Community calendar: Cabaret benefits Spotlight Playhouse

Deadline reminder: To list an event happening in Greater Haverhill, submit no later than 10 days before The Haverhill Gazette's Thursday publication date. Listings run on a space-available basis.

FriDAY, Oct. 2

Fundraiser cabaret show: Spotlight Playhouse first fundraiser Cabaret Show in the banquet hall of Maria's Family Restaurant, 83-85 Essex St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dinner served at 7 p.m. Please arrive promptly. Tickets are $30 per person and include dinner. To reserve tickets, call 978-380-8509 or e-mail rachel@spotlightplayhouse.org.

Master storyteller: Oklahoma-based storyteller Al Bostick will present "Fabulous Fibs, Fables and Folklore" at 7:30 p.m. in the Top Notch Theater, located on the third floor of the Spurk building on Haverhill campus of Northern Essex Community College. Free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted. This event is hosted by the college's performing arts department. Bostick will introduce the audience to the tales of Anansi the Spider, Brer Rabbit, tales of the American slave south, and the how and why tales (Porquoi stories) of the Afro-Haitian cultures. This presentation is appropriate for both children and adults of all ages. For more information, contact Susan Sanders at ssanders@necc.mass.edu or call 978-556-3374.

SATURDAY, Oct. 3

Class Reunion: Haverhill High and Trade School Class of 1949 will hold their 60-year reunion from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Roma Restaurant, 29 Middlesex St., Bradford. For more information, call Gloria Healey Ross at 978-372-4757, Joe Mazza at 978-372-4757 or e-mail HHS1949@msn.com.

Lamb dinner: The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church will host a lamb shank dinner at 6 p.m. at 7 Harris St., Newburyport. Menu includes lamb shank with special sauce, roasted potatoes, touralou (Greek vegetable medley), baklava and more. Tickets are $20 per person. To reserve tickets, call 978-270-6477. Information, call 978-465-5757.

Speedway reunion: The Groveland Historical Society will host its seventh annual Pines Speedway Reunion from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, at 183 Main St., Groveland. A large tent will be available for tables, chairs and displays. Vintage race cars from the 1930s and 1940s to stock cars from the 1950s and 1960s will be on display. For more information, call 978-420-5030 or e-mail oldrustyracer@aol.com.

Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Aesop's Fables," by Len Gerwick, at 1 and 3 p.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. This lively retelling includes "The Country Mouse and the City Mouse," "The Dog and His Bone," and "The Fox and the Crow." Recommended for ages 4 and older. Admission is $10 per person, $8 for members. Prepaid reservations are recommended. Information or tickets, call 617-731-6400 or visit www.puppetshowplace.org.

Haverhill Farmers Market: Haverhill's Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at GAR Park at the corner of Bailey Boulevard and Main Street. Expanded market includes seller made and seller grown products from local and organic farms, eggs, honey, ice cream, baked goods and crafts. Information, visit www.haverhillfarmersmarket.com.

Haverhill Firefighting Museum: At 75 Kenoza Ave., open 9 a.m. to noon. Weekday, group visits available by appointment. Call 978-372-4061.

SunDAY, Oct. 4

Alzheimer's walk: 17th annual Alzheimer's Association Northeastern Massachusetts Memory Walk begins at Brickstone Square in Andover. Form a team or walk as an individual. Money raised helps provide care and support for individuals and families touched by Alzheimer's. For more information, call 617-393-2050, e-mail debra.katt-lloyd@alz.org or visit www.memorywalkMANH.org.

Annual Hike for Hope: Lazarus House will hosts its 10th annual Hike for Hope at 12:30 p.m. at Merrimack College. Walk 1 or 5 miles, celebrate with food, games and festivities. Raises awareness of homelessness and the need for affordable housing as well as vital funding for families living in transitional housing while working to improve their lives. For more information, call Lazarus House at 978-269-5206 or visit www.hikeforhope.org.

MONDAY, Oct. 5

YMCA annual golf tournament: The Haverhill YMCA will hold its 19th annual Golf Tournament to benefit children and families in greater Haverhill at the Atkinson Country Club in Atkinson, N.H. Shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. Cost to participate is $175 per person, singles, twosomes or foursomes. Includes a bag lunch and buffet dinner (steak tips), live auction featuring Red Sox tickets, New England Patriots and Boston Celtics memorabilia, and a silent auction. There are cash prizes and a car will be awarded for a hole-in-one competition. For more information, contact Tracy Fuller at 978-374-0506 or fullert@northshoreymca.org, or Ray Pelletier at 978-374-0506 or pelletierr@northshoreymca.org.

Republican City Committee to meet: The Haverhill Republican City Committee meets at 7 p.m. in the Milhendler room at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. All who are interested in joining and changing the political climate are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Jack Roy at 978-314-9189.

Forty-Fives tournament: Peddler's Daughter, 45 Wingate St, 8:15 p.m. Participation is free and prizes will be awarded to winners. For more information, call Charles Wheeler at 978-994-0975.

Tuesday, Oct. 6

Children's program: "Drop-in Preschool Storytime" from 1:15 to 2 p.m. at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. Program will include stories, songs and a craft. Designed for ages 2 to 5 years old. For more information or to register, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

"An Evening in Israel": The Merrimack Valley Chapter of Hadassah will host "An Evening in Israel" at 6 p.m. at Temple Emanuel, 7 Haggetts Pond Road, Andover. Festivities include a mix of Israeli dancing and food and a mini shuk (marketplace). Reservations for the event may be made by $18 check, payable to the Merrimack Valley Chapter of Hadassah. The organization is also asking participants to bring kitchen items to be donated to Project Home Again, located in Lawrence. For more information, contact Sondra Feingold or Rhonda Saunders, chapter presidents, at HadassahMV@gmail.com.

Business assistance: Service Corps of Retired Executives — SCORE — offers free, confidential help to individuals starting a business or already in business from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce. Until the Chamber's home at 87 Winter St. is rehabilitated, sessions will be in the Chamber's temporary office in the Landmark Building, Merrimack Street.

Trivia night: Peddler's Daughter, 45 Wingate St., 9 p.m. For more information, call 978-372-9555 or visit www.thepeddlersdaughter.com.

WEDNESDAY, Oct. 7

Children's program: "Art and Story" from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. A story will be read and a related art technique explored. Designed for ages 3 to 6 years old. For more information or to register, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

Line-dancing classes: At All Saints Parish, 120 Bellevue Ave., 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. All are welcome. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Call 978-374-6001.

Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Gnip Gnop Circus," by Z Puppets, at 10:30 a.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Recommended for ages 3 and older. Admission is $10 per person, $8 members. Prepaid reservations recommended. Information or tickets, call 617-731-6400 or visit www.puppetshowplace.org.

ThurSDAY, Oct. 8

Children's program: "Lap-sit for Prewalkers" at 9:30 a.m. at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. Designed for very young children who have not yet begun to walk. Includes songs, rhymes, simple stories and exploration. For more information or to register, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

Children's program: "Lap-sit for Walkers" at 10:30 a.m. at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. Designed for young children who have begun to walk up to 24 months. Includes songs, rhymes, fingerplays, short stories and an activity. For more information or to register, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

Charity auction and wine tasting: The Pentucket Kiwanis Club's first charity auction and wine tasting from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Maria's Family Restaurant, 81 Essex St. Proceeds will be donated to the Sacred Heart Church Food Pantry and the Haverhill High School Athletic Boosters program. Silent auction and samples of a variety of wines to complement numerous food choices. Tickets are $35 per person. For more information, call 978-521-0445 or e-mail nancy.mckenna@ymail.com.

Loretta LaRoche performs: Loretta LaRoche presents "Lighten Up! The Authentic and Fun Way to Lose Your Worries" at 7:30 p.m. at the Rogers Center for the Arts at Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike St., North Andover. Advance tickets are $30, $28 college employees, students and seniors. All tickets at the door are $35. Information or reservations, call 978-837-5355 or visit www.merrimack.edu/rogers.

SATURDAY, Oct. 10

Art workshop: Mark Hayden and Joan Rademacher offer art lessons at the First Church of Christ, 10 Church St., Bradford, 9 a.m. to noon All are welcome. A $5 contribution is appreciated. Call 978-374-1114.

Puppet Showplace Theatre: "A La Carte: In a Fool's Kitchen," by Z Puppets, at 1 and 3 p.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Join a French chef, a wily lobster and a few unruly vegetables for a playful interactive puppet show. Recommended for ages 3 and older. Admission is $10 per person, $8 members. Prepaid reservations recommended. Information or tickets, call 617-731-6400 or visit www.puppetshowplace.org.

Haverhill Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at GAR Park at the corner of Bailey Boulevard and Main Street. Expanded market includes seller made and seller grown products from local and organic farms, eggs, honey, ice cream, baked goods and crafts. Information, visit www.haverhillfarmersmarket.com.

Haverhill Firefighting Museum: At 75 Kenoza Ave., open 9 a.m. to noon. Weekday, group visits available by appointment. Call 978-372-4061.

SunDAY, Oct. 11

Annual Bobby Bell road race: The 23rd annual Bobby Bell 5-mile road race/walk at The Lasting Room Grill, 122 Washington St. The walk will begin at 10:30 a.m., race at 11 a.m. Pre-entry cost is $16, $22 post-entry. T-shirts will be given to the first 50 walker entries and first 320 runner entries. Numerous awards will be given in various age, weight and specialty categories. A banquet will follow with a DJ, raffle and prizes. Proceeds benefit two local scholarships, Haverhill Brightside, Haverhill Police Auxiliaries, the Andover Striders and others. For more information, contact David LaBrode at 978-373-3408 or 978-376-8289 or e-mail ickylabrode@verizon.net.

Halloween Events

"Castle of Fear": Winnekenni Castle's annual Halloween attraction "Castle of Fear" opens Friday, Oct. 2 at dark. The event consists of four venues: Dreaded Dragon's Lair, Killer Klown Lazer Katastrophe, Howling Hayride of Horror and the Castle of Fear. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night during October. Admission is $15 per person, $10 children under age 12. Sunday night special: family of two adults with two children under age 12 is $40. Not recommended for children under age 8. Food and refreshments available.

Trick-or-treat: The City of Haverhill will hold trick-or-treating throughout the city on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Pumpkin decorating: on Saturday, Oct. 31 at 10:30 a.m. at the Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St. Use found objects and other materials to decorate small pumpkins. Registration is required and will take place from Oct. 1 through 23. For more information or to register, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

REUNIONS

Class of 1950: The Haverhill High/Trade School Class of 1950 will have its 60-year reunion on June 19 and 20, 2010, at the Haverhill Country Club. A cocktail hour, followed by dinner, will be Saturday from 6 to 11 p.m. A brunch will be Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call Bob Conte at 978-373-6931 or Carole (DeFelice) Lanseigne at 978-372-6767.

Class of 1959: Haverhill High School, Haverhill Trade School and St. James High School Class of 1959 will celebrate their 50th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 6:30 p.m. to midnight at the Haverhill Country Club. There will be a cocktail hour, dinner, disc jockey and a '50s theme. Cost is $60 per person. For information, contact Pat Kelly Ruth at 978-373-2447 or barryandpat1@verizon.net.

Somerville High School Class of 1959: 50-year reunion on Nov. 7 at the Holiday Inn in Somerville. For more information, contact Joanne Palazzolo Armstrong at 978-373-4435 or 617-571-1591.

Class of 1984 25th reunion: Haverhill High School's class of 1984 reunion will be held on Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. at Mal's Lounge, 3rd floor of George's Restaurant, 130 Washington St. Tickets are $35 per person or $60 per couple in advance or $45 per person at the door and include an appetizer buffet and DJ. For more information, contact Cindy Davis Jackson at cindydavisjackson@gmail.com or visit HHS Class of 1984 on www.facebook.com.

Whittier Class of 1984: Whittier Vo-Tech's Class of 1984 will hold its 25-year reunion on Saturday, Nov. 28 at DiBurro's Function Facility, 887 Boston Road. Social hour from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Live music provided by the live band "The Hitman." The event will also feature raffles and a slide presentation. Tickets are $55 per person. Information, call Barbara at 978-469-7552. Please note: Blocks of rooms have been reserved at a special rate at The Best Western Merrimack Valley, 401 Lowell Ave., and Comfort Suites, 106 Bank Road.

Class of 1950: Haverhill High and Trade School's class of 1950 is planning a reunion for Saturday, June 19, 2010, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Haverhill Country Club, followed by brunch on Sunday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call Carole (DeFelice) Lanseigne at 978-372-6767 or Bob Conte at 978-373-6931.

Haverhill High, Trade and St. James High School Class of 1945: 65th class reunion banquet on Sept. 25, 2010, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Michael's Function Hall in Haverhill. The menu will include baked haddock, marinated steak tips, boneless stuffed chicken breast and appetizers of cheese, crackers and fresh fruit. Cost is $30 per person. For more information, call Attilio Carbone at 978-373-5756 or Michael Der Boghosian at 978-373-3597.

Retired Whittier Vocational High School teachers and employees: Any retired employees and teachers from Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School interested in planning or attending a reunion should call Phil McCaughey at 978-372-9236 or George Manghis at 321-720-3673.

USS Columbus shipmates reconnect: Navy and Marine Corps shipmates who served on the USS Columbus (CA-74/CG-12) from 1944 through 1976 and the USS Columbus SSN-762 past and present who would like to share memories and camaraderie with old friends or make new ones, contact Allen R. Hope at 260-486-2221 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time or e-mail hope4391@comcast.net.

arts

Art exhibit: "Right Images II," pen and ink drawings by Elaine Asplind Russell, will be on display Oct. 1 through 14 in the Hills Gallery at the Newburyport Art Association, 65 Water St., Newburyport. An artist reception will be held Friday, Oct. 2 from 7 to 9 p.m. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 978-465-8769 or visit www.newburyportart.org.

Live music: Pianist Bob Allison hosts a piano bar with classic songs from the Great American Song Book on Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m., performing with the Lighthouse Trio and Friends show the first Wednesday of every month, at Hobo's Cafe, 5 Broadway, Salisbury Beach. No cover charge. Call 978-255-2558 or visit www.CasablancaPiano.com.

Activities

Beginner internet classes at library: Learn your way around the Internet by taking free beginning Internet classes offered by the Haverhill Public Library. These classes are small, offer individual attention and hands-on practice and are approximately two hours long. You do not have to own a computer to participate but you are welcome to come with your own wireless enabled laptop. For dates, times and other information, please drop by the Reference and Information desk at the library, or call 978-373-1586, ext. 608.

Author reading: Thomas Dresser will talk about his new novel "In My Life" on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Haverhill Public Library in the Milhandler Room, 99 Main St. Free and open to the public. Information, e-mail thomasdresser@gmail.com or visit www.thomasdresser.com.

Chili cook-off: The Haverhill Firefighting Museum hosts its third annual chili cook-off on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the museum, 75 Kenoza Ave. The event will feature chili judging and a silent auction to benefit the museum. Space is limited to 25 participants so please register early. Entry fee is a $25 tax deductible donation to the museum. For more information, contact Cindy Graham at 978-521-9602 or ceegee4@hotmail.com or Janet Blinn at 603-382-5378 or jeblin33@comcast.net.

Mass of Healing and Hope: Mary, Mother of the Church will hold a Mass of Healing and Hope on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. at 12 Amesbury Road, Newton, N.H. Information, call 382-8324.

Comedy show benefit: A comedy show to benefit Haverhill resident Corey Sheehy will be held on Friday, Oct. 23, at the Haverhill Elks Lodge, 24 Summer St. Sheehy, 17, was diagnosed on Sept. 2 of this year with acute lymphocytic leukemia. Door will open at 7 p.m. for a cocktail hour, as well as a chance to purchase raffle tickets for various prizes. The show will begin at 8:30 p.m., featuring the comedy of Boston favorites Thomas Mitchell, Bob Sheehy and Tommy Dunham. Proceeds from the event will help the family defray some of the costs associated with trips to Mass General Hospital in Boston, parking and medicines. For ticket information or to make a donation, contact Bob Sheehy at 978-372-0608.

Fundraiser cabaret show: Spotlight Playhouse presents their first fundraiser Cabaret Show on Oct. 16 and 17 in the banquet hall of Maria's Family Restaurant, 83-85 Essex St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dinner served at 7 p.m. Please arrive promptly. Tickets are $30 per person and include dinner. To reserve tickets, call 978-380-8509 or e-mail rachel@spotlightplayhouse.org.

Scavenger hunt: State of the Stimulus Scavenger Hunt to benefit the Haverhill Historical Society and Buttonwoods Museum will be held Saturday, Nov. 14 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the lower level of the parking deck on Merrimack Street. Team of 4 to 8 people will be given clues to solve as they make their way around town. A final clue brings participants to a party with a cash bar and buffet catered by Simply Perfect Catering. Cost is $40 per person, $10 off for museum members. Please bring payment to any EZ-Way Cleaners location before Nov. 7 or mail a check with the name of your team to Peter Carbone. 48 Colby St., Bradford, MA 01835. Please make checks payable to Haverhill Historical Society. Information, contact Peter Carbone at 508-320-7710 or peteracarbone@yahoo.com.

Armenian church annual Fall Fair: The Ladies Guild of St. Gregory Armenian Church of the Merrimack Valley annual Fall Fair is Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16 and 17, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., in Jaffarian Hall, 158 Main St., No. Andover. Buffet lunch, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will include losh kebab, chicken kebab, salads and a vegetarian plate. Dinner buffet, 5 to 8 p.m., includes choice of shish, losh or chicken kebab, khema plate made to order and a vegetarian plate. Country Store, Armenian foods and pastries and hand-crafted gift items. Free admission. Information, 978-685-5038 or Rose Soghigian at 978-256-0594.

Country music dance: Benefit for the Northeast Independent Living Program hosts a country rock music dance on Friday, Nov. 6 from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Lawrence BPO Elks 65, 650 Andover St., Lawrence. Live music by national male vocalist and entertainer of the year Jonathan Scott and The Blazing Hearts. Door prizes, raffles and finger foods. Tickets are $25 per person or $225 for a table of 10. Payment for reserved tables must be received by Oct. 3. For tickets, call Brenda at 978-687-7274. For more information, call Alison or Kevin at 978-687-4288 or e-mail agilchirst@nilp.org or kfarrell@nilp.org.

Harvest Fair: A Harvest Fair will be held on Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Plaistow Fish & Game, 18 May Ray Ave., Plaistow, N.H. Coffee, donuts and lunch will be served. For more information, call 603-382-3675.

Children's ice cream social: The Haverhill Elks will host their annual children's ice cream social on Sunday, Oct. 18 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 24 Summer St. The event will include a lunch meal along with a build your own sundae, police dogs, finger printing, face painting, karate demonstration, drug awareness featuring El Roy the Elk, soccer and hoop shoot, and more. Cost is $3.50 for a cheeseburger, chips, soda and sundae; $2.50 for a hot dog, chips, soda, and sundae; $1.50 for a sundae. For more information, call 978-374-5050.

Fall Festival: A walk-a-thon and craft fair will be held Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the gymnasium at Silver Hill Horace Mann Charter School. Tables for crafters are available for a $25 fee. Along with a check made payable to the school, please send a description of items you will be selling as well as contact information to: Silver Hill Horace Mann Charter School, 675 Washington St., Haverhill, MA 01832 Attn: Alex Foltz. Contact the school at 978-374-3448.

Museum passes available: Haverhill Public library offers passes to the following museums: Zoo New England, John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Currier Art Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, The Children's Museum, the Discovery Museums, Children's Museum of New Hampshire, New England Aquarium (Sept. to June only), The Butterfly Place, The Institute of Contemporary Art, The Sports Museum Boston and Massachusetts State Parks. Depending on the museum, a surcharge per person for admission may be required. To reserve a pass, call 978-373-1586 ext. 603 or visit www.haverhillpl.org.

Business assistance: Service Corps of Retired Executives — SCORE — offers free, confidential help to individuals starting a business or already in business. Sessions are Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce. Until the Chamber's home at 87 Winter St. is rehabilitated, sessions will be in the Chamber's temporary office in the Landmark Building, Merrimack Street.

Line-dancing classes: At All Saints Parish, 120 Bellevue Ave., 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. on Wednesdays. All are welcome. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Call 978-374-6001.

Forty-Fives tournaments: The Peddler's Daughter holds forty-fives tournaments every Monday at 8:15 p.m. at 45 Wingate St. Free and prizes will be awarded to winners. Call Charles Wheeler at 978-994-0975.

Trivia night: The Peddler's Daughter every Tuesday at 45 Wingate St., 9 p.m. Call 978-372-9555 or visit www.thepeddlersdaughter.com.

Art workshop: Mark Hayden and Joan Rademacher offer art lessons at the First Church of Christ, 10 Church St., Bradford, 9 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Saturday of the month. All are welcome. A $5 contribution is appreciated. Call 978-374-1114.

Greater Haverhill Poets Society: The Poets Society meets the third Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at Haverhill Public Library. New members are always welcome.

Knitting and crocheting classes: Plum Island Knitters at All Saints Church, Blaisdell Street, Wednesdays 6 to 7:30 p.m. Cost of a four-week session is $75 or $20 for a drop-in class. Plum Island Knitters supports the Katydid Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization that helps adults with autism. For more information or to register, call 978-255-1130 or visit www.PIKnitters.com.

Yoga classes: Caring Hands Center for Massage and Wellbeing offers yoga classes for all levels of experience at its new yoga studio at 55 Wingate St. The first class is free and packages are available. To register, call Cindy Brown at 978-835-8497 or e-mail yoga4stressreduction@yahoo.com. Class schedule: Mondays, all levels yoga class from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.; Tuesdays, beginners yoga classes from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. and from 7 to 8:15 p.m.; Thursdays, all levels yoga class from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.; Saturdays, all levels yoga class from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m.

Families

Fit 'n' Fun after-school program: At Cedarland Family Fun Center, 931 Boston Road, for children in grades one through five. Indoor and outdoor activities vary by season. Call program director Beth Bailey at 978-373-1596 for registration, transportation and cost information.

Children's programs at Haverhill Public Library

The Children's Department at the Haverhill Public Library will offer the following programs in October:

"Drop-in Preschool Storytime": on Tuesdays, Oct. 13, 20 and 27 from 1:15 to 2 p.m. Program will include stories, songs and a craft. Designed for ages 2 to 5 years old.

"Art and Story": Wednesdays, Oct. 14, 21 and 28 from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. A story will be read and a related art technique explored. Designed for ages 3 to 6 years old.

"Lap-sit for Prewalkers": Thursdays, Oct. 15, 22 and 29 at 9:30 a.m. Designed for very young children who have not yet begun to walk. Includes songs, rhymes, simple stories and exploration.

"Lap-sit for Walkers": Thursdays, Oct. 15, 22 and 29 at 10:30 a.m. Designed for young children who have begun to walk up to 24 months. Includes songs, rhymes, fingerplays, short stories and an activity.

"Little Sprouts Storytime": Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Cavallaro Room. Designed for ages 2 to 5 years old. Registration is required.

"New Parents Coffee Hour": Saturday, Oct. 24 at 9:30 a.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee and casual conversation while learning about available parenting resources and books and music for your little one.

"Bilingual Family Storytime": Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy stories, songs and activities with Miss Julia. Learn a few words in another language or teach a few in your own. All ages welcome.

Math Night Workshop: The Early Childhood Resource Center presents a free workshop for preschool and kindergarten teachers, daycare providers and homeschoolers on Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. Marie Enochty will connect the Massachusetts Early Learning Standards and Guidelines with hands-on activities that incorporate math. Participants will be able to make and take new tools and materials to use in their classrooms. Light refreshments provided. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Registration is required.

"All About Bats": Monday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. Jerry Schneider will present a slide show and tell you everything you want to know about bats. Includes an opportunity to create a bat t-shirt. Bring your own or purchase one for $4. Designed for ages 6 and older. Registration is required.

The Haverhill Public Library is at 99 Main St. For more information or to register for any program above, contact Leslie Todd, Head of Children's Services, at 978-373-1586, ext. 626. Registration can also be done online at www.haverhillpl.org.

YMCA activities

Membership For All: YMCA income-based membership plan, allows children, adults and families of any income range. Call Sandy Brien at 978-374-0506 or e-mail briens@northshoreymca.org.

After-school child care program: At the YMCA includes arts and crafts, gym games, nutritious snack and use of YMCA facility including pool, gymnastics center and rock climbing wall. All programs licensed by the state. For more information, call Colette Farina at 978-374-0506, ext. 117, or e-mail farinac@northshoreymca.org.

Aquatic activities: The Haverhill YMCA pool is open for lap swim, water aerobics and other aquatic fitness activities. Personal trainers are available for one-on-one sessions. Adult gymnastics conditioning, ballroom and belly dancing, as well as adult rock climbing are all offered at the YMCA. For more information, call 978-374-0506 or visit www.northshoreymca.org.

Synchronized swimming for adults: The Northshore YMCA offers synchronized swimming for adults ages 18 and up on Sundays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through June. Participants may join at any time. For more information, call coach Kristina Evans at 978-390-4607 or the Aquatics Office at 978-927-6855.

Swim/diving lessons: Diving lessons for ages 8 and up are offered Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. Family Swim Time (must be age 3 or older) is offered Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. Cost is $3 per swimmer. For more information, call 978-374-5732.

Flick-N-Float: Spend a family night in the pool watching movies such as "Cars" and "Madagascar." With the water at 87 degrees, children rarely get cold and are able to stay in the water for the entire movie. Snacks and drinks are provided during the movie. For more information, call Daniel Sebens at 978-374-0506 or e-mail sebensd@northshoreymca.org.

Adaptive swim program for children and adults with special needs: This program includes an introduction to water and water-adjustment activities. Participants can have a parent or aide in the water to assist with activities if necessary. The class will be 45 minutes long. Cost is $60 for members, $90 for nonmembers.

Friday and Saturday Fun Nights: Parents can plan a night out while their kids have use of the gym, gymnastics center, pool, rock wall and squash courts from 6 to 9 p.m. Staff provides fun, safe and positive organized activities, themed events and supervised free choice time. Friday nights are for children in grades one through four; Saturdays for grades five through 12. Cost is $5 per family for members, $7 for nonmembers, includes pizza and drinks.

Family Night: Kids and parents can join the fun together with use of the gym, gymnastics center, pool, rock wall and squash courts from 6 to 9 p.m. Staff provides fun, safe and positive organized activities, themed events and supervised free-choice time. Cost is $10 per family for members, $15 for nonmembers, includes pizza and drinks.

Ways to Give

Children's clothing needed: Ruth's House, a nonprofit, nondenominational thrift store, has a dire need for infants clothing, especially infants to 24 months, boys and girls summer clothing, all sizes. Winter clothing is not being accepted at this time. Also needed are pots, pans, dishes and household items. Ruth's House also needs volunteers to donate as few or as many hours as possible. Donations may also be dropped off for the Sacred Heart food pantry at Ruth's House. All donations are tax-deductible, and donors will be issued receipts for their gifts. Donations may be dropped off at Ruth's House, 30 Lafayette Square, on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Store hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Thursday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 978-521-5575.

Book fundraiser: The First Church of Christ Bradford is raising money through the collection of new and used books, videos, CD's, DVD's and audio books. Donations may be dropped off in the gray container in the back parking lot of the church, 10 Church Street, Bradford. No encyclopedias, magazines, newspapers and catalogues please.

The church will be paid on an ongoing basis for all items collected in the donation container and all funds raised will benefit the general funding of the church. In addition, many of these collected books will be donated to schools, libraries, sent overseas to the troops and sold in book sales to benefit local nonprofit groups. For more information, call 978-396-6026.

Help sick or injured pets: Donate to Animal Rescue Merrimack Valley to replenish its fund to save sick or injured cats and dogs. Visit www.insiderpages.com/fundraisers/Animal-Rescue-Merrimack-Valley. Restaurant reviews result in donations to animal charity. Donations can also be made online at www.armv.org or by mailing a check to ARMV, P.O. Box 8006, Bradford, MA 01835.

Host families needed: Academic Foundation for International Cultural Exchange seeks community representatives and host families. Information, Anne Ring, 866-462-3423 or visit www.afice.org.

Kids Helping Kids: Students and their families at Little Sprouts Child Enrichment Centers are accepting gift donations for Debbie's Treasure Chest, a charity developed by three adopted girls, ages 8, 11 and 12, which targets the "forgotten kids" in state Department of Social Services custody. To donate, e-mail jtodisco@littlesprouts.com. For more information, call 781-929-2858.

Vehicle donations needed: Anyone who would like old cars removed from their yards free of charge, or would like a quick alternative to selling or trading their vehicle, can donate them to various organizations in the community. The Haverhill Boys and Girls Club is running a car campaign to raise money to help sustain its various programs through donations of unwanted vehicles. To donate a vehicle, call 1-800-246-0493. If your vehicle is accepted, it will be picked up free of charge in just a few days. The fair market value of the donation may be considered a charitable contribution for income-tax purposes. For the Melanoma Foundation, everyone who donates a car or truck, running or not, will get a receipt for a tax deduction. To make a donation, call Cars Helping America at 866-949-3668 and specify that you have a car to donate to the Melanoma Foundation. Your car, truck or camper may be worth more as a donation than a trade in and will benefit blind and vision impaired persons in Massachusetts by donating to Massachusetts Association for the Blind. This is a free tow, quick pick up and tax deductible. For more information, call 888-613-2777.

Places to Visit

Haverhill Farmers Market: Haverhill's Farmers Market will be open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 31 at GAR Park at the corner of Bailey Boulevard and Main Street. Expanded market will include seller made and seller grown products from local and organic farms, eggs, honey, ice cream, baked goods and crafts. Information, visit www.haverhillfarmersmarket.com.

Public Library hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Sundays. For more information, call 978-373-1586 or visit www.haverhillpl.org.

The Haverhill Firefighting Museum, 75 Kenoza Ave.: Open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Weekday and group visits are available by appointment. For more information, call 978-372-4061.

John Greenleaf Whittier Birthplace: Open Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m.; Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.; Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Closed major holidays. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for students under 18 and a $10 maximum for a family. For more information, call 978-373-3979.

The Buttonwoods Museum/Haverhill Historical Society: Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Tours by appointment only. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for ages 7 to 17 and free for children 7 and under. For details, call 978-374-4626.

Other

The Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce: The Commerce will sponsor a trip to China in March 2010. The nine-day trip includes transportation to and from JFK Airport, round-trip international and domestic airfare, taxes included, stays at 4- and 5 -tar hotels, three full meals each day, deluxe bus tours with English-speaking tour guides and admission tickets to scheduled tourist attractions, for an all inclusive price of $1,999 per person, based on double occupancy. Highlights include visiting Beijing, The Great Wall of China, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hanzhou, and an optional trip to Xi'an to see the Terra-Cotta Warriors and more. Registration deadline is Oct. 19. Call the Chamber for more information at 603-772-2411 ex.t 15, or visit www.chamberchinatrip.com or e-mail info@chamberchinatrip.com.

Crafters and vendors wanted: Crafters and vendors are needed for the Harvest Fair on Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Plaistow Fish and Game, 18 May Ray Road, Plaistow, N.H. Cost is $15 for an 8-foot table. For more information, call Carolyn at 978-521-5968 or e-mail elizstarr@yahoo.com.

Dog licences available: Dog licences for 2009 are available in the City Clerk's Office in City Hall. The fee for all male and female dogs is $20 and the fee for all spayed female and neutered male dogs is $15. Application forms are available online at www.ci.haverhill.ma.us. Click on the link to "Departments" and then "City Clerk." Please provide a current rabies vaccination record and spaying/neutering certificate when licensing your dog. Late fines will be charged for the time the dog is not licensed starting at $10 after May 31, $15 after June 30 and $25 after July 31. For more information, call 978-374-2312.

The Haverhill Cultural Council invites all Haverhill arts organizations to submit notice of events to the council's Web site: www.ci.haverhill.ma.us, under "Human Services Department." To submit events or for information, call 978-374-4500, ext. 31, or e-mail culturalcouncil@cityofhaverhill.com.

Affordable housing units: Three discounted condominiums for low- and moderate-income, first-time homebuyers at Riverside Place, Washington Street. Sold for $181,395. Call Richard Lynch, Community Action, 978-373-1971 for income restrictions and information. Applications available Community Action office, 145 Essex St.

Puppet Showplace Theatre

"A La Carte: In a Fool's Kitchen," by Z Puppets, on Oct. 12 at 1 and 3 p.m. Join a French chef, a wily lobster and a few unruly vegetables for a playful interactive puppet show. Recommended for ages 3 and older.

"A Woodland Cinderella," by Deborah Costine, on Oct. 14 and 15 at 10:30 a.m. The King of all Woodland fairies wants his son to marry a fairy princess, but they are very rare, so the King hosts a great ball and commands that every single young fairy maiden in the land must attend. He hopes that the missing fern fairy princess will come, because he knows the secret to identifying a true fairy princess. Recommended for ages 3 and older.

"Rumpelstiltskin," by Dream Tale Puppets, on Oct. 17 and 18 at 1 and 3 p.m. Once upon a time there was a miller who bragged that his daughter could spin straw into gold. When the King heard about this, he commanded the girl spin to help him pay the royal pile of bills. The girl had no idea how to complete this impossible task, until a funny looking little man came along, whose wheeling and dealing only caused more problems. Recommended for ages 4 and older.

"Little Red Hen," by Lionheart Puppet Company, on Oct. 21 and 22 at 10:30 a.m.How is Ms. Hen ever going to get her famous cookies made in time for the bake sale? Maybe if she could get her friends to help...Recommended for ages 3 and older.

"The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow," by Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers, on Oct 24 and 25 at 1 and 3 p.m. A comedic version of the classic Washington Irving tale, this show features lively humourous dialogue, a dance medley and captivating musical highlights - not to mention a bumbling horseman, a dim-witted villain and a lovable Ichabod Crane. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

"Witches' Brew," by Blue Moon Puppets, on Oct. 28 and 29 at 10:30 a.m. Every year there is a contest for the best witch's brew. Three witches, all sisters, try to create the best recipe. Recommended for ages 3 and older.

"Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," by Brad Shur, on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 1 and 3 p.m. Dr. Doohickey thinks the worls would be much more exciting if people were a little more like monsters. Join the doctor and his assistant, Reginald the Rabbit, as they use music, machines and a little magic to bring funny monsters to life. Come in costume on Oct. 31 for a costume parade with prizes. Recommended for ages 4 and older.

Puppet Showplace Theatre is at 32 Station St., Brookline. Shows are between 45 minutes and one hour in length. Admission is $10 per person, $8 members. Prepaid reservations recommended. Information or tickets, call 617-731-6400 or visit www.puppetshowplace.org.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Volunteers needed: The Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge needs volunteers to help staff The Plover's Nest gift shop and bookstore at the Refuge Headquarters and Visitor Center. The store is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers needed to help customers and act as cashiers during those times. Training will be provided. For more information or to volunteer, call Kate Toniolo at 978-465-5753.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. For more information or to register for an event, call 978-465-5753 or visit www.parkerriver.fws.gov. All programs are free but space is limited and advanced registration is required unless otherwise indicated. Registration is not complete until you have received confirmation from a staff member.

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