Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5

Monday: A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Turn off your TV and stop by for 2 hours of pleasant tea and pleasantries, pastries with good company, and no politics!
Tuesday: Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday: Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday: Office Hours with Melissa (Director of the Berlin COA) 10 – 11am (Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday)
Wednesday: Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday: Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Thursday: Afternoon Games 2 - 4pm
Friday: Open Art Studio & Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday: Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday: Social 10am - 1pm
Office Hours w Senator Kennedy’s team Every second Wednesday of the month at 11am – 12pm

Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!

FEBRUARY 15-21, 2026

Sunday, February 15, 6pm – 8:30pm | Jazz Jam
Improvise in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Players & listeners welcome. Email Ken at ken@parrishworks.net with questions. Suggested donation: $5

Monday, February 16 | We are open on President's Day!

Tuesday, February 17, 2:15pm | Book Club: While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
Join 19 Carter's Book Club! All are welcome to stop by and join the discussion. For more info email Ann Ribbens: annri1951@yahoo.com. Suggested donation: $5

Tuesday, February 17, 7pm | Jazz Ensemble Workshop
We'll analyze, discuss and listen to various different jazz charts and improvise together as an ensemble! Class time will be split between instruction and playing.
Schedule:  6 two-hour sessions. Tuesdays:  7:00pm – 9:00pm.  Dates: Feb. 17, March 3, March 17, March 31, April 14, April 28
Cost: $150 for 6 sessions (Practical Music Theory book included). Scholarships available - if price is a barrier, call 978-415-0014 for more information. Learn more & register at 19Carter.org.

Friday, February 20, 6:30pm | Movie Night: Fantasia 2000
Tickets: $15 (includes pizza, popcorn, and salad!) Reserve tickets at 19Carter.org. Reservations required by 3:00 pm on the day of screening. Sponsored by Cordelia's Farm & Berlin’s Council on Aging. 

It’s that time of year when tax refunds go out. If you get a refund this year, how can you make the best use of it?

For starters, you could use your refund to help fund your IRA. You still have until April 15 to contribute to your IRA for the 2025 tax year, but if you’ve already put in the full amount, you can begin on 2026 contributions.

If you have children or grandchildren, you could use some of your refund to help fund a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan.

Another possibility is to use the refund to pay down some of your debts. You could try to pay off the smallest debts as soon as possible or, alternatively, tackle the debts that carry the highest interest rates.

It’s not often that you receive a financial windfall like a tax refund, so think carefully about how you can maximize its benefits.

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

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

 

Last Saturday was another bitterly cold day in Hudson; four hearty donors showed up and brought donations for our furniture bank - thank you!!  Most of our scheduled clients showed up to pick out and pick up furniture and furnishings for their new homes.
     At present we have only two rugs to give to clients so if you have extra rugs in good condition, please bring them to us.   We accept furniture and household items on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30 and non-furniture items also on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-Noon. Check the link above for our location and lists of what we do and do not accept.  Donations do not need to be new but they do need to be in good condition (if you would not give it to a good friend, don’t give it to us!)
     Besides rugs, we are very low on bath towels and hand towels, bath mats, shower curtains, queen size sheets and COMFORTERS!!  Baby, it’s COLD outside!
     Also, we need roasting pans, baking pans, pie plates, serving bowls and platters and drinking glasses.
     Our website has more information on how to help; the green DONATE button will take you to a drop-down list showing Donate Items, Donate Funds, Shop Wishlists, Run a Drive and Donation receipts.
     Thank you for your help; Keep warm and safe!

The West Concord Cultural District Committee is launching a new project.  After sponsoring murals, sidewalk decals, the Poetry Phone, the painting of signal boxes and Porchfest, we are issuing a Call for Art for our first sculpture project.  The winning piece will be on display for one year (with the option to be renewed) at Junction Park, which is near the corner of Main Street and Commonwealth Avenue.  Junction Park is steps away from the West Concord MBTA rail stop and beside the path of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.  With gardens tended by the local Green Thumbs gardeners and benches that invite walkers and riders to stop and rest, we hope that the sculpture will reflect the love of nature and the peace it brings while also inviting people to enter the park and our cultural district.
The Call for Art is open to all Massachusetts artists aged 18 and over, working individually or in teams.  The deadline for applications is April 3, with the intention that installation will be completed by late summer.  The artist will receive a $4000 stipend.  For project guidelines and application, please go to https://tinyurl.com/West-Concord-Sculpture.

 

Have you ever thought about tutoring someone in English?  Most people who decide to become tutors are thinking of the good it can do, helping others become more proficient in English and better able to cope with employment, landlords, schools or the medical profession.  But then they discover the rewards, the satisfaction that comes as progress is made and a relationship develops that enriches both learner and tutor.  Tutors often speak of their pleasure in learning about another culture and their greater appreciation of the challenges facing those who are adapting to ours.

Because of the constant demand for tutoring, all available tutors are now working with students, and the next tutor-training course has been scheduled.  ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program directors Ginny Steel and Jane Albert are currently enrolling prospective tutors for the five-session course that starts on March 9.  The class will meet on five consecutive Monday mornings, 9-12.  The first four classes will meet virtually, using Zoom, and the last one will be in person, in the Wayland library.

No prior knowledge of a foreign language is needed, just an openness to other cultures and the desire to share your knowledge of English.  The training is free, although it is necessary to purchase a textbook for about $40.

Tutors will be prepared to work with their learners either remotely, as we often do now, or in person, as is sometimes possible. Tutors now are using Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, telephone and email as they “meet” with their learners and enjoy both success and personal connection.

For more information or to enroll in the tutor-training course, you can phone Ginny Steel at 508-358-7517 or email her at virginia@thesteels.com.

 

BOSTON (Feb. 4) — The first professional football game Eric Jellison attends in person will be Super Bowl LX, thanks to a blood donation he made earlier this month.

Eric has been a blood donor most of his life, but it was his donation on January 2 near his home in Wakefield that became a game-changer. Eric was randomly selected from a nationwide pool of donors to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX, along with tickets to the game and pre-game activities, the Super Bowl Experience and a $1000 gift card. The package was part of a partnership between the Red Cross and the NFL to thank football fans for giving the gift of life.

Eric, though, has an even bigger motivation for giving blood. He experienced a traumatic injury at a young age and needed blood transfusions. As soon as he was old enough to become a blood donor, he made a promise to continue giving blood with the Red Cross, an organization he credits for saving his life.

“If the simple act of donating blood did what it did for me,” Eric said, “how could I not pay it forward?”

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply of blood. Donors of all blood types, especially those with types O, A negative and B negative blood and those giving platelets, are urged to give now to help people who rely on transfusions for medical care. 

 

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
Charade
Monday, February 9th, 1:00-2:55 pm
(1963) Romance and intrigue ensue in Paris as a woman is pursued by several men trying to get to the fortune her murdered husband stole. Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant and Walter Matthau star in this comedic mystery. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.
                                                                        
Hearing Screening Appointments with Audiologist Megan Ford
Tuesday, February 10th, 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!

Book Discussion Group                              
Tuesday, February 10th, 10:00-11:00am                                          
Open to all 60+/free
The discussion for February’s meeting will be around the book Blood, Bones and Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton. If you would like to read ahead, the discussion for February’s meeting is around the book Samurai’s Garden by Gail Tsukiyama on March 10th. 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 the gatherings.

Introduction to the Alexander Technique with Hannah Greene
Tuesday, February 10th, 1:00-2:00pm                                                              
Open to all age 60+/free
Balancing on two feet is a beautifully complex process! As life unfolds, many of us experience changes in how we balance and stabilize ourselves. In this interactive workshop, we will explore tools from the Alexander Technique, a scientifically supported mind-body awareness practice. Come learn how fine-tuning your sensory awareness, redistributing muscular effort, and cooperating with your system’s innate design can help you stand, walk, and move with more ease. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. Acton resident Hannah Greene is a Certified Alexander Technique teacher, parent, musician, and writer.

Acton Songsters with Ed Knights
Wednesdays, February 11th and 25th, 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.

Mindfulness Meditation via Zoom
Wednesdays, February 11th through March 4th, 2:00-3:30pm   Open to all age 60+/free
In this four-week program, delivered via Zoom, we will explore both sitting meditation and mindful movement practices. The movement patterns are gentle and can be easily adapted for those with limited mobility. How are sitting and movement practices different, and how are they the same? How can they help us develop mindfulness skills, be present, and reduce stress? Each week, we will practice together and have ample time to discuss our experience. This class is suitable for beginners as well as anyone wishing to practice in community or to deepen or re-establish their practice. Please plan to attend all four classes. Heidrun Dickson trained as a mindfulness teacher at Brown University. She is a Qualified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher and loves sharing her learnings with others. 

Valentine’s Day Party                                                   
Wednesday, February 11th, 2:00-3:00pm 
Open to out-of-town 60+/free                                     
Join us in the COA Lounge for some sweet treats and fun for Valentine’s Day!

Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park Collette Trip Presentation
Wednesday, February 11th, 2:30pm
Come hear about the Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park trip departing September 2026 through Collette Travel sponsored by the Acton Friends of the COA. For more information reach out to: Bill Noeth, wnoeth@verizon.net 978-844-1831 or Leo Fochtman, Ljfochtman@gmail.com 978-621-0485.

Technology Help Appointments with Acton Memorial Library Staff
Thursday, February 12th, 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.

McManus Manor Senior Housing Lottery Information Session
Thursday, February 12th, 11:00-12noon                                                       
Open to all age 60+/free
Come learn more about a new affordable housing opportunity for older adults in Acton! The Acton Housing Authority’s McManus Manor Project consists of 41 units in a building pod style connected by a central spine with comfortable lounge spaces for residents throughout. The unit mix is 39 one-bedroom units and 2 two-bedroom units. This information session will detail the lottery process and is offered by the Chelmsford Housing Authority, the monitoring agent for the upcoming project lottery. Applications will be available.

Reminiscing Round Table: Famous US Landmarks with Dawn Gomez
Thursday, February 12th, 1:00-2:00pm                                            
Open to all age 60+/free
Buckle up and come join the fun as we take a journey to some famous landmarks in the United States. See how many you have been to and recall past adventures or learn about others that you never got to experience first-hand. Each landmark, whether natural or manmade, contributes to our country’s history and culture. We’ll start with some clues to pinpoint our destination and then delve into the background of each stop of our travels. Crisscrossing around the country, we’ll explore some of the biggest tourist destinations our 50 states have to offer, each revealing a different chapter of the American story. Dawn Gomez, Reminiscing Round Table Founder, provides topic-based programs for seniors at assisted living and senior center communities.
 

 

Severe blood shortage intensifies as snow, ice and extreme temperatures impact blood drives

BOSTON, Feb. 3, 2026 — The American Red Cross urges people to take action now to help offset the severe impact of recent winter storms on efforts to rebuild the blood supply during an ongoing blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are asked to make a blood or platelet donation appointment as soon as possible.

Over 500 blood drives have been canceled since the beginning of the year, causing more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. In addition to the disruption of blood drives, dangerous weather conditions have also made it tougher to transport vital blood products, which could potentially affect deliveries to hospitals in some locations. 

Patient care is at risk — donors in unaffected areas are asked to book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those in areas facing extreme winter weather are asked to give when it’s safe to do so. All who come to give Jan. 26-Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

Hospital impact
Shortfalls in blood and platelet donations caused by recent winter storms are putting further strain on the national blood supply, forcing some hospitals to cancel elective procedures due to blood product shortages. When supplies are critically low, trauma surgeons and other doctors face the real possibility that blood could run out when it’s needed most. Now is the time to give blood or platelets before doctors have to face difficult decisions about which patients can safely move forward with treatment, and who will need to wait.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Feb. 7-28:

Maynard

2/18/2026: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Maynard-Clinton Lodge of Elks #1568, 34 Powder Mill Rd

 

Trasheology: Sunday, February 15 - Wednesday, February 18 10:00am – 12:00pm; 1:00pm – 3:00pm Professional archeologists learn about people of the past by looking at what they left behind: a broken piece of pottery, leftover clam shells, or an old nail used to join planks in a house. Essentially, trash! In Trasheology, we’ll do archeology on some modern trash. What clues can we find to figure out who these people are and how they live their lives? Join us to find out!
Be a Data Scientist: Thursday, February 19 - Sunday, February 24 10:00am – 12:00pm; 1:00pm – 3:00pm How tall are Discovery Museum visitors? What kind of pets do they have? Learn the answers to these questions and more as we play with data. We’ll use a variety of ways of collecting and displaying data while exploring some fun and silly science.
Asobouyo! Play and Learn about Japan!: Tuesday, February 24 10:45am – 11:30am; 11:45am - 12:30pm How do I write my name in Japanese? Do Japanese children play with the same toys as me? Join visiting student teachers from Showa University in Tokyo to explore classic Japanese children’s toys and games. We’ll learn some simple Japanese words as we play together!
Songs & Secrets of Open Door Theater’s HONK!: Saturday, February 28, 3:00pm Join the cast and crew of Open Door Theater for a sneak peek of songs from their newest show, HONK!, a musical telling of “The Ugly Duckling” story. HONK! is a heartwarming celebration of being different that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Learn more about the performances at R.J. Grey Jr. H.S. in Acton, March 20-29 at www.opendoortheater.org. All performances are relaxed/sensory friendly and feature ASL interpretation and open captioning. There will be audio-described performances on the second weekend. Over its 45-year history, Open Door has provided accessible opportunities for all including under-served audiences and participants to enjoy live theater.

Below are some of the programs offered at the Discovery Museum this month. Check out the calendar on our website https://www.discoveryacton.org/ for the full schedule.

Meet the Andover SeaPerch Team: Saturday, February 7, 1:00pm – 3:00pm Discover the world of underwater robotics with the Andover SeaPerch Team! Learn how engineers design and build remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) through hands-on experience. You’ll assemble, experiment, test, and iterate on your own ROV, all while exploring the basic physics and engineering principles that make underwater robots work.

Make A Mess Artists on a Roll: Thursday, February 12, 10:00am – 12:00pm Use balls dipped in paint to roll your way to a brilliant work of art! This unusual painting technique combines physics, art, and your own movement.

Explore Kinetic Sand: Thursday, February 26, 10:00am – 12:00pm Squish it, sculpt it, drip it, and more! Discover the unique properties of this special material as you play, create, and experiment using your hands and some simple tools.

Saehae bok mani badeuseyo! Happy New Year!: Saturday, February 14, 1:00pm – 3:00pm Lunar New Year is a celebration observed by numerous cultures to mark the beginning of a calendar year whose months are based on moon cycles. A Discovery Museum staff member joins us to share her family’s traditions for the holiday. Play some traditional Korean games and try on hanbok, traditional Korean clothes, as you learn how to bow and wish your elders a happy new year!

Container gardening is an adventure all to itself.  Let your creative juices flow and come ready to learn.  This program is packed with information and tricks of the trade for beginning and advanced gardeners.

The presenter will be Kathi Gariepy. She is a Lifetime Master Gardener with the Massachusetts Master Gardner Association, past Vice President of the MMGA, past chair of the Master Gardner Advisory Board and past President of the Attleboro Garden Club.  Kathi is a Landscape Design Consultant and on the Gardening Study Council. She has worked as the lead teacher for the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, education coordinator for Mass Audubon and studied landscape design at Rhode Island School of Design. Kathie teaches children and adults about the wonders of nature.

Please join us on the 13th for a very enjoyable and educational evening.

 

The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will hold a Company meeting on Sunday February 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.

The Boxborough Historical Society is inviting residents of all ages to share personal stories that capture life in Boxborough. History is shaped by everyday moments, and members of the community are encouraged to reflect on experiences such as time spent on nature trails, favorite nights in town, meaningful gatherings, or stories about family and neighbors.
    Submissions will be compiled into a public physical and online anthology, with the option to be credited or be anonymous. Stories can be emailed to BoxboroughHistoricalSociety@gmail.com  by April 30, 2026, or shared in person at the Boxborough Museum on February 8, March 8, or April 12, helping preserve this moment in the town’s living history.

 

Tax season is here, but you still have time to make smart moves that may lighten your 2025 tax burden.

Contributing to an IRA is one of the most popular strategies. For 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000, or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older. Traditional IRA contributions may be tax-deductible, while Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth.

If you have a high-deductible health plan, consider a Health Savings Account. These provide triple tax benefits: first, contributions reduce taxable income, second, growth is tax-free and finally withdrawals for qualified medical expenses aren’t taxed. Limits for 2025 are $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for families, plus an additional $1,000 if you’re 55 or older.

Are you self-employed? A retirement plan known as a SEP IRA lets you contribute up to 25% of compensation, capped at $70,000.

Consult a tax professional to find the best options for your situation – and act before April 15.

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.

 

Free, open to the public, & on view at the Davis Museum on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026
WELLESLEY, MASS. (February 2026) - In spacious, newly-reinstalled galleries on the fifth floor of the Davis Museum at Wellesley College, the public is invited to see modern and contemporary works of art by well-known artists Willem de Kooning, Lee Krasner, Daniela Rivera, Horace Pippin, and Judith Rothschild, among others, beginning Feb. 6. The galleries have been closed for several years, but now the 2,606-square-foot space will house some notable works as well as some never-before-seen works that are coming out of storage to hang in the larger galleries longterm.
“To select works for the top floor installation, I reviewed over 900 works – mainly paintings and sculptures – in the permanent collection, created over the last century, emphasizing some classics and favorites, but also trying to bring forth things that had never been placed on view, like a fantastic and critical vision of the modern department store by Irving Norman, or a glazed ceramic vessel by studio potter (and former Dadaist) Beatrice Wood,” said James Oles, Adjunct Curator of Latin American Art and Associate Teaching Professor in Art, who curated the new gallery spaces known as Harold and Estelle Newman Tanner Gallery and Lawrence and Ina Lee Brown Ramer Gallery.
Among the paintings and works of art that Dr. Amanda Gilvin, the Davis’s Interim Co-Director, Sonja Novak Koerner ‘51 Senior Curator of Collections and Associate Director of Curatorial Affairs, most looks forward to seeing are: Irving Norman’s Labyrinth (1955); Sonia Delaunay-Terk’s Electric Prisms, (1913) and Judith Rothschild’s Curious Personage (ca. 1947-49). Notable works by artists Olga Albizu, Theo van Doesburg, Roland Dorcely, Yvette Mayorga, László Moholy-Nagy, Magdalene Odundo, and Adrian Piper will also be on view.
The newly reinstalled galleries, dedicated to modern and contemporary art, reflect how faculty teach art across the disciplines at Wellesley College. Instead of a chronological organization, the sections address themes that emerge from the college’s curriculum and the collection’s strengths: Modern Fragments, The Label, An Eye for Materials, Plane and Grid, Dream and Gesture, and Contemporary Art.
In Modern Fragments, select paintings and sculptures suggest just a few of the ways that artists reacted to the radical upheavals that characterized the modern age. A Label reminds visitors to read texts that they encounter in museums critically. Artworks in An Eye for Materials share nothing beyond an experimental embrace of materials.
“From the start of this project I wanted to involve students,” Oles said, adding the project’s four student employees wrote wall labels for the galleries and learned about the curatorial process. “They wrote (and signed!) many of the object labels, including those for our 1966 painting by Willem de Kooning, where they came up with three very different interpretations.”
The Davis Museum’s collection is especially strong in post-World War II abstraction from the Americas. Plane and Grid features artists whose primary focus was on precision and calculation, and on grids and systems as governing structures. Meanwhile, Dream and Gesture unlocks personal, emotional, and even unconscious forces. The artists featured in Contemporary Art all remain active in the art world, and the selected works all entered the collection in the past 15 years. They reveal the Museum’s expanding aspiration to represent voices from the entire globe, as well as from diasporic communities in the United States. These contemporary works challenge standard narratives while also forging connections with objects elsewhere in the collection, from all periods.
The gallery restoration was made possible with funds from the Mellon Endowment for Academic Programs, Helyn MacLean Program Fund for Contemporary and South Asian Art, Amos W. Stetson Fund, Mary Tebbets Wolfe ’54 Davis Museum Program Fund, and Wellesley College’s Friends of Art. A label writing workshop with Juening Mao ‘26, Elle Scheffel ‘26, Ruofan Wang ‘27, and Alesia Zhou ‘26, received the generous support of the Art Department.
The Davis Museum is free and open to the public Tuesdays to Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call 781-283-2051 or visit https://www1.wellesley.edu/davismuseum/visit/directions.

 

     Are you enjoying the arctic blasts?  It is certainly making things challenging for everyone!  At Fresh Start, we closed a couple weeks ago due to the extreme cold. But last Saturday, with the temperature still below 10°, we were open and donors came to us with their furniture and household goods.  The donor intake crew took turns unloading donor items and ducking inside to get warm.

We need:
-Rugs
-Pristine or new Mattresses
-Table Lamps
-Kitchen Starter Sets (cutting boards, can openers, slotted spoons, colanders, etc)
-Shower curtains and rings
-Towels

     We also can use more volunteers, especially those who are bilingual. We are having volunteer Open house dates on March 14 and 19th at 11 AM to see our facility and to fill out paperwork.
      Thank you for helping us to help others!

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

Join us the 2nd annual Valentine's Family Karaoke Party Join us for a night of making music and making friends! There will be pizza and baked goods (including vegan and gluten-free options), non-alcoholic beverages, candy and prizes in several categories (Best Solo, Best Duo, Best Group, Best Love Song, Best "You Done Me Wrong" Song) Bring your voice and come join the fun from 5 to 8pm, Friday, February 13, 2026, First Church Unitarian, 19 Foster Street, Littleton. We had so much fun last year, we had to do it again! $5 per person/$20 per family, Cash and Venmo accepted. Parking available on street, behind the fire department, and at the Castle in the Trees Playground parking lot on King St.

19 Carter Street, Berlin
Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info! 

FEBRUARY 8-14, 2026

Sunday, February 8, 2pm | Armchair Traveler: Riding the Rails from Worcester to San Francisco
Join Lee Tabor as he recounts a 4-day, 3-night trip on Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited and the legendary California Zephyr from Worcester to San Francisco! Cost: Free!

Monday, February 9, 4:30pm | Social Singing with Music Includes
Learn more at ldfamusic.com/music-includes.
Tuesday, February 10, 1:30pm | Chat with Public Health Nurses Susie + Sandi!
Stop by to chat with Public Health Nurses Susie Thompson and Sandi Richard over tea or coffee. All are welcome.
Friday, February 13, 7pm | Open Mic
Join our supportive and inclusive open mic! Hosts Lori Diamond & Fred Abatelli will support with professional sound, a welcoming vibe, and a piano. Performers must sign up in advance by emailing LoriDiamondMusic@gmail.com. Sign up window opens 6pm the Wednesday before the event. Suggested donation: $5 

Saturday, February 14, 10am | Parody Playhouse
A dynamic music and movement program for ages 0-6 that supports early childhood development with parodies of iconic artists like The Beatles, Whitney Houston, Bon Jovi, and more! Suggested donation: $5

Saturday, February 14, 7:30pm | Rioflow Trio
Join us for a special Valentine's day concert celebrating the love of friendship, the earth and community featuring the Rioflow Trio! Enjoy Latin American grooves with styles such as bossa nova, Afro-Peruvian festejo, rumba flamenca, and Afro-Caribbean vibes. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door at 19Carter.org

 

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
Playing Through
Monday, February 2nd, 1:00-2:30 pm
(2022) In recognition of Black History Month, we are showing this biopic about Ann Gregory, the first woman of color who, despite racism and societal barriers, competes in a 1950s USGA golf tournament. Andia Winslow stars in the title role. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.

Life as an Adventure with Ed Alessi
Wednesdays, February 4th and 5th, 10:00-11:00am                                                
Acton age 60+ only
Registration started last month; please call COA about availability. There are many ways to approach life regardless of your age. This workshop will focus on a developing a positive approach to living by viewing life as an adventure. This is an exciting participatory workshop that will be presented in two sessions. The objective is to improve the quality of your life! The first session the topic will be discussed in full and participants will be given an assignment. In the second workshop, participants will talk about their assignment with the group. Space is limited so please sign up only if you can attend both classes! Edward Alessi a retired social worker and gerontologist who currently teaches Sociology at Middlesex Community College.

Visit with Sophia Darsch from Acton’s Sustainability Office
Wednesdays, February 4th and 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.

Ask the Realtor® Appointments
Thursday, February 5th, 11:00am to 12:40pm                                                        
Acton age 60+ only
Wondering about the current real estate market, rates or which renovations are worth doing prior to selling?  Are you simply looking for good, reliable tradespeople?  Heather Murphy, Realtor® with Keller Williams Realty, is offering office hours at the Senior Center this month. Please call the Council on Aging to sign up for a 20-minute one-on-one meeting.

Wear Red Day – Friday, February 6th to bring awareness to Heart Health month.

Coffee and Conversation with Tracy Woods
Fridays, February 6th through March 27th, 10:00-11:00am                                           
Open to all/free
Join Tracy Woods for a weekly coffee and conversation group where you can talk about what’s on your mind with a group of your peers. Tracy Woods is a certified Older Adult Peer Specialist. All are welcome to this joint venture between the Acton Council on Aging and the Northeast Independent Living Program.

 

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

How have you been with all this cold weather?  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.


February 2026 Menu

2/4         Ukrainian Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Sponsored by Acton Boxborough Regional Islamic Center

2/11       Chicken Casserole and Heart Shaped Biscuits  “Our Valentines Day”
                       Sponsored by Friends of Mt Calvary Community Supper

2/18        Fish Sticks with Mac n’ Cheese Casserole     “Ash Wednesday”
    Sponsored by Friends of Mike Tobia

2/25        Braised Pork Chops and Mashed Potatoes
    Sponsored by The Boxborough Minutemen

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

As we have been experiencing much snow and cold weather, please, take care to safely keep warm. Check on your neighbor, too, as he or she may need help. 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.

The Maynard Republican Town Committee invites you to their Caucus to elect delegates to the Republican State Convention, on February 10, 2026. The meeting will start at 7:00 pm at the Maynard Fire Station, 30 Sudbury Street, Maynard. Any Maynard Republican as of December 31st, 2025 is eligible to be nominated as a delegate. If you are interested in being a delegate please attend the Maynard RTC Caucus on February 10, 2026 or contact Victoria at 617-962-4525 or email vcveritas@comcast.net.

If you cannot attend the Caucus, but would like to be a delegate, you must make your intentions known to a committee member in advance, so we can nominate you. Otherwise, please attend the meeting.

The members of the Maynard RTC will elect 12 delegates to attend the Republican State Convention on April 25th in Worcester.  Delegates will select and possibly endorse the party’s ticket for statewide office. Candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, and State Auditor will vie for the convention endorsements. To be selected, candidates must have the approbation of 15% of the delegates; to obtain the endorsement, a candidate must attain a majority vote of the delegates at the convention.

This is an excellent opportunity to have a direct influence in our state politics!
Please feel free to call/e-mail the contact above with your questions.

The Acton RTC invites you to their Caucus to elect delegates to the Republican State Convention, on February 18, 2026. The meeting will start at 6:00 pm at the Acton Memorial Library, 486 Main St, Acton MA. Any Actonian Republican as of December 31st, 2025 is eligible to be nominated as a delegate. If you are interested in being a delegate please attend the Acton RTC Caucus on February 18, 2026 at the library or contact Dave at 781-775-9922 or email davelunger@pm.me.

If you cannot attend the Caucus, but would like to be a delegate, you must make your intentions known to a committee member in advance, so we can nominate you. Otherwise, please attend the meeting.

The convention’s purpose is to select and possibly endorse the party’s ticket for statewide office. Candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, and State Auditor will vie for the convention endorsements. To select, candidates must have the approbation of 15% of the delegates; to obtain the endorsement, a candidate must attain a majority vote of the delegates at the convention.

This is an excellent opportunity for us grass-root Acton republicans to have a direct influence in our state politics!

Please feel free to call/e-mail the chair with your questions.

Join us for the local release of a collection of writings by community activists about resiliency when faced with extreme systemic and institutionalized social ills including incarceration, physical and mental abuse, and stigmatization. The book is a collection of an inspiring writings by 7 community activists. The authors, with the help of mentors, are survivors and now authors who have emerged from unconscionable circumstances to become community leaders and are sharing stories of their journeys.

Please join us on Saturday February 7th, 6-8 pm for an evening of discussion and readings. Daniel (Danny) Mckenzie, one of the 7 authors will be available onsite to sign books. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

Book Synopsis from the Publisher:

This book is a testament to the human spirit's determined will to
persevere. Whether you're facing your own uphill battles or simply
seeking inspiration, The Elephant in The Room; A Prison with No Bars
offers a beacon of hope, proving that transformation is within
everyone's reach. Embark on this empowering adventure today and start redefining what’s possible for you! There is a story in this book for
every reader!

Sponsored by the Windsor Institute's "(R)Evolutionaries Among Us" program dedicated to educating about how small as well as large acts can help us evolve as a society... The Windsor Institute is a non-profit dedicated to helping us all learn and share... More info: 24w.org

The Boxborough Company of Minutemen is always looking for new members. The Company is holding its annual Wine and Cheese party for current members and prospective new members on Saturday February 7 at 7:00 pm. 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.

   The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday February 8.  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.

 

The new year brings more than resolutions and fresh starts; it also ushers in several tax changes that could affect your wallet. Whether you're saving for retirement, funding your child's education or supporting your favorite charity, here's are a few things you need to know about the tax landscape in 2026.
More room to save for retirement and healthcare. There's good news for savers: Contribution limits for retirement accounts are going up. If you're under 50, you can now contribute up to $7,500 to an IRA, which is up from $7,000 in 2025. Those 50 and older can contribute an additional $1,100, for a total of $8,600.
The limits for 401(k), 403(b) and governmental 457(b) plans are also increasing, with workers younger than 50 able to defer up to $24,500. Visit IRS.gov and search "401k limit increases" for an article outlining the details.
Health savings account limits are rising too. In 2026, individual coverage increased to $4,400 and family coverage to $8,750. If you are age 55 or older and are not enrolled in Medicare, you can contribute an additional $1,000 as a catch-up contribution.
The start of the year is an ideal time to review your contributions and consider increasing them, even by small amounts which can add up over time.
A catch-up rule for high earners. If you're 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 last year, there's a new wrinkle in your retirement planning. You can still make catch-up contributions to your workplace retirement plan, but they must now be Roth contributions rather than traditional pre-tax contributions. This includes 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans.
While you won't get an immediate tax break, Roth contributions offer tax-free income in retirement and can provide a tax-free legacy for your heirs.
Expanded benefits for 529 education plans. Families using 529 plans to cover K-12 expenses will see the annual federal distribution limit double from $10,000 to $20,000 per student. The definition of qualifying expenses has also expanded to include curriculum, books, certain tutoring expenses and testing fees.
This change provides more flexibility for families with overfunded plans and increases options for managing education costs across multiple children or beneficiaries.
New charitable giving provisions. The rules around charitable deductions are shifting in two directions. Taxpayers who take the standard deduction can now deduct up to $1,000 in cash donations ($2,000 for joint filers) to qualified organizations.
However, those who itemize deductions face a new threshold: only charitable contributions exceeding 0.5% of adjusted gross income are now deductible. Donors may want to consider bunching strategies or using donor-advised funds to maximize their tax benefits.
Getting help. Navigating these tax changes can be challenging, but you don't have to go it them alone. A qualified financial advisor and tax professional can help you understand how these and other changes affect your specific situation. Together, you can develop strategies to make the most of new opportunities while minimizing your tax burden.

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.

The Board of Health and its staff reviews drinking water information from new and replacement well construction, water testing results from the MassDEP regulated wells, monitors water quality concerns from MassDEP and USEPA and the concerns noted in abutting communities.  Based on the information received from the abovementioned sources, the Board has reviewed their regulation, most recently amended in 2004, to ensure the regulation is protective of the public health of the residents of Boxborough.   The review has resulted in changes to address additional contaminates of concern, determination of adequate water yield, addressing offsets for geothermal and irrigation wells and requiring water quality testing upon property transfer.
The Board, at their regularly scheduled meetings, has reviewed possible changes and voted on a final draft of the revised regulation at their meeting on 1/14/26.
To receive feedback on the proposed changes to the regulation, and to answer questions residents may have regarding those changes, the Board will hold a public hearing on the regulation; the hearing is scheduled for 7:40pm on 2/11/26 and will be held at the Town Hall.  The regulation is posted on the Board of Health webpage for review.

• Only 50% of foster youth graduate from high school
• Fewer than 4% earn a four-year college degree
• Nearly half experience homelessness by age 26

• Have a deep desire to make a difference in a child’s life
• Be 21 years or older
• Commit to at least 18 months of service
• Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community
• Approach difficult situations with compassion and diplomacy
• Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role

• Tuesday January 27 12-1:00pm (Last info session before the March training)
• Tuesday February 10 5:30-6:30pm

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

 

MOVING-ON is a social group for singles, mostly age 60 or over, who wish to get to know other people and build friendships.  We hold a weekly meeting every Thursday evening to discuss topics that avoid politics or religion; some meetings are in-person and others are on-line. Members organize fun and interesting group activities around greater Boston, such as plays and concerts, movies, restaurant dining, and nature hikes.  Come join us for an in-person meeting at 7:00 PM on the 2nd or 4th Thursday of the month at The Church of Our Redeemer, 6 Meriam St., Lexington; or for more information email info@moving-on-together.org.