Story hour
Children, ages 3-5 with a caregiver, can enjoy songs, stories, crafts and fun Thursdays, 10 a.m., at the TOHP Burnham Library, 30 Martin St. Call 978-768-7410 or email dfrench@mvlc.org.
Democratic caucus
A caucus to elect two delegates and three alternates to the Massachusetts Democratic Party’s Platform Convention to be held July 13 in Lowell will take place Saturday, March 2, 9:45 a.m., at the Senior Center, 17 Pickering St. All registered Democrats in Essex are eligible to participate. Call Lysa Leland at 978-768-7006.
Yankee Networkers
The Yankee Networkers Chapter of BNI, a business referral organization, meets every Wednesday at the Farm Bar & Grill, 233 Western Ave. Business breakfasts are served from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Visitors are invited.
Don White performance
Don White will perform at the One World Coffee House on Saturday, Feb. 23, 8 p.m., at First Universalist Church, 57 Main St. Tickets are $15. Visit www.oneworldcoffeehouse.org or call 978-768-3690.
Achievement award
Donations are being accepted for the Neil G. Ramsden Academic Achievement Award — a memorial award given by the teachers of Essex Elementary School to Essex high school seniors who graduated from EES, and are enrolling in at least a two-year program of study. The award is based on academic achievement, citizenship and service. Donations may be made to Essex Elementary School with “Achievement Award” on the memo line, c/o Susan Hardy, Essex Elementary School, 12 Story St., Essex, MA 01929.
Rain barrel program
The town of Essex, in partnership with the Great American Rain Barrel Company, is offering rain barrels to residents at a discount ($69 vs. $119 retail) to help conserve water and save money. Each UV protected polyethylene barrel is made in the USA from a 39x24-inch recycled shipping drum weighing 20 pounds empty with a wall thickness of 3⁄16 inch, resulting in a rigid, heavy duty, long-lasting rain barrel, complete with overflow fittings, drain plug, screw-on cover, a threaded spigot with a choice of two ports to use with either a watering or gardening can, and instructions for easy installation. Visit www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com.
Business counseling
The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce offers free small-business counseling at its office at 33 Commercial St., Gloucester, on the first and third Thursday of the month. Anyone starting a business can make an appointment with a representative from the Small Business Development Center of Salem State College. Call 978-283-1601 or email info@capeannchamber.com.
Blood pressure clinics
The Essex Council on Aging holds a blood pressure clinic the third Thursday of each month, 10:30 a.m., at the Senior Center, 17 Pickering St.
Burning season open
Burning season for homeowners is open from now until May 1. Permits are $20, $10 for those over 60, and may be purchased online at www.essexma.org, or at the Essex Police Fire Dispatch (make checks payable to “Town of Essex”). No cash. Permit holders should call 978-768-6511 or check online daily to activate their permit on a desirable day. Permits will be issued to homeowners only; not to businesses or for commercial land clearing (landscapers or contractors). Burning may be conducted only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (no permits will be issued on those days after noon). All fires must be completely extinguished by 4 p.m. If conditions become suddenly hazardous, permits can be canceled. Those conducting illegal burning, or whose fire gets out of control, may be held liable for extinguishing costs and fined. Call 978-580-4429.
Skating lessons
Beginner and advanced skating skills group and private lessons are available for boys and girls ages 5-12, tots ages 2 1/2 and up, teens and adults. Instruction is by professional coaches certified by USA Hockey and U.S. Figure Skating associations. Lessons available at Talbot Rink on Tuesdays, 6 p.m., and Saturdays, 1 p.m.; at Pingree School in Hamilton on Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., and Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m. Private lessons also available. Enrollment is ongoing. For a registration form, visit www.cafsc.org or call 978-546-2290.
Monthly lunches
Seniors age 60 and over are invited to lunch at the Essex Senior Center on the first and third Thursday of the month. Lunch is provided by SeniorCare. A $2 donation is requested. For reservations, call 978-768-7932.
Bible study
A women’s Bible study with Beth Moore, “James: Mercy Triumphs,” will be held Wednesdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at the First Congregational Church of Essex. Child care is available. Call Rama at 978-768-3319.
Meals on Wheels
SeniorCare Meals on Wheels program seeks volunteer drivers in Essex. Call SeniorCare’s Nutrition Department at 978-281-1750 or toll-free at 1-866-927-1050.
Story hour
Children, ages 3-5 with a caregiver, can enjoy songs, stories, crafts and fun Thursdays, 10 a.m., at the TOHP Burnham Library, 30 Martin St. Call 978-768-7410 or email dfrench@mvlc.org.
Yankee Networkers
The Yankee Networkers Chapter of BNI, a business referral organization, meets every Wednesday at the Farm Bar & Grill, 233 Western Ave. Business breakfasts are served from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Visitors are invited.
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