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 World’s Fastest Indian
September 15th, 1:00-3:05 pm
(2005, PG-13) Film set in the 1960s stars Sir Anthony Hopkins is based on the life of New Zealander Burt Munro. Munro rebuilt a 1920 Indian motorcycle in hopes of setting the land speed world record at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library

Create Your Own Book! with Neal Rantoul
Mondays, September 15th, 22nd, 29th, Oct. 6th, 20th, 27th, Nov. 24th, 1:00-3:00 pm
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $20/series starting Sept. 8th
On-demand publishing has made it possible for anyone to make books. For this class we will discover just how easy this can be to collect your images, organize them, then design and make your own books. By telling your own story in a book, important moments can be preserved. In this class we will work to make your books beautiful and impactful, to tell your stories, and preserve them for future generations to come as part of your legacy. While the course is designed primarily to make photo books, other kinds of books can be made using on-demand printers. Neal Rantoul is a photographer who has made many books of varying size and cost. He will share these in class and demonstrate how to design and lay out your project. You will make your book ready to order by the end of our six weeks together, then meet one month later to share your printed results. Participants need to bring a laptop/tablet to each class.

LitLovers Study Group/Masterpieces of Short Fiction: Araby
Tuesday, September 16th, 2:30-4:00pm                                                                 
Open to all 60+/free
The group views a 30-minute lecture from The Great Courses: Masterpieces of Short Fiction, followed by a discussion on the lecture, the featured story, and the author. This month’s story is Araby by James Joyce. 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 Ernest Hemingway, D.H. Lawrence, Flannery O’Connor, Franz Kafka, James Baldwin, & Margaret Atwood. Copies of the stories are provided at the previous month’s meeting; you can also pick up a hard copy at reception or contact facilitator Chris Chirokas at cchirokas@actonma.gov or 978-929-6652 if you’d like a digital copy sent.

Medicare Supplement Plans Versus Medicare Advantage Plans—What is the Difference?
Tuesday, September 16th, 4:00pm                                                                               
Open to all/free
In this seminar a representative from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts will explain the differences between Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans to help you select the right coverage for you. The seminar will also include an explanation of original Medicare, resources to help you in the decision process (such as SHINE counselors available at the Senior Center), and real-life case studies. Medicare Open Enrollment occurs annually from October 15 to December 7, the time when you can change your Medicare plan for the following year.

The Great Gatsby Seminar with Stephen Collins
Wednesdays, September 17th through October 15th, 11:00am to 12pm           
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $20
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the publication of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The novel explores The Jazz Age otherwise known as The Roaring Twenties which made the word " flappers” famous and also ushered in Prohibition. Fitzgerald's novel examines the excesses and oftentimes despair of the times. What is success? What is The American Dream? Many critics designated The Great Gatsby as The Great American Novel and it is at least a worthy candidate. Scribner and Sons published Fitzgerald, as well as Hemingway and Thomas Wolfe, and Maxwell Perkins was editor for all three writers. Please read the novel in its entirety before the first class. Stephen Collins literature classes and live dramatic performances featuring literary figures are always popular at the Senior Center. His teaching style has been described as a hybrid of lecture and performance. 

Line Dancing with Paul
Wednesdays, September 17th through November 19th, 2:30-3:30pm                     
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $20/series
Join in on the summer session of line dancing! Dance for fun, exercise, balance, coordination, and to learn a new skill. You’ll have great fun line dancing, while you improve memory skills, strengthen bones, develop better balance, relieve stress, and put a smile on your face. Each dance is broken down first, demonstrated, and then danced to contemporary music. You will dance some of the old favorites and add some of the newest dances. No need to have a partner; this is something for everyone, and no experience is necessary! Space is limited—sign up with the Council on Aging. This class is funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs—a $1 donation per class for Acton residents is suggested.

The 20th Century: A 1940-1949 Review with Dawn Gomez
Thursday, September 18th, 1:00-2:00pm                                                             
Open to all 60+/free
Next, we turn our attention from the Dirty Thirties to the Roaring ‘40s. This nickname reflects the vibrant culture and social atmosphere of the time characterized by the onset of World War II.  The first half of the decade was focused on the war both in Europe and Asia Pacific. We will review Roosevelt and Truman’s presidential involvements and the impact on everyday Americans. How those actively fighting as well as those doing their part back home managed. Other horrific ‘40s events will be explored, including the Holocaust, atomic bomb and the start of the Cold War. On the plus side, WWII’s need for manufactured goods officially put the Great Depression in the rear-view mirror leading to a period of economic growth and cultural experimentation. Post V-E and V-J days, Americans were eager to return to peaceful pursuits and prosperous times. Many used the G.I. Bill to take advantage of fulfilling the dream of home ownership or gaining further education.

 

 

Acton Memorial Library will be closed on Friday, September 19, for Town Staff Professional Development Day. The library will reopen at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 20.

Celebrate Library Card Sign Up Month in September with Acton’s month-long bingo contest! New and current library members of all ages can earn chances to win Nightmare at NARA passes or trinkets from Wish Boutique! Bingo sheets are available at both libraries, and more information is available on the library’s Program Calendar.

Join the Acton Memorial Library Book Discussion Group on Tuesday, September 16, for their monthly meeting! All are welcome, and no registration is required. Copies of this month's book, Elena Knows by Claudia Piñeiro, are available at the Circulation Desk.

All tweens and teens are invited to join the library's new Junior Teen Advisory Group (grades 5-8) and the existing Teen Advisory Group (grades 9-12). Join us at monthly meetings and have a say in library programs and services. More information is available on the library's tween/teen Volunteering page.

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request to library@actonma.gov. For programs taking place at the West Acton Citizens' Library, please send requests to WACL@actonma.gov. Please note that the West Acton Citizens' Library has limited accessibility. More accessible programs are offered at the Acton Memorial Library.

Please remember to check our online calendar and follow the libraries on social media for updates.

If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at library@actonma.gov.

Kick off October at the Food Truck & Craft Beer Fest on Saturday, October 4 from 12–6 PM at St. Elizabeth of Hungary in Acton (89 Arlington St.). Enjoy local food trucks, craft beer, live music from Final Approach, Sunrise Rock, and Wicked Betty and the Bad Habits, plus a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. $10 suggested donation (kids under 12 free)  avcatholic.org/trucksandbrews

The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will hold a Company meeting on Sunday September 21 at the Boxborough Community Center at 30 Middle Road starting at 8 p.m. For information please contact Captain Chad Childers at captain@boxboroughminutemen.org.
  The Boxborough Minutemen Company is open to anyone of least 18 years of age, regardless of gender or town of residence, who is interested in service to the Town and/or perpetuating the memory of the Minutemen of 1775.  You do not need to be a marcher or revolutionary war re-enactor to join the Company.
  Our members may participate in any number of the Company's activities including marching in parades and town celebrations, organizing the annual Fifer's Day town festival, performing seasonal clean-ups on Route 111, sponsoring the Boy and Cub Scouts, providing volunteers to the FreeBee Market, community supper, and other service organizations, and participating in our various social functions. The Company also provides financial support to a variety of service organizations and sponsors a number of annual scholarships to Boxborough students who are continuing their education after high school.
  All are welcome to come and make new connections with others.
  For more information visit www.boxboroughminutemen.org.

Please participate in the Stuff a Cruiser Food Drive to benefit the Maynard Food Pantry on Saturday, September 13, 2025 between 10 AM – 1 PM at the Maynard Market Basket parking lot, 129 Parker Street, Maynard!  This wonderful food drive is being sponsored by the Maynard Police Department, Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley and the Maynard Public Schools.

Whether you are shopping at the Maynard Market Basket or just want to drop a food donation off on that Saturday, September 13th, there will be police cruisers in the parking lot to accept your food donations.  Please do not donate perishable food items (refrigerated or frozen) or glass items.  It will be a great way for everyone (young and older) to do good at a fun event!

Maynard Food Pantry most needed items include: Spam, baked beans, beef stew, Progresso soups, Sloppy Joe or Corned Beef cans, sunflower butter, Chef Boyardee, cereal bars/granola bars, individual juice boxes, individual cereal boxes.

The Maynard Food Pantry is very grateful for the support of the Maynard Police Department, Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, the Maynard Public Schools and the Maynard Market Basket for coordinating this effort!

Planning for your child’s education can feel overwhelming, but a 529 education savings plan offers a powerful way to build a financial foundation for their educational future.
One in 4 parents currently invests in a 529 plan, according to 2025 research by Edward Jones and Morning Consult. Perhaps it’s because of the tax benefits — earnings are generally tax free if the money is used for qualified educational expenses. Or perhaps it’s because of their flexibility.
Types of education. While most people know 529 plans can help cover college and university tuition, these versatile accounts can also pay tuition for vocational and trade schools, making them suitable for students pursuing careers in skilled trades like plumbing, electrical work or culinary arts. Additionally, some apprenticeship programs qualify for these funds. And even K-12 tuition expenses are covered, up to $10,000 per year for private, public and religious elementary and secondary schools.
Beyond tuition. Withdrawals from a 529 plan can move beyond tuition and cover the cost of room and board for students enrolled at least half-time. They can help pay for books, computers and qualified educational supplies. And a big surprise for some: A 529 plan can help with student loan repayment up to $10,000 per beneficiary.
Who can contribute. Fortunately, 529 plans welcome contributions from anyone — parents, grandparents, other family and friends. Contributions are treated as gifts to the beneficiary, so most contributors will want to stay within the annual nontaxable gifting limit (which for 2025 is $19,000 for individuals or $38,000 for married couples filing jointly).
Interestingly, 1 in 5 parents would prefer for their child to receive 529 contributions as gifts from loved ones, making these accounts perfect for birthdays, holidays and other special occasions.
Multiple children. If you have multiple children, you have options in how you structure your 529 savings. You can maintain separate accounts for each child or use one account for all your children.
Unused funds. You may be concerned about what happens if your child doesn't use all the money. Fortunately, these accounts offer numerous penalty-free options. You can easily change the beneficiary to another qualifying family member, including siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or even yourself as the account owner.
You can also roll funds to another family member’s existing 529 plan. If your child receives a scholarship, you can withdraw up to the scholarship amount without penalty (though you’ll pay income tax on a portion of the money). The IRS allows an option to roll up to $35,000 into a Roth IRA for the beneficiary if certain requirements are met. You should consult with your tax advisor on this 529/Roth IRA rollover issue.
State options. It’s important to note that 529 plans vary from state to state, and you’re not limited to your home state’s plan. However, it’s smart to examine your home state’s offerings first, as many provide special incentives like tax breaks for residents.
When comparing plans, consider factors such as tax benefits, fees, investment options and ease of use. A good financial advisor can help you navigate these choices and identify the plan that makes the most sense for your family’s specific situation and goals.
529 education savings plans offer flexibility and tax advantages that help make them an excellent tool for education planning. With their expanded uses and multiple options for unused funds, they can help provide families with both security and adaptability in preparing for their children’s educational futures.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Investments in 529 plans will fluctuate with changes in market conditions and may be worth more or less than the original investment when redeemed.

 

WHAT:
State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg and the Massachusetts Unclaimed Property Division will return a long-lost Purple Heart medal to Thomas Brigham, the grandson of Sgt. Thomas Flynn. The medal was recovered by the Unclaimed Property Division and traced back to the Flynn family as part of the Treasury’s efforts to reunite military honors with rightful heirs.

Sgt. Thomas Flynn was born in August. 27, 1896, in Worcester, Massachusetts. He served with Company G of the 9th Infantry and 101st Infantry with the Massachusetts National Guard.

WHEN:
September 9, 2025
12:00PM

WHERE:
Massachusetts State House, Treasurer’s Office, Rm. 227

WHO:

• Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg
• Thomas Brigham, grandson of Sgt. Thomas Flynn
• Brig. Gen. Lisa Ahaesy from the National Guard
• Veterans Services Representatives

WHY:
The return of military medals is part of the Massachusetts Treasurer’s Office mission to honor the legacy of veterans and reunite families with their treasured heirlooms.

 

MASSACHUSETTS (September 9, 2025) - Hey MA Teens! Voting will open for the MA Teen Choice Book Award (MTCBA) on September 15!  Young people from across Massachusetts are invited to vote for their top teen book from a list of nominees until Oct. 5. This is the only award in the Bay State that invites students in grades 7-12 to vote for their top new books.
The list of nominees has been curated by a committee of public librarians, school library media specialists and educators. The top teen choices will be announced in late October..

“There are two ways for teens to cast their votes - they can vote directly using our digital ballot (available at https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home) or they can cast a paper ballot at any participating library,” said Suzanne Larson, committee chair and high school library media specialist at Seekonk High School in Seekonk, MA.  “We encourage school and public libraries interested in participating to create displays and ballot boxes by using MTCBA resources, also available on the award website.” (https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home)

The twenty-one 2025 Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award Nominees are:

• Aisle Nine - Cho, Ian X.
• America Redux: Visual Stories from Our Dynamic History - Aberg-Riger, Ariel
• The Bletchley Riddle - Sepetys, Ruta & Sheinkin, Steve
• Call Me Iggy - Aguirre, Jorge & Rosado, Rafael (Illustrator)
• The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky - Galarza, Josh
• Gwen & Art Are Not in Love - Croucher, Lex
• HappyHead - Silver, Josh
• I Kick and I Fly - Gupta, Ruchira
• I Will Never Leave You - Kennedy, Kara
• The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge - Hubbard, Matthew
• Looking for Smoke - Cobell, K. A.
• Navigating With You - Whitley, Jeremy & Ribeiro, Cassio (Illustrator)
• The No-Girlfriend Rule - Randall, Christen 
• The Reappearance of Rachel Price - Jackson, Holly
• Red - Cardi, Annie
• Spirit Sleuths: How Magicians and Detectives Exposed the Ghost Hoaxes - Jarrow, Gail
• Star Splitter - Kirby, Matthew J.
• Twenty-four Seconds From Now… - Reynolds, Jason
• Where Sleeping Girls Lie - Àbíké-Íyímídé, Faridah
• The Wilderness of Girls - Franklin, Madeline Claire
• Wish You Weren’t Here - Baldwin, Erin

The Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is a cooperative project between the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) and the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) with support from Salem State University. For more information on the selected titles and how to participate and vote, please visit www.mateenchoicebook.org.

 

One in five people across the country live with a mental health condition including children, adolescents and adults. Family members, in the role as "care supporter" for their loved one often need support as well. NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a non-profit organization founded in 1979, is dedicated to improving the lives of those with mental illness and their families through support, education and advocacy at state and national levels. Volunteers trained by NAMI now offer many support groups and educational programs in communities across Massachusetts for those with illness and separately supportive family members. Programs are offered in person and digitally via the Zoom format and are completely free to the public. You can find details at the NAMI Massachusetts website www.NAMIMASS.org .
If you have a family member with mental health challenges you can also connect to a support-group I facilitate with my co-facilitator at fsgroup25@aol.com.  Our NAMI group meets once a month, every 2nd Thursday of the month, from 6:15 pm – 8:45 pm on Zoom and has been meeting for four years. The group usually has around 6-8 participants and creates time enough for all to share and feel much better at meetings end. If you would like to speak with someone ahead about our NAMI support-group feel free to call me. My name is Dee and my cell number is 978.697.3441.

Written By Deb Paul
“We’re not about what happened on 9/11. We’re about what happened on 9/12.” Jeff Parness, founder of New York Says Thank You, captured the essence of American resilience in just thirteen words.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of a day that changed our nation forever. September 11, 2001, is etched into our collective memory—not just for the horror we witnessed, but for the unity that followed. Most Americans remember exactly where they were when the news broke. The images of the Twin Towers collapsing, the chaos, the courage—they remain vivid, unshakable.

We lost thousands of innocent lives—on planes, in offices, on the streets. First responders ran toward danger, not away from it. Families were shattered. The American spirit was tested. And yet, as Rudy Giuliani said, “The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead, we have emerged stronger and more unified.”

In the days that followed, something extraordinary happened. Strangers became neighbors. Political differences faded. Compassion surged. We remembered what it meant to be one nation, indivisible—not just in theory, but in practice. Flags flew from every porch. Blood banks overflowed with volunteers. People prayed together, cried together, and stood together.

We saw firefighters and police officers risk everything without hesitation. They didn’t ask who someone voted for or what religion they practiced. They saw fellow human beings in need—and they responded with courage and compassion. That spirit of selflessness defined the days after 9/11. It reminded us of who we are at our best.

But today, that unity feels distant. We are a nation divided—by politics, by ideology, by mistrust. The spirit of 9/12, once so palpable, now flickers faintly. The sense of shared purpose that once bound us has been replaced by suspicion and polarization.

Let this anniversary be more than a moment of mourning. Let it be a call to remember—not only the lives lost, but the values we rediscovered. Patriotism is not a relic. Unity is not naïve. These are the foundations of a resilient democracy.

We must reflect not only on what we lost, but on what we found: courage, compassion, and a renewed sense of community. These qualities are still within us. They are not confined to history—they are waiting to be revived.

So this September 11, pause. Reflect. Recommit. Not just to memory, but to meaning. To kindness. To courage. To each other.

Because the legacy of 9/11 isn’t just about what happened. It’s about who we became—and who we still have the power to be

 

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
Nonnas
September 8th, 1:00-2:50pm
(2025, PG) After losing his mother, a man risks everything to honor her by opening an Italian restaurant with actual grandmothers as chefs. Comedy based on a true story. Stars Vince Vaughn, Brenda Vaccaro, Talia Shire, Lorraine Bracco, Susan Sarandon.

Book Discussion Group                                                 
Tuesday, September 9th, 10:00-11:00am                                    
Open to all 60+/free
The discussion for September’s meeting will be around the book Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton. If you would like to read ahead, the discussion for October’s meeting will be around the book The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald. Copies of the books are on hold for the group at Acton Memorial Library. You may also check availability at Citizen’s Library (978-929-6654). Ann Kulsick facilitates gatherings.

Care Starts Here: Home, Health & the Gut, A Wellness Talk with Smoothie Sips
Tuesday, September 9th, 2:00-3:00pm                                               
Open to all 60+/free
Join Holli Bassin, Functional Medicine Health Coach, and Vikki Levine, Client Service Director, at Ezra Home Care, for an informative and uplifting wellness discussion exploring the powerful connection between gut health, overall well-being, and the importance of support at home. Discover how small lifestyle changes—including nutrition, mindset, and personalized care—can make a big impact on aging well, feeling energized, and staying independent. Enjoy delicious smoothie samples while learning how gut-friendly habits and compassionate home care work hand-in-hand to support a vibrant, dignified life.

The Age of Assassination: Ideology, Conspiracy & Murder in the Industrial Age, 1880-1914 with Paolo Di Gregorio
Tuesday, September 9th, 4:00-5:00pm      
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $5
Irish author George Bernard Shaw once called assassination an extreme form of censorship. During the late decades of the 19th century, as political and social changes swept across the Atlantic world, a series of high-profile assassinations captured headlines across the globe. From US presidents to European monarchs, the powerful and influential fell victim to the assassin’s bullet. This talk will explore some of the most infamous and consequential political murders of the industrial age. Paolo Di Gregorio is a historian, archaeologist, and educator. He is a Visiting Lecturer in the History Department at Bridgewater State University, and his passion for telling stories of our past is always appreciated by Acton’s older adults!

Technology Assistance Clinic
Wednesday, September 10thand 24th 1:30-3:00pm                                               
Open to all 60+/free
All seniors are welcome to participate in this drop-in Technology Clinic whenever a 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.

Understanding Basic Estate Planning Terms & Documents: Back to Basics
Wednesday, September 10th, 2:00-3:30pm                           
 Open to 60+/free
Join Attorney Dale Tamburro for a presentation on estate planning. He will cover estate planning terminology, the importance of getting organized (what are your assets, what is their worth, what are your income sources), the importance of communication, choosing your beneficiaries, what estate documents are needed, & what to do in case of disability. He will touch upon trusts as a tool for protecting your home if you require long-term care, which is a topic for a full seminar. Bring your specific questions for Dale to answer.

Technology Help Appointments with Acton Memorial Library Staff
Thursday, September 11th, 10:00-11:00am                                                                    
Acton 60+ only   
Need help with common smartphone (iPhone or Android), tablet or laptop functions? Olivia Wennerod, Adult Programming Librarian, will be at the Senior Center for one-on-one help with your device. Bring your fully charged device and your questions, and Olivia will troubleshoot technology problems alongside you. If they can’t help with a specific problem you are having, she will do her best to find the right resources that can help you. Call the COA to reserve a 15-minute appointment.

Singer-Songwriters of the 60s with John Clark
Thursday, September 11th, 1:00-2:00pm                               
Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $5
This multi-media presentation starts with early sixties musicians Tim Buckley, Tim Hardin, Tom Paxton, Gordon Lightfoot, and Phil Ochs who all achieved some measure of success. Next are Tom Rush and Judy Collins who helped popularize many of the best writers by covering their songs. We then turn to the early days of artists influenced by Dylan who found great success—Donovan, Van Morrison, James Taylor, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Cat Stevens, Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, and Carole King. Lesser known singer-songwriters like Richard Thompson and Jesse Winchester merit some attention and let’s not forget Robbie Robertson as well as John Lennon, George Harrison and Paul McCartney who all released solo records after the breakup of The Beatles. This program does not include artists who are featured in separate programs—Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen. Prior to a career as a high school and adult education teacher, John Clark worked in music publishing in Nashville. He enjoys sharing his passion for music with senior centers and senior residences.

   The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday September 14.  Come see Boxborough’s historic treasures including the 1850’s scale which is sensitive enough to weigh a penny and strong enough to calibrate a 50 pound weight, the “new” hearse built in 1881, and the “old” hearse (come and see how old is old).  Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information or if anyone wishes to arrange a private tour for a small group at a different time please call John Fallon at 978-264-0069.

Saturday & Sunday, September 27 & 28 from 11 to 6: Come join the fun on Stow Lions Field at the corner of Route 117/Great Road and Hudson Road, There will be 6 food trucks, 2 dessert trucks, 2 caterer tents and a beer tent. Enjoy Tacos & Burritos, Smokehouse BBQ, Sauced & Tossed Chicken, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Waffles, Cannoli’s, and Erickson’s Ice cream. Rapscallions will provide Craft Beer. Enjoy relaxing with live musical entertainment. There will be a children’s area led by professional staff providing games, crafts and face painting, plus a sheep petting area. Free parking is at Lion’s Field or adjacent field south on Hudson Road. Entrance donation: $5 adults (18-59), $4 seniors (60+) and $3 children (5-17). Support Lions Club Community Service and have a great time!

 

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

Mt Calvary Lutheran Church will be renovating the Parish Hall where we have our Supper. On September 10th,17th, and 24th we will not be able to have our usual sit-down dinner. Instead, we will have a Grab and Go meal for each guest. Guests will come into the Lobby to pick up meals.

We ask that guests remain in their cars until the lobby doors open at 4:30. Distribution tables will be set up for each guest to receive a meal, a bag of vegetables, and any other items we receive. (You may wish to bring your own reusable bag to carry everything.) Thank you for your patience.

We hope to be back at our sit-down dinner by the beginning of October. We will have updates available each week.

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

Time: Dinner on September 3rd is served inside at 4:30pm – 5:30pm.
                September 10th, 17th and 24th are “Grab & Go” only 4:30pm – 5:30pm

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

September 2025 Menu

9/3       Regular Sit-down Supper: Chicken Tetrazzini
                      Sponsored by United Church of Christ Congregational, Boxborough

9/10        “Grab & Go” Cobb Salad Supper: with Boneless Chicken Breast
                      Sponsored by Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton

9/17        “Grab & Go” Baked Ziti and Meatballs
Sponsored by Friends of Mike Tobia
9/24        “Grab & Go” Pork Loin Chops
  Sponsored by Friends of Mt. Calvary Community Supper

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

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

 

This year promises to be our biggest fair yet, with hundreds of young entrepreneurs from across New England launching their own businesses for the day. These young people have worked hard to prepare detailed business plans, create products, and design marketing strategies. Their dedication and creativity are inspiring, and the fair gives them an incredible platform to showcase their talents.
Visitors will discover a remarkable variety of businesses: food stands, handmade crafts, art booths, tech ventures, and innovative services. There will also be live demonstrations, interactive displays, and special recognition ceremonies throughout the afternoon. The event runs from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM and is free for the public, thanks to the generous support of our community sponsors.
The Acton Children’s Business Fair is more than just a marketplace — it’s a celebration of the next generation of leaders. These young entrepreneurs are already making a difference in their communities with their creativity, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. The overwhelming support from local businesses and organizations shows just how deeply our region values investing in its youth.

It’s time again for First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) to sell its homemade apple pies on Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday, Sept. 20, to Sunday, Oct. 12. Sales will begin at 10 a.m. and will close when the day’s pies are sold, or at 1 p.m., whichever comes first. FPC’s 3 lb. pies are $20 each and 1 lb. tarts are $10, cash or check preferred. The apple pie stand is located at the front of the church grounds, at 353 Great Road, Stow. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org. Apples for the pies have been generously donated by Shelburne Farm of Stow.

 

You may have heard of the “4% rule” when it comes to retirement. The idea is simple: After you retire, you withdraw 4% of your investment portfolio each year. In theory, this helps ensure your savings last for your lifetime. While this rule can be a helpful starting point, it's not a one-size-fits-all — and it's definitely not a substitute for a plan tailored to your specific needs, wants and wishes.
The truth is, how much to withdraw in retirement depends on factors like when you retire, if you’ll work part time, how long you expect retirement to last, your lifestyle goals, inflation and whether you want to leave a financial legacy to heirs. So, the 4% rule should be viewed as more of a guide than a strict rule.
Let’s start with age. The 4% rule is often based on someone retiring at 65 and expecting to live until about 92. But if you retire earlier, you may want your portfolio to stretch further. In that case, you might need to start with a lower withdrawal rate, maybe closer to 3%. And if you retire later, you might safely withdraw a little more — perhaps 4.5% to 5% — depending on your financial situation.
Your retirement lifestyle also plays a big role. Are you planning to travel the world or spend more time at home? If you expect higher spending in the early years of retirement, you may need to adjust your withdrawal rate or plan to reduce spending later to balance things out.
Your financial flexibility matters too. If you have less wiggle room with your expenses, rely heavily on your portfolio for income or want to preserve wealth for your heirs, a more conservative approach might be wise. In this conservative scenario, your portfolio withdrawals may be met from interest and dividends. Think of your withdrawal rate as existing on a spectrum from more conservative to less conservative, with your personal situation determining where you land.
Then there’s inflation. A well-built strategy usually includes small annual increases in withdrawals to keep up with rising costs — about 2.75% per year. But you don't need to take a raise just because the calendar says so. If the markets have had a tough year or you don't need the extra income, it might be smart to skip an increase. Being flexible can improve the chances your money will last.
It's also important to understand what’s known as your “portfolio reliance rate” — how much of your retirement income comes from your investments versus other sources like Social Security or pensions. The higher this percentage, the more conservative you may want to be with withdrawals.
And don't forget the IRS. If you're drawing from a traditional IRA or 401(k), you'll need to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) once you reach age 73. Your RMD for any year is the account balance as of the end of the prior calendar year divided by a life expectancy factor according to the IRS. These RMDs need to be accounted for in your strategy.
The bottom line? The 4% rule is a useful starting point, but it's just that — a starting point. A good financial advisor can help you build a strategy that reflects your age, your goals and your full financial picture. By revisiting your plan regularly and staying flexible, you'll give yourself the best shot at turning your savings into a secure, fulfilling retirement.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

On Saturday, September 20, all gardeners are welcome to join the New England Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society (NARGS) for their fall kick-off meeting. The topic of the day is seed saving, processing, and growing. The event will take place at the Goodnow Library in Sudbury from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm.
Attendees are asked to bring their own bag lunch, with beverages and snacks provided. At 11 am, Jan Sacks and Marty Schafer of Carlisle lead the panel discussion on Seeds - Collecting and Cleaning Techniques. These expert growers will share tips they’ve found valuable. After the lunch break, our Annual Seedling Sale begins at 1 pm. Members bring their extra seedlings of clearly labelled rock garden plants, including some natives, to share. The first-round price is $2 per pot until buying slows down, after which the price is $1 per pot. Very special, higher-value plants may be raffled off.
Come to buy, even if you can’t bring seedlings of your own!

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. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

 

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

The Town of Acton Human Services and Senior Center will be closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.
Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
Tuesdays, September 2nd and 16th, 3:00-4:30pm            
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 and serves on the Newton COA Board. 

Acton Songsters with Ed Knights
Wednesdays, September 3rd and 17th, 1:00-1:45pm                                         
Open to all 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, September 4th, 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. Enjoy light snacks and beverages while you learn more about the next steps to consider what will work best for you.

How to Get Outside This Autumn (Safely!)
Thursday, September 4th, 2:00-3:00pm                                 
Open to all age 60+/free
Are you looking to get outside this autumn but worried about where to walk and how to avoid ticks and mosquitoes? Join Acton’s Community Conservation Specialist, Ian Bergemann, and Acton Public Health Nurse, Susan Sama, for a presentation on how to safely navigate the outdoors this fall. Learn how to prevent tick and mosquito-borne illnesses, how to find trails in town, and what apps you can use to identify wildlife!

NEW Navigating Grief Group via Zoom
Thursday, September 4th, 3:00-4:00pm                                     
Open to all/free
Are you experiencing grief from the death of an older loved one and finding it hard to cope with everyday life? If so, please join us in a new grief support group that will meet once a month for one hour via Zoom to discuss ways of coping with grief. Listening to others’ experiences can help you to better understand your own experience and may provide you with new insight in more constructive ways of dealing with this stage of life. This group will be led by Julie Norstrand, PhD, an experienced eldercare consultant who has worked with older adults and family caregivers for many years. Please sign up with the Council on Aging at seniorcenter@actonma.gov. Funded by an Executive Office of Aging & Independence grant.

Laugh for Your Health with Susan Phillips                        
(No class September 11th) 
Thursdays, 11:00am-12noon                                                             
Open to all 60+/free
Laughter is an instant vacation! Come join us as we do easy and fun seated laughter exercises to shift our mood, relieve stress, relax our whole body, positively connect with others, and infuse our whole being with joy! In this interactive program, we learn how to generate our own laughter without relying on jokes. This worldwide practice is called Laughter Yoga, but there are no mats or yoga poses. We add yoga breaths, which are deep belly breaths, for soothing breaks between exercises. Come enjoy all the health benefits the power of giggles has to offer and leave feeling relaxed and refreshed! Funded by an Executive Office of Aging & Independence grant. Susan Phillips, M.Ed. is an Integrative Health Coach and Laughter Yoga Teacher. Her workshops promote laughter as a tool to build joy, resilience, connection, and collaboration.

Please participate in the Stuff a Cruiser Food Drive to benefit the Maynard Food Pantry on Saturday, September 13, 2025 between 10 AM – 1 PM at the Maynard Market Basket parking lot, 6 Digital Way, Maynard!  This wonderful food drive is being sponsored by the Maynard Police Department, Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley and the Maynard Public Schools.

Whether you are shopping at the Maynard Market Basket or just want to drop a food donation off on that Saturday, September 13th, there will be police cruisers in the parking lot to accept your food donations.  Please do not donate perishable food items (refrigerated or frozen) or glass items.  It will be a great way for everyone (young and older) to do good at a fun event!

Maynard Food Pantry most needed items include Spam, baked beans, beef stew, Progresso soups (no chicken noodle or chicken and rice, please), Sloppy Joe or Corned Beef cans, cereal bars/granola bars, individual juice boxes, Chef Boyardee meals.

The Maynard Food Pantry is very grateful for the support of the Maynard Police Department, Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, the Maynard Public Schools and the Maynard Market Basket for coordinating this effort!

When the world feels overwhelming, humor can be a form of resistance. On Sunday, September 14 at 10 AM, join us at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (Unitarian Universalist), as we explore “Mischief in the Midst of Mayhem.”
As our world constantly changes around us in ways that are often spirit-quenching, how can we bring humor and play into the work of resistance, to bring lightness of spirit into the heaviness of these times? Bring your ideas and your open spirit to this exploration.
Unitarian Universalist congregations are open to all who seek meaning, connections, and inspiration, regardless of background or belief. We are located at 353 Great Rd in Stow, MA.

The First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) is kicking off a brand-new church year, and you’re invited! Join us on Sunday, September 8, at 10 AM for a service full of music, community, and celebration.
We’ll begin with our Blessing of the Backpacks—kids, teens, and adults heading back to school are encouraged to bring their bags for encouragement and good wishes for the year ahead. We’ll also share in our Water Communion, a beautiful tradition where each of us brings a bit of water that represents our summer—whether from a favorite trip, your backyard, or simply a meaningful moment. Together, we’ll pour our water into one bowl as a symbol of our shared joys, challenges, and hopes.
Whether you’ve been part of FPC for years, are new to the area, or are just curious about Unitarian Universalism, you’ll find a warm welcome here. Come as you are, bring some water if you’d like, and share in the spirit of community as we begin this new church year together. We are located at 353 Great Rd in Stow, MA.

All are welcome to Guest Table Community Dinner at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) on Friday, September 12. Our community dinner is served on the second Friday of each month in FPC’s Fellowship Hall. There is no charge for the meal, but donations are gratefully accepted and we are always looking for volunteers to help set-up, cook, serve, or clean-up. We offer options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients. Doors open at 5 PM, dinner is served at 5:30 PM.
Our dinners, in the past and present, are sponsored by the generous donations from the Stow Community Chest. We are also grateful for the consistent support we receive from the Stow Council on Aging and The Stow Food Pantry.
First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible with free accessible parking. If you have questions or would like to volunteer with a meal, please email fpcguesttable@fpc-stow-acton.org.

Come shop and see what treasures you can take home from the Community Yard Sale at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) on Saturday, September 13, from 8:30 AM to 1 PM. With lots of sellers and tables all in one place, it’s the perfect chance to hunt for bargains and unique items you won’t find anywhere else.
You might stumble upon household goods, artwork, ceramics, toys, sports gear, or one-of-a-kind finds. The sale will be set up in the church parking lot, but if it rains we’ll move everything indoors. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow.

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. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

October 4 “Miles for Mutts” 
5K Race/Walk
Early Bird Registration Discount!

Join Save A Dog at our 6th Annual “Miles for Mutts” race/walk on October 4 and make a difference in the lives of animals in need! Sign up to walk or run a scenic 5K course that starts and ends at the Marlborough Moose Lodge in Marlborough and winds through the beautiful Assabet River Valley Rail Trail.

The fun includes medals for the top three finishers overall and by age category, a goody bag for all participants, and a commemorative t-shirt for the first 100 entrants! Dogs are welcome to walk the route, too, and enjoy a yummy pup cup at the finish line!

To register, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marlborough/MilesForMutts5KRunWalk.
An “Early Bird Discount” of $35 for Adults ($25 age 18 and under) is available to those who register by September 1.

The race starts at 10 am, with registration open at 8:30 am. All proceeds from the race support the vital rescue work of Save a Dog.

Now in its 27th year, Save A Dog has found loving, forever homes for nearly 9,000 homeless pets through its Sudbury shelter and network of dedicated foster homes. More information about Save A Dog and the rescue’s adoptable dogs (and cats!) can be found at www.saveadog.org. 

For our Open Sing rehearsals on September 8th and 15th, 2025. Give us a try and see if you'd like to become a member!
Acton Community Chorus is a non-auditioned chorus founded in 1984, providing singers from the MetroWest communities with an opportunity to enjoy singing choral music in a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere.

 

In life, balance is everything — whether it’s finding time between work and family or maintaining a healthy diet. The same goes for your investments. Keeping your financial portfolio balanced is a smart way to stay on track toward your long-term goals, even as the markets shift.
That’s where portfolio rebalancing comes in. Rebalancing is the process of adjusting your investments — like stocks, bonds and cash — so they stay in the right mix for your needs. This mix, known as your asset allocation, is designed to reflect your comfort with risk, your investment goals and how long you have until you’ll need to use the money for a major life event like retirement or the purchase of a new home.
For example, let’s say your target portfolio is made up of 60% stocks, 30% bonds and 10% cash. Over time, as the value of each investment changes, your portfolio may become unbalanced. If stocks have a great year and rise in value, they could end up making up 70% of your portfolio. That means you’re taking on more risk than you originally intended.
To get back to your 60/30/10 target, you would sell some stocks and possibly buy more bonds or cash investments. This helps bring your portfolio back in line with your goals.
Markets go up and down. That’s normal — but it also means your portfolio can shift without your even touching it. If you don’t rebalance regularly, you might be taking on too much (or too little) risk.
Rebalancing offers several benefits. It helps keep your investment plan on track and manages your exposure to risk. It also encourages disciplined decision-making, rather than chasing trends.
It might feel strange to sell investments that have been doing well and buy ones that haven’t. But this strategy can help you “buy low and sell high,” which is one of the key ideas behind successful investing.
You may be wondering how often you should rebalance your portfolio. There really is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people rebalance once a year. Others do it more frequently based on how far their investments drift from their target percentages.
What’s important is that you check your portfolio regularly — at least annually — and make adjustments when needed. After big market movements, whether up or down, it’s a good idea to take a closer look.
Keep in mind that if you rebalance by selling investments in a taxable account, you might owe capital gains taxes. Also, some brokers charge fees for trades. But if you own similar investments in a retirement account like an IRA or 401(k), you can often rebalance without triggering taxes. A financial advisor can help you choose the best approach — and may even be able to help you avoid or reduce costs.
Your ideal investment mix will probably change as your life changes. Younger investors might favor stocks for growth. As you near retirement, you may want to focus more on income and stability. Rebalancing helps you adjust as your goals evolve.
Think of your portfolio like a car on a road trip — regular check-ins and small course corrections will help you stay on the right path. A financial advisor can help you design a strategy that keeps your investments aligned with your goals every step of the way.


This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.