WHAV (https://whav.net/category/communityspotlight/)
Merrimack Valley Transit is collecting new, unwrapped gifts during its “Stuff A Bus” Toy and Clothes Drive. Santa Claus will also be present during the drive taking place Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 9-11 a.m., at Target, 67 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen; 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at North Andover Mall, 350 Winthrop St., North Andover; and 2-4 p.m., at Westgate Plaza, 400 Lowell Ave, Haverhill. Toys and clothes will be turned over to Debbie’s Treasure Chest which services families in need.
The Haverhill Lions Club is hosting Breakfast with Santa! The fun takes place Saturday, Dec. 9, from 8:30 to 11: 30 a.m., at Maria’s Galleria Banquet Room, 81-83 Essex St., Haverhill. Tickets are $5 per person, include breakfast and available at the door. The annual event offers opportunities to take photographs with the jolly old man from the North Pole.
Haverhill veterans are invited to participate in a holiday celebration and holiday meal in December. Hosted by Haverhill veterans Services Director Jeffrey C. Hollett, entertainment will be provided by The Singing Trooper. The celebration and meal take place Sunday, Dec. 10, at noon, at the Wilbur M. Comeau American Legion Post 4, 1314 N. Main St., Haverhill. Reservations are required by contacting Hollett at 978-374-2351, ext.
The 2023 Festival of Trees at the Buttonwoods kicks off tonight with a candlelight tour of the John Ward House. Opening night begins at 5 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m. at Buttonwoods Museum, 240 Water St., Haverhill. The festival continues Saturday, from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., with continuing theme days and events through Sunday, Dec. 10. Admission is $7 each for adults, $5 for seniors 65 and up, $3 each for those ages 6 to 17 and free for those 5 and under.
Ruth’s House Executive Director Amy Smith-Boden, who has served the Lafayette Square, Haverhill nonprofit thrift store for the last three and a half year, is stepping down at the end of the month. The organization is launching a search for a new executive director. “Ruth’s House is stronger now than it ever has been. We have strong partnerships with organizations and with individuals, some are new, and many are long-time partners. We have an increased client and customer base and, of course, Ruth’s House operates with the help of dozens of dedicated volunteers,” said Smith-Boden.
Haverhill is planning a number of flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Haverhill Public Health Department will administer vaccines to Haverhill residents Thursday, Nov. 30, from noon-5 p.m.; Thursday, Dec, 7, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; and Thursday, Dec. 14, from noon-5 p.m., all at the Citizens Center, 10 Welcome St., Haverhill. Walk-in space is limited.
The state Department of Conservation and Recreation is suggesting families “Go Green on Black Friday” with free, guided hikes at four Massachusetts parks including Harold Parker State Forest in North Andover
Conservation and Recreation staff are leading family-friendly hikes over trails that range between two and three miles as well as self-guided hikes at several state parks. “Go Green on Black Friday hikes are a great way to encourage stewardship, enjoy our outdoor spaces and take in nature with friends and family,” said Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “We encourage communities across the state to take advantage of this special program and to get outside and spend time in their state parks this holiday weekend.”
A two-mile hike on moderate trails at Harold Parker State Forest takes place Friday, Nov. 24, from 10 a.m. to noon. Officials say the hike his is appropriate for children ages 8 and up.
Haverhill High School Marine Jr. ROTC, Boy Scout Troop 24, local veterans’ groups and various officials are expected to be on hand next month for the placement of 474 veterans’ wreaths on the headstones of fallen service members laid to rest at Haverhill’s Hilldale Cemetery. The wreath-laying ceremony is among more than 3,700 others across the country taking place as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. It is coordinated and led by local volunteers, sponsorship groups have raised money throughout the year for the wreaths at Hilldale and the adjacent City Cemetery. Organizers are still seeking donations from individuals, civic groups and businesses to ensure each veteran is honored with a wreath. Donations may be made at hilldalewreaths.com.
A bit of holiday magic will be blossoming at the annual Atkinson Garden Club’s Greens and Gifts Sale. Items designed to help residents deck their halls include tabletop holly trees, kissing balls and centerpieces with candles. Those wishing White Christmas specialty gifts are advised to preorder at atkinsongardenclub.com. The sale takes place Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Atkinson Community Center, 4 Main St., Atkinson, N.H.
