Jamaica Plain neighborhood notes

Linda Wellness Warrior

Linda Wellness Warrior will lead an outdoor Yoga series under the trees on School Master Hill (1 Circuit Dr. Franklin Park) for mixed levels from 9 to 10:15 a.m. on Saturdays through Aug. 29.

Participants must bring their own equipment that may include a towel, shower curtain, blanket, and/or yoga mat and follow COVID guidelines.

The event is co-sponsored by 4 Corners Yoga and Wellness and Linda Wellness Warrior.

Donations accepted. Venmo: @LindaWarrior Cash App: $LindaWWarrior

Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/linda-wellness-warrior-yoga-in-the-park-franklin-park-tickets for more information and registration.

Walking tour of Green Street

Join the Jamaica Plain Historical Society from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 11 for a walking tour of Green Street.

Laid out in 1836, the street played a key role in Jamaica Plain’s development, functioning as a residential, commercial, and transportation conduit in the lives of the district’s residents. Although Green Street was subdivided as early as 1851 for stores, factories and houses, it was not extensively developed until the late 1870s with construction continuing until the early 1900s. The Bowditch School was completed in 1892, and early in the 20th century the United States Post Office moved from its location on Call Street at Woolsey Square to its new location at the corner of Green and Cheshire streets.

No reservations are required; just meet the guide at Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center, 640 Centre St.

Visit jphs.org/events for more information.

Morning Yoga at the Arboretum

Improve your health and well-being with yoga as the group practices poses, breathing and meditation in the tranquil setting of the Arnold Arboretum from 10 to 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 12, 19, 26 and Aug. 2.

In the case of inclement weather, the session will move indoors (Hunnewell Building Lecture Hall).

Free, registration is limited and required at my.arboretum.harvard.edu.

This event is cosponsored by the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and the National Park Service Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.

Early literacy playgroup (on Zoom)

Parents and caregivers with children, ages 3 years old and younger (although older siblings are welcome as well), to join Boston Public Library for an interactive program that includes playtime, conversation, and early literacy information from 11:30 a.m. to noon on Monday, July 13 on Zoom.

Visit www.bpl.org/events for more information, including required registration. Zoom link will be sent to registered participants.

Book discussion: ‘Convenience Store Woman’

Join The Boston Public Library’s online book discussion from 3:45 to 5 p.m. on Monday, July 13.

The group will discuss Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata.

The English-language debut of one of Japan’s most talented contemporary writers, selling more than 650,000 copies there, Convenience Store Woman is the heartwarming and surprising story of 36-year-old Tokyo resident Keiko Furukura. Keiko has never fit in, neither in her family, nor in school, but when at the age of 18, she begins working at the Hiiromachi branch of “Smile Mart,” she finds peace and purpose in her life.

A brilliant depiction of an unusual psyche and a world hidden from view, Convenience Store Woman is an ironic and sharp-eyed look at contemporary work culture and the pressures to conform, as well as a charming and completely fresh portrait of an unforgettable heroine.

For information on how to join and to register for this event, email kkire@bpl.org.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information.

CommUNITY Writing Workshop

Write through Pain; Write to Heal; Write Together

Adults are invited to join Author and Professor Olivia Kate Cerrone and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Sharaye Ragland, for a four-week Zoom workshop of art and advocacy from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays from July 15 through Aug. 5.

Experience expressive writing as a tool for recovery, reform and revolution.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information, including registration. Zoom link will be sent to registered participants.

Facebook Live: Story and a craft

What will people create today? Children, ages 4 to 8, are invited to join the Boston Public Library for a live-streamed story time and craft from 3 to 3:30 p.m. on July 16, July 30, Aug. 13 and Aug. 27 at www/facebook.com/BPLchildren.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information.

Kanopy Club: ‘Bernie’

The Boston Public Library invites you to watch the film “Bernie” at https://boston.kanopy.com/video/bernie-1, and then join the discussion on Zoom from 7 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16.

About “Bernie:” In small-town Texas, an affable mortician strikes up a friendship with a wealthy widow, though when she starts to become controlling, he goes to great lengths to separate himself from her grasp.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information, including registration. A Zoom invite will be emailed to you once you register.

2020 Amplify Conference

The 2020 Amplify Conference – “Nuestro Impacto: Be Counted, Be Heard,” hosted by Amplify Latinx, the Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy and the Gastón Institute, in collaboration with their partner organizations will be held online from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Friday, July 17 and July 28.

This year’s conference will focus on identifying the key policy issues for the MA Latinx community that will become part of a shared policy agenda. Through their keynote speakers, Firestarter storytellers and interactive workshops, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to take action in 2020 and beyond.

During this convening they will:

- Activate the Latinx community to take action towards change, including participating in the Census 2020, increasing voter registration, amplifying the work of Latinx leaders, businesses and community organizations.

- Build a coalition of Latinx leaders and organizations that support their Amplify Latinx mission of increasing Latino economic and political power.

- Create a shared policy agenda that advances a collective vision for prosperity and upward mobility for the Latinx community.

Visit https://2020AmplifyConference.eventbrite.com for more information and registration.

Walking Tour of Woodbourne

Join the Jamaica Plain Historical Society from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 18 to tour this part of the JP neighborhood that developed from 19th-century summer estates into a model suburban enclave. It contains examples representative of New England architecture with designs by local architects and builders. It also contains an unusual garden city model housing development by the Boston Dwelling House Company which was founded in 1912.

No reservations are required; just meet the guide at Bethel AME Church 38 Walk Hill St.

Visit jphs.org/events for more information.

Discover Girl Scouts

All girls entering Kindergarten through third grade in the fall and their caregivers are invited to learn about the Girl Scouts. Join a group from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on any Saturday through Aug. 29 to experience the fun first-hand and get some information on Girl Scouts, including about volunteer opportunities. Girls will be able to take part in a Girl Scout activity.

Register at https://form.jotform.com/201546527923154 to save a spot. A Zoom link plus any supplies needed will be sent via email.

Through Girl Scouts, girls can be the new leaders of tomorrow. They can try new things, learn about the outdoors, change the world, experiment with STEM and find out how be a G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker and Leader).

For more info on Girl Scouts visit:

- www.gsema.org/moreinfo

- www.facebook.com/DiscoverGirlScouts

Yoga at Jamaica Pond

Join Marlene Boyette for all-levels yoga classes from 11 a.m. to noon on most Sundays through Sept. 6 at Pinebank Promontory, Perkins Street and Jamaicaway, by Jamaica Pond sponsored by 4 Corners Yoga + Wellness studio following COVID guidelines. Remember to bring your mat and wear a mask.

Please Note: there will not be a class on July 12 and Aug. 30.

Visit eventbrite.com for more information, including registration.

Facebook Live Story Time: Tuesday Tales

Join Librarian Laura for a live-streamed story time for children, ages 2 to 4 years old, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Tuesdays through Aug. 25 at www.facebook.com/BPLchildren.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information.

Mindful Minis

Mindful Minis (for ages 6 through 10) will be held from 2 to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays (for ages three through five) from 11 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursdays through Aug. 6.

The Mindful Mini program is a series of classes designed to introduce children to mindfulness-based tools helpful for stress-reduction, self-management, and emotional awareness.

Classes are centered on relaxation, creativity, imagination, gratitude and awareness, all of which are scientifically proven to aid in children’s success in school, in relationships, and developing a connecting with themselves.

Activities include yoga, breathing techniques, drawing, mindful movement, sharing our experiences with emotions and other interactive mindfulness games, including sensory descriptions.

Visit bpl.org/events for Zoom registration and other relevant information.

Cooking with Miss Debbie

Families are invited to join Miss Debbie on Zoom as she bakes and cooks a variety of appetizers, entrees, desserts and sides from scratch using fresh and often locally-grown and organic ingredients from 3 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays through Aug. 4.

Contact the Boston Public Library for more information, including required registration and the recipe.

Jackbox Party Gaming for Teens on Twitch

Teens in grades 6 through 12 are invited to join the BPL Teen Librarians for Jackbox Party Gaming on Twitch from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays through Aug. 5 in the Virtual Teen Room.

They’ll host a series of wacky, irreverent online games, all of which are designed to be played by large audiences.

Visit bpl.org/events for more details, including registration.

Online caregiver’s group

First Church in Jamaica Plain (6 Eliot St.) hosts an online support group from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month for members and friends serving as the primary caregiver for adult family members.

In the spirit of radical inclusion, they recognize that primary caregivers today are parents, spouses/partners, siblings, cousins, and friends.

If you are a caregiver and would like more information, email Rev. Elizabeth Assenza at revelizabethassensa@gmail.com.

Bollywood Funk Online

Bollywood Funk will be held from 2 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursdays through Aug. 6 via Zoom.

Bollywood Funk is a high-energy dance with a mix of Jazz, Hip Hop and Funk fused with the hottest Bollywood beats and moves.

Join dance instructor Chavi Bansai and be ready to sweat, smile and have a lot of fun.

Class is fit for all levels and is intended for children and teens; no prior experience required.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information, including required registration to receive the Zoom link.

Twitch Mystery Gaming for Teens

Teens in grades 6 through 12 are invited to join the BPL Teen Librarians from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursdays through Aug. 6 in the Virtual Teen Room and discover a mysterious new game that most of us have never played before.

Will the group saunter through the quirky, winding halls of The Stanley Parable…? Bend our brains pushing puzzles around in Baba is You…? You’ll have to stop by to discover each game and lend your mental magnitude to help the group make key decisions, develop strategies and just have fun hanging out.

Visit bpl.org/events for more details, including registration.

Community vigil

A community vigil will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month on the lawn of the First Baptist Church, 633 Centre St.

The purpose of the vigils is to stand out and speak up for racial justice and human rights while speaking out against white supremacy and will include speakers amidst moments of silence.

These Black Lives Matter vigils have been ongoing since Dec. 2015.

Breakdancing workshop for youth

Teens (Ages 13-18) are invited to join the Boston Public Library from noon to 12:30 p.m. on Fridays through Aug. 28 for breakdancing led by Oliver Arias, a member of the Floorlord - the longest-running hip hop dance troupe in the US.

Each week people will learn new dance moves which will get difficult as the weeks move on. No previous dancing experience required.

Visit bpl.org/events for more information, including registration. A link to the Zoom meeting and password will be sent via email on the day of the program.

Virtual music class

Talented musicians from EchoKids will put on a virtual family concert from noon to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays to sing and dance along via Instagram Live@Ethoslearn.

Visit ethoslearn.com for more information.

JP Centre Yoga online studio

JP Centre Yoga (670 Centre St.) is offering live streamed classes daily to all who need it during these stressful times.

Classes are offered on a sliding scale – pay what you can; from $0 to the regular drop-in rate of $20 – to help support the teachers and small-business.

Registration closes 30 minutes before class begins.

Visit jpcentreyoga.com for the online class schedule and registration.

#ZooToYou

Tune in on Facebook at 1:30 p.m. for #ZooToYou: a daily dose of animal cuteness, chats with the care staff, crafts and activities to do at home, and lots more.

Visit zoonewengland.org for more information.

Kadampa Meditation Center Boston online

Kadampa Meditation Center Boston (360C Centre St.) is continuing their meditations and classes online to keep the community as peaceful and stress-free as possible six days a week.

Visit meditationinboston.org for more information, including links to all classes, meditations, and chanted prayers for members, non-members, and kids posted weekly.

Five-week summer dance intensive

The OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center, 3708 Washington St. is currently accepting registrations for a five-week summer dance intensive to be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Aug. 7.

This program is for girls and boys, ages 7 through 13. There will be three dance classes per day; boot camp, public speaking and writing workshops and a field trip to NYC.

Visit www.originationinc.org or email info@originationinc.org for more information.

White Stadium Sports Center summer program

The White Stadium Sports Center, 450 Walnut Ave. in Jamaica Plain is taking online registration for the free summer programs providing skill building clinics in a variety of traditional and non-traditional sports for children, 7 through 14 years of age.

The drop-in programs are offered from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday from July 6 through Aug. 14.

Participants can register at apm.activecommunities.com for and attend one or more weeks.

For more information, contact Woodley Auguste at Woodley.auguste@boston.gov or phone 617-961-3084.

BPL To Go

The Boston Public Library has launched the new “BPL to Go” program. The pilot program will launch first at the Central Library in Copley Square, the Codman Square Branch, the East Boston Branch, the Jamaica Plain Branch, and the Mattapan Branch and will then gradually be deployed to other branches.

Using the library website, phone line, or the “BPL to Go” iPhone app, patrons will be able to “order” (place a hold on) items such as books, DVDs, and CDs and pick them up at the library.

All branches will continue to offer a wide range of digital events and online resources.

Visit bpl.org/takeout to learn more.

Free summer ‘grab-and-go’ meals for children and adults

The City of Boston, in partnership with Project Bread, YMCA of Greater Boston, Boston Centers for Youth and Families and other community organizations, will provide free “grab and go” meals for Boston residents (adults and children) in need. No ID required.

Visit www.boston.gov and/or www.bostonpublicschools.org for a list of meal sites. There will also be a list of food pantries and soup kitchens.

Phone 617-635-3717 or email food@boston.gov with questions or concerns or for other information.

If you need additional food resources, contact Project Bread’s Food Source Hotline at 800-645-8333.

Community meals delivered

The Midweek Dinner on Wednesdays and the Crossroads Café lunch on Saturdays at the First Baptist Church, 633 Centre St. have been canceled. Meals are being delivered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

If you would like to receive these meals, email churchoffice@firstbaptistjp.org or phone 617-524-3992. For more information, visit firstbaptistjp.org.

JP Food Pantry – donations and distribution

The JP Food Pantry is delivering groceries to people in need on Saturdays.

If you would like to donate non-perishable items, cleaning supplies and/or hygiene products or make a monetary donation or need food delivered, email churchoffice@firstbaptistjp.org or phone 617-524-3992. For more information, visit firstbaptistjp.org.

Zoos now open

Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo are now (partially) open.

At each park, guests will be invited to experience an Outdoor Safari Walk, a one-way trail through most of the zoos exhibits following COVID guidelines.

Visit zoonewengland.org to learn more about the re-opening procedures before you visit.

Mutual Aid Jamaica Plain & Roxbury Network

Social distancing does not equal social isolation.

The Neighborhood Aid Network, coordinated by The Human Network Institute at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has a simple goal: To provide a central place where neighborhood digital platforms can aggregate and standardize and where volunteers receive information and training.

For information and to get involved in the Mutual Aid Jamaica Plain & Roxbury Network, visit bit.ly/jpmutualaid where you will find, among other information, links to:

Resource List – a centralized place for individuals, families, service providers and others to find information:

Current Offerings List – a public non-editable “offerings” spreadsheet that people can view and reach out to others directly for support (the list is growing and you can add your information as well).

Current Needs List – if you are in need of something that is not found on the Current Offerings List, you can add your information/needs.

The Mutual Aid Jamaica Plain & Roxbury Network is a powerful way to build strong connections and there are several ways that you can be a part of the group.

Email mutualaidjamaicaplain@gmail.com with questions about the Network and/or ways to participate.

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Boston ` `

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Boston provides a comprehensive array of services for people in need.

Please consider donating food, gift cards or hygiene products to keep their food pantries and basic needs operations open and fully stocked.

Phone their Administrative Offices at 617-464-8500 for donation guidelines.

Visit www.ccab.org for a list of places that they service along with more information.

Franklin Park Zoo seeks donations

Although the Franklin Park Zoo is partially open, donations to the “All Our Animals Fund” can still be made to keep the Zoo’s mission alive, to provide vital care to their animals and maintain the Zoo’s infrastructure.

The Zoo has set up the “All Our Animals Fund” and is asking for donations to continue its mission.

Visit zoonewengland.org for more information, including ways to donate.

Me2/orchestra

Me2/Orchestra is a welcoming, multi-generational, inclusive classical music organization. The focus is on a supportive music-making environment and stigma-erasing performances for all ability levels. There is no audition and no participation fee to join.

New members are accepted at various points throughout the season. If you are interested in joining the orchestra, email info@me2orchestra.org, call 802-238-8369 or visit www.Me2orchestra.org.