Calendar

11 Friday
Treble Choir Concert
A Treble Choir Concert will be held at Westborough High School, Main St., at 7:30 p.m. The high school’s Women’s Chorale and the Girls Acapella Groups will be performing as well as hosting the Women’s Chorale and Acapella Groups from Acton-Boxborough High School. Tickets are $5 and available at the door.

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.

Chiasson Memorial Fishing Derby
The Hudson Park Commission/Division of Recreation has announced that the George Chiasson Memorial Fishing Derby will be held from 6:30-11 a.m. at Tripp’s Pond on River Street. Youth ages 16 and under are eligible to participate and prizes will be awarded for the most fish, biggest fish and first fish caught. Registration fee: $2 per child. For info, call (978) 568-9642.

Babypalooza Fund-Raiser Event
The Marlborough Area Newcomers and Neighbors invites the public to bring new or gently used baby and toddler safety items, clothing and toys to a Babypalooza fund-raiser from 1-5 p.m. Babypaloozas give 100 percent of the donations to Cradles to Crayons (C2C) in Quincy. Requested items include cribs, crib mattresses, bassinets, bottles, pacifiers , books, toys, car seats, strollers, safety gates, play yards, outlet covers, bibs, infant carriers and diaper bags and more. To donate to or RSVP, e-mail Kathryn@thedenneys.org. The drop off address is 25 Wood Rd. in Marlborough.

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.

MANN Wine and Cheese Tasting
The Marlborough Area Newcomers and Neighbors will hold a Wine and Cheese Tasting from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Post Road Art Center, 1 Boston Post Rd., in Marlborough. The cost is $15-$20 per person and RSVPs are required. Please contact Steve at
bramersja@yahoo.com to sign up for the event. For info on MANN, visit www.MarlboroughNewcomers.com.

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.


14 Monday
Youth Football/Cheerleading Registration
Shrewsbury Youth Football and Cheerleading will hold registration for the fall 2008 season from 6-8 p.m. at Commerce Park, Route 9 east (across from the bowling alley). For info, call Mike at (508) 842-9737.


15 Tuesday
Tower Hill Botanic Garden Workshops, Seminars
Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, will hold “Landscape Design I” on Tuesdays through June 10, from 6-9 p.m. Cost  is $250 members, $300 non-members. For info or to register, call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Juliet Lloyd Concert
Singer/songwriter Juliet Lloyd and her band will perform at the Westborough High School auditorium 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. ††

Everybody’s Birthday Party at Shrewsbury Senior Center
Seniors are invited to the 4th annual Everybody’s Birthday Party at 1 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Ave. The party is a chance to celebrate your birthday, regardless of when it is. †Special entertainment will be provided by Lyle Willis Pierce, an award-winning Nashville recording artist. Enjoy a wonderful afternoon of cake and ice cream, outstanding music and lots of fun and friendship.

Garden in the Woods Opening Day
From 9 a.m.-7 p.m., get first choice of 550 native plant species for sale, many rare, including wildflowers, woody plants and ferns, during opening day at Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. Members receive discounts and all purchases support plant conservation. Experience the Garden on a 10 a.m. tour - free with admission. Call (508) 877-7630 or visit www.newenglandWILD.org for info.


16 Wednesday
Friends MPL Host Author Ann Hood
Ann Hood, award winning author of “The Knitting Circle,” will speak at the Marlborough Public Library, 35 West Main St., from 7-8 p.m. as part of the “MetroWest daily News/Marlborough Enterprise 2008 McConnell Author/Celebrity Series No. 25. Free and open to the public. For info on the series, call (508) 624-6900, (508) 485-0290 or e-mail rajohnson36@verizon.net.

Annual Memorial Scholarship Dinner
The 9th annual Memorial Scholarship Dinner†in memory of Danielle Simas and Robert Cormier will be held 4-8 p.m. at the Shrewsbury High School commons. Includes a pasta dinner, pastry buffet, live entertainment and silent raffle

Tower Hill Botanic Garden Workshops, Seminars
Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, will hold “Water Gardening Features & Accessories” and “Herbaceous Plants” on Wednesdays through July 9, from 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.


17 Thursday
Art Appreciation Talk
An Art Appreciation Talk will be held 5:30-7 p.m. the Post Road Art Center, 1 Boston Post Road East, Marlborough. If you have ever felt in the dark about art and what everyone is looking at, this talk is for you! Participants will look at the current show hanging in the gallery and discuss the different mediums, composition styles and techniques. To sign up, e-mail Randi@postroadartcenter.com or visit www.postroadartcenter.com for info.

Higgins Armory Opens New Exhibit
The special exhibit, “From Anvil to Microscope: Modern Metallography and The Ancient Secrets of Sword Making,” opens 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 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 from 6-8 p.m. Also April 18, 9 a.m.-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.


18 Friday
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 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 from 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.

Hudson Blood Drive
An American Red Cross blood drive will be held 1-7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 91 Park St., Hudson. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins also welcome. Call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givelife.org for appointments or info.

R&R Gymnastics Shopping Night
The R&R Gymnastics Parent’s Association is hosting a home party sales night in conjunction with R&R Gymnastics’ open house from 6-9 p.m. at the gym, Route 146, Millbury. Features a wide variety of home party sales reps, including Tastefully Simple. You will also be able to watch the gymnastics teams work out and sign up for classes and summer camp. For info, call Pat at the gym at (508) 865-7440. 


19 Saturday
Bay State African Violet Show
The Bay State African Violet Society will present its African Violet Show 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Many varieties will be featured, including variegated leaf forms, miniatures, standards, chimeras, trailers, more. Guided tours, lectures and demos will also be offered. Free with general admission ($10, $7 seniors, $5 youth, free for members and kids under age 6). Call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org for info.

Shrewsbury Annual Town Clean-Up


Shrewsbury holds its annual Town Clean-Up Day. 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 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.

Annual Spring Basket Raffle
The Friends of the Northborough Free Library is holding its annual Spring Basket Raffle through May 3. Donations of baskets or contents for baskets can be dropped off at the temporary library location at 71 Lyman St. Please call the library at (508) 393-5025 prior to bringing over donations. For info, call Lisa Bazarian Gardner at (508) 393-9928.

Events at Tower Hill
“Backyard Magic: Redefining the American Backyard,” a lecture by Michael Weishan, former host of PBS’s Victory Garden, will be presented 1-3 p.m. at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members. The 50-minute illustrated talk explores ways to maximize the beauty and value of your backyard. Book signing after the lecture. Also, “Springtime Cuisine,” a part of the Creative Cooking Series, will start at 4 p.m. with Twigs CafÈ chef Cece Collier. Cost: $40 members, $45 non-members. To register or for info about either program, call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Shrewsbury Post Office Passport Day
A special Passport Day will be held at Shrewsbury Post Office, 43 Maple Ave., from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Cost: $100 ages 16 and over; $85 under age 16; $75 renewals; $15 photos. Call (508) 842-0243 for info. To save time, applications can be downloaded at www.usps.com/passport.


Upcoming
“Eco-Elegance” at Tower Hill
“Eco-Elegance: Gardening 21st Century Style” with instructor Priscilla Randall will be held April 20, at 1 p.m., at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Eco-Elegance, a cross-pollination of ecology, modern technology and humanism, is a new understanding of gardens which will be the 21st century style. Cost: $15 members, $17.50 non-members. For info or to register, call (508) 869-6111 or visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Road Scholars 5K/Fun Run Pre-registration
April 21 is the last day to pre-register for the 1st annual Shrewsbury Road Scholars 5K/Fun Run (to be held May 4, at 12 p.m., at Oak Middle School). Cost: $15 (includes free T-shirt). Same day registration will be May 4, 10:45-11:45 a.m., and costs $20. Registration forms available at shrewsburyroadscholars.org. For info, visit the website or call race coordinator Beth McCollum at (508) 841-8400.

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.

Shrewsbury Parks & Recreation Baseball Clinic
The Shrewsbury Parks & Recreation will be offering a baseball clinic with Rich Gedman during April vacation at Dean Park. The clinic will be April 22-25, with grades 1 and 2 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and grades 3-6 from 12-3 p.m. Details and registration forms are available at http://www.shrewsbury-ma.gov/parkrec/index.asp. First come, first served.
†
GFWC Westborough Woman's Club Shopping Night†
The GFWC Westborough Woman's Club is sponsoring an exclusive shopping night fund-raiser April 22, 6-8 p.m., at the new Stein Mart at Baystate Commons. Includes light refreshments, door prizes and a gift, and the chance to shop in the store before it opens to the general public April 23. Admission is by ticket only and all proceeds will support community service projects and scholarships administered by the club. Tickets are $10 per person and may be obtained by calling Paula at (508) 799-3932 or Judy at (508) 870-1895. Tickets are also available at the Plant Bazaar Florist.

Celebrate Earth Day with Sudbury Valley Trustees
Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” will be shown April 22, 6:30-9 p.m., at Wolbach Farm, Sudbury. The movie offers a passionate and inspirational look at former Vice-President Al Gore’s crusade to halt global warming’s deadly progress by exposing the myths and misconceptions that surround it. Registration is required. Cost: $5 members, $10 non-members. Call (978) 443-5588 for info and registration.

May Baskets Drop-In Craft
The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., will hold a May Baskets drop-in craft for families April 23, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., or April 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call the library at (508) 393-5025 for info.

Hudson Rotary Senior Breakfast
The annual Hudson Rotary Senior Breakfast will start at 8 a.m. at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church St. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Call (978) 568-9638 for info.

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.

Sudbury Valley Trustees Puppet Show
Children and their families are invited to SVT’s Wolbach Farm in Sudbury to see the magic of puppetry! Deborah Costine will perform “Cinderella, a Woodland Fairy Princess” April 23, from 6-7:30 p.m. Recommended for children 3 and older and registration is required. Cost: $5, $15 max per family ($20 max for non-members). To register or for info, call (978) 443-5588.

Graphic Novel Workshop
Young adults in grades 5 and up are invited to the Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., April 24, at 2 p.m., to learn the basics of storytelling and plotting out a graphic novel. Space is very limited and registration is required. To register or for info, call (508) 842-0081.

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.

Post Road Art Center Call to Artists
The Spring Flower Show is coming up at the Post Road Art Center, 1 Boston Post Rd. East, Marlborough, and all artists are welcome to enter. Prizes will be awarded and pieces will be judged on composition, creativity and technique. Submissions will be accepted April 26-30. The opening reception will be May 8, 5:30-8:30 p.m. For info and registration forms, visit www.postroadartcenter.com.

Second Annual Spring Community Food Drive
The Westborough Girl Scouts are proud to announce the 2nd annual Community Food Drive to benefit the Westborough Food Pantry.††The collection drop off sites will be on April 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Tufts Machine Lot, East Main Street.†On April 27, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., food items, gift cards and cash donations may be made at the Westborough Rotary Spring Fling at the high school.†

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.

SELCO's 4th Annual Arbor Day Celebration
SELCO celebrates Arbor Day April 26, from 9 a.m.-noon, at Dean Park (the south pavilion/bandstand area) in Shrewsbury. The day includes a live animal show at 10 a.m. and the giveaway (while supplies last) of 13 different varieties of trees. Other environmentally-friendly free giveaways will also be provided courtesy of SELCO. Trees and other giveaway items for Shrewsbury residents only, proof of residency required.

Northborough Annual Town Cleanup
Northborough celebrates Earth Day April 26 (rain date: April 27) from 8 a.m.-noon.
Meet at Melican Middle School to pick up gloves, bags and assignments. Volunteers invited to a free cookout afterwards at Ellsworth-McAfee Park, Route 135, from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Contact lisabhodge@yahoo.com with any questions. Sponsored by the Northborough Community Affairs Committee and Northborough Woman's Club.

N.E. Wild Flower Society’s “Earth Day”
The New England Wild Flower Society’s “Earth Day” will be April 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. Visit www.newenglandWILD.org  for a schedule of events or call (508) 877-7630 for info.
††

†

Boxer Buddies Rescue Spring Fling
The non-profit organization Boxer Buddies Rescue Inc. will hold its fund-raising Spring Fling April 26, from 6-11 p.m., at Millis AMVETS, 404 Village St., Millis. Includes dancing, raffles, silent auction, buffet, cash bar, DJ. Tickets (available at www.bbrispringfling.org) are $10pp or $15 per couple. For info, visit the website or call Shelley Goes at (617) 719-9593.
††

Rockbuster Offroad Duathlon
The Marlboro Lions Club will once again hold its annual Rockbuster Offroad Duathlon April 27, starting at 9 a.m., at Ashland State Park, 150 Union St., Ashland. The race will consist of a 1.8-mile run, a 5.5-mile bike, and another 1.8-mile run. Proceeds will benefit the many Lions Club charities, including Joslin Diabetes Camp, eye research and various scholarships. For info or to pre-register, visit www.firm-racing.com.

Interfaith Council of Marlborough Islam Program
On April 27,†at 2 p.m., the Interfaith Council of Marlborough invites†everyone in the Marlborough/Hudson area to an educational event that introduces Islam, the religion of Muslims. The format of Islam 101 includes an interview of†Saadat Syed by Rev. Karen Nell-Smith. The event will be held at First Church, 37 High St., Marlborough.†For info, call (508) 485-6297.

Music In Motion Plus for Children
The Children’s Room at Northborough Free Library will hold “Music in Motion Plus” April 29, 10:45-11:15 a.m., for children 1-5 years old accompanied by an adult., at St. Rose of Lima Family Life Center, 244 W. Main Street, Northborough. Registration is required. For info or to register, call the Children’s Room at (508) 393-5025 or stop by the library, 71 Lyman St.   

Stagecoach and Tavern Days in Shrewsbury
On April 30, at
7 p.m., the
1830 Schoolhouse on the Shrewsbury Common will host speakers Erik Larson, Kristine Gustafson and Margaret Larson on the history of stagecoaches and taverns in Shrewsbury. The program includes information from the Society Archives, as well as original research conducted by the presenters over the past year. Admission is free.


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.