Send announcements or events, which are open to the public at no or minimal cost, to The Loudoun Connection, 7913 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102 or e-mail <a href="mailto:loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com">loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com</a>. Deadline is Friday, two weeks before the event. Photos/artwork encouraged. For more information, call 703-917-6454.
The registration deadline for the Loudoun County Master Gardener Volunteer training program has been extended until Dec. 31. The Master Gardener program is offered through the Loudoun Extension Office to train volunteers to assist the urban horticulturist in providing service and educational programs for Loudoun residents.
Application packets can be downloaded at www.loudouncountymastergardeners.org or call 703-771-5150.
The Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn, is looking for teen reading buddy volunteers to read to young children ages 3-6, Mondays at 4:30 p.m., in November and December. Apply at the Information Desk. Phone 703-737-8100.
The Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers, 14 and up, to assist its blood collections staff at blood drives and blood donor centers, including Loudoun County. Responsibilities include greeting donors and providing them with essential reading materials, serving refreshments and observing donors for post-donation reactions. A free, brief training is provided. To register for training or for more information, call the American Red Cross volunteer office at 1-800-272-0094, Ext. 1 or e-mail karlofft@usa.redcross.org.
There are currently opportunities for people to serve on Loudoun County and regional advisory boards, commissions and committees. For information about specific vacancies, contact Rosey Rai, county administration, 703-771-5034, or by e-mail at Rosey.Rai@loudoun.gov. Information about each board, committee and commission is available on the Loudoun County Government Web site at www.loudoun.gov/advisory.