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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


March 2026 Menu

3/4         Mediterranean Chicken
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Elohim Sisterhood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   Since 2014 Boxborough has been part of the Acton Boxborough Region School District for all grades.  But what about the 230 years before that?  How were Boxborough children educated? When did education become compulsory? How many one room school houses still exist in town? Who built the Blanchard School? How did the Acton Boxborough Regional School District first come about? On Sunday March 22 at 2 p.m. in the Boxborough Town Hall, John Fallon, a two term past member of both the Boxborough and Acton Boxborough School Committees, will discuss 230 years of Boxborough education. The program is free and all are welcome. 

Join us for a lively night of good food and entertainment and lend your support to the Acton Food Pantry at our signature fundraiser this year, Season of Change, held at The Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton on April 14th.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  Our event features tastings from exceptional local chefs from The Barn at Gibbet Hill, Season to Taste, 80 Thoreau, Puritan & Company, Salt Box Kitchen, Adelita and Silver Girl.  Renowned comedian Jimmy Tingle is our emcee, auctioneer, and entertainer for the evening!

An online auction is also part of this fundraising event, running from April 1-14 with over 100 items donated from area businesses and community members to bid on.  In addition, Jimmy Tingle is overseeing a live auction for attendees only featuring weekends on Cape Cod and Vermont, sports tickets, and more!  We are fortunate to have many generous businesses and individuals supporting the food pantry this year by sponsoring the event.  See our list of sponsors, auction items (coming soon) and other event information on our webpage www.chefchallenge.org.

 

When you open a retirement account or buy life insurance, you are asked to name a beneficiary. It may feel like routine paperwork, but this choice can shape your family’s future in powerful ways.

Many people forget about their beneficiary forms after they sign them, but these instructions can override your will. If they are outdated, your money could go to someone you didn't intend, creating what experts call an accidental inheritance.

When life changes — through marriage, divorce, children or the loss of a loved one — it's a good time to review your choices.

You'll also want to be cautious about naming minors as beneficiaries because the court would need to get involved.

And for family members with special needs, improperly naming a beneficiary could jeopardize that person’s eligibility to receive government benefits.

Take time today to add beneficiary designations if you haven't already, or to confirm that your beneficiary designations still reflect your wishes.

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

Happy (almost) Spring!  My outdoor thermometer is showing 68 degrees now!
     Please check our website (above) for information about our furniture bank.  There are links to donate $$ through PayPal and Venmo.  You can find our hours of operation, what we take and do not take, information about what we do, and lots more.
     This week we still need:
Queen sheet sets, queen and full-size blankets & comforters, bath mats & shower liners and bath towels.  In the kitchen department we need large skillets and large pots, food storage containers, mixing & serving bowls, pot holders, measuring spoons & cups, non-slotted & slotted spoons, can openers, cutting boards, strainers, baking sheets, and silverware.  We are low on artwork to dress up our clients’ new homes.  We always need box springs and mattresses, and rugs and dining tables.  You can bring non-furniture items to us at 16 Brent Drive, Hudson from 9-noon Tuesday and Thursday and from 8:30-noon on Saturdays with furniture donations from 8:30-10:30 Saturday.
     We help a lot of families, thanks to donations from people like you.  Donations do not have to be new (but that’s great if they are!) but they need to be in good shape for us to give to our clients.
   Thank you!

On Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 9 – 1, Memorial Congregational Church is hosting its Spring electronics recycling and document shredding event.

The event is open to all communities and will be held rain or shine.  At the electronics recycling truck, prices vary from $25-50 for a TV, $15 for a laptop computer, $15-25 for a computer monitor, $5-$40 for appliances, and $5 for a box of electric cords.  Workers will remove the items from your vehicle and place them in the recycling truck which is operated by a state-licensed electronic recycling company who will properly dispose of all items. They will accept ANYTHING WITH A CORD OR BATTERY (including washing machines, air conditioners, space heaters, treadmills, etc.) as well as propane tanks, any type of battery, printer ink cartridges, and toner cartridges.

The fee for shredding is just $9 per copy paper box or brown grocery bag.  A volunteer will remove your boxes or bags of documents from your car and your documents will be shredded on-site.  The truck is equipped with closed-circuit TV so you can actually watch the shredding if you wish. Personal and business documents of any type may be shredded.

You may pay by cash, check, or VENMO.

MCC is located at 26 Concord Road, just across from Goodnow Library in Sudbury. For more information, please email recycling@MCCSudbury.org  or call 978-443-3885.

 

BOSTON, MA — Women's Money Matters, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that empowers women and girls living on low incomes to improve their financial health, is seeking volunteer coaches and presenters across Eastern Massachusetts to support a surge in demand for its free financial wellness programs. The nonprofit is recruiting volunteers in Middlesex, Suffolk, Essex, and Norfolk Counties as recent federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid have left thousands of Massachusetts families without critical safety net support. In Massachusetts, nearly 1 in 9 women live in poverty, and for women of color, that number climbs to 1 in 5. Recent federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid have compounded that stress.
Women's Money Matters offers free, group-based financial wellness programs that combine financial health workshops, peer support, and personalized one-to-one coaching. WMM's programs don't just provide financial concepts. They build the confidence and habits that lead to lasting change. It's not just about knowing how to manage money, but ultimately gaining confidence and feeling in control of your financial life.
Central to that model is the one-to-one coaching relationship. Each participant is paired with a dedicated volunteer coach for the duration of the three-month program: someone who shows up every week, learns their specific goals and challenges, and provides consistent, personalized support that a classroom setting alone cannot offer. Coaches are not required to have a financial background. Their role is to listen, encourage, and help participants stay accountable to the goals they set for themselves.
Alongside coaches, volunteer presenters bring subject matter expertise into the workshops themselves. Presenters share their knowledge in a single, 90-minute workshop—perfect for busy professionals who want to give back but can't commit to an ongoing volunteer role. Topics range from building credit to protecting against fraud to retirement planning.

The Impact: Real Results, Real Change
WMM's financial wellness programs produce measurable, life-changing outcomes. Among Financial Futures graduates:

• 254% average increase in savings—from $264 at program start to $934 at completion
• 26% average increase in monthly income—from $2,072 to $2,601
• 40+ point average credit score increase
• 96% of graduates feel confident managing their finances at program completion
• 100% report using a budget to manage their expenses—up from just 20% at program start

Join 417 volunteers who contributed more than 14,000 hours to WMM last year and help grow that impact!

Upcoming Information Sessions
Register now to learn more about volunteer opportunities:

• March 16 | 12:00–1:00 PM
  • Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/k-VWOZqURd-KjMsVx7tEtA
• April 14 | 6:30–7:30 PM
  • Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/WtEQSFgGTQq0H7vnqg1fLQ
• May 13 | 7:00–8:00 PM
  • Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ujr996qFQZqvzNA24kbk_A

For a full list of upcoming information sessions, visit: womensmoneymatters.org/upcoming-programs/upcoming-info-sessions/
To express interest in volunteering, contact Ariana Contreras at acontreras@womensmoneymatters.org or visit womensmoneymatters.org/volunteer-opportunities/.

(128 Lowell Road – Westford) Sunday March 29th – 1PM
20 Easter Hams and 20 Turkeys raffled on a spin wheel
*Sirloin Strips, Prime Ribs and others are also being raffled off. Raffle tickets on sale at the event! $1500 Cash drawing as well! (Drawing tickets on sale now – see any Stony Brook member) Open to the public.
Food and beverages will also be available.

 

Hosted by Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club
"Ready to Speak with Confidence?"
There is nothing quite like the safe, supportive space of a Toastmasters club to find clarity in your thoughts, sharpen your message, and step boldly into your confident voice.
Event Details:
When: Monday, March 9 at 7:00 PM
Where: Acton Public Safety Facility, 371 Main Street, Acton
Cost: FREE for all guests
Why Join Us?
Whether you are preparing for professional presentations, upcoming interviews, community leadership, or simply want to express yourself more clearly, we provide the tools to help you succeed.
A Welcoming Environment: Experience a live meeting and participate at your own comfort level.
Structured Growth: See how practice and supportive feedback accelerate your leadership presence.
Local Community: Meet neighbors and members from the Acton and Littleton area.
FIND YOUR VOICE. LEAD WITH CONFIDENCE.
Learn more: 2193.toastmastersclubs.org
RSVP or Questions? Contact Peter Thompson:
Call/Text: 978-844-0188
Email: peterthompson711@gmail.com

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

Friday, March 13, 5:30PM
Guest Table Community Dinner,
Please join us Friday, March 13 for our next dinner. We offer options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients. All meals are nut-free. Doors open at 5 PM, dinner is served at 5:30 PM.
Meals take place in Fellowship Hall at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd in Stow. Our building is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. There is plenty of free parking.
If you have questions or would like to volunteer to help with a meal, please email fpcguesttable@fpc-stow-acton.org.

Sunday, March 15, 3PM
Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra,
The FPC Music Committee is proud to present Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra in concert in the FPC Sanctuary. Toe-tapping fun for the whole family!
The Orchestra plays vintage arrangements of ragtime music and popular songs from the 1890’s – 1920’s. That includes rags, fox-trots, slow drags, two-steps, waltzes and more, and features works of Joplin, Salisbury, Lamb, Turpin, Berlin, and others. They put a smile on your face and a spring in your step! The suggested donation is $20–40. Donations will be accepted at Eventbrite, at the door.

The League of Women Voters – Acton Area will host a moderated panel discussion on Zoom on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM EST. The event is free and open to the public.
Many people with disabilities face barriers to participating in Town Meeting. This webinar will explore those challenges and share practical strategies to remove obstacles and increase participation.
Expert panelists will cover (1) key requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for accessible public meetings; (2) how individuals can request reasonable accommodations; and (3) the process towns must follow to comply with the law. The panel will share various ways towns have successfully removed barriers, including using accessible venues, offering virtual options, hiring sign language interpreters, and providing closed captioning and large-print materials.
Panel members include Jeff Dougan, Assistant Director for Community Services, MA Office on Disability; Wanjiku Gachugi, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Town of Acton who also serves as the local ADA Coordinator; and Jo-Ann Berry, Town Moderator, Town of Acton and Director, League of Women Voters, Acton Area. The panel will be moderated by League member, Mary Ann Ashton.
Whether you are a dedicated Town Meeting attendee, a passionate advocate for broader civic engagement, or serve in a leadership role—such as Town Moderator, Special Educator, a member of a local Disability Commission, or a member of the Council on Aging—this session is designed for you. By attending, you will leave equipped with the knowledge and tools to foster greater inclusivity and strengthen your community’s democratic process.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the change. Register today and help ensure every voice—regardless of ability—is heard at Town Meeting.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state, and national government. The League develops positions on issues but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. It has a long tradition of providing important voter information services, such as this webinar. Please visit our website (lwv-actonarea.org) for more information.
This event is part of the “Margaret Kennedy Social Justice Initiative.”

CONCORD, MA, Jan. 26, 2026 – Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area (FWNHA) is inviting museums, cultural organizations, historical societies, libraries, land trusts, arts groups, and other organizations across its 45-community region to become partners in the 2026 Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History, taking place throughout the month of May.

Hidden Treasures is an annual, month-long, region-wide celebration that highlights the people, places, stories, landscapes, and creative traditions that define this nationally designated Heritage Area. Participating organizations host free, public events or activities—such as guided walks, open houses, performances, exhibits, talks, or self-guided experiences—that showcase a “hidden treasure” in their community.

Participation is free, and partner organizations receive broad regional visibility through Freedom’s Way’s website, interactive event map, newsletters, print promotions, and mobile app. Mini-grants of up to $350 are available to help offset eligible program expenses.

Organizations within the Heritage Area’s 45 communities are encouraged to learn more and sign up at https://freedomsway.org/HTPartner or share questions/ideas tohiddentreasures@freedomsway.org .

The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will hold a Company meeting on Sunday March 15 at the Boxborough Community Center at 30 Middle Road starting at 8 p.m. For information please contact Captain Rich Grady at captain@boxboroughminutemen.org or Lieutenant Tim Blankenship at lieutenant@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.

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a time to celebrate everything women have achieved and to honor their strength and resilience. It’s also a chance to have honest conversations about real-life challenges many women face.
One of these is the growing trend of divorce among those ages 50 and older, often called “gray divorce.” While finding yourself in this situation can feel overwhelming, it also can be an opportunity to reclaim your independence and create a life that reflects your dreams and values.
Today, one-third (36%) of divorcing adults are 50 or older (The Journals of Gerontology, 2022) and 77% of women who experienced gray divorce remain single 10 years after divorce ("Repartnering following gray divorce," 2019). While that might sound surprising, many women view this as a time to focus on goals, dreams and well-being without compromise.
Of course, there are financial realities to consider. Women older than 50 often experience a 45% drop in their standard of living after divorce (compared to 21% for men), and household income can fall by 23% to 40% in the first year ("The Economic Consequences of Gray Divorce for Women and Men," 2020). So, building financial confidence isn’t just important; it’s empowering.
If you are 50 or older and recently divorced, take the following steps with your financial advisor. You don’t have to do it all at once; small steps can help lead to greater financial security over time. Find a financial advisor who truly listens. If you’ve ever felt unheard or dismissed, don’t settle. Your future deserves someone who respects your voice. Get clear on your finances. List your assets, debts, income and expenses to understand your financial situation — the first step toward taking control. Create a flexible plan. Include your current needs, short-term goals and retirement aspirations. Instead of feeling intimidated, you can let a financial advisor help make this simple and manageable. Learn about money. Read, attend workshops and join online communities focused on women and finance. Every bit of knowledge adds confidence. Build an emergency fund. Work toward having three to six months of living expenses in a low-risk, liquid account. This may take gradual, consistent contributions, but ultimately, this cushion can help provide a sense of security as you navigate your new circumstances. Review insurance and your employer benefits. Make sure your medical insurance coverage is adequate. Consider long-term care insurance to help preserve your retirement assets. Estate planning. Work with an attorney to review beneficiary designations on bank and brokerage accounts while updating your will, powers of attorney and, as needed, a revocable living trust. Social Security. If you were married 10 years or longer, understand your rights to Social Security benefits from your ex-spouse.
Rather than being the end, gray divorce can represent a new chapter. This International Women’s Day, celebrate your resilience and your potential. The future is yours to shape, and it can be as bold, bright and fulfilling as you want it to be.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Successful donations will receive free testing in March, $15 Amazon Gift Card by email for coming to give March 1-31

• Early detection isn’t just good for long-term health — it’s also a warning for people’s wallets. As the nation’s largest blood supplier, the Red Cross is uniquely positioned to provide donors with health insights that can help bridge preventative care gaps, such as undiagnosed diabetes and hypertension.
• Visit RedCrossBlood.org now to book a time to give blood or platelets. In March, the Red Cross will provide free A1C testing on successful blood, platelet and plasma donations. Those who come to give March 1-31 will also get a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/March.

The Middlesex Conservation District will be holding its annual Spring Plant Sale on Friday, May 1, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM and Saturday, May 2, from 9:00 AM – 1:00PM at the Minuteman High School. The address is 758 Marrett Road, Lexington, MA 02421. All items can be pre-ordered through April 24th and picked up on the sale days – we encourage early ordering as all items are sold on a first come, first served basis.

To place an order, you can go to our website at https://middlesexconservationdistrict.org/spring-sale-ordering/, go to the Spring Sale page, and order the plants you are interested in online, or email
admin@middlesexconservationdistrict.org to request a paper brochure. The order form is also available to view online. Offerings will include native shrub seedlings, wildflowers, ferns, grasses, and hardgoods such as garden labels. All plants are straight, native species that benefit our native pollinators, wildlife, and local ecosystem. We will also be selling excess first quality stock on the days listed above.

The Middlesex Conservation District is a not-for-profit environmental agency whose purpose is conservation of natural resources of Middlesex County. Proceeds from our biannual plant sales provide educational programs and other activities which aim to protect our soil and water resources. For more information about our sale or programs please visit https://middlesexconservationdistrict.org/.