Merrimack Valley in a minute

September 26, 2008 12:32 am

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LAWRENCE — A Mystery History Photo Fun Walk, sponsored by the Lawrence History Center, takes place on Sunday at 11 a.m.

The event is part of the Essex National Heritage Commission's Trails and Sails 2008 weekend, which kicks off today with more than 200 free events, celebrating arts and culture, spread over 140 locations, from Lowell to Newburyport. For a full listing on events, visit www.trailsandsails.org or www.merrimackvalley.info.

Sunday's photo walk starts and ends in the courtyard of the history center at 6 Essex St. Contestants receive a historic photo booklet of 20 sites and scenes that must be identified. Maps and clues will lead each person through parks and to local landmarks to identify the location of each image in today's Lawrence. All are welcome to participate individually or as a group. Prizes and a souvenir Photographic Passport to Lawrence will be given to all competitors, and refreshments will be served.

To register for the free event, call the Lawrence History Center at 978-686-9230.

Bocce on Sunday anyone?

LAWRENCE — The Lawrence History Center hosts Bocce in the Courtyard on Sunday.

The event honors the game popular among the Italian immigrants who settled in Lawrence.

Learn to play for free, from 1 to 3 p.m.

The center, at 6 Essex St., celebrates its 30th anniversary this year with new exhibits and events in its newly opened courtyard. For information, visit www.lawrencehistorycenter.org.

Confidence is Queen

METHUEN — Susie Castillo will read from her book "Confidence is Queen" tomorrow at Borders in The Loop.

Back in the Merrimack Valley for the Latin Pride Awards, the former Miss USA and Lawrencian, will discuss and autograph copies of her book, which is described as an "every girl's guide to life." In it, Castillo talks about becoming the most confident, positive and beautiful you. She also talks about growing up in the Merrimack Valley and the summers she spent in Puerto Rico with her family.

The free signing starts at 1 p.m. The book retails for $22.95.