Friday, February 27, 2009

Filmmakers Bring the World to Boston

A global event approaches that you’ve probably never heard of. I only recently learned that March 8 is the 98th annual International Women's Day.

An official holiday in many countries, Women’s Day honors women worldwide with thousands of events each year.

Bostonians can celebrate with women across the globe March 4-9 during the second annual Boston International Women's Day Film Festival organized by Hostelling International.

Screenings will feature local, national and international films hoping to inspire change on behalf of women everywhere.

This festival promises to build upon last year’s screenings at venues such as Gallery 263 . Annie Newbold, Gallery 263 owner: “Last year was a success because of the high attendance and because the intimate setting allowed for great discussions and left people feeling this strong circular connection.”

Described by famed filmmaker Pare Lorentz as "a factual film which is dramatic,” documentary film moves and educates audiences like no other medium. Its accessibility and credibility help prove what would be hard to imagine otherwise.

Nicole Sheldon-Desjardins, Director of Programs and Education, Hostelling International USA: “In order to truly understand another culture, you need to experience it. Film is a great medium for providing a glimpse into another's life.”

Margaret Mead wisely advised, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.” I don’t know if change will come soon, but I plan to join in the discussion, to hope and fight for change and to write about it all the way. Sphere: Related Content

Get Ready for Warm Weather at the Zoos

Leaping Frogs, Hopping Bunnies and
Exciting Sleepovers
Await You and Your Family

With the next couple months bringing warmer weather, now is the perfect time to start planning your family’s Spring fun at Zoo New England's Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo.

Leap Into Spring, March 8

Franklin Park Zoo -- Celebrate Spring and learn how to help our threatened and endangered frog friends through games and other activities. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. for children ages 3 to 4, and from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. for children ages 8 to 10. $8 for members and $10 for non-members (includes adult/child pair for the early class). To register, call 617-989-3742.

Stone Zoo -- Learn about frogs and other amphibians at the Animal Discovery Center from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bunny Bonanzoo, April 11

Stone Zoo -- Celebrate Easter with Bunny Bonanzoo from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. There will be holiday games, craft making and seed planting and a special guest - the Easter Bunny.

Snorin’ Roarin’ Sleepovers, Year Round at Both Zoos

Spend the night at the Zoo and go behind the scenes, play games, tell stories, enjoy zookeeper presentations, experience animal encounters and more.
-- Southwestern Siesta in the Sierra Madre (Stone Zoo)
-- Tropical Forest Trek (Franklin Park Zoo)
-- Cock-A-Doodle-Zoo Barnyard Adventure (Franklin Park Zoo)

Friday and Saturday (by request only) from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 a.m. Includes a light evening snack and breakfast the next morning.

For more information or to register, call 617-989-3742 or e-mail education@zoonewengland.com. Four week pre-registration is required. Additional themed sleepovers are available during warmer months. Sphere: Related Content