AROUND AND ABOUT THE MIDDLE SCHOOL: It's a field trip I'd like to take. The O'Donnell Middle School recently had students from Mr. Lau's Mandarin class go to the Cheng-Du Restaurant.

Students only spoke in Mandarin while they were there.  A great learning experience was had by all.  Sounds delicious! 

In other OMS news, O'Donnell Middle School's Peer Leaders, and their adviser Mrs. Coughlan, attended the StandUp 2011 Conference Against Bullying at Northeastern University earlier this week.

Take a look at photos from both events in the media gallery.

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TEMPLE ON NEW YEARS EVE? Ring in the New Year in style!  On Saturday, Dec. 31, starting at 7 p.m., celebrate the New Year at Ahavath Torah Congregation with a full evening of cocktails, a gourmet dinner from hors d'oeuvres to dessert, and dancing to the amazing Boston Baked Blues with Vinny Serino.

The evening includes fabulous complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, champagne toast, dessert, coffee and tea, along with the Boston Baked Blues, all for $80 per person. 

Or, arrive at 9 p.m. to dance to the sound of Boston Baked Blues, and top off the evening with a champagne toast, dessert, coffee and tea, all for just $60 per person. 

There will be a cash bar, raffles, and more.

Boston Baked Blues are one of Boston's best blues bands, and a mainstay of the blues scene for nearly 25 years. They are multiple winners at the Boston Music Awards.

The band is fronted by Vinny Serino and his sometimes searing, screaming, soulful and crying harmonica style. 

The band's music ranges from swing to rhythm and blues, to down-in-the-alley old time blues. As any band leader with a passion for playing, Vinny has always found a way to surround himself with the very best musicians possible. 

On New Year's Eve, this band will be backed by a three-piece horn section, forming an eight-piece band.

Come catch Boston Baked Blues live; you'll find it impossible to walk away without a smile on your face and a warm glow in your heart from the power and the honesty of this mighty blues band. 

Ticket prices are reserved prices.  Walk-ins will be accepted, space permitting, and will be subject to a $20 per person additional fee at the door.

Please reserve your tickets no later than December 20 by sending a check made payable to New Year's Eve, Ahavath Torah Congregation, 1179 Central St., Stoughton, MA, 02072. 

For questions, call 781-910-3220, or send an email to fundraiser@atorah.org.

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THE PJ LIBRARY:  The PJ Library Bagels and Books Drop-in Group will be meeting in Sharon. Treat yourself and your child to a fun weekly activity in a welcoming and relaxed environment.

Every Wednesday from 9:30-11 a.m., grab a bagel, hear a story and meet other parents while your children socialize and have fun!

It’s ongoing, except for school vacations. It’s held at Temple Sinai (25 Canton Street) in Sharon. Geared for children ages 0-5 years, with adult. No charge. Open to the entire community.  

For more information, contact south@jccgb.org or 781-795-0510.

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