Groveland Police wearing/selling patches for autism awareness

Apr. 6—GROVELAND — Police Chief Jeffrey Gillen announced that the Groveland Police Department is participating in an Autism Awareness Program in collaboration with the nonprofit Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.

April is nationally recognized as Autism Awareness Month and in support, Groveland Police are selling and wearing custom autism acceptance police patches. All proceeds from the sale of patches will go directly to the Flutie Foundation.

Patches are $10 each and can be ordered online at tinyurl.com/56pjw95n. A limited number are available for purchase. Once purchased, patches can be picked up from the Groveland Police Department or shipped directly.

"We are thrilled to be participating in the patch program this year," Gillen said. "Our mission is to help keep our community safe and this program allows us to support those living along the autism spectrum and their families. The Flutie Foundation is a great organization and I encourage community members to donate if they can."

For more information contact Sgt. Steve Petrone at spetrone@grovelandpolice.com.

"A Salem Witch" — April author talk

NORTH ANDOVER — The North Andover Historical Society will host historian Daniel Gagnon for a book discussion at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 800 Massachusetts Ave.

Gagnon will discuss his biography of Salem Witch Trials victim Rebecca Nurse, A Salem Witch: The Trial, Execution, and her Exoneration.

In this first full account of the nurse's life, Gagnon explores 17th-century Salem, Nurse's role in the events of 1692, and challenges previous interpretations of the 1692 Salem Witch-Hunt. His book will be available for purchase at the event.

Tickets are free but please register at tinyurl.com/awktf2b2. Donations to the North Andover Historical Society accepted.

Riverside Drive ramp

METHUEN — The Methuen Riverside Drive Boat Ramp is open for the season with normal hours of operation from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For questions, call the Methuen Conservation Department Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at 978-983-8650.

At all other times, calls can be directed to the Methuen Police business line at 978-983-8575.

Minimizing food waste for families

METHUEN — The Nevins Memorial Library, 305 Broadway, will host a discussion via Zoom at 7 p.m. Thursday on how to minimize food waste for families, especially with children.

Sarah Robertson-Barnes, founder of the Sustainable in the Suburbs blog, will lead the discussion.

Robertson-Barnes is a freelance writer, educator and consultant.

Sustainable in the Suburbs is a resource for living a low-waste lifestyle with kids in a culture of convenience.

This program is presented by the Ashland Public Library in collaboration with other Massachusetts libraries. Register online at tinyurl.com/4a2v9h5n.

Taylor Swift party

METHUEN — Swifties are invited to the Nevins Memorial Library, 305 Broadway, Saturday for a fun time in anticipation of Taylor Swift's new album.

The library is hosting two dance parties to celebrate all things Swift. The first family-friendly event is at 1 p.m. Dress in your favorite Taylor Swift era, and the group will have some glitter and friendship bracelets to add to your style. To register, visit: tinyurl.com/2a8tzdu3.

The second event is geared toward those over 18 and begins at 2:30 p.m. The library will have a sing-along party, music bingo, and other activities to celebrate all things Taylor Swift. Dress in your favorite Taylor Swift outfit, and the group will have some glitter and friendship bracelets to add to your style. To register, visit tinyurl.com/bdf629cv.

Summer program registration

NORTH ANDOVER — The North Andover Youth Center's summer program registration is officially open.

All programs, field trips and events are open only to North Andover residents. Register online at secure.rec1.com/MA/north-andover-ma/catalog.

Summer programs can be found under tabs for kindergarten through fifth grade or grades six through eight. The grades eligible for each program listed is the child's current grade in the 2023-24 school year.

Options include summer fun at Annie L. Sargent Elementary School, at the Franklin Elementary School and at the Drummond Field. There's also options for "Girl Got Game," a summer basketball league, mindful art and gardening, a surf week, cooking and life skills camp and yoga, among others.

To discuss financial assistance, contact Demi at dmarsh@nayouth.com.

___

(c)2024 The Eagle-Tribune (North Andover, Mass.)

Visit The Eagle-Tribune (North Andover, Mass.) at www.eagletribune.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.