Calendar

11 Friday “Connecting With Loved Ones” Lecture Jenny Lynn Metevia, M.Ed., mystical traveler, spiritual teacher and psychic medium, will present “Connecting With Loved Ones: Messages from the Other Side,” at 7 p.m. at Westboro Courtyard Marriott. The special lecture includes angel experiences, metaphysical phenomena to personal questions. For info or to register, call (774) 276-0442 or visit www.jennymetevia.com. Marlborough Nature Walks Summer 2008 Enjoy a walk of Mello Family Farm/Cider Knoll in Marlborough starting at 6 p.m. The area is filled with groves of softwoods and hardwoods, streams, wetlands and even a pond. Enjoy the nice, easy walk while learning about the different habitats of one of the several conservation lands in Marlborough. Participants should meet at the Stow Road parking area between Simpson and Wood Road. Dress appropriately and use bug spray. Walks will last approximately one hour. For info, call the Conservation Office at (508) 460-3768 or visit http://www.marlborough-ma.gov/Gen/MarlboroughMA_ConCommisn/index. Arts Alliance’s Little Theater 1 Performance The premiere of “The Around the World Adventures of Nellie Bly (Elizabeth Cochran Seaman)” starts at 1 p.m. at Hudson High School, 69 Brigham St. The play tells the story of an American newspaper journalist who established a world record by traveling around the globe in less than 73 days. Tickets may be purchased online at www.upwitharts.org or by phone at (978) 562-1646. All seats are $5 and include the 1:30 p.m. performance of “Disney’s The AristocCats, Kids” by Theater Too! For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646. I.D. Badges at Senior Center The Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr., will be taking pictures for I.D. badges. Cost is $2 and appointments are required. Call the senior center at (508) 393-5035 (with your name, birth date, address and phone number) for an appointment. Landscape Exhibit Opens at UMMS Through July 18, “The View from Here: Landscape Paintings in Pastels” will be on display on the first floor of the Lamar Soutter Library at UMass Medical School. The 12th installment of the Lamar Soutter Library's Artist in Residence Series, the exhibit features the artwork of Nancy von Hone, administrator in the Department of Cell Biology. For info, contact Nancy Harger at (508) 856-3334 or nancy.harger@umassmed.edu. 12 Saturday “Saturdays at South Street” Kicks Off The free Saturday afternoon family entertainment series will kick off at 2 p.m. at Cellucci Park in downtown Hudson, with popular puppeteer Len Gerwick and “The Case of the Missing Woodpile - a Summer Mystery.” Rain location: Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646. “Life in the Canopy” at WPL Westborough Public Library, West Main St., presents “Life in the Canopy” by Jungle Encounters at 2 p.m. Explore mammal life in the trees with Debi Willoughby and discover how they hunt and what they eat. Free and open to the public. Call the library at (508) 366-3050 for info. SVT Butterflies of Summer From 9:30 a.m.-noon, Sudbury Valley Trustees and SVT steward Bill Coder will be hosting a “Butterflies of Summer” program at Cedar Hill Reservation in Northborough. The abundant milkweed and other field flowers of Cedar Hill Reservation provide a wonderful place to see and learn about butterflies. Registration is required. Cost: free for members, $5 non-members. Call (978) 443-5588 for info and registration. “Fascinating Rhythms” with Cornell Coley The Saturday Morning Discovery Series in Marlborough presents the “Fascinating Rhythms” of Cornell Coley’s interactive Afro-Latin drum and dance starting at 11 a.m. on Union Common. Free. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Rain location: the Walker Building’s 3rd floor auditorium, 255 Main St. For info, call (978) 562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org. “Wild” Critter Puppets – Sewing at NFL The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will present “Wild” Critter Puppets – Sewing from 10 a.m.-noon. Children ages 7-9 are invited to bring along their “wild” imaginations to create their own “wild” critter puppet. No sewing experience necessary. Registration is required and begins July 1. For info or to register, call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025 or stop by. “BIG BUGS” Returns to Garden in the Woods New England Wild Flower Society announces the return of David Rogers' BIG BUGS exhibit to Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. Get ready for a special “Summer of Bugs” treat with the Grand Opening Festival of the BIG BUGS Sculpture Exhibition and Web-of-Life Extravaganza. Live music by Beatles tribute band “Help!” The exhibition will be on view through Sept. 1. Admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students with ID, $4 youth 3-18, free for members and children under 3. For info, call (508) 877-7630 or visit www.newenglandwild.org.         20th Anniversary Celebration of Drama Workshop This summer, the Arts Alliance will celebrate 20 years of its popular Summer Drama Workshop. Everyone is invited to join the Arts Alliance in the special celebration of its 20th year at 7:30 p.m. The evening of songs from Tony award-winning shows will be held at Hudson High School Auditorium, 69 Brigham St., with a reception, including refreshments, held in the lobby. To mail in a ticket form, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646. Nature, Photography Programs at BMB Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, will hold “Wildlife Volunteer Day - Monarch Larva Monitoring” from 10 a.m.-noon. For ages 8 and older. Free, but registration required. Also, a program on photography for adults, “With Camera in Hand” will be held 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Explore the sanctuary, learning basic nature photography and seeking out photographic opportunities. Bring your camera, lenses and a tripod if you have one. Rain date: July 13. Fee: $10 members, $14 non-members. Pre-registration is required. For info on either program, call (508) 753-6087 for info. 13 Sunday St. Luke's Free Community Supper St. Luke's Episcopal Church of Hudson, on the rotary, will host its free Community Supper from 5-7 p.m. The menu includes a meat dish, gazpacho, assorted salads, dessert and coffee. Donations are always welcome, but not required. For info, visit www.stlukeshudson.org. BMB Family Canoeing Program Join Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary from 1:30-3:30 p.m. for a family-friendly canoeing experience in the Blackstone River watershed. The perfect experience for beginner paddlers, participants will practice skills in flat, quiet water and then move into a marshy area to test steering skills. Life jackets, paddles and canoes will be provided. For ages 8 and older. Fee: $10 adult members, $12 adult non-members, $7 child members, $9 child non-members. Family rate: $34 member/$42 non-member. For info, call (508) 753-6087. 14 Monday Pre-Engineering Mini Camp at AVRTHS The Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School starts its Pre-Engineering Mini Camp for interested 11- to 14-year-old area students. There will be two identical sessions offered during the week of July 14-18, one session from 8-11 a.m. and the other from 12-3 p.m., with a cost of $100 for either session. Interested applicants must register by mail, fax or in person at the school. Class sizes are limited. No phone registrations will be accepted. Contact Alyssia Bisol at (508) 485-9430 ext. 430 or abisol@assabet.org to have an application mailed, or pick one up at the school at 215 Fitchburg St., Marlborough. Application requests may also be faxed to (508) 303-8493. 15 Tuesday “Royal” Events at MPL Children of all ages are invited to Marlborough Public Library, 35 West Main St., from 3:30-4:30 p.m., for “A Party Fit for a Princess or Prince.” Read some royal books, do a royal craft, and eat some thoroughly regal snacks. Also, “Lessons in Royalty” will be held 2-3 p.m. for ages 6-12. Registration is required for both programs. Contact the Children’s Department at (508) 624-6902 to register or for more info. Wayside Inn Strawberry Concert Series The 2008 Strawberry Concert Series at Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, 72 Wayside Inn Rd., Sudbury, will present Quintessional Brass starting at 7 p.m. at Martha Mary Chapel. Tickets are $15. For info, call (978) 443-1776 or visit www.wayside.org/events. Storyteller at MPL Award-winning storyteller Karen Chase will be at Marlborough Public Library, 35 West Main St., from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Chase will share a timeless treasury of fairytales from long ago. This is a free, drop-in program designed for children ages 4 and up.  No registration is required to attend. Contact the Children’s Department at (508) 624-6902 for more info. 16 Wednesday Voices of the Andes at Wood Park Soothing, haunting music of panpipes and other musical instruments of the South American Incas will fill the outside air at Wood Park, Park Street, Hudson beginning at 6:30 p.m. Rain location: Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St. Free. For info, call the Arts Alliance at (978) 562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org. Willows Summer Concert Series The Willows at Westborough, 1 Lyman St., continues its summer concert series with the Westwood Swing Band at 7:15 p.m. Rain or shine. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. The concert is free, but donations are accepted for local charities. For info, call (800) 464-4730. “Toe Jam Puppet Band” at HPL The Children’s Room at Hudson Public Library, on Washington Square, will present the “Toe Jam Puppet Band” at 10 a.m. Picnic in the Park will not be held this day. Call Children’s Librarian Deborah Backman at (978) 568-9645 for info. Letterboxing at NFL The Children’s Room at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will hold a program on Letterboxing at 7 p.m. for ages 8 and up and their parents. Letterboxing combines a treasure hunt, stamps, ink and the outdoors. Registration is required. For info or to register, call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025. Sunset Paddle on the Quinsigamond River, Grafton Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary will hold a sunset paddle from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Put in at the Ekblaw Landing and paddle upstream into the wildlife-rich Snow Marsh. Enjoy the sunset, birds, frogs, and fish as you paddle this beautiful stretch of the Quinsigamond River, all the while learning how to help protect it. For ages 10 and older. Fee: adults $10 members/$12 non-members, children $7 members/$9 non-members. Pre-registration is required. For more info and to register, call (508) 753-6087. 17 Thursday WPL Book Sale The Friends of the Westborough Library, West Main St., have announced that its book sale will take place from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. in the library’s meeting room. Also July 18 and 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Proceeds will help support library programs for adults and children. For info, call (508) 366-3050. NCA Summer Concert Series The Northborough Community Affairs Committee is proud to announce the return of its Summer Concert Series starting at 6 p.m. with the Cocabanana Band. Everyone is invited to enjoy live music at the Ellsworth-McAffee Park on Route 135 in Northborough. Bring chairs, blankets and a picnic upper. “Disney’s Mulan Jr.” Performance The Children’s Theater production of “Disney’s Mulan Jr.” will be presented at 7 p.m. at Marlborough Middle School, 25 Union St. Also July 18 with an 11 a.m. matinee. Based on the 1998 animated feature film, the live stage version is an action-packed musical showcasing the talents of area youth. Seats are $9 for all ages or $7 for reserved tickets. To order tickets, call the Arts Alliance at (978) 562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org “Wild” Craft Stories at NFL The Children’s Room at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will present “Wild” Craft Stories – Paper Airplanes from 3-4 p.m. for ages 8 and up. Use your folding skills to create some “wild” airborne airplanes while listening to stories. Registration is required. Call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025 for info. Family Movie at MPL Thursday is movie night at the Marlborough Public Library, 35 West Main St., and “Enchanted” will be shown from 6-8 p.m. “Enchanted” is the delightful story of a fairy tale princess who is sent to modern-day New York by an evil queen. This film is rated PG. Free and open to all ages. No registration required.  For info, contact the Children’s Department at (508) 624-6902. Westborough Blood Drive A special American Red Cross blood drive will be held 12-8 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel, 5400 Computer Dr., Westborough, in honor of Alec Rastad, an 11-year-old Westborough boy with Primary Immune Deficiency Disease. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Donors will receive a special Red Sox T-shirt and one donor will win a pair of Red Sox tickets. For info or an appointment, call (800) 448-3543. 18 Friday Hospice Program Registration Last day to register for a program on Hospice to be held July 21, at 12:30 p.m., at Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr. For info or to register, call (508) 393-5035. Desert Nature Walk in Marlborough Come and enjoy a special desert area of land in Marlborough starting at 2 p.m. Its sandy soils offer the very uncommon conditions for a pitch pine forest, and with vernal pools, brooks, wetlands, and forests this is a very diverse land to enjoy. Meet at the Concord Road parking area next to Mosher Lane. Dress appropriately and use bug spray. For info, call the Conservation Office at (508) 460-3768. Author Visit at NFL Author Sarah Beth Durst will discuss and sign her new book “Out of the Wild” at 2 p.m. at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St. Recommended for grades 3 and up. Registration is required. Call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025 for info. 19 Saturday Take a Hike! with NFL The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., invites kids ages 7 and up and their parents to Take a Hike! Members of the Northborough Trails Committee will lead a hike on the Little Chauncy Trail from 9:30-11 a.m. For more info or to register, call (508) 393-5025 or stop by the library.  Home Energy Conservation Seminar SimpleHome, located at 69 Milk St., Suite 108, Westborough, will present a seminar on “Energy Conservation through Home Automation” from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. For info or to reserve a space, call (508) 616-0952 or visit www.simplehome.net. 1908 Tea at HPL Go back in time 100 years and join Hudson Public Library, Washington Square, for a 1908 Tea with Rita Parisi at 2 p.m. In 1908, the world was on the cusp of change and the traditions of the Victorians were giving way to a modern way of thinking. Let Rita entertain you during her afternoon tea as she tells you about her trip to Boston. Then engage in an open discussion as she shares with you her latest issue of the Ladies Home Journal. For info, call Cora Arsenault, reference librarian, at (978) 568-9844. Celebrate Mexico with Veronica Robles The Saturday Morning Discovery Series will present the songs, dance, stories and music of Veronica Robles starting at 11 a.m. on Union Common, Marlborough. Rain location: the Walker Building, 3rd floor auditorium, 255 Main St., Marlborough. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org. Good Bug, Bad Bug? Explore the world of bugs from 10 a.m.-noon at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, and discover why some people hate bugs and others love them. Learn which bugs are good for your garden and which ones you should avoid. Everyone will get a chance to make a "lucky" ladybug to take home. For ages 6 and older. Fee: adults $6 members/$8 non-members, children $4 members/$6 non-members. Pre-registration is required. For info and to register, call Broad Meadow Brook at (508) 753-6087. 20 Sunday Deb’s Day Benefit The Friends and Family of Debbie Herrick will hold Deb’s Day, a benefit to help the family as they deal with serious illness, from 1-7 p.m. at the Hudson Elks Pavilion. Includes live music, food, fun for children, horse shoes, raffles and a cash bar. For tickets or info, call Kim Ripley at (978) 223-0468, Alicia Garcia at (774) 249-2164, Denise Collette at (774) 249-9817, Linda MacDonald at (978) 870-5034 or Pat Alving at (978) 562-6668. Tickets may also be purchased at Yours & Mine, Main Street, Hudson; Finnegan’s Pub, South Street, Hudson; and Christopher’s, Powdermill Road, Maynard. Classic Car Show and Flea Market A Classic Car Show and Flea Market to benefit the Walk to Cure Cancer and other local charities will be held in the afternoon at Hebert's Candy Mansion, 575 Hartford Pike (Route 20), Shrewsbury. Event features a DJ, children's activities, flea market, a raffle and refreshments. All classes of vehicles are welcome to register and compete in the car show, and specialty awards will be presented. Participants may register from 8-11 a.m. for $15. Admission is $3 ($2 for seniors; free for children 12 and under). For info or to register, call Dominic Masiello at (508) 839-2952, Len Marrino at (508) 789-3436 or Mike Merzigian at (774) 696-3479. Take a Hike! at BMB Join sanctuary volunteers from 1-3 p.m. at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, for a family-friendly hike. On the walk, participants will look for anything that is flying, crawling, hopping or flitting nearby. Free with sanctuary admission. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Pre-registration is required. For more info, call Broad Meadow Brook at (508) 753-6087. Dress Swap Donation Drop Off The Women's Ministry of Crossroads Community Church, 1341 Edgell Rd., Framingham, will be having a Dress Swap Aug. 23 from 9 a.m.- noon. Donations of ladies dresses, business suits, gowns and pocketbooks can be dropped off July 20 and 27 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Clothing should be in excellent wearable condition and in style. For info, contact Heather Cappetta at (508) 624-9180 or hcappetta@aol.com. Upcoming “Wild” Sewing Project at NFL The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will hold a 2-part program on Sewing “Wild” Bags July 21 and 28, from 6:30-8 p.m. Create and sew a “wild” and funky bag. Recommended for grades 5 and up and registration is required. For info or to register, call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025 or stop by the library. Wayside Inn Strawberry Concert Series Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, 72 Wayside Inn Rd., Sudbury, will present The Squirrel Hill Olde Tyme Band July 22, from 7-8:30 p.m., at the Martha-Mary Chapel. Tickets are $15, with special packages available. For info, call (978) 443-1776 or visit www.wayside.org/events. Scrapbooking at NFL The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will hold a program on Scrapbooking July 22, from 6-8 p.m., for kids in grades 3-8. Registration is required. For info, call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025. Willows Summer Concert Series The Willows at Westborough, 1 Lyman St., continues its summer concert series with the Claflin Hill Summer Winds July 23 at 7:15 p.m. Rain or shine. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. The concert is free, but donations are accepted for local charities. For info, call (800) 464-4730. HPL Presents Magic with Scott Jameson The Children’s Room at Hudson Public Library, Washington Square, will host “Magic with Scott Jameson” July 23 at 3 p.m. For info, call children’s librarian Deborah Backman at (978) 568-9645. Tufts Summer Sunset Lecture Series The lecture series at Tufts will present “First Aid for the Dog Owner” July 23 at TCSVM in North Grafton. Open to the public. For info, contact the Continuing Education Department at (508) 887-4723, e-mail vetCEinfo@tufts.edu or visit www.tufts.edu/vet/continuedu. UMMS Walk to Cure Cancer Breakfast The Walk to Cure Cancer Kick-off Breakfast will be held July 24 at the Aaron Lazare Medical Research Building, UMMS campus, Worcester. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast and speaker's program from 8-9 a.m. The event will be hosted by WCVB-TV Channel 5 news anchor Susan Wornick. Teams will receive all the materials they need for gathering pledges for the Sept. 28 walk on the UMMS campus. Free parking. For more info, call event manager Tamara Hampton at (508) 856-5512 or visit www.walktocurecancer.com. Author Event at Tatnuck Bookseller Dr. Nicholas Dodman will discuss his book, “The Well-Adjusted Dog,” July 26, from 4-6 p.m. at Tatnuck Bookseller, 18 Lyman St., Westborough. Free and the public is welcome to attend. For info, call (508) 366-4959. Celebrating Ireland in Story and Song The Saturday Morning Discovery Series invites the public to enjoy songs, stories and music July 26, starting at 11 a.m., in “Celebrating Ireland in Story and Song” with Mary King and Friends on Union Common, corner of Bolton (Route 85) and Main streets, Marlborough. Rain location: the Walker Building, 3rd floor auditorium, 255 Main St., Marlborough. To learn more, visit www.upwitharts.org or call the Arts Alliance at (978) 562-1646. Blessing of the Animals Service Join Rev. Cynthia Maybeck for a Blessing of the Animals July 27, at 3 p.m., at the Ellsworth-McAfee Park pavilion, Route 135, Northborough. All pets must be leashed or contained. For info, call the Trinity Church at (508) 393-8156. Stage Two Theater Drama Workshops, Productions From July 28 to Aug. 8, children entering grades 1-5 have the opportunity to write, craft and stage their own play under the guidance of three skilled instructors, experienced in theater arts. While sampling many aspects of drama, students will utilize both writing and acting skills. They will work with a group of area children on an exciting, fun collaboration, and then show their families, friends and neighbors their creative production. “New Work by Stage Two Theater” will be presented Aug. 8, at 1 p.m., in Hudson High School auditorium, 69 Brigham St. The public may attend the performance. Advance seats cost $5. To order tickets or for workshop info, call (978) 562-1646. Vacation Bible Club at First Federated Church The First Federated Church of Hudson will host its Vacation Bible Club July 29-30, from 6-8 p.m., at the church location at 200 Central St., Hudson. All community children ages 4 and older are invited. To sign up, call (978) 562-9207 and leave your name and phone number and how many will be attending. Worcester Chorus Auditions Worcester Chorus is auditioning for all voice parts. Appointments can be arranged through auditions@worcesterchorus.com to schedule times or for more info. Day and evenings available starting July 29, 30, 31, Aug. 13 and in early September. Worcester chorus in 149th season, performing annual Handel's Messiah, Bach's St. Matthew Passion, "Water Music" Spring Concert throughout the year in Mechanics Hall and other Worcester venues. Visit www.musicworcester.org for info. Hudson Emblem Club Mystery Ride The Hudson Emblem Club will hold its annual Mystery Ride Sept. 14, with the bus leaving the Elks Lodge at 3:30 p.m. Cost: $50 by July 31, $55 after July 31. Checks should be made payable to Hudson Emblem Club #227 and sent to Barbara Sawyer, 7 Baben Rd., Hudson, MA 01779. Call Sawyer at (978) 568-9291 for info. GFWC “Deal or No Deal” Following the success of "Dancing with Celebrities-Marlborough Style," the GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club will be holding their fall fund-raiser, "Deal or No Deal" Sept. 19 at the Marriott Courtyard. Businesses interested in sponsoring a "Prize Case" are encouraged to contact Theresa Frias or Elizabeth Young at dond@marlboroughjuniors.org. The GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club is a non-profit civic organization dedicated to community improvement through volunteerism. For more info, visit www.marlboroughjuniors.org . 10th Annual Walk to Cure Cancer The 10th Annual Walk to Cure Cancer will be held Sept. 28 at UMass Medical School in Worcester. The walk starts at the Lazare Research Building at noon and activities end at 3 p.m. Arrive between 10 a.m. and noon for registration and a performance by Michael Damian. For more info, call (508) 856-5512 or visit www.walktocurecancer.com. Ongoing Fountains at Dean Park The summer schedule of the fountains at Dean park in Shrewsbury is Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 12-2 p.m. and 4-9:45 p.m. Music to accompany the fountains can be heard on 91.7 FM on your car or portable radios. The colored lights can be seen from 9-9:45 p.m. Listen to the classical, patriotic, and popular tunes, watch the movement of the graceful fountains, and see the spectacular colors dance to the music. Young at Heart Group Branson Trip The Young at Heart Group is planning a trip to Branson, Missouri from Sept. 26 – Oct. 5. There will be 11 shows and a day at Silver Dollar City. Pick up will be at Westborough Senior Center and Faith Fellowship Church in Uxbridge. For more info, call Sue at 476-3438. Red Devil Football, Cheering Registration Football and cheering begins Aug. 1. Boys and girls ages 7-15 interested in participating are encouraged to register. Registration forms are available at www.reddevilpopwarnerfootball.com. For info, call Todd Chuma at (508) 366-2721, Mike Freitas at (508) 769-9670 or Brian Heffernan at (508) 287-4517. Northborough Free Library Summer Reading Program “Wild Reads” is the theme of the Summer Reading Club at the Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St. Kids who read by themselves and kids who enjoy having someone read to them are all invited to join! Stop by the library through Aug. 16 to register. For info, stop by or call (508) 393-5025. Many fun programs and activities are planned. Check out the Calendar of Events at www.town.northborough.ma.us/library/library.htm. Sweet Summer Nights Music Concert Series Sweetwilliam Farm, l53 North St, Upton, will hold weekly outdoor concerts featuring fine local and regional performing artists. The series will be held Fridays, from 7-8:30 p.m., through Aug. 29. For info or directions, visit www.sweetwilliamfarm.biz. AV Pastoral Counseling Support Groups Are you looking for support, a listening ear, compassion from someone coping with a similar situation? Join a small group of others who come together to share and receive leadership and perspective. The new spring support groups available at Assabet Valley Pastoral Counseling Center in Westborough include a caregivers group for anyone feeling overwhelmed while taking care of another; a divorce group for anyone considering or going through separation or divorce or have been legally divorced; and a grief and loss group. For info, call Mary Taber at (508) 366-4000. Colonial Spirit Show Chorus Rehearsals Sing into summer with the Colonial Spirit Show Chorus of Sweet Adelines. All women who enjoy singing are invited to attend the open rehearsals at 7:15 p.m. at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Newtown Rd. (off Route 27), Acton. Discover the fun and harmony of four-part a cappella music - barbershop style. Vocal instruction and learning CDs are provided and no experience is necessary. For info, call (978) 692-2270 or Noreen at (978) 263-0562 or visit www.colonialspirit.org. Safe Place Support Group Safe Place, a free, confidential support group for people who have lost loved ones to suicide, meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, from 7-9 p.m., at the Plymouth Church, 87 Edgell Rd., Framingham, starting May 14. For info or directions, call Kim Kates at (617) 536-2460. Westborough Fibromyalgia Support Group The ongoing support group meets on the first Thursday of each month at Tatnuck Bookseller, 18 Lyman St. (Westborough Plaza), at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome  (people with fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue, as well as family and household members) for discussion, coping tips and understanding. For more info, call Diana at (978) 568-0566. Free GED Classes in Hudson The Hudson Maynard Adult Learning Center offers a free GED preparation program in Hudson, including ABE classes in Basic Skills, pre-GED and GED. Registration is ongoing. Classes run through June at the Hudson High School on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-9 p.m. Practice GED testing is also offered year-round. For more info, call (978) 567-6250 ext. 0137. Route 9 Business Builders Membership Route 9 Business Builders, an established business networking organization, is looking for energetic, like-minded individuals with experience and an interest in growing their business to become members. The organization meets every Thursday at Reliant Mortgage, Route 9 in Westborough. For info, call Mark at (508) 826-7347 or visit www.rte9bb.com. 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. Conservation Volunteers Wanted The Conservation Department of New England Wild Flower Society seeks volunteers to join the Society’s award-winning conservation programs. No previous experience is necessary and comprehensive free training will be provided. Volunteers are needed in central and western Massachusetts. For more info, visit www.newenglandwild.org, contact jburns@newenglandwild.org or call (508) 877-7630 ext. 3203. MAB Car Donations MAB Community Services (formerly the Massachusetts Association of the Blind) is accepting the donation of unwanted cars to benefit its services and programs. Free tow and quick pick up. Boats, trailers, campers, motorcycles, jet skis and snowmobiles also accepted. For info, call (888) 613-2777 or (508) 854-0700. Refuge Fledglings Nature Programs The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, 73 Weir Hill Rd., Sudbury, will offer a new nature program series for ages 2-5 years (siblings welcome) the 1st Wednesday of every month from 10-11 a.m. Includes crafts, stories, and games or songs that relate to each month’s topics. For info, call (978) 443-4661. 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 2nd and 4th 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 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. 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.