CURRENT EVENTS

 

 

Friday, May 28

 

THERE WILL BE A COOK-OUT FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE BOSTON FISHER HOUSE at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 each. The Fisher House program offers shelter and support during a medical crisis for members of the Armed Forces, retirees, veterans and their families. At 6 p.m. the movie “Sergeant York” will be shown followed by coffee and raffles. Sponsored by the NB Police Auxiliary, NB Fire Department, Hannaford Supermarkets, NB American Legion and the NB VFW.  For more information visit http://www.fisherhouse.org

 

QUABOAG 350^th ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE IS HOLDING A NINTH GRADE ESSAY CONTEST The essay topic is “In 1660, planter families first settled in the wilderness of the Quaboag Plantation (what is now the Brookfields, New Braintree and Warren). What makes this area special 350 years later?” Requirements of the contest are as follows: An original and creative essay of no more than 1,000 words. Submit two hard copies, one with identifying information, typewritten, double-spaced and printed on only one side of the paper. The submission deadline is May 28. Essays may be delivered to Michael Frew, Social studies teacher or Chris Socha, English teacher at Quaboag Regional High School. Those who attend alternative schools but reside in one of the two towns may mail their essays to Quaboag Plantation 350^th Anniversary, Attn: essay contest, PO Box 93, West Brookfield, 01585. The letter must be postmarked no later than May 28.

 

Saturday, May 29

 

HYLAND ORCHARD IN STURBRIDGE WILL HOST THE 5^TH ANNUAL BB5K RUN/WALK The BB5k is a 5k Run/Walk along a scenic route followed by an afternoon of festivities including live music, food, drink and kids activities. Registration for the event will begin at 9 a.m. and the 5k will start at 10:30 a.m. Following the 5k there will be a Kids Fun Run through the apple orchard. All proceeds from this event will benefit the JLT Family Foundation to help raise awareness of melanoma. You can register at http://www.bb5k.com Any questions can be directed to stepeghall@netzero.com.

 

THE LAKE WICKABOAG PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION IS PLANNING ITS 12^TH ANNUAL LAKE CLEAN-UP DAY from 9 a.m. to noon at the town beach. Refreshments will be provided for all lake clean-up volunteers. Marc Pontbriand, Chairman of the event, is encouraging local volunteers to aid LWPA members in cleaning up refuse in the lake and along the shoreline. As in previous years, the volunteer effort will also include the lake area along Wickaboag Valley Road to Snow Road and the rest area on Route 9 across from the lake. All lakefront property owners are invited to join in the fun.

THE BROOKFIELD GARDEN CLUB WILL HOLD ITS ANNUAL PLANT SALE ON THE COMMON The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will feature a variety of perennials, annuals, herbs, heirloom tomatoes and beautiful hanging baskets. Some of the best buys of the sale come from members' gardens. Every year, members dig up their favorite perennials to separate and pot for the plant sale. Included will be a few hypertufa pots made by members and filled with plants.

 

THE NEW BRAINTREE FARMERS’ MARKET WILL OPEN ITS FIRST SEASON at 9 a.m. The Market is located on Rt. 67 at the flashing light on the corners of Ravine and Old Turnpike Road at B&B Farm. We will be offering fresh local produce in-season, baked goods, handmade soaps, flowers, herbs, goat cheese, hamburgers and hot dogs, fresh kettle corn and other hand-made items. The market will run from May 29 - Oct and is open 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. every Saturday morning. Anyone wishing to participate in this market can contact Cindy Cheever at 508-867-6065 or cheever121@netzero.com. WIC and senior coupons will be accepted at this market. Thank you for supporting local farmers.

 

Monday, May 31

 

THE WEST BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER WILL BE CLOSED ON MONDAY, MAY 31 FOR MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE

 

THE WARREN SENIOR CENTER WILL BE CLOSED ON MONDAY, MAY 31 FOR MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE

 

MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCES FOR EAST BROOKFIELD WILL BE HELD MONDAY, MAY 31. A service will be held at the Podunk Cemetery, Podunk Road, beginning at 9:30 am. The annual parade will start at 11 a.m. from the Memorial Town Complex, Connie Mack Drive, and proceed east on Main St. to Evergreen Cemetery, where a service will be held. The parade will then regroup and follow Main St. to Pleasant St. where closing ceremonies will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial, Depot Square.

 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY CHICKEN BBQ, SILENT AUCTION The Barbecue will take place from Noon to 2 p.m. outdoors at the Congregational Church. The cost of the Barbecue is $10, including 1/2 chicken and salads, dessert and drinks. In addition, a free hot dog and cold drink will be provided for young children with the purchase of an adult ticket. Following the Barbecue, contemporary Christian praise music and some traditional hymns will be performed on the Church lawn. This year's silent auction will be held in the Church Fellowship Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Area businesses have generously donated a variety of gift certificates and other items to bid on. Proceeds will go to the Property Committee for essential repairs to the Church and Parsonage buildings. Call 508-867-7671, or 7214 or 8428 for tickets. Large Canopies are provided for all seating areas. This event will be held rain or shine.

 

THE NORTH BROOKFIELD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WILL HOLD ITS 3^RD ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY CHICKEN BBQ AND SILENT AUCTION Meals are served outside following the memorial service at the Congregational Church of North Brookfield (rain or shine) from noon – 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 and kids eat free (hot dogs and other goodies) with the purchase of a BBQ  ticket. The auction is from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Contact Steve and Donna Cummings at 508-867-7671 or see Dave Libby or Ken Winters.

 

Friday, June 4

 

THE BROOKFIELD INSTITUTE WILL HOLD A SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP on Friday and Saturday, June 4 and 5 at the Brookfield Inn, 8 W. Main St. People who may have tried to write a scrap of a song, but can’t seem to finish it or musicians who love to play, but haven’t tried their hand at composition would enjoy this workshop, as well as composers who want to hone their skills or learn new ways of creating. Tret Fure, successful folksinger and songwriter, will lead the workshop, teaching participants to explore “the power of word in song, through condensing, compressing, and fine-tuning to make strong songs.” This workshop will cover song structure and word choice through a series of writing exercises, both as individuals and in community. To register for the workshop, go to www.brookfieldinstitute.org/events.html or email the Brookfield Institute at Brookfield.institute@gmail.com or call 508-637-1215. Cost: $150 includes snacks and lunch. The workshop will run on Friday, June 4 from 7 – 9 p.m. and Saturday, June 5 from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. A free “house” concert will conclude the weekend on Sunday, June 6 at 3 p.m.

 

 

UPCOMING/ONGOING

 

WHITE SPRUCE FARMS OF NEW BRAINTREE WILL HOST FOUR WEEKS OF HORSE CAMP A day at camp will include riding lessons every day specializing in dressage. Other riding disciplines will be covered as well. Children will learn good horsemanship and barn management skills. We will also try vaulting on our barrel horse. Campers will be busy with horsey arts and crafts, games and other fun activities. White Spruce Farms summer program is a great introduction to horses. For those riders that are already riding, a week at camp will only further their riding skills. For more information about camp please call Susan at 413-477-6923.

 

A BAKE SALE WILL BE HELD ON THE WARREN TOWN COMMON on Saturday, June 5 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. to help defer medical expenses for Pat Melesky (Pat from the W. Warren Library) who is awaiting a lung transplant. Donations will be gratefully accepted. There will be a balloon artist in attendance for the children. Face painting will also be available. For more information, please contact Barbara at 436-7102 or Martha at 436-5079.

 

CROSS ROADS CAFÉ WILL FEATURE CHRISTIAN ROCK BAND SPIRITN3D on Saturday, June 5 at 7 p.m. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. There is no cover charge; however, a love offering is accepted as a gift to the band or musician as thanks to God for their sharing of their talent and gift for the glory of God. The Coffeehouse is held on the first Saturday of each month. For more information, visit www.emmanuelorhodox.org. or call 413-436-5582 The church is located at 25 Winthrop Terrace, Warren.

 

THE QUABOAG VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH WILL HOLD A TAG SALE on Saturday, June 5 (rain date is June 12) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 175 Fiskdale Road in Brookfield. There will be live music and free hot dogs. The proceeds will not benefit the church but instead help the New Life Home for Women and Children in Southern New Hampshire.

 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF WEST BROOKFIELD WILL HOLD A CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP SERVICE on Sunday, June 6 at 5 p.m. at the church, 36 N. Main St. Their praise band, “Blues For Jesus” will be featured and communion will be offered. All are welcome. Call the church for more information at 508-867-7078.

 

THE WARREN COUNCIL OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS WILL HOLD THEIR ANNUAL CLAM BAKE/STEAK DINNER on Sunday June 6 at 2 p.m. at St. Stanislaus Church Hall, 2270 Main St., West Warren. A cash bar will also be available. This year’s event includes live music by “The Green Tones”. Tickets for this event are limited and must be purchased in advanced. More information can also be found at the Warren Knights of Columbus website www.kof13790.org. Advanced tickets can be purchased by calling (413) 436-5249.

 

THE MERRIAM-GILBERT PUBLIC LIBRARY INVITES THE PUBLIC TO VISIT THE EXHIBIT ‘BROOKFIELD: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE’ from the Quaboag Historical Museum's collection. As part of the Quaboag Plantation 350th anniversary celebration, the exhibit will be open to the public through June 24 during library hours of operation. Please visit the Library's website at www.wbrookfieldlibrary.org or call 508-867-1410 for further information.

 

THE WARREN ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 8.

 

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE FRIENDS OF THE W. BROOKFIELD

COUNCIL ON AGING will take place on Tuesday, June 8 at 7 p.m. at the West

Brookfield Senior Center at 73 Central St. in West Brookfield. The Friends are the

fundraising group for the Senior Center. The public is encouraged to attend.

 

THE NEW BRAINTREE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WILL HOLD THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL, formally held by the Grange, on Saturday, June 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the New Braintree Town Hall. The building is handicapped accessible. There will be one sitting of 200. Reservations must be made by calling 508-867-7965 or 413-477-8772. Tickets will not be sold at the door. The tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-10 years old with toddlers admitted free. The menu will include homemade ham, beans, coleslaw and potato salad, served family style, followed by strawberry shortcake for dessert. The funds raised will be used to repair and paint the four columns at the front entry to the church to prepare the building for its 100^th anniversary in 2011.

 

THE WARREN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1960 WILL HOLD ITS 50^TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION on June 12, at the Scottish Meadows Country Club. Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Robert Peltier 508-867-8135 or Harold Odiorne 413-569-5846 before May 29.

 

MAD BROOK ACADEMY’S SUMMER PROGRAM FOR 5-9 YEAR OLDS will be held from June 14 to September 3. Call 508-867-9057 or email madbrookacademy@charter.net for information.

 

A MEETING WILL BE HELD TO REVIVE THE PODUNK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Do you live in Podunk? Have you heard about the Strawberry Festivals in June, the dances held monthly, the great Halloween parties or any other stories about the Podunk Chapel from years past? If you are interested in creating new memories for your children and grandchildren, please come for a meeting to revive the Podunk Community Association, commonly known as Podunk Chapel. We are looking for individuals who have a love for Podunk and who are civically minded. Our first meeting will be held Monday, June 14 at 7 p.m. at Amy Casey’s home, 842 Podunk Road, East Brookfield. We will be creating a committee at this time.  If you are interested, please call Amy at 508-867-8400 or email her at ahluukko@hotmail.com.

 

THE FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF W. BROOKFIELD WILL HOST A CHILI SUPPER FUNDRAISER on Tuesday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at 36 N. Main St. to benefit the people left homeless due to the earthquake that devastated central Chile in February. Global Ministries missionary, Elena Huegel from Talca, Chile will make a brief presentation after the supper about the progress that has been made in constructing homes. Chili, asparagus chowder, salad, bread, desserts and drinks will be served for a requested donation or $6 for adults and $3 for children. Reservations are not necessary. For more information call the church at 508-867-7078.

 

COUNTRY BANK WILL SPONSOR A LUNCHEON AT THE W. BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER at 73 Central St. on Tuesday, June 15 at noon. Please call the Senior Center at (508) 867-1407 by Monday, June 7 to reserve your seat.

 

THE WEST BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER WILL HOST A FATHER’S DAY POTLUCK BRUNCH on Thursday, June 17 at 9 a.m. Call the Center at (508) 867-1407 to sign up and tell us what dish you’ll bring. Take a Dad, brother, husband or friend to breakfast.

 

THE WEST BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER IS HOSTING A PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND FLEA MARKET on Saturday, June 19. The flea market spaces are $10 each and a few tables will be available at no extra cost. Please call the Senior Center if you are interested in participating. If you are spring cleaning but don’t need space, you may donate unwanted items for the Senior Center table.

 

EAST BROOKFIELD WILL BE HOSTING ITS THIRD BULK DAY OF THE YEAR AT THE RECYCLE CENTER on Stevens Road on Saturday, June 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bulk items include anything that is too big for the blue trash bags. There is a $50 fee per pick-up truck load. A $10 fee will be charged for each mattress, box spring and upholstered furniture that is brought in. For more information, call the Donna Wentzell at the Solid Waste Department at (508) 867-6769 Ext. 311 or email ebsw311@charterinternet.com.

 

THE WEST BROOKFIELD ANNUAL FLEA MARKET ON THE COMMON IS SEEKING VENDORS for the market to be held on June 19 from 9 am - 3 pm. Spaces (20 x 20) are available for $25. Call Hannah Hall at 508-867-4462 for an application and more information. All proceeds will benefit the annual youth mission trip to Washington, D.C. The 30 participants on the trip will work in soup kitchens and homeless shelters.

 

NORTH BROOKFIELD 4^TH ANNUAL 5K/10K ROAD RACE/WALK WILL BE HELD BEHIND THE NORTH BROOKFIELD HIGH SCHOOL on Saturday, June 19. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at North Brookfield Youth Center. This is a fundraiser to benefit the Youth Center. Cost to run/walk is $20. Registration forms are available at the North Brookfield Schools and the library or email mtoomey_nbyc@charter.net.

 

THE WEST BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER WILL HOLD A FLEA MARKET to be held on Saturday, June 19 at 9 a.m. Spaces are $10 each and some tables are available at no extra charge. Reserve your space now by calling the Senior Center

at (508) 867-1407. Pancake breakfast will be available at 8 a.m. Cost of breakfast is $5.

 

THE BROOKFIELD MOTHER’S GROUP WILL HOLD THEIR 2^ND ANNUAL FAMILY PICNIC WITH MISS CORO on Thursday, June 24 at 6 p.m. on the Brookfield common. Miss Coro’s concert begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring your picnic dinner and a blanket. This event is free and open to all. For more info please visit  www.brookfieldmothersgroup.org.

 

PSYCHIC/MEDIUM GARY MCKINSTRY WILL APPEAR AT YE OLDE TAVERN Enjoy an evening of fun with family and friends from the past and present featuring psychic/medium Gary McKinstry at Ye Olde Tavern, Route 9 Main Street, West Brookfield, on Thursday, June 24 at 6 p.m. Enjoy a delicious family dinner followed by an evening of “connections” with loved ones who have passed. All proceeds go to help with the restoration of the Ware Center Meeting House. Tickets are $40 per person. Please call Ye Olde Tavern to make reservations at (508) 867-9709. Please visit www.garymckinstry.com for more information on Gary’s events. Please call (413) 967-4995 for any other questions. Seats are limited.

 

BROOKFIELD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WILL HOST A CONCERT ON THE COMMON on June 26, from 3 - 5 p.m. At that time a booth will be available for early registration for the vacation Bible school and to answer any questions. “Balloon Platoon” will also be there (http://www.balloonplatoon.com) to entertain. Please come, enjoy the concert and while you’re sampling some of the wonderful snacks that will be provided, be sure and sign up to get your boarding pass on our high seas adventure. 

 

THE 11^TH ANNUAL ‘MOLLY’S RIDE’ FOR CHILD SAFETY will be held at Hobbs Brook Plaza in Sturbridge on Sunday, June 27 rain or shine. “Molly’s Ride” attracts hundreds of participants and spectators. Motorcycle registration begins at 8 a.m. Riders depart at noon and travel a scenic route through local communities lasting approximately one hour. Starting at 10 a.m., the third annual “Family Fun Day”, will kick off with four hours of fun-filled children’s activities. The Committee once again welcomes special guests Xclusive Freestyle Riderz performing a professional motorcycle stunt show for all those in attendance.

THE WEST BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER WILL HOLD A COUNTRY COOKOUT on June 28 at 4 p.m. at 73 Central St. The cost is $6, which includes entertainment. Please pay upon registration.

 

THE WEST WARREN LIBRARY WILL HOLD 2^ND ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK AT THE VILLAGE POINT PLAZA on Tuesday, June 29 from 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. There will be a Rosenbauer fire truck from Yankee Fire and Rescue and a possible ambulance this year. This program is free and open to the public. For more information contact a librarian at 436-9892.

 

‘MARK TWAIN’ WILL APPEAR AT THE WARREN SENIOR CENTER on Wednesday, June 30 at 7 p.m. for a production of “And Now. . .Mark Twain!” This one-person play is a delightful look at the life and work of Mark Twain. The production is full of the wit and wisdom that made Twain a legend. It is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call the West Warren Library at 436-9892. This program is made possible by a grant from the Warren Cultural Council.

If you have any questions feel free to call 413-436-8343 or 413-436-9892.

 

THE 14^th ANNUAL SENIOR CITIZENS STATE HOUSE HOLIDAY CARD CONTEST HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED The contest is open to all citizens age 62 and over and this year’s theme is “December Holiday at the State House”. This competition is open to both amateur and professional artists. Three winning entries will be selected this year to be sold at the State House Gift Cart with artist’s name printed on the card. All medium of art is acceptable (oil, watercolor, ink, pastels, etc.). The State House must be the focal point and dimensions can be no smaller than 5” x 7” and not larger that 18” x 24”. The deadline for entries is July 1. Entries are to be mailed or delivered to the attention of Dolores McCray, Commonwealth Museum at Columbia Point, 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125. If anyone is interested and has further questions please contact Representative Gobi’s Office at (617) 722-2210.

 

POPULAR 1960’s COVER BAND ‘CLASS REUNION’ WILL OPEN BROOKFIELD’S SUMMER CONCERTS ON THE COMMON SEASON on Friday, July 9 from 7-10 p.m. Music will include such classic artists as the Beatles, Beach Boys, Chuck Berry, Credence Clearwater Revival, the Rolling Stones and much more. The concert is free and open to kids and adults. Bring lawn chairs, food, bug repellant,

and your dancing shoes to Brookfield Town Common at the intersection of Routes 9 and 148. The performance will feature Spencer musicians Wayne Bailey on bass, Jack Mulhall and Gary Suter on guitar and vocals, Brookfield resident Tim Kane on drums, and a few special ‘Podunk’s Opus’ artists.

 

TANTASQUA CLASS OF 1980 TO HOLD 30-YEAR REUNION on Saturday, July 10 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel. All former teachers are invited to attend as well. The evening will begin at 5 p.m. with cocktails, a class photo will be taken at 6 p.m., and the buffet dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. There will be a D.J. playing the sounds of the 70’s and beyond. Cost to attend is $50 per person. Reservations can be made by sending a check to class President Vicki Finnegan at 181 Palmer Road, Monson, MA 01057. Please make checks payable to Tantasqua Class of 1980. There is also a block of rooms reserved at the hotel for those traveling or choosing to stay overnight.

 

THE FIRST EVER SILVER BAT CLASSIC- “Base Ball” as it was played 150 years ago in the Brookfields. This game of “Base Ball”, recreating the famous game of 1865 between the North Brookfield and Brookfield Base Ball clubs, will celebrate the historic connection between baseball and the Brookfields on Saturday, July 10. The game will be played following the rules of the original “Massachusetts Game” on the historic North Brookfield Common (76th anniversary of Connie Mack Day). To help with this event or for more information please contact Brandon Avery: avery468@aol.com

 

350^TH QUABOAG PLANTATION ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A GARDEN TOUR on Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11, 2010, gardens in all six Quaboag Plantation towns will welcome you to tour their flower, shrub, and vegetable gardens. Do you know of or have a garden in Brookfield, East Brookfield, New Braintree, North Brookfield, Warren or West Brookfield that would be a good candidate for the tour? If you would like to be included on the tour, please contact either Don Roberts at 508-867-6498 (onsouthpond@charter.net) or Deb Morrison at 508-867-3324. Proceeds from the tour will be contributed to the Anniversary Celebration.

 

THE HEART TO HEART FOUNDATION WILL HOLD ITS ANNUAL FUN DAY on July 24 with a rain date of July 25. This year’s event will include entertainment and fun for the entire family on the Common in North Brookfield. We are also holding a raffle to be drawn at 6 p.m. on the day of the event. Tickets are $10 each. Prizes are: 1^st Place $500 in lottery tickets, 2^nd Place $300 in lottery tickets, 3^rd Place $200 in lottery tickets. Only 400 tickets will be sold. Purchases may be made at North Brookfield Savings Bank, Bob’s Deli, and the package store on Main St. More information on the show will be released in the near future.

 

THE NBEMA GOLF TOURNAMENT WILL BE HELD AT QUAIL HOLLOW COUNTRY CLUB on Saturday, July 24. The cost per person to play in the tournament is $75 which as always, provides a very good meal of BBQ chicken and all the fixings, 18 holes of golf, and a cart. Hole sponsorships are $100 a hole. Help the NBEMA to be prepared to serve North Brookfield in all capacities upon which they are called and have fun too.

 

BROOKFIELD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WILL HOLD A VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Come set sail with us this summer on a high seas adventure. Feel the sea spray on your face and the sails snap overhead. Our crew will be casting off each day at the Brookfield Congregational Church from July 26 - July 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. 

Our hope is to provide another fun vacation Bible school adventure with music, recreation, crafts, snacks and of course, the study of God’s word.  Come and join in on the fun with old friends and make new friends as well. Registration is free. Simply come and experience the deep rolling waters of God’s love.

 

EAST BROOKFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER OF SERVICE PROGRAM It will run from August 9 – 13. S.O.S. (Summer of Service) is a community outreach program of area churches based at the East Brookfield Baptist Church in East Brookfield. Adults and teens from area churches will fan out across our communities and perform various types of home improvement from painting to yard work. The program is designed to assist local residents in completing projects around their homes that they do not have the time or money to complete. Applications can be obtained by emailing S.O.S at summerofservice@charter.net or calling Marion Farmosa at 508-867-7235 or 508-667-3871. All applications must be returned in the self-addressed envelope included with the application by May 1. Applications will be reviewed and all applicants will be contacted by us.

 

THE HARDWICK FAIR WILL BE HELD ON THE WEEKEND OF AUG. 20 AND 21 on the town common in Hardwick. The Fair is a place where old-timers and newcomers gather to renew old friendships and acquaintances; many traveling great distances. It is a traditional Colonial-style country fair with an agricultural theme. The common has a variety of activities; many free and others inexpensive, bringing together a blend of old and new. It's a family event where children can enjoy themselves and so can their parents, without emptying their pockets. Check out the kids-only section, like the frog jumping competition. Other buildings around the common display art, photography, and crafts created by local folks. The Old Town Hall has displays of baked goods, flowers and vegetables, all competing for the illusive blue ribbon. The Fair culminates in an auction of all perishable exhibits, where even "Aunt Mable's Blue Ribbon-winning blueberry cake" goes to the highest bidder.

 

THE NEW BRAINTREE TOWN FAIR COMMITTEE NEEDS MORE MEMBERS TO HELP PLAN AGRICULTURAL FAIR for Sept. 11. Anyone living in New Braintree wishing to help out can contact Cindy Cheever at 508-867-6065 or cheever121@netzero.com.

 

THE QUABOAG PLANTATION 350^TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE will be held on Sunday, September 19, 2010 in West Brookfield. The Brookfield division will lead the parade.  The parade committee (for all six towns) has given us a deadline of April 15 for parade entries.  Please let us know at brookfieldquaboag2010@gmail.com  if you plan to make a float, march as a group, drive a vehicle or otherwise participate in the parade.  We'd like to have as many participants as possible.

 

THE QUABOAG 350^TH COMMITTEE IS PLANNING THE LAWN MOWER/TRACTOR PARADE to be held on Saturday, October 2. This fun filled event will consist of a parade around the common, tractor races, tractor pulling, decorating themes and several events for children. This all day event will be bigger than ever and the committee is looking for people from the surrounding 350th Quaboag Plantation towns, who are also celebrating this historic event, to join in the planning and assisting in this event. If interested, please call 508-867-6209 or email psearah@juno.com for more information.  

 

THE QUABOAG HIGHLANDERS PIPES AND DRUMS OF MONSON ARE LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS beginners or experienced, in preparation for its 2010-2011 parade season. Rehearsals are every Tuesday night at the Daley Hall building in the Monson Developmental Center, located on State Avenue at the Palmer/Monson line. No fee necessary. The only expense is the cost of a chanter or drum sticks. All lessons are free. If you are interested in learning to play bagpipes or drums, please contact us at www.quaboaghighlanders.org or call us at (413)205-8335.

 

EAST BROOKFIELD PRESCHOOL OPENINGS ARE STILL AVAILABLE for the full day preschool program at East Brookfield Elementary School. The cost of the program is $32 per day, with a before and after school program available. For more information, please call Mark Andrews at 508-885-8574.

 

THE FRIENDS OF MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY ARE COLLECTING ITEMS FOR THE MAY SILENT AUCTION All types of items, new and gently used for all ages, are accepted. Please drop off at the library or call Diane and the Friends will pick up items, 508-867- 7228 or call the library 508-867-6339. This is a fun event with competitive bidding. This fundraising event supports the library’s summer reading program which includes kid’s yoga, wingmasters, ice cream parties and more.

 

QUABOAG HISTORICAL SOCIETY HAS RE-OPENED It is located on Front St. in West Brookfield. It is now open on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 

THE MERRIAM-GILBERT LIBRARY WILL HOST A TODDLER PLAY GROUP for infants and toddlers up to 3 years old, in West Brookfield. The group meets every Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. in the children's room and includes free play for the kids and social time for the parents. During the second half, the children's librarian will lead the group with songs, finger plays and a story. Just drop in, no registration necessary. For more information, call the library at (508) 867-1410.

 

THE MERRIAM-GILBERT LIBRARY HOLDS STORY HOURS for children 3 to 6 years old in West Brookfield. The Group meets every Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m. and will explore different themes through stories, songs and an engaging craft. Weekly attendance is strongly encouraged, so the children get to know each other and become familiar with the program's routine. (Children have to be 3 years old by Sept.1, 2009). Call the library at (508) 867-1410 to register.

 

THE FRIENDS OF THE MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY SILENT AUCTION ARE ACCEPTING ALL TYPES OF ITEMS, new and looks new, and for all ages. Drop off at the library. Diane with the Friends will pick up items (508-867-7228), or call the library 508-867-6339. This is a fun event with competitive bidding on items
ranging from hand-knit sweaters, toys and fine wine glass sets. This
fundraising event supports the library’s summer reading program, which
includes Kid’s Yoga, Wingmasters, Ice Cream Party and more.

 

THE CHRIST MEMORIAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH HOLDS A CRAFTING GROUP on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 6 – 8 p.m. Located on the corner of Main and Spring St. in North Brookfield. A group of amateur crafters are getting together for fun and to learn from each other. Anyone interested in joining the bi-monthly craft sessions is invited. We will meet in the undercroft of the church. Bring your current project with you or something you would like to learn. There is plenty of seating and large tables to work at. If you would like more information, please call Connie at 508-867-6535, Lois at 508-867-8339 or Van at 508-347-9326.

 

West Brookfield Walks! every Tuesday. Meet us at the Merriam-Gilbert Library at 8:15 a.m. or the walking school us can pick you up on the way. We will be traveling from the library down North Main Street to the elementary school. Principal Colleen Mucha will be leading and we will be having surprise special guests. Parents can wait with their children on the route and the Walking School. Bus will pick them up and drop them off at school. Any questions, call West Brookfield Elementary School at 508-867-4655.

 

the Warren knitting group invites people of all ages and abilities to join them. The group will meet on Tuesdays at the Warren Public Library from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your needles, yarn and any projects you are working on to share ideas, tips and tricks with fellow knitters. The Warren Public Library is located at 934 Main St., in downtown Warren. For more information, call (413) 436-7690.

 

Are you a 6^th -12^th grade girl? Do you like to be outdoors? Would you like to make the world a better place? Girl Scout Troop 11122 might be for you! They meet at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield. If you are interested you can contact the troop leader Meg Kimball at (413) 297-5102.

 

QUABBIN COMMUNITY BAND REHEARSALS are held Mondays, 7-9 p.m. in the Quabbin Regional High School band room, 800 South St., Barre. Current and new members welcome. Concerts are held every Sunday evening at the Harding Allen Bandstand, in Barre center, beginning June 21 and running until Aug. 16. Call 978-355-9879.

 

THE NORTH BROOKFIELD FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH FOOD PANTRY is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

ST. JOSEPH’S FOOD PANTRY in North Brookfield is open the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and the third Thursday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m.

 

Story Hours for children 3-8 years old are being held at Warren Public Library, Main St. Warren, on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Story Hours teach valuable social skills to children while they listen to stories, sing songs and make crafts. Children may register during library open hours Tuesday and Friday, 1:30 to 7 p.m., Wednesday 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday morning 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The library is seeking a musically talented co-leader who would enjoy using the new children’s musical instruments recently purchased in memory of William N. Wright.  For more information, call the library at 436-7690.

 

BEDTIME SNACKS: A FAMILY STORY NIGHT the third Tuesday of each month from 7-7:30 p.m. in the Children’s Room at the Merriam-Gilbert Public Library. Each month a different beloved children's classic will be introduced. The library will supply the milk and cookies - participants are welcome to bring a favorite blanket and pillow to make themselves cozy. Additional copies of the book will be available for check-out, to finish reading the story together at home. A great family activity, reading together encourages literacy and exposes children to the deep enjoyment a book can provide.

 

The Quaboag Historical Society Museum, Front Street, in West Brookfield will be open each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Special visitations will continue to be available by appointment by calling 508-867-5428. Admission is free.

 

American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Ware from 1-7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month at the Ware Senior Center on 1 Robbins Road (behind Cumberland Farms). To ensure less time waiting, call The Red Cross at 800-GIVE LIFE for your appointment to donate. You must be at least 17 years old, 110 pounds and in good general health. Please bring ID. The need for blood is constant.

 

North Brookfield Cub Scouts are looking for experienced uniforms. These are uniforms in good condition that a former Cub Scout is not using any more. They can be turned in to Bob LaFlamme at Crowley Fuel office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays.

 

There’s something new at story hour this year at Warren Public Library on Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. Brenna Cockerham is presenting music for kids, and Jamie Valois is doing her stories and crafts. Pre-school children may now be registered at the library Tuesday or Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Inquiries may be made to 436-7690.

 

THE WARREN GARDEN CLUB meets 2^nd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. New members welcome. Call Elizabeth at 436-7268 or e-mail elizabethjameskelley@verizon.net.

 

THE MEALS ON WHEELS PROGRAM is in desperate need of volunteers to deliver meals to seniors in North Brookfield on Wednesdays. If you can spare 2-3 hours each Wednesday, you could make a difference to a person in need. Drivers are reimbursed for mileage and rewarded with the satisfaction that comes from helping others. Please consider volunteering for this vital program. Call Tri-Valley Elder Services Nutrition Site in West Brookfield at 508-867-1411.

 

SOUTHBRIDGE INTERFAITH HOSPITALITY NETWORK, Grace House, Sayles Street in Southbridge needs the following donated items: microwaves (2), sofa, blankets, pots and pans, dishes and cups, small end tables, size 6 (girls) summer clothes. Two of the families from Grace House have been able to move out and are in need of a few items. If you have any of the items listed above that you would be willing to donate, contact Lynne, (St. Anne – St. Patrick SIHN Coordinator), by emailing dukefan1@cox.net or by calling 413-209-6526.

 

THE HASTON LIBRARY BOOK GROUP meets for lively discussions of a wide range of fiction and nonfiction on the third Tuesday of every month, from 7-9 p.m. at the Haston Free Public Library on Main Street in North Brookfield. New members are always welcome. To sign up for the Haston Book Group and order a selection, call the Library at 508-867-0208.

 

NORTH BROOKFIELD CRAFTING GROUP meets the 2^nd and 4^th Tuesday of the month from 6-8 p.m. at the Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in North Brookfield. Bring your current project with you or something you would like to learn. Call Connie at 508-867-6535, Lois at 508-867-8339 or Van at 508-347-9326

NORTH BROOKFIELD SENIOR CENTER YOGA CLASS, 5:15 p.m., Wednesdays at the North Brookfield Senior Center. Cost is $20 for a six-week session, with a minimum class size of 10. To reserve a space, call the senior center at (508) 867-0220.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY Preschool story hour, 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Merrick Public Library, Brookfield, for children ages 2.9 to 5.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH MRS. C-D 11:30 a.m. Fridays at the Merrick Public Library, Brookfield.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY Drop-in arts and crafts, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Fridays at the Merrick Public Library, Brookfield. Special attention is available for school projects, with materials accessible and available at the library.

 

12-STEP OVERCOMERS PROGRAM 7 p.m. Tuesdays at the Emmanuel Orthodox Church, 25 Winthrop St., Warren. This is a biblically-based program.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY ADULT YOGA, 7 p.m. Mondays at the Merrick Public Library, Brookfield. Pre-registration required.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY Pre-school Story and music at Brookfield’s Merrick Public Library with Ms. Renee Coro on Fridays 11:30 a.m. to noon.

 

MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY Computer Club for Adults at Brookfield’s Merrick Public Library Wednesdays 2-4 p.m. Supplies & assistance available for school projects. Home Deliveries, Fridays 3:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

 

WARREN PUBLIC LIBRARY Pajama Story Time is being held Wednesdays, at 7 p.m. at Warren Public Library. Children are encouraged to attend in their pajamas and bring a blanket and pillow or their favorite stuffed animal. Parents and caregivers are asked to register at the library or call 436-7690 to sign up.