Walter forest receiving a veterans award and gift

Nashoba Park Honors Seven Resident Veterans

AYER: Nashoba Park celebrated Veterans’ Day by honoring their seven resident veterans with a beautiful ceremony. Residents and staff gathered to hear a heartfelt tribute to the veterans’ bravery and sacrifice in their service to the United States. The veterans received custom baseball caps adorned with each individual’s military branch, the war they served in, and the phrase “Proud to be a Vet”. Along with these gifts, Nashoba Park honored these residents with special “Veteran’s Awards” and the attendees celebrated their incredible legacies. Afterwards, the community came together for refreshments, marking the day as one to remember for the inspirational courage and wisdom of the veterans. You can learn more about Nashoba Park at www.NashobaPark.com.

PHOTO: Resident Walter Forest receives a Veterans Award and gift from Nashoba Park.
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The Cannon Theatre Presents "Miracle on 34th Street Radio Play"

DEVENS: The Cannon Theatre (28 Andrews Parkway) is pleased to present their popular Radio Play adaptation of A Christmas Carol. Celebrate your holidays with this all-time favorite classic story. A last-minute replacement Santa for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade claims to be the real Kris Kringle, and the belief of a little girl brings love, happiness, and the heart of the holiday spirit to all. Be part of the studio audience in a 1940s radio sound stage, as the cast tells this beloved story through song and amazing live sound effects in this radio play from the original 1947 Lux Radio Broadcast. In the cast are local actors Maren Caulfied, Kiki Bean, Joe Kandra, Matt Foster, John Lynch, Aydan Bahe, Shawn Cannon and Meredith Jones. For anyone who has a difficult time getting into the true spirit of the holiday, Miracle on 34th Street is the show to see. You will want to bring the entire family! Shows are December 8 at 7:30pm, December 9 at 2pm and 7:30pm, and December 10 at 2pm. Tickets are $25 for adults; $20 for seniors/students, and are available at www.TheCannonTheatre.org.

The Cannon Theatre is honored to be collecting donations for local community superstar charity Stone Soup Kitchen. Stone Soup Kitchen helps alleviate food insecurity and hunger, while bringing marginalized and lonely people together into community with others for food, fellowship, and friendship. Their services include a food pantry, public potluck dinners, and community building activities, which provide many other types of opportunities for people from all parts of our community to come together for this relationship building. There is never a charge for any of their programs, and they do not collect any ID, income, residency, or other information, ever. You can make a cash donation to Stone Soup Kitchen when you come to see our live radio show and/or bring non-perishable/non-expired food items to the theater.
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A Christmas Carol: The (One-Man) Radio Show

DUNSTABLE: Dunstable Theater Collaborative (DTC) presents its 4th annual Christmas Carol Radio Show starring Jon Swift! There will be two performances only - December 2 and 3 at 2:30pm at Dunstable Town Hall, 511 Main Street.

It's Christmas Eve, and with the actors snowed in and unable to make it to the studios of WXMS for the live radio performance of A Christmas Carol, the sound effects person decides to take the audience through the classic tale himself. In an impressive and amusing feat, this telling is performed as a 1940s radio play with one person providing all of the characters' voices and sound effects. This rollicking, creative adaptation of Dickens' classic work is sure to warm the hearts of even the chilliest audience members.

DTC is proud to be part of Dunstable's Journey and Jinglefest on December 2, and have an exciting gift for you - both performances will be "Donation Only" shows! You can pay whatever you think is fair for a ticket, or just come and see the show for free!
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Tickets are Going Faster Than You Can Say SCROOGE!

GROTON: New Life Fine Arts presents "Ebenezer Scrooge: A Christmas Carol" this December. It's a spiritually uplifting adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic, with performances beginning December 8 at the Groton Dunstable Performing Arts Center. Tickets are on sale now for matinee and evening performances starting on December 8. Evening performances: December 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 7:30pm; December 9, 10, 16 and 17 @ 2:30pm. Admission is $25 for general admission; $23 for 18 and under, and 65 and older; Groups of 10 people or more are $20. Reserve your tickets today at www.newlifefinearts.org/tickets!
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Pirone Park Perimeter Path Holiday Decorations

AYER: Would you like to help the Ayer Parks Department decorate the perimeter path at Pirone Park this holiday season?  A collection of Christmas trees and snowmen will be set up along the walkway, and Ayer families are welcome to jump in.  Here’s how it works:
 
  • The Parks Department will be making plywood cutouts of Christmas trees and snowmen, about 4’ tall and 2’ wide, for people to decorate.
  • Participants can decorate their cutout any way they like, with the proviso that they use materials and techniques that will allow them to stand out in harsh conditions for a month or more.
Those wishing to participate can contact the Parks Department via email at parks@ayer.ma.us to reserve a cutout and set up a time to pick it up (only one cutout per family please). The cost to participate will be $20 and you choose between a tree or snowman. You can either pay online or give the $20 when you pick up your cutout. Those who participated last year and still have their trees/snowmen can use them again if you like, but you will still need to contact the Parks Department to let us know you will be dropping it off.

Cutouts are in limited supply, so once they run out, they run out. Reserve yours ASAP to guarantee you will get one. Participants must return their decorated cutouts by December 1. The Parks Department will set up the decorated trees and snowmen once they are returned.

The decorations will remain up through the school holiday break, then be taken down some time after that. Those wishing to reuse their cutouts for next year can pick them up after January 8.
If you have any questions, feel free to call Jeff Thomas at the Parks Department office at (978) 796-5915.
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Cozy Crafts and Cocoa-ology!

HARVARD: Stop by Fruitlands between 11:30am and 3:30pm Saturdays and Sundays for crafts and hot cocoa! From December 9-31, make your own hot cocoa with lots of mix-ins - sprinkles, whipped cream, marshmallows, candy canes... white chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate! Then, curl up with your hot cocoa to do a craft activity or read a book. Throughout the month, you can also make beautiful holiday cards out of recycled materials for friends, family and loved ones. Tickets are $5/person and FREE for Trustees members. Tickets cover general admission including access to hiking trails, our art gallery, and craft activities. Hot chocolate is $3.  The Fruitlands Museum is located at 102 Prospect Hill Road.
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Ayer Police Department Holiday Toy Drive

AYER: The Ayer PD Holiday Toy Drive is back for it’s 23rd year!! Help them collect new toys for families in Ayer who may be struggling this year. Last year, they were able to collect enough toys to brighten the eyes of approximately 82 Ayer children!!!  Along with collection boxes at the Police Department, Town Hall and Library, The APD will be hosting "Fill-A-Cruiser" events on 2 consecutive Saturdays between 10am-2pm at the Police Station on December 9 and December 16.
If you need a little help this year for your family, download a Toy Request Form at www.ayer.ma.us/police-department/files/toy-request-form and turn it in here to the PD no later than Saturday, December 16.
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Footwork & Frolick Society Performing at the GHC’s Holiday Open House

GROTON: The Footwork & Frolick Society of Groton, whose mission is, in part, to bring the romance of 18th- and 19th-century New England entertainments to life, will show off Civil War-era dances at the Groton History Center’s Holiday Open House. Join the party at the historic Boutwell House at 172 Main Street, and launch the spirit of the solstice season on December 2 from 11am-2pm. Enjoy holiday décor, hot cider, and sweet refreshments in an elegant setting while watching hoop skirts sway to the light-stepping music of the once popular Quadrille and waltzes.

Catherine Dignam and her husband James Sabino, of Groton, two of the six founding members of the Footwork & Frolick Society, bring years of experience in contemporary ballroom and vintage dances to the newly formed group. The couple has performed here and abroad, traveling to Denmark for the International Dance Institute, and to France for the annual Fête Gallante at Versailles. Other members, all with professional day jobs, bring a variety of skills to the Society, not least costume design. “Women wore a lot of undergarments in those days,” observes Catherine Dignam (Society co-director), whose sewing skills, along with those of her husband (Treasurer of the Society) have grown exponentially in recent years.
All costumes are hand stitched and embroidered where it shows. A sewing machine comes in handy for hidden seams and tucks.

As important as recreating vintage dances and pastimes are to the Society, its overriding mission involves deepening community engagement, enhancing sense of place, and opening up the iconic ballroom to people historically excluded for reasons of race and disabilities.

All are welcome free to the GHC’s Holiday Open House, thanks to the generosity of the Groton Commissioners of Trust Funds as well as public and private donations. For more information, visit info@grotonhistory.org, grotonhistory@facebook.com, or call (978) 5121-0092.  For Footwork & Frolick, www.footworkandfrolick.org.
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Ft. Devens Museum’s Annual Miniature Game Day

DEVENS: Have you ever wondered if you could rewrite history? Go back in time and change the whole direction of a war? Engage in science fiction battles? Come to Fort Devens Museum on November 18, and join one (or all!) miniature wargames depicting different battles from world history and fantasy and see how your careful moves might affect the outcomes. The games will be held from 10am-3pm and players of all ages are welcome to join in throughout the day. There is absolutely no experience necessary, just try the games out and have fun!

There will be different games being played concurrently, many with handcrafted soldiers and detailed battleground terrain.  The games include an Acadian skirmish, Battle of the River Plate, Death on the Martian Plains (science fiction), The Leeward Line: Battle of Trafalgar, and The Battle of Kasserine. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both historical military events and today’s realm of miniature gaming. 

The Fort Devens Museum is located at 94 Jackson Road, on the third floor, and is wheelchair accessible. The museum is open on November 18 from 10am-3pm. This event is free and open to the public. See what Camp Devens and Fort Devens were all about, meet others interested in military and local history, and enjoy and join in some miniature wargaming. More information and game rules and details at www.fortdevensmuseum.org.
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North Worcester County Symphony Orchestra presents A Symphonic Christmas Carol

FITCHBURG: Ring in the holiday season with what will be the most unique holiday concert of the year as the North Worcester County Symphony Orchestra (NWSCO), under the direction of Jared Bloch presents A Symphonic Christmas Carol on December 8 and 9 at 7:30pm in the Weston Auditorium, located on the campus of Fitchburg State University, 354 North Street. Based on the theme of Charles Dickens, the program will feature music from Christmas past, present and future. Tickets are $30 for VIP seating; $25 for adults; $20 for seniors; and $15 for students, and are available online at www.nwcsorchestra.org. Parking is available in the front of the building and in adjacent lots.

Joining the NWSCO will be the Fitchburg State University Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and Concert Band under the group’s newly formed partnership with the University, their first combined performance. Also performing will be the Westford Chorus, the Nashoba Valley Chorale (pictured), and the Greater Gardner Community Choir with special guest, the rock band Perfect Alibi. Together, more than 250 musicians will be on stage performing in what is sure to be an epic concert event.

“Live music is one of the most emotional things to experience,” according to NWCSO president Michael Hoffmann. “What better way to spread holiday joy than to be a part of a vibrant audience, sitting on the edge of their seat, in awe of the performance.”

The concert features some great classics including the “Dance of the Tumblers” by Tchaikovsky, “And the Glory of the Lord,” “For Unto Us A Child Is Born” and the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah, “The Concert Suite” from The Polar Express, “A Christmas Festival” and “Sleigh Ride” (be sure to join the sing-a-long)! The music of Christmas Yet to Come will feature the “Wizards of Winter,” “Dream of the Fireflies on a Christmas Night,” “A Mad Russian’s Christmas” and “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo,” all music from the iconic Trans Siberian Orchestra.

Sisters-in-Law Receive Lifetime Achievement Awards from Nashoba Park

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AYER: Barbara Johnson and Anita Forest were recently presented with Lifetime Achievement Awards from Nashoba Park, the Assisted Living Community they call home. Family, friends, residents, and staff gathered to celebrate the incredible talents and beautiful friendship of these sisters-in-law.

Barbara grew up in Fitchburg and attended St. Bernard’s High School before beginning her career at Foster Grant. She truly shines in the creative sphere, and has honed her talents in music. Barbara loves to perform in front of crowds and shares that music brings joy for her and those around her. Her talents also extend to needlepoint, crochet and macrame and has made wonderful gifts for her beloved nieces and nephews. She has found a wonderful community of friends at Nashoba Park, including a special bond with Anita.

Born and raised in Leominster, Anita attended St. Bernard’s High School, where she met Barbara as well as her future husband, Bob. The couple wed in 1953 and raised three sons together in Lunenburg, where they enjoyed attending church with their boys and taught them to be upstanding citizens. While in Lunenburg, Anita immersed herself in gardening and grew a variety of flowers and plants that became the highlight of her neighborhood. The couple also hosted many holiday barbecues for family and friends. Today, Anita has six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She continues to pursue her hobbies at Nashoba Park, often participating in flower arrangement workshops.

Anita and Barbara are both grateful to be able to continue their decades-long friendship as members of the Nashoba Park community, where they have both continued to do what they love while staying engaged with their peers, families, friends and staff.
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Shirley Historical Visits with Ethel Bolton

SHIRLEY: In 1935, Ethel Bolton finished writing a book about her large brick house on Center Road in Shirley. She shared her experiences renovating an abandoned property, raising a family, and becoming part of the Shirley Center community. In 2023, the Shirley Historical Society is publishing that book which they will describe at their annual meeting on Saturday November 11. The current owners of the house will also describe their 21st century experiences with the building. A pot luck supper will be held in Shepherd Hall at Trinity Chapel, #184 Center Road in Shirley, starting at 6pm. Please bring a main dish, side dish, or dessert to share or arrive at 7pm for the business meeting and program. Email Meredith at the museum at mail@shirleyhistory.org with any questions.
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Groton Garden Club Receives New England Wildflower Society Award

GROTON: The Groton Garden Club was presented the New England Wildflower Society Award at the recent New England Garden Club Regional Meeting held in Plymouth (MA). Lisa Murray attended the New England Region meeting and accepted the award on behalf of the GGC.  

This award recognizes the Native Plant Garden, located at the Groton Town Hall on Main Street. This educational garden project provides club members an opportunity to grow native plants in a public setting and see how they perform. Residents of Groton are invited to observe these plants and be inspired to add some to their own gardens. The awards program affords National Garden Clubs, Inc. and the New England Garden Clubs an opportunity to express their appreciation and support for projects completed during the past year. The Awards Committee congratulates the winners, and thanks the clubs who applied for an award and the State Awards Chairs for encouraging clubs to participate in this program.

Great job to Groton Garden Club Native Garden committee members Linda Loren, Cindy Smith, Karen Alsheimer, Valerie Denatale, Jude Sawyer, Cindy Swezey, Rebecca Thackaberry, Lisa Weisner, Suzanne Goehringer, Patricia Prescott, Claire Wilson, Lisa Murray, Andrew Scott, and Brian Bettencourt. 

PHOTO: Susan Miner, NEGC Director; Lisa Murray, GGC & Marjorie Dienhart, GCFM President.
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HST Grant Approved: A New Pup to Join the HPD

HARVARD: Exciting news for the Harvard community.  The Harvard Schools Trust has announced that, working with Boonefield Labradors, they will be contributing to the future Support Dog in town. The Trust is contributing $2000 to help fund the newest addition to the Harvard Police department.  The grant was written by Officer Timothy Schaeffer. In a few weeks, the Town of Harvard will be receiving a little nugget to fill the shoes of Dusty who recently departed with her handler, Daniele Fortunato to Millbury PD. Pictured is Vivie and her pups at Boonefield. She is super healthy, the pups are equally as healthy, they are all Chocolate, one female from this litter will be making her home at the HPD! To follow pup’s progress, follow the journey on Facebook at Town of Harvard Comfort Dog.
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Fall Nature Gardening Tip: Leave Leaves Alone

As a rule in nature and gardening, keep leaves in place whenever possible. Leaving the leaves alone is a good way to support native pollinators and other insects and wildlife.  These valuable insects rely on the habitat fallen leaves provide, especially over the winter months.  Dead leaves also decompose creating compost that can improve soil structure and fertility. 
 
This being said, leaves need to be managed in yards to see the most benefit. Leaves shouldn't simply go unmanaged. If nothing is done, layers of fallen leaves can cause damage by blocking out light and smothering plants which can kill them. Often a little redistribution of the leaf layer to prevent a thick mat of leaves from forming is all that is needed to prevent this type of damage. Excessively thick layers of leaves (greater than 6 to 8 inches) may need to be reduced or removed. Whenever possible move them to mulched garden areas with fewer leaves or create a compost pile onsite to keep all that beneficial organic matter in your yard.
 
Mow-mulching the leaves on the lawn has many advantages, including reducing noise and greenhouse gases, and enhancing the health of your yard. The shredded/mulched leaf material  creates valuable compost, which enriches the topsoil. Leaf mulching also limits spreading dust and contaminants into the air and saves you time and money. The benefits of mulching the leaves into the lawn are numerous and scientifically proven.  Mulching:
  • is quieter and cleaner than leaf blowing;
  • reduces the need for fertilizer and avoids water pollution by reducing phosphorus and fertilizer leaching;
  • reduces the safety hazard of piled up or bagged leaves on the roadsides and saves taxpayer money for municipal leaf collection;
  • improves soil structure, water retention and percolation;
  • encourages the grass roots to penetrate more deeply, improving grass health; and
  • makes the lawn more resilient to weather events like drought and flooding.

Don't blow... mow! 
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Shirley Democrats to Meet November 2

SHIRLEY: The Shirley Democratic Town Committee (DTC) invites all Democrats and unenrolled voters to our next meeting at 6:30pm on November 2 in the small downstairs conference room in the Shirley Town Offices, 7 Keady Way. At this meeting, qualified attendees who would like to run for town committee may sign nomination papers in order to have their names printed on the March 5, 2024 ballot. Voters who attend will also have the opportunity to sign a ballot initiative petition to audit the Massachusetts legislature. For more information, visit www.dianaforma.com/ballot.

If you wish to preserve democratic principles and stand against those forces that want to control what is read, who is loved, health care decisions and how to care for our families, join the Shirley DTC, a group of passionate local Democrats working to support our community, candidates, and values through year-round events, volunteering, and organizing. Questions? Contact ShirleyDTC@yahoo.com.
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Steve Zocchi HUU Concert to Benefit Music Program

HARVARD: Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church presents Steve Zocchi, pianist, in an afternoon of piano and humor on November 18 at 4pm. Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, and wild Jazz Improvisations. Proceeds to benefit the HUUC music program.

Steve Zocchi joined the Harvard church as music director in September of this year. Steve is known for eclectic and energetic concerts which include humorous insights into music and the life of the modern musician. Zocchi’s performances are fun and engaging, with none of the stuffiness or pretense so often associated with classical music.  A family man, Steve’s sense of humor is appropriate for all audiences.  Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 9 Ayer Road. Suggested donation is $20 for adults; $10 for children under 12. 

Zocchi is a pianist, composer, and music teacher from the Boston area. He received his BA in Piano Performance from UMass Lowell, studying with Juanita Tsu. Steve’s primary musical focus is on J.S. Bach, Mozart, and Improvisation. Steve studied Jazz Piano theory with the legendary Steve Hunt. He also studied Organ with the late Dr. John Ogasapian and served as assistant-organist at St. Anne's Church in Lowell from 1997-1999. Steve then served as Music Minister at St. John's Episcopal Church in Lowell from 2000-2014. He was Music Director at First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church in Chelmsford MA, 2014-2021. He served as president of the Greater Lowell Music Teachers Association from 2006 to 2012 and was awarded 'Music Teacher of the Year 2010' by Massachusetts Music Teachers Association. Steve maintains a thriving music studio in Groton where he teaches piano and guitar to over 50 students per week. A recording artist,Zocchi’s latest release 'Piano Works and Play' as well as his previous CD 'Compositions and Improvisation' include both music composed in the Classical tradition as well as improvised music in several genres and are available on Apple Music and Amazon.

Steve Zocchi lives with his wife, pianist/teacher/super-hero Meghan Zocchi, and their three young sons in Groton.
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Nashoba Symphonic Band Presents Fall Concert

BOLTON: On October 29 at 3pm, The Nashoba Symphonic Band, under the direction of David Bailey will open its 8th Season with a Fall concert “Vive la France” including Scenes from “The Louvre” by Norman Dello Joio, Johann de Meij's setting of Ravel's Pavane Pour Infante Defunte, and the glittering Paris Sketches by Martin Ellerby, as well as music by Paul Dukas and Louis Ganne, and perhaps a surprise or two. The concert will take place at Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117, about a mile west of town center. Admission is free! Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and supported in part by grants from Ashby, Bolton, Leominster, Lancaster, Lunenberg, and Stow Cultural Councils, agencies supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.
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Live in Concert - Scott Matsumoto

PEPPERELL: Stop by Lawrence Library on October 28 at 7pm (doors open 6:30pm) for a fun night of music with Scott Matsumoto. Funded by the Friends of the Library, this event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 6:30pm. Light refreshments will be available; coffee provided by Starbucks Coffee, Nashua (NH).

Scott Matsumoto is an acoustic fingerstyle guitar player who combines the styles of Andy McKee and Tommy Emmanuel. The result is a broad range of guitar songs that are both percussive and melodic; everything from two-hand tapping guitar pieces to covers of pop songs. Scott started as a folk singer/songwriter, but decided to go “all in” on the guitar: making all the music come through the guitar. The guitar is his band-in-a-box. Every sound in the band gets created out of the different parts of the guitar; there are no pedals or electronics.

Lawrence Library’s music events are held in the intimate, smoke-free environment of the Art Gallery. Fantastic acoustics draw musicians and listeners from throughout New England. Donations for PACH, the local food pantry, are welcome at all of our music events.  Next up: Gladius (11/4) and A Gathering of Celtic Holiday Music (12/9).  For more information, visit lawrencelibrary.org.
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Upcoming at First Parish Church of Bolton

BOLTON: First Parish of Bolton has an exciting schedule in the coming weeks. First, FPC (673 Main Street) is pleased to announce the Reverend Ginger Bove will be joining them as their new settled minister. Rev. Bove will first step into the pulpit on October 15 and attend a reception immediately following the service.  All are welcome to attend and meet Rev. Bove!

Later in the month on October 27 at 7pm, stop by Davis Hall for a concert of jazzy popular tunes from the 1920s and early 1930s. A period-style dance band will present a program of familiar standards - as well as some forgotten gems - by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Hoagie Carmichael, and others - all in authentic Jazz-Age arrangements. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Mark your calendars! On November 18 from 9am-3pm there will be a Holiday Village Bazaar and Craft Fair at FPC! This renowned event will put you in the holiday spirit like none other!  New this year will be six local crafters’ unique and fun offerings to kick off your holiday and gift shopping. Their signature Bake Shop will be available for pre-order (www.signupgenius.com/go/9040B4BA9AB23A5FE3-first2#/) and feature apple and pumpkin pies, apple dumplings, corn chowder, chili and baked beans! In addition, an assortment of these and other homemade baked treats will be available while supplies last.  The Kitchen Nook will have on hand a variety of homemade jams and jellies, sure to remind you of your grandma’s kitchen.  The Cookie Jar will showcase a delicious selection of “made with love” cookies.

Now your diet is completely blown, don’t forget to visit the basket raffle, which is larger than ever including such themes as wine, spa, bird-watching, chocolate, cats, dogs and more!  Last, but not least, the Bazaar wouldn’t be complete without a spin through Nana’s Attic, the indoor yard sale that always has great treasures, and the Jewelry Box, where you may find a plain or fancy accessory that catches your eye for pennies instead of dollars.

For Bazaar information,  email admin@firstparishofbolton.org or
hollyventura1@gmail.com. For more information about these or any events at FPC, email admin@firstparishofbolton.com.
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Harvard Lions 33rd Annual Citrus Sale Benefits Local Charities

HARVARD: The Harvard Lions are selling fresh oranges and grapefruit direct from Florida – picked just days before delivery to Harvard. Treat your family to great fruit while at the same time benefiting Lions charities and families in need! They offer:
 
  • Royal Ruby Red Grapefruit -- Sweet,thin-skinned and seedless, the flavor is reminiscent of refreshing red grapes and sweet nectarines.
  • NEW: Florida Navel Oranges – Easy peeling with the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Seedless and packed with Vitamin C. Both are available in 20 lb. boxes for $35 each as well as a ‘mixed’ 20 lb. box available for $35. 

You can pre-order online now and have the fruit delivered to your home (in Harvard and adjacent towns of Ayer, Bolton, Boxborough, Devens, Lancaster, Littleton, Shirley and Stow) by a Harvard Lion starting November 18. No need to be home for this “curbside drop off”.  The direct link to purchase for the Harvard Lions local delivery is https://lions-citrus-sale-109284.square.site/.
 
Boxes will also be sold on a ‘cash and carry’ basis at the Harvard Town Center and Transfer Station starting November 18. Also, mail-order gift boxes with fruit, nuts, candy, soup and cake mixes are available to order online from $20 to $45 and ship anywhere in the continental U.S. The direct link to purchase gift boxes is https://shop.floridaindianrivergroves.com/ecommerce/616524.
 
More details on the citrus sale can be found at www.harvardlions.com.
Some of what's happening at Lawrence Library in Pepperell...
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Moors Schoolhouse Site Walking History Tour November 4

GROTON: Groton Conservation Trust is happy to bring back this popular history walking tour. The Moors family was prominent in Groton in the 18th and early 19th centuries, and lent their name to one of the town’s district schoolhouses, which sat on land now stewarded by the Groton Conservation Trust. However, two generations of the family enslaved humans. As the country grapples with racism, it is important to acknowledge and discuss local threads in the national history of racism and enslavement.

Led by local historian Joshua Vollmar, this program will travel from The General Field to the Moors House and Moors School as we seek to bring light to this forgotten piece of Groton history. At the Schoolhouse site, you will learn the history of plantings in the area (see the photo above), and the people who worked the land. This is a walking tour, please dress appropriately. This event is free, but registration is required.

Please visit The GCT events page for details and register here for the walk.

Author Talk: Ted Reinstein, “Chronicle” Reporter & Author, Recounts a few of New England’s Legendary Feuds

Ted reinstein award winning chronicle reporter and author of wicked pissed new england's most famous feuds
GROTON: Facts have their place, but it’s the stories, with their insight and humor, that make history memorable.  Join popular “Chronicle” reporter, Ted Reinstein, author of Wicked Pissed: New England’s Most Famous Feuds, for his lively recounting of several of the more colorful feuds that have peppered the history of New England for centuries. This event is free, thanks to the Commissioners of Trust Funds. For more information: www.grotonhistory.org; (978) 448-0092.

Hosted by the Groton History Center, Reinstein’s talk takes place on October 14 at the Groton (Senior) Center, 163 West Main Street, at 2pm. The public is invited free of charge to enjoy this engaging glimpse into the dark (and the lighter) side of a handful of legendary feuds, ranging from the raw and the rowdy to the high-minded and humorous, from sports to politics, from food to finance. 

Ted Reinstein is the award-winning author of One Reporter, Six States, Uncommon Stories (2013) and co-author, with his wife Anne-Marie, of New England’s General Stores: Exploring an American Classic (2015). A national award-winning journalist, Reinstein hosted the premier season of the Discovery Channel’s “Popular Mechanics.” His most recent book is Before Brooklyn: The Unsung Heroes Who Helped Break Baseball’s Color Barrier (2021).

Lean into this rare glimpse of an America we can all identify with, learn from, and – for the grit and determination of its individuals – admire.
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Keeping PACE!

by Laurie Nehring, President - People of Ayer Concerned About the Environment

AYER: On behalf of PACE and the Silent Spring Institute, I would like to express my deep appreciation to all of those Ayer residents who chose to participate in the “PFAS and Your Health” study in the past year.  Ayer was very fortunate to have been invited to participate in this national study, funded by the CDC. We are helping scientists learn more about possible health effects connected with the historic exposures to PFAS chemicals in our drinking water.  Only 7 communities across the country were selected! Ayer’s goal was for 300 adults and 100 children to participate. When we closed the study on Sept. 16, we had 279 adults and 47 children complete the blood work. This is on par with the other communities in reaching their goals. (Everyone found that it’s tough to get kids to give blood, but the ice cream awards helped!)

THANK YOU, AYER, for welcoming us, and supporting throughout this important research project! In the coming months, Dr. Laurel Schaider and I look forward to sharing the results at a Community Forum!   -Laurie Nehring & Laurel Schaider

MORE NEWS FROM PACE:  Water Chestnuts, anyone?  These are the invasive ones – NOT the beloved nuts we might roast on an open fire!  This summer, 71 volunteers from 18 communities and 3 different states PULLED together throughout the summer to these remove aquatic invasive plants from Grove Pond.  I can’t put into words how grateful I am! The outcome is truly AMAZING!  We successfully cleared large sections of the pond, both upstream and down!  I kept track. Ready for the statistics?  We pulled 34 times filling 1,697 laundry baskets. We estimate this to be approximately 240,030 plants, removing approximately 2,640,330 seeds from next years seed bank!!  WOW!

Last year, we could not even paddle through the thick mass of plants.  This year, we are seeing ducks, swans and great blue herons glide easily along the water’s surface, readily catching fish and frogs to feed their young. Grove Pond is recovering!  Huge thanks for funding from the Nashua Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council.   We hope you consider joining us next summer to continue this important project!

HELP KEEP THE PACE!  We need new members!  We have openings on the Board of Directors, including a Treasurer!  Please contact PACE at paceAyer@gmail.com to be added to the email listserv for updates.  All are welcome to join in our next PACE meeting held on zoom:  October 26 at 7 pm and December 13 at 7 pm. 
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Food Pantry Boxes for Charitable Organizations Available

LITTLETON: Mattias Lacroix is a Boy Scout from Troop 20 in Littleton working on his Eagle Scout project. He has constructed four food pantry boxes and will provide, install and stock a box for you at no charge as a public service. A food pantry box is a wooden box about 2’ by 2’ by 1½’ that sits on a post, kind of like a mailbox, and stores non-perishable food. People who are in need of food can come and take some, and people who have a little extra food can come and put food in the box. (Think “little free library” for books). If you are an organization within an hour’s drive of Littleton that would like Mattias to install a food pantry box for you this fall, please reach out. You just have to pick a spot, call Digsafe to check it, and maintain the box’s food supply if it gets low. Mattias will also hold a food drive so you aren’t just getting an empty box. If you are interested or have any questions please email mattias.lacroix@theparkerschool.org.
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Fruitlands 10th Annual Bonfire & Pizza Picnic with Harrison Goodell

HARVARD: Help say goodbye to the 2023 main season in style when Fruitlands hosts their 10th annual bonfire on November 4. The event begins at 3pm with a special concert by Harrison Goodell under the event tent, as well as delicious pizzas for purchase by The Hyve. Arrive early to experience live music, great food and drinks. The fire will be lit as night falls around 6:15pm. S’mores kits will be for sale (with a small fire pits for roasting marshmallows), and guests will be encouraged to write down a wish and tuck it into the large structure before it's lit afire, sending hopes and dreams into the night sky. Bring family and friends and enjoy a heart-warming fire on an autumn evening.

This event is likely to sell out and advanced registration is required. Be sure to book your parking pass before they sell out for this popular offering! $12 per car for Trustees Members, $20 per car for Non-members. One ticket covers all visitors arriving in a vehicle. In the event of inclement weather, this event will take place on November 5 from 4-6pm (an hour earlier than Saturday due to daylight savings time). Any scheduling changes will be communicated to ticket holders via email.

Harrison Goodell, born and raised in Dover (NH), is a rising singer-songwriter known for his captivating storytelling and passionate delivery. He was a participant in the 2023 season of the ABC show "American Idol." Gaining inspiration from artists including Paul Simon, Noah Kahan, and The Lumineers, his music features emotive lyrics and soulful vocals that carry meaning. With his passion for creating music that resonates with his audience, Goodell is establishing himself as an artist to watch in the industry.
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Princeton Arts Society Hosts Ethan K

PRINCETON: The Princeton Arts Society is excited to host the Ethan K Quartet at a concert on October 22 at 1pm at the 1st Congregational Church, 14 Mountain Road. While the band's repertoire ranges from "straight-ahead" to modern groove-oriented jazz, this performance will concentrate on the classic standards of composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington and others. Ethan Kaczowka (AKA Ethan K) is a jazz guitarist from greater Boston who studied at Berklee College of Music with additional instruction from Ed Lucie, Steve Kirby, Richie Hart and Peter Bernstein. The Quartet includes pianist/keyboardist Evan Waaramaa, bassist Greg Toro, and drummer David Andrew Moore. The concert is free. All are welcome. A $10 donation is appreciated.
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Groton's Amy Loveless Wins Gold Award Girl Scout Project

GROTON: Groton’s own Amy Loveless is the winner of a Gold Award Girl Scout Project. A Gold Award is the highest-level achievement a Girl Scout can earn, which is highly regarded and opens doors to scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, and advanced career opportunities. For consideration, high-school-age Girl Scouts complete a Gold Award Project that works to address an issue she’s passionate about in a way that produces a meaningful and lasting change in her community. 
 
Amy's project, STEAMergent, is a day-long program to teach children from grades three through six about the gender gap, sexism, and stereotypes of STEM, as well as incorporating the A, (Art) into STEM. During the program, each letter in the acronym had a different lesson. Each included facts and statistics about women and minorities in STEM. Each consisted of a lesson plan, activity, presentation, and discussion. Each was engaging, valuable, and factual, with important skill sets. By working with her community and companies such as Crayola, Smithsonian, Thames & Kosmos, and KiwiCo, Amy was able to supply children across Middlesex County with knowledge, experience, and opportunity by giving each child STEAM toys and activity kits that related to the program lessons. She partnered with local libraries to host the program and created thorough lesson plans with a unique curriculum, distributed to libraries throughout Middlesex County to carry on her program.

Throughout this project, Amy learned leadership communication skills, that putting her foot down does not always mean being angry or harsh, but it could mean politely declining or disagreeing with sympathetic reasoning and understanding. She learned to make sure that people were accounted for and accommodated when it came to wanting to help or volunteer, but also learned how to set a firm line on where someone can and cannot step over. Amy also learned that having patience is key when awaiting people to respond to important notifications, and how to be optimistic and realistic all at the same time.
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Vive la France! with Nashoba Symphonic

BOLTON: Now in its seventh season, Nashoba Symphonic Band will present "Vive la France!" on October 29 at 3pm in the Nashoba Regional High School Auditorium on Route 117. Included in the program will be Scenes from the Louvre (Norman Dello Joio), Pavanae Pour Une Infante Defunte (Maurice Ravel) and Paris Sketches (Martin Ellerby. Admission is free.

As an ongoing part of its music program, Nashoba High School is pleased to offer the opportunity for adults and students from the Nashoba family and surrounding communities to rehearse and perform with the Nashoba Symphonic Band. For more information, email baileydavidwayne@gmail.com or visit nashobamusic.wordpress.com/nashoba-symphonic-band.
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Biggest Outdoor Flea Market Northwest of Boston Takes Place October 7

HARVARD: The League of Women Voters of Harvard and the Harvard Schools Trust are pleased to announce the 51st Annual Harvard Flea Market, to be held on October 7 from 9am-4pm on the grounds of the Bromfield School (Rain date: October 8). Cash admission is $5 per person for adults /seniors; $1 per child ages 6-12; $10 for early birds (7:30-9am). For more information on the flea market, including directions, visit the website at www.harvardfleamarket.com. For questions email: fleamarket@lwvharvard.org. To learn if the flea market has been postponed a day due to inclement weather, call the Harvard Schools Trust message line at (978) 456-5085.

Bargain hunters will descend upon Harvard for the 51st year to attend the largest one-day outdoor flea market northwest of Boston. Shoppers come with bags and carts in tow to visit over 180 booths filled with antiques and collectibles – toys, games, jewelry and vintage clothing, seasonal décor, artwork and paintings, pottery and glassware, and so much more.

The flea market boasts a popular food court area offering a variety of delicious cuisines including both traditional and ethnic such as Thai foods and specialty desserts. The Harvard Lions Club will serve up hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken strips, meatball subs, veggie burgers, hotdogs, fries, breakfast sandwiches, funnel cakes and fresh squeezed lemonade and drinks. The Congregational Church of Harvard will hold its Apple Festival “Pies on the Common,” selling homemade apple pies fresh from local ovens. 

There will be parking and restrooms available with handicap access. Please do not block private driveways - parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, including ticketing and towing. Emergency staff will be onsite to assist with any medical emergencies. The Harvard Flea Market gatekeepers will accept cash only (no checks or credit/debit cards) for admission. Some booth vendors may accept credit card payments via Square® or other apps. Most accept cash only. Dogs are permitted at the flea market provided they are on a leash and their owners pick up after them.  If you are feeling unwell, to ensure the safety of our guests, vendors, and staff - please stay home. 
Trustingfate

Groton Grange Hosts Concert with Trusting Fate

GROTON: Groton Grange #7 is celebrating its 150th year anniversary with a concert by Trusting Fate on October 7 at 6pm at the Groton Grange, 80 Champney Street. For Trusting Fate, it's the DNA. Twenty plus years, hundreds of tunes, both original and cover, multiple instruments apiece, three lead vocalists with effortless harmony, always a parade through the genres, and more fun than the law should allow. For more information about the band, visit trustingfate.com. Please park on the Grange side of Champney Street only. This concert is free, although donations are appreciated.
Recycle

Recycle Your Reusables October 21

SHIRLEY: On October 21 from 9:30am-1:30pm, there will be a drive through re-use and recycling event at Ayer Shirley Regional Middle School, 1 Hospital Road in Shirley. Acceptable items include bicycles, musical instruments, clothing, shoes, stuffed animals, books, craft, art and office supplies, linens and kitchen/household goods, and electronics (fees may apply), as well as rubber truck and automotive tires (no rims or wheels). For information, call (413) 348-9353, or to volunteer visit https://tinyurl.com/RecycleYourReusables2023.

Mattress disposal is also available ($45 pay online before dropoff) through Tough Stuff.  Visit https://order.toughstuffrecycling.com and use zipcode 01462.  For more information, call (978) 307-5512.

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry donations will also be accepted at the entrance.
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Run a Food Drive to Spread More Love, Less Hunger

Did you know that 24% of the food Open Table distributes comes from community food donations?  Your assistance is vital to Open Table.  Please consider running a food drive this autumn if you are hungry to help neighbors experiencing food insecurity.  It's an easy, feel-good community service that is a great activity for neighborhoods, businesses, schools, scouts, clubs, teams, and faith-based organizations.  All size food drives are welcome.  Sandwich boards and other signs are available to help you spread the word.  Go to www.opentable.org/donation-activities/ for information.   Stay up-to-date on our changing needs and news on Instagram and Twitter @opentablema and Facebook.com/opentablema.  
 
Open Table is the local food pantry supporting those in-need in Concord, Bedford, Carlisle, and 18 other surrounding areas.  If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, email info@opentable.org or call (978) 369-2275. 
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Public Input and Informational Meeting:  Flannagan Pond Public Access Feasibility Study

AYER: On October 4 at 6pm, the Ayer Department of Public Works (DPW) will host a public input and informational meeting related to a feasibility study for public access to Flannagan Pond. The meeting will be held in the Select Board meeting room on the first floor of Town Hall and will include a presentation, followed by questions and input from meeting attendees.

In 2021, Town Meeting committed Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds for the Feasibility Study. The Study has resulted in the analysis of several potential sites around Flannagan Pond for public access. Public input is needed to help determine the preferred location.
The DPW appreciates your questions and input for this project. If you have questions, please call DPW at 978-772-8240 (7:30 to 3:30) or email dvanschalkwyk@ayer.ma.us.
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Autumnal Equinox Celebration with GPL

GROTON: The Groton Conservation Trust and the Groton Public Library invite you to join a free family event, September 21 (6:30pm) at The General Field on Farmers Row to celebrate the Autumnal Equinox and the coming of fall with fire pits, s’mores, hot chocolate and good company. BYO camp chairs and dress for the weather. Bring a picnic dinner too if you would like! Rain date: September 28. Registration is required for this event through the GPL website.
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Mark Your Calendar: 2023 Groton Traverse

GROTON: The 2023 Groton Traverse will take place October 15 beginning at 10am. Pass over the new Casella Conservation Land and its brand new trails, and as you get closer to the village, revisit some of the original traverse course including Scarlett and Gibbet Hills. As is tradition, plan on pot luck food and drink to celebrate the finish. This is a free event. Registration is required for all participants. For more information, visit the Groton Conservation Trust at www.gctrust.org.
Edmund c tarbell (courtesy of the groton history center)

Life & Work of Impressionist Edmund Tarbell at GHC's Open House

GROTON: “The Groton History Center will celebrate the 19th-century Impressionist painter and West Groton native Edmund Tarbell (1862-1938) at its Open House on September 30 (rain date: October 1).  All are invited to stop by the Boutwell House, at 172 Main Street, from 11am-3pm for a stroll through the first floor of this historic 1851 Italianate home of the state’s 21st Governor.

On display will be a sneak preview of Tarbell’s artistic career, three of his paintings, on long loan from the Tarbell Charitable Trust, and select artifacts donated by the family. A more extensive exhibit will follow in 2024. Edmund Tarbell is associated with fellow art students Frank Benson, Childe Hansom, and Robert Reid at the Boston Museum School, at the Académie Julian in Paris, and as members of the select artistic circle known as The Ten, exhibiting their work here and abroad. An influential figure in Boston’s arts scene, Tarbell taught at the Museum School for many years, and served as head of the Corcoran School of Art in D.C. His work hangs in the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the National Gallery, among others

For those headed to Grotonfest and with less time to spare, the GHC will be serving cider and doughnuts outside. The theme will be agricultural, with vintage milk bottles from a few of Groton’s once-thriving dairy farms, and a take-home art project for the kids.

The GHC’s Open House is free to all, thanks to the Groton Commissioners of Trust Funds, and private and corporate donations. For more information, visit grotonhistory.org, email info@grotonhistory.org, call (978) 448-0092, or find GHC on Facebook.
Luk

Support LUK, Inc. in the Rodman Ride for Kids

FITCHBURG/LEOMINSTER: LUK, Inc. is proud to announce their 13 th consecutive year participating in the Rodman Ride for Kids.  The event is run by Rodman for Kids, a nonprofit that raises funds for social service organizations supporting positive youth development. The Ride for Kids serves as a fundraising and convening platform for youth-focused initiatives and helps support thousands of kids in Massachusetts each year. This year’s Ride is being held on September 23 in Foxboro, MA.

LUK’s Mentoring program is enthusiastic to be joining the Rodman Ride again this year. Through the Ride, LUK Mentoring is able to support kids throughout Worcester County with formal mentoring. Mentoring provides youth age 6-17 with the opportunity to learn new skills, partake in new activities and experiences, and to have a caring, listening ear from a positive role model outside their immediate family and network.

“LUK’s Mentoring Program provides children and youth with an adult who sees beyond their struggles and into their heart,” said CEO of LUK, Beth Barto, who will be setting aside her running shoes to cycle 25 miles in the Ride. “The bond Mentors make with young people travel with them in the future.”

LUK is collaborating with the Leominster Texas Roadhouse to hold a fundraiser on September 21 from 3-9:30pm to support their participation in the Rodman Ride. Texas Roadhouse will donate 10% of the proceeds of food sales to LUK Mentoring when guests present the fundraiser flyer that can be found on LUK Mentoring’s Facebook Event page, or online at bit.ly/LUK-TR-Fundraiser.

You can help support LUK Mentoring’s involvement in the Ride not only by joining them at the Texas Roadhouse fundraising event, but by riding with them, sponsoring a team, or making a donation. Learn more at LUK’s website: bit.ly/LUKRodmanRide23 or the Facebook Event “Ride with LUK Mentoring at the Rodman Ride for Kids 2023.”

LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services. For more information, visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find them on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC).
Symontgomery

Sy Montgomery on “Of Time and Turtles: Mending the World Shell by Shattered Shell”

SHIRLEY: On October 22 at 10am, visit with nationally bestselling author Sy Montgomery to discuss her researching articles, films, and her 31 books for adults and children. This fundraising event will be held at The Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Road. Proceeds will benefit both the Ayer Library and Hazen Memorial Library.

Montgomery has been all around the world studying our relationships with animals. “It’s an important time to be writing about the connections we share with our fellow creatures,” she says. “It’s a great time to be alive.”

For tickets, please visit tickets.bullrunrestaurant.com/symontgomery
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St. Andrew’s Church Hosts Blessing of the Animals to Mark the Feast of St. Francis

AYER: St. Andrew's Episcopal Church is excited to invite parishioners and the greater community to bring their pet to Church on October 1 at 9:30am for the Blessing of the Animals Service. Everyone is invited to bring their beloved pets and stuffed animals alike for a Blessing. To accommodate special friends, the service will be a little shorter than usual.  For their safety, all pets should be crated or leashed. After the Service coffee and treats will be served on the lawn. 
 
St. Andrew’s is located at 7 Faulkner Street in Ayer. The Sunday Celebration of Holy Communion is at 9:30am, in-person or livestreamed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/standrewsayer. Children are always welcome in church. For information, please visit www.standrewsayer.org.
Don white promo blue shirt

Don White Goes to Harvard Again!

HARVARD: notloB Parlour Concerts at Fivesparks, 7 Fairbank Street, is bringing Don White to town, October 20 at 7:30pm. Don White is equal parts storyteller-comedian-author-troubadour-folk singer-songwriter, and has been bringing audiences to laughter and tears for 30 years. White’s arc as an award-winning songwriter and performer has taken him from his industrial hometown of Lynn (MA) across the country as hitchhiker, through Boston’s comedy clubs and coffeehouses, and onto the stage with greats like Arlo Guthrie, Taj Mahal, Ritchie Havens, Patty Larkin, Bill Morrissey, Tom Rush, Louden Wainright III, and Christine Lavin, with whom he toured for 8 years all across North America in a co-bill called The Funny Side of the Street. At every point, White has been the ultimate observer, infusing his work with his experiences as a husband, a father, a seeker, and a joker.
 
As a storyteller, White has been featured at festivals around the country including the Timpanogos Storytelling Festival in Utah and Cave Run Storytelling Festival in Kentucky. Since 2015, he has joined master storytellers Bil Lepp and Bill Harley in Father’s Daze, a hilarious three-man storytelling show about the triumphs and tribulations of fatherhood. White is hilariously funny, but his humor always comes from his big heart.
 
White has released ten CDs, three live DVDs, and two books: "Memoirs of a C Student" and the just released "The Hitchhiking Years and 4 Other Stories." His latest album is "Live at the Guthrie Center." In 2011, White won the Jerry Christen Memorial Award, given out by Boston Area Coffeehouse Association, for his work with the community and that same year was given a key to the city in his hometown.
 
Admission by free-will offering, suggested amounts: Adults $25, teens and seniors $15-$20.100% of patron donations go to the artist. Cash or Venmo.  For information and reservations, visit http://notlobmusic.eventbrite.com.
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2023 Fall Special Town Meeting in Ayer

AYER: The 2023 Fall Special Town Meeting (STM) will be held on October 23rd at 7pm in the auditorium of the Ayer Shirley Regional High School, 141 Washington Street. Voters will check-in with poll workers before entering the auditorium. Copies of the Warrant, and other supporting documents will be available. The Council on Aging will offer complimentary van service to Town Meeting for those without transportation or just uncomfortable driving after dark. Please contact the Senior Center at (978) 772-8260 to reserve your ride. For questions on the Rules and Procedures of Town Meeting contact the Moderator, Geoffrey Tillotson, by emailing gtillotson@ayer.ma.us or calling (617) 448-0503.

Public Notification: Governor’s Homelessness State of Emergency - Migrant Shelter in the Town of Ayer

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AYER: On September 8, the Town was made aware that due to the recently declared State of Emergency by Governor Maura Healey and as part of the State’s “Right to Shelter” law, a motel in Ayer will be used to house up to 35+ migrant families, equaling approximately 150 people.  The “Right to Shelter” law obligates the State to provide housing for families with children and pregnant women who are homeless, and the State’s policy is to place these families in motels in cities and towns through the State without the need for local approval and in many instances, without prior notice.
 
On September 11, Town Manager Robert A. Pontbriand and Assistant Town Manager Carly M. Antonellis convened a meeting of all relevant Town Departments, including the Ayer Shirley Regional School District, to discuss the impact of this decision made by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

As the Town understands it, the State has partnered with Making Opportunities Count, Inc. (MOC), a Fitchburg Non-Profit, to run the shelter. Information coming from the State to the Town of Ayer has been non-existent to date.  Town Social Worker, Brittany Beaudry has been on the ground seeking information from both the owner of the motel and MOC.  The Town has also reached out to State Senator Jamie Eldridge’s Office to convey the Town’s concerns with the lack of communication from the Governor’s Office. Additionally, many cities and towns across the Commonwealth are dealing with the same situation; we have reached out to our counterparts across the State to seek information so that we are most effectively prepared.

The Town of Ayer is preparing to comply with the State’s decision by meeting with MOC and the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities in the next several days to coordinate logistics and open lines of communication.  These preparations include planning by the Ayer Shirley Regional School District with respect to enrolling students in accordance with the State’s “Right to Shelter” law. The Town will be seeking State and Federal support to provide the additional Town resources needed to address impacts at the school level and deliver appropriate levels of public safety resources. The Town will be working with the Governor and her staff, our State delegation on Beacon Hill, and our Federal delegation in Washington to ensure these resources are delivered.

For more information or questions regarding the State’s “Right to Shelter” law and the Governor’s State of Emergency, contact the Governor’s Office at (617) 725-4005. 
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Make Authentic Sushi Hand Rolls with Nami

GROTON: On October 14, 3-5pm, make sushi and hand rolls with your favorite ingredients (no raw fish) and enjoy your yummy culinary creations together afterward! Nami, born in Japan and now living in Groton, will show us how to prepare the ingredients and roll them up to make perfect sushi and hand rolls! Fun for everyone! We will then enjoy it with miso soup and a cup of hot tea together! This class is great for adults, families with kids, and teenagers! Each participant will make at least three sushi rolls and learn the skills to share with others. The instructor will prepare the food material before the class. The students will bring the items on the material list to mix, roll, and make sushi. All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Prescott Community Center is located at 145 Main Street.  For more information, call (978) 877-6933, email
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What Will YOUR Kids Do on 1/2 Days?

GROTON: Grades 1-5 can enjoy a new offering from Prescott Arts Center on half-day Fridays.  Mixed Media Design for Kids runs Fridays 1-3:30pm September 15, 22, October 20, 27, December 8 and December 15, as well as on Tuesday, November 20 and Wednesday November 21. Students can choose to bring and eat their lunch at Prescott at 12:30pm before the start of class.
 
Join Ms. Maryanne for a fun afternoon exploring and creating seasonal and nature-based art projects like collage art and foldable books. The students will experiment with a wide range of materials, like paints, magazines, colored paper, fabric scraps, stamps, stencils, washi tape, and more, to create their artwork. They don’t have to know how to draw or have good fine art skills - just a curious mind! Tuition is $40/class.  For more information, visit prescottscc.org.
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Fun Activities Ahead at the Lunenburg Public Library!

LUNENBURG: Visit Lunenburg Public Library on September 25 from 4-5pm for Sock Puppets Drop-In Craft! Join Miss Joslyn in the Story Craft Room to make your own puppets! Decorate them however you choose and take them home for a puppet show! Stop by any time between 4–5. Please bring your own long socks (adult socks are best, but any long sock – whether it’s plain white or fuzzy green – will work!) Registration in encouraged to ensure there's enough supplies for all puppet friends! For more information or to register, visit https://lunenburglibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/sock-puppets-drop-in-craft-with-miss-joslyn.
 
On September 28 from 3:30-5pm, enjoy Super Snacks! Cooking Program with Food Explorers, a delicious cooking program! Learn how to make two recipes: BBQ Chickpea Wraps and Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups. You’ll create a tasty filling for your own wrap and then learn how to dice apples, make a crust and cheesecake layer for your dessert cups. All recipes are nut free and vegetarian but will contain eggs and/or dairy. This event is for children ages 9-12, and will be filmed and broadcast on our local news station. There will be waivers to sign upon arrival. Registration is required (await approval email after filling out registration form).  For more information or to register, visit https://lunenburglibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/super-snacks-cooking-program-with-food-explorers-2.
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Groton Community Christmas Choir Seeks Singers

GROTON: The Groton Community Christmas Choir is looking for singers of all ages! It’s been three years since their last performance and they’re hoping to see new members singing at the 46th annual Groton Community Christmas Concert. Timothy Goliger is the new director with Dan Dudka as the new accompanist. Founder Edie Tompkins is retiring along with long time accompanist Yvonne Gobis.
New members are welcome and there are no auditions, so please share this with your friends and family members who may want to join the choir. The first rehearsal is on Sunday evening, October 1 in the rehearsal space on the lower level of the Gray Building at Lawrence Academy. You may notice that this year’s rehearsal schedule, number of concerts and concert length are being shortened as they transition back to this annual tradition.
 
  • Senior Choir, for adults including high school ages meets on Sundays from 6:30-8pm through December 3 (no October 8). Additional rehearsal for the Senior Choir on December 5.
  • Treble Choir, for children 3rd-8th grade meets on Sundays from 4:30-6pm through December 3 (no October 8). Additional rehearsal for the treble choir on December 8
  • Final Rehearsal will be December 9 with a performance at the Union Congregational Church, Groton on December 10 at 2pm  and December 11 at 7:30pm. 
 
Membership dues are $65 per person and a family’s total dues will not exceed $175. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, as it saves so much time during the first rehearsals. If the fee causes a hardship, you are still welcome. Contact any committee member to request a waiver. 
If you have any questions, please contact Kristen von Campe at kristen@von-campe.com. If registering for multiple family members, please complete one registration for each person at https://bit.ly/GrotonCommunityChristmasChoir.
Boynton

Harvard Author Publishes Fiction Novel

HARVARD: "What Will His Life Come To When Everything Starts To Go Wrong?"  This question is asked in Boiling Point, a new book by Harvard's J.W. Boynton, released by Dorrance Publishing.  Sometimes life is too much to bear. When a 1990’s recession sucks his business into bankruptcy and his wife hires an aggressive divorce lawyer determined to fleece him out of what’s left, Jack Cross reaches his Boiling Point. Angry and disillusioned, he climbs into his car and drives away, hoping to leave all his misery in the rearview mirror. He confronts carjackers and other criminal low-lives on his impulsive journey, even becomes a fugitive himself forced to flee the law onto an island in Florida, where he is drawn into a delicious affair with a beautiful psychic. Back at home, Jack’s wife, missing him and suffering regrets, discovers the hard way that her unsavory attorney is a sexual predator. Learning of this, Jack returns for an ill-advised act of violent revenge.
 
Comments from J.W. Boynton readers include:
 
  • "…an easy writing style and a nice way of weaving your characters and plots together."
  • “…a writer of intrigue. Great story, great pace, great surprises!”
  • “...I am not normally a fiction reader, but his book is a barn burner!”
 
J.W. Boynton is a retired real estate executive. His other novels are The World of Bliss; Trafficked!; and Cash Cargo, A Ruthless Game.
Clark wilson

Wurlitzer Pops Presents Clark Wilson and "Girl Shy"

GROTON:On September 24, WurlitzerPops will present organist Clark Wilson (pictured) accompanying the silent file "Girl Shy," a 1924 romantic comedy silent film starring Harold Lloyd and Jobyna Ralston. The movie was written by Sam Taylor, Tim Whelan and Ted Wilde and was directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Taylor. In 2020, the film entered the public domain The performance begins at 2:30pm in the Shanklin Music Hall.  Tickets are $20; $10 for youth.

Along with a busy concert schedule, Clark Wilson runs his own pipe organ business and is heavily in demand as a tonal consultant and finisher of both theatre and classical pipe organs; he has been given the singular honor of being brought to England multiple times for tonal finishing and consulting. He has received both the Technician of the Year and Organist of the Year awards from the American Theatre Organ Society, the only person to have done so, and his time is now nearly equally divided between concert and technical work. He has been professionally involved with more than 100 organ installations throughout North America and England and has provided consulting and voicing expertise for several different organ companies.

WurlitzerPops is a concert series curated by EMCATOS (The Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society). Formed in 1956, our mission is to preserve and promote the theatre organ and its art form. For more information, visit them online at wurlitzerpops.org.