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

Monday Movie Matinee
To Olivia
Monday, May 12th, 1:00-2:40pm
(2021) The story of the tumultuous marriage of actress Patricia Neal and renowned author Roald Dahl and how they cope with a tremendous loss. Keeley Hawes and Hugh Bonneville co-star. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.
Book Discussion Group                                                                    
Tuesday May 13th, 10:00-11:00am
Open to all seniors/free
The discussion for May’s meeting will be around the book Lady Tans Circle of Women by Lisa See. If you would like to read ahead for the June 10th meeting, Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout. Copies of the book are on hold for the group at Acton Memorial Library. You may also check availability at Citizen’s Library (978-929-6654). Ann Kulsick facilitates the gatherings.
Planning for Medicare: Countdown to 65 Seminar with BC/BS of Mass.
Tuesday, May 13th, 5:00-6:00pm                                  
Open to all/free
If you’re getting close to Medicare eligibility, this seminar is for you! Whether you are planning to retire or will continue to work, it’s important to know your Medicare options. Did you know that missing your Medicare enrollment deadlines could cost you money? This seminar is led by a knowledgeable Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts representative who will answer your specific questions. Topics covered include: explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, and C, Medicare enrollment timeline, Medigap plans that supplement Medicare coverage, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, & plans available to early retirees.
Technology Assistance Clinic (previously Computer Club)
Wednesday, May 14th and  28th, 1:30-3:00pm                              
Open to all seniors/free
All seniors are welcome to participate in this drop-in Technology Clinic whenever the need arises.  Bring your technology questions, problems, and issues related to your computer, phone, or tablet. If possible, bring the problem hardware with you to the session.  Several regular attendees are willing to share their experiences, and work with you, one-on-one, to address technology issues, from Windows system difficulties, email setups/usage, networking issues, upgrades, and assistance with “how do I” frustrations. MAC and Chrome/Android users are welcome.
Poets of the Month/Two American Children’s Poets: Joan Walsh Anglund and Annette Wynne via Zoom
Thursday, May 15th, 10:30-11:30am via Zoom                              
Open to all seniors/free
To welcome this spring--and share this season with the children in our lives—join Val Walker to celebrate the joyous poetry of two remarkable women authors: Joan Walsh Anglund (1926-2021), famous for A Friend Is Someone Who Likes You, and a lesser-known but charming poet, Annette Wynne (1889-1952). Exploring their beloved poems and fascinating lives can offer lovely ways to spend an hour together. Email for link.
Acton Songsters Live Performance of Patriotic Songs
Thursday, May 15th, 1:00-1:30pm                                                                                
Open to all/free
In honor of Memorial Day and Flag Day, the Acton Songsters, led by Dr. Ed Knights, will be performing patriotic songs that are sure to stir your emotions and get your toes tapping. Audience members are welcome to sing along. New people are always welcome to join the Songsters group which meets at the Senior Center twice a month.
Java with John
Friday, May 16th, 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.

Stow, Mass., May 16 – 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, May 16, from 7 to 9 p.m. FPC is a nut-free location. It’s located at 353 Great Rd, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessibl

– FPC Sunday Service
Stow, Mass., May 11  – On May 11 at 10 a.m., First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a service led by minister Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum entitled “Creating a Caring Community or, What I Learned on Sabbatical.” Rev. Cindy’s sabbatical was like none other, with family and personal struggles of illness, surgery, and loss. Throughout it, our community showed what we’ve learned about how to be supportive and caring. In this sermon, Rev. Cindy will share some of her learnings through this time.
The service takes place both in person in the Sanctuary and virtually. 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.

Day & Time: Sunday, May 11, 6:45pm – 8:45pm
FPC has partnered with the Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson to bring the drUUm-&-dance circle to Stow. Bring your joy and your open heart and join us for an evening of hand drumming and dancing around the “fire” circle. Facilitated by experienced drummers/dancers Jim Flavin and Nan Rogers, we’ll circle up in FPC’s Fellowship Hall to experiment with various types of instruments and sustained rhythm sessions and see what we create together. Let’s gather in sacred and healing community to lower our stress levels, plug into the energy, and raise some good vibes!
The drum circle will take place on the second Sunday of each month. Drummers and dancers of all abilities are welcome; please bring your own drums, and we will have a few drums and other percussion instruments available to borrow. Questions? Contact Nan at nandancing@comcast.net.

The Maynard Business Alliance’s 11th annual Spring ArtWalk was held on Saturday, May 3rd in the Maynard Cultural District. Visitors to the downtown were treated to art exhibits, refreshments, live music, specials, and activities hosted and sponsored by our local small businesses. Thanks to everyone who came out, we hope you enjoyed the event!
The evening began at Memorial Park with a free concert, thanks to a grant from the Maynard Cultural Council and the Mass Cultural Council. The rain held off just long enough for Blueprint Jazz Club to put on a phenomenal show! Early visitors were able to catch the incredible sidewalk chalk drawings throughout the downtown left behind by a surprise visit from COMODRAWS! Those willing to wait out the weather enjoyed music from Irish Music Duo ‘Buttons & Bows’, featuring Gwen Johnston and Jimmy Kelly, and the talents of caricaturist Chris Renna, which were made possible by Hair in Harmony, Heather Manero/William Raveis, Smith & Finley Homes, Platinum Physical Therapy, and Well Balanced Dog Training.
We couldn’t have held this wonderful celebration of art and community without participation from our generous businesses and organizations: 6 Bridges Gallery; Amory’s Tomb; Art Signals; ArtSpace Maynard; Assabet Co-op Market; The Bagel Table; Edward Jones Investments; Explore Pathways to Wellness; Felixology; The Flower Pot; Inspired Bliss; Lo Tide; LOOK Optical; Maynard Community Gardeners, The Maynard Outdoor Store; Metrowest Kung Fu; Miss Tricia’s Dance Studio; Open Table; Raspberry Beret; Resilience Body Arts; Sanctuary Cultural Arts Center; Sugar Snap.
Finally, we’d like to thank the following for their support: The Maynard Select Board & Town Administration; Department of Public Works; Lucie DiStefano and the Maynard Police Department; John Flynn and the Maynard High School student artists; Emily Thayer; and Bonnie Wilson. We appreciate the time and commitment of the Spring ArtWalk Planning Committee: Casey Davis-Wall (Lo Tide), Deb Hledik (Explore Pathways to Wellness), Lizza Smith (Smith & Finley Homes), Megan Summers (Inspired Bliss), Lynda Thayer (Look Optical).
Visit our photo gallery at https://www.maynardbusinessalliance.org/spring-artwalk and follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/maynardbusinessalliance/ to keep up with what your local small businesses are doing in your community!  More events like this can be found on the Events Calendar at https://discovermaynard.com/

The camp in Bolton is for students entering Kindergarten through High School.
Activities include swimming, games in the fields and woods, arts & crafts, songs, tracking, hiking, campfires to roast hot dogs and marshmallows, building shelters, Animal Adventures, Predator and Prey, The Amazing Race & more.
Campers entering grades 6th-9th in the Eco Adventures program will play kayaking games on the pond, laser tag in the woods, nighttime activities on Thursday and dinner and s’mores, water guns, an adventure hike, team building activities & more.
Counselors-in-Training must be entering 9th grade or above and attend Orientation June 24- and then choose two weeks or more to be at camp.
There are 6 weekly sessions that run June 30 – August 8, Monday - Friday, 9am - 3pm.
Before/After Care is available!
Campers from all towns are welcome!
See the website for more details and to register: tomdenneynaturecamp.org
Questions: bcttdnc@gmail.com (best means of communication) or 978-429-3004 (voice mail)

 

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

Monday Movie Matinee

The Russians Are Coming The Russians Are Coming

Monday, May 5th, 1:00-3:05pm
(1966) Comedy depicts the chaos and hysteria that follows the grounding of a Soviet submarine off the coast of fictional Gloucester Island, Massachusetts. Directed by Norman Jewison; stars Eva Marie Saint, Carl Reiner, Alan Arkin, Brian Keith, and Jonathan Winters

Acton Songsters with Ed Knights
Wednesdays, May 7th and 21st, 1:00-1:45pm                                         
Open to all seniors/free
Join Ed Knights for this group that sings familiar popular songs and learns the mechanics of singing. Don’t worry about your level of singing—the group is open to anyone interested in singing. Lyrics provided. Sign up with the COA if you are new to the group. See page 4 for information on this month’s performance.
Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
Wednesdays, May 7th and 21st, 3:00-4:30pm         
**Note change of meeting day for this month**          
Open to all caregivers of older adults/free
Caregivers of older adults, please join Julie Norstrand, PhD, MSW, for this group that meets via Zoom and offers practical and emotional support. New participants always welcome! The challenging work of caregiving may leave you feeling stretched thin, which may cause feelings of exhaustion and isolation. Julie ensures safe, non-judgmental settings where members can share and learn from one another and witnesses the strong bonds that develop between members. If you are new to the group, please sign up with the Council on Aging at seniorcenter@actonma.gov. Funded by an Executive Office of Aging & Independence grant.
Technology Help Appointments with Acton Memorial Library
Thursday, May 8th, 10:00-11:00am                                                    
Acton seniors only 
Need help with common smartphone (iPhone or Android), tablet or laptop functions? Join Olivia Wennerod, Acton Memorial Library Adult Programming Librarian, at the Senior Center for one-on-one help with your device! Bring your fully charge device and your questions, and Olivia will troubleshoot technology problems alongside you. If Olivia can’t help with a specific problem you are having, she will do her best to find the right resources that can help you. Call the COA to reserve a 15-minute appointment.
Fraud Prevention Tips with Middlesex Savings Bank
Thursday, May 8th, 1:00-2:30pm               
Open to all seniors/free
Fraud department specialists from Middlesex Savings Bank will discuss the recent frauds and scams that are targeting seniors in our community. Ways to identify fraud & prevent being scammed will be covered.
The 20th Century: A 1920-1929 Review with Dawn Gomez
Thursday, May 8th, 2:00-3:00pm                                          
Open to all seniors/free
It’s now time to take a deep dive into the third decade of the 20th century. The progressive era is over and the 1920’s was the decade when modern society began. Americans were excited by the technological advances that were becoming a part of their lives. But they were also a little frightened, for technology was changing the world faster than ever before. For many Americans, it was a time when they felt torn between the simple, traditional rural life and the new Jazz Age that beckoned from the city. From the introduction of the radio that reached right into people’s homes to women who could now vote showing a new spirit of independence. From cheaper cars that could carry Americans farther from home than ever before to the restrictions of Prohibition and hatred stirred up by the Ku Klux Klan. It was a blooming and booming decade…until it wasn’t. Americans were buying on credit, living it up and expecting that their prosperity would continue until the stock market crash of 1929 hit. Suddenly the bright lights of the Jazz Age went dark as if America had gone from a carefree summer into a freezing winter. Come and learn more and share your own family stories as well. Dawn Gomez, Reminiscing Round Table founder, provides topic-based programs for seniors at several local assisted living and senior center communities
Coffee and Conversation with Tracy Woods
Friday, May 9th through 30th, 10:00-11:00am                                                              
Open to all/free
Join Tracy Woods for a weekly coffee and conversation group where you can talk about what’s on your mind with your peers. Tracy Woods is a certified Older Adult Peer Specialist. All are welcome to this joint venture between the Acton Council on Aging and the Northeast Independent Living Program.

“All are Welcome.”
Spring has arrived. Mother Nature always returns us to many colors and warmer temps in May. Please, join neighbors and friends at the tables in Fellowship Hall. We look forward to sharing a meal and friendship with you.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton 472 Massachusetts Ave. Acton MA 01720
Time: Dinner is served 4:30pm – 5:45pm Doors will open at 4:15pm. Please, do not enter prior so our volunteers can prepare your Supper.
Parking: Park your car in the back parking lot and enter from the walkway to the church door.
May 2025 Menu
5/7 Cinco de Mayo – Mexican Burrito Bake
Sponsored by United Church of Christ Congregational, Boxborough
5/14 Amish Casserole with Burger and Pasta with Cheese
Sponsored by The Acton Lions Club
5/21 Pork Chops with Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Sponsored by Friends of Mt. Calvary Community Supper
5/28 Raviolis And Meatballs
Sponsored by Kate Zhong and Friends
** Please note that the meals we serve may contain gluten, nuts, seeds, or dairy.
We are so grateful for the support and dedication of so many individuals, community organizations, church members and the team of our Supper volunteers. Together we hope that each meal we share will bring us closer together.
http://www.mtcalvaryacton.org/Community-Supper http://www.facebook.com/CommunitySupperofActonMA

The Boxborough Democratic Town Committee recently established a $500 scholarship that will be presented to a Boxborough graduating senior who has displayed a significant commitment to their community and the cause of social justice. The chosen individual shall have demonstrated qualities of compassion, integrity, leadership, and service through activities such as improving the lives of those in need and protecting the rights of the marginalized in our society. Preference may be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in public service, politics, government, or education.
The 2025 scholarship will be presented in memory of Anne K. Canfield. Anne loved the town of Boxborough, working and volunteering tirelessly over the years in many capacities, including serving on the Boxborough Democratic Town Committee, as well as on the Select Board, Council on Aging, School Committee, Finance Committee, and working at the polls.
This year’s scholarship will be presented at the Acton Boxborough Regional High School awards ceremony on May 21at 7 p.m. at the ABRHS Auditorium.
To donate to the scholarship fund, please visit https://tinyurl.com/BoxDTC-Scholarship

Myles Above in Heaven
An intimate support group in the loss of child........
Saturday May 17th
10:30am-12:30pm
Hudson Public Library, Hudson, MA

Saturday May 24th
10:30am -12:30pm
Duffy Properties
135 Beaver St, Waltham, MA

Registered Democrats in Maynard will hold a caucus on May 3, 2025 to elect Delegates and Alternates to the 2025 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention.
The caucus will be held May 3 at the Maynard Public Library, Roosevelt Room, 77 Nason Street, Maynard, Massachusetts. Doors open at 10am, we encourage attendees to arrive early. Everyone who arrives by 10:45 will be admitted.
Maynard can elect 8 Delegates and 4 Alternates to the Convention. The caucus is open to all registered and pre-registered Democrats in Maynard. Pre-registered Democrats who are 16 by March 29, 2025 will be allowed to participate and run as a Delegate or Alternate. We welcome any registered Maynard Democratic to run for one of the delegate seats.
Same-day voter registration will be available at the caucus - paper registration forms will be available and those who are interested should come a few minutes early. Any person who is not shown on the Democratic Party list must either provide proof of Party registration or preregistration or must register before the end of the caucus registration period.
Youth, minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals who are not elected as a Delegate or Alternate may apply to be an Add-on Delegate at the caucus or at  www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx
The 2025 Massachusetts Democratic Party Convention will take place on September 13, 2025 in Springfield, Massachusetts. This year is a platform convention.
Those interested in running to be a delegate or alternate or to get involved with the Maynard Democratic Town Committee should contact the Committee via email at maynarddtc@gmail.com. Or check the Maynard Democratic Town Committee Facebook page.

The online box office is open for Heaven and Earth, a wonderful choral concert on Sunday, May 18 at 4pm at the Fuller Middle School, 31 Flagg Drive in Framingham. We hope you’ll join us!
The concert will feature a selection of sacred and secular pieces, including some stunningly beautiful settings of psalms and poetry about the natural world.
One highlight of the concert will honor Alice Parker, a world-renowned champion of choral singing who was born in Boston and spent most of her life in New England. The Parker pieces will include some of her most famous spiritual arrangements, as well as “An American Kedusha,” a setting taken from the Jewish Sabbath morning liturgy.
Another local connection is Dominick Argento’s “Walden Pond,” a song cycle using texts by Henry David Thoreau, accompanied by the unusual instrumentation of three cellos and harp.
Guest performers will be Cantor Vera Broekhuysen, soprano and Cantor David Wolff, tenor.
Please visit https://www.heritagechorale.org for more details and to order tickets online in advance.

- Trinity Church, 14 Wattaquadock Hill Rd., Bolton, will be hosting an  indoor yard sale on Saturday, June 7th, 9:00AM - Noon.  All items are free. Household goods, toys, books, movies, sporting goods, clothing, more. Enjoy free refreshments as well!  www.trinitybolton.org

9 AM to 1 PM
Acton Red House, 486 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720
The Acton Garden Club will hold its Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 17th, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm rain or shine at the Red House - 468 Main Street, Acton, MA.
Come early for the best selections of Annuals, Perennials, Native Plants, House Plants and locally grown herbs, vegetables, shrubs, and trees. Take advantage of our Master Gardeners for answers to all your gardening questions.  Visit our Resource Table for information on topics ranging from Ticks, Garlic Mustard and Managing Invasive to Natives, Gardening Tips and Membership.
Proceeds of the Annual Garden Sale support our community, through scholarships for graduating ABHS seniors, maintenance of town gardens and planters, and educational programs for the community and club members.

Spring is a time of renewal and new growth, a time for starting over, and planting seeds for the future. It is also the time for the Shower for Shelters.
The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable cordially invites you to participate in its Annual Shower for Shelters. You can help families transitioning from a shelter or transitional housing to establish a new home by donating new household items or gift cards. All gifts collected will be donated to clients of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence and Voices Against Violence.
The Shower for Shelters will be held from Friday, April 25, 2025, through Saturday, May 10, 2025. New unwrapped gifts may be dropped off at Spirits of Maynard, 4 Digital Way, Suite 3, Maynard, MA or at Sudbury Wine and Spirits, 410 Boston Post Road, Rugged Bear Plaza, Sudbury, MA. This year Lincoln will also be hosting two collection sites, one at Lincoln Town Hall and one at the Lincoln Library.
Requested new items include: diapers, twin size comforters, sheets and pillowcases, bed pillows, towels and face cloths, unscented cleaning products and laundry detergent, laundry baskets, kitchen utensils, flatware, dishes, drinking glasses, small kitchen appliances, pots and pans, bakeware, personal care items, and other household items for kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms.
Gift cards for the following are also welcome: Target, Walmart, CVS, Walgreen’s, Market Basket, Hannaford, Stop and Shop ($10-$50).
For questions or further information, please contact the Roundtable at infodvrt@gmail.com

www.freshstartfurniturebank.org
I THINK we have seen the last of snow this season!  My wise Dad told us that spring snow is nature’s fertilizer; it pulls nitrogen out of the atmosphere for the lawns.
At Fresh Start we still need couches and loveseats, upholstered chairs, dressers and dining tables.  In the kitchen area we are short on saucepans, food storage containers, and bowls (cereal, mixing and serving). We are running out of microwaves and slow cookers and we can always use silverware.  Our supply of lamps goes up and down; right now it is down so bring them!   For bedrooms we need throws and comforters.  We just partnered with a woman who works for an organization that rescues and rehabs owls and she needs fleece for them.
Please look at our website if you don’t know our location or hours.  We take donations of housewares on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30-noon and furniture AND housewares on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30.  The website also spells out what we DO and DO not take and there is a place to sign up for a pickup by our truck if you have several large items.
Thank you for helping us to help others!

 

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

Monday Movie Matinee
Wicked
Monday, April 28th, 1:00-3:40 pm
(2024, PG) Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), misunderstood because of her green skin, befriends popular girl Galinda (Ariana Grande) at school in the Land of Oz. Musical nominated for 10 Oscars with wins for costume and production design. DVD available to borrow from the lounge resource shelf after 4/28

CarFit Event                                         
Open to out-of-town seniors beginning April 8th
Monday, April 28th, 9:30-11:30 am by appointment              
We are offering a free community CarFit event in the Senior Center parking lot. CarFit is designed to give a quick but comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle work together with a focus on comfort, safety, and mobility. Sometimes simple adjustments to mirrors, seat, steering wheel, or head restraint can make a big difference! It is not a driver test. CarFit is a national program developed by AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association. Each appointment takes less than 30 minutes for a technician to complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. An Occupational Therapist will also meet with each driver and, if applicable, will show examples of devices that can improve the driver’s “car fit.” We always receive a good deal of positive feedback after these events—don’t miss out! Advance registration is required (call 978-929-6652), as is signing a waiver on the day of the event.
Exploring Improvisation with Poornima Kirby    
Open to out-of-town seniors for $20
Mondays, April 28th through June 9th, 10:00-11:00 am                                          
No class May 26th   
Come unlock your sense of humor, play and discovery with this class on the art and fun of improvisation!  We’ll play simple improv games, explore short-form and long-form scenarios, and gain tools for building characters on the fly. We’ll also sharpen our listening skills, use our imaginations, and learn how to say “yes, and . . .!” to our fellow improvisors. We’ll even learn how to apply improvisation skills in everyday life to solve problems, increase confidence, and gain insights into human relationships.  People with any level of experience are welcome to join! Her classes at the Senior Center are educational and great fun!
Bridges by EPOCH Proactive Brain Health Presentation
Tuesday April 29th, 1:00-2:30 pm                                             
Open to all seniors/free
Join us for a presentation on Proactive Brain Health. By implementing proactive habits, individuals can help reduce their risk of cognitive decline. Seniors will learn lifestyle changes to help keep their minds sharp for tomorrow. Risks to brain health, lifestyle factors, diet, sleep, exercises, and connections between heart and brain will be discussed. Snacks provided, and sign up required.
Introduction to the Retired Men’s Association
Tuesday, April 29th, 2:00-3:00 pm                                                    
Open to all seniors
Meet members to learn and explore membership in the Retired Men’s Association of Boston/Metrowest. The over 100 retirees in the organization enjoy friendly association and use their talents and interests to meet the needs of their communities in a three-pronged approach of fellowship, service and volunteerism. There are monthly meetings, in-person as well as online, featuring interesting speakers. The RMA also offers events such as local hikes, biking outings, visits to area museums, businesses, universities, and sporting events. Spouses are welcome to all events. This is a great opportunity to get out and meet new people. Join us, won’t you? If you can’t make the meeting but want more information contact Paul Motyka at 978-263-2612 or paul@pmotyka.com or visit www.rmena.org/ .
After the Battle of Lexington and Concord: The Battle to Win Hearts and Minds with Larry Kerpelman
Thursday, May 1st, 1:00-2:00 pm                                                 
Open to out-of-town seniors for $5
On April 19, 1775, colonials and the King’s soldiers exchanged musket fire on Lexington Green and Concord’s North Bridge. Before the musket smoke even cleared, both sides, using words as weapons this time, began efforts to sway both the public and the higher-ups. The storytelling and speed of delivery mattered critically. Whichever side first presented the best case as to what happened that day stood strongest to win the hearts and minds of officials and the public in both the American colonies and Great Britain. The race was on. This talk will tell what they did, how they did it, and who prevailed in this race to remember. Larry C. Kerpelman, Ph.D., is a freelance writer and communications professional from Acton. Upon retiring from a career in corporate communications, he turned to researching, writing, and speaking on singular moments in American history. His work has appeared in American History, American Heritage, The Boston Globe, and other publications. He holds a B.A. from Johns Hopkins University and  a Ph.D. from University of Rochester.
“A Fresh Perspective: A Fourth Collaborative Display”
Through mid-June, we are delighted to welcome back the work of Jen Mabardy and Lara Maira. They present a celebration of creativity and fresh inspiration!  With spring in the air, they’re embracing renewal and infusing their display with some exciting new ideas. Jen has been a longtime Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator. She loves colors and cardstock, and working with a variety of stamps and inks to make handmade greeting cards. Lara combs beaches all over the world for sea glass to then create framed art pieces.
All are welcome to attend their Reception with refreshments on Wednesday, May 7th, 12:00 -1:00pm.

All are welcome at the Supporting Asylum Seekers Community Dinner at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Join us for a night of delicious food, good stories, and round table discussions about what we can do to support our immigrant neighbors. The dinner will take place on May 3 and begin at 5:30 p.m., but please purchase tickets online by Saturday, Apr. 26 at bit.ly/SASdinner in order to give us a sense of numbers. Dinner will be prepared by a local small business and feature classic Afghan food, which will delight your senses and satisfy your appetite! $10.00 per adult for a three-course meal and beverages. Children under 16 eat for free. FPC is a nut-free location.
FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. When parking, please keep a clear path for emergency vehicles; do not block the driveway around the front of the sanctuary; park only on the 117 side of Commons Rd.; and do not block access to the back of the building. Thank you!

On Apr. 27 at 10 a.m., First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a service led by minister Rev. Susan Suchoki Brown entitled “Moving On.” The impact we have on others - and others on us - lasts a lifetime.
The service takes place both in person in the Sanctuary and virtually. 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.

It’s time! The ovens will be baking soon! The Acton Woman’s Club is looking forward to another successful pie and baked goods sale.
Mark your calendar! Saturday, May 10, starting at 9 am at the Clubhouse! at 504 Main St. Proceeds support high school scholarships. Don’t miss out! It always sells out! And during the sale, you can get a tour of the antique Clubhouse building [ask for Margie or Brenda]. Not only can you experience a gracious living room furnished with antiques, you may want to consider using the building for your next party or private event. And coming by for a visit on a spring day during our bake sale would be a wonderful way for you to see the building from the inside and see how lovely it is...So come along and check out the beautiful space, and buy something scrumptious! for Mothers’ Day or your upcoming dinner party! or just for you!  We have room for more members, especially if you like to bake or organize events! the Club is a great way to make new friends! More information:www.theactonwomansclub.org

The next in-person First Year of Life New Parent Group will meet at Emerson Wellness Center, 310 Baker Ave Ext., Suite 165 on Thursday, May 1 from 9:30-11:00. Parking is free of charge. This group is free and open to all, facilitated by First Connections’ Director, Emily Fiorini, who is a mental health counselor specializing in infant-parent mental health. Parents in the postpartum year can join this free weekly group to get support for their own emotional wellbeing, recovery and transition into parenthood; baby’s development; feeding and sleep support, and community resources. This group meets every week, with one week per month meeting in person and the remaining weeks meeting via Zoom. To receive the Zoom link, email Emily: efiorini@jri.org. To RSVP for the in-person group, email Linda: lmatthews@jri.org. We will have a guest speaker on “Introducing Solid Foods for Infants” presented by Emerson Speech & Language Pathologist Julia Hurd on June 12, 10-11:00. To receive the link for this free program email Linda: lmatthews@jri.org. Photo: newparents

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

For a second time during the Spring 2025 “A World of Music” concert series, Middlesex Community College will welcome the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO). The concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 at MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center, Theatre in Lowell.
“The final concert of the LCO season features works in which composers reach back to their traditions and make them sound new,” said Orlando Cela, MCC music professor and conductor of the LCO. “In the case of Pulcinella, Stravinsky reaches out to our musical past and refurbishes 21 pieces from the Baroque period into a modern style. Hailstork also contributes to the centuries-old genre of the romance – particularly as it applies in the solo orchestral repertoire – as exemplified perfectly by Bruch, hence why we perform both pieces together, one after the other. On the other hand, composer Simon Andrews looks into the New England tradition of communing with nature, and his work ‘Till Voices Wakes Us’ takes the sound of the American toad and makes a beautiful work. We open with Mendelssohn’s homage to the style of Baroque counterpoint, his Symphony for Strings No. 3.”
Entitled Voices Near and Far, this program features music from the past and present. Till Voices Wake Us by Simon Andrews, the winner of the 2024 LCO Call-for-Scores, will be performed, and violist Jeremy Kienbaum, winner of the 2024 LCO Young Artist Competition, will be the soloist in Two Romances by Adolphus Hailstork. The concert will also include works by Felix Mendelssohn, Max Bruch, and Igor Stravinsky.
“A World of Music” will end the season with a second Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28 at MCC’s Concert Hall on the Bedford Campus.
Previous performances include a previous concert by the LCO on Saturday, February 1; an Online Saturday Arts Concert featuring MCC faculty, alumni and students on Saturday, March 8; Know Orchestra on Sunday, March 23; a Piano Recital by Anastasia Seifetdinova on Friday, April 4; and Guqin and Viola in Musical Dialogue on Friday, April 11.
All concerts are free and open to the public.
MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.
Visit https://www.middlesex.edu/events/worldofmusic.html for more information.

Devens, MA: The Cannon Theatre is proud to present A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. This production, directed by Shawn Cannon, is the fifth in The Cannon Theatre’s 2024-25 season line-up, which also includes upcoming productions of Cannon’s 10-Minute Play Festival and featuring performances of Shakespeare: the Eras Tour.
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder is a comic romp filled with unforgettable music and non-stop laughs about A distant heir to a family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm... and a dash of murder.
The show runs for 3 weekends. Show times are May 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, and 24 at 7:30 p.m. Matinees are taking place on May 18 and 25th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available at www.thecannontheatre.org, and are $25 for adults, and $20 for students/seniors.
The cast and crew hails from the following towns: Ayer, Arlington, Brookline, Chelmsford, Fitchburg, Lincoln, Londonderry, Pepperell, Waltham, and Worcester.

The League of Women Voters – Acton Area will host a Candidates Forum at Town Hall, 29 Middle Road in Boxborough, on Thursday, May 1 at 7 PM.  The forum is free and open to the public.  A recording will also be televised on Boxborough TV for viewing afterwards.
All Boxborough candidates in contested races (Select Board, Planning Board and Library Trustees), whose names appear on the ballot, have been invited to participate.
Tara Zantow, member of the Acton Area League and co-chair for the Boxborough Candidates Forum said, “We want to give Boxborough voters an opportunity to learn about candidates who will be making decisions that impact our community on everything from human services to law enforcement to environmental protection. Find out which candidates reflect your priorities and values!”
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state and national government. The League develops positions on issues, but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. It has a long tradition of providing important voter information services, such as this forum.
Your participation in the Candidates Forum will help strengthen our community and our democracy!  We hope to see you there or tuning in on television!
Save the date!  The last day to apply for a “vote by mail” application is Tuesday May 13.  In-person absentee voting ends at noon on Monday May 19.  Town elections are Tuesday, May 20 at Boxborough Town Hall.

Sunday, April 27, 1 to 4:00 p.m.
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the start of the Revolution, the Iron Work Farm launches the first event in our family-friendly series on Colonial Life, with “Where did that coat come from?” at the Faulkner Homestead, 5 High Street, from 1 to 4:00 p.m.
How did people obtain clothing and blankets to stay warm?  In this interactive program you will learn how fibers were grown and processed before being made into clothing. Activities will include planting flax for linen cloth, exploring the world of wool, and the processing of fibers.          
Through hands-on activities, the year-long living history series will explore Acton’s transition from an agriculturally based economy to cottage industry to industrialization, comparing work and leisure from colonial America to the present Day.      
No charge.  Park at the Faulkner House.    www.ironworkfarm.org.

A free live webinar will be held on Wednesday, May 14 at 7 p.m. Our speakers will be Lynn St. Germaine, an Infant-Toddler teacher for 37 years, and Patricia Collins, a Preschool teacher for 25 years, from Concord Children’s Center. Young children often act out for various reasons such as hunger, tiredness, frustration, confusion, or difficulty transitioning between activities. At times, they may not have the words to express what they need, leading to outbursts and meltdowns. These behaviors are not random-they signal underlying needs or developmental challenges, like unmet emotional needs, underdeveloped communication skills or lack of self-regulation. By understanding the root causes of challenging behaviors, parents can respond more effectively and support their children’s emotional and social development. By attending this program, you will gain an understanding of why children act out, and learn strategies that might include creating predictable routines, reinforcing positive behaviors, and using calm and consistent responses to guide the children through emotional ups and downs. To receive the Zoom link for this FREE program email First Connections: lmatthews@jri.org.

The League of Women Voters – Acton Area will host a Candidates Forum at Town Hall, 29 Middle Road in Boxborough, on Thursday, May 1 at 7 PM.  The forum is free and open to the public.  A recording will also be televised on Boxborough TV for viewing afterwards.
All Boxborough candidates in contested races (Select Board, Planning Board and Library Trustees), whose names appear on the ballot, have been invited to participate.
Tara Zantow, member of the Acton Area League and co-chair for the Boxborough Candidates Forum said, “We want to give Boxborough voters an opportunity to learn about candidates who will be making decisions that impact our community on everything from human services to law enforcement to environmental protection. Find out which candidates reflect your priorities and values!”
Submit your questions for the candidates to lwvboxforum@gmail.com by Monday, April 21 for consideration.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state and national government. The League develops positions on issues, but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. It has a long tradition of providing important voter information services, such as this forum.
Your participation in the Candidates Forum will help strengthen our community and our democracy!  We hope to see you there or tuning in on television!
Save the date!  The last day to apply for a “vote by mail” application is Tuesday May 13.  In-person absentee voting ends at noon on Monday May 19.  Town elections are Tuesday, May 20 at Boxborough Town Hall

The Swap Shop, located at the Acton Transfer Station, needs more volunteers!
We are open May through October, Tuesday through Saturday, and volunteers pick their own hours.
The purpose of the Swap Shop is to reduce trash by putting perfectly good items into the hands of those that can use them.
We’d love to have more volunteers so we can be open for as many hours as possible.
Will you have a few hours this year to help keep good things out of the trash?
Here is the Town of Acton link to the Swap Shop Program: http://www.actonma.gov/507/Swap-Shop
All volunteers for the Town of Acton are screened by the HR department and need to complete an online ethics training.
Please contact Debby Andell if you would like the HR forms and/or more information - debbyandell@gmail.com

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable cordially invites the public to a free wine and beer tasting to support its annual Shower for Shelters. The wine and beer tasting will be held at Spirits of Maynard, Plaza, 4 Digital Way, Suite 3, Maynard, MA on Friday evening, April 26, 2024, 6:30-8:30 PM. Light refreshments will be provided by the Roundtable. There will also be a brief presentation by a survivor.
Please bring a new, unwrapped housewarming gift to the event. Families transitioning from shelters appreciate gifts of new household items to help them establish their new homes. These generous donations will be collected and given to the clients of Reach Beyond Domestic Violence and Voices Against Violence.
Requested items include: twin size sheets and pillowcases, twin blankets, twin comforters, bed pillows, bath towels and face cloths, unscented cleaning products and laundry detergent, laundry baskets, kitchen utensils, flatware, dishes, drinking glasses, and small kitchen appliances. Gift cards for Target, Walmart, CVS, Walgreen’s, Market Basket, Hannaford and Stop gift cards  ($10-$50) are also welcome. To make a cash donation, please visit the Roundtable website at https://www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org. Please indicate that the donation is for Shower for Shelters. Thank you.
photo: Shower for Shelters donations

185 Elm Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
Hidden Treasures
Event Date: Thursday, April 24
Event Time: 1 to 2 pm
Event Details: Contact the Education Department
Champagne Reception
Event Date: Friday, April 25
Event Time: 6 to 8 pm
Event Details:
Join us for a special evening of art, music, and flowers!
Finicky Fork catering, Cash bar with specialty drinks (one complimentary drink ticket for each guest), Kay Previtte prizewinner announced, Emily Mazz Duo providing the entertainment.
Leominster native Emily Mazzarella is a pianist and teacher who regularly performs throughout Central Massachusetts. She will be joined by acoustic bassist Sahil Warsi to perform jazz standards and Great American Songbook classics.
Tickets:
$30 per person/ $25 members
Violinist Stefani Perrett Performs in the Galleries
Event Date: Saturday, April 26
Event Time: 2 to 3:30 pm
Event Details:
2-2:45 pm Contemporary Folk in Stephen DiRado, Better Together: Four Decades of Photographs
2:45-3:30 pm Classical in Evoking Eleanor
Local Violinist, Stefani Perrett started playing violin at age 8, after admiring her mother’s playing over the years. She has performed with numerous orchestras, and in venues from Boston to Europe. After Suzuki teacher training, she began teaching private violin lessons while working toward her violin performance degree at UMass. Now Stefani enjoys playing a variety of genres for all different types of events.
The Art of Bonsai with Michael Levin of Bonsai West
Event Date: Sunday, April 27
Event Time: 2 to 3:30 pm
Event Details:
The program will consist of a display of beautiful bonsai and the talk will include all key points regarding history, care, and a complete demonstration teaching the fundamentals of creating a bonsai from scratch. The talk will touch on all aspects of traditional and contemporary bonsai and will be a fascinating overview of the art.
Event Sponsors include Rose Sponsors: Fitchburg State University and Spinelli CPA; Lily Sponsors: Achla Designs; Daisy Sponsors: King Farm, Manor on the Hill, Rise & Grind, All One Credit Union, Gallery Marquee, and Rollstone Bank.
Art in Bloom Admission:
Tickets:
$15 Adults
$10 Seniors and Students
FAM Members are FREE
View Events Online: https://fitchburgartmuseum.org/art-in-bloom-2025/
Contact Aimee Cotnoir, FAM Membership and Events Manager with questions at acotnoir@fitchburgartmuseum.org or events@fitchburgartmuseum.org.

Boxborough’s Democratic Town Committee held a successful caucus on March 30, where members gathered to elect delegates for the Massachusetts Democratic State Convention. The meeting provided a vital opportunity for community members to engage in the democratic process and vote for candidates to represent Boxborough at the convention.
Each candidate explained why they would like to be involved in the convention, which is taking place this fall. The following individuals were elected as delegates or alternate delegates to the convention::

Priya Sundaram
Becca Edson
Renee Smutney-Fritz (alternate)
Dick Wagman
James Cooley
Andrew Gruskay (alternate)

The Massachusetts Democratic State Convention will take place on Saturday, September 13, in Springfield, MA at the Mass Mutual Center, where delegates and officials will have the opportunity to discuss and vote on the party’s platform for the upcoming election cycle. The convention serves as an important platform for shaping the future direction of the party and discussing key issues facing the community and the state.
“Sunday’s town Democratic caucus was a fantastic demonstration of civic engagement and democratic participation, and I’m glad we will have such a great crew attending,” said Megan Connor, a member of Boxborough’s Democratic Town Committee. “We need to move the Democratic platform messaging forward now more than ever.”