Category Archives: Community Notes

Experts to Discuss Grit – The Secret Ingredient to Success

Science suggests that giving trophies to every kid does not inspire long-term success. But what does?

A panel of experts will discuss the latest research on what drives achievement at a discussion series event moderated by National Public Radio correspondent Tovia Smith. The conversation will focus on ‘grit’- the kind of resilience that drives achievement at school, at sports and at work. Adding their perspective will be panelists Ashley Merryman, co-author of New York Times bestsellers NurtureShock and Top Dog: The Science of Winning and Losing; Brent Roberts, PhD, a psychology professor at University of Illinois; Thomas Hoerr, PhD, author of Fostering Grit: How do I prepare my students for the real world? and head of New City School in St. Louis; and Josh Waitzkin (via Skype), author of The Art of Learning, national chess champion, subject of the movie Searching for Bobby Fischer, and world martial arts champion.

The event is part of the Jonathan Samen Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations Discussion Series at the JCC. Cost is $18.00. Students and seniors: $15.00. For tickets, contact 617-965-5226, bo*******@***gb.org or visit www.bostonjcc.org/artsevents.

Thursday, February 27th, 7:30 pm
Leventhal-Sidman Jewish Community Center
333 Nahanton Street, Newton

Sing-Along in Commemoration of the Life and Music of Pete Seeger

Pete Seeger, the banjo-picking troubadour who sang for migrant workers, college students and star-struck presidents, and introduced generations of Americans to their folk music heritage, died this week at the age of 94.

Come celebrate his life through song at a community Sing-Along hosted by the Newton Family Singers. We’ll sing together as a community, songs straight from Pete’s songlist – songs about freedom, equality, justice, peace, the world we love and the strength of community. As Pete once said himself: “Participation – that’s what’s gonna save the human race.”

Saturday, February 1st, 3:00 pm
Waban Library Center
1608 Beacon Street, Waban

Newton Kitchen Tour

Save the date – the Newton Kitchen Tour is Sunday April 13th.
This self-guided tour will showcase some of the most fabulous kitchens in Newton. The tour offers a chance to walk around and see up close and personal those kitchens you see in magazines. You’ll also be able to ask questions of architects, designers, contractors, and homeowners who have been through the renovation process. Tickets go on sale in February. http://www.newtonkitchentour.com/

Engineering and Logic Summer Camp

Join for a week of intellectual and engaging activities! Participate in engineering challenges, collaborate on science experiments, play strategy games, solve puzzles, create stunning origami and learn how to make balloon animals.

The older students will be learning 3D modeling software and will get an introduction to programming. Program includes field trips to museums and playground time. Take a look at pictures from last year on the website www.engagingmath.org/summercamp or call 617-975-0268.

Open House: February 9th and March 16th, 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Newton Community Farm Summer Classes for Youth

Programs for Pre-school through Grade 9 – Now enrolling !!

Looking for fun filled, hands on, educational classes for this summer? Then look no further! Newton Community Farm has an exciting array of programs for all ages that focus on being outdoors and the growing of food.

Farm Sprouts – Pre-school and Kindergarten
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, 10:00 – 11:00 am,  week of June 16th – week of August 25th. Meets weekly choose your day.

Little Diggers – Students entering Grades 1 and 2
Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 12:30 pm,  week of July 7th and Aug 4th
1 week sessions

Farmer in Training – Students entering Grades 3 – 5
Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 12:30 pm, week of July 7th – week of Aug 25th.
1 week sessions

Socially Aware Young Farmers – Students entering Grades 6 – 9.
Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 12:30 pm, week of July 14th and July 21st.
1 week sessions

For more information and registration details please visit the website at www.newtoncommunityfarm.org/education.  (No classes the week of July 4th.)

Newton Community Farm
303 Nahanton St, Newton

Get in the Game

Get in the Game. Register NOW for Newton Girls Softball

Newton Girls Softball registration is underway. This is a recreational league for over 300 Newton girls in grades 1-7. Every year, players of all skill levels have a fun and rewarding experience.

Visit the website www.NewtonGirlsSoftball.org for more details, access to on-line registration, and winter indoor clinic information. Register before January 31st to avoid a late fee. February 28th is the last date you can register with guaranteed placement and pair-me-with requests.

Fun, free EXPO at Newton North High School!

NEW DATE: Tuesday, February 4th from 5:00 to 7:30 pm.

Teens and parents/guardians are invited to the Just Think: Teens Making Smart Choices expo for participative, informative exhibits; student performances; and fun. Meet 30+ community exhibitors who help teens stay safe and healthy. Get information about everything from driving and pedestrian safety to healthy eating and positive body image to stress reduction and mental health support.

Refreshments will be served, and special treat bags will be distributed to the first 50 students who come with their parent/guardian!

Calling all sports fans!

Well-known sports personality Bill Littlefield, star and producer of NPR’s Only A Game, is
speaking at the Waban Library Center. Come to a fun reception and book signing of his legendary book, “Only A Game,” and hear the inside scoop on our teams and much more!
$5 donation to the WLC is your ticket.

Tuesday, February  4th, 7:30 pm
1608 Beacon Street, Waban
www.wabanlibrarycenter.org

Open Positions on City of Newton Boards/Commissions/Advisory Committees

Citizen involvement in local government has been one of Mayor Warren’s highest priorities since taking office and Newton has the good fortune to be home to a wealth of knowledgeable and talented individuals. Current opening for talented residents  to volunteer on a Board or Commission include:

BioSafety Committee
The Mayor is looking for volunteers to serve on the Biosafety Committee. This Committee oversees the use of recombinant DNA, infectious agents, and biohazardous materials in the course of research. The Committee is responsible for reviewing and approving all applications, proposals, activities and facilities for the purpose of research. While the Committee has not met in more than 10 years, there is renewed interest in the economic development potential of biotech firms. The Biosafety Committee is comprised of nine (9) members including the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, two (2) members of the Newton Health Advisory Council appointed by the Commissioner, three (3) members appointed by the Mayor, at least one of whom is a scientist knowledgeable in the field of rDNA research and technology and the other two with experience in public health, occupational health, infectious diseases or environmental health and three (3) members appointed by the Board of Aldermen, one of whom represents public health. If interested, please send a resume along with a letter of interest to Reenie Murphy at rm*****@******ma.gov.

Traffic Council
The City of Newton is seeking a qualified Newton resident with expertise in traffic Continue reading →