A nationally-acclaimed Egyptian American will use music and dance to teach Manchester pupils about Arab culture next week.
On Tuesday, April 10, Karim Nagi will perform two shows of "Arabiqa" at Manchester Memorial Elementary School. He will take students on an engaging high-energy journey to learn about Arab culture through a performance of traditional instruments, folk music and dance. Karim uses authentic costumes, maps, Arabic words and lots of audience participation as he enlightens children about these ancient cultural traditions. This special program is funded in part by the generosity of the Manchester Cultural Council, part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
Conomo Point
Essex's Conomo Point Planning Committee is hosting an informational meeting next week on the planning process and upcoming articles to be presented at the Annual Town Meeting pertaining to Conomo Point.
The meeting will be Thursday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m. at Essex Elementary School. Selectmen, members of the Conomo Point and Finance committees, and personnel from the Horsley Witten Group will be in attendance to update residents. The format will be hosted discussion tables and refreshments will be served.
Questions may be directed to Town Administrator Brendhan Zubricki at 978-768-6531.
Races for school
The fifth annual Hit the Streets for Little Feet 5K Road Race and 1-Mile Fun Run is scheduled for 8 a.m. Saturday, May 12. The 5K race, which starts and finishes at Manchester Essex Regional High School in Manchester, precedes the 1-Mile Fun Run. Proceeds from both support Manchester Memorial Elementary School enrichment programs. Following the races, participants are invited to enjoy a community celebration featuring a raffle drawing with many great prizes. The event is open to all ages. Race fee is $20 per individual and $50 for a family (price includes T-shirts if registered by April 30). For more information and to register, go to www.mmpto.org.
Quick hits
The Essex PTO Auction is going on now. Go to Essexpto.com to bid on items and support the schools.
The Essex Shipbuilding Museum presents "Wood Finishing Basics," a Saturday workshop with Gary Wood on April 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The most commonly used finishes will be discussed, including varnish, shellac, and oil. Learn how to add color with stains, glazes and waxes, and how to apply any finish with the right brush or pad. The course will pay special attention to surface preparation, conservation of materials and labor-saving techniques. Practice materials will be provided.
The workshop is limited to 12 participants; fee is $75 for the course.
To pre-register please visit www.essexshipbuildingmuseum.org/details-of-our-next-events-27.html
Stephanie Bergman compiles information about events, services and programs in Manchester and Essex. If you have a news tip or submission for the weekly Town Talk column, you can reach Stephanie Bergman at 978-283-7000 x3451 or gt_reporter@gloucestertimes.com.





