Calendar

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.

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. 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.

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. Raindate 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 Cafe 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.

Drop-In Storytime at MPL
Go “Wild about the Library!” at the Marlborough Public Library, 35 W. Main St., from 2-2:30 p.m., during a drop-in storytime. Designed for children of all ages, registration is not required. Call the Children’s Department at (508) 624-6902 for info.


20 Sunday
Hudson Household Hazardous Waste Day
The town of Hudson will hold a Household Hazardous Waste Day from 8 a.m.-noon, rain or shine, at the transfer station on Cox Street. For Hudson residents only (proof of residency required). Appointments are required. For more info or an appointment, call B-P Trucking at (800) 255-5566.

“Eco-Elegance” at Tower Hill
“Eco-Elegance: Gardening 21st Century Style” with instructor Priscilla Randall will be held 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.


21 Monday
WCLT Earth Day Clean-Up
The Westborough Community Land Trust will be sponsor a Westborough Earth Day clean-up May 3, from 6:30-8 a.m. and 9:30-11 a.m., rain or shine. For info or to volunteer, contact Bruce Tretter by April 21 at (508) 616-0192 or tretter5@charter.net. Help make Westborough sparkle in all its spring splendor by volunteering to organize a neighborhood clean-up group or joining the town-wide effort at Minuteman Park, Lake Chauncy and West Meadow Plaza.

Road Scholars 5K/Fun Run Pre-registration
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” at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Also, Larry Keating’s “Falconry Show” will be April 22, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and a live show by Ed the Wizard will be held 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.


22 Tuesday
Northborough Art Guild Meeting
The Northborough Art Guild will hold its monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Northborough Historical Society, 50 Main St. Lynn Wrona will present a demonstration of pastel painting. The public is invited and refreshments will be served.

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 held through April 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.
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GFWC Westborough Woman's Club Shopping Night†
The GFWC Westborough Woman's Club is sponsoring an exclusive shopping night fund-raiser 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 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.


23 Wednesday
Northborough Seniors Spring Luncheon
Deadline to sign up for the Vincent F. Picard #234 American Legion annual Spring Luncheon for Northborough seniors (to be held April 27, at 1 p.m.). To register or for info, call the Northborough Senior Center at (508) 393-5035.

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 from 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 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” 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.

Early Flowers Program at Broad Meadow Brook
Mass Audubon’s Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, will hold a program on “Early Flowers - Hazelnut, Spicebush, and Silver Maple” from 7-9 p.m. Fee: $8 Mass Audubon members, $10 non-members. For more info and to register, call Broad Meadow Brook at (508) 753-6087 or visit www.massaudubon.org.


24 Thursday
Graphic Novel Workshop
Young adults in grades 5 and up are invited to the Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., 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 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.

WRTA Advisory Board Meeting
The WRTA Advisory Board Meeting (rescheduled from April 17) will be held at 8:30 a.m. at the WRTA, 287 Grove St., Worcester. This meeting is open to the public.

Earth Week Event at Spellman Museum
As part of its Earth Day celebration, Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History, 235 Wellesley St., Regis College, Wellesley, invites children to bring a recyclable paper cup, glass jar, cardboard box or tin can and decorate it with postage stamps. Children can also help design a huge Earth Day stamp and participate in stamp games, puzzles and hunts. Admission: $5, free for children age 16 and under. Visit www.spellman.org or call (781) 768-8367 for info.


25 Friday
SPL Poetry Bash
To celebrate National Poetry Month and the birthday of Maya Angelou (April 4), Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St., will hold a poetry bash at 7 p.m. All are welcome to attend and will able to read a favorite poem or one of their own creation. To register or for info, call (508) 842-0081 ext. 3. Refreshments will be served.

Arbor Day weekend at Tower Hill
Celebrate trees during the weekend-long event ( 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through April 27) at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston, with a free tree given to 25 first-time visitors each day, pruning demonstrations, tree plantings each day at 2 p.m., movies, information tables, a scavenger hunt for kids, and sales in the Gift Shop. General admission: $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 youth, free for members and kids under 6. For details, visit www.towerhillbg.org or call (508) 869-6111.

Arts Alliance Members’ Spring Art Exhibit   
Last day to view the Arts Alliance Members’ Spring Art Exhibit at Citizens Bank, 17 Pope St. (next to Hudson Town Hall, one block from the rotary), Hudson, during regular bank hours. There is no admission fee. For info, visit www.upwitharts.org or call (978) 562-1646.

Musical Tot Shabbat Service
Peter and Ellen Allard, local musicians who specialize in music for young children, will lead Tot Shabbat services starting at 6 p.m. at Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 East Main St., Westborough. The services, which are designed for young children, will include singing and dancing in celebration of the joy and spirit of Shabbat. A child-friendly Passover Oneg will be held  immediately following services. 

Shrewsbury Blood Drive
The Glavin Regional Center, 214 Lake St., Shrewsbury, will host an American Red Cross blood drive from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins are also welcome. The goal of this drive is to collect at least 55 pints. For info or an appointment, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.givelife.org.


26 Saturday
SVT Intro to Letterboxing
Sudbury Valley Trustees will offer an Introduction to Letterboxing from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
The event will appeal to both those new to letterboxing, as well as experienced letterboxers. The gathering will include a potluck welcome. Letterboxes for the day, from letterboxers far and wide, will be planted on trails around the SVT property. For those who are interested, there will be additional classes. Registration is required. Members free, $5 for non-members. Call (978) 443-5588 for info and registration.

Marlborough Friends Spaghetti Supper
The Friends of the Marlborough Senior Center, 250 Main St., will hold a spaghetti supper with seatings from 4:30-6 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. All are welcome. Tickets are $8pp/$3 kids age 7 and under, and are available at the Senior Center or by calling Judy Jewett at (508) 485-0785 or Peg Cahill at (508) 624-6797.

Westborough Earth Day Clean-Up
Join the annual town-wide litter clean-up sponsored by WCLT! 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
Submissions for the Spring Flower Show at the Post Road Art Center, 1 Boston Post Rd. East, Marlborough, will be accepted through April 30. All artists are welcome to enter. Prizes will be awarded and pieces will be judged on composition, creativity and technique. The opening reception will be May 8, 5:30-8:30 p.m. For info and registration forms, visit www.postroadartcenter.com.

Central One Shred Day
Central One Federal Credit Union will host a Community Shred Day from 9-11:30 a.m. at its Shrewsbury location, 714 Main St. Also May 3, 9-11:30 a.m., at 148 Main St., Northborough, and 63 Southbridge St., Auburn. There is no limit to the amount of material that can be brought to shred. Shred bags are available at the Shrewsbury, Auburn and Northborough branch locations, but are not required. For info, contact Monique Rose at Central One Federal Credit Union at (508) 842-7400

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 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 start 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 starts. 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 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 from 8 a.m.-noon. Rain date: April 27. 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.

FUMC Hudson Friendship Dinner
The First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton St., will be observing its monthly, free Friendship Dinner. The “All You Can Eat” spaghetti dinner with Italian bread, salad, dessert, cold drinks, coffee and tea, will be served from 5-7 p.m. A free-will offering basket will be available for those who wish to make a donation. Call (978) 562-2932 or visit http://www.hudsonfumc.com for info.

N.E. Wild Flower Society’s “Earth Day”
The New England Wild Flower Society’s “Earth Day” will be held 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.
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Boxer Buddies Rescue Spring Fling
The non-profit organization Boxer Buddies Rescue Inc. will hold its fund-raising Spring Fling 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.
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Mass. Audubon Volunteer Day
Join the Massachusetts Audubon from 9 a.m.-noon for its annual Statewide Volunteer Day. Help spruce up trails and gardens, put on a fresh coat of paint, and dive into other spring cleaning projects across the state, including at Eagle Lake in Holden and Wachusett Meadow in Princeton. For more details and to sign up, visit www.massaudubon.org/workforwildlife.

Fountain Street Open Studios Weekend
More then 50 working artists will open their studios to the public for an exhibition of their latest work from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Fountain Street Studios, 59 Fountain St., Framingham. Also April 27. Exhibited media includes artists books, collage, digital prints, drawing and pastel, furniture restoration, glass, handmade paper boxes, installation art, mixed media, jewelry, painting, pastel, photography, printmaking, pottery, sculpture, watercolor and more. Visit www. FountainStreetStudios.com for info.


27 Sunday
Rockbuster Offroad Duathlon
The Marlboro Lions Club will once again hold its annual Rockbuster Offroad Duathlon 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
The Interfaith Council of Marlborough invites†everyone in the Marlborough/Hudson area to an educational event at 2 p.m. 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.

Choruses of Worcester Consortium Verdi Requiem
Nearly 300 voices, joined by a full orchestra and conducted by Dr. Michelle Graveline, will resonate throughout Mechanics Hall, as a consortium of Worcester’s college choruses performs the Verdi Requiem at 3 p.m. Rev. Donat Lamothe, professor of music at Assumption, will offer a free pre-concert lecture at 2:15 p.m. Tickets for the consortium concert are $15 ($10 for seniors/students) and are available at the music departments of each participating college, by calling the Mechanics Hall box office at (508) 752-0888 or visiting www.mechanicshall.org.

Take a Hike! at Broad Meadow Brook
Join sanctuary volunteers for a free, family-friendly hike from 1-3 p.m. at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Participants will look for anything that is flying, crawling, hopping or flitting nearby. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. For info and to register, call Broad Meadow Brook at (508) 753-6087.

Annual Walk for Autism Awareness
The 8th annual Walk for Autism Awareness will be held 1-3 p.m. at Quinsigamond State Park, Lake Ave., Worcester. For info, call the Autism Resource Center of Central Mass at (508) 835-4278.


Upcoming
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.   

Diabetic Support Group Meeting
The Diabetic Support Group will meet April 29, at 1 p.m., at the Northborough Senior Center, 1 Centre Dr. Guest speaker Terrie Moniz, R.N. will discuss “Stress and Diabetes.” All are welcome to attend. Call the senior center at (508) 393-5035 for info.

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.

Mothers and More Meeting
The Assabet Valley Chapter of Mothers and More will meet April 30, at 7 p.m., at Whitney Place, 5 Lyman St., Westborough. Topic: "Spousal Relationships." Visitors welcome for information, refreshments and an evening out. Mothers and More is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers. For more info, call (508) 936-6882 or visit www.mothersandmoreassabetvalley.org.
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Northborough Garden Club Meeting
The Northborough Garden Club will meet May 1, at 7 p.m., at Trinity Church, 23 Main St., Northborough. “Flower Arranging,” presented by Marisa McCoy of Designs of Distinction, will be hosted jointly by the Northborough, Shrewsbury and Boylston Garden Clubs. The $3 guest fee includes refreshments and raffles for the finished flower arrangements. Visit http://gardencentral.org/clubs/may for info.

MetroWest JCC Film Series
The MetroWest Jewish Community Center will hold a four-week film screening and discussion series that explores Jewish involvement in and influence on American entertainment on successive Thursdays, beginning May 1, from 10 a.m.-noon. Films to be screened during “That’s Jewish Entertainment” include “The Tramp and the Dictator” (2001), a documentary about Charlie Chaplin, and “Molly: The Goldbergs” (1950) based on a popular TV series. The program takes place at Whitney Place in Natick, 3 Vision Dr., Route 9. Open to the entire community. Cost: $50. To register, call (508) 879-3300.

Women of St. Luke’s Club Raffle
The Women of St. Luke’s in Westborough will draw their yearly raffle May 2 and is currently selling 200 tickets for $100 each. The main prize is $10,000 along with (2) $500 and (4) $250.†The drawing will be held at the Knights of Columbus on Willow St., and all those who purchased a ticket are invited to enjoy appetizers, cash bar and door prizes†donated from the local business community. To purchase a ticket or for more info, call Susan at (508) 366-7885 or Sharon at (508) 868-5435.

St. Matthias Spring Fling
Come celebrate spring and support St. Matthias Parish!†Tickets are now on sale for the annual "Spring Fling" Dinner Dance and Silent Auction to be held May 3, at 6 p.m, at Marlborough Country Club, 200 Concord Rd., Marlborough. Tickets are $35 per person with a special price of $30 for senior citizens.†Raffle tickets will also be†available, with prizes†including Red Sox vs. Yankees tickets, an iPod Shuffle and†more.†For tickets or info, call the parish office at (508) 460-9255.

Autism Benefit Concert
The 2nd annual benefit concert for autistic children will be held May 3, from 7-8:30 p.m., at the Medway High School auditorium, 88 Summer St., Medway. Concert features Red Sox game singer and Medway native Alexis Ohanian, with special guest performance by Ayla Brown from American Idol. Door prizes include Red Sox memorabilia, gift certificates and gift baskets. Cost: $15. For tickets, visit www.networkforchildren.org or call (508) 393-0030 for info.

Evening of Music at First Church in Marlborough†
First Church in Marlborough, 37 High St., will present an evening of worship and contemporary Christian music May 3. A contemporary worship service including interactive discussion and First Church's Praise Group will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the 7 p.m. service with local artist Kirsten Locke. Free admission, but donations accepted to support the artist. For info, contact the church office at (508) 485-6297.

Books & Bites Book Club
The Children’s Department at Northborough Free Library, 71 Lyman St., Northborough, will hold the first meeting of its Books & Bites Book Club May 3, 1:30-2:30 p.m. For grades 4 and 5. For info or to register, call (508) 393-5025.

“Bid of Hope” Auction 
First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton St., announces “A Bid of Hope,” its third annual benefit auction, is slated for May 3, at 7 p.m. This year the auction will be held at the church in spacious Lamson Hall. The special event will feature a live and silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and assorted desserts. Tickets: $15. The donation of items or services is welcome. For info, call (978) 562-2932 or visit www.hudsonfumc.com. 

Bird Banding Field Trip
On May 3, the Westborough Community Land Trust invites to the community to observe expert Mark Blazis and his team as they catch neotropic migratory birds in a mist net, then examine and band them to collect valuable data on the birds’ health, population trends and migration. Meet at the Westborough BJ’s parking lot at 7 a.m. to carpool if not raining. Rain date: May 4. For info, contact Kris Allen at krisallen@charter.net or visit www.westboroughlandtrust.org.

Westborough Little League Parade
The Westborough Little League will kick off the spring 2008 season with a parade May 3, at 10 a.m. All teams, coaches, and helpers will begin the festivities with a food pantry collection and line up at the new Forbes Memorial Park at Bay State Commons. The parade will then march through the rotary to the Westborough High School football field for the opening season ceremonies.

Paddle to Cedar Swamp Pond
Join with Sudbury Valley Trustees River Lorians, Simon Vos and Dave Dimmock on a paddle to Cedar Swamp Pond, where the Sudbury River begins, on May 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Twist and turn through the narrow stretches of the river, leading you to the breathtaking headwaters. For experienced paddlers only. Canoe rentals are not available for this trip. Registration is required. Cost: members $15, non-members $25. Call (978) 443-5588 for info and registration.

A Taste of the Boroughs
A Taste of the Boroughs, a wine and tasting and silent auction, will take place May 4, from 5-8 p.m., at the DoubleTree Hotel in Westborough. Tickets ($40 each by April 25, $50 after that date) can be purchased in advance at the Westboro Area JCC (WAJCC) or online at www.westboroareajcc.org. For info or to purchase tickets, call Julia O’Neil-Welch at the Westboro Area JCC at (508) 366-6121 ext. 24.

“Living with Heart Failure” Education Program
As part of Marlborough Hospital’s spring 2008 Community Education programs, it will present “Living with Heart Failure” May 5, 7-8:30 p.m., in the Leahy Conference Center, 157 Union St., Marlborough Hospital. Cardiologist Eric Nelson, MD will explain what heart failure is and how it can affect your everyday life. Free, but registration is required. For info or to register, call (508) 486-5805. 

Driving Seminar For Older Drivers
St. Mary's Credit Union, in conjunction with AARP, will hold a Driver Safety Program seminar for older drivers (defined as age 50 and older) May 6 and 7, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The class will be taught at St. Mary’s 1 Northboro Road branch in Marlborough (2nd floor Directors Room).†Cost is $10 per person, free for St. Mary’s members.†Also, it is "Bring A Friend" month at AARP, so anyone showing their AARP Membership Card can bring a friend to the seminar free.† Participants will learn defensive driving techniques; how to adjust driving habits for age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time; and more.

Hudson Senior Center Pie Contest
Entries for the Hudson Senior Center Homemade Pie Contest must be at the center, 29 Church St., by 12 p.m. May 7. Winners will be announced during the Mother’s Day luncheon May 8. To enter the contest or for more info, call the Hudson Senior Center at (978) 568-9638.

Mother’s Day Tea at SPL
A Mother’s Day Tea will be held May 8, at 4 p.m., at Shrewsbury Public Library, 609 Main St. Appropriate for school-age children grades K-4. While moms relax in the library, participating youth will prepare a special surprise for them. Space is limited and registration is required. Call (508) 842-0081 for info or to register.

Southborough Gardeners Annual Plant Sale
The Southborough Gardeners will hold their annual Plant Sale May 10, from 8 a.m.-noon, at the Community House, located at the intersection of routes 30/85. Come early for the best selection of plants shared by the gardeners from their own gardens, as well as local nursery stock. The plant sale will include a wide selection of annuals, perennials and hanging baskets, which are all suitable for spring planting or for Mother’s Day gifts.
For info, visit www.gardencentral.org/gcfm/southboroughgardeners.

Troop 382 Flower Sale
Westborough Boy Scout Troop 382 will hold its annual Flower Sale May 10 at the Tufts Machine Shop, Main St., Westborough. All profits are used to benefit the Troop.


Ongoing
Kitchen and Garden Tour
The Southborough Gardeners have announced that advance tickets for a Kitchen and Garden Tour (to be held June 1, from 1-5 p.m.) are available for $20. To purchase advance tickets, send a SASE with check to Southborough Gardeners, P.O. Box 184, Southborough, MA 01772; call (508) 485-8959; or e-mail mlaura291@aol.com. Advance tickets are also available at the Southborough Library. On the day of the tour, pick up a map and ticket for $25 at the Community House. For info, visit www.gardencentral.org/gcfm/southboroughgardeners.

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 will be going to the Northshore Music Theatre May 21 to see the award-winning Broadway musical, "The Producers." An all-you-can eat buffet lunch is included for $69. There is also still room on the April 27 trip to Newport for a 2-hour train ride and lunch at a downtown restaurant. $45 includes everything. Both trips leave from the Westborough Senior Center. Call Sue at (508) 476-3438 for more 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.