Scottish Prisoners of War in Reading During the American Revolution
2026-05-02 13:30 (America/New_York) | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading Public Library hosts historian Christopher Hall for a deep dive into the capture and imprisonment of Highland soldiers in 1776 Massachusetts
Reading, MA — Join the Reading Public Library and Reading Antiquarian Society as Chris Hall presents his talk on Scottish Prisoners of War in Reading and Beyond During the American Revolution.
In June 1776, the 71st Regiment of Foot, British Army soldiers from the highlands of Scotland, were captured by American privateers in Boston Harbor. The regiment, along with their families, servants, and families of their servants, were imprisoned and paroled across Massachusetts. The Lieutenant Colonel of this regiment, Archibald Campbell, was paroled at the Parker Tavern in Reading, and his Officers were paroled in an encampment nearby. This talk will investigate the contextual wartime dynamic during which this regiment was kept as prisoners of war, and the effect it had on Patriots, Loyalists, and everyday people in Reading and across Massachusetts.
The program will begin at 1:30 on May 2 at Reading Public Library in the A/B conference room, but come early to mingle with other history buffs!
Christopher Hall, the caretaker at Parker Tavern, will give the talk. He also works in other capacities for the National Park Service as a historical interpreter in Boston.

Whitelam Books to Host Double Author Story Time with Lisa Varchol Perron & Monica Acker
2026-05-02 15:00 - 17:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is thrilled to welcome back children’s authors Lisa Varchol Perron and Monica Acker. Lisa will be reading from her new picture book Kite Day, and Monica will be sharing her picture book Brave Like Mom, on Saturday, May 2 at 3:00PM. 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.
Books will be available for purchase and signing. This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a special double author story time honoring a mother’s love through difficult times with Lisa Varchol Perron (Kite Day) and Monica Acker (Brave Like Mom).
Kite Day: Mamuś and her son love Kite Days. But conditions have to be right. Sometimes the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, and the day is calling… But it’s still not a Kite Day. Sometimes the clouds roll in, and the wind is too strong… And they still try for a Kite Day. But when their string gets tangled and the light gets dim, they must stay inside and wait for their next chance at a Kite Day.
Navigating worry, anger, sadness and disappointment, Mamuś and her son fly their kite together. While her mood mirrors the kite’s motions – gently rising, twisting in the wind, tangling in a tree, and crashing to the ground – the pair continue to try. Despite the ups and downs, their love is, and will always remain, constant.
An honest yet hopeful glimpse into a child’s experience with a parent who has bipolar illness or other mood-related struggles, including concrete suggestions for young readers who are concerned about a loved one, this is a key social and emotional learning (SEL) book for young readers and loved ones navigating a mental health illness.
Brave Like Mom: As one girl watches her mom battle illness, she sees Mom being strong, brave, and fierce on both good days and bad ones. Mom is fierce as she catches and wrestles a fish and brave as she endures needles from the doctor. The girl wants to be brave like Mom! As she worries about her mom’s health, the girl realizes that bravery comes in many forms and that she can be brave too.
A poignant and sensitive story about a loved one living with a chronic illness, and an important lesson about how being brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared.

Get Ready for Derby Day at Post 1917! 🌹🐎
2026-05-02 17:00 - 20:00 | Post 1917, 136 Haven St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Celebrate the Run for the Roses at Post 1917’s Annual Derby Watch Party in Reading. The event takes place in the restaurant’s brand-new private room and includes passed appetizers, a handcrafted Mint Julep, and all the excitement of race day.
Dress to impress for the Best Dressed Hat Competition—winners will receive a Post 1917 gift bag and a $250 dining gift card.
Saturday, May 2
5–8 PM
$50 (plus tax & fees) via Eventbrite
Limited tickets available
Grab your tickets and join the fun!

RMHS Drama Club Presents Clue: High School Edition
2026-05-02 19:30 - 20:00, 2026-05-03 14:00 - 17:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — The Reading Memorial High School Drama Club proudly presents its spring production of Clue: High School Edition, written by Sandy Rustin.

Based on the iconic board game and inspired by the beloved 1985 film, this fast-paced comedy invites audiences to Boddy Manor, where six mysterious guests, one suspicious butler, and a mansion full of secrets collide in a night of comedic chaos. When the lights go out and the host turns up dead, everyone becomes a suspect. Follow along to uncover the secrets of Boddy Manor and the true identity of the murderer.

This special Student Showcase highlights the extraordinary talent of students both on and off stage. Featuring student direction, design, and performance, the production celebrates the creativity and leadership of the award-winning RMHS Drama Club.

Performance Dates:

Friday, May 1 at 7:30 PM

Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 PM

Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 PM

Location:William E. Endslow Performing Arts CenterReading Memorial High School62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA

Tickets:Available at www.rmhsdrama.org

Creative Team:

Directed by Jason Walsh ‘26

Assistant Directors: Natalie Cunha & Katie Donovan

Technical Directors: Lucas Reis ‘26 & Kevin Gerstner

Join us for an evening of mystery, mayhem, and comedy for the whole family as Clue comes to life on stage!

Friends of the Reading Public Library House Tour Returns May 3
2026-05-03 13:00 - 17:00 | MA
Annual fundraiser showcases eight unique homes, supports library programs year-round
Reading, MA — The Friends of the Reading Public Library are excited to announce the return of the Friends’ House Tour, May 3, 2026! The tour will run from 1:00 to 5:00. This is our longest-running fundraising event. The 2026 Tour features several beautiful and unique homes of Reading. Eight generous homeowners have opened their homes to support the Reading Public Library. Take note of the details each has incorporated to make their home special. Many have extended their vision outside as well.
Ticket booklets are $30 per person and available at the Reading Library and at Whitelam Books. Ticket booklets are $35 on the day of the tour.
Thanks to our many generous sponsors and ticket sales, this is our biggest fundraiser, supporting many programs at the library throughout the year.
For more Friends information, visit friendsofreadingpl.org

Friends of the Reading Public Library House Tour
2026-05-03 13:00 - 17:00 | MA

Songs of Freedom Concert Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary
2026-05-03 15:00 - 17:00 | The South Church of Andover, 41 Central Street, Andover, MA, 01810, United States
Andover Choral Society and New England Classical Singers present a historic choral program with a live 18th-century reenactment
Andover, MA — Please join the Andover Choral Society, directed by Matthew Buono, and the New England Classical Singers, directed by David Hodgkins, for a musical celebration of our nation’s 250th Anniversary.
“Songs of Freedom” offers an exploration of choral music created at pivotal times in American history from the 1700s to the 21st century. Themes of peace, of conflict, of gallantry, of pioneering, and of enduring hope resonate throughout this program – all presented by two of the Merrimack Valley’s most beloved choral groups.
This special performance features a guest appearance by The Danvers Alarm List Company, an 18th-century living history reenactment group, creating a unique patriotic experience.
Concert tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, and $10 for students. To purchase tickets or to learn more, please visit andoverchoralsociety.org or newenglandclassical.org.
The South Church of Andover is located at 41 Central Street, Andover, MA, and is handicapped accessible. Off-street parking is available.

Senator Jason Lewis Announces May Office Hours
2026-05-04 13:30 - 14:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
State Senator Jason Lewis will be holding Office Hours in Reading on Monday, May 4, 2026, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Street Center (49 Pleasant St).
Any Reading resident is welcome to attend Office Hours, with no appointment necessary, to meet with the Senator and discuss any constituent issues or legislative feedback.
Senator Lewis will also be holding Office Hours the same day in Winchester from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Winchester Public Library (80 Washington St), and in Stoneham from 12-1 p.m. at the Stoneham Senior Center (136 Elm St).
Another option for residents who would like to meet with Senator Lewis is to attend Virtual Office Hours, which will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 2-3 p.m. on Zoom.
For further information or any questions visit SenatorJasonLewis.com or contact his office at (617) 722-1206 or Jason.Lewis@masenate.gov.

Reading Public Library Outdoor Concert Series
2026-05-04 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-06 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Friends of the Library present free, family-friendly performances all spring, launching with Little Groove and celebrating the new terrace opening
Reading, MA — The Friends of the Reading Public Library Outdoor Concert Series kicks off on Saturday, May 2 at 10 am, launching a season of free, family-friendly performances at the Reading Public Library.
The concert series will run throughout May and into early June, featuring music and entertainment for children, families, and audiences of all ages. The opening performance welcomes toddler-friendly band Little Groove, followed by a variety of returning favorites and new acts.
Highlights include the return of the King Serpent Variety Troupe with its outlaw-style blend of singing, dancing, and storytelling, as well as performances by Speechless Pop Strings Duo, Fly By Brass Band, and other engaging musical groups. Several concerts are specifically geared toward younger children, offering interactive and age-appropriate experiences.
All concerts will take place outdoors, inviting the community to enjoy live music while taking in the spring weather on the library’s new terrace.
Concert Schedule:

Saturday, May 2 at 10 am: Little Groove (ages 0–5)
Monday, May 4 at 2 pm: King Serpent Variety Troupe
Wednesday, May 6 at 7 pm: Speechless Pop Strings Duo
Friday, May 8 at 10 am: Stacey Peasley (ages 0–5)
Tuesday, May 26 at 7 pm: Fly By Brass Band
Friday, May 29 at 10 am: Sulinha’s Music Trio (ages 0–5)
Saturday, May 30 at 10 am: Mara & Motoko (ages 0–5)
Friday, June 5 at 10 am: Rockabye Beats (ages 0–5)
Friday, June 12 at 10 am: Peter Sheridan (ages 0–5)

The community is also invited to celebrate the official opening of the Library Terrace on Thursday, June 4, at 7 pm. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be followed by light refreshments, and the event is free and open to the public.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the Reading Public Library calendar online.

Women’s League of Reading to Host “New Member Mixer” at Whitelam Books
2026-05-05 19:00 - 20:30 | MA
May 5 event invites community members to connect, learn about WLR, and explore ways to get involved
Reading, MA – The Women’s League of Reading (WLR) invites community members to attend a New Member Mixer on Tuesday, May 5, from 7:00–8:30 PM at Whitelam Books. This casual, drop-in event is designed for anyone interested in learning more about the organization, meeting current members, and exploring opportunities to get involved.
The evening offers a relaxed, welcoming environment where prospective members can connect with women from across the Reading community, ask questions, and hear firsthand about WLR’s events, initiatives, and local impact. There is no formal program; guests are encouraged to stop by at any time during the event. Whether you’re new to town or simply looking to get more involved, this event is for you.
The Women’s League of Reading is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local initiatives through fundraising, service, and community engagement. Through signature events and year-round efforts, WLR raises funds that directly benefit organizations and individuals in Reading.
The New Member Mixer is open to all who are curious about joining or learning more. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance or request more information at bit.ly/WLR-RSVP.
About the Women’s League of Reading
The Women’ s League of Reading is a volunteer-based organization that hosts fundraising and community events throughout the year. Funds raised are distributed annually to local nonprofits, organizations, and neighbors in need. In the 2024-2025 season alone, the League raised and distributed more than $40,000 back into the community through scholarships, nonprofit support, and direct assistance to residents. Find us on Instagram @womensleaguereading or Facebook at Women’s League of Reading, MA.

Reading Town Forest 2026 Bird Walks
2026-05-06 07:00 - 09:00 | Reading Town Forest, Strout Ave, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Join us for a series of free guided bird walks in the Reading Town Forest, led by Dave Williams.
Meet: Strout Avenue (near the town compost area)
Dates:

Wednesday, May 6. 7-9 am
Tuesday, June 9, 7-9 am

sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0448AEAA23A2F9C16-62705928-reading#/
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and binoculars.
Loaner binoculars will be available.
Birders of all experience levels are welcome.
Sponsored by the Reading Town Forest Committee and the Reading Trails Committee.

Learn a New Language at Reading Public Library
2026-05-07 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-05-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Free English classes, language learning tools, and resources available for all ages and skill levels
Reading, MA — The Reading Public Library (RPL) invites community members to explore new language learning opportunities through free classes and resources designed for all ages and skill levels.
Beginning Thursday, April 23, the library will offer an eight-week Beginner English Class for adults. Held from 6:30–8:00 PM, the class is designed to help participants build confidence and improve speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. The program is led by RPL Librarian Ashley Cristiano, who has more than five years of experience teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and specializes in working with adult beginners. No registration is required—participants may simply attend.
For those who prefer to learn at home, Mango Languages is available free with a library card. This online platform offers lessons in a wide range of languages, including Portuguese, Arabic, English, and American Sign Language, allowing users to learn at their own pace.
Families can also access LOTE4Kids, a digital collection featuring more than 4,500 picture books in over 70 languages, making it easy for children to enjoy stories in their native language or discover new ones.
In addition, the library offers translation tools for borrowing, including a Language Translator for documents and the PockeTalk Translator for real-time conversations. These devices are available at any service desk.
The Reading Public Library remains committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow. For more information, visit the library or explore its website.

Representative Jones Holding District Office Hours
2026-05-08 10:15 - 11:15 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
May 8 at Reading’s Pleasant Street Center
BOSTON – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, May 8, 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.

Bike Recycling and Give-Away Returns to Reading May 8–9
2026-05-08 11:00 - 12:30, 2026-05-09 09:00 - 11:00 | RMLD, 230 Ash Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Donate, volunteer, or pick out a free bike at this community event hosted by ReadingCares and the Reading Climate Advisory Committee at RMLD
Reading, MA — ReadingCares and the Reading Climate Advisory Committee are again hosting the annual Bike Recycling and Give-Away. The public is invited to donate their used bikes (in good condition) at RMLD, 230 Ash Street, on Friday, May 8th, from 11am-12:30pm and on Saturday, May 9th, from 9am – 11am. All donors will receive a voucher for early admission at 12noon on Saturday to choose a free bike. Free Bikes will be available to everyone starting by 12:30pm on Saturday, May 9th.
All bikes and materials are donated. All labor is done by volunteers. We also enjoy the support of RMLD, Town of Reading, Reading Police, and REI Coop. The RPD and REI will have items to distribute to participants.

Reading Community Singers to Present Spring Concert As The Seasons Turn
2026-05-09 19:30 - 21:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
70-voice chorus, live band, and scholarship performance highlight an evening of timeless music on May 9
Reading, MA — The Reading Community Singers will present their annual spring concert, As The Seasons Turn, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 7:30 pm at Reading Memorial High School.
The performance will feature a 70-person chorus under the direction of Artistic Director Elijah Botkin, accompanied by Joe Beninati and a five-piece band. The program offers a timeless selection of music spanning genres and generations.
Audience members can look forward to favorites such as Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time,” “Seasons of Love” from Rent, Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies,” and a medley from Wicked. The evening will also include a special performance by Allison Hall of Wilmington, recipient of the 2026 Reading Community Singers Scholarship.
Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for seniors and students, and are available online or at the door.

For more information, visit the Reading Community Singers website or follow them on social media.

Reading Community Concert Band to Celebration USA’s 250th
2026-05-10 15:00 - 17:00 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States
May 10 concert at First Congregational Church will highlight diverse American composers and musical traditions
The Reading Community Concert Band will be celebrating the USA’s 250th with a special concert titled “American Variations” at 3 pm on Sunday, May 10, at the First Congregational Church of Reading UCC. The music will feature a cross-section of classical American composers from the 20th and 21st Centuries. Many will feature well -known American musical themes and ideas played in different settings.
American Variations is a program celebrating the diverse array of American musical styles and composers. Much like America’s motto: E Pluribus Unum (Out of many, one), the concert will showcase how the many different backgrounds of our people have influenced the development of all forms of American music. It will celebrate the extraordinary creativity and innovation of American composers.
There is a suggested donation of $20 to support the band’s continued efforts to bring a variety of music to the Reading, MA area.
This concert is supported in part by the Reading Cultural Council, a local agency, which the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, supports.

Whitelam Books to Host Double Author Story Time with Carrie Finison & Julie Koon
2026-05-13 10:30 - 11:30 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is delighted to host children’s authors Carrie Finison and Julie Koon at our weekly story time. Carrie will be reading from her latest picture book, Touch A Truck Day, and Julie will be sharing her new picture book, Breathe A Rainbow, on Wednesday, May 13, 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.
Books will be available for purchase and signing. This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a special double author story time with Carrie Finison (Touch A Truck Day) and Julie Koon (Breathe A Rainbow).
Touch A Truck Day is a rhyming, tabbed board book that invites readers to climb inside eight different trucks—including a fire engine, garbage truck, ambulance, and more!—and discover what makes each of them unique. Use the tabs to skip straight to your favorite vehicle, then lift the flaps and learn about the important features found inside and out.
Breathe A Rainbow is a unique, interactive board book that offers mindful breathing exercises and calming textures for children to trace with their fingers as they inhale and exhale. It’s a wonderful playroom or classroom tool to help with big emotions that little ones may not yet understand how to identify, describe, or regulate.

Game Changers Media Series: Bill Russell’s Red and Me
2026-05-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Join us for an evening of conversation and reflection on the life and legacy of basketball legend and civil rights leader Bill Russell
Reading, MA — Community members are invited to gather for an evening of conversation and reflection as the Game Changers Media Series continues Thursday, May 14, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm in the Reading Public Library Community Room.
The program will focus on Red and Me, Bill Russell’s deeply personal memoir about his relationship with legendary Celtics coach Red Auerbach. While rooted in basketball, the book reaches beyond the game, exploring mentorship, trust, conflict, leadership, and the lasting impact one person can have on another’s life.
Through guided discussion, participants will explore the unique bond between Russell and Auerbach — two personalities who challenged, respected, and ultimately helped shape each other. Set against the backdrop of one of the greatest dynasties in sports history, the memoir offers an honest look at leadership, personal growth, and the meaning of believing in someone’s potential.
Organizers hope the conversation will encourage participants to reflect not only on Russell’s legacy but also on the mentors, coaches, teachers, and community members who influence our own lives and leadership journeys.
The event is designed to be welcoming and conversational, whether participants have read the entire book or are simply interested in leadership, community, and personal connection.
The discussion will be facilitated by members of the community and the Ad Hoc Commemoration Establishment (ACE) Committee, which continues its work honoring Russell’s legacy and his contributions to civil rights, leadership, and social justice.
The program is presented in partnership with the Reading Public Library. Registration is encouraged but not required. For more information, please contact Reginald Nichols or visit the Reading Public Library website.
The Game Changers Series is part of an ongoing effort to reflect on the life and legacy of Bill Russell, a champion whose influence continues to inspire conversations about justice, mentorship, leadership, and community today.

Reading Garden Club to Hold Annual Plant Sale
2026-05-16 09:00 - 12:00 | Reading Town Common, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Plants, perennials, and homemade baked goods available on the Town Common
Reading, MA — Community invited to shop plants and homemade baked goods on the Town Common on May 16.
The Reading Garden Club will host its annual plant sale on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the Reading Town Common. The event will be held rain or shine.
A wide variety of plants will be available for purchase, including hanging baskets, annuals, and vegetables. One of the most popular features of the sale is the selection of perennials sourced directly from members’ own gardens.
In addition to plants, the event will include a bake sale featuring homemade goods prepared by club members using their favorite recipes.
Cash, checks, and credit cards will be accepted.
Community members are encouraged to stop by, support local gardening efforts, and enjoy a spring tradition on the Town Common.

Friend Tending Program in Reading in May
2026-05-16 14:00 - 16:30 | Presence & Co, 557 Main Street, Reading, z, 01867, United States
Friend Tending at Presence & Co
Saturday, May 16th, 2-4:30 PM at Presence & Co in Reading
Reading, MA — Friend Tending is a dynamic 2-hour program that increases our awareness of our own patterns in friendships and the ways we can meet the needs of our friends. Participants rank 10 different friend tendencies (how they give and receive love) and engage in meaningful conversations with others. Intended to elevate the concept of friendship to the level of romantic and familial relationships with regards to how we approach care and repair in relationships, participants are guaranteed to come away with at least one or more of the following:

a new meaningful connection or insights into how to show up better for existing friends
challenge your lens on how you approach friendships in general
a meaningful question to investigate further for yourself or in your friendships
a change you wish to implement with regards to your relationships

“That was such a fun program: The activities were thoughtful, thought provoking, and playful at the same time. Caryn is a natural group facilitator, gently directing us to a purposeful conversation while offering a comfortable, safe environment. I left with some new insights into my own needs and how to deepen my existing friendships.” –JoAnn F
You can register here.

Linden Tree Coffeehouse in Wakefield Presents: Rob Flax’s Boom Chick Trio
2026-05-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Temple Emmanuel, 120 Chestnut Street, Wakefield, MA, 01880, United States
Award-winning jazz, swing, and lyrical storytelling come together for an energetic afternoon performance on Sunday, May 17
Wakefield, MA — The Linden Tree Coffeehouse Concert Series continues its 41st season with an energetic performance by the Rob Flax Boom Chick Trio on Sunday, May 17, from 2 to 4 pm at Temple Emmanuel.
Rooted in equal parts hot swing, snarky songwriting, and lyrical storytelling, this dynamic trio—featuring virtuoso violin, guitar, and upright bass, along with three-part harmony vocals—transports audiences to a speakeasy tucked somewhere in the back of a bar. Don’t be surprised if you find it hard to sit still, with a smile on your face for most of the show.
“Hotshot swing, crackerjack instrumentals, superb harmonies & hysterical stagecraft” — The Folk Project
Rob Flax brings a rare combination of talents as an award-winning violinist, classically trained yet widely known for his jazz and improvisational style, along with a deep knowledge of American fiddle traditions. He is also a powerful vocalist, equally at home with smooth crooning in the style of Nat King Cole or delivering gritty Chicago blues, and a songwriter with lyrical depth to match his instrumental virtuosity.
The Boom Chick Trio enhances Flax’s original music with intricate instrumental interplay, tight vocal harmonies, and a touch of irreverent humor. Joining him are Slava Tolstoy, a Boston-based guitarist, singer, and producer originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, known for energetic pop-rock compositions and expressive lyrics, and Chris Sartori, a Boston-based bassist, percussionist, and multi-instrumentalist. Sartori, a graduate of the Jazz program at University of Massachusetts Amherst, has toured nationally for over a decade with the Americana group Twisted Pine, earning a reputation as one of the funkiest bassists in bluegrass.
“Way more fun than squirrels in a bag of nuts… Smokin’ great” — Patrice O’Neill, Wintergrass
Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for those under 18. WUMB members receive a $2 discount with a valid membership card. Admission is cash or check at the door. Due to the popularity of the series, reservations are recommended by calling or texting 781-521-3564.
Doors open at 1:30 pm. The performance will be held at Temple Emmanuel, 120 Chestnut Street, Wakefield, MA, which is handicapped accessible.
The Linden Tree Coffeehouse thanks the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Wakefield Arts Council for their continued support, as well as Fair Trade Music Local 1000.
For more information, visit www.LindenTreeCoffeehouse.org.

Pleasant Street Center - Licensed Hairdresser
2026-05-18 09:00 - 13:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Linda Sullivan -Licensed Hairdresser
By appointment only: 781-942-6794
Men and Women Trim and Blow out only
Washed hair preferred – Gratuities are Welcome
Non-Reading Residents Waitlisted
Fee for Service $20.00 Reading Residents and $25.00 for Non-Reading Residents
Please call 781-942-6794 to register. No Walk-ins, No July, and No August appointments

Senator Jason Lewis Announces Virtual Office Hours for May
2026-05-18 14:00 - 15:00 | MA
BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis will be holding Virtual Office Hours on Monday, May 18 , from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
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.

Reading Town Manager Jayne Wellman Announces May Office Hours
2026-05-19 13:30 - 14:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Residents are invited to drop in, ask questions, and connect with town leadership

Reading, MA — Join the Reading Town Manager for her Office Hours. Have a question, concern, or just want to connect? Stop by one of our upcoming sessions this May.

May 19 at the Pleasant Street Center 1:30PM – 2:30PM

These informal drop-in hours are a great opportunity to speak directly with the Town Manager, no appointment needed. We hope to see you there!

Pleasant Street Center - Lafayette ‘s Legacy In Reading
2026-05-19 14:00 - 15:00 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Join Alan Hoffman for an engaging look at General Marquis de Lafayette’s historic 1824–1825 tour of all 24 states, including his visit to Reading.
Professor Hoffman brings to life Lafayette’s remarkable journey, his enduring friendship with George Washington, and the extraordinary reception he received across the nation. Tuesday, May 19th| 2:00–3:00 Please call 781-942-6794 to register or register online at www.rec.us/reading
