Announcements

CHURCHES

Recycling fundraiser: The First Church of Christ in Bradford will hold an eletronics recycling fundraiser Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event is at the church, located at 10 Church St., opposite Bradford Common. For more information call 978-374-1114 or visit fccbradford.org.

Family Golf Outing: St. Joseph School of All Saints Parish in Haverhill will hold its second annual Family Golf Outing Oct. 2 at Murphy's Garrison Golf Center, 654 Hilldale Ave. Tee off is at 12:30 p.m. followed by lunch. This event is open to the public.

Electronics Recycling: First Church of Christ in Bradford will hold a recycling event Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to noon. Disposal fees are: $1 for items such as computer keyboards, modems, smoke alarms and can openers; $5 for items such as dehumidifiers, telephones, printers and vacuums, $10 for items such as computer monitors, pool pump motors and televisions smaller than 19 inches; $15 for air conditioners, $20 for treadmills and $25 for large console televisions. Donations of books, videos, CDs, DVDs and audio books will be accepted. First Church of Christ is at 10 Church St. in Bradford. For more information call 978-374-1114. Visit online at www.fccbradford.org.

Ham and bean supper: The First Church of Christ in Bradford will hold a ham and bean supper Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. The menu includes baked beans, ham, hot-dogs, potato salad, cole slaw, bread, dessert and beverages. The church is 10 Church St., opposite Bradford Common. For more information call 978-374-1114 or visit fccbradford.org.

Emanu-El Education Series: Temple Emanu-El in Haverhill will kick off its adult education fall series on Oct. 2 with a presentation of the documentary film, "Browsing through Birke's." The film will be presented by Szifra Birke. Released in 2010, the documentary highlights the journey of Szifra's parents from Holocaust survivors in Poland to entrepreneurs and business-owners in the United States. All adult education programs are free and open to the public. Temple Emanu-El is at 514 Main St. For more information contact Nancy LaFleur at 978-373-3861 or visit www.templeemanu-el.org.

Greek festival: The Holy Apostles Church in Haverhill will hold its annual three-day festival from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in the Hellenic Community Center, which is behind the church at 154-156 Winter St. The hours are Friday, Sept. 30 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission and parking are free. The festival features exceptional homemade Greek food and pastries as well as Greek music and dancing. DJ Kosta performs Friday evening and Orpheus performs on Saturday starting at 8 p.m. A presentation by Curious Creatures is Saturday at 2 p.m. Kathleen Barone of KB Bead Designs will be selling hand-made jewelry throughout the weekend. Cash for Gold by Naser Jewelers is Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be raffles for cash prizes of $3,000, $1,000, $500 as well as for an iPad2. There will be many more items in the annual Pic n' Choose, including toys, electronics, home goods and more. For more information call the church at 978-373-3311 or visit holyapostleshaverhill.org.

Women's workshop: The Unitarian-Universalist (UU) Church of Haverhill will once again run the free women's workshop series: "Cakes for the Queen of Heaven." Cakes is a well-established UU curriculum that explores the ancient goddess tradition. Topics by week include: body image, money, mother-daughter relationship, power, and peace. This workshop will be held at the UU church at 15 Kenoza Ave., on five Thursday nights from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dates are Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 and Nov. 3. Please send an email to info@nhgoddess.com to register. Open to women only.

Reformation conference: The First Church of Christ Bradford will host a Reformation weekend conference Oct. 28 and 29. A coalition of four area churches is partnering with White Horse Inn to present Dr. Mike Horton and Dr. Gordon Isaac in "Putting Amazing Back Into Grace: Returning to the Roots of Treasuring Christ." Horton will lead three sessions taking up the root, rejection and recovery of the Gospel. Isaac will take participants on a journey though a survey of New England church history. Local pastors will join Horton and Isaac for a panel discussion. Registration is $25. Children 17 and under are admitted free. For more information or register visit www.fccbradford.org or www.whitehorseinn.org/amazing or call 978-912-0682.

Weekly prayer group: First Presbyterian Church, Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Signup sheet posted in church. 346 Broadway, Haverhill.

Merrimac Valley Mission School opening: The new Merrimack Valley Mission School provides Christ-centered, Bible-based, practical and affordable teachings and consists a joint ministry of three churches: the Market Street Baptist Church (MSBC), 37 Market St., Amesbury, the Ward Hill Church of Christ (WHC), 34 M St., Haverhill and the West Newbury Congregational Church (WNCC), 308 Main St.,West Newbury. The program consists of 12 four-week sessions of full-time study. Thirty-six courses are offered over a three-year period and new students may enroll at any stage in that time. Registration Fee is $30 per course, $75 for three. Make check payable to Merrimack Valley School of Missions and mail to: Merrimack Valley School of Missions, c/o MSBC 37 Market St., Amesbury, MA 01913. Contact Pastor, Michael John at 978-388-0930 for more information or mejohn@verizon.net.

FAMILIES AND KIDS

Fall craft and book: Family and Community Connection will host a craft and reading of the book "Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf" on Friday, Sept. 30. The book and the colors and changes of autumn will inspire a special fall craft. Select 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Free, but registration is required. Please call 978-374-2198 for more information.

Hill View Yard Sale: The Hill View Montessori Charter Public School will host a yard sale on Oct. 1, in the school's gym at 75 Foundation Avenue from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Come visit and browse an eclectic collection of items in our school's gym. There will be something for everyone; munchies, surprises, and bargains galore! All are welcome as this is a family oriented event. Free admission and open rain or shine!

Craft fair: Sacred Hearts School will hold a Fall Festival & Craft Fair Sept. 30 from 4 to 8 p.m. and Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event will feature local crafters and merchants, themed raffle baskets, gently used books, jewelry, children's activities and more. The school is at 31 South Chestnut St. in Bradford. For more information call 978-372-5451.

Community fair: Merrimack Valley Hospital and Trinity Ambulance are hosting a community fair and open house on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Merrimack Valley Hospital. This year's theme is "Fall into Health, Fitness, and Fun." Participants will enjoy a complimentary barbeque lunch, fitness demonstrations, music, shopping, and children's activities. In addition, the Haverhill Kiwanis Club will be giving out free b icycle helmets while supplies last. A showing of exotic and unique creatures will be presented by Curious Creatures from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. This event is held rain or shine and is free and open to the public. Interested vendors or anyone needing more information about the event are welcome to call Mary O'Neil at 978-420-1157.

Crafts fair and garage sale: Family and Community Connection will host a garage sale and craft fair of local artisans on Oct. 1 at 346 Broadway in Haverhill from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds will benefit FCC programming. Tables/spaces are available for your crafts or garage sale items. Space (without table): $10. Space (with table) $15.

Fire Department open house: The Haverhill Fire Department will host a free open house on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 11 to 3 p.m. at the Water Street Fire Station, 131 Water Street. Part of the HFD's celebration of National Fire Safety Month, firefighters will show your family life saving techniques including "stop, drop and roll", how to plan escape routes and proper fire escape maneuvers. Papa Gino's will also provide free pizza and children's coloring books throughout the afternoon.

Student Art Exhibit: The Kneeland Studio of Fine Arts will hold its Autumn 2011 Student Art Exhibit, "Another View," Oct. 4 through 14 at Buttonwoods Museum, 240 Water St. The show is free and open to the public. Days and hours are Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. An opening reception is Oct. 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. and includes wine and light refreshments. For more information contact the Buttonwoods at 978-374-4626 or info@haverhillhistory.org. Visit online at haverhillhistory.org.

YMCA youth basketball: The Haverhill YMCA offers a co-ed Youth Basketball League for youths entering grades 1 to 8. This league is all fun and play and will consist of 10 weeks. Grades 3 to 8 will also have a weekly practice. Team T-shirts are included. Players are selected through a blind draft and divisions will include two grades. Volunteer coaches are needed. Registration ends Oct. 21. Players who register after Oct. 21 will be placed on a wait list. Games begin Nov. 5. Mandatory assessments are as follows: Grade 3, Oct. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m.; Grade 4, Oct. 18 from 7 to 9 p.m.; Grade 5, Oct. 19 from 7 to 9 p.m.; Grade 6, Oct. 20 from 7 to 9 p.m.; Grades 7 and 8, Oct. 23 from 9 to 11 a.m. Catch all is Oct. 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information contact Clint Clay at 978-374-0506 or clayc@northshoreymca.org.

Haverhill afternoon playgroup: Family and Community Connection hosts a playgroup for children 0 to 8, where they will enjoy free play, art and gross motor activities. The playgroup is at 346 Broadway in Haverhill and will be each Wednesday through Nov. 2 from noon to 1:30 p.m. FCC staff will set up activities to encourage children's exploration. Parents are expected to stay in the room to supervise their children, but are encouraged to mingle with other parents. Free, but registration is required. Please call 978-374-2198 for more information.

YMCA Pee Wee soccer: The Haverhill YMCA offers a non-competitive co-ed Pee Wee Soccer League that will introduce children ages three through kindergarten to the game of soccer through exercise, drills and simulated games led by volunteer coaches. Teams will gather on Saturdays for approximately 30 minutes of practice followed by 20 minutes of simulated games. The season will last eight weeks with games starting Nov. 12. For more information contact Clint Clay at 978-374-0506 or clayc@northshoreymca.org.

Sign language: Northern Essex Community College provides sign language instruction for families with a deaf or hard-of-hearing child. Information, contact Glenys Crane-Emerson, Family Sign Language Program coordinator, at fslp@necc.mass.edu, 978-556-3701 (voice/tty), 978-556-3703 (fax), and 978-241-7057 (VP/VRS).

YMCA preschool program: The YMCA Children's Learning Center is enrolling for the Preschool Program. Curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning in a classroom setting, along with self directed activities that promote decision making and overall preparedness for Kindergarten. Contact Julie Grundy at 978-912-7422 or grundyj@northshoreymca.org for more information.

Rock climbing: Designed for all levels. Certified instructors teach children learn about climbing equipment, techniques. All equipment provided by the YMCA. Group classes, private and semi-private lessons available. Call Matt C. at 978-479-2738 or chmielewskim@northshoreymca.org.

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

Glow Golf Tournament: Rebuilding Together Greater Haverhill Inc. will hold its annual Glow Golf Tournament Sept. 30 at Murphy's Garrison Golf Center, 654 Hilldale Ave., Haverhill. Registration and cookout is at 5:30 p.m. Play begins at dusk. Cost is $50 per golfer (groups of five) and includes nine holes of golf, a cookout, raffle and auction items. Space is limited, so please register early either individually or as a group. Tee and green sponsorships are available for $50. Donations for the raffle/auction are welcome. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Rebuilding Together Greater Haverhill Inc., which is dedicated to preserving and revitalizing low-income houses and communities. For more information call 978-469-0800.

Jewelry show: Shining Tiara Jewelry Show on Friday, Sept. 30, 10:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. in Merrimack Valley Hospital's first-floor lobby. Proceeds benefit the Employee Activities Committee which plans activities for employees and supports local charities. Merrimack Valley Hospital is located at 140 Lincoln Ave. in Haverhill. Information, Jude at (978) 374-2000.

Spotlight Playhouse presents Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap: Join the deadly fun of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" as performed by Haverhill's own Spotlight Playhouse. Performances will be held at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 26 White St., on Oct. 1 at 8 p.m. A special 2 p.m. Matinee showing will be held on Oct. 2. Tickets are $15, $12 for seniors. To order, email tickets@spotlightplayhouse.org or call 978-380-8509. Visit spotlightplayhouse.org for more information.

Greek festival: The Holy Apostles Church at 156 Winter St., Haverhill, will hold its annual three day festival from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. The hours are Friday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission and parking are free. The festival is a yearly tradition and features exceptional homemade food and pastries as well as Greek music and dancing. DJ Kosta performs Friday evening and Orpheus performs on Saturday starting at 8 p.m. A presentation by Curious Creatures is Saturday at 2 p.m. There will be raffles for cash prizes of $3,000, $1,000, $500 as well as for an iPad2. There will be many more items in the annual Pic n' Choose, including toys, electronics, home goods and more. For more information call the church at 978-373-3311 or visit www.holyapostleshaverhill.org.

Program for older learners: Getting Friendly with Fungi, Five Fun Films, Sacred Geometry, and Aging Gracefully are just a few of the topics offered this fall by Northern Essex Community College's newest Life Long Learning Program, titled College of Older Learners (CoOL). The membership fee is $25 for the 2011 fall semester. Each six-week, two-hour per week seminar is $10. The CoOL seminars begin the first week in October and will be held on the Haverhill campus. For more information or to register for CoOL seminars contact Charlene Boucher at 978-556-3825 of cboucher@necc.mass.edu. Visit online at www.necc.mass.edu/community-engagement/cool.

HHS Fun Golf Tourney: The Haverhill High School Hockey Club will hold its second annual Fun Golf Tournament Saturday, Oct. 1, at Garrison Golf Course in Haverhill. Two flights (start times) are at noon and 3 p.m. Participation is open to two men/women teams, four to a hole. Please request your preferred time. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served in between the two flights. Only the first 80 people to sign up will play. Features team prizes, raffles and closest-to-the-pin contests. The club is also looking for sponsors and new members. Cost to play is $60 per person, and $50 for students and HHS Hockey Club members. Hockey Club memberships, $50 for an individual and $100 for a family, are also available and are good for all home games. Tournament sponsorships are $50. For more infomation contact Steve Franklin at 978-501-0367 or Steve031959@msn.com.

Trip to the Big E: Join the Haverhill Recreation Department and Haverhill Council on Aging for a trip to the Big E Eastern States Exposition in Springfield on Saturday, Oct. 1, at 8: AM. This trip provides an opportunity to spend the day with the children and grandchildren and experience an old-fashioned country fair. Cost is $35 per person and all ages are welcome. The trip leaves from 500 Primrose St. For more extension please contact Kathy Bresnahan 978-374-2390 ext. 11.

Preparing the artist for market: If you're a working artist of any kind, or want to be, join Creative Haverhill for a free, one-time seminar on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at 90 Washington St. You'll learn from experts in the field who want you to succeed as your own cottage industry. Pre-registration is required. For more information call David at 978-374-2388, ext 31.

Haverhill High reunion: The Haverhill High Trade School Class of 1949s 62nd Reunion Lucheon will be held at the Black Swan Country Club in Georgetown on Oct. 1 at 11:30 a.m. The Class of 49's Fund at the Haverhill Public Library has received contributions from classmates living locally, in various states throughout the contry and in Europe. Anyone needing reservations or information regarding the luncheon may call Jeannette Allard Sauriol at 978-372-9240 or e-mail her at EJSauriol@aol.com.

Social media courses: Find out how to use social media tools in your business through three new noncredit courses being offered this fall through Northern Essex Community College's Work Force Development and Community Education Division at the Riverwalk, 360 Merrimack St., Lawrence. Social Networking 101 for Business, a one-day workshop, is Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The cost is $95. Marketing Your Business Using Social Media meets Thursdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m., Oct. 13 through Nov. 3. The cost is $189. Successful Public Relations Strategies for the Small Business meets Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 15 and 22. The cost is $189. To register, call 978-556-3700. For questions or company paid registrations call 978-659-1200.

Pumpkin festival: Chris's Farm Stand at Silsby's Farm, 436 Salem St., will hold its annual Pumpkin Festival every weekend in October from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Fresh vegetables and fall decorations such as dried corn stalks and straw bales will be available for purchase. Activites, for a small fee, include hay rides, pony rides, a hay castle, sunflower maze and a "pick your own" pumpkin patch. There will be free farm animal and tractor displays, and a free haunted house for toddlers as well as fall photo opportunities. A country cookout features hot dogs, hamburgers, locally grown corn on the cob and locally grown apples. A variety of baked items will be for sale. For more information visit www.chrisfarmstand.com.

Topsfield Fair trip: The Council on Aging is offering a trip to Topsfield Fair on Saturday, Oct. 1. The bus will depart from the Citizens Center, 10 Welcome St., at 9:30 a.m. and will return at approximately 3:30 p.m. Tickets, $5 per person, include transportation and admission.

Pines Speedway Reunion: The Groveland Historical Society will be holding the 9th Annual Pines Speedway Reunion on October 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the site of the original quarter mile track on Rte. 113, next to Groveland Town Hall at 183 Main Street. This years honorees will be Billy Murphy, Red LaRoache, Buzzy Besanson, Bob Devaney, and Bob Cloutier. Admission is free and the event will be held rain or shine. See dozens of beautifully restored midgets, jalopies, stock cars, class A cut-downs and supermodified race cars will again be on display for everyone to enjoy.Tables for collector, novelty and swap items are available for rent for $25.00. Fans are welcome to be part of the many displays for racing memorabilia by bringing along scrapbooks, souvenirs, photos and jackets. Refreshments will be provided by The Groveland Congregational church. Additional information is available by calling 1-978-420-5030 or e-mailing oldrustyracer@aol.com.

Car show: The sons of Amvets Post 147 of Haverhill will host a car show on Sunday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot at Post Quarters, 576 Primrose St. Admission is free. The event includes food, door prizes, raffles and games. Free coffee, cocoa and flags while they last. Proceeds benefit veterans charities. For more information contact Patrick Dean, the commander of Sons of Amvets, at 978-771-5455.

Whittier reunion: Whittier Regional Technical High School invites all retired teachers and employees to a reunion at The Roma Restaurant in Bradford on Oct. 3. For info and reservations call Philip McCaughey at 978-372-9236 or George Manghis at 321-720-3673.

Entrepreneurial training program: An entrepreneurial training program is being offered this fall through Northern Essex Community College's Workforce Development and Community Education Program at the Riverwalk, 360 Merrimack St., Lawrence. The 20-week, noncredit program is taught by experienced instructor and business consultant Paul Jermain of Jermain and Company begins Tuesday, Oct. 4. This program helps individuals think through a business, create a solid business plan, and learn the skills and knowledge to confidently and successfully implement the plan. This certificate program consists of 10 weeks of classroom training, guest speakers/subject matter experts, and consulting; one week of business plan presentations, plus nine weeks of independent work and one-on-one consulting. For more information please contact Dianne Lahaye at 978-659-1222 or dlahaye@necc.mass.edu or Diane Zold-Gross at 978659-1221 or dzoldgross@necc.mass.edu.

Writers course: If you ever thought about becoming a writer or improving upon your existing writing skills then consider attending a new noncredit program, through Northern Essex Community College's Workforce Development and Community Education division, titled So You Want to be a Writer? Taught by Jill Harmacinski, an experienced writer, blogger and Eagle Tribune reporter, this four-week workshop will be held Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 6 through Oct. 27 at the Riverwalk, 360 Merrimack St., Lawrence. The cost is $149 and $10 for materials. This lively workshop explores what professional writing opportunities are available in today's economy, different writing styles, the influence of new social media tools on writing, and a look at different writers and how they inspire your work. There will be visits and tips from published authors, reporters, and bloggers. They will share their own experiences. To register, call 978-556-3700. For questions or company paid registrations call 978-659-1200.

25th annual Bobby Bell Road Race: The 25th Annual Bobby Bell 5-Mile Road Race/Walk will be taking place on Sunday, Oct. 9. The walk will start at 10:30 at the Lasting Room Grille on Washington St. There will be numerous awards in various age, weight, and specialty categories. The race will benefit two local scholarships, the Haverhill Police Auxiliaries, Haverhill Brightside, and the Andover Striders. Contact David LaBrode at 978-373-3408 or ickylabrode@verizon.net for more information.

Craft Fair: Merrimack Valley Hospital's Employee Activities Committee needs crafters for its Oct. 12 craft fair - which will be held on the first-floor of the hospital from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fee for tables is $25 with a two table limit. For more information or to reserve tables call Dianne at 603-382-6223 or email LadyDi8560@comcast.net. Merrimack Valley Hospital is at 140 Lincoln Ave. in Haverhill.

Health Workshop: A free six-week workshop titled "My Life, My Health" will be held on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m., Oct. 14 to Nov. 8 in the boardroom at Penacook Place, 150 Water St. Presented by Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley Inc., this workshop includes lessons in eating well, controlling pain, starting an exercise program and dealing with fatigue and frustration, and is for anyone living with an ongoing medical condition, such as chronic heart failure, cancer, fibromyalgia, Parkinson's Disease, diabetes, COPD, asthma and stroke. A complimentary lunch will be served. Reservations are required by calling Nicole at 978-946-1247.

Black Cat Benefit Bash: This Animal Rescue Merrimack Valley will host it's annual Black Cat

Benefit Bash on October 14, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Nevins Memorial Library, 305 Broadway in Methuen. Formal, casual, or costumed attire is appropriate. Cat or dog hair on your clothing? No problem! You'll be among friends! Proceeds from the evening will help ARMV purchase food, provide medical care, and fund sterilization clinics for the many feral, stray, and foster cats in its care. Expect live music, food and a silent auction. Tickets for this event are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Reserve by calling: 978-374-7233 or send an email to armv@armv.org.

Chili Cook-off: The Haverhill Firefighting Museum will host its 5th annual chili cook-off on Saturday evening, October 15, 2011 from 6-9 PM at 75 Kenoza Ave. Attendees will taste and judge a variety of chilis prepared by local individuals, restaurants and firehouses. There will also be a silent auction of items donated by local individuals and businesses. $10/adult, $5/children under 12. For entry info contact: Cindy Graham 978-521-9602 ceegee4@hotmail.com or Janet Blinn 603-382-5378 jeblin33@comcast.net

Artist displays wood sculptures in NECC's ArtSpace: The works of Sachiko Akiyama, a Boston-based sculptor who works primarily with wood, will be displayed in Northern Essex Community College's ArtSpace in the Bentley Library on the Haverhill campus, 100 Elliott St., through Oct. 19. An artist gallery talk and reception featuring Akiyama will be held in the ArtSpace on Sept. 30 at 1 p.m. The ArtSpace is open Monday through Thursday from 2 to 9 p.m.; Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. NECC offers Associate of Art degrees in illustration, visual arts, multimedia and graphic design. For more information contact ArtSpace program coordinator Marc Mannheimer at mmannheimer@necc.mass.edu or 978-556-3242.

Scarecrow Contest: The Haverhill Garden Club invites you to get creative and take part in its second annual community Scarecrow Contest. For a tax-deductible entry fee of $10, the Garden Club will supply you with a wooden frame to use as the skeleton for your scarecrow. You can modify the frame any way you wish. The contest offers three, first-place prizes of $100 in the categories of school, residential and business/civic group. Entries in the residential category must be outside and visible to judges. Businesses, civic groups and school entries can be indoors or outdoors, but must be visible during working/operating hours. Deadline to enter the contest is Oct. 21. Winners will be announced by Oct. 31. Last year's contest saw a total of 120 entries.The Haverhill Garden Club is a member of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts Inc. To enter the contest send a check made payable to the Haverhill Garden Club, 61 Lincolnshire Drive, Bradford, MA 01835. For more information call 978-697-5101. Visit online at haverhillgardenclub.org.

Bean Supper: The VFW Ladies Auxiliary will host a bean supper Oct. 22 from 5 to 7 p.m. at VFW Lorraine Post 29, 64 Kenoza Ave., Haverhill. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children.

New Moon Coffeehouse concert series: The New Moon Coffeehouse will host monthly concerts from Sept. 17 through May 21. Tickets are $20. For more information check out newmooncoffeehouse.org.

Business Course: Photographers, graphic designers, artists, or craft persons interested in starting or expanding an existing business are being offered a course From Artist to Entrepreneur, offered through Northern Essex Community College's Workforce Development and Community Education division. This six-week program will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. beginning Oct. 27 through Dec. 8 (no class Nov. 24) at NECC Riverwalk, 360 Merrimack St., Lawrence. The cost is $285 with a $28 materials fee.

Taught by Jodi Sammons Feil, a professional photographer, graphic designer, and owner of Rhapsody Studios with more than 20 years of experience, she will examine critical elements to start or expand a business. This will include looking at marketing and sales strategies, budgeting and financial recordkeeping, and the unique challenges in determining fair market prices.

Business assistance: Service Corps of Retired Executives 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 in the Landmark Building, 80 Merrimack St., second floor. Appointments can be booked by calling the Chamber at 978-373-5663.

Garden of the Month program seeks nominations: The Haverhill Garden Club's Garden of the Month committee is accepting nominations of gardens that may be unique, eye appealing and display the use of texture, color and variety. If you would like to nominate the garden of a friend, relative, neighbor or even your own garden call Catherine at 978-374-4394. The Haverhill Garden Club is a member of the National Federation of Garden Clubs.

NECC seeks nominations for those who are Making a Difference: The college is accepting nominations for their Making a Difference awards which honor the many individuals that have made a powerful and positive difference to Northern Essex, its students, and to the surrounding communities over the last 50 years. Nominees can include graduates of the college who have achieved personal and professional success and/or given back to the college or community; faculty or staff who have demonstrated exemplary performance as instructors, mentors, or leaders; or community friends who have shown a strong commitment to helping fulfill the mission of the college. The 50 top nominees will be recognized at the college's 50th anniversary gala which is scheduled for Friday, April 27, 2012 at DiBurro's in Ward Hill. The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, Nov. 1. A committee comprised of college faculty and staff will review nominations and select the award recipients. To learn more about the Making a Difference Awards or access a nomination form, visit the college's 50th anniversary website at http://www.necc.mass.edu/celebrating-50-years-of-making-a-difference/. For more information, contact Wendy Shaffer at the college, wshaffer@necc.mass.edu or 978 556-3858.

GIVE, GET HELP

Call for crafters: Merrimack Valley Hospital's Employee Activities Committee needs crafters for its Oct. 12 craft fair, which will be held on the first-floor of the hospital from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fee for tables is $25 with a two table limit. For more information or to reserve tables call Dianne at 603-382-6223 or email LadyDi8560@comcast.net. Merrimack Valley Hospital is at 140 Lincoln Ave. in Haverhill.

Help homeless children: Horizons for Homeless Children seeks energetic and enthusiastic volunteers to play with children living in family homeless shelters in Northeastern Massachusetts, including Haverhill. Those with two hours a week to spare and a desire to make a difference in the lives children are encouraged to fill out an application. Attendance at a training session and six-month commitment are required. Contact Brittany Pyle at 978-557-2182 or northeast@horizonsforhomelesschildren.org.

Animal Rescue: Animal Rescue Merrimack Valley needs volunteers. There are many volunteer opportunities available, including: become a foster home for cats and kittens awaiting adoption, assist at weekly adoption events, provide animal care at our Danville, N.H., sanctuary, and transport sick and injured animals to the veterinarian. Experience is not required, and training will be provided. We are an all-volunteer, non-profit organization. For more information on all of our volunteer opportunities or to find out ways you can help, please email us at armv@armv.org or visit us online at www.ARMV.org.

Collections: Several local agencies and organizations are collecting new and used videos, books, CDs, DVDs and audio books using "Got Books?" containers, including: The First Church of Christ Bradford, 10 Church St., Bradford; Haverhill High School, 137 Monument St., Haverhill; Hill View Montessori School, 75 Foundation Ave. (in the Ward Hill Industrial Park); Haverhill YMCA, 81 Winter St.

Salvation Army offers youth programs: The Salvation Army in Haverhill is accepting applications for youth programs that are open to children ages 4 to 18. A Monday music program, for ages 7 to 18, includes free lessons in music theory, brass music instruction, drums, guitar, piano, sacred dance, puppetry, drama, children's choir and timbrels. Tuesday is youth programs night and this fall the focus will be on character building skills, sketching, bicycle safety and going green. Dinner will be served to each participant of this free program. Friday night youth basketball is recruiting players for a travel team. The cost is $15. The Salvation Army is looking for eight sponsors at $200 each to help pay for team shirts and travel expenses. Limited transportation is available for those in need. Parents and interested sponsors are asked to stop by the Salvation Army at 395 Main St., or call 978-374-7571.

Haverhill Salvation Army Seeks Volunteers: The Salvation Army in Haverhill is looking for few volunteers in the following areas: Writer/Correspondent: in writing and covering stories of happenings at The Haverhill Salvation Army in Haverhill; Piano: player for Monday and Tuesday and Sunday one hour each day. Chef: to cook and serve meals on Tuesday night for children; Driver: to transport youth to and from activities on Monday, Tuesday and Friday must know how to drive a 12 passenger van; Grant writer/ Fund raiser: for Youth programs to raise money for the purpose to keep programs free to the community. We are looking for people who have a passion to serve others and use their talent to teach others! Will you help put a smile on a child's face? Will you help build, teach our future children of Haverhill? For more information contact The Salvation Army at 978-374-7571 or stop by 395 Main St., Haverhill, MA 01830.

Volunteer tutors needed: The Salvation Army in Haverhill is looking for volunteers to help children develop their talents in varioius areas, including sacred dance, piano, drums, guitar, brass instruments, drawing, acting and puppetry. Volunteers are also needed for an after school program. Last year, As man as 200 children are expected to sign up for programs offered this fall. If you can spare one hour of you time a week to help a child learn please contact the Salvation Army at 978-374-7571.

Library seeks museum pass sponsors: The public library is seeking sponsors for passes to the Children's Museum-Boston ($700), the Museum of Science ($600), and Imajine That! ($275). All gifts marked "museums" — no matter how small — will go toward these memberships, which are renewed annually. Museum passes may be checked out on your library card. Current memberships include: the Museum of Fine Arts, Franklin Park Zoo and the Stone Zoo, John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Currier Museum of Art (NH), the Children's Museum, the Discovery Museums, Children's Museum of N.H., the Institute of Contemporary Art, Massachusetts Parks, USS Constitution Museum, and the New England Aquarium (September to June). Your support of this program is very important to your community, providing a low-cost entertaining and educational outing. Checks may be made payable to the Haverhill Public Library, a nonprofit organization. For more information contact Jennifer Lyons at 978-373-1586, ext. 617.

Tag Days: The officers and members of the Amvets Ladies Auxiliary say the generosity of people in Haverhill helped make their recent Tag Days fundraiser a success. Proceeds will help support a variety of projects, including the Auxiliary's "Adopt a Platoon" program, which provides active members of the military with personal items, the Auxiliary's Bingo and refreshment parties at local nursing homes, veterans hospitals and coffee hours at the Bedford VA and donations to two annual scholarships at Haverhill High School. The Auxiliary meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Post Quarters, 576 Primrose St.

PLACES TO VISIT

Haverhill Public Library, 99 Main St.: 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 haverhillpl.org.

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, 305 Whittier Road: 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.

Buttonwoods Museum/Haverhill Historical Society, John Ward Avenue: 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.

PEOPLE OF NOTE