Action Unlimited

Acton Conservation Trust (ACT) Annual Meeting: "New Conservation Strategies for the 21st Century"

ACTON: All ACT Members and others are invited March 13 at 6:30pm, at Acton Town Hall, Room 204 and/or Zoom, for a night with landscape ecologist, Claudia Thompson. Climate change and loss of biodiversity are the critical ecological challenges of our time. To address these crises, conservation efforts must become much broader and more inclusive than has been the norm, so that they engage virtually all citizens. The extent of our current human impact, and the fragmentation of our landscapes over the past one hundred years, clarify the need - every piece of land, large or small, public or private, deserves careful stewardship so that it becomes part of the solution instead of contributing to the problem.

Using her garden as a case study, Claudia will discuss valuable lessons learned over several decades. she transformed her small urban property into a landscape rich with habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. Much can be achieved. Indeed, the significant challenges before us are motivating many people to action. The growing native plant movement, with its focus on landscapes as ecological systems, instead of gardens as adornments, is an essential component of 21st century conservation strategies.

Free and open to the public. A short ACT annual business meeting will be held from 6-6:30pm including introduction of ACT's Carol Holley Conservation Award winner, Sue Whitcomb. Guest speaker will follow. Visit ActonConservationTrust.org to register.

Acton Garden Club Hosts March Meeting

ACTON: The Acton Garden Club’s March Meeting will take place virtually at 9:30am on March 1 with a program at 10:15am titled “Natural Control of Invasive Plants” presented by Michael Nadeau. Nadeau’s thirty plus years in the organic landscaping business have positioned him as a leading authority in the field of sustainable organic and ethical land care strategies in the U.S. He developed both the Northeast Organic Farming Association’s (NOFA) Standards for Organic Land Care and the NOFA Organic Land and Turf Course Manual, the only 100% organic manual for the care of athletic fields and home lawns. In today’s program he will teach us the best natural tools and techniques for tackling the difficult task of controlling invasive weeds.

Anyone who is interested in the joining the meeting can visit the club’s website at http://actongardenclub.org and leave a message for the webmaster. You will be contacted with the information needed to log into the meeting.

The Singularity Concert Series: A Focus On Improvisational Music

March 1

MAYNARD: Fugitive Productions and Possum Hall Music present the first of three concerts in The Singularity Concert Series: A Focus On Improvisational Music on March 1 at 7:30pm at The Sanctuary at 82 Main Street. Performers include Jerome Deupree on drums and percussion, Duncan Watt on keyboards, Burcu Gulec on vocals, Andrew Dow on bass and soundscapes, Gus Sebring on french horn, Neil Kruszkowski on saxophone, and Mac Ritchey on oud, guitar, and soundscapes.

This trio of truly unique musical experiences, the Singularity Concert Series will take place on the first Tuesday of each month from March to May and with a changing line-up of cutting-edge musical performers and creators. No songs, no sheet music — music being made purely “in the moment” and showcasing the power and creativity of live improvisational performance.

Tickets are $12/advance at www.eventbrite.com/e/singularity-improv-tickets-254210469357 or $15/door. Doors open at 7pm and the performance starts at 7pm. Attendees must show proof of vaccination or negative test required with ID. Enjoy a full bar and table service. The Sanctuary is BYOFood. You can order dinner in one of Maynard's many fine restaurants and bring it with you.

Acton Republicans to Hold Caucus

ACTON: The Acton RTC invites you to their Caucus to elect delegates to the Republican State Convention, on February 16, 2022. The meeting will start at 6:30pm at the West Acton Baptist Church meeting room, 592 Mass Avenue. Any Actonian Republican as of December 31, 2021 is eligible to be nominated as a delegate. If you are interested in being a delegate please attend the Acton RTC Caucus on February 16, 2022 at the WABC, 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 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 contact Chairperson Dave Lunger at 781-775-9922 or davelunger@pm.me.

ArtSpace Maynard @ The Umbrella Visiting Exhibition
January 20 - February 26

CONCORD/MAYNARD: A diverse array of 30 artists from ArtSpace Maynard will be featured in a new gallery exhibition at The Umbrella Arts Center in neighboring Concord, January 20 through February 26, 2022. With 2D and 3D work representing a variety of styles and media on display, this will be the first group exhibition of ArtSpace artists since the pandemic. It is being hosted by The Umbrella in support of its fellow nonprofit, which has been forced to temporarily close following a notice of reduced occupancy from the Town of Maynard. Normally providing affordable space for some 85 local artists to work and exhibit art, ArtSpace has been forced to close until issues are identified, remediated, and a re-inspection can be performed to reinstate the historic building’s full occupancy certification.

Works can be viewed 7 days a week, 10am-9pm, in The Umbrella’s Main Gallery at 40 Stow Street, Concord, which is free and open to the public and ADA accessible. CDC-approved face masks are required for entry. Several artist talks to be announced will be scheduled throughout the exhibition.

The Umbrella encourages art audiences to support ArtSpace by purchasing exhibition artwork available for purchase through the Art Cloud online art market gallery, or by making a donation at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/artspace. Find more information about ArtSpace Maynard and The Umbrella Arts Center at https://TheUmbrellaArts.org/ArtSpace.

Yawkey Foundation Awards $75,000 to Kick Off Discovery Museum’s Multilingual Materials Translation Program

Funds will support 2022 translation & printing of materials for schools & visitors, including special needs audiences

ACTON: Discovery Museum announced a $75,000 grant from Yawkey Foundation to launch the Museum’s work to translate a significant number of educational and access materials across its school and family programs into multiple languages, to better welcome and serve a diverse audience.

“Yawkey Foundation recognizes that delivering educational and access support materials in the languages that families speak at home is an essential step in our work to expand access to the Museum’s learning experiences and resources,” said Discovery Museum CEO Neil Gordon. “Ten percent of Massachusetts schoolchildren are English Language Learners, with a language other than English spoken in their homes. That’s more than 95,000 kids—plus their families—that the Foundation is helping us reach. Yawkey Foundation’s longstanding support of children and families and belief in the Museum’s impact will jump-start our work to make educational materials, parent information, at-home STEAM activities, and more available in the languages most represented in the 300 cities and towns we serve.”

Materials to be translated include pre- and post-workshop student activity guides for the Museum’s in-school STEM programs; museum exhibit guides, sensory guides for children with special needs, field trip chaperone materials, and at-home STEAM activity resources for families. Different content pieces will be translated into languages most impactful for their reach, including Haitian Creole, Khmer, Portuguese, Arabic, Russian, Hindi, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese (Traditional). The Museum’s website, already equipped with Google Translate functionality, is being enhanced to allow visitors to select their desired language for downloadable materials.

Local Students named to Fall 2021 Dean's List at Saint Michael's College

ACTON/MAYNARD: The following students were named to the Dean's List at Saint Michael's College for the Fall 2021 semester.

Danielle Butler, a senior biology major from Acton and a graduate of Acton Boxborough Regional High School.
Daniel Armstrong, a junior criminology major from Acton and a graduate of Acton Boxborough Regional High School.
Matthew Wilkins, a senior history / secondary education major from Maynard and a graduate of Maynard High School.

Saint Michael's College, founded in the great Catholic intellectual tradition, which also recognizes the principles of social justice and compassion, is a selective, fully residential Catholic college in Vermont's beautiful Green Mountains. Our closely connected community delivers internationally-respected liberal arts and graduate education near Burlington, one of the country's best college towns. To prepare for fulfilling careers and meaningful lives, young adults here grow intellectually, socially, and morally, learning to be responsible for themselves, each other and their world.

Acton Center ‘Bugles’ Memorial Service February 6

ACTON: This month’s ‘Bugles Across America’ memorial service will take place at 5pm on Sunday, February 6 at Acton Center. This is a short memorial (15-20 min) to those that served and paid the ultimate price for their service to our country defending freedom. The service consists of the Pledge, a few words from one or more in attendance and the live playing of “Taps”. For more information, contact Dave 781-775-9922.

Acton-Boxborough United Way Receives 3-Year Grant from Emerson Hospital to Advance Community-Based Mental Health Resilience

ACTON/BOXBOROUGH: Acton-Boxborough United Way has been awarded $64,000 from Emerson Hospital to implement its three-year Community Mental Health Resilience Plan.

Acton-Boxborough United Way envisions a community where residents recognize the importance of prioritizing mental health, know where to turn for resources, and enjoy regular programming to promote well-being among all neighbors.

Developed in the spring of 2021, Acton-Boxborough United Way’s 3-Year Strategic Roadmap, Thrive2024, names mental health as one of its key priorities. Acton-Boxborough United Way will convene a Mental Health Collaborative to undertake a community-centric Assessment focused on resilience and to conduct an innovative, free “21-Day Mental Health Challenge”. With the support of a grant from Emerson, each of the three project components - Collaborative, Assessment, and Challenge - will be scalable across Middlesex County.

To continue its focus on expanding access to mental health care for the community, Emerson Hospital named three local grant recipients to address the needs of residents in its service area. In addition to Acton-Boxborough United Way, Elder Services of Merrimack Valley-North Shore and First Connections will receive funds from Emerson over the next three years to improve the accessibility of mental health services for residents. The recipients collectively represent the entire life span and were chosen among 18 applicants from a request for proposal process held during the Fall 2021.

Mental health care was identified as a critical need across all ages, income levels, and racial/ethnic groups in Emerson’s most recent Community Health Needs Assessment (www.emersonhospital.org/chna). “The pandemic significantly exacerbated the need for mental health support for people of all ages. Core to our mission of providing care to residents in our community, we are pleased to partner with these innovative organizations to make mental health care more accessible to all,” said Christine Schuster, RN, MBA, President and CEO, Emerson Hospital.

Funding for the grants is stipulated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health based on the capital investment of Emerson’s new Digestive Health Center that is expected to open this Spring. For more information, please visit www.emersonhospital.org/community-programs. For mental health resources in the community, visit www.emersonhospital.org/mentalhealthresources.

Northeastern University Announces Fall Semester 2021 Dean's List

ACTON/MAYNARD: Northeastern University is pleased to recognize those students who distinguish themselves academically during the course of the school year. The following local students were recently named to the University's dean's list for the Fall semester, which ended in December 2021.

* Acton resident Soumili Dey, majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology.
* Acton resident Julia Luisa Lee, majoring in English/ Theatre.
* Acton resident Hudson Gore, majoring in Business Administration.
* Acton resident Niraagi Shah, majoring in Business Administration.
* Acton resident Caitlin Laska, majoring in Health Science.
* Acton resident Isabel Maas, majoring in Health Science/Psychology.
* Acton resident Kevin Zheng, majoring in Comp Sci/Business Admin.
* Acton resident Victor Sun, majoring in Cybersecurity.
* Acton resident Rohini Jangi, majoring in Computer Science.
* Acton resident Jasmine Lai, majoring in Computer Science.
* Acton resident Anne Fu, majoring in Bioengineering.
* Acton resident Annika Maas, majoring in Bioengineering.
* Acton resident Jacqueline Sater, majoring in Undeclared.
* Acton resident Thiviyan Satheesh, majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience.
* Acton resident Halley Friedman, majoring in Biology.
* Acton resident Olivia Maas, majoring in Biology.
* Acton resident David Song, majoring in Biology.
* Acton resident Somya Prabhakar, majoring in Comp Sci/Business Admin. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Prabhakar is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Acton resident Owen Simpson, majoring in Computer Science/Biology. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Simpson is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Acton resident Satwik Misra, majoring in Computer Science. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Misra is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Acton resident Anmol Sakarda, majoring in Computer Science. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Sakarda is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Acton resident Joshua Chun, majoring in Biochemistry. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Chun is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Acton resident Devin Brown, majoring in Mathematics. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Brown is a member of the University Honors Program.

* Maynard resident Alyssa Barilone, majoring in Undeclared.
* Maynard resident Hazelyn Aroian, majoring in Computer Science/Linguistics. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Aroian is a member of the University Honors Program.
* Maynard resident Hannah Carlisle, majoring in Chemistry. In addition to achieving distinction through the dean's list, Carlisle is a member of the University Honors Program.

To achieve the dean's list distinction, students must carry a full program of at least four courses, have a quality point average of 3.5 or greater out of a possible 4.0 and carry no single grade lower than a C- during the course of their college career. Each student receives a letter of commendation and congratulation from their college dean. The University Honors Program offers high caliber students the chance to further hone their studies and interests, live in special interest residential communities, participate in enriched, interdisciplinary courses, and engage in research and creative endeavors, service, and global experiences. Invitation into the University Honors Program is highly competitive and students must maintain a high GPA to maintain membership.

Pre-order Period for At-home Covid-19 Tests Has Begun

The Biden Administration is offering free rapid tests to all residents in the United States. The pre-order period for the at-home COVID-19 tests via www.covidtests.gov has begun. Every household in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are completely free and will usually ship in 7-12 days. Please visit www.covidtests.gov to submit an order and learn more.

Massachusetts Circuit Breaker Tax Credit for Seniors

ACTON: As a senior citizen, you may be eligible for the Massachusetts Circuit Breaker tax credit on your Massachusetts income tax return – even if you don’t otherwise owe taxes or need to file an income tax return. Homeowners may be eligible for a tax refund of up to $1,170 if your real estate taxes paid in 2021 plus half of your water/sewer payments exceed 10% of your total income from all sources. Renters may be eligible for a tax refund if rent payments in 2021 exceed 40% of total income from all sources.

The tax credit is available to Massachusetts residents age 65 or older with total income from all sources is $62,000 or less if single and $93,000 or less if married. It is not available to those who received subsidized rent such as from a housing authority or those who are dependents of another taxpayer. Special rules apply for those who houses are in trusts. For full details of eligibility requirements and program rules visit www.mass.gov/service-details/senior-circuit-breaker-tax-credit.

Free tax preparation assistance is available at from IRS-certified volunteers through the AARP Tax-Aide program. You can check with your local senior center or, for appointments at the Maynard Public Library, please call (978) 760-9146 seven days a week.

A Talk: The State of Our Local Economy—How to Optimize Today’s Opportunities

ACTON: On February 3 from Noon to 1pm, attend a very special Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce virtual Lunch ‘n Learn. Network with members and join an exclusive event featuring a talk by Acton’s new Director of Economic Development, Julie Pierce Onos. Pregistration required at www.mwcoc.com (events page). Valentine’s Day is coming—Love Local! The first twenty members to register receive a complimentary (and delicious) bag of Valentine’s treats, courtesy of local Chamber sponsors. Members: free, Future members: $20. 978-263-0010.

Greater Lowell Community Foundation Seeks Request for Proposals for 2022 Discretionary Grant Cycles & Nashoba Valley Healthcare Fund

LOWELL: The Greater Lowell Community Foundation will open its 2022 Nashoba Valley Healthcare Fund and Discretionary Grant Cycles on February 2 and is seeking requests for proposals from nonprofit organizations. The Foundation will award $160,000 through the Discretionary Grant Cycle. Funding areas for 2022 include children’s services, elder services and racial equity/inclusion.

Non-profit organizations serving the communities of Acton, Ashby, Ayer, Bedford, Billerica, Burlington, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Concord, Dracut, Dunstable, Groton, Littleton, Lowell, Pepperell, Shirley, Tewksbury, Townsend, Tyngsboro, Westford, and Wilmington are invited to apply.

Additionally, GLCF will open its 2022 Nashoba Valley Healthcare Fund Cycle on February 2. The foundation seeks requests for proposals from non-profit organizations supporting the advancement of community health of residents in the following GLCF communities: Ashby, Ayer, Dunstable, Groton, Littleton, Pepperell, Shirley, Townsend, and Westford. The Foundation will award $80,000 through this grant program.

Nashoba Valley Healthcare Fund Cycle grant awards will range from $5,000 up to $20,000; however, larger scale collaborative projects that are more than $20,000 will be considered if the funding request is justified by the impact of the project. Of particular interest are proposals that address systemic issues like (but not limited to) addiction/ substance abuse, domestic violence, food insecurity, mental health, suicide screening and prevention, obesity, racial equity and inclusion and other specific issues as indicated by community needs.

Grant applications for both grant opportunities must be submitted by noon on March 4, 2022. Grant recipients will be announced in May. More information is available on the foundation’s website: www.glcfoundation.org.

For more information about the grant process, contact Sharon, GLCF Grants Coordinator with any questions at sharon@glcfoundation.org.

Established in 1997, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) is a philanthropic organization comprised of more than 390 funds dedicated to improving the quality of life in 21 neighboring cities and towns. With financial assets of more than $55 million, GLCF annually awards grants and scholarships to hundreds of worthy nonprofits and students. It is powered by the winning combination of donor-directed giving, personal attention from Foundation staff, and an in-depth understanding of local needs. The generosity of our donors has enabled the Community Foundation to award more than $25 million to the Greater Lowell community.

PHOTO: Catie’s Closet, Inc. received a past Discretionary Children’s Grant to support their Lowell program. Pictured, Catie’s Closet volunteers with special request bags packed with urgently needed items for children.

Boxborough Democrats to Hold Caucus, Elect Delegates to State Convention

BOXBOROUGH: Boxborough Democrats will hold their annual caucus on Thursday, February 10 at 6pm to elect three delegates (plus one ex-officio) and three alternates to the 2022 Massachusetts Democratic Convention. The caucus will be held virtually via Zoom. To register, go to https://tinyurl.com/3nurkdpw, visit www.boxboroughdems.org, or facebook.com/BoxboroughDTC.

All Boxborough registered and pre-registered Democrats are eligible to participate. Pre-registered Democrats who are 16 by February 4 are eligible to run and be elected as delegates. Those not elected as a Delegate or Alternate, but who meet the qualifications, may apply to be add-on delegates in the following categories: youth, minority, disabled. Delegates and alternates from across the state will gather at the convention for the purpose of endorsing candidates for statewide office and unite to elect Democrats down the ballot in November 2022. The Convention will be held on Saturday, June 4 at the DCU Center in Worcester. Elected delegates will be divided equally between men and women. Candidates whose gender identity is non-binary can run without needing to classify as either male or female.

Discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, color, creed, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic identity, economic status, or disability in the conduct of the caucus is strictly prohibited. Challenges to the delegate selection process can be filed with the Massachusetts Democratic Party, 11 Beacon Street, Suite 410, Boston, MA 02108 no later than ten days after the caucus date. For additional information, please contact Abby Reip, Chair of the Boxborough Democratic Town Committee at abbyreip@gmail.com or 978-490-5343.

Virtual Speaker Series Schedule Announced; Series Kicks Off with Chris Singleton

ACTON: Discovery Museum kicks off the 10th year of its Discovery Museum Speaker Series with Chris Singleton, inspirational speaker and children’s book author, speaking on “Unity in Our Communities: Empowering Kids and Communities to Put Human Dignity First.” The event will be held virtually via Zoom webinar on Wednesday, February 16 from 7-8:30pm. Registration for this event and the entire 2022 series is open now at http://bit.ly/DMSpeakerSeries. All events will be virtual.

Singleton will share his expertise on how communities in both big cities and small towns can be united and explain the differences between listening to argue a point versus listening to understand perspectives. Whether they agree with their counterparts or not, the audience will be equipped with a different perspective on privilege and racism and receive key takeaways they can use in their everyday life to be more empathetic. Singleton’s heart-warming story of how love conquers hate will leave the audience inspired to be the change that they wish to see in the world.

Chris Singleton is a former professional athlete drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2017. Following the loss of his mother in a racially motivated mass shooting, Chris has now become an inspirational speaker and best-selling author who has shared his message of unity and racial reconciliation with clients such as: Microsoft, Biogen, Houston Texans, and Washington Wizards, sharing with over 50 organizations and more than 30,000 students annually. Singleton is the author of two children’s books: Your Life Matters and Different: A Story About Loving Your Neighbor, both of which may be purchased locally at The Silver Unicorn Bookstore in Acton.

Full 2022 Schedule

Registration for all events is open now on the Museum’s website at http://bit.ly/DMSpeakerSeries.

Wednesday, February 16 | “Unity in Our Communities: Empowering Kids and Communities to Put Human Dignity First,” with Chris Singleton, inspirational speaker and children’s book author.

Thursday, March 24 | “The Power of Play: How to Help Children Buffer Stress and Become More Resilient,” with Dr. Michael Yogman, pediatrician, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School.

Wednesday, April 27 | “Helping Kids Understand Climate Change and How to Make a Difference,” with children’s book authors Stacy Clark and Christy Mihaly.

Thursday, September 22 | “Playgrounds vs. Playpens: Coding, Computational Thinking, and Robotics in Early Childhood,” with Marina Umaschi Bers, PhD, Professor, Tufts University, Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development; Secondary Appointment, Department of Computer Sciences.

Wednesday, November 16 | “The Art of Storytelling,” with Joseph Sarosy and Silke Rose West, authors of "How to Tell Stories to Children.”

Celebrating the Beauty of Living in the Moment: Accompanying Persons Living with Alzheimer’s

BOXBOROUGH: UCC Boxborough invites you to worship on Sunday, February 13 at 9:30am via Zoom for a special service with guest preacher Rev. Jade Angelica. For the Zoom link, visit the church website at http://boxoboroughucc.org or contact the church office at boxborochurch@verizon.net.

Alzheimer’s is a mysterious and misunderstood disease, and as such can cause confusion and fear for those diagnosed as well as their families and society. This service offers information and inspiration that can lead to spiritual awakening and healing as we all navigate the unknown and choppy waters of life with Alzheimer’s. For those caring for and about persons with Alzheimer’s, this service can open hearts to embracing possibilities - that all is not lost, and that joy and connections and relationships can grow and flourish.

Rev. Dr. Jade Angelica has been a practicing minister since 1992. Her education and training include a Masters of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Newton-Andover Theological School. She has offered presentations for dementia caregivers throughout the country. However, Jade’s most important and most rewarding ministry, to date, has been caring for her mother, Jeanne, who died from Alzheimer’s in 2011.

“Celebrating the Beauty of Living in the Moment” offers hope and consolation to those who accompany loved ones through the journey of diminishing capacities. Lives of family members and friends with Alzheimer's and dementia will be honored and remembered. Following worship will be a time for questions and discussion.

Domestic Violence Roundtable Collects Valentine Donations for Families in Shelter

2018 roundtable valentines day bags decorated by children at sudbury extended day

SUDBURY: Each February, the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable collects items for Valentine’s Day and fills gift bags for women, men and children temporarily living in local domestic violence shelters and transitional housing programs: REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, The Second Step, and Voices Against Violence. The Valentine Bags are decorated by the children from Sudbury Extended Day.

Members of local communities are cordially invited to participate in this collection again this year. Donations are welcome, but due to Covid 19 restrictions and social distancing, donors will not be assembling the gift bags. However, this is still a great opportunity for civic organizations, workplaces, families, friends and neighbors to contribute to the Roundtable collection and to help make lives brighter for families affected by domestic violence. Small acts of kindness like the gift bags let families know they are supported in their decision to leave an abusive situation and brighten their day. These gestures are especially appreciated during the pandemic.

Some examples of needed items are gift cards for CVS, Target, Market Basket, Gas etc. For mothers and teens some items would include full size bath products, fuzzy socks, cosmetics, nail polish, hair products, journals, etc. Items for children could include playing cards, art supplies, small toys, small stuffed animals, matchbox cars, and educational items. Baby items may include toys, rattles, baby cups, baby socks, bibs, and baby body products.

In past years the Roundtable has provided as many as 125 bags for families in shelter and transitional housing. If you are interested in contributing to the Valentine’s Day collection and have questions, please contact the Roundtable at info@dvrt.org. Donations may be left in the collection baskets provided at Sudbury Wine and Spirits in the Rugged Bear Plaza Road, 410 Boston Post Road, Sudbury or at Maynard Spirits, (near Market Basket) 4 Digital Way, Suite 3, Maynard. The collections will start on January 22 and end on February 5.

Artists Opportunity: Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room Gallery One-Person Shows

ACTON: The Arts Committee of the Acton Memorial LIbrary invites Massachusetts artists to submit work for consideration for upcoming exhibitions in the Meeting Room Gallery. The Committee will review work for one person shows and will set the schedule for July 2022 - September 2023. Various media including painting, drawing, printmaking, illustration, photography, textiles and mixed media are eligible. Sculptural work will be considered for exhibit on the second floor of the library.

All work should have been created within the last five years. All applications must be submitted through Google Forms Online. A Google account is required to complete your submission and can be setup for free if you do not already have one. The submission form is at https://forms.gle/i8mMYLBr7xQFqXoT6. Your completed submission should include up to 10 digital images; an image list with title, media and dimensions; an Artist’s statement; and your resume. Deadline for submissions: March 1, 2022. Questions? - 978-929-6655; www.actonmemoriallibrary.org.

Literacy & Fine Motor Skills for Kindergarten Zoom Seminar at First Connections

ACTON: First Connections welcomes Dr. Sharon Ryan, Pre-K-2 Literacy & Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator for Acton-Boxborough Schools, who will discuss the kinds of activities that families can enjoy together to nurture young children's literacy and fine-motor development in preparation for transitioning to kindergarten.

A packet of information which includes a rhyming book that Sharon will use during the presentation, and fine-motor development tools such as playdoh, scissors, bead stringing, clothespin pickup activities, and pencil control practice will be available for pickup at First Connections in Acton during the 10 days prior to the program. This program is free and will take place on Tuesday, February 8 at 9:30am via zoom. To join the discussion, email lmatthews@jri.org with your name and town. The program is not specific to Acton-Boxboro - it is appropriate for families with 3-5 year olds in any town.

Discovery Museum Announces 2022 Series of Free Events for Families of Children with Disabilities

ACTON: Discovery Museum announced its full 2022 schedule for the Especially for Me series of free events for families with children with an autism spectrum disorder, sensory disorders, or hearing or vision loss. The first event of the year, an Autism-Friendly Evening, will be held this Saturday, January 15, 5pm to 8pm. Space is limited and advance registration is required at www.discoveryacton.org/event/autism-friendly-evening-13.

This is the 12th year of the popular program series that offers families an opportunity to play together when the Museum is closed to the public and capacity is limited in order to improve access. Because admission is free, families may come and go based on their child’s needs without concern for cost. Parents also have the chance to meet other families in similar circumstances, thereby reducing feelings of isolation often described by families dealing with special needs. A medical diagnosis is not required to attend, and mask exemptions can be requested in advance.

Discovery Museum is ADA-compliant and all exhibits are accessible, designed according to Universal Design principles to be both aesthetically pleasing and usable by the widest possible range of people, without regard to age or ability. Special resources are available to families including noise-reducing headphones, audio-description devices, a sensory guide to the Museum, sensory-based programming, and American Sign Language (ASL) language facilitators. Additionally, dinner, including a gluten-free option, is provided at all evening events.

All Especially for Me events are free to attend for all family members, but preregistration is required. Dates and available registration links can be found online at http://bit.ly/EspeciallyforMe.

2022 Event Schedule

Mornings for Families of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, & KODA Infants and Toddlers (closed to the public):
Mondays 9:30am-12:30pm | March 7, October 17

Sensory-Friendly Afternoons (open to the public, but no school groups or birthday parties scheduled):
Tuesdays 1:30-4:30pm | February 1, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, October 4, November 1, December 6

Evenings for Families with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, & KODA Children (closed to the public):
Saturdays 5-8pm | February 5, April 9, June 11, September 10.

Visually Impaired Family Evenings (closed to the public):
Saturdays 5-8pm | May 7, October 1

Autism-Friendly Evenings (closed to the public):
Saturdays 5-8pm | January 15, March 19, April 30, May 21, September 24, November 12, December 10

All-Access Evenings (closed to the public):
Saturdays 5-8pm | March 5, October 22

Autism-friendly events are offered in conjunction with Autism Alliance of MetroWest; events for children with hearing loss are offered in conjunction with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Especially for Me is part of the museum’s Open Door Connections program to provide opportunities for those who face a variety of barriers---financial, developmental, or cultural---to experience the Museum.

Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum that blends science, nature, and play, inspiring families to explore and learn together. The museum and its Discovery Woods accessible outdoor nature playscape and 550sf treehouse blend the best of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) learning on a beautiful 4.5-acre campus abutting 180 acres of conservation land in Acton, MA, about 20 miles west of Boston. Originally founded in 1982 and expanded to two museums in 1987, the museum reopened in a single, 16,000sf accessible building after a complete renovation and expansion in early 2018. Hands-on, open-ended exhibits developed by professional educators inspire curiosity and exploration, providing a fun and engaging experience for children and adults to discover their world together. Serving families and schools from towns throughout the region, the museum is devoted to informal education that enhances classroom learning. Discovery Museum is committed to accessibility and is a proud recipient of the 2017 Massachusetts Commonwealth Award, the only winner in the Access category, and a 2018 LEAD® Community Asset Award from The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. For more information please visit www.discoveryacton.org. Discovery Museum is a community-supported non-profit organization.

Town of Boxborough’s Annual WinterFest at Steele Farm January 29

BOXBOROUGH: The Boxborough Recreation Commission invites you to enjoy the annual Boxborough WinterFest on Saturday, January 29, 2022 (rain date on Sunday, January 30), celebrating the season at Steele Farm on Middle Road from 1pm to 4pm. Warm up with friends and neighbors around the bonfire, listen to great music and try your hand (and feet) at a human foosball game for all ages.

Snacks will be available for purchase from Supa Dupa food truck featuring BBQ sandwiches, quesadillas, and tacos. Two Friends Chocolates, a Boxborough chocolate company will show how chocolate making is an art. A local, hard cider company, Pony Shack Cider, Inc. will also be on hand for purchase of hard cider for all adults. True West will be serving their famous beer and The Boxborough Regency will be providing their world-famous warm chocolate chip cookies and mulled cider and wine for purchase. The local 4th grade Girl Scout troop will also be on hand to sell Girl Scout cookies.

Be sure to bring your sleds to see how far you can make it down the hill with friends and family. Feel free to enjoy the day as well by hiking through beautiful conservation trails at Steele Farm.

Children can enjoy special activities from the Taylor School in Boxborough and the Acton Boxborough Family Network. The Boxborough Historical Commission will also be present to showcase some of the historical farming tools and the icehouse to show how ice was made and stored back in the day. Say hi to your neighbors and participate in all that winter has to offer in beautiful Boxborough!

The Boxborough Minutemen Company Wants You!

BOXBOROUGH: The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will hold a Company meeting on Sunday, January 16 at 8pm. The Company is open to anyone of least 18 years of age who is interested in service to the Town and/or perpetuating the memory of the Minutemen of 1775. Members may participate in any number of the Company's activities including marching in parades, 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 Blanchard School 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.
Both old and new residents of the town are welcome to come and make new connections with others in town.

For information, contact Captain Dave Bull at captain@boxboroughminutemen.org, 978-263-5607, or visit www.boxboroughminutemen.org.

Free Virtual Support Group for Parents of One Year Olds

ACTON: First Connections is offering a free 6-week virtual support group for parents of 12-24-month babies. The group will meet on Thursdays from 11:30-1 over zoom from January 13 to February 17. During this ongoing pandemic, 43% of new parents experienced post-traumatic stress, and 31% experienced anxiety/depression. Recovery takes time. Connection and support are essential for recovery. Your weekly participation will enhance the benefit of the group and we ask that you attend most if not all sessions, which include: Practicing Mindfulness, The Impact of Gratitude, Healthy Communication, Prioritizing Self-Care, Sharing Resources, and Building Community.

This group will be facilitated by Heather O'Brien, LICSW, Certif. Infant-Parent Mental Health. Parents of every culture, age, income level, gender identity, race and ability can develop perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. A diagnosis is not required to participate in this group. Single, partnered or married parents, adoptive and biological parents, and parents of first or subsequent babies are all welcome. This group is able to be offered free of charge due to funding from Mass. Dept. Early Education and Care, Emerson Hospital, Acton-Boxboro United Way, Concord-Carlisle Community Chest, Sage Therapeutics, Nordblum Family Foundation and the Mass. PPD Fund. To register, email Heather at hobrien@jri.org. For more information on New Moms and New Dads Groups, go to www.firstconnections.org.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Winter Advisory Regarding Face Coverings

This Advisory has been updated as of December 21, 2021.

COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine boosters are highly effective at protecting against serious illness, hospitalization and death and every individual who is eligible and works, studies or resides in Massachusetts is strongly urged to get vaccinated and boosted. The Department of Public Health urges all eligible residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 because vaccination provides the most effective protection from severe illness associated with COVID-19.

In response to the spread of the Delta variant and the emerging Omicron variant, the Department of Public Health now advises that all residents, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask or face covering when indoors (and not in your own home). The DPH particularly urges this recommendation if you have a weakened immune system, or if you are at increased risk for severe disease because of your age or an underlying medical condition, or if someone in your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.

Your primary care physician can advise you whether you are at increased risk. Information from the Centers for Disease Control regarding the conditions that may put you at increased risk can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html.

All people in Massachusetts (regardless of vaccination status) are required to continue wearing face coverings in certain settings, including transportation and health care facilities. Please see www.mass.gov/maskrules for a complete list of venues where face coverings have remained mandatory since May 29, 2021.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s current mask requirement and Policy on Vaccination Rate Threshold issued on September 27th, 2021 is not impacted by this advisory. As a result of the most comprehensive and robust school testing program in the country, with 99% of public, collaborative and charter districts enrolled, Massachusetts elementary and secondary schools remain open and safe for children and youth to engage in learning, with over 325,000 school days saved. Only schools who can demonstrate they have high vaccination rates of over 80% of all individuals vaccinated are able to remove masks for vaccinated individuals upon a written attestation.
For individuals who are not fully vaccinated, it is especially important that you wear a face covering or mask any time you are indoors and not in your own home to reduce the chance that you may spread COVID-19 to other people. People who show no symptoms of illness may still be able to spread COVID-19.

An individual is fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine. However, if a fully vaccinated individual becomes symptomatic, they should be tested and wear a mask until receiving test results.
When you wear a face covering or cloth mask, it should:

Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face,
Be secured with ties or ear loops,
Include multiple layers of fabric,
Allow for breathing without restriction, and
Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.

For more information, please refer to the CDC at: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html

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New Exhibit: Lola Chaisson's “Straits of Magellan” Opens January 5, 2022 at 6 Bridges Gallery

MAYNARD: 6 Bridges Gallery presents “Straits of Magellan,” paintings by Lola Chaisson. The exhibit will be on view from January 5 through February 12, 2022. It will also be hosted online at http://6bridges.gallery. An artist’s reception will be held on Saturday, January 8 from 1-3pm.

Lola Chaisson invites you to journey to the southern tip of South America through this exhibit of paintings. From sketches, photos and memories, local artist Lola Chaisson has captured the spirit of a voyage taken shortly before the pandemic. "Rather than focus on being 'stuck at home' I picked up my brushes and looked back to the open vistas where mountains stretched up to the clouds and down to the sea. In my mind switching the view of my living room back to the views along the passage from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia via Cape Horn." the artist reports.

A sense of motion is captured by the horizontal format of many of the paintings, you can imagine floating past peaks and distant waterfalls. Occasionally the movement is interrupted by stops to consider closely orchids, birds or glaciers. Over or near the top edges are the coordinates, and notes have been added to the labels about what drew Chaisson to the particular view. Often after a trip there are intentions to organize thoughts and fill gaps in journals but life intervenes, however this time the pandemic stoppage presented time to reflect and paint.

"When I paint," says Chaisson " I am often enthralled with the first stroke or two on the canvas. As tempted as I am, I can't stop myself there. Angles, shapes, colors and more and more detail flow in and build to record very specific moments. When I'm successful, the spirit of that first line survives in the finished work."

With the pandemic still constraining our wanderlust, it feels good these days to think of faraway species and lands. An astronomer by training, Lola Chaisson feels fortunate to have had James Rayen as a drawing and painting professor while at Wellesley College. With a studio at ArtSpace Maynard, grown children and, in recent years, no more day job she has felt fortunate to be able to focus more on her art work.

A Concord resident for many years, she has maintained a studio in Maynard and enjoys the community that provides. However due to the pandemic and construction she is trying to paint at home where distractions abound. For the most part she works in acrylics, loving everything about them except their hard to spell name. In summer she heads north along the coast and paints the view from her kayak. A member of Concord Art Association, Arts Wayland and Newburyport Art Association you can often see her work in area shows.

She has also had shows or works in shows at Pine Manor College, The Brush Gallery Lowell, Serendipity Cafe Maynard, Gallery Twist, Worcester State University, 6 Bridges Gallery Maynard, Mass Audubon at Moose Hill, Post Road Art Center, the Concord Free Public Library, the Maynard Library, Harvard’s Cabot Library, and the Massachusetts State House. More of her work can be found at www.lolachaisson.com or on Instagram @Lola.Chai.

For more information about the exhibit, please visit http://6Bridges.Gallery, Facebook and Instagram.

6 Bridges Gallery was established in 2014 by a group of artists to create a retail and display gallery in the heart of downtown Maynard, Massachusetts. The ever-changing work in our gallery includes a diverse range of media and artistic styles. All of our artisans are local; many - including our founding members - are residents of the ArtSpace Maynard studios. Our gallery is owned and operated by our artists, so there is a unique opportunity to meet one or more of them on any given day.

Maynard Community Band Presents 32nd Annual “A Christmas Pops”

MAYNARD: The Maynard Community Band (MCB) presents its 32nd annual "A Christmas Pops" on Sunday, December 19 at 5 pm, in Sanctuary, 82 Main Street. This annual holiday concert has become a growing tradition for the town of Maynard. Join in celebration of the holiday season as the MCB and Conductor Michael Karpeichik present their 32nd annual holiday concert.

The MCB is the longest standing tradition in the town, with continual performances since 1947. The community concert band is a non-professional musical ensemble comprised of musicians from Maynard and its’ surrounding communities who demonstrate strong interests in playing music in a purposeful but non-stressful atmosphere.

The MCB performs summer concerts every Wednesday evening throughout the months of June, July and August. Additionally the MCB has performed for local telethons, various private events as well as performances outside the town of Maynard.

Whether this is your first time or a returning fan, you’ll be inspired by our time honored program for the young and young at heart. Sit back, relax and listen to the musical sounds of the season. Try to stay in your seats through “Bugler’s Holiday”. Then recall “A Visit from St Nicholas” more commonly known as “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”. Once the presents have all been left, climb aboard a “Sleigh Ride” and recount the miracle through Kaylee Rodgers interpretation of the holiday version of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”. Then once again remembering “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”, end with “Wishing you a Mambo Christmas”. Weather permitting you may even get a visit from Santa himself.

This concert has become an annual event in town and always proves to be an entertaining and memorable experience...and it’s FREE! Go early and stay for the main event as the MCB Holiday Concerts have become standing room only by downbeat time. Doors open at 4pm. Cash bar open.

For the safety of the audience, staff and MCB you must provide ID and proof that you are fully vaccinated (two weeks after your last vaccination dose) or, have proof that a negative Covid test result was received from a certified medical facility within 72 hours of the event. Sanctuary no longer accepts over-the-counter self-test results. In addition, audience, staff and MCB are required to wear a mask while in the building.

For those unable to attend or wanting to view the concert from home, it will be LIVE streamed at: www.facebook.com/events/656773792358330/ and
www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6KyFwJ3X0Q.

Troop 284/Troop 1 Acton - Holiday Tree Fundraiser

ACTON: Boy Scout Troop 284 and Troop 1 had such a successful holiday tree pick up fundraiser last year that the two troops have decided to do it again! This time around, they are including collecting trees from ACTON and BOXBOROUGH residents. Tree pick-ups will take place on Saturdays, January 8 and 15. The money raised will help to fund campouts, merit badge workshops, camp, the upkeep of camping gear, and high adventure trips for scouts. Your contactless tree removal can be scheduled at www.ActonBSA.org for a recommended donation of $20, or call at 978-795-4225. For your convenience you can either write a check made out to Troop 284 Acton and leave it with your tree or feel free to use Paypal! Sign up for your tree pick-up using the QR code herein.

Boxborough Minutemen Tree Pickup: January 8, 2022

BOXBOROUGH: The Boxborough Minutemen will once again be collecting and (with help from the Boxborough DPW) disposing of Christmas trees from Boxborough residents after the holidays this year on Saturday, January 8, 2022. Online sign up forms will be on the Boxborough Minuteman website at https://boxboroughminutemen.org/christmas-tree-pickup after December 18. Hard copy sign up forms are also expected to be available around the same time at the Town Hall if you prefer to mail in your form. The cost for pickup is $11 if you sign up and pay on the Minuteman website (deadline for signup and payment online is January 2) and $10 if you mail in your form and check (deadline for mail in forms and payment is January 2). If you prefer not to sign up for tree pickup, you can also deliver your tree for disposal to the “old” Boxborough DPW facility located at 577 Mass Ave (Rte. 111) on Saturday, January 8 between 10am and 2pm. A disposal fee of $5 will be collected on site when you drop off your tree. If there are questions please email captain@boxboroughminutemen.org.

Acton Area Youth to Help Acton Residents Dispose of Christmas Trees after Christmas

ACTON: For the 18th year, the youth of the Acton Congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be collecting and disposing of Christmas trees in Acton to raise money for youth summer activities. This annual fundraiser helps defray the costs for their summer camp and outdoor adventure activities. The boys and girls will be picking up trees on Saturday, January 1 and Saturday, January 8. The suggested donation is $15. If you would like to have them pick up your Christmas tree, please visit http://treepickup.blogspot.com, email treepickup2008@gmail.com, or call/text 978-272-2063 to make arrangements.

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club Holiday Lunch at Tavern in the Square, The Point

LITTLETON: Nashoba Valley Neighbors will host its monthly “Lunch Bunch” gathering at 12:30pm on Thursday, December 16 at Tavern in the Square. Members and guests are welcome to this “Dutch Treat” affair for neighborly conversation and enjoyment of a menu of fresh handcrafted foods and homemade cocktails, wines and craft beers. A group reservation is required so all are asked to RSVP to Info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org on or before Wednesday, December 15. This is an indoor event, and if you are vaccinated and feel comfortable with indoor dining.

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

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

Longest Night Service at United Church of Christ

BOXBOROUGH: A Longest Night Service will be held on Wednesday, December 15, 7pm at the United Church of Christ, 723 Massachusetts Avenue. This service will be offered in person, with brief singing, masks for all, and physical distancing. For more information, please see Rev. Cindy.

According to everything Hallmark tells us, this time of year is supposed to be filled with family, celebration, and delightful promise. But for many people the holidays bring up painful memories. Others struggle with the gap between what they see in TV commercials and the experience in their own lives. And in 2021, the ramifications of a lingering global pandemic are making everything harder on everyone. But in the midst of discouragement, frustration, grief and pain there is hope. Sometimes we find that hope in a friend, or a poem, or an early-morning walk; wherever we find it is a Holy place.

Experience Christmas at Mt. Calvary

ACTON: Everyone in the community is invited to attend Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church for Christmas Eve services at 4pm and 7pm - “The King’s Christmas: The King is Born!”. Staffed nursery will be available during both services.

First, experience a joyful Christmas Eve service that feels more like first-century shepherds worshipping outdoors. Arrive early (3:40pm) to enjoy seasonal music before the service. This will be a family-friendly outdoor service with Christmas carols, a beautiful Christmas tree, and an oversized Nativity. Children and families come together to celebrate Christmas at a fun, socially distant experience where everyone gets to be an angel, sing carols, and receive a joyful message!

For those who like a warmer worship experience, Mt. Calvary’s spectacular and festive indoor candlelight service will be at 7pm with solo instruments, Joyful Praise Choir, bells and organ. Arrive at 6:30pm for a special pre-service concert in the sanctuary.

Mt. Calvary is located at 472 Massachusetts Avenue. Parking is available off Prospect Street. Handicap parking is available at the Massachusetts Ave. circle drive and the Prospect St. parking lot. Overflow parking is available in the Acton Funeral Home parking lot right next door. For more information, visit mtcalvaryacton.org, call (978) 263-5156, or send an email to info@mtcalvaryacton.org.

Maynard Education Foundation Launches Annual Appeal

MAYNARD: During this season of giving, the Maynard Education Foundation (MEF) is very grateful to the Maynard Public School teachers and staff who go the extra mile to bring new learning opportunities to their classrooms, to our donors and sponsors ~ whose support makes MEF’s grant program possible, and to the volunteers who donate their time and talent to ensure MEF’s success. For over 20 years MEF has been funding grants that benefit Maynard Public School students and staff. Patron support has resulted in over 225 grants being provided to over 300 staff members and benefiting more than 112,000 Maynard students! This year's goal - to reach a participation goal of 50 families.

Join MEF in supporting educational excellence by participating their 2021 Annual Appeal. All donations are appreciated and no amount is too small to make a difference to a Maynard Public School student or staff member! Donations of $100 or more will receive a gift card to one of the 2021 Restaurant Appreciation Week or Taste participants.

Visit www.maynardeducation.org to donate.

The Maynard Education Foundation is an independent, non-profit 501 ( c ) 3 organization that uses its philanthropic contributions to enhance educational excellence in the Maynard Public Schools by funding ideas and projects which promote and celebrate academic rigor and achievement, excitement about learning and innovation in instruction.

Acton FD SantaRide / Food Drive 2021

ACTON: Santa Claus is coming to town to visit the neighborhoods of Acton on Saturday, December 18 from 9am-3pm. The jolly fellow will ride in a vintage 1936 REO fire truck, escorted by the Acton Fire Department. Be sure to bring your wish list. Santa’s helpers will also collect non-perishable food items for the Acton Food Pantry. Santa’s Itinerary*:

9am - Oakwood Road and Fernwood Road
9:15am - 32 Parker Street, Cucurbit Farm
9:35am - 15 Hillcrest Road
9:50am - Faulkner Hill Road at High Street
10:10am - Robbins Street at Heron View Road
10:30am - Lothrup Road at Spencer
10:45am - Joseph Reed Lane at Capt. Forbush Lane
11:05 - Ethan Allen Drive at Black Horse Drive
11:20am - Duggan Road at Townsend Road
12pm - Nashoba Road at Huron Road
12:15pm - Seneca Road at Seminole Road
12:30pm - 29 Jackson Drive
12:50pm - Musket Drive at Fife & Drum Road
1:10pm - Acton Memorial Library, lower lot
1:30pm - Acorn Park Drive at Walnut Street
1:50pm - 47 Nonset Path (Nagog Woods Post Office)
2:10pm - Nara Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way (Bathhouse)
2:30pm - Bayberry Road at Magnolia Drive
2:45- Hosmer Road at Alcott Street

If your child is unable to meet Santa outside, Mr. Claus will make special visit to your house. To arrange a special visit or to obtain more information, call the Acton Fire Department at 978-264-9648 or email actonl1904@verizon.net.

* Times are subject to change.
* Please note that times and locations have been adjusted to help keep the Jolly old fellow and his elves on schedule.

A Friend in Need...

ACTON: A Friend in Need (AFIN) is an arm of the South Acton Congregational Church (SACC). It is a small, all-volunteer organization dedicated to offering financial aid to people in need in the Acton/Boxboro/Maynard area. Recently they were contacted by an advocate for a gentleman whose only income is Social Security. He has health issues and fell behind in his rent. His advocate is pursuing additional resources but in the meantime his rent was due. A Friend in Need was able to help.

A single mom finds she cannot make this month’s rent. She has just gotten a new job and is catching up on her back bills which left her with no funds for rent. Her advocate contacted A Friend in Need and we agreed to provide some financial help.

Usually there is a one-time limit for help given to any family, but due to the economy, AFIN is trying to be a bit more flexible. Their mission is to provide immediate help until the family can receive more substantial aid from other agencies.

Much of AFIN's money comes through pleas published in local newspapers and from generous community residents. Acton-Boxborough United Way and the Maynard Community Chest also support the organization through grant money. Besides SACC, several other churches support them through their Mission Funds. Depending on the resources we have on hand, we can usually provide between $300-$500 to those in need.

AFIN will consider helping anyone who is recommended by clergy or social professionals associated with a local agency. Anyone in urgent need can be considered for financial assistance by going to a member of the clergy or social service representative and asking them to contact A Friend in Need on their behalf. They do not discriminate and will try to help anyone with a genuine need.

The AFIN mailbox is located at the South Acton Congregational Church. Volunteers pay for postage and all other costs, so we are able to give away 100% of the money available. If you would like to make a donation, please send your check to A Friend in Need, c/o South Acton Congregational Church, 35 School St., Acton MA 01720. For information, email afriendinneedacton@gmail.com.

Current Critical Needs at Acton Food Pantry

ACTON: Acton Community Supper and Food Pantry is extremely grateful to the community for their continued support. For anyone considering donating food items in December, the following are on their "Needs List": Spam, sardines, corned beef hash, coffee, sugar, canned corn and peas, canned tomato sauce and tomato paste, canned stewed tomatoes, gluten-free bread, boxed rice mixes, laundry detergent, baby diapers (size 6 only), baby wipes, Pull-ups size 4T-5T, women’s size L incontinence briefs. Monetary donations can also be made online at any time at www.actonfoodpantry.org/funds.

Donate a Dinner Basket or Sponsor a Child to Help Maynard Food Pantry

MAYNARD: As in years past, the Maynard Food Pantry will be helping local families in need during the upcoming holiday season by providing them with dinner baskets and gifts.Donations of dinner baskets and/or gifts from families, organizations, groups and companies will help us accomplish this goal. Suggestions for dinner baskets include a canned ham or fresh ham together with a combination of bagged potatoes, fresh squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, canned or fresh vegetables, apples, oranges, canned pineapple, fruit juice, packaged rolls and packaged desserts.

Those who would like to purchase gifts will be given specific information about a certain child(ren) including ages, sizes and special gift requests.

If you would like to donate one or more of these items or would like additional information, please contact Mary Brannelly at mjtbrannelly@comcast.net no later than Sunday, December 12, 2021 for drop off information.

Please consider sending a donation of any amount to Maynard Food Pantry, P.O. Box 55, Maynard, MA 01754. As they begin their 29th year, the Maynard Food Pantry is very grateful for the outpouring of support we receive from residents, businesses and organizations in Maynard and beyond!

Give Back to the Friends of Maynard Seniors

MAYNARD: For the month of December Friends of Maynard Seniors will receive a $1 donation from the purchase of each reusable $2.50 Give Back Where It Counts bag sold at Shaw’s 155 Great Road in Stow. This is a wonderful way to buy something useful for yourself and to provide donations to Maynard’s Senior Citizens when they really need your support. 'Tis the season... why not purchase a few extra as holiday gifts for family and friends?

Nashoba Valley Chorale Announces 2021 Emerging Artist

LITTLETON: Nashoba Valley Chorale is pleased and proud to introduce its 2021 Emerging Artist, Margaleet Katzenblickstein, soprano, of Westford. Margaleet will perform at the Chorale’s winter concert, Awake, Psaltery, & Harp on Sunday, December 12 at 3pm at the Acton Congregational Church, 12 Concord Road in Acton.

Margaleet, a student at Middlesex Community College, majors in Music Performance. She plans to graduate her homeschool/high school within the next few months, and Middlesex Community College in August of 2022. As of right now, her primary instrument is the cello, and she hopes to start conservatory soon after graduation. Margaleet currently takes voice lessons with Anna Ward.

COVID-19 Policy: The safety and comfort of our community is of utmost priority. Nashoba Valley Chorale will be closely following the COVID-19 guidelines as mandated by the CDC and the state of Massachusetts. To keep Audience members, singers and performers safe, Audience members must show proof of full vaccination, or a Negative COVID-19 test result from within 72 hours of the performance to gain entrance.

The Nashoba Valley Chorale, based in Littleton, is well known throughout Central Massachusetts and draws singers from towns in the heart of the Nashoba Valley as well as from all over the metro-west Boston area and southern New Hampshire. For more information about Nashoba Valley Chorale, this concert, and the Emerging Artists program, visit https://nashobachorale.org/

Mothers Out Front Enact Race Against Time
Call on Utilities to Provide Clean Heat Now

ACTON: In a rousing display of support for clean energy, mothers and families rallied and raced recently in a spirited relay from Pittsfield to the Prudential Center. Acton mothers and others took part in the Statewide Relay for Clean Heat by rallying along Elm Street with the new Triple Net Zero Twin school under construction in the background to celebrate the future of clean heat!

Over the last 3 months Acton Mothers Out Front has been gathering postcards, signed by gas customers, addressed to the presidents of the state’s three largest gas utilities. With participants from across the state, they delivered more than 3,000 postcards. See attached photos of local residents as they prepared for the relay to National Grid the gas supplier for Acton.

“Our utilities need to lead on climate solutions to protect future generations," said Jean Cummings, local resident and mother. In a state where heating & cooling account for 30 percent of heat-trapping emissions, the mothers say utilities are moving too slowly and offering false solutions to families’ needs for safe, renewable and affordable heat. “They are clinging to natural gas and variations on natural gas,” added Judy Hodge. “Every day of inaction further threatens the health and safety of our children and grandchildren.”

State Senator Jamie Eldridge, Representative Tami Gouveia and Representative Dan Sena also spoke at the Acton rally. Eldridge said, “As I am waving at my nephew (on the Douglas School playground), he is a reminder of the stakes here, of the next generation. We are already seeing the impacts of climate change across Massachusetts.” Gouveia emphasized the positive, “We are strengthening a movement here so we can accelerate even faster toward green energy sources.”

Relay participants criss-crossed the state using electric vehicles, bikes, public transit, running and walking. The route included stops in Pittsfield, Northampton, Hadley, Gardner, Acton, Concord, Waltham, Brookline, and Boston.

The mothers are asking utilities to partner with their workforce, government and customers to provide clean, safe, affordable heat to all Massachusetts homes. Specifically, they want the gas companies to align with the Mothers Out Front Future of Clean Heat Platform. This demands that utilities:

Offer heat pumps and other electric appliances to all homes and buildings;
Subsidize these technologies to make them affordable for everyone;
Replace leaky gas infrastructure with networked geothermal systems; and
Make clean energy available and affordable to all families, especially renters and low-income residents.

Mothers Out Front is a national movement of mothers working to ensure a livable climate for all children. The group brings together mothers in communities across the U.S. to help them advocate for transformative climate policies at the local, state, and national level to achieve a just transition away from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy. Founded by two moms in 2013, the organization now includes 21 local chapters in Massachusetts and more than 35,000 mothers and caregivers across the country.

PHOTO: Jude Aronstein, coordinator of the Mothers Out Front Acton chapter, spoke about clean heat as represented by the Twin Schools Project in the background.

Domestic Violence Roundtable Invites You to Support Holiday Drives for Families Affected by Abuse

Each year the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable sponsors a family for the holidays, and each year we invite our local communities to become involved in making the holidays brighter for families affected by domestic violence. Families in shelter for the holidays face a sad and difficult time as they are separated from family and friends and are hiding from their abusers.

The Covid 19 pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but it has been especially difficult for families affected by abuse. With the help of our local communities, these families can have happy holidays. There are a number of ways that you can help. Sponsoring a family can be a wonderful way for you and your family to do something together to help others. You can also involve extended family, neighbors, and friends. Or perhaps your colleagues at work, your book club, scout troop, civic organization, or club would like to organize a collection. Your participation in a holiday drive can help relieve the stress and depression that overcome shelter families at this time of year. The support that comes from the community at this time of year reinforces their decisions to seek safety and end violence in their lives. Each gift, each donation, each good holiday wish has a positive effect on their self-esteem and boosts their spirits.

Three local agencies offer services and programs for families affected by domestic violence. All of these programs conduct a Holiday Drive. For further information about how you might help, please contact:

REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, Jean Doliber - Jean@reachma.org, 781-891-0724 X109
The Second Step, Marisa Rowe - mrowe@thesecondstep.org, 617-965-3999
Voices Against Violence, Simone Williams - simonew@smoc.org, 508-820-0834

Holiday drives start early so that agencies have time to process donations. In some cases, gift cards are being collected so families can shop and wrap their presents. Call now to see how you can help.

COD & Acton Recreation Bring Adaptive Cycling to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

ACTON: With the help of a grant, the Acton Commission on Disabilities (COD) and the Acton Recreation Department are working to bring adaptive cycling to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. The Recreation Department has purchased three adaptive cycles—an adult trike, a child trike and an adult hand cycle—that will be available for riding in May 2022. Acton residents will be able to ride the cycles for free, and non-residents will be able to rent them for a small fee.

“This is a dream come true to open up the Rail Trail to people with disabilities,” said Leslie Johnson, COD member and head of the Greater Acton Adaptive Bike Coalition. “The Rail Trail is wonderful, and we want people with disabilities to be able get out on the trail, get some outdoor exercise and enjoy the great scenery.”

The cycles will be kept at NARA park, where cyclers will start their ride from, as the Rail Trail goes right through the park.

Annual Merrie Christmas Fair at United Church of Christ

BOXBOROUGH: The Merrie Christmas Fair will be held both inside and outside of United Church of Christ, the Community Center and the Boxborough Town Hall on Saturday, November 20, 9am to 1pm. You'll find handmade ornaments, seasonal greens, gifts and knits, jewelry, baked goods, a children’s table, and Attic Treasures. You can also find wonderful gifts for everyone on your holiday list in the online Silent Auction starting November 10 at 8am and ending on November 20 at 8pm by visiting: www.biddingforgood.com/UCCBSilentAuction. To limit the handling of cash, exact cash, checks or payment by credit/debit card are encouraged. The Fair is located at the United Church of Christ 723 Massachusetts Avenue, with parking across the street at the Boxborough Town Hall. All attending are asked to wear masks and to maintain social distancing in order to keep everyone safe. For additional details, visit www.boxboroughucc.org or call call 978-263-7387.

The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley Invites Veterans to a Take-out Lunch on Veterans Day

STOW: To honor Stow-area veterans, for the second year in a row, the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley is providing a pre-packaged lunch and the opportunity to meet with town and state officials on Veterans Day, November 11. Lunch will include a sandwich, chips, salad, beverage, dessert, and more, and volunteers will provide the lunches to participants who will remain in their cars.

Veterans and significant others must RSVP in advance and can pick up their meals between 11:30am and 1pm at First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, 353 Great Road (Route 117) in Stow. Participants must pre-register at 978-627-4135 or info@nashobarotary.org. Please specify your expected time of arrival and a choice of sandwich when registering: Chicken Salad, Turkey Club, Ham and Swiss, or Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil.

This Veterans Day appreciation lunch is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, Friends of the Stow Council on Aging, Worker’s Credit Union, Shaw’s Stow, and Honey Pot Hill Orchards.

The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley is always open to new members. Formed in 1905, Rotary International is the world's first service club organization with over 1.3 million members in 34,000 clubs worldwide. The Nashoba Valley club serves the towns of Lancaster, Bolton, and Stow and beyond, giving life to the Rotary motto, "Service Above Self." For more information about the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, contact info@nashobarotary.org or visit www.nashobarotary.org. You can also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nashobarotary.

The Boxborough Minutemen Company Wants You!

BOXBOROUGH: The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will meet on Sunday, November 21 at 8pm in the Minuteman Grill at the Boxboro Regency Hotel. For information please contact Captain Dave Bull at captain@boxboroughminutemen.org, or 978-263-5607. The Boxborough Minutemen Company is open to anyone of least 18 years of age who is interested in service to the Town and/or perpetuating the memory of the Minutemen of 1775. Members may participate in any number of the Company's activities including marching in parades, 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 Blanchard School 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.
Both old and new residents of the town are welcome to come and make new connections with others in town. For more information visit www.boxboroughminutemen.org.

Boston Area Gleaners’ Paul Franceschi at Saturday Morning Breakfast

STOW: “Gleaning is harvesting surplus farm crops, preventing waste, and expanding local food access,” says the Boston Area Gleaners (BAG) website. “We gather fresh food from farms and get it to people who need it.” According the site, 10% of Massachusetts residents live with food insecurity, while over 30% of food grown on farms is never harvested.

On November 13 at 8:05am, BAG outreach coordinator Paul Franceschi will discuss BAG’s activities, including the purchase of Stonefield Farm in Acton this past July. The farm now serves as a hub for storing and packing crops for hunger relief. This virtual event is part of the Saturday Morning Breakfast series hosted by First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) and led by FPC member Jeff Brown.

To access the URL for this virtual event, visit http://facebook.com/fpcstowacton/events. There’s no charge and all are welcome.

2021 Veterans Day Ceremony at Sargent Memorial Library

BOXBOROUGH:The Boxborough Veterans Tribute Committee cordially invites you to attend the 2021 Veterans Day Ceremony on Thursday, November 11 at 11am. The ceremony will take place at entrance of the Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Massachusetts Avenue where the tribute is located. Parking is available in the library lot and also at the Blanchard Memorial School, where a bridge is available to walk from the school directly to the site.

Thanks to the generosity of Boxborough residents and local businesses, there will also be a dedication of the recently completed monument which stands on the site as a tribute to Boxborough’s Veterans and their families. More information can be found on the town’s website www.boxborough-ma.gov.

Discovery Museum Hosts Local Scientists & Artists to Celebrate New Exhibit Focused on Women in STEAM Careers

ACTON: Join Discovery Museum November 13 from 1-3pm in celebration of the women behind the Museum’s newest exhibit, Picture Yourself: Women in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). Visit each of six portraits installed around the Museum and meet some of the local scientists who are represented in the exhibit, and the artists who created these amazing works of art. Learn about their work, research, and interests, and discover why they find science and art cool and exciting. They’ll answer your questions as they share what it’s like to be a scientist or artist.

Scheduled to participate:

Professor Bulbul Chakraborty – Condensed Matter Theorist, Professor of Physics, Brandeis University
Professor Maureen Ritchey – Cognitive Neuroscientist, Assistant Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College
Dr. Suanna Selby Crowley – Geoarcheologist, Founder, HeadFort Consulting
Ellice Patterson, M.S. (pictured) – Biologist, Founder/Artistic and Executive Director, Abilities Dance; Executive Director, BalletRox
Professor Melissa Kosinski-Collins – Structural Biologist, Professor of Biology, Brandeis University
Wing Na Wong – Photorealist painter, Danbury, Connecticut
Indigo Fox Tree-McGrath – Artist, Boston, Massachusetts

The exhibit, Picture Yourself: Women in STEAM, is made possible in part by an IF/THEN® Gender Equity Grant, a program created through a partnership between the Association of Science and Technology Centers and IF/THEN®, an initiative of Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Additional support is provided by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. To learn more about the exhibit, visit www.discoveryacton.org/exhibit/picture-yourself-women-steam.

Opening Zoom Gala at the Origami Museum

MAYNARD: Celebrating Maynard Folds’ virtual Origami Museum exhibition, there will be a Zoom Gala on November 7 at 7pm. The reception begins with a guest welcome, working into a tour of the grant work. Awards will be presented. There will be a general origami museum tour.

Nicholas Lawrence, Maynard, is the adult merit winner. His model is Little Turtle (Kusadama Unit Origami), is designed by Tomoko Fuse. It is a 30 piece modular with 4 inch student origami paper made in early September 2021. Other adult submissions are from Helen Moy (Acton), Mei-Lin Po (Framingham), Laura Fredericks (Maynard), Julia Bllom (Arlington), James Michael Williams (Concord), and Debbie Simon.

Enzo Tuzzolo, Maynard, is the child merit winner. Enzo’s model is a turtle (pictured), designed by Marc Vigo, using 6 inch square duo kraft paper, made on August 15, 2021, in classic style, found on YouTube. He wrote the statement, “I made this turtle because I love turtles. They are my spirit animal. This is my greatest fold.” Additional child submissions were from Tenzin Witman-Polk (age 9 – Maynard), Nishan Gumuchian (age 9 – Maynard), Elena Wu (age 14 – Westford), Owen Matthew Twomey (age 8 – Hudson) Jacob Clark Miller (age 6 – Arlington), and Isla Tuzzolo (age 8 – Maynard).

To view the contest gallery and/or register to receive the Zoom link, visit https://OrigamiMuseum.org/Maynard-Folds-Gallery/.

Acton Conservation Trust (ACT) Annual Meeting: "New Conservation Strategies for the 21st Century"

Acton Garden Club Hosts March Meeting

The Singularity Concert Series: A Focus On Improvisational Music March 1

Acton Republicans to Hold Caucus

ArtSpace Maynard @ The Umbrella Visiting ExhibitionJanuary 20 - February 26

Yawkey Foundation Awards $75,000 to Kick Off Discovery Museum’s Multilingual Materials Translation Program

Local Students named to Fall 2021 Dean's List at Saint Michael's College

Acton Center ‘Bugles’ Memorial Service February 6

Acton-Boxborough United Way Receives 3-Year Grant from Emerson Hospital to Advance Community-Based Mental Health Resilience

Northeastern University Announces Fall Semester 2021 Dean's List

Pre-order Period for At-home Covid-19 Tests Has Begun

Massachusetts Circuit Breaker Tax Credit for Seniors

A Talk: The State of Our Local Economy—How to Optimize Today’s Opportunities

Greater Lowell Community Foundation Seeks Request for Proposals for 2022 Discretionary Grant Cycles & Nashoba Valley Healthcare Fund

Boxborough Democrats to Hold Caucus, Elect Delegates to State Convention

Virtual Speaker Series Schedule Announced; Series Kicks Off with Chris Singleton

Celebrating the Beauty of Living in the Moment: Accompanying Persons Living with Alzheimer’s

Domestic Violence Roundtable Collects Valentine Donations for Families in Shelter

Artists Opportunity: Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room Gallery One-Person Shows

Literacy & Fine Motor Skills for Kindergarten Zoom Seminar at First Connections

Discovery Museum Announces 2022 Series of Free Events for Families of Children with Disabilities

Town of Boxborough’s Annual WinterFest at Steele Farm January 29

The Boxborough Minutemen Company Wants You!

Free Virtual Support Group for Parents of One Year Olds

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Winter Advisory Regarding Face Coverings

New Exhibit: Lola Chaisson's “Straits of Magellan” Opens January 5, 2022 at 6 Bridges Gallery

Maynard Community Band Presents 32nd Annual “A Christmas Pops”

Troop 284/Troop 1 Acton - Holiday Tree Fundraiser

Boxborough Minutemen Tree Pickup: January 8, 2022

Acton Area Youth to Help Acton Residents Dispose of Christmas Trees after Christmas

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club Holiday Lunch at Tavern in the Square, The Point

Longest Night Service at United Church of Christ

Experience Christmas at Mt. Calvary

Maynard Education Foundation Launches Annual Appeal

Acton FD SantaRide / Food Drive 2021

A Friend in Need...

Current Critical Needs at Acton Food Pantry

Donate a Dinner Basket or Sponsor a Child to Help Maynard Food Pantry

Give Back to the Friends of Maynard Seniors

Nashoba Valley Chorale Announces 2021 Emerging Artist

Mothers Out Front Enact Race Against TimeCall on Utilities to Provide Clean Heat Now

Domestic Violence Roundtable Invites You to Support Holiday Drives for Families Affected by Abuse

COD & Acton Recreation Bring Adaptive Cycling to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

Annual Merrie Christmas Fair at United Church of Christ

The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley Invites Veterans to a Take-out Lunch on Veterans Day

The Boxborough Minutemen Company Wants You!

Boston Area Gleaners’ Paul Franceschi at Saturday Morning Breakfast

2021 Veterans Day Ceremony at Sargent Memorial Library

Discovery Museum Hosts Local Scientists & Artists to Celebrate New Exhibit Focused on Women in STEAM Careers

Opening Zoom Gala at the Origami Museum

The Singularity Concert Series: A Focus On Improvisational Music

March 1

ArtSpace Maynard @ The Umbrella Visiting Exhibition
January 20 - February 26

Mothers Out Front Enact Race Against Time
Call on Utilities to Provide Clean Heat Now