Journal Register Calendar

Calendar Policy

OUR CALENDAR SECTION is intended to promote “free” events or ones that directly affect a volunteer-driven organization that benefits the community. Paid events that are not deemed fundraisers or benefits do not qualify. Non-charitable events that charge the public for profit are not allowed as we consider that paid advertising. The deadline to submit calendar items in the mail, by fax, or e-mailed in Word document format is Monday at noon or sooner. We usually print at least one week in advance of an event, and the listings should be brief, with only time, date, location, brief activity explanation and contact info. To view the entire calendar online, log on to www.palmerjr.com and click the blue “calendar” button.

Now

FARMER’S MARKET will be held in the Hitchcock Academy parking lot in Brimfield every Saturday through Nov. 20 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Stop by for plants, flowers, cacti, fresh produce as the season allows and other homemade items. Vendors are welcome. For more information call 413-245-9977.

MONSON WOODCARVING CLUB has established its meeting schedule. The club will meet at Monson High School, 55 Margaret St., Monson at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month, September through June. Dues for the year are $20. Anyone interested in woodcarving is encouraged to attend. For more information, call Bob Anderson at 247-5071 or Wes Harnois at 267-3322.

WARE COMMUNITY BAND rehearsals are held at the Ware High School music room on Wednesdays from 7-8:30 p.m. Members of any local community are welcome to join regardless of ability level. Performances include a Christmas concert and end-of-season concert and several other performances, as requested. Players are needed in all sections of the band. For more information contact John at 413-967-6707.

HORSESHOES at the Monson Senior Center, 106 Main St., on Fridays in August from 9-11 a.m. For more information call the senior center at 267-4121.

TAI CHI CLASS sponsored by LifeCare of Wilbraham will be offered at the Palmer Senior Center on the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 10:30-11:15 a.m. This free session is aimed to improve your balance and overall well-being.

LINE DANCING CLASS will be offered at the Palmer Senior Center, conducted by J.P. Ellery every Thursday at 1 p.m. The cost will be $3 per class and is payable to the instructor.

TENTS FOR RENT are offered by the Palmer Lions Club. Tents are 20 feet x 40 feet and cost $175 which includes put-up and take-down. For details and reservations call Karen at 413-221-7243.

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CARE services will be offered at the Wales Senior Center for residents of all local communities on the first Wednesday of every other month. Clinic visits run about 30 minutes and include general assessment, trimming and sanding of nails, corn and callous removal, treatment of ingrown nails, relaxing foot rub and treatment referrals. The cost is $26. Assessments for diabetes (if stable and controlled by diet) are also available for $1 per minute. Home visits for the home bound begin at $40. For more information call the senior center at 413-245-9683.

A TAG SALE at St. Paul’s Unitarian Universalist Church at the corner of Park and Central streets in Palmer will be held every Saturday through September from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Extended hours during Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles show weeks - open every day. Donations of furniture, lamps, books, compact discs, videos and odds and ends will be accepted. No clothing, toys, computers, televisions, mattresses or encyclopedias. For more information call 283-8185.

QUABOAG HIGHLANDERS Pipes & Drums of Monson is looking for new members in preparation for its 2010-2011 season. Rehearsals are held every Tuesday night at the Daley Hall building in the Monson Developmental Center located on State Street at the Palmer/Monson line. Beginner or experienced. No fee is necessary, and 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, contact the group at www.quaboaghighlanders.org or call 413-205-8335.

CHURCH CABOOSE THRIFT SHOP will be open on Fridays and Saturdays at the Second Congregational Church, 1080 Pleasant St., Palmer from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bargains are available on household items, coats, sweaters, shoes, children’s items and more. Seniors’ Day is the last Friday of the month with 50 percent off prices. Call 283-6957 for more information.

IN TUNE at the Palmer Public Library. Do you have a band, or want to make a video, record a song or film a presentation? Call 283-3330 ext. 106 to sign up for a slot on Tuesday afternoons to use the library’s digital video camera as well as the digital four-track for sound recording. This program is aimed at students in grades 7-12.

SENIOR LUNCHEON. The Monson Council on Aging invites seniors over age 60 to its luncheon program every Monday – Friday at the Monson Senior Center, 106 Main St., Monson. Meals are cooked in our own kitchen and not shipped in from Springfield. Home cooked meals are always served at noon. Come for good food and good company. The requested donation of $2.25 includes the entrée, bread, dessert and beverage. Menus are available in the COA newsletter. Luncheon reservations must be made by 2:30 p.m. the day before you would like to come to lunch. For more info or van reservations, call 267-4121.

GAME NIGHT will be held at Top Floor Learning at the Palmer Public Library the second Monday of each month: Sept. 13, Oct. 11 (library closed), Nov. 8, Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 14, April 11, May 9, June 13 and July 11 from 6-7:45 p.m. There is no fee and attendants must be 16 years of age or older unless accompanied by an adult. Games include Scrabble, Cribbage, Monopoly, Rummy, Chess, Checkers, Yahtzee, Bridge, Uno, Skipboo, Crazy 8’s, Hearts, etc. Attendees may bring their own. For more information call 283-2329.

MAKE A DONATION to the Monson Free Library in honor of a special person or family member, in the form of a book, DVD or CD, audio book or magazine subscription. Each item bought will have a personalized bookplate and the person will receive a letter informing them of your gift. The cost of donations is $25 for a book, $20 for a CD or DVD, $100 for an audio book and $20 for a magazine subscription. All donations are tax deductible. For more information call 267-3866.

ANGEL FOOD MINISTRIES is a nonprofit, non-denominational organization for food relief and the First Church of Monson is a distribution site. The cost of the food is less than supermarkets and is open to everyone needing help with their monthly food budget. For more information go to www.Angelfoodministries.com or call the First Church of Monson at 267-3312.

Saturday, Sept. 4

MONSON TOWN-WIDE TAG SALE will be held on Saturday, Sept. 4. The maps are sold at the gazebo in Monson only on Sept. 4, and the event is held rain or shine. There will be tag sales, car ride trivia, prizes and more. Proceeds will benefit the Monson Tourism Association’s efforts to beautify the town. For more information call Denise Morgan at 267-4609 or pick up an application at Adams IGA.

MONSON PTSA will be holding a tag sale in the Quarry Hill Community School parking lot on Saturday, Sept. 4, starting at 8 a.m. The cost is $20 for two parking spaces. Bring your own tables, chairs and tent/umbrella. At the end of the day, you are responsible for removing everything you brought. The event will be rain or shine and will have two stars on the town-wide tag sale map. For more information call Jude Porth at 267-4150 ext. 1400.

Sunday, Sept. 5

CELLAR HOLES AND STONE WALLS: The abandoned farm experience will be presented by Dietrich Schlobohm on Sunday, Sept. 5 at the Keep Homestead Museum, 35 Ely Road, Monson at 1 p.m. There is no admission charge and the museum will also be open from 1-3:30 p.m. For more information call 267-4137.

Starts Sept. 7

AEROBICS CLASSES at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield will begin Tuesday, Sept. 7 and continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:15-7:15 pants up. The class is low-impact aerobics for all levels, one foot on the floor at all times. The first half hour is aerobics and the second half is toning. Bring a mat and wear comfortable clothing Instructor Anna Thomas will lead 10 classes on the session. The fee is $50 for residents o Brimfield, Holland, Sturbridge and Wales; all others add $5. For more information call 413-245-9977.

Wednesday, Sept. 8

FREE COMMUNITY DINNER on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at St. Thomas Parish Center on Thorndike Street in Palmer at 5 p.m. The community meals are open to everyone. Donations are appreciated.

BUDDIES DOG TRAINING classes at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield. This seven-class course provides positive training methods, good management practices and problem-solving strategies for owners of dogs six months and older. The first class is mandatory and dogs to not attend. The sessions will be held on Wednesdays, starting Sept. 8 through Oct. 20 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the fee is $120 per dog for residents of Brimfield, Holland, Sturbridge and Wales; all others add $5. The instructor is Laurie Merritt, certified pet dog trainer. For more information call 413-245-9977 or visit www.hitchcockacademy.org.

WICKED WEDNESDAY BOOK CLUB. The first meeting of the Wicked Wednesday Mystery Book Club will be held Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Palmer Public Library. The book club typically meets the first Wednesday of the month. Due to a scheduling conflict, the September meeting has been pushed back one week. The September title is “Among Thieves” by Davis Hosp.

TAI CHI/CHI KUNG try-it-out fundraiser will start on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield from 6 to 7 p.m. The class will include any Chi Kung-based movements and stretches. There is a suggested donation of $10 per person, which benefits Hitchcock Academy. No registration is necessary. For more information call 413-245-9977 or visit www.hitchcockacademy.org.

Thursday, Sept. 9

ELBOW PLANTATION HISTORICAL SOCIETY will meet on Thursday, Sept. 9 in the Palmer Public Library community room from 6-8 p.m. The society will welcome author Larry Lowenthal, who will discuss his new book “Hell on the East River” about British prison ships that held Americans in deplorable conditions in Wallabout Bay in New York during the Revolution. The program is free and open to the public.

Upcoming

ANNUAL JUMBO TAG SALE will be put on by the Lions Club of Palmer on Friday, Sept. 10 from noon-7 p.m. and on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. in the parking lot of the Second Congregational Church, located at 1080 Pleasant St. All proceeds go to help support charitable needs in the community.

MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUTTON SOCIETY’S fall meeting will be hosted by the Monson Button Club on Saturday, Sept. 11 at the Amvets Post 74 on Main Street in Three Rivers from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The public is invited and can purchase button-related items from 9 a.m.-noon and 1:30-3:30 p.m.; from noon-1:30 p.m. will e lunch, a business meeting and a program called “Wood Buttons.” Morning visitors will be treated to coffee and donuts; bring your own bag lunch and dessert will be provided. There is not admission fee.

BARGAIN CLOTHING SALE on Saturday, Sept. 11 at Monson-Glendale United Methodist Church at the corner of Main and Cushman streets in Monson from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For $1 per bag, buy clothing for the entire family including men’s, women’s and children’s items. Clothing donations will be accepted.

NEW ENGLAND BOILED DINNER at the First Congregational Church, UCC of Brimfield (the white church on the hill) on Saturday, Sept. 11 at 5:30 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults and $5 for children. Dinner includes pot roast, boiled potatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions, roll, butter and dessert of assorted cookies, bars or cake. For more information contact the church at 413-245-7162.

PUZZLE PIECE PALOOZA, an Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism Fundraiser will be held Saturday, Sept. 11 at Crossroads Sports Bar pavilion at 5 p.m., following the Autism benefit co-ed softball tournament. The cost is $15 at the door, or $10 pre-sale and for tournament players. Event features full bar, food, door prizes, music, Chinese raffle, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, games, and more. To purchase tickets or to donate to the raffle, visit Crossroads or e-mail Samantha.walas@gmail.com. To enter the co-ed softball tournament call Robin Gamache at 413-530-1070.

ST. MARY’S ANNUAL TAG AND CRAFT SALE will be held Saturday, Sept. 11 from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., rain or shine, at the church located at 4080 Main St., Thorndike, opposite Old Mill Pond School. An outdoor 12-foot x 12-foot area can be rented for a donation of $25, and large tables are available for $10. The tag sale is huge and well advertised. Call 413-967-6100 to reserve your space.

OUTDOOR DRUM CIRCLE will be held at 157 Summer St., Thorndike on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 7:30-9 p.m. If you own percussion instruments, bring them. If not, the group has plenty to share. The event is free of charge and open to all ages and will be cancelled in the event of rain. For information and/or directions call Denise Fontaine-Pincince at 283-5017.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION PIONEER VALLEY Memory Walk 2010 on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Holyoke Community College, Route 202 in Holyoke. Registration and health awareness fair at 8:30 a.m., Memory Walk at 10 a.m. and lunch provided by Olive Garden at 11:30 a.m. Form a team or walk as an individual. Money raised by the Memory Walk helps provide care and support for individuals and families touched by Alzheimer’s. For further information contact the Alzheimer’s Association at 413-787-1113 or online at www.memorywalkmanh.org.

30TH ANNUAL POW WOW will be held by the Nipmuck Indian Council of Chaubunagungamaug on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12 at Lake Siog Park in Holland. The event is open to the public and will feature traditional and contemporary foods, authentic drumming and dancing and Indian crafts and souvenir items. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for elders and children 6-12. Children under 6 are free. The grounds will be open from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. each day. For more information call 508-347-8929 or e-mail acw1213@verizon.net.

A BREAKFAST BUFFET will be served by Amvets Post 74 Ladies Auxiliary on Sunday, Sept. 12 at Amvets Post 74 Hall on Main Street in Three Rivers from 8-11 a.m. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for veterans, and children under 5 eat free.

FOURTH ANNUAL CHICKEN BBQ hosted by the Monson Democratic Town Committee will be held at the Polish American Citizen’s Club, 7 Bliss St., Monson on Sunday, Sept. 12 from 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person and proceeds will benefit the committee’s scholarship fund. For tickets, contact Jane Jacobs at 267-5081, Gerry DePace at 267-9073, Marie Kology at 267-3119, Jeff Lord at 267-5673 or Norma Germain at 267-9774.

CLUB 55, a group for people ages 55 and older, will hold its opening luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 16 at St. Thomas Parish Center, 1076 Thorndike St., Palmer. Annual dues are $3 per person. Lunches are $3 per person and are served at noon on Thursdays. Call Doris Magiera at 283-6152 no later than Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 10 a.m. to reserve a lunch.

CHICKEN BAR-B-QUE will be held Saturday, Sept. 18 at Monson-Glendale United Methodist Church at the corner of Main and Cushman streets in Monson from 5-7 p.m. On the menu are a ½ barbecued chicken, baked potato, corn on the cob, rolls, homemade dessert, and coffee, tea or lemonade. The event costs $12 for adults and $6t for children.

SINGER/SONGWRITER CHUCK E. COSTA will perform in the Fall 2010 Carriage House Concert Series sponsored by Tree Falls Productions on Saturday, Sept. 18 at Lord Manor at 33 Green St., Monson at 7 p.m. A potluck supper will be held at 6 p.m. Costa, an acoustic musician, has garnered awards at Kerrville, Solarfest, Rock Moutnain Folks Fest and Telluride. The suggested donation is $15 per person. For tickets e-mail Darcie Farber at darcie.farber@gmail.com or call 267-0241.

MARY’S CLOSET will be open on Saturday, Sept. 18 at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 4080 Main St., Thorndike from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This shop sells donated clothing in good condition for $1 per bag, which are provided. Clothing is available for the whole family. Enjoy free coffee and donuts. For more information call Donna at 283-6407.

OPERATION FRIENDSHIP will hold an informational meeting on Sunday, Sept. 19 in the parish hall of the Church of Divine Mercy in Three Rivers at 6 p.m. A new hosting/travel program is starting up and Operation Friendship is actively seeking new members. Youth members are 14-20 years old. Bring a parent with you. For more information call Candy at 283-7371 or Peg at 323-9191.

A HEALTH FAIR will be held by the Monson Board of Health on Saturday, Sept. 25 in the Town Office Building gymnasium from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Screenings, demonstrations and valuable information will be provided. There will be refreshments and door prizes and the fair is open to people of all ages. For more information call the board of health at 267-4107.

18TH ANNUAL CAR SHOW presented by Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School will take place on Sunday, Sept. 26 (rain date Oct. 3) at the school at 240 Sykes St., Palmer, with registration opening at 9 a.m. Trophy categories for the top 40 cars will include best paint, best custom paint/graphics, best small block, best big block, best “work in progress,” best un-restored, students choice, judge’s choice and “best of show.” The awards presentation will be around 2 p.m. There will be dash plaques for the first 150 vehicles, and a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, music and food will be available. For more information call 413-584-8101.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION is offering an overview of the disease at a workshop on Monday, Sept. 27 at the Palmer Senior Center, 1029 Central St., Palmer from 12:30-3 p.m. The workshop titled “Getting Started: What to do When a Family Member has Memory Loss” is free and open to the public, and will cover diagnosis, addressing behavior and communication problems and how to find local resources. Registration is required: Call 800-272-3900.

YOGA WITH JOAN Roebuck will begin on Tuesday nights on Oct. 5, 12, 19 and 26, and Nov. 9 and 16 at the Monson Town Office Building gymnasium, 110 Main St. from 7-8:15 p.m. Roebuck is a certified yoga instructor who has been teaching for 10 years, and consist of gentle stretching, beginning yoga postures, proper breathing exercises, deep relaxation and meditation. Bring an exercise mat and wear loose, comfortable clothing. For more information or to enroll, call the Monson Parks and Recreation Department Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-noon, at 267-4105.

Ongoing

CHILDREN’S MARTIAL ARTS program at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield. Children 4 and up can participate in lessons every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:40-5:30 p.m. For information about classes and registration, call Mark Pearlman at 413-566-0056, e-mail shihanpearlman@charter.net or visit www.shobukan.net.

KEEP HOMESTEAD MUSEUM is open the first Sunday of each month through Dec. 5, from 1-3:30 p.m., 35 Ely Road, Monson. Extensive button collection, special exhibits, house museum, nature trails and special programs. No admission charge. (The museum is air conditioned in warm weather.) For more information call 267-4137, e-mail khm@keephomesteadmuseum.org or look at the Web site at www.keephomesteadmuseum.org.

PRESCHOOL STORY HOUR at the Monson Free Library every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. for stories, crafts and songs. The event is open to children ages 2-5. For more information, call the library at 267-3866.

1st FRIDAY DANCES. The first Friday of each month, the Nomads of Hope will host a 7th & 8th Grade Dance at the First Church of Monson from 7-10 p.m. Cost is $7. For more info, contact Linda Shorette at 413-262-1463 or shorettelw@gmail.com.

5TH & 6TH GRADE FUN NIGHT. The second Friday of each month the Nomads of Hope will have a Fun Night for 5th & 6th graders at the First Church of Monson from 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $7. For more info, contact Linda Shorette at 413-262-1463 or shorettelw@gmail.com..

THE PALMER CIRCLE DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, a sorority of area Catholic women dedicated to the church through service to others, holds monthly meetings at the Parish Center of St. Thomas the Apostle Church at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month (except January and July). New members are always welcome. Contact Regent LuAnn Staniszewski at 413-204-8168 if interested.

CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR. The Friends of the Monson Free Library will present children’s story hours on Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the DeSantis Room of the library. Stories, crafts, and songs are for children ages 2 to 5. For more information or to sign up, call 267-3866.

PALMER CHESS CLUB meets every Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Creative Concepts Barber Shop, 1110 Park St., Palmer. The club is free and offers casual play, tournament play, a chess book library, and more. For information, call Dan Kibbe at 283-7089.

GREENE ROOM PRODUCTIONS is seeking people who would like to support the arts by being a part of its fundraising committee/booster club. The club is looking to fundraise, find sponsors, donors, and underwriters for upcoming productions, workshops, and educational opportunities. All interested individuals are invited to the next board meeting. If you are interested in being a part of Greene Room Productions or for more information, contact Erin Greene at (413) 668-7284 as soon as possible.

COMMUNITY BREAKFAST. All are welcome to a free community breakfast offered on the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 8 – 9:45 a.m. at the Second Congregational Church on Pleasant Street in Palmer.

WING MEMORIAL HOSPITAL NURSE Margarita Canuel will be at the Palmer Senior Center every Wednesday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. to perform blood pressure, glucose, and medicine checks.

FREE HEALTH SERVICES are available at the Monson Council on Aging from 9 –11:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Services include a free blood pressure and glucose check. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 267-4121. Walk-ins are welcome.

THE PARENTS ADVISORY COUNCIL for special education for the Palmer schools meets the second Wednesday of each month until June, at the Palmer Public Library at 6 p.m. The meeting is open to the public to discuss issues around children in special education.

HAYLOFT STEPPERS SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE CLUB will offer square dance classes on Sunday nights at the Hayloft Steppers Barn, 232 Podunk Road. Beginner levels from 6-7 p.m.; plus level from 7-8 p.m.; advance level 8-9 p.m. The cost for classes is $6. For more information, visit www.hayloftsteppers.org or call the barn at 508-347-9130.

QUABBIN BUSINESS GROUP BNI meets every Thursday from 7-8:30 a.m. at St. Francis Church on the common in Belchertown. BNI is an international networking organization. A coalition of local businesses with one person from each profession is represented. Members support and do more business by giving each other referrals. Visitors are welcome. For more info, call Linda Gouvin, chapter president, at 413-277-2018. For info about BNI, visit www.bni.com.

The Monson Fencing League, sponsored by the Monson Parks and Recreation Department, meets at the Monson Town Office Building gymnasium on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 4 p.m. Time is subject to change. There is no experience necessary and new members are welcome. There is no fee associated with this program. The only expense is the cost for your equipment. Time is subject to change. Call Reed at 267-9995 before attending and for more information.

PARENT-TEEN BOOK CLUB meets at the Palmer Public Library on the last Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. For more info, call the library at 283-3330, ext. 106.

YOUNG ADULT event at the Palmer Public Library. Every Tuesday from 2-4 p.m., come over and play Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero in the community room. For kids in grades 5-12. For more info, call the library at 283-3330.

ROOM RENTALS at Hitchcock Academy in Brimfield. Are you planning a birthday party, reunion, anniversary, or holiday party? Eliminate your concerns over cleaning your home, having enough space, and the whims of New England weather and rent a room at Hitchcock Academy, one of the most historic buildings in Brimfield. You can enjoy your party or function in a smoke- and alcohol-free environment. Kitchen facilities are available. The fee is $40 per hour. For more info, call 245-9977.

WICKED WEDNESDAYS-MYSTERY BOOK CLUB at the Palmer Public Library from 6:30-7:30 p.m. This is an informal adult book discussion group meeting on the first Wednesday of the month now through June. Mystery fans, won't you join us? For more details and to pre-register for the first meeting, call 283-3330, ext. 100.

FAMILY GAMBLING-ANON GROUP on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Haynes Chapel (behind the sanctuary) at Sturbridge Federated Church at Maple Street and Route 131 in Sturbridge. For those interested in gaining more support to promote your gambling recovery. To join this new group, call Doug at 508-887-1696 or Dee at 508-347-2122 or just come to the meeting.

OLD POST ROAD ORCHESTRA OF WILBRAHAM is looking for new members (especially strings, percussion, bassoon, and oboe) in preparation for the 2007-2008 season. Rehearsals run every Wednesday through the end of June at the Stony Hill Elementary School in Wilbraham. There are no auditions. To see if there are openings for your instrument, visit www.opro.org, or call 413-596-9075 or 413-783-6311.

THE WALES SENIOR CENTER is again serving lunches three days a week. Join us on Tuesday and Thursday at noon for delicious lunches made in our kitchen. Suggested donation is $2. Join us on Wednesdays at noon for healthy, nutritious meals provided by Greater Springfield Senior Services. Suggested donation is just $1.75. Reservations may be made 24 hours in advance by calling the Senior Center at 245-9683.

CABOOSE THRIFT SHOP at Second Congregational Church on Pleasant Street in Palmer is open on Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shop is now accepting donations (no toys, please).

ARTIST WANTED. Local artists are invited to exhibit their works at the Monson Senior Center, 106 Main St. Each month, the Council on Aging features a different local artist. Various mediums are artistic styles are encouraged. The center is able to show up to 9 pictures in each exhibit. Artists are welcome to put their card and the cost of the picture on the artwork. The Monson Senior Center is open to the public and all exhibits are advertised. Interested artists should contact Lori Stacy, Director, Monson Council on Aging, 106 Main St., Monson, MA 01057, or call 267-4121.

LIBRARY AT YOUR DOOR. Not able to get to the library? Then the library can come to you. The Monson Free Library offers “The Library at Your Door,” a free delivery service to Monson residents unable to get to the library. Any book, books on tape or CD, and magazines can be delivered right to your door on the second Wednesday of the month. The service is open to anyone who cannot get to the library due to long or short-term health concerns, physical issues, or pregnancy. For more information, call the Monson Library at 267-3866.

ST. THOMAS COMMUNITY MEALS will be held on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the St. Thomas Parish Center on Thorndike Street in Palmer. These community meals are open to all people in the greater Palmer community. Any donations are much appreciated. This program is offered each month from September to May.

Top Floor Learning at the Palmer Public Library still has openings for English as a Second Language conversation and citizenship classes. Also, individualized instruction is offered. For more info, call 283-2329.

DO YOU LIKE TO SING? The Brimfield Senior Center has started a choral group. The group gets together to sing for the fun of it. If this sounds like fun, contact the center at 245-7253 for more info.

BRIMFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY will host story hour for preschool children age 2.9 through 6 years old every Monday from 10:15 to 11 a.m. during the school year. Join Gena Matte Babeneau, Tantasqua Union 61 preschool outreach teacher, as we take a weekly adventure through books, games, music, math, science and arts and crafts, as the children learn about themselves and the world around them. For more information, call Gina at 245-3793. This program is also offered every Tuesday at Brimfield’s Hitchcock Academy from 9:20 to 10:05 a.m. These programs are free and sponsored by the Tantasqua Union 61 Community Partnership for children grant through the Massachusetts Dept. of Education and early learning.

SWIFT RIVER SPORTSMAN’S CLUB will host trap shooting on Sundays, weather permitting. The public is invited. Shooting will commence at 9 a.m. Eye and ear protection strongly recommended. For more information, call Ed Roberge at 413-323-5736, or Charlie Bliss at 413-323-5022.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS STEP MEETING on Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. at Wing Memorial Hospital in Palmer. For more information, e-mail vadteach@hotmail.com.

STONE HOUSE MUSEUM at 20 Maple St. (Route 202) in Belchertown is open May through October, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children. Group tours other times by appointment. For info, call 323-6573.

THE WILBRAHAM CHILDREN'S MUSEUM invites you and your child to come visit and have some fun. Our museum is currently accepting registrations for the winter playgroup session. The museum and playgroups are open to children in all surrounding communities. For more information about playgroups, visit www.wilbrahamchildrensmuseum.org or call 413-596-2472.

VILLAGE TOASTMASTERS. Want to improve your public speaking, presentation, communication and leadership skills? Toastmasters International is a membership club. You are invited to come as our guest to observe and ask questions with no obligations. Meeting time is Thursday evenings from 6:45 to 8 p.m. at the Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room, Charlton Road (Route 20) in Sturbridge; and 1st Thursday of the month at Griffin Books & Beans, 440 Main St., Sturbridge. For more information, contact Dennis A. McCurdy at 508-347-9343, or e-mail mccurdyi@charter.net, or visit www.Toastmasters.org.

TAI CHI CLASSES at the Brimfield Senior Center, which is located in the Congregational Church. Classes meet on Tuesday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. All are welcome, fee is based on a donation. For more info, call 267-4286.

MOVIES ON FRIDAYS at the Brimfield Senior Center on the big screen. Call the center for more info at 245-7253 or 245-2889.

FIRST FRIDAY DANCES. First Church of Monson, 5 High St., will be offering dances on the first Friday of every month from 7 to 10 p.m. It’s for all seventh and eighth graders, and cost to attend is $5. The dances will last until June of 2006.

LIBRARY LOFT Used Book Store at Schoolhouse Commons, 1085 Park St. (Route 20) in Palmer. Regular winter hours are: Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Special December hours: Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9, and 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Book donations will be accepted at the Palmer Public Library or at the Library Loft during open hours. Please, no magazines or Reader’s Digest Condensed Books. We accept books only in good, clean condition. For more information, call 283-3330, ext. 100, or visit www.palmer.lib.ma.us.

THE MONSON COUNCIL ON AGING invites all area seniors to its luncheon program, every Monday through Friday, at the Monson Senior Center, 106 Main Street, Monson. Home cooked meals are served at noon. Come for good food and good company. The requested donation of $2.25 includes the entrée, dessert, bread, milk and coffee or tea. Menus are available in the Council on Aging Newsletter. If you are a Monson senior, call the Senior Center and arrangements can be made for the van to bring you to the Center. Call by 9 a.m. to make reservations for the van or lunch.

THE MONSON COUNCIL ON AGING Meals on Wheels drivers deliver delicious home cooked meals to Monson Seniors (age 60+) in their homes every Monday through Friday. Seniors who could benefit from receiving a home delivered meal are those just returning from a stay in the hospital, rehab unit or nursing home, those who live by themselves and find it difficult to get out, and frail seniors who are alone much of the day while family members are at work. The Meals on Wheels program provides seniors with a daily hot nutritious meal, and a friendly visitor during the middle of the day. Meals can be ordered every day, or only as needed. Call the Monson Senior Center at 267-4121, for more info and to enroll. The requested donation is $2.25 per meal. The Monson COA Nutrition Program is funded, in part, by a grant from Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc.

ROOM RENTALS AT HITCHCOCK ACADEMY IN BRIMFIELD. Are you planning a birthday party, reunion, anniversary or graduation celebration? Rooms are available at Hitchcock Academy, one of the most historic buildings in Brimfield. Kitchen facilities are available. The fee is $25 per hour. For more info, call 245-9977.

LUNCH AT THE BRIMFIELD SENIOR CENTER served every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. Suggested donation $1.75. Call 245-7253 or 245-2889 to make your reservation 24 hours in advance.

The Monson Historic Commission is looking for groups or persons who wish to display items to the public in the Grace Makepeace Trust for Historic Preservation Cabinet. The items should depict a group’s mission or interest. The display will be available for three-month intervals at the Monson Town Hall at 110 Main St. For more info, contact Reed Coles at 267-0550.

QUABBIN VALLEY TWIRLERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB sponsors dance workshops on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. at the American Legion Hall on Route 202 in Belchertown. If you would like to refresh your dancing skills, or learn how to square dance, join us. For more info, call Gloria or Fran at 413-467-3352.

STRENGTH AND FITNESS classes held at the Brimfield Senior Center, located in the Congregational Church. Classes meet Monday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome. The fee is $1 for seniors, $2 for others. For more info, call 267-4286.

THE MONSON ARTS COUNCIL is seeking new members. One does not have to be a resident of the town of Monson to become a member. The Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the arts to Monson and it depends upon membership dues for support and the ability to provide various programs. All members are welcome to attend the council’s monthly meetings, held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall. The council welcomes new program ideas and participation in all activities. For more info, call 267-4286.

GED MATH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Top Floor Learning, Inc. at the Palmer Public Library is accepting applications for helping adults pass the GED Math test. Adults who have a high school diploma and good math skills in algebra, geometry, and word problems are eligible to apply. Call 283-2329 for info.

THE CORNERSTONE CAFE invites you to join us for a lunch you won’t soon forget. Whether you are in the mood for a light bite or a full meal, your taste buds will be satisfied. Chef Franco Dell’Olio and his culinary arts students are dedicated to serving reasonably priced fresh food, which is carefully prepared and artistically presented. The cafe is located at Tantasqua Regional High School in Sturbridge, and is currently open on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Our warm and friendly atmosphere will make your visit enjoyable. We look forward to serving you. For info call (508) 347-9301, ext. 5108.

CERAMICS CLASSES: Classes are offered Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. Instructor Elizabeth Lisowski offers a variety of ceramic pieces to paint and fire, including seasonal items, gift giving items and lawn ornaments. Fee of $2.50 per class includes firing and paints. Classes held at the Monson Senior Center, 106 Main St. All ages invited.

A SUPPORT GROUP FOR COMPULSIVE GAMBLERS, Gam-Anon of Longmeadow, invites all family and friends of people with gambling addictions to its weekly meetings. The Gam-Anon group meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the First Church of Christ, 763 Longmeadow Street (corner of routes 5 & 192) in Longmeadow. For more info, visit www.gam-anon.org, or call (800) 266-1908.

STRENGTH TRAINING: Classes every Monday and Thursday at 9 a.m., Monson Town Administration Building, 110 Main St. Beneficial to individuals with osteoporosis. The exercises increase bone density, muscle strength, flexibility, balance and agility. Instructor Patricia Nothe. Co-sponsored by the Scantic Valley YMCA and the Monson COA. $2 per class for those 60 or older, $3 for all others.

STORY HOURS AT THE MONSON FREE LIBRARY. Story and Craft Hour for 3-5 year olds at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays. For more info, call the library at 267-3866.

THE BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER OF ELKS OF THE U.S.A. is announcing a plan to assist families who have had a father or mother called to active duty with the military reserve or National Guard. An Army of Hopes, comprised of carpenters, electricians, mechanics, plumbers, attorneys, doctors, accountants, teachers and professional people and tradesmen of every type, has been mobilized by the Order of Elks. These volunteers will be at the ready to help families of those patriots called to serve our nation. In 2,100 Elks Lodges across America, 1,100,000 members are poised to make minor repairs and provide professional services to keep homes functioning until loved ones return. For 135 years, the Elks have been aiding their communities and making America a better place to live. They continue this mission of service one patriot’s home at a time. To be part of the Elks Army of Hope and to locate a nearby Elks Lodge, contact Elks Headquarters toll-free at (866) ELKS-VETS [(866) 355-8387].

WING MEMORIAL HOSPITAL OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS: Cancer support group meets the third Monday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; and stop smoking group meets the third Thursday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. (FEE). Wing also sponsors the following: Multiple Myeloma Support Group – the third Sunday of every month at 1:30 p.m. For info, contact Sue Raymond at 967-9901. Hepatitis C Support Group – the second Wednesday of every month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more info, call 284-5251. The Parkinson's Support Group meets the second Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more info on these groups and others, contact the education department at Wing at 284-5251.

ATTENTION FUTURE SCOUTS: Join scouting any time of the year. Boys in grades one through 12 are eligible to join scouting. Adults are needed and welcomed to join also. We are also in need of any scout uniforms, hats, scarves and books that can be handed down to new scouts that are joining or donate uniforms, please contact Mary Ellen of Pack 161 at 283-2213.

CHEMOTHERAPY IS A CRUCIAL ELEMENT to survival for many cancer patients. But chemotherapy kills both cancerous cells and other normal cells that grow at a fast rate. Red blood cells and platelets are among the list of fast-growing cells affected by chemotherapy. Without the help of very dedicated platelet donors, many cancer patients would not be able to continue their treatments. Platelet transfusions help patients avoid the risk of excessive bleeding associated with low platelet counts. Platelets are needed by children and adults with cancer, leukemia, and victims of traumatic injuries and those undergoing a transplant. The donation (plateletpheresis) process takes approximately 90 minutes and whatever platelets are collected will be replaced by your own body within 24 to 48 hours. Donated platelets only have a shelf life of five days so new donors are always needed! Since now you know how important platelets are, please consider becoming a platelet donor! Please call the American Red Cross at 1 (800) 462-2229, ext. 945 or (413) 785-0945 for more info. The American Red Cross Donor Center is located at 3500 Main St., Springfield.

THE PALMER SENIOR CENTER will be showing movies at 12:30 p.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month. Come down to the center and check the Activity Corner for the movies of the month.

MONSON CUB SCOUTS PACK 776 will be registering boys from grades one through four any time during the year. Please contact Cubmaster Charlie O’Keefe at 267-9937 or Donald Dill at 267-0055. Join us now and have fun with your friends in scouting.

AREA SENIORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO JOIN the Holland Council on Aging for lunch on Mondays. A $1.75 donation is requested by Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc., and Margaret Crock, coordinator of the senior center, will take your reservation for lunch or sign you up for planned activities. Please call her at the senior center Mondays and Wednesdays at (413) 245-3163, or at home at (413) 245-0950 the week before.

CALLING ALL K-4 to 6th graders: Please join us each Friday at 6:30 p.m. for C-Club (Christian Character Club) at the Faith Baptist Church of Palmer, Shearer Street, Palmer. For details, call 283-7560.

MONSON SENIOR CENTER, located at 106 Main St., serves a continental breakfast daily from 7 to 9 a.m. Coffee is 50 cents a cup. All seniors welcome.

K OF C PALMER Council #376’s regular meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at the Council Hall, corner of Ware Road and River Street.

ENJOY SQUARE DANCING at the Second Congregational Church, 1080 Pleasant St., Palmer, on Sunday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. The fee is $3 per person. Everyone is welcome. For more info, call Joyce at 283-6077 or Fran at 467-3352.

THE BOARD OF REALTORS is running an ongoing clothing drive for homeless shelters. If you have any children or adult clothing in new or “gently used” condition, please drop off your donations at Sullivan & Wallace Real Estate, Route 20, Brimfield, or please call 245-3003.