CURRENT EVENTS

Monday, July 5

THE WARREN SENIOR CENTER WILL BE CLOSED

THE MERRIAM-GILBERT LIBRARY WILL HOST THE EXHIBIT- ‘EAST AND NORTH BROOKFIELD: A HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE’ from the Quaboag Historical Museum collection, July 5 through Sept 30. The show will be open to the public during Library hours, and is the third part in a series of exhibitions celebrating the Quaboag Plantation 350th Anniversary. Please call 508-867-1410 or consult the Library's website www.wbrookfieldlibrary.org for further details.

Tuesday, July 6

16 YEAR-OLD FIDDLER, HUNTER FOOTE WILL PERFORM AT HASTON PUBLIC LIBRARY at 3 p.m. He will play and explain a variety of musical styles and play “name that tune” with the children. This program is being made possible through a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the North Brookfield Cultural Council.

MERRIAM-GILBERT LIBRARY ANNOUNCES SUMMER READING PROGRAM, ‘GO GREEN AT YOUR LIBRARY begins. Summer Reading Program registration will run from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. and will be followed by Ed Popielarczyk and his “Magical Moments” magic show at 6:30 p.m. in the upstairs Meeting Room. Audience participation is strongly encouraged. Every child who volunteers as a helper will receive a magic wand! This is a free program for families with children registered in the Library’s Summer Reading Program. “Magical Moments” is sponsored by Country Bank for Savings. Also, the Children’s Room will host “Welcome to the Jungle”, an afternoon of crafting birds, blooms, and butterflies from recycled magazine pages. We meet Thursday, July 8, from 2:30-3:30 p.m in the Library Meeting Room. Grades 1-6. For more information, contact Maggie Christakis, Children’s Librarian, at 508-867-1410 or mchristakis@cwmars.org.

Wednesday, July 7

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS WILL HOLD COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVES IN WARREN AND WARE on July 7 and 8 and donors are needed. All blood donors at each of those drives will receive a free t-shirt, plus a voucher for a free carton of Friendly’s Ice Cream. The drive will be held Wednesday, July 7 at the Ware Senior Center (1 Robbins Road) between 1 - 6 p.m., and Thursday, July 8 at the West Warren Senior Center (2252 Main St.) between 2 - 7 p.m.

‘BUTTERFLY FEEDER’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY at 1 p.m. Ages 6 – 9 years. Limit 12 children. To sign up call 413-477-6704.

Thursday, July 8

THE RED CROSS BLOODMOBILE WILL BE AT THE WARREN SENIOR CENTER from 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.

‘HULA HOOPS’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY at 2 p.m. ages 9 years and up. Limit 12 children. To sign up for class call 413-477-6704.

Friday, July 9

POPULAR 1960’s COVER BAND ‘CLASS REUNION’ WILL OPEN BROOKFIELD’S SUMMER CONCERTS ON THE COMMON SEASON 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. The return of “the Doctor’s Variety half-hour” at 6:30 p.m. Where’s the Doctor? Cupcake baking contest at 7 p.m.
In the event of rain, the concert will be cancelled.

UPCOMING/ONGOING

QUIRK WIRE NUTS TO HOLD FIRST EVER CAR SHOW FUNDRAISER on July 10 on West Brookfield common. Registration is from 9 - 11 a.m. Judging will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Top 25 judges choice, 50/50 raffle. Registration fee is $15 per car. All proceeds to benefit American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. For more information, visit www.quirkwirenuts.com or call Mark Long 508-867-3155.

THOMAS HUBKA TO PRESENT ‘THE NEW ENGLAND CONNECTED FARM’ at the Great Hall in the West Brookfield Town Hall on Tuesday, July 13 at 7 p.m. Mr. Hubka authored “Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn” a standard work of New England farm architectural history. Co-sponsored by the East Quabbin Land Trust, Old Sturbridge Village and the West Brookfield Historical Commission. Suggested donation of $3/individual or $5/family.

GARDENS ARE STILL NEEDED FOR THE 350^TH ANNIVERSARY GARDEN TOUR Three gardens are needed in East Brookfield and one garden in Warren or West Warren for the 350^th anniversary garden tour on July 10 and 11. If one has a garden that they would like to share with fellow gardeners and join in this historic event, please call Deb Morrison at 508-867-3324 by June 21.

WARREN SELECTMEN ARE SEEKING MEMBERS FOR SEVERAL TOWN COMMITTEES Those who are interested in becoming a member of the following committees should submit a letter of interest to the Board of Selectmen, P.O. Box 609, Warren, MA 01083: Conservation Commission, Cultural Council, and Mobile Home Rent Control Board.

THE BROOKFIELD HISTORICAL COMMISSION NEEDS VOLUNTEERS who are interested in indexing, filing, geneology research- including Revolutionary and Civil War records and re-typing of short documents and essays into electronic medium for our files. We also need help in cleaning brush and leaves from the area around the "Town Pound" and other historic markers and sites. Members are needed, but you don't have to be a member to help out for a few hours. Those interested may leave a message at 508-867-4465 or the Town Hall 508-867-2930.

THE MERRIAM-GILBERT PUBLIC LIBRARY TODDLER PLAY GROUP (infants to 3 year olds) will continue through the summer. We meet every Monday, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. After half an hour of free play, the Librarian will lead the group with songs, stories, and finger plays. Drop in program, NO registration necessary.

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.

BROOKFIELD’S SUMMER CONCERTS ON THE COMMON SEASON SCHEDULE 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 return of “the Doctor’s Variety half-hour” at 6:30 p.m. Where’s the Doctor?
Headline bands and baking contests at 7 p.m.
July 16 – “Borelli Big Band” / Fruit Pies
July 23 – “Heritage String Band” / Gingersnaps - w/350th
July 30 – “Dave Pike” / Squares
In the event of rain, the concert will be cancelled.

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 EAST BROOKFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH ANNOUNCES VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL The East Brookfield Baptist Church invites all children and youths from three years of age to those who have completed eighth grade to Hero Headquarters, this year's vacation Bible school program. Children will have a great time singing, watching skits, creating crafts and playing games. Hero Headquarters is where kids connect with God and learn more about the love of Jesus Christ. To obtain information or to register, call the office at 508-867-7725. Bring a friend. The dates are July 19 – 23, from 8:45 a.m. to noon at the E. Brookfield Baptist Church, 262 E. Main St., E. Brookfield.

ST. ANNE SHRINE OF STURBRIDGE TO CELEBRATE 123^RD NOVENA St. Anne Shrine of Fiskdale/Sturbridge invites pilgrims of all faiths, generations and cultures to celebrate our 123rd Novena to St. Anne from July 18 to 26. This year’s theme is “To Whom Shall We Go?“ A diverse group of speakers and musicians will help us during these nine days of prayer to reflect on this question and find way to peace in our life. For more information visit our website: www.stannestpat.org or call 508-347-7338.

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.

EAST QUABBIN LAND TRUST TO PRESENT ‘EDIBLE PLANT WALK’ in North Brookfield on Thursday, July 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. lead by Russ Cohen, author of “Wild Plants I Have Known...and Eaten”, rain or shine. The program is free but pre-registration is required and space is limited. Contact Cynthia at chenshaw@eqlt.org or 413-477-8229.

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.

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF WEST BROOKFIELD TO HOLD VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Join an exciting High Seas Expedition as the First Congregational Church of W. Brookfield, 36 N. Main St., hosts their vacation Bible school from July 19 - 23 from 9 a.m. - noon. Snacks from the galley, shipwreck games, crafts, songs, swashbuckling Bible stories and a fabulous floating finale will combine to create a great week of fun for all. If you have a child from age 5-12 please call to register for this fun-filled week of Vacation Bible School. There is no fee. 508-867-7078

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 Churc h from July 26- July 30from 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.

‘JAR LANTERNS’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY on Wednesday, July 28 at 1 p.m. Ages 7 – 12 years. Limit 15 children. To sign up call 413-477-6704.

‘COMIC WEAVING’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY on Thursday, July 29 at 2 p.m. Ages 10 years and up. Limit 10 children.To sign up call 413-477-6704.

‘PIERCED SUN CATCHER’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY on Tuesday, Aug. 3 at 4 p.m. Ages 8 years and up. Limit 15 children. To sign up, call 413-477-6704.

‘RECYCLED PIGGY BANK’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY on Wednesday, Aug. 4 at 1 p.m. Ages 8 – 12 years. Limit 10 children. To sign up call 413-477-6704.

NBPTA WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING in the meeting room at the Haston Library to vote on transitioning from a PTA to a PTO on Wednesday, Aug. 4 at 6:30 p.m. (changed from July 21)

AN NRA PISTOL SAFETY AND MARKSMANSHIP COURSE WILL BE HELD at the Quaboag Sportsmen’s Club, 451 Dunham Road, off Route 19 in Warren on Friday, Aug. 6 from 7 – 10 p.m. and on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Attendance is limited to 12 persons, and pre-registration is required with a non-refundable deposit of $40. Successful completion of the course and the examination will enable an adult to apply for a Massachusetts License to Carry Firearms. Students should bring a lunch on Saturday; soft drinks may be purchased at the range. Be sure to bring rain gear in case of inclement weather; shooting exercises are held outdoors. Do not bring a firearm or ammunition to the classes, and please note that no alcohol or drugs are allowed on club property at any time. The $80 tuition covers all training materials, ammunition, and the use of a firearm, safety glasses and hearing protection. To register, send name, address, telephone number, e-mail address and check payable George Hood to G. M. Hood, Post Office Box 234, Brimfield MA 01010-0234. If additional information is needed, please contact the instructor at gmhood@charter.net.

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.

‘LOOPY BOWL’ CLASS TO BE HELD AT PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY on Wednesday, Aug. 11 at 1 p.m. Ages 8 years and up. Limit 10 children. To sign up call 413-477-6704.

HANNAFORD’S SUPERMARKET TO HOLD HOT DOG COOKOUT in the Hannaford’s parking lot on Saturday, Aug. 14 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sponsored by Hannaford’s Supermarket to benefit the North Brookfield Chapter of Hearts for Heat. More information to come.

Spencer area 1960’s-era classic rock cover band “Class Reunion” will perform a free concert at the Oakham Town Common Bandstand Thursday, Aug. 17 from 7-9 p.m. as part of the town’s summer concert series sponsored by Country Bank for Savings. 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 favorite dancing shoes (optional). The Oakham Town Common is located across from the public library at 4 Maple St.

PAIGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY WILL HOLD THEIR ANNUAL BINGO/SUNDAE PARTY on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 2 p.m. All ages welcome. Prizes, prizes and more prizes. Ice cream party provided by Eagle Hill School. To sign up call 413-477-6704.

THE BROOKFIELD CULTURAL COUNCIL WILL HOST A TAG SALE/CHILI CONTEST on the Brookfield Common on Saturday, Aug. 21, from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. (Rain date: Saturday, Aug. 28). To reserve a space, send a check for $20 payable to the Brookfield Cultural Council c/o Madelyn Swanson, P.O. Box 24, Brookfield, MA 01506, by Thursday, Aug. 19. Please include your name, address, phone number, and e-mail address. To enter the chili contest, bring a crock pot of chili to the gazebo by 11 a.m. Call Jennifer Cipro at 508-867-2825 with any questions.

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 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.

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.

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.