s Day to all of the dads bringing sexy back in the real black and white way – no grey areas. However, we would be remiss if we didn’t salute the moms out there fulfilling the role of both Mom and Dad. Single moms are some of the real heroes. Fifty times over.

Go get ‘em.

Carrie Wattu, editor

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher GARETH CHARTER 508-749-3166 x153 gcharter@holdenlandmark.com editor CARRIE WATTU 508-749-3166 x251 editor@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-749-3166 x 351 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

promotions JENNIFER ANTKOWIAK 508-269-1728 jemsa2@charter.net

graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-749-3166 x 351 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

sales & business development manager STEPHANIE PEARL 774-364-0296 stephaniep@baystateparent.com account executive EMILY RETTIG 774-364-4178 emilyr@baystateparent.com account executive BETH HOFFMAN 774-364-5073 beth@baystateparent.com

Skylar Davis interviews Gene Lavanchy.

See Our Kids on FOX25! baystateparent selected five kids to take a tour of the FOX25 studio in Dedham and to be featured in one of their summer Zip Trip promos. Watch the commercials on FOX25 or the FOX25 News Facebook page and look for our kids – Margot, Skylar, Subah, Quinn and Max. It was fun for all of us to see where this month’s cover model, Sara Underwood, works. If you’d like opportunities like this for your family, please look for notices on our Facebook page and visit baystateparent.com and sign up for our weekly emails – the weekend fun planner. We share what’s coming up as well as exciting opportunities for families.

contributing writers

ING COM ON SO nts

re ndpa ool • Gra k to Sch rricular c a c a B r u • s/Ext 166 • Art 49.3

s 08.7 Rate Call 5 vertising d A For

photographers MICHELLE CARR STEVEN KING STEPHANIE PISCITELLI

YINKA ADEBIYI JUDY MILLER AMY CORNELIUSSEN LAURIE PUHN JULIE FREEMAN TRISH RESKE KIM FOLEY MACKINNON STEPHEN RICH proofreader LINDSEY MEAD SUE SCHOCHET BRYAN ETHIER illustrators KEN BRUZENAK MALINA OMUT MELISSA FITZERALD NATALIE SUAREZ LEIGH GULDIG presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

baystatestateparent 101 Water St., Worcester, MA 01604

508-749-3166

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com www.massfieldtrips.com baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 101 Water Street, Worcester, MA 01604 508-749-3166 Fax 508-749-3165 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com Distribution Agency: Insight Distribution Management 978-728-7785/603-661-8370 • Insightdm@yahoo.com

MEET THE COVER MODEL

Sara Underwood OF WELLESLEY In honor of Father’s Day, what is your fondest memory of your father?

My dad and my step-dad walking me down the aisle at our* wedding in Cabo

You look fabulous! What do you do to take such great care of yourself?

Eight hours of sleep when I can get it and core fusion at Exhale. I’m obsessed.

How will the girls celebrate their dad this Father’s Day? Felger is actually hosting Emma’s 8th birthday party on Father’s Day-15 girls at an indoor trampoline park. Precious.

What’s on your family’s to-do list this summer?

Nantucket

10 JUNE2012

*Sara is married to sports talk show host, Michael Felger.

Massachusetts' premier magazine for families has earned more than 160 national and regional awards since 2004, including 34 in 2011: 18 Parenting Media Awards 16 New England Newspaper Press Association Awards stephanie piscitelli bellinipics.com

Including Best Parenting Publication in North America 2010

GUESTBOOK M

AGE, the Massachusetts Association for Gifted Education, is a non-profit advocacy group working to advocate for the needs of gifted students in Massachusetts. As part of our annual meeting, we recognize people in Massachusetts whose work has brought to light the needs of gifted students in Massachusetts. This year we recognize baystateparent contributing writer, Doug Page, for his special report, Ignored: Gifted Children in Massachusetts [Sept. 2011].

Vicky Barr, massgifted.org

Heather Deary of Uxbridge and her family hosted a child through The Fresh Air Fund for the first time last summer.

Seven-year-old Nelly became part of the family during her visit and the Dearys are excited for her return this summer.

For more information on how you can sign up to become a volunteer host this summer, please contact Geri Fogg at 508-372-9064 or The Fresh Air Fund at 800-367-0003. Additionally, you can find more information about The Fresh Air Fund online at freshair.org.

Courtney Rung , The Fresh Air Fund

Our sons Christopher, 11, and Nathan, 8, are aware of how important cancer research is from their dad’s actions - both through his work (Tim works for a cancer research company, Nuclea Biomarkers) and with the PMC. It has become a big part of our lives.

Tim is a great dad who loves doing things with the boys. We’ll spend Father’s Day as a family - perhaps cheering Tim on once again as he most likely will find another bike ride to do.

Kathy Carty, Charlton Editor’s Note: This year’s PMC is Aug. 4 and 5. To learn more about about Tim Carty, visit pmc.org/profile/TC0157.

DON’T MISS OUT! Are you a baystateparent Facebook fan? Do you receive the baystateparent weekend fun planner every Thursday?

Join today and never miss a free event, casting call, giveaway or important parent alert again! Visit baystateparent.com and look for the prompts.

Correction: Mel Robbins (Moms Rock May 2012) is a Dartmouth and Boston College Law School graduate.

photo courtesy of the cartys

WINNERS baystateparent giveaways are announced at baystateparent.com under “Giveaways� as well as on our Facebook page. We’ve made it easy and quick to enter to win a prize! Some of our recent prizes and winners include: Cinestories: The Story of Us Grand Prize Video Version of the Family Portrait $2,000 value Gina Thamel, Auburn Worcester County Light Opera Company’s Oliver Kristin Lodi, Dudley Judy Dubois, Oxford Zoinks Fun Factory Birthday Party $250 value Lynn Guillotte

I am very proud of my husband, Tim Carty, and all that he has done to help support cancer research. He has completed the Pan-Mass Challenge – cycling from Sturbridge to Provincetown – for the past three years. He does this in memory of his two brothers: David Carty, who died at age 49 from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2008 after battling for 10 years, and Peter Carty who died within 2 months of being diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in 2009. Peter was 44.

Big Apple Circus Tickets Francis Family, North Grafton

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Letters should be sent to editor@baystateparent.com and will be edited for clarity and length.

Please include your full name and town for publication.

www. baystateparent .com

CONTACT US FOR REGISTRATION AND AUDITION REQUIREMENT DETAILS ĂŒĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂ€iÂľĂ•ÂˆĂ€i`ĂŠĂŒÂ…>ĂŒĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠV>Â?Â?ĂŠÂœĂ€ĂŠi“>ˆÂ?ĂŠ >Â?Â?iĂŒĂŠ Ă€ĂŒĂƒĂŠ7ÂœĂ€ViĂƒĂŒiÀÊvÂœĂ€ĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠ>Ă•`ÂˆĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂ€iĂƒiÀÛ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Â°

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BAYSTATEPARENT 11

FINALLY,FOREVER

• Include the age of the child.

KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS ADOPTING?

• Note where the parents are registered.

Shower Them!

• Consider making a scrapbook to commemorate the shower.

BY

JUNE’S CHILDREN

• Provide guidance on gifts. The majority of children being adopted come from histories where they have little to no possessions. Parents will not want them to be overwhelmed with material items, so include a few hints in the invitation.

judy m. miller

Gift ideas for the older child (toddler and up): • Gift certificates for services or groceries • Books • Art supplies • Journals • Bicycle, car seat or stroller (a combined gift from several people)

For an international adoption: • Serve authentic food from the child’s birth country. Research the foods and their significance. Have place cards for each meal item with an explanation of what the item is. • Go online to find country information, products and resources to give guests ideas where they can purchase culturallyrelated items. • Ask the parents for a list of books and resources they might like for their family.

All

• Encourage guests to dress in attire that reflects the child’s birth country.

Other tips for showering adoptive parents: • Get an idea of the travel date or the date that the baby/child is being escorted/ arriving home and plan the shower four to six weeks before that date. • Make it a couples’ shower. Men express that they typically feel more involved in the process of adopting than during a pregnancy. • Get the guest list from the proud parents-to-be. Make sure it has complete addresses, email addresses and phone numbers.

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Helping Parents in New England Give Their Children with Special Needs a Future Southeast Advocate Associates helps families of children with special needs in steering their way through the complicated network of education, medical and legal systems to obtain adequate and appropriate educational services for their children in both public and private schools.

Cheryl Follett – 30 years experience advocating for children with disabilities t XXX TPVUIFBTUBEWPDBUFBTTPDJBUFT DPN

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parents should be showered for the arrival of their new child including parents who are adopting.

Aside from supporting the parents who are adopting, you are also sending an important message: that you recognize and validate that adoption is indeed an accepted way to create or expand a family.

Adoption showers are my favorite to give. I love the “textures� and “layers� that can be added to this special party.

Consider honoring the child’s birth country, which can be reflected in the choice of invitations, food, decorations, paper goods, linens, flowers, etc.

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12 JUNE2012

Take into account that delays do occur, so do keep an alternative date on the schedule and note that on the invitation.

If the parents are adopting domestically, shower the parents after the child has been placed. Give the parents time to adjust with their child, and ask them when they would like a shower. Parents will appreciate that you celebrate their decision to adopt and have decided to shower them with love.

Judy M. Miller is an adoptive parent educator and support specialist. She is the author of What to Expect From Your Adopted Tween.

TIA AND ELEASE Spend any amount of time with these two sisters and their bond is immediately apparent. Twin 12-yearold girls of African American and Caucasian descent, they hope to find a family that is energetic and full of life.

Tia is a tall, athletic girl who enjoys swimming and participating in an after school program. She is very quiet, but she is using therapy well to process her losses and is preparing for meeting a new family.

Elease is a sweet, kind girl, a selfdescribed tomboy. She enjoys playing basketball and has a nice jump shot.

She can act younger than her age and receives special education services to address her social and academic struggles.

These two sisters long to be reunited and to grow up living together. They get along well with other children.

Their social worker is seeking a twoparent home that can give the girls lots of love and attention.

For more information on Tia and Elease, or the adoption process in general, please contact Department of Children and Families Adoption Supervisor Marilyn Crowley at 508-929-2008. The DCF Adoption Office in Worcester holds monthly informational meetings about the adoption process. The office is located at 121 Providence St. (the old St. Vincent Hospital Building) on the third floor. Please call 508-929-2143 to register.

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Reading Comprehension and Writing Workshops

Call for details workshops start July 10th sign your student up today!!

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CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Highlights of June’s Adoption-Related Events Adoptive Families Chat & Play. Meets on the second Saturday of each month in the Newton area for an hour of fun and conversation with other parents and adoptive children. Group is FREE but RSVP is requested. Contact Marcy Krasnow at 617244-6989 or e-mail her at makrasnow@yahoo.com.

Over 45 Mother’s Support Group. This mother’s support group in the Needham area is for new adoptive mothers over the age of 45.

Contact Karen Steinberg for more information at kfsteinberg@comcast.net.

Participation Needed: The Transition to Adoptive Parenthood Project at Clark University is aimed at exploring the transition to adoptive parenthood in a diverse group of families. They are asking you to help them understand your experiences as you prepare to become, and then become, parents.

Couples who participate in this project will be interviewed individually either in person or by

phone during the pre-adoption period, and then again three months after the adoption. As a token of appreciation, you will be paid for your participation in this project. Please contact Abbie Goldberg through her website at clarku.edu/faculty/goldberg for more information.

Please submit July’s adoption-related events by Tuesday, June 5th to be included in the July edition of baystateparent. Events submitted after the 5th of the month will be included in our online calendar only. To submit an event, visit baystateparent.com and click “Calendar� and “Submit an Event.�

Sign up for our

Weekend Fun Planner at baystateparent.com

Arlington Adoption Information Meetings.

Arlington DCF, 30 Mystic St., Arlington. Tues., June 12. 6 to 7 p.m. Registration is not required. Please contact Stephanie Frankel at 978-557-2734 or stephanie.frankel@state.ma.us.

Adoptive Moms Playgroup. Families with young children meets at the First Baptist Church in Weston.

Contact JosĂŠe Bilodeau at joseemike@msn.com or 781-341-3699.

**

Adoption Information Week. Jordan’s Furniture & MARE. June 10-16, 12 - 8 p.m. Know someone who is interested in adopting? Send your friends or family to any of Jordan’s Furniture’s five locations from June 10-16, and they will have the opportunity to talk to social workers about the adoption process, and get any of their questions answered in person! mareinc.org.

Gay & Lesbian Adoptive Family Study is seeking gay and lesbian individuals or couples who have adopted a child to fill out a web-based survey.

For more information, contact Dr. Scott Ryan at 850644-9747 or email him at sryan@fsu.edu.

MAPP (Massachusetts Approach to Partnerships in Parenting) Training. Ongoing.

An eight-week course designed to train prospective families in regards to the needs of children who are available for adoption through the DCF foster care system. This service is provided free of charge.

Visit mass.gov/dss (Click on Adoption, then Foster Care and Adoption Information Meetings to find the MAPP training link).

352*5$06 2))(5(' ‡ Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN program** ‡ Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Management Concentration

Norwood Area Families with Children from Korea. Families with children adopted from Korea (in the 7-year-old age range) looking to connect with other families in the Norwood area should contact Patti Devine pdevinefree@aol.com or 781769-3813.

‡ Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

‡ Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Concentration ‡ Bachelor of Arts in Psychology ‡ Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts – Elementary Education Concentration ‡ Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

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SUMMER guide

natalie suarez illustrator 14 JUNE2012

16

LET’S ROLL: MAGIC IN WESTFORD

18

OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

21 22

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

23 25

OUTDOOR CONCERTS

26

BABY, YOU’RE A FIREWORK

28

AN UNLIKELY STROLL

LET’S GO TO THE MUSEUM! THEATRE & MUSICAL PERFORMANCES

in Your Backyard...

Literally!

6/27 - DINOMAN 6/28 - YO-YO PEOPLE

In-Home Eval

7/11 - CURIOUS CREATURES

In-Home Therapy

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Newborns to Teens

IRISH STEP DANCERS 7/18 - STACEY PEASLEY 7/19 - MAGIC WITH GEORGE SATERIAL 8/1 BENJAMIN THE CLOWN 8/2 - WAYNE POTASH

Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Speech Therapy Parent Support Sibling Support

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SUMMERGUIDE

Summer Therapy

SUMMERGUIDE • LET’SROLL

Moms Create Magic in Westford story and photos

Elizabeth Almeida

BY

amy corneliussen

Emily Piper (L) and Elizabeth Almeida (R)

“I love teaching kids that you don’t need to go to the toy store to make your dreams come true.”

- Emily Piper, artist and mom-to-be at Meadowbrook Farm

S

pend an afternoon at the farm with a farmer who shows kids how a harvest goes from field to table. Add a little schoolhouse and an artist inside who teaches kids how to paint a landscape or how to make a critter from recycled materials.

Two entrepreneurs, Elizabeth Almeida, the farmer, and Emily Piper, the artist, are popping with creativity and energy at Meadowbrook Farm in Westford. They have formed a unique alliance that makes a great place for families to visit, explore, imagine, create, take gardening and art classes, cook a treat by a bonfire, pick veggies or just “be” on the farm.

A Totally Different Place I first visited Meadowbrook Farm with my family last fall at pumpkin time. It was Almeida’s first harvest.

At first glance, it looked like a small, simple farm with just a table for a farm stand, and a young farmer with a baby in 16 JUNE2012

her arms and a toddler scurrying nearby.

As I talked to Almeida and Piper, and noticed the funky old schoolhouse they use as a classroom, I realized this was a special place where these women live their dreams, and where kids come to experiment, make a mess and explore their own creativity.

The two are riding the back-to-nature, eco-conscious, local food movements, and have tapped into a yearning among parents for these kinds of communitybuilding activities.

“It’s totally different, it’s not anything that anyone else offers,” says neighbor Donnna Sullivan, who’s frequently at the farm visiting the animals with her 2-yearold son Dominic, or buying up the arugula crop.

I recently returned to Meadowbrook Farm to see what spring was bringing. On a Friday morning in March, Almeida was setting up a small greenhouse. Piper had just taught a craft class for 4-to-6-year-olds called “Birds, Bugs and Beasties.”

Almeida, the farmer, has two businesses that overlap: The Fat Moon is her organic

farm business, which she calls the “learning lab” for her other business, the Center for Healthy Living & Learning. The latter offers courses ranging from exercise to nutrition to meditation.

Piper’s art business is called Rumphius Creativity Unhinged, named after Miss Rumphius, a character created by her muse, Barbara Cooney, an author and illustrator of classic children’s picture books.

The two women rent space on the farm, and are not officially business partners. But their visions are complementary, and they regularly plan joint programs and events, and cross-promote each other’s businesses.

Their clientele often end up taking both art and farming classes.

Across the street, and also part of Meadowbrook Farm, is a barn with 18 horses and horseback riding lessons, a separate business which on occasion collaborates with Piper and Almeida for special events.

Almeida lives a few minutes away from the farm with her husband and two kids, while Piper lives on the farm with her husband, renting part of a farmhouse next to the

schoolhouse. The Pipers are expecting their first child in October.

Mrs. Junkbox and The Fat Moon Piper was the first to arrive at Meadowbrook Farm about three years ago.

With her winsome personality, she quickly made friends and a name for herself around town, teaching art classes in the community and recycling programs at the schools. She developed quite a following as Mrs. Junkbox, her name when she appears at local schools.

“When I’m in the grocery store I hear ‘It’s Mrs. Junkbox,’ and my husband says ‘Does that mean I’m Mr. Junkbox?’ ‘Yes,’ I say, and the kids say ‘That’s baby Junkbox’,” Piper recounts, pointing to her tummy and laughing.

The owners of Meadowbrook Farm decided to fix up the rundown schoolhouse on the property and offered it to Piper for her art classes. The 1850 one-room Long Sought For School #8 had been moved by wagon to the farm in the early 1900s

and was used as a blacksmith shop until WWII. Then it became a tractor shed and grew dilapidated.

While the schoolhouse was being rehabbed, Almeida and her husband began to talk to an old friend, Bob Webb, about Almeida’s dream of farming and teaching people about sustainable living.

They were living in Northboro at the time, and were looking for a place for Almeida to farm and offer classes.

Webb happened to be one of the owners of Meadowbrook Farm and agreed to lease the land to Almeida. She and her family bought a house in Westford to be close to the farm and moved in last May, just a month after giving birth to their daughter. She laughs as she recalls last June when she would wake up early each day, nurse the baby before heading to the farm to plant pumpkin seeds, until her husband would call to say the baby was awake again, and she’d race back home to nurse again.

Her son, almost 2 then, would call the moon “the fat moon,� and a name for her business was born.

Almeida met Piper at a party at Webbs’ house in late 2010, and they’ve been friends and business associates ever since. “It’s been nice to have the support of another young female entrepreneur who’s making a business and a family at the same time,� Almeida says.

Both women appreciate that their husbands have jobs that support their families while they grow their businesses.

They have chosen simple lifestyles without huge mortgages so they can pursue their dreams. But they each foresee a day when their own income will support their families.

For now, Almeida hires a babysitter 15 hours a week so she can tend to her businesses, and works on weekends. “I truly feel my business is my calling in life as much as being a mother,� Almeida says.

Piper plans to take some time off once her baby is born. Then, she has plenty of babysitting offers to cash in. Fortunately, her job is just yards beyond her back door.

She says following her passion will set a good example for her kids, showing them that being an adult isn’t boring. “When you are happy, you are a better parent,� Piper says.

An Eclectic Array of Classes The schoolhouse opened for classes last June. Piper renamed it the Rumphius Recycled Schoolhouse after the book character that tries to make the world a more beautiful place, and bedecked it with a fanciful mix of antique and salvaged furniture and knick-knacks.

Almeida uses the schoolhouse for classes too, but soon will have her own classroom space in the refurbished apple shed next door.

Together, they offer an eclectic array of classes.

Bucks, a modified CSA, or Community Supported Agriculture in which members pay a farmer for a weekly portion of her harvest. With Fat Moon Farm Bucks, you buy a credit to select the veggies you want from the farmstand for a discount all growing season long.

She is continuing her successful Kids CSA classes adding a new location in Westboro in which parents learn right beside their children, spend quality time, and the family takes home enough veggies for a meal, Almeida says. “The kids see the whole process – from garden to dinner table, and try new foods,� says Liz Schocklin of Littleton. Her son Evan, now 4, tried leeks during last year’s Kids CSA, and his mom thinks he’s become a better eater since.

For the Dolans, a vegetarian family, the farm is heavenly. “You just walk onto the farm and it’s a calming, wonderful place,� says Kathi

Visit the Farm Meadowbrook Farm is located at 5 Gould Road in Westford, MA. The Fat Moon organic farm and classes: thefatmoon.com and healthylivingandlearning.com Contact info for both businesses: info@healthylivingandlearning.com or 978-496-9606 Rumphius Creativity Unhinged art classes: creativityunhinged.com; rumphius@creativityunhinged.com; 978-995-7002.

Stable at Meadowbrook Farm, riding lessons and boarding: Debbie Morse, 978-392-9667.

Free Fun at the Farm Check out Meadowbrook Farm at one of these free ongoing events:

Piper teaches masterpiece painting like Van Gogh, sculpting gargoyles and reliving “Little Women� through writing and plays; she holds vintage tea parties; and leads theater and choral groups. Many of her free-expression art classes use recycled items and she tries to get the kids working outside. This summer, Piper is offering weeklong camps, from Shakespeare to “Sew Fun� fashion to making dollhouses. “I love teaching kids that you don’t need to go to the toy store to make your dreams come true,� Piper says.

Almeida’s The Fat Moon offers courses in how to grow a pizza garden, preparing healthy 10-minute meals and square-foot gardening. This year, Almeida started selling square-foot garden kits–complete with wood, soil, plants and seeds – and Farm

Dolan, who lives within walking distance.

Dolan and her three daughters did the Kids CSA last year, and her girls would eat green peppers like apples, she says. “They’re not begging for a bag of Cheetos, they’re asking ‘Can I try this vegetable?’� says Dolan. Her girls also love Piper’s art classes and will be in her camps this summer.

And for homeschooling mom Shel Tscherne and her two girls, the trek from Marlboro to Westford for art classes is a chance to revel in the creativity at Meadowbrook Farm. “It’s so magical! Oh, to be a kid again!�

Amy Corneliussen is a freelance writer living in Central MA with her two children.

SUMMER THURSDAYS: 3-7 p.m. beginning early May. Bring your own picnic and explore the farm. Local veggies will be for sale, and kids can do a craft for about $5.

MORNING PLAYDATES: 9:30-11 a.m. Spend a morning at the farm with other families on the second Monday of each month.

MONTHLY FAT MOON PICNICS: 6-8 p.m. June 2, July 7 and August 4.

Bring your own picnic, go on a night hike and enjoy the campfire. You might even get a chance to cook a healthy local treat by the fire, like a cinnamon & honey apple.

SUNDAY MEDITATION: 7 a.m.

Thirty minutes of quiet meditation and 15 minutes of conversation.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 17

SUMMERGUIDE

OH, THE

PLACES YOU’LL

Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! - dr. seuss

natalie suarez illustrator

GO

GO RED, WHITE AND BLUE: Fireworks blast off this month and continue through mid July. See page 26.

18 JUNE2012

melissa fitzgerald illustrator

leigh guldig illustrator

melissa fitzgerald illustrator

GO FAIRS AND FESTIVALS: There’s something to look forward to every week! The season of carnival games and candy apples is starting and runs through October.

See page 21 for listings.

GO THEATRE: Skip the movies and enjoy live theater this summer. See page 25.

GO MUSEUM: Learn something new in a fun and interactive way. See page 22.

SUMMERGUIDE MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

A Adult C Child Y Youth M Member NM Non-Member PP Per Person

1FRIDAY

& proceeds benefit the Wankinquoah Rod & Gun Club Youth Group. Prizes are awarded in youth and adult categories, & terrific prizes are up for grabs in the club’s raffle. A$11, C(14 & under) $3. Register: tihonet.com or wrgclub.org. seeplymouth.org.

4MONDAY FREE Making History Day. Boston Common.

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Children from all over Massachusetts will have the opportunity to look at a Fishweir, participate in Native American dancing and play games that youngsters in the 18th century would have played. There will be historic interpreters describing how the Boston Common was used during the colonial period and sheep and cows grazing in the Common just like they used to do centuries ago. Children will also have the opportunity to be placed in stocks to

FREE & ONGOING Pegnancy Yoga. First Unitarian Church of Worcester Chapel, 90 Main St., Worcester.

Tuesdays,5:30 - 7p.m.Pregnancy is a precious time in a woman’s life. Learn the tools that will help you grow emotionally and physically through your pregnancy and beyond. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a blanket and mat if you have them. Those preparing to conceive are welcome. No experience necessary. Light refreshments served. Childcare available upon advanced request. Donations welcome. kundaliniyogaforall.com.

6WEDNESDAY Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl®. Boston’s City Hall Plaza. June 5 – June 7, Noon – 8 p.m. every day.

All-you-can eat ice cream festival plus frozen yogurt, and sorbet from ten of the nation’s leading ice

ONGOING FREE at Five. Providence Children’s Museum. Providence, RI. 5 – 8 p.m. 401-273-5437, ChildrenMuseum.org.

2SATURDAY

FREE Animal Adventures’ Dino- Adventures.

Fay School, 48 Main St., Southborough. 10 – 11 a.m. For children ages 2 - 6 along with their parents with a complimentary lunch. Features fossils, dinosaur skulls, velociraptor claws and dinosaur skin that children can see and touch. Live animals such as monitor lizards, alligators, scorpions, birds and snapping turtles. Register: 508-490-8417, fayschool. org/saturdays.

3SUNDAY FREE Whisker Walk. Lancaster Fairground, Route117, Lancaster. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fun day for families and their dogs plus a dog walk-a-thon to benefit animal rescue groups and shelters. Exhibits, vendors, giveaways, programs, demonstrations and more. 978-422-8585, whiskerwalk.org.

Annual Tihonet Pond Fishing Derby. Plymouth.

6 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Held on the Massachusetts Statewide Free Fishing Weekend where a fishing license is NOT required! The fee includes a full breakfast

FREE & ONGOING Story Hour at Old Sturbridge Village Book Store. Weekly on Thursday, 9 – 10 a.m. Every week a new story, followed by open play time with old-fashioned toys. osv.org.

8FRIDAY

FREE Playground & Picnic. Dean Park, Main St., Shrewsbury. Play in a nice fenced-in playground.

Bring bikes for kids to ride in the courts or on the sidewalks. Great sidewalks for strollers. Pack a picnic! shrewsbury-ma.gov

FREE The Cambridge River Festival. Takes place on the Northern bank of the Charles River (Cambridge Side), along Memorial Dr. between John F. Kennedy St. and Western Ave., 12 – 6 p.m. Features jazz, folk, roots and world music performances, dance, art demonstrations, family art-making activities and over 100 specialty food purveyors and craftspeople. cambridgema.gov.

Native American Pow-Wow. Treasure Valley Scout Reservation, 394 Pleasantdale Rd., Rutland.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Music, dance, crafts, food and vendor. $5 parking. Email johngentlehawk@msn. com. Also June 3.

FREE Summer Thursdays. Meadowbrook Farm, 5 Gould Rd., Westford. 3 - 7 p.m. Bring your own picnic and explore the farm. Local veggies will be for sale, and kids can do a craft for about $5. creativityunhinged.com, thefatmoon.com.

FREE Bike Rodeo. Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Celebrate summer wellness with a bike rodeo, presented by the Injury and Prevention Center at Lifespan. Children ride a bike in the Museum’s parking lot, get tips on bicycle safety and take home bike and helmet decorations. Also learn about local farmers’ markets from Farm Fresh Rhode Island. ChildrenMuseum.org.

ONGOING Strawberry Picking! The season may be early this year so don’t wait! pickyourown.org/ mass.htm.

Shearing Day with Angel Hair Alpaca. The Willard House and Clock Museum, Grafton. 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m. Observe the shearing and experience demonstrations of spinning and weaving. Period music, children’s games, demonstrations and refreshments.

The museum will be open, with tours at a reduced rate for a special spring tour, which will introduce you to Grafton’s oldest standing house, the Willard Family, early clocks and the role of domestic activities in the spring. willardhouse.org.

All-you-can eat ice cream festival plus frozen yogurt, and sorbet from ten of the nation’s leading ice cream companies. Ages 10+ $10pp, Ages 3 – 9, $5. scooperbowl.org.

9SATURDAY Dolly & Me Tea. Elm Hill Center, 26 East Main St., Brookfield. 1 – 3 p.m. Small craft project and a short story read aloud as well as a sing-a-long with Rene Coro. Light tea snacks and refreshments will be served. Inquire about fees. 508-347-8181 x109, rehabresourcesinc.

FREE June 4th is Making History Day on the Boston Common. friendsofthepublicgarden.org.

see what punishment was like in colonial times and meet re-enactors from the Civil War. 617-267-7366, friendsofthepublicgarden.org.

FREE Hike & Play. Purgatory Chasm State Park, Sutton. baystateparent recommends visiting this unique landmark filled with trails, caves and rocks.

Wear sturdy sneakers and watch out for little ones carefully! There is a fabulous little playground here as well as wooded picnic areas. Top off your day with a visit to West End Creamery in Whitinsville – right down the street. mass.gov/dcr/parks/central/purg.htm

5TUESDAY Montachusett Moms Group. Peoples Church, South Main St., Ashburnham. Meets every first Tuesday during the school year, 9:30 -11:30 a.m. For mothers and kids in Gardner, Westminster, Ashburnham, Winchendon and Athol. montachusett-moms.com.

Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl®. Boston’s City Hall Plaza. June 5 – June 7, Noon – 8 p.m. every day.

All-you-can eat ice cream festival plus frozen yogurt, and sorbet from ten of the nation’s leading ice cream companies. Ages 10+ $10pp, Ages 3 – 9, $5. scooperbowl.org.

cream companies. Ages 10+ $10pp, Ages 3 – 9, $5. scooperbowl.org.

FREE & ONGOING Wee Care Infant Oral Health Program. Dr. Mel, 223 Walnut St., Suite 22, Framingham. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. Children under 3 are invited to register for this free seminar with examination designed to help parents assure a cavity-free child. The informal format assures that all parents’ questions will be answered by this pediatric dental specialist. Space is limited. Call Dr. Mel at 508-875-KIDS to register.

WeeCareAtDrMels.com.

ONGOING CastleKids StoryHour. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. 1 – 2 p.m.

Great for preschoolers. From damsels in distress to mighty dragons, hear tales of adventure, from well-known fairy tales to modern picture books in the setting of a medieval Great Hall. Includes museum admission, program with craft related to the story, and a snack. A/C pair $12. higgins.org.

7THURSDAY Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl®. Boston’s City Hall Plaza. June 5 – June 7, Noon – 8 p.m. every day.

FREE Dragon Boat Festival. Memorial Drive and Dewolfe Street, Cambridge. Noon – 5 p.m. Saturday is races only. Sunday is races and the cultural festival. This annual event celebrates Asian American traditions on the Charles River. It is the largest Asian cultural event in New England and was also the first such event in the country. It includes boat races, performances, food vendors,and information booths. bostondragonboat.org. Also June 10.

Annual Strawberry Day. Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen, 6 Discovery Hill Rd., Off Route 6A, East Sandwich. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Enjoy fresh strawberries in a homemade dessert served in the historic 1903 Jam Kitchen by gracious volunteers. Fee for dessert is $4. View old-fashioned strawberry jam making. See the current art exhibits in the two galleries. Visit the resident animals in the nature center, stroll the paths of the wildflower garden and walk the trails of the Briar Patch Conservation Area. 508-8886870, thorntonburgess.org.

FREE 11th Annual Cape Cod Maritime Festival.

Hyannis Harbor. Explore the tall ship Peacemaker, book a sail on the catboat Sarah or the Black Dog Tall Ship Alabama, enjoy colorful and exciting exhibits, arts and crafts, children’s entertainment, musical performers, pirates and of course - seafood! CapeCodMaritimeMuseum.org. Also June 10.

Creative Yoga for Children. Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St., Northborough. Saturdays, 1 – 2 p.m., until June 16. Fees may apply. 508-8982688, barrettfamilywellness.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 19

SUMMERGUIDE Women’s Workshop: Twisted Sister and The Fairy GodMother. Loretta Laroche and Joan Borysenko. Plymouth. Use your inner voices to discover how to live life with humor, grace, and dignity.

LorettaLaRoche.com.

Celebrating Adams. Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Explore the creative vision and the personal world of a photographer who forever changed our image of the American environment.

Special presentations by Ansel Adams’ son and by the curator of the complete archive of Adams’ work.

Tours, activities and more. Admission fees apply. pem.org.

FREE Family Music Festival. Lowell School Park, 25 Lowell St., Cambridge. 12 – 3 p.m. Concerts, instrument petting zoo, face painting, crafts, bake sale.

Rain or shine. Event will be held inside New School of Music in case of rain. newschoolofmusic.org.

9th Annual Sharon Timlin Memorial Event to Cure ALS (5K and Kids’ 1-Mile Fun Run). Hopkin-

Mad About Monkeys Day. Southwick’s Zoo, Mendon. Special events and activities to celebrate the zoo’s wonderful primates. A$20, C$15. southwickszoo.com.

FREE Music Class. Children’s Music Academy.

Worcester and Westborough Studios. Includes keyboard playing, singing, ear training, theory,

FREE Annual Fathers Fest. Worcester County Fathers & Family Network. Insitute Park, Worcester.

Entertainment, games, food, activities, music and performers. Held rain or shine. wcffn.org/events.htm.

10SUNDAY Corvette Day. Larz Anderson Auto Museum, 15 Newton St., Brookline. 9 a.m. A$10, C (6-12) $5, C under 6 FREE. larzanderson.org.

FREE Dragon Boat Festival. Memorial Drive and Dewolfe Street, Cambridge. Noon – 5 p.m. Sunday is races and the cultural festival. This annual event celebrates Asian American traditions on the Charles River. It is the largest Asian cultural event in New England and was also the first such event in the country. It includes boat races, performances, food vendors,and information booths. bostondragonboat.org.

Sculpture Exhibit. Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Ends June 15. Ben Caras’s exciting metal sculptures includes more than a dozen works found along the paths and trails of the Garden. A$10, C (3-17) $5. newfs.org.

FREE Central Mass Rail Trail. Located on Route 140, West Boylston. This 3-mile scenic, wooded trail takes you to Holden and back. Great for strollers, walking dogs (West Boylston entrance only) and taking kids on bikes. The river is lovely to enjoy. Kids love to climb a huge sand hill at the entrance. Dairy Queen and Meolas Ice Cream located on neighboring Route 12 or travel to Rota Spring Farm in Sterling for a country experience: fresh icecream, goats and farm-fresh air. wachusettgreenways.org.

Gently-Used Children’s Clothing, Toys & Equipment. Curtis Middle School Cafeteria, 22 Pratts Mill Rd., Sudbury. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Open to the Public! $1 per family admission. sudburyfamilynetwork.org.

FREE Day of Play. Elm Park, Highland St. and Park Ave., Worcester. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Children ages 3-10 and their families are invited to engage in 30+ “playful� learning activities: giant blocks, art, obstacle course, American Indian drums, stories. Meet Llama Llama, Twister, Finz and Fancy Nancy. Interact with robots. Participate in the largest Simon Says in Worcester. Make an instrument and join a parade as a member of the South High Marching Band! Become a “Citizen Scientist� with author Loree Griffen Burns and sing and dance with Vic and Sticks, Chuck & Mudd and the McInerney Irish Step Dancers. All children MUST be accompanied by an adult. Bring a picnic lunch, blanket\chair and have a memorable day of play. 508-792-0220, worcesterdayofplay.org.

12TUESDAY

13WEDNESDAY FREE & ONGOING Rocketland. Lemansky Park, 400 Oxford St. (across from the Police Station), Auburn.

This playground and skateboard park is recommended by many Central Mass parents. Public bathrooms are available. Many area restaurants and stores are nearby including Panera, Arbys, McDonalds and more.

ensemble playing and more. Refreshments. 508-8983888, childrensmusicacademy.org.

ONGOING Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Every Wednesday enjoy a story, meet a live animal and get creative with a supervised craft activity -- all geared especially for little ones, aged 3 and under. The story and animal circle is held at 10:30 and 11 a.m.

Drop-in craft time continues from 10:30 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. Tickets are issued at the Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Museum admission required: A$14, C (2 – 18) $8, C age 2 and under FREE. ecotarium.org.

11MONDAY

14THURSDAY

FREE concerts every Wednesday at the DCR Hatch Shell in Boston starting July 11th. landmarksorchestra.org.

ton High School 8 a.m. - Noon. Registration is limited.

No “day of� registration. Sign the kids up for a professionally-timed kids’ 1-mile run for 7 – 10 year olds. This is a huge family fun day with raffles, silent auction, games, crafts, music, food and more. Also this year: Timlin Event will be “green� and will include bike valet, recycled shoe program and much more. All proceeds benefit The Angel Fund, a non-profit charity benefiting ALS research at UMASS Medical School.

Rain or shine. 508-625-1660, sharontimlinrace.org.

FREE 11th Annual Cape Cod Maritime Festival.

Hyannis Harbor. Explore the tall ship Peacemaker, book a sail on the catboat Sarah or the Black Dog Tall Ship Alabama, enjoy colorful and exciting exhibits, arts and crafts, children’s entertainment, musical performers, pirates and of course - seafood! CapeCodMaritimeMuseum.org.

FREE & ONGOING Natick Community Organic Farm, 117 Eliot St., Natick. During your visit, you and your children may witness animals reproducing, birthing, nursing young, or dying. We encourage you to use your visit an opportunity to talk openly about life cycles, and that farm animals are raised for food.

Enjoy a barn-side market stand, animals, gardening and more! It’s free to visit but they offer many programs requiring registration and reasonable fees.

508–655–2204, natickfarm.org.

Opening Day of the Cape Cod Baseball League. For a schedule of games and game locations, visit capecodbaseball.org.

ONGOING Summer Tubing. Ski Ward Hill, Shrewsbury. Open Wed. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Enjoy the thrill of Summer TubaSlide as you go zipping down the hill and enjoy the breeze on a hot summer day! TubaSliding is a blast and it’s not wet, but it’s wild and it is safe and affordable fun for all levels!

Recommended for ges 5+. $9 for one hour of sliding. skiward.com.

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SUMMERGUIDE

15FRIDAY Art Festival. Cohasset Historic Common. 2 – 7 p.m. (Sat., 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sun., 12 – 5 p.m.).

One of New England’s premier arts festivals, South Shore Art Center’s annual Arts Festival on Cohasset’s historic, oceanside Common features over 100 juried craft and fine artist booths, artist demonstrations, a juried art exhibition, Members’ and Young Artists exhibitions, food and entertainment. ssac.org.

Waltham Riverfest. Moody Street, Waltham.

June 15 – 17. Music, dancing, painting, strolling, shopping, eating and boating. For a complete schedule as well as hours, visit: walthamriverfest.com.

16SATURDAY Flag Day Celebration and Old Ironsides 1812 Discovery Center Opening. Boston. Witness a spectacular patriotic display of flags stretching from the Museum across the Navy Grade to USS Constitution for the Bicentennial of the War of 1812. cityofboston.gov.

ONGOING Family Friendly Improv Comedy. Improv Boston, 40 Prospect St., Cambridge. Every Saturday, 6 p.m. Bring Your Own Improv (BYOI) is an interactive improv show that welcomes voluntary audience participation! You can participate in one of three ways: Applaud at a scene you like, yell out fantastic suggestions, or if you feel you’re ready, jump up and get involved on stage. Great for all ages. Best for ages 4+. $14pp, C (12 and under) $8. Sells out quickly. Reserve tickets online: improvboston.com.

Annual Chelsea River Revel. 13 Andrew McArdle Bridge, Chelsea. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. A festival for the communitites of East Boston and Chelsea on the Chelsea Creek including a 5K race through Chelsea, local music and dance groups, food, and other fun and educational activities. chelseariverrevel.org.

Art Festival. Cohasset Historic Common. See June 15 listing for details. ssac.org.

FREE Town of Millbury Bicentennial Concert.

Windle Field, Canal Street (Route 122A), Millbury.

8 – 10 p.m. The Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Alton Baggett, will present a free concert of classical, Broadway and patriotic music; fireworks will be included. The soloist will be Jane Shivick. The announcer will be Bobbie Chase. Rain date is Sunday, June 17. 508-754-1234.

FREE Art on the Green. The Pinehills Village Green, Plymouth (just off Route 3 at Exit 3). 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Open to all! Steel drum music, art sale with 80 local and regional artists, kids Corner with face painting and tie making for Dad ($5 charge). 508-2092000, facebook.comthepinehills. Rain date: June 17.

Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. Bethlehem Church Grounds, 345 Main St., Sturbridge. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. blcsturbridge.org.

baystateparent shines the light on some of the region’s fairs and festivals.

For more events, visit baystateparent.com’s online calendar of events.

HAVE FUN! July 6 – 8: 4th Annual Mashpee Sand Sculpting Festival. An unique, fun, family event! The most talented sand sculptors in the world create amazing sand sculptures over 3 days with hundreds of tons of specially imported sand. Live music, food, giveaways galore and so much more! mashpeecommons.com.

July 6 – 9: The Ocean State Tall Ships Festival. Newport, RI. Parade of Sail through Newport Harbor, exhibits, food, music and entertainment. Children especially enjoy boarding these remarkable vessels, and the opportunity to meet international crew members provides all visitors with insight into the many unique cultures that have helped to shape the past and future of sailing. 401-847-6787; oceanstatetallships.com.

July 7 & 8: Yarmouth Summer Arts and Craft Festival. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. John Simpkins Field, Route 28, Yarmouth. Over 100 juried craftsmen will display and sell their American-made works. Specialty food sampling, craft demonstrations and live music. Free Admission, free parking and held rain or shine.

603-332-2616, castleberryfairs.com.

July 13 – 15: Whaling City Festival. Buttonwood Park, New Bedford. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.

Over 200 flea market and craft vendors, food vendors, music and entertainment, carnival rides. whalingcityfestival.net.

July 14 & 15: Green River Festival. Greenfield Community College, Greenfield. A two-day, three stage event with national talent, local food and fine crafts and the most beautiful hot air balloons.

413-773-5463, greenriver festival.com.

July 21: Glagsow Lands Scottish Festival. Look Park, Northampton.

9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Highland Dance and Atheltic competitions as well as Pipe and Drum and Band contests, Scottish food, entertainment and more. glasgowlands.org.

July 21 & 22: Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival. Hammond Castle Museum, Gloucester. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. take a step back in time to see Knights in shining armor battling it out, live music, magic and so much more while perusing many hand crafted goods and wares. A$15, C (5-12) $10, C under 4 FREE. Please note that all parking will be located at Stage Fort Park for all vehicles. This is an additional $15. *Hammond Castle is not handicapped accessible nor is it stroller friendly.* abbadiamarefestival.com.

July 27 – 29: Lowell Folk Festival.

A family-friendly event with an international array of folk music, ethnic foods, craftspeople and artisans, as well as kid’s activities. Canal boat and trolley rides are also available this weekend. lowellfolkfestival.org.

July 29 – August 5: Yankee Homecoming Festival. Newburyport.

Various times. Everything from face painting to a parade to fireworks to music to crafts. yankeehomecoming.com.

August 3 & 4: Salem Maritime Festival.

Derby St., Salem. 5 p.m. Concert on Friday; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Celebrate ships, sailors, sawdust and song at this annual free family festival.

Hosted by the National Park Service, the festival features live music, historical re-enactors, tall ships, demonstrations and interactive programs and crafts for families. 978-741-3252, salem.org.

August 12: August Moon Festival.

Chinatown, Boston. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m, Come participate in the Chinese celebration of happiness, good health and abundant harvest, and the coming of Autumn. Activities include martial arts and craft demonstrations, and the dragon dance. chinatownmainstreet.org.

August 18: Worcester Latin American Festival. Worcester Common. Noon – 9 p.m. Food, entertainment, children’s tent and more. worcesterlatinfestival.com.

August 18: Southeast Asian Water Festival. Lowell Heritage State Park.

Every 3rd Saturday in August, more than 60,000 people from around the country and the world come to Lowell to celebrate water as it is celebrated in Southeast Asia. They come for the blessings, food, crafts, performances and (of course) the races. lowellwaterfestival.com.

August 18 & 19: 32nd Annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival. Stage Fort Park, Hough Avenue. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Daily. Free admission. Nominal fee to park. Gorgeous seaside setting, antique cars, lobster bake & more! capeannchamber.com.

To submit a fair or festival to the baystateparent calendar – or any upcoming event at all – y p visit baystateparent.com.

SUMMER

fairs & festivals

Music & Art Weekend. Old Sturbridge Village.

The Village comes alive with the lost sounds and sights of 19th-century popular music and art.

Admission applies. osv.org. Also June 17 (Dads FREE).

Tickets to OSV are good for two days admission.

Waltham Riverfest. Moody Street, Waltham.

June 15 – 17. Music, dancing, painting, strolling, shopping, eating and boating. For a complete schedule as well as hours, visit: walthamriverfest.com.

natalie lie suarez ustrator illustrator BAYSTATEPARENT 21

SUMMERGUIDE St Joseph’s Parish Festival. 53 Whitcomb St., Webster. 6 – 10 p.m. Homemade Polish and American foods, rides and games for the children.

Free admission held rain or shine under the tent. stjosephwebster.com.

FREE Heroes Day. University Park, Main St., Worcester. 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Hero cermony: 1 p.m. Carnival, including games and activities such as a bounce house, paddle boats, dunk tank, pie eating contest and face painting. The event culminates with a ceremony, where all nominees are publicly honored and presented with their Hero awards. For more information, to nominate your Hero, or to sponsor this inspiring and motivating event, please contact Liz Hamilton at lhamilton@bgcworcester.org or 508-754 2686 ext. 205. *In case of rain, Heroes Day will be celebrated at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, 65 Tainter Street. bgcworcester.org.

Let’s Go to the Museum!

Art

17SUNDAY ken bruzenak illustrator

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln is a wonderful place for children and families to experience art. It’s set on 35 acres so pack a picnic. Children under 13 are always FREE and on the first Wednesday of the month, admission is free for all. Make sure you get a Family Activity Kit to fully embrace your visit. Plan to visit on the second Sunday of the month – Stil Studio offers a 10 a.m. children’s yoga class followed by an 11 a.m. adult vinyasa flow concert class to the music of the Grass Gypsies. Namaste. decordova.org.

Childhood There’s lots to see at the Wenham Museum on the North Shore, but we are especially drawn to their new exhibit, Let’s Celebrate Childhood: Then and Now, June 8 – September 2. Discover how childhood toys and games, clothing and furnishings, books, chores and other aspects of family life have evolved from the 17th century to today. wenhammuseum.org.

Dinosaurs Stomp on over to Dinosaur Hall at the Springfield Science Museum. Introduce your child to a life-sized replica of Tyrannosaurus rex as well as a Coelophysis and a Stegosaurus skeleton. Touch actual fossils of dinosaur tracks and climb into a huge sauropod footprint. This museum won’t overwhelm but still offers plenty to see. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden. quadrangle.org. Dino lovers can also head to the Museum of Science in Boston for a generous helping of fossils and life-size dino models including the Tyrannosaurus rex. mos.org.

Egypt The Museum of Science welcomes Lost Egypt: Ancient Secrets, Modern Science to Boston this summer. mos.org. ken bruzenak illustrator Another impressive Egyptian exhibit with many hands-on components is housed in the Fitchburg Art Museum. You’ll really be able to focus on “all things Egypt” without distraction here; it’s worth the visit. fitchburgartmuseum.org.

King of the World!

Did you know that there is a modest, but intimate, museum in the Springfield area focused on the Titanic? Personally hosted by the founding family, the Kamudas, you will see the first permanent exhibit of rare Titanic artifacts and documents donated by survivors. 413-543-4770, titanichistoricalsociety.org.

Sports Head west to explore the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield (hoophall.com) and then continue your journey to the lovely town of Stockbridge. The Norman Rockwell Museum features the exhibit Sports! from July 6 – Oct. 28. Rockwell’s enduring images of popular sports and America’s youth are celebrated in this lively installation, which includes Norman Rockwell’s own bicycle, which he rode regularly to maintain his stamina for the long hours that he spent painting in his studio. nrm.org. Families may want to make this a vacation of sports and visit Jiminy Peak in Hancock for hiking, an alpine slide, Eagle Zip ride, mountain coaster and more.

22 JUNE2012

Art Festival. Cohasset Historic Common. See June 15 listing for details. ssac.org.

FREE Admission for Dads. Franklin Park Zoo, Boston and Stone Zoo, Stoneham. zoonewengland.org.

FREE Father’s Day at Mulligan’s Mini Golf.

Route 12, Sterling. mulligansminigolf.com.

Waltham Riverfest. Moody Street, Waltham.

June 15 – 17. Music, dancing, painting, strolling, shopping, eating and boating. For a complete schedule as well as hours, visit: walthamriverfest.com.

18MONDAY FREE & ONGOING Overlook Farm. Heifer International, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. Take a self-guided tour in this scenic spot and learn abou the good that Heifer does to feed people all over the world. Visit different homes in the Global Village, meet farm animals, shop in the fair trade store.

Bathrooms, picnic areas and more! 508-886-2221, heifer.org/visit/overlook-farm Mini-Golf. Mulligans, Route 12, Sterling. 10 a.m.

- 10 p.m. Play a round of mini golf with the kids and then head next door to Meolas for a homemade ice cream. Coupons online. mulligansminigolf.com.

19TUESDAY FREE Ferry Day. Georges or Spectacle Island, Boston. Runs from Long Wharf, North from 9 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Visit an island for FREE in Boston’s national park. 617-223-8666, BostonHarborIslands.org.

FREE & ONGOING Spencer Playground. Smithville Rd. and Meadow Rd. (Route 31), Spencer. A large playground with a lot to do! If weather is inclement, there is a large McDonalds about 10 minutes away with a large indoor play area: 59 West Main Street.

20WEDNESDAY Lions Club Town Fair. Acton. School Street Fields, Acton. June 20 – 24. actonlions.org.

4th Annual Cape Cod Quahog Day. The Skipper Restaurant, South Yarmouth. A week of Quahog-

SUMMERGUIDE related activities Cape-wide, including a Stuffed Quahog Eating contest at the Quahog Republic Dive Bar in Falmouth. QuahogDay.com.

Coles Brothers Circus. Plymouth Airport, 246 South Meadow Rd., Plymouth. 4:30 & 7:30 p.m.

508-224-8227, colebroscircus.com. Also June 21.

21THURSDAY Lions Club Town Fair. Acton. School Street Fields, Acton. June 20 – 24. actonlions.org.

FREE Musketaquid Summer Solstice. Emerson Umbrella, Concord. 6:30 p.m. Celebrate the arrival of Summer along the Assabet, Sudbury and Concord Rivers. Bring a picnic on the grounds of the Old Manse while listening to music performed by the Voices for the Earth Chorus, Snow Crow, among others, and taking in an incomparable view.

At 8 p.m. launch your canoe, rowboat or kayak for an illuminated flotilla up the Concord River to the confluence of the Assabet and Sudbury rivers at Egg Rock. Bring along a candle lantern that you can attach to your boat. In all, over 60 vessels are expected to take part in the illuminated parade. The best viewing spot is from the Lowell Road Bridge just outside Concord Center. You are also welcome to participate in the Drum and Dance Circle, conducted by the Earth Drum Council, which will be held nearby at the Old Calf Pasture. The Dance and Drum Circle also begins at 8 p.m. Emerson Umbrella 978-3710821 and OARS 978-369-3956.

Dudley Grange 57th Strawberry Festival.

193 Center Rd., Dudley. 4 – 8 p.m. Frog jumping contest (6 p.m.); live music, wack-a-mole, blood mobile, kids’ games, face painting, cow milking, petting zoo, bounce house, old-fashioned cars. Adult size $5, Child size $3.50. 774-922-2930, 774-696-2706.

Find them on Facebook by searching Dudley-Grange.

Coles Brothers Circus. Plymouth Airport, 246 South Meadow Rd., Plymouth. 4:30 & 7:30 p.m.

508-224-8227, colebroscircus.com.

FREE Summer Thursdays. Meadowbrook Farm, 5 Gould Rd., Westford. 3 - 7 p.m. Bring your own picnic and explore the farm. Local veggies will be for sale, and kids can do a craft for about $5. creativityunhinged.com, thefatmoon.com.

22FRIDAY Lions Club Town Fair. Acton. School Street Fields, Acton. June 20 – 24. actonlions.org.

OutdoorConcerts Pack a light supper, blankets and chairs, glowsticks for the kids, bugspray and enjoy a summer serenade. Many – if not most – of these outdoor concerts are free!

Acton Acton Bluegrass Festival. Sat., June 16.

North Acton Recreation Area, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton. Doors open at 1 p.m.

Festival is from 2 – 10 p.m. Music, arts and crafts, food. $10pp. acton-ma.gov.

FREE Summer Concert Series. Nara Park, Acton. Thursdays starting June 21. acton-ma.gov.

Barre & South Barre Quabbin Community Band Summer Schedule. Sundays: Barre concerts are performed on the Harding Allen Memorial Bandstand, on the common in the center of Barre, July 17 – 29.

South Barre concerts are performed on the South Barre Bandstand in South Barre, Aug. 5 – 12. Rain location: Barre Town Hall in the center of Barre. quabbincommunityband.com.

Boston Harborwalk Sounds: Berklee College of Music at the ICA. Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave., Boston. All performances 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays. ica.org.

Berklee Music Fest at Georges Island.

Boston Harbor Islands, Boston. June 16, July 21, Aug. 18, 2 – 5 p.m. Join some of Berklee College of Music’s hottest bands, as they bring live music to Georges Island one Saturday per month this summer. Each concert features three artists performing back-to-back. 617223-8666, bostonharborislands.org.

Concerts in the Courtyard. Boston Public Library, Central Library in Copley Square, 700 Boylston St., Boston.

Fridays, 12:30 p.m. June 1 – August 31.

Various musicians and bands throughout the summer. 617-536-5400, bpl.org.

Landmark’s Festival at the Shell. FREE at the DCR’s Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m.

Throughout the summer. 617-987-2000, LandmarksOrchestra.org, mass.gov.

Hudson Arts in the Park Concert. Wed., June 20. Wood Park, 65 Park St., Hudson.

Features the River’s Edge Community Band, the Pro Musica Youth Chorus and the River’s Edge Chorale. 978-562-1646, upwitharts.org.

Leicester Town Common. Wednesdays, 7 – 9 p.m. in July and 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in August.

508-892-7000, leicesterma.org.

Lexington Summer Concert Series. Fridays, July 13 - August 31, 6:30 p.m. to dusk. lexingtonchamber.org.

Lowell FREE Concerts for Kids. Cyrus Irish Auditorium at Lowell High School, across French St. from Boarding House Park, Lowell. Make-and-take art and natural and organic snacks before the 11 a.m. Performance. National Trolley Park rides at noon. Schedule: Stacey Peasley, July 18; Wayne Potash, Aug. 2; Ben Rudnick & Friends, Aug. 8; Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem, Aug. 9. 978-9705200, lowellsummermusic.org.

Marlborough Saturday Morning Discovery Series.

Union Common, 91 Main St., Marlborough. Every Sat. at 11 a.m.

June 23: Veronica Robles Music of

Family Jump Time. Pump it Up, Shrewsbury.

11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. $10 pp. Parents are free but must stay. Space is limited. Buy tickets online! pumpitupparty.com.

Milford Family Night at the Bandstand. Milford Town Park, corner of Congress and Walnut Streets, Milford. Tuesday evenings, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Rain date is the following Thursday. claflinhill.org.

Shirley Shirley Center Town Common.

Nashoba Valley Concert Band, Friday, June 22, 6 p.m.

978-425-2600, nvcb.webs.com.

Shrewsbury Summer Concert Band. Dean Park Bandstand. Wednesdays, July 11 & 25.

7 p.m. 508-841-8503 or email asnell@ th.ci.shrewsbury.ma.us.

Wellesley Wednesday Concerts. Town Hall Green, Wellesley. 7 p.m. wellesleyma.gov.

West Boylston 2012 ARTS ROCK! Summer Concerts at Goodale Park, West Boylston.

Saturdays. Produced by the West Boylston Arts Foundation (WBAF) as fundraisers for school arts & music programs. June 23: Our Names Forever opening for Draw The Line; July 7: Hudlin opening for A Ton of Blues; July 21:Time Slips Daily opening for The Alchemystics; August 4: YOUTHS ROCK! Battle of the Bands with under-21 bands and feature artists/ headliners Buddha Monk of the Wu Tang Clan, and American Idol contestant Ayla Brown; August 18: OSB opening for Powerplay. Admission charge. wbaf.org.

Worcester Disney Music – Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Summer Family Concert. Institute Park, Salisbury St. and Park Ave., Worcester. Sat., July 14, 7 – 9 p.m. Rain date: July 15.

Conductor: Alton Baggett. Soloists: Scott Wilson and Karen Hastie-Wilson.

Announcer: Bobbie Chase. 508-7541234 or email info@tuckermanhall.org.

FREE Friday Morning Playdates. Meadowbrook Farm, 5 Gould Rd., Westford. 9:30 – 11 a.m.

Spend a morning on the farm with other families. creativityunhinged.com, thefatmoon.com.

23SATURDAY

Classical and Broadway Music – Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Summer Family Concert. Institute Park, Salisbury St. and Park Ave., Worcester.

Sat., July 21, 7 – 9 p.m. Rain date: July 22. 508-754-1234 or email info@ tuckermanhall.org.

Lions Club Town Fair. Acton. School Street Fields, Acton. June 20 – 24. actonlions.org.

Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine: Mystery on the Rails Tour 2012. Edaville USA, Carver. June 23 – 25. Spend the day immersed in the storybook world of Thomas. Take a magical 20-minute ride on a 15-ton replica of Thomas and meet his kindly but stern boss Sir Topham Hat. Enjoy

Mexico; June 30: Ben Rudnick & Friends; July 7: Mystic Paper Beasts; July 14: Nobscott Brass Quintet; July 21: One for All – The Family Trio Celtic Flair; July 28: Pan Neubean Steel; August 4: Caravan Puppets; August 11: Sambadees; August 18: Mr. G. FREE and open to all. upwitharts.org. Rain location: Marlborough Senior Center.

malina omut illustrator BAYSTATEPARENT 23

SUMMERGUIDE unlimited use of all amusement rides and indoor and outdoor play spaces. edaville.com.

The Vintage Bazaar. Pettengill Farm, 45 Ferry Rd., Salisbury. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Held on a picturesque flower farm, The Vintage Bazaar is an upscale festival featuring antiques, architectural salvage, vintage jewelry & clothing, original art, unique artisan crafts and flowers. Live music, mini gardening classes, activities for children and a fun onsite nature walk. Free admission. $1 parking. 978-462-3675, vintagebazaarne. blogspot.com. Also June 24.

unlimited use of all amusement rides and indoor and outdoor play spaces. edaville.com.

Old Fashioned Lancaster Community Day. Lancaster Community Center, 39 Harvard Rd., Lancaster. 12 – 5 p.m. Food, music, games and activities for all ages. Games will include a bean-bag

Yarmouth Summer Celebration Kick-Off. June 24 – 29. Events during this fun 5-day festival include professional and amateur sand sculpting contests, kite fun with Archie Stewart & Friends, “Sunday Salsa By the Sea” with dance couple Doug and Kimberlee McHugh, nature walks, a fishing derby, Cape Cod Sailing Regatta, stunt bicycle riding demonstrations

24SUNDAY Lions Club Town Fair. Acton. School Street Fields, Acton. June 20 – 24. actonlions.org.

Chinatown Main Street Festival. Chinatown Park (Beach St & Surface Rd., Boston. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

617-350-6303, chinatownmainstreet.org.

Vintage Baseball Game at Georges Island.

Boston Harbor Islands. 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Step into the 1860’s and watch Civil War-era baseball games played at historic Fort Warren with original rules and uniforms. 617-223-8666, bostonharborislands.org. Also July 8.

Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine: Mystery on the Rails Tour 2012. Edaville USA, Carver. June 23 – 25. Spend the day immersed in the storybook world of Thomas. Take a magical 20-minute ride on a 15-ton replica of Thomas and meet his kindly but stern boss Sir Topham Hat. Enjoy

Pony Rides

Egg Collecting

26TUESDAY Toe Jam Puppet Band: Toe Jam Bug Show.

Georges Island, Boston Harbor Islands. Learn about the creatures in your your yard through music, song and puppetry. Ferry rates apply. bostonharborislands.com.

FREE & ONGOING Playground, Animals & Farm Kitchen. Tougas Farm, 234 Ball St., Northboro. Enjoy a barnyard, creative playground and farm kitchen with delicious farm-fresh treats. Shady picnic tables available with clean restrooms. tougasfarm.com.

FREE Riverfest. June 23 & 24, all day, both days.

The Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Rivers provide a range of recreational opportunities to those within the greater Boston area. A natural respite, the river offers occasions for hiking, birding, fishing and boating. It is also a great educational resource to teach students about ecology of river systems. Riverfest, is a weekend long celebration of the three rivers. sudbury-assabet-concord.org.

Cranberry Blossom Tour. 146 Tihonet Rd., Wareham. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Tour the largest cranberry operation in the world during the height of blossom season! Learn how the cranberry got its name, the importance of bee pollination as well as what will occur on the bogs during the rest of the year. An experienced cranberry grower will take the group to view the cranberry blossom, discuss all aspects of cranberry growing and answer questions. Pre-register and pre-pay: $12pp. 508-322-4028, tihonet.com/ Tihonet Village.

to verify rates and hours: 508-435-3965, 617-2993392, boatinginboston.com, mass.gov/dcr/

27WEDNESDAY FREE Frog Pond Wading Pool Opening Celebration. Boston. Join Mayor Menino, Frog Pond Freddie, family and friends to kick-off the summer at the 6th annual Wading Pool Opening. 617-635-2120, bostonfrogpond.com.

St. Peter’s Fiesta. Gloucester. June 27-July 1. This annual celebration by the Italian-American fishing community of Gloucester honors St. Peter, the patron saint of fishermen. A highly anticipated part of the annual St. Peter’s Fiesta is the Greasy Pole contest. A 45 ft telephone pole is attached to a platform and extends out over the water. A red flag is nailed to a stick at the end of the pole which is then heavily greased. One by one, contestants (many in costumes) take turns trying to tear off the makeshift flag pole before slipping and falling into the water. Boat races, parade, vendors and more. stpeteresfiesta.org.

It’s a Paper Zoo at the Museum of Fine Arts! View artistic approaches to the animal kingdom through August 19. Kids are always free! mfa.org.

toss, potato-sack race, egg-spoon race, bobbing for apples and much more. Activities will include face painting, a pie-eating contest, a donut-eating contest, a scavenger hunt, pony rides, and a dunk booth for the more daring. Folk music will be provided courtesy of the Wachusett Music Series. Food will be prepared by the local scouts or you can bring your own picnic lunch. 978-365-2043, sounsdofwachusett.com.

FREE Riverfest. June 23 & 24, all day, both days.

The Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Rivers provide a range of recreational opportunities to those within the greater Boston area. A natural respite, the river offers occasions for hiking, birding, fishing and boating. It is also a great educational resource to teach students about ecology of river systems. Riverfest, is a weekend long celebration of the three rivers. sudbury-assabet-concord.org.

Cow Milking

Hiking

Wagon Rides

Family Farm Vacations!

Egg Collecting, Children’s Activities, Wagon Rides, Farm Animals. Hiking, Cow Milking, Cheese Making, Indoor and Outdoor Pools.

Horseback Riding, Tennis, Volleyball, Rowboats on the Pond and much more!

and a fireworks Finale. For a full list of events, visit yarmouthcapecod.com.

25MONDAY

FREE Family Night on the Natick Common. 4:30 - 8 p.m. Children’s mini parade begins at 6:30 p.m.

Foods, games and entertainment. natick4th.org.

28THURSDAY

Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine: Mystery on the Rails Tour 2012. Edaville USA, Carver. June 23 – 25. Spend the day immersed in the storybook world of Thomas. Take a magical 20-minute ride on a 15-ton replica of Thomas and meet his kindly but stern boss Sir Topham Hat. Enjoy unlimited use of all amusement rides and indoor and outdoor play spaces. edaville.com.

ONGOING Boating & Swimming. Hopkinton State Park, Cedar St., Hopkinton. 12 – 7 p.m. Rent a canoe or kayak! The park offers swimming, hiking and biking available. Spend the whole day! But call

St. Peter’s Fiesta. Gloucester. See June 27 listing for details.

ONGOING Sawyers Bowl-a -Drome. 13 Blake St., Northborough. Generally open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Families can enjoy candlepin bowling in an oldfashioned, no frills basement bowling alley. Typically $20 an hour. During the summer months, be sure to call ahead to see if Sawyer’s is open. There are quite a few pizza places in the area if you want to combine a meal with your outing. 508-393-8032.

School’s out but a healthy smile is always in!

Melvin A. “Dr. Mel” Ehrlich, Pediatric Dentist William U. Murthy, Orthodontist for Children and Adults Individualized Preventive Dental and Orthodontic Care for Toddlers, Children through Adolescence, and those with Special Needs

There’s still time to book your June weekend!

Call us today! 1-800-242-6495 Cow milking with Farmer dave

223 Walnut Street, Framingham, MA 01702

(508) 875-KIDS (5437) Call for details about our FREE WeeCare Infant Oral Health Program

Your year-round farm family vacation resort located less than 2 hours from Boston!

24 JUNE2012

WeeCareAtDrMels.com

SUMMERGUIDE

29FRIDAY Annual Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Pow Wow. Barnstable County Fairgrounds, Falmouth.

June 29 – July 1. The Powwow is a traditional celebration of Mashpee Wampanoag culture featuring Native American dancing, drumming, games, food, art, jewelry, wampum, gifts, crafts and clothing. mashpeewampanoagtribe.com.

St. Peter’s Fiesta. Gloucester. See June 27 listing for details.

FREE & ONGOING Friday Morning Playdates.

Meadowbrook Farm, 5 Gould Rd., Westford. 9:30 – 11 a.m. Spend a morning on the farm with other families. creativityunhinged.com, thefatmoon.com.

30SATURDAY FREE Family Activities. Harvard Arboretum, Boston. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Craft activities, stories, guided walks, and more—discover something new each month! Events are held under a tent outside of the Hunnewell Building, or inside when the weather is bad. 617-384-5209, arboretum. harvard.edu. Also July 28 and Aug. 25 Carlisle’s Old Home Day. Carlisle Center.

Fireworks on Sunday July 1st and lots of things to do for the whole family. carlisleohd.org.

St. Peter’s Fiesta. Gloucester. See June 27 listing for details.

Annual Strawberry Thanksgiving and Teacher Appreciation Day. Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth. Enjoy the area’s largest 17th-century Native Wampanoag event, featuring mishoon (dugout canoe) races, Native singing and dancing and an exhibition of traditional Wampanoag foods.

Free admission to teachers and 50% off for their family members. 508-746-1622, plimoth.org.

Big Dipper All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival. Elm Park, Festival fronts on Russell St., Highland St., and Park Ave., Worcester. 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Offers a wide variety of family fun at affordable prices. In addition to delicious all-you-can-eat ice cream provided by local and national vendors, there will be moonwalks, speed pitch, face painting, a food tent with grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cold drinks and snacks, a large raffle, NEADS puppies, team mascots, balloons, clowns, cheerleaders, nature demonstrations and all day entertainment at beautiful Elm Park. Free parking will be offered in two parking lots of St. Spyridon Cathedral across from Elm Park, at marked Becker College parking lots at 55 Cedar Street and on Fruit Street, and on the street.

All proceeds benefit the programs of Children’s Friend, the oldest child and family service agency in central Massachusetts. Ages 10+ $5 pp, Ages 4 – 9 $1, FREE for children 3 and under. childrensfriend.org.

SUBMIT AN EVENT Fill out our form at

baystateparent.com.

Our deadline for the July print issue is

Tuesday, June 5.

All July events listed after the 5th will apper online only.

theatre and musical

PERFORMANCES Listings are arranged in alphabetical order by community.

Summer Fairy Tale Musical Series.

Presented by Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre at North Shore Music Theatre, Beverly. June 29 – August 24. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Shows are $10 - $12pp. nsmt.org.

Blue Man Group. The Charles Playhouse, Boston. Ongoing. Blue Man Group appeals to all ages, but children under 5 are not permitted. Dynamic live music, state-of-the-art sound system—there is a lot of music and percussion in the performance, as well as use of a strobe light.

800-982-8727, charlesplayhouse.com.

and Thurs., June 27 – August 30, 10 a.m. The new smash hit children’s musical commissioned and first produced by the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Knuffle Bunny is chock full of adventure, song and gigantic dancing laundry. By Mo Willems, Music

by Michael Silversher. $10pp. 508-8961888, caperep.org.

Pitter Patter Puppets. Cape Rep Outdoor Theatre, 3299 Rte. 6A, Brewster. Tuesdays, June 26 – August 28, 10 a.m. Puppeteer Mary Wilson’s wildly popular puppet shows are interactive, inventive and extremely funny. With special appearances by Trevor the juggler at every show! Perfect for ages 2-6 and great fun for ages 7-100 too! No Performances July 31 & August 7. $8pp. 508-896-1888, caperep.org.

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical. Cape Rep Outdoor Theatre, 3299 Rte. 6A, Brewster. Every Wed.

Puppet Shows. Drawbridge Puppet Productions, 1335 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg. Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Check website for additional summer hours. $5pp. 800-401-3694, drawbridgepuppets.com.

The Ogunquit Playhouse, Maine. Children’s shows are Saturdays and Sundays starting July 7. Sat., 10 a.m. & Noon; Sundays, Noon. $11pp. See the schedule at ogunquitplayhouse.org.

Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour.

TD Garden, Boston. Aug. 3 & 4. 8 p.m. This oncein-a-lifetime electrifying production will use Cirque du Soleil creativity to give fans worldwide a view into the spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius who forever transformed global pop culture. A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world and turns his signature moves upside down. $52 - $177. 617-624-1050, tdgarden.com.

Cirque du Soleil’s Totem.

Boston. June 10 – July 1. Totem traces the fascinating journey of the human species from its original amphibian state to its ultimate desire to fly. The characters evolve on a stage evoking a giant turtle, the symbol of origin for many ancient civilizations. cirquedusoleil.com.

at 11 a.m. Presented by Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre. $9pp. Check out the schedule at melodytent.org.

Franklin King III Children’s Entertainment Series. Look Park, Northampton. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. A collection of children’s performers who sing, dance, and perform a variety of children’s activities on stage.

Performances last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour on Tuesday mornings during July and August. Be sure to hold on to your ticket for $1 off a child’s train ride after the show (1 per family).

This is a great place to spend the day with a picnic as there is lots to do! A$4, C $3. lookpark.org.

leigh guldig illustrator

Puppet Shows. The Puppet Showplace Theatre, Brookline. Thursdays – Saturdays in June and Wednesdays - Saturdays, July and August, 10:30 a.m.

- 1 p.m. Complete schedule available at puppetshowplace.org.

Improve Boston Family Show.

Cambridge. Saturday nights. Hilarious improvised comedy show that everyone in the family will love. This evening full of interactive games and music, performed by the ImprovBoston Family Show Crew, is sure to bring out the child in everyone. improvboston.com.

Fairy Tales by Kaleiodoscope Children’s Theatre. South Shore Music Circus, Cohasset. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. $11pp.781-383-9850, themusiccirus.org.

FOR MOMS Motherhood the Musical. Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington St., Providence, RI. May 25 – July 1.This hysterical and poignant four-woman musical is a must see for anyone who is, has, or knows a mom. $44. 401-3514242, trinityrep.com.

Footloose the Musical. Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Center, Woonsocket, RI. Aug. 17 – 19. stadiumtheatre.com.

Circus Smikrus the Big Top Tour. July 26 – 29, Waltham and July 30 – August 1, Sandwich. This traveling youth circus performes all over New England and New York. smirkus.org.

Get Listed: Fill out our online calendar form at baystateparent.com. Click “calendar” and “submit an event.”

Fairy Tales. Cape Cod Melody Tent.

Hyannis. Wednesdays this summer BAYSTATEPARENT 25

SUMMERGUIDE

Baby, You’re a SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra & Fireworks. Windle Field, Millbury.

8 – 10 p.m. Rain date: June 17. millbury-ma.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 2012 Fireworks Festival. Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School, 65 Pleasant St., Upton.

5 p.m. Rain date: June 24. 508-5299845, uptonmensclub.org.

Concert: 8 p.m. ; Fireworks: 9:30 p.m.

Rain date: July 5. worcestermass.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 Independence Day Celebration. Nara Park, Acton. 3 – 7 p.m. Family friendly activities. FREE concert featuring Rolling Stones Tribute Band. Fireworks 9:30. acton-ma.gov.

Fourth of July Fireworks in Falmouth, Falmouth Heights Beac.

8:45 p.m. Spectators are asked to bring a radio and to set it to 92.7,WMVY, in order to hear the music that accompanies the show. capecodchamber.org.

July 4th Bike and Carriage Parade.

Falmouth. .Children and families dress

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27 July 4th Family Night: On the Natick Common. 4:30 - 8 pm. natick4th.org.

July 4th Grand Parade. Needham.

Parade, food, a flea market, an old-fashioned baseball game, children’s games and much more. needhamexchangeclub.org.

Newton Community Pride. Kids Morning at the Newton Centre Playground at Tyler Terrace for ages 3- 12, 10 a.m. - Noon. Foot races, pet and teddy bear parade, decorated doll carriage promenade. Open Air Market and Amusement Rides at the Russell J. Halloran Field & Sports Complex, Albemarle Rd. off Watertown St., Rt. 16, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Music and Dancing, 6 p.m.; Fireworks, 9 p.m. 617-796-1903, newtoncommunitypride.org.

Orleans 4th of July Parade.

Eldredge Park Way, 10 a.m. Rain or shine. capecodchamber.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 30

Provincetown Fourth of July parade. Begins at 11 am at the Harbor Hotel and proceeds along Commercial Street until Franklin Street. 508-487-7097.

Fest of All with Fireworks.

Szot Park, Chicopee. 9:30 p.m. Rain date: July 1. festofall.com.

Plymouth’s Fourth of July Festivities. 9:30 a.m. Parade; 7:30 p.m. Waterfront Concert; 9:15 p.m. Fireworks. 508-7477174, seeplymouth.org.

Fireworks. Stanley Park, Westfield. 4 – 11 p.m. Rain date: July 1. stanleypark.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 3

Salem Celebrates the 4th.

Derby Wharf, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Salem.

4 p.m. Kids’ activities; 7 p.m. Pop Concert; 9:15 p.m.

Fireworks launched over Salem Harbor. salem.org.

Block Party and Fireworks.

Downtown Fitchburg. 5 p.m. & 10 p.m. ci.fitchburg.ma.us.

Concert, Parade and Grand Fireworks Display.

Gloucester. Starts at 5 p.m. capeannvacations.com.

Fireworks. Fruitlands Museum, Harvard. 5 p.m. Live music, food and fireworks. Picnic onsite or buy drinks and food. Rain date: July 6.

Admission may be charged per car. fruitlands.org.

Milford July 4th Fireworks. Rain date: July 5. milford.ma.us.

The Fireworks at Memorial Park, Needham. Food, pony rides, face painting and other family entertainment followed by Fireworks. needhamexchangeclub.org.

Rutland Fireworks. 9:30 p.m. rutlandma-4thofjuly.org Annual Weymouth Fourth of July. George Lane Beach in North Weymouth. 9:30 p.m. Musical groups, food and novelty vendors and moon walk structures, fireworks. Details: 781340-2133.

City of Worcester Independence Day Celebration. Cristoforo Columbo Park, Worcester. Park opens: 6 p.m.;

26 JUNE2012

FIREWORK!

Sudbury Chamber of Commerce July 4th Parade.

1 p.m. Rain or shine. sudbury.org.

melissa fitzgerald illustrator

FRIDAY, JULY 6 Fireworks and Concert.

Groton. 6 p.m. townofgroton.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 7 Fireworks. Woodsom Farm, Lions Mouth Rd., Amesbury. $3 - $2 charge for parking. amesburydays.org.

Boston Pops Fireworks. Charles River, between the Longfellow and Mass Ave Bridges, Boston. 10:30 p.m. immediately following the Boston Pops Concert - ends at about 11 p.m. july4th.org.

Independence Day Celebration in Chatham. Main Street. 9 a.m. A bigger than ever parade with more marching bands, more floats, and a special Grand Marshall. chatham300.com

in creative Uncle Sam costumes.

Beginning at the Village Green at 10 a.m. they parade down Main Street to Margaret E. Noonan Park where a patriotic sing along will take place. capecodchamber.org.

Hyannis Main Street Parade & Fireworks. Parade followed by fireworks at dusk. hyannis.com.

Natick 4th. Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at S. Paul’s, 7 a.m. - 12 noon. Parade at 9 a.m. natick4th.org.

Fourth of July Fireworks. Nantucket Island. nantucketchamber.org.

Ayer Parade and Fireworks Concert.

Pirone Park, Ayer. ayer.ma.us.

Please visit baystateparent.com and check the editor’s blog as well as our online calendar for the latest in July 4th listings.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY RED, WHITE AND BLUE!

BAYSTATEPARENT 27

cecily miller cecily miller

tanit sakakini

An Unlikely Stroll SUMMERGUIDE

BY

kim foley mackinnon

An excerpt from Outdoors with Kids Boston

A

cemetery may seem an unlikely place for a walk with kids, but the Forest Hills Cemetery has beautiful paths and art to enjoy in a peaceful city setting.

Some people may think it odd to include a cemetery in a book about exploring the outdoors with kids, but they will understand once they have been to Forest Hills Cemetery, which is so much more than a burial site.

The 275-acre green space was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

Founded in 1848, the cemetery features Victorian landscape design with shady paths, a lake, a fountain, a waterfall and scenic vistas. You can find works by important sculptors throughout the cemetery, and you can pick up a fantastic visitors guide and map at the main entrance. It’s interesting to note that in its early days, the cemetery was actually a place where the public went for art openings—the Museum of Fine Arts wasn’t founded until 1870.

In that spirit, the Forest Hills Educational Trust—which offers walking tours, exhibitions, special events, concerts, and poetry readings throughout the year—began the Contemporary Art Sculpture Path in 2001 with yearlong exhibits. The artworks are listed in the guide and are found throughout 28 JUNE2012

SUMMERGUIDE the cemetery. Many famous people are buried here, including abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, suffragist Lucy Stone, poet E. E. Cummings, and playwright Eugene O’Neill.

For a nice loop walk, use the map from the visitors guide to find your way to the center of the cemetery, where you’ll find lovely Lake Hibiscus. Circle the lake, and then wander along lanes and avenues on your way back to the main entrance. If you need a theme for your walk, have kids look for all the memorials and monuments that feature animals, a popular motif during Victorian times. The most famous one is the 1854 Barnard Monument, which features a life-size sculpture of a dog.

Remember: Forest Hills is still an active burial ground, so remind kids to be respectful of people who may be there to mourn loved ones. Keep your dog on a leash and clean up after it.

Plan B: The Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary (Trip 14 in Outdoors with Kids Boston) is a short walk south and has exhibits inside as well as trails to explore.

This excerpt is Trip 11 in Outdoors with Kids Boston by Boston mom and freelance writer Kim Foley MacKinnon. Outdoors with Kids Boston is published by AMC Books and can be purchased at amcstore. outdoors.org.

4 ! -. 4

OPEN DAILY 1/0 +*,10&/ '.-+ -/0-,

Address: 95 Forest Hills Avenue, Jamaica Plain, MA Hours: Dawn to dusk daily Fee: Free

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.*% &/ (#+&/ /)-3 / #00.#$0*-, /

Contact: foresthillscemetery.com; 617-524-0128 Bathrooms: None

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One low price covers all rides and scheduled shows all day with reduced evening rates.

Water/Snacks: None Map: USGS Boston South; foresthillscemetery.com/wp-content/ uploads/2011/06/ Forest_Hills_Map_2011_03.pdf Where to Eat Nearby: Jamaica Plain and nearby Roslindale Village have restaurants galore, ranging from gourmet to casual.

Directions by Car: From Boston, take Storrow Drive to the Fenway/Park Drive exit. Follow signs to Riverway/Boylston Street and drive down Boylston Street through three lights, where Boylston Street flows into Brookline Avenue. Take Brookline Avenue to the Riverway and make a left. The Riverway becomes the Jamaicaway, then the Arborway. Stay on the Arborway/MA 203 East.

Take a right at Forest Hills Avenue (the cemetery driveway), and look for parking along this roadway. GPS coordinates: 42° 17.891 N, 71° 6.466 W. Directions by Public Transit: Take the Orange Line to Forest Hills and exit through the Hyde Park Avenue door. Cross the avenue and take a left on Tower Street. Walk to the end and enter Forest Hills’ pedestrian gate. (To get to the main gate, follow the path to the left.)

Beyond the Playground 10 Trips for Toddlers Editor’s Note: Forest Hill Cemetery is stroller-friendly and a beautiful spot to take a baby throughout his or her childhood. As your baby grows into a toddler, Outdoors with Kids Boston suggestions the following destinations. • Castle Island, South Boston • Arnold Arboretum, Boston • Allandale Woods, West Roxbury • Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Pond • Millennium Park, West Roxbury • Boston Nature Center, Mattapan • Habitat Education Center, Belmont • Drumlin Farm, Littleton

• Great Brook Farm, Carlisle • Francis William Bird Park, Walpole

Pediatric Occupational and Speech Therapy

Our Programs Include:

• Individual Occupational and Speech Therapy • Pragmatic Language and Social Groups • Parent and Educator Workshops • 1,000 sf Sensory Gym with Suspension Equipment

6ccdjcX^c\ 7VggZii [dg EVgZcih Hjeedgi <gdje Through monthly meetings and an online Yahoo Group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BarrettforParents/), the purpose is to explore the ins and outs of raising a child who receives occupational and speech therapy services for developmental challenges.

Please check out our website for more information or call 508-898-2688. To join, send an email request to barrett4parents@yahoo.com.

?d^c jh [dg djg Ă&#x2019;ghi bZZi^c\ dc IjZhYVn! ?jcZ *i] [gdb +"-eb Vi 7VggZii *Barrett for Parents was created for Barrett, and former Barrett, clients and their families.

For more information, check out www.barrettfamilywellness.com, click on this QR code, or call 508-898-2688

107 Otis Street, Northborough, MA 01532 P. (508) 898-2688 info@barrettfamilywellness.com www.barrettfamilywellness.com BAYSTATEPARENT 29

NEW! kids.outdoors.org Take the First Step.

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“A lot of people ask me if I will ever return to work full time. It’s a question that I struggle with every day. For at least now, I get to be a mom (a darn good one) to two precious girls... and dabble in a job I totally adore. I feel so incredibly fortunate for that,” says Sara pictured here with 8-year-old Emma and 6-month-old Tessa.

ANCHORED at home with

Sara Underwood BY

S

he was a viewer favorite on FOX25 News as weekend anchor and special assignment reporter. Last July, Sara Underwood changed course from the full-time work she loves, stepping down to anchor herself to the Wellesley home she shares with her husband of nine years, the outspoken Comcast Sports 32 JUNE2012

carrie wattu, stephanie piscitelli, bellinipics.com

Network anchor/98.5 Sports Hub radio host, Michael Felger. Boston’s media couple has two daughters, 8-year-old Emma and 6-month-old, Tessa Rose.

The Felger-Underwood home has a peacefulness that only a sleeping baby brings: the encompassing quiet of “all is well with the world.” In a quintessential family neighborhood, their welcoming home is not decorated with all things

sports – as one might expect from a family of Felgers – but interesting art and tasteful furnishings. As the only guy in the house (even their English Golden Retriever, Sally, is female), “Felger,” as he is known, jokes that he spends his time at home shuffling around in sweatpants, grousing at all the women.

Sara is as relaxed at home as she is beautiful. Barefoot, curled up on the couch

in a floor-length emerald green dress, she’s the epitome of femininity. What flatters her more than her dress is the contentment she wears, which seems to come from having worked hard and made good choices, in addition to the serenity of having recently brought a beautiful child into the world. Soft-spoken and gracious, Sara talks about her new-found balance since giving birth to Tessa last November.

CHARTING The Course As an ambitious reporter, the California native and UCLA graduate says she never had balance. “I was the Energizer Bunny – always rushing and doing errands, hurrying up from work, rushing through life,” says Sara. “It was a whirlwind.”

After marrying and having her first child, Emma, Sara said to her mother, “Now I know how much you loved me when I was little.”

Sara tried to balance her career with motherhood, which proved difficult as she worked weekends, nights and holidays, relying on different babysitters to help her as Felger works nights. Emma never had both of her parents at home at night to put her to bed. “I missed out on the little things in Emma’s life – trick-or-treating, homework, nightly baths.”

Life moved fast for the Felger family. “We both have crazy jobs and never saw each other,” says Sara. Still, the couple hoped to add another child to their family. As this proved difficult, Sara was given some fertility advice by the family’s British baby nurse, Kate: move to the suburbs and get a dog.

Sure enough, Sara and Mike moved from Boston to Wellesley, got an English Golden Retriever and became pregnant. It had taken the couple six and a half years.

“When I found out I was pregnant, it was instant knowledge that what I needed to do was step down from my position,” says Sara, who had been working at FOX25 in Dedham for three years at the time. She gave her notice in April 2011 and left last July to spend time with Emma before the baby arrived. “Deep down at the core, I knew my daughter Emma needed me. I wanted her to experience family before the baby came.”

It was a brave decision.“It was so risky as so many people want my job,” says Sara. “I was nervous that my job might be disappointed in me that I had given up something wonderful.”

Yet FOX25’s general manager, Gregg Kelley; news director, Paul McGonagle; and assistant news director, Gary LaPlante were supportive. “They are all fathers with two or three children each...and they get it.” says Sara.

A string of exciting assignments - the 2011 tornadoes, American Idol in LA, Whitey Bulger’s capture and Bin Laden’s death caused Sara to wonder, “What am I doing?”

What she was doing was ending on a high.

Still she worried. “I had contributed to my family for so long – paying the bills – and I wasn’t sure how it would work with my husband.”

Turns out, it has made them stronger.

“I have been floored by what a wonderful full-time mother Sara has been,” says Felger.

“She is someone who, for about 20 years, dedicated her life to her profession. She was as dedicated and obsessed with her job as anyone I know. This isn’t June Cleaver we’re talking about.”

In three separate conversations, Sara, Felger and Emma referred to the family dinner as one of the most positive outcomes of Sara’s decision.

“We like to eat dinner together as a whole family,” says Emma whose favorite meal is chicken and corn.

“When Sara was working, we never sat

down at the dinner table as a unit – wife, husband, child. Now I come home from the radio, everyone is home and we sit down together. We might even have a conversation. A glorious, simple pleasure that I’m just now experiencing for the first time,” says Felger.

and I appreciate my husband so much more,” an appreciation that involves fielding public comments that range from “Felger, I love you!” to “Felger, you suck!”

“I think she’s too nice about me,” says Felger. “TV anchors aren’t used

need to go,” she says.

For Felger, is that place Fenway, Gillette, the Garden? Surprisingly, no. “Some sports I simply have to watch, no options. Patriots games. Bruins playoff games. Otherwise, you can work around everything. DVR is a wonderful invention,” he says.

The couple met 12 years ago when Felger appeared as a guest sports analyst on Channel 4 where Sara was anchoring at the time.

“Who is that guy?” she asked.

Sara, who says she is not a sports girl, began to read everything the talented writer wrote.

Sara had made an impression on Felger as well. Six months later, the two were unknowingly at the same Boston restaurant. Felger was talking with a friend about the new girl in town – Sara – stating, “That is the girl I am going to to marry.” The two happened to leave the restaurant at the same time, connected and saw each other every day for a year thereafter. They married in Cabo San Lucas in 2002.

Since then, the two “opposites” have balanced each other out.

How does this work?

“She’s tremendous and I’m mediocre,” Felger explains.

A Beautiful BALANCE

Sara dreamed of being a reporter since she was 12 years old, moving from California to Ohio to Washington D.C. to Boston -- all without knowing a soul -- to move forward in her career. “To suddenly say I need to pause this dream to focus on my family was, admittedly, a bit scary,” says Sara.

Not only is this the first time in their marriage that they have eaten dinner together regularly, but it’s the first time in Emma’s lifetime. “It is such a joy to be together in the evening! I can’t tell you how much we all appreciate every night,” Sara says. “We are very fortunate that I have the choice to stay home. I will never, ever take this time for granted.”

Who Is THAT GUY? As Sara slows down and focuses on family, she says, “I feel so much happier

to ragging on people, especially their family and friends. They’d rather blow sunshine up your skirt. I encourage her to keep it real. I’m no picnic.”

Sara is all sunshine when it comes to their fans. “People are very sweet when they see us with the girls. People are generally so nice and so pleasant.” They usually ask her if she plans to return to work full time but more often than that, people ask: “What is your husband like?”

Sara says he’s loud and outspoken but also a clean freak who likes to sit at home.

In contrast, Sara describes herself as a reserved, sensitive, social person who is also messy.

“We take each other to a place we both

The balance Sara has today in her marriage and as a mother is “wonderful. I gave up a lot for it, but I could never have imagined anything so beautiful.”

Emma, who is finishing second grade, says she loves having her mother home more. “It’s really fun because the last time she worked I didn’t get to see her almost every day.”

Still, Sara wrestles with the thought of when she will return to work full time as reporting has been her life for the past 17 years. “I obsess about it,” says Sara, whose passion for work centers around the adrenaline of meeting new people, learning about the news and telling stories.

Sara says her replacement, Heather Hegedus, is smart and beautiful. “I love watching her on the weekends!”

However, it wasn’t long before FOX25 invited Sara back to freelance as a fillin anchor and special reporter. “I am so grateful to my bosses who continue to welcome me into the studio with open arms,” says Sara. “I get to work part time in a field that I adore, at a station that I love.”

Tessa wakes up, and the silence is broken but it’s still serene somehow. “That smile.

The love I feel!” says Sara about her baby.

“My girls light up my life.”

“It’s been inspiring to see the time, attention and love she has shown her family since leaving FOX,” says Felger. “I know she’s going to get the itch to get back into the business eventually and throw herself into it like she once did. It’s inevitable. I’ll be happy for her when that day comes, but part of me dreads it. Because this has been an utter joy. And that’s for real.”

Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent, and a sports dummy.

BAYSTATEPARENT 33

MIKE FELGER on Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and Fatherhood How will you most likely spend Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day? I tried to trade out Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Sara wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buying that. So I guess sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to have to make me breakfast.

In a perfect world, what would Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day really look like? A perfect world would have no Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, or any of the other 14,000 Hallmark holidays.

Please comment on this quote: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The best thing a man can do for his children is to love their mother.â&#x20AC;?

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll buy that. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certainly No. 1 or No. 2 on the list. The other would be spending time with them.

Being a dad of two girls: Karma.

Tell us about sharing your love of sports with the girls in your life. I am resigned to a life of dance recitals. Which is just fine with me, actually. I mean, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the difference? A little league game or a dance recital? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about spending time with your kids and taking joy in their experiences.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;For me itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work, family and most everything else a distant third. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see anything breaking into the top two any time soon.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Having a baby sister is the best part of my life.

I get to do all the fun parts.

I feed her and hold her and change her.â&#x20AC;?

- Emma Felger

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BAYSTATEPARENT 35

a year later they’re just STARTING to HEAL BY

carrie wattu

“No one survives something like this. It’s not in your cards.”

This is what the insurance adjuster told Carrie Ferrindino when he arrived in Monson, Massachusetts on June 5, 2011, five days after the family of four narrowly escaped the F3 tornado that sucked the life from their home and spat it all over their front lawn.

The Ferrindino’s beautiful contemporary colonial was the first house in Monson hit by the tornadoes that swept Western and Central Mass on June 1st, 2011. While the F5 is the most violent and rare tornado, the F3 is capable of overturning trains with winds of 158-206 mph.

A year later, the Ferrindinos are just starting to deal with how their lives changed that day.

robert charles photography

T Calm Before the Storm: Amazingly, one of Kaleigh Ferrindino's senior portraits foreshadows what is to come just a week after this photo was taken.

36 JUNE2012

he tornado started at Carrie Ferrindino’s childhood home in Westfield, Massachusetts, the home where Carrie’s mother still lives. The past literally blew into the present as it traveled demonically through Springfield, across Wilbraham and right into Carrie Ferrindino’s backyard. It ripped the 17-year-old home that Carrie built with her college sweetheart, Jerry, out of their lives within a few terrifying minutes. The home where Carrie and Jerry had brought their babies home, 14-year-old Andrew and 17-year-old Kaleigh, was gone – with the exception of the garage and its contents, including

Carrie’s car and Jerry’s landscaping equipment as well as the room over the garage and their mudroom.

“Thank God you weren’t home!” This is the typical response from people who see photos of the destruction or the remains of their home today. But the family was home. “We were exposed to every element. We were there,” says Carrie.

Had Carrie not looked out her kitchen window at the exact moment that she did that Wednesday afternoon, she would not have seen strange debris swirling in the sky. Her family headed immediately to the basement, huddling in a long, narrow cement area the Ferrindinos had built as a cold cellar under their farmer’s

porch. The cement ceiling of the cold cellar ripped off in a single piece. Had they stayed in the main part of the basement, they would have been crushed by the contents of their home.

The tornado’s wrath did not end there.

A year later, the Ferrindinos are just starting to deal with its fury.

“I have not talked to people who lost their homes,” says Carrie. “It’s been so busy. The summer was bad and then I went back to work.”

Many tornado victims are still rebuilding and working through insurance papers, especially for homes that were damaged but not deemed a total loss. “A lot of people are still stuck,” Carrie says.

Kindness of Strangers Had it not been for the generosity and compassion of Jeff Flaks, president and CEO of Carrie’s employer, Hartford Hospital, the Ferrindinos may not be where they are today – living in a beautiful restored farmhouse a few miles from their former home.

When Jeff heard about the family’s disaster, he personally called Carrie, whom he had never met, insisting she take as much time off as she needed – with pay. Even when she returned to work in September, he told her to take more time to heal. Gift cards, bags of clothing and other forms of support from Hartford Hospital poured in.

Because of Jeff Flaks and the support of everyone at Hartford Hospital and beyond, Carrie and Jerry were able to process the overwhelming amount of paperwork their family faced.

Carrie carried around “a tornado bag” with all of the family’s papers, working from friends’ computers and phones. Carrie knows that not every tornado victim received time off from work or the support that she received. “I am still trying to give back to Hartford Hospital for what they did for us,” she says.

Jeff wasn’t the only generous stranger who has been instrumental in rebuilding the Ferrindino’s lives.

The Turnberg family welcomed them into their East Longmeadow home. They offered a home base that the Ferrindinos could return to after exhausting days spent picking through their possessions, which were littered all over their front lawn.

“We were just acquaintances,” says Carrie, “but now we are very close friends.”

The Ferrindinos suffered through several nasty summer storms while staying at the Turnbergs. A week after the tornado, a tree fell and damaged one of their only trucks to have survived (Jerry is the proprieter of Ferrindino Lawn Care).

On another occasion, lightning struck a tree outside of the Turnberg’s home and Carrie and Jerry heard the explosion of

the concrete foundation of the family’s playscape.

Every storm has a meaning for the Ferrindinos now. “We had high winds last week, and you don’t sleep. We have all the weather alerts on our phones, and we turn on the news,” says Carrie. “Jerry gets on wicked edge where there is a storm. It’s bad.”

Even storms across the country affect the Ferrindinos. “In the past, if the news

fostered her until the Ferrindinos were able to move into their new home.

Boston Road Animal Hospital in Springfield also did not charge the family for services.

And mere weeks after the tornado, the Ferrindinos had a chance encounter at Dunkin Donuts with another kind stranger. Eric Newhouse was selling – by owner – an 1800s restored farmhouse in neighboring Hampden, MA. A few

says Carrie. “Everything the kids have ever had is gone.”

While working on their new home, seven weeks after the tornado had terrorized them, the Ferrindinos were filled with fear. On July 26, 2011, they spotted a funnel cloud in the distance.

The family gathered in the oldest and strongest part of the house – near the foundation of their soapstone fireplace.

In the basement, the family was in tears, reliving the horror they had felt just weeks before until it passed.

Again, every cloud, every storm, will always have new meaning.

New Meaning In 2011, the Ferrindinos had dreams of buying a new fishing boat/cabin cruiser. “Someday, we said,” says Carrie. “It wasn’t a priority because it’s such a financial expense.”

After their near-death experience, the family made this dream a reality, and now spend most weekends together on the ocean.

“Life is short,” says Carrie.

“Our weekends are precious. Our weekends are family.”

The tornado is not the only catastrophe the family has survived.

Within a year, Carrie and Jerry’s 45-year-old brother-in-law passed away suddenly from a massive heart attack, and Jerry got hit in the face with a fork lift at work. “It hurt our business financially but it made us see that life is short.”

Having survived these three catastrophes, Carrie applies a new outlook on life and her work as an OR Coordinator of Labor and Delivery at Hartford Hospital.

“People may complain about things at work and can be unhappy, but I feel this is nothing compared to what I’ve been through. I think, ‘We can get through all of this.’

It’s not worth it to be miserable.”

This spring, a hospital housekeeper, who had met Carrie just once, approached her. “I just want you to know that I pray for you all the time and you are blessed.

When you survive something like that, you are meant to be here.”

In addition to their new boat, the Ferrindinos hired Robert Charles Photography out of East Longmeadow to take their family portrait. “It’s not something we Sunday, June 5: Carrie Ferrindino four days after the tornado spared her family's life probably would have done,” says and destroyed their home.

Carrie. But after losing most of the their family photos in the tornado, she really wanted to preserve memories. talked about tornadoes in the Midwest hours after meeting, the Ferrindinos or down South, we used to switch the were shaking hands with Eric in the yard channel. Now, we watch the news. It’s of their new home. Eric is now a dear seeing it and understanding. I am still friend, whose beautiful vision for their trying to understand it.” home has given much comfort to the On Saturday, April 28th, the Ferrindinos The Ferrindino’s reunion with their Ferrindinos as they start over. invited over 100 people to their new home beloved cat, Midnight, who was missing With a new home to fill with necessities, for live music and a picnic. The invitation for several days after the tornado, was Carrie and her daughter, Kayleigh, who said, “Although we could never pay you all the more heartfelt when veterinarian usually love to shop, began the chore back for everything that you did for us, Dr. Mordowski of Stafford Springs, CT of replacing everything from the most please know that you are forever in our offered his services at no charge. Dr. minute kitchen utensil to clothing and hearts for being there for us during this Mordowski performed knee surgery on mattresses. unimaginable time in our life.”

Midnight, rehabilitated her and then “We were looking for what we had,”

New Beginnings

BAYSTATEPARENT 37

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every new beginning comes from some other beginningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end.â&#x20AC;?

robert charles photography

steven king

And another invitation is on its way to Ferrindino family and friends. Their daughter, Kayleigh, celebrates her high school graduation this month. The invitationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s text has a two-fold meeting: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every new beginning comes from some other beginningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end.â&#x20AC;?

While the Ferrindinos focus on their daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduation to keep their spirits up, they fear summer with its potential storms and memories. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to get through summer,â&#x20AC;? Carrie says.

Many of their belongings are stored in the garage which still stands on their land while many more of their possessions remain buried in the dirt and scattered in the woods of their Monson property. Two months ago, Jerry even found his class ring. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every time I go up there, I just want to be by myself. The minute you walk onto that land, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s...â&#x20AC;? Carrie canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find the words. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get what we went through and what we continue to go through,â&#x20AC;? says Carrie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we could not have gotten through the days, weeks or months without everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help and support.â&#x20AC;?

steven king

- Semisonic

Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent.

New Beginning: (L) The painting in the Ferrindinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen was one of the few items they were able to salvage and use in their new home. (R) The Ferrindinos spend most weekends together as a family: Andrew, Carrie, Kayleigh and Jerry.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 39

DADS ROCK!

Dick Hoyt Of HOLLAND Age: 72 Occupation: Lt. Colonel, Army and Air National Guard (retired) Sons: Rick (50), Rob (48), Russell (44) BY

trish reske, team hoyt photography

You may have seen them at the Boston Marathon, the barrel-chested father pushing his 125- pound quadriplegic son in a wheelchair, cheered on by fans and fellow runners. Their presence elicits both cheers and tears from bystanders, who witness with awe the dad who has competed with his disabled son in over 1,075 running events in the past 33 years.

This past April, Dick and Rick Hoyt completed their 30th Boston Marathon– a significant milestone in a life that is paved with devotion, determination and defying the words “No, you can’t.”

It’s been a long journey from January 10, 1962, when Rick was born a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, deprived of oxygen at birth from a tangled umbilical cord. Doctors told the young Hoyts that their son had no hope of a normal life.

“The doctors told us to put him in an institution. We decided no, we weren’t going to do that. We decided instead to bring the world to Rick,” says Dick.

As Rick developed, his parents noticed that although his physical body was impaired, he was alert and aware – far from a “vegetable” as doctors had called him.

“We could tell by looking in Rick’s eyes that he understood everything we were saying. We taught him the alphabet and numbers and did a lot of reading with him.” says Dick.

Rick joined his two younger brothers, Rob and Russell, in everything the family did. Dick emphasizes that he and his wife never “babied” Rick because of his disability.

“We treated all the boys the same, as much as was possible,” he says. “All three of them ended up doing everything 40 JUNE2012

together as kids.”

The boys invented a way of communicating with Rick, by reciting the alphabet one letter at a time until Rick would respond, spelling out words.

Yet the local public school would not admit Rick without a better way for him to communicate. The Hoyts turned to engineers at Tufts University, raised $5,000, and funded the development of the Tufts Interactive Communicator [called the TIC], which allowed Rick to use his head movement to tap out words and phrases.

As Rick tapped out his first phrase, his parents debated over what he’d say.

“His mother thought it was going to be ‘Hi Mom,’ and I thought it was going to be ‘Hi Dad,’ but Rick’s first words, were ‘Go Bruins!’ We knew right then and there that he understood everything, and that he loved sports,” says Dick.

With the help of his new TIC, Rick was able to enter high school at the age of 13. He graduated high school, and went on to get a degree in Special Education from Boston University in 1993.

When Rick was in high school, he wanted to take part in a 5-mile road race to benefit a local college athlete who’d been paralyzed in an auto accident.

According to Dick, Rick wanted the player to know that life goes on, that he could have hope.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” Dick recalls. “Everybody thought that Rick and I would just go to the corner, not finish the whole five miles.”

The Hoyts finished the race, and that night, Rick tapped out a message on his TIC that would alter the course of his life. He wrote, “Dad, when I’m running it feels like I’m not handicapped.”

“That was a very powerful message for me,” recalls Dick.

After the race, Dick knew he wanted to “loan Rick my arms and legs so he could compete in other races.”

“The only problem was, now I was the one that was disabled,” recalls Dick. “I was 40 years old and out of shape. I was sore for weeks after that race.”

The father-son “Team Hoyt” (teamhoyt. com) began running races, but most of the time race directors didn’t want them to compete. Dick says that some people thought he was being selfish, pushing his handicapped son in races. “They thought I was doing it for me. They didn’t understand Rick was the one wanting to race,” he says.

In addition to the Boston Marathon, Team Hoyt has completed to date over 1,075 road races, half marathons, marathons, duathlons, and triathlons, including six Ironman triathlons.

Rick and Dick were recently inducted into the Ironman Hall of Fame. “Because of Rick’s efforts being the first disabled person in the world to complete the Ironman in Hawaii, they now have a physically challenged division,” says Dick proudly.

In 1992, Team Hoyt biked and ran across the United States, clocking 3,735 miles in 45 days. “Everybody said that was impossible. Even people who had done it themselves,” says Dick.

In 1989, the Hoyts formed the Hoyt Foundation, which strives to build the individual character, self-confidence and self-esteem of America’s disabled young

people through inclusion in all facets of daily life, including family, community, sports, at home, in schools, and in the workplace.

“Our motto is, ‘Yes you can.’ There’s no such word as ‘no’ in the Hoyt vocabulary,” says Dick.

His advice to dads of children with special needs?

“Just go out and do the best you can and get advice. Take it day by day. And spend valuable time with them— that’s the most important thing,” he says.

The inspiration that Team Hoyt has brought to individuals around the world keeps growing.

“I never thought 34 years ago when Rick asked me to run that first race that we’d be doing this today and affecting so many people all over the world. We get emails every day from people who say our story has changed their lives,” Dick says.

“It’s just amazing what has happened.

It’s a great thing.”

Trish Reske is a mother of four and freelance writer.

She can be reached at trishreske.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dick Hoyt pairs with Don Yaeger in a new inspirational book detailing the events which created the inseparable bond between him and his son, Rick, resulting in their true life mission statement: “Yes You Can!” Devoted — The Story of a Father’s Love For His Son is available at teamhoyt.com/store/index. html.

Take Ten with Dick Hoyt 1. Favorite endurance event: Running and biking across the USA with Rick in 1992. We left Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles and arrived at the Marriott Long Wharf in Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;covering 3,770 miles in 45 straight days.

2. Who inspires you? Rick inspires and motivates me.

3. One sentence to describe me: I am a very hard driven, focused person.

4. A proud dad moment: When Rick graduated from Boston University

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The thing Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d most like is for my dad to sit in the chair and I would push him for once.â&#x20AC;?

5. Wish for my kids: For all of them to lead a happy and healthy life 6. What drives me nuts: Driving in traffic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I have no patience for that!!

7. Biggest Fear: Passing away before Rick and worrying whether he will be taken care of â&#x20AC;&#x201C;I have two trust funds set up for him to take care of his needs.

8. Something people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about me: I am a very shy and emotional person.

9. I believe inâ&#x20AC;Ś changing attitudes and educating others on disability awareness.

I have seen a great impact on our efforts

Rick Hoyt

in the area of public attitudes and disability awareness after people learn our story and I wish to continue this.

10. My son Rick isâ&#x20AC;Ś a remarkable human being.

Dads Rock is special for Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and a complement to baystateparentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s awardwinning monthly Moms Rock feature.

Moms Rock celebrates the good that moms do. Do you know a mom who just rocks? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

LIVER LIFE

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Meghan is a kind, generous, fun-loving 11 year old girl. She was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) when she was 4 years old. PSC is just one of the many liver diseases that exists without a cure.

Register today for the Liver Life Walk at Patriot Place in Foxborough, MA on Sunday, June 17th.

Meghan R. LIVEr Champion

Raise funds and awareness for our LIVEr Champion Meghan and the 30 million Americans who suffer from liver disease.

www.liverfoundation.org/walkboston For more info or to register, contact HP at (617) 527-5600 or hpham@liverfoundation.org American Liver Foundation New England Division 88 Winchester Street, Newton, MA

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BAYSTATEPARENT 41

Forever Fenway As Fenway Park celebrates its 100th birthday, two families share how a little green ballpark became a part of their families forever. photographer at the Red Sox game that day and had seen my sign and taken a picture of it. She offered to write a

The Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Briens

It

was September 2002. My family and I were going to a Red Sox game and I decided to make a sign for my father-in-law who had terminal cancer. He was such a faithful Red Sox fan, and I thought the pictures I would take of the sign at Fenway would be a great gift for his upcoming wedding anniversary on September 14th.

Before I put up the sign, I asked the police officer in the stands if it would be a problem.

I explained that Ned Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien was a retired captain of the Worcester police force and battling cancer. With his permission, my family and the wonderful fans in the bleachers helped me to put it up. The Red Sox won the game and I had my pictures. The next day I rushed to have them developed, but in my haste, I opened my camera and exposed the film, ruining the pictures.

Obviously very upset, I wrote to the Red Sox to see if I could obtain a video tape of the game with hope that the sign had been captured on film. The person who replied explained that this wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possible since they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t own the rights to the film. I thanked her and explained the situation. She wrote back and told me that she was the

the morning of their anniversary. When we saw the picture, we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe that not only the sign, but all of us, were in the picture. What were the chances that all of this would come into play!

Grampa passed away a month later, but he did share how much this picture from the Red Sox meant to him.

About 3 years ago, my son, Mike OBrien, and I went to a Red Sox game. At the end of the inning, Coco Crisp caught the third out to end the inning. He tossed the ball into the stands and my son caught it! Mike gave the ball to a little boy who was sitting in the seat in front of us. The little boy was with his uncle who explained that the boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father was to take him to the game, but was now in the hospital undergoing chemotherapy. They immediately called the father to tell him about their special day at Fenway. Their smiles were another gift, and I have never been more proud of my son.

I think Grampa Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien was also at the game that day.

We will be celebrating Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and thinking of Grampa Ned Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien on his birthday on June 21st.

- Sue Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Worcester

letter from the Red Sox and to send the picture, which Nana & Grampa Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien received special delivery on

The Phillips

My

husband Bobby and I have been friends since 7th grade, remaining close through college even though we went to different schools. During our senior year of college, we went to Fenway Park on a trip with his school and shared our first kiss! That was in 2001. Three years later, we were married.

Just about 9 months after the Red Sox won the World Series in 2005, our daughter was born. Her name: Camryn Fenway Phillips! We had to pay tribute to the place where our relationship started.

Cami is now 6.5, and our son Adam is 4.5. This year we will be taking them to their first Red Sox game at Fenway so that they can see where our family all started.

- Sarah Phillips, Webster

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just about 9 months after the Red Sox won the World Series, our daughter was born -- Camryn Fenway Phillips.â&#x20AC;?

A]cbV ]T bVS P]`RS` POaV Enter to Win a Fiesta Fun Gift Basket Contest rules available at www.iparty.com/ofďŹ cial-rules

Contest is open May 25th through Noon on August 3rd, 2012.

Enter at www.iparty.com/promotions 42 JUNE2012

photo courtsey of yinka adebiyi/picturenomics.com

ONMYPLATE

First-Time

Dad story and photos

I

BY

A FESTIVAL OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, & ROBOTS AT WPI

yinka adebiyi

remember when my wife told me that we were expecting a baby. I thought, “Wow, life is over as I know it – no more enjoyment, no more sleep or rest, no more couple time. We can’t do anything together again.” I was nervous about my selfish desires and didn’t want anything to stop me from doing what I wanted to do in my own time. I was also very anxious about all of the hospital visits and all of the things we had to do to prepare ourselves as parents.

As we got closer to our baby’s birth date, I spoke to peers who already had children, getting insight on work/life balance and expenses. I knew that I would have to reduce or completely eradicate spending long hours on the computer, buying electronics, hanging out with friends and sleeping in late.

Fast forward and my son is now 19 months old. Having a child has not been the end of the world as I had thought.

If anything at all, I have had more fun spending time with my son and wife, traveling with them and enjoying life fully. Being a first-time dad has taught me many things in life including: • To manage my time and schedule more efficiently. Regardless of how busy and tight my schedule is, I find time to spend with my son without sacrificing the work that I have to complete. I make a conscious effort to see my son before going to bed every night. Also, my wife and I share the doctor’s visits and other baby care duties.

And yes, we still find time to spend with each other; we go out to movies and dinner dates.

• To be responsible for another human being. For a while, it really did not sink into my head that I was becoming a father. I just did everything I needed to do to prepare for an addition to the family: attended the birthing and baby care classes, watched baby care videos, painted the room, went baby shopping etc. The moment of truth was when my son started talking; he would call me, follow me around the house and

repeat what I say. This was the point where it hit me that I was really a dad. I am eternally responsible for him.

• To have a better appreciation for human life. For whatever reason, I was not very good at taking care of myself. My wife would fight with me about caring for myself, and to her credit, she tried quite a bit. I just did not really care until the baby was born. I began to study why it was really important to eat healthy and take care of the whole body. I changed my ways and have a better appreciation for life and how one needs to nurture and care for the body.

• To put family first always. I cannot tell you how many times I have gone back and forth trying to explain to my friends why I can only spend a few minutes or hours hanging out with them. I now have a child who needs my time and attention, and I will not compromise family time for anyone. My philosophy is “Time lost with family can never be made up.”

• To be a role model.

My son is becoming a replica of me. My son looks exactly like me when I was a baby and even behaves the same way. However, the thought of him mimicking my every move is scary and I make sure I watch my step very carefully.

I can only pray that he adopts the good things from me.

I could keep writing on and on about how being a first-time dad has been the most interesting, rewarding and challenging experience for me. I expect it to continue to be fun as my son gets older.

Yinka Adebiyi is a Massachusetts father of a 19-month old and works as an IT Project Manager. He is also a professional photographer and lifestyle blogger.

His recent blog, saywetin.com, is about parenting, fatherhood, techtalk and more.

NA SA AT WPI Have you ever wanted to pilot a space rover? Or launch a rocket?

Or just hang with astronauts?

Join us on JUNE 16, 2012 | 10 A.M. – 3 P.M. (Rain or Shine) for TouchTomorrow at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a familyfriendly celebration of science, technology, and robots, as WPI hosts the NASA Centennial Challenge, a national robotics competition with a $1.5 million dollar prize.

TouchTomorrow Worcester Polytechnic Institute

FREE and open to the public.

TouchTomorrow.wpi.edu

A national leader in robotics, WPI is the first university ever to host and manage a NASA Centennial Challenge. Don’t miss your chance to explore hands-on exhibits and interactive events. Engage with NASA displays, discover cutting-edge technologies, and enjoy music, food, and games.

YO U

PRIZE MONEY PROVIDED BY:

“On My Plate” is a forum for Massachusetts parents. Please submit essays to editor@ baystateparent.com for consideration.

BAYSTATEPARENT 43

CAPTURED

Rad Dads

A MAINE MOMENT: Paul Quattrochi walks York Beach with his son Nathan and dog Cooper.

“There’s no greater joy than watching my husband and son enjoy time together,” says Karen Quattrochi.

Bonding at the Beach: Megan Army snuggles with her dad at Mayflower Beach.

Daddy Junglegym: Jeff Downer of West Boylston watches the Worcester Half Marathon with daughters Olivia (6) and Sonia (4).

44 JUNE2012

Son and Surf: John Martin of Sterling with son Connor at Scotch Beach, Block Island

By Her Side: Natalie Rose takes a sweet snooze with Daddy, Sean Gardell.

Parade Perch: Max Kinne gets a prime viewing spot on dad, Matt Kinneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoulders.

Hanging in Hyannis: Kris McMahon on Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day 2011 with his daughter Madison.

Middle Man: Dean Peasley with Ryan and Alyssa

Case of the Blues: Brian Blanchard goes blueberry picking with his girls, Victoria (4) and Celia (2).

Chilling: Bruce and Mirabela Wells of Arlington

Reflections: Thiago Rodrigues with sons Elijah (5) and Jaydon (2) in Hudson

Hitching a Ride: The Smiths of Worcester

Boys in Boston: Michael Stacy of Holden at The Museum of Science with son, Lincoln.

Daddy, Say Cheese: The Whittemores of Worcester

CAPTURED: bsp is looking for photos of back to school for our August issue.

Email photos to editor@baystateparent.com by July 5th.

BAYSTATEPARENT 45

GOT PAIN? Does it Feel Like a Toothache?

Are You Stiff As a Board When You Try to Get Up From a Chair?

Are you having throbbing headaches?

PA

NEW BREAKTHROUGH Combination Approach-NOT an Isolated Therapy!

Our exclusive treatment approach is called Progressive Rehab and it includes: SPASM RELEASE: made techniques to relax painful muscles, unwind knots, restore power, and unlock stiff joints.

SOOTHING THERAPIES: to squelch the aching in injured tissues and reduce swelling fast.

JOINT FREEDOM: Chiropractic adjustments can be like WD-40 for those stiff, “rusted” vertebra and other aching joints.

AMAZING FLEXIBILITY: specific stretches help get your more loose and limber so you heal faster, stay that way longer and be able to help yourself at home!

BALANCE & POWER: structural re-balancing and rehab for weak, injured muscle-so they don’t fall right back into the same old patterns.

HS of Shrewsbury 196 Main Street Dr. Craig Hokanson (508) 842-4774

DIRTYLAUNDRY

with

Stephen Rich GOOD NEWS FOR MOMS! Chiropractic care for children offers your family a solid foundation for wellness. Throughout pregnancy, birth, and childhood, the chiropractic lifestyle offers choices and benefits for your greater health and well-being. Call our doctors to find out how we can help you adjust your body to the changes and relieve the discomforts of pregnancy.

FREE COMMUNITY SCREENING Whether or not you feel pain right now, let our team of doctors find out for sure with a detailed service screening that’ll identify even the smallest of problems.

THERE ARE NOT OBLIGATION. Just call and you’re guaranteed to get in today!

Once we track down your pain, we’ll work on getting you back to doing things you love- FAST! P.S Be one of the first 7 people to call and receive a RELAXING 1 HOUR MASSAGE. Start on your road towards recovery TODAY! Limit 1 per person, valid for NEW PATIENTS. Appointment required and subject to availability. Valid at participating clinics. All services must be redeemed during 1 visit. Expires 6-30-12.

This offer does not apply to federal insurance beneficiaries and ACN participants

HS of Stoughton 294 Pleasant St, Suite 104 Dr. Damon Gangemi (781) 344-8878

HS of Littleton 256 Great Road Dr. Aaron Deans (978) 486-9531

Hs of Norwood 106 Access Road # 7 Dr. Andrew Smyth (781) 255-5565

Ranked the #1 Health Service franchise 3 consecutive years by Entrepreneur Magazaine.

While you're busy at work, your child is busy at PLA Y !

Open House at the Otis Street Center, Sun., June 10 from 10 am to 12 pm.

• Family owned and run • Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten Programs • EEC Licensed Teachers • The Letter People Curriculum • Lively Letters Curriculum • Indoor Gym • Sibling Discounts, Military Discounts • Optional Lunch Program • Music & Movement, Tumblebus and Lil' Sports programs on site

New:

Half day Preschool and PK programs at the Otis Street location.

172 Otis Street (behind Walmart) Northboro, MA • (508) 393-0798 348 Main Street (Rte 20) Northboro, MA • (508) 393-2100

www.skribbles.com New Hours: 7:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, 52 weeks a year 46 JUNE2012

MAGICAL TIMES

W

hat would you say if someone asked you to go to a place where you would sweat through your shirt by just standing still? You’d run from place to place trying to make deadlines at an exhausting pace, all while holding a kid who is trying to hit you in the face.

And you can’t defend yourself because with your other hand, you are pushing a cheap rental stroller that has one broken wheel and too much stuff hanging from it. You’d look like a homeless person with a stolen shopping cart. And what if I told you that you’d have to pay $500.00 per day and this does not include hotel or food. I mean how can you pass up a deal like this?

It’s a magical Disney vacation.

Big Mama, my wife, wants to get our money’s worth out of our trip. If she could get a permit to carry a tazer, she would taze us out of bed at 5:30 a.m. and we’d be on a bus to God knows what park before all of the employees get there. Then when she’s in the park, watch out. She has the map in one hand, water bottle/fan in the other and she is moving like you’ve never seen a human go. Rockin’ the huge J-lo sunglasses, she looks like a tadpole high on Pixi Stix weaving through the crowds. Meanwhile I’m holding three kids and pushing an empty stroller with my big toe. I’m so hot my teeth are sweating.

I don’t want to spend any more money than we have to. I actually don’t want to spend the money we already shelled out – if that makes any sense. However, I fake it and put on a “magical” face. But I do have my moments: “You’re getting out of that bed and you’re getting on that Buzz Lightyear ride! If you don’t, I’ll take your (bleeping) eyeballs out of your head and shove them down Mini Mouse’s mouth and you won’t be able to see!” Prior to this tirade, the kids are jumping on the bed – one nearly loosing his head to the ceiling fan – until I come in and tell them to wait in the hotel hallway while I load up my homeless shopping cart.

Big error.

I go out in the hallway, and I see two of them running sprints, zigzagging between hotel guests. The other two kids are on their knees like they are praying to the carpet. One has ketchup all over his face, his fist full of sausages, and the other kid is literally licking the inside of

michelle carr

Getting Half-Fixed?

Partial solutions, whether it be massage, yoga, stretches, and Pilates (and even the fitness center) can be NO MATCH for Progressive Rehab – our exclusive, multi-pronged approach for spine, muscle, joints and nerves…PLUS rehab and powerful home strategies for long-lasting RELIEF! Giving Up Hope? Many of our patients used to think their pain was permanent because it never went away. Then they found out it wasn’t even a “head” problem at all – just referred pain from joints, muscles and nerves.

Trusting the Band-Aid Approach? Pills, shots and even surgery may be just temporary cover-ups. They may not deal with WHY you’re hurting in the first place…so you may be going downhill without knowing it. You may be feeling better while you’re causing permanent damage.

a muffin wrapper. The two of them hit the jackpot when they find leftover room service trays outside of someone’s door.

Now let me fast forward to being asked to leave the hotel pool and past the dance contest which my 6-year-old Jersey Girl won for basically dancing like she was in a gentleman’s club. And let me fast forward past having our flight canceled because of a Category 4 hurricane, and let me fast forward past us getting on a flight that brought us to New Jersey after midnight, completely exhausted. Let me fast forward past the fact that the house in New Jersey where we crashed for the night was infested with fleas.

I believe it was about one hour from our house, itching from flea bites, when my Big Mama says, “I think overall it was a good trip. I thought the kids were good.”

I do not know how to take this because I was there, so I say nothing. Then she adds, “You’re always so negative. You always focus on the bad and never point out the good things the kids do.” And she’s yelling to me louder and louder because the kids are fighting in the back.

Then she snaps, turning around to tell them she’s going to rip all their faces off. For whatever reason she thinks it’s a good idea to move Fruit Fly (the 8-yearold) to the third row (coach) with the Jersey Girl stripper. I look at the clock.

It is 1:53 when the Jersey Girl explodes.

It is like watching a 3D movie without the dumb glasses. Next thing I know the radio is pink, the windshield is pink and I look at Big Mama, and her black hair has pink highlights. The Jersey Girl took a full strawberry milk shake and launched it from the coach seats. We are all covered, and for the first time on the trip, there is silence.

I turn to Big Mama and say, “Don’t you point out the negative here!”

Dirty Laundry columnist Stephen Rich is a Plymouth father of four. This monthly humor column is about day-to-day life raising kids. Basically it’s about not being afraid to air out the “dirty laundry” and say it like it is, making the rest of us not feel so alone.

To book comedian Stephen Rich, contact Dawn Christensen at Loretta LaRoche Productions: Dawn@lorettalarocheproductions.com or 508-746-3998 x 15.

TAKEGOODCARE

Quick & Healthy

SUMMER

MEAL IDEAS BY julie freeman, RD, MA, LD & susan schochet

a natural trend to eat lighter during the summer, but many forget that quantity is just as important as quality.

For adults, conventional guidelines call for a half plate of veggies, ¼ protein (or 3 - 4 ounces) and ¼ starch. Children, on the other hand, should eat a tablespoon from each food group for each year of life for the first couple of years and then half the adult size after that.

By controlling both the quantity and quality of what you consume over the summer it is possible to embrace the bounty of summer without destroying your diet. Here are some key tips to get you started and keep you sane during the summer months.

• There is nothing better than farm fresh produce however, getting kids to eat them can be challenging at best. In our work with families, we’ve found that most kids like them raw instead of cooked. Raw veggies are healthier too because they maintain all of the nutrients rather than losing some during the cooking process.

The key, however, is adding flavor. Mix a tablespoon of regular dip with two tablespoons of Greek yogurt to create a lowfat and protein-rich dip. Grill veggies to maintain their texture and add flavor. We also recommend keeping flavored vinegars (i.e. raspberry vinegar or a good balsamic) on hand to use as a quick marinade with olive oil for veggies.

• There is no doubt that parents are busy over the summer, making scratch cooking tough. The concept of modular meals

It’s

enables moms and dads to prepare staples in advance, which can be frozen and used in a variety of ways. For example, our turkey burgers can be made-up in advance and frozen for lunch or dinner in a pinch.

• Chicken breasts are also low in fat and rich in protein. Bake bone-in chicken breasts, cool and cut in half or in quarters to freeze and use in other recipes. By doing the prep work ahead of time, you save time and resist the urge to turn to unhealthy options.

With the right planning and a few tricks healthy eating over the summer can be a reality for you and your entire family!

A Wellesley dietician, Julie Freeman has more than 30 years of experience working with patients and creating tasty, healthy recipes. Susan Schochet is the founder and owner of Healthy Habits Kitchen in Wellesley, creators of nutritionally-balanced, ready-to-cook meal kits.

Grilled Chicken with Corn and Black Bean Salsa Serves 4

Salsa:

• ½ cup frozen, thawed corn • 7½ ounce can black beans • ½ cup sweet red pepper • ½ avocado • 1 tbsp. pickled jalapeno, chopped • 1 tbsp. dried cilantro • 2 tbsp. lime juice • ¼ tsp. salt

Chicken:

• 1 tsp. ground black pepper • ½ tsp. chili powder • 12 ounces boneless chicken breast

Turkey Burgers Serves 6 • 1 lb. turkey, ground • 1 large egg white • ¼ cup bread crumbs • ½ tsp. mustard powder (aka ground mustard or dry mustard) • ½ tsp. each dried basil, oregano, parsley •1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce • ¼ tsp. garlic powder • Cooking oil spray, olive oil • ½ Millet & flax lavash, gluten-free or ezechial tortilla

Directions:

• Combine salsa ingredients in medium bowl and set aside.

• Combine black pepper and chili powder in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over chicken pieces.

• Coat grill pan with cooking spray and heat over medium high heat until hot.

• Cook chicken 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

• Spoon salsa over chicken.

Make it a Meal: Serve with baked sweet potato wedges and greens.

Adapted from Diabetic Cooking

• 6 inner leafs of Rag leaf lettuce, raw • 6 thin slices of tomato, red, ripe, raw • 6 slices of raw Onion --1/8’’ thick • ½ ounce Lowfat Swiss cheese or rice cheese

Directions:

• Mix all ingredients except lettuce, tomato, onion and cheese.

• Form 6 burger patties from the meat mixture.

• Use pan spray in skillet and sauté burgers until internal temperature is 165°F.

20% off

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Your next purchase at the Living Earth *Excludes sale items, previous purchases and gift cards. Expires 6/30/12

BAYSTATEPARENT 47

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For girls and boys ages 5 to 15

â&#x20AC;˘ Exceptional staff UĂ&#x160; Ă?ViÂŤĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;>Â?Ă&#x160;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;>vv â&#x20AC;˘ Lots of choice UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;vĂ&#x160;VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Vi â&#x20AC;˘ Specialty Programsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; UĂ&#x160;-ÂŤiVÂ&#x2C6;>Â?Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;*Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;}Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x201C;Ă&#x192;pĂ&#x160; ,Â&#x153;LÂ&#x153;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;VĂ&#x192;]Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;VĂ&#x2022;Ă&#x192;]Ă&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x201C;>Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Computer, Theatre, >Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;i Fine Arts and more

â&#x20AC;˘UĂ&#x160;-Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}]Ă&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;]Ă&#x160;-ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;]Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Swimming, Arts, Sports, `Ă&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;i Nature and Adventure â&#x20AC;˘UĂ&#x160; iÂ&#x2DC;iĂ&#x20AC;>Â?Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;-iÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x201C;ÂŤĂ&#x192; General and Senior Camps â&#x20AC;˘UĂ&#x160; >Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;/Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤĂ&#x160;ÂŤĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;}Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x201C;Ă&#x192; Day Trip programs â&#x20AC;˘UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;Â?Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;VÂ&#x2026;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Hot lunches and transportation

Summer Fenn Day Camp

at The Fenn School in Concord, 516 Monument Street â&#x20AC;˘ 978.318.3614 or www.summerfenn.org, email: summercamp@fenn.org â&#x20AC;˘ To schedule a private campus tour, please call or email us.

â&#x2013;˛

SHOW &TELL

Claytime

Daddio of the Patio: June 2nd 10:30am - 12:00pm.

Staff provide step by step instruction to help the child create Daddy the perfect Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day gift!

Route 9, Shrewsbury, MA 508-798-9950

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

â&#x2013;˛

Fun games and accessories to spend the day in the pool.

Bright colors make pool time, fun time!

Cutie Patuties Consignment 1021 Central St., Leominster, MA 01453 978-534-6604 â&#x20AC;˘ www.everythingcutie.com 48 JUNE2012

Creators of DaddyScrubs Introduce their Newest Daddy Gear Essential, the Sporty and Functional Daddy Diaper PackTM Who says diaper bags are just for moms? Dads carry them, too! Retailing for $59.95, the Daddy Diaper Packâ&#x201E;˘ is a basic black backpack with full straps and clips to lock it down and take it off quickly and easily.

The custom design allows less fumbling through deep pockets and eliminates struggling to take off the pack while holding the baby . It is a must-have, from the first overnighter at the hospital during labor and delivery, to walks to the park or running errands with baby, and beyond. It will surely continue to get a lot of use all through the next decade. Its sporty style, washable material, reasonably located pockets, straps and clips, along with the fact that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adjustable, comfortable and easy-to-carry and use make it the number one item dads canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live without!

Available at www.daddyscrubs.com

Psi Bands Quells the Queasies

â&#x2013;˛

Pool Time!

â&#x2013;˛

DaddyScrubs Daddy Diaper Pack

Whether it be by car, plane, boat, or even amusement park rides, your summer travel plans can quickly turn sour unless you are prepared for motion sickness. Psi Bands are FDA-cleared accupuncture wrist bands for the relief of nausua due to motion sickness, as well as morning sickness, chemotherapy and anesthesia. Psi Bands are uniquely drug-free, stylish (five fun designs), adjustable, comfortable, and waterproof (no more soggy bands!). You can find Psi Bands at your local RITE AID and select CVS Pharmacy stores, Big Y and Babiesâ&#x20AC;?Râ&#x20AC;?Us, or visit www.psibands.com to find a retailer closest to you. Breathe a â&#x20AC;&#x153;psiâ&#x20AC;? of relief!

Prices starting at $15 â&#x20AC;˘ www.psibands.com â&#x20AC;˘ 831-373-7712

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Chess Program

CLASSES BEGINNING IN JUNE! Princess Camp Safari Camp Hip Hop Camp Acrobatic Camp Diva Camp

16th Annual National Summer Chess Tour

ELITE SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE Camp - Taught by Dee Tomasetta top 30 ямБnalist on SYTYCD season 8

Tuition includes tee-shirt, trophy, chess board & pieces & much more.

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Weekly Classes for ages 2-18.

Adult Dance Classes and Weekly College Adult Classes Register Today

Register Online: 910 BOSTON TURNPIKE, SHREWSBURY, MA 508-842-5500 %,)4%$!.#% -! #/- s ).&/ %,)4%$!.#% -! #/777 &!#%"//+ #/- %,)4%$!.#% ;OaaOQVcaSbba >`S[WS` 2O\QS AbcRW]

Join Us Today!

www.chesscamp.com ww t t$)&44

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

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CHESS & GAME BUILDER SUMMER PROGRAMS July 30 - August 3, 2012 'POUCPOOF "DBEFNZ t .JMUPO ." $IFTT t 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO *OUSP 4FRVFM t "OJNBUJPO July 30 - August 3, 2012 $BQF $PE "DBEFNZ t 0TUFSWJMMF ." $IFTT t 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO *OUSP 4FRVFM

July 30 - August 3, 2012 'BZ 4DIPPM t 4PVUICPSPVHI ." $IFTT t 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO *OUSP

August 6 - August 10, 2012 #BODSPGU 4DIPPM t 8PSDFTUFS ." $IFTT t 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO *OUSP 4FRVFM

Video Game Creation Program Summer Music Lessons & Classes for ALL! 11 Irving Street, Worcester 508-635-6900 worcesteracademyofmusic.com *Use your WOO Card for discounts!

*Not affiliated with Worcester Academy

Your child will actually design, develo develop and create a one-of-a-kind video game or animated story. t *OUSP 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO t 7JEFP (BNF $SFBUJPO 5IF 4FRVFM

t "OJNBUJPO $SFBUJPO 1SPHSBN Check website for details.

Register Online:

www.gamebuildercamp.com/video.htm.

Summer Camps Day in Brookline -- Overnight on Cape Cod Bus service to area towns included

Dexter and Southfield Schools 20 Newton Street, Brookline, Massachusetts 02445

Day Camp, Tennis Camp, Science Camp, Enrichment, Hockey, Sailing, Marine Science

www.dexter.org/summer - summer@dexter.org

617-454-2725 - Call now for information BAYSTATEPARENT 49

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Summer Fun photo courtesy of lindsay mead

at the Worcester JCC!

✻ Sabra Summer Program ✻ Children ages 2-5 years Traditional camp activities include: Instructional swim, music, nature, art and sports State of the art, air conditioned facility, indoor/outdoor pools June 11 – August 17 1 week sessions 2, 3 or 5 days with half and full day options

Don’t Miss The Fun! Worcester JCC 633 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA 01609 For more information and free brochure

call 508 756-7109 x258 www.worcesterjcc.org The JCC is open to all, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability or economic condition. The Center is handicapped accessible. Scholarships available.

50 JUNE2012

Best camp friends, Jessica Flaxman (Far Left) and Lindsey Mead (Far Right), send their daughters to their childhood sleepaway camp as bunkmates: Julia Sussman (L) and Grace Russell (R).

CAMP FULL CIRCLE BY

lindsey mead

Cambridge mom Lindsey Mead goes full circle, sending her 8-year-old to the same sleepaway camp she attended as a girl. Some of the songs and games, and even her daughter’s bunkmate, are nostalgic comforts.

“Grace?” I knelt in front of her. She looked up at me, immediately sensing what I was going to say. A shadow fell over her eyes. “We’re going to go now.”

“What? Now?” Her face was stricken. We hadn’t talked about when we were going to go.

“Yes. Then you’ll have your swim test and start your afternoon with your friends.”

She threw her arms around me, beginning to cry. I looked up and met my husband’s eyes over her head and he motioned that we should leave. Still kneeling on the pool deck, I kissed her wet cheeks and looked her in the eye. “Grace. You know what?” I strained to keep the tears out of my voice.

“I bet you anything that when we come

back to get you, you will cry because you don’t want to leave.” She shook her head firmly, eyes closed. “Yes, you will. Now, it’s time for us to go. I love you, I will write to you, and I will be back before you know it.

I promise.”

Then I stood up, turned and walked away.

The goodbye was hard, but I drew great comfort from the fact that Grace and Julia were bunkmates. Julia is the daughter of my best friend from camp, Jessica, from the very camp where we left our girls that morning.

It seemed like both yesterday and a lifetime ago that she and I had been the ones saying goodbye to our parents, walking across the bright green lawn in front of the Big House, feeling excitement and anxiety pulsing in our chests. Because of myriad reasons, chief among them my lifetime friendship with Jessica, I am a fierce believer in the power of the camp experience, and I was thrilled when Grace, at 8 years old, wanted to

about all of her experiences. I remembered how much of camp for me had been about learning to have a positive attitude no matter what.

More than any specific new capability or even any one story of a joyful experience, though, what Grace brought home from camp was an ineffable, hard-to-pinpoint sense of confidence. She had gone to sleepover camp, she had said goodbye to me and she had loved it. A light cloak of self-assurance settled around her shoulders and permeated all of her dealings with the world. To watch this happen with my almost-tween made me incredibly glad.

She doesn’t talk about camp a whole lot now, being more fully immersed in third grade. But she has already asked to go for three and a half weeks next summer.

Lindsey Mead lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts with her husband and two children. She attended Cape Cod Sea Camps in Brewster, Massachusetts, for nine years while she was growing up, and it remains a very important place to her. She graduated from Princeton with a degree in English and received an MBA from Harvard. She works as an executive search consultant and also writes daily at her blog, A Design So Vast.

Reprinted with permission from The American Camp Association, the only national association that accredits camps.

With up to 300 safety and regulation standards, ACA promotes a safe and fun camp experience with developmental benefits backed by independent research.

To learn more about the American Camp Association, visit the familydedicated website, CampParents.org or ACAcamps.org.

Cornerstone Academy www.cornerstoneacademy.org

S.T.E.M. Camp (science technology engineering and math) Grades 1-6 August 6th-10th • 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $325.00 Two module summaries: Problem Solving on Planet Zak and Saving Sludge City check out our website to register space is limited or call 508-351-9976

5 Oak Avenue Northboro, MA 01532 508 351-9976

DECORDOVA’S SUMMER 2012 PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPEN!

Left: Jim Dine, Two Big Black Hearts, 1985, bronze, 12’ x 12’ x 33” each, Lent by Hamilton Arts.

Week-long programs, classes, and workshops for youth and teens, ages 5–18 • • •

Drawing and Painting Sculpture Anime

• •

Video Production Stone Carving and more!

Explore the full summer schedule and register online at decordova.org/school.

51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln, MA 01773 BAYSTATEPARENT 51

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

experience it for herself.

My father always remarked that when I came home from camp, I’d grown up “years” in the weeks I’d been gone. I was prepared, therefore, to find a changed Grace when we arrived to pick her up ten days after our tearful goodbye. We parked in front of the familiar cabin and I jumped out of the car, excited to see my daughter again.

She walked out of the cabin, surrounded by friends, oblivious to us, and I watched her for a second as she giggled with girls I’d never seen before. She looked totally comfortable, relaxed and positively joyful. I was happy to see Julia right by her side, too.

And then I called her name, she turned to me, and her face lit up. Our reunion was happy, but my prediction about her crying about leaving was spot on. Departing camp, her new friends, her cabin and her counselors was difficult for Grace, and she cried on and off the whole way home.

Because of my own camp experience I viewed this as a huge positive. Several people remarked on how it must have made me sad or rejected to see her miss camp so much, and my response was always the same. “To the contrary,” I always said, “it delighted me.” She had had a wonderful time, and we had been right to send her.

The first few days after getting home were filled with a constant cascade of stories, snatches of songs and photographs. I let the stream of her happy experience wash over me, startling when certain things — songs, in particular — were familiar from my own time at camp. There were new activities she had tried: archery, sailing, painting enamel pieces. She didn’t succeed at or love all of them, but she was cheerful

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

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50,000 square foot skatepark Outdoor bike park Pro shop now selling Skate, Bike and Scooter gear

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FEATURES - Specialized Training - 1 on 1 instruction - Contest at the end of camp, prizes for all - 5:1 camper to instructor/counselor ratio - T-shirt and stickers for every camper - Instruction and free-skate - Unique sticker rewards program

DATES

SESSION PRICES

(

Overnight Ramp Camp is for males and females ages 10-17. Participants can choose to skateboard, BMX, scooter or mountain bike. We have a wide variety of demo equipment available and encourage everybody to try something beyond what they come to camp with. non member member $569 5 day $549

Buddy Deal (2 campers together)

$999

)

1

July 8 - 13

2

July 15 - 20 (5 night - skate - bmx - scooter)

3

July 22 - 27 (5 night - skate - bmx - scooter)

4

July 29 - 3

(5 day - skate - bmx - scooter)

5

Aug 5 - 10

(5 day - skate - bmx - scooter)

6

Aug 12 - 17

(5 day - skate - bmx - scooter)

(5 night - skate - bmx - scooter)

Rt. 1, Rye, NH (50 min. from Boston, Manchester, and Portland)

Orchard Hill Equestrian Center

C

elebrating its ďŹ fth year, the Orchard Hill Equestrian Center's summer program for children, is small, well-supervised, and held at a lovely historic, family farm just outside Worcester. Conveniently located 1 mile from 495 in Berlin, MA.

Summer Sessions

OďŹ&#x20AC;ered on a weekly basis for six weeks from July 1 - August 10, to boys and girls ages 7-11, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Each weekly session is $475 per child and each session is limited to 12 children.

Extended care is available.

Student/horse ratio is one to one with focus on experiencing how to be around large animals by learning to ride, groom and care for them.

All instructors are MA State licensed and trained in CPR. Our program is structured to combine education with fun.

The DiďŹ&#x20AC;erence is Learning Diversity.

An innovative approach to LD education in a classic New England boarding school environment.

Our summer programs are for kids age 10-18 and run from July 2-August 3rd, 2012.

Fight regression and build confidence this summer: turn July into an investment in September.

For more information, visit www.ehs1.org/summer or call (413)477-6000.

52 JUNE2012

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Summer '12 is HOT!!!!

Tae Kwon Do ••• Goju Ryu Karate ••• Karate Weapons ••• Hapkido

We also have great birthday parties in our fully air-conditioned facility!

All camps and classes at Gigueres are taught by trained instructors. Our programs are taught in a positive, fun atmosphere, concentrating on safety and proper progressions. Programs start June 25th.

After-School Program •••

NINJA SUMMER CAMP ••• Adult & Parent Classes ••• Teens & Kids Classes

ALPHA MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY

40 Vinal Square, N. Chelmsford, MA 978-251-1331 www.alphatkd.com

SUMMER CAMPS Gymnastics, Dance, Cheering, Circus Arts, Martial Arts and RAD kids.

Camps run June 25 through August 17, with a new theme each week.

Camp JCC - The Place to Be! NEW SUMMER DAY CAMPS #AMP +ESHET #AMP ! ,A #ARTE 4EEN 4RAVEL #AMP Details in our camp brochure available online.

Camp Sabra YEARS n YEARS s *UNE n !UGUST

Camp Habonim GRADES n

Full Day, three days, pre-school half-day and full day, ages 4+.

Hours are 9-3, with early drop off and late pick up available.

24,000 sq. ft. of indoor fun and outdoor pools, water slides, zip line, volley ball, fields, and so much more.

*UNE n !UGUST

Sha’ar

GRADES *UNE n !UGUST

Galit

Registrations begin on March 5.

#)4 PROGRAM 'RADES *UNE n!UGUST

Sports Specialty 0RE+ nGRADES *UNE n !UGUST

Worcester JCC ÈÎÎÊ-> ÃLÕÀÞÊ-ÌÀiiÌÊUÊ7 ÀViÃÌiÀ]Ê Êä£Èä For more information and free brochure call xänÊÇxÈ Ç£ä ÊUÊÜÜÜ°Ü ÀViÃÌiÀ VV° À}

978-422-ROLL www.sterlinggym.com 15 Industrial Drive Sterling, MA 01564 BAYSTATEPARENT 53

SUMMERCAMPCOUNTDOWN

Check Out The Summer Programming At

MetroWest YMCA Day Camp Camp Open House June 23, 2012 10:00am-1:00pm Come join us on June 23rd for the open house at camp and to meet the counselors of the summer of 2012.

Summer is fast approaching with limited spots available!

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on this fantastic summer experience!

For more information or availability please check out the website or give camp a call.

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Sue Carlsen - Preschool Director sue@boroughsjcc.org 45 Oak Street, Westborough, MA www.boroughsjcc.org Phone: (508)366-6121

NURTURING, BONDING, AND LOVING MOMENTS. JUST ADD baby.

MetroWest YMCA Hopkinton 45 East Street Hopkinton, MA 01748 (508) 435-9345 â&#x20AC;˘ www.metrowestymca.org

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NURTURE

HISINNER MUSICIAN

Free triAL cLAss

Singing, dancing, and making music with your new baby is a wonderful bonding experience that also stimulates learning.

Join us for a free class to experience this award-winning program firsthand and discover the pleasure and developmental benefits of Music Together. Call today to schedule your visit!

For classes in Eastern/Central MA: www.musictogether.com/BSP

54 JUNE2012

.

Bring your newborn to one of our fun-filled classes. Explore musical play, child-friendly instruments, songbooks, and CDs that you use at home. And find out how nurturing our research-based music and movement program can be.

BulletinBoard

To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com BEHAVIORALSERVICES

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New England Behavorial Services We provide high quality, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis services for families and schools to help children diagnosed with autism, developmental disabilities, mental illness or any other behavior difďŹ culty.

SCHOOLS

# =OY /dS\cS Â&#x2019; <]`bVP]`] ;/ #! # & !# ''%$ email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

SURROGACY

We work in a respectful, family-centered way.

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CPR Training & Re-certification CPR Angel Professional/ Healthcare provider level CPR AED /First Aid

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â?¤ Peer support, lactation guidance â?¤ Referrals for lactation follow-up care, classes â?¤ On-site resources: baby scale, reference library

Recommended by Pediatricians and run by CertiďŹ ed Lactation Consultants.

ACADEMIC EARLY EDUCATION A Readiness Program

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We welcome ALL mothers who want to breastfeed their baby.

Special Ed & Learning Disability Instruction

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Open Thursdays 10am - 12noon Thom Worcester Area Early Intervention Glavin Regional Center-Child Development Building 214 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-845-8466 www.themilcroom.com

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Serving the baystate Classroom and mobile training available.

The milc room is mother to mother breast feeding support with professional help by appointment or referral

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623 Chandler Street Tatnuck Square, Worcester Tel: 508-797-5050 Fax: 508-797-5051 www.theknowledgequest.com

Vocational child care training with CPR certification EMS Safety Certified instructor A.H.A. and Red Cross guidelines exceeded

www.cprangel.com 978-424-5483

Quest

for 4 & 5 year olds.

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The Knowledge

5`ORSa 9 $ A quality education founded on the four foundations (Education, Character, Social Responsibility and Family) that are the Cornerstones to Life.

MUSICCLASSES

nebehavioralservices.com aileen@nebehavioralservices.com 781-499-2775

TUTORING

To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@ baystateparent. com

5 Oak Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ Northboro, MA 01532 508 351-9976 www.cornerstoneacademy.org email:kmcquade@cornerstoneacademy.org

BAYSTATEPARENT 55

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ing Princ es s e s Singare our Specialty C Princess Singer (with Bachelor of Music)

C Our Original Singing Princess has enchanted children since 1994 C Costume Characters w/ Karaoke, games, face painting and balloon sculpture

Singing Princess 508.853.4257 www.copacabanaent.com

Any Way You Cut It Using assorted mini cookie cutters, turn vegetables, fruit and cheeses into fun and interesting shapes. Give kids pancakes, pizza or sandwiches and have them cut their own designs and eat.

Cookie cutters make inexpensive favors as well.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;All Liveâ&#x20AC;? Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

The Coolest Party EVER! Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nothing Else Like It. Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

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(508) 943-4549 Email: Karaoke4kidz@Yahoo.com www.Karaoke4Kidz.com

Tons of Bricks Tons of Fun LEGOÂŽ Themed Birthday Parties for all ages. wwww.brickapalooza.com Check our website for current class offerings, summer camp offerings and drop-in play times.

164 Westford Rd. Tyngsboro MA 01879 978-649-2654

Ride the train to our

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play Area and

your private party room.

$BUFSQJMMBS 3JEFT t )BZ 1ZSBNJE -JWF $IJMESFO T &OUFSUBJONFOU Private Party Room " Petting Zoo &WFSZ 8FFLFOE t #VSMBQ .B[F Train or Hay Ride " NEW Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s .PPO #PVODF t .VDI .PSF Play Area " Much, Much More!

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Theatre Programs, Classes and Workshops for Ages 4 to 18 Call us or visit the web for more info... info@bostonchildrenstheatre.org 617-424-6634 www.bostonchildrenstheatre.org

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com 56 JUNE2012

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PARTYPLANNER PARTY PLANNER To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296

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Mike Slattery Children’s Entertainment * Songs * Puppets * Concerts * Schools

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978-779-6789 mikethemusicman.com

New England’s #1 Traveling Animal Show All Ages.

Birthday Parties, Schools, Fairs, Day Care Centers, Etc.

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Plan your child’s birthday at a local playground.

It’s free, fun and simple.

Bring balloons that serve as decorations as well as favors.

Birthday Parties

Come join the fun!

My silly sense of humor and rythmic style will soon have you and your kids giggling, wiggling, dancing, and singing with delight.

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Kids all love the silliness of my interactive, high energy, and musical shows!

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www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832

Big Joe

the Storyteller Have you ever wanted to pet, hold or just touch a turtle, ball python or bearded dragon?

Reptile Circus connects kids to reptiles Birthday Parties, Preschool & Camp Visits 617-407-7533 reptilecircus.net

Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Library Programs, Special Events and TV Featuring: • Original & Classic Stories • Puppets, Props and Surprises For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

We’ll Get You Through the Day! Find baystateparent on Facebook and Twitter.

BAYSTATEPARENT 57

JUNK D R AW E R S

photo courtesy of excited2learn.com

A LITTLE LIT OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT GIFTS MADE BY MOMS

BOWLING ON THE HOUSE AMF Bowling Centers are bowling us over this summer by offering two free bowling games per week to children 15 and under, thru September 3. Parents need to visit freebowling.amf.com to register.

A “MUSH DO” FOR DOG LOVERS Visit the Vitello family at their lovely property in Brookfield and come face to face with their lovable and impressive sled dogs.

Their business, Northern Exposure Outfitters, is an intimate place to learn about this family’s passion and livelihood – dog sledding. Fourteenyear-old Bailey Vitello is an award-winning musher and an amazing young man who will show you the ins and outs of mushing. Take a kennel tour ($25 per person) or sign the kids up for camp. Visit ne-outfitters.com.

Q&A

Take two former teachers, Amanda Carman and Sarah Cieplinski, who love children, education and art. Add in that they are twin sisters – both Bedford moms – and you have double the resources and creativity. They have created a family-run business, Excited2Learn, where they design and produce educational and parenting tools such as the Big Sibling Packet pictured here. Current products include games, clothing, greeting cards, behavior charts, visual supports, schedules, signs, wall letters, paintings and more. Shop: excited2learn.com.

I am looking for free family adventures.

Any ideas?

The Trustees of Reservations has a wonderful Quest Detective program, offering quests (or outdoor scavengerstyle hunts) at 12 of our Trustees properties, complete with a quest “passport” booklet that kids can stamp after they have completed a quest. Quests are growing in popularity as a family-style event that gets kids out into nature and the outdoors. They are fun, different and creative at the same time. For more information, visit thetrustees.org/things-to-do/special-events/questdetective.

Kristi Perry The Trustees of Reservations thetrustees.org FYI: The Trustees’ Bird Quest was recently featured on Chronicle.

MUST-HAVE SUMMER GUIDE Sadie MacKinnon, 13, spent many days last summer exploring Massachusetts with her travel-writer mother, Kim Foley MacKinnon.

Their fun findings appear in Kim’s new Appalachian Mountain Club book, an extensive, well-organized guide for families: Outdoors with Kids Boston: 100 Fun Places to Explore In and Around the City. It’s smart and down-to-earth, a must have for summer. amazon.com.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

58 JUNE2012

100 CHANCES TO WIN! We’re celebrating Fenway Park’s 100th Birthday with 100 Days of Giveaways!

Visit any iParty store near you to enter for a chance to win great Red Sox prizes!

s Game Tickets s Have Wally at your Party s NESN VIP Experience s Autographed Merchandise Including a David Ortiz Autographed Ball!

Plus so much more! Over $8,000 worth of prizes to be awarded. No purchase necessary. For complete contest details including a list of prizes, visit us online at www.iparty.com today.

For valuable coupons, party ideas and to join our Kids’ Birthday Club visit us at www.iparty.com!

Official Party Store of the

BOSTON RED SOX

BAYSTATEPARENT 59

The OVERREACTOR In All Of Us FIGHTLESS...

LOVEMORE

“Immeasurably funny and deeply comfor ting… a must read.”

–– E L I Z A B E T H LY O N S , author of Ready or Not… Here We Come!

BY

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O N S A L E N OW. F I ND OUT M ORE ON:

www.JaneRoper.com

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Est 1974

Try A FREE Class On June 10th!

So much more than piano lessons!

Our complete MUSIC program (ages 4 1/2 to 8) includes: Piano Singing Harmony Rhythm

Worcester

Guitar Note Reading Ear Training Composition

Recorder Ensemble Playing Music Theory Percussion

Westborough

Making Musi Last a LIFETIME! 508-898-3888 60 JUNE2012

childrensmusicacademy.org

kay, so you think you’re a perfectly reasonable and logical person.

But sometimes, when your mate says or does something that makes you feel criticized, ignored or disrespected, you shout out your defense and soon find yourself in a full-blown war of words. You know the situation is out of control, but you don’t know what else to say to get your (totally reasonable!) point across.

For instance, a friend of mine was playing with her 4-year-old daughter in her bedroom while her husband was watching TV in the living room. My friend was having a nice time playing with their daughter until suddenly she looked up and saw her husband in the doorway, shutting the bedroom door.

Annoyed, she got up, pushed the door open, walked straight to the living room and yelled loudly enough for her daughter to hear, “You’re so rude!” Her husband replied, “Well, I didn’t want to hear the noise you two were making on the toy piano.” “Noise?” she countered. “The sound of your daughter playing is noise to you? If you cared about your daughter you’d shut off the TV and come play with us!”

My friend’s anger was understandable, but yelling at her husband for such a small thing, and within earshot of her daughter? That’s inappropriate. And connecting his shutting the door to the notion that he might not care about his daughter? Overreaction.

The Red Flag Moment It’s easy for me to look from afar and declare my friend in the wrong, but I’ve walked in her shoes and I know it’s a lot harder to bite your tongue in the moment. What I’ve learned, and taught others, is that an overreaction can actually be a good thing. It can serve as a red flag that something is missing…

laurie puhn

As a general rule, overreactions happen when there is a gap between how we feel and what we say. In the above example, my friend didn’t explain to her husband that she felt that their daughter was missing out on special father-daughter time. She wasn’t upset about the door, but rather about that fact that even on the weekends when her husband was home, she was still saddled with the full responsibility of finding activities for their daughter. She was frustrated and jealous because she felt that her husband used TV time to escape from family time, and she wanted to have some escape time herself. All of these points were reasonable, but they weren’t articulated in the heat of the moment. And even a pretty good husband and father is not going to be a mind reader.

Say What you Mean, and Mean What you Say When we overreact and then push the issue under the rug, the storm of the battle passes quickly, but the hangover leaves its mark. Rather than being embarrassed by our overreactions or continuing to justify them, we should apologize and use them to jumpstart deeper thought about the gap between what we are thinking and saying. Once you’ve filled in the blank in your own head, go to your mate, ask him/her to sit down with you a few minutes so you can apologize and explain what you really meant. That kind of talk leads to solutions. Happy couples do fight, and they also know how to make up.

Laurie Puhn is a Harvard-educated lawyer, couples mediator and bestselling author of Fight Less, Love More: 5-Minute Conversations to Change Your Relationship Without Blowing Up or Giving In, who frequently appears on CNN, Good Morning America and The Early Show to offer relationship advice.

Visit her at fightlesslovemore.com

Every family has a unique story.

MAKE YOURS A MOVIE. baystateparent proudly presents "The Story of Us" ... a video version of the family portrait.

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visit baystateparent.com/storyofus for more details

BAYSTATEPARENT 61

CLASSIFIEDS The Budget Coach Spring cleaning for your finances! Meet with the Budget Coach now to organize your budget and get fiscally fit. It’s time to meet with the Coach!

Call now 508-792-9087 or visit TheBudgetCoachHelp.com Surrogate Mothers Needed Earn up to $28,000. Established Surrogacy Agency seeksloving women ages 21-43, to carry couples biological babies. You must be a non-smoker, and prior birth experience is required.

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INDEX Adventure Bootcamp...............................................................................17 Alpha Tae Kwon Do................................................................................53 American Liver Foundation.......................................................................41 Applewild School...................................................................................42 Appalachian Mtn. Club............................................................................30 Attorney James Connors...........................................................................41 Backyard Adventures..............................................................................31 Ballet Arts Worcester...............................................................................11 Bancroft School..................................................................................3 Barrett Family Wellness..........................................................................29 Becker College......................................................................................13 Berlin Horse Farm..................................................................................52 Boating in Boston..................................................................................50 Boroughs JCC........................................................................................54 Boston Children’s Museum.......................................................................27 Breezy Picnic Grounds & Waterslides.........................................................15 Brianna Verdolino Photography............................................................,.....9 Camp St. John......................................................................................54 Canobie Lake Park.................................................................................29 Charter.................................................................................................64 Chess Camp..........................................................................................49 Children’s Music Academy.......................................................................60 Cirque de Soleil.....................................................................................27 Claytime...............................................................................................39 CoCo Key Water Resort.............................................................................6

Commerce............................................................................................35 Cornerstone Academy.............................................................................51 Cutie Patutie’s...................................................................................,...15 Danforth Museum.............................................................................,....51 Davis Farmland..................................................................................4,62 deCordova Museum...............................................................................51 Dexter Southfield School........................................................................49 Discount Characters................................................................................13 Double Time..........................................................................................60 Dr. Mel - Pediatric Dentistry......................................................................24 Eagle Hill School....................................................................................52 Ecotarium.............................................................................................31 Elite Dance Academy..............................................................................49 Family Labels........................................................................................62 Fay School.......................................................................................39,51 Fidelity...................................................................................................5 Giguere Gymnastics...............................................................................53 Guild of St. Agnes Daycare.......................................................................9 Inn At East Hill Farm..............................................................................24 iParty..............................................................................................42,59 Knowledge Quest...................................................................................12 Leader Basement Systems.......................................................................38 Living Earth...........................................................................................47 Lowell Summer Music Series...................................................................15 MaryKay...............................................................................................62

MetroWest YMCA Hopkinton....................................................................54 Mount Wachusett Comm. College.............................................................34 Music Together.......................................................................................54 Next Generation Children’s Center...................................................,..........8 Panera Bread........................................................................................59 Parenting Solutions.................................................................................60 Purity Spring Resort.................................................................................4 Roche Bros...........................................................................................31 Simon Malls..........................................................................................2 Skribbles..............................................................................................46 Southeast Advocate Associates.................................................................12 Speech, Language and Hearing Assoc.......................................................39 Sterling Academy of Gymnastics and Dance.... ...........................................53 Summer Fenn.......................................................................................48 The Village............................................................................................15 Wachusett Mtn......................................................................................30 Wachusett Theatre Company.....................................................................7 Wheelock Family Theatre.........................................................................52 Women Earning Six Figures......................................................................17 Women’s Health of Central MA................................................................20 Worcester Academy of Music...................................................................49 Worcester Art Museum............................................................................11 Worcester JCC..................................................................................39,50 WPI.....................................................................................................43 YMCA Central Branch................................................................................6

Earn FREE† Mary Kay® products!

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Why cut skin care or makeup from your budget or sacrifice quality when you can earn FREE† products throwing a Mary Kay party? Since I come to you, there’s no hassling with store crowds or parking or trying to find a salesperson. I can offer free samples and recommend the products tailored to your and each of your friends’ skin, styles and wallets! Contact me to set up your party today. That’s Beauty on a Budget!

Deborah Maturi Independent Beauty Consultant http://www.marykay.com/deborahmaturi 508-797-2902 • deborahmaturi@marykay.com † with $200 in total sales and one booking

62 JUNE2012

Ask about our mother & daughter parties

inspired by this sweet moment baystateparent honored 34 times in 2011 for editorial and design excellence by the New England Newspaper and Press Association and Parenting Media Association Awards include General Excellence in Advertising Design and distinctions in overall writing and photography photo courtesy of www.bellinipics.com Stephanie Piscitelli and her boys, Grayson and Madden, as featured in our May 2011 issue

BAYSTATEPARENT 63

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64 JUNE2012