Skylight Astronomical Society, Inc. Presents:

A Star Watch at the Stow Minute Man Airfield
Saturday, November 9th from 6:00 PM until 8:30 PM
Rain date: Sunday, November 10th
Well, we’re definitely into the fall season! SAS members will set up their telescopes for guest viewing. This Star Watch has a wonderful show, featuring glorious Saturn with near edge-on rings, Venus if you come early, Jupiter if you stay late, and, of course, the original Terminator on the Moon all night long! See the galaxies of Pegasus and Andromeda, as well as a host of colorful double stars! In conjunction with visual scopes, we will also have a digital imaging system showing some of the fainter deep sky objects.
Scary masks are not required but will be available. If you have COVID-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone ill, we ask that you refrain from attending.
In case of bad weather, a cancellation notice will be posted on our website www.sasobservatory.org by 3:00 PM the day of our event. If we do cancel on Saturday, we will try again the next night (Sunday night), so stay tuned to our website for updates.

Learn to Communicate & Become an Effective Speaker

Do you want to advocate new activities at meetings?
Do you want to make an effective presentation at a Town Meeting or Public Hearing?
Do you want to effectively share your experience and knowledge with professional organizations of various community clubs?
Did you know that joining and participating in Toastmasters will enable you to succeed in any or all of these situations?
The Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club invites you to attend an open house meeting on Monday, October 28, from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Acton Public Safety Facility EOC, 371 Main Street Acton, MA. Members will host a meeting to show you Toastmasters in action. Isaac Davis Toastmasters has been serving Acton and the surrounding towns for 52 years.  Please register at  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/isaac-davis-toastmasters-club-open-house-tickets-1052079747847
Oct 25 mcc transfer fair

MCC to Host Transfer Fairs to Help Students Explore Next Steps


For individuals of all ages and stages in their lives, Middlesex Community College offers a strong starting point for continuing their education and entering the workforce. To introduce students to different four-year college and universities, Middlesex is hosting transfer fairs on both the Lowell and Bedford campuses in October.“We encourage our students to explore the many options available to them and to begin planning early for their next steps after graduating,” said Jane Fain, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer Affairs. “Our transfer fairs help students gain important admissions information on potential schools and start developing their plan. We hold fairs in both the Fall and Spring semesters because having these conversations as soon as possible while at MCC help students avoid unwanted surprises or roadblocks once they’re ready to transfer.”During each fair, students have opportunities to meet with admissions representatives from a number of institutions. They can learn about varying four-year school’s offerings and requirements for transferring after they graduate from MCC. This year’s fairs will welcome more than 40 colleges and universities.Admissions representatives are experts on their school’s information and a resource to MCC students as theyexplore their options, according to Fain. Meeting with the representatives helps students get a better sense of how selective and competitive institutions are, as well as know important deadlines and scholarship information.MCC helps students transfer to four-year colleges and universities across New England and nationwide each year. With a number of articulation agreements and MassTransfer, MCC makes the transfer process as easy as possible. By starting at Middlesex, students can save thousands on tuition costs by completing their general education requirements before attending a four-year school. At MCC, students get early exposure to their field of interest,with courses, hands-on experiences, and networking opportunities in just the first two years of their academic journey. “At MCC, we strive to work with our students to develop and put into action a plan for their academic, transfer and career goals from day one of their time with us,” said Nick Cloutier, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer. “We are excited for this year’s fairs to help our students meet with different institutions, explore their options, and find the best fit that meets their needs. You want to start the process as soon as possible!” The Lowell Transfer Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Cowan Center Cafeteria on Wednesday, October 30. Students can attend the Bedford Transfer Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Campus Center on Thursday, October 31. For more information, contact Fain at FainJ@middlesex.mass.edu.
Learn More

Concord Orchestra Young Artists Competition

Auditions for the Concord Orchestra Young Artists Competition will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, February 5 & 6, 2025 at Concord Academy, 166 Main St., Concord, MA.  The winner will be the featured soloist at the Concord Orchestra's Concerts, on Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1, 2025., and will receive the Ehlers Memorial Scholarship.  The second and third place finishers may be invited to perform a recital prior to these concerts.  The competition is open to high school and younger instrumental students, including pianists.  A complete concerto or other work suitable for performance with orchestra must be memorized for the audition.  Applications are due by January 17, 2025.   For more information and an application form, email:  jan.kinmonth@gmail.com with subject line “Concord Orchestra YA Competition.”    Applications can be made online, and additional information can also be found at https://www.concordorchestra.com/young-artist-concerto-competition.

Join us for our annual Pumpkin Festival!

Held at New England Nurseries, 216 Concord Road, Bedford
The event will take place on Saturday, October 26th, from 1 PM to 4 PM. There will be many free activities, including a Spooky Scavenger Hunt, Trick-or-Treating, Face Painting, Kids' Crafts, and more! We'll also have refreshments for purchase, a build-a-scarecrow station, and, of course... pumpkins!
Oct 25 holy family parish

Holiday Fair in Concord

Holy Family Parish, 10 am to 4 pm, November 1 & 2, Monument Hall, 62 Monument Square, Concord, MA. Free Admission. Featuring: Handmade crafts, ornaments, holiday items, scarves, hats, baby items, blankets. Gifts & re-gifts. Children’s toys, puzzles, games, books. Wreaths (pine cone, fabric, cork). Indoor plants. Jewelry. Gift books (all genres, hard cover). Food (baked goods, jams & salsas, “mixin a jar,” candy, vanilla, herbs). Raffle items (large themed baskets & gifts). Silent auction of special items (framed original oil painting, heirloom quality handmade Irish knit afghan, use of a vacation home, and a $200 restaurant gift card. Café from 10 am to 2 pm both days.

Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean's List

The following local residents have been named to the 2024 spring semester dean's list at Simmons University in Boston.
* Alissa Campbell, Acton (01720)
* Bella Mojica, Acton (01720)
* Fran Servello, Acton (01720)
* Sonia Vader, Concord (01742)
* Carly Rieter, Maynard (01754)
* Charlotte Hogan, Sudbury (01776)
To qualify for dean's list status, undergraduate students must obtain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, based on 12 or more credit hours of work in classes using the letter grade system.
Congratulations to all!!
Oct 25 folk festival

Folk Festival to be held in Littleton on November 9, 2024

First Church Unitarian in Littleton will hold a Folk Festival on Saturday, November 9th at 7:00 p.m. at 19 Foster Street, Littleton.
The headlining artist is award-winning folk-blues-soul act The Sugarsnap Trio. You don't want to miss this talented young group! The Sugar Snap Trio features Collin Cope, harmonica and vocals; Chris Page, guitar and vocals; and Luke Hausermann, upright bass.
The opening artist is the popular Boston-based Sarah Levecque Band with their mixture of folk and blues and “Americana”. The band features singer-songwriter-guitarist Sarah Levecque; Peter Zarkadas, guitar and vocals; and Johnny Sciascia, upright bass.
There will be a brief intermission with refreshments. The evening will also include a “50/50 Raffle”.
A suggested donation is $25 per person at the door, but any donation in any amount is appreciated, and no one will be turned away. Tickets can be purchased in-advance for $20 per person at this link (as well as the option to watch the livestream of the concert): https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/9d16ea6e-cb2b-4020-856a-0e26a4a1b747

Bessie’s Closet Pop-Up at Discovery Museum

Friday, November 1st, 3:30pm-7:30pm, Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd,  10:00am-3:00pm. Museum Admission not Required.
Bessie’s Closet is a free pop-up clothing store open to all members of our community. Supported by donations from our Museum community and beyond, Bessie’s Closet offers new or gently-used clothing and shoes for both children and adults. Anyone who may benefit is welcome to visit Bessie’s Closet. Museum admission is not required, but also not included. All items are available free of charge, take what you need! Items available in Bessie’s Closet are dependent upon donations received. Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street (Route 27) • Acton.

Acton Woman's Club adds Treasure Table Sale to its October 19 Pie Sale!

The ovens will be baking soon for The Acton Woman's Club's Autumn Bake Sale!
Saturday, October 19, starting at 9 am outside the Clubhouse at 504 Main St, until noon or when we sold out.
We'll have homemade pies as well as cakes, bars, and other desserts, for sale. Proceeds will help us award 2 scholarships to AB senior students.
This year, in addition to the Bake Sale will be a Treasure Table with handcrafts, collectibles, and novelties for sale, which will have been mostly handmade, knitted and sewn by our members. We'll also be selling AWC Tea Towels, and AWC note cards, each with a picture of the Historic Club House, celebrating our 110 Anniversary of the Acton Woman’s Club.
We expect the baked goods to be snatched up to go into the freezer for Thanksgiving, so pies sell out quickly.  Don't miss out.
During the sale, you might like a tour of the antique Clubhouse [ask for Marge or Brenda]. Not only can you experience a gracious living room furnished with antiques, you may want to consider using the house for your next party or private event. And coming by for a visit on a
fine fall day during our bake sale would be a wonderful time for you to also go inside the building and find out how lovely it is...So come along, check out the beautiful space, and buy something scrumptious for your upcoming party, or just for you!
The Acton Woman's Club has room for more members, especially if you like to bake or organize events! The Acton Woman's Club is a great way to make new friends! More information: www.theactonwomansclub.org
Acton Woman's Club
504 Main Street, PO Box 2253, Acton, Massachusetts
www.theactonwomansclub.org
Oct 18 trevor berens at fpc

Piano Concert: 200 Years of Women Composers

Pianist Trevor Berens presents a concert of music written by women, from1836 through 2005. The music is as varied as it is beautiful, from Clara Schumann’s early suite of short works inspired by the music of Chopin (“Soirées Musicales”) to Marti Epstein’s minimalist pieces written at the turn of this century (selections from “American Etudes”). Trevor will also be performing, in its entirety, Florence Price’s rarely heard set of four dances, “Dances in the Canebrakes”, as well as music by the early twentieth-century American composer, Amy Beach.The concert takes place on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 4 p.m., at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, where Trevor is the accompanist. Tickets are available at the door and in advance at Eventbrite(tiny.cc/200Years) for a suggested donation of $5–$40. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

What Kind of Church Holds an Annual Beer Fest?

Stow, Mass., Oct. 20 – What Kind of Church Holds an Annual Beer Fest? (Okay, it’s actually a beer and food truck festival with a dedicated area just for children’s games - with prizes!) Find the answer to that and so much more at the Open House for First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, on Sunday, Oct. 20. The Open House will follow FPC’s 10 a.m. service on “Joy, Play, Fun!” It will take place at about 11:15 a.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall. Have coffee and refreshments and learn about FPC’s many programs, including its choir, New Revival Coffeehouse concert series, Guest Table community dinner, weekly Peace Vigil, annual art exhibit, and its many social justice programs (at least two of them, the LGBTQ+ and Climate Change task forces, will have booths). You can also find out about its religious education classes, where children and youth explore world religions and their own hearts to find a spiritual, ethical path. Maybe you’ll find an hour of peace in your week, or new friends who care like you do about the worth and dignity of all people, a chance to sing in a choir, cook a meal for a community dinner, join a small ministry group, or even help plan the next beer fest! FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Joy, Play & Fun! – FPC Sunday Service

On Oct. 20 at 10 a.m., First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a service on “Joy, Play & Fun!” FPC’s minister, the Rev. Dr.Cynthia L. Landrum, will explore a theology and activism based in joy, drawing on the works of Adrienne Maree Brown, the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and others. An Open House will follow the service for anyone curious about FPC and its programs in religious education, music, social justice, and more. All are welcome to the service, the Open House or both! The service takes place both in person in the sanctuary and virtually. The Open House will be held in Fellowship Hall and will be in person only. Masking is optional. Child care for the service only is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.
FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

Multigenerational Game Night at FPC Stow

All are welcome to the monthly Multigenerational Game Night at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun! The next Game Night will take place on Friday, Oct. 18, from 7 to 9 p.m. FPC is a nut-free location. It’s located at 353 Great Rd, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Mental Health Course, in Person in Boxborough

Family to Family is a free, evidence-based, eight-session, weekly course from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for those who love someone living with a mental health condition. Topics include understanding the symptoms of mental health conditions, learning about treatments & therapies, practicing communication & problem-solving skills, creating a positive team approach, and self-care. Importantly, the course offers family members the invaluable opportunity of open conversation and mutual support in a stigma-free environment. The course will meet in person in Boxborough Mondays, November 11 to January 13, excluding holiday weeks, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Additional information and registration: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/family-to-family-fall2024-boxborough.
Oct 18 jake kinney

Pianist Jake Kinney performs Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue

The Concord Band opens its 2024–25 season with a concert on Saturday, October 26, 7:00 pm at the 51 Walden Performing Arts Center in Concord, MA.
Music Director James O’Dell chose the theme "100th Anniversaries" in recognition of Geoge Gershwin’s composition and premiere of Rhapsody in Blue in 1924, a year that marks many musical milestones.
The program commemorates the passing of composer Giacomo Puccini, the most successful proponent of Italian opera after Verdi, and Gabriel Fauré, one of the foremost French composers of his generation. The program also features Camille Saint-Saëns’ Pas Redouble, arranged for a band by Arthur Frackenpohl, as well as Academy Award winning themes by Henry Mancini, considered one of the greatest composers in the history of film, in an arrangement by Warren Barker. Both Frackenpohl and Mancini were born in 1924.
Gershwin composed Rhapsody in Blue in a few short weeks for a concert by Paul Whiteman’s Palais Royal Orchestra, titled "An Experiment in Modern Music,” presented at Aeolean Hall in New York City in February of 1924. Whiteman’s intent was to show that American jazz could be combined with classical and other types of music. The original score by Ferde Grofe comprised 23 instruments and piano solo. Subsequently, Thomas Verrier expanded the original setting to concert band instrumentation based on Grofe’s manuscripts.
Pianist Jake Kinney is the featured soloist on Rhapsody in Blue. Kinney is a versatile musician, performing with the Concord Band on trumpet, with our Jazz Ensemble on piano, as well as leading our Holiday Pops sing-along on vocals.
Kinney first performed Rhapsody in Blue in 2014 at the Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney, ME, and again in 2016 with the Greece Symphony Orchestra in Rochester, NY. Of the composition, Jake said, “it is one of my favorite pieces of music of all time, truly occupying a unique niche within the piano repertoire. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Jim O’Dell and the Concord Band for this opportunity.”
Admission to the Concord Band's Fall Concert is free, with a requested donation of $20 per person. A reception will follow the concert.
Oct 18 kobe henro

The First TNVR Clinic in Northern Puerto Rico, will take place the weekend of March 22-23, 2025 and the Sudbury-based nonprofit is accepting donations and volunteers

Kobe Henro Pet Food Bank in partnership with Puerto Rican-based Miracles For Sato Rescue (MFSR) will be opening a pop-up Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release (TNVR) clinic in Puerto Rico. Pippi’s Project, will be the first TNVR clinic in northern Puerto Rico, with its launch scheduled for the weekend of March 22-23, 2025 in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico. Helaine Block, founder of Kobe Henro commented, “In just under eight months, we have built a strong and determined team to help control the stray population (650,000 dogs/satos and 1,000,000 cats/gatos) on the island.” For additional information or to donate, please contact: Helaine Block at: info@kobehenro.org and donations via venmo @kobehenro. Checks can be mailed to: Kobe Henro, Inc. 100 Powder Mill Road – Suite 124, Acton, MA 01742

Nashoba Regional High School's Fall Play

 
Kick off your holiday season this November with Nashoba Regional High School's performance of “A Christmas Carol”, November 22-24. This classic retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge's experience with the 3 ghosts is great for all ages. Be sure to purchase your tickets today! Performances are:
Friday, November 22nd 7pm
Saturday, November 23rd 7pm
Sunday, November 24th 2pm
$14.00 Adult;$10.00 Child / Student / Senior
https://www.ticketstage.com/T/NFOD

DACP: A Local Organization Providing Summer Camp Experiences For All. Donations Greatly Appreciated.

What is the value of a summer camp experience for a child? According to the Harvard Graduate School of Education, attending a summer camp “increases children’s self-esteem, independence, leadership, friendship skills, social comfort, and values and decision-making skills, from the beginning to the end of a session” (Lessons from Camp, HGSE, 2016). The Doli Atamian Campership Program, an all-volunteer organization that raises funds to send income-eligible children from Acton and Boxborough to camp, has been working since 1995 to provide these critical opportunities for all. DACP is named after long-time Acton resident and Acton Housing Authority Director Doli Atamian, who championed the cause of making sure that every child, regardless of economic status, was valued and cared for. By raising funds from individuals, churches, businesses, and civic organizations, DACP funds scholarships of $300 to provide summer enrichment for children who may not otherwise be able to afford the experience. Our board works closely with the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District and the Housing Authorities in both Acton and Boxborough to identify children who would benefit from a scholarship. In 2024, 124 scholarships were granted and families chose a variety of camps and activities ranging from theater camps to sports camps to NARA park summer passes and more. The response from families at the end of the summer illustrates the importance of the work of DACP. From one parent “The scholarship helps immensely. The campership opens up different options that I would not be able to afford on my own”. From a camper: “Thank you so much for this opportunity. I think it was a privilege to be there, and I had a lot of fun with my friends. Theater camp was the best.” DACP is actively fundraising for the 2025 season and welcomes all donations. To learn more about the Doli Atamian Campership Program or to make a donation, please visit www.doliatamiancampership.com. Other than non-profit fees, postage, and paper, ALL donated funds go directly to camperships. A summer camp experience is valuable for children who often have no access to recreational areas and limited opportunities to explore new interests and skills. DACP is here to provide for the children of Acton and Boxborough and appreciates the support of the community in making a summer experience available for all.

Something for Everyone! - Small Works & Holiday Marketplace

Come make your holiday shopping more meaningful by supporting local artists! Members of the Princeton Arts Society invite you to come to browse, shop, and enjoy hundreds of their fine, artisan-made items. Peruse creative, unique, yet affordable small wall art in many media, as well as tables overflowing with jewelry, cards, prints, ornaments, fabric items, original books, bags, ceramics, woodworking, and so much more! Don’t miss out on this amazing holiday arts extravaganza! Fridays, December 6 & 13, 6-8:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays, December 7 & 8 and 14 & 15, 10 AM-4 PM. Location: 206 Worcester Road, Princeton Senior & Community Center, Princeton MA. The Princeton Arts Society is a nonprofit organization promoting the arts in Central Massachusetts through programs, events, and shows.
Oct 18 faulkner homestead

Open house at the Faulkner Homestead and Jones Tavern, Sunday, October 27

The Iron Work Farm’s two Acton house museums will be open Sunday afternoon, October 27. Jones Tavern, 128 Main Street, first built in 1732 and opened by Samuel Jones as a tavern in 1750, will be open from 1 to 3:00 p.m. The 1707 Jones-Faulkner Homestead, 5 High Street, will be open from 3 to 5:00 p.m. Visitors can explore the restored rooms of this 1707 “First Period” architectural gem, the oldest house in Acton and home of the owners of the longtime fulling and grist mills on Fort Pond Brook. Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers’ Guild will be on hand to demonstrate weaving, spinning and other textile crafts. Parking is available on-site or nearby.

Pumpkin Painting at Acton Memorial Library

Spend part of your early release day on Monday, October 21, from 1:30-7:00 painting pumpkins at the library! Pumpkins and paints will be available in the YA space for any teens who would like to paint. Snacks will be provided. #AML #ActonMA #LibraryEvents
Funded by the Friends of the Acton Memorial Library.

Electronics Recycling & Bottle Drive Fundraiser

Do you have bottles/cans hanging around? Do you have broken and unwanted electronics taking up space in your home or office? Well, Maynard's Combined Scout Troop 130 is having another Electronics Recycling and Can/Bottle Drive on October 20th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
As you know, this is our biggest fundraiser which all proceeds are used to buy tents and equipment, sponsor camping scholarships, and other incidentals. Maynard Troop 130 serves more than 25 scouts (boys and girls) ages 11 to 17 from Maynard and nearby towns. The troop meets weekly during the school year and sponsors a camping trip each month, a week-long scout camp each summer and a high-adventure trip every other year.
Please consider helping us out! Payments can be made in Cash or Check payable to "BSA Troop 130." Any questions, please send an email to: troop130recycling@gmail.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR for 2 upcoming SFCOA events!

 
On Saturday, November 2nd from 9 am to 12 pm you can shop local, get a bargain and support Stow’s senior residents at our November Fair.  That morning you will find an expanded selection of items from our Gift Shop, Thrift Shop and a Resale Shop.   The Gift Shop offers many unique hand-crafted items made by Stow residents who want to support our Stow seniors. The Gift Shop also offers a variety of other items for sale including seasonal and “Stow” things. The Thrift Shop sells clothing, shoes, bags, and jewelry donated by our community. Shop new, like-new, and gently used clothing and accessories. The Resale Shop will offer too many items to list individually but you will find a variety of home decor, household items, games, puzzles, books, electronics (e.g. laptops), and more!
On Saturday, December 7th from 10 am to 2 pm you can leave with your arms full and a smile on your face at the Second Chance Holiday Sale. Shop new & used holiday items at very reduced prices! Check out our baked goods for your holiday treats! Music from 10 am-12 pm by Matteo Faso, local pianist! Santa plans to visit too! And new this year will be a silent auction from 10 am to 1 pm.
Both events will be held at the Pompo Community Center, 509 Great Road, in Stow.  Visit our website at https://stowfriendsofthecoa.org/ or email us at StowFriendsCOA@gmail.com.
Oct 18 kitty angels

Annual Holiday Open House & Kitty Angels Weekend


Treasures Antiques, Collectables & MORE!, located at 106 Ponemah Road in Amherst,NH will be hosting their 34th Annual Holiday Open House and Kitty Angels Fundraising weekend on November 2nd and 3rd. Festivities for the weekend will run both days from 9AM till 4PM and includesHoliday inspired shopping, raffles and entertainment.This annual event has been a mainstay in the community since 1991 and features Kitty Angels, Inc. along with several live musical entertainers including: Wildwood, Jeff Damon, Roosta Gulla, Sunset Rhythm, ‘9 Strings’ with Dick Spencer and Dan Rodd and Side Effects! This Holiday and Fundraiser event is pet and kid friendly and will offer exceptional sales for all, inside and out. B’s Grumman Grub, offers an exceptional assortment of hot and cold food as well as several miscellaneous beverages. A petting zoo with horse and pony rides will be provided by Mapledell Farms and Trading Faces, LLC/Central Birch Art Studio a face painting, body art and air brushing professional, featuring a ‘paint and take’ activity for kids and adults alike. The weekend will also showcase some artists and artisans, crafters, professionals and specialty food vendors. Treasures will also be offering a number of fun and exciting raffles, with prizes donated by local and national businesses. These prizes will include a “hotel get-a-way,” a “2 tier cat tree” by ARUBACAT as well as other cat and dog related items, jewelry, specialty food packages, and a variety of extra cool and exciting prizes. Kitty Angels, Inc., a no-kill cat shelter is made up of all unpaid volunteers and is dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned cats and furnishing them with treatment for injuries or other health issues. These cats are then placed into life-long, loving “forever homes” with compatible owners. All necessary steps are taken to ensure the wellbeing of the cats, including spaying and neutering and providing rabies, distemper and other necessary vaccinations. They are a non-profit, charitable corporation and all donations are fully tax-deductible with every penny of each donation going directly to the care of these cats. Please join Treasures and Kitty Angels, in friendship and the spirit of giving and sharing at the Holidays. For more information, visit www.TreasuresNH.com and www.KittyAngels.org
Ss prepopulated 19

Your Title Goes Here

Your description text goes here. You can edit all of this text and replace it with whatever you like. For example, you can write about your company, the products or services you offer, the areas you serve and what makes you unique. You can even include a button to encourage visitors to take a specific action.
Learn More

Acton COA Upcoming 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-5:00pm, Tues 8:00am-7:30pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon
JOIN US AT THE SENIOR CENTER FOR PIZZA AND CAKE ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, at 12:30 PM AND MEET SECRETARY OF ELDER AFFAIRS, JODI BREIDEL. PIZZA AND CAKE WILL BE SERVED!
Monday Movie Matinee
The Last Bus
Monday, October 21st, 1:00-2:25pm
(2021) Timothy Spalls stars as an aging man who travels across the UK by bus to fulfill a pledge to his late wife (Phyllis Logan of Downton Abbey). This is a bit of a tear-jerker. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.
Relaxing Reiki Appointments with Monica                         
Acton seniors only
Monday, October 21st, 8:30-11:30am (sign up for a 30-minute appt.)
Reiki is an ancient Japanese holistic therapy used to nurture and heal the body, mind, heart, and spirit. It is a gentle, non-invasive treatment where the practitioner uses a light gentle touch to balance energy in the receiver. When the body is in balance, it is better able to heal and support itself. Reiki is a great form of self-care. Make sure to call the COA if you need to cancel an appointment. Monica Forrest is a certified Usui Reiki Master practitioner.
Collette Trips sponsored by the Friends of the COA
Tuesday, October 22nd, 11:00am                                                                                         
Spotlight on Northern Italy April 24th-May 2nd, 2025                            
Open to all                                                
Informational session will be on this trip which includes Treviso, Tiramisu-Making Demonstration, Verona, Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration, Venice, Asolo, Prosecco Winery Tour, The Dolomites, Bassano del Grappa, Venetian Villa. Visit for more information visit www.friendsofactoncoa.com or stop by the Senior Center for a brochure.
Concord Traveling Players Performance
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2:00-3:00pm                                                         
Open to all seniors/free
The Concord Traveling Players are bringing a lively performance of staged readings, music, skits, and good-spirited humor to Acton. It will include a short play about the local impact of the events at Concord’s North Bridge and the start of the American Revolution. The Players are a group of older adults who always bring fun and positive energy!
Music of the Great Depression Presentation with John Clark
Thursday, October 24th, 1:00-2:00pm                  
Open to out-of-town seniors for $5
The Stock Market Crash of 1929 plunged this country into an economic depression that lasted until the Second World War. Popular songs responded in many different ways: Happy Days Are Here Again was the first of many attempts to cheer up a devastated citizenry, followed by Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries, Let’s Have Another Cup of Coffee and a string of overly optimistic hits by Ted Lewis. Woody Guthrie’s Dust Bowl Ballads offered sympathy to those who were forced to give up their homes. Bing Crosby’s Brother Can You Spare a Dime and My Forgotten Man seemed to almost scold our government for neglecting to help its veterans and working people. The romance and fancy footwork of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and the sunny charm of child star Shirley Temple were a welcome antidote to the Depression’s despair and drudgery. In this multimedia presentation by John Clark, you’ll hear the stories behind these songs and many more!
 
From Firefighter/Paramedic Josh Ramos for Fire Safety Awareness Month.
Hoarding is defined as “persistent difficulty discarding things; even things with little value,” (Mayo Clinic). Too many items within a home make it nearly impossible to rescue a trapped victim and difficult to extinguish a fire.  It gets much hotter inside the building and is much more difficult and dangerous for firefighters and the occupants. The Town of Acton is dedicated to keeping you safe.  If you or a friend struggle with hoarding, we have an entire team dedicated to combatting hoarding problems.  You can call Public Safety at (978) 929-7722 or the Senior Center at 978-929-6652.
Oct 18 troop 1

DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR - Holiday WREATHS!

The holidays are coming and they'll be here before you know it!  In the spirit of being prepared, Troop 1 Stow Scouts will be running their annual wreath sale from now through Wednesday, November 6th.  The proceeds help Stow continue one of its finest youth programs, and are used for equipment purchases, camping trips and the many troop activities.  The holiday wreaths are beautiful natural evergreens, all with a red bow and available in 2 sizes:
* Standard wreaths (fits standard size door), undecorated ($21), or decorated ($25)
* Large  (40" outside diameter), undecorated ($60)
* Sponsor a veteran cemetery wreath ($17) to be placed in the stow cemeteries by volunteers
The scouts will NOT be going door to door so order NOW and your wreath will be DELIVERED right to your home!
You can order your wreaths online at www.troop1stow.net or by mailing a check to Troop 1 Stow, PO Box 75, Stow, MA 01775.
Your wreaths will start to be delivered during Thanksgiving week.  If you have any questions, please contact us by phone at 978-212-9175 or by email at wreath@troop1stow.net
Craftfair2024flyer

NVTHSF Craft Fair and Bake Sale

Saturday, November 23, 10am to 3pm
Free Admission

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 meetings had been every Thursday evening at 7 pm at the South Acton Congregational Church. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net
Oct 11  robin putam

Westford Women’s Club will host a discussion on “Holiday Fraud Prevention” at their October 28th monthly meeting.

The holidays are right around the corner. Are you armed with vital information to keep yourself safe from scammers? The Westford Women’s Club welcomes you to a discussion on “Holiday Fraud Prevention,” led by Robin Putnam, Events & Outreach Manager for the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Monday, October 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cameron Senior Center, 20 Pleasant Street, Westford. Visitors and prospective new members are encouraged to attend.
Discussion topics will include Black Friday shopping tips, return policies, defective merchandise, warranties, lost or stolen packages, gift certificates, credit card skimming devices and how to spot them, and identity theft and fraud prevention.
The Westford Women’s Club is comprised of women from Westford and the surrounding communities. For more info, contact: westfordwomensclub@gmail.com.  Visit us on Facebook. WWC is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) www.GFWC.org and GFWC Massachusetts (GFWC MA) www.GFWCMA.org.

Come Celebrate 30 years of Boxborough’s Ownership of Steele Farm

 
The town of Boxborough purchased Steele Farm in the fall of 1994. The Steele Farm Committee will host a 30th anniversary celebration on the property at 484 Middle Road on Saturday, October 19 between 2 and 4 PM. This event will feature seasonal refreshments and tours of the barn and Boxborough’s only remaining ice house.  There will also be displays of various farm implements. While the public cannot tour the 1784 Levi Wetherbee farmhouse, there will be a “look in”  and pictures of the interior will be available.  This is a great chance to come and see and celebrate all the work that has been done!  All are welcome including canine companions.

Boxborough Library Fall Used Book Sale: November 1, 2, and 3

Due to popular demand, the Friends of the Boxborough Library used book sale will continue as a three day event. The weekend will start with a Preview Sale for members on Friday, November 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. (Memberships will be available at the door).  The main public sale will take place on Saturday, November 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Everything Must Go sale will be held on Sunday, November 3 from 2 to 4 p.m.  Standard size bags will be provided; pay $3 to fill each bag however you like.
The sale will take place in the meeting room of the Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Massachusetts Avenue. Proceeds from the sale of books will go toward additional library programs and museum passes.
Please support this sale by donating your gently used hard covers, paperbacks, and audiovisual items and attending this sale.  Books will be accepted from Monday, October 28 through Thursday, October 31 at the library during regular library hours. Please do not donate VCR tapes, magazines, or any material in really poor condition.

Semi-Annual Fall Clothing Swap

 
Sunday, November 10, 2024, 8:00 AM until 10:00 AM
Location: Parker Damon Building, Upper Parking Lot, 11 Charter Rd, Acton, MA  01720
Registration is not Required.
Donations accepted:
Clean, unstained baby/children's clothes size newborn to 10/Medium (NO socks, shoes, or underwear)
Gently used maternity clothes (NO undergarments)
Donation drop offs will be accepted at the following locations through Saturday, November 9. Please sort and label bags/boxes of clothes by size to help our volunteers!
47 Ethan Allen Dr. Acton
124 Great Rd. Acton
8 Heather Hill Rd. Acton
48 Washington Dr. Acton
62 Chester Rd. Boxborough
This is a FREE and PUBLIC event. Anyone can donate, and anyone can come "shop" at the event. Please be sustainable and bring your own shopping bag. This is a great opportunity to pass on hand-me-downs and help our neighbors! Any items remaining at the end of the event will be donated to local charities.
FOOD DRIVE: We will also host a food and diaper drive for the Acton Food Pantry during this swap. There is an urgent need for baby formula, baby food (jars, pouches, snacks & cereal), and diapers (especially size 5-6). Food drive donations will only be collected at the event on November 10. (Feel free to donate directly to the food pantry or via their Amazon wishlist if you cannot make it! https://www.actonfoodpantry.org/food)

Annual Game Night and Open House

Friday October 25, 5:30PM-9:30PM
"Nashoba Valley Neighbors” are hosting their Annual Game Night and Open House with a Halloween theme featuring games, costume contest and prizes!
Refreshments provided. Please bring a dish to share for the pot luck dinner.  All are welcome.
Meet at the Nagog Woods Club House, 102 Nonset Path  Acton.

Adopt a Street Road Cleanup Event

Saturday October 12, 3:00PM-5:00PM
Please join the "Nashoba Valley Neighbors" group for the Adopt a Street road Cleanup event.  All are welcome!
Following clean up the crew will go to Crossroads Café in Acton for dinner.
Meet at the CVS Plaza,  344 Great Rd.  Acton.

South Acton Church Rummage & Bake Sale

Come One, Come All! The South Acton Church famous Rummage Sale is back!! Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM at 35 School Street in South Acton. The bargains will be Fabulous!
Upstairs, we’ll have delicious baked goods, scrumptious soups, veggie wraps, and beef and vegan chili --- perfect for lunch or take-out! Also, we’ll have our famous frozen entrees, terrific to keep in the freezer for a fast and healthy dinner. Downstairs will be all the deals! Clothes for all ages, housewares, toys, jewelry, and lots of special items, all at stunning bargain prices.
Come check us out!
Oct 11  nsb

Nashoba Symphonic Band presents “Of Thee I Sing”

The Nashoba Symphonic Band, under the direction of David Wayne Bailey, will present its first concert of the 2024-25 season, “Of Thee I Sing,” a program of American music on Sunday, November 3 at 3 p.m. in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, route 117 in Bolton MA. Admission is free.
The concert includes several classics of American band literature, including American Overture for Band by Joseph Willcox Jenkins and Copland's iconic Lincoln Portrait, narrated by Lancaster selectman, Jason Allison. The major work on the program is Morton Gould's Symphony for Band “West Point.” The first movement of this work, Epitaphs, pays homage to American heroes; the second, Marches, is a free-for-all of military march styles. For march fans, the program includes Grafulla's Washington Grays and, of course, The Official West Point March, a medley of the academy's marches, hymns, glee club tunes and its alma mater.
Now in its ninth full season, the 90-piece concert band is comprised of musicians from 31 area communities, ranging in age from 14 to 80-something. Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and is supported in part by funds from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Harvard, Lancaster, Littleton, Lunenburg, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. All Nashoba Symphonic Bands are free and open to the public.

Date set for Acton-Boxborough United Way’s Casino Royale

Article by: Lee Slade and Nancy Settle-Murphy
Casino Royale, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Acton-Boxborough United Way (ABUW), will be held on Saturday evening on November 16 at the beautiful Wedgewood Pines Country Club, Stow.
Last year’s Casino Royale fundraiser and silent auction raised over $40,000, which helped to underwrite the vital community support A-B United Way and its grantees provide to residents throughout the A/B community. Organizers anticipate this year’s event will be even bigger and better. For more information and tickets, go to abuw.org/casino.

Hot Topics Discussion Group

 
Wednesdays, 10:30-11:45am                                                                         
Open to all seniors/free
This group is an opportunity for people to talk about present or recent major issues of the day. Each member is expected to offer or suggest a topic or issue for the group to engage in. Members are expected to actively participate as a leader or as a learner. Facilitated by Sal Lopes.

Java with John

Friday, October 18th, 9:45am                                               
Open to Acton residents
Town Manager, John Mangiaratti will be here to give updates from the Town, answer your questions and listen to your suggestions and concerns. Acton TV will be filming it live.

Ice Cream with a Cop

Thursday, October 17th, 1:30-2:30pm                                                     
Open to all seniors/free
Drop by the Senior Center to chat with Acton PD Officer Stackhouse & enjoy a free ice cream provided by the Acton Police Association! Also on hand will be the Department’s wonderful comfort dog, Zane.

Poet of the Month: Mary Oliver via Zoom

Thursday, October 17th, 10:30-11:30am                                      
Open to all seniors/free
Join Val Walker via Zoom to celebrate the life & works of Mary Oliver and explore selected poems about the power of awe & wonder. Oliver boldly declares she is “willing to be dazzled” in her poem The Ponds and in the same spirit, we can enjoy more poems dedicated to her life-affirming attitude to living with openness and wonder. Contact the COA at seniorcenter@actonma.gov to register & receive the Zoom link. Val Walker, MS, Author, Educator, Blogger for Psychology Today, www.ValWalkerAuthor.com

Caregiver Support Group via Zoom

Wednesday, October 16th and 30th, 3:00-4:30pm          
Open to all caregivers of older adults/free
This month the group meets on Wednesday rather than the usual Tuesday.
Caregivers of older adults, please join Julie Norstrand, PhD, MSW, for a group that meets via Zoom which offers practical and emotional support. New participants are always welcome! The challenging work of caregiving may leave you feeling stretched thin, which may cause feelings of exhaustion and isolation. Julie ensures safe, non-judgmental settings where members can share and learn from one another and witnesses the strong bonds that develop between members. If you are new to the group, please sign up with the Council on Aging at seniorcenter@actonma.gov.

Friends Jewelry Sale

Wednesday, October 16th, 9:00am-2:00pm                                              
All are welcome
The Friends of the COA have been collecting vintage costume jewelry all summer long. Your opportunity to purchase some gifts, a fashion accessory or special occasion memento at remarkable prices. Don’t miss it!

R2 Discounted Electricity Rate & Acton Power Choice Presentation

Tuesday, October 15th, 1:00-2:00pm                     
Open to all Acton residents/free
If you missed last month’s program, you have another chance to learn about the qualifiers and benefits of Eversource's "R2" Discount Rate Program and how participating in Acton Power Choice, the Town's electricity program, can help you reduce your electricity costs. You'll also learn how to determine who your electricity supplier is and how much you're paying for electricity. Please bring all pages of a current Eversource electric bill with you to the presentation. Acton Community Services Director Laura Ducharme and Council on Aging staff will be on hand to answer questions about Eversource's "R2" application process. Julie Harris from MassPowerChoice, the Town's consultant for Acton Power Choice (APC) will answer questions about APC. If you would like to enroll in APC, you can do so on the spot if you have a current Eversource electric bill with you!

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group at the Senior Center

Tuesday, October 15th, 11:00-12noon                                                   
Open to all/free                                                  
Participants will learn from other grandparents and experts about legal strategies and practices, ways to relieve the stress, and resources available. For additional information, contact group leader Joe O'Leary of the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren at 978-760-0360.

Acton COA 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-5:00pm, Tues 8:00am-7:30pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon
Oct 11  meet at the fair

Meet me at the Fair!

Celebrate 91 years of creativity and community at the Boxborough Merrie Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 23, from 9am to 1pm at the Boxborough Church located on the corner of Route 111 and Middle Road.  You will find handmade ornaments, seasonal greens, homemade gifts, jewelry, baked goods, live music and attic “treasures”. There will also be a children’s table for the smallest shoppers and Santa will roam between the church, town hall and the community center.  Shop online early at the fair's Silent Auction to find unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list. The site goes live on November 13 at 8:00am: https://www.biddingforgood.com/UCCBSilentAuction.

Mental Health Course, in Person in Boxborough

Family to Family is a free, evidence-based, eight-session, weekly course from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for those who love someone living with a mental health condition. Topics include understanding the symptoms of mental health conditions, learning about treatments & therapies, practicing communication & problem-solving skills, creating a positive team approach, and self-care. Importantly, the course offers family members the invaluable opportunity of open conversation and mutual support in a stigma-free environment. The course will meet in person in Boxborough Mondays, November 11 to January 13, excluding holiday weeks, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Additional information and registration: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/family-to-family-fall2024-boxborough.