The Reading Post

Senator Jason Lewis Announces Virtual Office Hours for November
2025-11-13 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | MA
State Senator Jason Lewis will be holding Virtual Office Hours on Monday, November 17, 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.

Representative Jones holding district office hours November 14 at Reading’s Pleasant Street Center
2025-11-14 10:15 - 11:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
BOSTON – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, November 14 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 Director of Local Affairs and Scheduling, Sara Doran, at Sara.Doran@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.

Old South’s Community Coffee House
2025-11-15 19:30 | Old South Church, 6 Salem Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — Old South United Methodist Church is pleased to host a Community Coffee House Concert on Saturday, November 15th at 7:30 pm. We are featuring local area musicians, a scrumptious dessert bar and beverages. All for a $10 entrance fee! This is not a fundraiser, but an event to bring people together to enjoy great music.
We will feature three very different performances: “Cait and Pat,” better known as Caitlin and Patrick Beckmen, is a sibling musical duo. You may recognize them from their regular performances at Bunratty’s here in Reading. Samantha DeLuca, another Reading native, spent several years in Los Angeles writing and recording her own original music. (you can check out her work on Spotify) All three of these musicians were very active on stage with the Drama Club during their years at Reading Memorial High School. Our final musician is Richard Trismen, a longtime Old South member who writes his own originals as well, and has been performing in bands since he was a teen.
Old South could not be more delighted to host this fun event. Please mark your calendars for November 15th at 7:30 pm! You can purchase your ticket in advance by going to https:// www.oldsouthumc.org/tickets, or simply show up on November 15th and pay at the door. We can hardly wait to see you!
A few words about Old South… Our church has stood at the center of Reading for more than 200 years. In addition to hosting a warm, supportive community faith, it is also home to the Reading Food Pantry, Christian Cooperative Preschool, and Reading Scout Troops. Old South has assisted refugee resettlement groups and supported UMC mission work as well.

Accidentally On Purpose Brings Unscripted Laughter to Reading
2025-11-15 19:30 - 22:00 | Colonial Chorus Players, 1249 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
A night of spontaneous comedy at the Old Hose House Theater, with proceeds supporting Colonial Chorus Players’ roof restoration campaign
Reading, MA — Buckle up for an evening of wild and unpredictable improv comedy, as Accidentally On Purpose makes a return visit to Reading on Saturday, November 15. The event takes place at 7:30 PM at the Old Hose House Theater, 1249 Main Street, Reading.
Tickets are $20 and will be available at the door with cash, Venmo, or PayPal. Proceeds benefit Colonial Chorus Players’ campaign to put a new roof on their historic building.
Accidentally On Purpose’s comedy style is similar to the long-running TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? with lots of audience interaction. Due to its improvisational nature, the show is recommended for mature audiences.

Reading Senior Citizens invited to Thanksgiving Dinner Friday, November 21, at Teresa’s Functions & Event
2025-11-21 12:00 - 14:00 | Teresa’s Functions & Events, 20 Elm Street, North Reading, MA, 01864, United States
Reading Senior Citizens are invited to attend the annual Thanksgiving Dinner at Teresa’s Functions & Events located at 20 Elm Street in North Reading on Friday, November 21 beginning at 12:30 p.m. Doors will open at 12:00 Noon. The event will be held in the facility’s beautiful Crystal Ballroom.
Held annually since 2008, the Reading Thanksgiving Dinner is hosted by Representative Brad Jones, his wife Linda and Representative Richard Haggerty. As in years past, a large crowd of residents is expected to attend this year’s event and enjoy a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, dancing and singing.
“We are excited to be able to help celebrate the start of the holiday season with Reading’s seniors,” said Representative Jones. “Thanks to the support of my legislative colleague, Representative Haggerty, as well as the generosity of the many local businesses and individuals who have partnered with us over the years, we are able to carry on this wonderful annual tradition for the community, and we look forward to seeing everyone on the 21st.”
The dinner is complimentary to Reading residents over the age of 60. Reservations are required and will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. For reservations for the dinner, please contact the Pleasant Street Center at 781-942-6794 by Friday, November 14 and speak with Linda Antinoro or Chris Kowaleski.
We have partnered once again with the Reading Food Pantry. Attendees, who are able, are asked to bring non-perishable, non-expired food items for donation to the Reading Food Pantry. The Food Pantry can always use coffee (regular and decaffeinated), tea, flour, sugar, baking soda, cooking oil, lunch packs of fruit, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, laundry detergent, and tissues. At this time, the most needed items on the Food Pantry’s wish list include:

Laundry Detergent
Tissues
Canned Potatoes
Instant Coffee
Canned Pasta: Beef Ravioli, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Spaghetti-O’s

2025 Christ The King Christmas Faire
2025-11-21 16:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Christ The King Parish Center, St Agnes Church, 186 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Christ The King Parish is excited to announce the return of its annual Christmas Faire, a beloved community tradition filled with holiday cheer, unique finds, and festive spirit. The event will take place on Friday, November 21, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, and Saturday, November 22, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Parish Center, located at 300 Haverhill Street, Reading.
The Christmas Faire will feature an array of seasonal treasures, household items, jewelry, decorations, books, and more — all donated by generous community members. Proceeds from the Faire help support parish programs and local charitable efforts.
Donation Drop-Offs:

When: Saturdays, November 8 & 15 (2:00–5:00 PM) and Sundays, November 9 & 16 (9:00–11:30 AM)
Where: 300 Haverhill Street, Reading — behind the Parish Center

Acceptable Donations:
(New or gently used and clean. Nothing broken.)

Household items & décor
Dishware, glassware, silverware/flatware
Pots & pans
Small appliances in good working order
Sporting goods & bikes — clean, in full working order (excluding ski and hockey equipment, skates)
Children’s books, coffee table books, cookbooks
Small wooden furniture (e.g., end table, chair), subject to approval
Jewelry – clean, not broken
Electronics in good working order
Candles
Toys, complete games and puzzles
Lamps with shades
Handbags
Christmas and other holiday decorations

We Cannot Accept:

Anything broken, dirty, or upholstered
Bedding, linens, curtains, draperies
Books (other than what’s listed above)
Window shades, curtain or shower rods
Toy guns or weapons
Clothing
Bean bag chairs
Skates or hockey equipment
Baby equipment or items
Framed or unframed pictures, frames
Stuffed animals
Ski or snowboarding equipment
Records, cassettes, CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, players, or old audio equipment
TVs, monitors, TV stands, big computer stands, speaker stands
Large plastic Little Tikes–type toys
Large exercise equipment
Punch bowls
Vases

Please bring any unaccepted items to the Salvation Army, Goodwill, or Savers.
For decent wooden and/or upholstered furniture, please contact Mission of Deeds, Inc. in Reading, MA.
Questions?
Email: stathanchristmasfaire@gmail.com
Thank you for your support and understanding!

Reading Symphony Orchestra – Soul and Steel: A Powerful Opening to the Concert Experience Series
2025-11-22 20:00 | Galvin Middle School, 525 Main St., Wakefield, MA, 01880, United States
Saturday, November 22, 2025 • 8:00 P.M. Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Galvin Middle School, Wakefield, MA
Wakefield, MA — The Reading Symphony Orchestra proudly opens its 2025–2026 season with Concert Experience #1: Soul and Steel, an evening of bold and evocative music that explores strength, resilience, and emotional depth. The performance will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium at Galvin Middle School in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
The program features a dynamic lineup of works that showcase both innovation and intensity:

Anna Meredith – Nautilus
Judith Weir – Still, Glowing
Dmitri Shostakovich – Symphony No. 5

From Meredith’s pulse-pounding Nautilus to Weir’s luminous Still, Glowing and Shostakovich’s monumental Symphony No. 5, this concert promises an unforgettable musical journey filled with energy, emotion, and artistry.
For tickets and additional information, please visit https://www.readingsymphonyorchestra.org/season2025-2026

Parker Tavern Opens for Tours Black Friday
2025-11-28 12:00 - 15:00 | Parker Tavern, 103 Washington Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
NOVEMBER 28 (AKA, BLACK FRIDAY) 12pm-3pm

Reading, MA — Are you looking for something different to do on Black Friday, something without malls, crowds, online shopping, or any expenditure? Do you want to impress your Thanksgiving guests with a unique, nearby activity?
Then hop over to Reading’s own Parker Tavern (103 Washington Street) any time between noon and 3:00 p.m. on November 28 to enjoy a special tour.
Adults will appreciate the Tavern’s interesting displays of daily life in a bygone era. Kids will wonder how children 300 years ago could have managed without cell phones, video games, cars, or bicycles. And how many items may be a mystery to both age groups? Come and test your knowledge. Not sure what something is? Questions are always welcome! Colonial lawn games will be available for the kids (weather permitting).
This is the perfect solution for what to do the day after Thanksgiving, and a great chance for folks to travel back to a time not that distant from the first Thanksgiving.
This 1694 building is one of Reading’s oldest landmarks and is owned and maintained by the Reading Antiquarian Society.
We invite you to drop by Parker Tavern on Friday, November 28, from noon to 3:00 p.m. to take a peek into the past.

Holiday Cheer Awaits at First Congregational Church
2025-11-30 14:00 - 16:30 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States
Enjoy free cocoa, cookies, and two special performances of A Christmas Carol during the Nov. 30 Tree Lighting festivities

Reading, MA — Bring your holiday spirit and join the festivities—sip cocoa, savor cookies, and let the magic of “A Christmas Carol” warm your heart! On November 30th, during the Tree Lighting Festivities, visit the beautiful stained-glass sanctuary of the First Congregational Church of Reading. There will be free cocoa and cookies for all. And the talented folks from Creative Arts will be offering two 30-minute performances of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”.
These shows will start at 2:30pm and 3:30pm, and after the show you can join friends on the Common (just a few steps away) to enjoy the Tree Lighting.
Warm up with delicious refreshments and enjoy a favorite holiday story at the First Congregational Church, 25 Woburn Street from 2pm to 4:30pm!

32nd Annual Tree Lighting to Brighten Reading Common on November 30
2025-11-30 14:00 - 17:00 | Reading Town Common, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Beloved community tradition returns with festive activities, local partners, and Santa’s grand arrival
Reading, MA — The 32nd Annual Tree Lighting on Reading Common will take place on Sunday, November 30, from 2:00 until 4:30 when Santa arrives by firetruck to light up the display.
This event, sponsored by the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce, is a longtime holiday favorite that draws thousands from the community. Activities include making s’mores, hayrides, jugglers, carolers, costumed characters, trolley rides, and more. The Women’s League of Reading will be serving hot chocolate and local restaurants will offer tasty snack.
There’s more: local businesses and churches open their doors for special events and activities, welcoming friends and families all afternoon. The big event happens at 4:15 when Santa climbs a ladder on the Common and flips the switch that lights up the trees for the holiday season.
All activities are free thanks to the support of sponsoring local businesses and Chamber Memberships that cover the costs. If your business wants to be promoted as part of this community celebration, sponsorships are available at the Chamber website.
https://readingnreadingchamberma.chambermaster.com/…
This is the only place to register.

Holiday Storytime at Whitelam Books!
2025-11-30 15:00 - 17:30 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Whitelam Books is excited to host a Holiday Storytime on Sunday, November 30 at 3:00 PM. Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages, which will be held during the downtown Reading Tree Lighting Celebration. Come celebrate the holiday season and get in the festive spirit!
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!

Shop the Block
2025-12-04 17:00 - 21:00 | MA
Reading’s much-celebrated annual Shop the Block event is on Thursday, December 4.
Many shops & businesses will be open late during Shop the Block – Grab a few friends to shop & dine downtown!
Our event gives customers the chance to celebrate longer, stay socially distant, and enjoy fun shopping experiences all season long. Businesses, restaurants, and salons in Reading are working together to make this an amazing event, so be sure to follow Shop The Block Instagram and Facebook pages!

Colonial Chorus Players: A Little Women Christmas
2025-12-05 - 2025-12-06 | Colonial Chorus Players, 1249 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — This holiday season, Colonial Chorus Players of Reading is proud to present the premiere of A Little Women Christmas, a new radio play based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott.
“This adaptation centers around a year in the life of Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy from one Christmas to the next,” says Jennifer Estabrooks, who adapted the novel for the stage. “It’s the story of a family struggling through war, poverty, and sickness, but they never lose their abiding love for one another, sense of humor in the midst of difficulties, or hope for the future.”
A Little Women Christmas is performed like a live radio play by The Lux Radio Theatre in 1949, with a studio audience, announcer, sound effects done live on stage, radio ads, and even famous Hollywood actors, such as June Allyson, Peter Lawford, and a teenage Elizabeth Taylor.
Performances are December 5 and 6 at 7:30 PM and December 6 and 7 at 2 PM at the Old Hose House Theater, 1249 Main Street, Reading. All tickets are $20 and are available at www.ccp1961.org. Remaining tickets will be sold at the door 30 minutes before showtime with cash, Venmo, or PayPal only.
The ensemble cast features Katie Mulno, Kat Plano, Shannon Fay, Gaby Estabrooks, Alexander Slocum, Katie Broach, Sue Brother, David Murgo, Peter Cavicchio, Martin Brother, and Scott Estabrooks under the direction of Laura J. Bilodeau.
The show is appropriate for all audiences and runs approximately 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Reading Education Foundation Festival of Trees
2025-12-06 10:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Parker Middle School, 45 Temple Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
The Reading Education Foundation’s beloved holiday event returns December 6–7 with entertainment, family fun
Reading, MA — The Reading Education Foundation invites the community to climb aboard the Polar Express for its annual Festival of Trees, taking place Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Parker Middle School, 45 Temple Street, Reading.
This beloved holiday tradition features live entertainment, delicious food, fun activities for kids, and the chance to win one of nearly 100 beautifully decorated trees.
Admission is $5 per individual or $10 per family, good for the entire weekend, and includes all entertainment.
For advance ticket sales, event details, or to learn how to donate a tree, visit ReadingREF.com.

Celebrate the Season with the Reading Community Concert Band
2025-12-06 12:00 - 17:00 | Parker Middle School, 45 Temple Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
The Reading Community Concert Band (RCCB) has been bringing music to our town since 1994, first as a summer band and now as a year-round community ensemble. Founded by Cara Canady and carried forward by dedicated directors and musicians, RCCB continues to unite developing and experienced wind players through performances that blend serious repertoire with fun, accessible favorites. Under the direction of Stephen Bloom since 2017, the band proudly keeps its focus on community!
Upcoming Concerts:
Festival of Trees — Saturday, December 6 at Parker Middle School, 45 Temple St.
Holiday Concert — Sunday, December 7 at 3:00 PM, First Congregational Church, 25 Woburn St.
Many RCCB concerts are held in the beautiful sanctuary of the First Congregational Church, while town concerts take place outdoors on the Town Hall lawn (weather permitting).
Come join us and experience the joy of live music in Reading!

Reading Community Singers “Hope for the Holidays” Concert
2025-12-06 19:30 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — Reading Community Singers invites everyone to our Annual Holiday Concert on December 6 at 7:30 at Reading Memorial High School – this year entitled “Hope for the Holidays.” It’s a Concert filled with Love, Hope, Dreams, and Peace on Earth for All, for this Holiday Season and Always. There’s a delightful mix of music and dancing to Celebrate the season – Christmas, Hanukkah, Family – with Classic and Modern Favorites, and a very special guest. As the title suggests, there will be songs to make the Holidays even warmer and hopeful – such as “Be A Light”, The Jonas Brothers’ “Like It’s Christmas”, “What the World Needs Now (Is Love)”, as well as a Medley from “A Muppet Christmas Carol”. These last two musical numbers will also spotlight our Youth Chorus. It’s a wonderful evening of seasonal entertainment for all ages.
This year, RCS’ Featured Guest Performers will be several soloists, duets, and small groups, selected from our very own talented membership!
Whatever Holidays you celebrate, take a well-deserved break from your preparations and plan to join RCS for an enjoyable evening of Musical Mirth, Warmth, and Merrymaking! Tickets are available from any Chorus member, as well as online and at the door, with discounts for Seniors and Students – Children under 5 are Free. For Advance Tickets go to: www.ReadingCommunitySingers.org/tickets/

Celebrate the Season with the Reading Community Concert Band
2025-12-07 15:00 - 17:00 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States

Breakfast with Santa at the Aleppo Shrine Center
2025-12-13 08:30 - 11:00 | Aleppo Shrine Center, 99 Fordham Rd, Wilmington, MA, 01887, United States
Breakfast with Santa, December 13, 2025, 8:30 am to 11:00 am at the Aleppo Shrine Center, 99 Fordham Rd, Wilmington, MA 01887
$20 for a family of 5; each additional person, $20.
Includes Breakfast, Visit from Santa, Crafts, Cookie Decorating, and Games!
Please RSVP with the age of your children by November 28th to Maribel at MDeluca@AleppoShriners.com

Hanukkah Story Time at Whitelam Books!
2025-12-14 15:00 - 17:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Whitelam Books is excited to host a Hanukkah Storytime on Sunday, December 14 at 3:00PM reading Eight Sweet Nights, A Festival of Lights: A Hanukkah Story by Charlotte Offsay, and Lost and Found Hanukkah by Joy Preble. Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages which will be held prior to the 4th Annual Community Menorah Lighting on the Reading Town Common.
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!

Community Chanukah Celebration at Jordan’s Furniture in Reading
2025-12-21 15:30 | Jordan’s Furniture, 50 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Chabad of Wakefield invites families to an afternoon of crafts, magic, festive treats, and the lighting of a nine-foot LED menorah on Sunday, December 21, beginning at 3:00 PM on Walkers Brook Drive
Reading, MA — Get ready for a fun, family-friendly Chanukah celebration this Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Jordan’s Furniture in Reading!
Chabad of Wakefield will be hosting a community Chanukah event beginning in the afternoon. Festivities kick off with activities for kids, including children’s Chanukah crafts and face painting, followed by the lighting of a large, nine-foot LED menorah, expected to be one of the highlights of the day. After the lighting, a high-energy magic show will keep young guests entertained, and the celebration wraps up with a chocolate gelt drop in Home Depot’s parking lot, a crowd-favorite moment fun for the whole family. Festive foods, drinks, and treats will be available throughout the event.
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Time: Starts at 3:00 PM (activities and menorah lighting; exact schedule may vary)
Where: Jordan’s Furniture on Walkers Brook Drive

Reading to Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 19
2026-01-19 09:30 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Community breakfast, student artwork, musical performances, and a keynote address to highlight the annual event at the RMHS
Reading Public Library (RPL), Reading, MA — Mark your calendar and join the community in celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The celebration begins at 9:30 AM with a community breakfast provided by Reading Public Schools. Come meet representatives from local organizations and view artwork created by students.
The inspirational and uplifting program starts at 10:00 AM, featuring musical performances, student presentations, and a special keynote address.
If your organization is interested in having a table at the PAC (Performing Arts Center), or if you would like to volunteer, please contact the Office of Equity & Social Justice at oesj@readingma.gov.
The event location is wheelchair accessible, and ASL translators are available upon request.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Creative Chaos Emporium Opens Pop-Up Arts & Crafts Thrift Shop in Wakefield
2026-01-24 10:00 - 18:00 | MA
Grand opening Saturday, January 24, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., at 239 North Avenue

Wakefield, MA — After a handful of recycled art-making events and a wonderful holiday sale, Creative Chaos Emporium is excited to pop-up in the retail space at 239 North Avenue in Wakefield! Starting on January 24th, the arts & crafts thrift shop is partnering with Project Pop-Up & the town of Wakefield to to help people on the north shore find surprising treasures to inspire new projects while also offering the opportunity for them to re-home creative items they no longer need.
Creative Chaos Emporium has already collected lots of lovely yarn, fabric, sewing supplies, pens, markers, colored pencils, craft books, beautiful papers, antique frames and vintage ephemera. All of these items and much more will be available on the day of the grand opening, as well as during regular hours Wednesday – Sunday. The shop will also be accepting clean, reusable donations of arts & crafts supplies during all open hours – donation guidelines and more at www.creativechaosemporium.com.
More about CREATIVE CHAOS EMPORIUM:
People (especially people who like to make things!) often have so much STUFF. It can be hard to find a place to donate arts & crafts supplies, so these much-loved items sometimes end up in the trash. We’re hoping to offer our community a place where they can re-home creative items they no longer need and find affordable, sustainable and surprising treasures to inspire new projects.
Creative Chaos Emporium was founded in summer 2025 by Wakefield residents Sarah Lynne Reul & Stephanie Hannus, along with Stoneham resident Janet Cohen. While hosting several recycled art-making events throughout Fall 2025 and a holiday sale with the Arts Collaborative of Wakefield, Creative Chaos Emporium collected many secondhand arts & crafts supplies, which will be available for sale at the new location at 239 North Avenue in Wakefield.
Donating supplies to CREATIVE CHAOS EMPORIUM:
Creative Chaos Emporium accepts donations of clean, usable, arts & crafts supplies. More detailed donation guidelines can be found on our website, but in general, we are looking for:

Arts & Crafts Supplies: pencils, crayons, working pens/markers, usable paint (oil, acrylic, watercolor), glue/tape/adhesives, shells, beads, stickers, rhinestones, how-to arts & crafts books/magazines, blank sketchbooks, tools/supplies for printmaking, screenprinting, mosaics, bookbinding, paper craft, stained glass, jewelry making etc.
Fibers & Fabric: clean, usable fabric of at least ¼ yard, yarn (full and partial skeins), tools & materials for sewing, knitting/crochet, wool felting, spinning, weaving supplies, etc.
Upcycling Stuff: clean/empty paper bags/rolls/tubes, bottlecaps, small boxes, corks, glass jars (clean, label-free & with lids); office supplies, etc
Other Interesting, Unusual & Vintage Items: small toys (tiny animals, miniatures/dollhouse items, cars, action figures, dolls, wood blocks, legos, wind-up toys), picture frames, tins, trophies, trinkets, marbles, dice, vintage photographs & ephemera, office supplies, cigar boxes, wooden crates/boxes, wooden card catalogues, drawers & displays.

Generally speaking, if it’s clean and usable as an arts & crafts supply, we’ll likely be able to take it. For the safety of our volunteers & visitors, we cannot take anything hazardous, illegal, smelly, moldy, mildewy or otherwise damaged.
Email hello@creativechaosemporium.com with any questions!
More about Project Pop-Up:
Project: Pop-Up is a publicly-funded initiative created to revitalize storefronts and commercial hubs. With financial and professional support, Project: Pop-Up offers retailers, designers, artists and food purveyors a chance to take their concepts for a brick and mortar test drive.
Over 100 emerging brands and entrepreneurs applied to the pilot program of Project: Pop-Up in the summer of 2021. Over 15 brands were thoughtfully selected for the opportunity. These forward-thinking businesses popped up for two-three months at a subsidized rate and were provided with a suite of resources to help seed their success. The pilot pop-up brands represented a local and diverse mix of business owners, with 100% locally-owned, 80% woman-owned, and 40% BIPOC-owned.
94% of the brands continued to actively grow through brick and mortar retail channels. 53% have converted from pop-up to permanent tenancy. Newton, Needham, and Melrose were thrilled to welcome entrepreneurs, artists, eateries and more to their downtown districts to fill otherwise dormant storefronts with vibrancy and vitality while driving traffic to each area’s core of locally-owned businesses.
More about the Creative Re-Use Movement:
Creative Chaos Emporium is part of a growing network of 200+ Creative Re-Use Centers across the country working to make sure that usable arts & crafts supplies stay out of landfills – so that they can be made into cool new creations by makers like you! Other local creative re-use shops include DIY Thrift & Craft in Concord, NH, Make & Mend in Somerville MA and Swanson’s Fabrics in Turners Falls, MA.

Whitelam Books to Host Book Signing & Conversation with Author Julie Dobrow
2026-01-25 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, 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 | 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 | 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.
