Local Events

Plowshares was established in 1976 as a tax-exempt, non-profit early education and childcare program designed to provide enriching and nurturing learning experiences for young children and families living and working in Newton and its surrounding communities. This program has grown significantly and now operates three locations, all housed within Newton public school buildings, and its services are available to more than 200 families. Plowshares is a highly regarded program, having been accredited by NAEYC in Massachusetts and the nation, and recognized by Boston Magazine as one of the top preschool programs in the Boston area. The program offers toddlers, preschool, nursery, after-school, and summer fun camps for both preschoolers and school-age children, and it is seeking to become one of the first four-star QRIS centers in the state. The team at Plowshares is committed to providing the highest quality education and care services available. They strive to provide stimulating, enriching, and nurturing learning experiences for young children and families, enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential.

At our studio, creativity, independence, and fun are our highest goals. We believe that if you provide a supportive environment, people will come. Our space is filled with creative possibilities and the only limit is your own imagination. We provide instruction in the basics of sewing, which are easy to learn. Once the basics are mastered, the opportunities to advance are endless. Sewing is now an open field with fewer rules and regulations. We encourage people to explore and discover their own unique style, and we don’t shy away from mistakes; instead, we use them as valuable learning opportunities. It doesn’t matter what age you are; you can always learn this enjoyable and practical skill. Come see us and find out what makes us special!

At Giroux Bros. Martial Arts Summer Camp, we believe in the power of play and learning. Our camp is designed to be fun and engaging while helping children build up their confidence and respect for others. We take a holistic approach to camp, where kids can have fun, get fit, and develop important life skills all at the same time. Our campers will explore a variety of exciting activities that are designed to get them moving, learning, and growing. From fun games and interactive activities to exciting field trips, our camp has something for every child. Plus, they'll get to learn the style of Chun Kuk Do from our experienced Black belt instructors, which is a unique martial arts style founded by Grand Master Chuck Norris. At Giroux Bros. Martial Arts Summer Camp, we want your children to have the best summer ever while they learn the importance of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and respect for others. We guarantee that your child will have a blast while building up their confidence and getting fitter, smarter, and stronger.

Giroux Bros. Martial Arts opened its doors in 1999, and since then Steve Giroux and his team of Black Belt instructors have been providing training in the style of Chun Kuk Do, a martial arts program founded by Grand Master Chuck Norris. This unique style is known as “The Universal Way”, as it incorporates aspects of many different fighting styles into one. At GBMA, classes are available for people of all ages and skill levels. We provide programs for beginner students as young as four and have active adult students over the age of sixty. Our instructors are passionate about teaching and dedicated to helping students of all levels reach their full potential.

The Russell J. Halloran Sports and Recreation Complex, also known as Albemarle Playground, is a 24.9-acre city park located adjacent to Day Middle School and Horace Mann Elementary School. It is the City’s premier active use park and offers a variety of recreational activities for all ages. The Recreation Field House includes a meeting room, restrooms, and Harry Gath Memorial Pool and bathhouse. The complex also boasts a toddler wading pool, a lighted, fenced softball field, a softball diamond, a lighted regulation baseball field, a junior baseball field, a batting cage, a concession stand, and a regulation soccer field and lighted football field. Additionally, the complex also has two tennis courts and a full basketball court. The Albemarle Playground is also home to Newton’s July 4th fireworks celebration. The Albemarle Community Classroom is an accessible area with a large gazebo, benches, picnic tables, and planters. The playground also features accessible school-age play areas, a fenced pre-school play area, and a large swing area. There are 250 on-street parking spaces, including handicap accessible spaces. Parents and caregivers can feel confident that their children will have plenty of activities to enjoy at the Russell J. Halloran Sports and Recreation Complex. With its wide variety of recreational activities, this complex is sure to keep kids active and entertained for hours. Plus, the playground’s convenient location and ample parking makes it a great option for families looking for a fun and safe place to spend the day.