An Evening with Dan Brown: A Benefit and Celebration of Writers on a New England Stage, Friday, May 18 at 7:30pm, in the Historic Theater

On Friday, May 18, the international #1 bestselling author Dan Brown returns to The Music Hall to talk about writing, movie making, science, religion, and more in the first ever benefit for Writers on a New England Stage. Proceeds from the evening will help The Music Hall and New Hampshire Public Radio continue to present today’s top writers – ranging from Ann Patchett to Chris Matthews, Jodi Picoult to the late John Updike, Elizabeth Gilbert to Stephen King – to Music Hall audiences and NHPR listeners.

“As a big fan of both The Music Hall and New Hampshire Public Radio, I’m honored to help celebrate two organizations of such great local importance,” said Dan Brown.

“Dan Brown was one of the first authors we presented in Writers on a New England Stage, back in our first season in 2006, and we are delighted he’ll take the stage again in this special Benefit. It is fitting that one of the Seacoast’s very own should recognize the great value of this celebrated writers series – to the community, to literacy across New England, and to the ‘life of the mind,’ said Patricia Lynch, Executive Director of The Music Hall and Executive Producer of its signature writers series, Writers on a New England Stage and Writers in the Loft. “Dan’s first event here gained the attention of international audiences, and, deservedly so, as he writes some of today’s most provocative and fascinating books. It’s going to be a remarkable evening,” she added.

Following his on-stage discussion, the author will be in dialogue with NHPR host Virginia Prescott, who will also take questions from the audience. The house band Dreadnaught will provide live music.

About Dan Brown Dan Brown is the author of numerous #1 bestselling novels, including The Da Vinci Code, which has become one of the bestselling novels of all time as well as the subject of heated debate among readers and scholars. Brown’s novels are published in 52 languages around the world with 200 million copies in print.

In 2005, Brown was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by TIME Magazine, whose editors credited him with “keeping the publishing industry afloat; renewed interest in Leonardo da Vinci and early Christian history; spiking tourism to Paris and Rome; a growing membership in secret societies; the ire of Cardinals in Rome; eight books denying the claims of the novel and seven guides to read along with it; a flood of historical thrillers; and a major motion picture franchise.”

The son of a mathematics teacher and a church organist, Brown was raised on a prep school campus where he developed a fascination with the paradoxical interplay between science and religion. These themes eventually formed the backdrop for his books. He is a graduate of Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he later returned to teach English before focusing his attention full time to writing. Brown is currently at work on a new book as well as the Columbia Pictures film version of his most recent novel, The Lost Symbol.

About Writers on a New England Stage Set on one of New England’s most venerable stages, where literary legends Mark Twain, Celia Thaxter, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow have trod, Writers on a New England Stage is both a live stage event and a rollicking radio show. This popular writers’ series attracts up to 900 in a live audience and tens of thousands more in repeat public radio broadcasts: it is a prime showcase for today’s top authors.

The dynamic one-of-a-kind series features an author presentation followed by an interview with a veteran National Public Radio newscaster and host. Live music is performed throughout the one hour event by Dreadnaught, the house band. Book clubs throughout the region are invited; and, supporting literacy, The Music Hall’s outreach program selects small student groups to attend.

Writers on a New England Stage authors, representing all forms of the written word – from novels to histories, investigative reporting to memoirs, literary criticism to graphic novels – bring to our community, to the region, and to the world today’s most popular ideas, provocative thoughts, and keen perceptions.

Tickets to the Benefit, Signed Books Tickets to An Evening with Dan Brown: A Benefit and Celebration of Writers on a New England Stage are $50. Tickets will go on sale to members of The Music Hall and NH Public Radio at noon on Wednesday, February 22, and on sale to the public at noon on Wednesday, March 7. They will be available through The Music Hall Box Office, located at 28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, over the phone at 603-436-2400 or online at www.themusichall.org. A limited number of signed books, hardcover copies of The Da Vinci Code and The Lost Symbol, may be available on the evening for purchase at the box office.

On-mall school graduates eighth student from 2011-2012 class!

Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) announces today the eighth graduating senior of the 2011-2012 school year at Peabody Learning Academy. The alternative school, which opened in 2010 in the Northshore Mall, has graduated 16 students to date, all of whom completed a rigorous academic program equal to that offered at Peabody Veterans Memorial High School. The success rate of the school is on the rise as eight seniors have already graduated – an impressive feat considering it is only halfway through its second year. In addition to the growing graduation rate, the Peabody Learning Academy has also made major strides in enriching students’ experiences outside of the classroom by assisting with community service projects and career planning and placement.

Through the leadership of Seith Bedard, Director of Peabody Learning Academy and the schools two teachers, students receive opportunities to thrive both in and outside of the school environment. This school year, Seith and his staff have expanded student development by organizing volunteer projects as well as opportunities for students to prepare for the work force. Some examples of students’ community service efforts were serving meals at the Haven for Hunger before Thanksgiving and taking part in the Read for the Record program. In this reading program, students shared their passion for learning by reading the book Llama Llama Red Pajama to first graders in their former elementary schools. For professional development, the PLA has partnered with the North Shore Career Center of Greater Lynn and Salem. Staff from the Career Center visit the Academy monthly to conduct workshops that help students with job training, resume building and job placement. The goal is for all students to have employment by the end of the school year.

According to Mark Whiting, Northshore Mall’s General Manager, “When Seith isn’t encouraging the students, preparing academic curriculum or organizing volunteer projects, he is working with the community members on ways to continue development of the school and receive continued support.” Whiting adds, “The Peabody Learning Academy staff has done a masterful job developing each student to maximize their learning potential, succeeding as students but also productive and contributing members of our community. We are honored to have the Peabody Learning Academy at Northshore Mall; the work they are doing here ties back directly to the mission of the Simon Youth Foundation!”

With four Massachusetts locations, including one on property at Northshore Mall, Burtons Grill continues to be one of the Peabody Learning Academy’s greatest benefactor. In addition to the $7500 annual scholarship they have pledged to the school they have also agreed to host an upcoming Spring Fundraiser on Sunday, March 11^th. The event will include cocktails and hors d’ouevres and a silent auction. The proceeds of the auction will directly benefit a graduating senior of the Peabody Learning Academy. For more information on this fundraiser, please contact Ryan Dion of Burtons Grill Peabody at 978.977.0600.

On Tuesday, April 10, 2012 we will be holding our fourth annual fundraiser to benefit the homes and programs of “Homes of Hope” – L’Arche Irenicon. “Taste of Spring”—restaurant tasting and fundraising auction will be held at the beautiful new Renaissance Golf Club in Haverhill, MA. Voted “Course of the Year for 2012″ by the New England Chapter of the National Golf Course Owner’s Association. Last year’s tasting was a huge success; we attracted over 300 local residents who sampled the food of the area’s best restaurants.

This year’s event is sponsored by the following generous businesses, Platinum Sponsor: Pentucket Bank, Gold Sponsors: Haverhill Bank, Trinity Emergency Medical Service, Merrimack Valley Federal Credit Union, and Brian S. Dempsey Insurance Agency.

Our event this year will feature tastings from many area restaurants along with live and silent auctions featuring Red Sox tickets, Golf Outings, as well as our popular “Homes of Hope” original artwork. The following fabulous restaurants and food vendors have signed on:

· Renaissance Country Club 

· KEON’S of Haverhill / Georgetown Black Swan Country Club 

· Peddler’s Daughter 

· Blue Finn Grille 

· George’s Restaurant 

· Joseph’s Trattoria Bakery Cafe

· Cedar’s Mediterranean Foods

· Boston Chowda

· Edible Arrangements 

· Leah Mae’s 

· Sweet Things Bakery-Café’ 

· Acosta Foods / Variety of Cheeses 

Additional restaurants are added each week. Check out our website www.larcheirenicon.org for the updated list. Tickets are $25 pp – call Eileen Cadley at 978-374-6928 for tickets or email ecadley@larcheirenicon.org. Don’t delay – the event sold out last year!!

“Homes of Hope” –L’Arche Irenicon, has been located in Haverhill for the past 29 years providing lifelong homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. We are part of an international federation of L’Arche communities represented by 135 communities in 35 countries. We are an ecumenical community providing a full life where people with and without disabilities share their lives and live, work and play together. ‘Homes of Hope” celebrates the reality that persons with disabilities possess inherent qualities of welcome, wonderment and friendship.

Winter Blues got you down? The ladies of CHIVE have just the salve to soothe your spirit. Join us for our Winter Sustainable Supper, SPIRITED, on March 10th. March 10th, you wonder? A Saturday night?!? It is true, our Sustainable Sunday Supper is on a Saturday this time, since with the line up we’re arranging, we’ll need all of Sunday to recover. The boys of Bully Boy Distillery, Privateer Rum, Berkshire Mountain Distillers, and Cape Ann Brewing Co. will each be creating unique specialty cocktails to complement CHIVE’s artful and delicious seasonal foods- it’ll be a sumptuous speakeasy to save us from the cold.

Join us as we convert the Studios at Porter Mill into a dining and drinking delight. Inspired by our hosting studio, a space for local artists to be celebrated and shown, we are donating 100% of our proceeds to another local art house, Art Haven in Cape Ann’s downtown Gloucester. In a marriage of art for art’s sake, we’ll join our crafted cocktails, tailored foods, artful design and creative friends to fashion a winter escape for us all to enjoy.

Saturday, March 10th, 2012, 6:00pm-10:00pm. Cocktails + Food served throughout the evening

Studios at Porter Mill 

95 Rantoul St., Beverly, MA 01915, Boston’s North Shore

No. 14 player in the world protected in 2012 WTT Marquee Draft

Valentine’s Day doesn’t bring chocolate or roses to the Boston Lobsters but it bings back John Isner, who will return for his third consecutive season.

Isner, who only last week beat Roger Federer in a four-set upset in the opening round at the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas in Switzerland, will be retuning to play for the Boston Lobsters again this July.

This was John’s third time as part of the US Davis Cup team that just won a clean sweep over the favored Swiss team.

Said Jim Courier, the United States Captain of the Davis Cup team, after Isner’s performance: “I learned that John can beat anyone at any time because no one has a chance if he plays the way that he plays and serves the way that he serves unless they play incredible tennis, incredible defensive tennis.”

In addition, John is a wonderful team player and enjoys playing for the Boston Lobsters and the World TeamTennis format that is reminiscent of his days playing on a college team.  John has played in the WTT league since 2010 and has played exclusively for the Boston Lobsters team each season.

John led his team at the University of Georgia to the NCAA championship in 2007 and still holds the schools record for singles and doubles. Upon graduating from Georgia in 2007 he turned pro and has brought American tennis to new heights ever since.

John rose to fame on the heels of an 11 hour and 5 min. epic match that spanned three days at Wimbledon in 2010.

Since then, John Isner has been a man in demand and his publicity tour beyond the tennis court has included appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman, Good Morning America, CNN, and Fox & Friends; and throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at Yankees Stadium.

Last summer, Isner made back-to-back appearances at Ferncroft Country Club’s Joan Norton Stadium to help the Lobsters earn wins over the Philadelphia Freedoms and Springfield Lasers. His .556 winning percentage in men’s singles was good for fifth-best overall among marquee players.

John Isner is now No. 14 in the world (a new career high) and the No. 2 player in the United States.

The Boston Lobsters are very proud to be featuring John’s incredible tennis talent on their court again this July.

Stay tuned over the next several weeks as the Boston Lobsters will be sharing exciting plans for the 2012 season that will include an Olympic theme, more players updates, special VIP appearances and the specic match dates in upcoming announcements.

The Boston Lobsters are New England’s Pro Tennis Team and part of World TeamTennis (WTT) celebrating its 37th season in 2012.

For more information on the Boston Lobsters go to www.BostonLobsters.net

Love is in the air…..and so is dry, sensitive skin.

Don’t let dry, dull wintery skin get you down. Now is the time to enjoy a “Salt Glow Body Polish” ($60.00) and receive a FREE full size scrub of your choice to take home or give as a gift. ($24.95 value)

A Salt Glow Body Polish will gently exfoliate your skin, reduce dryness, allowing your moisturizers to absorb better.

This wonderful 45 minute treatment is a great gift to yourself or to give to that special someone. Don’t miss out on this special, act fast, the first 10 customers that purchase this treatment special will also receive a BONUS!! Add a * Mini Facial to the Salt Glow Body Polish for FREE!!! ($48.00 value)

Call Today 978/463.2212 to book or purchase this treatment. We accept Visa, MC and AMEX and welcome phone orders. All Gift Certificates come in a beautiful gift bag, ready for gift giving! Special good through 2/29/12 * Mini Facial must be used with Salt Glow Body Polish and can not be used separately.

Bernadette’s Day Spa, Prince Place Newburyport MA

The 17th annual Northeast Arc Wine Tasting and Silent Auction will take place on Friday, March 23rd at 7:00 PM.  The event will be held at Kernwood Country Club, One Kernwood Street in Salem. Hundreds of attendees are anticipated at this usual sold out event.

The lovely and talented Kim Carrigan, Boston media personality will add her charm and charisma as hostess and auctioneer for the seventh consecutive year.  Senator Fred Berry and his wife Gayle will serve as this year’s honorary chairs.

Come join us for a fabulous evening – an opportunity to taste premium wines from around the world and bid on many interesting items including: unique artwork, vacation trips, restaurant gift certificates, assorted gift baskets, sporting events tickets and so much more – all while supporting a wonderful cause – helping children and adults living with disabilities.

Popular balloon prizes will also be available for $50 and $100 – so there’s lots of ways to take home some really great prizes!  All proceeds help to fulfill the Northeast Arc’s mission –helping children and adults living with disabilities lead fuller, enriched lives as contributing members of our communities.

Tickets are $75.00 per person, $125.00 per couple and are available by contacting Becky Landry at the Northeast Arc: (978) 624-2401 or email:  blandry@ne-arc.org

Becky is also your contact for sponsorship opportunities and donations.

Beverly resident and artist Alyssa Watters, owner of artbyalyssa, is known for doing two things really well: turning her backyard garden into an art gallery each summer and curating an annual exhibition of her own beautiful and colorful oil paintings of birds. Since 2008 this entrepreneurial painter, who makes a living selling her original oil paintings and line of gifts, survives the New England winter by creating these colorful paintings. She displays them each spring in a much-anticipated solo exhibition. This year, Watters is bringing the exhibit to Beverly’s Porter Mill, the newest and largest artist studio building in the area, to celebrate five years of “Birds.” Works of art by Alyssa will cover the walls of Porter Mill’s spacious gallery this March.

Join the artist for wine and light hors d’oeuvres on Thursday, March 1^st from 6:00 – 9:00 to celebrate the opening of “Birds 2012.” All original paintings will be available for purchase as well as additional products from the artbyalyssa line.

This event is free and open to the public. Porter Mill is located at 95 Rantoul Street Beverly, MA. “Birds 2012” will be on display through March 31^st.  Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday 11:00 – 2:00 with evening hours of 5:00 – 7:00 on Thursdays and also by appointment. Email manager Bea Modisett studios.portermill@gmail.com. Preview this exhibition on Alyssa’s blog: www.alyssawatters.com.

Turkey Shore Distilleries LLC was formed in 2010 in the historic coastal town of Ipswich, MA, by two childhood friends and locals, Mat Perry and Evan Parker. Aiming to reconnect New Englanders to a significant (but largely forgotten) part of their past, Turkey Shore Distilleries produces a line of hand-crafted rums under its flagship brand, Old Ipswich Rum. Using table-grade sweet molasses from the sugarcane fields of Louisiana and a custom-built 250-gallon copper pot still built in Kentucky, Old Ipswich Rum is a true American product destined to awaken the New England spirit in all of us. Old Ipswich Rum is available for purchase at local bars, restaurants and liquor stores. In addition, Turkey Shore Distilleries, located at 23 Hayward St., Ipswich, is open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. for tours and tastings. For more information, please visit www.turkeyshoredistilleries.com.

For the Superbowl Turkey Shore Distilleries LLC bring you The Old Ipswich Patriot! Perfect for cheering on the New England Patriots!

1/2 oz. grenadine drizzled down the inside of the glass to the bottom

1-1/2 oz. Old Ipswich White Cap Rum

Fill the glass almost to the top with gingerale

1/4 oz. of blue curacao floated over the top

Finish with 1/2 oz. of Peachtree schnapps

Garnish with a lime.

It has red white & blue layers. Stir cocktail prior to drinking to mix flavors

Nantucket Nocturne

Artwork of international artist and illustrator, B.J. Faulkner will be on display at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Beverly Farms, Massachusetts for the month of February. The exhibit curated by renowned art dealer Bonnie L. Crane will showcase a selection of the artist’s original pieces along with a variety of reproductions. An opening reception with the artist will be held in the gallery of the church on Thursday, February 9th from 6 – 8 p.m. Additionally, the art will remain on display and for sale in the church gallery for the month of February, the exhibit is open daily during normal church hours.

“I’m excited to have my work displayed at St. John’s Episcopal Church, the venue is the perfect setting to showcase my art to the local community,” said Faulkner. “The show was inspired by my friend Bonnie who approached me about exhibiting locally in order to capture the interest of Cape Ann collectors and admirers and is the first of its kind for me in this area,” Faulkner added.

Faulkner’s art evokes a sense of elegance through her charming and colorful interpretations of the world’s most loved and traveled cities and villages. With an extraordinary use of color and expressive lines she creates works that appear to dance on and off the canvas. Duffy and Matisse influenced Faulkner’s signature style and her use of color is reminiscent of the Fauves where color reigned supreme. She has a reputation for painting European townscapes and landmarks of New England with a romantic sensibility; her compositions are not a literal representation but rather capture how the viewer feels about a place or experience.

Until her move to Cape Ann, Faulkner ran her own gallery, the B.J. Faulkner Gallery in Lenox, Massachusetts in the Berkshires, for 12 years until it closed in 2007. During that time she established a significant base of collectors from the area and far beyond. The artist made the decision to relocate to Cape Ann in order to be closer to family and renew her artistic sensibilities. Like other artists she finds the seascape towns charming and the ocean air a source of inspiration.

In addition to establishing a presence for herself in this area, Faulkner maintains a studio in the Berkshires and travels throughout Europe to generate ideas for new compositions.

Also an illustrator Faulkner’s work has appeared on a range of products from note cards to children’s books for Prentice-Hall and in 2005 she was commissioned by United Airlines to create their European destination poster. Her work is listed in the Directory of Illustration as well as represented on her website at www.bjfaulkner.com.

The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) announces the endowment of its executive director position by Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo, long-time PEM supporters and world-renowned collectors of 17^th-century Dutch and Flemish art. Dan L. Monroe and his successors will be known as The Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo Director and CEO of the Peabody Essex Museum, effective immediately.

Financial support for a director’s chair is an expression of confidence in the incumbent, and a profound expression of support as the museum moves towards its 2016 expansion.  “We are thrilled to honor Dan Monroe for his transformational accomplishments as director of PEM,” said Rose-Marie van Otterloo. “We are proud to be associated with this incredibly dynamic museum. We love its lively creative nature and unique curatorial vision, and very much look forward to the next chapter in its history.”

The endowment of a museum director’s chair is relatively uncommon in the philanthropic landscape. In New England, only Malcolm Rogers of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Anne Hawley of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Jill Medvedow of the Institute of Contemporary Art, and Thomas E. Lentz of Harvard Art Museums join Mr. Monroe in receiving this honor. Among the top ten museums ranked by institutional endowment, only the Art Institute of Chicago and Harvard Art Museums have endowed directorships.

“I have always admired Eijk and Rose-Marie’s commitment to excellence, passion for art, and generosity. It is truly a privilege to carry their names as director of PEM, and we are all deeply grateful,” said Dan L. Monroe, The Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo Director of PEM. Eijk van Otterloo has been on PEM Board of Trustees since 1994, with Rose-Marie becoming a Trustee in 2002.

PEM Board co-Chairmen Sam Byrne and Sean Healey praised Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo for nearly twenty years of leadership and generosity. “The Van Otterloos’ dedication to PEM has inspired all of us. We are deeply grateful for their generosity of spirit and wonderful colleagueship,” said Healey. Board President Robert Shapiro said, “The Peabody Essex Museum is forever imprinted with the Van Otterloos’ commitment to excellence, and genuine, abiding love of art and culture.”

PEM’s recent blockbuster exhibition Golden: Dutch and Flemish Masterworks from the Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo Collection presented the Van Otterloo collection of paintings and furniture in its entirety for the very first time. It traveled to the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, and is currently on view at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston until February 12, 2012.

What: Red Lulu, Salem’s newest tequila bar and taqueria is helping the North Shore’s working crowd take the edge off after the longest day of the week. Every Monday beginning at 5pm, Red Lulu is celebrating the days end with a delectable offering of $2 chicken, pork or brisket tacos from open to close in the bar and lounge areas only. Spice up the cold winter night with a new $8 specialty margarita every Monday, using the finest of Red Lulu’s selection of over 200 choice tequilas and fresh squeezed juices.

When: Every Monday, Beginning January 23, 5pm – 1am

Where: Red Lulu, 94 Lafayette St. Salem, MA 01970

Other: For more information please call 978-594-4282 or visit www.redlulusalem.com

The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) announced today that sales of Crane Beach Parking Permits are beginning for the 2012-13 season.  This is the second year of the Crane Beach Parking Permit Sticker program, which is designed to offer visitors significant savings on beach parking.  Trustees members can purchase a parking sticker for just $50, now through March 16, 2012. After March 16, members can purchase stickers for $75. A 2012–2013 Crane Beach Parking Permit sticker will allow members (and everyone in their vehicle) to park at Crane Beach for no additional charge from May 1, 2012–April 30, 2013, offering a significant savings for frequent beach visitors.  Members who purchase their parking permit stickers before March 16^th will receive them in the mail in April.  Parking permit stickers purchased after March 16 can be picked up at the beach in May.

The parking sticker is available exclusively to Trustees members. Membership in The Trustees starts at just $47 per year for individuals ($37 for students and seniors). Individual members may purchase one sticker. Family members ($67 annual contribution) and Contributing members ($125 annual contribution) may purchase up to two stickers. Supporting-level members ($165 annual contribution) and above may request up to two stickers at no additional cost with their membership.

“We encourage individuals and families who are not currently Trustees members to join and take advantage of the savings and the many other benefits a Trustees membership has to offer,” said David Beardsley, Director of Crane Beach. “  For as little as $97, you can become a Trustees member and pay no additional admission fees at Crane Beach – voted best beach in Massachusetts by Boston.com readers – for an entire year.

“The permit program was very popular with our visitors last summer,” adds Beardsley. “Since members can use their parking permits for admittance any time of the day, we were happy to see many people coming to the beach more often – stopping by for a few hours in the morning or for a little relaxation after work. We’re excited to continue to offer members significant savings and convenience again this year.”

Membership and admission fees help to support the critical work of The Trustees, including the ongoing management, maintenance and care of special places like Crane Beach and other remarkable natural and cultural resources on the North Shore and across the state. Crane Beach is among the world’s most important nesting sites for piping plovers, a threatened bird that was nearly hunted to extinction in the 19^th century for its eggs and feathers. Crane Beach has been nationally recognized for its successful shorebird protection program.  In addition to the piping plovers, Crane Beach also provides important habitat for rare plants, invertebrates, mammals, birds, shellfish, and finfish that live and nest among its tidal pools, coastal dunes and five miles of beautiful trails.

For visitors who choose not to become Trustees members, beach admission prices remain at $25 on weekends and $15 on weekdays. After 3:00 p.m., all beach admission prices decrease by 50%.  Members who choose not to purchase a parking sticker pay $10 at the beach gate on weekdays and $20 on weekends.

To receive the maximum savings on visits to the beach all year long, The Trustees are encouraging members to take advantage of the early-bird discount by purchasing a $50 sticker before March 16, so they can enjoy a full year at the Beach for no additional admissions fees. Please note: Parking stickers will not guarantee parking. As in the past, The Trustees recommend arriving early on weekends and holidays, carpooling and/or using public transportation. For more details and information, please visit www.thetrustees.org/cranebeach.

AEG and Mill City Management are pleased to present DAUGHTRY at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium on Monday, April 23 at 7:30PM.  Tickets are going on sale Friday, January 27 at 10:00AM and will be available for purchase in person at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office located at 50 East Merrimack Street in Lowell, by calling the box office at (978) 454-2299 or online at www.lowellauditorium.com.

DAUGHTRY has announced the first leg of its upcoming tour in support of the multi-platinum selling rock band’s third album, Break The Spell (19 Recordings/RCA Records).  Daughtry has scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, sold over seven million albums and played sold out concerts around the world in less than four years. Daughtry’s self-titled debut was the fastest selling rock debut in Soundscan history and its follow up Leave This Town marked the quintet’s second consecutive No. 1 album. Daughtry’s latest album Break The Spell, which was certified gold in 4 weeks, builds on the band’s reputation for melodic hooks and anthemic choruses while providing a powerful showcase for Chris Daughtry’s emotionally resonant voice. 

The upcoming first leg of the tour will give fans a chance to experience a number of new tracks from Break The Spell, like the chart-climbing hits “Crawling Back To You” and “Renegade.” Singer Chris Daughtry says: “We recorded a hard-hitting rock album that is primed to blow the doors off these great theaters. Fans who come out are going to get an incredible show every night.”

“The Adventures of Keeno & Ernest ~ The Banana Tree.” first book signing will be on Tuesday, January 31st from 5 – 7 PM at the Scala Art Center in Georgetown.

WILL KEENO’S MONKEY BUSINESS GET HIM IN TROUBLE?

Keeno is a mischievous little monkey, and his best friend Ernest is a clever and responsible young elephant. One day Keeno spots a big, shiny banana tree, but it is far away—all the way on the other side of the river of their jungle home—and his parents have told him never to cross the river without an adult. Ernest reminds him of this, but Keeno decides to cross anyway. When he finds himself in great danger, he must rely on his friend Ernest to rescue him! In the end, Keeno learns two very valuable lessons about friendship and following family rules.

About the Author: Maggie van Galen grew up in Northern Michigan listening to her father’s stories, imagining the characters, being transported to the locations, and engaging in the plots. Maggie discovered that she too had the creativity to put her thoughts to paper, and always used writing as a sort of escapism. When she married the man of her dreams and had two beautiful boys, true happiness began to shine, and the stories started to flow. After years of telling stories to her boys and their friends, Maggie decided to share them with the world. She truly hopes that you enjoy them too! Maggie and her family live on the North Shore of Massachusetts.

“The Adventures of Keeno & Ernest ~ The Banana Tree” is published by Outskirts Press and is available for sale on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and OutskirstPress.com/bookstore.

Save a life and satisfy your cupcake craving! Blood donors who present at the MGH Blood Donor Center on February 8, 16, and 21 will be able to snack on a delicious cupcake from some of Boston’s premier cupcake vendors! Cakeology, Curly Cakes, Flour, J.P. Licks, Kickass Cupcakes, and LuLu’s Sweet Shoppe will be donating dozens of scrumptious freshly made cupcakes to this very special event. Take just 30 minutes out of your daily routine to donate blood, help ensure a safe and adequate blood supply for MGH patients, and savor a delectable dessert!

Cupcake Tasting Vendors and Dates:
February  8 : Cakeology, Flour, and J.P. Licks
February 17: Curly Cakes and Lulu’s Sweet Shoppe
February 22: Kickass Cupcakes

Having trouble deciding between red velvet or chocolate? Check out our facebook page to get updates on cupcake flavors from our generous vendors

The need for blood affects us all, and the demand for vital blood donations remains constant. Each and every day, blood donations are needed to sustain Mass General patients. The largest transfuser of blood in the region, Mass General transfuses approximately 70,000 blood components each year to patients at Mass General and its affiliates. Treatment of cancer, organ transplantation, and surgery all depend on the availability of a safe and adequate blood supply.

The MGH Blood Donor Center collection efforts support patients at MGH, Shriners Burn Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, the Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, and the Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. MGH is a world-renowned hospital, increasing its activity in transplant surgery and cancer treatment—two fields, which use significant amounts of blood. MGH collects blood and blood products through the MGH Blood Donor Center and its traveling bloodmobiles.

Donors must be at least 16 years of age (with parental permission), weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in general good health in addition to other eligibility criteria.

For more information about donating blood, please contact Marketing Specialist Melissa MacPhee at 617/726-8177 or mmacphee@partners.org, or visit the MGH Blood Donor Center’s website at www.massgeneral.org/blooddonor.

Turning a negative into a positive. How one couple had to start from scratch to achieve their dream.

Although the names Julie Ganong and Alan Mons may not ring an immediate bell they are the faces behind Newburyport’s Chococoa Baking Company, a bakery that specializes in the world of whoopie pies. Anyone that has been to this tiny shop knows that these owners know their whoopie. With flavors ranging from classic chocolate and vanilla to espresso or raspberry cream it is a must-see spot when venturing through the North Shore. But, what many people do not know, is that this duo had to turn a negative into a positive in order to create their dream.

CNN Money recently reported that this brilliant decision to start a bakery came to life after both Mons and Ganong were laid off in 2008. Jobless and seeking work in an unforgiving economy wasn’t the easiest task, but Mons saw it as an opportunity to get back to his culinary roots. A former restaurant manager and line cook, Mons jumped at the idea to start a business which specialized in mini versions of whoopie pies- an idea that stemmed from Ganong who used to bake them with her grandmother. After leasing out a bakery in Newburyport it was clear that this business was going to need the full attention of both Ganong and Mons if they wanted it to be successful.

The hard work and time the couple put into the shop has paid off visually, but not literally. With their previous jobs the couple earned $160,000, however in 2011 they saw only 10% of that. In any instance this may seem frustrating, but Ganong and Mons have not let a number dampen their spirits. They can only predict positive things for 2012 and in time their dream will taste ever-so-sweet.

On Friday January 20th, Performer.com Models & Talent Magazine (PMTM) is having their 3rd Magazine Release. The publication is printed quarterly and focuses on the fashion and entertainment industries. When flipping through the magazine you will see images of exquisite models taken by some of the best high-end photographers plus articles about music producers, fashion designers, dancers and much more. PMTM is distributed in salons, clubs, restaurants and other upscale locations in the Boston and northeast region with distribution in Miami area that started in the Fall.

The exclusive launch event will be held at Indra Salon, in downtown Andover at 8 Main Street, Andover MA. A live version of what appears in the magazine is planned for the evening. This is a dress to impress event, starts at 9pm with doors opening at 8:00pm. Attendees will be able to view live fashion shows featuring some of the area’s top models wearing designs from Heiress Boutique, Samuel Vartan Collections & Drea Designs Couture. There will also be musical & dance performances by Boston Music Award Winner, our cover girl, Shea Rose and Andy Tshitsenge, who was recently on tour with Usher. DJ Joe Bermudez from Kiss-108 & Hustle Simmons from Jam’n 94.5 will spin music for the evening and comedian Dave Russo will host the event.

Sexy with class! All the invited attendees will be greeted at the venue’s entrance by several of the Performer.com models, photographers and videographers for this red-carpet event! Attendance for this event is through ticketing via EventBrite.com. Due to the limited space of the venue, every person in attendance must obtain an individual RSVP.

Photographers and videographers are welcome but please inform us ahead of time who you are shooting for. You are free to post any publicly obtained images and/or videos of the event you would like in your publication, on your show, on your own site(s) or on any social networking site but we kindly ask that all members of the press to attach a link to the Performer.com web site and/or Facebook fanpage in return.

Website: www.Performer.com

FB: www.FB.com/PerformerDotCom

RSVP: www.PerformerDotComWinter2012.Eventbrite.com

Valentine’s Cupcake Decorating: Thursday, February 2 at 6:30 PM

Middle School and up. All middle schoolers and up are invited to learn how to make frosting and decorate cupcakes for Valentine’s Day (and eat them of course)! Space is limited, so sign up in the Children’s Room as soon as possible. The cupcake decorating will be held Thursday, February 2 at 6:30 PM in the Topsfield Town Library Meeting Room.

Friends of the Topsfield Town Library Book Sale & Donations: Donations Accepted: February 4 – 7, Sale: February 8 – 11

Clean out your bookshelves and support your community library! Bring any books you’d like to donate to the front desk of the Topsfield Town Library, February 4 – 7. The Book Sale will be held February 8 – 11, stay tuned for more details.

Drop-In Club at the Topsfield Town Library: Monday Afternoons

4th thru 6th Grade. Drop-In Club has started again on Monday afternoons for 4th thru 6th graders in the Topsfield Town Library Meeting Room. Get the school week off to a great start by doing your homework while enjoying a complimentary snack and drink!

The Marblehead Festival of Arts will host its 47^th annual Arts Festival in historic Marblehead from June 30 through July 4. Five days of engaging activities are designed to provide a fun and enriching experience for visitors of all ages, coming from town, the region, the country and the world.

This North Shore favorite is home to fine arts exhibits, including Crafts, Drawing, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Plein Aire Painting, Sculpture and Senior and Student art. These works are created by a mix of experienced, well-established local artists, as well as inspired, budding talent.

Additionally, there are five afternoons and evenings of Performing Arts in harbor-side Crocker Park, a two-day Artisans’ Marketplace, a Street Festival with a variety of performers, a Children’s Festival, a Film Festival, a Theatre Festival, a Literary Arts Festival, a Kite Festival, Sand Sculpture Competition and a Model Boat Building Workshop. Most activities are free of charge.

Special activities for July 4 are the Festival’s Street Festival and the Horribles Parade in town, sponsored by the Gerry Veteran Fireman’s Association. A harbor illumination and fireworks, provided by Marblehead Fireworks Forever, will complement the Festival’s ultimate musical performance at Crocker Park and the culmination of the five-day extravaganza.

The Marblehead Festival of Arts is an all-volunteer organization comprised of more than forty committees and involving several hundred volunteers. All activities will be detailed on the Festival website, www.MarbleheadFestival.org

At the Glen Urquhart School in Beverly, students are learning the true meaning of farm to table by growing vegetables and then feeding the hungry. In conjunction with The Food Project, the K-8 North Shore school has developed a greenhouse curriculum, a multidimensional, educational approach to science, nutrition, environmentalism and public service.

From kindergarten through eighth grade, students spend a portion of their academic year in the school’s 7000-foot greenhouse, growing vegetables from seedling. During this time, they learn about climate, aquaculture, ecosystems, botany and their own place in the food system. How the students contribute to their school’s greenhouse depends on their grade level. Third-graders focus on cabbage plants using their in-school compost for fertilization. A school-wide recycling program includes a compost bucket in every GUS classroom. Simultaneously, the seventh-graders plant onion and beet seedlings, hoe beds for future seedlings and learn about the pros and cons of a global, industrial food system.

In addition to running workshops for students, The Food Project, an organization in Eastern Massachusetts that teaches youth and adults how to create a sustainable food system, utilizes the GUS greenhouse to shelter seedlings for replanting at one of The Food Project’s local farms. This results in over 40,000 pounds of vegetables for The Food Project to distribute to local food pantries and to sell through their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs and at farmers’ markets.

GUS students help plant the seeds, transplant the seedlings, and harvest the vegetables as they learn about helping others who may be less fortunate than themselves. Glen Urquhart School is teaching the students to pay attention to the food on their plates and how to produce food in an environmentally conscious way. As students tend their greenhouse year round, they are learning these lessons from seedling.

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WHAT: Red Lulu spreads the love this New Year’s Eve to those put on Santa’s naughty list. The North Shore hotspot invites all the “sinners” out there to join them for a New Year’s celebration that is sure to be a devil of a good time.

The evening will include entry, complimentary food and a champagne toast at midnight for $20 per person starting at 10pm. Resolutions don’t come into effect until sunrise, so indulge at the cash bar filled with tasty libations sponsored by Don Julio Tequila and Grand Marnier.

For early diners, Red Lulu will kick off the night with a dinner starting at 7pm serving a red and black-themed four-course prix fixe menu for $25 per person. The menu will feature dishes such as the Pie do Puerco Tostada with Cascabal Chiles, epazote, apple, chestnut puree, Watercress Radish Serrano salsa; Mussels Diablo with garlic, shallot, Don Julio Reposado tequila, tomatoes and Morito chiles; and Blackened Butter-poached Beef Tenderloin with Chile rubbed fingerling potatoes, Swiss chard, spicy mojo beurre blanc.

WHERE: Red Lulu, 94 Lafayette St, Salem, MA 01970

WHEN: Saturday, December 31, 2011, Dinner: 7pm – 10pm, Party: 10pm – 2am

OTHER: Tickets for the 7pm dinner are $25 per person, with party tickets at $20 per person; all which can be purchased at http://redlulunye.eventbrite.com/ For more information please call (978)-594-4282 or visit www.redlulusalem.com

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Tuscan Kitchen, New England’s Must-See Dining Destination

WHAT: What could be better than celebrating the year’s end with a true Italian culinary experience? Celebratethis New Year’s Eve with family and friends at Tuscan Kitchen, the award-winning Italian restaurant, located just north of Boston in Salem, New Hampshire on Saturday, December 31st, 2011 from 3:00PM – 10:00PM.

Ring in the New Year amongst friends and family while experiencing the sights, sounds and tastes of a true, rustic-Italian getaway. The artisan craftsmanship of Executive Chef Jim Rogers that has made Tuscan Kitchen a must-see dining destination in New England, will be highlighted throughout the evening as guests indulge in Tuscan Kitchen’s signature dishes including fresh handmade pastas, just-baked breads, fine Italian cheeses and specially made desserts, as well as select New Year’s Eve specials. Diners can toast to the past and welcome the future with seasonally inspired cocktails and wine from Tuscan Kitchen’s extensive wine list with choices available by the glass or the bottle. All menu items are available a la carte, and will be served from 3PM to 10PM. Join us for an early toast to the New Year at 6:00pm (12:00am Italian Time) and celebrate Felice Anno Nuovo!

WHERE: Tuscan Kitchen│67 Main Street, Salem,NH 03079 │603-952-4875

WHEN: Saturday, December 31st, 2011 from 3:00PM to 10:00PM

RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted for parties of seven or more. Call ahead seating is available for parties smaller than seven. Simply call (603) 952-4875 before leaving your home or office and if on a wait, you will be added to wait list ensuring priority seating! Upon arrival, please check in with the host at the front door. *There may be an additional wait when you arrive.

WHAT: The Trustees of Reservations invites couples to be wed, event planners, and the surrounding community members to attend their third annual Seaside Wedding Show at The Great House on Castle Hill located on The Crane Estate in Ipswich, MA. A National Historic Landmark, Castle Hill on The Crane Estate is one of the most sought after wedding venues in the Northeast. The elegant architecture, panoramic ocean views, newly restored Grand Allee, manicured landscapes, and award winning Inn at Castle Hill on The Crane Estate, offer a complete wedding package for couples who are looking for a special place to create their wedding memories.

The Seaside Wedding Show will feature over fifty hand-selected vendors who will share their professional expertise and offer options for choosing an eco-conscious wedding. Attendees will be able to sample food from caterers using local farm produce, learn about ways to conserve resources from florists who use biodegradable materials and locally grown flowers, select design companies offering invitations printed on recycled paper, and view couture gowns locally manufactured. Guests will learn how to create their ideal wedding day from food to spa luxuries, and choose sustainable options at the same time. Better choices for the planet, better choices for future generations. Join The Trustees in their mission to preserve and protect the specilal cultural, natural and scenic landscapes and landmarks that make Massachusetts so unique, for everyone, forever.

WHERE: Castle Hill on The Crane Estate is located at 290 Argilla Road in Ipswich, MA. For directions and or more information, please visit www.craneestate.org or call 978-356-4351 ext. 4025.

WHEN: Sunday, April 22nd from 12 Noon to 3PM

HOW: Purchase tickets at www.craneestate.org to be eligible for the GRAND PRIZE drawing: two glorious nights at The Inn at Castle Hill on The Crane Estate (over $900 value) www.theinnatcastlehill.com. Tickets: $5 for Trustees members; $10 for non-members; and $15 at the door.

Once a year, we open our doors at Willowdale Estate to showcase our talented wedding experts. Come join us for an afternoon of food, music and information that will help you get started on planning an unforgettable wedding day! Sunday, January 8, 2012 www.WillowdaleEstate.com

~ Experience an event at our historic property

~ Taste offering from our talented chefs

~ Meet with Willowdale Estate’s Preferred Vendors

~ Interested in booking a wedding here? Talk to our Sales Team

All brides who pre-register will receive our signature gift bag, and a chance to win great prizes! This is a free event for you and your guests so register now and avoid the lines! Please email us at info@WillowdaleEstate.com

Over the last decade “green” gift giving has become increasingly popular among people looking for meaningful, thoughtful gifts that also give back to our environment and our communities. As you think about gift ideas for family and friends, consider giving a gift that not only shares your passion for a favorite non profit, but also keeps on giving throughout the year — a “Green Gift Membership.”

The Trustees of Reservations, the nation’s oldest statewide land conservation organization, suggests a Green Gift Membership as the perfect for someone who loves the outdoors and also enjoys visiting, preserving, and protecting the scenic and historic landscapes and landmarks that define the character of our communities like Ravenswood Park and the Cape Ann Discovery Center, Halibut Point, Crane Beach and many others. “We have seen more and more of our supporters looking for ways to give a meaningful gift that also gives back to their favorite cause,” says Laurie O’Reilly, Director of Marketing and Membership. “Since we began offering gift memberships five years ago, we’ve seen steady growth in the number given every year.”

Starting as low as $47 for individual members ($37 for students and seniors, $67 for families), a gift membership not only helps The Trustees advance its mission and can be earmarked for a special reservation of your choice, but also includes the following:

- Free/reduced, year-round admission to 106 Trustees stunning reservations located in 73 communities across Massachusetts, such as Crane Beach in Ipswich, World’s End in Hingham, the Old Manse in Concord, the Bryant Homestead in Cummington, Doyle Community Park and Center in Leominster, Bartholomew’s Cobble in Tyringham, and Cape Poge on Martha’s Vineyard;

- Discounts on stays at Trustees Bed & Breakfasts (The Inn at Castle Hill in Ipswich and the Guest House at Field Farm in Williamstown);

- Discounted fees for the hundreds of events, programs, lectures summer camps and workshops offered by The Trustees year-round for all ages;

- The Trustees Property Guide, a 224-page guidebook to the organization’s 100-plus reservations, available exclusively to members;

- A year’s subscription to our quarterly member magazine, Special Places, which will keep you up to date on new and information on topics such as conservation, the natural world, history and culture across Massachusetts; and

- Purchase a gift membership for $125 or above and your gift recipient will also receive our Outdoor Adventure Kit. Perfect for your favorite outdoor adventurer, this handy, portable pack includes a pair of binoculars, a multi-tool, a flashlight, whistle, and compass – everything needed for a fun day outdoors. To ensure holiday delivery, please order gift memberships by December 15 at: 978.921.1944 or online at www.thetrustees.org.

Help celebrate the future, the joy of sharing a special evening with family, friends and neighbors and our hope that a New Year will bring good health, happiness and new opportunities.

On Rockport’s First Night you will be entertained with clowns, cowboys, magicians, musicians – classical, pop, jazz, Dixieland, folk, country, gospel swing and rock and roll – ventriloquists, dance, drama, puppets, and MUCH, MUCH MORE! And, there is a planned a spectacular midnight event that will be a truly memorable welcome to the beginning of a new millennium.

First Night buttons ($15 adults, $6 children 12 & under, 3 & under, free–no button needed) are now available.

Buttons can be purchased at the following locations:

In Rockport: John Tarr Store, Main St., Smith hardware & Lumber at the Lumber Desk, 3 Station Square, Toad Hall Bookstore, Main St.

In Gloucester: Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, Commercial St., House of Raven, Main St., Gloucester Music, Main St.

Doug Wauchope performing for the kids

Spahawk School’s PreK-2nd grade students welcomed Doug Wauchope to their classroom last week. Doug Wauchope is a professional trombonist and composer who has performed with the Boston Symphony, Boston Pops, and other orchestras. Students learned how the trombone is put together, where it fits into the families of musical instruments (the brass), and about the highs and lows of its sound. Then they accompanied Doug playing the song “Little Cabin in the Woods” with hand motions. There is nothing like hands-on learning to get the creative juices flowing, and students are all the more excited for some of the pieces they’ll be performing at Sparhawk’s upcoming winter concert.

‘Do Salon located at 146 Lowell Street in Wakefield hosted their 1st annual “Cuts for a Cause” Cut-A-Thon.  For one day only, all of their haircuts were priced at 30.00 and 100% of the proceeds were donated to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Jimmy Fund Pediatric Activity Fund.  This fund was created to help raise money to benefit Dana Farber’s youngest patients.  The monies raised help allow children with cancer to get a much-needed and well-deserved distraction and escape from the difficult treatments that they endure.

When asked about why she chose to work with the Pediatric Activities Fund, Owner, Rachel Jefgood replied, “To be able to help the youngest patients of Dana Farber is such an honor.  I visited the treatment center this summer and was in awe of the facility, the employees, but most importantly the patients.  They had such positive energy and high spirits…even though they were enduring the one of worst things imaginable.”  In addition, she adds, “I feel that it’s important to help if you have the ability.”

Jefgood said that when she asked her team at ‘Do Salon if this was an organization that they would be willing to donate their time for during the busy Holiday Season, they all responded with such great enthusiasm and positivity.

The event was a complete success and over $1500.00 was raised for the Pediatric Activities Fund!

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG), the country’s largest owner, developer and manager of high-quality retail real estate in the U.S., and The Container Store, the nation’s original and leading retailer of storage and organization products, announced today that they have signed an agreement to open at the Northshore Mall in Summer 2012. The Peabody location will be approximately 25,000 square feet and the third location to open in Massachusetts. The Container Store will take over the space previously occupied by Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse.

“This is an exciting day for both Northshore Mall and the shoppers in the region,” said Sundesh Shah, Regional Vice President of Development of Simon Property Group. “Bringing The Container Store to northern Massachusetts will enhance the already fine retail offerings at the Northshore Mall.”

The Northshore Mall store will showcase more than 10,000 innovative products to help customers save space and, ultimately, save them time. The store layout is divided into lifestyle sections marked with brightly colored banners such as Closet, Kitchen, Office and Laundry. Wherever you look in the store, there’s always someone in a blue apron ready to help solve everything from the tiniest of storage problems to the most intimidating organizational challenges. Customers receive unparalleled service, along with fresh ideas and a very interactive shopping experience. The store will be easily accessible to shoppers living in the outlying Boston suburbs looking to organize any office, closest, coat rack, desk drawer and more.

“When we open a new store, we look for a location dense with our time- and space-starved target customer coupled with a collection of synergistic retailers. We have found that in Northshore Mall,” said Kip Tindell, Chairman and CEO, for The Container Store. “We’re thrilled to bring our unique concept and employee-first culture to our new customers in the area.”

About The Container Store Dallas-based The Container Store is the nation’s original and leading retailer of storage and organization products, offering more than 10,000 innovative and multi-functional items designed to save space and time. The retailer couples it’s product with a high level of customer service delivered by highly-trained organization experts. The Container Store’s employee-first culture has landed the retailer on FORTUNE magazine’s annual list of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” for the past 12 years. Sales for fiscal year 2011 are expected to reach $650 million. The Container Store is privately held. Visit containerstore.com for more information about store locations, the product collection and services offered. Learn more about The Container Store’s unique approach to business and what the company stands for on its blog – standfor.containerstore.com

The Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestra will be presenting “An Afternoon of Concerts” on Sunday, December 11th, at the Ipswich High School Performing Arts Center in Ipswich, MA.  The afternoon will be split into two concerts, one at 2:30 and the other at 5:00.  The earlier concert will feature the NMYO Prelude and Overture String Ensembles, Intermezzo Orchestra, Junior Flute Choir, and Flute Choir.  The later concert will feature the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Select Flute Choir.  This event will be the first full-length concert of NMYO’s inaugural season.

Over 40 towns from Massachusetts and New Hampshire are represented by the 165 student musicians who make up the NMYO organization.  Music Director, Gerald Dolan, reports that music by Dvorak, Verdi, Respighi, Elgar, and many other fine composers will be performed at this event.  Funding for this event is provided in part by the Cultural Council of Ipswich.

“An Afternoon of Concerts” is free and open to the public. All NMYO concerts are family-friendly, and are a great way to expose children to orchestral music in a comfortable setting while supporting the musical training of the area’s finest young musicians.  A reception provided by NMYO families will be held between the two concerts.

For more information about this concert or about Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestras, please call 978-309-9833 or visit the website at www.nmyo.org

The number 1 laser center on the North Shore. Offering laser treatments for hair removal, veins, wrinkle reduction, Zerona, dermal fillers, and much more. Award winning lasers and the countries longest practicing technicians set us apart from all the others. Join us on Thursday December 1st 2011 from 6-8 PM for an informative and exciting open house. Meet our staff and shop for the holidays for yourself and those you love. This year give and receive the gift of beauty! 820A Turnpike Street, North Andover, 978-208-0284, allcarelasercenter.com

Please join Interlocks for their hip shopping event! Friday, Dec. 2nd ~ 3 to 7 pm Complimentary beverages & hors d’oeuvres

Spend time with them before strolling downtown’sNewburyport Invitation Night. They’re offering discounts of up to 40% on specialty brands in their 1,200-square-foot BEAUTY APOTHECARY and special savings on GIFT CERTIFICATE purchases!

NEW: Let Interlocks be Santa’s Helper. Window shop their apothecary and fill out your HOLIDAY WISH LIST at the front desk. They will mail your list to your chosen gift-giver’s address. Leave the rest to Interlocks!

SNEAK PEAK: Get a preview of their MEN’S NIGHT Shopping Event. Spread the news it’s 5-9 pm on Tuesday, Dec. 20th.

Newly-opened Gladstone graces Union Street with a collection of fine antique, vintage and contemporary jewelry curated by a local husband and wife team who share a lifelong passion for art and design. Gladstone opened late last summer in a beautifully refurbished building at 36 1Ž2 Union St., where ebony, shagreen, coral, horn, antique ivory and tortoiseshell are displayed alongside silver, gold, platinum, and diamonds.

Gladstone is owned by Rockport residents Elaine Souza and Charles Gladstone, who each have extensive experience in the world of design and fashion, and who share an interest in jewelry of all periods.

“We are particularly drawn to work that is timeless, understated, and elegant,” said Elaine Souza. Recent pieces on display in the shop include a Victorian tortoiseshell brooch that has the streamlined simplicity of the twentieth century; a Georgian bracelet with lozenge-shaped discs that is modernist in look; and a contemporary gold and rose-cut diamond ring in a form that was popular in the Hellenistic period.

Gladstone also sells the contemporary work of 12 international jewelry designers, as well as original designs by the the owners themselves, and custom designs. Also on hand are a selection of men’s new and vintage cufflinks, handmade leather goods, and rotating exhibitions of contemporary and antique fine art. Currently showing at Gladstone are paintings and mixed media works by Manchester resident and visual artist Juni Van Dyke. The shop also offers high-quality jewelry repair services.

On Friday, December 2, Gladstone will participate in Shop Manchester Night, the first of the Christmas-by-the-Sea events. Hours are extended throughout the holiday season, and on Thursday evenings Gladstone will feature Prosecco and craft ales until 7:00.

Gladstone Antique and Contemporary Fine Jewelry
36 1Ž2 Union St., Manchester-by-the-Sea
Massachusetts 01944
Telephone: 978-704-9410

Hours: Wednesday through Monday 11-6, Thursday 11-7

Storybook Author, Illustrator and Folk Artist, Will Moses visits Smolak Farms for a Holiday book signing event!

WHAT: T’was some weeks before Christmas, At the Smolak’s Farms Farm Stand, A Special Author Paid a Visit, For the book signing planned.

In the spirit of the holiday season, famed folk artist and children’s storybook author Will Moses will hold a book signing at Smolak Farms in NorthAndover, Massachusetts. A third generation artist, Moses’ paintings, illustrations and renderings of classic children’s storybooks are renown for their charm and traditional tenor. On Sunday, December 4th, 2011 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm Will Moses will be signing his beloved new book “Mary and Her Little Lamb” and the classic “The Night Before Christmas,” an illustrated adaptation of the ClementMoore poem, traditionally read to children on Christmas Eve in the anticipation of the arrival of Santa Clause.

The event is free with the purchase of the book, available at the Smolak Farms Farm Stand for $16.99. Please call the farm stand in advance at (978) 682-6332 x 0 to purchase your copy! Nothing goes better with a good read than a great donut! Delicious baked goods will be available at the farm stand for purchase during the event.

WHERE: Smolak Farms, 315 South Bradford Street, North Andover, MA

WHEN: Sunday, December 4th, 2011 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

COST: The event is free with purchase of a copy of “The Night Before Christmas” from the Smolak Farms Farm Stand. Please call the Farm Stand in advance to make yourpurchase. (978) 682-6332 x 0.

WHAT: There’s a sweet smell of homemade cookies in the air at Smolak Farms – the only thing missing is some holiday inspiration and some help from friends! On Wednesday, December 7th, 14th and 21st from 10:00am to 1:00pm, Smolak Farms invites you to share in the culinary fun with three special holiday Cookie Decorating Workshops, where young ones can sprinkle, spread, and add something special to the melt-in-your-mouth holiday treats. Turn that snicker doodle into Santa, and add some marshmallow buttons to the sugar cookie snowman. In addition to the edible decorations, the workshop will feature festive holiday arts and crafts, so everyone can leave with a very merry keepsake that can’t be gobbled up!

WHERE: Smolak Farms, 315 South Bradford Street, North Andover, MA

WHEN: Wednesday, December 7th, 14th and 21st, 2011 from 10:00am to 1:00pm

COST: $3.00 per child, Reservations are not necessary, drop-ins welcome!