ACTON, MA – March 24, 2026 – On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Lori Cooney, President of the League of Women Voters, Acton Area (Acton, Boxborough, Hudson, Littleton, Maynard & Stow), opened the program with an overview of the League's mission and work, followed by a warm welcome to the large audience eager to engage in the topic, Restoring the Promise: Immigration Policy and the Path Forward. This event was inspired by Margaret "Marge" Kennedy, a former League president who was passionate about "giving voice to the underserved."  Marge's son, Steve Long, expressed his gratitude to the League for hosting the event and to all in attendance. He honored his mother by describing her through the "three C's": caring, community, and curious. He reflected that her approach to everything was to first "wonder why" without passing judgment.
Next, League member Alissa Nicol introduced our featured speaker, Attorney Antonio Massa Viana, an immigration lawyer practicing in Southborough, MA and Providence, RI who is an immigrant himself.  He led a compelling, interactive program lasting approximately 90 minutes. The conversation focused on examining current immigration law and exploring how existing policies affect the nation as a whole, as well as individual citizens of the United States.
Attorney Viana queried the audience about where we stood on various aspects of immigration policy and encouraged us to have honest, healthy and respectful debate.  Participants were asked to consider the nation's founding ideals, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, in contrast to federal immigration laws that have, over time, become increasingly restrictive in determining who may become an American citizen and under what conditions.
He explained the complexity of current immigration law and listed the various classifications, or "Statuses," that exist—from "Citizen" to "Lawful Permanent Resident" (green card holder) to "Temporary Protected Status," (granted to individuals, for example, from Honduras following a hurricane or from Ukraine after the Russian invasion) to name three of many. We learned that in recent months, the federal government has revoked "Statuses" for large numbers of immigrants and asylum seekers, some who have been following the rules and "waiting in line" for years to achieve citizenship or permanent status, only to be "kicked off" for arbitrary reasons.
The audience heard data refuting some of the myths surrounding immigration such as claims that immigrants don't pay taxes or that deporting them will create jobs for American citizens. 
We ended with discussing how we can take action.  Attorney Viana suggested audience members can support organizations who advocate for immigrants' rights and reminded us of the importance of civic engagement.  He encouraged us to make our voices heard by contacting our legislators at the local, state and federal level, and protesting at peaceful rallies and marches.
This summary is just a small portion of the many points shared by our speaker. The League encourages those unable to attend to view the discussion in its entirety here: bit.ly/RestorePromise
We thank the Town of Acton for providing the meeting space and to Acton TV for recording and televising the event.  The turnout was outstanding, and we are grateful to several local publications for helping to publicize our event, including Action Unlimited, The Acton Exchange, and Boxborough News.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state, and national government. The League develops positions on issues but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. It has a long tradition of providing important voter information services, such as this event. Please visit our website, lwv-actonarea.org, for more information.

The Council on Aging at the Human Services & Senior Center is located at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear.
Telephone: 978-929-6652            
Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov       
Website: www.actoncoa.com/  
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/actoncoa​

Opening Hours: 
Monday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-12noon

Monday Movie Matinee
Train Dreams
Monday, March 30th, 1:00-2:45pm
2025, PG-13) Moving Oscar-nominated film about an early 20th century railroad worker (Joel Edgerton) who, after a terrible loss, leads a solitary life in the West. Based on the acclaimed novella by Denis Johnson. Rescheduled from January weather cancellation.

The Railroad in Song with Jon & Li Waterman
Tuesday, March 31st, 1:00-2:00pm                                        
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $5
Join acoustic duo Jon and Li Waterman on a tour of songs about trains, the building of the railroad, workers on the railroad, train wrecks, heroes and hobos. The program looks at the Transcontinental Railroad, the contribution of Chinese and Irish immigrants, the stories of Casey Jones and John Henry, the Old 97 train wreck, the Great migration and more. The show consists of songs, history, and an accompanying slide presentation. Jon and Li Waterman perform as the acoustic duo Sultana whose performances are enthusiastically received at the Senior Center. Jon has been performing his original songs throughout his life. His music is influenced by intriguing characters and stories from history, the roots of the music he loves, and the diversity of the human experience. Li is a classically trained guitarist and singer, as well as a visual artist.

Acton Songsters with Ed Knights
Wednesdays, April 1st, 15th, 29th, 1:00-1:45pm                                       
Open to all age 60+/free
Join Ed Knights for this group that sings familiar popular songs and learns the mechanics of singing. Don’t worry about your level of singing—the group is open to anyone interested in singing. Lyrics provided. Sign up with the COA if you are new to the group. After his career as an internal medicine physician at Acton Medical Associates, Ed became an avid volunteer in the community and enjoys sharing his love of music and singing. He has studied voice at the Boston Conservatory and performs in musicals and operas.


The Ins and Outs of Senior Living Options
Thursday, April 2nd, 1:00-2:00pm                                                                          
Open to all 60+ free 
Remaining independent, staying safe, and thriving are all goals that will be discussed with Melissa Lee and Patricia Jacotin from Oasis Senior Advisors. Join them to navigate the ins and outs of senior living options—from aging in place to community living—and to tackle your questions about costs, planning for the future, managing care needs or dementia care, and finding social engagement. This program will continue and add to when they visited in September. Enjoy light snacks and beverages while you learn more about the next steps to consider what will work best for you. Rescheduled from January. Sign up is required.

Sounds of Stow Chorus and Orchestra continues its 47th season on Sunday April 19, 2026 at
2:00 pm at Littleton High School performing the new England premier of Christopher
Tin's "To Shiver the Sky. " In his words "this is the story of flight: of humanity's quest to break
the bonds of earth, challenge the heavens, and take our rightful place among the stars."

Drawing on original texts from historically diverse sources"To Shiver the Sky" weaves a
narrative with music that is appropriately exciting, haunting, awe-inspiring, and rousing. The
texts include selections from Ovid, Dante, Leonardo da Vinci, Copernicus, and Amelia Earhart,
and culminating with John F. Kennedy's 1962 speech "We Choose to Go to the Moon." The
messages are timely and moving, especially as we follow the launch of the Artemis Flight to the
Moon now planned for April! Music will be sung in the original languages with supratitles
accompanying the text, and enhanced with amazing photos capturing ancient light from
photographer Marsha Wilcox, and Dan Barstow's beautiful videos, many from his time with the
International Space Station. Tenor Soloist Omar Najmi, and Soprano Soloist Aurora Martin will
add to the program with arias celebrating both earthly and celestial beauty.

The chorus and orchestra will be performing at the Littleton High School, on Sunday April 19,
2026, at 2:00 PM. This school has plenty of free parking close to the entrance. As this is the
start of school vacation week children under 18 accompanied by an adult will have free
admission! Visit soundsofstow.org for tickets and additional information.

We hope to see you all there for this exciting multimedia performance, as we reach once again
for space flight with the planned Artemis missions for a flyby to the moon with surface landings
in the future.

In honor of Public Health Week and Emergwncy Preparedness Month, the Central Middlesex Medical Reserve Corp (MRC) and Acton Human Services Department along with the Acton Fire Department will be presenting the Make a Plan Workshop-Be Prepared for Emergencies.

The workshop will be held at the Acton Recreation Building located at 50 Audubon Drive, Acton MA on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm.  The program is free and there is no need to preregister.

Each participant will receive a Make a Plan template and 4” Star Magnet. The template will be reviewed with emphasis on:
*Why do we need to be prepared
*Different types of emergencies
*Sheltering in place
*Evacuation notifications
*Pets
*Go-Bags
*And more

This will be an interactive presentation with explanations of recommendations and examples of situations that might arise. There will be opportunities for questions and answers.

The Central Middlesex Medical Reserve Corp and its role in supporting the Town of Acton will be highlighted. 

“ALWAYS GRATEFUL FOR ANOTHER WEDNESDAY”
“All are Welcome.”
Welcome the warmth and beautiful colors of Spring as the flowers and buds begin to pop around us.   We look forward to sharing a meal and friendship with you every Wednesday.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton     472 Massachusetts Ave. Acton MA 01720

Time: Dinner is served 4:30pm – 5:30pm Doors will open at 4:15pm. Please, do not enter prior so our volunteers can prepare your Supper.

Parking: Park your car in the back parking lot and enter from the walkway to the church door.

April 2026 Menu

4/1                 “HAPPY 14TH BIRTHDAY TO OUR SUPPER!”    
                Baked Ziti and Garlic Bread             
Sponsored by Friends of Mike Tobia

4/8       Chicken Chili and Corn Bread
                       Sponsored by Friends of Community Supper
4/15        Chicken  Satay and Dumplings
    Sponsored by Mt Calvary Lutheran Church

4/22       BBQ Chicken and Tater Tots      
    Sponsored by Boston Metro West Bible Church of Littleton
4/29        Hot Dogs with all the “Fixins”
                      Sponsored by Congregation Beth Elohim

** Please note that the meals we serve may contain gluten, nuts, seeds, or dairy.

We wish to express how grateful we are for the support and dedication of so many individuals, community organizations, church members and the team of our Supper volunteers. Together we hope that each meal we share will bring us closer together.
    
http://www.mtcalvaryacton.org/Community-Supper               http://www.facebook.com/CommunitySupperofActonMA

Join Great Road Church at Summer Blast 2026

When: Monday-Friday, June 22nd-26th from 5:00-7:30pm
Where: Great Road Church, 255 Great Rd, Acton, MA 01720

Join Great Road Church at Summer Blast 2026 for Compassion Camp- a time to be kind, be loved, and be you! Summer Blast is our church's version of Vacation Bible School, but the emphasis is on having a BLAST!

Summer Blast runs from June 22nd-26th (Monday to Friday) in the evenings from 5:00pm-7:30pm and includes a free dinner for kids and families.

Registration is now open for any student from preschool up to 5th grade for the '26-'27 school year and is $100 per child. Need-based scholarships are available!

Contact: If you have any questions about registration or are in need of scholarship, email Pastor Helen at helen@greatroadchurch.org

Register: https://greatroad.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3181058

The Women’s Business Network (WBN) will meet on Thursday, April 9th at 6:30 PM at the church hall at St. Theresa's Church (Holy Trinity Parish), 17 Still River Road in Harvard MA. Guests are welcome. Participants will gather in small groups to discuss business issues, seek input, and get advice from each other. WBN is a local, volunteer run networking group of women in small businesses, professional practices, non-profits and the arts who meet monthly for mutual support, education & networking. Contact dboliva@charter.net for more information.

Scout Recycling, Electronics AND Paper Shredding FUNDRAISER events on Saturday, April 25th at Hale School 55 Hartley Road in Stow from 8:30 AM to 1 PM.  PLEASE NOTE:  Paper Shredding truck will only be onsite from 10:30 AM to 1 PM but documents can be dropped off before then.   Please visit our website at http://www.troop1stow.net for pricing structure.  We can also be contacted at 978-212-9175.   Drive up service and payment is by Credit Card only. 100% of net proceeds go to supporting the Scouts of Troop 1 Stow. OPEN to anyone to attend. 

The walk is free, but you must register as the walk is limited to 25 people. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/Apr11-Acton250.
Please meet Amy at the Acton Memorial Library parking lot at 12:50 PM.
Professional tour leader Amy Cole grew up near Acton Center and has a wide ranging-interest in Acton’s unique history. Walking Acton’s historic civic center, you will learn about the people, places and practices that shaped the town’s history and our nation’s as well. Topics include Native American history, the role of the church, the importance of Captain Isaac Davis and the Acton Minutemen, nearby historic buildings, memorials and more.
Please see https://www.actonma.gov/250 for more programming information and don’t forget our Acton250 store at https://tinyurl.com/ACTON250STORE.

Event: Northboro Junior Woman’s Club 49th Annual Harvest Craft Fair

Date: Saturday, November 7,2026

Time: 9:00AM-3:00PM

Place: Robert E. Mexican Middle School,  145 Lincoln Street, Northboro, MA

Jurying Information: This is a juried show requiring that all items are handmade. Please visit NJWC’S website for applications and more show details. www.northborojuniors.org/craft-fair.html

The Northboro Junior Woman’s Club is a non-profit organization that has been active in Northboro for over 40 years. They support community projects in Northboro as well as internationally. The Harvest Fair is the club’s major fundraiser.

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. We have been continuing weekly on Thursdays by remote videoconference. Our meeting day is currently subject to change. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

Skate4Charity founded by two friends James Pijewski and Steve Molloy is hosting its 4th annual charity Ice Hockey tournament April 11th at 11am at the The Edge Sports Center in Bedford, 191 Hartwell Rd. Over three years the charity has raised over $137k and last year alone the charity raised over $60k to benefit the Greater Boston Food Bank. This year they have decided to support the Greater Boston Food Bank again, who are the largest hunger-relief organization in New England and among the largest food banks in the country. Last year, they distributed 117 million pounds of nutritious food to people who struggle to have enough to eat in the Eastern Massachusetts area and surrounding communities. Every $1 donated helps to provide 2 healthy meals to neighbors in need.

Event will be held 11am-3pm and there will be food, games, raffles and prizes. Beverages provided by Idle Hands Craft Ales. Watch 4 co-ed teams face off, and help support a great cause, all spectators welcome. Donations are accepted day of and at this link: https://my.gbfb.org/Skate4Charity2026
If you donate after seeing this article please put “action unlimited” in your donation comment.

Shout out to our sponsors for this year's event: Torii Homes, Law Office of Susan E. Zak, Maynard Motors, A&M Roofing, Dynamik Sports and Idle Hands Brewery.
If you would like more information follow us on instagram or Facebook @skate.4.charity

 

The Council on Aging at the Human Services & Senior Center is located at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear.
Telephone: 978-929-6652            
Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov       
Website: www.actoncoa.com/  
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/actoncoa​

Opening Hours: 
Monday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-12noon


Monday Movie Matinee
Wicked: For Good
Monday, March 23rd, 1:00-3:15pm
(2025, PG) Dramatic music conclusion of the two-part film adaptation of the musical. Elphaba, now branded as the Wicked Witch of the West, battles the Wizard’s regime while her once-friend Glinda, serves as the Emerald City’s popular spokesperson. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande co-star. DVD available to borrow after March 23 from resource shelf.

3 (Additional) Keys to a More Fulfilled Life: Awe, Connection & Generosity via Zoom
Tuesday, March 24th, 1:00-2:00pm                                                                 
Open to all age 60+/free
Would you like to enhance your perspective and mood? Do you long to make a positive difference in the world? Join Dr. Miriam Rosalyn Diamond to identify easy, readily available actions that can empower yourself in affirming that who you are and what you do matters. Participate in this workshop via Zoom from home or via a large screen TV with others at the Senior Center. Register: seniorcenter@actonma.gov or 987-929-6652. Miriam Rosalyn Diamond, PhD, is an educator, program developer, and inclusion specialist. She teaches adult education and college classes on lifespan development, friendship, and ethical awareness.

LitLovers Study Group/Masterpieces of Short Fiction: The Rocking-Horse Winner
Tuesday, March 24th, 2:30-4:00pm                                                                   
Open to all age 60+/free
The group views a 30-minute lecture from The Great Courses: Masterpieces of Short Fiction, followed by a vibrant discussion on the lecture, the featured story and the author. This month’s story is The Rocking-Horse Winner by D.H. Lawrence. Short stories have the unique ability to deliver a powerful emotional impact within a concise format, and we are studying some of the best! Upcoming authors include Flannery O’Connor, James Baldwin, John Updike, and Margaret Atwood. If you need a copy of the story, pick up at reception or contact facilitator Chris Chirokas at cchirokas@actonma.gov to have a digital copy emailed.

Technology Assistance Clinic
Wednesday, March 25th, 1:30-3:00pm                  
Open to out-of-town 60+/free        
All seniors are welcome to participate in this drop-in Technology Clinic whenever the need arises.  Bring your technology questions, problems, and issues related to your computer, phone, or tablet. If possible, bring the problem hardware with you to the session.  Several regular attendees are willing to share their experiences, and work with you, one-on-one, to address technology issues, from Windows system difficulties, email setups/usage, networking issues, upgrades, and assistance with “how do I” frustrations. MAC and Chrome/Android users are welcome.  If you are unable to attend in person and would like to talk with a Clinic member via Zoom or phone, please contact the COA and we will forward your information to a Clinic member.

Acton Rainbow Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday, March 25th, 2:00-3:00pm (hybrid)                             
Open to all/free
Join in-person at the Senior Center or from home via Zoom
This team of community members explores ways the Council on Aging/Senior Center can meet the programming needs of Acton LGBTQ+ residents age 60 and up. Learn more about OutStanding Life, which offers virtual programming for older adults who identify as LGBTQ+, from our guest Jenn Knight. We welcome new members from the LGBTQ+ community, allies, or municipal employees to join. The goals of the team are for Acton’s LGBTQ+ older adults to have their voices heard about desired activities and find the Senior Center to be a welcoming place. For more information or for the meeting Zoom link, please contact Chris Chirokas (she/her), Acton Council on Aging Program Manager, at cchirokas@actonma.gov or 978-929-6652.

History of Feminism in Music Presentation with John Clark
Thursday, March 26th, 1:00-2:00pm                                                
Open to out-of-towners 60+ for $5
Join John Clark for a 100-year history (1870 to 1970) of the music that played a vital part in American women's struggle for equal status and equal rights. It begins in the late 19th century with the anthems of women's suffrage (Daughters of Freedom, March of the Women). Next come the early songs of female independence associated with the “flappers" of the Roaring Twenties, like The Charleston and Last of the Red Hot Mamas. Then music associated with labor strikes, specifically Bread and Roses and Which Side Are You On? And there’s lots more! From World War II's Rosie the Riveter to These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ and modern feminist anthems like I Am Woman. You’ll hear songs by such widely diverse artists as Sophie Tucker, Joan Baez, Mimi Farina, Aretha Franklin, Peggy Lee, Lesley Gore, Nancy Sinatra, Helen Reddy, Patsy Cline, and Loretta Lynn.

Barre Fitness Class with Jen Walsh
Tuesdays, March 3rd through 31st, 8:30-9:15am
Barre is a full-body, low-impact workout set to upbeat music that blends elements from a variety of exercise styles including ballet, Pilates and asana from yoga. Barre focuses on building lean muscle tone by utilizing light resistance and body weight exercises. Participants of all levels will benefit from this challenging, accessible workout. Bring a mat to each class; the Center has some available if needed. Some find knee pads helpful for floor work. Jen Walsh teaches at Revolution Community Yoga + Fitness in Acton. She is certified in Modern Barre, Core Mat 1 Power Pilates, is trained as a yoga instructor, and has experience teaching older adults.

Zumba Gold with Yachun Lin
Thursdays, March 5th through Thursday April 2nd, 8:30-9:20am
Zumba Gold is a fun cardio class with low-impact movements that are gentle on your joints. Each class focuses on building strength, cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, and flexibility and is set to upbeat music. All levels welcome. Yachun Lin is a certified Zumba Gold instructor with experience teaching older adults.

   The Friends of the Boxborough Library Spring used book sale will start with a Preview Sale for members on Friday, April 10 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Memberships will be available at the door).  The main public sale will take place on Saturday, April 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Everything Must Go sale will be held on Sunday April 12 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Standard size bags will be provided; pay $5 to fill each bag however you like.
  The sale will take place in the meeting room of the Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Massachusetts Avenue. Proceeds from the sale will go toward additional library programs and museum passes. Cash and checks only.
   Please support this sale by attending and by donating your gently used hard covers, paperbacks, music, and audiovisual items, and also puzzles and board games in complete and as new condition. Donations will be accepted from Monday April 6 through Thursday April 9 at the library during regular library hours. Please no VCR tapes or magazines or any material in really poor condition.

The Swap Shop, located at the Acton Transfer Station, needs more volunteers!
We are open May through October, Tuesday through Saturday, and volunteers pick their own hours.
The purpose of the Swap Shop is to reduce trash by putting perfectly good items into the hands of those that can use them.

We'd love to have more volunteers so we can be open for as many hours as possible.
Will you have a few hours this year to help keep good things out of the trash?
Here is the Town of Acton link to the Swap Shop Program:  http://www.actonma.gov/507/Swap-Shop

All volunteers for the Town of Acton are screened by the HR department and need to complete an online ethics training.
Please contact Debby Andell if you would like the HR forms and/or more information - debbyandell@gmail.com

Services every Sunday at 10AM
For more information about these services, or to download the Order of Service, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org/services.

Friday March 20, 7-9PM
Game Night,
All are welcome to FPC’s Multigenerational Game Night. Games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own game to share. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun! Email Chip with any questions at flyingsheep2010@gmail.com.

Saturday, March 21st, 2026 - 10:00AM and Sunday, March 22 12-4PM

Spring Equinox Art Fair
Come to the Spring Equinox Art Fair on Saturday, March 21 (10AM–4PM) and Sunday, March 22 (12–4PM). Works for sale by local artists from SAGA (Stow Area Guild of Artists), First Parish Church, and local community members. Come meet the artists, explore their work, and enter our raffle—each artist donates a piece to win! Sponsored by SAGA and the FPC Arts Committee.
Admission is free. Our building is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. There is plenty of free parking.

April 3rd at 7:30pm at the Acton Congregational Church, 12 Concord Rd, Acton, MA

The Senior Choir of Acton Congregational Church along with guest singers from area choruses will present Margaret Bonds’s masterwork, Credo, as part of its special Good Friday service on April 3rd.

Bonds composed Credo in 1965, setting to music the powerful and inspirational words written by W.E.B. Du Bois in 1904. Modern performers and audience can find elements of Credo uncomfortable, in part because the work forces us to confront the injustice of American slavery and its legacy head on, as both Du Bois and Bonds intended. Credo proved to be difficult for Bonds as well when she sought publication. Her publisher demanded that she change the words of the second movement (“Especially Do I Believe in the Negro Race”) from “Negro race” to “human race,” and when she adamantly refused to do so, he refused to publish it. After Bonds’s unexpected death in 1972, many of her papers were mislaid, including much of the source material for Credo.  Thus, the first full edition of Credo was not published until 2021, over 50 years after Bonds wrote it. Since its publication in 2021, the work has finally taken its place among the standard repertoire of choral masterpieces.

The music of Bonds and text of Du Bois will be interwoven with scripture and moments of reflection, drawing connections between the passion of Christ and the suffering of people of color throughout our country’s history. Soprano Amy Onyonyi and Tenor Christon Carney will be featured soloists with Elizabeth Carley, Acton Congregational's talented organist and pianist. Senior Choir Director, Elinor A. Armsby leads the performance.

The public is invited to the Grange Room at Boxborough Town Hall, on Friday, March 20 at 7 pm. While marking one hundred forty years since being established in town, the Grange is delighted to present our Community Citizen Award to those who make the Albert J. Sargent Memorial Library the outstanding program that it is. Please join your friends and neighbors for this program.
Contact Owen Neville, neville317@verizon.net or 978.263.3285.

 

If you have debt that feels overwhelming, you can regain control.

First, know what you owe. List all balances from mortgages, auto loans, medical bills and credit cards, and divide that total by your gross income. Aim for less than 35% with a mortgage or 20% without.

Second, look to lower or simplify your debt by refinancing at lower rates, consolidating multiple debts or transferring high-interest balances to lower-rate cards.

Third, determine how much extra you can pay to bring down the debt. Calculate how much is left after paying essential expenses and minimum payments. If need be, consider freeing up money by cutting spending, such as dining out or shopping for nonessentials.

Finally, decide which balances to pay off first and which will stay at minimums until their turn. Many people start with the highest interest rate; others choose the smallest balance for quick wins.

By building a clear strategy, you can turn debt repayment into a manageable goal.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones financial advisor at 14 Nason St. Maynard, MA. (978) 841-5800. Member SIPC

 

Maynard – Fire Safety Easter Egg Hunt taking place at the Maynard Fire Department on Saturday, 3/28 from 11:30AM - 1PM. FREE – Reserve a spot on Eventbrite.

Acton/Boxborough – ABFN Spring Fling and Egg Hunt at Boardwalk Campus Playground, 73 Spruce Street, Acton on Saturday, 3/28 from 10 – 11:30AM. Register at www.abfamily.org.

Concord – Annual Concord Rec Egg Hunt at Emerson Park Track, Concord on Friday, 3/27 from 5 – 6PM.

Bedford – Bedford Family Connection Spring Egg Hunt at Davis Elementary School Gymnasium on Saturday 3/28 from 10 – 11AM. Register at bfctoday.org. Free for members, small fee for nonmembers.
-Easter Egg-Stravaganza at The Lutheran Church of the Savior, 426 Davis Road, Bedford on Saturday 3/28 at 10:30AM.

Stow – Stow Lions Easter Bunny Breakfast at Center School in Stow on Sunday, 3/29 from 8AM – to 12:30PM.

Sudbury – Easter Egg Olympics at United Methodist Church, 251 Old Sudbury Road, Sudbury on Saturday, 3/28 from 2 – 3PM.

Chelmsford – Easter Egg Hunt at Aldersgate UMC, 242 Boston Road (Rt. 4), Chelmsford on Saturday 4/4 from 10 – 11:30AM.

 

Egg Your House, Relay For Life Fundraiser - Take the pressure off, and order 50 toy filled eggs for $30.  We will bring them to your house the night before Easter - April 4th - and scatter the eggs in your front yard (please note, we will not be hiding them).  You can also order them as a surprise for a neighbor, friend, relative, etc!  We will go to Maynard, Acton, Concord, and Stow.  You must order them by March 25th.  Email kim.lalli@comcast.net, for more information and/or to get an order form.  Checks can be made out to Kim Lalli or Venmo, details will be given at the time of the order.  Help us raise money for the American Cancer Society and help more people have more birthdays.

March 13, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 20th season with performances of a concert titled “La Fête Française” in Fitchburg on April 10 and in Worcester on April 12.
Grab your beret and a warm croissant and get in the spirit of this French-themed program that puts the harp front and center. Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro was commissioned to showcase the innovations by a French harp-making company. Typically a deliberate and decidedly slow composer, Ravel wrote this piece in a mere 3 days.
Delicate, light, and charming, Saint-Saën’s Fantaisie is virtuosic for both harp and violin. The famous composer created this sparkling musical pas-de-deux for 2 sisters, succeeding in crafting a single-movement piece that feels light and improvised.
Chausson’s Piano Quartet is unmistakable in its French Romanticism, lyrical, bouyant, and lush. Remarkably, he never intended to be a composer; he studied and became a lawyer, though with no real interest in it he dabbled in several other occupations and art forms before landing at the Paris Conservatory where he studied music.
Worcester Chamber Music Society Musicians: Krista Buckland Reisner: violin, Rohan Gregory: violin, Peter Sulski: viola, David Russell: cello, Randall Hodgkinson: piano
Friday, April 10 @7:30PM Sunday, April 12 @4PM
Fitchburg Art Museum Shapiro Hall, Joy of Music
185 Elm Street, Fitchburg 1 Gorham Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @7 PM Pre-concert talk @3:30 PM

Reception to follow immediately
The April 10 concert is  funded in part by the Gardner  and Lunenburg Cultural Councils, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Venue is handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/la-fete-francaise/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

Program Highlights:
Nashoba Valley Chorale, in collaboration with the Worcester Youth Symphony Orchestra, proudly presents Masterwork: Bruckner's Te Deum on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 3:00, conducted by Anne Watson Born, Nashoba Valley Chorale's Music Director, and Jonathan Colby, Artistic Director of the Worcester Youth Symphony Orchestra. The Te Deum brings 180 musicians together joined by four guest soloists.
The concert will take place in the beautiful Mechanics Hall in Worcester. Other works will include Brahms' Academic Festival Overture with Sir Malcom Sargent choral finale; Wagner's Elsa's Procession To The Cathedral; Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture; and Bruckner's Os Justi and Locus Iste.

Event Details:
Date:     Sunday, March 29, 2026
Time:     3:00 PM
Place:    Mechanics Hall, 321 Main Street, Worcester, MA
Tickets:  $25 Adults/Seniors if purchased online ($30 if purchased at the door)
               $5 Children under age 18

The Nashoba Valley Chorale is well known through Central Massachusetts and draws singers from towns in the heart of Nashoba Valley as well as from all over the metro-west Boston area and southern New Hampshire. For more information about Nashoba Valley Chorale, visit https://nvcsings.org/

The Nashoba Symphonic Band Chamber Players and Clarinet Choir will present their Spring Concert on Saturday, April 4th at 2 pm in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117 (Green Road GPS) in Bolton. Admission is FREE.
The program includes music by Gordon Jacob and a setting of Grieg's Holberg Suite, played by the NSB Clarinet Choir. A Clarinet Choir (by the way) includes a full complement of clarinet varieties: Eb Soprano, the well-known Bb, Eb Alto, Bb Bass, and great-big Bb Contra-bass clarinets
The featured work is Kurt Weill's own setting of music from his Threepenny Opera in a chamber music setting. Performed by the NSB Chamber Players, the suite of 'songs' captures the mood of pre-war Berlin. And, yes folks, it includes what you will recognize as “Mack the Knife.”
Nashoba Symphonic Band will continue its season on May 1 with another small ensemble program and on May 3rd with the full Symphonic Band Concert featuring the classic band work, La Fiesta Mexicana.
Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of The Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and is supported in part by grants from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.

 

The Council on Aging at the Human Services & Senior Center is located at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear.
Telephone: 978-929-6652            
Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov       
Website: www.actoncoa.com/  
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/actoncoa​

Opening Hours: 
Monday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-12noon

Monday Movie Matinee
The Apartment
Monday, March 16th, 1:00-3:05 pm
(1960) In this Billy Wilder comedy, a Manhattan insurance clerk tries to advance his career by letting executives use his apartment for trysts, but office politics and his own romantic hopes complicate matters. Stars Shirley MacLaine, Jack Lemmon and Fred MacMurray. Oscar for Best Picture, Director, Screenplay, Editing, and Art Direction. Lemmon and MacLaine received nominations for their performances. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.

Hearing Screening Appointments with Audiologist Megan Ford
Tuesday, March 17th, 9:30 to 11:45am                                                                            
Acton 60+ only
Megan Ford Au.D., a licensed audiologist in practice since 1998, will provide hearing screenings, ear wax checks, and basic hearing aid checks. Please allow 15 minutes for your appointment. Dr. Ford has worked at several major medical centers in Boston, Cleveland and Worcester. In 2013 she opened her private practice, HearSmart Audiology, in Littleton. There has been such a high demand for Dr. Ford’s appointments, she offers monthly screenings at the Senior Center!

SPECIAL MOVIE DAY--Tuesday Movie Matinee
Four Letters of Love
Tuesday, March 17th, 1:00-2:50pm
(2024) The paths cross of two young people whose lives are very different but both marked by tragedy. Drama based on the bestselling novel by Niall Williams stars Helena Bonham Carter, Gabriel Byrne, Pierce Brosnan, Ann Skelly, and Fionn O’Shea. Set in 1970s Ireland. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.

Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
Tuesday, March 17th, 4:30-6:00pm                                   
Open to all caregivers of older adults/free
Caregivers of older adults, please join Julie Norstrand, PhD, MSW, for this group that meets via Zoom and offers practical and emotional support. New participants always welcome! The challenging work of caregiving may leave you feeling stretched thin, which may cause feelings of exhaustion and isolation. Julie ensures safe, non-judgmental settings where members can share and learn from one another and witnesses the strong bonds that develop between members. If you are new to the group, please sign up with the Council on Aging at seniorcenter@actonma.gov. Funded by an Executive Office of Aging & Independence grant. Julie Norstrand, PhD, MSW, and MSc, is an adjunct Professor at Regis College. She is the founder of Help My Aging Parents. 

Visit with Sophia Darsch from Acton’s Sustainability Office
Wednesday, March 18th, 11:00am to 12:30pm                          
Open to all
Do you have questions about: home energy updates; Mass Save incentives & rebates; heat pumps, weatherization and energy-saving devices; cost-savings and energy bills? Stop by the Senior Center for drop-in office hours with Sophia from the town of Acton Sustainability Office. Bring your questions, your utility bills or just come to learn more about your energy- and cost-saving options. All are welcome! If you have any questions, please contact sdarsch@acton-ma.gov.

Acton Songsters with Ed Knights
Wednesday, March 18th, 1:00-1:45pm                                      
Open to all age 60+/free
Join Ed Knights for this group that sings familiar popular songs and learns the mechanics of singing. Don’t worry about your level of singing—the group is open to anyone interested in singing. Lyrics provided. Sign up with the COA if you are new to the group. After his career as an internal medicine physician at Acton Medical Associates, Ed became an avid volunteer in the community and enjoys sharing his love of music and singing. He has studied voice at the Boston Conservatory and performs in musicals and operas.

Irish-Themed Line Dancing Party with Paul Hughes
Wednesday, March 18th, 2:30-3:30pm                 
Open to all 60+/free
Paul will be teaching some line dancing steps with an Irish twist in this fun dance party in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Paul will be donning a leprechaun hat so join him by wearing green or accessorizing! No experience necessary. Paul Hughes is a line and ballroom dance instructor and teaches at various senior, recreation, and community centers throughout MetroWest Boston.

Monthly Breakfast
Friday, March 20th, 9:00am                                                                                         
Acton 60+ only
Join us for a warm, plentiful breakfast! Typically, French toast, eggs, fruit, bacon and or sausages are prepared by chef Veteran Services Officer James MacRae. Cost is $3.00. Fruit is kindly provided by Life Care of Acton. Sign up is required.

Ukulele Play Along Monthly Series
Friday, March 20th, 10:00-11:00am          
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ if space available/free
If you know the basics of playing the ukulele, join Julie Stepanek for a monthly play along! After a short review and Q&A, participants will play some fun and easy songs because one learns to play the ukulele by playing the ukulele! Group will typically meet on the third Friday each month but watch the newsletter for dates. Sign up if you are new to this monthly series and indicate whether you will bring your own ukulele or use one provided by Julie. Please let the Council on Aging know if you are not continuing. This program is supported by a grant from the Acton-Boxborough Cultural Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Barre Fitness Class with Jen Walsh
Tuesdays, March 3rd through 31st, 8:30-9:15am
Barre is a full-body, low-impact workout set to upbeat music that blends elements from a variety of exercise styles including ballet, Pilates and asana from yoga. Barre focuses on building lean muscle tone by utilizing light resistance and body weight exercises. Participants of all levels will benefit from this challenging, accessible workout. Bring a mat to each class; the Center has some available if needed. Some find knee pads helpful for floor work. Jen Walsh teaches at Revolution Community Yoga + Fitness in Acton. She is certified in Modern Barre, Core Mat 1 Power Pilates, is trained as a yoga instructor, and has experience teaching older adults.

Zumba Gold with Yachun Lin
Thursdays, March 5th through Thursday April 2nd, 8:30-9:20am
Zumba Gold is a fun cardio class with low-impact movements that are gentle on your joints. Each class focuses on building strength, cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, and flexibility and is set to upbeat music. All levels welcome. Yachun Lin is a certified Zumba Gold instructor with experience teaching older adults.

Total Body Fitness with Heidi Clermont
Fridays, March 13th through April 3rd, 8:30-9:20am
Total Body Fitness is a dynamic, upbeat class that focuses primarily on standing exercises, with some seated movements, to engage the entire body. Emphasizing mobility, strength, balance, flexibility and endurance, this class provides a well-rounded workout that incorporates bodyweight movements, free weights, resistance bands and other tools. It offers a challenging and effective way to improve overall fitness in a wonderful group environment. Heidi Clermont is a certified Senior Fitness and Group Fitness Instructor with experience teaching a variety of classes to older adults.
 

“ALWAYS GRATEFUL FOR ANOTHER WEDNESDAY”
“All are Welcome.”

Are you eager for Spring? It’s coming. We just need to be patient at this time of year. Please join us each week to keep warm.  We look forward to sharing a meal and friendship with you every Wednesday.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton     472 Massachusetts Ave. Acton MA 01720

Time: Dinner is served 4:30pm – 5:30pm Doors will open at 4:15pm. Please, do not enter prior so our volunteers can prepare your Supper.

Parking: Park your car in the back parking lot and enter from the walkway to the church door.


March 2026 Menu

3/4         Mediterranean Chicken
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Elohim Sisterhood

3/11       Roast Pork Tenderloin
                       Sponsored by United Christ Church of Boxborough

3/18       Our St Patrick’s Day Shepherd’s Pie
    Sponsored by Faith Evangelical Free Church

3/25       Herb Roasted Chicken
    Sponsored by St John Evangelical Lutheran Church
     
** Please note that the meals we serve may contain gluten, nuts, seeds, or dairy.

We all wish for the coming of Spring. But do take care should snow and cold reappear. Looking forward to seeing you all for laughter and friendship. Remember, if the schools are closed due to snow this month, there will be no Supper.

http://www.mtcalvaryacton.org/Community-Supper               http://www.facebook.com/CommunitySupperofActonMA

Services every Sunday at 10AM
For more information about these services, or to download the Order of Service, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org/services.
Sunday, March 15th, 2026
"Creativity, Labor, & Ethics -- AI!"
10 AM
Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum
Often in our spring auction, Rev. Cindy auctions off a sermon topic to be chosen by the highest bidder.  This year's topic is about Artificial Intelligence and the nature of creativity.  What is creativity?  Is AI truly creative?  Is it ethical to use AI?  What does AI tell us about the importance and value of human labor?  In short, what is "intelligence" and what is "human"?  Rev. Cindy's delighted to explore this topic, and may or may not use AI to help her write the sermon...
Join Worship by Video: https://tinyurl.com/fpcstow
Meeting ID: 999 7077 0266
Passcode: 01775
Sunday, March 15, 3PM
Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra,
The FPC Music Committee is proud to present Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra in concert in the FPC Sanctuary. Toe-tapping fun for the whole family!
The Orchestra plays vintage arrangements of ragtime music and popular songs from the 1890’s – 1920’s. That includes rags, fox-trots, slow drags, two-steps, waltzes and more, and features works of Joplin, Salisbury, Lamb, Turpin, Berlin, and others. They put a smile on your face and a spring in your step! The suggested donation is $20–40. Donations will be accepted at Eventbrite, at the door,
You can find audio and video samples on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TurkeyHillRagtimeOrchestra
Friday March 20, 7-9PM
Game Night,
All are welcome to FPC’s Multigenerational Game Night. Games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own game to share. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun! Email Chip with any questions at flyingsheep2010@gmail.com.

Join the Maynard Tree Committee, the Maynard Tree Corps, and the Maynard Department of Public Works for an Arbor Day celebration at Memorial Park on Saturday, April 25, featuring a dedication of our Downtown Arboretum—a newly accredited, street‑based collection of primarily native trees that enhances Maynard’s civic spaces, supports local wildlife, improves air quality, and serves as a living classroom with educational tags and interpretive signage. Enjoy coffee and pastries from Gilly’s Throwback Snacks (donated by Smith & Finley Homes) from 9:30–10:00 AM, hear guest speakers including Mike Stevens at 10:00 AM, watch a tree‑planting demonstration at 10:30 AM, and pick up your free tree at 11:00 AM. Reserve your tree here: https://forms.gle/6mfZQ2qfB6UKuCrh7. Questions? Email Lizza Smith at Lizza@kw.com. We’d love to see you there!