WESTFORD FREE STYLE DANCE JAM

 
Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, Westford.
Wednesday, June 26 7-9:30pm
Dance your inner spirit in a non-judgmental, non-structured, supportive, respectful environment.
Music provided by DJ Alkemi, a veteran of many freestyle dances around the country.
Smoke and substance-free, 18+. Admission is $10. Some volunteer opportunities are available for event support tasks.
For more information, call 617-799-8680 or email: wefreedancejam@gmail.com

NASHOBA PLAYERS FALL PRODUCTION AUDITIONS

 
Auditions are upcoming for the Nashoba Players' Fall production of "[title of show]," with music and lyrics by Jeff Bowen and a book by Hunter Bell. The production will be directed by Ken Golner (stage) and Kathryn Denney (music). Auditions are by appointment only, June 24 and 27. Full audition details are available at nashobaplayers.org/auditions.

WESTFORD’S PARISH CENTER for the ARTS PRESENTS:
The Artist Circle of Groton “The Nature of All Things”

 
The exhibition will run through June 30 with a Wine and Cheese Reception on Friday, June 7 from 6-9pm. The Gallery is open to visitors each Sunday from noon-2pm.  For more information, visit www.pcawestford.org.
The Artist Circle of Groton members Dana Haigh, Claudia Owens, Michelle Ward, and Beth A. Smith proudly present "The Nature of All Things” as a joint exhibition during the month of June. Through the vibrant mediums of watercolor, alcohol inks, and acrylics, these four talented artists have crafted an extraordinary collection of works that pays homage to the boundless beauty of nature's tapestry.
Michelle Ward is a lifelong artist, commercial interior designer and member of the Artist Circle, Michelle Ward received her art degree from the University of Lowell(now UMass Lowell). Working in acrylic, using various tools and methods her paintings explore our natural world in layered color, texture and expressive composition.
Claudia Owens,a watercolor artist, finds inspiration in the enchanting wonders of nature,travels, and the timeless charm of children’s books. With a whimsical touch,she harnesses watercolor’s transparent effects to breathe life into vibrant scenes, each infused with a touch of fantasy. Claudia is a member of the Artist Circle,an elementary art teacher and teaches art to both adults and children at Groton’s Prescott Community Center.
Dana Haigh lives and works out of Groton. She has been obsessed with alcohol inks for the last four years. Instilling some control into this very fluid medium has been a lovely challenge that Dana has enjoyed. Dana is a member NVAG, HAS and teaches classes through the Prescott Community Center.
Beth Smith is a Groton-based self-taught watercolor artist. Her work is inspired by the shapes, light and shadows in natural landscapes.  She is drawn to the beauty of nature, its calmness and solitude and wants to impart those feelings to her audience. Beth has co-chaired the Westford Regional Art Event. and co-founded the PCA’s Gallery. She teaches watercolor classes at Prescott Community Center in Groton.
Don’t miss this unique display of art at the PCA during the month of June!
The PCA Gallery will also be open on June 15 during the Strawberry and Art Festival. Come and meet the artists on June 7 at the reception or at the Strawberry festival!

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT SHOW ANNOUNCED with Tom Richardson & Aaron Bilodeau

 
WESTFORD: The Parish Center for the Arts (PCA) is focusing on supporting local artists this June. On June 14 at 7:30pm, enjoy an eclectic mix of styles when singer/songwriter Tom Richardson and electronic indie funk artist Aaron Bilodeau take the PCA stage!  Tickets range from $10-$18 and are available by calling (978) 392-6333 or online at pcawestford.org. The PCA is a BYOB & food facility, so pack a picnic and plan out a full evening of entertainment at 10 Lincoln Street in Westford.
Folk-Americana singer-songwriter Tom Richardson found his way back to music after a long, more traditional career. With a style rooted in the 1970’s music of artists such as James Taylor, John Prine, and Glen Campbell, Tom features acoustic guitar over a modern, folk-country, Americana sound. His warm and expressive voice serenades with stories of life, love and longing. Tom’s second act as a musician and actor brings a lifetime of perspective and some wisdom to poignant and vibrant stories of a shared experience.
Aaron Bilodeau is known for his mastery of multiple instruments. He captivates audiences by seamlessly combining singing, bass guitar wizardry and synth manipulation — all performed with a flair that truly sets him apart through his unique blend of electronic indie funk. Aaron has demonstrated his creativity and talent through original works, culminating in the release of four solo albums. His latest, "Drone at Home," showcases his evolving musical vision and experimental spirit. With each performance, Aaron invites listeners into his musical universe, where boundaries are blurred and sonic landscapes are explored with boundless creativity.
When it comes to supporting local arts and artists, it's mutually beneficial. An exchange between artist and audience has rippling positive impacts on the individuals and the communities surrounding them. So visit a Gallery and/or take in a show. Make a donation. It fosters community.  It's good for the economy.  It's good for YOU!
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-14-24-tom-richardson-aaron-bilodeau/179
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: www.instagram.com/pcawestford

CALL FOR ARTISTS

 
The PCA has re-opened its Call for Artists to fill in a couple new exhibition slots. If accepted, artist(s) will display their work as featured "Artist/s-of-the-Month" on the walls of our 10 Lincoln Street location. The PCA provides the exhibition space and guidance, including promotion and marketing. The artist is responsible for sharing promotional efforts, as well as hanging, hosting a reception and/or demonstrations/workshops (requested, but not required), and possible sittings during Gallery open hours. Artists retain 80% of all sales. Interested? Email 6-8 images (.jpg files less than 1mb), a bio & contact information to gallery-manager@pcawestford. org. For each image, include the title, dimensions and media. PLEASE NOTE: If you have already submitted materials, you do not need to resubmit. Questions can also be sent to admin@pcawestford.org.
Deadline for new submissions is JUNE 15, 2024!

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING at the PCA:

 
The PCA is located at 10 Lincoln Street, right on Westford Common. For information, visit pcawestford.org, call (978) 692-6333, or email to admin@pcawestford.org to receive weekly updates!

The PCA will be wrapping up is 2023-24 season in June after a few more special guest visits:
Everyone loves Aidan Scrimgeour’s annual “Charlie Brown Christmas Jazz Concert,” but Aidan's "Mostly Aidans" trio will be in the house on June 8 at 7:30pm with a Duke Ellington tribute concert to ring in the summer! Tickets range from $10-$25. Visit https://parisharts.square.site/pca-jazz-cafe for more information.
The PCA is focusing on supporting local artists, and on June 14, audiences can enjoy a double bill - an eclectic mix of folk/Americana singer-singwriter Tom Richardson and electronic indie funk artist Aaron Bilodeau! Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-14-24-tom-richardson-aaron-bilodeau/179
Closing up the season will be the very talented group The Ruta Beggars. Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-28-24-the-ruta-beggars/178
Coming this summer will be another year of Concerts-on-the-Common.  Pack up your blankets and chairs, and you’re your picnics for these terrific events coming to Westford Common:
  • July 13 - John Ferullo's Open Mic Night Sampler, 2-5pm
  • July 20 - MOMENTUM (Rain date, July 21), 2-4pm
  • August 3 - Common Picking Mini Bluegrass Festival, noon-7pm
  • August 10 - Ed McCarron (Rain date, August 11), 2:30-4:30pm

  • THURSDAY NIGHT SING & JAM
    Thursdays, 7-10pm. Bring your instrument and/or voice and join the Sing & Jam fun! $5 suggested cover for drop-in programs. This is an on-going weekly event. Coming up…6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/4, 7/11, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29.


    OPEN MIC NIGHT: June 9th
    Held on 2nd & 4th Sundays in a month at 6:30 pm during the season. Open Mic Night is for all ages and levels of experience. Sing a song, play a tune, or speak your truth. The mic is on and everyone is welcome. Special guests will also stop by for some added fun. $5 suggested cover for all drop-in programs. Future Date: 6/23 (Final event until Fall).


    3rd FRIDAY BLUEGRASS JAM: June 21st
    A community event open to the public, 7-10pm. Bring your banjo, fiddle, voice, or just come to watch  every 3rd Friday in a month! All are welcome and all have a great time. Future Dates: 7/19, 8/16, 9/20, 10/18, 11/15, 12/20.

FIRST PARISH CHURCH is DONATING 3 BIRTHDAY PARTIES for CHILDREN in NEED

 
Many families struggle to offer their children the joyful birthday celebrations they deserve. First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) and FPC volunteer staff are offering 3 free parties, to occur between July 2024 and June 2025, to families that might not otherwise be able to have a party for a child. The youth at FPC have helped build a party “escape room” chest that’s available for birthday rentals. The parties are best suited for children and youth between 8 and 17. This includes the use of FPC’s Vestry, including tables and chairs for up to 20 people (though the escape adventure is recommended for 5 to 10 participants), and access to a small kitchen. The parties also include an FPC volunteer who will open and close the building and act as “games master” for the escape adventure. Pirate-themed Escape Room in a Chest: ● 12 puzzles to solve (suited to ages 8 to adult) ● A 60- to 90-minute adventure (approximately) ● Teams of 5 to 10 people Typical Party ● 2 hours total ● Up to 90 min in Escape Game ● Remainder of time in Vestry Cafe for any food, cake and beverages you bring. The value of the party is $300 ($250 rent and $50 sexton fee). Low-income families and foster families are encouraged to apply using the URL below. At least one adult must be present throughout the party. Tinyurl.com/FPCpiratebday Applications will be reviewed by FPC’s minister. Requests will be accepted until Saturday, June 15. Recipients of the parties will be contacted by Sunday, June 30, 2024. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

GALLERY SITKA ANNOUNCES “SUMMER LAUNCH” EXHIBITION

 
Gallery Sitka announces the exhibition “Summer Launch” by artists Jeanne Borofsky and Kellie Weeks. The public is invited to the free opening reception on Friday, June 7 from 5:30-7:30 pm; there will be refreshments and live music. Featured artists, Borofsky and Weeks, will be in attendance. The show will be displayed through July 9. 
At a Glance
WHAT:  “Summer's Launch” Exhibition and Reception at Gallery Sitka/Shirley
WHEN: Opening Reception Friday, June 7 from 5:30-7:30pm; Show thru July 9. Closed the week of July 4th. Gallery hours: M-W, 9-1 & by appointment or chance.
WHERE: 2 Shaker Rd., D101, Shirley, MA
INFO: Open to all, free admission, GallerySitka.com

Jeanne Borofsky whose studio is in Groton, MA, holds a BFA and MFA and is internationally recognized, with paintings, prints, and drawings in numerous museums and private collections.
A practicing artist for over 50 years, Borofsky makes art with watercolors, oils, encaustics, collages, and prints – traditional, photographic, encaustic, and digital. Borofsky is a member of The Boston Printmakers, the Depot Square Artists, the Monotype Guild of New England, and New England Wax.
Ms. Borofsky states, “Most of my current work is encaustic collage. Encaustic – painting with hot colored beeswax and damar resin – is a medium that was used by the ancient Greeks. I love the way beeswax creates both physical and visual depth and translucency to the work – adding to the mystery and magic I’m trying to convey. Whatever I put into my art, it always includes the joy of creation, the love of art, and the happiness in my ability to create it.”

Kellie Weeks, whose studio is in Fitchburg, received a BFA from Bradford College in 2001. After years of exploring many media, she is now focused on painting with pigment sticks and encaustic. While using encaustics for their insurmountable quality, depth, and brilliancy, Weeks also incorporates dry pigments, metal leaf, shellac, and other mixed media as vehicles to develop a wide lexicon of imagery. Kellie often abstracts elements of nature and her immediate surroundings combining both elements of bold and muted colors. These dynamic compositions lend themselves to stories of relationships and transformations. Kellie’s work has been exhibited nationally in many juried and group shows and is included in both private and public collections.
Weeks offers, “My current work is an exploration in oil and cold wax on panel and delves into the themes of social groups.  It often reflects the feelings of longing, isolation, and loneliness.”

Tamar Russell Brown, Gallery Sitka owner stated, “Gallery Sitka is pleased to host what has become an annual show for Jeanne Borofsky and Kellie Weeks. They were introduced to us in year one of our gallery's life. They have both now been with us for close to 10 years. Since Gallery Sitka is celebrating 10 years this summer, we are thrilled to show these accomplished women to kick off the season!"
Additional information can be found at Gallery Sitka.

About Gallery Sitka
Gallery Sitka™ is a woman-owned and operated art entity with galleries in Newport, RI; Shirley, MA; Saratoga, NY (by appointment); and additional periodic pop-ups around the Northeast. With a focus on abstract art, Gallery Sitka represents the work of more than twenty painters, sculptors, encaustic artists, as well as jewelry designers from New England, New York, Brasil, France and Italy. The Gallery is committed to local art and the creative economy. Gallery Sitka opened in 2014 and has been featured in publications such as Art New England, Newport This Week, NorthCentral Mass.com, Harvard General Store, ChooseNorthCentral.com, among others. For more information visit gallerysitka.com.

STATEWIDE AGAINST the TIDE ATHLETICS EVENT to SUPPORT BREAST CANCER PREVENTION

 
Join Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) in 2024 and swim, run or walk to support breast cancer prevention!
MBCC will host its special 25th Anniversary Cape Cod Against the Tide event at DCR’s Nickerson State Park on Saturday, June 8th in Brewster, MA. The weekend after, join MBCC at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park on Saturday, June 15th for Against the Tide’s 32nd year!
MBCC will also host a virtual event from June 8th to June 15th for those who would like to participate in Against the Tide and support the mission of cancer prevention from any location!
Events include USMS-Sanctioned 1-mile swim, 1-mile recreational and competitive swims, ½-mile recreational swim, USATF-Certified 5K and 10K runs, and a 3-mile fitness walk.
In-person participants will receive an event t-shirt, bib, and goodie bag. Prizes will be awarded for the top swim and run finishers of the in-person events. Prizes will also be awarded to the highest fundraising individuals at the in-person events.
Events can be enjoyed by adults and children of all ages and abilities. The in-person registration fee is $40 per person per athletic component and the virtual registration fee is $20 per person with the option to participate in one or more events virtually. Visit the MBCC event web page, mbcc.org/swim, to donate to the event and learn how to create or join a team and fundraise for breast cancer prevention.
The funds raised through Against the Tide help to support and expand our community education program Let’s Talk Prevention: Reducing Toxic Exposures, MBCC Webinar Series, and the newly-expanded student environmental health program, Let’s Talk Prevention: Actions You Can Take.
MBCC was founded in 1991 as a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing environmental causes of breast cancer through community education, research advocacy, and changes to public policy.
To learn more about all of the registration options, to join or create a team, and to donate, please visit the MBCC website at mbcc.org/swim or call 508-246-3047.

CELEBRATE PRIDE 2024 EVENT

 
We are so excited to celebrate Pride 2024 with a full day of programming in partnership with @Pride Worcester on June 23 at Fruitlands Museum, in Harvard MA!
Join us for family-friendly crafts and activities from 10-3 across the Museum. At 4 PM  Award-winning and Billboard-charting artist @Flamy Grant will take the stage for a special family-friendly performance.
In the evening, put on your dancing shoes for Fruitlands' first-ever Pride Tea Dance (21+) with guest DJ Harlow Havoc.
We hope you join us in community and in celebration on the beautiful Fruitlands Hillside. thetrustees.org/event/419148/

BRIDGES® by EPOCH at WESTFORD to be AWARDED PURPLE FLAG for DEMENTIA CARE™ ACCREDITATION on JUNE 11, & 10th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

 
WHEN: Tuesday, June 11, 2 PM
WHERE: 108 Littleton Road, Westford, MA
WHAT: Purple Flag accreditation and 10-year anniversary event for Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford.
EPOCH Senior Living, a premier provider of exceptional senior living services throughout the Northeast, announces its memory care assisted living facility, Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford, has earned the Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ accreditation. Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ is an accreditation program that recognizes excellence in caring for people living with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias. Upon receiving the accreditation, providers receive the distinctive purple flag to fly proudly. Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford will also be celebrating its 10th anniversary. CONTACT: Victoria Hochman (914) 762-1900 vicky@thompson-bender.com

INDIAN HERITAGE NIGHT at POLAR PARK

 
On Friday, June 7, 2024, the Worcester Red Sox will welcome the Rochester Red Wings at 6:45pm EST for Indian Heritage Night at Polar Park. The WooSox invite fans to enjoy various aspects of the Indian culture through music, cuisine, entertainment, and ceremonies. Gates open at 5:45 PM and pre-game recognitions will start at 6:15 PM.
On the DCU Plaza, fans can enjoy the sounds of Indian music provided by DJ Raunik as they enter the ballpark. Our on-field celebration of Indian culture will be initiated by a performance by Ekta Dance Academy. From June 7th – 9th, fans can indulge in a variety of authentic Indian cuisine provided by Northborough restaurant, Peppers.
The WooSox thank the India Society of Worcester (ISW) for their support in planning and promoting Indian Heritage Day. ISW strives to form an effective and cohesive group with the objective of retaining, facilitating, and fostering the cultural heritage of India. As one of New England’s most vibrant Indian associations, ISW adds to the cultural diversity of the region and symbolizes a glimpse into Indian heritage for the local Worcester community.
Operated entirely by volunteers that represent all regions of India, ISW will be recognized as the night’s Heart of Worcester.

JUNE EVENTS AT THE AYER LIBRARY

 
SATURDAY 6/8
10:30 - 1:30 PM Ayer Film Society: Double Feature
TUESDAY 6/11
1:30 - 3:30 PM Stitch Circle
4:00 - 5:00 PM Story Ninja!
WEDNESDAY 6/12
2:00 - 4:00 PM Teen Hangout: Drop-In Pronoun Pins
6:00 - 7:00 PM Thriller Book Group: "Everyone Here is Lying" by Shari Lapena
THURSDAY 6/13
10:30 - 11:15 AM Yoga & Hula Hoop Movement with Emma!
FRIDAY 6/14
10:30 - 11:15 AM Tot Time!
12:00 - 1:30 PM Historic Fiction Book Group: This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
SATURDAY 6/15
10:00 - 11:00 AM Nature Journaling Class for Adults Monthly Meet-Up
TUESDAY 6/18
4:00 - 5:00 PM Story Ninja!
WEDNESDAY 6/19
4:00 - 5:00 PM Lego Club!
THURSDAY 6/20
10:30 - 11:15 AM Story Time!
FRIDAY 6/21
10:30 - 11:15 AM Tot Time!
TUESDAY 6/25
4:00 - 5:00 PM Story Ninja Special: Cookie Decorating!
WEDNESDAY 6/26
SUMMER READING KICK-OFF!
4:00 - 5:00 PM Summer Concert: Rockabye Beats!
6:30 - 7:30 PM Nissitissit String Quartet
THURSDAY 6/27
10:30 - 11:15 AM Storytime with Strega Mama: BLUEY!
FRIDAY 6/28
10:30 - 11:15 AM Tot Time!

PRELIMINARY PFAS TEST RESULTS ARE IN! SAVE THE DATE!

 
Please join PACE and Silent Spring Institute for a Community Forum on Thursday, June 13th, 7:00-8:30 pm, where we will share community-level PFAS blood testing results from the MA PFAS & Your Health Study for Ayer and Hyannis and we will hear from Rep. Dan Sena and a representative for Congresswoman Lori Trahan.  The event will take place at Ayer Shirley Regional High School, both in person and there will be an option to participate remotely.
This meeting is FREE and open to all.  Light refreshments will be provided. We look forward to seeing you there!

DINING FOR A CAUSE at The Pleasant Cafe, Ayer

 
Take the night off from cooking and come to The Pleasant Cafe at 7 Depot Square in Ayer on  Wednesday, June 12 from 5-8pm to support The Friends of the Ayer Library.
The Pleasant Cafe has generously partnered with the Friends to hold a Dining for a Cause event where they will donate a percentage of all dine in and pick up sales that evening. Help us make this a success by stopping by or picking up your delicious dinner while supporting a great cause. The Friends support the Ayer Library through fundraising which provides museum passes, summer reading programs, adult and children educational events and more!

Happening at the PCA, 10 Lincoln Street, Westford
May 31 at 7:30pm

Frank Santos, Jr. (Comic Hypnotist)
WESTFORD: Be amazed when you and your friends (or strangers) across the room become stars of the show, as Frank Santos, Jr. makes them believe they are singers, dancers and much, much more on May 31 at 7:30pm at the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street in Westford. This is a rated R performance where the audience becomes the show - a hilarious, energetic and unique event you will never forget! BYOB and snacks for a complete evening of entertainment! Tickets are $20 Members; $22 Non-Members; $25 at the Door (if there are any left). For tickets and information, call (978) 692-6333, or visit www.pcawestford.org.
Frank Santos Jr. has over 20 years of experience. His spectacular display of mind bending antics can turn any skeptic into a fan. His act is always fresh, energetic and unique; no two shows are ever the same. He has appeared at many theaters throughout New England like The Palace Theatre, Colonial Theatre, Capital Center for The Arts, The Wilbur Theatre and many more. He performs regularly at Twin River Casino in Rhode Island, and Treasure Island Casino in Minnesota. Frank has entertained for large corporate events such as Google, Nike, CVS, Blockbuster, and Tyco (to name a few), and has also been featured on ABC numerous times. Direct ticket link:
https://parisharts.square.site/product/5-31-24-frank-santos-jr-comic-hypnotist-/154

Chelmsford Quilters Host Quilt Show

Excitement is in the air for this upcoming Quilt Show! And what could be more beautiful than a room filled with hand crafted quilts?! Catch the enthusiasm and attend this local Quilt Show being held May 18 & 19 at Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Road (route 40) in North Chelmsford, MA. Show hours are Saturday 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The show features over 100 Traditional, Modern, and Art quilts made by members, a Members Boutique, Silent Auction of Mini Quilts, Themed Raffle Baskets, Quilting Demonstrations, and More! Show Vendors are Bits ‘n Pieces Quilt Shop of Pelham NH and blade sharpener National Sharpening Company. This year, our Charity Quilt Raffle will benefit Lowell Transitional Living Center.
Admission is $10 and free for children under 12; cash or check only as we are unable to accept credit or debit cards. Building is wheelchair accessible with plenty of free parking.
The group's Quilt Shows are held every two years and are always a highlight of Guild programming. If you are in the area, this show is a “must see” event!
For more information, visit  www.chelmsfordquiltguild.com

ShirleyFest will be held on Shirley Center Common, Saturday June 1st  from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Besides having a lot of entertainment, kids activities, and sales, the day also gives folks a chance to purchase lunch or supper from many local non-profit organizations. The Shirley Historical Society will sell BBQ chicken and salads. Trinity Chapel will bake pies. Boy Scout Troop 7123 will cook up sausages and ShirleyArts! will grill hot dogs and hamburgers. The Fabulous Five will have lemonade and popcorn. Supporting these groups supports our town. The Friends of Hazen Library, the Fort Devens Museum, the Hindu Temple, the Shirley Meetinghouse, and Shirley Greenway will have information booths. Shirley Penguins will sponsor the dunk tank.
At the crafts tables you will find jewelry, woodwork, windchimes, photos, soaps, paintings, house décor, and greeting cards.
Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and stay for the whole day.

Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast and Fundraiser for the Groton Grange #7 Brad Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund.

May 27,2024 from 7:30 to 10:30 am at Groton Grange #7, 80 Champney St. All proceeds from the breakfast go to the scholarship fund.
Live music will be provided by the Contra Banditos. Parking is allowed on the Grange side of Champney St only.
Pancakes (plain, chocolate chip, blueberry), sausage, maple syrup, orange juice, tea and coffee. $10./all you can eat. Children under 3 are free. Please join us rain or shine.

New England Contra Dance

Saturday, May 25, from 7:30 - 10:00 PM
Groton Grange #7 invites you to our traditional New England Contra Dance on Saturday, May 25, from 7:30 - 10:00 PM, at Historic Groton Grange
Hall, 80 Champney Street. This will be an evening of live music and dancing with Groton's own Contra Banditos, along with caller Dudley Laufman,  who will teach traditional New England style contra, square, and line dances to the beat of old time fiddle tunes. Beginners are welcome, no experience or partner is necessary. Suggested donation at the door is $5.00  per person,
Children under 3 years old are free, and family maximum is $20.  Made possible by a grant from the Town of Groton lecture Funds. Refreshments are provided. PARKING ALLOWED ONLY ON THE GRANGE SIDE OF CHAMPNEY ST.

“The Ammo Dump: A Taking of Heritage” Saturday, May 18

What if you received a knock on your door tonight and were told you had to leave? You had no more than a month to do so, and you could only take what was not nailed down. Eighty Massachusetts families faced that predicament on March 25, 1942. The Ammo Dump: A Taking of Heritage tells their story.
Join us at 1:00 on May 18 at the Fort Devens Museum for an afternoon of local lore and history with the authors of The Ammo Dump. Co-authored by Maynard historian Paul Boothroyd and his sons Paul Boothroyd, Jr. and Todd Boothroyd, the book explores the U.S. Army's seizure by eminent domain of some 3,100 acres of land spanning Maynard, Stow, Sudbury and Hudson in the spring of 1942.
At the breakout of World War II, the U.S. government required four square miles to create an ammunition depot. The purpose was to create this munitions storage at a distance from Boston harbor, so that if German battleships appeared off the Massachusetts coast, the munitions facility would be too far inland to be shelled from the sea. An extensive network of railroad tracks and widely spaced 'bunkers' (earth-covered warehouse buildings) would hold munitions until ships docked at harbor to take on supplies for transportation to Europe. Eminent domain was ordered, and the land taken, forever. However, that's only the surface of the tale...
Explore the who, how, and why. Learn about close-knit families in Maynard, Stow, Sudbury, and Hudson, Massachusetts, who lost their farms, their livelihoods. They not only had to find new places to live and work, they had to deal with the loss of all they had built.
The Fort Devens Museum is located at 94 Jackson Road, Devens, MA, on the third floor and is wheelchair accessible. The museum is open on May 18 from 10 AM to 3 PM with the program at 1:00.  This event is free and open to the public with donations gratefully accepted. Thanks to the Harvard Cultural Council. More information at www.fortdevensmuseum.org.
Water chestnut

3rd Annual Water Chestnut Pull

Announcing the 3rd Annual Water Chestnut PULL at Grove Pond in Ayer For the past two years, volunteers have made a huge impact to clear the very invasive, fast growing European water chestnut from the beautiful Grove Pond in Ayer. Year three is starting and we invite you and your family to join us! If you didn't have a chance to help last year, no worries, No experience is needed; we provide everything. All we need is YOU! Details and signup are at tinyurl.com/2024AyerWCP. Laurie Nehring, Ayer resident, who has coordinated the project since the beginning, suggests, “this is a great project to bring the whole family. High school students will receive community service credit and kids over the age of 12 are welcome, as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. We provide training and all participants are required to wear a life jacket.” New this year is a Kick-off on Saturday, May 11, 9am-2pm. Join us all day, or for some portion of the festivities and win a gift bag (courtesy of Ayer businesses) for signing up early! Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to sign up for a Pull session for your employees. If the times listed at tinyurl.com/2024AyerWCP are inconvenient please contact PACEAyer@gmail.com to make arrangements. Liability insurance is covered through the American Canoe Association, funded through the Nashua Rivers Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council. Those who volunteer 3 or more times in 2024 will be offered full membership in ACA with great benefits. Laurie reminds those who want to help but don’t love being on the water that “shoreline help is incredibly valuable -and really messy!- and makes the work of pulling about 50% more efficient. To help onshore please sign up at tinyurl.com/2024AyerWCP. ” We look forward to hosting another successful season of pulling this Spring and Summer and look forward to your participation to help make it happen!

Summer Kick-Off Carnival

The Rotary Club of Littleton, MA is proud to introduce their first annual Summer Kick-Off Carnival in Littleton from June 20-June 23. Produced by Fiesta Shows, the Carnival will offer the latest and newest in rides and games. Food will be available from several vendors, starting with a Sal’s Pizza Food Truck. Entertainment during the weekend will be DJ’d music as well as live music, a karaoke night, and a magic show for the kids (young and old) on Sunday. The Rotary Club will also have a Beer Garden at the Carnival for visitors 21+ years of age and older.
The Carnival will be located near Littleton Common, on the site of the former IBM campus at the intersection of Routes 119 and Route 2A. Carnival hours are Thursday, June 20, from 6 PM-10 PM; Friday, June 21, from 6 PM -11 PM; Saturday, June 22, from 1 PM–11 PM; and Sunday, June 23, from 1 PM-9 PM.
The Rotary Club of Littleton will have a table at the Carnival to register participants and volunteers for the Appleman Triathlon (which will be taking place on July 21). Stop by to meet some of the Littleton Rotarians, see what Rotary is about, learn how to become a Rotarian, and look at what the Club has done to help others over the past year. This is a great family event, with something for everyone. Please help us spread the word before the Carnival, and stop by our table when you’re there to say hello!
Proceeds from this event will benefit Littleton’s TREAD (Tax Reduction for the Elderly and Disabled) Program and other local non-profits.
For more information, contact Chris Alphen, Club President, at chris@debsbeds.org, or visit the Rotary Club's website at https://portal.clubrunner.ca/3691. And stay tuned for more information about the Carnival and the entertainment!

Food Preservation Workshop

Groton Grange #7, 80 Champney St.. 11:15 AM-2:00 PM, Saturday, June 1st
Water bath and pressure canning, fermenting, dehydrating, vacuum packing, root cellaring, dry storage, equipment use and care demo, care of preserved foods. Interested older children welcome. Please register : fisherclio@yahoo.com Parking on Grange side of Champney street only.

Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast and Fundraiser for the Groton Grange #7 Brad Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund.

May 27,2024 from 7:30 to 10:30 am at Groton Grange #7, 80 Champney St. All proceeds from the breakfast go to the scholarship fund.
Live music will be provided by the Contra Banditos. Parking is allowed on the Grange side of Champney St only.
Pancakes (plain,chocolate chip, blueberry),sausage, maple syrup,orange juice, tea and coffee. $10. all you can eat. Children under 3 free.

Groton Grange #7 invites you to our traditional New England Contra Dance

on Saturday, May 25, from 7:30 - 10:00 PM , at Historic Groton Grange Hall, 80 Champney Street. This will be an evening of live music and dancing with Groton's own Contra Banditos, along with caller Dudley Laufman, who will teach traditional New England style contra, square, and line dances to the beat of old time fiddle tunes. Beginners are welcome, no experience or partner is necessary. Suggested donation at the door is $5.00 per person, children under 3 years old are free, and family maximum is $20. Made possible by a grant from the Town of Groton lecture Funds.
Refreshments are provided. PARKING ALLOWED ONLY ON THE GRANGE SIDE OF CHAMPNEY ST.

Brunch Fundraiser to Support DSVN
(Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc.)

Celebration of Hope Benefit
Saturday, May 18th, 11:00am-2:00pm
The Barn at Gibbet Hill
Enjoy Brunch in the Rustic Elegance and Celebrate...
Hope, Connections, & Community Partnerships
Tickets $100 per person (Ticket price covers the cost of brunch, drinks, dessert, entertainment, and rental fees)
To Reserve Tickets: Visit DVSN.org/Benefit2024 or call 978-318-3421 for more information. Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goal: $100,000

THE CANNON THEATRE Proudly Presents “Alice By Heart”

Devens, MA: The Cannon Theatre is thrilled to present Alice by Heart, written by Steven Sater and Jessie Nelson’s with music by Duncan Sheik and directed by Shawn Cannon. It is 1942, and a young woman named Alice Spencer uses the Lewis Carroll stories to escape the horrors of the bombings in London. During one curiously terrible evening in the bunker, her best friend Alfred is diagnosed with incurable tuberculosis and a Red Cross nurse rips apart her favorite book, Alice In Wonderland. This pushes Alice over the edge, and since she has learned the stories by heart, retreats into her fantasy world, dragging the dying Alfred with her. This much anticipated musical is from the creators of Spring Awakening. Full of whimsy, gorgeous songs, inventive dances, and fun characters, this de-constructed version of Alice in Wonderland is sure to delight you and hit the heartstrings. You don't want to miss it. Show times are May 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:30 pm, with matinees on May 19 and 26 at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available at www.thecannontheatre.org, and are $25 for adults, and $20 for students/seniors.

The Cannon Theatre is an intimate, non-profit community theater newly installed at 28 Andrews Parkway in Devens, MA. The theater’s 2022 move from Littleton and interior space renovation was made  possible by very generous funding from The Elizabeth B. McGraw Foundation, as well as donated work by Studio J2 (architect) and Frank Harrigan (structural engineer). Additional support is provided by the Community Foundation for North Central Massachusetts, and the Local Cultural Councils of Acton-Boxborough, Ayer, Groton, Harvard, Littleton, Lunenburg, Marlborough, Townsend, Templeton, and Shirley - local agencies which are supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Loaves & Fishes Announces Spring Into Action 5K to be held on
Sunday, May 5th

Fundraiser Benefits Individuals and Families in 7 Local Communities Devens, MA – Loaves & Fishes, a food pantry dedicated to providing nutritious food to people in need who reside in Ayer, Devens, Dunstable, Groton, Harvard, Littleton and Shirley, will be holding its annual Spring Into Action 5K on Sunday, May 5, 2024. This is one of the biggest annual fundraising events for Loaves & Fishes and is one of several events commemorating the organization’s 40th anniversary. The event begins at 1 PM on Sunday, May 5th, at Rogers Field, Devens (with parking near The Bob Eisengrein Community Center, 100 Sherman Ave., Devens). Pre- registration is strongly recommended. There is an initial $25 entrance fee; however, participants are encouraged to seek sponsorships. All donations benefit Loaves & Fishes and will be used to help the organization continue to provide food in an atmosphere of kindness and respect to people in need. Gold Sponsors for 2024 include: AFA Obstetrics & Gynecology, Enterprise Bank, FBS Tire Recycling, Gervais Ford, Murphy Insurance Group, CPF, Inc. and Lazaro Paving. To register, sponsor, donate, or learn more, go to https://lfwalk.org/.

NEW ENGLAND CONTRA DANCE

Groton Grange #7 invites you to our traditional New England Contra Dance on Saturday, May 25, from 7:30 - 10:00 PM, at Historic Groton Grange Hall, 80 Champney Street. This will be an evening of live music and dancing with Groton's own Contra Banditos, along with caller Dudley Laufman , who will teach traditional New England style contra, square, and line dances to the beat of old time fiddle tunes. Beginners are welcome, no experience or partner is necessary. Suggested donation at the door is
$5.00 per person, children under 3 years old are free, and family maximum is $20. Made possible by grant from the Town of Groton lecture Funds. Refreshments are provided. PARKING ALLOWED ONLY ON THE GRANGE SIDE OF CHAMPNEY ST.

Littleton Country Gardeners Plant Sale

Town Common, Saturday, May 11, 2024, 9am-2pm
Perennial • Fairie Gardens • Herbs & Veggies• Pollinator and Native Plants
Ask a Master Gardener and Membership booths!
Keeping Littleton Beautiful
Littleton Country Gardeners maintain 13 civic sites in town with seasonal plantings.
Cash or Check only!

Shirley Public Forum on 25mph Speed in Thickly-Settled Areas

According to a recent survey conducted by the Shirley Transportation Action Committee (STAC), almost half of respondents believe cars travel too fast in Shirley. The Annual Town Meeting on May 13th includes a warrant article reducing vehicle speeds in “thickly-settled areas” throughout Shirley to 25mph. To provide residents with full information regarding this change and an overview of survey results, Shirley residents are invited to attend a public forum on April 25th at 7pm in the Town Offices. The forum is sponsored by STAC and will provide ample time for questions and comments from residents.
Massachusetts state law sets the “statutory” speed limit in thickly-settled areas at 30mph unless a town or city votes to reduce it to 25mph. Streets with posted speed limits would be unaffected by this change whether thickly-settled or not. Survey results and independent research proving that reduced speeds save lives, have led STAC to join neighboring towns of Ayer, Harvard and Lunenburg and propose the speed reduction for thickly-settled areas Shirley.
There are about 45 miles of roads in Shirley, about a quarter of which would qualify for the speed reduction. Almost all of these are in residential neighborhoods and subdivisions. Reducing the statutory speed limit in these areas will create safer streets for pedestrians, children and bicyclists as well as drivers. The public forum will provide Shirley residents with an opportunity to learn more about this change and have their questions answered by STAC members in advance of the vote at Annual Town Meeting. As a bonus, preliminary results of the ongoing STAC Transportation Survey will also be presented.

Flea Market

West Acton Baptist Church will be holding a Flea Market May 11th from 12 noon to 3:00 in the parking lot, 592 Mass Ave. during the West Acton Merchants Village Association Spring Fling.  Spaces available for a small donation. Limited number of tables, first come, first served.
Slated to date: Acton Police Dept with Zane their comfort dog! Handmade Greeting cards, Vintage used jewelry & the church membership will be offering vintage teacups for sale. Contact church office 978-263-5902 or wabcadmin@verizon.net.

May 18 Open House

OPEN HOUSE: Come help celebrate the Grand Reopening of Ayer’s historic Sandy Pond Schoolhouse. With free tours of the restored schoolhouse, speakers, music, refreshments, and activities for kids, there’ll be lots of fun. It all happens Saturday, May 18th, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Sandy Pond Schoolhouse, 150 Sandy Pond Road, in Ayer. See you there!
(Rain date is May 19th)

Beauty & the Beast JR this Summer in Shirley

SHIRLEY: ShirleyArts! is excited to announce our summer children’s musical program for ages 8-17. Licensed  teachers Meredith and Laurie Marcinkewicz will direct a production of “Disney’s Beauty & the Beast JR.” As well as rehearsing for the performances, children will learn theater, music, and dance skills, and play games to improve their performance, confidence, self-advocacy and teamwork. Auditions will be held June 24 at 2pm. Rehearsals will run Monday-Friday, 2-5pm, June 25-28 and July 8-19. Performances will be July 19 and 20 at 7pm; July 21 at 2pm. Tuition is $180 for ShirleyArts! members; $200 for non-members. At least 20 student performers, plus a few student stage crew members are welcome. Scholarships are available. For more information, subscribe to the ShirleyArts! e-newsletter list and stay-up-to-date with ALL ShirleyArts! activities. You can also send an email to email@shirleyarts.info.

SAVE THE DATE: ShirleyFest 2024

SHIRLEY: ShirleyArts! annual Shirley Fest community festival will take place this year on June 1 from 11am-5pm on the beautiful Shirley Center Town Common.  There will be crafts, games, food and entertainment for the whole family.  Volunteers will be needed to help with set-up and cleanup.  For more information, google shirleyfest01464 or visit https://sites.google.com/view/shirleyfest01464/home.

Explore Longley Acres as Part of
Seeds of Spring Event

SHIRLEY: Love animals, gardens, trails and history? Explore Longley Acres with Playboard of Shirley on April 27 at their Seeds of Spring event!  Longley Acres is a 73-acre town-owned property open to the public.  It is a working farm home to animals, community gardens and trails. Read more about the agriculture landscape of the Longley Homestead with a piece adapted for the Shirley Historical Society, available online at https://shirleyhistory.org/about/agricultural-landscape. For more information about Seeds of Spring, email theplayboardofshirley@gmail.com.

Friends of the Bolton Public Library to Hold Book Sale

BOLTON: The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semiannual book sale on May 4 from 9am-3pm at the Houghton Building, 697 Main Street. There are over 5,000 books sorted and “not picked over.” Puzzles, CDs and DVDs. The sale is the Friends’ largest fundraiser. Proceeds support programs, events, museum passes, and the online newsletter “Wowbrary.”

FREE Screening of Bloomberg Original Film on the PFAS Scandal:The poison in us all.

People of Ayer Concerned About the Environment (PACE) and Silent Spring Institute will be presenting the film/documentary: The poison in us all: the forever chemical scandal.  This important 50-minute film will be followed by a discussion and Q&A with experts from Silent Spring Institute: Dr. Laurel Schaider and Emily Heckel. All are invited! Wednesday, May 1, 7-9pm at St. Andrews Church Parish Hall, 7 Faulkner St, Ayer.  Light refreshments provided.  For more info: PACEayer@gmail.com
Shirleyartschorus

ShirleyArts! Chorus 20th Anniversary Concert Approaches

SHIRLEY: The ShirleyArts! Chorus is hard at work rehearsing for their 20th Anniversary Concert highlighting songs from many of our past productions. The performance is directed by Laurie Marcinkewicz and accompanied by Pinyu Chen. Performances will be held May 17 and 18 at the Ayer Shirley Middle School.  Tickets will be available at the door.
This year’s Chorus cast list includes (Kids Chorus) Hope Broach, Norah Davis, Ruth Davis, Veronica Egan, Evelyn Gamache, Payton Reyno, Lydia Sanabria and Asia Sanford; (Adult Chorus) Cathy Belliveau, Katie Broach, Mary Cooper, Lyn Doran, Angie Edmunds, Melanie Egan, Roy Ellis, Christine Guertin, Mary Hauer, Terrie Hyde, Diane King, Donna King, Rebecca King, Mari Knapp, Emily Lambert, Victoria Landry, Laurie Marcinkewicz, Meredith Marcinkewicz, Tim Murphy, Olivia Pampinella, Karen Rau, Nancy Sawyer, Sarah Stevens, Katharine Taylor, Chay Tower-Hughes, Lynn Valeri and Matt Valeri.
For more information, visit ShirleyArts! at www.shirleyarts.info or email email@shirleyarts.info.
Clearpath

Clear Path Call for Volunteers


DEVENS: Calling all volunteers! The Clear Path for Veterans New England family-style work environment and make a meaningful impact in your community. They are seeking dedicated individuals who are eager to lend a hand on a daily, weekly, or special event basis. Whether you’re passionate about supporting veterans, maintaining facilities, or assisting with special events, there’s a variety of opportunities available for you to get involved. No experience necessary—training provided. Here are some areas where you can make a difference:
• Wingman Program for Veterans
• Saturday Warrior Reset
• Facility maintenance & care
• Special event set up & preparation
• Healing / Wellness Education
• Veteran Transportation / Mobility
• Office support / front desk
• Off-site information tables
• Cleaning, outdoor cleanup
• Hiking trail projects, gardening, weeding
Clear Path’s Volunteer Program understands the importance of “giving back” to create a healthy community. By joining, you’ll not only make a difference in the lives of veterans but also gain a deeper understanding of military culture and the value of service. Help build a stronger, more compassionate community where veterans and non-veterans alike come together to support those who have served our country.
Ready to be part of something bigger? Get involved today and help make a difference! Learn more at clearpathne.org/volunteer-application.
 

Indoor Yard Sale

Free sale poster 2024

The Poison in us all

Flyer the poison in us all 2024

Groton Garden Club Plant Sale

2024 plant sale flier

Gallery Sitka Announces Veronique Sapin Exhibition

Veronique
SHIRLEY: Gallery Sitka announces the exhibition “Symptoms” by French visual artist Veronique Sapin, with an opening reception on April 26 from 4:30-6:30pm. Sapin, whose studio is in Cugnaux, France, will be in attendance at the Shirley gallery. The show will be displayed through May 3. Also planned is an Artist Talk, “Sisterhood in Art, as a Consequence, as a Strategy” at the Fitchburg Art Museum May 2 from 12:30-1:30pm. Both the artist reception and the artist talk are free and open to the public.  

The full scope of Véronique Sapin’s artwork is of the visual arts nature, including videos, installations, photos, ink, and art books. Her artwork has been a part of more than 240 showings in forty countries. She is also curator, co-founder and coordinator of the international women artists collective FemLink-Art which involves 140+ artists from 60+ countries. She has initiated important partnerships with institutions such as Unesco for the video training of African women artists.

For this exhibition at Gallery Sitka, Sapin focuses on an ink painting art method she gleaned while living in Singapore where she took classes from artist Lim Choon Jin.
Sapin offers, “Working with ink means anticipating what the ink will want to do, expecting it not to do so, and measuring our degree of intervention on its freedom. This implies a constant game of partnership and adversity between the artist and the medium.”

Gallery Sitka owner, Tamar Russell Brown states, "We have been expanding the gallery’s breadth of artists and offerings to include more international art. Veronique is our first French female artist to have as part of our Gallery Sitka family; we invite the community to join us in welcoming her!”

For more information, visit gallerysitka.com.
Jasonpetralia

Groton Conservation Trust Annual Meeting

GROTON: Groton Conservation Trust will hold their Annual Meeting on April 24 at 7pm at the Groton Center. The focus this year is on the environment. Groton resident Jason Petralia, CEO and Founder of Anthropogenic Inc. will be speaker. Petralia is a serial innovator and tech entrepreneur and global solutions pioneer with a passion for developing software and data analytics capabilities that boldly transform the planet and its inhabitants. He has an extraordinary portfolio of corporate and product success across a broad spectrum of sectors including: AI, climate, mobile applications, Esports, health, education, and entertainment. TEDx speaker and advisor to leading ventures, Jason is an internationally recognized leader in sustainable finance solutions. The event is free, but please register at gctrust.org/about/events.
Paddlewave

Character & Community Continues at the GHC’s Open House

GROTON: For a compact and visually alluring presentation, check out the display case on the top floor of the Groton Public Library. Easy on the eyes and feet, this museum-in-a-nutshell tells the story of Marion Stoddart’s successful campaign to clean up the Nashua River. Deemed among the top ten most polluted waterways in the country when she and her husband Hugh moved to Groton in 1962, Marion, soliciting the help of many over decades brought the biologically dead river back to life. This small, telling display comprises one part of the larger exhibition, Character & Community, currently on view at the Groton History Center’s Boutwell House at 172 Main Street.

To spend time with ten more individuals whose energy, foresight, and passion helped shape the town, join the GHC for its monthly Open House on April 20 from 11am-2pm.  Among other revelations, Character & Community unravels the mystery behind the Castle on Gibbet Hill, profiles an artist of international renown who made his home in Groton, and offers a cameo portrait of the man behind the Groton Myseum.

A tour of the 1851 Boutwell House--full of fascinating memorabilia, period furnishings, and stories at every turn -- showcases Groton history in its own remarkable way. The Open House and all GHC programs are free to all, thanks to the Groton Commissioners of Trust Funds, grants, and corporate and private donations. Regular hours are Mondays and Thursdays, from 10 am to 3 pm. To schedule a visit, or for more information email info@grotonhistory.org, visit grotonhistory.org; grotonhistory.org/Facebook, or call (978) 448-0092.

PHOTO CAPTION: Paddle Wave taken on June 27, 2009, on the last day of the shoot for the Work of 1000, a documentary film and civic engagement program about Marion Stoddart and the clean-up of the Nashua River. Eighty people showed up for the shoot to celebrate Marion, the river, and their ongoing support of the Nashua River greenway, a corridor for wildlife and people. As Marion is quoted as saying: “We will always need watchdogs and stewards or the river could go back. We must ensure that laws are passed and enforced to protect the river and its greenway.” (Photo by Hugh Stoddart)
Some of what's happening at Groton Public Library...
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Pace rachael ross water chestnut pull kayak

New Members Needed for PACE!

AYER: PACE (People of Ayer Concerned About the Environment) will be hosting its next bimonthly meeting through Zoom Thurs. April 11 at 7pm. New Members are Needed!  Please join us and help support PACE!  There is a lot going on, and we have some GREAT NEWS!

Get ready to help pull invasive European Water Chestnuts from Grove Pond again, this spring and summer!  Thanks to the renewal of our Grant from the Nashua Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council as well as support from the town of Ayer, we will again be seeking volunteers to help rid Grove Pond of these intrusive and pretty horrible plants!  Canoes will be provided/kayakers welcome!  Mark your calendar for May 11 for a Kick-Off Event. Online signups will be coming soon for the rest of the season!

We want to launch a clean water project in Ayer, but we need someone to lead the work that will utilize an award of $62K PACE recently received!  The selected project must address a surface water project in support of the Clean Water Act.  A new committee has partially formed.  Please consider joining us to share your time, energy & ideas!

It's Movie Time!  On April 24, the public will be invited view an important film/documentary by Bloomberg Investigates: The Poison in us all: the forever chemical scandal.  This is one everyone should be aware of.   Dr. Laurel Schaider,Sr. Scientist and PFAS Expert from Silent Spring Institute will share the latest research and lead a discussion about her work with chemical exposures and human health. Dr. Schaider has been the Project Manager for the PFAS Health Study in Ayer and Hyannis.  The time and exact location in Ayer was not finalized as of this publication.

Please "like us' on Facebook at facebook.com/PACEayer or email PACEAyer@gmail.com to be added to the direct email list.  Hope to see you there!  
 
~Laurie Nehring, President of PACE
Asrhs percyjackson

ASRHS Drama Presents “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical”

AYER: For its 2024 Spring musical, Ayer Shirley Regional High School Drama Club presents 'The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical," based on the 2005 book by Rick Riordan. Performances run April 5 and 6 at 7:30pm, and April 7 at 2pm. Tickets are $5 for students, general admission; $15 in advance; and $20 at the door. To order online in advance, visit asrhsdrama.ludus.com.

With a book by Joe Tracz and music/lyrics by Rob Rokicki, "The Lightning Thief" is a story about Percy Jackson, a teenage boy who always seems to get into trouble, no matter how hard he tries to be good. When he is expelled from school for the sixth time, his mother decides that it is time for Percy to know the truth. The Greek gods are real and, what’s more, Percy is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. Along with fellow demigod Annabeth (the daughter of Athena) and best friend and protector, Grover (who happens to be a Satyr), Percy must go on an epic quest to retrieve Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt and prevent war amongst the gods. The quest turns into an epic adventure, with the Furies, Medusa, and Ares (the god of war) among those wanting to stop Percy in his tracks. With time running out, Percy soon discovers that nothing is normal when you’re a demigod.
 
Directed by Desiree Feigley with musical direction by Michael Powderly, the cast features Vanessa Abbott, Abigail Alberga, Sophia Angers, Chloe Begin, Remy Duffner, Raegan Feigley, Stephen Govang, Grace Hanss, Noah Hirtle, Lindsay Iannacone, Zoe Kerr, James Mayes, Serenity Middlebrook, Isabelle Pepin, Toby Renczkowski, April Rust, Keziah Salter, Emma Soto, Natalie Stebbins and Katelyn Treadway.
 

PHOTO CAPTION: Clarisse (played by freshman Serenity Middlebrook) cornering Percy (played by junior Keziah Salter) in the bathroom during his first game of Capture The Flag.