Action Unlimited
Fresh start furniture bank

Fresh Start Furniture Bank

 We started our morning at Fresh Start with a group photo of the volunteers who work on Tuesdays.  What a great bunch of people!  We need more movers to move furniture inside the store and onto clients’ trucks so if you’re interested in joining us, stop in when we’re open (see the website) and we’ll tell you how to become involved.
     We had 6 clients scheduled to shop for furniture and furnishings for their new homes today and five showed up.  You can imagine that furnishing a home for a family who has very little can put a dent in our inventory.  At present we are in need of:
QUEEN SIZE SHEET SETS!!!, throw blankets, shower curtains, liners & rings.  We need rugs - all sizes, and bathroom rugs.  We need storage cabinets and coffee tables.
     For the clients’ kitchens we need cutting boards, strainers & colanders, measuring cups, glasses sets and silverware!
     We are low on queen size bed frames and we can always use lamps of any size.
     Imagine not being able to afford some of those items that most of us take for granted!  If you are downsizing or cleaning out or even picking up new items when you’re shopping, think of our clients and bring your donations to us.  We will make sure that they go to a good home.
     Thank you!
Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org
Householdgoods1

Household Goods Welcomes Community to Celebrate 35th Anniversary and Kick Off Furnish the Future Campaign


Acton, MA [10/1/25]   – Household Goods, Inc., has furnished homes for people in need, free of charge, for 35 years. On October 22, they are holding a community fundraiser to celebrate this milestone anniversary and kick off its Furnish the Future campaign to sustain Household Goods’ work well into the future.  Household Goods warmly invites its community of new and long-time supporters to gather for a fun and informative evening at its center.
Event Details
WHAT:          Household Goods 35th Anniversary Oktoberfest
WHEN:          Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE:        530 Main Street, Acton, MA (Household Goods facility)
FEATURES:   Enjoy light fare, craft beer by Rapscallion Table & Tap, German wine sampling, lively live music, and a fun live auction.
TICKETS:       $35 per person. Purchase your tickets today at householdgoods.org/oktoberfest.
Furnish the Future: Sustaining 35 Years of Service
For three and a half decades, Household Goods has been a pillar of the community, transforming empty apartments into furnished homes for thousands of individuals and families who have been living without basic furniture.
The “Furnish the Future” campaign will provide the stable, long-term funding necessary to sustain Household Goods’ mission well into the future, ensuring the organization can continue to respond to community need. The multi-year initiative aims to secure a total of $1 million in giving over three years.
“Our 35th anniversary is a time to reflect on the incredible impact we’ve made and to look forward with hope and optimism,” said Household Goods Executive Director, Sharon Martens. “Oktoberfest is the perfect way to celebrate this milestone with our community and officially launch the ‘Furnish the Future’ campaign. Every ticket sold and every dollar raised at this event allows us to keep providing hope and essential items to those who need them most.”
About Household Goods
Household Goods, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Acton, MA that provides donated furniture and household items to individuals and families in need. The organization has been serving the community for 35 years and has helped thousands of people make a house a home. Learn more at householdgoods.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Become a Tutor of English

Update! Fall class is full. Sign up for the new winter class!
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 January 7. The class will meet on five consecutive Wednesday evenings, 6-9, Jan. 7 – Feb. 4. 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 Microsoft Teams (replacing 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.
Concord band presents fall concert

Concord Band Presents Fall Concert with Music of the Macabre and Mysterious

The Concord Band will perform its Fall Concert on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 7pm, at the 51 Walden Performing Arts Center in Concord MA.  The Fall program features the world premiere of POEtic Justice by noted composer Roger Cichy, inspired by the dark, sinister tales of Boston-born author Edgar Allan Poe.

The composition was recently commissioned by one of the Band’s French horn players, Jean Patterson, along with her daughter, Alexandra Mattor.  Both worked closely with Cichy, pitching their ideas for subtle, and not so subtle, musical themes for three of Poe’s classic short stories,  “The Tell-Tale Heart,” “The Cask of Amontillado,” and “The Masque of the Red Death.” On listening, one can “hear” and actually visualize the servant who is haunted by the incriminating heartbeat of his murdered master buried under the floorboards, or a drunken Fortunado wandering from the carnival down to the crypt only to be walled in brick by brick, or the chimes that ring out during a masked ball as Prince Prospero is pursued and hunted throughout the castle, room by room, by the Red Death.

To round out its seasonal program of eerie and beguiling musical themes, the Concord Band will perform several additional works. Dance of the Witches, a piece John Williams wrote for the 1987 film “The Witches of Eastwick,” involves three women who unintentionally form a coven and conjure a dashingly handsome man, whom they must then inescapably deal with. In composer John Barnes Chance’s Incantation and Dance, low and muted incanted rituals of magic bring forth wild and frenzied dancing, while Unquiet Spirits by John Mackey evokes unsettled and unsettling moods from the restless, to an ominous off-kilter, waltz-like dance, to a fiendish yet sparkling “moto perpetuo” (perpetual motion) finish.  The Concord Band will perform two timeless masterpieces, Charles Gounod’s witty and ironically humorous Funeral March of a Marionette, and Johann Sebastian Bach’s powerfully majestic and rhythmically driven Toccata and Fugue in D Minor.  The Fall concert program will close with Halloween by composer Morton Gould, which summons all the creatures and objects of darkness – ghosts, goblins, pumpkins and brooms – to spring to life to celebrate an unholy sabbath.

Admission is free and open to the public.  A $20 per person donation is requested.  Complimentary light refreshments will be served at a reception following the concert.  To learn more about the Concord Band, visit www.concordband.org and on Facebook.
Learn More

Council on Aging Events




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​
Hours: Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8:00am-4:00pm, Tues 8:00am-6:00pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon

The Town of Acton Human Services and Senior Center will be closed on Monday, October 13, in observance of the Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day holiday.

Monday Movie Matinee
Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road
October 6th, 1:00-2:35 pm
(2021, PG-13) In this documentary, Beach Boys frontman and songwriter Brian Wilson, who passed away this year, drives around LA with a journalist friend, talking about his legendary career and his struggles with drugs and mental health. Fifty of the band’s hits are featured, as well as archival photographs and videos. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.

Why Aging Care Support is Complex for Solo Agers
Tuesday, October 7th, 1:00-2:00pm                                                                  
Open to all 60+/free
Join My Care Community for a program about solo agers, seniors who do not have immediate family support and a limited network of friends and families. MCC will walk through the challenges for solo agers, ways they can prepare for the aging process, and resources to assist them with their aging care support needs. Signup is required.

Introduction to Reflexology with Rebecca Howard
Tuesday, October 7th, 3:00-4:00pm                             
Open to all age 60+/free
During this introductory presentation, local reflexologist Rebecca Howard will share information regarding the many benefits of foot reflexology as well as the historical development and practice of modern reflexology. Rebecca will teach participants some hand reflexology self-care techniques and provide demonstrations as time allows. See p.4 about individual appointments.

Technology Assistance Clinic
Wednesday, October 8th and 22nd, 1:30-3:00pm                    
Open to out-of-town 60+/free        
Drop in at the Technology Clinic for help with phones, tablets, or computers. Bring your device if possible. Volunteers offer one-on-one support for email, Windows, networking, upgrades, and general tech questions. Mac and Android users are welcome too. To connect by Zoom or phone, contact the COA and we’ll pass along your info.

Acton Rainbow Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday, October 8th, 2:00-2:45pm (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. 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.

Technology Help Appointments with Acton Memorial Library Staff
Thursday, October 9th, 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.

Benefits of Irrevocable and Revocable Trusts
Thursday, October 9th, 1:00-2:30pm                                                                
Open to all age 60+/free
Attorney Dale Tamburro will present on the use of trusts in estate planning: components of a trust; probate avoidance; revocable (living) versus irrevocable; protecting your home and other assets; minimizing estate taxes; trust asset management of trust assets. If time permits, Dale will also discuss who should be trustee when you are unable to and how to fund the trust. Register to reserve a spot.

53RD ANNUAL HARVARD FLEA MARKET
OCTOBER 11, 2025

 
www.harvardfleamarket.com
HARVARD, Mass., September 22, 2025 – The League of Women Voters of Harvard and the Harvard Schools Trust are pleased to announce the 53rd Annual Harvard Flea Market, to be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the grounds of the Bromfield School (Rain date: Sunday, October 12). Cash admission is $5 per person for adults and seniors; $1 per child ages 6 to 12; and $10 for early birds (7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.).
Bargain hunters will descend upon Harvard for the 53rd year to attend the largest one-day outdoor flea market northwest of Boston. Shoppers come with bags and carts in tow to visit over 180 booths filled with antiques and collectibles – toys, games, jewelry and vintage clothing, seasonal décor, artwork and paintings, pottery and glassware, and so much more.
The Flea Market boasts a popular food court area with both traditional favorites and ethnic cuisines including Thai food and specialty desserts.  The Harvard Lions Club serves up hamburgers, cheeseburgers, samosas, veggie burgers, hotdogs, fries, sweet potato fries, funnel cakes and fresh squeezed lemonade and drinks. The Congregational Church of Harvard will be selling homemade apple pies fresh from local ovens.
There will be parking and restrooms with handicap access.  Please do not block private driveways - parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, including ticketing and towing. Emergency staff will be onsite to assist with any medical emergencies. The Flea Market gatekeepers will accept cash only (no checks or credit/debit cards) for admission. Some booth vendors may accept credit cards via Square® or other apps, but most accept only cash. Dogs are permitted if they are on a leash and owners pick up after them.
The state has declared Harvard at mild Risk for EEE.  Though the risk is greatest from dusk until dawn, it is recommended that you apply EPA-approved mosquito repellant at any time and consider wearing long-sleeved clothing, and socks during the early morning hours.
For more information, including directions, visit www.harvardfleamarket.com.   For questions email: fleamarket@lwvharvard.org.
To learn whether the flea market has been postponed a day due to inclement weather, call the Harvard Schools Trust message line at 978-456-5085. 
About the Harvard Schools Trust:   The Harvard Schools Trust (www.harvardschoolstrust.org) was formed in 1989 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, exclusively educational organization to raise funds to supplement the curriculum and activities of the Harvard Public Schools (www.psharvard.org). The Trust is governed by a board of directors consisting of parents and community leaders. For all the latest news, follow the HST on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/harvardschoolstrust
About the League of Women Voters:  The League of Women Voters of Harvard (http://www.lwvharvard.org/), established in 1950, is a local branch of the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts and the League of Women Voters of the United States. It is a non-partisan, multi-issue, grassroots organization whose mission is to encourage informed and active participation in local, state, and federal government and to influence public policy through education. 

Friends of the Bolton Public Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semiannual book sale on Saturday October 18th, from 8:30am – 4pm. No Rain Date. Location is the Houghton Building, 697 Main Street. There are over 5,000 books sorted and “not picked over.” Puzzles, CDs and DVDs.

The book sale is the Friends' largest fundraiser. Proceeds from the sale support programs, events, museum passes, and our online newsletter Wowbrary.
Qr code help a freind

PLEASE HELP A FRIEND IN NEED!

As we all know, prices for nearly everything are rising. Those less fortunate than us are struggling. There are bills to pay and groceries to buy. When the car breaks down or there’s an emergency trip to the dentist, it can disrupt even the most carefully planned budget. That’s when A Friend In Need can step in. Please help us provide one-time emergency financial assistance to those in need in the Acton, Boxborough, and Maynard areas.

Our mission is to provide immediate one-time assistance. A large portion of our funding comes from generous community residents. We ask that you consider donating to AFIN. Our volunteers cover the costs of postage and other expenses, allowing us to donate 100% of the funds we receive.

This summer, we assisted with car repairs, rent, medical bills, and more. Anyone in urgent need can seek financial help by visiting a member of the clergy or a social service worker and asking them to contact A Friend in Need on their behalf. We do not discriminate and will help anyone with a genuine need. We can be reached at afriendinneedacton@gmail.com

All donations, no matter how small, can make a real difference to someone in need. You can donate online by going to:  abccompass.org/a-friend-in-need or following our QR code,

THE FIRST ANNUAL CARMAH YARD SALE

Carmah Cat Rescue, a local non-profit organization, is holding its first annual yard sale on Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the front lawn of Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA.  There will be a large selection of treasures including furniture, glassware, holiday items, baskets, toys and games, electronics, collectibles, household decor, books, cat-themed items and much more! All items have been well looked after and are in need of a new home. Bring your family, your friends, your neighbors and come browse and, most importantly, buy!  Yard sales are a great way to stretch your dollar, and it promises to be a fun event.  All proceeds benefit Carmah Cat Rescue. Additional information on Carmah will be available at the yard sale and volunteers will be happy to answer any questions.  On-street parking is available, plus there is a parking lot behind Town Hall accessible from Church Street or Pope Street.
Acton garden club presents

Acton Garden Club presents - All About Cranberries!

October 7th 10:30am
Acton Town Hall
Speaker Deb Kanady, Cranberry Tour Guide
Topic All About Cranberries!
Description: We won’t travel to Cape Cod for a tour, but this is the next best thing. How are cranberries grown and harvested? What makes them such a special New England crop?

Deb Kanady is a retired cancer center mental health counselor and researcher who moved to South Plymouth and lives in the cranberry bogs. She is a trained cranberry tour guide for Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association and several local farms and an avid birder and trekker.   We look forward to learning about about cranberries! 

Come see Boxborough’s Treasures 

   The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday October 12.  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.
Mt calvary community supper

Sweat & Success: The Zumba Break You Deserve

The Women’s Business Network (WBN) will meet on Thursday, October 9 at 6:30 pm at the church hall at St. Theresa's Church (Holy Trinity Parish), 15 Still River Road in Harvard MA. Guests and nonmembers are welcome. After informal networking, a brief meeting, and introductions, WBN invites members and attendees to take a breather from business and boost their energy with a fun, feel-good Zumba demo led by local instructor Deb Oliva, featuring simple, easy-to-follow moves with no experience required. Sneakers are recommended.
WBN is a local, volunteer run networking group of women in small businesses, professional practices, non-profits and the arts who meet monthly for mutual support, education & networking. Referrals are shared, but usually out of the context of the meeting. Contact dboliva@charter.net for more information.
Fabric yarn and notions sale

Fabric, Yarn, and Notions Sale

When: 9am - 2pm October 18, 2025
Where: St. Matthews Church in Acton - 435 Central Street, Acton

Calling all quilters, sewists, knitters, crocheters, and crafters! Come join us to browse a curated selection of second-hand quilting fabrics, yarn, books, and a variety of fiber arts notions.
Brought to you by the Concord Piecemakers.

Boxborough Artist Mike Quigley Showcases New England Landscapes at Open Studios

Boxborough artist Mike Quigley will be among the local artists opening their workspaces for the annual Acton-Boxborough Open Studios weekend on October 25–26 from 12:00-5:00 PM.

Quigley, a veteran and long-time Boxborough resident, is known for his oil paintings of New England landscapes, particularly the White Mountains and scenic local views. His work has been exhibited at regional fairs and art shows, and he also sells original pieces and prints through his Etsy shop, Michael Quigley Art.

“Open Studios gives people a chance to not only see the art but also to meet the artists behind it,” Quigley said. “I enjoy talking with visitors about the process and inspiration for my paintings.”

The two-day event features a range of local talent, with artists in Acton and Boxborough inviting the public into their studios. Maps and details are available at https://www.actonopenstudios.org.

Visitors are welcome to stop by Quigley’s studio during the weekend to view his latest work and learn more about his artistic journey.

**Images: Boxborough Artist Mike Quigley 1 & 2 Captions: Boxborough artist Mike Quigley in his studio. He will participate in the Acton-Boxborough Open Studios on October 25–26. An oil painting by Mike Quigley, inspired by the White Mountains. Quigley is a Boxborough artist opening his studio during the Acton-Boxborough Open Studios weekend.

Greetings from Theatre III!

Tickets for our fall production of Women In Jeopardy! are now available!

Thelma and Louise meets The First Wives Club in this fun and flirtatious comedy. Divorcées Mary and Jo are suspicious of their friend Liz’s new dentist boyfriend. He’s not just a weirdo; he may be a serial killer! After all, his hygienist just disappeared. Trading their wine glasses for spy glasses, imaginations run wild as the ladies try to discover the truth and save their friend in a hilarious off-road adventure.

Saturday, October 18; Friday, October 24; & Saturday, October 25 (7:30pm); Sunday, October 19 & Sunday, October 26 (2pm).
https://www.theatre3.org/upcoming/WomenInJeopardy2025

SEEKING USHERS FOR WOMEN IN JEOPARDY!

It takes a true community to run a community theater and new volunteers are always welcome, both for specific shows and for ongoing roles!

We're currently in search of ushers for our upcoming performances of Women In Jeopardy!  If interested in helping the theatre, and watching this fun and flirtatious comedy for FREE, sign up at: ** Women In Jeopardy!

Planning Your Business Exit: Start with the End in Mind

 
If you own a business, you probably spend countless hours managing it. But have you thought about how you’ll eventually step away?

Start by listing your personal goals for the transaction and your life afterward, including how much money you'll need to fund your desired retirement lifestyle. Include expenses currently covered by the business, from your cellphone to health care.

Think too about what you want to leave for your family or charitable causes.

Knowing the value of your business is important, so have it valued in writing, even if retirement is a few years away.

Finally, consider who your buyer might be. Perhaps family members, business partners, employees or an external third party.

You can get help building your exit plan from professionals, such as a financial advisor, tax professional, legal advisor and business valuation expert.

Taking proactive steps now helps you control your future, including when and how you transition away from your business.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your Edward Jones financial advisor at (978) 841-5800

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.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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
Freshstart furniture bank

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

 We are a 501C3 non-profit furniture bank, located in Hudson.  We provide furniture and furnishings to people in need at no charge.  Almost all of our inventory has been donated; some things, like new bed pillows, are purchased with grant money or monetary donations.  Check our website for more information.
  On Saturday (9/20)our volunteers arrived early and set up the parking lot to welcome donors.  We accept donations of furniture (and all other housewares and linens)on Saturdays.  We were short-handed but we started to work.  As we were bringing carts from the warehouse to the lot, we lost power.  It was on and off for awhile; the inside lights were on but the scissor lift did not work, and that is critical for our operation; we use the lift to bring the loaded carts from the parking lot into the storage area.  What to do??  We quickly repositioned the orange cones which define the traffic pattern in the lot.  We unloaded the items from the donors’ cars and the full carts were taken uphill through the front door.
     It was a seamless transition; some of our frequent donors wondered about the change but it all worked well.
     By the end of the day it was found that the problem was a tripped circuit breaker for the scissor lift, not the lift motor as we had feared!
     This week we are in need of silverware and butter knives, kitchen utensils, measuring cups, cutting boards and strainers, serving and mixing bowls and sauce pans. We need rugs!  All sizes!  Clean and in good shape, please!  Also throw blankets for kids and shower curtains.  We are very low on queen size sheet sets.
     Thank you for helping us to help others!

Classic Plastic Model Club
31st Annual Model Car Exhibition

Sunday, October 5, 2025, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Elks Hall, Lawrence, MA

See the best scale model vehicles in New England at the Classic Plastic Model Club’s 31st Annual Model Car Exhibition on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Enjoy 29 classes of competition, 3 awards per class, 8 major awards, 15 member’s favorite awards. Military modelers are welcome to enter our military class. The 2025 theme class is 70 years of Tri-Five Chevies:’55, ’56, or ’57 Chevrolets. The 2025 Sub-Theme Class is “Stolen cars from Gone in 60 Seconds” movie (2000 remake). One huge hall with breakfast and lunch available, vendor tables with kits and aftermarket parts, model kits raffled all day. Admission: $5 plus $3 per entry; age 17 and under free. 652 Andover Street, Lawrence. Directions: Rt. 93, exit 42 (River Rd.), turn east toward Lawrence. Elks Hall is 1.5 miles on left. Visit http://www.classicplastic.org for show flyer and model entry form, or contact Paul Anagnostopoulos, 978-852-4240.

DVSN’s Candlelight Vigil

Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) will host its annual Light inthe Darkness Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM atthe Lexington Community Center, 39 Marret Road, Lexington. Held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month each October, the Vigil commemorates the lives lost in Massachusetts to domestic violence in the past year.
Community members will read each victim's story as their lives are represented by the reader, a rose, and a candle that is lit in their memory. In this year's keynote address, Chief Michael McLean of the Lexington Police Department will speak on the importance of community partnerships in supporting those who experience domestic violence.
"While the Vigil is a solemn occasion," says DVSN Executive Director Jacquelin Apsler, "It is also a night of hope. By publicly standing together to witness and commemorate, we build awareness and show the survivors in our communities that we believe their stories and support their journeys."
The public is invited to attend this free event. A light supper will be served following the ceremony. For more information regarding DVSN’s Candlelight Vigil, visit DVSN.org/Vigil or call 978-318-3421.

Join the Pack on October 4
at Save A Dog’s “Miles for Mutts” 
5K Run/Walk!

Want to make a difference in the lives of homeless dogs and cats with your morning dose of exercise?
Sign up to walk or run a scenic 5K course at Save A Dog's 6th Annual “Miles for Mutts” run/walk on October 4!
The race starts and ends at the Marlborough Moose Lodge, 67 Fitchburg St., Marlborough, and winds through the beautiful Assabet River Valley Rail Trail. Take in the sights and sounds of nature in fall splendor and enjoy the festive atmosphere with fellow runners, walkers and their furry friends!
The fun includes medals for the top three finishers overall and by age category, and a goody bag and commemorative t-shirt for the first 100 entrants. Dogs are welcome to walk the route, too, and enjoy a yummy pup cup at the finish line!
Check-in and bib pick-up starts at 8:30 a.m., and the race begins promptly at 10 a.m.

To register, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marlborough/MilesForMutts5KRunWalk.
A registration discount of $40 for Adults ($30 ages 18 and under) is available to those who register by October 3.
Day of race registration on October 4 is $45 for Adults ($35 ages 18 and under).

So lace up those sneakers and join us for a fun-filled morning of fitness and fundraising… every step you'll take helps support Save A Dog's vital life-saving work!

Can’t join us? Make a “Cheer from Home” donation at https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marlborough/MilesForMutts5KRunWalk.

Now in its 27th year, Save A Dog has found loving, forever homes for nearly 9,000 homeless pets through its Sudbury shelter and network of dedicated foster homes. More information about Save A Dog and the rescue’s adoptable dogs and cats can be found at www.saveadog.org.
See you October 4th!
Iron work farm open houses

Iron Work Farm Open Houses and Living History Program
Sunday, September 28, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

128 Main Street and 5 High Street, Acton

The Iron Work Farm continues our series of combined “4th Sunday” events with museum open houses at Jones Tavern (128 Main Street, 1 to 3 p.m.) and at the Faulkner Homestead (5 High Street, 3 to 5 p.m.), as well as the latest program in our year-long living history activities for children and families with “Crown Resistance and other Matters of State.”
At 1 p.m. at Jones Tavern (a hot-bed of political discussions in the 1770s), in commemoration of what came to be known as Acton’s “Crown Resistance Day,” former Acton Minuteman Captain Steve Crosby will read Acton’s pivotal declaration of the town’s resistance to the severe restrictions imposed on the colonies by the British government.
That brave action changed local life in a variety of ways, including refusals to buy British goods such as cloth. Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers Guild will be at the Faulkner House to demonstrate the surge in “home-spun” textiles that took place during that time.
No charge.
A cuba benefit concert with sol y canto

A Cuba Benefit Concert with Sol Y Canto

A fundraiser for desperately needed aid for the Cuban people


The United Church of Christ in Boxborough will be hosting a Cuba Benefit Concert featuring Boston-based Pan-Latin Band, Sol y Canto, on Saturday, October 25th, at 7:30 PM at the United Church of Christ in Boxborough, 723 Massachusetts Avenue, Boxborough, MA.
Tickets are $25 per person, ($30 at the door), $15 for students To make a donation or to purchase tickets, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-cuba-benefit-concert-with-sol-y-canto-tickets-1611092764829?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

The COVID Pandemic forced Cuba to close its doors to tourism for several years, which severely impacted the economy. In addition, the main power plant broke down last fall, resulting in widespread power outages across the island for several weeks. Since then, electricity has been rationed, and families can expect to have power for only a few hours each day. Food and water are also rationed. The people are struggling to survive.

In an effort to support to the Cuban people, the United Church of Christ in Boxborough, MA will host a benefit concert at UCCB on October 25th, featuring the Boston-based band Sol Y Canto, an award-winning, Pan-Latin ensemble known for their vibrant concerts and critically acclaimed music that blends diverse Latin American styles. The Boston Globe and WBUR describe their performances as “exhilarating and moving,”  highlighting the duo's poetic lyrics, intricate guitar work, and engaging stage presence. Their music is often described as a "journey" through different rhythms and cultures, making it accessible to both Spanish- and non-Spanish-speaking audiences.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the congregation of the Second Baptist Church in Santiago de Cuba and neighboring communities.

The event organizer is Cuban-born Maricel Lucero. Her father, Oscar Lucero, played a significant role in the Cuban Revolution of 1959.  Unfortunately, he was captured and killed by Batista’s officers, only months before the triumph of the Revolution.  Today, he is known as “The Martyr of Silence” because he refused to reveal the names of other rebels when he was captured.

Maricel immigrated to the U.S. as a child, leaving behind a significant part of her extended family.  She has journeyed back to Cuba many times to learn about her father's legacy and to reunite with loved ones. Over the years, she has guided groups from the U.S. to Cuba, bringing not only visitors but also vital humanitarian aid.

If you are interested in interviewing Maricel or writing a feature about the event, please contact Maricel Lucero at 802-376-4717 or email her at: maricellucero50@gmail.com
How to talk so little kids will listen

How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen

First Connections invites parents with or without their children age 3-5 to join a free 8-week facilitated group at our playroom in Acton beginning Thursday, October 23, 10-11:15 a.m. Parents will receive a copy of the book by Joanna Faber and Julie King, and the group will discuss a chapter, ask questions, and get support each week while the children play alongside us in our playroom. Each session will end with a circle time for the children. Parents with multiple children, including siblings under 3, or children who are in preschool, are welcome. Infants must be in a carrier to keep them safe. The group is limited to 10 families. To register, email First Connections: lmatthews@jri.org. This program is funded by a Mass. Dept. of Early Education & Care CFCE grant
Iron work farm’s open air tap room

Iron Work Farm’s Open-Air Tap Room at the Faulkner Homestead, Saturday October 4, 3 to 8 p.m.

On Saturday, October 4, the Iron Work Farm’s popular annual fundraiser, the Open-Air Tap Room, returns to the Jones-Faulkner Homestead, 5 High Street, Acton, from 3 to 8 p.m.
A salute by the Acton Minutemen will open the event.  Featured will be music by Babylon, and outdoor games for both kids and adults.  Join us for a picnic, roast popcorn and marshmallows over the fire pits, and have a “colonial” selfie taken.

A $25 admission/donation includes one drink- and food ticket.  (Children under 18 are free).  Parking is available in the nearby commuter lots.  Limited handicap parking on site.
Advance registration is recommended.  Visit ironworkfarm.org for more information.

DON’T MISS THE 10th MAYNARD HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
BANQUET & INDUCTION CEREMONY

The Maynard High School Athletic Hall of Fame (MHSAHOF) Board is excited to announce its 10th Hall of Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, 6 PM to 11 PM at the Maynard~Clinton Lodge of Elks, 34 Powder Mill Road, Maynard.  The past nine events have been huge successes and have sold out!

We are proud to announce the 10th set of inductees to the Maynard High School Hall of Fame: Amanda Allen (1997), Wihlo Frigard (1930), Kelsee Howes Giorgio (2012), Robert Hastry (2003), Joseph Loynd Jr. (2001), Michael Marshall (2012), Edward Mullin (1959), Sean Peterson (2014) and Nana Yankson (1998)

The team that will also be inducted is the 2009~2010 Boys Basketball Team.

It is always a great evening of celebration and a great opportunity to see friends and classmates of Maynard High School.  The festivities will include a cocktail hour (with cash bar), followed by a buffet dinner from 6:30 PM to 8 PM, followed by the Induction Ceremony and ending with a social.

This Banquet is open to all!  Tickets are available for $50/ea until Friday, November 7th (or until sold out) by calling (978) 764-5279 or by emailing mjtbrannelly@comcast.net, jenerbadams@gmail.com or charlotte.murray4116@gmail.com. Board members of MHSAHOF also have tickets for sale.  Feel free to contact Jennifer Adams, Mary Brannelly, Steve Curry, Ted Donnelly, Tim Lawton, Gail Lucas, Charlotte Murray or Barry McNulty.  Tables of 10 may also be reserved.  Whether you are young or older, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to celebrate the great achievements of Maynard’s past student athletes! View our website at http://mhsahof.wixsite.com/athletes to see the list of past years’ inductees.

If you know an athlete who you feel deserves to be inducted into the MHS Athletic Hall of Fame at a future Induction Ceremony, please go to the website and complete a nomination form.  Additionally, donations are always greatly appreciated and may be forwarded to the MHSAHOF, PO Box 56, Maynard, MA 01754. 

FINANCIAL FOCUS®
Life insurance: Protecting what matters most

 
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month and the perfect time to consider whether you have adequate coverage to protect your loved ones. While no one likes to think about what would happen if they weren't around, doing so is an act of love.
Life insurance is fundamentally about protecting your loved ones should something happen to you. If you pass away, your family will not only face the challenges of grief and loss but they could also find themselves financially strapped. Life insurance can help provide them with financial security in the event you no longer can.
Who needs life insurance: You're a good candidate if you have a spouse or partner who depends on your income or if there are children or other loved ones whom you support. Insurance protection can also be a solution if you have outstanding debts like a mortgage, credit cards or a car loan, or if you simply don't want to burden your loved ones with your final expenses.
Insurance through work: While many people have life insurance through their employers, this coverage may not be enough for you, depending on your situation. Among employers who offer group life insurance, only 2% offer more than two times the employee's annual salary — essentially just two years of income — according to the Guardian's 2023 Workplace Benefits Study. And remember that it's only good as long as you're employed there. With all this in mind, many people purchase individual insurance as a supplement to their workplace coverage.
How much: You might hear that you need life insurance equal to about seven to 10 times your pretax annual salary. That’s not a bad “ballpark” figure, but not everyone is playing in the same ballpark. To get a true sense of how much of a death benefit is right for you, use the "L-I-F-E" guide to calculate your needs:
  • Liabilities: Will your family need to pay off a mortgage, credit cards, car loan or other debt?
  • Income: Will your family need to replace your income for a period of years?
  • Final expenses: Do you have the resources to cover funeral and burial expenses?
  • Education needs: Do you need to put children through a private school or college?
Which type: You can choose between two basic types of life insurance: term and permanent. As its name suggests, term insurance is designed to provide coverage for a designated period, such as 10, 15 or 20 years. In general, term insurance is quite affordable for most people, especially when they buy policies as young adults. On the other hand, permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, is usually considerably more expensive because in addition to providing a death benefit, your premiums build cash value. In choosing between term and permanent insurance, you’ll want to evaluate several issues, such as how long you think you’ll need coverage and how much annual premium you can afford to pay.
Life insurance needs can change over time, so it's important to review your coverage every three to five years or after major life events like marriage or birth of a child. Consider working with a financial advisor who can look at your complete financial situation and help you choose a policy that truly fits your family's needs. Taking action sooner rather than later could be one of the most important gifts you give your loved ones.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Tristan Bezzant, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
​
Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C., Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C., and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Toastmasters open house on october 6

Toastmasters Open House on October 6

There are many facets of Toastmasters, who have been in existence for over 100 years. 
The latest improvement is Pathways. The Pathways learning experience is an interactive and flexible education program like no other.
It provides the  opportunity to build more than 300 unique skill set competencies on 6 specialized learning paths:  Dynamic Leadership,  Engaging Humor,  Visionary Communication,   Motivational Strategies,  Persuasive Influence, and Presentation Mastery.  Online content, which allows you to learn anytime, anywhere, real-world, transferable skills.  Come to learn & experience more at the Open House Meeting on October 6 at 7 PM at the Acton Public Safety Building.    For more information, contact us at https://2193.toastmastersclubs.org/

Bike Safety Is Important!

240% More Noticeable
Riders using a flashing taillight during the day are 2.4 times more noticeable than riders using no lights at all (and up to 1.4 times more noticeable than riders using a light in steady mode).

33% Fewer Collisions
Research shows a 33% decrease in accidents for bicycles outfitted with daytime running lights. There's a similar trend in both automobiles and motorcycles that use DRLs, with 25% and 13% drops in collisions respectively.

80% of Accidents Happen During the Day
Eight out of ten cycling accidents occur during daylight hours, when most people are riding and driving. Daytime running lights are the single most effective product to help increase noticeability during these peak hours.

700% Less Visible Than You Think
Studies show riders overestimate their visibility by 700%.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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

First Friday Nights Free return to Discovery Museum

Free admission on the first Friday night of each month kicks off on Friday, October 3
ACTON - Discovery Museum announced today that their popular First Friday Nights Free will return beginning Friday, October 3. Visitors can enjoy the Museum with free admission from 4:30pm to 8:00pm on the first Friday night of each month, October through June.
Though not required for admission, visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation to be distributed to the Acton Food Pantry and Open Table.
First Friday Nights Free are made possible by MathWorks.
Free parenting webinar october 9

Free Parenting Webinar October 9
Nervous System Care for Parents, Caregivers and Educators

This workshop is an invitation to re-define "self-care" so we can stop putting it off and start integrating practices that support our nervous systems into the thousands of tiny moments we spend with our children each day. This reflective workshop will take participants through a process of identifying and normalizing the ways our children challenge our ability to remain regulated, and exploring how we can rewire our brains toward new responses that better support connection and emotional intelligence in our homes and classrooms. Our presenter has an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Special Education, and is Certified in Applied Educational Neuroscience and in The Powerfully You Self-Regulation Curriculum. To attend this free live webinar on Thursday, October 9, 8-9:00 pm, email your name and town to First Connections: lmatthews@jri.org. This program is funded by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care. 

WCMS Celebrates & Performs 9/27 in Worcester

Who: Worcester Chamber Music Society
What: “Serenade & Souvenir: Our Twentieth-Year Celebration”

Program
Heinrich Hofmann | Serenade for flute and strings, Op. 65
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Piano Trio in G Major, K.564
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky | Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70


When & Where: Saturday, September 27 at 7:30 PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester

Pre-concert talk ½ hour prior to the performance
Intermission dessert reception for all


How: Gold $55, Silver $45, Bronze $25, Community $10
EBT/WIC/ConnectorCare $5, Youth 17 and under free

Information and tickets for these concerts are available on the ensemble’s website, www.worcesterchambermusic.org, or by calling the office at (508) 926-8624.
Tales from the rail trail2

Tales from the Rail Trail

The Friends of the Goodnow Library will launch their 2025-2026 Program Series with a presentation by Len Simon entitled Tales from the Rail Trail. This program will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 3 PM in the Community Meeting Room of the Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road, Sudbury. This program is free and open to the public.

Please join the Friends for a slide presentation, stories, and commentary about the history and development of the trail, future plans for the trail, and how best to use and enjoy one of Sudbury’s newest recreational resources. Following the presentation, there will be a question and answer period.

Len Simon has lived in Sudbury for 43 years. He is a former pharmacist, Navy veteran, and trial lawyer. He retired from the practice of law in 2012 and in 2013 decided to get involved in local politics, He served two terms on the Sudbury Select Board. Before becoming a Select Board member, Len was a member of the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. As a member of the Select Board, one of Len’s priorities was to work to bring the Rail Trail to Sudbury.

The Friends of the Goodnow Library is a 501(c)3 organization. To learn more about the Friends, please visit our website www.friendsofgoodnow.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and contact us at friendsofgoodnow@gmail.com.

Westford Town Wide Yard Sale!

 
Come shop and see what treasures you can take home from Westford’s Town Wide Yard Sale, Saturday, Sept. 27 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Main location: Abbot School lawn, 25 Depot Street -- plus additional shopping at homes throughout the town.

With lots of sellers and tables all in one place, Abbot School is the perfect spot to start your hunt for bargains and unique items you won’t find anywhere else. You might stumble upon rare collectibles, antiques, china, artwork, jewelry, household goods, ceramics, toys, furniture, sports gear, or one-of-a-kind finds. You name it...we'll have it.

Or, grab a map of participating households at Roudenbush Community Center (65 Main St.) and go on an adventure! Sales will be running concurrently at homes throughout town. For more information, visit: www.roudenbush.org

West Acton Village Merchants Association Hosts Oktoberfest September 27

WAVMA hosts Oktoberfest at Gardner Field on Saturday September 27 from 10AM to 3PM. Featuring many area vendors, activities for the whole family, food, and a beer garden.
Book talk—the trees are speaking

Book Talk—The Trees Are Speaking: Dispatches from the Salmon Forest

When: Thursday, September 25, 7:00-8:30pm
Where: Acton Town Hall Room 204, 472 Main St., Acton, MA

Do you look at your own yard and see stressed trees? Spruces dying back? The heart-wrenching loss of beautiful beeches to beech leaf disease? What is the connection between our local trees and the health of our forests? And how can we advocate for trees, near and far? Come to the book talk, The Trees Are Speaking: Dispatches from the Salmon Forests, on Thurs., September 25th, at 7pm, Acton Town Hall Room 204, and explore these issues with Lynda V. Mapes, award-winning environmental journalist for the Seattle Times. She was inspired to write The Trees Are Speaking after exploring the richness of old growth forests in the Northwest U.S. and Canada. But she also came face to face with the widespread destruction of these forests. However, not all is gloom. Mapes also outlines the resilience of nature, the importance of forest health uncovered by scientists, new approaches to commercial forestry and, perhaps most important, the insights and perseverance of North American Indigenous nations, including Penobscot elders in Maine, who have raised their voices to protect and renew ecosystems. Co-sponsored by the Acton Conservation Trust, the Acton Garden Club Shirley Towle Lecture Fund, and EnergizeActon.org. For more info and to register, go to https://community.massenergize.org/ActonMA/events/2011.
Candid portraits with simple lighting techniques3

Candid Portraits with Simple Lighting Techniques
Assabet Valley Camera Club Program


HUDSON: On Wednesday, October 1st, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to host professional studio photographer Jim DeLuco. Although he is now retired, Jim continues to shoot portraits for friends and family. You can check out his images on Instagram at jamesfdeluco.

This will be a live presentation on how to use your camera flash, on and off-camera, to create candid portraits. Jim will discuss how flash can be used to control the light and to create desired lighting patterns. Considerations will be given to ambient room light and backgrounds. Posing and expressions will also be discussed.

Currently, AVCC meetings are using a hybrid approach where members can come together either in person or via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the program, contact AVCC at avcc.digital@hotmail.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event or to let us know you will be attending in person. Guests are welcome to attend up to two consecutive club meetings prior to becoming a member. For membership information, go to https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/Club/MembershipInfo.aspx .The club’s Zoom room opens at 7:00 PM with a brief business meeting at 7:15 followed by Jim’s presentation at 7:30.

AVCC in-person meetings are held at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street, Hudson and are open to the public. The first meeting of the month generally features a program designed to instruct and/or to entertain camera enthusiasts.  During the second monthly meeting, a competition of members’ digital images is judged and critiqued by qualified individuals. Assabet Valley Camera Club, affiliated with both the New England Camera Club Council (NECCC) and the Photographic Society of America (PSA), participates in inter-club competitions on regional, national and international levels.

AVCC welcomes anyone interested in learning more about photography as a visual art and its practical application as a science.  Members benefit from the hands-on experiences, from the knowledge presented in programs, and from having their work critiqued. For more information, check out AVCC's website https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com// or click on the QR code.
Saga open studios

SAGA Open Studios

On Saturday October 4th and Sunday October 5th from 11-4, 13 members of the Stow Area Guild of Artists will hold open studios.  This is a free event where you can visit the artists in their work studios.  There are 5 locations across Stow - 447 Taylor Road, 353 Taylor Road, 32 Arbor Glen Drive, 76 Edson Street, and 21 Cross Street.  Some of the disciplines represented are pottery (mugs, etc), paintings (oil, cold wax, acrylic, pastel), drawings, jewelry (earrings), photography, hand-made cards and Indigenous Art. Learn more about the artists that live near you.

Discovery Museum Offers $2.50 Admission Price September 16 - 21
EBT, WIC and other deeper discounts still apply

Acton, MA – Discovery Museum announced today that from September 16 through 21, 2025, the cost of admission will be $2.50 per person. The annual “Pay and Play Like It’s 1982,” promotion celebrates the Museum’s founding in 1982 and is meant as a Thank You to the community for more than four decades of support.

During the promotion, existing discount programs that offer deeper discounts—including $1 admission for EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare Card to Culture card holders, and free admission for active-duty military families, teachers, and children under 1—will continue to be honored. Standard admission prices are $19.00 for adults and children ages 1 and up; $18.00 for seniors 60+.

The Museum is open during the school year from 9:00am to 4:30pm Tuesday through Sunday; it is open with free admission the first Friday night of the month from 4:30 to 8:00pm.
 
 

The Acton 250 Committee presents its Acton Center Walking Tour

 
Acton Memorial Library, 486 Main St, Acton, MA
Saturday, September 20, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
 
Professional tour leader and Acton resident Amy Cole has a wide ranging-interest in Acton's unique history. You will visit several locations and monuments in Acton's historic civic center and also learn more about key Acton Memorial Library exhibits. Registration is required and limited to 25.
Register at https://tinyurl.com/Sep20-Acton250
Scarecrowcontestinacton

SCARECROW CONTEST IN ACTON

Enter the annual “Stand Up to Stigma” Scarecrow Contest to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Central Middlesex. Bring your $25 donation to Cucurbit Farm at 32 Parker St. in Acton and pick up your scarecrow starter frame. Then drop off your family friendly scarecrow at the farm stand. Individuals, organizations, and businesses are invited to participate. The scarecrows will be on display for the month of October, and the public is invited to cast their vote for the winning entry. Our goal is 100 scarecrows along the fence and many conversations about mental health! It’s the 10th anniversary of the event! Additional info a namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/scarecrow-contest2025.

A New Reason to Smile: Stow Acres Family Dental has opened in Stow, MA

 
There’s something new to smile about in Stow.  Stow Acres Family Dental officially opened in June 2025. The office is in the Stow Shopping Center at 117 Great Road. The entire team is excited to welcome families and neighbors into their brand-new space.
Led by Dr. Kate McPherson, who has been practicing dentistry for over 5 years, the office offers everything from regular cleanings and check-ups to cosmetic and restorative treatments. Patients can also take advantage of the latest technology, like digital X-rays, same-day crowns, and dental emergencies, all in a comfortable, modern setting.
“We are excited to be part of this wonderful community,” said Dr. McPherson.  “Our goal is to make dental care comfortable, convenient, and personalized for every patient. Whether someone needs routine cleanings or advanced treatment, we’re here to help them achieve a healthy, confident smile.  We really wanted to create a place where people feel at ease,” said Dr. McPherson. “Dental visits can sometimes feel stressful, so we designed our office to be warm, welcoming, and family-friendly.”
The office features a cozy waiting area, TVs in treatment rooms, Digital Technology, Cerec Technology (same day crowns), kid-friendly touches, and a very talented team, making it easier for patients of all ages to feel comfortable.
 
Stow Acres Family Dental is now accepting new patients. Appointments can be made by calling 978-209-0825 or visiting stowacresfamilydental.com.

Financial Focus®
Let a financial advisor help plan for life's curveballs

 
No matter what stage of your life you’re in — caring for children, working toward retirement or planning your legacy — unforeseen events like a job loss, a major illness or even a stock market drop could derail what you’re working so hard to achieve financially.
With your future at stake, you may want to get guidance from a financial professional who can develop a personalized financial strategy to help you navigate life's curveballs.
Here are specific ways a financial advisor can help.
• Create a customized long-term strategy. This is the first step to weather unforeseen events. You may have several long-term investing goals — your retirement, your child’s education or perhaps a dream vacation. A financial advisor can help you build a strategy specific to your goals and risk tolerance. This will include prioritizing those goals, building a path toward each and pivoting your strategy as markets shift and needs change.
• Set realistic expectations. Successful investing requires discipline and patience — most individual investors make their money over time, not overnight. Start by setting realistic timelines to reach each of your goals. And don't be surprised if you need to make trade-offs, like working an extra year to help fund your retirement dream home. It's realistic to expect you'll hit some bumps in the road. Perhaps the markets will drop and the value of your portfolio may follow. (It's also realistic to expect they will rebound, as they have historically. Of course, past performance of the markets is no guarantee of what will happen in the future.) A financial advisor can help you keep your emotions in check no matter what comes your way and stay focused on the long term, knowing you have a customized strategy in place.
• Diversify your investments. The foundation for your portfolio is your asset allocation, or how you divide your assets among stocks, bonds, cash and other investments. Different investments behave differently in various market conditions, so maintaining a good mix can help better weather market fluctuations than putting “all your eggs in one basket.” Finding the right diversification mix, and keeping it balanced despite what the market does, can get complicated, but it's almost second nature for a good financial advisor. All investments do carry risk, and asset allocation doesn’t ensure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.
• Keep a long-term outlook. It’s easy to become distracted by the latest headline, expert prediction or market swing. However, if these events don’t change your long-term outlook, there probably isn’t a reason to make changes to your strategy. In fact, these declines often present good opportunities if you’re a long-term investor, so use them to your advantage — your financial advisor can show you how.
• Keep your emergency savings well-funded. This is your “rainy day” fund, and an unexpected event may constitute a rainy day. For most people, maintaining three to six months of total expenses in emergency savings is appropriate. The specific amount depends on factors like your risk of unexpected expenses or temporary loss of income, and how much you value being confident that you can weather financial emergencies. A financial advisor can help you determine what your emergency savings should look like.
Unexpected events are part of life. You can't predict them, but you can prepare for them. No matter what is going on around you, having a professional by your side can help set you up to navigate them confidently.

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

Fitchburg Native Resident Celebrates 100th Birthday and Lifetime Achievements

AYER, MA - On August 11th, Pauline Sala celebrated her 100th birthday at Nashoba Park Assisted Living with cake, champagne, and some very special surprises. Pauline was overjoyed to receive over 100 birthday cards from her friends, neighbors, and others across the country. Ernie Guertin, a local Ayer resident who displays a prominent sign in his yard in honor of local birthdays, also surprised her with a “Happy Birthday Pauline” sign in his front yard.

The Town of Ayer issued a certificate of recognition in honor of Pauline’s milestone birthday. She was thrilled to receive so much love and appreciation from family, friends, the Nashoba Park team, and the greater Nashoba Valley community. Pauline was born in Fitchburg and lived there for most of her life. She worked at her husband’s grocery store, Sala’s Market, helping out wherever she was needed. 

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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
Worcester chamber music society

Worcester Chamber Music Society Celebrates 20 Years on September 27 at Mechanics Hall With a Special Concert Event

September 11, 2025   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society kicks off its 20th Season with a concert titled “Serenade and Souvenir: Our Twentieth-Year Celebration” at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on September 27. All of the core members of the ensemble get their chance to shine as they take the stage in a joyous performance. Souvenir de Florence is at the heart of this concert. Written for the city Tchaikovsky adored, it is offered here as a tribute to Worcester, the city WCMS adores, whose people welcomed them twenty years ago and continue to support them today. Free dessert will be served at intermission as a thank you to their loyal and wonderful patrons. It will be quite the occasion, designed to be the highlight of this momentous season!
Saturday, September 27 @7:30PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @7 PM
Intermission dessert reception for all

Program
Heinrich Hofmann | Serenade for flute and strings, Op. 65
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Piano Trio in G Major, K.564
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky | Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70
Venues are handicapped accessible.
Several levels of admission are available, including Community seats for $10. Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/serenade-and-souvenir/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.
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About Worcester Chamber Music Society
Hailed as a group with imagination, style and chops, the Worcester Chamber Music Society took the Worcester, MA scene by storm with its initial concert in 2006. It has become a recognized cultural presence within the Greater Worcester area by presenting sold-out concerts to captivated audiences, receiving consistent critical acclaim, building new young audiences, and training rising musicians through both its Neighborhood Strings and Summer ChamberFest programs. WCMS brings world-class chamber music to intimate, beautiful, and uniquely New England venues. WCMS nurtures the community through a unique combination of affordable concerts, education and community engagement.
Charm bracelet 25th anniversary hike

Charm Bracelet 25th Anniversary Hike

Sunday, October 5, 2025, 1:00-3:00 pm

Join the Westborough Community Land Trust on a free walk commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Charm Bracelet trail loop network, on Sunday October 5, 2025, from 1-3 pm.  The Charm Bracelet was introduced at WCLT’s inaugural hike at the Bowman West property on October 9, 2000. We will re-create much of that walk, with commentary about the history of Bowman West, the early days of WCLT, and the work that has been done at that property and our other trails in the past 25 years. The “Father of the Charm Bracelet” Don Burn will be the walk leader. Meet at Minuteman Park on Upton Road, Westborough. About 2.5 miles of walking on woodland trails.
Free, open to the public, no reservation needed.

Before leaving check https://westboroughlandtrust.org/ for cancellations.
For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org
Trail Map: https://westboroughlandtrust.org/maps/HM

Become a Tutor of English

 
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 October 22. The class will meet on five consecutive Wednesday evenings, 6-9, Oct. 22 – Nov. 19. 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.