Calendar

4 Friday
River’s Edge French Music Concert
The River’s Edge Community Band is presenting “Vive la France!,” a concert of French music ranging from the French Revolution to the popular movie “An American in Paris,” at 7:30 p.m. at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St. Tickets are $12, $9 seniors/students. For tickets or info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646.

YMCA of Central Mass Kid’s Auction
The YMCA of Central Massachusetts' Boroughs Family Branch will hold its annual live auction 6:30-11 p.m. at White Cliffs, 167 Main St., Northborough, to support the Strong Kids Campaign. Along with the live auction, there will be a dinner, and other entertainment. Tickets: $50 per person. For info or tickets, call (508) 870-1320.

Northborough Blood Drive
An American Red Cross blood drive will run from 1-7 p.m. at Trinity Church, 23 Main St., Northborough. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins are welcome also. For an appointment or info, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givelife.org.


5 Saturday
Little Night Dancing Concert
Thirteen dancers from the Dancing Arts Ensemble will perform in a piece from “Giselle” at 7:30 p.m., as part of the Commonwealth Ballet of Acton’s 22nd annual Little Night Dancing collaborative dance concert. The concert will take place at the Museum of National Heritage, 33 Marrett Rd. (intersection of Route 2A and Massachusetts Avenue), Lexington. Tickets: $12, $10 students/seniors. For info, call (978) 263-6533.

GFWC Fashion Show and Luncheon
GFWC Westborough Woman's Club†is sponsoring its annual Fashion Show and Luncheon, featuring Talbot’s, at DoubleTree Hotel in Westborough.†Tickets are $30 per person.†The event starts with a social hour from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., followed by the luncheon at 12:30 p.m. and the fashion show at 1:30†p.m. Proceeds will support community service projects and scholarships administered by the Westborough Woman's Club. For tickets (deadline is April 1) or info, call Judy at (508) 870-1895 or Marilyn at (508) 366-4025.

Shrewsbury’s Big Read Kick-Off
The kick-off event for Shrewsbury’s Big Read Community Reading Project starts at 2 p.m. with a puppet show at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Ave. Through 5 p.m., guests can enjoy music, food and arts from various groups representing Shrewsbury’s many ethnic and cultural traditions. A performance for adults by storyteller Jay O’Callahan will be held at 7 p.m. (free tickets, available at the Shrewsbury Public Library, are needed to attend this performance).

Spring Is Coming at Tower Hill
Join Worcester County Horticultural Society past president, T&G's "Roots of Wisdom" columnist and WTAG Garden Radio host Paul Rogers at 1 p.m. at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, for “Spring is Coming: Are You Ready?” The timely and informative discussion will focus on getting your property in tip-top shape and ready for the upcoming growing season. Cost: $15 members, $17.50 non-members. To register or for info, call (508) 869-6111 ext. 124 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Westborough Spring Flea Market
The Westborough Historical Society will sponsor an indoor flea market at the Sibley House, 13 Parkman St., from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a wide variety of antiques and collectibles, vintage linens, jewelry, and basic household items. Call (508) 852-5940 for further info.

Venture Crew 11 Spaghetti Dinner
Venture Crew 11 is having a spaghetti supper to benefit the Posluszny
Family of  Northborough, who lost their house in a fire last December.†The supper will be held 5-8 p.m.
at the American Legion Post, 402 West Main St., Northborough.
Tickets: $10, $5 children, $30 max per family.
Tickets will be sold at the door as well as through Venture Crew members.
For info or to purchase tickets, call Susan or Jim Halpin
at (508) 351-9527.

Habitat for Humanity Spring Auction
The community is invited to a Spring Auction to benefit the first Habitat for Humanity house to be built in Hudson. The event will take place at the Elks Lodge, Park Street in Hudson, beginning at 6 p.m. with a silent auction preview. A cash bar, appetizers and desserts will be provided until 10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20pp or $30 per couple by contacting Wendy Cohen at (978) 618-5672. Groups of 10 can also reserve a table for $150. Tickets will be available at the door for $25pp. For info, e-mail danielle.moskowitz@comcast.net.

SYHA Coaches Game and Team Awards
Shrewsbury Youth Hockey Association’s annual Coaches Game will be held from 6-9 p.m. at the Buffone Rink, Lake Ave., Worcester. Admission is free and the evening includes a wide variety of events.

“Tastefully Tower Hill”
A special "taste of" event from 6-9 p.m., “Tastefully Tower Hill’ features sumptuous and hearty foods from the area's finest caterers and restaurants, including Apple Spice Junction, Armeno Coffee Roasters, Aunty Ellen’s Creative Confections, Currier & Chives, Flying Rhino CafÈ, Pepper’s Fine Foods, and many more. Live music, cash bar and surprises. Tickets: $35. Call (508) 869-6111 ext. 136 to order tickets or download an order form at www.towerhillbg.org. Tower Hill Botanic Garden is located at 11 French Dr., Boylston.

Unitarian Universalist Annual Spring Auction
The Unitarian Universalist Church will hold its annual Spring Auction starting at 6 p.m., at St. Luke’s Parish Center on Ruggles Street, Westborough. Includes a live auction and a silent auction of items, services and week-weekend vacation homes. Entertainment provided by The Usual Suspects Band. Tickets are $12. For tickets, call Pauline at (508) 870-2863 or, for info, call the church office at (508) 366-2635.

Teddy Bear Clinic
The 15th Annual Teddy Bear Clinic, a free health fair for children and families in Central New England, will be held 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Greendale Mall, 7 Neponset St., Worcester. UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center doctors, nurses and staff will teach children about health, safety and visiting the doctor, and children may bring a teddy bear or toy for a “check up.” For info, call (508) 334-8291 or visit www.umassmemorial.org.

N.E. Wild Flower Society Pruning Program
From 1:30-4:30 p.m., “Pruning Shrubs with the Pros” will be held at the New England Wild Flower Society, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. In the hands-on workshop, participants will work in small groups for guided practice on woody members of Garden in the Woods’ shrub collection. Learn to enhance a plant’s vigor, health and appearance while discovering what types of tools to use, when to prune and how the plant responds. Preregistration required. Visit www.newenglandWILD.org or call (508) 877-7630 for info.

Stamp Collection Evaluations at Spellman Museum
The Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History at Regis College, 235 Wellesley St., Weston, will hold its annual Stamp Road Show from 12-4 p.m. For $15, stamp experts will review collections and provide advice. Info on starting or adding to collections will also be available. Admission is free for those bringing collections. For info, call (781) 768-8367 or visit www.spellman.org.


6 Sunday
Troop 2 Pancake and Sausage Breakfast
Marlborough Boy Scout Troop 2 will hold its 13th annual all-you-can-eat Pancake & Sausage Breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon at the Moose Lodge, 67 Fitchburg St., Marlborough. Cost: $5 adults, $3 seniors/children.

"Perfect Passover" Family Education Program
Beth Tikvah Synagogue, 45 Oak St., Westborough, is holding a "Perfect Passover" Family Education program from 10 a.m.- noon. The program is open and free to all families with preschool children ages 3-5. Call Samara at Beth Tikvah at (508) 616-9037 to register or visit www.bethtikvahsynagogue.org for info.


7 Monday
Artist Guild of Shrewsbury Meeting
The monthly Artist Guild of Shrewsbury meeting will from 7-9 p.m. in the community room
at Southgate, 30 Julio Dr., Shrewsbury.†Joyce
Rettstadt of the Princeton Arts Society will present a workshop on "Successful Colors."†Participants should bring tubes of paint (acrylic or watercolor), a brush and paper. Discover how to avoid undesirable colors and learn to mix pigments to get the colors that you really want.
 Admission is free to paid members or $10 for
non-members, applicable towards membership dues.


8 Tuesday
Hudson Senior Center Hearing Clinic
The Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church St., will hold a hearing clinic at 9:30 a.m. For an appointment or info, call (978) 568-9638.

Westborough Woman’s Club Meeting
The Senior Shakers Tambourine Band will entertain at the Westborough Woman's Club’s final monthly meeting of the year.†Luncheon will be served at 12:15 p.m., followed by the business meeting.†The annual meeting will begin at 1 p.m. with the program starting at 1:30 p.m. Membership is open to any woman age 18 and over from any community.†For info, call Judy at (508) 870-1895.†

First Church Women’s Fellowship Meeting†
The Women's Fellowship of First Church in Marlborough, Congregational, will meet at 6:15 p.m. in the Parish Hall, for a covered dish supper. The meeting will feature a program presented by Edinboro Florists. The public is welcome to attend. First Church is located on Bolton Street (Route 85) at High Street, just above Union Common.

AV Post Grad Technical Training 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. All applicants must attend an info session prior to applying. 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, contact Cindy Zomar at (508) 485-9430 ext. 250 or visit www.assabettech.com, under the Post Graduate tab.

Assabet Valley Mothers and More
The next meeting of the Assabet Valley Chapter of Mothers and More will be at 7 p.m. Topic: “Finding a
Hobby.” Visitors welcome
for information, refreshments and an evening out.†For the meeting location, visit
www.mothersandmoreassabetvalley.org or call the voice mail at (508)
936-6882.

MOAR Alcohol Awareness Month Forum
Join the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery (M.O.A.R.) Alcohol Awareness Month Forum from 6:30-8:45 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza, 10 Lincoln Square, Worcester. All are welcome to the forum, co-sponsored by AdCare Hospital of Worcester. For info or to RSVP, contact MOAR at (617) 423-6627 or moarfran@aol.com.


9 Wednesday
Friends MPL Evening of Opera
The Friends of the Marlborough Public Library and The Renzo Paternoster Memorial Opera Trust Fund will present an exciting Spring Concert “An Evening of Opera” at 7 p.m. in the Bigelow Auditorium of the Marlborough Public Library, 35 West Main St., Marlborough. The annual Paternoster Concert features soprano Molly Jo Rivelli and pianist Stephen Steiner. Admission is free. For info, call (508) 485-0290, (508) 529-9907 or (413) 648-9663 or e-mail rajohnson36@verizon.net.

Dinner for Darfur at Friendly's
Westborough High School's Darfur-Student Alliance will be receiving 15% of the profit made from 5-8 p.m. at the Friendly's on Route 9 in Westborough. The student-run group's mission is to raise money and awareness for the on-going genocide in Sudan. A raffle as well as other fun activities will be featured at the event.

SOLF Wild Flower Slide Show
The Southborough Open Land Foundation invites the public to celebrate spring with a slide show of wild flower from the Garden in the Woods in Framingham. The show will start at 7 p.m. at the Southborough Library, Main St./Route 85.
In addition to being beautiful, the slides will show guests how to introduce wild flowers into their home gardens.

“Lincoln and the Election of 1860” Talk
The Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church St., will host Dr. Gary Hylander at 10 a.m. on “Lincoln and the Election of 1860.” Learn about Lincoln’s efforts to abolish slavery at a time when the South wanted to form the Confederate State of America. Cost: $5. For info, call (978) 568-9638.

Marlborough Blood Drive
The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive 2:30-7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Hall, Main/Newton sts., Marlborough. Also April 23. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins are also welcome. For info, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givelife.org.


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

Sudbury Valley Trustees Woodcock Walk
Enjoy a beautiful spring sunset while watching and listening for the incredible woodcock flight from 6-7:30 p.m. at Greenways Reservation in Wayland. Male woodcocks fly in an upward spiral and make a distinctive call to attract nearby females. Join Framingham Conservation Agent Michele Grzenda and Sudbury Valley Trustees for a memorable walk and a most impressive display. Registration is required. Cost: free for members, $5 non-members. For info or to register, call (978) 443-5588.

JLW Girls’ Night Out
The Junior League of Worcester presents its 2nd annual Girls’ Night Out from 5:30-9:30 p.m. at the College of the Holy Cross, Hogan Ballroom, 1 College St., Worcester. Tickets: $25. Visit www.jlwma.org for info and a list of participating vendors.


11 Friday
St. Mary’s Texas Hold’em Tournament
St. Mary’s Parish will hold its 2nd annual Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament at the American Legion, 402 W. Main St., Northborough. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the tournament starts at 7 p.m. Buy in: $125 (seating guaranteed for advance registration). For ages 18 and older only. The event is coordinated by Bay State Poker. For info, call Michael Curran at (508) 842-5727 or Steve Musgrove at (508) 842-5454.

River’s Edge Players Present “Rumors”
The River’s Edge Players’ production of the Neil Simon comedy “Rumors” will start at 7:30 p.m. onstage at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main St. Also April 12 and 18. Due to explicit language, parental guidance is recommended. Tickets are $15, $12 for seniors/students. To order, call (978) 562-1646 or visit www.upwitharts.org.

Gibson Middle School Presents ‘Working’
The Stephen Schwartz musical, “Working,” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. (also April 12 at 7:30 p.m. and April 13 at 2 p.m.) by the Gibson Middle School in Westborough. Tickets available at the door for $10. For more info, call (508) 836-7740


12 Saturday
Family Emergency Planning Seminar

The Hudson Health Department will sponsor a free seminar on emergency preparedness from 11 a.m.-noon in the main auditorium of Grace Baptist Church, 353 River Rd., Hudson. The seminar will teach participants how to prepare a family emergency plan, including a 72-hour kit to sustain your family during a disaster. Also, the local Medical Reserve Corps will present volunteer opportunities to those interested in assisting the public in the event of a disaster. You do not need to be a medical professional to join. For info, contact Sam Wong of the Hudson Health Department at (978) 562-2020 or swong@townofhudson.org.

Adastra Press Poets Reading
Tatnuck Bookseller, 18 Lyman St., Westborough, will host a reading by Adastra Press Poets starting at 1 p.m. Poets include Susan Edwards Richmond, Michael Casey, Gertrude Halstrad and more. All are welcome to attend. Call (508) 366-4959 for info.

Tower Hill Workshops
Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, will hold a workshop on “Apple Scion Grafting” from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (cost: $60 members, $65 non-members), and “Pondless Waterfall Construction” from 1-4 p.m. (cost: $20 members, $25 non-members). For info or to register, call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

WCLT Birds of Prey Program
Falcons. Owls. Hawks… How are these magnificent raptors struggling to survive as their habitat disappears? Raptor expert and environmental educator Larry Keating from Rulers of the Wind will present a live birds of prey program 10-11 a.m. at the Westborough Knights of Columbus Hall, 17 Willow St. The Westborough Community Land Trust invites wildlife enthusiasts of all ages to the public program. Donations will be welcomed.

AVA Family Network Family Fun, Resource Fair
From 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., the Assabet Valley Area Family Network will hold the Second Annual Family Fun and Resource Fair for families with children ages 0-5.†The fair is free and open to all, and will take place in the gymnasium at the Kane Elementary School, 520 Farm Rd., Marlborough. There will be free prizes, giveaways and entertainment from area musicians and more.†Please bring a non-perishable food item for the local food pantry.†For more info, call the AVAFN at (508) 485-0085.

Annual Westborough Rabies Clinic
The annual Rabies Clinic sponsored by the Westborough Woman's Club will be held at the Westborough Department of Public Works garage, Oak Street. Dogs on a leash will be seen from 9:30-10:15 a.m.†and cats in a carrier from 10:30-11 a.m. Participants should bring last year's rabies vaccine certification.†Rabies vaccine fee: cash or check payable to Westborough Woman's Club. Dog licenses will be for sale by the Town Clerk during the morning for an additional fee.†For info, call Judy at (508) 870-1895.

Chronic Pain Treatment Seminar
“Non-Medication Based Treatments for Chronic Pain,” a free educational seminar on surgical procedures and alternative treatments for chronic pain, will be held 10 a.m.-noon in the UMass Medical School Faculty Conference Room, 55 Lake Ave North, Worcester. A continental breakfast will be provided. Registration is required and will begin at 9:30 a.m. For info or to register, call (508) 334-0596.


13 Sunday
Temple Emanuel Hosts Model Seder
Temple Emanuel, 150 Berlin Rd., Marlborough, is celebrating Passover with a model Seder, from 10:30 a.m.-noon, so children can experience and learn about Seder in preparation for the upcoming Passover holiday. Those interested in attending can call Arlene at (508) 481-2127 for info.

Mark Train One-Man Play at WPL
In celebration of National Library Week and its centennial, Westborough Public Library will present “And Now…Mark Twain,” a one-person play by Richard Clark, at 2 p.m. Free and open to the public. For info, call (508) 366-3050.

Master Singers of Worcester Organ Concert
The Master Singers of Worcester will perform “Dueling Organs: Choral Music for a Splendid Space” at 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 38 High St., Worcester. The concert will include music showcasing the splendid acoustics and magnificent pipe organs at each end of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Tickets: $20 general, $18 student/senior. Order by phone at (508) 842-1349 or online at www.mswma.org.


Upcoming
Juliet Lloyd Concert
Singer/songwriter Juliet Lloyd and her band will perform at the Westborough High School auditorium April 15, at 7:30 p.m., as part of the Westborough Fine Arts Guest Artist Series. The event is sponsored by the Westborough Music Parents Association, Chateau Restaurant and Roche Bros. of Westborough. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at Robinson Music or by calling (508) 836-7720 ext. 5192. For more info, visit www.westboroughsings.org. ††

Tower Hill Botanic Garden Workshops, Seminars
Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, will hold “Landscape Design I” on Tuesdays April 15-Jun10, 6-9 p.m.; “Water Gardening Features & Accessories” on Wednesdays April,16-July 9, 5-8 p.m.; and “Herbaceous Plants” Wednesdays April 16-July 9, 5-8 p.m. Cost for the workshops is $250 members, $300 non-members. For info or to register, call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Higgins Armory Opens New Exhibit
April 17 marks the opening of the special exhibit “From Anvil to Microscope: Modern Metallography and The Ancient Secrets of Sword Making” at Higgins Armory, 10 Barber Ave., Worcester. The exhibit features interactive components allowing visitors to experience the cutting edge of history and unlock the mysteries of the pre-industrial sword smith through the techniques of modern metallography. Admission: $9, $8 seniors, $7 kids ages 6 to 16, free to members and children age 5 and under. For info, visit www.higgins.org.

Louis Ontso Golf Club Meeting
Members of the Louis Ontso Golf Club (which plays at Stoneybrook Golf Course in Southborough) will meet April 17, at 10 a.m., at Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr. New members welcome. For info, call (508) 393-5035.

Spring Rummage Sale
The Women's Fellowship of the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational, will hold its Spring Rummage Sale April 17, 6-8 p.m., and April 18, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dollar bags will be on sale Friday, from 12-1 p.m. There will be an abundance of clothes for all ages as well as books, utensils, small appliances, linens, chinaware, pots, pans and more. First Church is located on Bolton Street (Route 85) at High Street, just above Union Common. The public is welcome to attend.

SPL Teen Book Group on “The Arrival”
As part of the Big Read festivities, the Teen Room at Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., will give teenagers a chance to take part April 18, at 4 p.m., by reading “The Arrival” by Shaun Tan. Free, but registration is required. For info, call the library at (508) 842-0081.

Marlboro Lions Club Father-Daughter Dance
The Marlboro Lions Club will hold its 13th Father-Daughter Spring Dance April 18, 6-8 p.m., at the Marlborough High School cafeteria. Professional photographer John Sahagian will be set up at 5:30 p.m. to take photos for $15. Admission: $5 per person. Raffle tickets ($1 each) are available at Bouvier Pharmacy, Main Street Cafe, Jake’s Coffee Shop and Sergio’s Restaurant.

Shrewsbury Annual Town Clean-Up


Shrewsbury’s annual Town Clean-Up Day will be held April 19. Participants should†meet at Dean Park at 9 a.m.†(a picnic follows at
12 p.m.).†Those interested in taking part can contact Alison Ricker at
(508) 842-5423.†Bring your family members and neighbors.† Rain
date is†April 26.




Charity Art Show to Benefit UNICEF
The MA Artist’s Charity Art Show & Silent Auction will take place April 19, from 2-10 p.m., at the Knights of Columbus, 17 Willow St., Westborough. Art exhibits will include acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings; photography; mixed media; and more. A silent auction will run from 2-8 p.m. and include such items as sailing lessons, bed & breakfast gift certificate, Comedy Club tickets, much more. Tickets (sold at the door) are $20 per person and include food and coffee. For more info, visit†http://maartists.tripod.com.

April Vacation at Higgins Armory
Higgins Armory, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester, will host Larry Keating and live birds of prey in “The Owls in Mythology” April 21, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Larry Keating’s “Falconry Show” April 22, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and a live show by Ed the Wizard April 23 and 25 at 2 p.m. Admission: $9, $8 seniors, $7 kids ages 6-16, free to members and kids ages 5 and under. For info, visit www.higgins.org or call (508) 853-6015.

History of Superman at Shrewsbury Public Library
Join reference librarian Jason Cavanaugh April 23, at 7 p.m., at Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., for a look at the history of “Superman.” Also, a showing of two “Superman” movies will be held April 26. Call (508) 842-0081 for info.

28th Annual Senior Conference
The 28th Annual Senior Conference, hosted by State Sen. Pam Resor, will be held April 24 at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, 215 Fitchburg St., Marlborough.
The free daylong event provides seniors with valuable information on issues ranging from health care to healthy eating as well as financial planning. A hot catered meal, live entertainment by the Senior Strutters and door prizes are also scheduled for the conference. Tickets available from local Councils on Aging; at Sen. Resor’s District Office, 225 Main St. (The Walker Building), Marlborough; or by calling (508) 786-3040.

Westborough Earth Day Clean-Up
Join the annual town-wide litter clean-up sponsored by WCLT on April 26! Early birds can meet at 6:30 a.m. at the West Meadow Plaza traffic island. Families are invited at 9:30 a.m. to the Lake Chauncy parking lot or Sandra Pond’s Minuteman Park to be assigned a clean up site. Wear gloves and sturdy shoes; trash bags will be provided. For info, contact Bruce Tretter at tretter5@charter.net or visit www.westboroughlandtrust.org.

Hudson Gala Dance Performance
The Hudson Park Commission/Division of Recreation has announced its 5th annual Gala Dance Performance will be held April 26, starting at 4 p.m., at the Hudson Town Hall auditorium, 78 Main St. Admission: $5, $2 seniors/kids 16 and under. For those interested, a dance workshop will be held 9 a.m.-noon. Cost: $25. For info or to register for the workshop, call (978) 568-9642.

Fifth Annual Westborough Spring Festival
The Westborough Spring Festival continues to grow with many new events April 26-27. The Fishing Challenge will be open to all ages April 26 at Minuteman Park, Upton Road. Come earn merit badge requirements from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. All are invited to participate in the Westborough Community Land Trust nature crafts and the Lion’s Club Italian dinner at Westborough High School. Start April 27 with the Westborough Rotary Scholarship Brunch at the high school, the 5K morning run, the Tufts Dog Spa, and Fun Run with your pet, a Chili and Chowder Challenge and Tasting, bake sale from 12-3 p.m., and more. For complete details, visit www.WestboroughSpringFestival.org.


Ongoing
Ice Hockey Adult Leagues
Spring/summer ice hockey adult leagues are starting in May, and players and teams are needed for all levels of play at the New England Sports Center in Marlborough and other metro locations. If interested, call for a brochure at (888) 456-3745 or e-mail adulthockeyneshl@aol.com.

Photo Exhibit at Wayside Inn
The photographs of Marlborough resident John de Bairos will be on display through April 27 at Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, 72 Wayside Inn Rd., Sudbury. Visit www.wayside.org or call (978) 443-1776 for info.

Summer Drama Workshop Offerings
A variety of theater arts education programs is being offered by the Arts Alliance to area students entering grades 1-13. Each drama workshop concludes with a performance of a popular production. All sessions meet weekdays, with a few Saturday performances. Registration is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Tuition fees are discounted for members of the Arts Alliance. Most programs begin June 23. For info and a downloadable registration form that can be printed and forwarded, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646.

Young at Heart Upcoming Trips
The Young at Heart group has trips planned for the next few months, including a trip to Newport w/a train ride along the water and lunch at a restaurant April 27; a 7-day trip to Savannah, Ga., from April 6-12; the Northshore Music Theatre for the Broadway hit "The Producers" May 21; and a trip to Essex, Conn., for The Essex steam train and riverboat cruise June 26. All trips leave from the Westborough Senior Center, 4 Rogers Rd. Call Sue at (508) 476-3438 for trip costs and info.

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 including invasive plant mapping, and other critical field projects throughout New England. An important focus is the early detection and response to new invasions. 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.

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 Framingham Samaritans Center, 235 Walnut St., Framingham. For info or directions, call Kim Kates at (617) 536-2460.

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 CafÈ
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 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.

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.