Calendar

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28 Friday

 

Winter Craft at MPL

Stop by the Children's Department at Marlborough Public Library, <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />35 W. Main St., from 3-4 p.m. for a winter craft. All ages are welcome and no registration is required. Please contact the Children's Department at (508) 624-6902 for more info.

 

Book Signing at Higgins Armory Museum

Matt Tavaras, illustrator of "Iron Hans," will be reading and signing his book from 1-2 p.m. at Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Admission: $9, $8 seniors, $7 children ages 6-16, free to members and children age 5 and under. For more info, visit www.higgins.org.

 

 

29 Saturday

 

 

Family Movie at MPL

Stop in at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St., at 2 p.m. for a showing of  "Pete's Dragon" in the Bigelow Auditorium. The program is free and open to the public.  No registration is required. Please contact the Children's Department at (508) 624-6902 for more info.

 

 

30 Sunday

 

St. Stephen's Christmas Services 2007

St. Stephen' Episcopal Church, 3 John St., Westborough, will hold Christmas services at 8 a.m. (Rite Two Holy Eucharist) and 9:30 a.m. (Rite Two Holy Eucharist with music, church school and nursery care). Call (508) 366-4134 for info.

 

 

31 Monday

 

New Year's Eve Alkathon

The Addiction Referral Center (ARC) at 110 Pleasant St., Marlborough, invites all to attend a New Year Alkathon to enjoy a safe and sober holiday. The Alkathon starts at 5:30 p.m. and concludes at 5:30 p.m. New Year's Day. Meetings will be held continuously, with 15 minute breaks, and food will be served. Anyone wishing to donate sandwiches, cookies, etc. are welcome to do so. Call the ARC at (508) 485-HELP for further details.

 

Holiday Blood Drive in Shrewsbury

An American Red Cross holiday blood drive will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Ave. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are also welcome. All donors will receive a lift ticket to Wachusett Mountain (certain restrictions apply) and a special limited Patriots T-shirt. Call (800) 448-3543 for info or an appointment.

 

 

2 Wednesday

 

Shrewsbury Public Library Amnesty Ends

The amnesty period at Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., ends. During "Start the New Year with a Clean Slate" no fines will be charged for late items from the Shrewsbury collection. In lieu of fines, library users are encouraged to make donations to the library or to St. Anne's Human Services program. Charges for lost or damaged books and items will not be covered under the amnesty period. For info, call (508) 842-0081.

 

GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club

The next meeting of the GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club will be at 7:30 p.m. at New Horizons, 400 Hemenway St., Marlborough. MJWC has a variety of ongoing projects, including supporting the Food Pantry, Marlborough Hospital and local schools; caring for its Adopt-a-Space; sending cooling neck wraps to local soldiers in Iraq; and much more.  New or interested members who would like to attend or need more info can e-mail join@marlboroughjuniors.org or visit www.marlboroughjuniors.org.

 

 

3 Thursday

 

DivorceCare Program Starts

Those who are separated, going through a divorce or already divorced are invited to attend the first in a 13-week DivorceCare Seminar at Grace Baptist Church, 353 River Rd., Hudson.â028 â028The video series will be held every Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Each session is "self-contained," so participants can begin attending on any week. Fee: $20 (aid available). To register or for info, contact Jean Coyne at (978) 562-8550 ext. 114 or jcoyne@gracehudson.org.

 

Marlborough Blood Drive

An American Red Cross blood drive will be held 3-9 p.m. at Wayside Racquet and Swim Club, 80 Broadmeadow Rd., Marlborough. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins welcome, too. All donors will receive a special limited edition Patriots T-shirt and Dunkin' Donuts coupon. For info or an appointment, call (800) 448-3543.

 

 

4 Friday

 

Shrewsbury Woman's Club Meeting

The Shrewsbury Woman's Club will hold its first meeting of the new year at the First Congregational Church. Dessert is at 12:15 p.m., followed by a program on the do's and don'ts of Emergency Response 911. Members and their quests are encouraged to come and become better informed. Also, the art corner will feature members' needlework.

 

Northborough/Southborough Integrated Pre-school Program

Northborough/Southborough Public School's Integrated Pre-school Program is inviting neighborhood children who will be three years old by June 15, 2008 for a screening for possible enrollment for the 2008/2009 school year. The screenings will take place Jan. 30 at both the Zeh and Finn schools. To schedule a screening, contact Mary Anne Bryant at (508) 351-7048 ext. 127 before Jan. 4. To receive a program brochure, call (508) 393-4378 and leave your name and address.  

 

 

5 Saturday

 

Praise-A-Palooza at First Church  

Join the First Church in Marlborough UCC, 37 High St., for a "Praise-A-Palooza" at 7 p.m. The exciting event will include multi-age music groups from MACUCC churches, "high-octane" praise in different styles, and stories of music in faith journeys. Free-will offerings will be accepted. For info, contact b_waters@firstchurchnet.com.â028

 

Higgins Armory Anniversary Celebration

Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester, will be celebrating its 80th birthday! The occasion will be commemorated with free admission to the public all day, starting at 10 a.m. For info on the day's events, visit www.higgins.org or call (508) 853-6015.

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6 Sunday

 

St. Michael Open House

The St. Michael School in Hudson invites all interested families to its annual Open House for New Enrollment from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. St. Michael Elementary School is a faith-centered kindergarten one (4-year olds) through grade 8 school. For info. call (978) 562-2917 or visit www.stmichaelschoolhudson.org.

 

Upcoming

 

Tax Prep Program at MPL

Tax advisor Sheryl Figol will present a tax preparation program, "Getting Everything You're Entitled To," Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. at Marlborough Public Library's Bigelow Auditorium, 35 W. Main St. The presentation will cover such topics as home office deductions, energy and vehicle credits, and mortgages and work related expenses. For info, call the library at (508) 624-6900

 

Colonial Spirit Chorus Vocal Lessons

The Colonial Spirit Chorus of Sweet Adelines is offering vocal lessons for women of all ages. They will be held Jan. 10, 17 and 24, from 7-8 p.m., at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Newtown Rd. (off Route 17), Acton. The lessons are free, but there is a $10 materials and music fee. It is not necessary to be able to read music. For info, call Norma at (978) 692-2270 or Noreen at (978) 263-0562.

 

Hudson Baseball Softball Registration

Hudson Youth Spring Baseball Softball will hold a registration Jan. 12, from 9 a.m.-noon, at Hudson High School, 69 Brigham St. For info, visit www.Eteamz.com/hybs.

 

Newcomers' Club Welcome Coffee Hour

Join the Northborough Newcomers' Club Jan. 12, 9-11 a.m. for coffee, cocoa and donuts! Newcomers' is hosting a welcome coffee at Trinity Church, 23 Main St., Northborough, for all residents interested in learning more about the club. Current members will be on hand to greet and answer questions. For info about the club, visit www.northboroughnewcomers.org or e-mail northboroughnewcomers@yahoo.com.

 

Get Organized Program for Seniors

January is Get Organized Month and organizing consultant Patty Von Shoppe will present "Organizing Gems for Seniors" Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. in the Bigelow Auditorium at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St. The presentation will cover such topics as weeding out junk mail, tricks of space planning, and passing along family treasures. For further info, call the library at (508) 624-6900.

 

Audition Workshop for Adults and Teens

The Arts Alliance is offering its popular audition workshop Jan. 23 from 7-9 p.m. at Hudson High School, Room F101, 69 Brigham St., Hudson. Both teens and adults will learn how to increase confidence and improve performance skills when trying out for dramatic and musical productions, even for a new job. There is a $15 registration fee to participate in this intensive workshop. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call 978-562-1646.

 

Arts Afterschool Classes Offered

Beginning the week of Jan. 31 and ending April 9, the Arts Alliance will be offering 12 different classes in various school buildings throughout Hudson. Taught by experienced, yet, innovative art educators, artists, and musicians, the 8- and 9-week sessions are geared towards area students in grades 1 to 12. Registrations are due by Jan. 25. For info, call the Arts Alliance at (978)-562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org.

 

Harlem Wizards Exhibition Game

The Harlem Wizards exhibition basketball team returns to Grafton Jan. 26 for two fun-filled, family entertainment events at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Watch them play a Grafton team of locals and notables and put on an incredible show. The event will be held at Grafton High School Gym, 24 Providence Rd. (Route 122). Tickets: $15 advance , $10 students/ seniors advance, $18 door, $12 students/seniors door. Tickets can be purchased at the Grafton Recreation Department or www.wizardsingrafton.com.

 

 

Ongoing

"Symphony of Colors" Exhibit

"Symphony of Colors," the photography of Oded Burger, will be on view through Dec. 30 at the Wayside Inn Gallery, Longfellow's Wayside Inn, Sudbury. Call (978) 443-1776 for info.

 

New Daisy Girl Scout Troop Forming

Daisy Girl Scouts is open to all Westborough girls in kindergarten. Daisy Girl Scouts meet in small groups with two or more adult leaders in a nurturing, inclusive environment. They go on local trips, do crafts, hike and explore Westborough, and work on service projects that benefit the community. Daisy Girl Scouts also earn patches through a variety of activities. A new troop is forming that meets Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30. For more info, contact Jill at (508) 836-5495.

 

Art Exhibit Opportunity for Teachers/Students

Area arts educators and high school students are invited to submit works to a public exhibit planned for this February at the Citizens Bank in Hudson. "Empowering the Artist: An Exhibit of Teacher and Student Work" is a chance for the general public to view the creative work occurring in area schools by talented teens and skillful art teachers. Deadline to register is Jan. 29. Work must be matted and ready-to-hang. Since space is limited, not all entries may be accepted. Fee is $5 per piece. For info, call (978)-562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org.

 

Young at Heart Trips Planned

The Young at Heart group has some day trips and an overnight trip planned, including Aqua Turf in Connecticut for a St. Patrick's Day luncheon and entertainment March 13 ($55); April 6-12 is a 7-day trip to Savannah and Jekyll Island, Georgia and Beaufort, S.C. ($529); the Newport and Old Colony Railroad April 27 ($45, including lunch); and a trip to Northshore Music Theatre to see "The Producers" May 14 ($69, including lunch.) All trips leave from Faith Fellowship Church in Uxbridge and the Westborough Senior Center, 4 Rogers Rd. Deposits are due soon for the Savannah trip, so call Sue at (508) 476-3438 as soon as possible.

 

Parker Road Preschool Lottery

The Parker Road Preschool and the Little Colonials, both Shrewsbury public school programs, will accept lottery applications for the September 2008 school year through Jan. 31. For info, call (508) 841-8646.

 

Home School Social

Held at Hudson Public Library, 3 Washington St. (at Wood Square) on the first Thursday of every month at 1 p.m. Come discuss common issues/interest, meet other home school parents, and let the kids play board games together. No sign up is required. For info, contact Children's Librarian Deborah Backman at (978) 568-9645.

 

Westborough Seniors Cribbage Group

The Westborough Seniors Cribbage Group welcomes new members at its Tuesday get-togethers, held 9:30 a.m.-noon at the Westborough Senior Center, 4 Rogers Rd. For info, call (508) 366-3000.

 

Agape Café

Free weekly dinners every Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 34 Felton St., Hudson. The dining room opens at 4 p.m. for coffee, tea, cribbage, card games and socializing. Bring your family, friends and neighbors -- all are welcome. For info, call Rosanne Roberts at (978) 562-2932.

 

Assabet Valley Pastoral Counseling Center

Support groups for caregivers, divorce and post-divorce are available at the Assabet Valley Pastoral Counseling Center. For info or to sign up, call Mary Taber at (508) 366-4000.

 

Rice Memorial Baptist Church Morning Prayer

Morning prayer at 85 Lincoln St., Northborough, is held 6:30-7:30 a.m. Spend a few moments of quiet time before beginning the day. Christian/non-denominational, all are welcome. Call the church office at (508) 393-3481 for info.

 

Whitney Place at Northborough

Offers free support groups for people with early-stage memory disorders and their care partners. Groups meet 2^nd and 4^th Thursdays of every month from 10:30 a.m.-noon, at 238 W. Main St., Northborough. All meetings open to the public and other support groups are available. For info or to reserve a space, call Aimee at (508) 393-5655 ext. 256.

 

Toastmasters

Meets every Thursday from 7:45-9 a.m. in the Hanover Insurance Building, 440 Lincoln St., Worcester. Call (508) 756-5677 or visit http://earlyrisers.freetoasthost.org/ for info.

 

The Couples Project for Women

CPW offers free treatment for women with alcohol dependence who are married or live with a male partner. Weekly one-on-one outpatient therapy for 5 to 6 months promotes women's recovery. Some women also receive couples counseling to promote recovery and improve communication. The study is conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School and AdCare Hospital. For info, call AdCare Hospital of Worcester at (800) 345-3552 ext. 4043.

 

Horizons for Homeless Children

Seeking volunteers to help out 22 family homeless shelters in Central Massachusetts. A commitment of 2 hours a week is required for at least 6 months. Day and evening hours are available. For  info or to register for a training, visit www.horizonsforhomelesschildren.org or call (508) 755-2615.

 

VNA Care Hospice Grief Support Group

Free grief support group for adults coping with the death of a loved one. The group meets from 1-2:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at Whitney Place Assisted Living at Northborough, 238 West Main St. To register or for info, call Susan Tarantino at (800) 521-5539 ext. 5624, e-mail starantino@vnacarenetwork.org or visit www.vnacarenetwork.org.

 

Road to Recovery

Drivers are needed in the greater Westborough area to transport local cancer patients to treatments. For info on volunteering, call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345.

 

State Rep. Patricia Walrath

Meets with Hudson seniors from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. the first Friday of each month at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church St.

 

American Lung Association

Seeks the donation of unwanted cars to help support its lung health programs. Call (800) 577-LUNG or visit www.donateyourcar.com for info.

 

Worcester Animal Rescue League

Now open for adoptions until 7 p.m. on Thursdays, at 139 Holden St., Worcester. Visit www.worcester-arl.org for info.

 

Overeaters Anonymous

Now meets at St. Luke the Evangelist Church's Parish Center, 1 Ruggles St., Westborough, at 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday evening.

 

Boys & Girls Club Car Campaign

Seeking the donation of unwanted cars to benefit local clubs. Call (800) 246-0493 for info. No restrictions.

 

S.T.A.R.S.

Students Teach and Reach Seniors invites Westborough seniors to learn the computer from high school students every Monday 2:15-3:15 p.m. at the high school library. Free, all levels of experience welcome. For info or to register, call (508) 366-3000.

 

Crossroads FM

The fibromyalgia/CFS support group meets the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Tatnuck Booksellers & Cafe, 18 Lyman St., Westborough. For info, e-mail Merle Portnoy at meport@charter.net or call (508) 366-7998.

 

Marlborough Hospital CPR Classes

Offered to the community on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. Heartsaver CPR classes cost $45 per participant ($55pp for Heartsaver and automatic electronic defibrillation classes). Call Michael Sawtelle at (508) 486-5465 for info or to register.

 

Elder "Keep Well" Clinic

The Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr., holds an Elder "Keep Well" Clinic the 3rd Tuesday of each month, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Call (508) 393-5035 for info.

 

NAMI

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill support meetings are held 7-9 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 373 Plantation St., 2 Biotech Park, 3rd floor, Worcester.

 

The New Parent Group

For first-time parents with a child under 6 months, the group meets at Assabet Valley Area Family Network, 169 Pleasant St., Marlborough. Call (508) 485-0085 for meeting times, dates or other info.

 

Women in Transition

A mutual support group for women that meets 2nd Monday of each month, 7:30-9 p.m., at the Church of the Nativity in Northborough. For info, call Jenny Church at (508) 393-5447.

 

MetroWest Parent Support Group

For parents of kids/adolescents with behavioral, emotional or mental health special needs. Meets 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 7-9 p.m., at Wayside Youth & Family Network, 75 Fountain St., Framingham. Free, confidential. For info, call Lois DeRusha at (508) 620-0010 ext. 342.

 

Parents Helping Parents

Offers free, confidential and anonymous weekly support groups throughout Massachusetts. Volunteers are also being sought as group facilitators. For info, call (800) 882-1250.