Claire Masinton and Jim Carroll, both of Newton, Mass., announce the birth of triplets, born June 25, 2008, at Beth Israel Medical Center, Boston. The couple have two daughters, Bridget Teresa Carroll and Portia Ann Carroll, and a son, Declan Sean Carroll.

They have two brothers, Jared Masinton, 14, Luke Carroll, 4, and a sister, Rosaleen Carroll, 6.

Their maternal grandparents are Jerry and Martha Masinton, Lawrence.

Their paternal grandparents are Teresa Carroll, Niagara Falls, N.Y., and the late James Carroll.

¢

Erin and John Lawrence, Lawrence, announce the birth of their twin daughters, Abby Rose Lawrence and Elise Autumn Lawrence, born July 8, 2008, at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.

Their maternal grandparents are Bruce and Michele Passman, Lawrence.

Their paternal grandparents are Bret and Linda Lawrence, Olathe.

¢

Earl D. Merkel, M.D., is hosting a reception from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Russell Elks Lodge. The reception is not a retirement party. It’s a thank-you to the community for the years of support.

Merkel has worked in family medicine and at the Russell Regional Hospital in Russell. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Fort Hays State University and a Doctorate of Medicine degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine.

¢

Elaine Shreves, Lawrence, will celebrate her 80th birthday on August 3. She and her husband, Gordon, plan to move to Rapid City, S.D., before fall 2008. The couple owned and operated Gordon Shoe Center in downtown Lawrence for about 25 years. Family members are celebrating Elaine’s birthday with a card shower. Cards may be sent to 1707 W. 21st St., Lawrence 66046.

¢

Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Ind., announces its May 2008 graduates. The ceremony was May 18, 2008, at the Athletics-Recreation Center on campus. Area students are:

Lawrence – Ian Adkins, Bachelor of Music Education.

Baldwin City – Mikael Elliot, Bachelor of Science in civil engineering.