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Townsend

1st Middlesex District Republican primary too close to call

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TOWNSEND — Results of the 1st Middlesex District Republican primary for state representative are too close to call.

According to preliminary results, Andrew Shepherd holds a narrow lead over Lynne Archambault, with 2,174 collective votes to 1,907 votes with Ashby, Groton, Lunenburg, Pepperell and Townsend reporting. Shepherd took Ashby, Lunenburg and Townsend by margins of 228-to-110, 429-to-296 and 827-to-324, respectively, while Archambault took Groton and Pepperell 294-to-280 and 883-to-410, respectively.

As of 11:59 p.m. Tuesday results from Dunstable had not been received.

The winner will face Democrat Margaret Scarsdale in the general election Nov. 8.

Community Calendar: Week of Aug. 22

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Monday, Aug. 22

Explore Nature Hike: 10 a.m.; Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner. Take a hike through the woods as you explore nature with guided walks, games, and activities. Each week will feature a different topic. 978-632-7897

Parachute Play: 10:30 a.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Enjoy this interactive and play-filled program featuring songs, rhymes, and activities with the library’s parachute; ages 2-4 and a parent/caregiver. To register, visit www.fitchburglibrary.org.

Rachel’s Book Club: 12:30 p.m.; Thayer Memorial Library, 717 Main St., Lancaster. Read and discuss “Finding Me” by Viola Davis. Pick up a book at the library or call 978-368-8923, Ext. 4.

Zoom – Job Search Help “How to Use Social Media in Your Job Search”: 2 p.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. Learn how to use social media and the web for job hunting and building a personal brand. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

SWAGLY-North: 4 p.m.; Leominster Public Library. Celebrate LGBTQIA+ identities, discuss queer issues, support each other, and have fun; snacks provided. 978-534-7522

Teen Video Game Hangout: 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Relax and play video games, both team and individual, available for the Switch, XBOX 360, and WII console; ages 13-18. Light refreshments. www.fitchburglibrary.org

Meditation Virtual Meet-up: 7 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Call 712-775-7463 a couple minutes before the meeting and enter access code 123676# or by computer go to www.freeconferencecallhd.com/dialer and enter same phone number and access code. 978-534-7522

Tuesday, Aug. 23

Happy Campers Story Time: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Happy campers welcomed to stories, songs, finger plays and poems; ages 2-5 (siblings welcome). To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Strega Mama Story Time: 10 a.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Enjoy this fun-filled experience, including lively readings, interactive games, laughter, sing a-longs and more; ages 3-7. No registration required. 978-534-7522

Story Time with Miss Jane: 10:30 a.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Songs, finger plays, movement, and movies to be held in the Garden Room. 978-829-1789

Zoom Story Time – Butterflies: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Outdoor Story Time – Moose: 11 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Join Miss Tiffany for a morning of stories, rhymes and parachute fun; ages newborn-5. 978-827-4115

Zoom – The Energy Crisis of the 1970s: 2 p.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. This program will examine President Jimmy Carter’s response to the energy crisis through the lens of primary sources of the Carter Library and National Archives. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Stitchcraft Knitting and Crochet Group: 3 p.m.; Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Massachusetts Ave. Need help with a pattern or looking to learn a new skill, stop by the group for help. 978-582-4140

LEGO Club: 3 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Crafternoon – Rock Painting: 3 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Visit the library to paint some rocks; ages 5-up. No registration necessary. www.fitchburglibrary.org

Library Laps: 5:30 p.m.; Central Park, Clinton. Meet in front of the Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., for a walking book club or just a relaxing walk around the park. www.bigelowlibrary.org

Acting Workshop: 6- 8 p.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. Contact Mike Jablon at 978-697-1491.

Wednesday, Aug. 24

Lil’ Adventures Story Time: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Miss Jessie as she takes you on a reading adventure, with singing, dancing, reading, movement, and bubbles; ages 2-up. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Chair & Stand: 10:15 a.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. All welcome. 978-874-7416

Story Time: 10:30 a.m.; Hollis Hills Farm, 340 Marshall Farm Road, Fitchburg. Join Miss Molly for a fun and interactive story time; all ages. 978-829-1789

Playgroup: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Zoom – Living with Wildlife in Massachusetts with Mass Audubon: 11 a.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Public Library, Clinton. Learn about commonly encountered wildlife such as deer, coyote, and raccoons, and their intersection with the wild and developed spaces we inhabit. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Knitting Club: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Kids Crafternoon – Tie Dye: 4 p.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Wrap up summer with a little tie-dye fun. Bring a white shirt or pair of socks, the library staff will provide the colors. www.ashburnhamlibrary.org

Magic: The Gathering: 5:30 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Magic: The Gathering is a card game in which wizards cast spells, summon creatures, and exploit magic objects to defeat their opponents; ages 13-16. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Live Music: 6 p.m.; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. Knock on Wood is back for some outside entertainment on the front lawn of the library. Bring dinner or snacks and your family. www.bigelowlibrary.org

Adult Book Club: 6 p.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. Read and discuss “Goodbye, Mr. Chips” by James Hilton. 978-874-7416

Japanese Notan: 6:30 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Notan is an art form involving the use of black and white paper, positive and negative shapes, and the use of symmetry. To register, call 978-534-7522, Ext. 3.

Thursday, Aug. 25

Nature Walks for Adults: 10 a.m.; Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 13 Goodnow Road, Princeton. Discover the workings of nature on this gentle walk. To register, visit www.massaudubon.org.

Stretch, Strengthen & Balance: 10:15 a.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. All welcome. 978-874-7416

Outdoor Story Time – Moose: 11 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Join Miss Tiffany for a morning of stories, rhymes and parachute fun; ages newborn-5. 978-827-4115

Zoom – The Gilded World of Isabella Stewart Gardner: 11 a.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. Explore the details of Isabella Stewart Gardner’s life, friends, travels, and collections. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Knitting: 12:30-3 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. All welcome. 978-345-5968

Go Green Market Bag crochet meet-up: 1 p.m.; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. This project is perfect for fall farmer’s markets (or carrying your library books home). To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Kid Craft Day: 2 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Nature Journaling Meet-Up: 5 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Film Night for Grown-ups: 6:30-9 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. See the movie featuring “Belfast,” a movie straight from director Kenneth Branagh’s own experience. 978-534-7522

Adult Book Club: 7 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Friday, Aug. 26

Fitness Hike: 9:30 a.m.; Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner. Hike and use the exercise equipment along the hike; ages 16 and above. 978-632-7897

Kidleidoscope: 10 a.m.; Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner. Listen to a short story, followed by a light outdoor activity or a hike. Afterwards, enjoy a kid-friendly craft relating to the story; ages 3-6. 978-632-7897

Open Office Hours for State Rep. Meghan Kilcoyne: 10 a.m.-Noon; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. State Rep. Meghan Kilcoyne and her staff will offer office hours for constituents to meet and greet, address issues, and ask questions. www.bigelowlibrary.org

Story Time & Craft: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Enjoy a story then create a simple themed project to take home; ages 2-6. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Teen Center Book Reviews: 2-5 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Visit the library and work on a book review. www.fitchburglibrary.org

COVID Vax Clinic: 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. The Fitchburg Board of Health will host a Pfizer vaccine and booster clinic; ages 5-up. 508-922-4138

Saturday, Aug. 27

Pannukakku Breakfast: 8-10 a.m.; Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Road, Fitchburg. Enjoy Finnish oven pancake, bacon, sausage, fruit, juice, Finnish coffee bread, coffee/tea/cocoa; $10. Loaves of Finnish coffee bread and cinnamon rusk for sale, along with bee products and knitted items.

Super Senses Hike: 9:30 a.m.; Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner. Walk the Woodland Trail and explore your five senses and see how they relate to the animals that call the woods home; ages 4 and above. 978-632-7897

Saturday Craft Camp: 10 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive. Drop in the Makerspace for an easy craft; ages 6-12. www.ashburnhamlibrary.org

Animal August – Fan Favorites: 10:30 a.m.; Thayer Memorial Library, 717 Main St., Lancaster. Join Animal Adventures of Bolton for a presentation that includes fun facts, stories, and up-close encounters with live animals. To register, visit www.thayermemoriallibrary.org.

Collage Club Workshop: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Mucking About: 3 p.m.; Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner. Explore the bugs, tadpoles, newts and other creatures that live at Dunn State Park; ages 6-up. 978-632-7897

Sunday, Aug. 28

Yoga at the Sanctuary: 10 a.m.; Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 13 Goodnow Road, Princeton. Breathe in the beauty of Wachusett Meadow in this all-levels outdoor yoga class. To register, visit www.massaudubon.org.

Townsend Police officers participate in regional advanced active-shooter response training

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TOWNSEND — Recently, Townsend Police officers David Phillips and Eric Modica joined officers from across the region to participate in advanced active shooter response training.

The training was held from Aug. 1-5 at Groton Dunstable Regional High School and was coordinated by Pepperell Police Chief David Scott. Funding for the training was provided by the federal Department of Justice.

According to a statement issued by Townsend Police Chief James Sartell, the training saw participants undergo 40 hours of integrated response training that provided a model framework for active-shooter incidents, derived from the rescue task force concept, which focuses on the needs and care of victims.

Trainees also learned medical skills based on tactical emergency casualty care guidelines to treat injuries and increase victims’ chances of survival in the event of an attack.

The Active Attack Integrated Response Course, crafted by Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training, is designed to improve integration between law enforcement, fire, telecommunications, and EMS in active attack/shooter events.

“This is cutting-edge training that prepares our officers with the most current best practices and skills needed to swiftly and effectively respond to a situation we hope we never face — an active shooter in the community,” Sartell said. “We all want to think this kind of thing won’t happen in our small community, but the Townsend Police Department is dedicated to being prepared. This training has been a tremendous asset for us as we work hard to protect our community.”

The training is part of a larger effort by the Townsend Police Department to enhance its efforts on school and workplace incident response, with annual training for officers, scheduled tours of all schools in the district, the review and amendment of school safety plans, and continued training with departments in the area.

For more information on ALERRT visit https://alerrt.org/about.

Regional dive team rescue training held on Whalom Lake

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LEOMINSTER — It was a scene out of an action movie on Thursday as fire personnel from across the region donned high-tech, waterproof gear and scuba tanks to practice rescuing a submerged vehicle as part of District 8 Regional Dive Team training.

“They are all specially trained,” Leominster Fire Chief Robert Sideleau said at the event of the team members. “This is all part of technical rescue, which can be swift or still water, ice, trench, high angle rope, and building collapse.”

Fitchburg Fire Department Captain Jack Gilmartin (l.) and firefighter Chris Klein (r.) chat with one of the divers during District 8 Regional Dive Team training on Thursday at Whalom Lake. The submerged Dodge Durango can be see under the water. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
Fitchburg Fire Department Captain Jack Gilmartin, left, and firefighter Chris Klein, right, chat with Gardner firefighter Kyle Goehle during District 8 Regional Dive Team training on Thursday at Whalom Lake. The submerged Dodge Durango can be seen under the water. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

The dive team is headed up by Lunenburg Fire Chief Pat Sullivan, who was at the training, and is with a branch of the District 8 Technical Rescue Team, which covers all of Worcester County.

Sideleau said they go “all the way out west to Petersham” and cover the Harvard and West Boylston area as well as Fitchburg, Leominster, Townsend, and much more.

“This is really organized and very important as there seems to be more outside recreation and more traffic near the waterways with development near the water,” he said, adding that they are funded through the Homeland Security Council.

Leominster business E.T. Cote Auto Exchange donated a beat up 2002 Dodge Durango for the exercises and removed the fuel tank and drained all the fluid “so it’s environmentally safe,” said Team Leader Rob Nickerson, a Holden and Sterling firefighter who took command out on the water.

Lunenburg firefighter Joe Arsenault (front left) and Fitchburg firefighter Charles Colburn (front right) check equipment before going into the water at Whalom Lake to train while other members of the District 8 Regional Dive Team look on. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
Lunenburg firefighter Joe Arsenault (front left) and Fitchburg firefighter Charles Colburn (front right) check equipment before going into the water at Whalom Lake to train while other members of the District 8 Regional Dive Team look on. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

The firefighters checked over the dive equipment before putting on dry suits and face masks that keep them “fully encapsulated.” The masks are outfitted with dive lights, communication equipment, and a GoPro camera in a waterproof case are attached to them, which was used to video record the training.

“It’s great if we’re doing any kind of dive where there could be a criminal issue going on,” Nickerson said of the camera. “We always assume criminal, unless it’s a kid who falls through the ice, and all this would become evidence we turn over to the state police.”

The water level in the lake is currently very low due to drought conditions, about 17 feet at its deepest according to Nickerson.

“It’s just so shallow right now,” he said.

They inflated two large blue airbags, each rated for 2,000 lbs. or one ton, inside the vehicle after putting it in neutral and pushed it down the Leominster boat ramp and into the water. It was then towed it out to the middle of the 103-acre great pond by lines attached to two flat bottom aluminum rescue boats from the Harvard and Rutland fire departments and they released the airbags to sink it.

“There she goes,” Nickerson said when the Durango slid underwater.

District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson, a Holden and Sterling firefighter, headed up the training operation held at Whalom Lake on Thursday. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson, a Holden and Sterling firefighter, headed up the training operation held at Whalom Lake on Thursday. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

Six divers then took turns working off the platforms attached to the boats anchored near the submerged vehicle. Fitchburg Fire Department Capt. Jack Gilmartin was a primary diver for 25 years and recently retired from that role six months ago.

“We work together as one unified group, and we all work really well together,” he said.

Gilmartin was stationed in one of the two red rigid inflatable boats along with Fitchburg firefighter Chris Klein while Nickerson was in the other one calling out instructions.

“Rutland and Harvard are you ready? Are your lines released?” Nickerson said before the two airbags popped up to the surface of the water.

“Both airbags are out, and the vehicle is on the bottom,” he radioed to the crew on the shore.

Nickerson shuttled divers in and out from the shore and retrieved additional oxygen tanks and other gear as needed, all while keeping a close eye on the sonar screen attached to his boat. He said that while Sterling is currently the only fire department with a side scan sonar system, they are in the process of getting ones for Fitchburg and Harvard.

Members of the District 8 Regional Dive Team in the middle of exercises held on Thursday at Whalom Lake in Leominster and Lunenburg. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
Members of the District 8 Regional Dive Team in the middle of exercises held on Thursday at Whalom Lake in Leominster and Lunenburg. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

The sonar measured the depth of the water, which wavered between 14.2 to 17.6 feet deep, and Nickerson pointed out the outline of the vehicle visible on the screen.

“The back end is up, it’s nosed into the dirt,” he said. “If this was a real incident, we would deploy this boat and get side scan sonar vision from two different angles and mark it from two different directions and then determine if it would be a boat or shore-based operation.”

Sullivan radioed that they could clearly see the vehicle from the drone capturing aerial footage, saying “visibility is better than we expected,” and Nickerson responded, “vegetation is keeping the silt down.”

Nickerson said they always have a primary and secondary diver and “a 90%,” someone ready to go in all the gear who steps in if one of the other divers runs into trouble. He said in cases like the “operation comes to a halt if we need to rescue a diver.”

The divers have a main oxygen tank strapped to their back along with “a pony bottle, a totally redundant backup air system they can easily switch over to,” Nickerson said, adding that they also have a backup mask and that the backup system is used “only for emergencies.”

District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson (l.) chats with Kyle Goehle, a firefighter in Gardner, during the training revolutions held on Thursday at Whalom Lake in Leominster and Lunenburg. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson, left, chats with Kyle Goehle, a firefighter in Gardner, during the training revolutions held on Thursday at Whalom Lake in Leominster and Lunenburg. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

“They all have extensive training with Dive Rescue International and are all trained to the same standards,” he said of the team members. “They all know what’s going to go on.”

The divers start out with 3,000 pounds of air in their main oxygen tank and once it gets down to 1,000 pounds Nickerson said they will “pull them up and put another diver down.” A scribe positioned on the boat checks the divers’ air pressure every five minutes and notes how long they have been underwater.

The tender also has an important job as they are in constant communication with the divers and can talk to them through ropes attached to them that have communication wire woven into them. The tender relays communication from the divers to the other boats, telling them specifically which lines to pull and when to release tension on them.

Nickerson said they have a 90-minute window before a mission “turns from rescue to recovery,” noting a rescue in Alberta, Canada where the victim was underwater for that period of time and amazingly made a full recovery.

“They walked out of the hospital,” he said before explaining that the water there is some of the “cleanest and coldest” and that there are many things that can affect whether someone drowns or not including the temperature of the water, quality and type of water such as whether it’s “dirty” or fresh or ocean water, and “how healthy” a person is.

District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson points out the submerged vehicle on the side scan sonar system screen. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)
District 8 Regional Dive Team Team Leader Rob Nickerson points out the submerged vehicle on the side scan sonar system screen. (DANIELLE RAY/SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE)

He said a lot of the dive team members are also certified in ice rescue and that they train in the winter as well. They receive specialized training through the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy and are cross-trained in repelling, confined spaces, swift water rescue, and heavy animals rescue, among other categories.

Firefighters and chiefs from Barre, Clinton, Fitchburg, Gardner, Harvard, Leominster, Lunenburg, Rutland, and Sterling were on hand for the training.

Although the training revolutions at Whalom Lake took longer than expected due to the vehicle’s entire front end becoming lodged in several feet of muck at the bottom of the lake and the trunk not latching to hold the airbags in, this enabled the entire crew to discuss different scenarios, brainstorm ideas and try out various tactics to free it before towing it back to shore, much like the challenges that come up during real-life rescues.

“I’ve never been on a dive where things have gone smoothly, there’s always some issue,” Nickerson said. “Working it out in training helps them prepare for the unknown and uncertainties.”

Townsend Military Band set to take the stage Aug. 18

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TOWNSEND — The Townsend Military Band will play a concert from the band stand on the Townsend Common on Thursday, Aug. 18.

Area residents of all ages are encouraged to bring their lawn chair or blanket to the Common that evening so they may sit and socialize with other concertgoers while they enjoy good music and fresh air.

The band will open its concert at 7:30 p.m. by playing Alford’s “Colonel Bogey March” and Custer’s arrangement of “Beauty and the Beast.” “Sweet Caroline” arranged by Waters, “The Wizard of Oz”  arranged by Barnes, and Hall’s “American Cadet March” will be performed. Bennett’s arrangement of “Show Boat,” Bennett’s arrangement of “Victory at Sea” and “Sons of the Brave” by Bidgood will be included in the first portion of the program.

Fucik’s “Florentiner March” and “Highlights from Sophisticated Ladies” arranged by Cacavas will be played following intermission. “John Williams: Evening at Pops” arranged by Higgins and “Hoch Heidecksburg” by Herzer will be performed before the Townsend Band concludes its concert at 9:30 p.m. by playing the “Star Spangled Banner.”

Community Calendar: Week of Aug. 15

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Monday, Aug. 15

Save our Oceans Oil Spill Cleanup: 10 a.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Participants will join SEED Education scientists to learn about oil spills, why they happen, how they happen, and who is affected; ages 6-12. 978-534-7522.

Zoom – Job Search Help “Get Ready for Your Next Job Interview”: 2 p.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. This session will outline steps to get yourself prepared, tips for handling various interview situations, what information is essential to brush you up and more. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

SWAGLY-North: 4 p.m.; Leominster Public Library. Celebrate LGBTQIA+ identities, discuss queer issues, support each other, and have fun; snacks provided. 978-534-7522

LEGO Club: 4 p.m.; Thayer Memorial Library, 717 Main St., Lancaster. LEGO builders of all ages welcome to free build or choose a challenge. www.thayermemoriallibrary.org

Movie Night – “Moana”: 6:30 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Wear your pajamas, bring a pillow and a blanket, and enjoy some snacks as you watch “Moana” (rated PG). No registration required. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. 978-534-7522

Meditation Virtual Meet-up: 7 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Call 712-775-7463 a couple minutes before the meeting and enter access code 123676# or by computer go to www.freeconferencecallhd.com/dialer and enter same phone number and access code. 978-534-7522

Tuesday, Aug. 16

Shine Bright: 10 a.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Participants will paint a ceramic bisque star votive, then take their painted piece home with a faux tea light; ages 8-13. To register, call 978-534-7522.

Happy Campers Story Time: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Enjoy stories, songs, finger plays and poems; ages 2-5 (siblings welcome). To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Story Time with Miss Jane: 10:30 a.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Songs, finger plays, movement, and movies to be held in the Garden Room. 978-829-1789

Puppet Story Time: 10:30 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Children of all ages for some stories, singing and more. Hosted by Through Me To You Puppetry. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Zoom Story Time – Butterfly Hatching: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Outdoor Story Time – Exploring: 11 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Join Miss Tiffany for a morning of stories, rhymes and parachute fun; ages newborn-5. 978-827-4115

“Draw to Write” Cursive Writing Club: 11 a.m.; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. Join the Youth Department for this six-week cursive writing club with Fran Purcell; for children going into grades 2 to 4. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Zoom – A Trip to Norway: 2 p.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. Join Jeff Klapes, the Traveling Librarian, as he highlights travel photography, stories, and travel tips. This month, journey to Norway, the Land of the Midnight Sun. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Stitchcraft Knitting and Crochet Group: 3 p.m.; Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Massachusetts Ave. Need help with a pattern or looking to learn a new skill, stop by the group for help. 978-582-4140

LEGO Club: 3 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Learn to Play a Ukulele: 4 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Julie Stepanek as she shows the fundamentals of ukulele playing. Learn how to tune, strum, and read chords. No experience necessary. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Photography Workshop: 5 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Vinyasa Yoga: 5:30 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Carin Duteau for an in-person indoor group Vinyasa yoga class; bring a mat and water. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Library Laps: 5:30 p.m.; Central Park, Clinton. Meet in front of the Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton for a walking book club or just a relaxing walk around the park. www.bigelowlibrary.org

Wednesday, Aug. 17

Lil’ Adventures Story Time: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Miss Jessie as she takes you on a reading adventure, with singing, dancing, reading, movement, and bubbles; ages 2-up. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Tween Makerspace Morning: 10 a.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Tweens, ages 9-12, welcome to explore and create with the library’s Makerspace carts, stocked with paper, markers, pipe cleaners, colored tape, and more. 978-534-7522

Chair & Stand: 10:15 a.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. All welcome. 978-874-7416

Wellness Wednesday “Sprouting for a Healthy Cut-Brain Connection”: 10:30 a.m.; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. Sponsored by UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital. www.bigelowlibrary.org

Sensory-Friendly Story Time: 10:30 a.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Young children and their caregivers welcomed to listen to stories, sing songs, and engage in sensory play. To register, visit www.fitchburglibrary.org.

Playgroup: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Knitting Club: 11 a.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

Monthly Senior Social Hour: Noon; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. 978-827-4115

Drop-in: Afternoon for Grown-ups: 1-4 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Grown-ups, ages 18 and up, invited to drop in for some board gaming fun. Feel free to bring your own games or give the library’s a try. No registration required. 978-534-7522

Teen & Tween Crafts: 3 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Miss Elise to upcycle CDs into woven coasters. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Teen Bullet Journal Book Club: 3 p.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Start with a kit that includes a journal, pens, stencils, washi tape and more. Meet monthly; ages 12-18. www.ashburnhamlibrary.org

Stuffed Animal Sleepover: 4 p.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. Bring your stuffed animal to the library, make a bed and name tag, read them a story, and say goodnight for some sleepover fun. Stuffed animals can be picked up anytime on Thursday, Aug. 18; all ages. 978-874-7416

Young Adult Dungeons & Dragons: 5 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. For details, e-mail Paul Garafola at garafola4@gmail.com.

Maps of Ashburnham: 6 p.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. See the changing shape of the town, name changes of the lakes and mountains, and more. Presented by the Ashburnham Historical Society. www.ashburnhamlibrary.org

Genealogy Consultations: 6:15 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Whether you are a seasoned genealogist or just starting out, Dwight Fitch can help you on your journey. To register for a 30-minute appointment, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Food Preservation 101 – Pickles: 6:30 p.m.; Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Massachusetts Ave. This hands-on workshop is a basic introduction to food preservation processes with Sisters Anna Gilbert-Muhammad and Dora Miller of the Northeast Organic Farming Association, Massachusetts chapter. To register, visit www.lunenburglibrary.org.

Teen Tie Dying: 6:30 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. It’s time to get creative and colorful. Folks in grades 7-12 welcome to bring an article of clothing (must be white and 100 percent cotton). The library will supply small items for those in need. To register, call 978-534-7522.

Online – Tuning in to Summer Night Sounds: 7 p.m.; Hosted by Wachusett Meadow Wildlife, Princeton. Summer evenings host a natural soundscape that changes with the season. Learn about the creatures making all that racket and how to differentiate between them. To register, visit www.massaudubon.org

The Eclectic Book Club: 7 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Read and discuss “First Cosmic Velocity” by Zack Powers. Meet in-person and via Zoom. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Thursday, Aug. 18

Teddy Bear Picnic: 10 a.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Bring your teddy bear or favorite stuffed animal and a snack to enjoy this Teddy Bears’ Picnic with your family. Enjoy stories and a freeze pop after; ages 3-8. Registration is required by calling 978-534-7522.

Stretch, Strengthen & Balance: 10:15 a.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. All welcome. 978-874-7416

Outdoor Story Time – Exploring: 11 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive, Ashburnham. Join Miss Tiffany for a morning of stories, rhymes and parachute fun; ages newborn-5. 978-827-4115

Zoom – Secret Stories Behind the Worlds Most Iconic Paintings: 11 a.m.; Hosted by Bigelow Free Public Library, Clinton. From American Gothic to Whistler’s Mother to Nighthawks, this program delves into these iconic works and shares the secret stories behind their creation and reception. Let by art historican Jane Oneail. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Write Your Own Book Publishing Party: 11 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. 978-597-1714

Lunch Bunch Story Hour: Noon; Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., Clinton. Explore mythical sea creatures, mermaids, pirates and more. Bring a lunch; water and fruit provided. To register, visit www.bigelowlibrary.org.

Knitting: 12:30-3 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. All welcome. 978-345-5968

LEGO Box Challenge: 1 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Miss Elise for this fun challenge; ages 6-10. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Kid Craft Day: 2 p.m.; Ashby Free Public Library, 812 Main St. www.ashbylibrary.org

LEGO Club: 4 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Build with the library, only your imagination needed; ages 5-12. 978-829-1789

Fiber Frenzy: 5 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Bring a project that you are working on or start something new. 978-597-1714

Lynn Archambault Information Session: 6-8 p.m.; Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Massachusetts Ave. www.lunenburglibrayr.org

Dungeons & Dragons for Adults: 6 p.m.; Forbush Memorial Library, 118 Main St., Westminster. 978-874-7416

Play Reading with the Stratton Players: 7 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Participate in an informal group that reviews and reads aloud scenes from comedies and dramas for possible recommendation for production. No registration required. 978-320-1335

Townsend Military Band concert: 7:30 p.m.; Townsend Common. The community is welcomed to bring their lawn chair or blanket, sit, and socialize with other concertgoers, while they enjoy good music and fresh air.

Friday, Aug. 19

Story Time & Craft: 10 a.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Read “A Campfire Tail”; then create a simple themed project to take home; ages 2-6. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Unlock-the-Box: Beyond the Beaten Path: 11 a.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Families and/or small groups of 2-8 people invited to work as a team to follow the clues, solve the puzzles, and open the box before it’s too late; ages 6-up. To register, visit www.fitchburglibrary.org.

Teen Craft – Perler Beads: Noon-2 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Make designs for your keychain with pre-made patterns or create your own; ages 13-18. www.fitchburglibrary.org

Friday Family Movies: Noon; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Watch “Space Jam – A New Legacy”. Feel free to bring lunch and snacks, blankets, pillows, and camp chairs. No registration required. 978-597-1714

Virtual Novel-Tea Book Club: 1 p.m.; Hosted by Townsend Public Library. Read and discuss “Year of Wonders” by Geraldine Brooks, while sipping a cup of “English Caramel” tea. To register for the Zoom link, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

Mosaic Garden Stepping Stone: 2:30 p.m.; Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. Join Leslie Doherty, Ways of Color artist/owner, to create a garden stepping stone. Cost is $20. To register, visit www.townsendlibrary.org.

COVID-19 Vax Clinic: 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. The Fitchburg Board of Health is hosting a Pfizer vaccine and booster clinic for ages 5-up. 508-922-4138

Unlock-the-Box: Beyond the Beaten Path: 3 p.m.; Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St. Families and/or small groups of 2-8 people invited to work as a team to follow the clues, solve the puzzles, and open the box before it’s too late; ages 6-up. To register, visit www.fitchburglibrary.org.

Saturday, Aug. 20

Summer Book Sale: 10 a.m.-Noon; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Choose from a large selection of fiction and non-fiction as well as children’s and young adult materials.  Proceeds support Friends of the Library-sponsored library programs. 978-534-7522

Saturday Craft Camp: 10 a.m.; Stevens Memorial Library, 20 Memorial Drive. Drop in the Makerspace for an easy craft; ages 6-12. www.ashburnhamlibrary.org

Genealogy Help Session: 10 a.m.-Noon; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. A representative(s) of the Central Massachusetts Genealogical Society, based in Gardner, will be available to assist genealogists of any level of ability. Walk-in basis. 978-534-7522

Summer Puzzle Swap: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Massachusetts Ave. Stop by the library to shop the selection of donated puzzles. www.lunenburglibrary.org

Animal August – Reptiles: 10:30 a.m.; Thayer Memorial Library, 717 Main St., Lancaster. Join Animal Adventures of Bolton for a weekly presentation that includes fun facts, stories, and up-close encounters with live animals. To register, visit www.thayermemoriallibrary.org.