Mayor's Open House & Newton Centre Ice Rink Celebration Saturday

Local residents and families can finsh 2011 on a positive note with two fun, community events set for this weekend in Newton. 

Starting at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, the city will hold a grand opening celebration for the new Newton Centre ice rink. Later on, Mayor Setti Warren will host his annual open house this Saturday, Dec. 31, from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at . 

This year, Warren will incorporate community service in the annual celebration. Residents who attend are asked to bring canned goods for local food pantries or supplies for care packages that will be sent to troops in Afghanistan.

According to a press release issued by the mayor's office last week, the care packages will be assembled in room 202 at City Hall. Residents can also make cards and write notes to send in the care packages.

The canned goods brought to the open house will be donated to . 

"The Open House is a terrific opportunity for our community to come together during the holiday season, enjoy the new skating rink in Newton Centre, and take some time to give back to our troops and to those in need right here in Newton," Mayor Warren said in a statement.

In addition to building care packages, the annual open house will also feature the Newton Family Singers (room 209), Chinese dancers (War Memorial), singer Wayne Potash (Aldermanic Chamber) as well as Big Joe the Story Teller (room 209).

Newton Centre ice rink grand opening

Prior to the start of the open house celebration, the city will hold a grand opening for the Newton Centre ice rink, which is located across from Panera near the intersection of Centre Street and Langley Road.

According to the a press release from the mayor's office, the grand opening takes place at 11:30 a.m. and will feature a performance by the Cheryl Franks Creative Skating Academy.

However, skating at the rink is dependent upon weather and the make-up date is Saturday, Jan. 7 at 2 p.m. Residents can check back with Newton Patch or the city's website for updated information on the rink's opening.

Similar to rinks in Newton Highlands and Newton Lower Falls, the skating area will be open to residents this winter from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., weather permitting.

The rink was made possible with support from Cambridge Savings Bank, Newton Community Pride and local volunteers, the mayor's office said.