On Saturday April 28, 2012, 5:00 to 7:30 pm

Cambridgeport School’s annual Spring Fling Silent Auction & Talent Show is once again upon us, and this year it’s very special. We’re anticipating an exciting year ahead (a new JK–5 structure), and we’ll be celebrating the talents of our current K–8 students. This year ALL C’port’s students have brought high energy to their learning and to building their relationships with each other. Their enthusiasm has reassured parents, teachers and staff that our students can be flexible yet still focused even during times of transition.

The Spring Fling is open to the general public and will be held Saturday April 28, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Cambridgeport School gym at 89 Elm Street (between Broadway and Hampshire Streets). Everyone who attends is able to enjoy food from local businesses and bid on an exciting array of local products and services during the Silent Auction.

See coverage of the Cambridgeport Spring Fling in Cambridge Day!

Admission is only $5 per person or $20 for a family of four or more, and includes pizza donated from newly opened pizza restaurants All-Star Pizza Bar and Pizza Pie-er; pickles generously donated by Grillo’s Pickles; fruit and vegetable snacks courtesy of Whole Foods and Harvest Co-op Markets; and various desserts provided by C’port parent volunteers. The admission fee plus all funds raised from the auction and children’s raffle will go toward helping our teachers buy supplemental books, art supplies, science materials and technology tools as well as cover unmet costs of student field trips. (For details on how our teachers use the funds raised, click on “How You Can Contribute.”)

An entertaining Talent Show will take place concurrently with the Silent Auction and the Raffles. Students will sing, dance, demonstrate martial arts, perform a circus act and play instruments on the gym’s stage. Relax and watch the show or browse the varied and intriguing Silent Auction, showcasing the generous donations of numerous local businesses and C’port parents. Up for bid will be exciting products, tickets for popular events, and gift certificates for hotel stays and many local restaurants and popular businesses.

At the event, interested bidders write their name and their bid on the bid sheet accompanying the item. Collection of bid sheets begins at 6:45 p.m., with cashout immediately following. Cash and personal checks accepted (sorry, no credit cards). There’s something for everyone this year, and the chance to win within your budget is greater than ever.

Below is a detailed listing, updated daily, of the auction items featured.

• Raffles
• Hotels
• Restaurant Gift Certificates or Gift Cards
• Food and Beverage Gift Baskets
• For the Home
• Services
• Tickets and Events
• Experiences
• Health and Wellness
• Kid Stuff
• Clothing
• National Chain Store Gift Cards
• Special Time with Teachers and Staff

Raffles

Cambridgeport Community School Session
A complete session of whichever Community School class you or your child would like to take, starting with the Fall 2012 Schedule (music classes excluded). Courtesy of Wade Lindhorst and the Cambridgeport Community Schools program. Raffle tickets $1 each, 6 for $5 or 10 for $8.

(617) 349-6307
wlindhorst@cambridgema.gov
Cambridgeport Community School Spring 2012 Class Schedule

Principal for a Day
What would you do if you were in charge of Cambridgeport for just one day? Previous winners have provided popsicles to all, declared a school-wide pajama day and held a dance party. Get together with Principal Katie and plan your big day. Raffle tickets $1 each, 6 for $5 or 10 for $8.

Henry Bear’s Park $25 Gift Card
Henry Bear’s Park is the longest independently owned toy store in the Boston area—35 years and going strong. With toys for kids from birth through 15, and a birthday registry, too, you know they have figured out what kids and parents need. The big Henry Bear at the back of the store with a “Free Hugs Welcome” sign is irresistible. And the well-stocked shelves mean you’ll find just what you’re looking for. Raffle tickets $1 each, 6 for $5 or 10 for $8.

Porter Square Shopping Center, Cambridge
(617) 547.8424
www.henrybear.com

Made by Me! $50 Gift Certificate
Pick out a piece at this paint-your-own-pottery studio and gallery and start creating your masterpiece. You get assistance in the design, if you like, and the shop does the glazing for you. Pick it up six days later and take it home or give it to someone you love. Located on the corner of Sacramento Sreet, between Harvard and Porter squares (near the Cambridge Common restaurant).

1685 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 354-8111
www.made-by-me.com

Stellabella Toys $25 Gift Card
We love Stellabella’s strong commitment to community involvement, and all its terrific toys (which make great birthday party gifts). Raffle tickets $1 each, 6 for $5 or 10 for $8.

1360 Cambridge Street, Inman Square, Cambridge, MA
(617) 491-6290

1967 Masssachusetts Avenue, Porter Square, Cambridge, MA
(617) 864-6290
www.stellabellatoys.com

Magic Beans  $25 Gift Card
The Magic Beans store is a land of enchantment for children. For parents or gift givers, it’s a great place for baby gear, nifty kid gifts and very cute toys.

361 Huron Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 300-0171
mbeans.com

Hotels

The Charles Hotel (Voucher for One Night’s Stay in a Standard Room with Breakfast for Two at Henrietta’s Table, subject to blackout dates and availability; expires April 28, 2013. Value: $480.)

Impeccably professional service, luxuriously comfortable beds and the exquisite convenience of having everything you can possibly need on the premises, including the deliciously farm-inspired Henrietta’s Table restaurant: These (and much more) explain why the smartest people from around the world stay at The Charles in Harvard Square.

Starting bid: $100

One Bennett Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 864-1200
www.charleshotel.com

Le Méridien Cambridge-MIT (Voucher for One Night Weekend Getaway in Deluxe Room on a Friday or Saturday night, subject to blackout dates and availability; expires February 2, 2013.)

Convenience and comfort await you (or your visiting relatives!) in an elegant guest room of Le Méridien Cambridge-MIT. This luxury hotel is so close to our school, so convenient to everything wild and wonderful about Central Square, it’s with a happy gratitude we are able to offer this generous donation of a one-night’s stay. Rest is definitely assured.

Starting bid: $100.

20 Sidney Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 577-0200
Le Méridien Cambridge-MIT

Harding House Bed & Breakfast (Voucher for One Night Stay; blackout dates apply)
Enjoy friendly service in a updated 1860′s Victorian that feels like home, minutes from MIT, Harvard, and downtown Boston. The 14 spacious and bright guest rooms feature en suite full bath and all the amenities of a modern hotel, plus the charm of a bygone era. Your stay includes a hearty breakfast, wireless Internet, free local calls, parking, museum passes, fresh baked treats and wine & cheese.

Cambridgeport is very grateful for this donation to our Spring Fling Auction, and many C’port parents recommend Harding House for visits from friends or relatives who want to stay close.

Starting bid: $100.

288 Harvard Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 876-2888
www.harding-house.com

Restaurant Gift Certificates or Gift Cards

L. A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates, Shop and Cafe $50
Exquisite chocolates, pastries, beverages and people-watching—Burdick’s got it, like few others do. It’s a little bit of Paris in Harvard Square.

52-D Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 491-4340
www.burdickchocolate.com

The Elephant Walk $50
While the Cambodian and French theme of this popular restaurant reflects the heritage and personal histories of its founding chefs, its vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and fusion offerings reflect our Cambridge community. The Elephant Walk has been satisfying patrons for 20 years, starting at its Brookline location and now here in Porter Square (and in Waltham, too). From the thoughtfully prepared food to the warm and inviting downstairs bar to the large and comfortable space, The Elephant Walk hits the mark.

2067 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 492-6900
www.elephantwalk.com

Craigie on Main $75 (Brunch for Two)
A multi-nominated James Beard Award finalist, chef/owner Tony Maws combines innovative culinary skills with a commitment to local, seasonal, sustainable food. Putting down roots here, he’s put Cambridge (and Central Square!) on the map. Sunday Brunch at Craigie on Main has got to be the most creative and delicious brunch in Boston. It’s an easy, comfortable way to introduce yourself to the award-winning artistry of Chef Tony Maws.

853 Main Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 497-5511
www.craigieonmain.com

Tupelo $50
Cambridgeport School’s favorite neighbor, Tupelo restaurant serves up community spirit with award-winning doses of the best New Orleans–inspired comfort food around. Enjoy chef Rembs Layman‘s famous fried catfish and a delicious 100-year-old recipe for gumbo with andouille sausage and pulled chicken. We’re thrilled Tupelo’s a part of our school community!

1193 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 868-0004
www.tupelo02139.com

Four Burgers $50
Owner Michael Bissanti asks “All-natural grass-fed beef, vegetarian, turkey and wild salmon burgers—which one are you?” Treat your family or staff to the American burger experience at its highest level. Four Burgers “gets” Cambridge, in so many ways. Liquor, wine and beer available.

709 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 441-5444
www.fourburgers.com

Flour Bakery + Cafe $25 (Two Gift Cards)
Stopping in at Flour—owned by James Beard Award finalist Joanne Chang—is the best way to get your Vitamin P (for “pastry,” of course). If prize-winning sticky buns, homemade pop tarts and Guinness cupcakes aren’t your idea of a meal (and you know in heaven, they are what’s on the menu), then order a fresh mozzarella melt with basil pesto or smoked turkey/Vermont cheddar sandwich with cranberry chutney—but save room for dessert! This third location of Flour Bakery has certainly become a welcome part of the fabric of our neighborhood. Let’s be grateful the threads of that fabric are stretchy.

190 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 225-2525
www.flourbakery.com

Garden at The Cellar $50 Gift Certificate
Nestled between Harvard and Central Squares, Garden at The Cellar is inspired by eclectic British gastropubs. Expect a relaxed dining experience in an intimate setting surrounded by herbs and plants grown on a local farm. Chef Brandon Arms prepares delicious and inventive food that pays homage to the bounty of gardens, local farms and environmentally responsible products.

991 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
(617)230-5880
www.gardenatthecellar.com

Muqueca Brazilian Restaurant $40
Along with hospitable service, Muqueca offers an authentic menu from the region of Espirito Santo in Brazil, where seafood such as fish, mussels and shrimp are cooked with cilantro, annatto seeds, olive oil and other fresh ingredients. A moqueca, the signature dish, can be ordered individually or served for two or more from a huge handcrafted clay pot. (There’s even a vegetarian version!) Precede with the fried yucca and garlic dipping sauce—or any other of their amazing appetizers and salads—add on a caipirinha or something from the juice bar, and finish happy with a delicious flan. Note: There’s even a kids menu for less adventurous little ones.

1008 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 354-3296
www.muquecarestaurant.com

Area Four Restaurant $50
Here at this casual cafe/restaurant/bar with wood oven, ingredients are sourced locally and quality wine is served in carafes (and shipped in bags by special arrangement bags rather than in bottles). Environmentally-conscious dining has never tasted so fresh or fit so well into our neighborhood (after which the restaurant is named). Enjoy chef/co-owner Michael Leviton‘s house-smoked Gloucester cod salad, roasted artichoke soup and pulled grass-fed beef with collards. Or comfort yourself with a Gorgonzola and caramelized onion pizza or macaroni and cheese topped with croissant crumbs. If you’re more of a morning person, the cafe and its delicious coffee and housemade pastries opens 7 am Monday to Friday (9 am on weekends).

500 Technology Square, Cambridge, MA
(617) 758-4444
www.areafour.com

Anna’s Taqueria $25 Gift Certificate
Burritos put an entire plate of food inside a warm flour tortilla. This is a good thing. Anna’s famous burritos are filled with super fresh ingredients. This is a VERY good thing. Those who seek quantity AND quality will be satisfied. Two Cambridge locations.

Porter Square Galleria
822 Somerville Avenue, Cambridge, MA
617-661-8500

MIT Stratton Center
84 Mass Avenue, Cambridge, MA
617-324-2662
www.annastaqueria.com

Grafton Group Restaurants $25
The range of Grafton Group properties in Harvard and Porter Squares fills any bill. Want great food but got hungry kids in tow? Go to Grafton Street. Craving white truffle pizza or other upscale pub grub? Temple Bar is the one. Seeking brilliantly crafted cocktails, beautiful wines, and creative cuisine to match? Make it Russell House Tavern. (Gift certificate expires April 4, 2013 and is redeemable anytime Sunday through Wednesday for food and drink, exclusive of tax and gratuity.)

Grafton Street
1230 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
(617) 497-0400
www.graftonstreetcambridge.com

Temple Bar
1688 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
617.547.5055
www.templebarcambridge.com

Russell House Tavern
14 JFK Street, Cambridge
(617) 500-3055
www.russellhousecambridge.com

Hi Rise Bread Company $10 (Two Gift Certificates)
Bread baking done masterfully—that’s Hi-Rise, as well as terrific Cuban chicken sandwiches, puckery lemon meringue mini pies, and meticulously made lattes and cappuccinos. Hi-Rise is a worthwhile treat.

208 Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 876-8766

Hi-Rise Pie Company
56 Brattle Street
617-492-3003
www.hi-risebread.com

Petsi Pies $25
Petsi Pie and Tupelo owner Rene McCleod is a true friend of Cambridgeport School, and her pies and pastries satisfy the soul. Pick up a pie or some other treats as a gift or when you need a little sunshine—they’re made with a warm and generous heart.

285 Beacon Street, Somerville, MA
(617) 661-7437

31 Putnam Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 499-0801
www.petsipies.com

Cambridge Brewing Company $50 Gift Card
Fans rave about the fantastic beer, great beer events, parties, and dinners at Cambridge Brewing, as they have for years. Now after 22 years of draft-only brewing, Cambridge Brewing produces a selection of their beers in bottles. This spring and summer keep your eyes peeled for the bottle releases of Weekapaug Gruit, Red God and CBC Heather Ale. Apart from the beer, the restaurant makes an effort to serve grain-fed beef and local ingredients. Fresh and local is the CBC motto.

One Kendall Square, Building 100, Cambridge
(617)494-1994
www.cambrew.com

Kika Tapas $50 Gift Certificate
If you’ve enjoyed the vividly colored films of Pedro Almodóvar you’ll enjoy Kika, whose decor pays tribute to the Spanish director in a big way. If you simply love gorgeous, romantic spaces and great cocktails, you’ll also enjoy Kika. As for the food, the best of Spanish tapas is here and then some. Many local magazines have raved about Kika’s lomito al Cabrales, “three char-edged pork tenderloin cutlets in a sauce of nearly hypnotic richness, made with a lot of cream, some porcini, crimini, and oyster mushrooms, and a carefully administered dose of queso de Cabrales” says Stuff Magazine. It may not be a vividly colorful dish, but it’s definitely about excess, which describes Kika to a T.

350 Third Street, Watermark Building, Cambridge
(617)245-6030
www.kikatapas.com

Rendevous in Central Square $50 Gift Certificate
Thanks to local hero Steve Johnson, an old Burger King building was cleverly recycled into one of Cambridge’s most acclaimed restaurants—that even grows its own herbs on the roof! As chef and owner, Johnson seeks out local, seasonal product to create western Mediterranean food with a French flair. He also supports Cambridge businesses such as Iggy’s and Formaggio Kitchen. What would we do without him!

502 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 576-1900
www.rendezvouscentralsquare.com

Veggie Galaxy $50 Gift Card
Here you’ll find out-of-this-world from-scratch vegetarian classic diner foods with pure, bright, bold, flavor. Even the ketchup, mustard, soups, sauces, “burgers,” jams, and even burger buns are made in house. As for the baked goods in those old-timey rotating bakery cases? Every one of them is 100% vegan (“no butter, eggs, cream, milk, honey, cream cheese or anything animal derived, but with 100% of the flavor and 120% of the love!”) Because the focus is on great taste and making people happy, Veggie Galaxy is for everyone.

450 Massachusetts Avenue
(617)497-1413
www.veggiegalaxy.com

Life Alive Urban Oasis & Organic Cafe $50 Gift Card
Cambridgeport School is so grateful that Heidi Weinstein brought her second location of Life Alive to Cambridge (the original is in Lowell). Many of our parents have met to discuss school business over her wholesome and delicious food! Rejuvenating vitamin-filled juices or smoothies make a terrific quick pick-me-up, while the vibrant salads, cheesy wraps and colorfully creative bowls of brown rice, quinoa, aromatic steamed veggies and flavor-packed sauces nourish you for your day or night.

765 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 354-5433
www.lifealive.com

7ate9 Bakery 12 Free Classic Mini Cheesecakes + free delivery (value $25)
Word-of-mouth has spread about cheesecakemeister Sarah-Beth Chester‘s fluffy yet flavorful cheesecakes, especially by visitors to the Cambridge Winter Farmers Market. Samples of her Red Velvet Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake and even Cookies n Cream Cheesecake have elicited smiles and sales every week. She has no storefront, so she delivers her cheesecakes (freshly made in the back of another bakery’s kitchen) throughout the Boston area. “Cambridge residents are some of our most loyal customers,” Sarah-Beth wrote when we asked for this donation, “so we are happy to give back to their community.”

(781)218-9361
www.7ate9bakery.com

Midwest Grill $20 Gift Certificate
Come in, unwind, enjoy a refreshing cocktail and relax as the waitstaff bring you skewer after skewer of authentic Brazilian Churrascaria Rodizio, perfectly seasoned and grilled and carved tableside. You’ll be offered as much as you like of any item. Good for groups, couples, friends, or come alone to catch a game on one of the big screen TVs. Everyone has a good time at Midwest Grill.

1124 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA
(617)354-7536
www.midwestgrillrestaurant.com

East Coast Grill and Raw Bar  $50 Gift Certificate + Quick Pickles Cookbook
Celebrating 27 years of hot sauce, hunks of meat, and the freshest fish around. And now open for lunch on Saturdays from 11am to 2:30 pm! Belly up to some Island Creek oysters and follow with a crispy fried Delta catfish po’boy. BONUS item: a copy of Quick Pickles: Easy Recipes for Big Flavor by East Coast Grill owner Chris Schlesinger.

1271 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 491-6568
www.eastcoastgrill.net

Courthouse Seafood Gift Certificate for Dinner for Two ($25 value)
As one Cambridgeport parent says, “Courthouse Seafood is casual dining, but always has fresh fish and great take out.” Try a lobster roll, fish and chips, or any number of fish dinners fried, broiled or baked. There are non-fish items too (burgers, fried chicken and all manner of sides).

498 Cambridge Street, Cambridge
(617)491-1213
www.courthouseseafood.com

New Deal Fish Market $25 Gift Card
Family owned and operated since 1928, New Deal is for seafood-loving gourmands. Looking for sushi-grade? They’ve got it. Gourmet groceries? They probably stock what you need. Great service? A given.

622 Cambridge Street, Cambridge
(617)876-8227
www.newdealfishmarket.com

Mayflower Poultry Company $20 Gift Card
As they say, it doesn’t get fresher than this!

621 Cambridge Street, Cambridge
(617)547-9191
www.mayflowerpoultry.com

1369 Coffee House $20 Gift Certificate
Read, hang out, meet friends, get some work done—oh yeah, and drink some incredible coffee and tea, too.

1369 Cambridge Street, Inman Square, Cambridge, MA
(617) 576-1379

757 Masssachusetts Avenue, Central Square, Cambridge, MA
(617) 576-4600
www.1369coffeehouse.com

Dwelltime Coffee and Bakeshop  $15 Gift Certificate
Many Cambridgeport families, tapping their feet, have waited patiently for Dwelltime to open. It’s nestled in a nearby neighborhood and looks perfect for a quick pick-me-up. It’s got an inhouse bakery, too! We’re grateful that Dwelltime could rush this gift certificate to us so quickly after opening, just in time for the auction. But you’ll need to rush a bit, too, to use it before it expires on June 30, 2012. So grab a friend and make a morning of it soon!

364 Broadway
www.dwelltimecambridge.com

Food and Beverage Gift Baskets

Central Bottle Wine + Provisions (Stainless-Steel “Gift Colander”)
Packed with deliciously novel pantry staples to satisfy your own discriminating tastes, or for the kitchen of a dear, dear friend, this colander is courtesy of our Central Square neighbors, Central Bottle Wine + Provisions. Included are: one stainless-steel Ikea colander; a 2005 Mercuria (Central Bottle’s own wine from Castel Noarna in Trentino, Italy), which is a blend of cabernet sauvigon, cabernet franc, merlot and teroldego (perfect with the foods in the colander!); housemade kumquat jam (kumquats, sugar, vanilla beans, brandy—no pectin added—perfect with some fresh goat cheeses or glazed on a ham); housemade Spicy Red Sauce (not too spicy for the average person to eat—basically the shop’s regular red sauce with the addition of some capers, olives and a smidge of red chili flakes); Beef Spice Rub (a blend of ground cumin, cumin seed, chili powder, paprika, allspice, kosher salt and black pepper—a little goes a long way on the grill); and Pasta Setaro (Italy’s #1 pasta from Naples). Value $75.

196 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA
(617) 225-0400
www.centralbottle.com

Farm Fresh Vegetable Gift Basket with Extras!
Bundled in a hay-filled basket are an assortment of fresh vegetables and two jars of jam from Silverbrook Farm of the Cambridge Winter Farmer’s Market, four 8-sheet packs of Fenugreen Fresh Paper from Cambridge-based inventor Kavita Shukla, and a copy of Wild Flavors cookbook from Veggie Planet founding chef/former co-owner Didi Emmons. Get cooking, and get creative!

Silverbrook Farms
www.silverbrookdartmouth.com

Fenugreen Fresh Paper
www.fenugreen.com

Chef Didi Emmons
www.didiemmons.com

 

Jams and Preserves from Silverbrook Farm
Bundled in groups of three are delicious combinations of jam from Silverbrook Farm of Darmouth, which sells at the Cambridge Farmers Market. The following bundles are:
—Blueberry Mint, Zesty Lemon Marmalade, and Spiced Apple Pear
—Gingered Plum, Zinfandel Grape, and Peach
—Spiced Apple & Pear, Orange Marmalade, and Gingered Peach

Silverbrook Farms
www.silverbrookdartmouth.com

Dado Tea Sampler
Enjoy a range of leaf teas from one of Cambridge’s favorite tea shops: “Celestial Garden” tea, “Keemun” tea and “Sencha Yamato” tea., all bundled cozily in an attractive woven basket along with a ceramic teapot.

955 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
(617)497-9061

50 Church Street, Cambridge
(617)547-0950
www.dadotea.com

Chocolate, Coffee and Biscotti Gift Basket from the Cambridgeport 3-4 Classrooms
Filled with a truly heaping selection of gourmet chocolates, coffees, and biscotti, this basket would be a terrific springtime surprise for a housewarming or perfect for a family get-together. Includes can of Lavazza coffee, Via Veranda blend of Starbucks instant coffee in single-serve packets, one 1-pound bag coffee beans from 1369 Coffee House, Italian imported amaretti, Belgian chocolates, Nirvana Chocolates in the shape of baby lambs, Dove chocolates, very fancy Starbucks biscotti, and the unique Eco 2 Go reusable coffee cup (PBA free!).

 

Trader Joe’s Gift Bag ($50 value)
Up for bid is a signature Trader Joe’s bag filled with an eclectic array of products, including pastas, nuts, chocolate items, juices, chips, etc. Many of our Cambridgeport parents visit Trader Joe’s weekly and the school is very grateful for this terrific donation to our auction.

748 Memorial Drive, Cambridge
(617)491-8582

211 Alewife Brook Parkway, Cambridge
(617)498-3201
www.traderjoes.com

For the Home

Yayla Tribal Rugs (4-foot by 6-foot rug, value $375)
A dedicated team of 200 workers spread across Pakistan, Afganistan, Nepal and India apply modern vegetable dye techniques to hand-carded and handspun wool in order to create the traditional and contemporary rugs sold at Yayla. We’re so very grateful to the store’s friendly staff, who regularly greet many Cambridgeport families walking by on their way to school, for donating a beautiful carpet to our auction.

Starting bid: $100

283 Broadway, Cambridge
(617)576-3249
www.yayla.com

Nomad $50 Gift Card (Two Available)
Nomad owner Deb Colburn travels the world to fill her boutique with eye-brightening clothing, accessories, jewelry, folk art, textiles and home decor pieces. She buys many items directly from the artisans themselves, to keep cultural traditions alive. Lucky Magazine says Nomad “has the feel of a well-curated global bazaar—a perfect mix of eclectic bohemianism and full-on luxury.” No wonder it fits so well in Cambridge!

1741 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
(617) 497-6677
www.nomadcambridge.com

 

Xylem $50 Gift Certificate
This Kendall Square newcomer is a modern gift shop, offering home accessories, jewelry, children’s gifts, handmade art objects, books, cards, stationery and much more. How the items are displayed—like plant tissue—is half the fun. The other half is what you’ll find in all those xylem cells, things like the bedtime book Goodnight iPad, eco-friendly Nimbus lampshades and the RoboCup robot measuring cup set. Quirky and quality go hand in hand at Xylem.

287 Third Street, Cambridge
(617) 494-9953
www.shopxylem.com

Woolly Pocket Hanging Planter + potting soil and extras!
Here’s a Woolly Pocket, just like the ones on C’port’s school fence, ready to hang from your fence or apartment window. The durable felt-like pocket (made from recycled materials) comes bundled in a wooden crate with 8 quarts potting mix, three seed packs (tomatillo, chamomile and green “Grand Rapids” lettuce) and CitySprouts own “compost tea” to steep into a nutritive brew for watering. Courtesy of Cambridgeport’s Garden Committee and CitySprouts School Garden Program.

CitySprouts
25 River Street, Cambridge
617-876-2436
www.citysprouts.org

Woolly Pockets
www.woollypocket.com

Cambridge Oriental Rug Repair Handmade Silk Embroidered Pillow Cover ($40 value)
Ercan’s a parent of a former Cambridgeport student (and a ubiquitously friendly presence on Broadway where kids cross the street for school). He graciously donated a handmade silk embroidered pillow cover to our auction. Thanks so much, Ercan! See you on Monday!

300B Broadway, Cambridge
(617)873-0875
Cambridge Oriental Rug Repair on Facebook

Article and video about Ercan’s Custom Rug-Fitting Work

Harvard Book Store  $25 Gift Card
Even in a rush you can’t just walk by Harvard Book Store’s window: you have to stop and read every fascinating title. And if you have time, you have to go in—resistance is futile. Harvard Book Store is an independently run bookstore located in Harvard Square and has been family-owned since 1932. The store has an extraordinary selection of new, used, and bargain books. And bet you didn’t know, but in 2009, they introduced same-day environmentally-friendly bike delivery and a book-making robot capable of printing and binding any of millions of titles in minutes.

1256 Massachusetts Avenue, Harvard Square, Cambridge
(617)661-1515
www.harvard.com

Rodney’s Bookstore $25 Gift Certificate
Located in the heart of bustling Central Square, Rodney’s offers something for every book lover. From reading clubs’ selections to rare tomes of old, there is an ever changing and expanding inventory to satisfy even the most frequent shoppers’ desire for variety.

698 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA
(617) 876-6467
www.rodneysbookstore.com

Ricky’s Flower Market Plant ($15 value)
We’re happy to welcome Ricky’s Flower Market to our auction, and to receive a pot of pansies for bidding. Ricky’s provided the organic potting soil that filled 50 of our Woolly Pockets hanging on the fence in the Cambridgeport School playground.

238 Washington Street, Somerville
(617)628-7569
www.rickysflowermarket.com

Cambridgeport School Collaborative Weaving
Every student in Cambridgeport contributed a strand to this 12″ x 18″ artwork which is matted and ready to display in your home. Cambridgeport is very grateful to Artist & Craftsman Supply in Central Square for their donation toward the frame.

www.artistcraftsman.com

Trivets (20 available)
These 6″ square trivets were created by all the 1st and 2nd graders of Cambridgeport under the direction of art teacher April Silbert. The trivets are for sale (rather than auction) at $2 each.

Wooden Child’s Chair Handpainted by Cambridgeport Students
This small wood chair was painted by Cambridgeport students under the direction of art teacher April Silbert.

 

Services

Franco’s Hair Studio $45 women’s haircut
This comfortable, clean, no-pressure-to-buy-anything salon is terrific for those who’ve neglected their hair for months and months as well as those who keep regularly coiffed. The talented stylists are flexible, full of good advice and will ensure you walk out the door looking and feeling terrific!

157 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 547-3867
www.francoshairstudio.com

Salon Bellissima $50 Gift Card
Conveniently located in the heart of Inman Square, Salon Bellissima provides you with a reasonably priced cut, color or waxing that will meet your expectations. Their stylists also offer conditioning treatments and permanent waves and relaxers, too.

202 Hampshire Street, Cambridge
(617) 868-0035
www.salonbellissima.net

 

Brazilian Ipanema Hair Salon $20 Gift Certificate
Is your waxing on the wane? Need a cute cut and color? Then do yourself a favor and stop in this Inman Square salon.

1132 Cambridge St, Cambridge
(617) 491-3771
Yelp: Brazilian Ipanema Hair Salon

Hub Bicycle Basic Bike Tune Up ($65 value)
Hub Bicycle says they’ll help you “find and fix that mystery noise,” make your bike more comfortable or even “convert it from an off-road dirt machine to an on-road commuting machine.” They aim to “provide first rate service, friendly advice, top notch parts and gear and plenty of bike love.”

1064 Cambridge Street, Cambridge
(617)441-2500
www.hubbicycle.com

 

One Hour of IT Consulting by Cambridgeport Parent Ahmet Dincher ($80 value)
Ahmet, who has 15 years of experience with computing and networking, offers the following to our auction: Troubleshooting and remediation of PC, MAC and printer issues. Setting up home networking including router, wireless, and file sharing set up. Consulting on new technologies for home computing and networking. Microsoft and Apple certified.

 

Tickets and Events

Red Sox Tickets (2 sets available)
Friday, July 6, 7:10 pm (Red Sox vs Yankees), bleachers (total of two, $50 face value per ticket)

Sunday, July 22, 1:35 pm (Red Sox vs Toronto Blue Jays), right field grandstand (total of two, $30 face value per ticket)

Game Days at Fenway Park

 

Central Square Theater Gift Certificate for Two Subscriptions ($400 value)
Generously donated by Central Square Theater are two full subscriptions to the 2012-2013 season.

Starting bid: $100

450 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 576-9278
www.centralsquaretheater.org

Improv Boston 10-Pack for a Saturday Family Show
A family of five can make a date with another family of five to see this Winner of the Nickelodeon award for Best Children’s Theater. Or use the 10-pack for birthday party entertainment! The ImprovBoston Family Show offers hilarity for adults and children alike every Saturday at 6pm. This unscripted show includes improvised singing, dancing and comedic scenes that are guaranteed to have the whole family laughing out loud. Children who want to participate will have opportunities to be on stage and take part in the creative process. Best for children ages 4 and above. Saturdays at 6 pm.

40 Prospect Street, Cambridge, MA
(617) 576-1253
www.improvboston.com

Peabody Essex Museum (Total of 4 passes, $60 value)
These general admission passes allow you into the Peabody Essex Experience. The newly transformed Peabody Essex Museum presents art and culture from New England and around the world. In addition to its vast collections, the museum offers changing exhibitions, a hands-on education center, an award-winning museum shop and a café and restaurant. The museum campus features numerous parks, period gardens and 24 historic properties. Expires 12/31/14.

161 Essex Street, Salem, MA
(886)745-1876
www.pem.org

New Repertory Theatre Two Tickets to Any Show ($100 value)
This voucher admits two to any show in the Charles Mosesian Theater in New Rep’s 2012-2013 season. Present completed ticket voucher in exchange for your tickets. Not valid for productions in the Black Box Theatre for Saturday evenings or for Press Opening. No cash value. Expires 5/31/13.

Charles Mosesian Theater
321 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA
(617)923-7625
www.newrep.org

MIT Museum Passes (Two packs of Five Each are Available)
Take friends or family to this unique museum where exhibits change frequently and are always fascinating.

Building N51
265 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
(617)253-5927
www.web.mit.edu/museum

DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum  Two Passes ($56 value)
DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is the largest park of its kind in New England encompassing 35 acres, 20 miles northwest of Boston. Providing a constantly changing landscape of large-scale, outdoor, modern and contemporary sculpture and site-specific installations, the Sculpture Park hosts more than 60 works, the majority of which are on loan to the Museum. Inside, the Museum features a robust slate of rotating exhibitions and innovative interpretive programming. (Please note: the museum is closed from April 23 to May 25 for installation of the summer exhibits.) Passes expire June 30, 2013.

51 Sandy Pond Road
Lincoln, MA
(781)259-8355
www.decordova.org

Huntington Theatre Company tickets (total of 2) to any play in the 2012-13 season. Approximate value: $100

864 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA
(617) 266-0800
www.huntingtontheatre.org

Duck Tour 2 Passes (Value $62—only valid for tours departing from the Museum of Science location weekdays in September, October and November. Expire 11/13/2012)
You—or your visiting relatives—have never toured Boston in anything that comes close to Boston Duck Tours. The fun begins as soon as you board your “DUCK”, a W.W.II style amphibious landing vehicle. Then you’re off on a journey like you’ve never had before. You’ll cruise by the golden-domed State House to Bunker Hill and the TD Banknorth Garden, Boston Common and Copley Square to the Big Dig, Government Center to fashionable Newbury Street, Quincy Market to the Prudential Tower, and more. Your ConDUCKtor will provides little known facts and interesting insights. Toward the tour’s end your ConDUCKtor splashes your DUCK right into the Charles River for a breathtaking view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines.

www.bostonducktours.com

Experiences

Charles River Canoe and Kayak Gift Certificate for Rental of Canoe, Kayak or Double Kayak ($80 value)
Visit any of our locations to canoe or kayak free of charge for one day. In addition, we offer a variety of programs, including moonlight & sunset tours on the Charles River, ocean kayaking trips and instruction. We also offer summer camps for children and after school programs. (Certificate good for the following locations: Allston/Brighton, Kendall Square, Natick on Lake Cochituate and Newton. Note: Certificate is good for ONE BOAT. EXCLUDES Quad Kayak, Tripper XL Canoe and Ten-Person Canoe. Expires 7 years from date of issue.

(617)965-5110
www.paddleboston.com

Tour of America’s Test Kitchen in Brookline, MA, and Copy of America’s Test Kitchen Family Cookbook (personal tour of ATK led by former Cambridgeport parent and Cook’s Illustrated Executive Editor Amanda Agee).

17 Station Street, Brookline
www.americastestkitchen.com

 

Movie Night with the Critic (includes total of 4 tickets). See a movie with Boston University film department lecturer and Cambridgeport parent John Hall.

$20 minimum bid

Professor John Hall

Health and Wellness

 

Prana Power Yoga (Two five-class passes; value $65 each)
Good in all locations (Cambridge/Central Square, Newton, Winchester, New York City, Brooklyn).

585 Massachusetts Avenue (2R on elevator), Cambridge, MA
(617) 441-YOGA
(617) 441-9642
www.pranapoweryoga.com

YMCA Three-Month Membership at the Cambridge Family YMCA in Central Square.

820 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA
(617) 661-9622
www.cambridgeymca.org

Healthworks Fitness Centers for Women One-Month Membership (value $90)
One month of all-club membership at Healthworks Fitness Centers for Women (locations in Back Bay, Brookline, Cambridge, Chestnut Hill, and Salem). Not valid on current membership dues. Includes access to full-service gyms and cutting-edge exercise equipment, 100 group fitness classes, and use of steam room, sauna, and whirlpool.

36 White Street, Porter Square, Cambridge
(617)497-4454
www.healthworksfitness.com

Elizabeth Fay Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine $60 Gift Certificate
Elizabeth offers acupuncture treatments and herbal consultations at convenient office locations in both Cambridge and Newton, MA. Her specialized training has included work in: gynecological, menopausal and fertility issues; musculoskeletal injury, pain management; digestive and respiratory issues; oncology; Chinese herbology.

6 Bigelow Street
Cambridge, MA
(617) 519-9500

697 Washington Street
Newton, MA
(617) 519-9500
www.elizabethfayacupuncture.com

Cambridge Naturals $50 Body & Soul Gift Certificate
The lucky winner of this item will be able to pick up a bag filled with body and skin care products of his/her choosing. Cambridge Naturals sells everything from prepared foods, chocolates, candies, coffees and teas to vitamins, minerals, homeopathy, yoga and exercise supplies, soaps and candles. Located in the Porter Square Shopping Center, this locally owned, independent business has been in the area for nearly 40 years and was certified as a Sustainable Business Leader in 2010 by the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Boston.

23 White Street, Porter Square, Cambridge
(617) 492-4452
www.cambridgenaturals.com

Kid Stuff

School of Groove Summer Rock Camp (one-week session, $500 value)
Camp Groove is back for its FIFTH year! Join the band this summer, and learn what it takes to be a rock musician! Learn from experienced rock musicians, record original music and rock out in concert. Camp is available for kids and teens ages 8-18 who are beginning, intermediate or advanced students. Sign up for one week, three weeks or all five weeks of camp. We have openings for five separate one-week sessions from July 9 to August 11. (Rock Island excluded. Food plan will need to be purchased separately.)

Starting bid: $100

883 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA
(617)868-1118
www.schoolofgroove.com

Dance Central 2 (with Kinect Sensor Package) by Harmonix is the highly anticipated sequel to Dance Central. Dance Central 2 features an all-new setlist, multiplayer modes, hundreds of new dance moves, new venues, new characters, and more! Get ready for the best-selling dance game on Kinect! With another killer soundtrack, the best routines and all-new multiplayer features, Dance Central 2 is sure to get your party started! Team up with your friends to dance collaboratively with all-new simultaneous multiplayer features. Players can drop in or out at any point during a song, so the party never has to stop! Pump up the Volume! Dance Central 2 features an unparalleled soundtrack of more than 40 new dance hits and classics. And the best part is Kinect works with every Xbox 360 right out of the box. (Kinect Sensor package also includes “Fruit Ninja Kinect” and “The Gun Stringer.”)

Starting bid: $50
www.dancecentral.com

The Curious George Store  $50 Gift Certificate
This shop celebrates its Grand Opening on the very day of our Spring Fling, and we’re very grateful the owners could donate this gift certificate so we can join in their excitement! Discover unique apparel, toys, gift ideas and other merchandise that you will ONLY find at the only Curious George–themed store in the world.

1 JFK Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge
(617)547-4500
www.thecuriousgeorgestore.com

Games (2) from Pandemonium Books and Games
Each week a band of Cambridgeport 4th through 8th graders merrily walk to Pandemonium Games with Dennis from Community Schools to enter a fantasy world where armies of Dwarfs and High Elves collide with Greenskins and Dark Elves—they invade enemy lands, besiege imposing fortresses and sack sprawling capital cities. But besides all that, Pandemonium has great family games, too! Items for separate bidding include: Fluxx by Looney Labs (value $16) and Forbidden Island by Gamewright (value $17)

4 Pleasant Street, Central Square, Cambridge
(617) 547-3721
www.pandemoniumbooks.com

Learn to Knit with Ginna Hall
Receive a knitting basket and get a lesson from Cambridgeport parent Ginna Hall.

 

Crafts/Arts Supply Basket
Compiled by Lorna’s JK classroom, this cute basket is filled to the brim with nifty stuff such as art aprons, chalk, colored construction paper and embroidery thread and materials.

 

Rainy Day Box
Compiled by Diane Grigg’s 1/2 classroom, this box promises to keep the kids busy during any rainy days in May (or any too-hot days in July!)

Clothing

Ruffled Sleeve Pullover Knitted Top by Cambridgeport parent Zoe Scheffy
This springtime sleeveless pullover measures 32 in the bust. The top Zoe’s generously offered to our auction is in tones of golden wheat rather than the pink shown in the photo, but Zoe can custom knit this or other designs for interested customers. Please consult her shop at www.seasideknitting.etsy.com for available designs and colors.

www.seasideknitting.etsy.com
Starting bid: $10

Hand-knitted “Greek Isles Skirt” by Cambridgeport parent Zoe Scheffy
This elegant white knitted skirt, with Grecian-inspired motifs in blue, has a draw-string waist.

www.seasideknitting.etsy.com
Starting bid: $10

Handmade scarf from Irish Imports
Irish Imports has been known for many years for its wonderful, quality handcrafts, clothing and gifts. The owners travel to Ireland yearly to find interesting craftspeople and their unique creations, to help keep those traditions alive.

1737 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA
(617) 354-2511
www.irishimportsltd.com

Garment District $25 Gift Card (2 Gift Cards)
Yes they’ve got vintage clothes, but Garment District’s largest department is gently used contemporary clothing. Filled to the brim with garments from the past three years, the contemporary department has everything you need to keep up with current high trends—even on a low budget. New items arrive daily in women’s, men’s and children’s clothing. Whether you’re looking for business attire, casual apparel, or party clothes, Garment District carries it all.

200 Broadway, Cambridge
(617)876-5230
www.garmentdistrict.com

 

Scarf from Portugal
School Committee member Fred Fantini thoughtfully brought this beautiful red scarf directly back from a vacation trip to Portugal to us so we could use it in our auction. Thanks so much, Fred!

 

“Pabst Blue Ribbon” Adult (Size Large) One-Piece Pajamas
Is your man a 4-year-old in a 40-year-old’s body? Then bid on this indescribable one-piece pajama suit covered with a colorful Pabst Blue Ribbon logo print. Courtesy, yet again, of School Committee member Fred Fantini, who brought it back to us from an entirely different vacation trip than the one described above.

National Chain Store Gift Cards

Target $25 Gift Card

Store Locator
www.target.com

Advance Auto Parts $25 Gift Card

Locations in Somerville, Allston, Medford, Everett, Dorchester, etc.
www.advanceautoparts.com

REI $25 Gift Card

401 Park Dr
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 236-0746
rei.com

Edible Arrangements $55 Gift Certificate

94 Hampshire St
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-441-3666
www.ediblearrangements.com

Special Time with Teachers and Staff

Sailing Lesson on the Charles River with Simon Watts
Spend an afternoon/evening river cruise or sailing lesson on the beautiful Charles River in one of MIT’s fleet of 16′ Cape Cod Cat Boats for up to six people. (At least two participants must be adults.) Spend as much time sailing as you wish, the pavilion closes at sunset. As the weather gets warmer, choose a week day evening or weekend afternoon at your convenience. Music teacher Simon Watts will teach the basics of seamanship, so you can take the controls, learn to tack and jibe and land at the dock… or just sit back, relax and enjoy the view! Life jackets provided.

Starting bid: $100

Birthday Party in Cambridgeport’s Gym with Phil Fousek
Physical Education teacher Phil Fousek will host a birthday party for a child and his/her friends for a total of two hours in the gym.

Starting bid: $100
Restrictions: Saturdays only, up to 25 children maximum, expires April 28, 2013

Scrapbooking Session with Christina Ryan
Scrapbooking is one of kindergarten teacher Mrs. Ryanʼs favorite hobbies, and sheʼd love to share it with you! Create two scrapbook layouts with up to two friends. She will work together with parents to find a convenient day to meet in May or June. Computer printed photos will work just fine, and 10 or more photos will give a good selection. All other materials (paper, stickers, adhesives, etc.) will be provided.

Restrictions: Limited to 3 children total
Expires: June 15, 2012

Baking with Katie Reed
Join Katie for an afternoon of baking at her apartment in Porter Square. Choose what delicious item you want to bake (cookies, brownies or cake), gather ingredients and bake! Followed, of course, by eating some of the scrumptious products.

Grade Target: 3-6
Restrictions: Up to 4 children
Expires: End of August

Pizza Party with Robyn Vallarelli
Your child and up to three friends will join Robyn in her office for a pizza party during the children’s lunch period.

Grade Target: K–6
Restrictions: 4 children maximum

Alien Math with Isabel Eccles
Speak Znorlian? Spakkr? Dipath? Explore alien number systems with 5-6 teacher Isabel and fellow math fiends in an afternoon math odyssey. We will do a group puzzle/challenge (more than one if we have time) that is insanely difficult and very fun. Then weʼll go for ice cream at Christinaʼs afterwards. This is an activity for four kids who are ready to work hard and have a blast. Get together and bid as a group, or bid on your own and invite three classmates.

Grade Target: 4th through 8th
Restrictions: Limit 4 students
Expires: End of May

 

Bowling and Ice Cream at Ron’s in Hyde Park with Glen Sherman
Join math coach Glen for some candlepin bowling and delicious ice cream at Ron’s Ice Cream and 20th Century Bowling in Hyde Park.

Restrictions: Up to 3 children, who will need to be dropped off and later picked up at Ron’s
Grade Target: K–8
ronsicecream.com

Attention Cambridgeport Parents and members of the school community:

Below is a list of the ways you can contribute your time or talents to our Spring Fling Silent Auction and Talent Show (click here for a description). Held on Saturday April 28 from 5 to 7:30 p.m., the Spring Fling is the biggest event on the Cambridgeport calendar. Its success ensures that next year there will be grants for the teachers who want them, supplemental funds for field trips and available money for community-building events and educational projects.

Look through this list to see where you can help. Contact Heather Nelson at support@cambridgeportpto.org for more information or to volunteer. After so many years, all these tasks have standard processes that are easy to follow and require little guesswork, but we welcome new ideas, too!

The Talent Show, under the direction of Jen Deaderick, needs
—Helpers to organize students during rehearsal at 2 pm on the day (2 people)
—Helpers to organize students during the show from 5 to 7 p.m. (2 people)

Public Relations, coordinated by Monica V, can use
—Flyer photocopying help
—Emails sent to listserves and community organizations
—Articles written for newsletters and press
—Photos taken of various auction items

Auction: Advance preparation tasks include
—Soliciting auction donations (5 people currently working on this, need 2 more)
—Creating and printing bid sheets (1 to 2 people)
—Creating and printing the program (1 person)

Auction: Friday preparation at 5 pm includes
—Lighting setup (4 people)
—Sound setup (3 people)

Auction: Saturday preparation at 3 pm includes
—Tables/chairs setup (4 people)
—Bid sheet arrangement (2 people)
—Auction items arrangement (1 person)
—Decorations (2 people)

On the night, parents are needed for
—Greeting people at the door (1 person)
—Admissions table monitors and cash handlers (3 people)
—Auction table monitors (7 people plus 2 part-time “relief” people)
—Raffle table monitors (3 people)
—Cashout table monitors and cash handlers (4 people)
—Pizza servers at the food tables (2 people)
—Veggie snacks/pickles servers at the food tables (2 people)
—Dessert servers at the food tables (2 people)
—Cleanup support (8 to 10 people)

If you can help in any way, please contact Heather Nelson (support@cambridgeportpto.org).

The PTO sponsors an important event each year that everyone in the entire Cambridgeport community is encouraged to attend. The Spring Fling, which is a school talent show and silent auction, is the main annual fundraiser for our PTO. This year it takes place on Saturday April 28 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. For a glimpse of last year’s event, click here. The Spring Fling is an entertaining—and exciting!—way for families to contribute to the school.

You may ask, “How do I contribute to the school at this event?” There are TWO ways.

First, simply by paying the $5 admission fee (or $20 for a family of four or more), you add to the funds that we set aside for yearly grants of $250 to each C’port teacher and for field trip costs and family curriculum nights. Plus, that same $5 allows you to enjoy free pizza, veggie snacks and desserts along with the entertaining performances of C’port students.

The generous food donations that we receive from local businesses are an important part of the equation. This year, one special donor is Grillo’s Pickles at 1075 Cambridge Street, which will be giving us 280 pickles to hand out free! Other food donors are Whole Foods Market and Harvest Co-op Market. We hope to announce even more food donations soon.

Second, you can contribute at the Spring Fling by bidding on any one of more than 100 silent auction items. For instance, if you occasionally go to restaurants or use the services of local businesses—hair-cutters, toy stores, fish markets, fitness centers, even local hotels for grandparent visits—then the Spring Fling is the place to get gift certificates for these places. The gift certificates have been donated, so every dollar raised helps our PTO pay for educational and community-building projects at the school. (For details on how our teachers use the funds raised, click on “How You Can Contribute.”)

In addition to gift certificates, you’ll find actual items, such as gift baskets, handmade crafts and student artwork, all donated. You can even find theater and event tickets. One standout donation this year is a 4’ by 6’ Persian rug generously provided by Yayla Tribal Rugs, Cambridgeport’s nearby neighbor at the corner of Broadway and Elm Street.

There’s something for every pocketbook at our auction, items big and small. You’ll want to browse—some items may come from new local businesses you haven’t discovered yet!

So mark you calendars for April 28th. We not only want you to come, but we need you to come. We promise you an exciting time, tasty food and the pleasure of knowing that you’re helping our school be the best it can be.

If you’ve been through the main door since school break, you may have noticed some exciting new changes in the entryway! Because of the creative laboring of several C’port parents, walking into the school is now a brighter, more delightful experience. Those who don’t have the chance to see it in person can check out before and after pictures here:

Many thanks to C’port parent Debra S. of Cocoon Home Design, for her interior design genius, and to helpful parents Carolyn and Chris; Arts Committee Chair Jen D.; C’port kids Rosie, Emma, Ben, Max, and Isabella; and our fantastic custodian Lawrence Battle. We’re so fortunate to have many parents and staff at C’port who share their talents to make our school more vibrant and its community stronger. And a special thanks to Sherwin-Williams for donation of a very key ingredient—namely, paint!

At our last PTO meeting, School Committee member Fred Fantini attended. (He came to our last School Council meeting, too.)

At one point he mentioned that of all the schools he visited during this past election season, Cambridgeport by far seemed to have the most dads and male caregivers bringing children to school in the morning.

So it was interesting to find this article in the New York Times less than a week after Fred made that comment. The article is about how men are shifting the dynamics of PTOs and PTAs.

The article’s positive tone is more important than whether or not we agree with the author’s premise (that men have brought more professionalism to parent organizations). It emphasizes how PTO involvement is meaningful on so many levels for an increasing range of parents.

The article quotes one dad who says the PTO is “like running a small business.” It mentions another as having taken on the goal of getting a new gym built. Yet another dad is noted as having secured $150,000 from a local politician to get interactive white boards in his children’s school (“I can really get things done!” he says.) And still another helped a PTA set up a computer program to track donations.

More men in the room is great. Our PTO currently has two dads! And, as the article points out, some studies indicate that children whose fathers are involved in their schools are more likely to stay in school, do well and enjoy themselves while they’re there.

I guess what we’re getting at here is that the Cambridgeport PTO needs all members of the Cambridgeport community to participate! And there are many ways to do that. Developing community is one of the main goals of CPTO, and community means EVERYONE.

So whether you’re male or female, professional or not, and no matter your background, marital status, or orientation, please join us. When it comes to supporting the school and building connections, everyone has skills to offer, insight worth hearing and ideas to share.

This has been a transition year for Cambridgeport families. We’ve been celebrating all our traditions while keeping an eye toward our future.

Starting in September we’ll become a school with four kindergartens at the base (one more than we currently have), and two fifth-grade classrooms at the top. It’s a very new structure for us. Many of the parents who have helmed the PTO have either had children here for six or more years or else have children who will be entering sixth or seventh grade in the fall at the new Upper School on Cambridge Street.

What this means is that a good number of those parents will be moving on with their kids to high school or will be moving on to establish a parent organization at our new Upper School.

If you are someone with a child in Cambridgeport and want to know a little bit more about how parents play a part—how we raise money for classrooms and special projects and how we build community—then now is the time to stick your toe in the water. In a couple weeks we’ll begin planning our Spring Fling Talent Show & Auction, and it takes many hands. Join in now and learn from a crew who knows the ropes.

Of course, this new structure brings exciting new opportunities. If you have ideas about events, fundraising or even just how to increase parent involvement and build community, we’d love to hear from you. The PTO is a flexible, fun group of folks who are game to try new ways to support the school and its teachers so that Cambridgeport can be the best it can be.

The next PTO meeting will be Monday March 12 at 6:30 in the school library. Please join us. Your participation will ensure that Cambridgeport continues to be a school chosen for its strong parent involvement and welcoming community as much as for its philosophy of Developmental Learning, its high standards for academic achievement and its dedicated and caring teachers and staff.

If you can’t attend PTO meetings but want to find out how you can help, feel free to get in touch. Contact Heather Nelson at www.support@cambridgeportpto.org.

On Thursday, February 16, from 6 to 8 pm, Cambridgeport’s cafeteria will become a feast for all five senses with its Multicultural Potluck Dinner & Dance. At this free event, Cambridgeport families will share foods from their heritages, watch skits, listen to a World Music flute quartet (featuring kindergarten teacher Mrs. Ryan!) and dance to music of many lands. Please bring a dish to share and help us celebrate the unique, multicultural vibe that energizes the Cambridgeport community and enriches our children’s education.

January included a school district discussion on academic challenge for the middle school (Jan 17), a successful and extremely well-attended Math Night (Jan 19), a forum to meet all eight candidates for middle school “heads” (Jan 21), and an important parent-feedback night about the future of mixed grades at Cambridgeport (Jan 23). February is just as filled to the brim!

Monday, FEBRUARY 6, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

— Help Create the Vision for the new Upper School on Cambridge Street. What traditions from C’port do we hope to continue at the new Upper School? What qualities do we want in the sixth-to-eighth grade learning community so that all children succeed? ALL Families, JK–8, are invited to contribute to this discussion on February 6, from 6 to 7:30 pm in Cambridgeport’s library. We will discuss recent survey results and create a Vision Statement for the Cambridge Street Upper School. Please RSVP to Shirley for free childcare and pizza for the children: sharvey@cpsd.us or 617-349-6587, ext.111.

Monday, FEBRUARY 13, 8:30 a.m.

—Join Katie in the morning for a Principal Coffee. Topic is Open: bring any thoughts, questions or ideas.

Monday, FEBRUARY 13, 6 p.m.

—Cambridgeport PTO monthly meeting. Please drop in, everyone’s invited! We’ll discuss final details for the potluck on Thursday and begin making plans for Cambridgeport’s annual Spring Fling Talent Show and Silent Auction, taking place April 28.

Wednesday, FEBRUARY 15, 5:30 p.m.

—King Open School Council meeting. All parents from Cport, King Open and Fletcher Maynard are invited. Pizza and childcare for kids provided. Agenda includes updates on budget for the new middle school.

Thursday, FEBRUARY 16, 6 to 8 p.m.

—Multicultural Potluck Dinner & Dance. Free event! Come to one of the school’s most popular evenings of the year as we celebrate the unique multicultural vibe that energizes the Cambridgeport community and enriches our children’s education. Bring a dish to share! Listen to selections from a World Music flute ensemble, featuring kindergarten teacher Mrs. Ryan! Watch thought-provoking skits that will make you learn and laugh! Dance to music of many lands! For questions, or to volunteer during set up and clean up, contact Jen Deaderick at 617-953-9990 or jendeaderick@gmail.com.

Monday, FEBRUARY 27, 6 to 8 p.m.

—Final Discussion about Mixed-Grades Learning. Hear Katie’s decision about mixed-grades learning and her plan for moving forward, based on parent and teacher feedback from the meeting on mixed grades during the “Future of Mixed Grades” discussion at the January 23^rd School Council Meeting.

On Thursday, January 19, from 6 to 7:30 pm, all Cambridgeport families are invited to come to the school gym to play math games and enjoy free pizza and desserts. Teachers for every grade level will have tables set up for fun math activities, plus there will be Gamewright Games available for families to play with their children or children to play together. Need more details? Here they are:

—This is a FREE event.

—Write your name on your entrance ticket for the chance to win a door prize from a local business.

—All children will leave with a page of grade-appropriate math games to play using items from around the house.

—Visit the Gamewright Table anytime during the evening to purchase Gamewright Games for your family or to donate to classrooms (teacher Wish Lists for games will be posted at the Gamewright Table).

See you on Thursday evening!

The past four months at Cambridgeport saw Back to School Night, the CitySprouts Harvest Festival, Make a Difference Day, Literacy Night and the launch of a new Cambridge Street Upper School Parents Group.

The remaining six months of the school year will be equally full to the brim. Here’s a quick rundown for January:

Monday January 9, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

—Cambridgeport PTO Meeting, everyone is invited. Elaine Schear, president of Friends of CRLS, will speak briefly about how her organization works and will share good ideas. Following that, we’ll discuss Math Night planning (1/19), Multicultural Dinner planning (2/16), updates from the Cambridge Street Upper School Parents Group, and the date of the planned Families First Workshop.

Thursday January 19, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

—2^nd Annual Math Game Family Fun Night. Play math games with your children, win fabulous door prizes, take home game kits, enjoy free pizza and desserts, visit the Gamewright table to play and purchase Gamewright games for your family or to donate to classrooms.

Monday January 23, from 6 to 8 p.m.

—Discussion of Future of Mixed Grades at School Council Meeting, everyone is invited and childcare will be provided. Teachers and former students discuss pros/cons of their experience with mixed-grade classrooms followed by a “world café” in which families engage in small group discussions on the topic. “Looping” will also be discussed, along with its implications (adding another kindergarten class or keeping one classroom mixed grades).