Public is invited to showing of Balto, an animated movie that celebrates sled dogs who saved community
Tewksbury, MA — The Public Health Museum in Massachusetts is pleased to announce it was selected to receive a grant from the Tewksbury Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. The award will help fund Public Health Movie Nights through 2024.
The Public Health Museum is celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2024 and has a robust lineup of programs and events planned throughout the year. The museum received funding to support a quarterly film series to introduce various public health topics to audiences. So that audiences can view the films through the lens of science, each screening includes a brief discussion presented by Dr. Alfred DeMaria, Medical and Laboratory Consultant at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Dr. DeMaria previously served as Medical Director of the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, and for many years as State Epidemiologist for Massachusetts.
As the only museum dedicated to public health in Massachusetts, the series aims to introduce topics of infectious diseases, epidemiology, and overall wellness through popular films. The series will address myths and misconceptions surrounding the diseases being discussed, as well as the stigmatization of select groups of individuals, such as was seen with the AIDS crisis.
The first film will be Balto, which is based on the story of sled dogs who raced the serum to stop a deadly diphtheria outbreak in Alaska along what is now the Iditarod trail. Balto is an animated film rated G, so it’s suitable for the entire family. The showing will be on Saturday, February 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Museum, and there will be snacks provided. All residents are invited.
About The Public Health Museum
Through original artifacts, memorabilia, and archival materials the museum explores the history of public health in America and the story of Tewksbury Hospital, one of the first public health hospitals in the country. The history of infectious disease and innovations in public health are cornerstones of the museum.
The Public Health Museum is a non-profit educational and cultural institution dedicated to public health history. The Museum serves as a resource to the community, exploring public health initiatives that address current health issues with online content and programming, including a summer program for high school students interested in public health careers. Please visit publichealthmuseum.org to learn more.

Be First to Comment