I'm From Worcester

Family Friendly Holiday Fun: Junior League of Worcester's Winter Festival

2009-11-11T06:39:00.001-05:00

It's Winter Festival Time!

The Junior League of Worcester Winter Festival is coming. They are holding two events this year at the EcoTarium. On December 4, an evening Gala for the 'grown ups' and on December 5, a family fun festival.

Have Fun - Do Some Good

In addition to being a lot of fun, these events help the Junior League of Worcester support Worcester through their programs. Two examples of programs that will benefit are the Coats for Kids and Project Fresh Start. The Coats for Kids program provides warm outerwear to children from low-income families in the Worcester Public Schools. Project Fresh Start focuses on helping families that are transitioning from Friendly House (an emergency family shelter) and The Frances Perkins House (a transitional home for women and children).

On December 4: The Winter Festival Gala

6-10pm / Tickets are $50.00 (available online)
Preview the decorated trees, enjoy a buffet and participate in raffles and auctions - all for a great cause. A cash bar will also be available. Attire is black-tie or holiday festive.

Note: Attendees may opt to purchase $85 tickets in honor of the Junior League of Worcester's 85th Anniversary. The additional $35 will go to the T&G Santa.

On December 5: Family Festival

Enjoy a wonderful kid-friendly event, along with full access to the EcoTarium. The festival includes beautifully decorated trees, exclusive shopping boutiques, pictures with Santa, crafts for the kids and local entertainment.

Admission: Adults: $10; Children/Youth (3-10): $8; Senior Citizens: $8; College Students (with valid I.D.): $8; Children under 3: FREE

For more information about these events:

To Buy Tickets for the Winter Festival Gala

Junior League of Worcester Event Listing

We Got the Beat - Video Premier Now Online

2009-11-10T06:25:00.006-05:00

WOO!! Artigo/Ajemian Films has launched a full-length music video from their movie, We Got the Beat. It's available now on YouTube and it looks fantastic! Congratulations to all at Artigo/Ajemian Films. The video looks great. I can't wait to see more.

The team has nearly completed post-production work. When they're done, they'll head to Los Angeles to screen the film for distributors. They plan to have the local premier in early spring 2010 (everybody, prepare to mark calendars). While we all eagerly await that premier, we can check out this music video. It's beautiful. Again, nice work Artigo/Ajemian.

Here's some information about the video and film I've borrowed from an email announcement I got from Andrea Ajemian.

Web sites:

About this song - from Andrea Ajemian:

Performed by the movie's boyband, A New Condition," (with additional vocals by Worcester's own Sam James and Burncoat High teacher Kevin Cox), the song "My Heart Hurts" was written and produced by Worcester's own Kaz Gamble, along with over 20 additional tracks for the film.

About The Film - from Andrea Ajemian:

"We Got the Beat" is a feature length indie comedy shot during the summer of 2008 entirely in Worcester County. It is set at the fictional Worcester High. The film tells the story of Brad Roberts (Michael Copon), a high school star quarterback, who quits the team his senior year to turn his heavy metal band into the first ever boyband in 1982. Post-production on the film is almost complete, at which time producers will screen the film for distributors in Los Angeles. The local premiere will be in early spring of 2010.

The film stars:
Michael Copon - One Tree Hill, Beyond the Break, Scorpion King II
Robert Hoffman -Step Up 2: The Streets, Aliens in the Attic, MTV's Wild 'N Out
Ryan Hansen - Veronica Mars, Party Down, Friday the 13th
Ryan Pinkston -MTV's Punk'd, College
Ming Na - SGU Stargate Universe, E.R, The Joy Luck Club
Kurt Fuller - Ray, The Pursuit of Happiness, Alias
E-Knock -MTV's America's Next Dance Crew - Season One
Laura Breckenridge - Gossip Girl, Southern Belles
Rachel Specter -The House Bunny, Prom Night, My One and Only

Links for 2009-11-08 [del.icio.us]

2009-11-09T00:00:00-08:00

A List Apart: Articles: You Can Get There From Here: Websites for Learners

My Great Grandmother [Flickr]

2009-11-08T16:12:02-08:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

Margarete Henreitta Grieger about 1915
I was lucky to have known 2 of my great grandmothers and one great grandfather.
Margarete lived until I was just about 20. Amazing. She saw amazing things.

November at Higgins Armory Museum - Create a Fairy House with Artist, Hilary Scott

2009-10-30T05:58:00.002-05:00

Artist Hilary Scott will be at Higgins again in November to work with a group of visitors. This time they will construct a fairy house (space limited, see info). There will also be an all night game party on Nov. 13 with special discounts for WOO card holders and people who wear costumes.

November looks like a busy month for the Higgins with CastleKids Story Hour, sword play classes, special events for girl scouts, the 'Living Timeline' demonstrations and (as always) the completely awesome Historic Combat Demonstrations. It's a good place to get away from the cold, wet weather that's coming our way.

Visiting Higgins

The Higgins Armory Museum is located at 100 Barber Ave.,Worcester, MA
On the web: www.higgins.org
Phone: 508/853-6015
Hours are Tues.-Sat., 10 am – 4 pm, Sun. from noon – 4 pm.
NEW ADMISSION PRICES: Adults, $10; children (age 4-16), $7; members and children, ages 3 and under, free. All programs are free with museum admission unless otherwise noted.

November Events at Higgins

Thurs., Nov. 26: Museum Closed for Thanksgiving

Create a Fairy House

Sat., Nov. 7, 1 – 2:30 pm
$25 per person, $20 for members

Artist Hilary Scott, creator of the fantastical creatures in Beyond Belief: The Curious Collection of Professor Rufus Excalibur Bell, helps visitors create a fairy dwelling. Open to ages 12 and up. Space is limited. For more information, call 508-853-6015x20.

School of Swordplay Classes

Beginning Tues., Nov. 3, 6:30 – 8 pm
Tuition for eight classes: $180 ($150 for museum members)

Learn how to wield the knightly longsword or the musketeer's deadly rapier at the Higgins Academy of the Sword. Students receive expert instruction in rapier, longsword, and dueling sabre, as well as the classical forms of modern fencing weapons. Builds overall fitness and coordination. Class meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening. The class is open to age 16 and up; a separate youth course (age 14-18) meets Thursdays 5-6pm. No equipment required. To enroll, contact Rhonda Houle at (508) 853-6015, ext 20, or higgins@higgins.org.

Live Arms and Armor Show

Saturdays: Nov. 7, 2 pm; Nov. 28, 1 & 2:30 pm
Sundays, Nov. 1, Nov. 8, Nov. 15, Nov. 22, Nov. 29: 12:30 pm & 2:30 pm;
Friday, Nov. 27: 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, & 2:30 pm
Free with museum admission

This interactive program covers the history of armor, from its evolution as mail to plate armor to its disappearance, then modern reappearance on the battlefield. Volunteers from the audience may help with the demonstration.

Gaming Knight

Fri., Nov. 13, 7 pm – 7 am
$15, $10 museum members & WOO card holders; $2 off for wearing costume.

Gamers of all ages score knight moves during this overnight at the Higgins. Games of all kinds - board games, collectible games, miniature games, role-playing games and more – are available to play. Favorites include Settlers of Catan, Munchkin, Carcassonne, Axis and Allies, Diplomacy, Killer Bunnies, Guillotine, and more. Visitors can bring their own to share. Munchies and soda provided.

ONGOING PROGRAMMING

CastleKids Story Hour

Wed., Nov. 4, 1 pm
$5.00 member adult/child pair, $9.00 non-member adult/child pair

From damsels in distress to mighty dragons, this story hour in the medieval Great Hall features tales of adventure, from well-known fairy tales to modern picture books. Includes snack and craft.

Medieval Maidens for Junior Girl Scouts

Sat., Nov. 7 & Nov. 14, 10 am – 12:30 pm
$15 for girls, $8 for adults

Earn the new Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts Council’s Medieval Maidens Patches. Learn tales of make-believe and discover true stories about the lives of medieval girls and women. Includes a museum tour and craft. Advance registration required at (508) 853-6015, ext 20.

Company of the Wolfe Argent

Sat., Nov. 7, 11 am & noon
Free with museum admission

Representing a company of 15th century Burgundian men-at-arms, this group employs period clothing and weaponry to offer a lively glimpse of arms and armor, society, and daily life in the late Middle Ages.

Historic Combat Demonstration

Sat., Nov. 7, 1 pm & 3 pm
Free with museum admission

The subtle skills of attack, parry, and grapple are brought alive by Higgins Armory Sword Guild as they demonstrate the knightly arts in a recreation of a medieval combat school.

Arming a Gothic Knight & a Modern Day Soldier

Wed., Nov. 11, 12:30 pm & 2 pm
Free with museum admission

Unlike depictions of the clumsy knight in movies, fighters in full suits of chain mail or plate armor can do cartwheels, leap up from the ground, and even sprint. This program compares armor of the past with what American troops might wear today.

14th Century Knight: Armor in Transition

Sat., Nov. 13 & 28, 11:30 am – free with museum admission

Why did knights change from using mail armor to plate? Why did it take nearly 150 years? These are just some of the questions answered in this program focusing on the evolution of knightly armor.

Legio III Cyrenaica Roman Legion

Nov. 13, 2 pm
Free with museum admission

A Roman living history group that portrays the famous Legion based in Alexandria, Egypt during the Flavian period (60-100 AD/CE), this group features Legionary and Auxiliary soldiers. Learn about the Legion's history, weapons, tactics and daily life

Living Timeline

Sat., Nov., 21, all day
Free with museum admission

The past fast forwards to the present in this “living timeline” demonstrating armor and battle techniques throughout history. Participants include medieval soldiers, Viking warriors, Roman legionnaires, a historic combat demonstration, and a reenactment by the Salem Light Infantry, representing 17th century American colonists.

Medieval Maidens for Brownie Girl Scouts

Sat., Nov. 21, 10 am – 12:30 pm
$15 for girls, $8 for adults

Earn the new Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts Council’s Medieval Maidens Patches. Learn tales of make-believe and discover true stories about the lives of medieval girls and women. Includes museum tour and craft. Advance registration required; call (508) 853-6015, ext 20.

Make-Your-Own Shield Workshop

Fri., Nov. 27 & Sat., Nov. 28, all day
$5 per shield

Discover the history of heraldry and create a unique heraldic shield. Learn about the symbols on shields and what colors represent courage, generosity, loyalty, or hope. Workshop designed for children and a parent or guardian.

Links for 2009-10-25 [del.icio.us]

2009-10-26T00:00:00-07:00

YouTube - whereIsJerome's Channel
short movie created with over 30,000 still photos

Baby Swans Are All Grown Up

2009-10-23T08:11:00.001-05:00

Summer really is over.
The baby swans in Institute park have grown up. You can barely tell they are babies anymore. Except for a few brown feathers they look just like their parents. One of them is even nasty like his dad (I'm guessing 'he' by his size). The dad has left the pond as he usually does. Mom and the babies will be gone soon too. The parents did a great job - of the six babies, four have made it.

Here's the family back in May. It's amazing that these tiny fluff balls grow so quickly into such beautiful (and huge) swans.

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:12:02-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

Four of the six babies have made it through and are now nearly adults. Two appear to be larger than the mother. All look very healthy. The largest baby seems to have inherited his father's nasty temper. Look out geese of the world!
www.flickr.com/photos/claudiasnell/sets/72157618412327323/

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:11:41-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:11:21-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:11:04-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:10:41-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:10:21-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:10:00-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

October 22, 2009 - Baby swans no more [Flickr]

2009-10-23T05:09:37-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

Halloween Fun For Families

2009-10-18T11:17:00.001-05:00

Hanover Theater: The Hybrid Movement Company's McNally's Fate

Show details and tickets

The Hybrid Movement Company will present a Halloween story called McNally's Fate interpreted through contemporary dance, acrobatics and spoken word and more (the site has details). The performance is also a fundraiser for the Massachusetts School Teachers Association.

Saturday, October 31, 2009, 2:00pm

EcoTarium: Great Pumpkin Fest 2009

Event listing online

Family-friendly Halloween fun, Saturday, October 24, Noon to 9:00 p.m. Hundreds of jack-o-lanterns, hayrides, train rides, costume party and fun activities for the kids.

Saturday, October 24, Noon to 9:00 p.m.

Old Sturbridge Village: Things That Go Bump In The Night

Event listing online

Lots of games and events for the whole family in the Center Village. A new attraction for 'brave souls age 11 and up' has been added: The Trail of Terror. Scary walk through the dark countryside - sounds like it could be some scary fun! Get tickets in advance, they are expecting a sell out!

Sat October 24, 2009. 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Moose Hill: Halloween Prowl 2009 1 & 2

Event listing page and Prowl night 2

Learn about the history of Halloween from a Druid, take a guided candle-lit walk that features costumed characters. The journey ends with their Wicca fire. They've also got Jack O' Lanterns and encourage all to wear costumes.

Sat, Oct 24, 2009 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Fee: Adults $9.00m/ $9.00nm, Children $9.00m/ $9.00nm - Register online.

Mass. Audubon has several other Halloween events posted.

Higgins Armory Museum: Haunted Higgins

Event listing online

Sat., Oct. 31, 10 am - 3 pm
Free with museum admission, one costumed child 12 & under free with ea. paying adult

Wander around the castle on the scariest day of the year. Creatures of the doom (aka from the Higgins’ exhibit Beyond Belief: The Curious Collection of Professor Rufus Excalibur Bell) are loose throughout the museum as well as wizards, vampires, ghosts, fairies and a mad scientist. Activities include trick-or-treat, games and crafts.

And then there's costumes

All you need to know is Halloween Outlet. Go there. They've got "over 30,000 square feet filled with an extensive inventory of masks, props, animatronics, makeup, wigs, hats, costumes, rental costumes and more."

Halloween Outlet
540 WEST BOYLSTON STREET
WORCESTER, MA 01606
PHONE NUMBER: (508) 852-4500

Support Local: Get Pumpkins At A Farm

2009-10-18T07:48:00.016-05:00

5 Places to Pick Your Own Pumpkin

I've only got 5 listed here but there are many others. I selected farms that have web sites to make your planning easier. Make sure you check before going out to confirm they still have what you are looking for. Most important thing: Have fun!

So, here they are, in no particular order:

Charlton Orchards

Open for apple & pumpkin picking 7 days a week, check their site for schedule. In addition to the apples and pumpkins they've got: Cider, Pies, tomatoes, Winter squash, Apple Dumplings, Cider Donuts, Pears, and Ice Cream.

Charlton Orchards
44 Old Worcester Road
Charlton, MA 01507
Phone: (508) 248-7820 or (800) 649-1476
Email: info@charltonorchard.com
URL: Charlton Orchards web site

Wojcik's Farm

Pumpkin picking, corn maze and wagon rides. They have posted that apple picking is over for the season but they do have apples available in their store. This farm also allows you to bring your dog along but they must be leashed and you have to clean up after them.

Wojick's Farm
65 Milk Street
Blackstone, MA 01504
Phone: 508-883-9220
Hours: Thurs & Fri: 5PM- 9PM
Weekends: 10AM-8PM
Last day of the season: Sunday, November 1
URL: www.wojcikfarm.com

Westward Orchards Farm

Wagon rides to the pumpkin patch. Their season is from Sept. 19 through Oct. 25 - weekends only, 11am-4pm. Sorry, this one doesn't allow the 'fur children' so the dogs will have to stay at home.

Westward Orchards Farm
Mass Ave. Route 111
Harvard, MA
Phone: (978) 456-8363
URL: www.westwardorchards.com

George Hill Orchards

It's Apple Festival Time at George Hill Orchards featuring live music, hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo and a shop with all sorts of good things from the farm. Pick your own apples and pumpkins started September 28.

George Hill Orchards
582 George Hill Road
So. Lancaster, MA 01561
Phone: (978) 365-4331
URL: George Hill Orchards
Hours: Sunday- Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm - Closed Saturday and Monday

Olde Nourse Farm

Their tagline on the web site is 'Jam so good you'll forget the bread' - sounds pretty good. Nourse Farm has a farm store, pick your own crops and also has a 'Community Supported Agriculture' program (see web site for details). Pick your own pumpkins from Sept. 20 - Oct. 31.

Olde Nourse Farm Gourmet
80 Nourse Street (Route 30)
Westborough, Massachusetts 01581
Phone: 202-657-6568
URL: www.oldenoursefarmgourmet.com

More Massachusetts Farms

There are many other farms listed on the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources web site.

Haunted Happenings & Other Fun at Higgins

2009-10-17T08:15:00.009-05:00

It's time for Halloween and Higgins is ready. They've got the 'Haunted Higgins' event, the 'Beyond Belief' exhibit on display (meet the artist, Hilary Scott), and they've got Fall Sword Classes. Of course, the Historical Combat, Viking and other demonstrations will be taking place. The demonstrations are always a lot of fun and very informative.

Visiting Higgins

The Higgins Armory Museum is located at 100 Barber Ave.,Worcester, MA
On the web: www.higgins.org
Phone: 508/853-6015

Hours are Tues.-Sat., 10 am – 4 pm, Sun. from noon – 4 pm.

NEW ADMISSION PRICES: Adults, $10; children (age 4-16), $7; members and children, ages 3 and under, free.

All programs are free with museum admission unless otherwise noted.

October Events at Higgins

Haunted Higgins

Sat., Oct. 31, 10 am - 3 pm
Free with museum admission, one costumed child 12 & under free with ea. paying adult

Sculpting Your Dreams: A Practical Guide to Tools, Techniques, and Materials

Sat., Oct. 24, 11 - 11:30 am
Free with museum admission

Artist Hilary Scott, creator of the fantastical creatures in Beyond Belief: The Curious Collection of Professor Rufus Excalibur Bell, guides visitors through the process of creating real objects from the imagination. Learn the techniques he used to bring some of the creatures in the Higgins’ “Department of Curiosities” to life.

Fall Classes with The Academy of the Sword

Learn ancient swordplay traditions, get in shape and have some fun. Visit the Academy of the Sword web page for more information.

The Art of the Rapier

4 sessions, Oct. 31 – Nov. 21
2- 3:30 pm

Learn the elegant, lethal martial art of the Renaissance swordsman. This introductory course offers a hands-on experience of the days of legend and romance while developing fitness, improving coordination, and having fun. Ages 14 and up. $125 ($100 for members).

School of Swordplay

Adult class: Tues. and Thurs., 6:30 - 8 pm
Youth class: Thurs., 5 - 6 pm
$180 for 8 sessions (members $150)

Wield the knightly longsword or the musketeer's deadly rapier while receiving expert instruction in dueling sabre and the classical forms of modern fencing weapons. Ages 14 and up.

Advance registration required. Call Rhonda at (508) 853-6015, ext 20, or rhoule@higgins.org for info and to register.

Links for 2009-10-16 [del.icio.us]

2009-10-17T00:00:00-07:00

CSSline - All about excellent css sites.
Awesome web site showcase site. Great filtering features helps browsing.

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:09:05-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:08:43-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:08:21-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:08:04-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:07:45-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

october 2009 [Flickr]

2009-10-10T14:07:29-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

our tree is being eaten

My kids. September 2009 [Flickr]

2009-09-28T04:44:42-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

My kids. September 2009 [Flickr]

2009-09-28T04:44:28-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

My kids. September 2009 [Flickr]

2009-09-28T04:44:07-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

My kids. September 2009 [Flickr]

2009-09-28T04:43:53-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

My kids. September 2009 [Flickr]

2009-09-28T04:43:34-07:00

Claudia Snell posted a photo:

stART On The Street 2009 was awesome :-)

2009-09-20T19:35:00.002-05:00

Coats for Kids Fundraising Event

2009-09-19T08:21:00.009-05:00

Help Keep Worcester's Children Warm

Worcester Public Schools, Worcester Educational Development Foundation, Inc. and Junior League of Worcester, Inc. are holding their annual Coats for Kids Fundraiser. They're raising money to provide coats, gloves and mittens for children in need in the Worcester Public Schools.

Details

Admission: $10.00
When: Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Where: Hibernian Cultural Center, 19 Temple Street, Worcester, MA

Buy Tickets

Go to:
Educational Association of Worcester 397 Grove St
Worcester Credit Union 520 W.Boylston St, 315 Main St, 1 Skyline Dr.

Contact: Christina Roberts - cair00@msn.com / 508-799-3030
Or contact:

Andrea Caplan Landae@charter.net
Paula Harrity Harrity@worc.k12.ma.us
Michael Lyons LyonsM@techhigh.us
Jennifer Tarka jtarka@hanover.com

What it's all about:

For 21 years, the Coats for Kids Program has provided new coats, hats and mittens to children in the Worcester Public Elementary Schools...enabling them to come to school ready to learn.
The Worcester Public Schools, the Worcester Educational Development Foundation and the Junior League of Worcester invite you to the 2nd Annual Coats for Kids Fundraising Event.
Your $10.00 donation will help provide NEW winter outerwear for a child in need.
Enjoy light refreshments, cash bar and music by Mulligan Stew, Bo Sharry & Ira Caplan
50/50 Cash Raffle, Prize Raffle and Silent Auction. Enter the DIRECT AIR RAFFLE for a chance to win 2 free round trip tickets to anywhere Direct Air flies out of Worcester
Special thanks to our sponsors:
The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation
Educational Association of Worcester
Worcester Credit Union
Direct Air
Loeffler-Randall
Don Morrison Glass

YOU!

Links for 2009-09-05 [del.icio.us]

2009-09-06T00:00:00-07:00

Many conservatives enraged over Obama school speech - CNN.com

ARRGH!! Pirates and the Festival of Ale @ Higgins

2009-09-03T05:27:00.004-05:00

The Annual Ale Festival at Higgins is coming up soon. They've also added a celebration of Talk Like a Pirate Day.

The Higgins Armory Museum:
Location: 100 Barber Ave., Worcester, MA
Email: higgins@higgins.org
Phone: 508/853-6015.
Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10 am – 4 pm, Sun. from noon – 4 pm.
Admission: $9, adults; $7, children ages 6-16; $8, seniors, age 60+; free, children 5 and under, and members.

OK - Here's what Higgins has for us:

Avast ye, matey!

It’s all hands on deck at the Higgins Armory Museum this fall, as the museum launches programs ranging from honing pirate vocabulary to celebrating locally-crafted ales. In honor of “International Talk Like a Pirate Day” on September 19, the museum offers a weekend of pirate activities and fun. Later that evening is the popular Festival of Ale, featuring brews from across New England. A complete list of activities is available at www.higgins.org; all programs are free with museum admission unless otherwise noted.

SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS
Talk Like a Pirate Weekend
Sat., Sept. 19 - Sun., Sept. 20, 10 am – 4 pm
Avast ye land lubbers! Pirates invade the Higgins Armory Museum for a rip-roaring weekend. Learn how to talk like a pirate (“arrgh”) or duel with a cutlass, a pirate sword. Games, crafts and prizes for the best-attired pirates. Only a bilge rat would miss this swashbuckling event. For more information, e-mail higgins@higgins.org or visit www.higgins.org.
Festival of Ale
Sat., Sept. 19, 6-9 pm
Advance tickets: $35, $25 for members
Tickets at door: $45. Designated drivers: $5.
Eat, drink and be merry at this popular annual celebration of hand-crafted New England beers in the Higgins’ Great Hall. Sample regional beers, meet area brewers and other beer enthusiasts. Tickets on sale now at higgins@higgins.org or 508/853-6015.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS
14th Century Knight: Armor in Transition
Sat., Sept. 12, 11:30 - noon
Why did knights change from using mail armor to plate? Why did it take nearly 150 years? These are just some of the questions answered in this program focusing on the evolution of knightly armor.
Martial Arts of the Medieval Knight Class Begins
Sat., Sept. 12, 1:30-3:00 pm
$100 for museum members, $125 for non-members
Discover how medieval knights used various weapons in battle, including the long sword, dagger, staff weapons, and armor. The class consists of four, 1 1/2-hour weekly sessions. No experience or equipment necessary. Participants must be 18 years or older, or 14 with a participating parent. Pre-registration required. For questions or to register, contact Rhonda Houle at (508) 853-6015, ext 20, or higgins@higgins.org.
Legio III Cyrenaica Roman Legion
Sat., Sept. 12, 2-2:30 pm
Meet members of the famed Roman legion based in Egypt from 60-100 AD/CE, portrayed by a living history group. Learn about the Legion’s history, weapons, tactics and daily life in this engaging presentation.
Arms and Armor Show
Sun., Sept. 13 & Sept. 27, 12:30-1 pm, 2:30-3 p.m.

Sat., Sept. 26, 11:30 am – noon, 2-2:30 pm
This interactive program covers the history of armor, from its evolution as mail to plate armor to its disappearance, then modern reappearance on the battlefield. Volunteers from the audience may help with the demonstration.
OCTOBER PROGRAMS
Haunted Higgins
Sat., Oct. 31
$9 – adults, $7-children; one costumed child (12 and under) free with each paying adult.
A “spooktacular” day for the entire family. Storytelling, trick or treating, creepy crafts, and ghouls and goblins around every corner. Prizes for best costumes, kids and adults. For more information, e-mail higgins@higgins.org.
About the Higgins

The Higgins Armory Museum is the only American museum dedicated solely to the art of arms and armor. The museum’s 5,000 artifacts center on the arms and armor of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, including comparable pieces from the ancient period and from around the world.

Links for 2009-08-25 [del.icio.us]

2009-08-26T00:00:00-07:00

“The Sea Also Rises” A Collaboration — TRAGIC SUNSHINE

PechaKucha Worcester - Vol. 2

2009-08-24T06:17:00.004-05:00

IMG_6107, originally uploaded by michellem1.

PechaKucha is coming again. The first one was a huge success. I'm sure the second will be just as awesome.

What Is A PechaKucha?

It's an event where a series of creative people show their stuff. Each is allowed 20 images shown for 20 seconds each - total time of a presentation is 6 minutes 40 seconds. These events are held in cities all over the world. Go see the official web site for more about these events.

The purpose is to start conversations about the works but to keep the presentations fast paced and short. The point is to keep it high energy.

The second PechaKucha Worcester event will feature about 8 presenters (organizers haven't released the final list as of this post). It's an all ages event with no cover charge. There will be a cash bar.

Where and When?

When:
Sunday, September 13, 2009
7:20pm - 10:20pm

Where:
55 Pearl G.A.R. Hall
Worcester, MA

Get More Information:

PechaKucha Worcester web site

Contact Michelle May with questions.

OR - you can contact organizers through the Facebook event posting.

Links for 2009-08-22 [del.icio.us]

2009-08-23T00:00:00-07:00

Personas | Metropath(ologies) | An installation by Aaron Zinman
Very cool persona visualization experiment. Shows you what you look like from the web's point of view.

Links for 2009-08-19 [del.icio.us]

2009-08-20T00:00:00-07:00

40 Free High Quality Hand-drawn Fonts

Slow Art @ Worcester Art Museum

2009-08-19T17:49:00.003-05:00

Institute Park, Worcester, MA / May 2009, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

Just the basic facts:

Slow Art, Worcester
Worcester Art Museum
55 Salisbury Street | Worcester, MA
Saturday, October 17, 2009
10:30AM - 12:30PM - art viewing, 1:00PM -2:00PM Lunch The Museum Cafe
Fee: You pay the museum admission yourself day of the event and also pay for your own lunch.
***YOU MUST REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT***
Reserve a spot via Eventbrite:
http://slowartworcester2009-efbevent.eventbrite.com

And a little more detail:

Slow Art at Worcester Art Museum is coming in October. This is an interesting event - participants will tour the museum and look at pieces of art for between 10+ minutes. The point is to help participants practice seeing art in new ways.

Here's how it works:

1. You register at the link above (so we can send you further instructions and confirm the size of our lunch)
2. You arrive at 10:30 on October 17, pay your admission and then go look at two or more art pieces for 10+ minutes each. Note: we'll send you some suggestions ahead of time for pieces to look at - and recommend that first-time attendees spend 10-15 minutes with each work of art.
3. That's it - you arrive, pay your museum admission price, look at art slowly and then join us for lunch.
4. Oh, and come dressed distinctively.
5. Spread the word.

Questions?

This event has been organized by the very awesome Michelle May, (www.festivalcreative.blogspot.com and www.cirquedunoir.org). You should swing by one of her sites to contact her OR you could check out the event information on Facebook.

UPDATES TO POST: Set For Success Backpack and School Supply Drive

2009-08-19T16:43:00.004-05:00

Updates - August 19, 2009

From Kate Toomey:

We are thrilled to add both the Junior League of Worcester and the JCC as partners in this year's Set for Success Program. I have also updated the description of the program with the latest numbers which I received after this was announced.
I have also updated the contact information and the box location list.

City Councilor Kate Toomey
508-963-9315
508-799-1049

Susan Daly, Friendly House
508-755-4362
Christina Roberts
508-612-8952
Dorothy Hargrove
508-755-5770
and the Box Locations:
Worcester Public Library, Main Branch, Greendale Branch and Great Brook Valley Branch
Webster House Restaurant
City Hall, Second Floor Lobby by the Clerk’s Office
Worcester Police Department Lobby
Worcester Fire Headquarters on Grove Street
Congressman McGovern’s Office, 34 Mechanic Street
Riley’s Restaurant

Fiddler’s Green Restaurant and Pub on Temple Street
Sweet on Shrewsbury Street
WPI Campus Center - Contact Jay Sparling @ 508-831-6436
JCC 633 Salisbury Street

About The Program & What They Need

Here's the information about what you can do to help

Set For Success Backpack and School Supply Drive

2009-08-19T05:49:00.008-05:00

Please see updates here

There are changes to contact information and to drop-off locations

The Fourth Annual Set For Success School Supply Drive

City Councilor Kate Toomey and Susan Daly, Friendly House announced the kick of of the Fourth Set For Success School Supply Drive. Beginning on August 19, 2009, they will be collecting supplies to help Worcester students.

Kate Toomey and Friendly House are collecting school supplies for kids in Worcester whose families need a little extra help with “back to school” preparations. They are asking everyone who can to help out by purchasing some school supplies that they can distribute to homeless or disadvantaged children and teens.

Here's what they need:

Pens, pencils, crayons, rulers, notebooks, highlighters, calculators, etc. and/or a backpack – you get the picture, the stuff any kid would need to get back to school.

Where to Drop Off Supplies

Look for the yellow “Set for Success” boxes located at:

Worcester Public Library, Main Branch, Greendale Branch and Great Brook Valley Branch
Webster House Restaurant
City Hall, Second Floor Lobby by the Clerk’s Office
Worcester Police Department Lobby
Worcester Fire Headquarters on Grove Street
Congressman McGovern’s Office, 34 Mechanic Street
Riley’s Restaurant
Fiddler’s Green Restaurant and Pub on Temple Street

Can't Drop Off Supplies? Mail Them a Check:

Friendly House—Set For Success, and mailed to:
Friendly House
Set For Success
36 Wall Street
Worcester, MA 01604

Businesses and organizations are being encouraged to participate by holding their own drives. If you are interested, please contact them to register the location. They will help you by supplying posters and fliers.

Contact:
City Councilor Kate Toomey at 508-963-9315 or
Susan Daly, Administrative Assistant, Friendly House at (508)755-4362

Please see updates here

There are changes to contact information and to drop-off locations

From Kate Toomey’s announcement:

The Worcester Public Schools have identified a total number of 2,467 students officially designated as homeless according to State and Federal Guidelines. A significant number of these students, 654, are living in foster homes.
This initiative has become a critical component in ensuring children’s readiness to learn. Three years since the inception of this program, the needs are greater now than ever. The cost of fuel and heating oil are expected to have a debilitating financial impact on family income. Today, the choices between food, heat, and a roof overhead become more difficult, leaving little or nothing in the way of providing these necessary tools for the students, and public support is greatly needed.
We are most grateful to our partners in this endeavor, who have graciously agreed again to be collection sites for the supplies.

Please feel free to link, copy, paste, pass along or otherwise distribute this post. It’s really important to get the word out!

stART On The Street 2009 is coming - September 20

2009-08-18T06:27:00.003-05:00

stART On The Street, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

It's almost time for stART On The Street! We love going out to this event. There's fun stuff for the kids to do, lots of great art and music AND we get to see a lot of fabulous people.

Where and When

Sunday, September 20, 2009
11:00am - 5:00pm
Park Ave., between Highland St. & Pleasant St.
Worcester, MA

From the stART Crew

A main stage area hosts a variety of live bands from rock & roll, alternative country, jazz, world music and more. Street performers entertain on the street level; everything from Africa-Brazilian Capoeira demonstrations, a cappella groups, acoustic music, dance and many more genres of performance art. A Youth Activities area with local organizations hosting interactive art activities has been a popular attraction for families throughout the years.

www.startonthestreet.org

Never been to stART on the street?

I've got a bunch of photos and some video too. It will give you a good idea of what's out there. Better yet, come out on September 20 and see for yourself.

stART 2008 photos

stART 2007 photos

Art In The Park, 2009 - Sculptured Blooms

2009-08-10T19:22:00.002-05:00

Art In The Park, 2009, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

Looking for something fun to do this coming Saturday? (That's August 15)

You could pop over to Elm Park for the Sculptured Blooms event being held in conjunction with the Art In The Park exhibits. Some of the area's best florists will be out there doing interpretations of some of the pieces of art. If you've seen the Flora in Winter event, you know this is going to be a cool thing. If you haven't been to Flora in Winter - you've really been missing out. You should get out on Saturday and mark your calendar for next winter.

Check out the post at Sprout's blog for more information.

Art In The Park, 2009 - Photography Contest

2009-08-10T19:15:00.002-05:00

Art In The Park, 2009, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

To all photographers, students, amateurs and professionals, there's a Photography contest being held in conjunction with the Art In The Park sculpture exhibit in Elm Park.

From the Worcester Photography Center:

The Worcester Cultural Commission and the Worcester Photography Center are getting together to bring you the “Art in the Park Photo Contest.”

Go to their web site for all the details and rules.

Art In The Park, 2009 / Elm Park, Worcester, MA

2009-08-09T07:44:00.008-05:00

Art in the Park, 2009, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

We found a great way to spend a day with the kids (and inexpensive too). Yesterday, we went out to Elm Park in Worcester to check out the 'Art In The Park' exhibit.

They've selected pieces that should appeal to all ages; colorful, interesting and lots of fun.

The event is free and since it's in a park you can bring your own snacks or a whole picnic if you want.

We went wild and hit Pinecroft Restaurant after the art. The grand total for the day (family of three) was $18 which includes the tip.

More photos:
By Cynthia Woehrle
My set on Flickr

Exhibit Schedule:
Tuesday, July 21 – Sunday, July 26 Installation of sculptures
Thursday, August 6
6:30-7:15pm Concert, Part 1
7:15-7:45pm Artist Walk-through
7:45-8:30pm Concert, Part 2
8:30pm Award Ceremony, followed by artist reception Park Spirit concert and award ceremony for prize-winning sculptures, with artist reception and walk through.
Thursday, October 1 – Sunday, October 4 De-Installation
More information on the Worcester Cultural Commission's web site

Redcoats and Rebels @ Old Sturbridge Village

2009-08-01T16:45:00.004-05:00

Redcoats and Rebels @ Old Sturbridge Village, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

Old Sturbridge Village is having a huge event this weekend. It's a Revolutionary War reenactment extravaganza out there. There are hundreds of participants camped all over OSV, all wearing period costumes. We went out today and saw a huge Revolutionary War battle (Redcoats still lost) and lots of other fun stuff.

The weather is beautiful and the festivities are going on tomorrow (Sunday, Aug. 2) also so you've still got a chance to head out there and see all the fun.

Go to their site for information

More pictures

Are you considering getting a new cat?

2009-07-19T07:04:00.005-05:00

Community Cat Connection /Webster, MA, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

We spent the day helping socialize cats and kittens at the Community Cat Connection in Webster, MA. They've got about a dozen adorable babies looking for homes along with many very wonderful adults also looking for homes.

Community Cat Connection is a no-kill cat shelter serving Dudley, Webster, Oxford. They provide various services including: intake/placement of cats whose owners can not care for them; rescue of abandoned cats and kittens; assistance with controlling feral cat populations; and more - visit their site for details.

If you would like to adopt a cat or kitten OR if you'd like to help them continue providing these much needed services please visit their web site: http://www.ccatconnect.org

>>EDIT - I forgot about their Facebook and Twitter - OOPS!!<<
Become a fan of the Community Cat Connection on Facebook:
CCC on Facebook

and on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/CCatConnectOrg

The shelter is always in need of reliable volunteers, supplies (blankets, beds, toys, food, litter - etc.) and, of course, money.

More photos of the kitties at CCC on my Flickr

Vikings Invade Higgins Armory Museum - July 12, 2009

2009-07-07T06:21:00.004-05:00

I just got information about a fun event that will be taking place at Higgins Armory Museum. The Vikings will invade with presentations, activities and crafts for the kids.
Here's the details:

Brandish a Sword, Create a Shield During Day-Long Event
Brandishing swords, shields, and broadaxes, the most famous raiders of medieval Europe, the Vikings, invade the Higgins Armory Museum on Saturday, July 18. This modern-day Viking Invasion features workshops, demonstrations, lectures and arts and crafts about this fascinating group of explorers, warriors, and merchants who colonized much of Europe from the late eighth to the early eleventh century. Dr. William R. Short, an author and scholar on the arms and combat techniques of the Vikings, will demonstrate Viking battle techniques and afterwards sign copies of his new book, Viking Weapons and Combat Techniques. For a complete list of programs and times, visit www.higgins.org or call 508/853-6015 for more information.

“People like learning about Vikings, particularly kids,” says Short, who has studied medieval Icelandic literature, primarily the Sagas of Icelanders, and regularly demonstrates Viking combat techniques at the Higgins. “Their stories are exciting and there’s a bit of a fantasy element. But what’s most surprising to audiences (who watch our combat demonstrations) is how intensely they fought in combat.”

Short’s book provides insight into Viking history and culture as well as the importance of weaponry to their society and the Vikings’ impact on Europe through trade and expeditions. Short and members of the Higgins Armory Sword Guild will demonstrate Viking warrior combat skills during Vikings in Arms!, at 12:45 and 2:45 pm in the Higgins’ Sword Guild training room. Other programs include:

Axe, Sword and Shield!
Workshop, $10 per person
1pm, 3pm
Learn the skills that made the Vikings the most feared warriors in Europe. This one-hour hands-on workshop features the combat skills and battle tactics of the Vikings. Participants handle a sword and shield, a spear, and the fearsome Viking axe. Workshop open to ages 14 and up, or age 10 if accompanied by a participating parent. Space limited. For inquiries and reservations, contact Rhonda Houle at rhoule@higgins.org or 508/853-6015 x20.

Women in Viking Times
Lecture, Free
11:30 am – Noon
Viking women were the most respected women of their time. Dr. William Short puts down his weapons to discuss the feminine side of Viking life, how Viking families lived, and the role of women in Viking society.

Viking Warrior Presentation
Free, 2-2:30 pm
Dr. William Short discusses the culture, daily life, and military equipment of this legendary and fearsome society. Afterwards, Short signs copies of Viking Weapons and Combat Technique. This exciting new book explores the history of the arms, armor, and individual fighting strategies of medieval Europe's most feared warriors. For more information, e-mail higgins@higgins.org or call 508-853-6015.

Arts & Crafts
Throughout the day
Kids create rune necklaces and Viking shields ($5 fee). For children ages 4+.

About the Higgins
The Higgins Armory Museum is the only American museum dedicated solely to the art of arms and armor. The museum’s 5,000 artifacts center on the arms and armor of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, including comparable pieces from the ancient period and from around the world. The Higgins Armory Museum is located at 100 Barber Avenue; 508/853-6015. Admission: $9, adults; $7, children ages 6-16; $8, seniors, age 60+; free, children 5 and under, and members.

2009 New England Summer Nationals

2009-07-05T07:43:00.005-05:00

We went out to the Summer Nationals yesterday (Saturday). This year did not disappoint! The weather was perfect; sunny with a cool breeze. It looks like today will also be perfect weather out there. The crowds were great yesterday. A lot of people were clearing out of my way so I could get pictures - not necessary but MUCH appreciated! The cars are spectacular this year! Well worth the $12 to get into Greenhill Park.

I've got about 450 photos spanning 4 years of Summer Nationals at this time:
I have posted my photos on Flickr.
I've also got photos of 2006, 2007 and 2008 on Flickr.

Sad update about our swan family.

2009-07-03T14:51:00.001-05:00

Institute Park, Worcester, MA, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

I just found out that some horrible person killed one of the precious baby swans from Institute Park. I am sick.

read here

I hope that if anyone hears anything about who may have done this that they come forward. A person who could do such a thing to a defenseless baby bird needs some serious help.

19th Annual New England Summer Nationals

2009-06-30T06:08:00.002-05:00

2006 New England Summer Nationals, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

I cannot believe it's almost time for the Summer Nationals again. The weather outlook isn't so great though. I hope the reports are wrong. Everyone could use a nice weekend around here.

New England Summer Nationals
July 2 - July 5
All over Worcester - go see their site for details

I love to photograph the cars - I've posted a bunch of pictures from the last three years on Flickr. I hope to get out this year too. We'll see....

Lieutenant Governor Murray's Testimony for the Municipal Partnership Act

2009-05-31T15:34:00.002-05:00

Visit http://www.timmurray.org to find out about what Lieutenant Governor Murray is doing for us all.