The Lehrer Report: May 24, 2024

Published: 05-28-2024 10:47 AM

Monday, May is Memorial Day — a reminder to remember all those who sacrificed to keep us safe.

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Garden report: The rhododendron, crane bill geranium and columbine have bloomed. The potatoes and peas have sprouted. The peppers (only six), tomatoes and radish have been planted.

The weather has changed and I, along with other growers, have had to water plants.

Another weather change — I have my first bug bite.

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Happy birthday to Freida Howards of Amherst, who turned 100 May 8. She and her late husband Irv moved to Amherst in the 1960s, raised three children, have seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Best wishes on reaching such a milestone.

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Tim Anderson, director of the UMass Minuteman Marching Band, is also the director of the Amherst Community Band, which is getting ready for its summer season. Musicians of any age are welcome to join. Rehearsals begin in June at 6 p.m. at the Parks Band Building on the UMass campus.

This is the schedule he sent:

Saturday, June 22, 6:30 p.m., Sweetser Park: Gershwin Revue!

Saturday, July 27, 6:30 p.m., Sweetser Park: Dance Party!

Saturday, Aug. 17, 6:30 p.m., Sweetser Park: Anniversaries.

Tues., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., South Amherst Common: Best of the Summer.

His email is: tanderson@music.umass.edu. All the concerts are free but donations are welcome.

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Good news: The elevator at the Bangs Center has been fixed!

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The annual chicken salad strawberry shortcake supper at the South Amherst Congregational Church is coming. Now you know summer is almost here. The supper will be held Saturday, June 1 with pickup between 5 and  6 p.m., or you can eat inside from5 to 6:30 p.m. There is no table service inside. You eat the packaged meal, which has many sides, such as assorted and chips. Vegetarian options are available. The cost is $18.

Call 253-2977 for reservations.

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