BMH Auxiliary presents talk on everyday chemical exposures, breast cancer
BRATTLEBORO - The Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will host Janet Gray, Ph.D. as a guest speaker on Thursday, May 14, in the parlor of Centre Congregational Church on Main Street.
Janet Gray, Ph.D., is director of the Vassar College Environmental Risks and Breast Cancer Project. She is also the lead author of the Breast Cancer Fund's “State of Evidence: The Connection Between Breast Cancer and the Environment” (2008; 2010) and many related articles.
In the past decade, Dr. Gray has become increasingly interested in learning and teaching about the intersection of environmental and women's health issues, focusing on environmental risks and breast cancer.
Her work is centered around the growing body of scientific evidence linking synthetic chemicals often found in modern consumer products that mimic the action of estrogens and are known as endocrine-disrupting compounds, or EDCs. Dr. Gray's laboratory research has focused on the effects of estrogens and mixed antiestrogens, especially tamoxifen, on brain activity and behavior.
The BMH Auxiliary invites you to join this public conversation on these complex issues of interest to women of all ages.
This event, which runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., includes hearty appetizers and a cash bar. Reserve your place for $20 by calling 802-257-0688.
Vernon voters to discuss budget issues
VERNON - The Vernon Voters' Alliance, a Vernon citizen's group, will meet on Thursday, May 14, at 6:30 p.m., downstairs in the Vernon Town Office Building.
Mike Collier, Vernon's Union School Director, has been invited to share information and discuss school district issues; particularly how voters can participate in the school district budget development process. All are welcome to attend.
Next WBA meeting scheduled for May 14
WEST BRATTLEBORO - The next monthly meeting of the West Brattleboro Association (WBA) will be held at the New England House on Thursday, May 14, at 6 p.m. After a review of the treasury, the group will finalize details for their successful annual Chicken Barbecue, this year on Saturday, May 23. They will also discuss having a joint mixer in July with the Brattleboro Chamber of Commerce again this year.
In addition, the WBA will tackle organization issues such as next steps toward making the group officially nonprofit, along with having enough people to take on all the group's tasks.
The WBA has been looking into various West Brattleboro beautification projects for their village, such as plantings and historic markers. They will discuss whether to have a forum about Neighborhood Watch programs and whether to hold another economic development gathering much like one earlier this year, but with a focus on service businesses.
The next regular monthly meeting is slated for Thursday, June 11. Check out the group's website at www.westbrattleboro.org or join us at our meetings. They're open to all residents and business owners.
BF Farmers' Market opens for the season
BELLOWS FALLS - The Bellows Falls Farmers' Market is getting ready to open for its 11th season on Friday, May 15, from 4 to 7 p.m.
This year, the market will be on Canal Street, right in downtown Bellows Falls. The market focuses on supporting local farmers and producers while making top quality food accessible to all members of the community.
On opening day, listen to some great live music, then stay for children's story hour, from 5 to 6 p.m., with the Rockingham Free Public Library youth librarian, Sam Maskell, and her wonderful selection of children's books. Make sure to bring your library card, as she will have books for you to borrow.
Master Gardeners will also be there with helpful garden tips to get you growing this year. There are numerous programs with market tokens for buying fresh fruit and veggies.
Rummage sale benefits community center
WEST DUMMERSTON - There will be a rummage/tag sale on Friday, May 15, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Dummerston Community Center, located on West Street in West Dummerston.
Items for sale include books, toys, games, kitchenware, clothing, footwear and miscellaneous items. The sale will benefit the center's operating and maintenance costs.
The center is handicapped accessible. For information, call 802-254-9212 or 802-254-2415.
Rise of Islamic State to be discussed in Newfane
NEWFANE - Join Javed Chaudhri for a presentation and discussion on “The Rise (and Fall) of ISIS” on Friday, May 15, at 7 p.m., at the Newfane Church.
Chaudhri will discuss the origin and motivations of ISIS and the possible outcome of its efforts to become a dominant force in Islam. ISIS, also called the Islamic State, has taken control of large portions of Iraq and Syria over the last year. They are imposing an extreme version of Islam, with brutal repression of minorities, torture and beheadings of Americans and other captives, and widespread terrorist activities.
Chaudhri was born in Pakistan, attended Marlboro College, and has taught at Community College of Vermont, Johnson State College, and Keene State College. He is a founding member of the Brattleboro Interfaith Initiative, has been a lay member of the Interfaith clergies in Brattleboro and Greenfield, Mass., and serves on the Board of the Windham World Affairs Council. He has lectured widely on current affairs, religions, and politics.
Refreshments will follow the talk. For more information, contact David Roberts at david.roberts29@gmail.com, or 802-348-4356.
BOC hosts annual canoe and kayak sale, swap
BRATTLEBORO - The Brattleboro Outing Club (BOC) announces its annual Canoe & Kayak Consignment Sale & Swap on Saturday, May 16, at 464 Putney Rd. (former site of Curves, near the Marina Restaurant).
This yearly event helps to make the BOC's Summer Paddling Program free and open to the public.
Boats may be dropped off on Friday, May 15, from 5 to 7 p.m., or Saturday morning, May 16, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. The event is open to canoes, kayaks, SUPs, rowing shells, rowboats, small sailboats and related accessories. No motors or motorboats. Owners are asked to bring trailered boats Saturday morning only, due to security issues. Boats may also be donated to BOC.
From 11:30 a.m. to noon, owners wanting to swap, have the floor, and each owner is asked to make a donation to the BOC upon completion of a successful swap. The sale is from noon to 2 p.m. They go fast, so if you really want a boat, be there at noon.
The club's share of the final sale price is 10 percent. Owners set the price. For the first hour, boats are sold at the price shown. Things heat up during the second hour. Some owners give the staff a “no less than” price that allows for some wild negotiations.
If a boat is marked “OBO,” hang around for the second hour, and make an offer. Many boats need new homes, and the owners don't want them back; there are often some very good deals. Unsold boats need to be picked up by 3 p.m.; owners will be notified if their boat doesn't sell. For more information, or to arrange a more convenient time for drop-off, call 802-254-3666, or email Lmacyak@gmail.com.
AIDS Project invites public to Walk for Life on May 16
BRATTLEBORO - The AIDS Project of Southern Vermont is inviting the public to help raise money and awareness May 16 at its 28th annual Walk for Life.
The event, set for 10 a.m. to noon, at the River Garden on Main Street, will spotlight community efforts not only to support local people living with HIV/AIDS but also to reduce the risk of transmission to others.
The Walk for Life will feature speakers, songs led by local musician Andy Davis, a brief period of remembrance and a light lunch. This year, it also will honor Brattleboro Memorial Hospital's Comprehensive Care Clinic, which for nearly two decades has treated southern Vermonters living with HIV/AIDS.
The AIDS Project, established in 1988, is encouraging individuals, businesses, churches, schools and community groups to form teams to seek contributions for its work with clients in Windham, Bennington and southern Windsor counties.
Walkers will join perennial fundraiser Shirley Squires, the 84-year-old Guilford great-great-grandmother who has collected more than $250,000 in pledges since she began walking in memory of her son, the late Democratic Rep. Ronald Squires, after he became the first state public figure to lose his life to AIDS in 1993.
This year's event sponsors include The Richards Group and West River Family Dental. For more information, contact Karen Peterson at 802-254-4444 or apsv@sover.net, or log onto www.firstgiving.com/AIDSProject.
Plant & Bake Sale to be held in Guilford
GUILFORD - The Guilford Historical Society will hold its annual Plant and Bake Sale on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m.. until 2 p.m., rain or shine. The sale will take place in the Algiers section of Guilford at Richmond's Garage at the corner of U.S. Route 5 (Coolidge Highway) and the Guilford Center Road, one mile south of Exit 1 of Interstate 91 and opposite the Guilford Country Store.
The sale will feature plants that are all moderately priced and that have been locally raised. It will also offer a variety of baked goods from some of the finest cooks in the Guilford area. Pies, cookies, and other delicacies will be offered.
The sale will benefit the society's work in maintaining the 1822 Guilford Historical Museum, the 1837 Guilford Center Meeting House, and the 1797 Brick One Room School House. The society also offers programs to the public on issues related to Guilford's history.
Persons willing to donate their plants to the sale are asked to pot them in advance of the sale and then to bring them to Richmond's Garage between 8 and 9 a.m. on May 16. Baked goods should also be brought at that time. If donors of plant or baked goods have questions, call Mary Sargent at 802-257-0004 or Shirley Squires at 802-254-2468.
Sportsmen Inc. hosts annual Kids Day
GUILFORD - On Saturday, May 16, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the gate will be open to the public for Sportsmen Inc.'s annual Kids Day.
The club, located at 2081 Creamery Rd., will have trout in the pond and loaner fish poles for young anglers. There will be archery, BB gun shooting, trap shooting, and small caliber rifle shooting. Participants are asked not to bring any guns or ammo.
The club will have coaches on the line at all the sporting event stations. From 11:45 until 1 p.m., there will be a free lunch consisting of burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. This family event is free to all. Call 802-254-1580 for additional information.
Winston Prouty Center hosts Indoor Mini-Golf Classic for grownups and families
BRATTLEBORO - Winston Prouty Center for Child Development is hosting its inaugural Indoor Mini-Golf Classic for grownups and families on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17. The two-day “FUN-raiser” is open to the public.
Saturday's tournament for grownups is a black-tie optional evening that will feature light dinner fare, music, and a cash bar. The tournament will be from 6 to 9 p.m. and tickets are $25 per person.
Sunday's family fun day will take place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $5 per person, or only $12 for a foursome if you bring your Saturday night scorecard.
Both events will take place at the International Center at World Learning's SIT campus in Brattleboro.
The Winston Prouty Center for Child Development, incorporated in 1969, provides inclusive education and family support to promote the success of children and families.
For more information about the two-day Indoor Mini-Golf Tournament, call Winston Prouty at 802-257-7852 or visit its website, www.winstonprouty.org.
Parenting series offered in May in BF, Brattleboro
BRATTLEBORO - Are you a parent or caregiver of an older youth or teen? You are invited to upcoming parenting classes - Guiding Good Choices (4th to 8th grade) for parents and caregivers free of cost.
Guiding Good Choices is an interactive five session course (2-hour long sessions) for parents and caregivers of children in grades 4-8. The course provides tools and strategies to meet the challenges of guiding your child through adolescence, including setting clear guidelines, controlling and expressing anger constructively, and preparing kids with “refusal” skills.
In Brattleboro, the series will be facilitated by David Petrie and Julianne Eagan on Tuesdays, May 19 to June 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Hilltop Montessori (off Guilford Street). Dinner is included and childcare is offered upon request. Register by May 15. For more information or to register, visit WindhamParentingEd.org or contact Brattleboro Area Prevention Coalition at 802-257-2175 or bapc802@gmail.com.
In Bellows Falls, the series will be facilitated by Nancy Pennell on Thursdays, May 28 to July 2 (no class on June 11) from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Parks Place (44 School St. Ext.). Dinner is included and childcare is offered upon request. Register by May 25. For more information or to register, visit WindhamParentingEd.org or contact Greater Falls Area Prevention Coaliton at 802-463-9927, ext. 212, or deb@greaterfallsconnections.org.
Super Heroes wanted at Brooks Library
BRATTLEBORO - Have you ever wished that you could be a Super Hero, even for a day?
During the month of May, the Children's Room at Brooks Memorial Library is holding a very special event: “Library Super Heroes!” Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, it will feature a mural of a friendly town (much like Brattleboro) inhabited by many colorful super heroes; flying, sitting, and just standing around being…well…super.
Emblazoned on each one of their costumes will be a craft supply that the children's room uses for all their wonderful, creative and fun, kid-friendly projects.
Come visit the children's room, choose your super hero, buy that craft supply, bring it into the children's room along with your super hero figure and have your name posted on the colorful “Super Friends of the Children's Room” poster.
Kids will be able to choose from lots of different craft supplies in all price ranges: glue sticks, construction paper, washable markers, paper plates, and more.
BAJC hosts Kabbalat Shabbat service on May 22
BRATTLEBORO - On Friday, May 22, the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community on Greenleaf Street will host a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 7 p.m., welcoming both Shabbat and Shavuot, with music and a dairy dessert potluck, with more Shavuot the next night, Saturday, from 7 p.m. to midnight, for a creative Tikkun Leyl Shavuot experience that includes breaks for ice cream and cheesecake.
Shavuot and the Memorial Day weekend wrap up on Monday, May 25, with a brief ma'ariv and memorial (Yizkor) service at 7:30 p.m., followed by a potluck to share - you guessed it - dairy desserts. For more information, contact BAJC at 802-257-1959 or info@ BAJCvermont.org.
Putney Library to hold book and plant sale
PUTNEY - Putney Public Library, 55 Main St., will hold its annual Book and Plant Sale on Saturday, May 23, from 9 a.m. to noon. Come browse an eclectic assemblage of pre-loved books and pick from wonderful donations of houseplants, perennials, seed starts, and more.
All funds raised will benefit the library's programs. The library will not be open for regular library functions during this special event.
Volunteers for helping the day of the sale and donations of plants and books are still being sought. Bring book donations during open hours, Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Contact Rebecca Nixon at rebnixon@comcast.net or 802-722-9047 for information about plant donations or volunteering.
Red Cross seeks blood donors in weeks leading up to summer
BURLINGTON - The American Red Cross asks eligible donors to help ensure blood is available for patients in need by giving blood in May before the busy summer season kicks in.
Blood and platelet donations often decrease when regular donors are vacationing and school is out of session, but the need for blood is constant. Donors are needed in the weeks leading up to summer to help alleviate this seasonal decline.
Donors of all blood types – especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative – are needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring.
Blood drives are planned in Londonderry at the Flood Brook School, 91 Route 11, on Tuesday, May 26, from 1 to 6 p.m., and in Bellows Falls at the Masonic Temple, 61 Westminster St., on Thursday, May 28, from noon to 5:30 p.m.
To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Tables still available for Mommy's Marketplace
TOWNSHEND - The annual Mommy's Marketplace will be held Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Town Hall on Route 30.
Mommy's Marketplace is a great place to shop for gently used items for your children. Maternity, nursery, infant to teen items will be available. Proceeds go to Lisa's Love Charitable Association, a nonprofit organization in memory of Lisa Young Noble.
Organizers are currently seeking reservations for tables. If you have children's items and would like to have a table to sell your items and earn some money selling them, tables are $20 each. Call Judy at 802-874-4020 to reserve one.