Boston Family Life

Support local farmers at Massachusetts Winter Farmers Markets

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:46:00 +0000

A damp spring and a temperate fall resulted in a bountiful offering of fresh fruits and vegetables at a record number of 200+ Massachusetts farm stands throughout the state. However, during the primary growing season many crops sustained severe damage, with some growers reporting losing their entire crop. University of Massachusetts Extension Service and the USDA Farm Service Agency monitored losses, which exceeded the 30% threshold in 10 of 14 counties, making them eligible for a USDA Secretarial Disaster Declaration. On August 27, Governor Patrick requested a Secretarial Disaster Declaration and on September 25th, the Massachusetts congressional delegation joined in advocating for relief for farmers. As a result additional financial resources will be available to farmers across the state.

Even though most farmers' markets close after the end of October, you can still find locally grown food and support Massachusetts farmers at these markets, open in November, during 2-days for Thanksgiving, or throughout the entire winter:

Farmers’ Markets Open in November

Barnstable County

Orleans – until November 28
Provincetown – until December 5

Berkshire County

Lanesboro – until November 21

Essex County

Newburyport – until December 20

Hampshire County

Amherst – until November 21

Middlesex County

Cambridge/Central Square – until 11/23
Cambridge/Charles Square – until 11/22
Somerville/Davis Square – until 11/25

Norfolk County

Quincy- until 11/20

Plymouth County

Hingham – until 11/21

Suffolk County

City Hall Plaza – until 11/25
Copley Square – until 11/24
Jamaica Plain – until 11/21 (Saturdays only in
November)
Mission Hill – until 11/15
South Boston – until 11/23
South Station/Dewey Square – until 11/24

One or Two Day Late Fall/Thanksgiving Markets

Barnstable County

Falmouth, Tuesday, November 24th, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm and Saturday, December 12, Noon – 3:00 pm, Peg Noonan Park, Main Street

Berkshire County

Great Barrington, Sunday, November 21, 9:00 am – 1:00, Old Fire House, Castle Street

Williamstown, Sunday, November 21, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Williams College Field House

Franklin County

Gill, Saturday, January 9, 9:00 am-12:00 pm, Gill Elementary School, 48 Boyle Road

Greenfield, Saturday, February 6, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Greenfield High School

Phillipston, Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 10:00 am – 4:00pm, Thanksgiving Harvest Festival, Red

Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave.

Hampshire County

Northampton, Saturday, January 9, 2010, Time and location TBA

Norfolk County

Braintree, Saturday, November 21, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Town Hall

Plymouth County

Plymouth/Edible South Shore’s Harvest Thanksgiving Market, Sunday, November 22, 11:00 am-3:000 pm, Plymouth Waterfront

Ongoing Winter Farmers’ Markets

Bristol County

North Attleborough, Sunday, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 8 to May, Masonic Temple, 46 South Washington Street

Essex County

Newburyport, Sunday, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, November 1 – December 20, Tannery Marketplace, 50 Water Street

Hampden County

East Longmeadow – Third Saturday of each month, 10:30 am – 1:30 am, November to April, outside at E. Longmeadow
United Methodist Church, 215 Somers Road, (Rte. 83)

Middlesex County

Natick, Saturday, 9:30 am – 1:00 pm, January 9 to March 27, Johnson Elementary School on Route 27, 2/10 of a mile south
of Natick Center

Wayland, Saturday, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, January 9 to February 27, Russell’s Garden Center, 397 Boston Post Road, Rt. 20

Plymouth County

Plymouth Local Foods Winter Market at Plimoth Plantation, Third Thursday of each month December 17 to May, 19,
3:00 pm 6:30 pm, Indoors at Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Avenue

More info:

http://www.mass.gov/agr/massgrown/index.htm

Boston's Rue La La rides the growing wave of on-line 'private boutique' retailers

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:35:00 +0000

Rue La La, a Boston based on-line retailer with offices on Milk Street, managed to grow it's private member customer base to 1.2 million since its launch in April 2008, despite the struggling economy and thanks to it's innovative business model. A number of US on-line retailers, such as Rue La La, Gilt Groupe, Ideeli, and HauteLook have been riding the wave of on-line shopping revolution, following in the footsteps of France's Vente Privee.

Rue La La, the invitation-only online shopping destination, offers deeply discounted brand-name merchandise in the form of private sale 'boutiques' of sample designer sales, open for two or three days at a time. Shoppers may find overstocked items from Prada or Gucci at a 50% discount. The new on-line retail model is the fastest growing and most promising in the struggling retail sector. Invitation-only membership is free, and members receive a $10 credit for inviting new members and helping grow the Rue La La community.

Last month Rue La La was bought by GSI Commerce for $350 million. A deal included it's lower-end bargain division SmartBargains.

If you would like to receive an invitation to Rue La La, please email me at k.kharlova@gmail.com.

Boston Christmas Festival presents the sweeter side of Christmas with 16th Annual Gingerbread House Competition

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:43:00 +0000

Pastry Chefs from Boston’s best restaurants competed Friday in The Gingerbread House Competition at Boston Christmas Festival at The Seaport World Trade Center. Competitiors from Tosca, Entertainment Cruises, House of Blues, Ginger Betty’s, Gingerbread Construction Company, Finale Desserteries, Seaport Hotel, Sugar Plum Bakery, Sweet Things, Berkshire Grain and Knoblock Creations presented their whimsical edible works of art now on view until Sunday, November 8. I was lucky to be one of the guest judges, who got to view and taste these elaborate creations along with Maria Stephanos of FOX 25, Leslie Gaydos of NECN, and other journalists from local newspapers and magazines. Most judges brought their kids along, who had to cast their own vote for a Kid's Favorite. Other categories included Most Creative, Most Delicious, Most Decorated and Best in Show.

The Gingerbread Houses will be up for sale with proceeds to benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston. See the winners for yourself, pick up your own Gingerbread House, and shop for your Christmas gifts among 350+ regional artisans at the Christmas Festival.

More info:
http://www.bostonchristmasfestival.com/

More pictures:

Don't let your child become a victim of the 'Seatbelt Syndrom' - lap belts alone may cause serious injuries

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:35:00 +0000

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

When kids 'graduate' from their car seats, they often begin to question and bend seat belt safety rules. Especially, they may find shoulder belts uncomfortable, and are tempted to flip them over and behind their back. This video shows what happened to a little seven year old girl, who is now paralyzed from injuries caused by wearing just a lap belt and together with her family wants to prevent that from hapenning to other children by telling her story.

If your kids are hard to convince about the importance of using seatbelts and booster seats properly, perhaps watching this video together will help change their mind.

Major cable network is looking for a Boston family to star in their new Family Reunion reality show

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:14:00 +0000

Do you like reality TV? Do you think your family has what it takes to star in their own? A major cable network is in the process of casting for their new Family Reunion reality show, and is looking for "an awesome Boston family!"

Email Kristin at kristincurtin@gmail.com for more info!

Pregnant women are reporting miscarriages after H1N1 vaccine

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:52:00 +0000

Do you wonder why most mainstream media outlets take a surprisingly uniform position on the issue of H1N1 vaccination - not asking the right questions or putting their investigative skills to work - while sounding more like pharmaceuticals' and the government's own PR? We keep hearing over and over how CDC wished they had more vaccines and they are working hard on getting them out to everyone, who should feel fortunate to finally roll up their sleeves. Lately, it's looking more like the media's role as the conscience of the nation has been passed over to the blogosphere and few independent on-line media outlets. In the process millions of people are skillfully brainwashed to fuel the manufactured demand for hundreds of millions of H1N1 vaccines, ordered by our government.

What most media fails to mention (except for some linked below), is that:

- H1N1 had lower than average mortality during Southern hemisphere's winter

" Mortality from the pandemic appeared to be relatively low. Most countries reported mortality rates of less than one per 100 000 population. There is evidence from New South Wales that excess mortality from influenza and pneumonia over the period of the pandemic was less than in previous years"

- A few weeks after the first cases found in April 2009, WHO declared level 5 emergency situation, then in May changed the definition of "pandemic" to exclude "high mortality", and then went to level 6 in June

"WHO, for example, for years defined pandemics as outbreaks causing "enormous numbers of deaths and illness," but in early May, removed this phrase from the definition."

- The extent of the outbreak is overstated by including the cases of regular flu and colds with flu-like symptoms, as labs stopped verifying each H1N1 case in August

"In August 2009, CBS News made a simple request of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for public documents, e-mails and other materials CDC used to communicate to states the decision to stop testing individual cases of Novel H1N1, or “swine flu.” When the public affairs folks at CDC refused to produce the documents and quit responding to my queries altogether, I filed a formal Freedom of Information (FOI) request for the materials. Members of the news media are entitled to expedited access, which I requested, since this was for a pending news report and on an issue of public health and interest. The Obama administration made a commitment to a “new era of open government,” as stated in a presidential memorandum on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Two months after my FOI request, the CDC has yet to produce any of these easily retrievable materials. Sadly, this is of little surprise. This has become standard operating procedure in Washington." - Sharyl Attkisson, CBS

As a result, most people are diagnosed with "suspected" H1N1, which is sometimes even done over the phone.

- The severity of symptoms and chances of death are not worse than that of regular flu

- The vast majority of people with complications after the flu have underlying health conditions, such as diabietes or lung a and heart problems, caused by obesity (66% of US population) and/or smoking

- Repeated flu vaccinations strip the body of it's natural immunity

"Human populations may have some level of existing immunity to the pandemic H1N1 influenza and may explain why the 2009 H1N1-related symptoms have been generally mild"

- Flu shots are not effective

In a review of more than 51 studies involving more than 294,000 children it was found there was “no evidence that injecting children 6-24 months of age with a flu shot was any more effective than placebo. In children over 2 yrs, it was only effective 33% of the time in preventing the flu. Reference: Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy children." The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2 (2008)

(click to read more about adult and elderly studies)

- Doctors, pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies profit very well from a multi-billion vaccine industry

"Doctors collect copayments for special office visits to inject shots, and there have been assertions that these doctors actually profit handsomely from these vaccinations" - ABC news

- There are concerns that some of the H1N1 vaccines contain the same ingredients as proposed human anti-fertility vaccine and/or veterinary anti-fertility vaccines, which make your body create antibodies and 'attack' the pregnancy hormone hCG, causing a miscarriage (more links and info in the comments to the article linked above)

- There are claims that vaccine manufacturers have "Red" and "Green" lists for European governments listing information that may or may not be made available to the public regarding the side effects

The benefits of healthy diet, Vitamin D, eliminating immune-suppressive sugar, balancing your body weight, exercising, getting enough sleep and breastfeeding your babies are nature's tools to help protect us from viruses.

Instead a vaccine will give your body a bouquet of cancer-causing, neurotoxic chemicals, that will remain in your body and can manifest themselves in health problems ranging from ADD to brain tumors years or decades after the vaccine is administered:

- Monosodium glutamate - known neurotoxin and excitotoxin

- Neomycin - in the FDA pregnancy category D, or known to be harmful to fetuses

- Beta-propiolactone - a disinfectant.

According to the EPA: "No information is available on the chronic (long-term), reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic effects of beta-propiolactone in humans. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified beta-propiolactone as a Group 2B, possible human carcinogen."

- Nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPE) - a toxic cleaning agent

- Thimerosal - removed from most other vaccines, because of it's link to autism

- And more (see the links below)

Plus, vaccine manufacturers admit that they can only be effective in fighting a virus in about 25% of the cases!

H1N1 vaccine makers are legally protected by our government from any liability, even though the testing was done in record times and on a very small number of people.

Unfortunately, many pregnant women are reporting being un-knowing victims of the H1N1 vaccine experiment, and loosing their unborn babies shortly after getting it.

More info:

Read many articles about H1N1 on this website:
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/11/05/Swine-Flu-Vaccine-Ingredients.aspx

Please read over 100 comments from many women who miscarried after H1N1 vaccine:
http://miscarriage.about.com/b/2009/09/29/some-pregnant-women-fearful-of-h1n1-vaccine.htm#comment-12992

Excellent info about H1N1 facts:
http://www.russellblaylockmd.com/

A video interview with Austrian journalist Jane Burgermeister about Baxter contaminating European flu vaccines with deadly bird flu virus in February, 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PelTWCUmTsU

A video from a Spanish doctor turned nun talking scientific data and facts from medical journals, highlighting major irregularities, concerns and what makes H1N1 vaccine different:
http://thekatycapsule.com/wordpress/must-watch-why-you-should-not-take-the-h1n1-vaccine/

105 page H1N1 vaccine lawsuit:
http://www.unfictional.com/pdf/baxter-lawsuit.pdf

H1N1 vaccine and anti-fertility concerns:
http://www.spiritdaily.net/vaccineinfertility.htm

"Challenging the Immune System: The development of anti-fertility vaccines"

Please forward this to your family and friends to keep them informed about the other side of the coin, and help them make the decision that's best for them and their children.

Mary Baker Eddy Library presents: 'Caring for Christmas - A Nineteenth Century American Story'

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:02:00 +0000

The Mary Baker Eddy Library is celebrating the holiday season this year with "Caring for Christmas - a Nineteenth Century American Story". An original musical and dramatic review will explore the evolution of Christmas as a holiday from pre-nineteenth century forward. Discover how Americans came to "care for Christmas."

"Caring for Christmas" is also a chance to give to those in need. Admission
to the Library's exhibits that weekend (Saturday, Decemeber 5, and Sunday, December 6) will be in the form of a donation to a local charity. Wish lists for confirmed charities are available on the Library's website.

Monetary donations may also be made the day of the performance to the charity representatives who will staff tables in the Library. Items donated must be new. Your donation is tax deductible.

Check back regularly for updated information on the program and
participating charities. Currently, participating charities include:

- On the Rise
- The Home for Little Wanderers
- Friends of Boston's Homeless

The event will be held Sunday, December 6, at 2 p.m. in The Mary Baker Eddy
Library's Hall of Ideas. The program will last about one hour.

The Library is located at 200 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston 02115. More information can be found at http://www.marybakereddylibrary.org/ or by phone at 617.450.7000.

Tanglewood Marionettes present 'The Dragon King' puppet show in Charlestown, November 15

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:31:00 +0000

The nationally acclaimed, award winning Tanglewood Marionettes (http://www.tanglewoodmarionettes.com/ ) are coming to Charlestown Sunday, November 15th, at 4pm. They will be showing their famous and fabulous “The Dragon King” at the Knights of Columbus Hall. "The Dragon King” puppet show featuring colorful sea creatures, an exciting adventure, and a Dragon King that will knock your socks off! Tickets, $10 per person and will be sold through Bunker Hill Florist, Durty Harry’s or by calling CNS member Nancy Mahan (617) 512-3538. (show appropriate for 3-12 year olds)

The Crane Estate Art Show and Sale will capture the natural beauty of Boston's North Shore, including student works, November 6-8

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:56:00 +0000

The Trustees of Reservations will present a special Fall Crane Estate Art Show and Sale entitled: Preserving Landscapes and Landmarks at Castle Hill, 290 Argilla Road in Ipswich on November 6-8. The Crane Estate Art Show and Sale will begin on Friday, November 6, with an Artists Reception from 5 PM – 7 PM. The reception is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. The Art Show will continue on November 7 and 8, from 10 AM – 4 PM daily. More than one hundred fifty juried works of art, including a special selection of art from North Shore students, will be on view throughout the weekend. Artwork of various mediums and price ranges will be for sale and proceeds will benefit the artists and The Trustees of Reservations. Please note that only checks and cash will be accepted. The Art Show and Sale is free all weekend. For more information contact The Trustees at http://www.craneestate.org/ or 978.356.4351.

Directions: From Rt. 128 (Exit 20A) follow Rt. 1A north for 8 mi. to Ipswich. Turn right onto Rt. 133 east and follow for 1.5 mi. Turn left onto Northgate Rd. and follow for 0.5 mi. Turn right onto Argilla Rd. and follow for 2 miles to entrance to The Crane Estate.

About The Trustees of Reservations
We are 100,000 people like you from every corner of Massachusetts. We love the outdoors. We love the distinctive charms of New England. And we believe in celebrating and protecting them – for ourselves, for our children, and for generations to come. With nearly one hundred special places across the state, we invite you to find your place. Visit us at http://www.thetrustees.org/ for more information. The Crane Estate includes the properties of Castle Hill, Crane Beach and The Crane Wildlife Refuge, which are all open to the public. See http://www.craneestate.org/ for more details.

23rd Annual Christmas Festival at Seaport World Trade Center features Gingerbread House Competition and works from 350+ craftsmen, November 6-8

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:40:00 +0000

In preparation for the Christmas Festival’s Gingerbread House Competition, Chef Coady and Pastry Cook Zailda Smith are putting finishing touches on Finale's sweet real estate. For the 16th Annual Gingerbread House Competition Chef Coady is enlisting the help of Rebekah Splaine, Community Relations Manager for the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation, also a Founding Co-Chair Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston’s Friends Council which provides professional and social networking, and volunteer opportunities to the next generation of leaders for BGCB.

The 23rd Annual Christmas Festival will feature the work of more than 350 American master craftsmen, and will highlight the 16th Annual Gingerbread House Competition. Revenues from the sale of Gingerbread Houses will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston.

Artisans from all over the country come to Boston for this premier holiday event to exhibit and sell their handcrafted items. From unique home accessories to one-of-a-kind holiday decorations, fanciful fashions, and gourmet foods, this wonderful variety of gifts will please everyone on your list.

Seaport World Trade Center
200 Seaport Boulevard
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 385-5000

Parking is nearby as well as across the street in the Seaport Garage.
Prices range from $9 to $17.

November 6-8, 2009
Friday noon – 5p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tickets are available at the door and are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors: children under 14 are free. The Christmas Festival is presented by Artisan Promotions Inc., organizers of quality retail shows in New England since 1982.

For further information call (617) 385-5000 or visit
http://www.bostonchristmasfestival.com/

CHARITY PARTNER:

Since 1893, Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston has helped young people, especially those who need it most, to build strong character and realize their full potential as responsible citizens and leaders.

Picture of the day: Loon Mountain is getting ready for snowmaking

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:00 +0000

Source: http://twitpic.com/o93ux

Follow Loon Mountain's updates on events, weather and more on Twitter: http://twitter.com/loonmtn

By the way, did you know that kids under 6 ski free at Loon?

2010 tickets: http://www.loonmtn.com/info/winter/rates_tickets.aspx

Next Kids' Price Saturday at Stone and Franklin Park Zoo is November 7

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:35:00 +0000

Feel like a kid again when visiting the Zoos! From 10:00 a.m. - noon on the first Saturday of every month, all guests to Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo will be charged the children’s admission price ($8.00 at Franklin Park Zoo and $7.00 at Stone Zoo). The next Kids' Price Saturday is November 7!

To learn more about the Zoos visit http://www.zoonewengland.org/.

Is our culture to blame for US lagging behind most developed countries in infant mortality?

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:12:00 +0000

Despite the fact that the quality of US healthcare is highly regarded across the world, we find ourselves in 30th place lagging behind most developed nations in infant mortality. We are told the major reasons are obesity, smoking, teenage pregnancies, lack of access to healthcare and, for the most part, the high rate of premature births. Half a million of pre-term births a year in the US result in a loss of about 30,000 of babies and healthcare costs of about $26 billion a year. A total of 13 million pre-term births a year worldwide result in a loss of one million babies, numbers thought to be understated by some experts.

Comparison of preterm birth rates across world regions finds the highest rate in Africa -- 11.9 percent or about 4 million babies each year; followed by North America (US and Canada combined), Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Oceania (Australia and New Zealand combined), and Europe. The rate of preterm birth in the U.S. has increased 36 percent in the past 25 years. Key factors contributing to this increase include a rise in the number of pregnancies in women over age 35; the growing use of assisted reproduction techniques, leading to an increase in the number of twin and higher order multiple births; and the rise in the number of late preterm births (defined as between 34 and 36 weeks gestation).

Many studies show that pregnant women 35 years and older are at increased risk for diabetes, hypertension, and cesarean delivery (all risk factors contributing to pre-term births). A study, conducted at three suburban Detroit hospitals, compared the obstetric outcomes of 890 women 35 years and older with those of 1054 women aged 25 to 29, all first-time pregnant. Both groups of women were predominantly white, married, and privately insured, and were cared for by both obstetricians and family physicians. The older women were about twice as likely as the younger women to be obese and to have pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor. Babies born to older women were about twice as likely to be premature, to have a low birth weight, and to require neonatal ICU admission.

Another study out of Norway analysed more than a million premature births. Even after surviving the first year, premature infants were 2.5 times more likely to die in childhood, than children born on time. Very premature children were also much less likely to have children themselves. Only 14% of men and 25% of women had had their own child, compared with 50% of men and 68% of women who were born at term. Pre-term children were also less likely to finish high school. The results were reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Even though more women in the US choose to have babies later in life, no one thinks they might end up with a premature baby, and most of them put their trust in doctors and technology assuming today is better time than ever to become a mother past age 35 or 40. While the odds of survival for preemies are better than ever, they are offset by the increasing numbers of older mothers. Preemies are so common these days, they have their own section at department stores. Even if a preemie survives, the baby is faced with gloomier prospects compared to a full-term baby when it comes to learning, development and risks of a host of deseases.

So why do American women choose to have babies later in life, despite the risks? Most of us choose to focus on our careers first, because we feel we have to help provide for our future family, which is no longer easy to do on one income. We strive to achieve our status in society and prove ourselves. Many of us enjoy our independent lifestyle, and want to live for ourselves first before committing to diapers and sleepless nights. Plus, it takes two to tango, and men these days are increasingly more difficult to 'domesticate'. It is not uncommon for men in their thirties and forties to have a lifestyle of a twenty year old, and not be willing to trade that for the tough demands of fatherhood. As a result, American women often push childbearing towards the end of their biological productivity, when they find themselves being classified in a 'risk group' category.

In addition, as a side effect of feminism in American society, our women are at a disadvantage compared to women in other countries with more 'old-fashioned' values, were they receive more protection and support for their 'traditional' roles from their more 'socialistic' governments. In most other countries women are not expected to work until their water breaks, they are able to stay home, breastfeed and care for their babies, while receiving financial support from their employer and/or government, and are often able to return to their old place of employment.

Even with better standards of living in many countries, their women work less than American women. Americans on average work 12 more weeks a year than europeans. While it's true that it's hard to afford a morgage and a family on one income, if most women in America chose to work less and shift their main focus from making money towards the family, the forces of supply and demand would make housing, food and other products more affordable. But as long as we are willing to spend more, we will have to work more as a nation.

When natural life events, such as starting a family and having children get postponed in our self-serving materialistic culture, mother-nature is not about to change its plans, and is forced to serve us with hard cold facts. Will we listen?

P.S. After writing this I found out that November is a Prematurity Awarness Month. Learn more at March of Dimes.

Should you throw out all your canned food? Consumer Reports find most contain BPA

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:58:00 +0000

Of most canned products pictured here almost all popular brand-name foods were found by Consumer Reports to contain BPA. The FDA is in the process of reevaluating what it would consider to be the safe level of the chemical, because current regulations have been unchanged since the 1980's, not reflecting hundreds of new studies. The chemical, by the way, has been restricted all together in Canada. BPA has been linked to reproductive abnormalities, a heightened risk of breast and prostate cancers, diabetes, and heart disease. The study have found amounts sufficient to do harm in animals, at the least. Organic brands did not differ much from non-organic, as well as products labeled "BPA-free" were, in fact, not.

The North American Metal Packaging Alliance today released a statement disputing the report and claiming: "The study should not be viewed as a cause for public alarm, because the values measured were below the lowest regulatory threshold of concern set by government scientists and do not pose a health risk to consumers of all ages."

Here is what Wikipedia has to say about BPA:

Bisphenol A has been known to leach from the plastic lining of canned foods and, to a lesser degree, polycarbonate plastics, especially those that are cleaned with harsh detergents or used to contain acidic or high-temperature liquids. A recent Health Canada study found that the majority of canned soft drinks it tested had low, but measurable levels of bisphenol A. This exposure through metal cans is due to the fact that BPA is an ingredient in the internal coating of food and beverage metal cans used to protect the food from direct contact with metal. While most human exposure is through diet, exposure can also occur through air and through skin absorption.

Studies by the CDC found bisphenol A in the urine of 95% of adults sampled in 1988–1994 and in 93% of children and adults tested in 2003–04. Infants fed with liquid formula are among the most exposed, and those fed formula from polycarbonate bottles can consume up to 13 micrograms of bisphenol A per kg of body weight per day. The most sensitive animal studies show effects at much lower doses, while the EPA considers exposures up to 50 µg/kg/day to be safe. In 2009, a study found that drinking from polycarbonate bottles increased urinary bisphenol A levels by two thirds, from 1.2 micrograms/gram creatinine to 2 micrograms/gram creatinine.

Consumer groups recommend that people wishing to lower their exposure to bisphenol A avoid canned food and polycarbonate plastic containers (which shares resin identification code 7 with many other plastics) unless the packaging indicates the plastic is bisphenol A-free. The National Toxicology Panel recommends avoiding microwaving food in plastic containers, putting plastics in the dishwasher, or using harsh detergents, to avoid leaching.

Neuroscientist Russell Blaylock explains why vaccinating pregnant women increases the risks of brain disorders and/or behavioral problems in children

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:28:00 +0000

60,000 people have watched these videos by 10 am today, and 100,000 saw it by 1 pm!

This is part 2 of 9 videos. Watch more videos and read a full article:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/11/03/What-We-Have-Learned-About-the-Great-Swine-Flu-Pandemic.aspx

Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise have been spotted in Malden this weekend filming their new movie 'Wichita'

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:54:00 +0000

Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise have been spotted in Boston, Bridgewater and Waltham in the last couple months, while working on their new movie "Wichita". According to media reports, in this spy thriller Tom plays a secret agent who pops in and out of the life of an upbeat Midwestern woman (Diaz), who gets pulled into a violent worldwide journey to protect a powerful battery that holds the key to an infinite power source.

In the past weekend the couple has been spotted filming in Malden at the site of the Malden Hospital. On Friday the Fellsway between Malden and Medford was shut down for shooting a car chase with some pyrotechnics. Plus, according to my source, the movie producers have applied for a permit for use of a fire hydrant. Why? We will have to wait and see the movie!

Arsenal Center For The Arts School Vacation Creative Workshops, December 28-30

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:39:00 +0000

The Arsenal Center For The Arts in Watertown will hold kids school vacation workshops December 28 – 30, 2009. Each vacation workshop provides an age appropriate creative and fun experience. Each workshop is Arsenal member $55/Non-Member $65. Arsenal Center for The Arts is located at 321 Arsenal Street, Watertown. To register or find out more information visit http://www.arsenalarts.org/ (click on education tab) or call 617-923-0100 x 309.

AGES 5 – 6

The morning workshops (10am – 12:00pm) are Magical Animals and Silly Ceramics and afternoon workshops (12:30 – 2:30pm) are Draw, Design & Sculpt and Winter Wonderland.

AGES 7 -9

The morning workshops (10am – 12:00pm) are Clay Projects (Mugs, plates, bowls) and Drawing and Painting and afternoon workshops (12:30 – 2:30pm) are Design A House and Simple Toys.

AGES 10+

The morning workshop (10am – 12:00pm) ) is Mixed Media and afternoon workshop (12:30 – 2:30pm) is Mosaics & More.

EXTENDED DAY

Two extended day options are offered where the kids participate in games, stories and art projects. The morning workshop is 9 – 10am (Member $28/Non-Member $33) and the afternoon workshop is 2:30pm – 4pm (Member $40/Non-Member $45).

Please note: Workshops will also be held during school vacations February 16 –19, 2010 and April 21 – 23, 2010.

'Zoolights 2009' at Stone Zoo - a magical winter wonderland opens November 26

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:21:00 +0000

The winter wonderland at Stone Zoo attracts thousands of visitors each year who get into the holiday spirit by strolling along tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Upon entering the Zoo, guests will visit Yukon Creek, which not only features dazzling holiday lights but is also home to bald eagles, porcupines, lynx, a gray fox and reindeer. Children will want to make sure they visit with Santa, who awaits their arrival in Santa’s Castle. Jolly Old St. Nick will be available for photos through December 23. After visiting with Santa, enter a magical holiday world filled with fairy tale characters and dancing plush animals.

Thursday, November 26 (Thanksgiving) – Wednesday, December 30, 2009
**CLOSED ON DECEMBER 25**
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Stone Zoo
149 Pond Street
Stoneham, MA 02180
Tickets: www.stonezoo.org

Salem is geared to become a premier Christmas destination north of Boston

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:34:00 +0000

Halloween may be over, but it doesn't mean the fun has to stop in Salem. Destination Salem added new events and traditions this year to make sure the city keeps it's status of a tourist magnet way past October. There is lots you can do here for the winter holidays: ride around with Scroodge on a trolley; enjoy unique exhibits and kids activities at Peabody Essex Museum; visit twelve mansions decked out for the holidays; see the newest Salem Christmas tradition at the House of Seven Gables; and celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way at the Old Town Hall.

The Salem Trolley & Griffen Theatre Present “A Christmas Carol”

November 28-December 23, 2009
4:15pm – 8pm
(Check date for performance times)

Salem Trolley
8 Central Street
Salem
SalemTrolley.com
http://www.griffentheatre.com/
978-744-5469

Now entering into it's 23rd Season, this humorous & whimsical interactive performance reanimates Dickens’ timeless seasonal holiday classic. Experience Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol with a twist. Ride along with Scrooge on the Salem Trolley as the classic tale is brought to life in a completely unexpected way. Shows sell out quickly and seats are limited. Tickets $22 per person. Reservations recommended.

Peabody Essex Museum Events for December

Exhibit: Revisions: India Artists Engaging Traditions
Ends March 28, 2010

Exhibit: Rare Bird of Fashion-Iris Apfel
Ends February 7, 2010

Exhibit: Trash Menagerie
Ends June 1, 2010

Exhibit: Fish Silk Tea Bamboo: Cultivating an Image of China
Thru December 31, 2010

Peabody Essex Museum
East India Square
PEM.org
Explore the featured exhibits as well as the childrens activities, art studios and more that are featured this month. For more information, please visit the website or phone 866-745-1876.

Christmas in Salem 2009 Legacy Tour

December 4 Candlelight Tour
5:30pm to 7:30pm

December 5th
11:00am to 4:30pm

December 6th
11:30am to 4:30pm

$25.00 Advance/$30 Day of

HistoricSalem.org
ChristmasInSalem.org
978-745-0799

Visit Twelve 18th and 19th century homes all decorated for the holidays, all within easy walking distance. Enjoy free trolley service, discounts on the finest Salem restaurants and retail. Theatre and Movie Tie ins as well as wine tastings, concerts and lectures. Come and start your holiday season!

A Classic Christmas at the House of Seven Gables

December 5,6,12,13, 2009
3-6 pm

House of Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA

$12 each
Child Tickets (Ages 5-12) $8.00 each

978.744.0991 ext. 104
http://www.7gables.org/
Reservations Recommended

Experience Salem’s newest Christmas tradition. Surround yourself with the spirit of the season as Christmas scenes from famous works of literature including Little Women, A Christmas Carol, and A Child’s Christmas in Wales are brought to life for audiences in the rooms of The House of the Seven Gables

History Alive! Presents Fezziwigs Ball

December 19, 2009

Old Town Hall
32 Derby Square
Salem, MA

Gordon.edu/historyalive/productions
978-867-4767

Join Gordon College and History Alive! In an old fashioned Christmas celebration at Old Town Hall. There will be costumed dancers, live music, period appropriate food and decorations and an old fashioned Saint Nicholas.

Hamilton Hall Annual Christmas Dance

December 19, 2009
9am – 5pm

Hamilton Hall
9 Chestnut Street
Salem, MA

HamiltonHall.org
978-744-0805

The social event of the year! Dress to the 9’s for an evening of elegance and of course, dancing!

About Salem: Salem, Massachusetts, is a destination recognized around the world for its rich history, which includes the tragic Salem Witch Trials of 1692, the glorious maritime era that left its indelible mark on Salem through architecture, museums, and artifacts, and for its month-long celebration of Halloween. Today more than 800,000 visitors come to Salem annually, generating more than $55.6 million in tourism spending.

As the destination marketing organization for the City of Salem, Massachusetts, Destination Salem cooperatively markets Salem as one of Massachusetts' best destinations for families, couples, domestic, and international travelers who are seeking an authentic New England experience, cultural enrichment, American history, fine dining, unique shopping, and fun.

Great pick for a night in - 'The Proposal' with Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:59:00 +0000

When a demanding high-powered editor-in-chief of a major publishing house, Margaret (Sandra Bullock), is suddenly forced with a prospect of deportation to her home Canada when her visa expires, she asks her devoted hard-working assistant Andrew (Ryan Reynolds) to falsify an engagement. As lies keep adding up, the so-called couple goes away to meet Andrew's family in Alaska, where Margaret's cold-hearted ways are melted by their warm hospitality. In a series of funny and awkward mishaps the two conspirators are forced to reassess their motives and preconceived judgements of one another.

The film was #1 in it's opening weekend and the first #1 for Sandra Bullock in the last 10 years.

Now out on DVD and Blue Ray.

Disney's The Lion King at Boston Opera House - tickets go on sale November 8

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:25:00 +0000

Over 45 million people worldwide have come to discover the wonder, the majesty, and the truly one-of-a-kind experience that is The Lion King, the world's most spectacular musical. Hailed by Newsweek as "a landmark event in entertainment," The Lion King is a breathtaking adventure that stretches the boundaries of Broadway, from the heart of Africa to the plains of your imagination.

Lion King is coming to Boston Opera House from February 16 through March 21, 2010. Tickets go on sale November 8.

Groups and Season Tickets On Sale Now.

Season Tickets Online: www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/Boston, by Phone: 866-523-7469
Groups (20 or more) Online: www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/Boston, by Phone: 866-633-0194

Skating performances and free ice skating at Frog Pond Opening 2009, Boston Common, November 19

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:55:00 +0000

The Boston Common Frog Pond Foundation and Boston Parks and Recreation Department invite you to the 2009 Frog Opening Celebration. The official opening will include skating performances followed by a free skate!

Skate rentals available.
November 19
5:30-7pm

Season hours and rates:

http://www.bostoncommonfrogpond.org/

617-635-2120

Boston's Official Tree Lightning, save the date - December 3!

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:38:00 +0000

Boston’s Official Tree Lighting:

Enjoy holiday entertainment such as national and local performers, carolers, Santa and more. The lighting will take place when Mayor Menino flips the switch on December 3, 6pm-8pm at Boston Common!

617-635-4505

Eerie Evenings at the Witch House in Salem

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:06:00 +0000

The Witch House is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Witchcraft Trials of 1692. It was a home of a judge Jonathan Corwin, a heir to one of the largest puritan fortunes in New England. He was ultimately responsible for sending nineteen people to the gallows, despite their plea of innocence.

During Eerie Evenings the rooms of the Witch House come alive when costumed professional actors tell spooky tales connected to each other with a strange twist, while transforming the guests to the darker days of Salem history. Three stories include The Miseries, Three Coffins and The Seance.

The audience will move from kitchen-dining room with a gigantic brick oven, to the bedroom on the second floor, and back to the living room on the first. Sometime gruesome and bizzare tales unfold inside dimly lit authentic 17th century interiors, once enjoyed by the more privileged residents of Salem. The audience will sure feel like traveling hundreds of years back in time and forget what century it is outside.

Each session is 20 minutes long, starting from 6 to 10 pm.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-14 in advance.

Since each room can fit a limited number of people, it's best to purchase your tickets on-line for guaranteed entrance.

The Witch House
310 1/2 Essex Street
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
(978) 744-8815

What you need to know before you go to Salem

K.Kharlova@gmail.com (Kristina Sullivan) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:38:00 +0000

The City of Salem encourages participants in Salem's Halloween night festivities to be safe and considerate during their celebration.

The schedule of public events on October 31st is as follows:

7:00 - 10:00 PM Live music around town
Total Entertainment DJ on Derby Street;
DJ Doug on Salem Common;
Undercover Band on front Street;
Grateful Ted & Britannica on Hawthorne Boulevard

7:30 PM Dick N Jane
on the Main Stage presented by Radio 92.9

9:15 PM Dancing Nancy Band
on the Main Stage presented by Radio 92.9

10:30 PM Costume Contest & PRIZES!
The Radio 92.9 Street Team will be picking the best costumes out of the crowd for the audience to vote on. The best costumes will win concert tickets for The Pixies and Dashboard Confessional!

10:45 PM Fireworks over the North River

11:00 PM Trains begin departing
for Boston and points North points North

Police and Public Service Officials will begin clearing the streets at 11:00 PM. Visitors should plan to depart Salem at this time.

Please note: The City of Salem strongly discourages disorderly behavior such as drinking in public, littering, and random acts of violence, and will penalize offenders to the maximum amount allowed under the law.

Public Safety Advisory for Halloween night in Salem, MA

Officials urge revelers to use public transportation and be on their best behavior

Halloween attracts tens of thousands of costumed revelers to the City of Salem who visit numerous attractions and partake in the Fall festivities. This year, with Halloween falling on a Saturday night, we are anticipating larger than normal crowds in Salem.

Given that Halloween is generally perceived as a mischievous holiday, coupled with the fact that large numbers of visitors come to Salem clad in costumes on Saturday, our public safety officials have extensive plans in place to ensure the evening is safe and fun for all participants.

The City of Salem is working diligently to mitigate visitor impacts to residents, improve crowd control, and encourage an orderly exit out of the City at the end of the evening. The following requests are being made of people planning to spend Halloween in Salem this year:

Take public transportation. The MBTA has added extra train service from the North and South. The Salem Ferry is connects Blaney Street, Salem, with Long Wharf North, Boston. We anticipate considerable motor vehicle traffic coming into the city, and parking will be at a premium. Thus, public transportation is strongly encouraged.

Plan to depart after the Halloween Fireworks. Halloween is a great street festival in Salem. In addition to bands and DJs performing on five stages around the downtown, Radio 92.9 is producing a Main Stage Concert featuring the Dancing Nancy Band, a Dave Matthews Band cover band. Dancing Nancy will perform on a temporary stage at the top of Washington Street (between Federal and Bridge Streets) from 9:15 - 10:45 PM followed by fireworks over the North River at 10:45.

The fireworks are the conclusion of the public Halloween celebration and the end to the evening. Police and Public Works Departments will begin clearing streets and moving crowds out of the city immediately following the fireworks. Visitors should expect to depart Salem after the fireworks (approx. 11pm), which is timed to coordinate with the last trains out of Salem.

Visitors coming to Salem should be on their best behavior. Given the larger numbers, the City has adopted tougher sanctions for disorderly behavior. Uniformed police officers will be brought in from eight other communities to support Salem Police in their efforts ensure the safety of all Halloween revelers.

Fines for any disorderly conduct during Halloween evening, such as drinking in public, vandalism, littering, disorderly behavior, have been tripled up to $300 per offense, the maximum amount allowed under the law.

Surveillance Cameras are installed throughout the downtown and will be monitored by Police officials throughout the evening. These cameras will aid downtown enforcement efforts.

Leave weapons - real or fake - at home. Police will be confiscating these items.

Public drinking will not be tolerated. Public consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited in Salem.

Salem, Massachusetts is recognized internationally as one of the best destinations to celebrate Halloween and the month-long Haunted Happenings festival. Salem is pleased to present live music throughout the downtown on Halloween night, as well as a carnival and food vendors.

We encourage our guests and visitors to bring their common sense to the celebration, and respect the City of Salem, and its 40,000 residents. Through public cooperation the city will maintain a fun and safe downtown environment for all.

For more information on Salem Haunted Happenings visit http://www.hauntedhappenings.org/ or call Destination Salem at (978) 741-3252.