7 Friday

Northborough Holiday Blood Drive

The American Red Cross will hold a holiday blood drive 1-7 p.m. at Trinity Church, 23 Main St., Northborough. First 100 donors to receive a complimentary lift ticket to the Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. For info or an appointment, call (800) 448-3543. Walk-ins also welcome.

 

Friends "Annual Holiday Party"

The Friends of the Marlborough Public will hold its "Annual Holiday Party" starting with a social hour at 6 p.m. at the Wildwood Steak House, Route 20, Boston Post Road East, Marlborough. Friends President Ray Johnson cordially invites Friends members and guests, as well as the public. Cost: $30pp. For reservations, call Teresa Stefanski at (508) 485-4204. For info, call (508) 485-4204 or 508-485-0290 or e-mail rajohnson36@verizon.net. Those attending are asked to bring a $5 gift to exchange.

 

Movie Presentation of "Black Gold"

The award-winning film "Black Gold" will be shown at 7 p.m. in the Parish Hall of the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 40 Church St., Northborough. "Black Gold" traces, through the work of Tadesse Meskela, the struggles of Ethiopian coffee farmers to earn a fair price for their crops. Admission is free and fair trade coffee and chocolate will be available for purchase during intermission.

 

7^th annual Gold Ribbon Holiday Reception

The Andrew's Helpful Hands Foundation will present the 7^th annual Gold Ribbon Reception from 7 p.m.-midnight at Embassy Suites Hotel in Marlborough. Special guest: actor/comedian Frank Santorelli. Tickets: $50pp, $65 door. Semi-formal attire required. Visit www.andrewshelpfulhands.org for info or call John at (508) 380-1797 or Zee at (978) 375-3704.

 

Children's Water Conservation Program

"Save Water With Mr. Raindrop," a fun, hands-on program for ages 3-4, will be held at 10:30 a.m. at Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St. Space is limited and registration required. For info, call (508) 842-0081.

 

Hudson Downtown Stroll

The 5th annual Downtown Hudson Holiday Stroll starts at 4 p.m. in the downtown Hudson area. For info on participating, call Nancy Fredrickson of Edward Jones at (978) 567-9729 or visit www.hudsonstroll.com.

 

"Potpourri of Holiday Music"

Brand-new hand bells and a barbershop quartet willâ028highlight the Northborough Historical Society's "Holiday Season Warm-up"â028at 7:30 p.m. in the Society¹s building at 50 Mainâ028St.â028The community is invited to attend the program presented by the Trinityâ028Church Bell Choir, as well as their Senior Choir and Jubilee Quartet. Free, and all are welcome. Refreshments will be served.

 

Marlborough Hospital Holiday Bazaar

The Marlborough Hospital Auxiliary will be holding itsâ028annual Holiday Bazaar from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in the ground floor cafeteria at Marlborough Hospital, 57 Union St. Includes a bake table, hand knits and crafts, beautiful wreaths andâ028centerpieces, white elephant table.

 

Shrewsbury Woman's Club Meeting

The Shrewsbury Woman's Club will meet at the Congregational Church, with dessert from 12:15-1 p.m. Guest: Ida Zecco to perform music of the season. Guests are welcome.

 

Senior Center Craft Class

The Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr., will hold its monthly craft class at 11:15 a.m. To register or for info, call (508) 393-5035.

 

 

8 Saturday

TJL Cultural Arts Series Concert

Jazz pianist and composer Jon Simon will perform as part of Tapestry of Jewish Life's (TJL) 3^rd annual Cultural Art Series at 8 p.m. at St. John's High School, 378 Main St., Shrewsbury. The concert includes jazz interpretations of Jewish music, featuring songs from Israel, various holidays and festivals, and more. Doors open for TJL/WAJCC members at 7:15 p.m. (7:45 p.m. for general public) for a special reception. Tickets: free for TJL/WAJCC members, $20 non-members. For info or to buy advance tickets, visit www.westboroareajcc.org, stop by the Westboro Area JCC at 45 Oak St. or call (508) 366-6121.

 

Boys & Girls Clubs Free Throw Finals

The Argeo R. Cellucci, Jr. Clubhouse, 21 Church St., Hudson, will host the Central Mass Free Throw Championship finals. Sponsored by Newbury Comics and the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, the competition is an open tournament for all ages. For info,  call Dennis at (978) 562-9924 or visit www.bgcmetrowest.org.

 

Northborough Rec Holiday Concert

Northborough Recreation is presenting a free Holiday Concert from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Zeh School Cafeteria, 33 Howard St. Jazz standards and traditional Christmas favorites will be performed by local musicians R & T. Refreshments will be donated by Lowe's Variety and Meat Shop. For info, visit www.northboroughrecreation.com or call (508) 393-5034. 

 

Santa Visits Central One

Santa Claus will visit the Central One Federal Credit Union branch location at 148 Main St., Northborough. Also Dec. 15 at 63 Southbridge St., Auburn, and Dec. 22 at 714 Main St., Shrewsbury. Children are invited to visit with Santa. Each child can have a free picture taken with Santa and receive a gift. Refreshments will also be available. For info, contact Central One Federal Credit Union at (508) 842-7400.

 

Annual Breakfast With Santa

The Northborough Lions and Newcomers clubs are teaming up once to bring Santa Claus to Northborough. Breakfast will be served 8:30-10:30 a.m. at Lincoln Street Elementary School. Tickets are limited and available at O'Driscoll's Fresh Butchery, 299 West Main St. Cost: $5 adults, $4 children under 12, $2 photos with Santa. For info or tickets, contact Lisa Rabideau at Lisa.rabideau@charter.net or Donna O'Driscoll at (508) 393-2829/odriscoll@charter.net

 

Shrewsbury Parks & Rec Winter Registration

Shrewsbury Parks & Recreation opens its Winter Registration from 8-10 a.m. at Town Hall, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury. Brochures are available at Town Hall, Senior Center, and Public Library, as well as on line at http://www.shrewsbury-ma.gov/parkrec/index.asp. For info, call (508) 841-8503.

 

MANN Children's Holiday Party

The Marlborough Area Newcomers and Neighbors (MANN) children's Holiday Party will be held at 1:30 p.m. The family event will offer children's activities and refreshments. Please bring an unwrapped toy as a donation for the Toys for Tots campaign. To RSVP, e-mail monicajdell@yahoo.com. For info, visit www.MarlboroughNewcomers.com.

 

Holiday Family Concert

A holiday concert featuring folk singers and songwriters Chuck & Mud will start at 3 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church, 64 West Main St., Westborough. Tickets: $5 advance, $6, free for children. For info, call (508) 366-2635.

 

Breakfast With Santa

Hudson Emblem Club presents Breakfast with Santa from 9-11 a.m. at the Hudson Lodge of Elks, 99 Park St. Come and enjoy doughnuts, juice and hot chocolate. Every child receives a gift from Santa. Admission: donation of a canned good (to be used to fill Christmas baskets or the Food Pantry). Bring your camera and get pictures of your child with Santa or Mrs. Claus or just sit and listen to Christmas stories. For info, call Barbara Sawyer at (978) 568-9291 or Dorothy Barreira at (978) 562-5276.

 

Westborough Woman's Club Holiday House Tour

A great way to start off the holiday season is by spending an afternoon with family and friends at the Westborough Woman's Club Holiday House tour from 1-4 p.m.

Refreshments for all ticket holders will be available at the vestry of the Evangelical Congregational Church, West Main St., from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tickets: $20. To order tickets, call Judy Wilchynski at (508) 870-1895, Ruth Roberts (508) 836-4263 or Nancy Walker at (508) 898-9476.

 

Song and Dance Storytime

A Song and Dance Storytime will be held from 10:30-11 a.m. at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St. Children ages birth to 6 years are invited to join the Children's Department staff for stories and songs. Please contact the Children's Department at (508) 624-6902 to register or for info.

 

Holiday Nature Crafts Open House

Drop by the visitor center at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary in Worcester to view its tree decorated with ornaments handcrafted from all-natural materials before making your own in the Program Room. Volunteers will guide you through the process of creating several ornaments or create your own design. Drop in anytime from 1-4 p.m. Fee: Mass Audubon adult members $4, adult non-members $5, child members $3, child non-members $4. Snow date: Dec. 9. For info or to register, call (508) 753-6087.

 

Shrewsbury Public Library Open House

The Friends of the Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., proudly present the annual Holiday Open House from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Includes crafts, music, games, refreshments, more. The Sweet Adelines will perform at 12 p.m. and a collection for Toys for Tots will be held.

 

Live Nativity at Community Covenant Church

Community Covenant Church in Hopkinton, West Elm/West Main sts., will be the site of a live nativity scene from 5-8 p.m. Free and open to the public, with donations accepted. Hot chocolate and light refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall.

For info, contact Pastor Bruce Johnson at (508) 435-3723.  

 

40^th annual Westborough Ski Swap

The 40th Annual Westborough Ski Swap will be starting at 9 a.m. in the Westborough High School lobby. Equipment will include new and used down hill skis, boots and clothing, skates and some cross country equipment. Used equipment may be dropped off only on Dec. 7, 7-9 p.m. Visit www.explorerpost85.com for details.

 

Living Nativity at Overlook Farm

Overlook Farm - Heifer Project, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland, will have a living nativity at 6 p.m. Also Dec. 9 at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Call (508) 886-2221 for info.

 

 

9 Sunday

Pro Musica, River's Edge Holiday Concert

The Pro Music Youth Chorus and the River's Edge Chorale and Community Band will perform a Holiday Concert at 3:30 p.m. at the Hudson High School auditorium, 69 Brigham St., Hudson. Tickets are $12, $9 for seniors/students; $10 advance, $7 seniors/students advance. Snow date: Dec. 16. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call the Arts Alliance at (978) 562-1646.

 

St. Luke's Community Supper

St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Hudson will host its monthly freeâ028community supper. The menu features a choice of chickenâ028tetrazzini or Swedish meatballs and spaghetti, accompanied by saladâ028and dessert. The supper is open to all without charge, with free-will offerings accepted. St. Luke's is located in the center ofâ028Hudson, off the rotary next to Liberty Park. For more info,â028call Joan at (978) 568-0172â028

 

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Holiday Handbell Concert

The handbell choirs of the First United Methodist Church, 120 W. Main St., Westborough, will present a Holiday Handbell Concert at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.  The four choirs will be performing arrangements of familiar Christmas music, under the direction of Cynthia Hamburger. Free admission, with free-will offerings accepted. For info, call the church office at (508) 366-4910 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays.

 

Westborough Menorah Lighting

Chabad of Westborough will sponsor its 6^th annual Public Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration in Westborough Center at the Rotary at 3:30 p.m. The highlight will be a special lighting of a menorah made out of cans!  The giant menorah will be built out of hundreds of cans of food that will subsequently be donated to feed the poor and hungry. Admission is free and open to all members of the community.

For info, call Dvora Green at (508) 366-0499 or e-mail Dvora@chabadwestboro.org.

 

Christmas Pageant/Live Nativity

The children of the congregation will present their Christmas message, "Messages from the Manger," during the 10:30 a.m. service of First Federated Church in Hudson, 200 Central St. Everyone is invited to attend the service. Also, a live nativity will be celebrated from 4-6 p.m. with caroling, hot cocoa and cookie decorating.

 

Breakfast With St. Nick

The St. Michael Home & School Association will host aâ028Pancake Breakfast with St. Nicholasâ028 from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in theâ028Hudson Catholic High School gym. Includesâ028crafts for kids, fun raffles, and photos with St. Nicholas and elves!â028Cost: $4pp, $10 families, $3 seniors.â028Contact Margaret Sullivan at sullivan183@verizon.net for tickets or info.

 

N.A.C.C. Annual Christmas Concert

The Northborough Area Community Chorus invites the community to its 36thâ028annual Christmas Concert at 3:15 p.m. at Trottierâ028Middle School, Parkerville Rd., Southborough. The afternoon of song is guaranteed to enhance your holiday spirits andâ028children will be delighted by a visit from Santa. Tickets: $5 at the door. For info, call (508) 393-8943.

 

Wayside Inn Bellringer's Concert

Longfellow's Wayside Inn in Sudbury will host a Bellringer's Concert at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The shows will be held at Martha Mary Chapel. Tickets are $8 and available by calling (978) 443-1776.

 

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Dance Prism's 25th annual Nutcracker

Dance Prism, a Boston-area professional ballet company, will perform "The Nutcracker" at Mechanics Hall in Worcester at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Ensemble includes Southborough sixth-grader Caroline Byrne. Tickets ($22, $16 seniors/children) may be obtained by calling (508) 752-0888.

 

10 Monday

Marlborough Hospital Community Tree Lighting

The 7th annual Marlborough Hospital "Tree of Light" community tree lighting event will be held at 7 p.m. in the hospital's Leahy Conference Center. Organized by the Marlborough Hospital Auxiliary, the event is open to the public and is held to honor or remember loved ones during the holiday season. Donation forms for those who would like to make a contribution for a light or luminaria may be picked up in the hospital's main lobby or Well Wishes Gift Shop. Forms may also be obtained by calling the hospital's Development Department at (508) 486-5810.

 

Senior Center Memory Workshop

The Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr., will offer a Memory Workshop with Mary Driscoll from 1-2:30 p.m. Cost: $5. Call (508) 393-5035 to register or for info.

 

MPL Presents Templar Program

"Templar Influences in Renaissance Art" will be presented from 6:15- 8 p.m. at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St. Andrew Linnell will take a look at the influences the Knights Templar had on the art of Leonardo Da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli and Raphael as well as Renaissance artists. No registration is required to attend this program.  For info, call (508) 624-6900.

 

 

11 Tuesday

Menorah Celebration at Solomon Pond Mall

Help build New England's largest Menorah (out of clicks building toys) at 5:30 p.m. at the JC Penny court in Solomon Pond Mall, Marlborough. The event will feature live music, arts and crafts, hot latkes (traditional potato pancakes), chocolate gelt and dreidels (spinning tops). Prizes will be given to all participants. For info, contact Dvora Green of the Chabad of Westboro at (508) 366-0499 or Dvora@chabadwestboro.org.

 

SHS Holiday Concert

The Shrewsbury High School Music Department will host its annual holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. with Band, Wind Ensemble and Concert Choir. Also Dec. 12 with the A Cappella Choir, Orchestra, Freshman Girls Choir and Jazz Band. Tickets are $5 and will be available at the door. For info, call (508) 841-8826.

 

First Church Women's Fellowship

The Women's Fellowship of the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational, will meet at 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall. At this time, a program with a Christmas theme will be presented. Donations for Baldwinville will be collected.

 

Mothers And More Meeting

The meeting of the Assabet Valley Chapter of Mothers and More will start at 7 p.m. at National Grid, 55 Bearfoot Rd., Northborough. Program: "How to Handle Money." From planning a budget, thinking about investing, or even giving your child an allowance, a guest speaker will help guests learn how to manage family finances. Visitors welcome for information, refreshments and an evening out. For info, call (508) 936-6882 or visit www.mothersandmoreassabetvalley.org.

 

Westborough Woman's Club Meeting

The Westborough Woman's Club will be entertained by the Westborough High School Honors String Quartet at their meeting. Refreshments will be served at 12:30 followed by the program at 1 p.m. A short business meeting will follow at 1:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Evangelical Congregational Church on West Main Street. To attend a meeting or for membership info, call Judy Wilchynski at (508) 870-1895.

 

Post Grad Info Session

The next information session for the Assabet Valley Post Graduate Technical Training program will be held at 9 a.m. at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, 215 Fitchburg St., Marlborough. Serious applicants will bring proof of high school diploma or GED, medical records indicating two doses of MMR vaccine and a recent tetanus shot, and be prepared to schedule a personal interview with the Admissions rep. For info, call Cindy Zomar at (508) 485-9430 ext. 250, or visit www.assabettech.com, under the Post Graduate tab.

 

MPL Hosts College Advisors Group

From 6:30-8 p.m. at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St., a financial advisor from College Advisors Group will be available to help parents find funding for their child's college education. No registration is required. Contact the College Advisors Group at (781) 740-1175 for info.

 

 

12 Wednesday

AV Chamber Holiday Business Networking

The Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce invites the business community to attend a Business After Five networking experience with 60-plus attendees. The event is hosted by St. Mary's Credit Union, 439 Main St., Hudson, from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $7 pp ($14 for nonmembers) and reservations are appreciated. To register, contact the Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce at (978) 568-0360 or info@assabetvalleychamber.org.

 

Free Parent Workshop

"Communication Development for Birth to Five Years" will be presented from 6:30-8 p.m. at the AVA Family Network, 169 Pleasant St., 2nd floor, Marlborough. The workshop serves as an intro to how a child usually progresses from early forms of communication (like eye contact and gestures) to more complex language. Participants will learn ways of supporting their child's communication, as well as the "red flags" that can be identified when development is not following a typical pattern. For info or to register, call (508) 485-0085.

 

Quintessential Brass Holiday Concert

Longfellow's Wayside Inn in Sudbury will present "A Quintessential Christmas" at 7 p.m. in the Martha Mary Chapel. Tickets are $12 and seating is limited. For info or tickets, call (978) 443-1776.

 

Baby Time at MPL

From 10-10:30 a.m., join Debby at Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St., for stories and songs for babies. This program is designed for children ages birth to 18 months old. Registration is required. Contact the Children's Department at (508) 624-6902 to register or for info.

 

 

13 Thursday

Low Vision Support Group

The MAB Community Services-sponsored Low Vision Support Group will meet 1-3 p.m. at Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr. Call Fran Weisse at (800) 852-3029 for info.

 

Southborough Holiday Blood Drive

The American Red Cross will hold a holiday blood drive 1-7 p.m. at St. Anne Church, 20 Boston Rd./Route 30, Southborough. All presenting donors will receive a Dunkin Donuts gift card. For an appointment or info, call (800) 448-3543. Walk-in donors also welcome.

 

Sudbury Valley Trustees Lecture Series

Join SVT and guest speaker Larry Buell for "Thoreau's Secret: Childhood and the Making of Environmental Memory" at 7:30 p.m. at Wolbach Farm, Sudbury. Thoreau and other autobiographical environmental writers have testified to the importance of nature exploration in childhood as a seedbed for creative imagination. What are the implications for the "environmental imprint" in an age when technology has made the indoors so much larger than it was? Cost: $5 SVT members, $10 nonmembers. Space is limited and registration required. Call (978) 443-5588 for info.

 

Cool Art! at MPL

If you like to draw then join the Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St., from 3:45-4:30 p.m. for a fun seasonal craft. This program is designed for children ages 6 to 12 years old. Registration is required. Contact the Children's Department at (508) 624-6902 to register or for info.

 

Healing Service at St. Mary's Church

A holy mass followed by a healing service with Fr. Joseph Whalen, M.S., will be held at 7 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, 17 Waterville St., North Grafton. For info, call Rose at (508) 425-6420.

 

 

14 Friday

Westborough Players' Club Auditions 

The Westborough Players' Club will hold auditions for its adult musical theater production of "George M" from 6-9 p.m. Also Dec. 15, 12-4 p.m. Auditions will be held at the Harvey Building on Phillips Street. Those auditioning should prepare a song, be ready to exhibit stage movement and do a cold reading from the show script.

 

Parents Night Out

Join other parents for a Parents Night Out with food and conversation from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at First Federated Church, 200 Central St., Hudson. Topic of discussion: Parents Guide to Reducing Holiday Stress. A cookie swap (bring your favorite cookie dough) will also be held. Admission is free.

 

SCDC Winter Wonderland

The Shrewsbury Child Development Committee invites the community to a Winter Wonderland celebration from 9:30-11 a.m. at Mount Olivet Church, Prospect St., Shrewsbury. Bring your little ones to celebrate the new season with crafts, food and fun!  For info, visit www.scdc.org, e-mail scdckids@scdc.org or call (508) 841-8300 ext. 1477.

 

 

15 Saturday

Living Nativity at Church of the Nativity

A living nativity will be held at 6 p.m. on the front lawn of the Church of the Nativity, 45 Howard St., Northborough. A reception with refreshments and entertainment will follow in the church hall. Free and open to the public. Rain date: Dec. 16. For info, call (508) 393-4136.

 

Barre Players Hold Auditions

The Barre Players announce auditions for three one-act comedies by Christopher Durang. Auditions will be held 1-5 p.m. at the Barre Players Theater, 64 Common St. Also Dec. 16, 1-5 p.m. Auditions will consist of cold readings and improvisations. Participants should be prepared to tell a funny story, or give a short comedic monologue. This production calls for a cast of six men and 14 women between the ages of 20 and 65. For info, visit www.barreplayers.homestead.com or call director Jay Burnett at (978) 355-2096.â028 

 â028 

 

16 Sunday

Home for the Holiday Open House

The Shrewsbury Historical Society and Shrewsbury Garden Clubâ028will present its "Home for the Holiday Open House"â028from 2-4 p.m. at theâ0281830 Schoolhouse on the Common. Stop in for refreshments and community spirit and view the doors entered in the "Home for the Holiday Door Contest" on the large screen. Winners will be announced during the afternoon (contest participants do not have to be present to win). â028

 

Santa Brunch at Cyprian Keyes

Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 East Temple St., Boylston, will host a Santa Brunch from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring a camera for photos with Santa. Cost: $24.95, $21.95 seniors, $14.95 kids 10 and under, free for ages under 5. Reservations are required. Call (508) 869-9900 ext. 17 for info. Also, guests are asked to bring an unwrapped gift to be donated to a local charity.

 

Assabet Valley Mastersingers Messiah Sing

The Assabet Valley Mastersingers will hold a Messiah Sing with audience participation at 3:30 p.m. at Trinity Church, 23 Main St., Northborough. Suggested donation of $5. For info, call (978) 562-9838 or visit www.avmsingers.org.

 

Upcoming

Family Winter Workshop

The Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., will host a Family Winter Workshop Dec. 17, at 6:30 p.m. Stop in for a family night of crafts, refreshments (please bring a dessert to share) and fun. Recommended for grades K-4 and their families. Space is limited and reservations are required. For info, call (508) 842-0081.

 

Shrewsbury Senior Center Celebration

The Friends of the Shrewsbury Senior Center invites the community to a Holiday Celebration Dec. 18, at 1 p.m., at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Ave. The Shrewsbury High School A Cappella Choir will present a concert of seasonal music and refreshments will be served. Bring a friend and enjoy an afternoon of holiday cheer.

 

Diabetic Support Group Meeting

The Diabetic Support Group will meet Dec. 18, at 1 p.m., at Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr. For info, call (508) 393-5035.

 

Longest Night Worship Service

On Dec. 19, at 7 p.m., the First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton St., will offer a holiday worship service for people experiencing loneliness or sadness at Christmas time. The Longest Night service will feature quiet music, opportunities for prayer and candle lighting, and a short message of hope from the pastor. All community members are welcome. For info, call (978) 562-2932 or visit www.hudsonfumc.com.

 

SVT Winter Solstice Sunrise

The Sudbury Valley Trustees will celebrate the winter solstice sunrise from 7-8 a.m., Dec. 21, at Half Moon Meadow Brook in Boxborough. Join SVT member George Krusen and view the winter solstice sunrise through the stone structures (allegedly Native American ceremonial stone structures) at Half Moon Meadow Brook. Registration required. Cost: free for members, $5 non-members. For info or to register, call (508) 443-5588.

 

Blue Christmas Service and Meal

Wellspring United Methodist Church announces a Blue Christmas Service Dec. 21, at 7 p.m., at the Matthew John Whittall Lodge, 353 Boston Tpke. (Route 9 west), Shrewsbury. The special worship service will feature prayers, Scriptures and music, followed by a time of fellowship and a free meal of bread and soup. For info, call (508) 842-4665.

 

Ongoing

Shrewsbury Holiday Toy Collection

A Holiday Toy Collection to benefit needy local families will be held through Dec. 17. New, non-violent toys can be dropped off at Gymnastics Learning Center, 574 Lake St., Shrewsbury and Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Ave., during this time. For info, call Roderick Geer at (508) 753-6789 or Peter Frongillo at (508) 755-8157.

 

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"Art in the Hall" Exhibit

Hudson resident Jordan Kessler is exhibiting his photography throughout the first floor of Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St., until Feb. 29. The "Art in the Hall" exhibit can be viewed during regular Town Hall hours: 8 a.m.--4:30 p.m. weekdays. There is no admission fee. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call the Arts Alliance at (978) 562-1646.

 

Northborough Recreation

Offering three days of full day care for children in grades K-5 over the December vacation break. The program will run Dec. 26-28, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Includes games, sports, arts & crafts and more, as well as a field trip to the Strand Theater to see "The Polar Express" and an all-day field trip to the Children's Museum in Boston. Cost: Dec. 26 $30, Dec. 27 and 28 $45, or $100 for all three days. For info and to register online, visit www.northboroughrecreation.com.

 

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"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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

The Arts Alliance Exhibit

Through mid-December, the public is invited to enjoy a free exhibit at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St., of new monotypes and watercolors by Lori Fryklund. The exhibition is available for viewing 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays. There is no admission fee. Visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646 for info.

 

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.