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Mary Baker Eddy Library and Mapparium

March 19th, 2008 by jamie a

Mary Baker Eddy quoteMary Baker Eddy quote Photo uploaded by Go Card USA

After going on a Photo Walks tour with Saba, I headed over to the stunning Mary Baker Eddy Library and Mapparium for the second leg of my fabulous field trip day. I had heard about how “absolutely amazing” standing in the center of the Mapparium was from one of my coworkers, so I was very excited about experiencing it myself.

The three-story stained-glass globe, created in 1935, is frozen in time, and represents a world that no longer exists. As you stand on the glass walkway that traverses through the center of the earth, there’s an accompanying narration show entitled A World of Ideas that brings the ideas and story of the Mapparium to life.

I felt a bit spoiled during my visit to the Mapparium, as I got to experience the exhibit all by myself! It’s quite an experience to stand in the middle of a stunningly beautiful three-story glass globe alone. My tour guide told me that one of the best ways to experience the globe is to whisper something into the air and marvel at the whisper traveling back to your own ear. I promise that the acoustics are nothing like you’ve ever experienced before.

After you’ve seen the Mapparium, I suggest also taking the time to explore the library and museum exhibits upstairs, which paint a portrait of Mary Baker Eddy herself. From her humble beginnings to her thoughtful spirit, the exhibit is the largest collections by and about an American woman.

The month of March is Women’s History Month, so it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the Mary Baker Eddy Library and Mapparium! I hope you enjoy your visit as much as I enjoyed mine.

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The Future of Transportation in Boston

March 18th, 2008 by will n

Green Line SubwayRiding the Green Line Photo courtesy of Boston University School of Law

Boston has always prided itself as being different from New York City. We’ve always thought of our city as smaller, but in a good way. We’ve always marveled on our historically lower crime rate, cost of living and general population congestion. Furthermore, we’ve always frowned on the intense traffic congestion that has made New York City into a public transportation city.

However, increasing fuel, living, and housing costs have started Boston on a path similar to our big brother NYC. A recent article in the Boston Globe stated that the increasing gas price has drastically increased the popularity of the bus services between Boston and New York City. This increased popularity has opened the doors for small competitors like Fung Wah and Lucky Star which have thrown the first punch in a price war similar to the airline industry during the 1978 deregulation. Read more

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Photo Walks Tour

March 14th, 2008 by jamie a

State HouseMassachusetts State House with General Joseph Hooker Statue Photo uploaded by Go Card USA

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of taking a little field trip to go on a Photo Walks Tour with Saba Alhadi!

The tour, entitled Footsteps to Freedom, began at the Shaw Memorial, right in front of the Massachusetts State House. Right from the beginning, I knew that Saba was going to give us great tips and inspiration for capturing images that really represented the history and culture of Boston. In addition to photography tips, the tour also covers the history and culture of each of the stops along the way.

I had brought two cameras with me, one manual digital camera and one point-and-shoot, due to the fact that my camera can act up at inopportune times. Luckily, Saba’s tour is appropriate for all kinds of cameras, as she takes into account that tourists generally bring small, automatic cameras with them on tours. My camera did end up with issues, so I used my boyfriend’s Casio Exilim, which worked perfectly with Saba’s instruction.

Since I’ve only lived in Boston since May of 2007, the tour was a wonderful opportunity to be touristy again and get photos of landmarks that I walk by on a daily basis. In addition to offering tips on great spots for photo opportunities, Saba really inspired the group to notice the “everyday” and look for moments to capture in unlikely places. At each “prime photo location,” Saba provided individual attention to each group member, helping us figure out the intricacies of our cameras.

This tour genuinely made me appreciate where I live, along with inspiring me to get out there and take more photos! It’s a great activity for those who want an intimate tour with personal attention which will give them great tips on bringing home unique photographs to share with friends and family.

Here’s a big thanks to Saba for the tour and if you’d like to see all the photos I took on the tour, check out my Photo Walks set on Flickr!

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Skating on Boston’s Frog Pond

March 12th, 2008 by jamie a

Ice Skating on the Frog PondIce Skating on the Frog Pond Photo uploaded by Paul Keleher

With an anticipated closing date of March 17th, this is your last chance to go ice skating on Boston’s famed Frog Pond!

Recently voted among the top ten ice skating rinks in the United States by Budget Travel, the Frog Pond is a favorite of tourists and locals alike. Located in the oldest park in America, the Frog Pond is open year round, offering prime skating territory in the winter and a splashing and wading pond during the warmer months.

After taking a spin around the ice, you can visit the Park Street Church, the new Massachusetts State House, and start your walk along the famous Freedom Trail.

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Women’s History Month Events in Boston

March 10th, 2008 by stacy b

Museum of Fine ArtsMuseum of Fine Arts Photo uploaded by Go Card USA

As you may know, March is Women’s History Month, and Boston is hosting all sorts of festivities in the city! From concerts to exhibitions, the city will honor this month with at least 20 events, some of which will be held throughout the month.

A variety of events will take place at the Museum of Fine Arts, including musical performances by various female artists and the screening of the film, “Beyond Belief” about two women’s struggles and humanitarian efforts after losing their husbands in 9/11.

To view a full list and details of the March activities, check out the Women’s History Month Events page on bostonusa.com.

If you miss the opportunity to celebrate women’s heritage with Boston this month, you can always visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum or the Institute of Contemporary Art, two attractions that promote influential women year round!

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Museum of Science Offers Glimpse of Spring

March 7th, 2008 by susan j

Butterfly Exhibit Museum of ScienceBoston Museum of Science Butterfly Garden Photo uploaded by crschmidt

This week in Boston was delightfully spring-like. But this weekend, it’s back to rain, wind, and cold (welcome to New England). If you’re craving a breath of sweet, spring air, then my suggestion is to visit the Museum of Science. In addition to over 600 interactive exhibits, the Museum also offers a Butterfly Garden, which is filled with colorful butterflies and exotic plants from around the world. This warm, tropical oasis overlooks the Charles River.

It’s the perfect way to escape the cold and learn all about butterflies, including the four stages of butterfly life (egg, caterpillar, chrysalid, and adult) and butterfly activities such as feeding, courting, and basking. Kids will love seeing these beautiful butterflies up close, and nature lovers will appreciate the intricate details that differentiate each species. Reservations are recommended.

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Boston Brews

March 5th, 2008 by jamie a

Harpoon BreweryHarpoon Brewery Photo uploaded by Aaron Gustafson

Since Saint Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, it’s time to start making plans for the big day! Boston’s mighty proud of its Irish heritage and the city is famed for throwing amazing Saint Patrick’s Day parties.

If you’re going to be in the city, the delightful folks at Harpoon Brewery are throwing a party inside their brewery, which is the largest in Boston. From Friday, March 7 to Saturday, March 8th, you can get your fill of delicious brews, corned beef and hash, live Irish and rock and roll bands, along with tons of people jigging away on the dancefloor.

There’s also tours of the Sam Adams Brewery, where you can drink and learn at the same time! Sam’s classic brews are a staple of life in Boston and if you’ve got a Go Boston Card, your entry is included, making an even sweeter deal.

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Winter Drinks

March 3rd, 2008 by jamie a

CocktailsA Fine Selection of Cocktails Photo uploaded by r0b1

If you’re sick of staying inside on these chilly nights, never fear! For starters, it’s already March, so it’s got to be warmer…right? You can always just grab a scarf and mittens and head out for a night on the town despite the chill.

To get you started, Boston.com has put together a list of new winter drinks to try and where to find them in the city. From the traditional hot toddy at Alchemist Lounge to the new and inventive “snow globe” at Chez Henri, there’s plenty of ways to keep warm.

Cheers!

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Vegan Dining in Boston

February 29th, 2008 by jamie a

GrasshopperDining at Grasshopper Photo uploaded by presta

Fellow bloggers over at Bostonist.com illuminate the world of vegan dining in Boston, cluing us in to places we never knew existed. If you or a friend is vegan, traveling within a group to dine out can sometimes be a difficult experience. You don’t always want to sit there and simply munch on some veggies…you’d like a warm and filling meal like the rest of your group!

From the much anticipated opening of Grezzo, a 100% raw and vegan restaurant in the North End, to the tantalizing Asian fare of Grasshopper in Allston, Vegans can certainly dine happily in this city. There’s also Veggie Planet with delectable pizzas in the heart of Harvard Square, The Other Side Cafe with multitudes of Vegan and Vegetarian options, and Petit Robert Bistro, a traditional French restaurant with a couple Vegan offerings as well.

If you’re in the city on Wednesday, March 5, Upstairs on the Square in Harvard has teamed up with the Boston Vegan Association to have a four course Vegan meal. Make sure to make reservations, as the seats are sure to fill up fast.

Have a recommendation for more Vegan fare in the Boston area? Let us know in a comment!

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Boston Events for the Week of 2/28

February 28th, 2008 by jamie a

Thursday, February 28 (6 pm)
Head over to the Brattle Theatre in Harvard Square to hear Adrian Tomine read from his latest graphic novel, Shortcomings.

Friday, February 29 (7 pm)
Join the Campaign for the Central Square Theatre by attending the Sadie Hawkins’ Leap Year Extravaganza! Held at MIT’s student Stratton Center, there will be auctions, music and dancing, free food, drinks, and more.

Saturday, March 1 (4 pm)
The MFA will be showing the film Music for Social Change: Carry It On, following the political journeys of Joan Baez in the summer of ‘69.

Sunday, March 2 (6 pm)
Help out the newly formed 826 Boston with a benefit concert by Harry and the Potters! The benefit will fund a desperately needed P.A. system for 826, allowing them to give kids hands-on production experience.

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