ANDOVER — The U.S. Marine Corps launched its 2009 Toys for Tots drive last week, while celebrating its 234th birthday.
And, for a 25th year, the Massachusetts State Police are teaming up with the Marines to run the annual toy collection, which seeks to make holiday brighter for children in the Merrimack Valley.
Donations of new, non-violent toys are needed for boys and girls, age newborn to 18. The unwrapped toys may be dropped at the State Police barracks on Route 125 in Andover, or any other barracks in the state.
Anyone wishing to donate money, may send checks, payable to Toys for Tots, to Massachusetts State Police, Toys for Tots Coordinator, 124 Acton St., Maynard, MA 01754.
Last year with the community's help, the state police collected about 57,000 toys and collected more than $8,000.
Pasta dinner helps Foster Kids
LAWRENCE — A pasta dinner served up some help for Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley this month.
More than 200 people turned out at Sons of Italy, Lodge 902, on Nov. 6 for the pasta dinner, the proceeds from which will be used to put on a holiday party in December for the kids.
People who weren't able to attend the dinner can still help by becoming a Santa's Helper and filling a child's Christmas wish.
To learn more visit santashelpers@fosterkismv.org.
Donations of money may be made online at http://fosterkidschristmas.eventbrite.com or check may be mailed to Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley Methuen/Lawrence Coalition, 112 E. Haverhill St., Lawrence, MA 01841.
Restaurant offers free meal
LAWRENCE — El Cesar's Restaurant, 99 Essex St., is hosting a free Thanksgiving dinner for the first 50 families who show up Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m.
A traditional Hispanic holiday dinner of turkey, rice, potato salad, green salad, bread, sauteed chicken and dessert will be served. Children are welcome.
A few gift cards to Market Basket, Wal-Mart and other stores will be given out. Volunteers from the community and The Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society from the University of Massachusetts Lowell will serve the meal.
See how a local artist does it at demonstration
NORTH ANDOVER — The¬ Andovers¬ Artists Guild is having a painting demonstration with Lowell Artist Tom Gill on Sunday,¬ from 2 to 4 p.m.¬ at the North Parish Church, corner of Academy and Great Pond roads.
Members will be admitted for free; others pay $5. Call¬ Nella¬ at 978-975-0015 for more information or visit¬ www.AndoversArtistsGuild.com.
New Year's gives seniors a chance to dance
METHUEN — The Methuen Senior Activity Center will see a flurry of activity in upcoming weeks, including a dinner-dance on New Year's Eve.
It all starts today at 10 a.m. with an informational talk on the 2010 US Census. Nancy Gilbert will speak.
Then, on Nov. 30, Lester P. Schindel, president and CEO of Caritas Holy Family Hospital stops by the center to say hello and talk about the hospital's vision for the community. Seniors may enjoy a cup of coffee during the meet and greet, which starts at 11 a.m.
On Dec. 31, a New Year's Eve Dinner Dance will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The $50 per person roast beef dinner, includes music by The Fred Manzi Trio, favors and champagne. Space is limited and tickets are nonrefundable.
The senior center is at 77 Lowell St. Call 978-794-3296 for more information.
