Town Events, Nov. 24 - Dec. 1 - The Reminder

Town Events, Nov. 24 - Dec. 1

From The Reminder

EAST LONGMEADOW
30th YEAR REUNION
The East Longmeadow High School Class of 1978 30th year reunion will take place on Nov. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pizza Shoppe. Casual gathering, $10 at the door for pizza. RSVP to Carla Moses at cmb519@yahoo.com.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
St. Michael's K of C #9960 and St. Michael's Family Life Committee welcome you to join them at their fifth annual breakfast with Santa, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the St. Michael's Community Center, Somers Road. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, fruit cup, hot chocolate, coffe and juice. Tickets will be available at the door; adults, $5, children 5 - 12, $3, children 4 and under, free. Pictures with Santa and arts and crafts will be available. Bring in a letter to Santa (make sure to include name and address!). Non-perishable food items will also be accepted for the Open Pantry.

REC. DEPT. PROGRAMS
Youth wrestling begins Nov. 25. Winter cheerleading begins Jan. 6. H.S. rec. basketball for grades 9 - 12 deadline to register Dec. 9; no tryouts. Women's aerobics currently open. Wildlife Series begins Nov. 29 at E.L. Library, 1 - 2:30 p.m.; free admission. Call Rec. Office at 525-5437 for more details.

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CLUB
The East Longmeadow Senior Friendship Club will welcome December when they return after the Thanksgiving holiday by hosting Gary Landgren's Honky Tonk on Dec. 4 at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main St. This entertaining program is being sponsored by Peoples Bank. Call 525-5436 at least one day in advance for lunch reservations.

BAKE SALE
Wilbraham Brownie Troop #140 will be holding a bake sale Dec. 6 at Graziano Gardens located at 280 elm street in East Longmadow. All proceeds from the sale will be sused to purchase gifts for the Giving Tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus available for pictures from 1-3 p.m.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
Make your reservations now for our Holiday Luncheon, scheduled for Dec. 10 at noon at the Pleasant View Senior Center. Luncheon will be pot roast with all the fixings. Join us for fun entertainment and special holiday surprises! Call 525-5436; cost is $3.

HOLIDAY EARRING JEWELRY CLASS
Sandy Merrill will be at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main St., on Dec. 1 to conduct a special holiday earring jewelry class. Instruction is $3, materials for four pair of earrings would cost approx. $10. Class size limited, sign-up in the Senior Center office to reserve your spot.

OVERNIGHT TRIP SCHEDULED
Join us for an escorted motor coach trip, March 1 - 2, 2009, beginning with a day at the Philadelphia Flower Show, then an overnight stay at the Tropicana Resort & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Dinner vouchers and show tickets included. A $50 deposit is required by Dec. 1. Call the Senior Center at 525-5436 for additional info or stop by to pick up a flyer with all the details.

MEDICARE PRESENTATION OFFERED
On Dec. 16 at 10 a.m., the Pleasant View Senior Center will host a presentation called, "Health Plan Options for People with Medicare." Offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, the presentation includes an explanation of Medicare, including the new Medicare drug benefit, and will also show how Medigap plans and Medicare Advantage plans work with Medicare. A question and answer session will follow. All are welcome regardless of insurance coverage.

CHRISTMAS PARTY
The First Congregational Church Women's Fellowship Christmas Party will take place Dec. 8 at noon at the Brownstone Gardens community room. Menu order is pot luck of your choice. A $5 gift exchange will take place and an Open Pantry donation (to be left at the church) if possible is suggested.

GREATER SPRINGFIELD
ACTIVE SINGLES
Active Singles is sponsoring a singles hike on Dec. 7 at 9:30 a.m. Arrive at 9 a.m. The hike takes place at West Peak and Castle Craig in Meriden, Conn. Note: no kids or dogs on the hike. We hike in four skill levels for two hours each and then have an optional buffet lunch. Non-hikers are welcome to join us for the brunch. Call Charlie to RSVP at (203) 271-2125.

SUCCESSFUL AGING
Dec. 8, 7 - 8:30 p.m. If your favorite lament is "Look what's happening to me I'm getting old," then you need to come to this presentation. It's never too late to begin the process of successful aging. Dr. Benjamin Liptzin will address ways you can stimulate your mind and body to forestall the aging process. Learn good habits that will prepare you for the future. This event is free and open to the public, and will be taking place at the Springfield JCC. For more info, visit www.SpringfieldJcc.org or contact Bev Nadler, Director of the JCC's Adult Life Dept., at 739-4715 or bnadler@springfieldjcc.org.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GATHERING
The Welsh Society of Western New England will host its annual Christmas gathering at the Willits-Hallowell Conference Center of Mt. Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, on Dec. 6 at noon. Luncheon will be served at 12:30 p.m., followed by a performance from Jodee James. Cost is $25 for members, $28 for non-members, and $18 for children under 18. Reservations due by Dec. 3. For more info, contact Tom at 536-4290 or e-mail tomobear@verizon.net. Visit www.welshwne.org.

HAMPDEN
HOLIDAY BAZAAR
Federated Community Church is hosting its annual Holiday Bazaar on Dec. 6. Come join us for brunch with Santa from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., bake sale, crafts, etc. There will be a bake sale, lunch and plenty of items for holiday gifts. Crafters and vendors include crocheted scarfs, beaded jewelry, Wildtree Herbs, hand made greeting cards, aromatherapy hot/cold packs and much more. For more info on the event or avaliable booth space, contact Kristi at 374-8742 or e-mail mysticalamour@gmail.com.

LONGMEADOW
LONGMEADOW SKI SALE
The Ski and Snowboard Sale is "Better than the Internet." Dec. 5, 6 - 9 p.m. and Dec. 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Community House. New and used snowboards, new skis, boots, ski helmets, ski jackets and more. Be early many one of a kind. All limited quantities. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.

CLOSED
Town of Longmeadow administrative offices will be closed for business Nov. 27 and 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

CRAFT FAIR
The St. Mary Guild of Longmeadow will host its 28th annual craft fair on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the parish auditorium, 56 Hopkins Place. Fair will feature the crafts of over 50 of the area's finest artists as well as 20 huge raffle baskets, Kids Korner and bake sale. Coffee bar and lunch also available. Contact Alice at 567-3124 for more info.

HISTORICAL COMMISSION
The regular meeting of the Historical Commission will be Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Fire Station.

YOUTH WRESTLING
This program is designed to introduce wrestling to athletes at the youth level in grades 5 - 8. Participants will receive complimentary wrestling headgear. Participants must provide their own wrestling shoes and kneepads. Program meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., Dec. 9 - Feb. 26 at the LHS wrestling room. For more info and registration, visit www.LPRD.net.

CO-ED VOLLEYBALL
Pick up games are non-officiated, with teams calling their own violations. This fun, non-competitive atmosphere allows player to improve their skills. It is a great way to stay active and meet new people. Volleyball meets on Mondays at Glenbrook Middle School from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Visit www.LPRD.net for more info and registration.

WHAT IS CHAIR YOGA?
A unique and holistic form of gentle yoga, it is perfect for anyone who prefers a chair to a mat and promotes health and well-being that leads to increased flexibility, strength and improves physical and mental well-being. Beneficial for all of us, especially those with limited mobility resulting from arthritis, MS, osteoporosis, etc. Our instructor will also use light weights and resistance bands while seated to build muscle and bone mass. She will provide a free demo on Dec. 10 at 12:30 p.m. at the Adult Center. Notify us if you can attend at 565-4150.

BUILDING BUDDIES
On Dec. 11 from 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. kids in kindergarten - second grade are invited to Building Buddies, a creative book group, at the Storrs Library. The program consists of a story and discussion, a snack and a Lego activity. Children will design, build and display a Lego structure relating to the book that is read. Register by visiting the Philip Michael Lauro II Discovery Room or by calling 565-4182.

DIGITAL TV CONVERSION QUESTIONS
Do you have questions about the Digital Television Transition? Will your television be ready on Feb. 17 when the transition takes place? Find the answer to these and other questions you may have when a representative from the FCC visits the Longmeadow Adult Center on Dec. 1 at 1 p.m., 231 Maple Rd. He will cover the important topics on the television conversion including, what is the digital TV transition, why the switch and what should I do to be ready. He will also answer any other questions you may have. Register for by calling 565-4150.

MEN'S BASKETBALL
Evening pick up games at Glenbrook Gym provide the opportunity for a great work out, competition and fun. Players must be out of high school to participate. Basketball meets on Thursdays from 8:30 - 10 p.m. at Glenbrook Middle School. Visit www.LPRD.net for more info and registration.

MEN'S VOLLEYBALL
This program offers a high level of play for advanced participants, with teams calling their own violations. Volleyball will meet on Wednesdays from 7:45 - 9:30 p.m. at Greenwood Children's Center. Visit www.LPRD.net for more info or registration.

SENIOR MEN'S VOLLEYBALL
Fun pick up games for men ages 50+. Players call their own violations. This program offers a great way to stay fit, with some players preparing for the Senior Olympics in June during this program. Program meets on Mondays from 7:45 - 9:15 p.m. at Greenwood Children's Center. Visit www.LPRD.net for more info and registration.

SPRINGFIELD
DR. "ROB" AT REEDS LANDING
On Dec. 9, Reeds Landing Retirement Community, 807 Wilbraham Rd., will host a presentation by Dr. "Rob" Robinson for an uplifting session on resilience and authentic happiness as we head into the holiday season. Dr. Robinson is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder and director of Family Care Counseling Associates of Wilbraham. The event will take place at 2 p.m. Call to make reservations at 782-1800.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
2008 Holiday Craft Fair at Immaculate Conception Church, 25 Parker St., will take place Nov. 29 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Open to the public. Featuring a great variety of crafts and products from local artists. Also homemade breads and pastries. Lunch will be available.

HOLY CROSS SOCIAL CLUB
The Holy Cross Social Club of Holy Cross Church will have its annual Christmas Party on Dec. 9 at the Elmcrest Country Club, Somers Road, East Longmeadow. Arrival time is noon with lunch being served at 12:30 p.m. Cost is $18. Meal choices are roast pork loin, stuffed chicken breast or baked scrod w/seasoned bread crumbs. For more info call 782-2211 or 782-5857. Deadline for reservations is Dec. 3. We will have a 50/50 raffle. Bring a $5 grab bag gift.

PIONEER VALLEY ADVOCATES FOR COMMUTER RAIL
Monthly meeting of supporters of the Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail line and other regional commuter rail initiatives. Dec. 17 from 7:30 - 9 p.m. at the East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow. For more info, call 636-6707 or visit www.SpringfieldRail.org.

PSYCHIC FAIR/MEDIUM'S DAY
Psychic Fair/Medium's Day/Bake Sale on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the First Spiritualist Church, 33 Bliss St. Fifteen minute private reading is $20. For info or to book readings in advance, call Denise at 519-9669.

CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
The Hungry Hill Center is planning a Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 9 at noon. A meal will be provided by Greater Springfield Senior Services. Tickets are $3 which includes the dinner, coffee/tea and door prizes. Bingo will be played following the dinner. Tickets must be purchased by Dec. 2.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT
St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral announces the 23rd annual Christmas Concert. The event will take place on Dec. 7 at 3:30 p.m. in the St. George Cathedral, Memorial Square. The Westfield State College Wind Symphony with the Westfield State Chorus and the Cancer Concert Grande Chorale will entertain the audience. All proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society. Donation: $10 adults; $5 college students with valid ID/children under 12.

CHURCH DINNER
The Church in the Acres, 1383 Wilbraham Rd., will offer church dinners the second Saturday of each month, with the next taking place Dec. 13. Enjoy our home cooked meals; soup/salad to dessert. Take outs welcomed. Served from 5 - 7 p.m. Adults: $7, children: $4.

TUESDAY MORNING MUSIC
On Dec. 2, Becky Rosendahl Isaacson, organ, Kirsten Hadden Lipkens, oboe, and the vocal trio of Devon Bakum, Judith Brown and Teri LaFleur will perform for the Tuesday Morning Music Concert at Trinity United Methodist Church, 361 Sumner Ave., at 10:30 a.m. This is a holiday concert and admission is free.

HOLY CROSS SCHOOL COAT DRIVE
Through Dec. 1, the second and eighth grade classes at Holy Cross School, located on Eddywood Street, will be collectiong used children's and adult coats as a community service project. Coats will be distributed to needy families by the Salvation Army. Drop off coats at the school office from 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., weekdays. Access through either Eddywood or Wheeler Street entrances.

HOST LARRY LIROT PRESENTATION
On Dec. 4 Reeds Landing Retirement Community, 807 Wilbraham Rd., will host a presentation by Larry Lirot, "Making Holiday Arrangements." Lirot, expert landscape consultant, continues his lecture series with instruction on creating beautiful eye-catching holiday arrangements. The event will take place at 2 p.m. Call to make reservations at 782-1800.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE
The Suburban Springfield Exchange Club will host their 23rd Annual Christmas Tree Sale at Heritage Park North Parking Lot on Route 83 in East Longmeadow, across from the Stop and Shop Plaza. Sale will take place the weekends of Dec. 6 - 7 and Dec. 13 - 14 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day and will take place no matter what the weather. All proceeds benefit our Child Abuse Prevention programs and other youth programs in the area. For directions or questions contact Denni or Steve at 783-2446.

WINTER TEA
On Dec. 12 the Springfield College Club will host their winter tea at the Hilton Garden Inn, 800 West Columbus Ave., at 1:45 p.m. The Golden Blue Ribbon Singers will entertain will holiday songs. Prospective members are invited to attend.

BUS TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C.
There will be a bus trip and two night accomodations at Mount Vernon Hotel in Baltimore, Jan. 19 - 21. The bus will transport the group to Washington, D.C. for the Presidential Inauguration. Everything is included except the driver's tip. Each person is responsible to get tickets for the Inauguration. Bus will depart from Big Y parking lot on Boston Road at 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 19 and return at 5:30 p.m. on Jan 21. First come, first served. Space is limited. For payment and questions, contact Vera O'Connor at 783-9824.

BUS TRIPS
Gina Daniele presents bus trips for Christmas shopping in New York on Dec. 6 and Foxwoods Casino and Bingo on Dec. 13. Bus leaves Mom & Rico's, 899 Main St., at 7:30 a.m. both mornings. For more info, call Gina at 732-8941.

WILBRAHAM
CHORAL GROUP
The Wilbraham Women's Club Choral Group will begin its holiday program at the Wilbraham United Church on Main Street, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m. after an ecumenical service and brunch. Ruth Carlson conducts the chorus accompanied on the piano by Joyce Muldrew.

SHREK THE OGRE ON BROADWAY
The most beloved swamp-dwelling ogre of all times made his Broadway debut in "Shrek the Musical." The musical follows the adventures of Shrek, a lovable swamp-dwelling ogre; his wisecracking sidekick, Donkey; the lovely Princess Fiona; Lord Farquaad and a chorus of everybody's favorite fractured fairytale creatures. The Wilbraham Parks & Rec. Dept. has tickets for the Jan. 17 matinee performance. Visit www.wilbraham-ma.gov/rec or call 596-2816 for details. Tickets are limited; register now.

WILBRAHAM CHORAL SOCIETY
The Wilbraham Choral Society presents the Wilbraham Mixed Chorus 25th annual Winter Concert! Dec. 7 at Wilbraham & Monson Academy Chapel at 3 p.m. and Dec. 13 at Faith United Church, 52 Sumner Ave., Springfield, at 7 p.m.

WOW AND WONDERFUL
The Wilbraham Garden Club will meet Dec. 4 at St. Cecilia's Parish Center at 12:15 p.m. "Wow and Wonderful for Winter" is the topic for the meeting. Award winning designer and National Garden Club Accredited Judge Kymrie Zaslow will describe and demonstrate the fine points of traditional floral design. Basing her presentation on four design concepts, she plans to create eight arrangements for the holidays. There will be a drawing for the floral arrangements. The guest fee for this event is $5.

FAIR, BOUTIQUE AND LUNCHEON
The Grace Union Church of Wilbraham Fair and Christmas Boutique and Luncheon will take place on Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall at 10 Chapel St. Along with a raffle, there will be baked goods, Christmas items and crafts and more. All items are $10 or less. Lunch, served from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., will include chicken, stew, dessert and a beverage; $6 per person and $2 for children.