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Open House at Faulkner Homestead & Jones Tavern

ACTON: The Iron Work Farm’s two historic South Acton house museums will be open Sunday afternoon, July 24 from 3-5pm as part of their 2022 “4th Sunday” series.

The 1707 Jones/Faulkner Homestead at 5 High Street is the oldest building in Acton.  It was the home for several generations of the owners of the little textile mill that operated across the street at the dam on Fort Pond Brook.  Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers’ Guild will be on hand to demonstrate their craft, and to work on the 19th-century “barn frame” loom.

The 1732 Jones Tavern, 128 Main Street, was the home of several generations of the Samuel Jones family, who operated local mills and businesses, including a 1750 tavern and store. 

There is no admission charge, but donations are welcome. For more information, visit www.ironworkfarm.org. Parking is available on site or nearby.
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Hosmer House Campus Reopens

ACTON: On Sunday, July 24 at 1pm, take a step back in time and join in the celebration of Acton's "birthday" at The Hosmer House. Formerly referred to as "Concord Village," Acton became a separate town in July of 1735. The campus consists of several antique buildings, including a 1760 saltbox style house, an 1823 English style barn and a 1922 stone garage. These buildings will be open for the public to visit. These structures are situated on a parcel of land that was recently restored thanks to CPC funding. Also on display is a new exhibit "Wish you were here." Acton was once a tourist destination. See why through a postcard collection with the Acton Historical Society, www.actonhistoricalsociety.org.

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Strengthen Your ‘Three-legged Stool’ for Retirement

July 18, 2022

For many years, Americans provided for their retirement needs through three sources: employer-sponsored pension plans, Social Security income, and savings and investments accumulated through employer plans or individual accounts – the so-called “three-legged stool.” But today, that stool is shakier than it used to be. What can you do to strengthen it?

To begin with, all three legs of the stool are facing challenges. Let’s consider them:

• Employer pensions – A generation ago, workers employed in many companies could count on a set monthly pension income to help them through their retirement years. Today, pensions – also known as defined benefit plans – are mostly found in public sector employment, as most private-sector employers have replaced their pensions with 401(k) and similar plans. These plans can be quite effective at helping build resources for retirement, but they do place most of the responsibility for saving on the employee.

• Social Security – Social Security has come under financial pressure because the workers-to-retirees ratio has declined significantly, according to the Social Security Administration’s 2021 Board of Trustees Report. A number of proposals have been brought forward on how to improve the long-term financial security of the Social Security system.

• Personal savings and investments – In terms of building savings and investments for retirement, the picture is somewhat mixed. The national savings rate has increased in recent years, but more than half of American workers still say their retirement savings are not where they should be, according to a 2021 survey from Bankrate, a personal finance website. And the same survey found that just over half of investors with a 401(k) or IRA have taken early withdrawals – that is, they withdrew money before they retired. Furthermore, we may be waiting too long even to begin saving/investing for retirement. A survey from Age Wave and Edward Jones found that respondents began saving for retirement at an average age of 38, but the majority said they should have started saving a decade earlier.

You have options for improving some parts of your own three-legged stool. For example, no matter what happens to Social Security, you can still decide when to start taking payments. You can begin collecting benefits as early as 62, but your monthly checks will be larger if you wait until your “full” retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67. You can even delay taking benefits until they “max out” at age 70.

As for a pension, you can’t control what’s available to you through your employer, but you can create your own retirement income stream by contributing as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan and by increasing your contributions whenever your salary goes up. And you can also contribute to an IRA or other investment vehicle to further boost your retirement funds. Try to leave these accounts intact until you need them for retirement. This will be easier if you’ve built an emergency fund, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account, to pay for unexpected costs, such as those resulting from a major car or home repair.

The three-legged stool may not be as universal as it once was – but you can still construct a sturdy structure to support your retirement needs in the future.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
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The Nature Connection Ice Cream Fundraiser

ACTON: Looking to chill out on a hot day and for a way to support a meaningful cause?  Visit West Side Creamery in Acton (Villageworks Plaza, 537 Mass. Ave.) between the hours of noon-9:30pm on Wednesday, July 27 and mention that you’re supporting The Nature Connection when placing your order. 20% of the sale will be donated to the organization, which makes nature accessible to all.  At the event there'll be an information table set up outside.  Your support makes a big difference in the lives of those impacted by our programs. If you have any questions, visit nature-connection.org or email info@nature-connection.org.
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Acton Republicans Meet

ACTON: The Acton Republican Town Committee (ARTC) will meet Wednesday, July 20 at 6:30pm, around the firepit at 5 Wampanoag Drive. Meetings are open to all individuals interested in furthering the principles of limited government and individual liberty.  This month, discuss local Acton issues as well as various political campaigns, with numerous candidates for public office and other guests. Agenda topics from members and visitors are encouraged for spirited discussion. If you have questions, do not hesitate to contact RTC Chair Dave at (781) 775-9922 for more information.
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Announces 2022 Scholarship Recipients

ACTON: Discovery Museum announced today its first-ever Discovery Museum Scholarship recipients, four area high school students selected through a competitive application process that saw 158 applications from students in 56 towns throughout Massachusetts.

Launched this year for the Museum’s 40th anniversary, the Discovery Museum Scholarship recognizes high school students who embody the mission and values of the Museum. Scholarships of $1,000 each were awarded to:
 
  • Ajax Benander, Hudson, MA; Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School
  • Myles Braverman, Westford, MA; Westford Academy
  • Sunithi Krishnan, Acton, MA; Acton-Boxborough Regional High School (and Discovery Museum Explorer)
  • Cara Murphy, Hudson, MA; Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science

“We created the Discovery Museum Scholarship to honor the millions of young people who have come through our doors over the past 40 years—so many of whom have gone on to inspire us,” said CEO Neil Gordon. “Ajax, Myles, Sunithi, and Cara each impressed the scholarship review committee with their achievements, community support activities, and plans to further their education. From their applications we learned a bit about how Discovery Museum impacted them while they were young and contributed to the paths they have chosen. We are very proud honor and support these impressive students on the next step in their educational journey.”
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Free STEM + Movie Night at Discovery Museum

ACTON: Discovery Museum announced the second Free STEM + Movie Night, July 21, on the lawn in celebration of the Museum’s 40th Anniversary.  This is the second in the series of three free Movie Nights on the lawn—a Thank You to the community as the Museum celebrates its 40th  anniversary.  STEM activities 7:30pm, movie begins 8:30pm. Registration is not required.

Before the movie starts, visitors can try some hands-on activities that explore topics ranging from renewable energy to helping support habitats for pollinators. Frozen treats will be available from VeeBop’s Ice Cream truck. Bring a lawn chair or blankets. Museum building will be open for restroom use only.  Rain Date: Friday, July 22.
 
[The movie title cannot be used in a press release due to distribution requirements, but can be found here. The movie centers on the adventures of a young human named Zak. When Zak is accidentally shrunk to the size of a fairy, he helps rally fairies and forest creatures to protect their rainforest home from logging and pollution.]
 
STEM + Movie Night #3 is August 11.
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Friends of Maynard Seniors Benefit from Community Bag Sale

ACTON/MAYNARD: Friends of Maynard Seniors has been selected as the benefiting non-profit in the community bag program at Stop and Shop. For the month of July 2022 Friends of Maynard Seniors will receive a $1.00 donation from each purchase of the $2.50 reusable white give back bag sold at Stop and Shop 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton. These bags are great to carry groceries and also to carry items for summer activities. Why not buy several?  Your donation to the Friends of Maynard Seniors is a wonderful gift to help Senior Citizens when help is needed and appreciated.
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Local Residents named to Spring 2022 Dean's List at Saint Michael's College

ACTON/CONCORD: The following local students were named to the Dean's List at Colchester, Vermont's Saint Michael's College for the Spring 2022 semester:
 
  • Danielle Butler, a May 2022 graduate and biology major from Acton, and a graduate of Acton Boxborough Regional High School.
  • William Meehan, a May 2022 graduate and business administration / economics major from Concord, and a graduate of Concord Carlisle Regional High School.

Saint Michael's College, founded on principles of social justice and leading lives of purpose and consequence, is a selective, Catholic college just outside Burlington, Vermont, one of the country's best college towns. Located between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, our closely connected community guarantees housing all four years and delivers internationally respected liberal arts together with an innovative Purposeful Learning Program, preparing students for fulfilling careers and meaningful lives. Young adults here grow intellectually, socially, and morally, learning to be responsible for themselves, each other, and their world.
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Promoting Clean Energy in our Buildings: What is Acton’s Path to Climate Action?

ACTON/WESTFORD: Westford Climate Action hosts a free webinar on Wednesday, July 13 at 7pm with Acton Select Board Member Jim Snyder-Grant. Westford’s Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee has determined that nearly 60% of our greenhouse gas emissions come from our buildings.  Many towns in our Commonwealth have formed climate action and clean energy committees to move toward a carbon-free future. How can local boards, committees and residents codify this work so that future projects meet clean energy benchmarks and goals? The webinar will include the presentation by Jim Snyder-Grant followed by a Q&A. Register at WestfordClimateAction. The webinar will be recorded and can be accessed at: WestfordClimateAction.org  
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Upcoming Origami Fun at Memorial Park

MAYNARD: On 7/9 from 3-4:30pm is an origami folding gathering at Memorial Park for everyone, Maynard Folder or not! The rain date is Sunday, 7/10 at the same time.  Join for a social and fun time, whether a little Yogami (human body folding from gross to fine motor movements) or to explore uses like functional folds, artistic models, teaching, therapy, and entertainment, etc.  See the mathematics, discover historic figures, and fold with materials like plastic and metal sheets!

Origami Place founder and artist, Lisa B. Corfman will bring a huge library of origami books, drinks and snacks, some origami paper, and ideas.  She says “let’s fold together!” 

If you cannot make this day, mark your calendar for the 8/13 and/or 9/10 Origami Club folding meetings at Memorial Park.

Community-Owned Grocery Store to Break Ground in Maynard 

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MAYNARD: On Friday, July 8, at 12pm, the Assabet Co-op Market will break ground on a full-service, community-owned grocery store at 86 Powder Mill Road. The store is owned by almost 2,000 residents from 40 local communities and will be the only cooperative grocery store in Metro West. State and local officials, including State Representative Kate Hogan and Senator Jamie Eldridge, will attend the groundbreaking. 

"We are thrilled to be opening a community-owned grocery store where everyone is welcome – a grocery  store committed to supporting local farms, food justice, and the environment," said Sam McCormick, the  store’s general manager. "And because we’re democratically owned, we’re keeping control of our food  system and our economic future here in our community." 

The Co-op has agreed to lease the property from the Coffman Development Group and plans to open an 8,000-square-foot grocery store with 6,000 square feet of retail space later this year. Designed by Scott/Griffin Architects and Jenna Soberg - Sota Box Consulting, it will include every department found in a conventional grocery store, including an extensive bulk foods section. It will also have a cafe, prepared foods, community space, and ample parking. 

Unlike conventional grocers, food cooperatives prioritize local producers, including local farms, bakers,  cheese makers, and more. McCormick said the Co-op has built relationships with more than 170 local  food producers.

Sourcing from local producers keeps money in the local economy, something co-op leaders say will build  economic strength across the region. According to Food Co-op Initiative (FCI), a national nonprofit that  advises startup food co-ops, every $1,000 spent at a food co-op generates $1,600 in the local economy. 

"Cooperatives exist to serve the communities that own them, not enrich far-away corporate shareholders,"  said Jacqueline Hannah Reid, FCI's assistant director. "That mission -- and the fact that local residents  own the business they're supporting -- builds community and builds loyalty. It's just one reason why co ops are so successful." 

The Co-op also aims to increase access to local, healthy food, regardless of a shopper’s income. The  store will be open to everyone to shop, regardless of whether they become owners, and it will accept  SNAP benefits. As a member of the National Cooperative Grocers (NCG) network, the Co-op will also be  able to sell natural and organic staple items at affordable prices. And Co-op leaders are seeking grants to  build a Healthy Food Access program to provide additional discounts to low-income shoppers.  

Co-op owners purchase a one-time $200 share and are entitled to benefits, including an annual dividend in profitable years; a say in products and classes; bulk ordering discounts; and voting rights for store initiatives and board elections. Maynard has a long history of cooperative  businesses, with Russian and Finnish immigrants establishing a host of cooperatives stretching back to the 1800s. 

Across the country, food co-ops are thriving and with good reason, said Lorne Bell, Assabet Co-op Market’s director of outreach and communications.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, he said,  community-owned grocery stores stepped up as only they could. 

"Food shortages in the industrial food system hit conventional grocers hard, but cooperatives turned to  their relationships with local producers to source more local food, keep shelves full, and keep money  flowing to the local economy," said Bell. "Food co-ops have been sourcing locally and strengthening  communities for more than 170 years." 

The Assabet Co-op Market hopes to carry on that legacy in Metro West Boston.

Life Care Center of Acton Therapist Wins Company’s Divisional Quarterly Service Award

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ACTON: Jennifer Kilgour, an occupational therapist at Life Care Center of Acton, recently received Life Care Centers of America’s quarterly Northeast Division Whatever It Takes Champions Award for her dedication to customer service. Life Care awarded Kilgour a $250 cash prize during an awards ceremony at the facility.

Kilgour was one of only eight associates from Life Care’s more than 200 facilities nationwide to receive the quarterly award. She had won the facility’s monthly Whatever It Takes Champions award for March 2022.  Kilgour worked with a patient who came to the facility from an acute rehabilitation facility. Whether she was assigned to the resident or not, every day she was working, she checked on the patient and gave her positive reinforcement. Before the patient completed her therapy program, and three days before the patient’s birthday, Kilgour got the staff together to celebrate the patient’s accomplishments in rehab, as well as the upcoming birthday.

“It’s a privilege to be recognized for what I strive for every day – putting a smile on my patients’ faces when they are able to do something they couldn’t before,” Kilgour said. “I try to live by the golden rule, ‘Treat others as you would want to be treated.’ It’s nice to work for a company with the same integrity.”

Life Care’s Whatever It Takes Champions program rewards associates for extraordinary acts of kindness. Monthly awards are presented in Life Care facilities nationwide based on nominations from fellow associates, family members, residents and guests.

Life Care Center of Acton, located at 1 Great Road, is one of 15 skilled nursing and rehab centers in Massachusetts managed by Life Care Centers of America.
Founded in 1976, Life Care is a nationwide health care company. For more information about Life Care, visit lcca.com.
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"Make Waves" Summer Blast at Great Road Church

ACTON: Highrock Church in Acton has changed its name to Great Road Church to celebrate its local focus in the town of Acton. All kids from preschool up to grade 5 are invited to participate in their annual Summer Blast program mornings from August 1-5. It’s similar to what some churches call Vacation Bible Camp, but the emphasis is on fun! They’ll have skits, songs, crafts, snacks, Bible lessons and games. The theme this year is about how each child can “Make Waves” in the world. You can sign up online at greatroadchurch.org or email mary@greatroadchurch.org. Great Road Church is located at 255 Great Road, Acton, across from Gould’s Plaza. The church’s mission is to create communities that encourage questions and inspire each other to love like Jesus.
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Free 6-Week Pre-K Playgroup at First Connections

ACTON: First Connections is offering a free 6-week playgroup on Mondays, 10-11am, at their family center at 179 Great Road. The group will meet from July 11-August 15, and is open to children who will be starting kindergarten in September 2022. This group will facilitated by an Early Childhood Educator and a K-2nd Educator and will help children practice skills needed in kindergarten, as well as talking about what kindergarten may be like, playing, and doing activities that support fine motor skills. Each child will receive a book about starting school that includes activities parents can do with their children over the summer. Limited to 10 children to minimize crowding in the playroom space, with masks required. If you would like to register, please email lmatthews@jri.org.20.
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A Friend in Need...

ACTON: A Friend in Need (AFIN) is an arm of the South Acton Congregational Church(SACC) It is a small, all-volunteer organization dedicated to offering financial aid to people in need in the
Acton/Boxboro/Maynard area.
 
  • When her husband left the family, he did not provide any child support, and they are now struggling financially.  Their advocate contacted A Friend in Need, and we were able to help with their rent, giving them some breathing room as they applied for other resources.
  • A senior who had been working to supplement his income lost his job during COVID.  Now he has fallen behind in his utility bills. His advocate contacted A Friend in Need and they stepped in to pay them.
  • A client had his own business, but when he became ill and unable to work, the bills began to pile up.  The family became behind in their rent, and reached out to A Friend in Need.  Their landlord has been working with them and we were able to assist with a portion of their rent.

SAY HELLO!  A Friend in Need will be at the Acton-Boxborough Farmers Market on Sunday, July 17.  Please stop by  the Community Table to chat with one of the volunteers and learn about their mission. Usually they have a one-time limit for help given to any family, but due to the economy they are trying to be a bit more flexible. Their mission is to provide immediate help until the family can receive more substantial aid from other agencies.

Much of their money comes through pleas published in our local newspapers and from generous community residents.  Acton-Boxborough United Way and the Maynard Community Chest support us through grant money. Besides SACC, several other churches support us through their Mission Funds.  Depending on the resources we have on hand, they can usually provide between $300. and $800. to the needy family.  

The AFIN mailbox is located at the South Acton Congregational Church.  Volunteers pay for postage and all other costs, so they are able to give away 100% of the money received.

AFIN will consider helping anyone who is recommended by clergy or social professionals associated with a local agency.  Anyone in urgent need can be considered for financial assistance by going to a member of the clergy or social service representative and asking them to contact A Friend in Need on their behalf.   They do not discriminate and will try to help anyone with a genuine need. They can also be contacted at afriendinneedacton@gmail.com.  If you would like to make a donation, please send your check to A Friend in Need, c/o South Acton Congregational Church, 35 School Street, Acton MA 01720.
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Lauren Rosenzweig-Morton Named ABUW Volunteer of the Year

ACTON: Each year, the Acton-Boxborough United Way (ABUW) “Volunteer of the Year” Award is given to an individual whose effort and generosity of time and spirit to the AB community is clearly “above and beyond” the expectations for the volunteer role they’ve selected. The gift of expertise, time and effort given by these volunteers make a clear and tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families in the community.
 
Lauren Rosenzweig-Morton has a long history of giving back to the community. She came to work with ABUW through the AB Racial Justice Collaborative in which she was representing Communities for Restorative Justice. This led her to be instrumental in bringing two key initiatives to fruition this year: Community Building Circles and the Welcome Initiative.
 
Lauren's experience with Communities for Restorative Justice gave her the insight to bring Community Building Circles to our community. In partnership with AB Racial Justice Collaborative, 16 members of the community became trained as Community Building Circle Keepers. Community Building Circles are a structured way to build deeper connections among participants, in this case neighbors across Acton and Boxborough. (Learn more about the Circles here.)
 
The Welcome Initiative strives to greet each new neighbor in Acton and Boxborough with a Welcome Bag. New residents are genuinely delighted at a warm showing of neighborliness. In addition to creating a sense of community, this initiative ensures that new residents know where to turn for a wide variety of resources. (Learn more about the Welcome Initiative here.)
 
Ever-humble, Lauren made sure to acknowledge the many others who had worked with her on both of these projects.
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Lynne Osborn Awarded 2nd Annual Mike Tobia Award for Community Leadership

ACTON: The 2nd Annual Mike Tobia Award for Community Leadership was awarded recently to Lynne Osborn. The Acton-Boxborough United Way was honored to have last year's inaugural recipient, Rev. Cindy Worthington-Berry, there to present this year's award.  The Mike Tobia Award for Community Leadership, established in 2021, recognizes an outstanding Community Leader, dedicated to serving residents' needs with compassion and dignity, while fostering a sense of belonging for all. It is named for Mike Tobia, founder of Mt. Calvary Community Supper. The organization honors his dedication to our community by recognizing others who are carrying on his level of service.
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Announcing ABUW's 2022-2023 Community Impact Grants

ACTON: For forty years, Acton-Boxborough United Way has supported incredible local organizations bringing vital services to Acton and Boxborough. When you donate to Acton-Boxborough United Way, your dollars work harder to bring critical services to our community. For their 2022-2023 Community Impact Grants, ABUW's community volunteer grant team sought organizations that equitably, effectively, and sustainably drive progress on their 5 Thrive Impact Focus Areas: Mental Health, Early Childhood Success, Equity & Racial Justice, Financial Stability, and Crisis Preparedness. ABUW is able to grant $145,000 to these incredible local organizations for 2022-2023:
 
By pooling your donations, they can make significant grants to organizations, attracting the quality services necessary for all residents to belong and thrive. To donate, visit www.abuw.org/give.
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Acton Center ‘Bugles’ Memorial Service 

ACTON: This month’s ‘Bugles Across America’ memorial service will take place promptly at 5pm on Sunday, July 3. This is a short memorial (15-20 min) to those that served and paid the ultimate price for their service to our country defending freedom. The service consists of the Pledge, a few words from one or more in attendance and the live playing of “Taps”. Location is in front of the Acton Center Fire Station (easy parking in the rear), and across the street from the Acton Monument and gravesite of Abner Hosmer and Isaac Davis.  For more information, contact Dave 781-775-9922. 

6 Bridges Art Exhibit “Boundaries” Features Works by 37 New England Artists

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MAYNARD: 6 Bridges Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of our sixth annual juried show, “Boundaries,” on display June 22 – August 13 at 6 Bridges Gallery, 77 Main Street. A reception will be held on June 25 from 4 – 6pm.  Artists were invited to submit original 2D and 3D artworks that explore the theme of “Boundaries.” The entries were juried by a panel of four 6 Bridges Gallery artists members of varied mediums. With limited gallery space and an abundance of thoughtful and skilled submissions, the jury ultimately decided upon works from 37 artists for this exhibit. Two awards will be offered:  The 6 Bridges Gallery Award, which will be announced during the reception, and the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced at the conclusion of the exhibit.  
 
Congratulations to the following artists for their works accepted into the exhibit:
 
Alfred DiMaio, “Detritus of War – Barbed Wire-Endless Walls”
Amy Ragus, “Nokomis”
Ben Sisto, “Do Not Enter”
Bryan Clocker, “Falcon Dive”
Carole Holcroft, “The Red Coats Are Coming”
Cassie Doyon, “Boundaries”
Christopher Serra, “Sciffany Tonce”
Darcy Cloutman, “Cape Roca, Portugal – The Edge of the World”
Dawne Osborne, “Dancing in the Paint”
Deborah Baye, “Convergence”
Deborah Drummond, “Lights Path”
Donna Melanson, “Know Your Limits”
Elaine Seidel, “Love Beyond Boundaries”
Ellen Royalty, “Expanding” (pictured)
Erika Larskaya, “H205”
Gloria Ross, “New Heights”
Gwen Murphy, “Woman in a Fur Hat Crossing Summer St”
Hilary Hanson Bruel, “Storm Break”
James Curran, “Spring Green”
Jean-Pierre Ducondi, “Center of Attention”
Jill Goldman-Callahan, “Push”
Joseph Schairer, “Crib/Coffin”
Kimberley Harding, “Pussyhat Basket”
Laura White Carpenter, “Cocoon”
Linda Merwin, “Life”
Margo Ezekiel, “Rust Slide”
Megan Chiango, “Reverence”
Neil Wilkins, “Laminae/ Re: 24”
Nilou Moochhala, “Humara/Ours”
Pamela Bower-Basso, “Blue State Attractions: New Jersey”
Robert Kephart, “The Colony I”
Sharon Whitham, “Between a Rock and a Hard Place #13”
Steven Edson, “Sudbury River”
Susan Erickson, “Blurred”
Todd Monjar, “Kaleidoscope”
Trevor Toney, “Glam-O-Rama”
Yael Kupiec-Dar, “ Flight”
 
For more information about these exhibits, please visit 6Bridges.Gallery, Facebook and Instagram.
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Maynard Community Band Presents 75th Year of Free Summer Outdoor Concerts

MAYNARD: After two years of a pandemic, the music is finally back.  Bring a blanket or chair, relax, and let the Maynard Community Band (MCB) entertain you at Memorial Park across from the Fine Arts Theater on Wednesday evenings this summer. All concerts start at 7pm. The band will be performing international musical highlights along with new tributes to Hollywood, Broadway, rock favorites, and, most especially, our Armed Forces. 

Starting Wednesday, June 29, the tempo starts in brilliance at Maynard’s Memorial Park in downtown Maynard.  From hence on, the musical journey through time begins and keeps the beat to the bands’ traditions. The band will begin its’ season with several international gems and lead into TV, Movie, Broadway and Patriotic themes that will entertain both the young and young at heart.  Brand new arrangements have been added to your favorite marches and patriotic tunes. Dance to our polka, or join in with the kids as we continue our parades around the park.  A special 4th of July concert will be performed on July 6th.

This year becomes Michael Karpeichik’s 20th year as conductor of Maynard’s own band.  He’ll be supported this year by a bigger, energized band including musicians from several of our surrounding towns.  Come and see the talents of your neighbors and friends new and old.

If rain is in the forecast the concert will move to the Sanctuary, 82 Main Street, Maynard.  (Covid restrictions apply.)

If you’re an instrumentalist interested in joining the Band, please feel free to contact Michael at 508-485-3171 or email mkarp143@verizon.net for more information.

Local Residents Earn Dean's List Honors from MassBay Community College

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WELLESLEY: The following local students have been named to the MassBay Community College Dean's List, achieving this outstanding academic honor for the spring 2022 semester.

To be eligible for the MassBay Dean's List, students must complete at least six credits of college-level courses, be in good standing with the College, and earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
 
  • Frank Abbott of Acton (01720), who studies Biotechnology
  • Holly Lascko of Acton (01720), who studies General Studies
  • Hailey Martinez of Acton (01720), who studies Liberal Arts - Early Childhood Education
  • Walid Alsharafi of Concord (01742), who studies Electrical & Computer Engineering
  • Nell Larkin of Concord (01742), who studies International Business

MassBay Community College is the most affordable higher education option in MetroWest Boston, offering a robust portfolio of courses and more than 70 associate degree and certificate programs with flexible day, evening, and weekend classes in Ashland, Framingham, Wellesley Hills, and online. MassBay students receive an unmatched educational value by earning stackable credits that transfer to bachelor's degree programs, and workforce-ready skills necessary to advance careers in high-demand fields such as health and life sciences, automotive technology, engineering, business, cybersecurity, and the humanities. MassBay's Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) and Practical Nursing (LPN) programs were both ranked as the #1 Nursing Program in Massachusetts in 2020-2021 by national nursing advocacy organizations RegisteredNursing.org, and PracticalNursing.org. Since its founding in 1961, MassBay has been accredited by several governing bodies and remains firmly committed to its mission of meeting the needs of the diverse local communities it serves. We value the intrinsic worth of all individuals, collectively in pursuit of inclusiveness and prioritize our work towards achieving equity within our community and beyond. To learn more about MassBay, visit massbay.edu.
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$50,000 Secured in Senate FY23 Budget for Assabet-Co-Op Market
IT Systems Funded to Allow Co-Op to accept SNAP Benefits

MAYNARD: During the debate on the Senate FY23 budget, State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) secured funding of $50,000 for the Assabet Co-Op Market to allow the market to accept SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps. Last week, the Massachusetts State Senate passed a $49.78 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). SNAP benefits provide monthly funds on an EBT card for low-income families to purchase food at participating stores. 

With unanimous support, the budget makes significant, critical and targeted investments in the areas of education, healthcare, housing and community support to meet the on-the-ground challenges brought on by the global pandemic and ongoing financial uncertainty.

“Maynard is a community with significant socioeconomic diversity. By providing funding for SNAP benefit accessibility, this earmark will ensure that the Assabet Co-Op Market will be welcoming to all,” stated State Senator Jamie Eldridge. Senator Eldridge has represented Maynard as its state senator since 2009.  

The Assabet Co-Op Market will be a full-service, community-owned grocery store in Maynard. The Market currently has over 1,900+ owners who have provided $2 million in owner loans. Assabet Co-Op Market will be located in Victory Plaza at 86 Powder Mill Road in Maynard. 

“We can't thank Senator Eldridge enough for securing this crucial funding for our community-owned grocery store. These funds will help us achieve a core piece of our mission: increasing access to locally sourced, healthy food for all,” stated Sam McCormick, general manager of Assabet Co-Op Market. 

Unlike corporate chains, food co-ops are totally independent and owned by the community members who shop there. Instead of focusing on investors, food co-ops focus on their community — nourishing everyone according to their budget and cooking style, according to a leading website on co-ops. 

SNAP benefits are administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance. If you are food insecure, please visit their website. 

The Senate’s FY23 Budget is available on the Massachusetts legislature’s website, by clicking here. Now that the Senate and Massachusetts House of Representatives have passed their respective budget proposals, both branches will now work together, form a conference committee and reconcile differences.
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Acton Recreation Department is Now Offering Adaptive Cycles

ACTON: Adaptive cycles are now available for riding on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, starting from Nara Park. Acton residents can ride the cycles for free and out-of-towners will pay a $5 rental fee.
 
The Recreation Department acquired three cycles: an adult recumbent trike, an adult handcycle, and a child recumbent trike. The child recumbent trike has a number of features on it that make it possible for children with a range of disabilities to use.
 
To borrow or rent a cycle, go to the snack bar at Nara Park and ask for one. You can also call Nara Park to see if the cycle you want to ride is available for use. You can ride the cycle for up to three hours.
 
This is a great opportunity for those with disabilities or those who for whatever reason can't ride a two wheeled bike to get out on the rail trail and ride.
 
You don't have to have a disability to ride the cycles. Many people without disabilities ride recumbent trikes. They're comfortable and fun to ride. Give it a try!
 
For more information, contact Leslie Johnson, head of the Greater Acton Adaptive Bike Coalition at lesliej961@yahoo.com or 978-618-1812, or Melissa Rier, Director of the Acton Recreation Department, mrier@actonma.gov or 978-929-6640.

Open Table Receives Cummings Foundation Grant
Metro West nonprofit receives two years of funding from Cummings Foundation

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CONCORD/MAYNARD: Open Table, the Concord and Maynard charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, announced that it is one of 140 local nonprofits to receive grants of $100,000 to $500,000 each through Cummings Foundation’s $25 Million Grant Program. The Concord and Maynard-based organization was chosen from a total of 580 applicants during a competitive review process.

Currently Open Table distributes bags of groceries, which include fresh produce, proteins, dairy, baked goods, and shelf-stable produces, to over 300 households each week and provides over 800 prepared meals to clients that hail from the Metro West suburbs.  Open Table has received incredible support from the communities it serves through donations of food and funds, making it possible for us to continue to address food insecurity in our region.

“The Cummings Foundation grant  will help Open Table  expand its services as a community food hub and support the increased number of individuals and families facing food insecurity during these challenging times,” said Jeanine Calabria, executive director of Open Table. “In addition, the grant will be used to help Open Table grow its mobile food program.”

The Cummings $25 Million Grant Program supports Massachusetts nonprofits that are based in and primarily serve Middlesex, Essex, and Suffolk counties.
Through this place-based initiative, Cummings Foundation aims to give back in the areas where it owns commercial property. Its buildings are all managed, at no cost to the Foundation, by its affiliate, Cummings Properties. This Woburn-based commercial real estate firm leases and manages 11 million square feet of debt-free space, the majority of which exclusively benefits the Foundation.

“We are so fortunate in greater Boston to have such effective nonprofits, plus a wealth of talented, dedicated professionals and volunteers to run them,” said Cummings Foundation executive director Joyce Vyriotes. “We are indebted to them for the work they do each day to provide for basic needs, break down barriers to education and health resources, and work toward a more equitable society.”

With the help of about 90 volunteers, the Foundation first identified 140 organizations to receive grants of at least $100,000 each. Among the winners were first-time recipients as well as nonprofits that had previously received Cummings Foundation grants. Forty of this latter group of repeat recipients were then selected to have their grants elevated to 10-year awards ranging from $200,000 to $500,000 each.

“Our volunteers bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives, which is so critical to our grant selection process,” said Vyriotes. “Through this democratized approach to philanthropy, they decide more than half the grants every year.”

This year’s grant recipients represent a wide variety of causes, including food insecurity, immigrant and refugee services, social justice, education, and mental health services. The nonprofits are spread across 45 different cities and towns.

The complete list of 140 grant winners, plus more than 900 previous recipients, is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org.  Cummings Foundation has now awarded more than $375 million to greater Boston nonprofits.

Open Table is a 501(c)(3) established in 1989. Their mission is to address hunger in their local community by providing healthy food in a welcoming environment while respecting the dignity and diversity of those served. For more information, visit: www.opentable.org

Woburn-based Cummings Foundation, Inc. was established in 1986 by Joyce and Bill Cummings and has grown to be one of the largest private foundations in New England. The Foundation directly operates its own charitable subsidiaries, including New Horizons retirement communities, in Marlborough and Woburn, and Cummings Health Sciences, LLC. Additional information is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org.
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Discovery Museum Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary

MAYNARD: Discovery Museum announced a series of celebratory public events to mark its 40th year of bringing hands-on STEAM learning to kids and families and to thank its community for the four decades of support that have made it possible.

“Discovery Museum has served more than 5 million children and families over the past 40 years—and that is due in no small part to the generosity and support of our community,” said CEO Neil Gordon. “That support, combined with the vision and dedication of our staff and volunteers, has enabled us to stoke kids’ natural curiosity and creativity to explore and better understand themselves, their capabilities, and the incredible possibilities of the world around them. We are honored to be an enduring part of the lives of so many families.”

"It is so rewarding to see generations of families exploring and learning together at Discovery Museum across 40 years," said Emeritus and Founding Board Member Carolyn Platt. "We see parents who visited as children bringing their own children, and their parents visiting with their grandchildren—strengthening bonds and creating joyful memories through hands-on play. Learning together through open-ended play experiences at the Museum is as impactful today as it was in 1982. Discovery Museum is a treasured community resource that I expect will be a part of families' lives for generations to come."

40th Anniversary Community Events

Special programs and events including free outdoor movie nights, accessible arts performances, a free-admission day, a 21+ party, and more will be held June through October. Most events require advance registration, unless noted otherwise.

June 23, 7:30pm | STEM + Movie Nights on the Lawn #1 – Enjoy hands-on pollinator activities and then settle in to watch “A Bug’s Life” on our lawn. Registration not required. Free.

Jun 24, 4:30-8:00pm | Summer Friday Nights Free begin – Visit with free admission every Friday night through Labor Day. Registration required to visit. Free.

June 25 & 26, all day | Bessie’s Birthday Weekend – We’ll celebrate our dinosaur mascot’s 40th with STEM explorations, a scavenger hunt, and more. Registration required to visit. Free with admission.

July 16, 6:30pm | Discovery After Dark, a 21+event – It’s grown-up time at the Museum! Enjoy live Caribbean steelpan music, drinks, food, and FUN. Indoors and outdoors; advance ticket purchase required.

July – August | Inclusive Patio Performances – Inclusive performing arts events on our patio, including a jazz performance by Berkshire Hills Music Academy and Exploring China: The “Middle Kingdom” Through Music & Story with Shaw Pong Liu, a Young Audiences of Massachusetts artist; dates to be announced. Registration required to visit. Free with admission.

July 21, 7:30pm & August 11, 7:00pm | STEM + Movie Nights on the Lawn #2 and #3 – Enjoy hands-on STEM activities and then settle in to watch a family favorite movie on our lawn. (These film titles cannot be include in the press release but can be found here and here.) Free.

September 10, all day | Free Community Day! – Join us with free admission and enjoy activities, food trucks, birthday cupcakes, a parade, and more! Registration required to visit. Free.

October 1 – 31 | Play Like It’s 1982! – Join us any day in October, the month of our founding, and pay just $2.50 admission. Registration required to visit.

In addition, a number of long-running visitor-favorite public programs will be offered such as Cold As Ice, Fairyborough, Exploring Nano, Woodworking, Take Aparts, and more.
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Wild & Scenic Film Festival, June 15th, Maynard Fine Arts

MAYNARD:   OARS is excited to present the 14th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival, Currents of Hope, on the evening of Wednesday, June 15 at the Maynard Fine Arts Theater. The Wild & Scenic Film Festival inspires environmental activism and a love for nature through film. Join us in Maynard or watch the event live-streamed online for an evening filled with inspiration, nature, and adventure! Local emcee EJ Labb  will be hosting and there will be some terrific raffle prizes! Tickets start at $15 per person and must be purchased online at www.oars3rivers.org.

OARS is a nonprofit, science-based organization with a mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance the natural and recreational features of the Assabet, Sudbury, and Concord Rivers, their tributaries and watersheds. For more information, visit www.oars3rivers.org.

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club Adopt-A-Street Community Cleanup + After Party

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ACTON: Nashoba Valley Neighbors will kick off this year’s community service project with our Adopt-A-Street program on Saturday, June 4. Meet at 3pm on the Main Street side of the CVS Plaza, 344 Main Street to break up into teams to patrol and clean up trash on both sides of Main Street from the CVS Plaza to the  lights at Post Office Square. NVN provides safety vests, garbage bags, grabbers, gloves, tick and insect repellent. Enjoy the walk with friends (or make new ones!) while sprucing up our stretch of Main Street. Following the cleanup, we will head to the Holy Grail at 166 Great Road for snacks. Please RSVP to  info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org or to get more information. Newcomers welcome! Members and guests are asked to be vaccinated for the health of others.

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from local communities. Celebrating over 50 years, they were originally known as the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club of Acton. More recently, they have been known as the Acton-Boxborough Newcomers & Neighbors Club. Discovering that established residents in the surrounding communities are also looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends, they became the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club in 2014.

The Club is excited to invite community members to join in a variety of activities including Men’s Night Out, Ladies’ Night Out, Book Group, Wine Tasting, Lunch Bunch, dining in and out events, and special events to start and finish the membership year. Visit the Club online at www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more information on this and other events, as well as information on how to become a Club member.
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Open House at Faulkner Homestead and Jones Tavern

ACTON: The Iron Work Farm’s two historic South Acton house museums will be open Sunday afternoon, May 29 from 3-5pm. The 1707 Jones/Faulkner Homestead at 5 High Street, is the oldest building in Acton.  It was the home for several generations of the owners of the little textile mill that operated across the street at the dam on Fort Pond Brook.  A highlight this month will be participation by members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers Guild.

The Iron Work Farm’s other museum, the 1732 Jones Tavern, 128 Main Street, will also be open from 3-5pm. The building was the home of the Samuel Jones family, who operated other local mills and ran a 1750 tavern and store, and a later dairy farm. 

No admission charge, but donations are welcome. For more information, visit www.ironworkfarm.org.  Parking is available on site or nearby.
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Maynard Hometown Heroes – Phase 2

MAYNARD: The Town of Maynard launched the program in 2019 called “Hometown Heroes.” The objective of the Hometown Heroes is to create banners that will be hung in Maynard honoring Maynard Veterans and Active-Duty military men and women. Veterans honored through the Hometown Heroes program are defined per Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.” Per the www.VA.org website, “This definition explains that any individual that completed a service for any branch of armed forces classifies as a veteran as long as they were not dishonorably discharged.”Any Maynard-based Veteran, whether native or new resident, is welcome to be part of the Hometown Heroes Program. A Veteran or Active Military person who was born and raised in Maynard but does not currently reside in Maynard would also qualify.
 
The Town of Maynard displays the banners annually from May – November. The location of where the banners are displayed are at the discretion of the Town. The Hometown Heroes Committee and Town of Maynard have designated 46 poles located downtown Maynard for the veterans Killed in Action (KIA). During Phase II, they will have 50 additional electric poles that are outfitted with brackets for banners.
 
Phase ll Hometown Heroes Banner applications are now available on the Town of Maynard's web page at
www.townofmaynard-ma.gov/.../hometow.../application/. They are also available at the Maynard Town Hall (on the tables upstairs and downstairs), Maynard Public Library and Council on Aging office.  Also visit our Maynard Hometown Heroes Facebook page to get questions answered, or call Kim Lalli at (978) 897-9907.
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First Parish Church of Stow and Acton Annual Plant Sale

STOW: First Parish Church of Stow and Acton will hold its annual plant sale on May 21, from 9:30-11:30am. Choose from a selection of perennials, ground cover, herbs, annuals, shrubs, small trees, and garden-related items. The sale will take place rain or shine in the church parking lot at 353 Great Road (at the intersection of routes 117 and 62, next to the Randall Library). Proceeds benefit the church. For more information call 978-897-8149 or visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.
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Acton Garden Club Hosts Event Not to Be Missed

ACTON: On Saturday, May 21, the Acton Garden Club will be holding its fabulous plant sale. The event will take place rain or shine from 9am to 1pm at the Red House located at 468 Main Street, across from the Acton common. If you are looking to beautify your property here’s your
chance to easily do so. Come and shop. The sale will include annuals, perennials, pollinators, native plants, a wide variety of locally grown flowers, trees, shrubs, vegetables, herbs, planted hanging baskets as well as a raffle with great prizes. Arrive early for the best selections, pick out those plants your have been wanting, buy something you haven’t grown before and then take them all home and get digging!

Friends of the Acton Libraries Host Used Book Sale

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ACTON: Spring is here, and so is The Friends Huge In Person Used Book Sale. The Friends of the Acton Libraries will hold a live and in person used book sale on May 21at the Acton Memorial Library from 9 am until 4 pm. Members of the Friends are invited to a preview of the sale on May 20 from 7pm until 9pm. Sunday will be half price day for all, from 1 to 3 pm.

The Friends have been collecting and sorting a lot of books since the last sale. And now is the time to come to restock your supply of great books in excellent condition for your summer reading.

Attendees are encouraged to wear face coverings while inside at the sale. Weather permitting, there will also be tables outside of the library for browsing and shopping, too. Be sure your membership is up to date before the big Friends Used Book Sale so you can have first crack at the great selection of used books at the sale preview. If you aren’t yet a member, you can join on Friday night. But why wait? Go to the Friends of the Acton Libraries page on the Acton Memorial Library main page - www.actonmemoriallibrary.org. Print out the membership form and mail it in. Or, bring it with you on Preview Friday night.

The Friends of the Acton Libraries is a volunteer organization dedicated to funding the town's elementary, middle, and high school library budgets. We also provide support to the Acton Memorial Library and West Acton Citizens' Library for programming, museum passes and more. Additionally, The Friends present scholarships each year to deserving high school seniors.

For more information, contact The Friends at friendsofactonlibraries@gmail.com, or visit www.facebook.com/friendsactonlib. You can also follow them on Twitter at
twitter.com/friendsactonlib or Instagram at www.instagram.com/friendsactonlib.
Habitat

Family Sought for Affordable Home in Acton

ACTON: Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (Habitat NCM) is seeking a family in need of an affordable home being built in Acton. People whose current housing is unsafe or doesn’t meet their needs are eligible to apply. Potential homeowners must have a steady income of less than 60% of area median; a track record of paying their bills on time; and a willingness to work 200-350 hours alongside Habitat volunteers to help build their new home.

The one-story, three-bedroom, two-bath house is designed to be accessible. It also is planned to include solar panels to reduce energy costs. The new owner will take on a monthly mortgage payment of about $950 a month, depending on income. If all goes according to plan, the new homeowners will be able to move in next June.

Information sessions for interested homeowners will take place May 14 at 10am at Enterprise Bank in Acton, June 4 at 10am at Maynard Library, and June 14 at 7pm at the Acton Police Station conference room.  For additional information, email the office at apply@ncmhabitat.org or call 978-348-2749. Additional information is also available on the Habitat NCM website, www.habitatncm.org.
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Everyone’s Birthday Bash

MAYNARD: Sanctuary has declared Saturday, May 14th, “Everybody-who-missed-celebrating-their-birthday-due-to-that-darn-pandemic Day.” For all the folks who didn’t get to celebrate their birthday in proper style over the past couple of years, versatile performer and music producer Mac Ritchey (pictured) and friends are inviting you to the dance party of the century.

Ritchey himself is celebrating his belated 50th (a few days before his 51st), and his idea of a good time on his birthday is exactly this: live music, friends, a dance party, community, and a warm spring evening. Mac (of Carlisle) who will play oud, bouzouki, didjeridu, and sing vocals, will be joined by musician friends Ken Hickey of Boxborough, MA on drums & vocals, Mike Payette of Dracut, MA on bass and vocals, Marshall Goff of Newton/Waltham, MA on guitar and vocals, Neil Kruszkowski of Groton, MA on saxophone and vocals, and Dave Boyd from Portugal on keyboards, bodhrán, and vocals.

With a diverse set list targeted towards dancing and a party atmosphere, the evening will be a two-set night with a six-piece band plus guests. Within the evening, there will be mini-sets featuring Walk Like A Cow, the recent collaboration between Ritchey and Dave Boyd that turns classic rock tunes on their heads with oud (Arabic lute) and bodhrán (Irish frame drum). Dave Boyd is coming over to join us from Portugal because that’s what a good friend does for his buddy’s birthday party. Adding fun to the party will be lighting design by VFX Design Studios and birthday cake for all! 

Tickets $15 in advance at www.sanctuarymaynard.com/Event/Details/141 or $20 at the door.  Doors open at 7pm and the party starts at 8pm. Sanctuary has a full bar and table service. Arrive early enough to order dinner in one of Maynard's many fine restaurants and bring it with you.  Proof of vaccination or negative test required.
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Origami Fun at Veteran’s Memorial Park

MAYNARD: Upcoming on 2nd Saturdays in June, July, August and September 2022 from 3-4:30pm are Lisa B. Corfman’s in-person FUN Origami Club folding meetings at Veteran’s Memorial Park. The rain dates are the next day at the same time.

Last year, Corfman held a contest called Maynard Folds, funded through the Maynard Cultural Council.  With the interest, more funding was provided for an in-person origami club.  With official permission to use the park from the town, Corfman says “let’s fold together!”  Corfman will bring a huge library of origami books, drinks and snacks, some origami paper, and ideas.  

Club meetings will be social and fun, featuring Yogami (human body folding from gross to fine motor movements) and so much more. Explore uses like functional folds and artistic models, teaching, therapy, and entertainment, etc.  See the mathematics, discover historic figures, and fold with materials like plastic and metal sheets! RSVP to Lisa B. Corfman at Lisa@OrigamiPlace.com.

PHOTO: Nicholas Lawrence with his Maynard Folds award winning model.
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Bid For Brighter Futures: The Funniest Fundraiser Around

ACTON: Looking for a wonderful way to celebrate spring? Searching for the perfect Mothers’ Day surprise? Gather family and friends for “Bid for Brighter Futures: The Funniest Fundraiser Around” on May 13 from 6-9pm at the Boxboro Regency Hotel. Individual tickets are $50 each and are available at tinyurl.com/yrtb2x4e. For more information, contact Rotarian Anne Hentz at 617-834-1615 or anne@annehentz.com.

Hosted by Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough, this joyous evening will feature nationally renowned comedian and magician Matt Roberts. You will enjoy a three-station buffet dinner and cash bar. Then, you will laugh and be amazed by the highly talented Matt Roberts, who has been a contestant on NBC's America’s Got Talent. For even more fun, you will have a chance to win one or more of many, great raffle prizes.

This community fundraiser will support four, worthy local causes: Domestic Violence Services Network; Acton Food Pantry, Cooperative Elder Services; and Danny's Place.  For many years, Domestic Violence Services Network, Acton Food Pantry, Cooperative Elder Services, and Danny's Place have supplied essential help to people in need. In this struggling economy, these charitable organizations need aid more than ever.
 
To learn more about this entertaining and impactful fundraiser, visit bidforbrighterfutures.com.
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Sue Whitcomb Receives Distinguished Carol Holley Award

ACTON: At the Acton Conservation Trust’s Annual Meeting on March 13, Sue Whitcomb was presented with the Carol Holley Conservation Volunteer Award for 2022.  This award is given each year to the person who best exemplified Carol Holley’s example of community involvement in protecting the environment.  Sue has been gardening since she was five years old and after working for several commercial gardens started her own horticultural business.  The ACT board selected her for this honor because of her extraordinary work with the Acton Arboretum and the Acton Garden Club.

The Carol Holley award was established in 2004 in honor of a woman who not only served on ACT’s board for many years but also many other boards and committees in her efforts to protect the environment in Acton.
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Acton Recreation Department Offering Adaptive Bikes Starting May 28

ACTON: The Acton Recreation Department and the Acton Commission on Disabilities are pleased to announce that starting May 28, adaptive cycles will be offered for Acton residents and out-of-towners to ride on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, starting at Nara Park. Acton residents can ride the cycles for free and out-of-towners will pay a $5 rental fee.
 
The Recreation Department acquired three cycles: an adult recumbent trike, an adult handcycle, and a child recumbent trike. The child recumbent trike has a number of features on it that make it possible for children with a range of disabilities to use. To borrow or rent a cycle, go to the snack bar at Nara Park and ask for one.
 
This is a great opportunity for those with disabilities or those who for whatever reason can't ride a two wheeled bike to get out on the rail trail and ride.
 
For more information, contact Leslie Johnson, head of the Greater Acton Adaptive Bike Coalition at lesliej961@yahoo.com or 978-618-1812, or Melissa Rier, Director of the Acton Recreation Department, mrier@actonma.gov or 978-929-6640.
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“Graffiti” Photographs by Roy DiTosti

MAYNARD:  6 Bridges Gallery presents “Graffiti” — photographs by Roy DiTosti. The exhibit will be on view at 6 Bridges Gallery, 77 Main Street, from May 11 through June 18, 2022. It will also be hosted online at 6Bridges.Gallery. A reception will be held on June 4th from 5–7pm.
 
Unauthorized paint on a wall can be many things — art, hate speech, social messaging, vandalism, remembrance of those who have passed on. Roy DiTosti has been a witness to tags and has been photographing them for many years now. This show is a small collection of tags from the past. 
 
For more information about the exhibit, please visit 6Bridges.Gallery, Facebook, and Instagram.

Acton-Boxborough Cultural Council Announces Films for 13th Annual Our World Film Series

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ACTON/BOXBOROUGH: The Acton-Boxborough Cultural Council announce the selections for the 13th annual Our World Film Series.  This series features award-winning and critically acclaimed foreign films from around the world.  The films selected are Theeb (United Arab Emirates, 2015), directed by Naji Abu Nowar, PK (India, 2014), directed by Rajkumar Hirani, and Ode to My Father (South Korea, 2014), directed by JK Youn.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, these films cannot be screened publicly, but the ABCC website will note where the films are available (Acton and Boxborough public libraries, Kanopy, Netflix, Prime streaming services).

In the 10th Annual Our World Short Film Program, student filmmakers from Massachusetts college/ university film programs submitted their short films for consideration. Thirteen titles from Emerson College, Gordon College, Harvard University, Lesley Art + Design, Middlesex Community College, Suffolk University, and Wellesley College were chosen.  More information on these films is available on the ABCC Our World Film Series website and Facebook page.

These short films will be broadcast on Acton TV local cable access (Channel 8 on Comcast and Channel 45 on Verizon cable systems) on Friday May 20 at 7pm and May 27 at 7pm.  Most of these films will also be available later via Acton TVs On-Demand website.

For more information on the Acton Boxborough Cultural Council and the Our World Film Series, visit: 
www.actonboxboroughculturalcouncil.org  (ABCC website)
https://abccourworld.wixsite.com/abccourworld  (ABCC Our World Film Series website)
www.facebook.com/actonboxboroughculturalcouncil  (ABCC Facebook page)
www.facebook.com/ABCCOurWorld  (ABCC Our World Film Series Facebook page)
http://actontv.org/  (Acton TV website)
http://actontv.org/on-demand/public  (Acton TV ON-DEMAND website).
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Maynard Community Gardeners’ Wants Your Surplus Plants for Annual Plant Sale

MAYNARD: In anticipation of the Maynard Community Gardeners’ 27th Annual Plant Sale, the group is asking anyone who would like to donate excess or unwanted plants of any kind or quantity to contact Steve Smith at mcgplantdonations@gmail.com with your name, address, and times that are convenient for an MCG member to come and pick up the plants. If you need assistance to dig the plants, please note it in your email. They are always looking for unique, harder to find perennials, trees and shrubs but are still open to taking more common perennial varieties such as Hosta, Lily, and Iris. They are especially interested in perennials that are native to the region. Final deadline for accepting plant donations is Saturday, May 7, 2022.

The Asian Jumping Worm is the latest threat to home and commercial gardens in the US.  In response to this threat, The Maynard Community Gardeners are changing many of their practices as it pertains to acquiring donated plants. They consider it our obligation and are committed to doing their part to ensure that any donated plants provided at the sale are unlikely to spread the Asian Jumping Worm.  Starting this year, they will only be accepting bare rooted plant donations. Volunteer diggers are prepared to properly dig up your plants and prepare them so that they are bare rooted and ready to be freshly potted.

The Maynard Community Gardeners’ Annual Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, May 14 in the parking lot at The Maynard Elks Lodge at 34 Powdermill Road from 9am to Noon.  MCG’s Plant Sale is the group’s largest fundraising event of the year, providing gardeners with a large variety of plant choices to get the growing season underway. All the plants at the sale are either donated by members and non-members who want to share their abundance, or provided by Brigham Farm Stand & Greenhouses. The plant sale provides a great opportunity to choose from a wide variety of plants that flourish locally.  There will be flowers, vegetables, hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, and shrubs, featuring a large assortment of heights, types, and colors.

MCG is an organization made up of seasoned and novice gardeners who make it their mission to beautify Maynard. The club plants and maintains flower buckets downtown. The Club also maintains the beautiful flower-filled alleyway next to the Outdoor store, and the seasonal beauty of the downtown triangle, which is truly the heart of Maynard. And let us not forget Maplebrook Park, which brings so much beauty and joy to so many people in town, as well as to those who use the Assabet River Rail Trail, and those who visit Maynard to enjoy shops, eateries and other amenities. All the funds from the Plant Sale go directly to MCG’s efforts to maintain these projects. Your plant donations are what make the Plant Sale possible!
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ABRHS Baseball to host Hope at Bat Fundraiser to Support American Cancer Society

ACTON/BOXBOROUGH: For the first time since 2019, The ABRHS Baseball Boosters Program is holding our cancer fundraising event now called Hope at Bat (formerly Coaches vs. Cancer). Please join the fun on May 5. Festivities will begin at 3:45pm with raffles and entertainment, including special guests to sing the National Anthem and throw out a ceremonial first pitch. The Junior Varsity and Varsity games will begin at 4:15pm against the Bedford High School Buccaneers.  Each team will take this game to honor the lives lost to cancer, celebrate survivors, and support the caregivers who so selflessly help others.  We aim to raise awareness of those living with cancer, caring for those with cancer, and working to advance treatments and cures for the disease, as well as raise money for the American Cancer Society. Scan the enclosed QR code for more information or to donate, or visit http://main.acsevents.org/goto/ABBaseball or contact krychlik@mac.com.
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Acton Garden Club Hosts May Meeting

ACTON: The Acton Garden Club’s May meeting will take place on May 3 in Room 204 of Acton Town Hall with a business meeting at 9:30am and a program at 10:15am.  This month’s program titled “Field to Fork: The Horticulture of the Food We Eat” will be presented by Certified Master Gardener Michele Schuckel who will teach us about the fascinating science, horticulture and economics of where our food is grown and how it gets to our table. The program will allow us to explore the origins of cultivated crops, what it means for products to be GMO (or not!) or certified organic and the nutrition science behind the plants we consume every day.

Michele Schuckel is passionate about the art and science of horticulture and leading a balanced and healthy life both in and out of the garden. She is a practicing nurse and entrepreneur focused on well and healthy living. This is all put into practice through her work as owner and principal designer for Natural Selections Gardens using organic practices and native plant material whenever possible to encourage sustainable landscapes.
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An Uplifting Celebration of Music & Song: One Spirit - One Voice

ACTON: On May 15 at 4pm, celebrate One Spirit - One Voice at St. Matthew’s UMC, 435 Central Street, featuring The Lord's Prayer Experience and Hallel Psalms: Give Thanks to God! This uplifting musical program will create a joyful, unifying experience of living prayer. Led by the One Spirit Jazz Ensemble and Interfaith Choir, sing and listen to hallowed words based on an early Hebrew rendition of The Lord’s Prayer, and new songs of praise and thanksgiving based on Psalms 113-118 and 136. Experience how the power of music can enliven your spirit — and how the power of love and inclusion can help mend the world. To sing with the Interfaith Choir at this event, contact Yosef@onespiritfoundation.org. At the gathering, there will be a collection for a newly arrived Afghan family of 6 that St. Matthew’s and other churches in the area are supporting.  To learn more, visit onespiritfoundation.org.
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Help Create a Safe New Home for Survivors of Abuse

MAYNARD/SUDBURY: The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable cordially invites you to participate in its Annual Shower for Shelters. You can help families transitioning from a shelter or transitional housing to establish a new home by donating new household items or gift cards. All gifts collected will be donated to clients of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, The Second Step, and Voices Against Violence.

The Shower for Shelters will be held from Friday, April 29, 2022, through Friday, May 13, 2022.  New unwrapped gifts may be dropped off at Spirits of Maynard, 4 Digital Way, Suite 3, Maynard or at Sudbury Wine and Spirits, 410 Boston Post Road, Rugged Bear Plaza, Sudbury. Requested items include: diapers, twin size comforters, sheets and pillowcases, bed pillows, towels and face cloths, unscented cleaning products and laundry detergent, laundry baskets, kitchen utensils, flatware, dishes, drinking glasses, small kitchen appliances, and other household items. Gift cards for the following are also welcome: Target, Walmart, CVS, Market Basket, Hannafords, Stop and Shop ($20-$50).

For further information, please visit the Roundtable website at www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org.

Helping Kids Understand Climate Change and How to Make a Difference

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ACTON: Join Barefoot Books authors Stacy Clark and Christy Mihaly on April 27 from 7-8:30pm via Zoom as they discuss climate change, renewable energies, and steps caretakers can take to empower children to take part in protecting our natural resources.  Register for this event here.

An environmental geologist, nature lover, educator and climate journalist, Stacy Clark enjoys distilling science into lively rhymes for young readers. Working between New York City and Dallas, Texas, she is inspired by the awesome potential of renewable energy to transform the way that countries around the world are powered. She loves exploring Central Park with her dog, Luna, and cycling along scenic trails and coastlines with her family.

Christy Mihaly has written more than 25 children's books, mostly nonfiction. She has degrees in policy studies, environmental studies and law from Dartmouth College and the University of California, Berkeley. She lives with her family in Vermont, where she enjoys the inspiration of the changing seasons and the endless varieties of New England precipitation.

To purchase books: Planet Power by Stacy Clark and Water: A Deep Dive of Discovery by Christy Mihaly can be purchased online through BarefootBooks.com or at The Concord Bookshop. Thank you for supporting these independent bookstores.