Story by Joseph Porcelli

After fifteen years as an award-winning restaurant, entertainment complex and neighborhood institution in the Boston area, (raising some $500,000.00+ during their tenure for local charities and non-profits), Bella Luna Restaurant and The Milky Way Lounge officially bid farewell to its current location of 403-405 Centre Street in Jamaica Plain on March 21, 2009.

Bella Luna Parade Video by Joe Porcelli

While March 21, 2009 will be the official last show at Centre Street, March 22, 2009 will mark the official “transfer of love” to their new location in style. The public is invited to join in the process which will include a New Orleans Style parade from the old location to the new. Guests of all ages are invited to gather at the current location of 403-405 Centre Street at 1:00pm for a farewell ceremony with the parade slated to begin at 2:00pm. The parade will include stilt walkers, performers of all kinds and marching bands including: Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band and Bloco Afro Brazil! Guests are asked to bring their own musical instruments if they’d like to help make some noise, as well as, umbrellas, signs and anything else they’d like to add to the festive nature of the 7-block long march. The parade will conclude with cupcakes and hot chocolate at the new location.”We’re looking forward to all our friends and regulars joining us for this fun event rain or shine,” said Carol Downs,” Co-Owner,” and we welcome any new friends to join in as well in this historic celebration and parade.”

My good friends Joseph and Kate have sponsored a holiday drive through Neighbors For Neighbors for the last four years.  They collect funds and purchase toys and clothing for Jamaica Plain families in need. A noble cause – and now they’re sweetening the deal. This year we’re teaming up with Mike’s Fitness to raise money, and collect and purchase gifts and warm clothes for little ones who attend the Kennedy School.

On Saturday December 20, from 6:00 am on, the first 200 hundred people that show up at Mike’s Fitness and donate a new unwrapped toy, are eligible to sign up for a 1 year membership at Mike’s Fitness for the incredible price of $299.00 (which will be honored for every year you are a member).