Watershed Wednesdays
All are welcome to Watershed Wednesdays, a series of talks held at the Wachusett Reservoir Headquarters. Division staff will share their knowledge about water conservation to bring communities in the watershed together for engaging conversations. Programs will take place one Wednesday each month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Programs are free.
Meet at DCR Water Supply Protection Headquarters, John Augustus Hall, 180 Beaman St., West Boylston. Entrance is at the flagpoles. For more information, email Kathryn.Parent@mass.gov or call 617-352-4044. The full schedule can be found online at https://www.mass.gov/doc/wachusett-watershed-wednesday-events-2024/download.
Fishistory, June 5. The history of fishing at Wachusett Reservoir. DCR Watershed Rangers will present the history of fishing from the 1890s to today. They will draw from historical state records and showcase the species of fish found in the reservoir from surveys. Presentation followed by a Q&A.
Invasive plants, July 17. Learn about identifying invasive plants and methods of control. Tour around the headquarters campus for identification practice with a DCR Natural Resource Analyst.
Stormwater basin tour, Aug. 21. Tour structures and look into the purpose, history, operation, maintenance, and future potential to protect the water supply with civil engineers. Meet at headquarters at 180 Beaman St., West Boylston, for an overview, and caravan to retention basins near the Old Stone Church at 130 Boylston St.
Classical guitar performance
HOLDEN — The Gale Free Library, 23 Highland St., will host An Evening of Classical Guitar with Scott Ouellette from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 6, in the Reading Room. Ouellette will perform music from the Baroque period, Spanish and Brazilian music, as well as Latin-American and original guitar music. He is a professional classical guitarist and composer from Rowley, Massachusetts, and has been performing professionally for more than 30 years. For more information, or to register, call 508-210-5569.
Conant Library
STERLING — Conant Public Library, 4 Meetinghouse Hill Road, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 pm. For programs that require registration, visit sterlinglibrary.org or call 978-422-6409.
Summer Reading program needs prize donations. The library seeks donations of new items for youth ages 0-18 to be awarded as prizes in the Children’s Summer Reading Program raffles. These prizes make the interactive Summer Reading Program even more fun, and children really get excited about them. Popular prizes in the past have included Squishmallows, candy, gift cards, toys, and craft kits. Consider making a donation to help this program succeed. Donations may be dropped off at the library. For more information, call 978-422-6409.
Youth Summer Reading. The program is an interactive and fun way to encourage children to continue reading during the summer. Youth ages birth to 18 years are invited to join in the fun. Pre-readers can participate by being read to by a caregiver. Children report their reading hours and earn tickets to win fun prizes. You must come to the library to collect tickets and enter raffle drawings. The first day to register will be Monday, June 10. The last day to enter the raffle drawings is Thursday, Aug. 8 by 8 p.m. All participants who log hours during the program will receive a new book, made possible by the Friends of the Conant Public Library. Registration required. Visit the library to register.
100 Books of Summer. Can you read 100 books? The library challenges children and families to join us in the challenge. Beginning Monday, June 10, stop by the Children’s Room to pick up a record sheet where you can keep track of your reading and a list of 100 of our favorite picture books. Read all 100 on the list, or mix and match with some of your own favorites (listening to books also counts). Each week, the craft table will offer projects featuring one of our books to keep you inspired. Turn in your completed list by Aug. 8 to earn a prize and a special recognition. Sponsored by the Friends of the Conant Public Library.
Youth Summer Bingo. Guide your reading over the summer (and win some extra raffle tickets) with our youth summer BINGO. Pick up a “card” at the library and start thinking about how you can fill in those squares. Players can earn one ticket for any one “bingo” line completed, and another two for a “blackout”: completing every space on the board. For youth ages 0-18.
Book Bingo for Adults: A January to June Program. Book Bingo is a self-directed reading challenge for adults from Jan. 2 to June 1 with opportunities for prizes. Receive a raffle ticket for each Bingo you complete for chances to win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. No registration necessary; pick up your Bingo sheet at the circulation desk or view it at sterlinglibrary.org beginning Jan. 2 and find out all the details. Book Bingo is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Drop-In Knitting. Knitters (and all other fiber artists) are invited to a weekly drop-in program every Tuesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Work on your current project while enjoying conversation, advice and camaraderie with other knitters. Open to people of all abilities, no registration required. For more information, call 978-422-6409.
Seed Library. The library has a collection of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds that you can choose from to plant and grow at home. The collection includes veggies, herbs and flowers. Come into the library and browse the seed card catalog. Then, come to the circulation desk to check out seeds. No need to return anything! If you happen to have extra seeds, share with a neighbor or a friend. The library does ask that you only take what you can use. For more information, call 978-422-6409. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Conant Public Library.
Introduction to Birds and Birdwatching, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, at the Sterling Senior Center. Presented by Kathy Kennedy of Mass Audubon Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. Come find out what makes birds unique within the animal kingdom, where and how to locate birds in different settings, and basic bird biology and behavior. Questions are welcome and encouraged. Registration required. This program is sponsored by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Picture Book Club Storybook Celebration, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 5. Children are encouraged to bring a favorite picture book to share at this last meeting of the year. We will enjoy some great books, act some out with some picture book theater, and sample a menu of books to get ready for summer reading fun. Registration required. Open to children in grades k-2.
Fit Lit Book Club, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 5. Enjoy a fun book discussion while getting some exercise. The club will meet at the Cider Mill entrance of the Sterling Rail Trail on June 5 (weather permitting). Participants should read A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham prior to the walk. Books are available at the library for checkout. No registration required.
Teen volunteers, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 5. Teens seeking service opportunities can help with program preparation and keeping library materials in order. Registration required. Teens may also sign up to help with these programs: Paint Time, Teddy Bear Picnic, The Bubble Man. Open to young people in grades 6-12.
Houseplant Swap, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. Have a houseplant you no longer need and wish to trade? Do you want to share cuttings from some of your plants? Drop by our plant swap to meet fellow plant enthusiasts and find the perfect new plant for your home. Registration required.
Adult Coloring: Summer Window Clings, 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 12. Make your windows sparkle. Color your own window clings at the library while chatting with others. No registration required.
Masterpiece Monday: Scratch Art, Monday, June 17. Join us anytime between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. to give in to your artistic itch by creating beautiful scratch art. For all ages, no registration required.
Family Trivia Night, 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 17. Calling all trivia lovers! Gather your closest friends and family to create a super team and show off your collective knowledge. Registration required.
Scrabble and Snacks, 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 18. Love to play Scrabble, but have trouble finding opponents to play with? Adults are invited to show off their wordsmithing skills at the library. Snacks provided. No registration required.
Adult Cookie Swap, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18. Cookie swaps aren’t just for the holidays! Adults are invited to a midyear cookie swap. Bake seven dozen of your favorite cookies; leave 14 loose for sampling, and make 14 packages of five cookies each to swap. Registration required; let us know what kind of cookie you are making.
Teddy Bear Picnic, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 20, on the library lawn. Come sing, craft, and hear stories beside your teddy (or other special friend). Stuffies will get to dance, parade, and even bounce in a parachute. If weather permits, bring a blanket and snack and we will gather on the lawn. In case of inclement weather, this program will be held on the first floor of the 1835 Town Hall. For ages 2-7 with caregivers; siblings welcome. Registration required.
Planning For Medicare: Countdown to 65, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20. Brian Guagnini from Blue Cross/Blue Shield Outreach will present on how to plan for retirement and Medicare. The agenda will include discussion of original Medicare, Medicare supplement, Medicare Advantage, comparison charts, case studies, prescription drug coverage, things to consider, additional resources, and any questions you might have in planning. Registration required.
Masterpiece Monday: Paint by Sticker, Monday, June 24. Swing by between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. to sticker your way to an artistic masterpiece while supplies last. All ages, no registration required.
June Cookbook Club, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 26. Sample recipes from The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinner’s Ready by Ree Drummond. Choose a recipe, prepare it at home, then bring it to the library to share. Cookbooks are available at the library for checkout; let us know which recipe you have chosen so we can avoid duplicates. Registration required.
Sterling Library Presents: The Bubble Man, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 27, at First Church in Sterling. The library hosts Mike the Bubble Man, who will share his one-of-a-kind extravaganza featuring the magical world of bubbles. There will be magic, music, and bubbles. Be amazed at this show that combines magic, comedy, and science and is fun for all ages. After the show, come on over to sign up for the Summer Reading program, and check out our selection of books, toys, instruments, and other items to make your summer bubble over with fun. No registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Conant Public Library.
Richards Memorial Library
PAXTON — The Richards Memorial Library is at 44 Richards Ave.
Tuesdays 3:30-4:30 p.m., LEGO Challenge. Ages 5 and older (due to small pieces). Join the building fun. Try a new challenge each week, or free build. Drop-in, no registration required.
Wednesdays 10:30-11:15 a.m., Outdoor Story & Play Time. Join in for healthy outdoor play and learning in the library yard. Sing songs, go on scavenger hunts, tell stories, do snow art and experiment, and have fun. May move inside during inclement weather; check website for updates.
Thursdays 3:30-4:30 p.m., Chess Time. All ages and skill levels welcome. Play, learn, and teach chess together. Other board games available.
Graphic Novel Book Club (ages 8-12): Receive a book and activity or treat each month. Optional in-person meeting the last Wednesday of each month, 4-4:40 p.m., for discussion and fun activities. Register at rmlpaxton.org/tweens. May’s book: The Happy Shop by Brittany Long Olsen.
Ready, Set, Grow: Seed of the Month Club. May: Black Hollyhock. One packet per person, available when you check out an item; no holds or reserving; while supplies last. Sponsored by the Friends of Richards Memorial Library.
Drop-in crafts for youth: Create Your Own Stickers, plus Spring coloring sheets. Sponsored by the Friends of Richards Memorial Library.
Friends of Richards Memorial Library Meeting, 2-3 p.m. Thursday, May 30. Anyone interested in joining us is encouraged to come to the library.
Looking Ahead: Summer Reading. Summer Reading Program for adults – Gift card prizes and a bonus prize: a Kindle PaperWhite.
The Read, Renew, Repeat Summer Reading Program launches in June for children, tweens and teens. Get ready for great books, exciting programs, and fun prizes for reaching your reading goals.
Paxton Senior Center
PAXTON — The Paxton Senior Center is located at 17 West St. COA office is 508-756-2833.
Mindful Movement Class Fridays at 11 a.m. Increase strength and balance. Donation $3.
Mindful Movement class, 11 a.m. Fridays. Enjoy an exercise class to increase strength and balance. Donation $3.
Piano lessons. Come learn to play the piano starting 9:30 a.m. Fridays. Cost is $5. Schedule your lesson at 508-756-2833.
Pitch. Come play pitch on Tuesday and Thursday every week at 12:30 p.m.
Walking group, every Monday at 8:45 a.m. starting June 3.
Hearts and Hands knitting group, 10:30 a.m. every Monday.
June 5 monthly Coffee Café. Every first Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. All welcome.
Author Andrew Noone presents a program at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 6, on his most recent book, Bathsheba Spooner: A Revolutionary Murder Conspiracy (events occurring in Worcester and Brookfield).
Pen Pal meeting, 10 a.m. June 7.
Veterans Group, 10:30 a.m. June 12
Decoupage flower pot class with Michele at 10 a.m. June 13, cost for supplies $5.
Ice cream social, 12:30 p.m. June 20. Sponsored by Mass Advantage, music by Denis.
Card making with Carol, 10 a.m. June 27, cost is $5.
Sterling Senior Center
STERLING — The Sterling Senior Center is located at 36 Muddy Pond Road. The center is open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. If you are a Sterling resident and need a ride to the center, call 978-422-3032. Closed May 27 in observance of Memorial Day.
Congregate lunch is served daily at 11:30 a.m. No reservation required. $3 suggested donation.
Intergenerational Pickleball Tournament with the Chocksett Peer Leaders on Wednesday, June 5 at 8:30 a.m. Register with Clare at 978-422-3032.
History Club will discuss Killing Witches by Bill O’Reilly at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, June 6.
Hiking Club on Tuesdays at 9 a.m., beginning May 7. Explore a different trail each week. Reservations required. Details available at the front desk.
Art display by students from Houghton and Chocksett School. Artists from Kindergarten through Grade 8 will be on display throughout May and June.
Caregiver Program every second Wednesday of the month, including a supervised activity for your loved one while you attend. Support provided by Angelique from Oriol Health Care.
Growing Places Pop-Up Market will be inside at the Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 11.
The Office of State Sen. Peter J. Durant will host district office hours at the Sterling Senior Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. Residents are invited to stop by.
Evening Yoga Class every Tuesday at 6 p.m. $5. Join Annie Faiola on your journey of self-discovery.
Pancake Breakfast, Coffee with a Cop and Fat Daddy’s Market. 7:30-9 a.m. Friday, May 31.
Evening Mindful Meditation is on Mondays at 5 p.m. $5.
Be Steady Level One fitness class for beginners. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m. with Marty.
Pool tables are available Monday through Friday. Ladies pool every Friday, 9 a.m.-noon.
Wii Bowling group, 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Meet new friends in the bowling circle, where it’s always fun.
Exercise classes: Tai Chi on Mondays at 8:30 a.m.; Guys & Gals Fitness on Mondays at 10 a.m.; Pilates on Tuesdays at 8:15 a.m.; Line Dancing on Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.; Chair Yoga on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.; Going Steady on Fridays at 10 a.m. Registration required for all exercise classes.
Pickleball outside at West Sterling tennis courts on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m. No signup required. All abilities welcome. No play on wet courts.
Sterling Strummers Ukulele Group meets for open strumming at 3 p.m. Monday, May 13, and Ukulele Club every Thursday at 2 p.m. Beginner ukulele classes meet every Thursday at 1 p.m.
BINGO, Mondays at 1 p.m.; Game Day, Tuesdays at 1 p.m.; Rummikub, Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m.; Acrylic painting, Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.; Mahjong, Thursdays at 1 p.m.; Knit & Crochet, Fridays at 9:30 a.m.
Veterans Services every Friday, 8 a.m.-noon.
Weekly van shopping trips on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. See newsletter or call for schedule.
Grocery shoppers wanted Like to shop? This is a volunteer position you can combine with your own weekly shopping trip. We shop every week for our congregate lunch program, and need assistance to fill our carts with nutritional goodies. Flexible schedule. Call Clare at 978-422-3032 or email cfelton@sterling-ma.gov.
Keep up to date with announcements, program updates and more at www.facebook.com/SterlingMASeniors.
Submit items for inclusion in Goings On to editor@thelandmark.com. The deadline for inclusion in the next week’s issue is noon Friday of the preceding week. Goings On is compiled by Kristen B. Payson, editor.
