The Reading Post

Whitelam Books to Host Book Signing & Conversation with Author Julie Dobrow
2026-01-25 15:00 (America/New_York) | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is pleased to welcome author Julie Dobrow for a book signing and conversation on Sunday, January 25 at 3:00PM. Julie will be discussing her book Love and Loss After Wounded Knee: A Biography of an Extraordinary Interracial Marriage. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a conversation with Julie Dobrow as she shares her book Love and Loss After Wounded Knee: A Biography of an Extraordinary Interracial Marriage, a dual biography of two activists whose marriage challenged the gender and racial norms of their time. Love and Loss After Wounded Knee offers a dual biography of Elaine Goodale and Ohíye’Sa, (Dr. Charles Alexander Eastman), exploring their individual lives as well as their highly publicized interracial marriage. Both well-known in their own time- Elaine as a poet, journalist, and advocate for Indian education and Charles as writer, public speaker, and ardent activist for Indian rights- their marriage started with a shared vision to work on behalf of Indians. In the face of extreme prejudice, financial burden, and personal tragedy however, the marriage began to unravel. Dobrow paints an intimate, emotional portrait of the Eastmans’ lives drawn from Elaine and Charles’s letters, papers, and hundreds of accounts of the Eastmans’ lives from newspapers. The result is a compelling new history that weds the private and the political, and Native America and the United States of America- entwined yet separated, inextricable yet never fully joined, just like Elaine and Charles themselves.

Reading Police Department to Host Annual Citizens Police Academy
2026-01-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Reading Police Department, 15 Union Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
READING — Chief David Clark has announced that the Reading Police Department is hosting its Winter 2026 Citizens Police Academy (CPA) starting in January.
The CPA begins Wednesday, Jan. 28, and will be held every Wednesday night through March 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Classes will be held at the Reading Police Department, 15 Union St.

The CPA allows for local community members to learn about law enforcement operations from members of the Police Department. The topics covered in the class include:

Investigations
Patrol Procedures
Police in Schools
Domestic Violence
Dispatch procedures
Firearms/Less Lethal Enforcement
Comfort Dogs
Patrol K9

During the course, participants get the opportunity to meet officers who serve their community, explore department equipment and get an up-close look at operations. Graduates who attend at least six of the nine classes are eligible to schedule a ride along with a Reading Police officer.
“The Citizens Police Academy is a great way to strengthen the bond between the community and its law enforcement officers,” said Chief Clark. “Our officers love teaching in the academy and sharing their passion for police work with the community. Anyone interested in learning more about police work should join us.”
Participants must be 18 years old to register, or 16 years old with parental consent. Space is limited to 28 people, with first priority being given to Reading residents.
To register for the academy, download an application here. Applications should be returned in person or via email to Community Service Officer DaLonn Pearson, who can be reached via email at dapearson@readingma.gov.
Any questions or inquiries should be directed to Community Service Officer Pearson at 781-942-6761.

Whitelam Books to Host Stuffie Story Time and Sleep Over
2026-02-06 17:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is excited to host our Third Annual Stuffie Story Time and Sleep Over on Friday, February 6 at 5:00 PM! We’ll kick off the sleepover with a PJ stuffed toy story time, and then the stuffed toys will stay behind to enjoy a sleepover in the bookstore!
Follow us on social media (facebook.com/whitelambooks and instagram.com/whitelambooks) to see what fun and silliness the stuffies get into before falling asleep. Stuffed animals will be picked up the next morning, Saturday, February 7, beginning at 10:00AM.
This event is capped at 30 stuffie friends, and registration is required. Stuffies can be registered on our store event calendar: whitelambooks.com/news-events. Limit one stuffie participant per person.
Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!

RMHS Drama Club Presents St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves
2026-02-06 19:30 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Student-created adaptation of St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves premieres ahead of METG competition
Reading, MA — The RMHS Drama Club proudly presents the premiere of an original stage adaptation of St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves, based on the short story by Karen Russell. Created collaboratively by the student company, this bold and imaginative production explores identity, belonging, and the tension between instinct and expectation through a darkly whimsical lens.
This original adaptation will be the offering of RMHS at the statewide METG One-Act Play Festival, and audiences are invited to attend a special town-wide preview performance to support the cast and crew before they compete.
Content Advisory & Age Appropriateness: This production includes themes drawn from the original short story, including coming-of-age struggles, separation from family, loss of identity, and moments of stylized aggression reflecting the wolf-girl metaphor. While no graphic content is depicted, the material may be intense for younger viewers. Recommended for ages 10+. Viewer discretion is advised.
Join us for an evening of inventive storytelling and help send RMHS Drama to the state stage! Ticket information at rmhsdrama.org
Performance Dates:

Friday, Feb 6 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday, Feb 7 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, Feb 8 @ 2:00 PM

Location: William E. Endslow Performing Arts Center at RMHS
Tickets: Available at rmhsdrama.org
Creative Team:
Directed by: Natalie Cunha
Assistant Director: Katie Donovan
Technical Director: Kevin Gerstner
Support local student theater and witness this unique, never-before-seen adaptation!
This program is funded in part by a grant from the Reading Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Colonial Chorus Players presents The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie
2026-02-06 19:30, 2026-03-07 19:30, 2026-03-08 14:00 | Colonial Chorus Players, 1249 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
March 6–15 at the Old Hose House Theater—where secrets abound and a killer may be hiding in plain sight
Reading, MA — Welcome to Monkswell Manor, where some guests check in while others check out—permanently. Colonial Chorus Players proudly presents the longest-running theatrical production in the world, The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie, March 6–15 at the Old Hose House Theater in Reading.
The Mousetrap is a mystery set at a remote guest house in the English countryside run by newlyweds Mollie and Giles, where six strangers find themselves stranded during a snowstorm. When the guests learn that a woman was murdered in London the day before, they soon begin to suspect that the killer is among them.
Performances of The Mousetrap are March 6, 7, 13 & 14 at 7:30 PM and March 8 & 15 at 2 PM at the Old Hose House Theater, 1249 Main Street, Reading. Advance tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for seniors and students at ccp1961.org. Remaining tickets will be sold at the door 30 minutes before showtime with cash, Venmo, or PayPal only. All seats are reserved seating.
The ensemble cast features Paul D’Onofrio, Andrew Haber, Madeleine Herrick of Reading, Colin Lamusta, Saeed Maseeh, Sorchae McMeel, Jackson Ploof, Michaelyn St. Pierre, and Sharyn Taitz under the direction of Shay Wainwright.

RMHS Drama Club Presents St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves
2026-02-07 19:30, 2026-02-08 14:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Student-created adaptation of St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves premieres ahead of METG competition
Reading, MA — The RMHS Drama Club proudly presents the premiere of an original stage adaptation of St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves, based on the short story by Karen Russell. Created collaboratively by the student company, this bold and imaginative production explores identity, belonging, and the tension between instinct and expectation through a darkly whimsical lens.
This original adaptation will be the offering of RMHS at the statewide METG One-Act Play Festival, and audiences are invited to attend a special town-wide preview performance to support the cast and crew before they compete.
Content Advisory & Age Appropriateness: This production includes themes drawn from the original short story, including coming-of-age struggles, separation from family, loss of identity, and moments of stylized aggression reflecting the wolf-girl metaphor. While no graphic content is depicted, the material may be intense for younger viewers. Recommended for ages 10+. Viewer discretion is advised.
Join us for an evening of inventive storytelling and help send RMHS Drama to the state stage! Ticket information at www.rmhsdrama.org
Performance Dates:

Friday, Feb 6 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday, Feb 7 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, Feb 8 @ 2:00 PM

Location: William E. Endslow Performing Arts Center at RMHS
Tickets: Available at rmhsdrama.org
Creative Team:
Directed by: Natalie Cunha
Assistant Director: Katie Donovan
Technical Director: Kevin Gerstner
Support local student theater and witness this unique, never-before-seen adaptation!
This program is funded in part by a grant from the Reading Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Whitelam Books to Host Book Signing & Conversation with Author Julie Dobrow
2026-02-08 15:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is pleased to welcome author Julie Dobrow for a book signing and conversation on Sunday, February 8 @ 3:00PM. Julie will be discussing her bookLove and Loss After Wounded Knee: A Biography of an Extraordinary Interracial Marriage. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a conversation with Julie Dobrow as she shares her book Love and Loss After Wounded Knee: A Biography of an Extraordinary Interracial Marriage, a dual biography of two activists whose marriage challenged the gender and racial norms of their time. Love and Loss After Wounded Knee offers a dual biography of Elaine Goodale and Ohíye’Sa, (Dr. Charles Alexander Eastman), exploring their individual lives as well as their highly publicized interracial marriage. Both well-known in their own time- Elaine as a poet, journalist, and advocate for Indian education and Charles as writer, public speaker, and ardent activist for Indian rights- their marriage started with a shared vision to work on behalf of Indians. In the face of extreme prejudice, financial burden, and personal tragedy however, the marriage began to unravel. Dobrow paints an intimate, emotional portrait of the Eastmans’ lives drawn from Elaine and Charles’s letters, papers, and hundreds of accounts of the Eastmans’ lives from newspapers. The result is a compelling new history that weds the private and the political, and Native America and the United States of America- entwined yet separated, inextricable yet never fully joined, just like Elaine and Charles themselves.

Whitelam Books to Host Authors Jane Ward & Nancy Bernhard
2026-02-11 18:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is thrilled to welcome author Jane Ward in conversation with author Nancy Bernhard on Wednesday, February 11, at 6:00pm. Jane will be reading from her new book, Should Have Told You Sooner, while Nancy will share her book, The Double Standard Sporting House, at the event. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a special double-author event as we host a book launch for Jane Ward (Should Have Told You Sooner) in conversation with Nancy Bernhard (The Double Standard Sporting House).
Should Have Told You Sooner:
While studying art history at a London university, Noel Enfield falls passionately in love with aspiring artist and art school student Bryn Jones. Shortly after Bryn leaves for a five-month painting trip through Italy, Noel discovers she is pregnant. She is ecstatic and believes Bryn will be too—they have plans to marry, after all. But mishaps part the two lovers, and a desperate Noel makes a split-second choice to move forward in a way that will change not only her life but also the lives of everyone she loves.
Three decades later, when she is offered a six-month secondment to a London museum, Noel decides it’s time to prove she really has moved on from that difficult period by returning to the city where she met and lost Bryn. But rather than proving she has persevered, the move lands Noel in the thick of London’s insular art world, with only one or two degrees of separation from her past and the people she once loved. After she reconnects with an old, dear friend and learns finally what kept Bryn from returning to her all those years ago, the very underpinnings of her life are rocked to their core. Some decisions made in the past can never be put behind her, she realizes, and armed with this new understanding, she sets out on a journey to reclaim what—and who—she left behind.
The Double Standard Sporting House:
A high-class brothel that entertains New York’s most powerful men, the Double Standard Sporting House funds a free clinic for women. When the Tammany Hall criminal syndicate takes over the city in 1868 and starts kidnapping girls, the house’s owner, Nell “Doc” Hastings, cannot stay quiet—especially after sixteen-year-old Vivie arrives at the clinic bruised and bleeding.
Resolving to seek justice for Vivie and girls like her, Doc builds an unlikely alliance with religious reformers, a rare honest ward cop, and an alluring newspaper publisher she can’t seem to keep away from. Even with their help, Doc will have to use her sharpest tools—secrets, guile, and a surgical blade—to prevent a dark turn in the sex trade.

Landscape Artist Hillary Scott to Demonstrate for Reading Art Association
2026-02-11 19:30 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States
Award-winning painter shares her oil landscape technique on February 11 at Guild Hall
Reading, MA — On February 11, 2026, the Reading Art Association will present Hillary Scott, who will demonstrate her oil landscape technique. Hillary is an academically trained landscape painter from Northeast Massachusetts.
She earned her BFA in studio art from UMass Lowell, with a concentration in illustration. She illustrated books for many years before transitioning to landscape painting. Hillary has an affinity for coastal scenes, wetlands, and finds endless inspiration in the New England landscape.
The demonstration will be held in Guild Hall at First Congregational Church, 1 Woburn Street, Reading. Entrance to the demo is the middle side door on Sanborn Street at 7:30 PM. Her website is hillaryscottfineart.com.

Representative Haggerty to Hold Community Office Hours
2026-02-12 12:30 - 13:30 | Caffé Nero, 676 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) will be holding office hours on Thursday, February 12th, 2026.
The office hours will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Historical Artifacts Room at the Woburn Public Library, and at Caffé Nero, 676 Main Street, Reading, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM.
Representative Haggerty or a member of his staff will be on hand during these hours to meet with Woburn and Reading residents. The office hours will be held on a first-come, first-served basis with no prior appointment necessary.
“I welcome Reading and Woburn residents to visit during our scheduled hours if they have any questions or concerns regarding legislative matters and government services,” stated Representative Haggerty. “I’m always happy to provide help and take time to listen to constituents.”
If constituents are unable to attend any of these sessions, they can contact his office at (617) 722-2575 or email his Staff Director, Zack Dhaliwal, at Zack.Dhaliwal@mahouse.gov. Representative Haggerty can also be reached directly at Richard.Haggerty@mahouse.gov.

Cartoonist Cara Bean Leads Heartwarming Teen Doodle Workshop at Reading Public Library
2026-02-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Feb. 12 program invites grades 6–12 to create tiny drawings with big meaning in “Doodling Secret Messages”
Reading, MA — On Thursday, February 12, at 4:00 pm, cartoonist Cara Bean visits the Reading Public Library for Doodling Secret Messages, a heartwarming workshop where tiny drawings carry big meaning.
Teens in grades 6–12 will create a series of increasingly small doodles, each paired with a special message to someone — or something — they care about, like a beloved friend, a pet, or a favorite place.
These miniature illustrations become visual love notes, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any holiday where you want to express affection and gratitude. It’s a quiet, creative way to reflect on what matters most — and share it playfully.
Register today; space is limited.
Cara Bean is a cartoonist, art educator, and the author of Here I Am, I Am Me: An Illustrated Guide to Mental Health. Her book was named to the Children’s Book Council’s 2025 Favorites lists for both Middle Grade and Teacher Favorites and was shortlisted for the Graphic Medicine International Comics Awards.
Scan to register or visit:
https://bit.ly/RPLDoodling

Jones to Hold District Office Hours
2026-02-13 10:15 - 11:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Residents invited to meet with the House Minority Leader at the Pleasant Street Center to discuss concerns and access state services
BOSTON – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, February 13, from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the Pleasant Street Center, located at 49 Pleasant Street.
During office hours, Representative Jones or a member of his staff will be available at the center to meet with constituents on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary.
“I encourage Reading residents to stop by the Pleasant Street Center during office hours to discuss any issues of concern they may have, including questions about legislation and accessing government services,” said Representative Jones. “We are always happy to assist in any way we can and to be a resource to the community.”
Constituents who are unable to attend local office hours can schedule an appointment to meet with Representative Jones at a more convenient time by calling (617) 722-2100 or e-mailing his District Aide, Brittany Carisella, at Brittany.Carisella@mahouse.gov. Representative Jones can be reached at Bradley.Jones@mahouse.gov.
Reading office hours take place on the second Friday of every month at the Pleasant Street Center.

Shop, Sip, and Support Local Businesses at Galentine’s Night
2026-02-13 18:00 - 21:00 | Presence and Co., 557 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — Reading residents are invited to a fun, community-focused evening on Friday, February 13, at Presence and Co., as locally owned small businesses come together for a night of shopping, food, and live entertainment.
The event will feature live performances by the Reading School of Music — including RMHS student musicians — along with a variety of local vendors, including High Street Tattoo, Kaylash, Mixed Metals Permanent Jewelry, and more.
Organizers hope to create a welcoming space where neighbors can support small businesses, connect with one another, and experience everything Presence and Co.
All are welcome to attend and help celebrate Reading’s vibrant small business community.
Presence and Co. 557 Main Street, Reading, MA
Friday, February 13

Reading Police Department Announces Car Seat Installation Events
2026-02-14 11:00 - 13:30 | Reading Police Department, 15 Union Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
READING — Deputy Chief Christine Amendola is pleased to share that the Reading Police Department will be hosting multiple car seat installation events for residents.
Car seat installations will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month, from Feb. 14 to June 13, at the police station, 15 Union St.
Reading Police have designated car seat technicians on staff who will assist residents with properly installing car seats.
The proper installation of car seats is vital to ensure safe travel and safe driving practices. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 325 children under 5 are saved by car seats in motor vehicle crashes per year.
Car seat installations are free for residents. Residents should bring the car seat manual and the height and weight of their child.
To schedule an appointment, residents should contact Sgt. Cody Costa at ccosta@readingma.gov or call and leave a message at 781-942-6799.

Senator Jason Lewis Announces Virtual Office Hours for February
2026-02-17 14:00
BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis will be holding Virtual Office Hours on Tuesday, February 17, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
This will replace the regularly scheduled Virtual Office Hours on February 16, due to the celebration of Presidents’ Day.
Any constituent of Senator Lewis is welcome to attend Office Hours, with no appointment necessary, to discuss any personal issue or legislative feedback with the Senator and his staff.
Virtual Office Hours are held on Zoom. To join the meeting, please visit SenatorJasonLewis.com, use the following link, or enter the meeting information on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83854164671?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 838 5416 4671
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Each constituent meets privately with the Senator during the Zoom session.
Senator Lewis also holds regular in-person Office Hours in each community of the district (Malden, Melrose, Reading, Stoneham, Wakefield, and Winchester).
For further information or any questions, visit SenatorJasonLewis.com or contact his State House office at (617) 722-1206 orJason.Lewis@masenate.gov.

Whitelam Books to Host Story Time with Children’s Author & Illustrator AJ Smith
2026-02-18 10:30 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is delighted to welcome Children’s Book Author and Illustrator AJ Smith to our weekly story time as he shares his book Catnip Mouse, Wednesday, February 18 at 10:30am. Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us as we welcome special guest, author and illustrator AJ Smith to Whitelam Books to share his book Catnip Mouse at our weekly story time! Vera (the cat) is happily playing alone with her catnip mouse when Gipp (the dog) desperately tries to join the fun. When she doesn’t respond, Gipp decides he’ll impress her with his magic wand but instead accidentally destroys Vera’s toy! Attempting to cheer her up, Gipp offers to use his wand to replace the catnip mouse, suggesting a series of fantastical rhyming alternatives. Would Vera like a ketchup joust? No. A cattle blouse? No! How about a cactus house? NO! Vera’s had enough. And soon neither of them has their favorite toy. Is there some way the friends can patch things up?

Whitelam Books to Host Author Kristin Bair at Monthly Fiction Book Club
2026-02-19 19:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is excited to welcome author Kristin Bair to our fiction book club on Thursday, February 19 at 7:00pm. Our monthly drop-in fiction book club will be discussing Kristin’s book, Clementine Crane Prefers Not To. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a special fiction book club meeting as we host author Kristin Bair and discuss her book, Clementine Crane Prefers Not To. Clementine Crane has a few things on her plate: She keeps the peace, picks up the slack, and always puts everyone else first. But when her first hot flash strikes, perimenopause sends her into a tailspin. Between a husband who can’t navigate a revolving door without her, three kids who treat her as their fixer, and a career stuck in neutral, Clementine begins to wonder: When is enough enough?
Overwhelmed and fed up, Clementine takes a stand—one small refusal at a time. She goes on strike, ditching obligations, setting boundaries, and venting her frustrations on social media. When her raw, hilarious, and unexpectedly poignant videos go viral, Clementine finds herself at the heart of a movement she never saw coming.
Clementine can’t stay on strike forever, but can she let a few things fall through the cracks—before she cracks again? Speaking to the emotional, and often invisible, labor that so many women bear, Clementine Crane finally asks: When does it become too much?

Folk Dancing on Fridays
2026-02-20 12:30 - 14:15 | Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading, 239 Woburn St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Music, movement, and community come together every Friday at International Folk Dancing in the Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading

Reading, MA — Led by Folk Arts Center of New England director Marcie Van Cleave, these welcoming sessions feature easy-to-learn dances from around the world — including Israel, France, Romania, Bolivia, England, Ukraine, Sweden, and the United States. No experience or partner is needed, and every dance is taught, making it perfect for beginners and longtime dancers alike.
Join the fun on Fridays from 12:30–2:15 pm through March 27, 2026, indoors in Fellowship Hall. Come solo or bring friends — if you can get yourself in the door, the rest is easy!
A suggested donation of $10–$15 per day helps support the series. This program is funded in part by the Reading Cultural Council, supported by the Mass Cultural Council.
Fellowship Hall at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 239 Woburn Street, Reading (use the Summer Avenue entrance)
Fully accessible
More info: Moore944@gmail.com

Whitelam Books to Host Book Launch with Children’s Author Cynthia Platt
2026-02-21 15:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is delighted to welcome back Children’s Book Author Cynthia Platt as she celebrates her new book Bunny in Disguise, Saturday, February 21, @ 3:00 PM. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us as we welcome back Cynthia Platt to celebrate her new book, Bunny in Disguise. The Easter Bunny is late! Can a group of creative kids help this iconic rabbit get to the town’s egg hunt in time all while keeping the famous bunny incognito and out of sight? The kids need to work together and hop to it if they’re going to pull this off and save the holiday.
This is a perfectly funny and sweet read-aloud tale to share in every Easter basket!

Senator Lewis to Host MA State Budget 101 Community Conversation
2026-02-24 18:30 - 20:00
BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis is pleased to announce that he will be convening a Community Conversation to discuss how the $60 billion+ Massachusetts state budget is drafted each year, how funding decisions are made, and how your voice can be heard.
He will be joined by Christopher Marino, the Assistant Secretary for Budget at the Executive Office for Administration and Finance and Dr. Viviana M. Abreu-Hernández, the President of MassBudget, a public policy research and advocacy organization.
Community Conversation: Massachusetts Budget 101 will take place virtually on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. The event will be live-streamed on the Senator’s YouTube channel, where viewers will be able to participate in the live chat. A recording will also be available after the event.
The event can be streamed at: https://bit.ly/MassBudget101
The panel’s discussion will include the budget drafting schedule, impacts of federal funding cuts, and how Fair Share revenue is being used by the state to support education and transportation. There will be ample opportunity during the event for attendees to provide feedback and ask questions of Senator Lewis and the panelists.
If you have any questions about this event or need further details, please contact the Office of Senator Lewis at Jason.Lewis@masenate.gov or (617) 722-1206. All are welcome to attend.
Previous Community Conversations hosted by Senator Lewis have addressed a wide range of timely topics including housing affordability, public education, racial justice, public transportation, mental health and addiction, and challenges facing senior citizens and veterans.

Wakefield Arts & Crafts Monthly Meeting
2026-03-03 10:00 - 13:30 | Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon St, Wakefield, MA, 01880, United States
Wakefield, MA — “Creating for Good” was the theme of our February 3rd meeting of the Wakefield Arts & Crafts Society. We made cuddly teddy bears and soft fleece heart pillows for charity.
Our March 3rd meeting will feature Robin Gorfine and Nancy Smethurst leading us in the making of Tamari Balls.
Our annual exhibit and craft sale is approaching. Save the date: April 25 from 9-2.
New members are welcome at any time of the year; no crafting experience necessary. The $10 guest fee will be deducted from your dues if you decide to join. You can visit us online at facebook.com/WakefieldArtsandCraftsSociety. Please contact us at WakefieldArtsCraftsSociety@gmail.com for more information.
Members of the group can participate in making a new craft every month for free. We always have discounted craft supplies available at our meetings and members share their crafting expertise. Our season includes “free guest day” and a field trip in October, a holiday party in December, charity work in winter, and our Annual Exhibit in April. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month from 10AM to approximately 1:30PM.

🍔 Fuddruckers’ 3-LB Burger Challenge Returns to Reading
2026-03-03 11:00 - 18:00 | Fuddruckers, 50 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Take on a massive burger, a pound of fries, and the clock at Fuddruckers on March 3 — finish in 45 minutes to win prizes and bragging rights

Reading, MA — Think you’ve got what it takes to conquer the legendary 3-lb burger at Fuddruckers? Now’s your chance to prove it.
For $39.99, challengers get:
A massive 3-lb burger
1 lb of our famous wedge-cut fries
Bottomless fountain drink
Finish it all in 45 minutes or less and YOU WIN.
Post the fastest time of the day and take home the Grand Prize!

March 3, 2026
Every hour, on the hour, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Last year, three competitors beat the clock — and two crushed it in under 24 minutes. Can you top that?
Register here: https://forms.gle/AVG8j9BDVTdsw8hj6
Find us inside Jordan’s Furniture at 50 Walkers Brook Drive in Reading
Bring your appetite (and your friends to cheer you on)!

Seize The Day With Newsies Jr. Presented By Parker Middle School Drama Club
2026-03-05 18:30 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Disney’s NEWSIES JR. Playing at RMHS Performing Arts Center

Reading, MA – Disney’s Newsies JR., presented by Parker Middle School Drama Club, is playing at RMHS Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 5th at 6:30 pm, Friday, March 6th at 7 pm, and Saturday, March 7th at 2 pm. Tickets are now on sale at https://cur8.com/19736/project/137330.
The inspiring 60-minute musical is based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies and the 2012 Broadway production of the same name. The cast and crew include over 110 students, with direction and design by Stephen MacDonald, music direction by Jennifer DiMuzio, and choreography by Nancy Katz.

Mr. MacDonald reminds us that “this production is a community event. With over 100 Parker Middle School families involved in the show, the reach is larger than normal. We are excited to welcome families and community members into the RMHS Performing Arts Center to witness this story about strength, community, friendship, and the idea of family, both chosen family and family by birth. We are telling a story based off of real people, real struggles, and real victories; our production is entertaining, but also relevant to today”.
It’s time to carry the banner with Disney’s NewsiesJR.! You’ll be doing flips for the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of young newsies in Manhattan. When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsies’ expense, Jack rallies young workers from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right! Adapted especially for young performers, this musical features a Tony Award®-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award® winner Harvey Fierstein, and includes rousing songs like “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “King of New York.” Newsies JR.is packed with nonstop thrills and a timeless message perfect for the whole family and every audience.

Seize The Day With Newsies Jr. Presented By Parker Middle School Drama Club
2026-03-06 19:00, 2026-03-07 14:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Disney’s NEWSIES JR. Playing at RMHS Performing Arts Center

Reading, MA – Disney’s Newsies JR., presented by Parker Middle School Drama Club, is playing at RMHS Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 5th at 6:30 pm, Friday, March 6th at 7 pm, and Saturday, March 7th at 2 pm. Tickets are now on sale at https://cur8.com/19736/project/137330.
The inspiring 60-minute musical is based on the 1992 Disney film Newsies and the 2012 Broadway production of the same name. The cast and crew include over 110 students with direction and design by Stephen MacDonald, music direction by Jennifer DiMuzio, and choreography by Nancy Katz.

Mr. MacDonald reminds us that “this production is a community event. With over 100 Parker Middle School families involved in the show, the reach is larger than normal. We are excited to welcome families and community members into the RMHS Performing Arts Center to witness this story about strength, community, friendship, and the idea of family, both chosen family and family by birth. We are telling a story based off of real people, real struggles, and real victories; our production is entertaining, but also relevant to today”.
It’s time to carry the banner with Disney’s NewsiesJR.! You’ll be doing flips for the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of young newsies in Manhattan. When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsies’ expense, Jack rallies young workers from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right! Adapted especially for young performers, this musical features a Tony Award®-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award® winner Harvey Fierstein, and includes rousing songs like “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “King of New York.” Newsies JR.is packed with nonstop thrills and a timeless message perfect for the whole family and every audience.

Marc Berger Brings the Spirit of the American West to Reading Public Library
2026-03-07 15:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Acclaimed singer-songwriter to perform songs from his album RIDE and share stories of the mountain and desert West on March 7 at 3 pm
Reading Public Library (RPL), Reading, MA—Get out of the house for an afternoon of incredible music evoking the landscape of the American West. The accomplished musician and vocalist Marc Berger visits the Reading Public Library on Saturday, March 7, at 3 pm. Marc will perform songs from his album RIDE and share unforgettable stories about his experiences in remote parts of the mountain and desert West. It’s a can’t-miss concert!
Marc has performed at Austin’s SXSW Music Festival and the Kerrville Folk Festival and opened for Bob Dylan and other national acts, and his antinuclear anthem The Last One was a staple of Richie Havens’ concerts. Marc’s critically acclaimed album, RIDE, a collection of songs all having to do with the romance of the West, has received national airplay and been licensed by Starbucks for worldwide in-store airplay.
Scan for more info or visit:
https://readingpl.libnet.info/event/15085929

Living Holocaust Witness 96-Year-Old Tibor Spitz to Speak in Reading
2026-03-09 19:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Chabad of Wakefield hosts a rare in-person testimony at RMHS as the 96-year-old survivor shares his story of survival, resilience, and remembrance

READING, MA — Chabad of Wakefield will host a rare and historic evening on Monday, March 9 at 7:00 p.m. as Holocaust survivor Tibor Spitz shares his testimony in person at Reading Memorial High School’s William Endslow Performing Arts Center, together with community and corporate sponsors.
Tibor Spitz was 10 years old in Slovakia when he was expelled from public school under Nazi rule, and his family’s property was confiscated. As deportations to Auschwitz began, his family fled and spent several years in hiding, including months buried beneath snow and ice in the Slovak mountains while SS troops actively searched the area for Jews.
Most of Tibor’s extended family was murdered in the Holocaust. Against all odds, he survived.
After the war, Tibor rebuilt his life, becoming a scientist, inventor, and PhD whose work contributed to technologies that helped shape the digital age. Alongside his scientific career, he emerged as a powerful artist and lecturer, using both science and art to communicate the realities of the Holocaust and its lasting impact.
Now 96 years old and residing in upstate New York, Tibor Spitz continues to share his testimony so that future generations can hear the truth directly from a living witness.
“This is one of those evenings that defines a community,” said Rabbi Sruly Brook of Chabad of Wakefield. “We are living in a time when antisemitism is rising, and Holocaust survivors are becoming fewer and fewer each year. Hearing directly from someone who lived through it is powerful and life-changing.”
Tickets are $20, with $10 student tickets available. VIP reception tickets are also available and include the opportunity to meet Tibor Spitz personally before the event. Tickets are required, and seating is limited.
Tickets can be purchased at Jewishwakefield.com/tickets or by calling 781-205-9593.
This is not an event to read about afterward. This is the moment to be present.
