Category: All About Newton

News, events, children’s activities in Newton, MA.

  • Jennifer Price Lame Duck at NNHS?

    Jennifer Price Lame Duck at NNHS?

    Jennifer Price Principal at Newton North High School
    Dear North Community:

    As I hope you know, I love Newton North and have been honored to serve as Principal for the last 8 ½ years.  Yet, I have reached a point in my career where it makes sense for me to think about leading a district.  As a result, I decided to apply to a small number of Superintendent positions this fall, and will be named as one of several finalists in a few districts over the next week.

    Given Massachusetts open meeting law, my name will be made public even though the interview process is still in progress.  I will inform you immediately if I am going to be named as a Superintendent.  In any case, the position would not begin until July 1st.

    Please know that my heart is struggling with all of this, even if my head is telling me that this exploration makes sense professionally.   Thank you, as always, for your support.  I can personally tell you that it means so much.

    Best,

    Jennifer Price

    Jennifer Price Principal at Newton North High School
    Jennifer Price went viral as Effie Trinket for The Hunger Games all high school book and event.

  • Whole Foods Donates Turkeys to Needy Families

    Whole Foods Donates Turkeys to Needy Families

    On Tuesday, November 25, 2014, Whole Foods Market Newtonville donated twelve turkeys and all the fixings for Thanksgiving to the Boys & Girls Club of Newton to give to families in need.  Jessica Cann, Marketing Team Leader & Community Liaison at Whole Foods Market Newtonville, along with fellow co-workers Eddy Boonchuilier and Larry of the Meat Department put together all the packages – each done with care and sincere thought.

    Whole Foods Donates Turkeys to Newton Families in Need

    Les Whitham, Club Program Director, greeted all the staff with open arms and was amazed to fill the Club van with all the items.  Relaying numerous stories of gratitude from the receiving families, Les too was overjoyed by this very generous gesture.  “It is such a great feeling to be able to tell some of our member families that they do not need to worry about what will be on the table for Thanksgiving.  In fact, one father was brought to tears when he was told he would be receiving such help – such generosity is truly touching.”

     

    Diane Marangoly, Club Assistant Development Director further added, “In the city of Newton, many people are unaware that hardship still exists. Over 34% of Club members come from families who meet eligibility requirements for federal and state assistance.  The support of Whole Foods Market Newtonville during a time when pressures run high for those in need is truly meaningful and certainly most appreciated.”

    Please consider making a meaningful contribution to your local Boys & Girls Club.

     

    About The John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton

    The John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides affordable programs for youth ages 6-18. The Club’s mission is to inspire and enable young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Activities are designed to help kids develop positive self-identity, educational and social competence, a sense of well-being, and a moral compass while addressing the different interests and needs of children, from elementary through high school. The Club works in conjunction with local schools to help members succeed academically, give back to their community, and choose healthy lifestyles. Caring adult guidance provides a safe environment, a sense of belonging, and engaging educational programs—after school, during school holidays and in a summer day camp.

    Serving more than 125 young people daily, the Club offers over 140 age-appropriate activities in the arts, food preparation, athletics/fitness, education, computer competence, vocational guidance, leadership and life skills, and supervised social recreation, with special programs for young children, teens and girls only. The cost of membership is $125 per family per year, no matter how many children in the family; summer day camp costs $210 a week, per child.

    John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton, 675 Watertown Street, Newton, MA.

    Phone: 617-630-2066. Website: www.newtonbgc.com

     

  • What’$ Your Rate?  How to get a mortgage book GIVEAWAY

    What’$ Your Rate? How to get a mortgage book GIVEAWAY

    I met Mark Maiocca at boxing. My gym is co-owned by a group of cousins who grew up Nonantum. He’s not a cousin but also grew up with this crew, hence he grew up boxing too.

    Mark Maiocca What's Your Rate author

    Mark Maiocca looks tough here but he’s really a nice guy!

    He’s usually in the gym training on the heavy bag when I am training and he’s always been very friendly and supportive so I usually chat with him for a few minutes every time I see him.

    Mark Maiocca  What's Your Rate author

    Have you assembled a “Core 7” team of advisors? Mark shows you how. Boxing training is not part of the Core 7 but also helpful!

    Recently, I figured out that he was in mortgage but I had no idea that he wrote a book! What’$ Your Rate? is perfect for first time home buyers.

    What’$ Your Rate? by Mark Maoicca

    What's Your Rate? how to get a mortgage book by marc maiocca

    I asked him about it and this is what he said:

    WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT?

    What’$ Your Rate? offers a unique perspective into the process of buying a home. It also helps you to formulate a financial plan and put together your financial team. Don’t neglect to consider your insurance needs, investment strategies, college funding, estate planning or passing on the legacy. These critical factors are often overlooked while transacting what is, for most people, the single largest purchase they will ever make — their home.

    This definitive guide is unique in that all of the home buying and financial planning information is related through a compelling narrative centered on the young family, a family probably a lot like yours. They have grown out of their apartment and they are expecting a third child. After a discouraging beginning into the home buying process, they follow the advice of a trusted friend, and an all-encompassing plan soon emerges.

    Learn how to assemble your team of trusted advisors and put together a comprehensive plan for the future. This is a must read for anyone considering buying a home and for the “Core 7” business professional looking to create a system to help in that endeavor.

    WHY I WAS INSPIRED TO WRITE THE BOOK?

    After looking at 10,000 loans in my career, while covering an affluent market, I can only count on one hand the number of clients who had a full “Core 7” financial team in place. The “Core 7” professionals are: the real estate agent, the mortgage originator, the real estate attorney, the financial advisor, the accountant, the property and casualty insurance agent, and the estate planning attorney.

    This shows me that even though there is more financial information on the internet then there ever was, people are no better off.

     

    MY PREDICION FOR THE MARKET?

    I feel that mortgage rates will stay in a competitive range for the foreseeable future. The Federal Reserve has stopped purchasing mortgage backed securities, so we could see a small jump in interest rates going into next year. However I don’t interest rates going up significantly, as a sudden rate increase like that would damage the economy. I see interest rates staying in a .250-.375 range until Spring. Opportunities to refinance and purchase at great rates will continue to benefit homeowners.

     

    THE OPPORTUNITY THAT MOST PEOPLE MISS:

    The No Points No Closing Cost Refinance. This is truly a no cost loan as the lender is paying all of the fees associated with the loan for you. The savings is FREE MONEY!!!

    It is such a great opportunity to capitalize on this. I tell my clients that they are “taking profits off the table.” The best opportunity is to immediately have this savings contributed on a monthly basis which is called dollar cost averaging towards another important financial investment. For this example let’s assume the savings would be contributed to a retirement fund.

    Example:

    $300,000 loan at 4.5%

    Monthly Payment= $1,514

    Refinance to 4.25%

    Monthly Payment= $1,470

    Savings=$44

    Invested into a retirement fund @ 8% over 30 years =$66,013

    BUT there’s more…..let’s say you can contributed to your 401k or 403b before tax Let’s say you are in the 25 percent tax bracket you could invest $58 a month.

    $58 invested into a retirement fund @ 8% over 30 years =$87,017.

    Is it worth it?

     

    These are the types of exercises and situations that I want my readers to think about when considering buying a home. I want them to look at their entire financial picture in order to make an informed decision.

    I hope that you find this intro to my book useful. I am giving away three signed copies. Please fill out the Rafflecopter below to enter.

     

    Win a Copy of What’$ Your Rate?: 3 Winners!

    Please fill out the Rafflecopter.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • High School Finalists in Math/Science Competition

    High School Finalists in Math/Science Competition

    SIEMENS FOUNDATION AND DISCOVERY EDUCATION CONVENE TOP INNOVATORS AND NEXT GENERATION OF STEM LEADERS FOR EXCLUSIVE WEBCAST EVENT

    2014 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology

     — ‘Innovators Lounge,’ Hosted by CNN Anchor Fredricka Whitfield, Will Bring Together Student Scholars and Top Executives from Kiva.org, StreetLight Data, RISE and 3D Robotics for Live, Interactive Mentoring Event — 

    WHAT:         

    On Monday, December 8, the Siemens Foundation and Discovery Education will host an exclusive live event convening a select group of today’s top innovators with scholar high school students that have advanced as National Finalists in the 2014 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology, the nation’s premier research competition for high school students. The event will be live streamed to students and educators around the country.

    Host and CNN Anchor Fredricka Whitfield will lead a lively, virtual conversation between the student finalists and top executives from companies on the cutting edge of changing the way we live, work and play, including:

    • Chris Anderson, co-founder and CEO of 3D Robotics
    • Suneel Gupta, co-founder and CEO of RISE
    • Jessica Jackley, co-founder and former CMO of Kiva.org
    • Laura Schewel, founder and CEO of StreetLight Data

    These movers and shakers, whose innovations have changed the way we live and made the world a better place, will share their insights and personal stories of success. The guest speakers will answer questions from the student finalists and engage a nationwide virtual audience with their unique perspectives on business, entrepreneurship and the future needs of today’s world. Attendees will get an inside look at what motivates 21st century innovators and hear their invaluable advice to our next generation of scholars.

    WHO:

    Chris Anderson, co-founder and CEO of 3D Robotics

    Suneel Gupta, co-founder and CEO of RISE

    Jessica Jackley, founder of Kiva

    Laura Schewel, founder and CEO of StreetLight Data

    Fredricka Whitfield, CNN news anchor

    WHEN:          Monday, December 8 at 6:30 p.m. ET

    WHERE:       L2 Lounge
    3315 Cady’s Alley NW
    Washington, D.C. 20007

    OR

    Join virtually here.

    014 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology

     

    The Siemens Competition

    This year marks the 15th Anniversary of the Siemens Competition, the nation’s premier research competition for high school students.  A record 2,263 students submitted a total of 1,784 projects for consideration – 408 students were named semifinalists and 97 were named regional finalists.  Entries are judged at the regional level by esteemed scientists from six leading research universities which host the regional competitions:  California Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Notre Dame and The University of Texas at Austin.  The twenty regional winners will now compete at the national level, representing six individual and six team research projects.

    For news and announcements about the Regional Competitions and the National Finals, follow us on Twitter @SFoundation (#SiemensComp) and like us on Facebook at SiemensFoundation.

     

    About the Siemens Foundation

    The Siemens Foundation supports educational initiatives in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in the United States. Its signature programs include the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology and Siemens Science Day. The Foundation’s mission is based on the culture of innovation, research and educational support that is the hallmark of Siemens’ U.S. companies. For further information, visitwww.siemens-foundation.org or follow @sfoundation.

     

    About Discovery Education
    Discovery Education is the global leader in standards-based digital content and professional development for K-12, transforming teaching and learning with award-winning digital textbooks, multimedia content that supports the implementation of Common Core, professional development, assessment tools, and the largest professional learning community of its kind.  Available in over half of all U.S. schools and primary schools in England, community colleges and in 50 countries around the world, Discovery Education partners with districts, states and like-minded organizations to captivate students, empower teachers, and transform classrooms with customized solutions that accelerate academic achievement. Discovery Education is powered by Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK), the number one nonfiction media company in the world. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

     

  • Newton Family Singers with New Philharmonia Orchestra

    Newton Family Singers with New Philharmonia Orchestra

    Newton Family Singers are honored to have been invited to perform with the New Philharmonia Orchestra, at Celebrations!, this Sunday, December 7, at 3pm at the First Baptist Church in Newton Centre. NFS will join the orchestra, along with the Chestnut Hill School Chorus, and the Boston Ballet School for a program filled with music, dance, and joy of the season.

    Newton Family Singers with New Philharmonia Orchestra

    The three-song finale of the program has been orchestrated by our own Chris Eastburn, NFS Artistic Director, and is a tribute to civil rights heroes Pete Seeger and Nelson Mandela.

    Tickets are available at www.newphil.org.

  • Christmas Market 2014 at Chestnut Hill

    Christmas Market 2014 at Chestnut Hill

    Please join me, Fleuri Designs,  tomorrow and Saturday, December 5 and 6, at the Church of the Redeemer in Chestnut Hill for Christmas Market 2014.

    Fleuri Designs

     

    You will find gifts for everyone on your list from an exclusive selection of local vendors.

    Fleuri Designs will be offering fresh holiday centerpieces to last throughout the season as well as permanent botanical arrangements to last indefinitely! Details attached. Hope to see you.

     

    CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER
    CHRISTMAS MARKET 2014
    379 HAMMOND STREET
    CHESTNUT HILL, MA

    FRIDAY, December 5th 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
    SATURDAY, December 6th 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
    LUNCH 11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.

    AME & LULU – totes, duffels, and accessories in bold prints and dulcet colors
    ANGELA FIORI – charming oil paintings, knitted baby booties, hats and sweaters
    ANNIE LENOX – bold, colorful antique beaded jewelry; perfect for jeans or a black dress
    BALBIANELLO, INC. – luxurious apparel of the finest natural fibers for men and women
    BOO GEMES – sweaters, knits, jewelry, boxers, and pj’s for ladies and teens
    CARRIE DUNHAM – interchangeable, monogrammed clutches, satchels, and handbags
    CATCH ALL- perfect hostess gifts, ornaments, and home goods
    CHAPPYWRAP – extra soft, cotton plush, reversible blankets in 3 sizes and 40+ designs
    DEAN’S SWEETS – extraordinary Maine-made truffles and caramels
    DEBORAH MacFAIL DESIGNS – handmade contemporary and vintage artisan jewelry
    DEDE CADIEUX DESIGNS – freshwater pearl and semi-precious stone jewelry
    DESIGNS BY LILLIE – needlepoint belts, shoes, and accessories
    EMILY CONDON DESIGN – hand-crafted precious and semi-precious gemstone jewelry
    FLEURI DESIGNS – fresh floral holiday centerpieces and permanent botanical arrangements
    HARDING-LANE – the original needlepoint hat, t-shirts, and accessories
    HAVERHILL COLLECTION – statement fine jewelry for everyday, affordable luxury
    JACARANDA LIVING – beautiful nightgowns, guest towels, layette, and more
    J. HILBURN – men’s custom and ready-to-wear clothing
    J. McLAUGHLIN – American, classic clothing for men and women
    LISA’S PHOTOGRAPHY– beautiful photo notecards and desktop calendars
    MESDAMES DES MACARONS– authentic Parisian macarons in a variety of holiday flavors
    ORIGAMI OWL – lockets, charms, lanyards, crystals by Swarovski, and leather wrap bracelets
    REMY CREATIONS – custom crafted shawls and clothing in gorgeous fabrics with leather trim
    SAMANTHA FAYE – unique, fashionable, USA made jewelry
    SARA CAMPBELL – festive clothing and accessories for women
    THE BLAKE COLLECTION – cashmere and silk scarves, shawls, and accessories
    THE SHADE TREE – fine hardwood cutting boards and trays
    TRAPPESTINE QUALITY CANDY – delicious chocolates made with love and prayers
    WHIRLY GIRLIES – Cape Cod family business offering clothing with on site embroidery
    WOODEN TOY JUNCTION – hand-crafted wooden toys
    VALERIE PEYTON HORN – glamorous accessories for body, home, and travel
    1000 JOBS HAITI – embroidered, crocheted, and knitted handicrafts
    Admission $2 at the door
    $5 includes two large, reusable shopping bags

    Final Vendor Card 2014

  • Newton Holiday Lighting Ceremony

    Newton Holiday Lighting Ceremony

    Newton Holiday Lighting Ceremony

    Thursday, December 4, 2014

    4:00 PM – 5:15 PM

    Newton Cultural Center at City Hall

    1000 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton

    Newton Holiday Lighting Ceremony

    Join in a spirited sing-along of holiday favorites with the award-winning Stacey Peasley Band. Beloved by audiences young and old, the band’s joyful style is sure to get the whole family singing along.

    Then, join Mayor Setti Warren as he flips the switch that turns the City Hall grounds into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights. Admission is free. Light refreshments.

    Please bring a non-perishable item for the Newton Food Pantries.

  • Acclaimed Flute/Piano Concert

    Acclaimed Flute/Piano Concert

    James Winn and David Kopp

     In a concert of music for flute and piano

    James Winn and David Kopp, Acclaimed Flute/Piano Concert,

    Saturday, December 6, 4 pm

    Admission is $10 at the door, $5 for seniors, students, and children

    It will take place at St John’s Episcopal Church located at 1 Roanoke Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.

     

    Program

    Three Romances Robert Schumann

    First Sonata Bohuslav Martinu

    Suite de Ballet Ralph Vaughan Williams

    Sonata Sergei Prokofieff

     

    This is part of the JP Concert Series, and more information about the series, James Winn, and the concert program can be found here.

     

  • Cook Cooks for Charity

    Cook Cooks for Charity

    Cook Restaurant Kicks Off Month-Long Fundraiser for Boston Children’s Hospital with Ben and Tonya Mezrich

    Cook for Charity

    WHAT:

    Cook, the award-winning restaurant located in Newton, MA is kicking off its annual month-long holiday fundraiser for Boston Children’s Hospital with a special “Cook for Charity” event featuring New York Times best-selling author Ben Mezrich and fashion designer Tonya Mezrich. On Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 from 6:00PM – 8:00PM the husband and wife duo will roll up their sleeves and get cooking with Executive Chef/Owner Paul Turano where they’ll be serving up flatbreads for the nonprofit all evening long.

    In addition to Cook’s signature menu items, the restaurant will be serving “The Mezrich” special, a Hawaiian flatbread with house smoked ham, bacon, pineapple, tomato sauce and mozzarella designed by The Mezrichs themselves. 100% of sales from each $15 “The Mezrich” flatbread will be donated to the Patient and Family Resource Room, a program that helps provide services to families whose children are being treated at Boston Children’s Hospital Oncology and Hematology Center.

    Ben Mezrich has authored twelve books, including the wildly successful “Bringing Down the House: The Inside Story of Six M.I.T. Students Who Took Vegas for Millions,” which spent sixty-three weeks on The New York Times bestseller list, and sold over 2 million copies in fifteen languages. The book was adapted into the movie The Social Network –written by Aaron Sorkin and directed by David Fincher – and Golden Globes for best picture, best director, best adapted screenplay, best score, and was nominated for 8 Oscars, winning 3 including best Adapted Screenplay. Ben will have signed copies of his latest book,“SEVEN WONDERS,” available for purchase the evening of the event.

    Tonya Mezrich is co-fashion designer for mike&ton, jewelry designer for her own label Jewel Design By Tonya and NECN‘s fashion expert. The Mezrichs have two small children and are regular supporters of Boston Children’s Hospital to which the event will help raise money and awareness.

    Mike and Ton

    The regular menu will also be available on the night.

    WHEN:             December 2nd, 2014. Appearance by The Mezrichs from 6:00PM – 8:00PM. Dinner served from 4:30PM to 10:00PM. 

    WHERE:           Cook Newton | 825 Washington Street | Newton, MA |02467

    RSVP:              Reservations highly recommended by calling 617-964-2665.

  • Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show!

    Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show!

    Celebrate Newton
     Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show!
     
    December 7, 2014
    10am – 4pm
    Newton South High School
     
    Come celebrate with Newton Artisans at Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show!
    Food, Live Music, Kids’ Crafts Table
    Proceeds benefit the Newton Community Education Scholarship Fund
     Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show! Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Show!