Eric Solis, of Hermiston, reads “Hello, Neighbor! The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers” by Matthew Cordell on March 5, 2022, during  the Read Across Hermiston Readathon. The third annual event is March 2, 2024, at the Hermiston Public Library.

It will be a “Big Bright Beautiful World” when students from Armand Larive and Sandstone middle schools team up to present “Shrek: The Musical Jr.”

Co-directors Stacy Cooley and Dan Allen have been working with nearly 50 students for the show. The musical will be staged March 8-9 at Armand Larive Middle School, 1497 SW Ninth St., Hermiston. Curtain time is 7 p.m. on both nights. Admission is $5 each or $20 for a family of four or more.

Based on the Oscar-winning animated film and Broadway production, “Shrek: The Musical Jr.” is a special adaptation for younger performers. Beauty is in the eye of the ogre when the cast of fairy-tale misfits embark on an adventure to rescue a princess.

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Voters can learn more about Dave Drotzmann and his plans if elected for Oregon State Senate District 29 during the upcoming Roundup Republican Women‘s meeting. The no-host luncheon gathering is Thursday, Feb. 29, noon at Rooster’s Country Kitchen, 1515 Southgate Place, Pendleton. RSVP via rounduprw@gmail.com or by calling 541-969-9163.

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An evening of fun for kids and adults is featured during Family Game Night on Saturday, March 2, 4-7 p.m. at The Next Chapter Bookstore, 1000 S. Highway 395, Suite C, Hermiston. The event offers an opportunity to try out a wide array of board and card games.

The cost is $5 per person and snacks are provided. Also, participants will receive a 15% discount on all games purchased during the event. For more information, search Facebook via bit.ly/3kEDobQ or call 541-667-7080.

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Don’t miss the final performances of “Freaky Friday” presented by the College Community Theatre. The Disney musical offers laughter and a few twists when a mother and daughter switch bodies for 24 hours.

Evening performances begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 29, through Saturday, March 2, in Bob Clapp Theatre at Blue Mountain Community College, 2411 NW Carden Ave., Pendleton. A matinee show is Sunday, March 3, 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and $13 for students. For tickets, visit www.collegecommunitytheatre.com or call 541-215-9917.

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Art, sensory and science skills will be put to the test during SAGE Saturday. Geared for children ages 3-10, the free event is Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. to noon at the SAGE Center, 101 Olson Road, Boardman. For more information, search www.visitsage.com or call 541-481-7243.

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The Friends of the Hermiston Public Library is hosting the third annual Read Across Hermiston Readathon. People are invited to drop in on Saturday, March 2, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the library, 235 E. Gladys Ave. Local leaders and community members will read aloud from their favorite books.

The event promotes literacy and serves as a fundraiser for the Library Friends. Donations help fund library programs and events. For more information, search Facebook via bit.ly/3uN8dQB or call 541-567-2882.

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Budding entrepreneurs interested in starting a business can get help — including six months free rent — through the Downtown Business Incubator.

Applications must be submitted to the Hermiston Downtown District by March 31. For more information or an application, email hermistondowntowndistrict@gmail.com or stop by Lucky Endz Gifts, 239 E. Main St.

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The Harkenrider Senior Activity Center serves lunch Thursday, Feb. 29 (taco casserole), and Tuesday, March 5 (to be announced), noon to 12:30 p.m. at 255 NE Second St., Hermiston. Meals are $5.

To ensure an accurate meal count for in-person and takeout meals, call 541-567-3582 by 11 a.m. Also, Meals on Wheels is available in Hermiston. Call before 10 a.m. to place a delivery order.

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The Boardman Senior Center offers dine-in and takeout lunches at noon on Thursday, Feb. 29 (baked chicken), and Tuesday, March 5 (TBA), at 100 Tatone St. Meals are $5 for seniors and $6 for others. For takeout service, call 541-481-3257.