Become an Effective Speaker

 
Do you want to advocate new activities at meetings?
Do you want to make an effective presentation at a Town Meeting or Public Hearing?
Do you want to effectively share your experience and knowledge with professional organizations of various community clubs?
Did you know that joining and participating in Toastmasters will enable you to succeed in any or all of these situations?
The Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club invites you to attend an open house meeting on Monday, October 28, from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Acton Public Safety Facility EOC, 371 Main Street Acton, MA. Members will host a meeting to show you Toastmasters in action. Isaac Davis Toastmasters has been serving Acton and the surrounding towns for 52 years. For more information, contact Daniel Livingston, VP Membership, at vpm-2193@toastmastersclubs.org

To Question Is an Answer – FPC Sunday Service

The Unitarian Universalist faith is a questioning one - not one with absolute answers, but still a faith. On Oct. 13 at 10 a.m., First Parish Church of Stow & Acton(FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a service entitled “To Question Is an Answer.” FPC’s minister, the Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum, will explore how something with lack of certainty can still be a religion. The service takes place both in person and virtually. Masking is optional. Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For Information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc. FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

What Kind of Church Holds an Annual Beer Fest?

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

Crafts & Play for Kids in Grades K-5

Children in grades K to 5 are invited to First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) in Stow for a night of crafts, snacks and fun on Friday, Oct. 11, from 6:30 to 8:30p.m. Friday Friends (formerly known as Club UU) is FPC’s monthly, nonreligious drop-off kids club. It's led by a minimum of three adults, and typically between 7 and 9 kids attend. We focus on building social connections between children through creative crafts, fun games and group decision making. Newcomers from the community are always welcome, and are invited to bring a friend.This month, we’ll be making pine cone feeders. We'll have time for active play in Fellowship Hall after our snacks. We'll finish with flashlight hide-and-seek in our slightly spooky sanctuary. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Please drop children off and pick them up in the church Vestry. To get to the Vestry, go through the main entrance (not the sanctuary entrance), take a left, and go to the end of the hallway. FPC’s facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Guest Table Community Dinner

Guest Table is a community dinner that takes place on the second Friday of each month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). The next dinner will take place on Oct. 11. It will begin at 5:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. All are welcome! There’s no charge for dinner, but donations are gratefully accepted. FPC is a nut-free location. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. When parking, please keep a clear path for emergency vehicles; do not block the driveway around the front of the sanctuary; park only on the 117 side of Commons Rd.; and do not block access to the back of the building. Thank you! This program is supported in part by grants from the Stow Community Chest, Nashoba Valley Rotary, and the Acton-Boxborough United Way. Guest Table is also grateful for the consistent support it receives from the Stow Council on Aging and the Stow Food Pantry, as well as the support from so many individuals who donate and volunteer.

Acton COA Upcoming Events

 
The Council on Aging at the Human Services & Senior Center is located at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear. Telephone: 978-929-6652   Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov       ​
Hours: Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8:00am-5:00pm, Tues 8:00am-7:30pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon

Monday Matinee
September 30th, 1:00-2:45
The Young Victoria
(2009, PG) Julian Fellowes’ dramatization of the turbulent first years of Queen Victoria’s rule and her enduring romance with Prince Albert. Stars Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany, Jim Broadbent, Mark Strong, and Harriet Walker. Three Academy Award nominations with a win for Costume Design.
 
Loving Our Older Bodies: Sexuality and Aging with Dr. Jane Fleishman
Thursday, October 1st, 1:00-2:00pm (rescheduled from Sept 26th)
Open to out-of-town seniors for $5
What does aging mean for us as older adults? Many of us are critical about our bodies. And it affects us sexually. For all of us who have ever felt too fat, too short, too dark, too light, too curly, too straight, too tall, too small breasted, too big a belly, too ANYTHING – your body is beautiful. Join Dr. Jane Fleishman as we talk about loving our bodies as we age. She’ll give practical tips, recommendations, and resources that can help you start loving your aging body today.
 
Words Galore via Zoom                    
Thursdays, October 3rd and 17th, 9:00-10:00am                                          
Open to all seniors/free
Join Val Walker via Zoom for this fun and lively hour of word play and brain twisters—a logophile’s paradise!  Learn new words, explore the history of old words and delve into the origins of words. Enjoy limericks, riddles, famous quotes, puns, and fascinating trivia about trendy words. Play guessing games with the dictionary and words-within-word games. Words Galore meets on the first and third Thursday of the month through December, with a separate sign up each month. Contact the COA at seniorcenter@actonma.gov to receive the Zoom link.
 
Benefits of Irrevocable and Revocable Trusts
Thursday, October 3rd, 1:00-2:00pm                                          
Open to all seniors/free
Attorney Dale Tamburro will present on the use of trusts in estate planning: components of a trust; probate avoidance; revocable (living) versus irrevocable; protecting your home and other assets; minimizing estate taxes; trust asset management of trust assets. If time permits Dale will also discuss who should be trustee when you are unable to and how to fund the trust.
Mindfulness Meditation 201 via Zoom with Heidrun Dickson
Thursdays, October 3rd through 24th, 3:00-4:15pm                                   
Open to all seniors/free
Class is for participants with some previous experience with mindfulness. Whether you have an established meditation practice, practiced in the past and want to get back to it, have been using an app or other resource and are feeling a bit stuck, or are looking to practice in community, this class is for you! Suggestions for daily home practice provided. Please attend all four sessions. Sign up with the COA at seniorcenter@actonma.gov. Questions? We can put you in touch with the instructor. Heidrun Dickson trained as a mindfulness teacher at Brown University and enjoys sharing her learnings with others. She has maintained a regular mindfulness practice for many years, including week-long retreats.

A Toast to Hope to Benefit Local Projects by Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts

Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (Habitat NCM) announces a lineup of area restaurants, wine, craft beer, and spirits experts at its ninth A Toast to Hope to be held at the Devens Commons Center, October 17, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm.
Numerous wine, beer, spirit and food purveyors will be putting their best “tastes” forward, including Jack O’Lantern Liquor Store, Boston Harbor Distillery, Heaven Hill Distillery, Berkshire Brewing, Happy Dad Seltzers, Gardner Ale House/Moon Hill Brewing, Stateside Spirits, Wachusett Brewery, JJP Party Planning & Catering, Kith & Kin, KJ’s Caffe, Evviva Trattoria, The Paupers Pantry, Marty’s Corner Café, Alltown Fresh, Texas Roadhouse, Grizzley Ventures, Texas Roadhouse, Devens Common Center…...and more.
$30 per ticket if you register before October 16th, $35 at the door. Tickets for the event are available on our website www.ncmhabitat.org
For more information about A Toast to Hope or to become a sponsor, please call Community Outreach Coordinator, Diana Sinkus, 978-348-2749, or email diana@ncmhabitat.org.
Habitat NCM is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing decent and affordable homes for those who cannot qualify for conventional mortgages, as well as doing Critical Home Repairs throughout the 30-town region. Habitat NCM relies on volunteers to accomplish its mission and is supported only by local funding and donations.

Event by Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue

Get ready to Fall for Goldens! Join us at our Hudson, Massachusetts, facility for our 2nd annual golden retriever-filled fall festival starring the lovable, adoptable dogs from Yankee Golden.
Fan favorite activities like the Howling Contest, Dance Like a Dog, Tennis Ball Toss, and more are returning, as well as the Kith & Kin food truck!
100% of proceeds from this event will go right back into the goldens and golden-hearted dogs you love! Bring any donations of blankets, towels, dog toys, dog treats, and canned dog food too! Located at 110 Chapin Road, Hudson, MA.
***Please note that this is a human-only event, and we ask that all furry family members stay home.
Iron work farm

Iron Work Farm’s Open-Air Tap Room at the Faulkner Homestead

On Saturday, October 5, the Iron Work Farm’s popular annual fundraiser, the Open-Air Tap Room, returns to the Jones-Faulkner Homestead, 5 High Street, Acton, from 4 to 8 p.m.
A 4:00 salute by the Acton Minutemen will open the event. Featured will be music by Babylon, and outdoor games for both kids and adults. Join us for a full-course picnic, roast popcorn and marshmallows over the fire pits, and have a “colonial” selfie taken.
A $50 admission/donation covers three drink- and food tickets. (Children are free). Parking is available in the nearby commuter lots. Handicap parking on site.
Advance registration is recommended. Visit ironworkfarm.org for more information.
Journey home road race

Journey Home 5k/10k Road Race

Devens, MA
November 10, 2024
Join us this Veterans Day weekend as we run or walk to honor our Veterans and First Responders! Whether you're taking on the 5k or the 10k, you'll be supporting those who have given so much for our freedom.
Event Highlights:
Beautiful 5k/10k course
Post-race celebration at Columbia Tavern featuring Yuengling
Special thanks to our premier sponsor, Tito's Handmade Vodka.100% of net proceeds benefit Clear Path for Veterans New England, a wellness-based community for Veterans and their families. Sign up today and make a difference!  https://www.journeyhomerace.com/

House Rabbit Network’s 5k Road Race & Family “Bunny Hop”

Join HRN on Saturday October 12, 2024 for a Run for the Buns! You can make a team or join as a participant to run or walk our course. (We are also hoping our friends from further away can join us virtually). 100% of the proceeds go to us – your local rabbit rescue & education hub. By raising money for our organization, you are allowing us to rescue more bunnies, find them loving homes, and support the public in bunny ownership.
For more information and details, please visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Boxboro/HouseRabbitNetworkRace

Coldwell Banker Flea Market Returns to Downtown Concord

Open Table is announcing that it is excited to partner with Coldwell Banker for its second annual flea market from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, in the parking lot behind its main office at 11 Main Street in Concord. A full 100 percent of the proceeds will go to support Open Table’s hunger relief programs.

Come see Boxborough’s Treasures

The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday October 6.  Come see Boxborough’s historic treasures including the 1850’s scale which is sensitive enough to weigh a penny and strong enough to calibrate a 50 pound weight, the “new” hearse built in 1881, and the “old” hearse (come and see how old is old).  Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information or if anyone wishes to arrange a private tour for a small group at a different time please call John Fallon at 978-264-0069.

Judaism: Music & Prayer with Molly Bajgot – FPC Sunday Service

World religions are the theme of the new church year at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), with an emphasis on the many connections between different faiths and Unitarian Universalism. Guest presenter Molly Bajgot loves to inspire adults and young people alike in the innate magic that is Judaism. She is a singer, songwriter and prayer leader who writes songs to call us back to ourselves, including original melodies that enliven Jewish liturgy. Molly currently leads regular musical Shabbat services for Congregation B'nai Israel in Northampton, MA.
The service will take place both in person and virtually on Sept. 29 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.
FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.
Cannnon

Acton Historical Society-Commemorating Crown Resistance Day will feature a Revolutionary Cannon

The Acton Historical Society (300 Main St Acton) will host a visit of a British cannon at its OPEN HOUSE on October 6th from 2-5pm.
This cannon was cast between 1760 and 1770.
It was acquired by a local militia company in May of 1775. The ship on which it was located became mired in the mud at Chelsea Creek.
This cannon and 3 others taken from the ship were later used by American forces to fight off the British at Bunker Hill.
Come and see this"survivor" and learn about its discovery to restoration.
In addition, explore the events leading up to Crown Resistance Day.

Concord Festival of Authors Features Books, Speakers and Stories for all Ages in October 2024

The 32nd annual Concord Festival of Authors (CFA), managed by the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library, celebrates the written and spoken word this fall with literary events throughout town on October 17 – October 30.
The 2024 CFA kicks off with Keynote Speaker Rajani LaRocca, the Newbery Honor-winning author of Red, White and Whole, on October 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Concord Free Public Library (CFPL). The Friends of CFPL will present this year’s Ruth Ratner Miller Award (ticketed event) for Excellence in American History to award-winning author Jacqueline Jones on Saturday, October 19 at 7:00 p.m. at CFPL. Jones is the author of No Right to an Honest Living, winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for History. The Concord Free Public Library will also feature the Leslie Riedel Memorial Lecture for Young People, presented to Big Nate author Lincoln Peirce, as well as local author Richard Higgins, the popular Mystery Night Panel, and author Natalie Dykstra.
The Thoreau Society will present the 2024 Henry David Thoreau Prize for Literary Excellence in Nature Writing to J. Drew Lanham on Friday, October 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Trinitarian Congregational Church. Other local organizations offering programs for CFA 2024 include Barefoot Books, The Barrow Bookstore, the Concord Museum, The Transcendentalism Council of First Parish, Walden Woods Project and Robbins House.
The popular Breakfast with the Authors, moderated by local author and physician Dr. Suzanne Koven, will take place on Saturday, October 26 at 8:30 a.m. at the Colonial Inn. This event features renowned authors Steve Almond (Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow), Crystal King (In the Garden of Monsters) and Margot Livesey (The Road from Belhaven). Ticket information will be available on the CFA website in early September.
This year’s CFA will include the second Joel Myerson Annual Lecture. After Professor Joel Myerson, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of English Language and Literature at the University of South Carolina, died in 2021, the William Munroe Special Collections at CFPL, along with representatives from the Louisa May Alcott Society, Margaret Fuller Society, The Ralph Waldo Emerson Society, and The Thoreau Society launched the Joel Myerson Annual Lecture Series. This capstone event of the CFA takes place on October 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the Concord Free Public Library. Scholars Brigitte Bailey, Leslie Eckel, and Megan Marshall discuss their work editing Margaret Fuller’s writings.
Most events are free with registration, unless noted on the website. For more information on this year's CFA, please visit www.concordfestivalofauthors.org.

Rotary Club of Littleton Partnering with Household Goods

From now until October 15, the Rotary Club of Littleton will be gathering new or gently used blankets, comforters, towels, and lamps with lampshades for the Household Goods Recycling Center in Acton.  These items may be dropped off in Littleton at Denise Moniz's house at 63 King Street or at Dolphin Insulation, at the rear of the old mill at 410 Great Road.  Please help us provide these necessary items to the Household Goods Recycling Center for local families in need. For more information, email Judygrande2016@gmail.com.

Acton-Boxborough Family Network's Annual Halloween Spooktacular

The Acton-Boxborough Family Network's Annual Halloween Spooktacular party will be held on Saturday, October 26th from 10am-12:30pm at the RJ Grey Junior High School gymnasium at 16 Charter Road in Acton. The event will include a magic show, fun activities provided by local preschools, crafts, and a costume contest with prizes! ABFN member families can attend for free; non-member family admission is $10. For more information and to register, visit www.abfamily.org

Jewish New Year Fair & Family Fun Day

You are invited to join us for an amazing Family Fun Day in honor of the upcoming holiday of Rosh Hashanah & the Jewish New Year!
Enjoy Challah Baking, Arts & Crafts, a Petting Zoo, Fun with Honey, a Bounce House, Shofar Making, Face Painting & More!
Sunday Sep 29th 3pm - 5pm in our huge outdoor tent at the Chabad Center of Sudbury, 100 Horse Pond Road, Sudbury, MA 01776
RSVP at www.chabadsudbury.com

“The Psalms of Nature” by Bryan Clocker

6 Bridges Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of "The Psalms of Nature” by Bryan Clocker. In this exhibit, Bryan presents hand carved, printed linoleum block prints that are painted with watercolor alongside illustrated poetic psalms.
The exhibit will be on view at 6 Bridges Gallery, 77 Main Street, Maynard, from September 25 through November 9, 2024. It will also be hosted online at 6 Bridges Gallery. A reception will be held on October 19, 5:00–7:00 PM.
For more information about the exhibit, please visit 6 Bridges Gallery, Facebook, and Instagram.

Jewelry Sale – All Proceeds to Concord Council on Aging

Sat.  Oct. 5   10 AM – 2 PM
1276 Main St. / Harvey Wheeler Community Center
Vintage, Estate, Custom, Previously Loved!!  Hundreds & hundreds of pieces to look at and buy at rock bottom prices!  Similar to Concord's long-time "Party in the Park".  Cash or check only.  Ample parking in the back of Harvey Wheeler Community Center.  It's fun and rewarding to support Concords older residents - all proceeds benefit the Concord Council on Aging (COA).  Thank you!

Friends of Acton COA Fundraiser event

Help the Friends of the Acton COA by dining at NYAJ’s (in Acton) in October.  A portion of the cost of your meal will be donated to the Friends of the Acton COA. The Friends support programs and classes at the Acton Senior Center. Just bring the flyer, enjoy a great meal and know you are helping the Acton Sr. Center!
Visit the Friends website at: www.friendsofactoncoa.com/events for flyer printout information. Thank you for your support!
Paperlanterns

Paper Lanterns Event

WESTFORD, MA: Grown-ups & your kids!  How about some fun time you can share TOGETHER on Saturday, October 27 from 10am-3pm in the Loft at Parish Center for the Arts?  Spend the day creating Yupo Paper Lanterns!  With the days getting shorter and the nights longer, create one-of-a-kind lanterns to decorate and illuminate.  This session is for adults with their children ages 8+.  When completed, you can take your amazing creations home, and/or include them in the PCA's Loft classes exhibition on December 16.  Bring your own lunch, but otherwise all materials will be provided. Please register early online at https://parisharts.square.site/arts-in-the-loft or call (978) 692-6333 for more information.
Learn More

Noted Cellist and Flutist to Perform with MCC Faculty Member for “World of Music” Concert

 
As part of the Fall 2024 “A World of Music” concert series, Middlesex Community College will present Duos and Trios Featuring Cello, Piano and Flute. The concert will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.
“Our exciting and varied program features cellist Jesús Castro-Balbi and flutist Jill Dreeben, who are wonderful musicians and friends of mine,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, pianist, and MCC Chair of Music. “Both have played with me previously at MCC, but this is the first time that we will be performing together.”
During the program, colorful works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Arthur Foote, Larry Bell, Claude Debussy and Gaspar Cassadó will be performed by Rodríguez-Peralta, Castro-Balbi and Dreeben.
“I am thrilled to be performing Larry Bell's new piece Serenade No. 6 for flute, cello and piano with my good friends at MCC,” Dreeben said. “We will be playing the classic flute Sonata in E-major by JS Bach, my favorite composer!”
“I so look forward to returning to MCC and joining my fabulous artist colleagues in a program exploring colorful and engaging music ranging from time-tested favorites to Larry Bell’s exciting new Serenade,” Castro-Balbi said.
This Fall, other concerts held in the Bedford Concert Hall include Afro-Brazilian Music with Marcus Santos at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22 and a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 2.
“A World of Music” will also feature performances at the Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell. This includes Phantom of the Opera with Live Music at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17 and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23.
A previous performance from the Lowell Chamber Orchestra kicked off the Fall season on Sunday, September 8.
All concerts are free and open to the public.
MCC’s Concert Hall is located in Henderson Hall at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information

Come to CYT's Family Fun Fair on 9/21!

 
Concord Youth Theatre’s (CYT) Annual Family Fun Fair, will be held Saturday, Sept. 21, 1-4 p.m., right at CYT, 53 Church Street, West Concord.
If you joined us last year, you know what a blast kids and families had with games and activities, and amazing raffle and silent auction prizes.
Proceeds from CYT’s Family Fun Fair help support programmatic and operations costs associated with bringing performing arts opportunities to students of all ages.
For tickets & more info, visit concordyouththeatre.org. See you at the Family Fun Fair!

Acton Council on Aging Seeks Artists

 
The Acton Council on Aging is seeking artists (preferably Acton residents and age sixty and over) to display their work at the Senior Center.
Exhibits typically run for six weeks and may feature original art works by an individual or by a group. Various media are acceptable, including drawing, painting, collage and photography. The Senior Center does not have the capacity at this time to display sculpture or other three-dimensional works.
The Senior Center uses the popular Walker display system. Works must have wires securely attached to the back for hanging. They should be matted, framed or have finished edges and may include a variety of sizes.
If you or someone you know is interested, please request a copy of the Acton Senior Center Art Exhibit Guidelines. For more information please contact the Acton Council on Aging office at 978-929-6652.

Upcoming Events at Acton COA

 
The Council on Aging at the Human Services & Senior Center is located at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear. Telephone: 978-929-6652 Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov     
Website: www.actoncoa.com/  Facebook:  www.facebook.com/actoncoa​
Hours: Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8:00am-5:00pm, Tues 8:00am-7:30pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon

Monday Matinee
Crimes of the Heart
September 23rd, 1:00-2:45 pm
(1986, PG-13 for themes of suicide) Diane Keaton, Jessica Lange and Sissy Spacek star as quirky southern sisters damaged by the suicide of their mother. Drama/dark comedy based on the Pulitzer Prize winning play earned three Academy Award nominations including Best Actress for Spacek. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.
Autumn Celebration & Newcomer Tours                                               
Monday, September 23rd, 9:30am-11:00am       
Open to out-of-town seniors/free
Sweater weather is always better together! Come celebrate the beginning of autumn and National Senior Center Month. Stop by for apple cider donuts, coffee, and cider. Newcomers welcome to drop in for a tour and refreshments. Learn more about what the Senior Center offers from one of your peers through our Ambassador Program.
Memory Lane Café
Tuesday, September 24th, 12:00-1:30pm                                                                     
Open to all/free
A Memory Café is a welcoming place for people with memory impairment and their care partners /caregivers. This month musician Edward Thomas will be performing for us. We do ask attendees to bring their care partners. Lunch will be provided. Sponsored by Acton COA, Concord Park and Cooperative Elder Services. Please let us know if you plan to attend.
LitLovers Study Group/American Bestsellers: The Woman Warrior
Tuesday, September 24th, 2:30-4:00pm                                                         
Open to all seniors/free
Each month our group views a 30-minute lecture from The Great Courses DVD Bestsellers: The Books That Shaped America, followed by a discussion on the lecture, the featured novel and the author. This month we will discuss The Woman Warrior by Maxine Hong Kingston. Books are typically on reserve at the Acton Memorial Library. Group is facilitated by Program Manager Chris Chirokas.
Dinner with Doug
Tuesday, September 24th, 5:00pm                                                                       
Open to all seniors
Chicken pot pie, side salad and dessert are on the menu for dinner. Cost is $5.00.
Please sign up prior to the event.
R2 Discounted Electricity Rate & Acton Power Choice Presentation
Tuesday, September 24th, 6:00-7:00pm               
Open to all Acton residents/free
Join us to learn about the qualifiers and benefits of Eversource's "R2" Discount Rate Program and how participating in Acton Power Choice, the Town's electricity program, can help you reduce your electricity costs. You'll also learn how to determine who your electricity supplier is and how much you're paying for electricity. Please bring all pages of a current Eversource electric bill with you to the presentation. Acton Community Services Director Laura Ducharme and Council on Aging staff will be on hand to answer questions about Eversource's "R2" application process. Julie Harris from MassPowerChoice, the Town's consultant for Acton Power Choice (APC) will answer questions about APC. If you would like to enroll in APC, you can do so on the spot if you have a current Eversource electric bill with you!
Coffee with a Cop
Wednesday, September 25th, 9:00-10:00am                                              
Open to all seniors/free
Drop by and chat with members of the Acton Police Department who may include liaison to the senior community Detective Leo Gower, Officer Jon Stackhouse with comfort dog Zane, and clinician Beth Van Emburgh. Coffee with a Cop is a nationwide initiative designed to provide a welcoming environment for residents to get to know their police officers face-to-face and talk about what’s going on in their community. The COA & Acton Police Department are pleased to bring the program to the Senior Center.
Java with John
Friday, September 27th, 9:45am                                                                    
Open to Acton residents only
Town Manager, John Mangiaratti will be here to give updates from the Town, answer your questions and listen to your suggestions and concerns. Acton TV will be filming it live.

Friends of the Bolton Public Library to hold Book Sale

The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semi annual book sale on Saturday, October 26th from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM. There will be no Rain Date. Location is the Houghton Building, 697 Main St. There are over 5,000 books sorted and “not picked over.” Puzzles, CDs and DVDs. The book sale is the Friends' largest fundraiser. Proceeds from the sale support programs, events, museum passes, and our online newsletter, “ Wowbrary.”
Littleton country fair

Littleton Country Fair

The Littleton Country Fair offers something for everyone on Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 am to 2 pm, at 19 Foster St. in Littleton. Come early for the best selection of famous homemade jams, jewelry and crafts; and recycled treasures at the massive yard sale. Families will enjoy free crafts, face painting and can touch a real fire truck. Spend a day not a fortune.
The Country Cafe serves homemade food starting with scones and coffee at 10 am. New this year is a full BBQ menu of chicken, pork and beef with all the sides. Gluten free cornbread and baked goods, and vegan Tuscan Bean soup are on the menu. Free admission and parking For information, contact fair@fculittle.org. Hosted by First Church Unitarian of Littleton.
Donations from the community for the yard sale will be accepted Friday, Oct.4, 4-6 pm, and 8-10 am before the sale on Oct. 5. NO TVs, car seats or computer monitors  accepted. All contributions are tax-deductible, to benefit First Church Unitarian of Littleton, which awards 10 percent of income to a Littleton non-profit. Email questions to fair@fculittle.org. Hope to see you there, to continue a tradition that dates to the 1890s.

Friends of Acton COA Fundraiser: Save the Date!

Jewelry Sale. October 16, 2024
Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Time: 9:00am- 2:00pm
Where: Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Rd Rear, Acton, MA 01720
Event Details: found here https://friendsofactoncoa.com                    
The proceeds from the jewelry sale will be used to fund programs and events at the Acton Senior Center.  See you there!

Change is Coming: A Musical Equinox Celebration

"Change is Coming: An Equinox Celebration," a service of peace with readings and music, takes place in the sanctuary at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) on Sunday, Sept. 22, at 5 p.m. The theme will be a prayer for peace and justice in the world. This vesper service will feature the bass clarinet ensemble Improbable Beasts and the FPC Choir. All are welcome! FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Autumn Poetry – FPC Sunday Service

The Autumnal Equinox takes place on Sept. 22 at 8:44 a.m. Just an hour and a quarter later, you can enjoy some autumn poetry at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist. The Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum will draw on her past study of literature to express the beauty and glory of fall through poetry. All are welcome to this relaxing service, which takes place both in person and virtually on Sept. 22 at 10 a.m.
Masking is optional. Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.
FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.
Cornerstone congregational blood drive

Cornerstone Congregational Church Blood Drive-Please Donate

October 11th, 9a.m. to 2p.m., 32 Graniteville Rd., Westford, MA 01886
Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: Westford to schedule an appointment. Streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation reading and health history questions on the day of your appointment.
Apple pie sign

Community Yard Sale (with Apple Pies!) at FPC on Sept. 21

Looking for new treasures? On Saturday, Sept. 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., a community yard sale will be held at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). With multiple sellers and tables, you’ll find a wider variety and number of items in one place than you’d find at a typical household yard sale. Items are likely to include household wares, artwork, ceramics, toys, sports equipment, and one-of-a-kind items. You’ll also find apple pies, since it happens to also be the first day of FPC’s annual homemade apple pie sale – the pie sale starts at 10 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m. or until all the day’s pies are sold. The yard sale will be held in the church parking lot, unless it rains, in which case it will be held indoors. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow.

Crafts & Play for Kids in Grades K-5

Children in grades K to 5 are invited to First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) in Stow for a night of crafts, snacks and fun on Friday, Sept. 20, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday Friends (formerly known as Club UU) is FPC’s monthly, nonreligious drop-off kid's club. It's led by a minimum of three adults, and typically between 7 and 9 kids attend. We focus on building social connections between children through creative crafts, fun games and group decision making. Newcomers from the community are always welcome, and are invited to bring a friend.
This month is our first session for the 2024-2025 season, and we will be meeting monthly through May 2025. On September 20, we'll be focusing on welcoming new members with a variety of fun group games. We'll have time for active play in Fellowship Hall after our snacks. We'll finish with flashlight hide-and-seek in our slightly spooky sanctuary.
FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Please drop children off and pick them up in the church Vestry. To get to the Vestry, go through the main entrance (not the sanctuary entrance), take a left, and go to the end of the hallway. For more information, call 978-897-8149. FPC’s facilities are wheelchair accessible.

EV Driver Meet-Up: Share the Excitement

When: Monday, September 30, 5-7pm
Where: Rapscallion Tap & Table, 5 Strawberry Hill Rd, Acton, MA
Personal transportation is a huge source of carbon emissions; however, in Acton, electric vehicle ownership has more than doubled in the last 18th months! Come share in the excitement by comparing notes with other EV drivers. Thinking of an EV? Come talk with current EV drivers about range, charging, handling, finances, etc. See some of the vehicles. We will have coloring and crafts for the kids, so bring the family for a bite to eat. This event celebrates National Drive Electric Week. Sponsored by EnergizeActon.org.

EV Driver Meet-Up: Share the Excitement

When: Monday, September 30, 5-7pm
Where: Rapscallion Tap & Table, 5 Strawberry Hill Rd, Acton, MA
Personal transportation is a huge source of carbon emissions; however, in Acton, electric vehicle ownership has more than doubled in the last 18th months! Come share in the excitement by comparing notes with other EV drivers. Thinking of an EV? Come talk with current EV drivers about range, charging, handling, finances, etc. See some of the vehicles. We will have coloring and crafts for the kids, so bring the family for a bite to eat. This event celebrates National Drive Electric Week. Sponsored by EnergizeActon.org.
Concord women's chorus

Choral Ensemble Invites Women to Join for Fall Season


Concord Women’s Chorus (CWC), fostering the power of women’s voices in song, invites new singers to join its ensemble at “Open Rehearsal” on Tuesday, September 17, 9:30 am, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm Street, Concord.  Artistic Director and Conductor Jane Ring Frank welcomes newcomers to join rehearsal, audition and learn more about the fall season.  Rehearsals continue through 2024-25 on Tuesday mornings, 9:30 am to 12 noon, also held at Trinity Episcopal Church.
CWC welcomes singers with prior choral experience including good sight-reading skills, solid intonation and vocal quality, responsiveness to direction and the ability to blend within an ensemble. For auditions, prospective members may be asked to sight-read a short passage and/or sing a familiar tune; arriving with a prepared solo is not necessary.  An information form is available to be printed in advance and brought to the audition at concordwomenschorus.org/wp/sing-with-us.  Chorus members are expected to attend rehearsals and to participate in performing scheduled concerts.  The ensemble holds weekly rehearsals in preparation for its holiday season concert in December, and 2025 performances.  Date for this season’s concerts are TBA.
CWC is committed to the safety of all and requires all singers to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19. Masks are optional during rehearsals, but policies may change as needed. For more information, performance details or to join Concord Women’s Chorus, email manager@concordwomenschorus.org, visit concordwomenschorus.org, or follow Concord Women’s Chorus on Facebook and Instagram.

Navigating the Care-Giving Journey with Those We Love

 
Wednesday October 2, 7pm
The Congregational Church of Littleton is hosting a series of speakers presenting information on how to manage and assist older adults and their families plan and implement care strategies for Alzheimer’s disease or other dementing illnesses.
Led by Geriatric Care Manager and founder of Pro-Active Eldercare, Joanne Fontaine will deliver a presentation: Navigating The Care-Giving Journey With Those We Love. This will be a support group for people of all ages who have the responsibility for the welfare, independence, and safety of loved ones. All are welcome to gather for conversation, to learn and to share needs and explore a variety of resources in a safe gathering space.
The first meeting is Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 7 pm and will continue the second Wednesday of every month, beginning in November. The program is open to all in the Littleton community and nearby towns, and is not limited to CCoL members. Consider inviting friends, neighbors, family members and anyone who may benefit from this program.
The Congregational Church of Littleton is located at 330 King Street in Littleton. There is no charge and refreshments will be offered.

"Wise Parenting Practices: Raising Children with Mutual Respect and Cooperation",
a 3-Part Workshop Series

 
This parent education series takes place in Carlisle on Wednesday evenings October 9, 16 and 23 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. There is no fee due to a final generous grant from CHNA15, received by the Carlisle Board of Health. This series is ideal for parents of children ages 3 to 10 years old. (Parents from any towns in the region are welcome to participate, space permitting.)
Description: Weaving strategies and guidance from the Positive Discipline approach to parenting, drawn from the research of Dr. Alfred Adler, along with insights from Dr. Haim Ginott, Dr. Dan Siegel and other giants in parenting education, this 3-part workshop series creates a better understanding of:
- How to Respond to Challenging Behavior With Encouragement, while Maintaining Firmness, Dignity and Respect - How to Build a Relationship With Your Children Based on Connection, Cooperation and Mutual Respect
- How to Foster Resiliency and Support the Building of Authentic Self-Esteem Parents will learn practical techniques to use right away in their own relationships with their children (as well as with the adults in their lives - it's all about healthy, respectful relationships!).
Our Presenter: Sally Quinn Reed, M.S., brings over 20 years experience in Parenting Education and Support services. She is a certified Positive Discipline trainer, a Parenting Journey facilitator and a grandmother (and caregiver) of two young children. Pre-registration is required by emailing communityallianceforchildren@gmail.com and noting "Registration for Oct series" in the subject line of the email. Spaces are limited so sign up soon!
Please be willing to commit to all three sessions. Location details will be shared upon registration.
This program is being sponsored by the Carlisle Board of Health and was funded through a grant by CHNA 15. It was made possible by Determination of Need funds received from Lahey Hospital & Medical Center and Winchester Hospital.

Free Playgroups for Ages 1-5 this Fall

 
First Connections' parent & child playgroups have openings this fall for groups that meet at the following times:
2 Year Olds at Concord Carousel Preschool on Monday mornings
2-5 Year Olds Nature Group meet outdoors at Assabet Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury on Thursday mornings
1 Year Olds meet on a toddler playground at Village Nursery School on Friday mornings
3-5 Year Olds meet at First Connections in Acton on Wednesday mornings for a playgroup and weekly parent discussion using the book, "How to Talk so Little Kids will Listen" while the children play. It includes a circle time with story and songs at the end of the group.
To register for any of these groups, email Linda at lmatthews@jri.org. We are a free program primarily funded by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care. All groups are led by an Early Childhood Educator.

Maynard Cultural District Announce Grant Openings

 
Deadline to apply is October 16, 2024
The Maynard Cultural Council has announced that grant season is open.
We are seeking funding proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs due October 16, 2024.
Organizations, schools, and individuals can apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community.
These grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Maynard -- including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures. Grants typically range from $50 to $1500 - however one change this year will be the funding of a small amount of higher impact projects with bigger disbursements.
Questions? Email culturaldistrict@townofmaynard.net
Application forms and more information about this Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www.mass-culture.org and at https://www.mass-culture.org/lcc

L-S Adult & Community Education Classes This Month

 
For more information and to register on our website: www.LSRHS.net/community/adult_ed. Any questions? Contact us at adult.ed@lsrhs.net or leave a message 978-443-9961 x 3326.
Family Fishing Clinic: Tuesday 9/17, 4:30-6:30 pm at Camp Sewataro
Flower Arranging For A Cause: Tuesday 9/17, 7-8:30 pm at L-S
Preparing for “the Talk” with Your Elder Parents – Getting Ready: Monday 9/16, 7-8:30 pm, online.
USCG: Boating Skills and Seamanship: Wednesdays 9/18-12/11, 7-9 pm at Concord-Carlisle High School
USCG: Coastal Piloting: Wednesdays 9/18-12/11, 7-9 pm at Concord-Carlisle High School
FOR STUDENTS: SAT: Verbal Review: Thursdays 9/19-10/24, 6-8 pm at L-S
Dance: Cha-Cha (for Couples): Mondays 9/23-10/21, 6-7 pm at L-S
Dance: Swing (for Couples): Mondays 9/23-10/21, 7-8 pm at L-S
Real Estate Investing Workshop: Wednesday 9/25, 6:30-9 pm, online
Unlock the Potential of AI: Demystifying ChatGPT for Everyone: Wednesdays 9/25-10/23, 7-8 pm, online
Residential Addition 101: Thursday 9/26, 6-8 pm, online
Where Have All My Birds Gone?/Fall Migration 101: Thursday 9/26, 7:30-8:30 pm, online Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History Tour: Saturday 9/28, 11:30am-12:30pm at the Museum in Weston, MA

Littleton Historical Society Presents Shaker Program

Revisiting the Harvard Shaker Village and Its Cultural Landscape
Researcher Ned Quist will be speaking about the Harvard Shaker community on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 7:30 pm at the Congregational Church of Littleton on 330 King St. A retired academic librarian, Mr. Quist became interested in the Shakers only a few years ago when as a hobbyist woodworker, he discovered Shaker furniture. The furniture, as it turns out, became a “gateway drug” to the fascinating field of Shaker Studies. He has given a number of talks on the subject, published five articles, and is currently working on a book about structures built by the Harvard Shakers between 1791 and 1918. His talk will focus mainly on the Shaker Village in Harvard, but will include Littleton connections as well.

Annual Blessing of the Animals

We are having our Annual Blessing of the Animals on September 15th, at 4:00 p.m. at 54 Walden St., Concord.
An outdoor, town-wide event designed to give thanks for all God’s creatures, especially the furry, feathered, fluffy ones we love as pets.  People are encouraged to bring their well-behaved pets, photos, or stuffed animals and enjoy some music, kids’ activities, animal crackers for humans and homemade dog treats for the four-legged.  Our newest Senior Minister, Rev. Rebecca Floyd Marshall, and our brand new Associate Minister, Rev. Martha Schick, will lead the blessing service.  All pets leave with a personalized certificate of Blessing!  In support of pets needing a fur-ever home, we are running a towel drive for Buddy Dog, a local shelter in Sudbury.  People are invited to bring clean (gently used) towels for donation.
Jones tavern

Open house at the Faulkner Homestead and Jones Tavern, Sunday, September 22

The Iron Work Farm’s two Acton house museums will be open Sunday afternoon, September 22. Both buildings played important roles at the start of the Revolutionary War.
Jones Tavern, 128 Main Street, first built in 1732 and operated by Samuel Jones as a tavern by 1750, will be open from 1 to 3:00 p.m.
The 1707 Jones-Faulkner Homestead, 5 High Street, will be open from 3 to 5:00 p.m. Visitors can explore the restored rooms of this 1707 architectural gem, the oldest house in Acton and home of the owners of the longtime fulling and grist mills on Fort Pond Brook. It was from this house that Acton’s West Militia marched to Concord on April 19, 1775 under Capt. Simon Hunt, while Capt. Francis Faulkner assumed the leadership (as Colonel) of the 3rd Middlesex Massachusetts Regiment.
Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers’ Guild will be on hand to demonstrate weaving, spinning and other textile crafts.
Parking is available on-site or nearby.

Acton and Boxborough Democrats to Hold 37th Annual Picnic and Food Drive on September 15th

Boxborough, MA: On Sunday, September 15, the Boxborough and Acton Democratic Town Committees will host their 37th annual picnic and food drive. Local elected officials as well as candidates for elected office are expected to attend.
The event will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Boxborough Community Center at 30 Middle Road, Boxborough. The committees invite everyone interested in local politics, good food, and meeting their neighbors to join them. The suggested contribution is $10 per person or $20 per family. Guests are also invited to help support the Acton-Boxborough Food Pantry by bringing a non-perishable food donation to the picnic.
Local activists, elected officials, and candidates for state and local office often attend this event – don’t miss your chance to talk to them! For questions or to RSVP, please contact the Boxborough Democratic Town Committee Chair Abby Reip at boxborough.dtc@gmail.com.
Pie sale

Acton Woman's Club October 19 Pie Sale!

It's time again! The ovens will be baking soon for The Acton Woman's Club's Autumn Bake Sale! Saturday, October 19, starting at 9 am outside the Clubhouse at 504 Main St, until noon or when we are sold out.
Fresh pies are often snatched up to go into the freezer for Thanksgiving, so pies sell out quickly.  Don't miss out.  Proceeds support high school scholarships.
During the sale, you might like a tour of the antique Clubhouse [ask for Marge or Brenda]. Not only can you experience a gracious living room furnished with antiques, you may want to consider using the house for your next party or private event. And coming by for a visit on a
fine fall day during our bake sale would be a wonderful time for you to also go inside the building and find out how lovely it is...So come along, check out the beautiful space, and buy something scrumptious for your upcoming party or just for you! The Acton Woman' Club has room for more members, especially if you like to bake or organize events! The Acton Woman's Club is a great way to make new friends! More information: www.theactonwomansclub.org

Acton Boxborough Family Network Announces New Member Discount and Halloween Party

  The Acton Boxborough Family Network (ABFN) has announced a discounted membership rate for new families through October 15, as well as the date of their Annual Halloween Spooktacular–October 26.
  ABFN is a non-profit group of local parents working together to increase and improve local resources for families with young children. More than 200 families in Acton, Boxborough, and neighboring towns are active members of ABFN, and the group is managed by roughly 25 volunteer board members.
  ABFN primarily caters to families with young kids, aged newborn to six years old, with the goal of connecting and building a community through a variety of family programming. Typical programs include family outings, seasonal parties, parents' nights out, and playgroups. They also offer member resources like discounts to kid-related businesses, new baby meal trains, and speaker events.
  ABFN also organizes a handful of public events each year as well, including the Annual Halloween Spooktacular, which will be held on Saturday, October 26 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the RJ Grey Junior High School gymnasium at 16 Charter Road in Acton. The event will include a magic show, fun activities provided by local preschools, crafts, and a costume contest with prizes. Families do not need to be ABFN members in order to attend.
  “The Acton Boxborough Family Network was a great way to connect with other local families when we moved to town,” says Amy Gordon, an ABFN board member and Boxborough mom of two young kids. “I’ve attended several mom’s night out events including dinner at Adelita in Concord and a chocolate making event at Two Friends Chocolates in Boxborough, which granted me some much needed social time. I also met families with similar-aged kids by joining one of the past ABFN playgroups. I’m excited to be part of the board this year and help coordinate playgroups to connect local families with each other.”
  Families interested in joining ABFN are encouraged to check out the ABFN website at www.abfamily.org and use the discount code “ABFN24FALL”.
  In addition to taking advantage of the discounted membership, families can participate in the annual playgroup survey, which will group families into playgroups based on child ages and availability.
  Families can also learn more about ABFN by visiting their booth at the upcoming West Acton Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gardner Field in West Acton.

 

Pam’s Gardening Tips: This Year’s Hits and Misses In The Garden

  Have you been able to write down how your gardens did this year? I do this every year and also take photos, so that in the spring I can open up the folder and see what I thought went well, what I would repeat, and what was a failure.
  This year, I had some hits: I kept my daylilies blooming all summer, had a successful color garden, and found I could keep everything going pretty well due to abundant rainfall. I kept up with weeding, deadheading, and pinching back the mums so they wouldn’t be too tall this fall. I created some containers that I liked with light green colors that created brightness in the shade garden. I kept the plant tags and I have a plant shopping list on my phone for next spring.
  I don’t know about you, but I won’t remember this all next April, so I will be glad to have this information at my fingertips.
  I had some misses too. I had a run-in with a terrible weed called lesser celandine. I have one perennial bed that just seems to get weaker each year, and no amount of fertilizer has made any difference. I know it is time to get the soil tested. And, the hydrangeas doing well all over New England missed my address. Mine were not great.
  This time of year is sometimes referred to as the August “uglies.” Sure, some of the hosta now have a tattered look, and they probably have slugs due to the abundant rain. I do not treat them with the various slug remedies at this time of the summer…by mid to late August, I kind of let things go a bit.
  And. I bet I am not alone in having some perennials waiting patiently in their pots to be planted! Not to worry, September is a great time to plant perennials.
  Take heart if you were not pleased with your garden - there is always next year.
  Please join the Boxborough Garden Club. We love having new members. Call Flo Hanover at 978-263-3250.