September 2011 baystateparent Magazine

FREE

SEPT. 2011

baystateparent Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

9/11 BABIES GROW UP How to Answer Their Tough Questions

art & EXTRA-

curriculars A STRIKING BEAUTY Boxing Empowers Girls No Cleats Required 26 WAYS TO FIND YOUR CHILD’S NICHE REEL ADVICE For Future Movie Makers

TAKE CONTROL Of The Most Dangerous Thing We Do Every Day

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

2 SEPTEMBER2011

Cornerstone Academy Educating all learners in grades K-6

Learning at Cornerstone Academy is not limited to the classroom.

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0BL "WFOVF t /PSUICPSP ." t www.cornerstoneacademy.org BAYSTATEPARENT 3

4 SEPTEMBER2011

Blossom Station Child Care Center of Acton “Daily Discoveries, Endless Possibilities”

NOW ENROLLING Your child’s First Steps are guided by our dedicated educators Our dynamic curriculum and nurturing environment provides the stepping stones for your child to acquire social skills, physical development, problem solving strategies and much more Open year round from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Mon-Fri Serving families of infants through kindergarten, before & after-school

222 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720

978-266-2779 www.BlossomStation.com

BAYSTATEPARENT 5

Make your mark. ®

®

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 the tax advantages and investing options you may not find elsewhere. 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

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.

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

6 SEPTEMBER2011

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Captured by Steven King

10

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LET’S ROLL

Collegiate and cool Northampton is a great daytrip for fall, offering shopping and eclectic eateries as well as bike paths and the fabulous Look Park, a short drive from the downtown area.

table

the of the home

8 8 9

38 THE ABCS OF EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

42 STRIKING BEAUTIES: Boxing Helps Women Of all Ages

MEET OUR COVER MODEL GUESTBOOK

10 LET’S ROLL: Northampton 18 26 27 27 27 59

OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO JUNKDRAWERS FINALLY, FOREVER: Haiti to Home Part 7 CHILD OF THE MONTH CIRCLE OF FRIENDS ADOPTION CALENDAR

44 47 50 51 52 54

MOMS ROCK: Sarah Ziegler of Grafton UNIMPORTANT PLEASURES WITH CHRISTINE AND FAYE CAPTURED: EXTRAS ON MY PLATE

OPEN HOUSE LISTINGS BULLETIN BOARD

82 82

SHOW AND TELL

DIRTY LAUNDRY: Good-bye Summer, Hello Extracurriculars FUTURE MOVIE MAKERS

exclusive for sept.

69

STRIKING BEAUTIES

Ever feel like you just want to punch something? Mothers and daughters of all ages are coming out of the corners and taking a swing with boxing as their workout of choice.

something special 12 PARENTS TAKE THE WHEEL 16 FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

28 THE IPAD MAY BE COMING TO A KINDERGARTEN NEAR YOU 31 WE WILL NEVER FORGET: Remembering 9/11 32 HOLOCAUST MEMORIES: Two Grandmothers Remember

TAKE GOOD CARE: What you Don’t Want Them to Learn on the School Bus

advertising directories 76 77 79

Imagine adding iPad to your kindergartner’s school supply list.

It’s happening in schools in Massachusetts.

arts & extracurriculars

WELCOME

42

IPAD

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

SEPTEMBER 2011 • VOLUME 16 • NUMBER 5

in every issue

steven king

Peyton Judge age 12

bellini portraits

courtesy of herrell’s

our special guest

WACHUSETT MOUNTAIN’S KIDSFEST PROGRAM

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

PARTY PLANNER

66 EVERYBODY NEEDS ME: The Volunteer Balancing Act

sneak peek October

THINK PINK

November

SPECIAL NEEDS

December

THE HOLIDAYS

FT <PZT :XSb B\X[T Our warm and kid-friendly office and reception rooms are designed to be welcoming, fun and special for the whole family.

Pediatric Dentistry

Orthodontics

Bruce Stuart Fieldman, D.M.D., P.C. and Associates

Reema Dhingra, D.M.D.

& Drilless Dentistry

& Orthodontics for children and adults

for the fearful & special needs child

(Moms and $ADS WEAR BRACES TOO

& We also provide Hospital Dentistry

$RURY 3QUARE -EDICAL #ENTER s !UBURN 3T s !UBURN s BAYSTATEPARENT 7

brittany durgin

e m o c Wel

adies, we’re neck and neck with the guys. Because of our obsession with multitasking, we have now leveled the playing field when it comes to car crashes.

It used to be the guys who were most aggressive when it came to car crashes and sustaining injuries until we came along with our distracted driving, a growing epidemic.

We’re talking on the phone, focusing on the GPS, daydreaming, putting on lipstick, eating and texting. What’s even worse than putting our families’ lives at risk every day when we get behind the wheel juggling our breakfast and cell phones is that our children are watching. Look at what they are learning.

As we start a new season of chauffeuring our children to school and a hundred different extracurricular activities (the focus of our September issue), we are not doing it safely.

Massachusetts drivers are ranked 45th out of 50 states for driver safety.

I learned other reasons why we’re doing so poorly early one morning last month. I am in good company in telling you that I did not know:

L

• how to use my ABS brakes properly; • that a “mere” 5mph additional speed could cause me to lose control of the car; • that I tailgate every day without knowing what I am doing is tailgating; • how to properly adjust my car mirrors; • how to make an emergency lane switch on the highway.

I took a hands-on crash prevention course at In Control’s North Andover campus. Did I need to take a crash-prevention course?

No, not legally anyway. No one was forcing me to, but when I received the invitation, I was motivated to be the safest driver I can be for my children. Still, I wondered if this 4-and-a-half hour program on an early Sunday morning would be worth the hour’s drive from my house, but guess what?

It changed my life.

I know that sounds dramatic, but I was astounded that I am a Step 9 driver and have been driving for over 23 years without having learned the basic skills I was taught in this course. Experienced, yes. Skilled, no.

The class was comprised mostly of parents accompanying their teens ages 16 and above.

We practiced safety drills using In Control

vehicles with trained drivers. The drills were scary. They were empowering. I experienced first-hand why my hands need to be at 10 and 2 and why my left foot needs to be resting properly on the dead pedal (the “foot rest” to the left of the brake). I learned why seat belts on myself and my passengers actually prevent me from crashing.

I had always assumed that alcohol and speeding accounted for most crashes, but actually 93% of crashes are caused by driver error. Distractions while driving are as bad as drunk driving. As parents, we’ll check our child’s car seat ten times to make sure everything is fastened correctly, but we’ll talk on the cell phone.

And tired parents who drive after getting four hours of sleep or less are as impaired as a driver with a .08 blood alcohol content, which is above the legal limit for drivers over 21. If you get two nights of six hours or less sleep, that has the same effect.

Obviously we are not going to protect our families on the road by simply spreading awareness. We have to get behind the wheel and build muscle memory learning lifesaving driving skills, so that we react instinctively when we really need to.

I know most of us can barely find the time to get our hair cut let alone take a crash-prevention course, but it’s something to think about when your children start driving.

Learn more about In Control on page 12 of this month’s issue. If you are interested in the program for yourself or a special teen or senior in your life, baystateparent readers will receive a special discount by logging on to DriveInControl.com/baystateparent.

Now about that tie with the guys.

We’ll get rid of the distractions. You get rid of the road rage. It’s a draw.

Carrie Wattu, editor

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher GARETH CHARTER 508-749-3166 x153 gcharter@holdenlandmark.com editor CARRIE WATTU 508-865-7070 editor@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

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

graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-865-7070 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

sales & business development manager STEPHANIE PEARL 774-364-0296 stephaniep@baystateparent.com account executive STACI LaTURNO BISSET 774-364-5073 stacil@baystateparent.com account executive EMILY RETTIG 774-364-4178 emilyr@baystateparent.com account executive DAWN HINES 413-626-2789 dawn@baystateparent.com contributing writers SUSANNE BOITANO ALEXANDRA CAULWAY CHRISTINE GUANIPA C. KELLEHER HARRIS CHRISTINE HURLEY

FAYE HURLEY CAITLYN KELLEHER STEPHEN RICH AMANDA ROBERGE BONNIE J. TOOMEY WENDY UPSON

presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

ING COM ON SO

k k Pin • Thin cial Needs • Spe Holidays 070 • The 65.7 ates 08.8 R Call 5 vertising d A r Fo

photographers BELLINI PORTRAITS MICHELLE CARR BRITTANY DURGIN STEVEN KING editorial interns ALEXANDRA CAULWAY EMILY O’BRIEN

baystatestateparent 117 Elm St., Millbury, MA 01527

508-865-7070

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com www.massfieldtrips.com

Meet Our Cover Model

Peyton Judge

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 117 Elm Street, Millbury, 01527 508-865-7070 Fax 508-865-7979 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com

age 12 1. You've watched your mom box since you were 3. What made you want to try boxing yourself? It always looked like fun when I watched my mom and I wanted to be strong like her. I'm not the kind of girl that goes for soccer or lacrosse. Kickboxing is my inner strength and it isn't the answer that people expect. It is out of the ordinary.

2. What would surprise people about boxing for girls? People would be surprised at the kind of things girls learn in boxing.

Girls learn how to defend themselves and stand up for themselves. We also learn how to set goals for ourselves and how to make those goals a reality. Many people stereotype girls and think they are weaker than guys and could never take the hard work kickboxing and boxing gives us the opportunity to do.We girls can be just as strong as guys and in some cases stronger.

8 SEPTEMBER2011

Distribution Agency: Insight Distribution Management 978-728-7785/603-661-8370 • Insightdm@yahoo.com

3. Are you looking forward to anything special this school year? I am looking forward to trying out for the cross country team at school this fall and then looking into trying out for the (boys) wrestling team as well.

4. Tell us about trying out for the boys' wrestling team. I want to join the boys' wrestling team this year to prove myself, get healthy and strong and feel good all at the same time. It would feel like such a victory to be able to pin a boy, and it would prove that girls can be just as strong as boys.

5. What other interests do you enjoy?

I have a lot of interests and am involved in a lot of activities. Last year at school, I was involved in chorus, was in my school talent show performing

steven king

a song that I wrote and acted in two play productions (with the last one using one of my songs in the play). I love writing songs,singing and acting.

I also joined the school's running club this spring just for fun as well as being involved in kickboxing. I also love to read.

Massachusetts' premier magazine for families has earned more than 130 national and regional awards since 2004, including 30 in 2010: 17 Parenting Publications of America Awards 8 New England Newspaper Press Association Awards 5 Suburban Newspapers of America Awards Including Best Parenting Publication in North America 2010

GUESTBOOK

Nuturing Care For Your Child (Designed by moms) NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL

So Long Dog Days: Drew Borggaard, age 3 of Charlton, gives his dog, Divot, age 2, a drink.

I

have used your magazine repeatedly for my granddaughters’ birthday parties.

First, I booked a magician, who was spectacular, and then I booked Dora who was also incredible. I am impressed with your magazine.

Linda Shoemaker

On behalf of the Worcester County Food Bank and our network of food pantries, I need to clarify some information that was misstated in the article “Filling Them Up” (August 2011), re: the policy that one must be 18 years old to receive food from food pantries. Please note that there is no such policy by the Worcester County Food Bank or its network of food pantries.

Readers can visit foodbank.org for information on food resources in their community.

Jean McMurray Worcester County Food Bank Executive Director Thank you for publishing such a great article about South High and our staff.

Your talented writer [Alexandra Caulway] captured the essence of what staff at South High do daily to help our students in so many ways.

As a result of the article, we have received donations for our food pantry. We have also received many emails asking how individuals in the community can help.

You have helped make a difference in the lives of our students and families.

Maureen Binienda, Principal South High Community School, Worcester Thank you so much for writing the piece on the Monson family, the Fernindinos, affected by the tornado [“We Survived” July 2010]. Monson is my hometown and my entire family still lives there. Luckily - and we don’t know how - their homes

and lives were spared. My sister’s car was totaled (with her and my niece inside!) but that was it as far as damage for them goes. The wreckage in town is simply heartbreaking, so again, thank you!!

Abbey McDonald Managing Editor and Marketing Consultant, Bostonbabynurse.com

At The Children’s Garden, we’re more than experienced child care professionals.

We’re mothers and grandmothers too.

Learn more and take a tour:

508-751-6985 childrensgarden@vnacarenetwork.org

So we’ve made The Children’s Garden a place where we’d love to bring our own little ones – nurturing children’s natural curiosity, supporting their physical and emotional development, and devoting lots of attention to their individual needs.

The Children’s Garden also features: UÊ Ì ÕÕ Ê vÊV>ÀiÊv ÀÊ>}iÃÊnÊÜii ÃÊÌ ÊxÊÞi>Àà UÊ-iÀÛ }Ê> Êv> iÃÊ Û }Ê> `ÊÜ À }Ê Ê i ÌÀ> Ê >ÃÃ>V ÕÃiÌÌÃÊà ViÊ£ n Ê UÊ Ûi i ÌÊ V>Ì Ê>ÌÊ£ÓäÊ/ >ÃÊ-Ì°]Ê7 ÀViÃÌiÀ]Ê i>ÀÊ` Ü Ì Ü Ê> `Ê Ó ä

The Home for Little Wanderers’ Annual Backpack Drive runs through September 28th. Information can be found at thehome.org.

Heather MacFarlane The Home for Little Wanderers Correction: Freelance writer Doug Page lives in Medfield. His name and town were printed incorrectly in the August 2011 issue.

WINNERS! baystateparent giveaways are announced on our newly-launched website, baystateparent.com, under “Contests/ Fast Pass to Giveaways” as well as on our Facebook page (Join our page today by searching “baystateparent Magazine.”

We’re a friendly and resourceful group of 2,165 parents and growing strong!) A sampling of our recent prizes and winners include: Worcester Tornadoes tickets: Kristen MacKenzie, Webster Bernadette Peloquin, Worcester Peachy Co. Aquaduck Faucet Extenders: Triada Apostolou, Auburn Nicole Larocque, Franklin Tara DiGiovanni, Leominster Email your thoughts on our September arts/extracurricular issue: editor@baystateparent.com.

All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Please include your full name and town for publication.

BAYSTATEPARENT 9

paul schnaittacher

LET’SROLL

Collegiate and Cool Northampton amanda roberge

While most of Massachusetts has been flocking to the coast the past few months like a swarm of moths to a single flame, fall is a time to head west to the Pioneer Valley where the city of Northampton – just past Amherst over the Connecticut River – waves quietly from its perch.

My only experience with Western Massachusetts is from my pre-family days. I am more familiar with the bars, clubs and frat houses of the UMass area than anything else, and frankly, I’d rather not discuss that period of my life but thanks for asking. That said, I am slowly learning to behave like a civilized human being and a respectable mother, and I found that to be a somewhat thrilling challenge in an area that holds so many hazy memories.

And what I also found, with my dear friend and our preschool daughters in tow, was that Northampton makes the perfect day trip in any kind of weather.

While sunny and warm is always a good omen for a trip with the kids, Northampton offers so much to do that it’s a surprisingly welcoming place even on the overcast and rainy days, the cool days and the unbearably hot days.

For a low parking fee in Northampton’s central parking garage, most of the local attractions are an easy walk. Thornes Marketplace is an indoor mall-like shopping complex that contains three 10 SEPTEMBER2011

stories of everything from upscale boutiques to discount supply stores, plus a sprinkling of small eateries and shops.

from the obscure to the off-the-beaten path. While the theater is known for holding screenings of highly acclaimed

Around the corner, the Pleasant Street Theater is an old-timey independent cinema that offers a docket of features

and award-winning independent films, they also hold a baby-friendly movie once a week where moms can nurse

courtesy of herrell’s ice cream

BY

and babies can cry, all in a dimly-lit airconditioned theater.

And accessible from both the street and the inside of the Thornes Marketplace, Herrell’s Ice Cream is an absolute must for your day trip. Inventor of the “smoosh-in,” which later became the very foundation of the business plan for other chain ice creams shops, owner Steve Herrell is known for his commitment to quality ice cream and fixin’s. In fact, the Northampton location has been featured in Bon Appetit Magazine, Newsweek and Time – as well is being listed in USA Today as one of the “10 Great Places to Get a Scoop.”

With flavors like Elvis’ Favorite (banana ice cream with peanut butter swirl) and Damn Yankees (peppermint ice cream with crushed cookies and fudge swirl), I have to agree.

No trip to Noho is complete without a trip to a candy store, in my never-tobe-humble opinion. Because someone somewhere loves me and looks out for my emotional well-being, right there in front of us during my recent trip was a divine little corner shop called Sweeties, calling to us as we skipped through the rain. Sweeties – which has no website, no business cards and no need for either – seduced us with barrels of goodies that you scoop into bags, and when in Rome…

plus wandering walkways and attractions of all kinds. While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll rely largely on the weather to make the park a part of your trip, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth designating a large chunk of your day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so long as you stop downtown for Herrellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ice cream before heading home.

A short drive will take you to the locally renowned Bridge of Flowers and Peace Pagoda, both attractions for the natureloving tourist who likes to meander and explore. And for the true outdoorsmen, the hiking trails in the Northampton area are hard to beat.

This fall, on the days when you want to do something different, when

everyone needs to renew their sense of adventure and go explore a new haunt, consider grabbing a coffee and hopping on the Mass Pike or Route 2, for a family adventure. As you approach the gorgeous mountains of the western part of the state, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel like you are transcending a new universe.

www.berkshirehiking.com www.herrells.com www.thornesmarketplace.com www.pleasantsttheater.org Sweeties 68 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 413-586-4180

Amanda Roberge is a Leominster-based freelancer writer. She is the mother of three girls. www.lookpark.org www.carlemuseum.org www.buenoysano.com

Bridge of Flowers, Shelburne Falls, MA Peace Pagoda 100 Cave Hill Rd., Leverett, MA 413-367-2202

%ARN YOUR DEGREE IN AS LITTLE AS MONTHS* WHILE PARENTING FULL TIME After getting our blood-sugar at an elevated level, the rain subsided a bit and we were able to walk, skip and run around. My friend and I were able to get in some more chat time under our umbrella as the kids explored the immaculate landscape and absorbed the hip, relaxed vibes that seem to be a chemical part of the environment.

On a beautiful day, you could sit on benches, walk to the local library or any number of local parks and playgrounds.

A bike trail runs through the town but I am far too lazy for that sort of thing, so my crew and I relied on Pixie Sticks and Diet Coke for fuel as we took in our new surroundings.

As lunchtime approached, I knew where weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be eating. Anyone who knows this area will tell you that Bueno y Sano (Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good & Healthyâ&#x20AC;? in English) is the way to go. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be fooled; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to pretend that the burritos, tacos and quesadillas are the most decadent thing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever eaten.

Our picky eaters surprised us by cleaning the rice and beans off our plates after they finished their chicken and cheese tacos.

There are countless attractions in the area that are family friendly, including the popular Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art just over the river in Amherst, where kids can look at art, talk about art and make art as well as enjoy books. The museum features not only the work of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book author and illustrator, Eric Carle, but that of numerous others. The museum holds events that cater to everyone, including performances, lectures and hands-on workshops.

Look Park is just up the road from the downtown area and boasts four playgrounds, a water spray park, a small zoo, bumper boats and a scenic railroad,

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BAYSTATEPARENT 11

Parents Take the Wheel BY

for teens after they take the course. We provide them with skills,” says Dan.

Massachusetts Ranked at Bottom

carrie wattu, brittany durgin photography

It’s time parents get serious about the most dangerous thing we do every day: drive. A lifesaving crash prevention course is not something most of us have on our to-do lists, but if it can make you a better driver, save money on your insurance and potentially save the lives of your family, why not? For teens, there’s not even a hesitation. This is at the top of the list.

By

the time Dan Stollo’s 5-yearold plays varsity sports in high school, he will have had at least ten years of practice behind him. Yet at age 16, his son will get his driver’s permit and 6 months later will be on the varsity roads driving with other experienced drivers.

This frightens the Lexington, Massachusetts father of four children, ages 9, 8, 5 and 2.

“Car crashes are the #1 cause of death of teens by far. Teens crash at such a ridiculous rate; far more than half of them will crash,” he says.

schools, PTOs and communities, says that most people don’t realize how dangerous driving is: Car crashes are the #1 cause of death under age 45 and the #1 unnatural cause of death for all ages in the U.S. After taking the course, Dan says, “One hundred percent of the people who come out of it are blown away.” Even Dan’s wife. “After taking the course, she never gave me a hard time coming home late from work.” In fact, they even enrolled their nanny and baby-sitter.

“There is a lot of stuff that the typical driver does not know,” Dan says. Training is offered for experienced drivers of all

Massachusetts drivers are ranked 45th out of 50 states for safety.

Dan is president of In Control, a Massachusetts-based crash prevention driving course. Founded in 2003, the program has nearly 20,000 graduates.

Dan, who advocates safe driving to 12 SEPTEMBER2011

ages. “Most people don’t think they need it, but you can be experienced but not skilled.”

In Control graduates include an astronaut, a 94-year-old, professional

race car drivers and the entire Lowell police department.

While the program benefits all drivers, their real target is teens. “I know far too many parents who have had their kids die or get severely injured. They said, ‘I knew they would crash but I didn’t think it would be this bad.’ We have become complacent with this.”

The course strives to reach teens before they get their licenses. “It’s the first hundred hours driving that are the most deadly,” Dan says.

Instructors help build instinctual reactions in real-world experiences. Students learn to feel some invincibility with speed and how to turn the speed into a skid as well as how to properly handle an emergency lane change.

The course also demonstrates through closely-supervised drills that you can lose control driving at 30 miles an hour. “You learn that 6 miles an hour over the speed limit is a big deal,” says Dan. Even the seat belt gets a fresh explanation.

“The reason to wear the seat belt is to stay behind the wheel so that you can prevent a crash.”

Dan says, “Most teens come kicking and screaming because it’s 4.5 hours of their lives, but it can be intimidating for the first 20 minutes....” And while the instructors don’t want to promote this too much, the training, taught be drivers with racing experiencing, is actually “fun.”

Without crash prevention training, more than half of new drivers crash in their first two years on the road.

“There is a 70% reduction in crashes

Massachusetts drivers are ranked 45th out of 50 states for safety. Dan says this is because drivers are simply not being trained.

The state of Massachusetts requires drivers who are 16 years of age to complete 30 hours of Registrar-approved classroom instruction (drivers’ ed); six hours of incar experience observing other student drivers; at least an additional 40 hours of supervised, behind-the-wheel driving as shown by a certified statement provided by a parent or guardian; and a written test.

Dan compares this with European countries, who require several driving tests.

“In Massachusetts, our driving test is no longer than 15 minutes but it is probably more like 3 minutes,” he says.

While In Control offers their optional 4.5 hour safety course after teens have completed regular drivers’ ed, Dan says, “In Germany you are required to take 14 hours of this same course.” But a 14-hour course would be a hard sell for people who already feel stretched committing to the 4.5 hour program.

The concept behind In Control is based on the fact that in the 1970s the United States was the safest place in the world to drive, says Dan. Near the bottom with crashes and death was always Germany.

Dan explains that as Germany started to focus on their driving problems, the United States started to focus on technology such as adding ABS brakes in cars.

“The danger is we never taught anybody how to us the brakes,” says Dan. “We are now in 42nd place out of 48 states for death rates per capita.”

Students can learn how to properly use ABS brakes and how to correctly adjust car mirrors. They will also see that tailgating is something most drivers do every day (and it’s not the bumper-to-bumper harassment most of us think of when we think tailgating).

Dan and his instructors hope drivers will never have to use the skills they teach, but they are passionate that experiencing the safety drills makes all the difference in the world.

For more information, including their upcoming snow classes, visit DriveInControl.com.

In Control Course Costs • An In Control course costs $350 per student. An additional family member can sign up for $230.

•Payment plans are offered for $24.99 per month.

• The insurance savings is usually more than the cost of the course.

• Certain insurance companies such as Safety Insurance offer the course at a reduced rate.

• Parents can observe for no charge.

• Gift certificates are available.

• There is a discount for baystateparent readers: DriveInControl.com/ baystateparent.

Hands-on Training Includes: â&#x20AC;˘ Proper hands and seating â&#x20AC;˘ Emergency braking skills (ABS) â&#x20AC;˘ Advanced steering skills, including over and under steering and speed control â&#x20AC;˘ Backing up skills and awareness â&#x20AC;˘ Close quarters maneuverability â&#x20AC;˘ Following distance/tailgating â&#x20AC;˘ Anti-cell / txt messaging / distraction experience â&#x20AC;˘ Emergency avoidance maneuvers This is supplemented with classroom discussion and training that additionally addresses: â&#x20AC;˘ Situational awareness and driving distractions (including cell / texting) â&#x20AC;˘ Understanding road-rage â&#x20AC;˘ Airbag awareness â&#x20AC;˘ Vehicle assessment â&#x20AC;˘ Other topics pertinent to the specific individuals involved (contact In Control with specific curriculum enhancement requests) Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent.

After taking an In Control course early one Sunday morning, she commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I cannot believe that I have been driving for over 23 years without the skills I learned today.â&#x20AC;?

Parent and Teens FAQ Courtesy of In Control Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve signed up my teen, do I need to go with them? No, but we really wish you would. We already drop the price of additional family members by $99 in hopes you will take the class with your teen. If you want to just go and observe, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no charge at all. Ultimately, we get amazing feedback from parents that attend and many sign up to train on their own once they realize what their teen is learning. By attending the training you can help reinforce everything your new driver is learning and we have been told by more than one family that it was a great bonding experience for all. By the way, you are not in the car with each other during the training. As a result, your teen will tell us stuff they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell you (plus they tell us stuff about your driving too).

My teen/I have been in a crash and are

nervous. Can your training help here?

Absolutely, in our first few years of training the vast majority of our students were referred from their insurance agent after having crashed (sometime multiple times). Our instructors have a lot of experience here and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received countless praise for the ability to instill confidence in those that have lost it (ironically, we receive an equal amount of positive feedback for level setting those overly confident drivers).

How do you know this reduces crashes?

In Control is the first state certified handson, crash prevention training of its kind in the U.S. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had third party studies find a 70% reduction in crashes for new drivers who take our training (compared to those that only take traditional drivers education). Additionally, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen similar crash reductions in experienced drivers. The fact is, some European countries have been doing this type of training for decades and their crash rate is dramatically lower than ours in the U.S. Come watch us train, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be amazed at what you do not know about driving.

Can parents train with their teens?

YES, in fact it is preferred. In a perfect world mom, dad, teens and grandparents all train together (we see it at least a few times per month). Parents of all ages need this training. Just because you are an experienced driver, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that you are a skilled driver. We have received a lot of positive feedback about the class as a bonding experience for parents and many insurance discounts apply to the whole family (not just the new drivers).

Should our teen wait until they have had their license a few months before training? No, while we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want your teen training in the first few weeks with a permit, we really do not think they should drive on their own without taking our course first. The first few hundred hours behind the wheel are the riskiest. Our goal is to see your new driver just prior to their license test. Of course, just because they passed that test, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make them an expert driver. Crash rates for drivers under 25 are dramatically higher than older drivers (until mature drivers, where we want to see you again), so even if your teen has been crash free for a few years, consider investing in our training for them.

Join Us For a Day of Outdoor Family Fun!

6 1JDL 4FBTPO *T )FSF Enjoy Daily: â&#x20AC;˘ Train Rides â&#x20AC;˘ Petting Zoo â&#x20AC;˘ Hay Pyramid â&#x20AC;˘ Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play Area â&#x20AC;˘ Moon Bounce â&#x20AC;˘ Burlap Maze â&#x20AC;˘ Busy Bee Learning Center

Plus Every Weekend: â&#x20AC;˘ Live Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Entertainment â&#x20AC;˘ Face Painting â&#x20AC;˘ Pony & Camel Rides â&#x20AC;˘ BBQ Snack Bar

Open Daily 10:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:00

Ride the train through our beautiful orchards and pick tree-ripened fruit including a variety of apples and Asian pears. Call our U-Pick hotline to see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picking: 508-653-0653.

October Harvest Weekends Live childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment, face painting, hay rides, caterpillar rides and pumpkin display!

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

ALWAYS HERE FOR YOU School’s Out? No Worries The YMCA is Here for You

• 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 • Optional Lunch Program • CompuChild, Music & Movement, Tumblebus, Lil' Sports and Mad Science programs on site 172 Otis Street (behind Walmart) .ORTHBORO -! s

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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

Announcing Our First Fall Workshop for 2011: Boroughs Family Branch 4 Valente Drive Westborough, Masschusetts 01581 508 870 1320 Central Community Branch 766 Main Street Worcester, Massachusetts 01610 508 755 6101 Greendale Family Branch 75 Shore Drive Worcester, Massachusetts01605 01605 Worcester, Massachusetts 508 6694 508 852 852 6694

Dg\Vc^oVi^dc 6 7 8h½ Curriculum: The program offers study time/ tutoring, individual and team games, fitness testing, swimming, science exploration, reading, story time, arts and crafts, computers, board games, cooking, much more.

Financial Assistance Available

Visit our Web Site at www.ymcaofcm.org

14 SEPTEMBER2011

Tuesday, September 27th, 6:30pm-8:30pm Tu Organizational advice for parents of elementary school aged children.

Ideas and solutions for decreased frustration and calmer transitions.

Pre-registration required. Fee $25/person.

Please call (508) 898-2688.

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

Bring in $ $5 in school supplies any day during the month of September to receive ½ off your full day pass!

See website for details and current operating hours y g www.CoCoKeyFitchburg.com

n, It’s hands-o FUN! family farm ck, Endangered Livesto er Discovery Play, Wat Rides, Pony Sprayground, Hay g, Pumpkins Rides, Apple Pickin and more. ts – Sept. Even s le U Pick App Sept. 8: Fall Schedule Begins 1/2 Price ly.

Open Thurs–Sun. on kdays after 2pm Admission Sept. Wee

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w for: Sign-up no . & Private Outings Birthday Parties om DavisFarmland.c O O (6666) 978-422-MOpa ars or nied by a child 12 ye Adults must be accom d. © 2011 DFL/DMM rmlan younger at Davis Fa

55,000 sq ft of indoor water park fun for kids of all ages… and adults too!

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Sept 17&18–Heli copter Rides over Maze* Sept 17–Moonlig ht Mazing. (6–10p m) Bring your flashlig ht* *Additional Charge –Call for times

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BAYSTATEPARENT 15

September 9 - 10: 12th Annual Olde Home Day. Central Park, Church St., Clinton. Crafters, local food vendors and continuous entertainment. oldehomeday.com.

September 2 - 5: 123rd Spencer Fair.

Smithville Rd., Spencer. Animal, vegetable & horticultural competitions & exhibits, stage shows, hypnotist- Dan Candell, The High Flying Pages, demolition derbies, truck pull, and children’s entertainment area. A $10, S and C ages 7-12 $6, under 7 free. Free parking. 508-885-5814, spencerfair.org.

September 2- 5: Three County Fair. Bridge St., Northampton. Major events this year are three Monster Truck shows, Demolition Derbies, an entertaining Battle of the Bands. Where can you find a show that has illusions, juggling, mind-reading, fire-eating, llamas, bunnies, doves, a python, escapes, balancing, hypnotism and more? At the Three County Fair, where the Kent Family Circus puts on an amazingly exciting show! Plus, Grannie’s Racing Pigs, midway, and more! For hours and admission: 3countyfair.com.

September 2– 5: 27th Annual Gloucester Schooner Festival. Races, parade of sail, deck, tours, public sails, lighted boat parade and other maritime activities. 978-283-1601, capeannvacations.com/schooner.

September 2 – 5: Blandford Fair. North St., Blanford. Horse, ox & pony draws, stage shows, truck pulls, hall exhibits - adult & youth, 2-day horse show, cattle, sheep & goat show, rabbit & poultry show, midway/rides. Parking $4. A $8, Sr. $5, Under 12 free. 413-848-2888, TheBlandfordFair.com.

Mom, Dad, Can We Please go to the Fair?

BY

emily o’brien, liz mazzotta illustrator

Welcome back to the world of pumpkin pie, hay rides and hot apple cider. Button those jackets, make sure everyone hits the bathroom and wake up that GPS! You have arrived at your destination: Over 30 fairs and festivals await your family. * baystateparent strongly recommends that you confirm all events before packing up your mini-vans and heading out with the kids.

Fairs and Festivals 2011

Your Family Farm!

800-628-4851

www.RedAppleFarm.com 16 SEPTEMBER2011

September 9-10: Our Lady of the Lake Parish Bazaar. 1400 Main St., Leominster. A giant Kids’ Alley, obstacle course, train ride, games, huge white elephant, potluck, silent auction and many more booths. 978-342-2978.

September 9 - 11: Sterling Fair. Sterling Airport, 121 Greenland Rd., Sterling. A two-anda-half-day community, family-oriented agricultural fair with emphasis on agriculture and education.

Free admission. Fireworks on Friday night. Details available at sterlingfair.org.

September 9 – 11: 34th Annual Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival. Veteran’s Park, Fort Point Street and Seaview Ave., East Norwalk, CT. Fun and enjoyment for everyone from 9 to 90 with music from nationally knownbands, Soul Asylum, Fuel and Silverado, other entertainment and attractions, rides, cooking competitions, arts and crafts and much more. Kids can meet real life pirates in the Pirates Coast Adventures, go on rides and more. Sunday is Family Day with special family and children’s packages for entrance, rides and meals. A$10 on Fri.; $12 on Sat. and Sun. Senior tickets are $10 all days. C (5-12) $3. C under 5 and U.S. military personnel on active duty are free.

Tickets: seaport.org.

September 3 – October 23: King Richard’s Faire, Rte 58, Carver. Weekends and holidays only. Return to Renaissance in this vivid re-creation of a 16th century English marketplace at festival time. Actors, dancers, puppeteers, jugglers, minstrels, mimes, magicians and musicians; royalty and beggars, knights and wenches and others roam throughout the 70-acre wooded village; exotic animals, jousting knights on horseback and challenging games round out the Faire. A $27, C (4-11) $15, Under 4 and parking Free. kingrichardsfaire.net.

September 10: Blackstone Canalfest. Harding St., Worcester. A classic street festival complete with music, entertainment, vendors, food, an abundance of kids’ activities, horse-and-wagon rides, kayak rides, historic as well as current canal project information, a giant raffle and much more. At the center of the festival will be an actual, re-created segment of the canal, 75 feet long filled with over 4,500 gallons of water, recalling the era when it served as a cargo waterway to the sea. Free Admission. blackstonecanalfest.org.

September 3 – 5: New England Arts and Craft Festival. 207 Boston Rd., Topsfield. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Features over 150 booths of Americanmade arts, crafts, specialty foods, live music and craft demonstrations. A $6, C 14 and under, free.

Admission is good for all three days. 603-332-2616 or castleberryfairs.com.

September 10: Cambridge Carnival. Kendall Square, Boston. A colorful and festive celebration rooted in African traditions. The highlight is a grand costume parade accompanied by rich rhythmic musicality promoting all types of cultures. Other free activities include stilt walking from Open Air Circus; a moon bounce; arts and craft activities, including origami. and, of course, popcorn. 617-492-2518, cambridgecarnival.org.

September 8 – 11: Franklin County Fair.

89 Wisdom Way, Greenfield. Thurs., 3 pm; Fri., Noon; Sat. and Sun., 8 a.m. Draft horse show, entertainment, magic show. A $9, Sr. $6, C 9-17 $7, Under 9 free. 413-774-4282, fcas.com.

September 10: Fine Arts and Crafts Festival.

Codman Estate, Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Over 100 artisans. Items include wooden furniture and toys,

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pottery, photography, jewelry, glass, knitted sweaters and throws, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, metalware and folk carvings. Visitors also enjoy live entertainment, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities and a food court. $5pp. 617-9945100, x 5514, historicnewengland.org.

September 10 - 11: Mattoon Street Arts Festival. Mattoon St., Springfield. Features 90+ exhibitors, food vendors and strolling musicians. This is the longest running arts and crafts fair in Western Massachusetts. mattoonfestival.org.

September 17: New Braintree Country Fair.

New Braintree. Farm products, police displays, fireman demo, bands, burn outs, car & tractor show, rocket competition, scarecrow competition, kids games, pony rides, hay rides, bonfire, beer and wine tent, plant swap. Free kids 12 and under 1-mile race, 4.2 mile adult. 508-867-3583, newbraintreecountryfair.org.

September 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11: Swampscott Arts and Craft Festival. Linscott Park, Monument Ave., Swampscott. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Featuring over 75 Juried Craftsmen and women from all over New England. Rain or shine. Free admission. Scenic location. 603-332-2616, castleberryfairs.com.

September 11: Pet Rock Festival. Quinsigamond Community College, 670 West Boylston St., Worcester. 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m. Celebrating its 12th year, this family style festival features live music, demonstrations, speakers, vegetarian food, contests and 100s of tables of exhibitors from New England area animal organizations, including shelters, rescues and more. A see and be seen day for you and your pet. Proceeds benefit New England animal organizations. A$13, C$5. 508-832-8918, petrockfest.com. *Admission coupon online.

September 11: Reading Fall Street Faire. Main & Haven St., Reading. Over 80 vendors, dance and street performers, expanded childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area/ kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; zone, tailgate parties, best in show competition classic antique car show and more. readingfallstreetfaire.com.

September 16 - October. 2: The Big E. West Springfield. The largest fair in the northeast offers top name entertainment, The Big E Super Circus, the Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, animals, competitive exhibits, rides, shopping, crafts, a daily parade and a Mardi Gras parade and foods from around the world for 17 days each September. thebigE.com.

September 17 - 18: Harvard Fall Festival BBQ Cookoff. Hazel Farm, 150 Ayer Rd., Harvard. Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 p.m. 978-618-6442, harvardfallfestival.com.

September 17 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18: Old Deerfield Fall Fair, Old Deerfield. Craft fair with demonstrations.

Basket weaving, sculptures, hand-crafted items, paintings, notecards and more. Rain or shine. deerfield-craft.org.

September 18 : Peabody International Festival. Main St., Peabody. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Experience ethnic foods, music, dance and art. 978538-5702, peabody-ma.gov.

September 18: stART on the Street Festival.

Park Ave between Pleasant and Highland St., Worcester. 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m. Hosts 250+ artists and crafters, 20+ performers on 2 stages and the street, youth activities, food court and more at this one-day, FREE event! startonthestreet.org.

September 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25: 42nd Annual Bourne Scallop Festival. 70 Main St., Buzzards Bay. Events include a juried Arts & Crafts Show, a Home Expo and a fantastic line up of live entertainment.

Along with scallops, there will be many other foods.

508-759-6000, bournescallopfest.com.

September 17: Endless Summer Waterfront Festival. Nantasket Ave., Hull. Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 p.m.

This 7th annual event is free and open to the public. Featuring over 70 vendors, 25 restaurants, 5 live bands and 30 tons of sand. 781-925-5557, hullchamber.com, endlesssummerhull.com. Rain Date: Sept. 18.

September 17: St. Edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fall Fair, 10 Church St., Westminster. 10 a.m. - 7 p .m. Attic treasures, games for children and adults, raffles, flea market, silent auction, crafts, bakery booth, lunch, entertainment and more. 978-874-2362.

September 17: Fall Flea Market and Craft Fair. 5 Hastings Street, Mendon. 9 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 p.m.

Approximately 50 vendors selling unique crafts, fall decor, antiques & collectables, toys/games, and assorted flea market finds and more.. Plus a churchsponsored concession booth. Rain Date: Sept. 24.

508-473-1476, hopedaleucc.org.

September 24: New Hampshire Fish and Lobster Festival. Prescott Park, Portsmouth, NH. Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. Otherwise known as the Fishtival, celebrating 18 miles and 400 years of New Hampshire fishing communities and traditions. Free admission.

Tastings $4. 603-436-2848, prescottpark.org.

September 24 - 25: Life Is Good Festival.

Prowse Farm, 5 Blue Hill Rd., Canton. baystateparent will be here enjoying live children's music by the Laurie Berkner Band, Imagination Movers, Keller Williams, Ben Rudnick and friends (show times TBA).

Pick Your Own $SSOHV 5DVSEHUULHV

BLUEBERRIES

3HDFKHV DQG 3XPSNLQV Check website or call for more info!

DV DYDLODEOH BLUEBERRIES ~ PEACHES ~ APPLES ~ RASPBERRIES (in their season)

Farm KITCHEN Kitchen and Store FARM serving with Apple Crisp, Cream, Sandwiches, IceIce Cream, Fruit Slush, Cider Donuts, Strawberry Slush, Pies, and more Smoothies and more.

Barnyard Animals ~ Playground

Stop by our booth! Festival grounds open at 11 a.m.

Lots of hands-on games and art activities. Plus adult concert programming all weekend. One-day tickets for this star-studded concert weekend: A $65, C 2-12 $20, C under 2 free. 888-339-2987, lifeisgood.com.

All proceeds benefit the Life is Good Foundation.

September 24 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25. Kidsfest. Wachusett Mountain, Princeton.10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Two days of music, food and fun. Interactive games, entertainment, free samples, magicians, jugglers and so much more. Stop by the baystateparent booth to say hi and enter to win our signature giveaways. See you there! A$10, C (3-12) $6. Kids under 5 receive a FREE skyride. Discounts available for advance tickets at wachusett.com.

September 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 2: Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival. Shrewsbury.

Townwide celebration featuring unique handmade items at the craft fair, a scarecrow contest & display on the Town Common, the Oak Street Expo featuring non-profit organizations and businesses, a 5-K race/ funwalk, Family FunFest, Shrewsbury Idol and more.

508-845-6977, spiritofshrewsbury.com.

September 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 10: Topsfield Fair.

Topsfield. Daily entertainment, midway, NE Giant Pumpkin Contest, petting zoo, fireworks, grange exhibits opening day parade, livestock, draft horse show. Mike Posner in concert on Oct. 8. A $10 weekdays, $12 weekends and Columbus Day. C under 8 free. Parking $10. 978-887-5000, topsfieldfair.org.

October 1 - 2: Harvest Festival. Heifer International. 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. 11 a.m. 4 p.m. Explore the homes in the Heifer Global Village to learn about traditional harvest celebrations in Peru, Poland, Kenya and more. Hayrides, gardens, farmfresh foods, pumpkins, fair trade and unique handcrafted items from around the world. Meet many of Heiferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animals including a pair of water buffalo, a yak, llamas and traditional farm animals such as pigs and goats. A $5, C 12 and under, free. (A fee will also be charged for food and pumpkins.) 508-886-2221 heifer.org/overlookevents.

Oct. 15 - 16: Cranberries Alive! Edaville USA, Carver. Train enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy an authentic train ride through spectacular scenery -- oftentimes past actual cranberry harvesting as well as a wide array of carnival rides and amusements. $18pp (ages 2 - 54). edaville.com.

To submit a fair or festival, or any family-friendly event, please fill out our calendar form at baystateparent.com. Click â&#x20AC;&#x153;Calendarâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Submit an Eventâ&#x20AC;? by September 5th for October and October 5th for November.

Emily Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien is a baystateparent intern and a senior at West Boylston Middle/High School.

October 1: The 3rd Annual West Boylston Fall Festival. Town Common, West Boylston. A relaxing day with lots to see and do. Visit wbaf.org for all the details. Proceeds benefit art and music education.

October 1: Maynard Fest. Nason & Main Streets, Maynard. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Dozens of sidewalk sales, over 100 vendors and free family entertainment. Free children's events such as pony rides and the Annual Open Studios at ArtSpace Maynard. Maynard Fest is traditionally followed by the Maynard Rotary Club's Oktoberfest at Clock Tower Place featuring a beer garden and fireworks. 978568-0360, assabetvalleychamber.org.

October 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2: North Quabbin Garlic & Arts Festival: 60 Chesnut Hill Rd., Orange. Delight in over 80 amazing art and agriculture booths; everything is made by hand or locally grown. Support fabulous artists and farmers and strengthen regional economy, shopping locally on a gorgeous farm illuminated by fall foliage. Family friendly. A $5, weekend pass $8. C 12 and under free. garlicandarts.org

Nurturing Growth with Natural Nutrition!

Specializing in Natural Foods and Nutritional Supplements since 1971

Read the labels - Know the difference

September Specials 20% off all Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nordic Naturals Products 10% off all Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Animal Parade Multivitamins & Vitamin C

234 Ball Street, Northboro

508-393-6406 â&#x20AC;˘ www.tougasfarm.com

Check out our Back to School Snack Section! #HANDLER 3TREET 7ORCESTER -! s 0H WWW LEFOODS COM s INFO LEFOODS COM s - & 3AT 3UN BAYSTATEPARENT 17

OH, THE

PLACES YOU’LL Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

- dr. seuss

courtesy of the life is good festival

GO

GO BIG E: Check out the largest fair in the Northeast, Sept. 16 - Oct. 2. thebige.com.

18 SEPTEMBER2011

GO WALK: Join the Liver Life Walk Boston 2011 on Sept. 24. liverfoundation.org.

courtesy of decordova

courtesy of the big e

courtesy of the liver foundation

GO LIFE IS GOOD: There’s something new to love about our favorite T-shirt and apparel company: a fundraiser that helps kids. Enjoy big-name family concerts and action for kids and adults all weekend, Sept. 24 and 25, in Canton. lifeisgood.com.

GO ART: Win a family membership to the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum at baystateparent.com.

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO 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

1THURSDAY FREE Summer in the City Performance and Movie Night. Technology Square Court Yard, Cambridge. 7 p.m. Interactive performance for all ages will be followed by an outdoor movie. 617-3494380, cambridgeartscouncil.org/summerinthecity.

with animals. A$12pp, C under 12 months free. 617426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

FREE Kids Storytime. Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. - Noon every Saturday. Themed stories, related craft and snack. 617-499-2000, facebook.com/theharvardcoop.

FREE Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com.

Family Fun Days. Wachusett Mountain, Princeton.

Clearance sale plus climbing wall, skyride, face painting, swingset, field games,bbq and bluegrass band. wachusett.com. Also Sept. 4.

Flippo the Clown. Davis’ Farmland and Mega Maze, 145 Redstone Hill Rd., Sterling. 2 p.m. Flippo the Clown performs dazzling magic tricks and juggling antics in a high-energy performance for the whole family. $19.95 pp Farm admission, Under 2 FREE. 978422-MOOO, davisfarmland.com. Also Sept. 4.

5MONDAY

8THURSDAY

Last Day for the Harry Pottery Scavenger Hunt. Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge. Ends today! 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Celebrate the world of J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter in a scavenger hunt in the museum galleries. Free with museum admission. 617-495-3045, hmnh.harvard.edu.

ONGOING Toddler Thursdays. Fruitlands, Harvard.

9 – 10 a.m. Explore art, nature and history with your child at the museum Wayside Visitor Center. $5 dropin, $30 for seven-week punch card. fruitlands.org.

Reservations are recommended: 978-456-3924 x292 or email education@fruitlands.org. New theme each Thursday.

FREE Snack and Story Time. Whole Foods Market, Framingham. Weekly on Mondays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2- 6. 508-628-9525.

6TUESDAY Pop-In Playtime. Pump it Up, Peabody. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Play on giant, soft, fun-filled interactive inflatables for ages 2 – 10. $8 per child; parents free. pumpitupparty.com.

FREE Parent Support Group. Parent/Professional Advocacy League (PPAL), Worcester. Monthly, every second and fourth Thursday. Meet other parents and caregivers who understand the struggles and victories of raising challenging kids who may have emotional, behavioral or mental health needs. ppal.net.

9FRIDAY FREE Olde Home Days. Central Park, Clinton.

FREE Take a Look Morning. Applewild School, 120 Prospect St., Fitchburg. 9 a.m. Open house on the first Thursday of each month. Tour the school! No RSVP needed. 978-342-6053 x 110, applewild.org.

FREE Summer Weekdays. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Ends tomorrow, Fri. Sept. 2 (but closes at 5 p.m. on Friday) 781-259-8355, decordova.org.

Wood Works. Providence Children’s Museum, Providence RI. 10 a.m. - Noon. Drop into Discovery Studio Thursdays and Fridays in September. This is a vibrant new art and science exploration space. Today’s focus invites children to create with wood, glue, a hammer and other tools. $8.50pp (free for children under 12 months). childrenmuseum.org. courtesy off improvboston

2FRIDAY FREE Last Day for Summer Weekdays. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Lincoln. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission ends today! 781-259-8355, decordova.org.

19th Annual Labor Day Super Clearance Sale.

Wachusett Mountain, Princeton. Sept. 2 – 5. Family Fun Days, Sept. 3 and 4 will feature a climbing wall, skyride, face painting, swingset, field games,bbq and bluegrass band. wachusett.com New Moms Group. Mothers and Company, Route 140, West Boylston. 12 – 1:30 p.m. Online RSVPs appreciated. All mothers and babies welcome. $5 pp NM. mothersandcompay.com.

Woodstock Fair. Woodstock, CT. See baystateparent’s list of Fairs and Festivals in this month’s issue. woodstockfair.com.

3SATURDAY FREE The Greenway Open Market. Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Every Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. until Sept. 17. A weekly open-air crafts and art market in the heart of the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Unique, hand crafted goods, parks, city sights, tree-lined promenades. greenwayopenmarket.com.

Roots and Shoots. Boston Children’s Museum, Boston. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join museum staff in sharing favorite experiences of time spent in nature or

Ham it up with the kids. ImprovBoston offers a family show every Saturday night at 6 p.m. improvboston.com

4SUNDAY Family Fun Days. Wachusett Mountain, Princeton. Clearance sale plus climbing wall, skyride, face painting, swingset, field games,bbq and bluegrass band. Wachusett.com.

Flippo the Clown. Davis’ Farmland and Mega Maze, Sterling. See Sept. 3 listing.

Arctic Circle – Last Day! EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Go deep inside the Arctic Circle to explore the frozen North -- the closest that most of us will ever get to this fascinating and fragile region. Discover what’s under the tip of an iceberg. Compare your weight to a polar bear. Check out real bear skulls and whale artifacts, hear from polar researchers and test your own Arctic IQ. Bear facts, whale tales... can it get any cooler? A$12, Y (2 – 18) $8, C under 2 FREE. ecotarium.org.

7WEDNESDAY Braids & Bows. American Girl, Natick. 4:30 p.m.

Learn the basics of braiding as well as secrets for pulling off a variety of super styles for long or short hair, from fancy braids to ribbon twists. Ages 8+. $24pp.

Reservations required: 877-247-5223, americangirl. com. Also Dec. 28.

FOR MOMS Breastfeeding Support Group. Baldwin Park I, 12 Alfred St., Woburn. Meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1:30-2:30 p.m. All moms and babies are welcome. Call Winchester Hospital’s Outpatient Lactation Center: 781-756-4788.

ONGOING Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 10:30, 11 and 11:30 a.m. Enjoy storytime, craft activities, live animals and more – all developed especially for little ones ages 3 and under. New themes every week! ecotarium.org.

5 – 10 p.m. Entertainment, food, vendors for all ages. oldehomeday.com. Also Sat., Sept. 10.

FREE Holden Cub Scouts Pack 180 Open House and Ice Cream Social. First Congregational Church, Holden. 6 – 8 p.m. For boys in 1st - 5th grade or ages 7 – 10. Learn more about Scouting, meet Den leaders and find out about how we offer fun and challenging activities to promote character development, citizenship and physical fitness for boys. 774-239-3241, holdencubscouts.org.

Family Hayrides and Campfire. Drumlin Farm Staff, Lincoln. 4 – 5:30 p.m. and 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Up to three children per adult; all ages welcome. The fee for children between the ages of 12 and 17 months is half the regular participant fee. $19pp NM. 781259-2206, drumlinfarm@massaudubon.org.

Our Lady of the Lake Parish Bazaar. 1400 Main St., North Leominster. 5 - 10 p.m. Family event for all ages featuring special visits from Blinkee the Clown and Animal Adventures as well as a petting zoo. Giant BAYSTATEPARENT 19

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OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO slide, games, food, huge White Elephant, potluck, silent auction, raffles, live music nightly. 978-342-2978 ourladylake@comcast.net. Also Sat., Sept. 10, Noon – 10 p.m.

10SATURDAY FREE The Greenway Open Market. Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Every Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. until Sept. 17. A weekly open-air crafts and art market in the heart of the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Unique, handcrafted goods, parks, city sights, tree-lined promenades. greenwayopenmarket.com.

FREE Fun Day of Music. Indian Hill Music, 36 King St. (Route 495/Exit 30), Littleton. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Enjoy a fun day of musical activities for all ages, including instrumental demonstrations, early childhood music classes and more. 978-486-9524, indianhillmusic.org.

FREE Our Lady of the Lake Parish Bazaar. 1400 Main St., North Leominster. 5 - 10 p.m. Family event for all ages featuring special visits from Blinkee the Clown and Animal Adventure as well as a petting zoo. Giant slide, games, food, huge White Elephant, potluck, silent auction, raffles, live music nightly. 978342-2978 ourladylake@comcast.net. Also Sat., Sept.

10, Noon – 10 p.m.

FREE Concert on the Green. The Pinehills Village Green (Exit 3 off of Route 3- Follow the signs!)

746-0012, plymouthantiquariansociety.org.

10th Annual Wake of Hope for ALS. Lake Quannapowitt, Wakefield. Registration, 9 a.m.; walk, 11 a.m. and the walk begins at 11 am. theangelfund.org.

Canal Diggers 5KM Road Race. Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre, 19 Temple St., Worcester. 11 a.m. Road race, one-mile fun run and fitness walk. The road race name highlights the great contributions that early Irish immigrants made toward the creation of the Blackstone Canal.

The race coincides with the Blackstone Canalfest, a classic street festival complete with food, music, entertainment, giant raffle, artists, horse & wagon

observing if weather permits. Open to the public.

Elementary-age on up. aldrichastro.org.

Open Road Music & Arts Festival. Institute Park, Salisbury Street and Park Avenue, Worcester. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Worcester’s first sustainable and earthfriendly music and arts festival. Live music, cuisine, local artists and vendors, family-friendly activities and much more. A Kids’ Village offers free face painting will be offered. In addition, some eco-friendly arts and crafts projects will also be offered so that kids can take their eco-creations home. Kids can also contribute to our interactive art wall, and of course, learn about how to live better and more green in a fun and engaging way. $10pp, C under 10 FREE. openroadfestival.com.

ONGOING SATURDAYS The ImprovBoston Family Show. ImprovBoston,Central Square, Cambridge.

6 p.m. Winner of the Nickelodeon award for “Best Children’s Theater,” the ImprovBoston Family Show offers hilarity for adults and children alike every Saturday. This unscripted show includes improvised singing, dancing and comedic scenes that are guaranteed to have the whole family laughing out loud.

Children who want to participate will have opportunities to be on stage and take part in the creative process.

617-576-1253, improvboston.com.

courtesy of gymnastic academy of boston

FREE Kids Storytime. Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. - Noon every Saturday. Themed stories, related craft and snack. 617-499-2000, facebook.com/theharvardcoop.

FREE Olde Home Days. Central Park, Clinton.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Entertainment with magic, puppets, and dance, Animal Adventures, hula hoop contest, inflatables, games, train rides, food, vendors for all ages. oldehomeday.com.

Family Overnight. Battleship Cove, Fall River.

Spend the night on a WWII battleship! Sleep in restored Navy bunks, eat meals “chow-line style” in the Officer’s Wardroom, and rise and shine to the sound of reveille. Guests will enjoy all-day admission, three meals and have the opportunity to participate in shipboard activities. Fees apply. 508-678-1100, battleshipcove.org.

FREE Celebrate the Number 11 at a 7th Anniversary Party. MetroWest School of Mathematics (MWSM), Framingham. 3 – 6 p.m.

Celebrate MWSM’s 7th anniversary and the number 11 (in honor of the year 2011, which has many special dates) with an open house featuring puzzle contests with prizes, free copies of its commemorative “Number 11” math puzzle book, birthday cake and free placement tests (pre-registration required). Open to all.

508-283-1355, metrowestschool.com.

20 SEPTEMBER2011

The gym is open to all at the Gymnastics Academy of Boston’s 4th Annual Carnival, Sept. 17th, 1 - 4p.m., Plainville. GymnasticAcademyofBoston.com.

Plymouth. 1 – 5 p.m. This is the summer finale and entertainment ill be announced. 508-209-2000, pinehills.com.

Teddy Bear Picnic. The Harlow Old Fort House, 119 Sandwich St., Plymouth. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

A lively morning of storytelling, hands-on kids’ activities and a puppet play. Don’t forget to bring your teddy bear! Recommended for ages 4+. $6pp.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. 508-

tours, kayak rides, street performers, fun kids’ activities, and more. At the center of this free festival will be a replica segment of the canal. It is 75 feet long and filled with over 4,500 gallons of water, recalling the era when it served as a cargo waterway to the sea. $35pp, FREE for members of Fallon Community Health Plan. canaldiggers.org.

FREE Amateur Astronomy. Anna Maria College: Science Building, 50 Sunset Lane, Worcester.

7:30 – 10 p.m. All meetings will have telescopes for

11SUNDAY Cambridge Carnival. A Caribbean-style festival in Central and Kendall squares featuring a parade, colorful Mardi Gras-style costumes, music stages, and a steel band. cambridgecarnival.org.

Farm Day & Barbecue. Verrill Farm, Concord. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. A fun end-of-summer day with farm

OH,THEPLACESYOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LLGO demonstrations, entertainment, contests, pony and hay rides (small fee) and bbq. verrillfarm.com.

Temple Emanuel Open House. Temple Emanuel of the Merrimack Valley, 101 West Forest St., Lowell.

See the religious school in session, try a hands-on craft project, meet other Jewish families with young children, learn about resources for Jewish family living. temv. org/study/templetots/

courtesty metrowest school of mathematics

Memories with Mom. American Girl, Natick. 4:30 p.m. Share a meal and one-on-one time together.

Includes an American Girl book, a commemorative photo and frame, and keepsakes to take home. Ages 6+. $35pp. Reservations required: 877-247-5223.

Wild about Turtles. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, Natick. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:30 p.m. Learn more about our wonderful shelled friends and take a short walk to see more turtles in the wild. A$12, C$8NM. Register: 508655-2296, massaudubon.org.

Plymouth Remembers 9-11. 9:45 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Dedication & Consecration of a steel beam from the World Trade Center at 9:45a.m. on South Spooner Street. Events include â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cry Out Americaâ&#x20AC;? at Pilgrim Memorial Park at 1:30 p.m. the Pilgrim Progress Parade beginning on North St at 2 p.m. and a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Celebrating American Spiritâ&#x20AC;? concert from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Plymouth Public Library. 508-830-1620, plymouthchamber.com Happy Grandparents Day! Providence Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, Providence, RI. Free admission for grandmoms and granddads all day. Children craft cards and collages in Discovery Studio from 1 - 3 p.m.. 401273-5437, childrenmuseum.org.

Pet Rock Festival. Worcester. The largest animal expo on the East coast. petrockfest.com.

FREE Open Gyms.The Gymnastic Academy of

12MONDAY Boston, 12 Keefe Rd., Acton. Open to the public Sept. 12-16: Mon, 12-1:15; Tues. - Fri., 11:4512:45. Giant inflatables, trampolines, giveaways, magic, popcorn and more. 978-369-9034, gymnasticacademyofboston.com.

ONGOING Infant Playgroup. Isis Parenting, Brookline. Every Monday, 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m. Playgroups are very popular; sign-ins begin no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start time. Space limited.

No pre-registration required. $8ppNM. Visit

Celebrate the Number 11 at a FREE celebration at the MetroWest School of Mathematics in Framingham. metrowestschool.com

isisparenting.org for a complete calendar of groups meeting in other locations.

175 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington. 10 a.m. 781-3163198. Also Sept. 27.

ONGOING When Duty Whispers: Concord and the Civil War. The Concord Museum, Concord Weekly on Mon. - Sat., 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. until Sept. 18.

Weekly Sundays, 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m. Features objects from the Concord Museum collection, including portraits, uniforms, firearms, swords, flags, broadsides, engravings, correspondence and newspapers. Also in the exhibit are Gettysburg relics, a charcoal study for the painting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Memories of Antietamâ&#x20AC;? and examples of Springfield arms. A$10, S$8, C6-17 $5. 978-3699763, concordmuseum.org.

FREE Infant Story Time. Barefoot Books, 89 Thoreau St., Concord. 9:45 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10:15 a.m. Young â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (0 to 1 year) and their caretakers are welcome: finger plays, songs and puppets as well as some great stories! (Older siblings welcome to play in the Studio.) barefootbooks. com.

FREE Snack and Story Time. Whole Foods Market, Framingham. Weekly on Mondays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2- 6. 508-628-9525.

FREE Open Gyms.The Gymnastic Academy of Boston, 12 Keefe Rd., Acton. See Sept. 12 listing for details.

13TUESDAY FREE Open Gyms.The Gymnastic Academy of Boston, 12 Keefe Rd., Acton. See Sept. 12 listing for details.

FREE Liz Buchanan Singalong. Fox Branch Library,

14WEDNESDAY

Garden Discovery Program â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A is for Apple.

Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston. 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11 a.m.

Programs are designed for children ages 3-5 and their parent or caregiver. Begin inside with a craft and storytime. Then step outside for a short walk to discover what is new in the garden. $8 per NM A/C pair. 508869-6111 x124, towerhillbg.org.

ONGOING Toddler Playgroup. Isis Parenting, Arlington and Needham. Every Wednesday in

Arlington, 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. and Needham, 3:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 p.m. Playgroups are very popular; sign-ins begin no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start time. Space limited. No pre-registration required. $8ppNM. Visit isisparenting.org for a complete calendar of groups meeting in other locations.

Cookie Bouquet Decorating Class. American Girl, Natick. 5 p.m. Learn how to design your own beautiful bouquet made of heart- and flower-shaped cookies using fancy frosting, sparkling sugars, and cute candies. Then, decorate a butterfly cupcake to enjoy after an American Girl meal. Fees apply. Americangirl. com. Also Nov. 10.

ONGOING New Moms Group. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. Weekly on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.

- 1 p.m. Also on Tuesdays and Fridays, but check times.

All moms and babies welcome.$5ppNM. Online RSVPs are appreciated: mothersandcompany.com.

15THURSDAY Pirate Day! Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Discovery Museum, Acton.

10 a.m. Ahoy, me hearties! Come prepare for Talk

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Like a Pirate Day on September 19th by learning how to speak like a pirate, creating your own hat and eye patch, searching for hidden treasure and practicing how to walk the plank. $10.50pp, Under 1 free. discoverymuseums.org.

FREE Open Gyms.The Gymnastic Academy of Boston, 12 Keefe Rd., Acton. See Sept. 12 listing for details.

Three days of Greek food and fun; live Greek music Friday and Saturday. stnicholaslex.org, 781-862-6453.

Also Sept. 17 & 18.

games, open gym, indoor playground and pizza. $21.50 for one child, $16 for each additional sibling. Space is limited. onestopfun.com.

FREE Singalong. Northborough Free Library, 34 Main St., Northborough. Sing, dance, play instruments and

The Big E Opens! Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. thebigE.com.

snack. 617-499-2000, facebook.com/theharvardcoop.

FREE Endless Summer Waterfront Festival. Hull.

Noon – 6 p.m. hullchamber.com, endlesssummerhull. com. Rain Date: Sept. 18.

FREE A Taste of Greece. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Lexington. See Sept. 16 listing for details.

ONGOING Butterfly Landing Zoo. Franklin Park Zoo, Boston. Daily, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. until Sept. 17.

Stroll through a tented outdoor exhibit, filled with hundreds of free-flying, beautiful butterflies. Admission applies. 617-541-5466, franklinparkzoo.org.

Maine Open Lighthouse Day. Statewide, ME Many of the state's coastal, island and river lighthouses will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for guided or self-guided tours of keeper's houses and light towers. Some light stations will have limited accessibility or special restrictions. For details about visitor hours, fees, activities and transportation to each participating lighthouse, visit lighthouseday.com.

Bitty Fun Day. American Girl, Natick. 10:30 a.m.

Spend some time with your little sweetie (ages 3+)!

Moms and preschoolers can color, celebrate, and learn Bitty Bunch games and rhymes before enjoying finger foods little girls will love. $10pp. Reservations required: 877-247-5223, americangirl.com. Also Oct. 4 and Nov. 15.

Applefest Book Sale. Northborough Free Library, 34 Main St., Northborough. 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Rain or shine. 508-393-5025.

FREE Homeschool Family Adventure. Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Ave., Worcester. 1 – 3 p.m. Try an all-new quest and follow clues around the sanctuary to reach your prize at the final destination.

Or request a Nature Discovery Backpack, chock full of supplies and information on natural history topics, for your enjoyment on the trails. All ages welcome!

Suggested donation: $5 to cover the cost of materials.

Register: 508-753-6087, massaudubon.org.

16FRIDAY FREE Open Gyms. The Gymnastic Academy of Boston, 12 Keefe Rd., Acton. See Sept. 12 listing for details.

FREE MOMS Club of Hubbardston Area. Meets every third Friday. Enjoy the Monthly Membership Circle/Open Playgroup with guest speaker: Susan Tordella. The Club serves Barre, Hubbardston, Princeton and Templeton. 508-667-8102, momsofhubb. freehostia.com.

FREE A Taste of Greece. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 17 Meriam St., Lexington. Fri. Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

courtesy of wayland touch a truck

FREE Breastfeeding Support. The First Baptist Church, the milc room, 111 Park Ave., Worcester.

3 – 5 p.m. The milc room is a free weekly community based breastfeeding support drop-in center for all pregnant and breastfeeding moms in the Greater Worcester area. sites.google.com/site/themilcroom or email rjrcnm@gmail.com

Touch a Truck for FREE in Wayland on Sat., Sept, 24, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Plus, inflatables, trains, balloons entertainment and more! bond with your children ages 0-5 with Gina from Music Together. applecountrymusictogether.com.

Sign up required: 508-393-5025.

17SATURDAY

FREE Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. Free from 5 – 8 p.m. Enjoy activities in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.. childrenmuseum.org.

St. Denis Bazaar. 85 Main St., Ashburnham. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Rain or shine. Attic treasures (opens at 7 a.m.), Silent and Chinese auctions, raffles, DJ, crafts, books, games, etc. 978-827-5806.

Full Moon Tour: Living in the Dark. Gore Place, Waltham. 7 p.m. Guides in period dress tell tales of life before the electric light while viewing the beautiful 1806 Gore mansion. A $14, C (5 – 12) $10. 781-894-2798 x 12.

FREE The Greenway Open Market. Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Every Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. until Sept. 17. A weekly open-air crafts and art market in the heart of the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Unique, hand crafted goods, parks, city sights, tree-lined promenades. greenwayopenmarket.com.

Parents Night Out. One Stop Fun, 49 Powers Rd., Westford. Leave the kids, ages 4 – 12, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. while you enjoy a quiet dinner, movie or just run some errands. Kids will enjoy

FREE Kids Storytime. Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. - Noon every Saturday. Themed stories, related craft and

FREE Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com.

4th Annual Carnival. To support Children’s Miracle Network and to celebrate National Gymnastics Day. Gymnastics Academy of Boston, 149 Washington St., Plainville. 1 - 4 p.m. Games, bouncy, food, open gym, team performance, raffle.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This event is close to the Wrentham outlets. Combine fun for the kids with a few errands. There is a cost for game tickets. 508-6952600, GymnasticAcademyofBoston.com.

Fairy House Tours. Prescott Park, Portsmouth, NH . Noon – 4 p.m.Enjoy a magical self-guided walking tour of Fairy Houses, displayed in public gardens in Portsmouth's historic South End neighborhood. Families, gardeners, nature lovers and the young at heart will be enchanted by these whimsical fairy habitats, built for the fairies to visit.

A$15 at the door, C$5, Families, $20. Advance ticket discount available. 603-436-2848, prescottpark.org. Also Sept. 18.

3rd Annual Buddy Carnival Fundraiser. VFW in Upton. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Unlimited games all day, raffles, food, entertainment, music. $25 per family or $10pp. All proceeds to benefit a annual scholarship for a high school student in Tricia O’Toole’s name. 508-2785141, buddyday.org.

FREE Solo Moms Teatime. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. For single moms, moms who are

Fostering a love of learning through respect for self, others, and the environment A diverse community of children from 15 months - grade 6 Now Accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 school year Save the Date! Admissions Open Houses 3UNDAY /CTOBER PM s 4HURSDAY .OVEMBER AM

www.newtonmontessori.org #RESCENT !VENUE s .EWTON #ENTRE -ASSACHUSETTS s 22 SEPTEMBER2011

parenting entirely or mostly on their own for one reason or another, moms whose partners are living far away (i.e. military service), moms whose children do not know their fathers and moms who chose to have a baby without a partner. Meets monthly, every third Saturday. mothersandcompany.com Harry Potter Exhibit. Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History at Regis College in Weston. Runs from Sept. 17 to Oct. 5. This award-winning travelling exhibit will feature real postage stamps from numerous countries including France, Great Britain, the Republic of Taiwan and the Isle of Man, all of which feature images from the Harry Potter books and movies. Includes over 750 stamps and other forms of postal material. There will also be games and puzzles related to the stamps and the Potter books for all Potter fans to complete and win stamp prizes. Regular Museum hours: Thursdays to Sundays, noon to 5p.m.. A$8, Sr. $5, C over 6 small fee. 781-768-8367, spellman.org.

19MONDAY

(0 to 1 year) and their caretakers are welcome: finger plays, songs and puppets as well as some great stories! (Older siblings welcome to play in the Studio.) barefootbooks.com.

FREE College Night. Museum of Science, Boston. 5 p.m. The Museum welcomes students back to the city in style by offering free admission to a night in the Exhibit Halls. FREE Omni and 3-D Digital Cinema films, Theater of Electricity shows, Boston Duck Tours, mini Segway tours and live presentations. mos.org.

Wild Things Play Group. New England Wildlife Center, South Weymouth. 1 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Preschoolers look forward to these hour-long funfests featuring storytelling, music and movement, arts and crafts, game, and, of course, live animals. Just drop in. $5 per child. 781-682-4878,

It’s Alive!

Young Frankenstein the Musical Comes to Worcester. thehanovertheatre.org.

courtesy of the hanover theatre

FOR PARENTS Matching your Child to the Right Massachusetts School. Hillside School, Marlborough. 6 – 9 p.m. Schooling experts will overview and differentiate the various types of schools available to Massachusetts parents: Charter, Private, Parochial, Alternative, Homeschooling, and Hybrids. Explore your options today and maybe improve your child’s future. 781-320-8195, dennisGPratt@Gmail.Com Sanctuary Walk. Mass Audubon: Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary 414 Massasoit Ave., Worcester. 9:30 a.m. - Noon.

Take a moderate-paced 3-mile hike and stop to enjoy any interesting and unusual sites we come upon. Ages 8+. Register: 508-753-6087, massaudubon.org.

18SUNDAY FREE A Taste of Greece. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Lexington. See Sept. 16 listing for details.

Fairy House Tours. Prescott Park, Portsmouth, NH. See Sept. 17 listing for details.

Family Day - Harry Potter Exhibit. Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History at Regis College in Weston. The exhibit runs from Sept. 17 to Oct. 5 but today is family day from Noon – 4 p.m. Education Director Henry Lukas says “perhaps we will even be able to organize a game of Quidditch.” A$8, Sr. $5, C over 6 small fee. 781-768-8367, spellman.org.

Mark your calendars for Oct. 2 when naturalists Marcia and Mark Wilson bring six live owls to demonstrate the many interesting traits about these natural birds.

A$8, Sr. $5, C over 6 small fee. 781-768-8367, spellman.org.

ONGOING Infant Playgroup. Isis Parenting, Brookline. Every Monday, 4 – 5 p.m. Playgroups are very popular; sign-ins begin no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start time. Space limited. No pre-registration required. $8ppNM. Visit isisparenting.org for a complete calendar of groups meeting in other locations.

FREE Snack and Story Time. Whole Foods Market, Framingham. Weekly on Mondays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2- 6. 508-628-9525.

FREE Singalongs. Shrewsbury Library, 10 and 11 a.m. Sing with Gina and Alex! Sing, dance, play instruments and bond with your children ages 0-5. Sign-ups required: 978-729-3697, applecountrymusictogether.com.

20TUESDAY FREE Infant Story Time. Barefoot Books, 89 Thoreau St., Concord. 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.J Young ‘readers’

FREE Greater Worcester Mothers of Twins Meeting. Location TBA. Meets every third Tues. First meeting and expectant mothers free. 508-347-5606, worcester-motc.com.

story related to broad-based art themes, families will participate in a corresponding activity and be provided with snacks. This program is perfect for families with children ages 5 and under. A$12, Y$8, C under 5 FREE. Story Hours are held bi-weekly: Oct. 5 – Texture; Oct. 19 – Movement; Nov. 2 - Shape; Nov. 16 – Sound. decordova.org.

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Toddler and Preschool Hour. EcoTarium, Worcester. Weekly on Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11 a.m. Enjoy storytime, craft activities, live animals and more - all developed especially for little ones ages 3 and under. New Themes every week!Admission fees apply. ecotarium.org.

22THURSDAY Drop-In Art Workshop. ArtBeat, Arlington. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Serving artists ages 4+ every day of the week. 781-646-2200. Check artbeatonline.com for schedule and fees.

Mystery of Queen Lake Puppet Show. The Puppet Showplace Theatre, Brookline. 10:30 a.m.

Audience involvement and a musical extravaganza highlight this magical Medieval tale. Ages 3+. A & C $10pp. 617-731-6400, puppetshowplace.org. Also Sept. 24 & 25, Sat. & Sun., 1 & 3 p.m.

FREE New Mothers Groups. Jewish Family and Children’s Services. Meets Thursdays at three places: St. John’s Church, Jamaica Plain, 1 – 3 p.m.; Medford Family Network, 10:30 a.m. - Noon; Old Colony YMCA Striar Campus, Stoughton, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Do you have a new baby? Would you like to meet other moms?

New parents are invited to come with their infants.

Registration is not necessary as these groups are free. fcsboston.org.

23FRIDAY

21WEDNESDAY ONGOING Toddler Playgroup. Isis Parenting, Arlington and Needham. Every Wednesday in Arlington, 3 – 4 p.m. and Needham, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Playgroups are very popular, sign-ins begin no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start time. Space limited. No pre-registration required. $8ppNM. Visit isisparenting.org for a complete calendar of groups meeting in other locations.

Color Story Hour. deCordova Museum and Sculpture Park, Lincoln. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. After hearing a

FOR PARENTS Shopping Night Out. Devens Common Center, 31 Andrews Parkway, Devens. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Free admission. A wide variety of vendors, cash bar, appetizers, raffle ticket sales for awesome raffle items! tylerfoundation.org.

24SATURDAY Kimball Farm Corn Maze: Tribute to the Bruins. Haverhill. 10 a.m. until one hour before sunset. Open until Nov. 6. A$9, C (under 12) $7. kimballfarmcornmaze.com.

8db^c\ id i]Z LdWjgc VgZV i]^h [Vaa We bring together hundreds of buyers and sellers under one roof for an exciting shopping event - not to be missed!

HZeiZbWZg (% " DXidWZg ' Best Western New Englander - Woburn

For details visit our website

www.outfitthekids.com like us on Facebook

Now accepting consignors for our fall sale! Turn your kids outgrown clothing, gear & toys into cash! Earn up to 70% of the prices you set.

BAYSTATEPARENT 23

OH,THEPLACESYOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LLGO SoundLab Opening Day. The Discovery Museums, Acton. Families can explore the science of vibration and the joy of making music in this new exhibit. Go â&#x20AC;&#x153;On Airâ&#x20AC;? in a Sound Booth to record a script, a song or a jingle, and see your unique voice print on our oscilloscope. Manipulate your recording and see how your sound print changes! Work in an Instrument Lab to create and play wind and string instruments in a variety of unique ways. Try out the Mixing Studio and see what it is like to be a recording engineer. $10.50pp, Under 1 free. discoverymuseums.org.

Celebrate Museum Day. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst. Museum Day is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian Media in which participating museums across the country open their doors for free to anyone presenting a Museum Day coupon. The Museum Day coupon provides free admission for two. Visit smithsonianmag.com/ museumday for a downloadable coupon and additional information. 413- 658-1145, carlemuseum.org.

The Liver Walk. South Boston Waterfront, Bayside Expo North Entrance, 23 William J. Day Boulevard. 9 a.m. Did you know that 1 in 10 people in the United States face a future with liver disease? Support the American Liver Foundation with food, fun and walking. Every step and every dollar raised helps the American Liver Foundation fund research, education and advocacy. 617-527-5600, liverfoundation.org/ walkboston.

FREE Drop-In Family Day. Aboretum at Harvard, Hunnewell Building Lawn, Cambridge. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monthly family activities are offered on the last Saturday of each month, April through October.

Includes scavenger hunts, science investigations, craft activities, stories, guided walks...These events are free, and you can participate for as long or as short a time

as you like. Events are held under a tent outside of the Hunnewell Building, or inside when the weather is bad.

617-384-5209, arboretum.harvard.edu.

for sale at super low prices, including gently used childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, strollers, baby equipment, cribs, toys, books, DVDs & more! Cash only. wscmmota.org.

FREE Kids Storytime. Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. 11 a.m. - Noon every Saturday. Themed stories, related craft and snack. 617-499-2000, facebook.com/theharvardcoop.

KidsFest. Wachusett Mountain, Princeton. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. baystateparent will be here! Stop by our booth to say hello and to enter to win lots of fabulous prizes. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to bring your Healthy Choices chart from our August issue, which serves a FREE raffle ticket. This event is known for lots of free samples, games, entertainers, shows, balloons, hands-on activities, challenges, vendors and more!

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss WXLOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wachusettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Got Talent, the pop sensation Girls Night Out, BMX stunt shows, trampoline tricks, dog frisbee shows and more!

A$10, C (3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12) $6, C 2 and under FREE. Kids 5 and under receive FREE sky ride. Discounts available when buying advance tickets online: wachusett.com.

Also Sept. 25.

Life is Good Festival. Prowse Farm, Canton. baystateparent will be here celebrating the Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Kids Stageâ&#x20AC;? which features Imagination Movers, The Laurie Berkner Band, local favorite Ben Rudnick & Friends and a special set from Keller Williams. There will be lots of games, activities, food, hands-on art and more! The festival also features Ray LaMontagne, The Avett Brothers, Michael Franti and Spearhead, The Levon Helm Band, Brandi Carlile, Martin Sexton, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Raphael Saadiq, Ingrid Michaelson, The Hold Steady as well as The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Maceo Parker, Tristan Prettyman, The Ryan Montbleau Band, Zee Avi, Dwight and Nicole, and Jenny Dee and the Deelinquents. A$65 ($120 for two days), C (2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12) $20 ($35 for two days), C under 2 FREE. Raises significant funds for the Life is Good Kids Foundation. lifeisgood.com. Also Sept. 25.

Next Size Up Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Semi Annual Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Consignment Event. John Smith Sports Center, 70 Sumner St., Milford. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Shop, consign or volunteer! NextSizeUpKids.com. Also Sept. 25, 10 a.m.

- 2 p.m. (Bring at least 2 items for the local food pantry and gain early access on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.!)

FREE Crafts. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. Drop in every Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3+. lakeshorelearning.com.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tag Sale. The West Suburban Chapter of the Mass. Mothers of Twins Association. Congregational Church of Needham, 1154 Great Plain Ave., Needham. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Over 20,000 items

Birds of Prey. Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Farmland and Mega Maze, Sterling. 2 p.m. See a bald eagle, turkey vulture and more birds of prey up close with Tom Ricardi from the Massachusetts Bird of Prey Rehab Facility.$19.95 pp Farm admission, Under 2 FREE. 978-422-MOOO, davisfarmland.com.

Two-Mile Food Allergy Walk. Hopkinton State Park 71 Cedar St., Hopkinton. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Please no pets, glass bottles, bikes, roller skates or skate boards. Baby strollers and wagons are welcomed.

Rain or shine. foodallergywalk.org.

Eye Wonder Family Program. deCordova Museum and Sculpture Park, Lincoln. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 p.m.

Choreographer Kate Bresse will engage families in a unique experience that involves moving into and around the space of deCordova. This program is planned in conjunction with this fallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exhibition Temporary Structures: Performing Architecture in Contemporary Art. Free with museum admission.

A$12, Y$8, C under 5 FREE. decordova.org.

Next Size Up Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Semi Annual Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Consignment Event. John Smith Sports Center, 70 Sumner St., Milford. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Bring at least 2 items for the local food pantry and gain early access on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.!)Shop, consign or volunteer!

NextSizeUpKids.com.

KidsFest. Wachusett Mountain, Princeton. See Sept.

24 listing for details.

FREE 6th Annual Touch a Truck. Wayland Middle School, 201 Main St. (Route 27), Wayland. 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 p.m. Trucks, trains, inflatables, balloons, face painting, magician, child id kits and more. 508358-3660.

Walk to End Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Quinsigamond Community College 670 West Boylston St., Worcester.

9 a.m. - Noon. Walk a 3-mile route along Burncoat Street. For a shorter walk, participants may use the Quinsigamond Community College track. There will also be a special tribute to those who have experienced or are experiencing Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. 800-272-3900, alzwalkMANH.org.

25SUNDAY

26MONDAY

Life is Good Festival. Prowse Farm, Canton. See Sept. 24 listing for event details.

ONGOING Infant Playgroup. Isis Parenting, Brookline. Every Monday, 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m. Playgroups are

*8,/' 2) 67 $*1(6

$GYHUWRULDO

Tooth Talk

Enrolling Now! 'U 6XPEXO 1DTYL

All of our centers are NAEYC accredited Ă&#x201C; Enrolling children from 4 weeks to 12 years Ă&#x2C6; Center Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ă&#x2020; Breakfast, Lunch and Snack Provided

Center Locations Include: Granite St., & Grove St. in Worcester Charlton, Devens, Fitchburg & Gardner Family Care Offices in Early Education and Care Since 1913 Devens, Leicester, Whitinsville & Worcester www.guildofstagnes.org

24 SEPTEMBER2011

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courtesy of the topsfield fair

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 11 days of rides, food, animals, entertainment, contests and more at the Topsfield Fair, Sept. 30 - Oct. 10.

very popular, sign-ins begin no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the start time. Space limited. No pre-registration required. $8ppNM. Visit isisparenting.org for a complete calendar of groups meeting in other locations.

10:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11 a.m. Enjoy storytime, craft activities, live animals and more - all developed especially for little ones ages 3 and under. New Themes every week!Admission fees apply. ecotarium.org.

FREE Snack and Story Time. Whole Foods Market, Framingham. Weekly on Mondays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2- 6. 508-628-9525.

29THURSDAY Reaction Station: Adventures for Young Chemists. The Discovery Museums, The Science Discovery Museum, Acton. Drop in, 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. $10.50pp, Under 1 free. discoverymuseums.org.

27TUESDAY ONGOING Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Clay Club. Barefoot Books, 80 Thoreau St., Concord. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:30 p.m. (ages 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 with parents) and 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 p.m. (ages 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12). $25 per class. Preregister: 978-369-1770, barefootbooks.com.

The Three Wishes Puppet Show. The Puppet Showplace Theatre, Brookline. 10:30 a.m. Spring Valley Puppet Theater presents a folktale favorite: What would you do if a magical elf gave you three wishes? Ages 3+. A & C $10pp. 617-731-6400, puppetshowplace.org. Also Sat. & Sun., Oct. 1 & 2, 1 & 3 p.m.

FOR PARENTS Organization A B Cs. Barrett Family Wellness Center, 107 Otis St., Northborough. 6:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:30 p.m. Organizational advice for parents of elementary school aged children. Ideas and solutions for decreased frustration and calmer transitions.

Pre-registration required. $25pp. 508-898-2688, barrettfamilywellness.com.

Sensory learning, neuromuscular activities, and spatial awareness, otherwise referred to as,

The Little Gym helps children reach their greatest potential.

From 4 months through 12 years, classes promote development and build conďŹ dence during each stage of childhood.

Call to schedule a free introductory class.

The Little Gym of Danvers â&#x20AC;˘ (978) 777-7977 The Little Gym of Littleton â&#x20AC;˘ (978) 952-6600

The Little Gym of Medway â&#x20AC;˘ (508) 533-9405 The Little Gym of Woburn â&#x20AC;˘ (781) 933-3388

30FRIDAY Topsfield Fair Opens. See baystateparentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fairs and Festival listings for details. topsfieldfair.org.

28WEDNESDAY

Young Frankenstein Opening Night. Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, Worcester. 8 p.m. thehanovertheatre.org.

FREE New Mothers Groups. Jewish Family and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services. Meets Wednesdays at two places: Temple Eitz Chayim, Cambridge, 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11 a.m. and Watertown Family Network, Phillips School, 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10:30 a.m., Watertown. Do you have a new baby? Would you like to meet other moms? New parents are invited to come with their infants. Registration is not necessary as these groups are free. fcsboston.org.

Submit an Event Fill out our form at

baystateparent.com.

Our deadline for Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s print edition is

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Toddler and Preschool Hour. EcoTarium, Worcester. Weekly on Wednesdays,

Monday, September 5.

Give your child the power to succeed in mathematics

NOW ENROLLING for 2011-2012 Comprehensive Mathematical Education for kindergarten to high school students in Worcester, MA

â&#x20AC;˘ MathK: Math classes for Kindergarten â&#x20AC;˘ Mathematics for grades 1-6 â&#x20AC;˘ Algebra and Geometry for grades 7-10 â&#x20AC;˘ SAT, ACT Preparation

Information Nights for Parents September 7th, 15th 6:00-7:00 PM Special OďŹ&#x20AC;er: Bring this ad in and we will waive the registration fee.

35 Harvard St, Suite 214, Worcester, MA 01609

25 minute ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engineâ&#x201E;˘ Meeting Sir Topham Hatt Storytelling, Live Music, Build with Mega BloksÂŽ and Much More!

Edaville USA 7 Eda Avenue, Carver, MA

October 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10 For tickets and information, visit www.ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866.468.7630 Tickets are $18 for ages 2 and up. Advance purchase is

(508) 932-0344 â&#x2014;? www.MathAltitude.com â&#x2014;? info@mathaltitude.com BAYSTATEPARENT 25

JUNK D R AW E R S

A LITTLE LIT OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT CHILDPROOF IN STYLE lock that will keep your little ones away from dangerous detergents? Or are you simply trying to avoid boo boos at the corner of the coffee table without making a dent in your decor? Check it out: rhoost.com.

GARDEN OVERFLOWING? Mary Whittier, of Whittier Farms in West Sutton, shares a fresh vegetable medley, perfect for all the squash and tomatoes ready for the picking in your garden. You can even freeze this mixture!

Italian Vegetable Medley • 2 medium onions, sliced • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1/2 cup olive oil • 3 small zucchini cut in ½ inch slices or use 2 zucchini and 1 summer squash • 2 tbsp. chopped parsley • 6 large tomatoes, peeled and diced • 2 tsp. salt • 1 large green pepper, cut into small pieces • 1/8 tsp. pepper • 2 ears sweet corn, cut off the cob Add ¼ cup olive oil to frying pan, lightly brown zucchini and summer squash. Put aside in a separate bowl. Cook onions and garlic in hot olive oil in bottom of Dutch oven. Add zucchini and summer squash and the rest of the vegetables. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened a bit, stirring occasionally.

You can serve the vegetable medley as a side dish or put on top of pasta or rice.

Don’t be afraid to add another vegetable like eggplant or carrots. If you add vegetables, you may want to add more tomatoes.

It’s even perfect for freezing! Save it for that cold winter day!

For more information, visit whittierfarms.com.

100% MOMMYJUICE “Oh, no. This is Mommy’s juice.”

Cheryl Murphy Durzy, stay-at-home mom of two, created Mommyjuice for all those times when chocolate just won’t cut it. Her wines are available locally at Kappy’s Fine Wine & Spirits as well as online. bsp thought it would make a fun gift! mommyjuicewines.com.

Q&A

Local businesswomen, Vianka Perez Belya, a mom of one, and Tavinder Phull, have given ugly cabinet locks and not-so-discreet outlet covers a sleek makeover. They’ve created Rhoost, a home-grown company devoted to making baby proofing both safe and stylish. Want a chic-looking cabinet

I would like to visit my child’s classroom while class is in progress but this is not encouraged in my child’s school. What should I do?

Visiting your child’s classroom (general education or special education) is your right and not a privilege or special favor granted by the school system. You have the responsibility...to see and evaluate what kinds of teaching and services your child is actually getting in his or her daily program.

— You, Your Child, and “Special” Education: A Guide to Dealing with the System

by local moms Barbara Coyne Cutler and Sue Pratt (Arcadia Kids, 2011, Kate Boehm Jerome)

THERE’S NO ARGUING WITH THIS PLATE Thank you Chicago moms for making this clever and simple plate that shows families exactly what a child’s portion size for different food groups should be. Your child now has a clear tool for how to build a better meal herself. Only $11.95. Makes a great gift! nutri-plate.com

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

26 SEPTEMBER2011

FINALLYFOREVER

Haiti to Home:

with a great big hug. Roselande had grown taller and was speaking better English.

“She’s so smart and has the most beautiful smile,” says Clarissa, letting out a sigh.

Clarissa was able to visit with Roselande as well as help to build a church about 10 minutes from her sister’s orphanage.

By day, Clarissa moved plywood and pipes and passed cement blocks and buckets of cement in an assembly line while Roselande helped with the younger children at her nearby orphanage.

What got Clarissa through working in extreme temperatures was the Haitian people.

“I love them; they are so happy even though they have next to nothing,” she says.

Although Haiti has suffered many natural disasters, is sweltering hot and is one of the poorest nations in the world, Clarissa looks

forward to the next time she gets to visit.

If she’s successful, it will make her fourth visit to the resilient little country.

“It wasn’t so bad leaving for home this time, because Roselande knows we’ll be together eventually,” says Clarissa.

What will she do when Roselande finally comes home? Clarissa lightly laughs, “I hadn’t thought that far ahead. I guess whatever comes up! I know one thing, I’ll make her feel loved and give her advice on things, since I’ve been through it all.”

Columnist and writer, Bonnie J. Toomey is mom to four interesting children and grandmother to two more. She lives with her child-groom of 30 years, and their dog, Molly, in New England.

For more information, visit Bonnie’s blog at parentforward.blogspot.com

SEPTEMBER’SCHILD

Sisters Hug But Not Home Yet Part 7 BY

bonnie j. toomey

The Budds from Acton were first introduced to Roselande in 2004 when they saw her photograph and decided to sponsor the recentlyabadoned 6-year-old Haitian girl through their church. They never anticipated that nearly six years later, they would be on a journey to adopt the little girl after a catastrophic earthquake struck Haiti in February 2010. baystateparent has been following the Budds’ journey to adopt Roselande in a series of stories since February 2011. Roselande’s brothers, 11-year-old Sebastien and 9-yearold Dieuluxson, are also being adopted by New England families as well.

Eighteen-year-old Clarissa Budd can’t wait to swap her small room for her 19-year-old brother Richard’s larger one. Why? Because she’ll be sharing a room with a new sister, 13-year-old Roselande from Haiti. But that’s not happening anytime soon. After already waiting more than 18 months, the Budds still do not have a number to put them in queue, the line in which adopting families wait as dictated by the Haitian Government.

And worse yet, it could be as long as another year.

But the Acton-Boxborough High School senior knows a thing or two about waiting, praying and working hard to reach a goal.

While she waits for Roselande to come home, she plans for college and works parttime at Jamboree in Acton, a clothing store for kids. Last spring, she wrote a letter to friends and family asking for prayers and donations to help send her on a mission to Haiti with Grace Community Church in Acton. It would be the third time Clarissa visited the impoverished island in her young life.

On Clarissa’s first visit to Haiti, the then 15-year-old got the opportunity to meet her family’s sponsor child, Roselande.

The two connected right away, hanging out and playing games together. Clarissa began to secretly dream about becoming sisters someday. She had no idea then that a devastating earthquake would inspire her family to reach out to Roselande and make this a reality.

This past spring, Clarissa says, “I needed more than just prayers to get to Haiti.” But the shy and determined teen managed to raise the $1,200 dollars she needed for her 10-day June 22nd mission trip.

When Clarissa first arrived in Haiti, she could not find her little sister at the Kids’ Kingdom Orphanage, so it was an especially joyful reunion when Roselande flew around a corner and greeted Clarissa

Princess is a sweet young lady of Hispanic descent who loves to get attention from the adults in her life. With an enthusiastic love for performing, Princess has been a choir member and has participated in a piano recital. She has a beautiful voice and, in the past, has wanted to be an actress, a model, a singer or a pianist when she grows up. She currently aspires to be a police officer.

Princess enjoys many activities that include arts and crafts, playing with her dolls and stuffed animals, playing board games and doing puzzles. Princess attends a specialized school program for children with emotional and intellectual delays.

She just completed the sixth grade where she was performing below grade level. She benefits from the services that she receives from her Individualized Education Plan and the structure that her current program offers. Princess also works hard to enter social situations in age appropriate ways, as she presents younger than her chronological age.

Princess turns thirteen this month and her happy and considerate personality still shines through. She enjoys baking

Princess cookies and cupcakes and is learning to play the guitar. Legally free for adoption, Princess would do best in a two parent, mom and dad or two mom family. A single mom would also be considered. A family that can offer clear expectations and limits that has an openness to birth family contact would be ideal for Princess.

If you would like more information about Princess or the adoption process in general, please contact Department of Children and Families Adoption Supervisor Eileen Griffin at (978) 353-3629.

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS

Highlights of September’s Adoption-Related Events Baby Care for First-Time Adoptive Parents.

Sat., Sept. 10. Adoption Community of New England, Inc., Office, 34 Deloss St., 2nd Floor, Framingham. 9 a.m. -1 p.m. $75ppNM. Register: adoptioncommunityofne.org.

to learn about the adoption process, speak to social workers from the region where they live, and hear from experienced families who have adopted.

Breakfast and family fun provided. Details at mareinc.org/Adoption-Parties-Other-Events-Schedule.

A Look at Adoption. Sun., Sept. 18. Held at the Adoption Community of New England, Inc., 34 Deloss St., 2nd Floor, Framingham. 2 – 5:30 p.m.

An unbiased introduction to all aspects of adoption. $30ppNM. Register: adoptioncommunityofne.org.

Annual Backpack Drive. Ends Sept. 28. Please drop off new backpacks and school supplies for youth ages 5-21 at The Home for Little Wanderers, Boston; Colorwheel Collection, Roslindale, and MacFarlane Energy, Dedham. For a list of much-needed school supplies or to make a monetary donation, please visit thehome.org/backpacks or call 617-267-3700.

Jordan’s Adoption Option. Sun., Sept. 25 at Jordan’s Furniture, Reading. 9 – 11 a.m. This event is for anyone interested in the adoption of children and sibling groups from foster care. Families new to considering adoption will have the opportunity

Please submit October’s adoption-related events by Monday, September 5 at baystateparent.com (Click Calendar/Submit an Event).

BAYSTATEPARENT 27

bellini portraits

Move Over Crayons and Glue Sticks

The iPad May Be Coming to a Kindergarten Near You! BY

caitlyn kelleher

embers of the AshburnhamWestminster Regional School Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class of 2024 will be the first group of students that will integrate technology in to their daily curriculum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an iPad. As part of the newest technology plan presented to the school committee this past spring, kindergarten students are participating in the 1214K [one computer to one student for kindergartners],

M

says Eric DeHays, the school districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology director. DeHays says working within the existing technology budget he can help support these leases.

While the original plan was to have the tablets go back and forth to school with the students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; like a textbook â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a revised plan moves to keep them in the classroom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You start down there and it grows up through the district,â&#x20AC;? DeHays says.

The program is lease to own with a $1

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buyout at the end costing the district $25 a month for two years and a onetime $50 insurance fee. Parents at any level of the district will also be able to participate in this program for their children to use an iPad at home.

DeHeys says there is a lack of technology at the early childhood level at this time and professional development for teachers will focus on content and use of the technology. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kindergarten parents are some of our

most engaged in the district,â&#x20AC;? DeHays says, adding that for the iPad program to work to the fullest advantage, parents need to be involved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It extends the walls of the classroom.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Technology in the form of desktop and/or laptop computers is already used throughout the elementary curriculum in our school district,â&#x20AC;? says School Committee Chairman, David Christianson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;iPads have been presented as alternative-enabling technology, and

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also as a supplement to more traditional paper-based materials – not as a substitute for teachers or teaching.

“As we look at replacing outdated and over worn computers in our schools, it’s incumbent on us to look at newer, untethered and less expensive alternatives like iPads.”

DeHays is not concerned about a student’s ability to learn the equipment.

“My kindergartener knows how to use this better than I do and I am the technology director,” DeHays says.

“It is time for us to embrace these in education.”

Parents expressed concern about the proposal throughout the summer questioning whether or not kindergarten was the right place to bring this technology into the district as well questioned the financial requirement of the lease. School committee members accepted the revised program, which keeps the financial outlay within the district budget as a way to alleviate the later concern.

“We’ll re-appropriate computer lease money. These are cheaper than computers, so I get more bang for my buck,” DeHays says.

“District-owned equipment stays at the school. The leases are the property of that home,” he adds. He also said there will be an option for students who qualify for free and reduced lunch.

“It’s great that we can do this within the budget,” says Ellen Holmes, a school committee member.

“It is the future of learning,” says

committee member Gwen Farley.

Most school committee members agreed with the advice of the district’s staff stating that introducing this technology at the upgrades introduces the problems of unauthorized downloads, cyber bullying and other issues more than at the kindergarten level.

“They [children] are not too young to use them,” says concerned resident Chris Piccone, “but it seems prudent to use them in small, supervised groups and to keep them at school. Five-year-olds are far too young to be responsible for transporting them.”

DeHays says there are lots of free resources for iPads, which is one of the reasons he focused on this tablet.

Leonard Beaton says he remembered 15 years ago when the school district was trying to figure out how to get wiring throughout the schools to bring in computers with Internet access.

“As someone who has been directly involved in personal computing for almost 30 years now, I’d offer the perspective that iPads are simply another way of doing what we’ve already been doing with technology in our schools for a decade or two,” says Christianson.

“They represent a new package, and a mode of operation that makes the content more important than the operation of the computer. The proper use of that “package” is the responsibility of teachers and parents – no differently than we manage the proper use of computers for our kids now.”

Caitlin Kelleher is the editor of baystateparent’s sister publication, The Community Journal. baystateparent editor Carrie Wattu contributed to this story.

could eliminate the cost of textbooks.

Listening: It’s fast and easy to download educational videos and music.

Research: There are numerous browsers available for download on the iPad, but Safari is easy to use and the options are endless.

How iPads can be Used in Classrooms Reading: iPads have color screens and are good for reading in almost any kind of lighting. Books, magazines or Word documents are accessible through various ebook apps. All of the books necessary for school could be in one easyto-remember place and in the long run,

Individualized Education: Not every child learns at the same rate. Using the iPad, students can have a more individual experience. For example, if a child is an advanced reader, she could begin reading more difficult material with the direction of her teacher using the quick and easy apps.

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own safety and allowing them to express concerns about 9/11 and its aftermath in more depth.

steven king

Answer questions about the attacks with facts. As the years have passed since 9/11, our collective memory has slowly hardened into history. This passage of time means that your children might have no direct memory of the attacks of 9/11. Their understanding comes from the myriad sources around them — their families, schools, friends, and media — and as is often the case with so many voices, these sources can sometimes contradict each other. It is important, then, to answer children’s questions about what happened with basic facts and point them to reliable sources of information for further research.

Be prepared for your child to ask questions about death when discussing 9/11, and to answer these questions in a way that is honest and developmentally-appropriate.

Michael and Jane Pellini (far right) with their post-9/11 baby girl, Catherine.

Today, Catherine turns 10 in conjunction with September 11th's 10-year anniversary.

brittany durgin

9/11 BY

Babies Grow Up

carrie wattu

The Pellini Family

N

ine years ago, on a beautiful day at Davis Farmland in Sterling, Massachusetts, baystateparent connected with 13 families whose babies turned 1 on or near the one-year anniversary of September 11th. Their births were shadowed, but not overshadowed, by the fear of bringing a child into the world where such horrific events could take place.

These babies turn 10 this month and will most likely have questions regarding the events that framed their first decade of life. baystateparent visited with one of the families who joined us nine years ago, the Pellinis of Shrewsbury, Michael, Jane, Catherine, 9, and Elizabeth, 6.

Michael and Jane were engaged at the Cellar in the Sky Restaurant at the World Trade Center. Four years later, they gave birth to their first child three days after the attacks on the WTC towers and the Pentagon. As his daughter turns 10, Michael reflects on what the last ten years have meant, “Kids are the hope for the future. They have potential and promise.”

Today, Catherine is a big sister, a competitive gymnast and a Girl Scout.

She plays the violin and loves history, reading and writing. This past spring

she raised $300 and donated it to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for kids with cancer.

As the fourth grader starts a new school year, does she realize what the 10th anniversary of 9/11 means? Discussing 9/11 isn’t an easy task as many of us want to talk with our children but are not sure how to begin (see tips). The Pellinis were surprised by how much their daughter already knew.

Jane, who works at UMass Memorial as an obstetrician, wonders if parents have raised children differently since 9/11. “Perhaps we’ve kept our children closer because we experienced how life can change in a minute,” she says. Jane cared for a patient who died in one of the highjacked flights out of Boston.

Catherine does not have any elaborate party plans for her 10th birthday. Instead, she says, “I want to help, so I may raise money for someone else.”

This gesture is completely unprompted by her parents, a selfless wish that speaks volumes for Catherine’s innate generosity and sense of community.

“We’ve got to raise really good people to combat the evil in the world,” says Michael.

It looks like Michael and Jane already have.

Talking to Your Children about 9/11 Monitor the TV and internet. Around the anniversary of 9/11, it is likely that television programs and news shows will discuss the attacks and their aftermath in some depth. Programs may include footage from 9/11 itself, and include scenes that are not appropriate for children to view at all or without supervision. Similarly, children may use the internet to seek out answers to their questions. Be actively involved in the quality and amount of information they receive.

Don’t avoid difficult conversations.

Parents and caregivers understandably don’t want to cause anxiety and distress in their children. This often results in shying away from difficult conversations that we presume will provoke these emotions. It is the attacks themselves, though, that are upsetting, not the conversations about them. Invite the conversation with openended questions such as: “What would you like to know about 9/11?” or “Why do you think we are remembering the anniversary of 9/11?” Let the child’s interests and thoughts guide the conversation. Use age-appropriate language and be aware of your tone, reassuring children about their

Acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers. It’s all right not to know the answer to every question. 9/11 is an incredibly complex subject, with repercussions that are still evolving today.

If you can’t answer your child’s question, be honest. Use the opportunity to model yourself as a learner, and explore the question together.

Be specific. It can be easy to make generalizations when discussing 9/11.

As with many tragedies, some have a tendency to talk in broad strokes; for example, comparing the suffering of one person to another or assigning blame to an entire group. The story of 9/11 is actually thousands of individual stories. Highlight those specific stories to help humanize the events, and avoid stereotypes and simplifications.

Know yourself. You aren’t immune to the emotions sparked by 9/11. Acknowledge and attend to your own reactions and feelings, your memories and connections.

9/11 is not an easy topic to think about, let alone discuss with a child. Recognizing your feelings beforehand and then sharing them honestly with your children offers them a model in their own difficult conversations and will help engender a safe, trusting environment. Seek assistance if the anniversary of 9/11 evokes feelings in you that are overwhelming or difficult to manage.

Emphasize hope. The attacks of 9/11 showed us the worst in people. But it was also a time when many wonderful, compassionate, and heroic deeds occurred.

“Heroes” were everywhere on 9/11 and in the days afterwards. The shock and the sadness also brought people — families, friends, and strangers alike — together in a way that felt special. It is important to remind your children that we are also remembering those heroes and those times.

Help your children recognize how their own compassion can prevent future acts of intolerance and violence by reminding them to express their ideas respectfully and to treat people who are different from themselves with kindness.

These tips are courtesy of 911MEMORIAL.ORG. BAYSTATEPARENT 31

National Grandparents’ Day is recognized this year on September 11th, a day that has taken on new meaning for Americans since 2001.

This year, baystateparent was moved by the powerful story of two local grandmothers who lived through a time in history that will haunt us forever, The Holocaust. And like the families impacted by 9/11, these grandmothers do not want those that were murdered to ever be forgotten.

As a tribute to the remarkable lives of grandparents everywhere and in a continued effort to teach our children how the past connects to the future, make an extra effort to listen, truly listen, to our grandparents’ stories.

Thea Aschkenase, concentration camp survivor, and her yonger brother Emanuel who did not survive

Holocaust Memories TWO WORCESTER GRANDMOTHERS REMEMBER, SO WE WON’T FORGET BY

c. kelleher harris

T

Thea Aschkenase 32 SEPTEMBER2011

hea Aschkenase is very busy.

Aschkenase is an active volunteer in Worcester. While she has volunteered with the blind and mentored teen mothers, stamping out hunger is Aschkenase’s most cherished cause.

In association with Worcester State University, Aschkenase was instrumental in developing universal breakfast programs for several area schools. She also works with the University’s Hunger Outreach Team (HOT), which also assists with feeding the elderly.

“If kids are hungry, they cannot learn,” Aschkenase says. “When you are hungry, all you can think about is food.”

For Aschkenase, helping with hunger comes from a very personal place.

Aschkenase knows about hunger firsthand. Few would look at Aschkenase and determine that she survived the horrors of a concentration camp.

Though she remained silent for decades, Aschkenase now willingly talks of her experience.

“So you want me to tell you my story,”

Aschkenase begins. “I was born in Munich, Germany.”

Aschkenase, who is 87, was the eldest of two children born to a Jewish couple, Samuel and Adele Obarzanek.

“The first six, seven years were wonderful,” says Aschkenase. “We lived in an apartment. In the big yard, all the children congregated to play. We knew they had their religion, and they knew I had mine. But we didn’t even realize we were different. Then eventually the kids didn’t want to play with us anymore.”

“I remember I was in second grade; my desk partner was a good friend. And [one day] she said to the teacher, ‘She’s a Jew, and I don’t want to sit with her.’ So they sat me in the back row, so no one had to sit next to me. I was the only Jew.” By the time Adolf Hitler became both president and chancellor of Germany in 1933, he was already promoting antiSemitic propaganda. As time passed, Hitler and his supporters slowly stripped Jewish citizens of various civil rights such as working in certain careers and sitting on public benches, and they were barred from movie theaters and public pools.

They also faced curfews.

“It was a terrible thing, the whole situation,” Aschkenase says. “It hurt us.

They [adults] protected young children.

When they talked about things, we were sent out of the room. I didn’t understand.

I was so hurt when I had to leave my school. I didn’t do anything wrong. [Our] parents said, ‘Because you’re Jewish.’

They could have told us 100 times, but it didn’t sink in.”

By 1938, Aschkenase’s parents knew they should move. “We needed to leave Germany, but no country would take us,” says Aschkenase.

In the late months of 1938 and early 1939, Aschkenase’s parents sought refuge in the United States, Australia and China, but were denied.

“Italy then opened its borders and said, ‘You can come to our country; no questions asked.’ It was wonderful what this country did for us,” says Aschkenase.

The family eventually settled in Milan.

Later, governmental changes in Italy required that all foreign-born Jewish men be detained in internment camps.

“My father was taken to a camp in

Calabria,” she says.

Aschkenase, her mother and brother, Emanuel, eventually went to live in the camp, called Ferramonti di Tarsia. This was not a concentration camp such as the ones that existed in the Nazi state.

Instead internees were allowed various rights and freedoms. No one in the camp faced violence or death.

“During the day we could do whatever we wanted in the confines of the camp.

It was not gourmet food, but we were not hungry. There were a lot of young people; we had a lot of fun times together. I had my friends; I found a boyfriend. I had my parents and my brother so it was not a bad camp.”

While telling her story, the young, precocious, naïve young girl still dances behind Aschkenase’s eyes.

While in the internment camp, Aschkenase’s brother befriended a young man named Harry. Harry had no family.

Eventually he asked Aschkenase’s parents if he could join them when they were released from the camp and relocated.

Her parents consented.

Aschkenase and her family developed a sense of security and normality. But it was not to last. “[One day] our landlady said, ‘The Germans are advancing from the South, and they are arresting Jews. We think you should go into hiding.’ So this wonderful lady took us to a hiding place in the mountains,” says Aschkenase. “Somebody emptied their barn and we [lived there].

And we stayed there six months. Then one Sunday morning the village priest came to us and said, ‘Don’t go out today because Italian police are combing the mountain.”

“We were all there when he told us, but Harry never listened. So he went out to the town square. When he got there he saw all the soldiers congregated, the soldiers saw him and told him to stop.

He didn’t. He ran away, they followed him, and he lead them right to our hiding place,” Aschkenase says while shaking her head.

Aschkenase and her family spent the next two months in an Italian prison.

They were eventually told that they were being sent to another camp.

“All we knew about a camp was Ferramonti. We had no idea what was happening in the German camps. So we were overjoyed, delighted,” Aschkenase says.

“In the morning they brought us to a railway station and there were cattle cars. But we were not afraid. We were thinking, ‘Oh yeah, it’s war and they use the passenger cars for the troops.’ It was so tight that you could only stand. And the very worst part was the barrels they had in the corner and the embarrassment the people suffered [who had to use them as toilets].”

The trip took five days. During a stop at one station, Aschkenase received an ominous message.

“There was a little window and when I looked out, the conductor of another train was just opposite me, and he looked at me and said, ‘Ah, you poor girl. They are going to burn you there.’”

When Aschkenase told others in the cattle car about the conductor, they

decided it was a mean joke and paid little heed. “People didn’t know what was going on,” says Aschkenase.

Finally the train reached its destination, the gates of Auschwitz, one of the most notorious Nazi concentration camps.

“It said ‘Auschwitz,’ but to us it didn’t mean anything. In the morning we were marched into the gates. We were the lucky ones because we didn’t know what was happening; all the others knew what Auschwitz meant,” Aschkenase says.

“There was a very handsome German officer, and we stood rows in front of him and all he did was take his thumb and point to the right, the left and to the middle. Young women went to the right, young men to the left and children and old people to the middle. My mother and father were put to the middle,” Aschkenase recalls.

“My mother was walking away with my father, and I pulled my mother back to the young group,” she recounts. “He [the German officer] turned around and said ‘I have put her there.’ And I said, ‘No, you have put her in this group.’ At this time, I didn’t know you don’t ever speak to a German and contradict him. And he [waved his hand] and let her go. So mother came with me.”

there a very long time. And I said to her ‘Can you tell me what camp my father was sent to?’ And she said, ‘Come I’ll show you,’ and she went to the door of the barracks and she said, ‘Look at the smoke coming out. They have burned your father.’ I didn’t believe it; I didn’t believe it because the Germans were a civilized nation. And in the back of my head, the echo of that conductor was in my ear,” Aschkenase says.

“I got a tattoo, A24-033. Uh, I was so ashamed of it,” Aschkenase recalls while gently touching her forearm. Decades later Aschkenase had her tattoo removed.

Her arm still bears the scar.

“We received one piece of bread in the morning and coffee; then at noon some women brought us soup, but it was very watery. We were constantly hungry. That is why it is so important for me to work for hunger,” Aschkenase says.

Starvation was only one of the hardships that Aschkenase faced. “My mother got very, very sick with dysentery and stomach cramps. She couldn’t stand up straight,” Aschkenase explains.

Every morning prisoners were forced to stand for two to three hours for roll call.

“My mother said, ‘Thea I cannot go out there. I cannot stand for so long. And she

"'They have burned your father.’

I didn’t believe it; I didn’t believe it because the Germans were a civilized nation."

- Thea Aschkenase

Only later did Aschkenase learn that the handsome German officer was Dr. Josef Mengele nicknamed the “Angel of Death.” Mengele not only “sorted” arriving victims, but also selected some for his twisted medical experiments.

To this day Aschkenase does not know exactly why she pulled her mother away.

“I do not know. I cannot tell you.”

It was the last time Aschkenase saw her father.

Selection day was also the last time Aschkenase saw her younger brother.

Aschkenase finds it difficult to recount her last moments with him. Later, Aschkenase learned that her brother had been sent to work in coal mines, became injured and was executed. He was not quite 18 years old.

“Then we were taken to showers, had our heads shaved and went into the barracks.

The showers were terrible, but we didn’t know how lucky we were that water came out of the showers,” Aschkenase says.

“The barracks were so overfilled. It was very terrible.”

In the barracks, Aschkenase learned where her father had been sent.

“There was a woman who had been

pleaded with me, but I had to think for both of us. I made her go out every day.

I [knew] that everyone who stayed in the barracks was sent to the infirmary…and then to the crematorium.”

Shortly thereafter, Nazi officers visited the barracks for selection. The prisoners who were sick and weak were taken immediately to the crematorium.

“I knew how bad my mother looked. I knew if the Germans saw her like this they would not let her live. So when they came in I pinched my mother’s cheeks to make them a little red. Then behind my mother I repeated like a mantra ‘Walk straight. Look in their eyes. Don’t look down.’ She passed every time, but each time it was a nightmare.”

Miraculously, Aschkenase found a contact in the camp with medicine. But the medicine came at a high price.

“I paid with three days of my bread ration,” says Aschkenase. “[Mother] never knew, and I never told her, but she got better.”

Aschkenase and other prisoners were forced to participate in exhausting and meaningless labor, moving large rocks from one side of a road to another and

then back again. Later Aschkenase and her mother were sent to a subcamp.

“It was much better than Auschwitz.

There was no crematorium, and we each had our own bunk,” she says.

Aschkenase’s mother was too weak to work in the ammunitions factory.

Aschkenase later arranged with a female guard to allow her mother to be kept from working. Aschkenase found a coveted position working in the camp kitchen.

“Sometimes I was able to get some potato peels out for the people in my barrack.

Never a whole potato,” Aschkenase recalls.

With no outside contact, Aschkenase had no idea that Germany was rapidly losing their war against the Allies.

In 1945, Aschkenase and her barrack mates saw men marching toward the camp. “It was the Russians, and they told us that Germany had surrendered unconditionally. It was wonderful,” Aschkenase says.

But the horror for the Auschwitz survivors was not yet over.

“The Russians were our liberators, but they raped women indiscriminately. We were so afraid of [them.]’”

Frightened to stay, just two days after liberation, Aschkenase and her mother set out on foot to Italy. During the fourmonth journey to Italy, they sought out relatives in Europe only to learn that most of them had been deported and killed.

Eventually Aschkenase and her mother moved to Palestine. There, in 1947, Aschkenase met her husband, Ephraim “Henry” Aschkenase, and married him the following year. Henry, a Polish Jew, lost a staggering 84 relatives to the Nazi death camps.

In 1951, Aschkenase, along with her husband, mother and young daughter, Lea, immigrated to Worcester where she had an aunt.

The move was not an easy one for Aschkenase. “It was really difficult to learn a new language, to be looked down upon as an immigrant.”

“It took me a long time,” Aschkenase says of her dignity. “[In the camps] you lost all your self worth. You were treated lower than dirt. I had gained some confidence in Israel because it welcomed us, but then [after moving to Worcester] I was a refugee again. It was tough,” Aschkenase recalls.

Her husband found a job in Clinton at a plastics company.

Aschkenase’s mother died in 1974. The mother and daughter who had shared so much, and depended on each other for survival, were finally separated. “It was terrible,” says Aschkenase.

The Aschkenases later had a son named Steven.

Henry Aschkenase passed away in 2008, just one day after the couple’s 60th anniversary. Both Aschkenase children live in the Midwest. But Aschkenase stays in close contact with them and her three grandchildren.

In her 60s Aschkenase enrolled at Worcester State University, where she received a degree in urban studies and gerontology in 2007. Now a Worcester resident for more than 50 years, Aschkenase says the memories of Auschwitz are never far from her mind.

BAYSTATEPARENT 33

“You know, I just have to go out and see a smoking chimney. It’s there, it is still, all the time,” she says.

Motivated to help bring hunger awareness to the community, and to help Worcester youth never to forget the Holocaust, Aschkenase frequently speaks at local schools. Her impact is felt. “The children are so responsive. They want to meet a survivor. I have boxes of letters [from students].”

Teaching Worcester youth about the Holocaust and sharing experiences with them is vital to many Holocaust victims and researchers.

Still Aschkenase wonders why she lived when so many did not.

“I had survival skills,” she says. “The children [at area schools] say, ‘You’re alive so you could tell your story.’ And if I see my grandchildren and children, I think ‘Maybe this is why.’ But it is incomprehensible. Why my brother? Why the babies? Why me? It’s kind of a guilty feeling,” Aschkenase says nodding silently and glancing away.

on the table,” Carlson remembers. Still though, the Carlson family was not in total support of the Nazis.

Aware of Hitler’s tactics and seeing the resulting abuse on Jews, Carlson’s father took a staunch stand and refused to join the Nazi party. He was even once arrested by the Gestapo when an unfriendly neighbor turned him in for listening to foreign radio.

“It’s important to remember, to remember the people who lost their lives.”

A Haunting Era But what was life of a typical German like under the Nazis?

Herta Carlson, 88, has lived in Worcester for more than 60 years. But she spent the first two decades of her life in Germany.

Born in Berlin in 1922 to Willy and Marta Kortüm, a working class couple, Carlson’s family was hit hard by the Depression.

“We were poor, but we had a lot of love,” Carlson says. “I had a wonderful childhood.”

Carlson remembers fondly playing with her older brother Rudy and the neighborhood children, including Jews. Carlson recalls no distinction between herself and the Jews of her area. “My parents felt they were people just like us,” Carlson says.

When Carlson was about 10 years old, Hitler came to power. He promised to deliver Germans from the Depression, and he did.

“My father got a job, and we had meat

Compass of the Future “I think that the Holocaust was, until now, the greatest catastrophe of Western civilization in the modern era,” says Debórah Dwork, Rose Professor of Holocaust History and director of the Strassler Family Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University.

“But it doesn’t mean we can’t do worse.

Now we know how to do it.”

“The past can serve as a compass to bring us to a future we hope to achieve,” says Dwork. She feels strongly that discussing, studying and understanding the Holocaust and its causes is vital for all people.

“We must look at the past and take a stand.”

Rabbi Seth Bernstein of Worcester’s Temple Sinai concurs with Dwork’s feelings.

“Because this happened in a civilized 34 SEPTEMBER2011

Hitler. Oh my goodness, he was terrible,” Carlson says. Later her brother was killed in the war.

Still Carlson maintained her stance.

Against the rules of the factory in which she worked, and against the law, Carlson once befriended a Russian prisoner of war who worked alongside her.

“I wasn’t supposed to talk to her. [But] one day I invited her to lunch,” Carlson

- Herta Carlson Herta Carlson

“Many Germans say they were forced to join,” Carlson says, “but that was not true.” As a young girl, she refused to join the Hitler youth movement.

“I hated him, that Hitler,” she says making a fist. As Jews began to suffer, Carlson explains, she felt powerless.

“There was nothing you could say, or you’d end up in a camp yourself. The way to survive was to stay neutral, mind your business and keep your mouth shut,” Carlson expounds.

Things were different for Carlson’s brother though. “[He] was brainwashed. He loved

recounts. “The next day she was gone.”

Carlson never saw her friend again, and was sent to a harder work detail for her actions.

While Carlson knew that concentration camps existed, she says she was not aware of what was happening there.

Carlson endured the hardships of war including bombings and the loss of a husband and brother. After Berlin fell in 1945, Carlson and her family also had to go through the difficulties of living in a devastated and defeated city.

Now under Russian control, it was only

nation…it could happen anywhere. No one is immune to it,” says Bernstein.

Bernstein also holds that the impact of the Holocaust is global and extends to every generation, making telling the story vital. “[The Holocaust] was the beginning of developing another psyche of Jewish identity including in America,” Bernstein remarks. “Before that, there was a separate Jewry. But since the Holocaust it has allowed us to develop an old world Judaism. One-third of us are gone; that reality patterned us in a way that we are still reeling from.”

“Within the last century of World History we are acutely aware that 11 million people were killed,” says David Coyne Director of Hiller at Clark University. “We have a responsibility to remember it, and to make sure it never happens again.”

Coyne worries, though, that this most important part of our collective history is in danger to being forgotten.

“We are at the point where we are beginning [losing eyewitnesses]. I think we are at risk of people forgetting and minimizing [the Holocaust]. It is incumbent upon us to make sure it is studied and remembered,” Coyne asserts. “[Survivors] don’t want [the victims’] names, their lives forgotten,” Bernstein points out, “This is our family; you don’t forget it. We may not know their names, but they are not an anonymous people. They lived, they died, they are remembered.”

But how did millions of German citizens allow Hitler to perpetrate one of the greatest crimes in human history?

Dwork explains, “There was a lack of imagination, lack of political will and [they had just come out of] the Depression.

I think they were pretty exhausted. That may explain it, but it doesn’t excuse it.”

Dwork does not limit responsibility to German citizens of the era though.

She also points out that other nations, including the United States, could have

then that the truth about the concentration camps was revealed to Carlson. The Russians ordered all Germans to view graphic footage taken at camps.

“I went. I wanted to see what was going on there,” Carlson says. What she saw was shocking.

“I cried all the way home,” Carlson says.

“I was so ashamed of being a German that day.”

Those images still haunt Carlson some 65 years since seeing them. Yet Carlson also sees the value of never forgetting.

“It’s important to remember,” she says, “to remember the people who lost their lives.”

In postwar Germany, Carlson met and married an American soldier from Worcester, Harry Carlson. The Carlsons moved in the 1950s back to Worcester, where they raised two children. She is now the grandmother of three and the greatgrandmother of four.

Carlson has not shared her story with her grandchildren, who are now in their late 30s. “It doesn’t seem to interest them that much. They are not impressed,” she says.

She has spent many years in Worcester doing volunteer work. For decades she has educated Worcester residents about the hope that the Bible offers.

“The Bible says that all those people will be resurrected to a wonderful life,” Carlson says, “and the memory of the camps will be wiped from their minds.”

Perhaps the most enduring question about the Holocaust is “Why?” It is a question Aschkenase has pondered many times.

“I don’t know about faith. You question [God], ‘Why did you permit all these little babies and innocent children to die?’” In the 68 years since her liberation, Aschkenase has not found an answer, “I don’t think anybody has.”

C. Kelleher Harris is a freelance writer who lives in Central Massachusetts. Harris’ has worked for over five years for various publications and newspapers.

This article first appeared in baystateparent’s sister publication, Worcester Mag.

acted earlier to help halt Hitler’s rise.

Initially many countries supported and even admired Hitler. For instance, in 1938, well after Jews’ rights were being stripped and some were being sent to concentrations camps, Time Magazine named Adolph Hitler “Man of the Year.”

“Before the war even began, if the world had stood firm with Nazi Germany and said, ‘You can’t treat a populous this way [it could have been prevented].”

Despite documented and undeniable proof, there are still some today that say the Holocaust never happened, or that its horrors were greatly exaggerated.

“I don’t dignify them with an answer,” says Aschkenase, “I don’t discuss it with them. It’s certainly not worth arguing with people about it.”

“I applaud Thea’s position…I agree with her,” remarks Dwork. “As a scholar, I can’t allow deniers to dominate the narrative. I do not enter into debate with deniers. I will not tolerate that structure.”

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THE ABCS OF EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES STRIKING BEAUTIES: BOXING HELPS WOMEN OF ALL AGES MOMS ROCK: SARAH ZIEGLER OF GRAFTON UNIMPORTANT PLEASURES WITH CHRISTINE AND FAYE

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the ABCs of Extracurricular Activities ARTS&EXTRACURRICULARS

For most parents, signing kids up for extracurricular activities such as soccer, gymnastics and music lessons is somewhat simple, but what about the child who doesn’t fit into a traditional extracurricular? baystateparent takes you through the alphabet of unique enrichment activities for your unique child. There’s an incredible variety of activities available for every child in Massachusetts...just a Google away.

Archery:

This sport hits the mark as kids have fun while learning about focus, patience and the importance of following rules.

Visit archeryusa.com.

Boxing: It’s not just for boys!

See page 42 of this month’s bsp issue for how girls are taking a punch at this extracurricular.

emily o’brien and carrie wattu, karla castaneda, illustrator

Cooking: Your kids can learn the lifelong skill

of cooking healthy meals while having fun and making friends. Plus, they’ll get exposed to new cultures. baystateparent located classes in Acton, Southborough, Wellesley and beyond.

Destination Imagination: Kids work together on teams

to complete various challenges and then compete with other DI teams using their creativity, teamwork and problem solving skills. Visit madikids.org to find or start a team.

Equestrian Studies:

Horseback riding builds physical fitness as well as confidence. A theraupetic riding program is great for children with special needs. Lessons average from $40 to $50 per 30-minute lesson.

Fencing:

Children as young as 6 can discover their inner musketeer as they learn the art of fighting with swords. Information can be found at bostonfencingclub.org.

Gardening:

Help your child discover his inner green thumb. Visit massaudubon.org throughout the year for class selections as well as The Natick Community Organic Farm, Tower Hill Botanical Garden, Boylston; Mass Horticultural Society, Wellesley; and Garden in the Woods, Framingham.

GO WILD!

arden At G cav in the Wo Pa e s n s o g a i e ds r hun y urt ren’ stroll a t nj o C e long th il d S

Thom Worcester Area Early Intervention invites you and your family to our Open House.

Tour our center, meet our staff, enjoy some ice cream, and the many activities we have planned. Our indoor playspace will be available for children to explore.

For more information visit:

www.thomchild.org/worcester or call us at (508) 845-THOM (8466) 38 SEPTEMBER2011

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Hula Hooping: Build up your core in this

total-body fun workout that appeals to all ages! There are hooping groups and workshops from the North Shore to Boston to Western Mass. Start your search at bostonhooptroop.com.

Irish Step: Not only will children learn about

Irish culture, but Irish Step seeks to increase a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poise and self-confidence, physical fitness and memory and concentration.

Jump Roping:

Massachusetts has its own Double Dutch league in Boston sponsored by the Center for Sport In Society at Northeastern University and The Red Auerbach Youth Foundation. Contact Caitlin Geddes at Sport in Society, 617-373-4889 or email c.geddes@neu.edu or doubledutch@redauerbach. org. They provide support for starting your own team with free ropes, training video, coachesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; training program and more.

Kickbocking:

Many Karate curriculums integrate kickboxing, which can appeal to children who do not like team sports.

Kickboxing builds strength and confidence while teaching respect and selfdefense skills.

Language:

Research shows that the earlier children are exposed to foreign language, the better.

And learning a world language can prepare children for the global economy.

Modeling: Agencies offer children training

in poise, acting, voice and diction, print, televison, communications and image.

Nature Programs:

The Mass Audubonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 45 statewide wildlife sanctuaries offer programs that teach children about animals, the environment, hiking, snowshoeing and more. Visit massaudubon.org.

Origami: The Japanese art of folding paper

involves art but also engineering concepts and math. Visit origamido.com in Haverhill for more information. Also visit MITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Origami club, which attracts enthusiasts and has members with geometry

and engineering backgrounds. Last fall the club constructed a 17-foot long paper triceratops. To find events and workshops, visit origamit.scripts.mit.edu.

Pottery:

Check out your local pottery studio, craft center or art museum to inquire about classes, which are held throughout the year. Barefoot Books in Concord has a pottery class too!

Quilt Making: Making a quilt provides a child with a feeling of accomplishment as well as teaches a skill that can be enjoyed for years to come. Plus, sewing classes for kids are popping up all over the state from Boston to Grafton to Worcester.

Rock Climbing: This is an ideal activity for

kids who crave a challenge. Gyms across Massachusetts offer climbing walls and dedicated rock climbing gyms in Central and Western Mass offer youth teams. Visit centralrockgym.com.

Synchronized Swimming: Let your kids splash with style on a synchronized swimming team. Inquire at your local YMCA or swim club. You can also find the SynchroMaids of Central Mass on Facebook.

X Marks the Spot:

Start letterboxing or going on â&#x20AC;&#x153;treasure huntsâ&#x20AC;? with your kids. No fees or classes required. Learn more at letterboxing.org.

Yoga:

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even for babies! Some of Yogaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benefits include improving flexibility, strength, balance and stamina. Programs are abundant throughout the state.

Zumbatomic:

Think zumba is â&#x20AC;&#x153;exercise in disguiseâ&#x20AC;? just for adults? Think again!

Zumbatomic combines salsa, cumbia, reggaeton, hip-hop and more...just for kids ages 3.9 and up. Keep an eye out for programs near you!

Advertisers, if you offer one of the unique programs above, let 100,000 baystateparents know!

Email Stephanie Pearl at stephaniep@baystateparent.com or call 774-364-0296.

Emily Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien is a baystateparent intern and a senior at West Boylston High School.

Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent.

Trapeze:

Children ages 4 and up can learn circus arts including Trapeze at Jordanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Furniture in Reading (who knew!). Visit boston.trapezeschool.com for information.

Ukuele Lessons: Learn how to play that cute little Hawaiian instrument known as an â&#x20AC;&#x153;uke.â&#x20AC;?

Volunteering: Rake

leaves for the elderly. Take part in one of the many charity walkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s this fall. Organize a drive for a cause dear to your heart. This is an extracurricular guaranteed to give back as well as build lifelong skills.

Water polo:

This goal game is similar to soccer and is played in water by teams of swimmers using a ball resembling a soccer ball. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great workout as players tread water the entire game. Check your local YMCA as well as the Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club in your area.

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striking BEAUTIES BOXING HELPS WOMEN OF ALL AGES KNOCK OUT STRESS, BUILD CONFIDENCE BY

susanne boitano steven king photography

O

nce the realm of brawling titans like Ali and Tyson, boxing is becoming popular with women on both professional and amateur levels, even in the Bay State. Historically, evidence of the “fair sex” and boxing is faint: questionable accounts from the 1700s, novelty acts circa 1800s, then “demo” sport in the 1902 Olympics. The 1950s witnessed a brief televised heyday of women’s boxing courtesy of celebrity haymaker Barbara “Mighty Atom of the Ring” Buttrick, but then was followed by the regrettable “foxy” version of the late 1970s. However, over the last 15 years, interest and support for legitimate women’s boxing is on the rise in international venues and neighborhood gyms. 2012 will see female pugilism debut at the London Olympics.

And it’s about time!

To understand what all the fuss and fighting is about, baystateparent headed out to Striking Beauties, a 24-hour, allfemale, all-ages boxing gym located in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Inspired and emboldened by a love of boxing and a desire to offer first-class instruction, attorney and mom, Dena Paolino-Sarcia, opened the new style of gym in 2010 to cater to females exclusively. Her business partner, head coach and Director of Boxing is four-time, world boxing champion, Jamie “The Hurricane” Clampitt, also a mother. With its classic pink and black interior and refined touches, Striking Beauties is where women come out of the corner of their lives and take a swing.

But what exactly attracts moms and daughters to the bags, the gloves, the endless amounts of jumping rope? And more importantly, can these ladies keep the “sweet” in the “sweet science?”

42 SEPTEMBER2011

I Really Wanted to Punch Something While she enjoyed sharing the sport with her dad as a child, Mary Morgan of Cumberland, RI, never imagined herself boxing. She’d done a little kickboxing, but came to the point in her life where she “really wanted to punch something.”

The solid, pleasant-faced mother got the chance to hit the bags and now feels like a champ. “I was so excited and scared since I’m not in shape. But I got hooked! My goal was just to lose weight, but then it grew to something more. It’s a hobby now.

On top of exercise, I watch it on TV and go to fights. What I like is that you don’t have to be perfectly fit to be good at the skills. It gives you the confidence to keep walking in and trying it.”

With three contenders in the family (daughters Marietta and Sophia also don gloves), does it make her a better mother?

Morgan is emphatic, “Oh, God, ya! It’s made me healthier and stronger, but it also really helps get the stress out. You leave the gym feeling accomplished, so you can go home and handle something that happened in school or whatever problem the kids might have.” Clearly, boxing scored her a winning combination for parenting.

I Feel More Confident Is Morgan’s praise for boxing the effects of punch drunkenness? Could all that weaving, shuffling, jabbing and feigning be a cure-all for the mommy blues? We asked Yale Department of Psychiatry lecturer and psychotherapist Binnie Klein, author of Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed My Mind: “With boxing, I tend to find women are more interested in experiencing their personal best, not necessarily measuring

"Many people would be surprised at the kind of things girls learn in boxing," says Peyton Judge, age 12. "Girls learn how to defend themselves and stand up for themselves. We also learn how to set goals for ourselves and how to make those goals a reality." who is the thinnest or who has the best legs at the gym, but can you hang in there for three-minute rounds? That will make you feel pretty high and good about yourself. In my research with professional and amateur women’s boxing, it’s nothing less than transformational. They begin to say things like, ‘I feel more confident’ and ‘I feel more powerful.’ Often, it’s something they can’t always put into words, but they know it; there’s a difference between before boxing - and after boxing.”

Those sentiments certainly echoed with Paolino-Sarcia. After “not getting the time of day” from pro trainers, the elegant and athletic Striking Beauties’ boss decided to create a more supportive and more community-oriented training and sparring gym just for women. “To me, if you haven’t gotten in the ring and sparred, you just don’t have that real understanding; that’s why we get the best, like Jamie.” The results speak for themselves in scores of comments she receives, in person or via email, from satisfied customers, such as “greatest workout ever” and “improved my self-esteem.” Says Paolino-Sarcia, “The most common remark is, ‘It’s changed my

life!’ The women feel better mentally and physically; it’s a reoccurring theme.” While not every gym houses a medal winner, results like these are typical for women’s classes across the country. Kickboxing doesn’t quite cut it anymore. Women want more from their sport.

I’m Glad She Feels She can Stick up for Herself But what of the young generation of strikers? We return to the battling Morgans and asked Mary’s daughter, 12-year-old Marietta Morgan, who started a year ago after her mom signed her up, what she gets out of the sport. The most difficult thing, she says, is the warm-up exercises, but Marietta is already wholeheartedly recommending boxing class to her friends. “I wasn’t sure what it would be like, but now I can do a lot more stuff and things are easier for me.

I feel better about myself because I feel stronger; I’m more energized, more fit.” The younger Morgan, whose career ambitions range from pro boxer to fashion designer, takes this new found confidence to the real

Pre-K through High School

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world, i.e. the school yard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I see my friends getting picked on, I now know how to defend other people. Trouble isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t an issue with me.â&#x20AC;? Her favorite combination? Jab, cross hook, uppercut.

In her corner, Mariettaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mom comments with pride in her voice: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad she feels she can stick up for herself and her friends if she had to. She would never... but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad she feels that way and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because of boxing, whenever she walks out of there, she feels good.â&#x20AC;?

A boxerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workout, with its vigorous emphasis on speed, strength, stamina, coordination and unwavering focus seems to beat down the internalized culturized perception of feminine helplessness prevalent today. Perhaps Hello Kitty had better learn to keep her hands up or risk taking one in the whiskers. Selfdefense chops not withstanding, releasing aggression is a powerful catharsis, and doing it in a safe, sanctioned environment like the boxing ring is one of the best ways to show women (young and old) how to rise to a challenge, again and again.

From her weekly music and interview radio show on WPKN, Klein often deals with the subject of gender ID. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Males are encouraged to be more physical: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Go beat that guy up!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; They deal with aggression at a much earlier age. When given the support and skills, women can express their frustrations and feel their power as well. And they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always have to be so careful. There are a lot of young women in this world who are playing it safe, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not going to make any mistakes, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not

going to blow it. Boxing teaches them itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OK, that aggression and competition are linked.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not going to die from it. Having a place for that for young women is so valuable.â&#x20AC;?

I Love Training Women Finally, baystateparent checked in with Jamie â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Hurricaneâ&#x20AC;? Clampitt, whose powder blue satin championâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s robe hangs proudly by the doors at Striking Beauties. Lovely, tough and deeply dedicated to teaching women to be the best fighters they can be, Clampitt credits training with making her a better fighter and mother. She says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to be mentally strong and mentally tough. Being a mother isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always easy. There is a lot of uncertainty, lots of nerves, and just having that time at a gym, where you know you can come in and hit the bag and feel good about yourself accomplishing something - thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important.â&#x20AC;?

Clampitt, who isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ruling out a comeback, has confidence in this new day in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boxing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love training women because they work really hard. In this sport, they have to prove something not only to themselves, but to everybody. Most girls are boxing in a maledominated gym. I think any women who is in the gym has high standards for herself and a great work ethic or they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last.â&#x20AC;?

Sugar and spice and everything nice aside, boxing seems to be gaining momentum as a sweet addition to womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives.

Susanne Boitano is a mother and freelance writer who will do most anything to get the story, including taking a boxing class or two. She lives in Newton, Massachusetts with her family.

BAYSTATEPARENT 43

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ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN

ARTS&EXTRACURRICULARS

MOMS ROCK!

Sarah Ziegler Of Grafton Age: 40 Occupation: Artist Mom of: Audrey, 8, and Noelle, 6 BY

alexandra caulway, steven king photography

L

ike all new moms, Sarah Ziegler experienced an identity change when her daughters were born.

As mommyhood ushered diapers and stuffed toys into her life, it also brought an unexpected gift: free time at home while her children slept. Sure, she could have caught up on sleep herself, but Sarah picked up a brush and began to paint.

“It was worth the fatigue,” says Sarah, “because it gave me a creative outlet and let me nurture my inner artist after a long day of being Mom.” Today, Sarah has her own online business, Robin’s Egg Studio - named after her favorite color. A self-taught artist, Sarah creates original paintings and custom pieces with a unique, mixed style of pop and folk art. She specializes in murals and personalized gifts for babies and children.

Sarah’s daughters, Audrey and Noelle, were 4 and 2 when she first decided to turn her hobby into a new career. “I used to have a cup of coffee in the late afternoon, tuck them into bed at night and paint up in the studio near their bedroom until midnight or after.” That was in 2008.

Now that her children are older, Sarah is able to actively share her passion with them. “We draw at breakfast, paint while dinner cooks and doodle in the car.”

The Ziegler’s dining room table is a lively pile of bright colors, snips of paper and paint tubes. A commissioned portrait in progress sits next to a glittery pink collage - one of her daughter’s masterpieces.

Mother and daughters have submitted paintings to the Grafton Fine Arts and Music Festival for the past two years.

Sarah’s own childhood also brimmed with creativity. As a little girl, Sarah copied the illustrations from her picture books over and over again. In high school, art remained a hobby, but she was shy about sharing her work. It wasn’t until becoming a mom that Sarah felt confident to share.

“The Internet gave me courage,” she says. “The anonymity of it helped me to put myself out there, especially being selftaught. When I finally photographed my work and put it on the Internet, my art business was born.” Sarah’s very first sale was to a complete stranger in Chicago.

Her custom portraits of pets and children are now all over the world in places such as Germany and Australia. “Painting children is very exciting because I’m anticipating their reactions when they see themselves interpreted on canvas.

Sometimes I’ll imagine them lying in bed before lights out, studying their portrait on the wall. I love to incorporate little details into their paintings for them to find, such as a butterfly or tiny ladybug.”

Now that Sarah’s two girls will be attending school full-time (a milestone as this is the the first time the girls will be gone all day), she is allowing her dreams to expand. “I have several ideas for children’s books, but I will only submit to a publisher when I know it is my absolute best work and will honor the genre that is so dear to my heart. And of course, I would

You may find yourself Y asking...This is consignment, right? c

love to illustrate someone else’s stories someday…Perhaps it’s because children’s book illustrators were my heroes growing up, and I have admired their work all my life.”

Her home studio is small, colorful and organized - a getaway for a busy mom.

But she doesn’t leave the inspiration in her studio. The girls’ bedroom, painted pink and purple with flowers, is all handdone by Sarah. In the kitchen, Sarah spray painted a large frame she didn’t use anymore, replacing the print with an inexpensive sheet of chalkboard, cut to size. It’s ideal for family doodles and notes.

Being a stay-at-home mom is a fulltime job, but Sarah has found a way to embrace both mommyhood and a career as an artist. “If my day is hectic,” she says, “I’ll wait until the girls are in bed and paint until my eyes start to close.”

To view Sarah’s art and to find out about her custom gifts for babies and children, visit robinseggstudio.com.

Alexandra Caulway is an intern at baystateparent.

She is a student at Assumption College.

44 SEPTEMBER2011

Current family obsessions: fishing and swimming. My husband has developed a love for fishing and often brings the girls along with him, sometimes creating little competitions for them such as “First Fish Caught” or “Biggest Fish Caught.”

Noelle especially will spend hours in the water swimming, boogie boarding or skim boarding.

The role of animals in our lives: We are the proud owners of exactly one fish, and wannabe dog owners.

I am the queen of: Baking! I inherited a love of baking from my mother, who is famous for the amazing quality and quantity of desserts she would churn out for visitors.

I have to try not to bake too often, since I work from home and can actually hear pie or cookies calling me from the kitchen.

What would some people be surprised to know about you? I love bugs! I have always loved looking at them and learning about them. I had a brief stint working

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for a prominent entomologist and have drawn or painted endless species of insects. My girls and I began a serious insect collection this summer, complete with labels.

ARTS&EXTRACURRICULARS

Memories of art as a child: I loved to draw and paint as a child but never felt very proficient: in fact I clearly remember being envious of my older sister’s talent and technique…with crayons!

Interesting projects I’ve worked on: One of the most original projects was a request for a painting of a wren wearing striped socks, surrounded by London landmarks. It turned out to be one of my favorite paintings! It actually resides in London with the recipient.

Reflections on 9/11...the 10-year anniversary: I still remember exactly where I was when the first plane hit: I was at work, doing something I very rarely did – listening to the radio at my desk. When the news broke, I felt a surge of fear and the concrete knowledge that we would shortly be at war. Our family is blessed in that we did not lose anyone close to us, as some of our friends did. Audrey is old enough now that we can talk to her about what happened, and we regularly discuss with both our daughters how important our freedom is, how hard our armed forces work to protect it and how we should never take it for granted.

Finding time to work with children “underfoot”: Life was busy when the girls were small and very, very curious.

Opening a tube of paint anywhere within their reach was out of the question.

Mornings began early and necessitated even more coffee!

An inspiring parent I know: We were so lucky to have moved two doors away from a family with children of similar ages.

The mom, who I now consider one of my closest friends, is raising five beautiful children who are smart, polite and wellrounded. She has such a down-to-earth way about her and makes it look easy.

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Best part of my day: It’s a tie between the moment when the girls step off the school bus and run to the house, and making my husband laugh before he falls asleep at night. I always feel as if the day has been a success if I can manage that.

Moms Rock is an award-winning monthly feature that celebrates the good that moms do.

Do you know a mom who just rocks?

Email editor@baystateparent.com.

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes

BAYSTATEPARENT 45

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BOSTON CHILDREN’S THEATRE

FALL CLASSES 2011

Classes and Workshops for ages 4 to 19

Programs Range from One-Day to Eight Weeks!

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS

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CLASSES At WAM FA L L C L A S S E S F O R YO U T H AG E S 3 -1 7 B E G I N O C TO B E R 4 .

WO R C E ST E R A R T M U S E U M You belong here W W W.W O R C E S T E R A R T. O R G

46 SEPTEMBER2011

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unimportant PLEASURES with

We

are Christine and Faye Guanipa welcoming you to our monthly column we call, “Unimportant

Pleasures.”

We are a mother-daughter team from the suburbs of Massachusetts schooled in the fine arts and with an insatiable love for DIY (do-it-yourself) design, fine arts, unnecessary shopping, flea market finds, accessories, and of course coffee and chocolate!

Together, we hope to bring you a monthly taste of simple pleasures that are often overlooked, mostly unnecessary, but always inspiring. The title of our column is inspired by a song written by Leah, the middle daughter in the family. The song reflects the simple idea that joy can be found in the everyday ordinary pieces of everyday life.

We hope you will enjoy following “Unimportant Pleasures!”

• We recently rearranged our bedroom and decided it was time to do away with our bulky and formal dresser. We turned two of the dresser drawers on their side and they became matching nightstands for books and lamps. Another two drawers we added wheels to, and they became under the bed storage for sheets and linens. Nail another one to the wall and it’s a shelf for pictures and curios.

• This light switch plate was created simply by finding an image that we liked, tracing it with the light plate as a template, cutting it out and gluing the image on the plastic light plate with some Mod Podge we purchased at Michaels.

•Good-bye soap dish. How about using a vintage scale in the bathroom to display your soap. Even toilet paper can be displayed in a pretty vintage wire egg basket instead of under the sink.

• A dining room buffet can display more than dishes. How about a vintage typewriter with some arrangements of jars or candles with some cool typography. We found these little canisters with cork tops in the dollar section at Michaels.

• Consider the simple beauty of a soup can. Redefine it by re-purposing it with a handful of fresh wildflowers. Put several cans together and you have a dining room centerpiece.

The next time you sit with your coffee and chocolate, consider the ways you can add a cup of decorating ingenuity to ordinary objects in and around your home.

Or, take a moment to simply enjoy the very important and unnecessary unimportant pleasures.

A Whole New Zippity-Doo-Dah!

Mother: Christine is the owner and designer of Little Man Handbags, a collection of limited production handbags and accessories created by hand in her Massachusetts studio. She is the mother of three daughters, Faye, Leah and Anna and the happy wife of Miguel. Visit littlemanoriginals.com.

Daughter: Faye, newly married and independent jewelry designer of signature, one-of-a-kind statement necklaces. To be updated on her comings and goings follow her blog at fayeguanipa.blogspot.com or to shop her creations go to etsy.com/shop/fayeguanipa.

Classes Begin Sept. 6 Massachusetts Premier Dance Studio

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TWELFTH NIGHT

Sept. 27 - Oct. 22, 2011

by William Shakespeare directed by Melia Bensussen**

Plaza Theatre at the Boston Center for the Arts, Boston

THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR Dec. 7, 2011 - Jan. 1, 2012

by William Shakespeare directed by Steven Barkhimer

Davis Square Theater, Somerville

2011-2012 season

LAugHTer, lOsS & LOnGiNg

BSPseas4c.081711.indd 1

MEDEA

Feb. 8 - March 4, 2012

by Euripides translated by Robin Robertson directed by David R. Gammons

Multicultural Arts Center, Cambridge

TROILUS AND CRESSIDA

April 25 - May 20, 2012

by William Shakespeare directed by Tina Packer

The Modern Theatre at Suffolk University, Boston ** The director is a member of the stage directors and choreographers society, a national theatrical labor union

W W W.A C TO R S S H A K E S P E A R E P R O J E C T.O R G o r 8 6 6 .8 1 1 .4 1 1 1 8/17/11 3:29 PM

BAYSTATEPARENT 49

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Offering Award Winning Programming in Dance, Music & Theater!

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CAPTURED

Extras!

Dance: Alma Caramanica, age 5 of Boylston, has been taking dance lessons for the past two years. She starts kindergarten with her twin brother this fall.

Swim: Millbury resident, Cameron Graffeo, age 3, likes to wear goggles during swim lessons.

Gymnastics: Allison Boda celebrates her birthday at New England Academy of Gymnastics in Marlborough.

Soccer: Happy birthday Joshua Zeltan (He turns 7 on Sept. 4).

He loves playing Monster Truck with his soccer team in Douglas.

50 SEPTEMBER2011

Roller Skating: Seven-year-old Nicky Sarmiento of Worcester takes roller skating classes.

Captured: bsp is looking for photos.

Email photos to editor@baystateparent.com.

Children by

Gina with Josh and Will.

W

hen my oldest son Joshua was a baby, I took him to a Music Together class. He had been a fussy infant, but had finally settled in and was quite content, so we ventured out into the world. Having taught high school and middle school music for many years, I didn’t know what to expect. How do you make music with babies, anyway?

The class started with a circle of families led by the teacher with babies on blankets, toddlers and preschoolers sitting in laps or exploring the space. It was a warm, welcoming, safe place. We sang “Helloooooo Everybodyyyyyy” and when every child’s name was sung, their faces lit up. We danced, we shook “eggs,” we learned songs from around the world. I was hooked.

I quickly learned that Music Together classes were not something that I would sign up for to check off my list. Swimming?

Check. Gym class? Check. Baby Yoga?

Check. Those were all great classes, but something here was different: these classes became an integral part of our life. The music on the CDs became the most requested in our collection. We were singing all the time, in the bath, on the changing table, lullabies. I was a professional musician, but hadn’t been singing much with my child! I am comfortable with

gina cranford

my singing voice, but when our teacher Alex explained how our children tune in to our voices (moms and dads) over all others, all of us realized how important our own voice is to our child, regardless of abilities.

We parents are the teachers. And how do we teach them? By simply singing and making music. Of course! How do we teach them to speak? To read. We speak to them and read to them! Music is no different.

An “a-ha moment,” as Oprah would say.

I began singing at home more and more each day.

It was refreshing seeing children allowed to be children in the class. Children learn best through play, so the teacher doesn’t sit down and “teach” them anything. They listen, explore, experiment and just simply exist within the rhythm and melodies around them. Joshua liked to sit in my lap, not venturing far from me even when he learned to crawl. But he was feeling the beat in my body and hearing my voice. It was so cool to see that it was OK for others to be wandering around the room; no one was saying “sit down” or forcing them to play an instrument. In this world of fastpaced education, and pushing our kids into things they might not be ready for, it was so refreshing.

Joshua and I spent a few sessions in Music Together classes and then made a decision to move on to swim lessons. I hadn’t yet come to understand the importance of ongoing music in my child’s life. I thought I needed to do a little bit of a lot of things, and that I would make music on my own at home anyway, right? I don’t regret the swim lessons, but I do regret not continuing to

“Since 1868, the region’s nationally renowned choir has provided boys and girls with the opportunity to sing professionally at the highest possible standards.”

support my child’s musical side.

By the time son number two came along, I had learned much more about early childhood music, and we joined session after session. I don’t know if it is just different personalities or differences in musical aptitude, but it is obvious to me that Will got so much more musical support from a continuous classroom experience.

Music is in this child’s soul, and at the age of 5, he now makes up his own songs and words and improvises along with me, even harmonizing with me. It is a joyful way for the two of us to connect. I am so thankful that I supported him in this journey! (By the way, Joshua is also very musical, just a bit more shy about it).

When Will was 3 and I realized that he would be entering preschool in the fall, I began to think about my future as a music teacher. For the first time it occurred to me that I could teach Music Together!

Could I? Did I have the right personality?

Everyone assured me I would be great and other Music Together teachers encouraged me. So I went through the training program and here I am. I have the best job in the world, truly. I revel in watching parents come out of their shells and learn that making music is fun, and in turn, teach this to their children. It is a joyful time in my life and no matter how I am feeling, teaching a class makes everything better - I am a better mom to my children as a result.

My training has taught me that all children are musical and are born with their own personal musical aptitude. If not supported, this aptitude will drop until it stabilizes around age 8. What if I

hadn’t supported Joshua and Will? They would have lost something they were born with, their birthright if you will. It is our job as caregivers to support them, and simply singing around the house with your children is enough.

I was thinking the other day about how our children are growing up in a society that communicates through texting, IM, email, Facebook, etc. It seems our music classes are a rare event: A group of strangers who quickly become friends, sitting in a circle, singing and dancing together. Really? Wow! Someone asked me recently, “What if your children don’t decide to be musicians?” I thought about it for a while, and I realized that my goal is not to make musicians out of my children and my students. I want to support the musical level that they were born with so that if they choose to have music in their lives, they are as ready as they were meant to be. If they don’t, I won’t lie, I will be a little bit disappointed.

But the joy of making music that we have had together as a family is worth its weight in gold.

Gina Cranford teaches for Apple Country Music Together with classes in Northborough, Shrewsbury, Westborough, Hopkinton and Bolton. She lives in Berlin with her husband Scott and their two boys.

“On My Plate” is a forum for Massachusetts parents. Do you have a viewpoint you’d like to express, a story or experience you’d like to share? You don’t have to be a published writer to be considered. Please submit essays to editor@baystateparent. com for review.

Friendship, laughter and confidence abound when we play together!

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Sing to your ONmyplate

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DIRTYLAUNDRY

michelle carr

with Christine Hurley and Stephen Rich

GOOD-BYE SUMMER, HELLO EXTRACURRICULARS! The end of summer. Thank God! I write this column from a very hot crowded baseball field somewhere in Connecticut. We are very lucky to be at the New England Regionals for 9 year olds, representing Massachusetts as state champions. It’s been a great season with great games, great kids, a class act for a coach and friendships that will last a lifetime.

We haven’t always lived such a love story within the world of children’s sports. We’ve seen it and been through it all. We’ve had coaches, good and not so good, been on teams, good and not so good, and most importantly, been in the bleachers with the parents, both good and, you guessed it, not so good.

My husband, the fabulous Jimmy Hurley, has coached baseball for a few years now.

I have already made it perfectly clear to him that on “draft day” I will be making all decisions on members of his team. My decision- making will be very scientific.

I will base all draft choices on which of these mothers I will be able to tolerate for a full season. The way things look today I hope Jimmy Hurley can make it work with three players. We’ve all been there...

So this is how our summer ends. All in all it was a fairly uneventful one, but there were a few standout moments that I recall as we start up the school year: A few years back, I was the lucky recipient of intensive stomach surgery. Lately I have had a few, let’s say, flare ups. While making dinner one night this past June, (which is quite a feat in itself when you have a big family, and you have to actually use three boxes of “Hamburger Helper.” The math involved in multiplying everything times three sometimes proves too much for me, and we just go with “Helper,” no “Hamburger.”), I experienced some “slight” stomach discomfort (Who am I kidding? Think Sigourney Weaver in Alien). I went down like a tree. Jimmy Hurley is a firefighter/EMT by trade, so he quickly, or as my kids tell me, not so quickly, sprang into action. So as not to be embarrassed by an ambulance showing up at the house, he hoisted me into his truck and took me to our local emergency room himself. One of my daughters later confessed to me that the first thing that came out of Jimmy Hurley’s mouth when he saw me on the floor was something like, “Hope the ER isn’t backed up, Bruins face

off in a half hour.”

His defense today? “Don’t look at me like that! Two words: Stanley Cup.” Wow. Diagnosis: blockage in the small intestine. Now maybe at some point, I will actually have the spare time to have some corrective surgery. Until then, I am subsisting on a terrific diet of Miralax, Extra Strength Tums and Tylenol. To liven things up, I sometimes sprinkle them with Mrs. Dash. But on the plus side, the whole time I was hospitalized, I kept my eyes on the prize. I was going to get back into those Express Jeans from 2004.

And as always, our oldest daughter gave us some unwarranted highlights of summer. She was able to cram four minor car accidents into a period of six weeks with her new car. What an overachiever she is turning into. We spent lots of time bonding in the lobby of our local body shop.

On our most recent trip to the body shop, to pick up her car, again, was when I finally realized, she will be with us forever.

We will never be able to marry this one off. We were sitting in a little traffic when we noticed an older man standing in the

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Christine Hurley is a Plymouth mom of five.

I always thought my two boys were going to play football and get scholarships for a Big Ten college team. I thought my wife and I would tailgate. Then they’d get drafted by an NFL Team, and they’d stand on stage at the draft after they were selected and say how much they loved their mom and completely leave me out (but that would be OK because I would be tailgating at NFL games!).

Here’s what I got instead: one kid who is small enough to fit in a Cracker Jack box and another kid who only cares about getting to level 9 in Super Mario

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center island with a cardboard sign that read “Homeless Vet. Will work for food.”

Very sad.

But also very sad was Colleen’s observation, which went a little something like this, “I thought veterinarians made a lot of money.”

So goodbye summer of 2011. And on a personal note, a heartfelt thank you to the inventor of boxed wine; you complete me...

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ARTS&EXTRACURRICULARS on the Wii. But I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give up. I thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d spend a year or so and really concentrate on playing baseball with them, throwing the football and playing basketball to get them interested. Time went on, and we all played and practiced. Finally, as we got ready for sign-ups, I asked my champion Wii player, â&#x20AC;&#x153;So what do you want to sign up for? Do you want to try basketball, baseball, soccer? What are you thinking?â&#x20AC;?

He looked at me and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to do Cub Scouts.â&#x20AC;?

Crushed. (There is no tailgating at Cub Scouts!) I turned to my other boy and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;How â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;bout you? What do you want to sign up for?â&#x20AC;? He paused for a second and pointed at the TV, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to do that.â&#x20AC;? I looked over, and it was some guy wearing a leotard figure skating! At this point, I looked over my shoulder to see if my wife was rolling a video camera playing a trick on me. (Nope. Must be God!) I told the one boy, â&#x20AC;&#x153;no chanceâ&#x20AC;? on the figure skating and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go play some video games.â&#x20AC;? The other boy, however, got his wish with the Cub Scouts, and for about six months, we were going to den or pack meetings and trying to do the stuff in the book. I went to strange ceremonies where they were all doing crazy salutes and chants. At one of the meetings, all I could think about was how I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to go on a camping trip, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to hike, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to build a wooden car.

Finally, one day I found out God really does exist. I prayed hard for months, every night, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Please let my son quit Cub Scouts.â&#x20AC;?And the Lord heard me. My kid

L L O N R OW N E

quit, and there was joy in my heart.

So there we were, back on track. I pushed hard to keep them interested in sports, watchinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Bruins, watchinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Celtics, talking Sox and Patriots, all that.

It turned out that both boys actually enjoyed playing soccer. Fine. Seemed great. We did a year of soccer, signed them both up. My wife and I were wild fans, cheering like the roadies! It was all good.

Then the boys wanted to play at the next level for a â&#x20AC;&#x153;clubâ&#x20AC;? team. They tried out and made it. Awesome. They loved it. We loved it. We could tailgate at the games. Everyone was happy. Then I got a bill in the mail for the two boys. It was close to $2,000 dollars with uniforms, trips and cleats.

All I can say now is good thing we saved that Scout uniform. This year, there is a very good chance I might be at the Cub Scout camp fire!

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BAYSTATEPARENT 53

ARTS&EXTRACURRICULARS ARTS EXTRACURRICULARS

MOVIE MAKERS of the Future

Lead actors Evin Anderson and Jonathan Thomson rehearse a scene from Haven, filmed at The Debers School, Taunton, and Wompatuck Park, Hingham.

Director Christopher Crossen-Sills, Director of Photography Eric Campana and Director Michael Crossen-Sills set up a shot for their locally-made film.

BY

carrie wattu, katherine oppenheim photography

N

ever mind Harry Potter and The Smurfs. Have your kids seen Dr. Strangelove and Twelve Angry Men? For Mike and Chris Crossen-Sills, 25-year-old twins from the South Shore, these types of old classic movies were the norm growing up in their home.

“At a young age, our father exposed us to a lot of great, quality films,” says Chris.

“Those movies had great stories and acting. They reach an audience no matter what ages they are.”

“Older movies are a lot simpler.

Everything was done with such attention,” says Mike.

With their father’s encouragement, the brothers grew to embrace film as not only a hobby but as a career. Chris was involved in theater from middle school through college and is now a high school English and theater teacher who acts on the side.

Mike is a member service coordinator at New TV in Newton, a non-profit, 54 SEPTEMBER2011

Newton-based media center dedicated to providing quality local programming to the diverse Newton community.

In their spare time, the brothers are filmmakers. Their current project, a short film called Haven, is a futuristic western.

“It’s in the vein of the spaghetti western, the idea of a lone wanderer who helps a western community against a diabolical force in the world,” says Chris, who wrote the film after two friends approached him and Mike with the concept.

“It took me three or four weeks to formulate it. Then our co-producers helped to flesh it out,” says Chris. “It was a lot of fun.”

This past winter and spring, the brothers began lining up a team, fund raising and scouting locations. Bryan Ethier, age 23 of Millbury, MA, was hired to work on the movie’s sound. What many people don’t realize about film making, he says, is just how much planning goes into each and every shot. “We set up for 3 to 4 hours for

about 30 minutes of film, sometimes less.

The lighting is the biggest issue.”

“You need to be patient; you have to be a perfectionist. That’s the biggest thing.

You have to plan for everything. You can’t haphazardly toss up lights. And it’s all about schedule. You have to be on the ball.”

Movie making often requires 12 – 20 hour work days. “A lot of people expect ‘Let’s just get a camera and light and do it.’ People don’t understand how much set up and how little filming there really is. We shoot and then take it all down. It requires patience,” says Chris.

Their film, which should run 25 minutes, is expected to premier early next year.

Reel Advice for Parents of Aspiring Movie Makers If you are a parent of a child who loves movies and has a penchant for the computer, the creators of Haven say making movies is worthwhile. “Everyone talks about how the arts expand kids’ minds, and film is an art form, a real creative medium that is going to broaden their minds. It will make them better people in the world,” says Chris.

“It’s a creative process,” says Bryan. “You have to write a story, organize and work together to see how something comes together.”

“You have to be creative and independent and open to collaboration and discussion,” adds Chris. “A lot of the times what you imagine is not exactly what is going to happen. You need to adapt to it.”

Mike explains that computers today come with good forms of video editing that children can use, especially on Macs. “iMovie is really good, but there are a lot of others ones,” he says.

And cameras keep getting more

reasonably priced. Haven is shot on a 5D that is primarily a photo camera that shoots video. Chris says, “Eventually we are going to show behind-the-scenes that we filmed on a Flip, and it’s HD!” Therefore, kids can use inexpensive equipment and still make great videos.

Bryan agrees, “All kids need is an Apple computer and a video camera.”

Movie making is also becoming more accessible as an extracurricular activity for children. This past summer, movie making was offered for children at such locations as Digital Media Academy held at Harvard University in Cambridge, The Worcester Art Museum and Collins Artworks in Clinton. Collins Artworks’ students even had a movie premiere in August of their short animated film, Alien Invasion, at the Strand Theater in Clinton.

Johanna Geremina, age 12 of Shrewsbury, taught herself how to make movies this past summer using iMovie on the Mac and Final Cut software. She filmed using her $99 Canon digital camera, making her own music with her keyboard.

“It’s a totally different way that they can express themselves,” says Johanna’s mother, Barbara Geremina, who has a degree in filmmaking from Germany.

Johanna is also the baystateparent summer camp giveaway winner. She attended a complimentary week of digital film making for beginners at Digital Media Academy at Harvard University.

Her group worked on a small film from concept to filming to editing. “It is rather impressive how much they [DMA] can accomplish with the kids in just one week - definitely a great camp!” says Barbara.

While Johanna has not yet explored sharing her videos on You Tube, like so many young filmmakers are, Barbara says that she and her husband will be fine with it. “We are trying to be open to media as long as we always have access

ARTS& ARTS &EXTRACURRICULARS

“Everyone talks about how the arts expand kids’ minds, and film is an art form, a real creative medium that is going to broaden their minds.”

- Chris Crossen-Sills and that they follow the rules. I think it’s tightrope walking like everything in parenting.”

Children can do great things with skills cultivated from movie making.

“Mike and I both have college degrees.

We both have two really good jobs, and we’re doing this,” says Chris.

Mike adds, “Parents should be supportive. Help them be creative.”

Chris agrees. “Let them be creative as long as they can.”

Dave Ellsworth applies makeup to extra Brian Felschow.

Wardrobe Cathy King

Boom operator Peerawee Pinyochon, Producer John DiThomas and Sound, Bryan Ethier setting up the audio mixer in between scenes.

To follow Crossen-Sills Productions and their movie Haven, visit roughwaterfilms. com as well as visit their fundraising page, indiegogo.com (Search “Return to Harborage.”).

Carrie Wattu is editor of baystateparent.

When she asked for movie recommendations for adults, Mike and Chris recommended Super 8 (“an awesome, quality movie”) and Bryan recommended No Country for Old Men. And of course she enjoyed the trailer of Haven, which can be viewed on the baystateparent website under “Now Showing.”

SHARE

An extra, Bryan Ethier, Peerawee Pinyochon, Michael Crossen-Sills, Greg Story, Eric Campana and Kyo Moon

Michael Smith and Jeff Sweeney

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ARTS& ARTS &EXTRACURRICULARS

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TAKEGOODCARE

SEX

WHAT YOU DON’T WANT THEM TO LEARN ON THE SCHOOL BUS BY

My

husband and I knew we did not want to leave our four children’s sex education up to bus rides, classrooms and the news.

Still, when our 10-year-old son followed up our parent-child heart-to-heart with, “Do you and mom do that?” I held my breath. I can remember closing my eyes, the way you do when the roller coaster starts to dip at incredible speed, and your husband has his arms up in the air, laughing all the way down.

My fearless husband just repeated everything he had just said about respect and love and privacy while I exhaled slowly with relief. Then he added with metaphorical flair, “Your body is like a temple and until you’ve met the one who will be the best parent for your future children, only you should pray there.”

I emphasized the word, future, for added effect.

But I was the one praying that we had done the right thing. After all, the kids seemed so young, and sex is hard to teach.

What the Experts Have to Say Linda and Richard Eyre, grandparents of 23 children and authors of How to Talk to Your Children About Sex explain that ignoring the subject is like putting your child alone in a paddle boat that is headed for a giant waterfall.

The husband and wife team suggest having the big talk with your child at age 8. Why so young? They say it’s best to start early when children are conceptually able and not cynical, but also encourage all parents that it’s never too late to start.

Parents of nine children, whose grown kids now use the same philosophy with their children, the Eyres believe this is what works:

bonnie j. toomey

• Start early and take the lead. The truth is that it’s easiest for us to develop good communication with our children when they are young. We can start by using correct terms for all body parts — including the sex organs — and by pointing out how children’s and adults’ bodies are different.

• Being honest with our children encourages them to be honest with us.

It is very important to gain our children’s trust when we talk with them about sex and sexuality. If we are always honest, their trust in us will grow, and they will continue to come to us for advice about their concerns.

• Find the right time. Finding the right time includes making the best of teachable moments — everyday moments in our lives that can prompt a conversation, like seeing a pregnant woman. Always follow through even if you have to pick up the conversation later.

• Respect our children’s privacy as much as we value our own. We can all decide what we’re comfortable about sharing with each other. For example, if a child or teen asks when we first had sex, and we don’t want to answer, we might say, “I don’t feel comfortable answering that right now,” or, “I’d like to keep that private.” We need to respect that our children may want to keep things private sometimes, too.

• Find the right places and situations for talking. Some parents and children talk more easily when they’re doing something else — taking a walk, traveling in a car, playing a game or cooking. We may have to try out different places before we find one that’s really comfortable.

• Talk a little bit at a time. Doing a little bit at a time helps set realistic goals when we talk with our children. It also helps keep children from feeling overwhelmed.

• Let our children know we’re available.

We show we are available by not putting our children off unless it’s necessary. By paying attention to our body language — not crossing our arms over our bodies, sitting at the same level as our children, leaning toward them and speaking in a moderate, easy tone — we show our children how much we care about them.

• Spend more time listening than talking, and get to know the world our children live in. It’s always tempting to jump in and give our point of view, but if we spend some time just listening and asking questions, we help our children learn how to explain their ideas clearly.

• Build self-esteem and don’t use scare tactics. Many of us think that frightening stories will help keep our children from taking risks and help them to postpone becoming sexually active. But that is not true. The best way to keep our children from taking risks is to help them build self-esteem. We must give them credit for their talents, accomplishments and insights. We can help them most by offering constructive advice and by avoiding criticism and punishment. And we must assure them in all our interactions with them that they are normal.

• Make it a habit to share values and beliefs, and remain connected. The most important way for us to share our values and beliefs is to model them for our children. By setting good examples that show how our lives are enriched by our values, we encourage our children to embrace our values, too.

- valuesparenting.com

Richard Eyre finds that the growing concern from parents in this country is that their children view sex as a recreational activity, a time of experimentation or an achieved status quo. Teens seem to look down on other teens who are virgins.

“A stigma has been building and because of it, kids are not prepared for the emotional dangers they are not ready to handle,” says Richard. “We find when we poll our parents, they are mostly embarrassed to even start up a conversation about sex with their child, or worse wait until their son or daughter brings it up, which is sometimes, never.”

However, the single greatest protection for kids, and the strongest motivation for avoiding early, dangerous sex, says the Eyres, is “to grow up thinking sex is a wonderful spectacular miracle that not only makes babies but can also bind couples and families together in a happy, loyal way.”

“Parents should take a pre-emptive stance,” says Richard explaining that beginning an open age-appropriate communication with a child when a child is younger is the time to develop trust and open doors for later talks about anything and everything.

So, take a deep breath, and know this, a parent who is not afraid to talk about sex with a child, will raise a child who isn’t afraid to talk to a parent about anything.

What more could you ask for as a parent of a child in today’s world?

To learn more about Richard and Linda Eyres, visit valuesparenting.com.

Bonnie J. Toomey is a freelancer writer, the mother of four and grandmother to two more. She lives with her husband of 30 years and their dog, Molly, in North Central Massachusetts. For more information, visit Bonnie’s blog at parentforward.blogspot.com.

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5 Acre A-maize-ing Corn Maze Opens Labor Day Weekend.

Barnyard Jump is open!

Visit WestEndCreamery.com for details!

481 Purgatory Rd., Whitinsville, MA, 508-234-2022 “Family Fun Down on the Farm”

Providing early intervention, pregnancy and newborn support, consultation and training to families in 159 cities and towns throughout Massachusetts For more information, please contact a Thom program near you or visit our web site at www.thomchild.org Thom Anne Sullivan Center Office in Lowell: (978) 453-8331

Thom Marlboro Area Early Intervention Office in Marlboro: (508) 624-0304

Thom Springfield Infant Toddler Services Office in Springfield: (413) 783-5500

Thom Boston Metro Center Office in Jamaica Plain: (617) 383-6522

Thom Mystic Valley Early Intervention Office in Woburn: (781) 932-2888

Thom Westfield Infant Toddler Services Office in Westfield: (413) 568-3942

Thom Charles River Early Intervention Office in Waltham: (781) 894-6564

Thom Neponset Valley Early Intervention Office in Norwood: (781) 551-0405

Thom Worcester Area Early Intervention Office in Shrewsbury: (508) 845-8466

Thom Pentucket Area Early Intervention Office in West Newbury: (978) 363-5553

Free endly

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Plea rain se join or s us – hine !

Friday, September 9, 2011 – 10am-2pm Glavin Regional Center – 214 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 Thom Worcester Area Early Intervention cordially invites you and your family to our Open House.

Come tour our center, meet our staff, enjoy some treats, get to know us, and have some fun!

Children can explore our indoor playspace.

Music t Face Painting t Ice Cream t Balloons t Bouncy House t Parachute Play t And More!

BAYSTATEPARENT 61

We sell gently used name brand clothing from newborn to juniors and maternity as well as toys, furniture and baby gear.

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High Holiday Services Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services are open to the community.

Children services and babysitting available on certain days.

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2nd Annual Tyler Foundation Vendor & Craft Fair

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September 23, 2011

Individualized Preventive Dental and Orthodontic Care for Toddlers, Children through Adolescence, and those with Special Needs

6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Devens Commmon Center 31 Andrews Pkwy, Devens, MA

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Perkins Child Development Center The Perkins Child Development Center is a quality childcare program dedicated to the care, nurturance, and education of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certified teachers and enriched curriculum encourage childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s imaginative play and growth. Its progressive design features age-specific outdoor playgrounds, as well as a spacious and bright interior with designated preschool classrooms, and infant & toddler rooms. Arrange for your tour today!

For more information, please contact Pamela Bernard, Program Director at 978/368-6468 or pbernard@perkinschool.org

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EVERYBODY NEEDS YOU! THE VOLUNTEER BALANCING ACT BY

As

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school career is very long. Volunteering is a marathon not a sprint,â&#x20AC;? says Beth Casavant, a mother of two in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts and former elementary school teacher.

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a stay-at-home mom, it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long for me to realize my new â&#x20AC;&#x153;jobâ&#x20AC;? entailed more than just laundry, boo-boo fixing and arranging play dates. Especially, when I found my friends, whose kids were already in school, were always busy coaching teams, volunteering either in the classroom, library or lunchroom or trying to sell me a raffle ticket. It was apparent that schools needed parents as much as the community needed the schools. So with my overwhelming desire to do more, not only for my children, but also for me, I was quick to raise my hand when the call came in to get involved in my childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school.

And this was even before my kids set foot in kindergarten...

I went into volunteering with the hope that not only would my kids get a stronger education, but an appreciation for civic duty and an understanding that success comes from working with others â&#x20AC;&#x201C; parents with teachers and teachers with students. All of this sounds lovely in theory. However, when most parents who are already managing their own work, family and after school activities are asked to carve out more time and energy to help run something as deceptively simple as a cookie dough sale, it can be quite a challenge.

When not approached conservatively,

volunteering can take over at the expense of your family. I remember the guilt I felt when our then preschool-age daughters were home and I was calling for donations for a silent auction. I was pushed by the stress that we needed to raise â&#x20AC;&#x153;xâ&#x20AC;? amount of donations and took it as my personal goal to hit that number. In the end, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always wonder what my involvement cost my family.

As the requests come your way to coach, spend a couple of hours a week stacking the library shelves, being a room parent or perhaps getting involved in a district-wide fundraising event, here are things to consider.

9 Things to Consider Before Saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yesâ&#x20AC;?

1. How old are your children? Your volunteer career doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to start in kindergarten and end in second grade. Pace yourself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school career is very long. Volunteering is a marathon not a sprint,â&#x20AC;? says Beth Casavant, a mother of two in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts and former elementary school teacher.

2. Do you work outside the home?

Would volunteering take away from the time you have with your family?

Remember parental involvement in a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education is more than just

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raising money so your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school can have two field trips this year.

Involvement can be as simple as taking an interest in your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homework, being in communication with his/her teachers and being there for classroom parties.

3. Do you take things personally? Can you handle the comments, those that are meant to be helpful and those that are just rooted in another parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal aggression? When you take a group of passionate, dedicated adults who put themselves on the line for the benefit of not only their children but those of the community, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bound to be some strong opinions.

4. Have you talked to others who have volunteered in the past? Treat your volunteering like a job and do the research especially for those fundraising projects that carry a lot of pressure and responsibility. Even running an annual candy sale can be overwhelming; be aware of those trying to sugarcoat the job you are considering.

5. Is there enough support, or are you the only one showing up to help with copies for the teachers, or plan the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talent show? Make sure thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a team of other parents involved.

6. Do you know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expected of you?

Have you made it clear what you can and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do? Avoid the disappointment on both sides; make sure the scope of

your involvement is clear upfront. You will save your reputation and sanity in the end.

7. Do you have a spouse, partner, parent, babysitter or friend whom you can rely on when you have late meetings, or if one of your kids is sick and you have to distribute the wrapping paper from the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraiser before Thanksgiving break?

8. Is this something you truly want to do? You have to commit for the right reasons, not for notoriety, guilt or â&#x20AC;&#x153;peerâ&#x20AC;? pressure, but because you feel your time or talent can fill a void â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether it be personal or community-based. Before committing to anything, ask for time to talk it over with your family and to look at your schedule. If an immediate answer is needed, simply say â&#x20AC;&#x153;No.â&#x20AC;? If the patience for a well-thought out answer isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t there at the beginning, most likely it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be there down the road.

9. How do your kids feel about your involvement? Younger kids tend to like having parents involved during the school day, as it gives them a chance to see you, but they may need reminders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I remind them they have to share me when at school. I am the room parent, not just their mom,â&#x20AC;? says MaryAnn Kniska, a working mother of a second grader and sixth grader in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Older kids, however, tend to be embarrassed by a parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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presence in the classroom or school. See if there is a way you can do something together instead â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i.e. spruce up the gardens around the school during a Saturday afternoon or spread mulch on the playground.

Despina Tartsinis, a working mother of three in Suffield, Connecticut, volunteers in her childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classrooms because â&#x20AC;&#x153;it seems like there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough time for the teacher to work with each student on a one-on-one basis.â&#x20AC;? Plus, she enjoys seeing her childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-class curriculum and getting a feel for their levels in relation to other students in class. This allows her to reinforce what they learn at home.

In addition to benefiting your child, volunteering can also be a great way for a mom to spend time with her own friends, as well as make new ones all while doing something meaningful.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an instant connection between parent volunteers because you all share a common concern and, sometimes, lasting friendships are formed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of my friends, I met through my volunteer work. You start to see the same people over and over. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the people that I have met that connected me to my town and made the work I do a lot more fun,â&#x20AC;? adds Casavant.

Speaking from my own experiences in fundraising, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great way to see what the real needs are in the classroom and to have a voice in making our schools stronger not only for your kids, but also for the community. If you asked

my kids, however, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d say they love the days when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in the lunchroom making sure kids are sitting on their bottoms and not running out to recess.

At the end of the day, when I see my girls hosting a lemonade stand to raise money for causes other than their candy fund, I know I made the right decision.

Wendy Upson lives in Longmeadow, Massachusetts with her husband and their two daughters, ages 6 and 8. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Journalism and Mass Communication, she was in public relations before relinquishing her black book of editorial contacts to stay at home and raise their daughters.

Now, she spends her time volunteering in the classroom and for district-wide causes in her town.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 67

Become a Teacher!

At Lesley University, we believe thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a teacher in all of us.

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xänÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;xĂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;£äÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x160;Ă?Ă&#x201C;xn 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.

68 SEPTEMBER2011

Join us for our 21st year celebrating children and their familes at Kidsfest!

Two full days of music, food and family fun!

Presents

Sat., Sept. 24 & Sun., Sept. 25 • 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Featuring: · LIVE MUSIC · Pony Rides · HAY RIDES · Storytelling · MAGIC SHOWS · Jugglers · CLOWNS · Field Games · MOONBOUNCES · Live Shows · AND MUCH MORE! 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton • 978-464-2300 • Details at www.wachusett.com BAYSTATEPARENT 69

PRESENTS THE 21st ANNUAL

Pricing Information: Order tickets in advance and SAVE$$ Visit www.wachusett.com for more info!

Sat., Sept. 24 and Sun., Sept. 25 from 10a.m.-5p.m. Rain or Shine!

499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, MA 01541

TROY WUNDERLE OF WUNDERLE’S BIG TOP ADVENTURES

• Adults - $8 in advance, $10 at the door • Kids (3-12) - $4 in advance, $6 at the door • Kids (under 2) – FREE!!

SkyRide • Adults $8 in advance, $10 at the door • Kids 6-12, $6 in advance, $8 at the door • 5 and under FREE

NEW Package Pricing this Year!

SkyRide PLUS (includes unlimited SkyRide plus 3 pay-to-play activities – does not include admission): • Adult $10 advance, $12 door • Kids (3-12) $8 advance, $10 door

Fest Package (includes admission, SkyRide PLUS, $10 food coupon): • Adult $23 advance, $25 door • Kids (3-12): $17 advance, $21 door

Fest 4-Pak (online only – includes 4 admissions, 4 SkyRide PLUS, 4 $10 food coupons): • $90 advance only

General Info:

Troy is the Artistic Director of Circus Smirkus and the Director of Clowning for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus.

Wachusett Mountain’s 21st Annual KidsFest, presented by Price Chopper, has something for everyone! Whether it’s taking a ride on our scenic SkyRide, grabbing some free samples from Price Chopper or watching any of the amazing live shows throughout the weekend, we can guarantee you’ll have a smile on your face! baystateparent magazine will be on hand with fun games and lots of prizes! Featured entertainment this year includes everyone’s favorite climbing wall, Lazer Tag, pony rides, hay rides, moounbounces, the speed pitch challenge and many more fun activities.

Feature activities this year include everyone’s favorite climbing wall, the 4-person giant Euro Bungee, Lazer Tag under the tent, Pony rides, Speed Pitch games, and the scenic SkyRide, your only way to the summit this year! Purchase a wristband at customer service for unlimited access to games and rides, or pay to play with a ticket.

Daily Schedule of Events* *Subject to Change Gates are Open from 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

70 SEPTEMBER2011

Entertainment Schedule: 10:00

WXLO’s Wachusett’s Got Talent

10:30

BMX Bike Show

11:00

Frisbee Dog Show

11:30

Flippenout Trampoline Show

12:00

WXLO’s Wachusett’s Got Talent

12:30

BMX Bike Show

1:00

Girls Nite Out (GNO)

1:30

Flippenout Trampoline Show

2:00

Frisbee Dog Show

2:30

Girls Nite Out (GNO)

3:00

WXLO’s Wachusett’s Got Talent

3:30

Flippenout Trampoline Show

4:00

BMX Bike Show

Side Stage Acts Include: • Troy Wunderle • Magic Steve • Dance Groups • Gymnastics Shows • Juggling John • Fashion Shows • Much More…

Featured KidsFest Entertainment: FLIPPENOUT TRAMPOLINE SHOWS

RISING POP SENSATION, GIRLS NITE OUT (GNO)

Extreme Trampoline shows featuring the best athletes in North America including Olympic Medalists and World Champions.

They’ve performed worldwide at NBA, NHL and other professional and collegiate sports venues as well as corporate and community events. These explosive shows, emceed to music, feature 25 feet of height, snowboards, skis, triple flips, crazy twists and much more!

Girls Nite Out "GNO" is a new 5 member US-based girl group set to put the POP back in the music scene. Cynthia, Katie, Darcie, Jessica, and Alyna, under the guidance of their manager and pop music impresario Paul Gargan of Smash Pop, have developed a fresh new sound infused with a bit of pop, r&b, dance, rock, and drum n' bass which is pure pop bliss. Each girl has her own distinct style, music vibe and is multi-talented, coming together with something for everyone forming the ultimate girl group.

NORTH EAST TRICK STARS Back for their 14th appearance at KidsFest, the group of growing talented riders showcase enhanced stunts, tricks, and flips.

Impact Action Sports BMX performances will have the crowd “oooh-ing” and “aawh-ing” with excitement and anticipation for the next stunt. The group will stick around for pictures!

WACHUSETT’S GOT TALENT

Presented By:

Sign-up at www.wxlo.com Winner will get to sing the National Anthem at a Worcester Sharks’ game this winter and receive a spot on Community Auditions.

VISIT THE RADIO DISNEY TENT on Sunday for great music, fun games and cool prizes!

BLUE DOG GROUP FRISBEE DOG SHOW See these amazing K-9s in action as they jump, leap and sprint after frisbees. If these dogs were athletes, they’d be in the Olympics!

BAYSTATEPARENT 71

Vendor Activity Business Name

PRESENTS THE 21st ANNUAL

2011 Price Chopper KidsFest September 24-25 KidsFest Highlights: Price Chopper Supermarkets Sampling Sample a variety of foods and beverages from: Premier Sponsors Edy’s Garelick farms Nestle Waters Polar Beverages Freihofer’s Wachusett Potato Chips Partner Sponsors Cabot Creamery Snyder’s/Cape Cod Chips Pepperidge Farm Stonyfield Farm

Sample Product Ice Cream Dibs Milk Beverage Seltzer Assorted Snacks Potato Chips Sample Product Variety of Cheeses Chips, Pretzels, Snacks Cookies & crackers Yogurt

baystateparent CDR Bureau of Forest Fire Control Central MA Dance Academy Children’s Music Academy Cutie Patuties Davis Farmland Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care FMC Ice Sports Francis Harvey Remodeling Girl Scouts of Central & Western MA IBAM Fondation Kidoodles Learning Center Kwon’s Martial Arts La Femina Modeling School Lia Sophia MA Dept. of Children and Families Miss America Coed Pageants New England Dance Center Perfect Fit Blanket Roll on America Sand Art Sterling Academy of Gymnastics Villari’s Martial Arts Wachusett Mountain Race Team Play-Well Teknologies 123 Grow Chiild Center Melaleuca Academy for Little People Andrew’s Helping Hands American Cancer Society YWCA Central MA, Domestic Violence Services New York Life Insurance Company Sarah Megan Photography

Activity Free raffles and activities Learning stations, fire pumping, Smokey the Bear Dance Performances Instruments to play Play area with balloons Mascot, raffle, coloring, candy, coupons Temporary tattoos Bean bag game, rubber duck game Duck pond with prizes Arts & crafts Bracelet give-a-ways Bean bag toss & games Kicking and punching bags Fashion show Bookmarks, picture frames, jewelry making Arts & crafts Face painting Dance performances Coloring contest Costume character with photos, rollerblade raffle Sand art and candle art Balance board & “minute to win it” games Board breaking and hitting target pads, demonstrations Field games and sports Motorized Lego projects Temporary Tatoos & Playdough Eco-conscious craft Fun with bubbles Prize toss TBD Hand Painting Child ID Kits Photos

Please Note: Vendors and Activities subject to change.

baystateparent

72 SEPTEMBER2011

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To advertise call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com

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The Knowledge

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-IND %XPANDING !CTIVITIES

TUTORING -ATH s 2EADING s 7RITING 3TUDY 3KILLS s 3!4 0REP !LGEBRA 7ORKSHOPS Special Ed & Learning Disability Instruction

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623 Chandler Street Tatnuck Square, Worcester Tel: 508-797-5050 Fax: 508-797-5051 www.theknowledgequest.com

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MUSICCHORUS Experience the Magic of the Worcester Children â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Chorus Now scheduling auditions for Boys and Girls ages 8 - 18 for our 2011-2012 Season

PRESCHOOLS Saint Spyridon Preschool Where the growth & development of each individual child is nurtured

Tour Our Brand New Classrooms!

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NEW EXTENDED DAY OPTIONS AVAILABLE wcchorus@gmail.com (508) 767-7077 www.worcesterchildrenschorus.org Education. Performance. Changing Lives.

74 SEPTEMBER2011

Tutoring Service Available for Grades K-6

No tuition increase for 2011/2012 school year.

Call for Details (508)752-5354 102 Russell Street, Worcester j.ward@spyridoncathedral.org

888-363-9457

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To advertise ca Stephanie Pea ll rl at 774-364-0 296 or email stephaniep@ baystatepare nt.com

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2 1/2 Hr. Party Package Includes: s &AMOUS -INI 'OLF s "ANKSHOT "ASKETBALL s "ATTING 4OKENS s 0IZZA 3LICE OR (OT $OG s OZ 3ODA s +IDDIE 3IZE )CE #REAM #ONE FROM /UR )CE #REAM 3TAND $14.95/person (8 person min.)

Deposit required

Lancaster Golf Center 978-537-8922 438 Old Union Tpke, Lancaster, MA (Rte.2 at Exit 34) www.lancastergolfcenter.com

FREE Birthday Party Ideas Plan a scavenger hunt. Separate kids into two teams with an adult â&#x20AC;&#x153;coachâ&#x20AC;? heading each. Each team makes up the list of things to do and ďŹ nd for the other team. Set an item limit, a time limit and start your hunt (armed with video cameras to record each task done).

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

â&#x20AC;&#x153;All Liveâ&#x20AC;? Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

w/ Karaoke, games, face painting and balloon sculpture

Create a backyard obstacle course. Time the kids to see how fast they can complete it. This is surprisingly a huge hit!

Singing Princess

Skip the sleepover and have a jammie party instead. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing how fun kids think a home party is if they come wearing pjs.

508.853.4257 www.copacabanaent.com

The Coolest Party EVER! Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nothing Else Like It. Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

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Spencer Marks Photography specializing in parties, portraits & sporting events

978.634.1135 smarksphotography.com sam@smarksphotography.com

CONTACT: Chelyanne & Brian

(508) 943-4549 Email: Karaoke4kidz@Yahoo.com www.Karaoke4Kidz.com

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

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

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 BAYSTATEPARENT 75

Traveling Farm Animals for your Party or Event!

Year Round • Inside or Out Fun & Educational Baby Animal Parties, Theme Parties, Living Nativities, Petting Zoos, Animals for Therapy & more!

Friedm an a r F $IJMESFn’s n

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1"3&/5 4 $)0*$& "8"3% 8*//&3 #JSUIEBZ 1BSUJFT t $PODFSUT Teacher-Parent Workshops

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978-297-1221 animalcraze@ymail.com www.animalcraze.info

Animal Craze

Sure, chillin’ out is cool.

But rockin’ out is a blast!

UÊ<Õ L>Ê`> ViÊ«>ÀÌ iÃÊ v ÀÊ `ÃÊ>}iÃÊ{ £Ó°Ê UÊ ÀÌ `>ÞÊ*>ÀÌ ià Contact Amy at zumbatomicwithamy@gmail.com or 508-735-8181 www.zumbachacha.com

www.franfriedman.com

TUMBLEBUS

Kids all love the silliness of my interactive, high energy, and musical shows!

“ A Gym on Wheels ”

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.

We will come to you in our converted school bus complete with gymnastics equipment, monkey bars, rock wall and more!

Birthday Parties Daycares/Preschools Neighborhood/Mom’s Groups Special Events

Mike Slattery Children’s Entertainment * Songs * Puppets * Concerts * Schools

Ages 2-7 Heat and a/c for year round comfort

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www.tumblebus-mass.com 508-393-5287

978-779-6789 mikethemusicman.com

Serving Worcester and surrounding communities

Birthday/ Party Room

First Birthday Gift Ideas A monogrammed tote

Central Mass’s only dedicated Climbing Facility!

Sign up now for our Week Long Summer Camp Programs

A ride-on toy

• 14,000 square feet of amazing climbing walls • 60 different top rope stations • Climbing walls from 15 - 40 feet high!

• Massive lead arch, and super long overhangs!

• Separate climbing wall just for kids and parents • Classes for beginners: lead and top rope belaying • Rentals and a retail shop for climbing gear • Lounge area, w/ free wifi • A large bouldering area, with top-outs

Big girl/boy dishware including forks and spoons Table and chair set Hair accessories for little girls Personalized stepping stool or rocking chair

508-852-ROCK • 299 Barber Ave. Worcester, (Across the street from the Higgins Armory, near Sam’s Club, at the 190/290 interchange)

centralrockgym.com

Plush character chair

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Offering Beading, Mosaics, Stuff-Your-Own Animals, Paint Me Tees, Silver Clay and PaintYour-Own Pottery Parties Birthdays Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Weddings/Showers Graduations Proms Dances Fundraisers Holiday/Business

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To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com 76 SEPTEMBER2011

Big Joe

Babson Skating Center

the Storyteller BIRTHDAY PACKAGE Room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ice Time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Skate Rental

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SHOW &TELL PRODUCT PROMOTION

Pure HANDKNIT Stylish kitchen aprons Fashion and function

For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

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Have a Birthday Coming Up? Book your party now Call today or visit our website for more info: 781-352-2494 www.mini-athletes.com 290 Vanderbilt Ave. Norwood

Tiny Tag Designs Mommy Necklace As seen in USWeekly, People.com and many more.

See why celebrities love our simple and elegant mommy necklaces! Tiny Tag Designs necklaces are the perfect token for the perfect love.

Wear the name or initial of your child along with a birthday or anniversary.

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Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Wipes Make the Switch to Bamboo Baby Wipes!

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Fact: 39 billion + baby wipes are tossed into landfills each year. Our company is owned and operated by two eco-minded moms who imagined - and then brought to market - baby wipes made from 100% renewable and biodegradable bamboo fibers with gentle and plant-based ingredients. Countless parents have written since our 2009 launch to say that switching to our gentle wipes have alleviated diaper rash. We plant a tree for each package sold.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve planted 26,600 trees since 2009! Get 10% of our wipes every time you order at www.bumboosa.com by using BSPBUM10 until 12/17/2011 $4.99 Questions? 1-866-996-BUMS

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Boston Metro West

Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;>Â?Ă&#x160; `Ă&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;,iĂ&#x192;VĂ&#x2022;iĂ&#x160;EĂ&#x160;-VÂ&#x2C6;iÂ&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x160; iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;"ÂŤiÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;9i>Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;,Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;` Â&#x2122;Ă&#x2021;nÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;Â&#x2122;Â&#x2021;nÂ&#x2122;nnĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2C6;Ă&#x160;-Ă&#x2022;}>Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;,`°]Ă&#x160; Â&#x153;Â?Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;]Ă&#x160; Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;ä£Ă&#x2021;{ä Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;°>Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;>Â?>`Ă&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;°Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x152;

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296

Hire your Regular sitter? ph

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Reading aloud to young children is the single most effective thing a parent can do to help prepare them to succeed in school.

Youk’s Kids and Reach Out and Read are teaming up to make sure that children of military families in Massachusetts and Rhode Island are prepared to succeed in school! Help give military families a story to read by donating books at supporting locations or contributing online.

of our Armed Services and their families make countless sacrifices for our “ Members country. They deserve nothing but the best—including a book to read at bedtime.”

–Kevin Youkilis, Boston Red Sox

78 SEPTEMBER2011

handmade jewelry glass art colorful pottery painted furniture scarfs & clothing

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One in ten Americans suďŹ&#x20AC;er from liver disease.

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Support over 30 million Americans in their ba le against liver disease by running.

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ONE-DAY-A-WEEK Saturday PROGRAM Accelerated Degree Program for Women Guaranteed Scholarship!

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Open House Thursday, October 20th 6-7 p.m.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where bright minds come together!â&#x20AC;?

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OPEN HOUSE LISTINGS Newton Montessori School

Chickeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance World

October 23 from 12pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2pm, November 17 from 9:10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am A diverse community of children from 15 months - Grade 6.

80 Crescent Avenue, Newton Centre, MA 02459 617-969-4488 www.newtonmontessoru.org

September 7 from 4pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm 67 Millbrook Street, South entrance , Worcester, MA 01606 508-792-0959 www.chickeesdanceworld.com

Chestnut Hill School

November 6 from 1pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm Independent, coeducational elementary for Age 3 - Grade 6.

428 Hammond Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Contact 617-566-4394 or admissions@tchs.org www.tchs.org

The Atrium School October 28 from 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am November 13 from 2pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Progressive elementary committed to providing a balanced education that nurtures creativity, intellect and character.

69 Grove Street, Watertown, MA 02472 617-923-4156 www.atrium.org

Cornerstone Academy

November 6 from 1pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Educating all learners in grades K-6.

5 Oak Avenue, Northborough, MA 01532 Contact Karen McQuade 508-351-9976 www.cornerstoneacademy.org

Thom Worcester Area Early Intervention

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September 9 from 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2pm 214 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 Contact Kelly Brennan 508-845-8466 www.thomchild.org

Fayerweather Street School

October 23 from 1:30pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Passionate Teachers, Joyful Learners, PreK - 8.

765 Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 Contact Cynthia Bohrer, Director of Admissions 617-876-4746 www.fayerweather.org

Wheelock Family Theatre

October 10 from 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:30pm Sample fall classes, see Teen Story Troupers perform, enjoy refreshments & save money with one-day-only fall class discounts.

200 The Riverway, Boston, MA 02215 Contact Charles G. Baldwin 617-879-2300 www.WheelockFamilyTheatre.org

MathAltitude Learning Center

September 7 and 15 from 6pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm Comprehensive Math Program for K - high school.

35 Harvard Street, Suite 214, Worcester, MA 01609 508-932-0344www.MathAltitude.com

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A Place To Grow..................................................63 Actorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shakespeare Project..................................49 Adventure Boot Camp..........................................39 All Saints Choir...................................................51 Applewild School.................................................28 Art 4 Smiles.......................................................52 Atlantis Dental.....................................................24 Attorney James Connors ......................................21 Backyard Adventures.......................................29,66 Ballet Arts Worcester............................................58 Barrett Family Wellness........................................14 Bay Path College.................................................80 Bay State Skating School.....................................39 Be Healthy Boston...............................................60 Becker College....................................................13 Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital................................4 Beth Tikvah Synagogue........................................66 Belkin Lookout Farm...........................................11 Blossom Station....................................................5 Boroughs JCC.....................................................80 Boston Ballet......................................................56 Boston Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre.....................................46 Boston University Psychology Department ..............36 Brigham and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital.............................73 British School of Boston.......................................68 Broadway Costume..............................................41 Buttons and Bows Consignment Shop....................44 Canine Fence......................................................36 Cathy Taylor School of Dance...........................51,64 Charlotte Klein Dance Centers................................48 Charter..............................................................84 Chickeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance World.........................................57 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet..................................................62 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentists of Worcester.............................67 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden at the VNA..................................9 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music Academy.....................................53 Circle Surrogacy...................................................81 Claytime............................................................40 Coco Key Water Resort........................................15 Consign My Closet..............................................65 Cornerstone Academy............................................3 Curious Creatures.................................................82 Cutie Patutieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s....................................................67 Dance It Up!......................................................53 Dance Prism.......................................................40

INDEX

Danforth Museum of Art.......................................43 Davis Farmland...................................................15 DeCordova Museum.............................................48 Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care..........................44 Dr. Bruce Fieldman................................................7 Dr. Mel-Pediatric Dentistry.....................................62 Ecotarium..........................................................11 Edaville USA.......................................................25 Elite Dance Academy............................................47 Fallon ReadyMED................................................35 Faucher Dance....................................................41 Fayerweather St School......................................28 Fidelity................................................................6 Garden in the Woods...........................................38 Gigueres............................................................57 Good Neighbor Concierge......................................63 Guild of St. Agnes Daycare...................................24 Gymboree..........................................................51 Gymnastic Academy of Boston..............................45 Gymnastics Learning Center/Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Children....40 Gymnastics Place................................................53 Hanover Theatre..................................................55 Hillside School....................................................62 Holliston School for the Performing Arts..................49 Honey Farms......................................................82 Ikea....................................................................2 Inn at East Hill Farm...........................................17 Iparty...........................................................67,80 Jack Stein Make-Up Center...................................41 John Robert Powers.............................................61 Kids Kount Nursery School....................................36 Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s................................................................79 Lesley University..................................................68 Life Is Good........................................................83 Linden Square Princess Party.................................60 Liver Life Walk....................................................79 Living Earth........................................................17 Mad Olive Bounce House.....................................48 Mall at Whitney Field..........................................64 Mary Dennis Photography.....................................11 MathAltitude......................................................25 Music Together....................................................58 Newton Montessori..............................................22 Next Generation Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center..........................65 North Central Charter Essential School....................29

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North Shore Music Theatre....................................41 Outfit the Kids....................................................23 Pakachoag Community Music...............................64 Panera Bread.....................................................81 Parenting Solutions..............................................29 Parents Decide....................................................62 Patricia Brosnihan Dance Center.............................64 Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rentals.......................................................9 Perkins School....................................................64 Plante Opticians..................................................29 Ready Set Sew...................................................52 Reach Out and Read/Youkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids..........................78 Red Apple Farm..................................................16 Scribble It..........................................................47 Second Generation Energy....................................20 Seeking Sitters....................................................79 Shaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;arei Shalom..................................................62 Skribbles Learning Center.....................................14 stART on the Street.............................................58 South Shore Therapies.........................................36 Spin On Us........................................................41 Thom Child & Family Services..........................38,61 The Brighton School............................................81 The Great Escape Playcafe....................................49 The Little Gym....................................................25 The Performing Arts Connection.............................40 TLC Christian Preschool.........................................63 Tougas Family Farm............................................16 Tyler Foundation Craft Fair....................................62 UMass Memorial Medical Center............................12 Wachusett Mountain KidsFest...........................69-72 Waters Farm......................................................64 Wee Care for Little People, Inc..............................68 West End Creamery..............................................61 Wheelock Family Theatre.....................................43 Wifesavers.........................................................82 Wild Ruby Artisan Galleria.....................................79 Womens Health of Central Mass...........................35 Worcester Academy of Musc.................................41 Worcester Art Museum.........................................46 Worcester JCC................................................57,68 YMCA of Central Mass.........................................14 Yo Gabba Gabba.................................................30

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84 SEPTEMBER2011