Summer hours
TOHP Library hours will change to the summer schedule on July 1. Until then, the library will remain open Saturdays, through June 30.
Yankee Networkers
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.
Cultural district
Selectmen will hold a public hearing on the potential formation of a cultural district on Monday, June 25, at 7 p.m. at TOHP Burnham Library, 30 Martin St. All are welcome to learn how cultural districts can help improve local arts, humanities, and science programs reach more local families and enhance the tourism experience to attract more business, culture and entrepreneur, raising property values and making communities more attractive.
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 39-by-24 inch recycled shipping drum weighing 20 pounds empty with a wall thickness of 3Ñ16 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 can or a gardening, and simple instructions for easy installation. To take advantage of this offer, go to: 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.
Spaulding Fund
Spaulding Education Fund, a private, nonprofit established to aid Manchester Essex public schools, relies on private donations. Tax-deductible contributions may be made at www.spauldingeducationfund.org or mailed to the Spaulding Education Fund, Box 192, Manchester, MA 01944.
Sailing Club
The Essex Bay Sailing Club's Summer Sailing Program, a nonprofit club founded in 2000, reaches out to teach sailing to local youngsters. The goal is to develop sailors who enjoy a strong knowlege of sailing while also learning to appreciate and protect the beautiful resources of the Essex River. The Club offers beginner to advanced level lessons for children aged 8 and up in Escape Captivas and International 420s. Children may enroll in 4 or 8 week sessions on a first come, first served basis. For information, visit: www.essexbaysailingclub.org
Paint Essex
On Saturday, Aug. 18, the Essex Merchant Group will bring numerous fine artists to Essex to paint the Great Marsh, Essex River, antiques, historic sites and landscape of Essex. An live auction of the day's paintings will be held in the evening, accompanied by live music and refreshments. For more information, to register or volunteer, email Teri Eramo at teri.eventide@gmail.com, or call 978-890-7198.
Blood pressure clinics
The Essex Council on Aging holds a blood pressure clinic the third Thursday of each month, 10:30 a.m., at 17 Pickering St.
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.
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.
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