Upcoming events at the 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 Movie Matinee
The Lavender Hill Mob
Monday, July 29th, 1:00-2:20 pm
(1951) A meek British bank clerk who oversees the shipment of bullion and his eccentric neighbor decide to steal the gold bars and smuggle them out of the country as miniature Eiffel Towers. Alec Guinness stars in an Oscar-nominated role. The film won an Oscar for Best Story and Screenplay. Marks Audrey Hepburn’s first appearance in a major movie. This film is shown in collaboration with the Acton Memorial Library.
Learn to Play the Ukulele!
Tuesday, July 30th, 1:00-2:00pm                                 
Open to out-of-town seniors for $5 starting July 11th
Want to try an instrument that is fun and easy to play? Join Julie Stepanek as she shows the fundamentals of ukulele playing. No experience necessary. Ukuleles provided. Registering in advance with the COA is required.
Art Exhibit
From August 1st through September 12th, we welcome the work of Jen Mabardy and Lara Maira who will host a collaborative exhibit titled "Connections".
Jen has been a longtime Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator. She loves colors and cardstock, and working with a variety of stamps and inks to make handmade greeting cards. Lara combs beaches all over the world for sea glass to then create framed art pieces.
For this exhibit, look for unique pieces “connecting” their creations!
All are welcome to attend their Reception with refreshments on Tuesday, August 13th from 4:30-6:30 pm.
Nara Park Senior Stroll Part 2                                         
Friday, August 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd,
10:00 -11:00 am.
Acton, Boxboro, Littleton Seniors
Come join other seniors from Acton, Boxboro, and Littleton Council’s on Aging for conversation, coffee, and a stroll around Acton’s Nara Park, 25 Ledgerock Way, Acton.  Please meet us at the Sports Pavilion off the upper parking lots located off Quarry Road.  For additional information please call Nursing at 978-929-6650. Registration is required.
Chess Lessons with Ken LeBow                                                          
Thursdays, ongoing, 1:00-3:30pm 
Open to all seniors/free                          
No class on 8/1, can still play games                                       
Acton resident Ken Lebow teaches this class that is best for people with some chess experience who know how the pieces move and the concepts of check and checkmate. You will play games and get feedback. Chess sets supplied by the COA. If you are a true beginner, Ken is happy to meet with you at the Senior Center to teach you the basics. Just let us know if that’s the case and Ken will get in touch with you to arrange some times to meet. Ken LeBow has been playing chess for over 50 years. He started a chess club and lessons for seniors in Pennsylvania and has been teaching and leading chess club in Acton, in person and virtually, since 2013.
Chess Club                                                                                                              
Thursdays, 1:00-4:00 pm
No Chess Club July 4th 
Open to all seniors/free                                                                                                                                                                                      
Players with some chess experience get together for games at the Senior Center. You only need to know the basics to play.
Come and play pool! Table available during regular opening times. We have cues and chalk or bring your own. Available for all seniors.

Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A Virtual Alzheimer’s Support Group

Offered by Concord Park August 8, 2024, 12:00 pm, hosted by Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 68 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord. Dealing with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia isn't easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you're going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family members. Please contact Maryellen King at 978-369-4728 or mking@concordpark.org for the details and a Zoom invite.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.

Memory Lane Café at the Acton Senior Center

August 27, 2024, 12:00-1:30 pm at the Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road, Rear, Acton. A Memory Café is a welcoming place for people with memory impairment and their care partners /caregivers. Cafés are a place to talk with others, enjoy lunch and an activity or entertainment together. We do ask attendees to bring their care partners. Sponsored by the Acton Council on Aging, Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community and Cooperative Elder Services, Inc. An RSVP is not required but appreciated. There is no cost to attend. For more information or to RSVP, please call Sharon Mercurio, Acton Council on Aging director, at 978-929-6652. Groups will be held on the last Tuesday of each month.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.

1st Annual Robert H. Hawkins Memorial Golf Tournament

Hawkins is the first African American to build, own, and operate a golf course in Massachusetts. Originally named Mapledale Country Club in 1926 when Robert H. Hawkins purchased the Randall Estate, Mapledale hosted the first three UGA “Negro National” Open Championship golf tournaments in 1926, 1927, and 1928 before closing in 1929 under the weight of the Great Depression.
Join us for the 1st Annual Robert H. Hawkins Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, August 26th 2024 at the Stow Acres in Stow, MA. Following a fun round of golf, we’ll host a luncheon for both golfers and non-golfers to finish off the day. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the United Golfers Association (UGA).
Register online at this eventbrite link. Please visit our website www.rediscovermapledale.org to sign up and play in this great event or partner with us as a sponsor. If you’re unable to attend and would still like to support our cause, you can donate directly on our website.
Dsndp cleanliness drive july 14 2024 8

Global Nonprofit DSNDP Volunteers From Massachusetts participate in Cleanliness Drive!

On July 14th ,2024, Massachusetts State residents joined hands as dedicated volunteers of the global non-profit organization Dr. Shri. Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Pratishthan (DSNDP), undertaking Adopt-A-Highway & Adopt-A-Visibility-Site clean-up drive in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) at (Adopt-A-Highway) 135 Eastbound side from Pond Rd. to Weston Rd, Wellesley, MA 02481 & (Adopt-A-Visibility-Site) at Gonzalez Lower Lot: Town of Dedham, 506 High St, Dedham, MA 02026.
In alignment with the motto “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family), DSNDP aims to foster a brighter future by advocating for cleanliness drives in collaboration with the US government by undertaking nationwide cleanliness drives since July 2022. These activities are executed under the guidance of the founders of the organisation Dr. Shri Appasaheb Dharmadhikari and Dr. Shri Sachindada Dharmadhikari.
Earlier in Massachusetts, the organization also carried out other cleanliness activities such as Adopt-a-Visibility-Site, Adopt- a-Highway, across 3 cities involving a total of 67 volunteers who worked for around 85 volunteer hours and collected 28 bags of waste resulting in approx. 420 pounds of trash.
Within the North America continent, DSNDP continues to collaborate with 18 states and 73 cities across the United States for nationwide cleanliness drive including 23 different programs such as Adopt-Highway/Park/Beach/ Street/ River etc. During these cleanliness drives, DSNDP has successfully engaged 2109 volunteers, actively collecting more than 34000 pounds of trash, resulting in significant cost savings for the government. The organisation has received accolades from various state and county governments in the form of 53 certificates and 51 signboards within the nation.
The organisation is also involved in tree plantation across 15 states and 33 cities within the US. DSNDP is also involved in health initiatives such as the Women’s Cancer Awareness Conference successfully hosted in February 2023 and blood/ plasma donation drives in Canada and the United States in recent years. DSNDP also recently organised a Mega Cleanliness Drive and Tree Conservation Event across 21 locations simultaneously to celebrate Earth Day 2024.
For more information, please visit http://www.dsndp.com

The Council on Aging at the
Human Services & Senior Center is located
at 30 Sudbury Rd, Rear.

Telephone: 978-929-6652
Email: seniorcenter@actonma.gov
Website: www.actoncoa.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/actoncoa​
Hours: Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8:00am-5:00pm, Tues 8:00am-7:30pm, and Fri 8:00am-12noon

Monday Movie Matinee

The Lavender Hill Mob

Monday, July 29th, 1:00-2:20 pm
(1951) A meek British bank clerk who oversees the shipment of bullion and his eccentric neighbor decide to steal the ...read more
Nyara

The National Center For Missing & Exploited Children Is Seeking The Public’s Assistance In Locating Missing 14-Year-Old, Nyara Mitchell.

Nyara has been missing since June 22, 2024, from her home in Canton, Massachusetts. Nyara is described as 5’5”, weighs 170 lbs., and has brown eyes with black hair. Authorities believe that Nyara may be in Boston, Massachusetts area.
In an effort to bring more attention to Nyara’s case, her poster is being featured on the Ring’s Neighbors app as a part of a partnership between NCMEC and Ring. This feature reaches millions of users, providing real-time assistance in locating missing children.
If you have any information about Nyara or her disappearance, please contact NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or the Canton Police Department (Massachusetts) at 1-781-821-5090

Multigenerational Game Night at FPC

Stow, Mass., July 19 – All are welcome to a multigenerational game night that takes place on the third Friday of the month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun!

There will be a focus on card games in July, including Mille Bornes, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, Munchkin, and a unique deck of cards called “One Deck: multi game cards” that can also be used to play dominoes, chess, checkers, and backgammon.

The next Game Night will take place on Friday, July 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. FPC is a nut-free location. It’s located at 353 Great Rd, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Bruce Springsteen’s Ministry of Community and Redemption - FPC Sunday Service

Stow, Mass., July 21 – From his early years to the present, Springsteen’s songs and concerts have been a collaboration with fans to form a community in search of everyday salvation. At First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), FPC member Dave Sansone will connect those ideas with what is done at FPC to engage folks who are in search of a home.

The service will take place both in person and virtually on July 21 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for all in-person summer services. 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.

FreeBee Market Updates: Abundant Produce and a Community Market on July 27

   FreeBee Market, Boxborough’s volunteer-driven free food network and market, organizes two types of events, “community market” days and “food rescue” days, on Saturdays throughout the summer and fall.
    “Food rescue” days, held every Saturday, are focused only on sharing extra food collected from local supermarkets and farms. The “community markets” have rescued food plus community booths and kids’ activities.
  FreeBee’s Saturday July 13 “food rescue” day was the largest one yet this year. The hard-working volunteer teams rescued a record 76 banana boxes of produce, frozen meat, eggs, breads, prepared foods, and so much more. Local farm fields are brimming with produce, and extras are coming to FreeBee.
  The next FreeBee “community market” will be held on July 27. In addition to the rescued food, there will be free cut flowers and free books, a free bouncy house, and local community organizations sharing information and free items at their own tables. The Boxborough Minutemen will be there with t-shirts to give away, and the UCCB church has Legos to build with and give away, too.
  Both types of FreeBee events (food rescue days and community market days) are held from 10:30 until noon on the side lawn of the UCC Boxborough church at 30 Middle Road. The remaining community markets are July 27, August 17, September 7, and October 19.
  FreeBee is looking for volunteers to help with Friday pickups and Saturday banana box returns to Acton. To sign up as a volunteer of any sort, contact freebeecommunity@gmail.com.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version at BoxboroughNews.org.

“Repair & Renew” Workshop Collaborates with Adult Craft Time at Sargent Memorial Library

  In 2022, Sargent Memorial Library created a strategic plan and identified a set of goals for FY23 through FY27. One of the goals is to provide programs that foster human connection and enrich people’s lives. Another is to strengthen community partnerships.
  A direct outcome of these goals is the Repair & Renew Workshop, a collaboration between Sargent Memorial Library, Acton Memorial Library, and local seamstress and founder of PatternReview.com, Deepika Prakash.
  The workshop marks the first partnership between the Acton and Boxborough libraries, sharing promotional and planning responsibilities, and taking turns hosting Deepika as she teaches participants how to mend, renew, or repurpose textile materials every month.
  In June, the library’s Information Services Librarian, Meghan Bouffard, took the collaboration with Deepika one step further, combining the workshop with June’s Adult Craft. The next adult craft is another collaboration where Meghan and Deepika will lead participants to create block prints on flour sack dish cloths using beautifully engraved wooden blocks from India. The craft is on Tuesday, July 30 at 4 p.m. and registration is required through the library’s event calendar at boxlib.org.
  July’s Repair & Renew workshop is a T-shirt refashion class that will be held at Acton Memorial Library on Monday, July 22 at 4 p.m. Registration is required at https://www.actonmemoriallibrary.org/.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version at BoxboroughNews.org.

Work Starts on Steele Farm Ice House Restoration; RFP for Phase III of Farmhouse Preservation Prepared

  At the July 11 meeting of the Steele Farm Committee, Chair Christopher Hydak reported that the restoration of the exterior of the Steele Farm Ice House has begun. The contractor discovered that some of the underlying sheathing had rotted, and the committee agreed to have the contractor replace the rotted sheathing while keeping as much of the original wood as possible.
  The committee discussed Phase III of the preservation of the 1784 Levi Wetherbee farmhouse, which includes new windows, new siding, and exterior painting. They reviewed the language in the request for proposals (RFP) for work on the farmhouse and will finalize and issue the RFP in August 2024.
The town purchased the Steele Farm property in the fall of 1994, making this year the 30th anniversary of town ownership and the preservation of the buildings and property. The committee is still planning to have an 30th anniversary celebration in mid October; details will be arranged over the next few months.
  The committee’s next meeting will be on Thursday, August 8 at 7 p.m. at the Boxborough Museum, 575 Middle Road.

Planning Board Elects Two Working Group Members to Address MBTA Communities Zoning Compliance

  At its meeting on July 8, the Planning Board discussed the MBTA Communities zoning requirements and their plan to address compliance. Town Planner Alec Wade presented a background on the MBTA Communities Act and advocated for a “working group” approach to help Boxborough comply with the law.
  Wade stressed that public engagement is key to the success of the community and proposed the formation of a working group that would include two planning board members, a resident with traffic or engineering experience, and two additional members at large, preferably from different geographic areas of town. The group will gather input through public forums and meetings with other town boards and committees. They will analyze the data and make recommendations to the Planning Board, who will then hold public hearings and bring the proposed zoning district for a vote at a future Town Meeting. Planning Board Clerk Rebecca Verner and member Rich Guzzardi were elected as the Planning Board representatives to the working group. The board did not discuss the process or timeline for selecting the additional working group members. Wade indicated that the working group would likely begin meeting in early fall 2024.
  The MBTA Communities Act was passed by the State Legislature in 2020 as part of an Economic Development Bond Bill. It requires that the 177 communities served by the MBTA create a zoning district where multifamily housing is allowed as of right, which means there is a more streamlined permitting process compared to the special permit process. The deadline for adopting legislation is December 2025.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version at BoxboroughNews.org.

Boxborough Zoning Board Denies New England Tree Masters’ Appeal of Building Commissioner’s Decision

At its meeting on Tuesday, July 9, the Boxborough Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) conducted a public hearing to consider the application for an appeal of the building commissioner’s enforcement order issued to New England Tree Masters, a business operating at 984 Mass Ave and 38 Sara’s Way. As an abutter to the applicant, ZBA Chair Mark White recused himself, and Clerk Mark Barbadoro w ...read more

Select Board Appoints Fire Station Building Committee

At its meeting on July 15, the Select Board appointed all seven members of the new Fire Station Building Committee (FSBC). The five at-large members are Joan Blaustein, Mary Brolin, Sara Lavado, Eric Michnovez, and Mac Reid. The Select Board representative will be Priya Sundaram, and the Finance Committee representative will be Maria Neyland. The Board also appointed Fire Chief John ...read more

BBB Scam Alert: Fake events & phone tickets

Many people are looking forward to fun festivals this summer. As usual, scammers are taking advantage of the building excitement. This time, they are cashing in with phony tickets—and even fake events.
How the scam works:
You see a fantastic deal on tickets to a summer festival in your area, usually through a link on social media. The event promises live music, all-you-can-eat meals, c ...read more

Stow Garden Club Holds Annual Meeting

Fourteen members of the Stow Garden Club enjoyed lunch al fresco at the home of Ruth Delmonico recently. Gifts were given to Diane Pellietier ( Past President), Jennifer Mandlebaum (Treasurer), and Eva Barstow (Secretary) for serving as officers of the club. Newly elected officers for the ensuing year include: Mary Staley and Gladys Beaudette, Co-Presidents; Ruth Delmonico, Vice President; Nancy Buck, Secretary. Committee Chairs are Susan Choyce and Ruth Delmonico, Civic Projects & Fundraising, which includes the Daffodil Sale in October. Publicity is handled by Susan Pauley, the Yearbook is created by Kirsten Berg-Sonne, the Garden Tour is arranged by Jai Gluckman-Thomas, Hospitality & the Annual Luncheon, Marge Alessio. Louise Peacock is the Scholarship Chair, which is given to a graduating senior in Stow, who is interested in furthering their education in horticulture, agriculture, or related subjects. Members discussed program plans and will finalize the calendar during the summer months. Meetings can consist of garden educational speakers, floral arrangements to take home, or trips to nearby gardens and arboretums. A local garden tour may be planned. The club recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion and is open to anyone in Stow or nearby towns. For membership details see the website www.stowgardenclub.org or contact Louise Peacock, Membership Chair.

The Merry Wives of Windsor coming to Concord July 20-27

 
Once again, The World’s A Stage Players, Concord Players’ Shakespeare Troupe, will stage a free production on the lawn of the Concord Free Public Library. The Merry Wives of Windsor will be presented on consecutive Saturdays and Sundays, July 20-27 at 5 PM.
One of Shakespeare’s funniest and most accessible comedies, The Merry Wives of Windsor is, in many ways, a thoroughly modern production. “I think of Merry Wives as a contemporary soap opera,” says Director Jim Porter. “Everything is just pitched a little higher, everything is a bit more over the top, it’s all very dramatic … which, of course, makes for great comedy.”
The two Merry Wives, played by Hannah Clifford (Mistress Ford) and Jacey Lynn Rutledge (Mistress Page) are simultaneously wooed by the arrogant yet oblivious Falstaff (played by Mike Haddad). Once they discover his brazen pursuit, they decide to have a little fun at his expense and go to extensive lengths to make him look like a fool.
“Hannah and I have several scenes where we team up to undermine Falstaff’s egotism and self-importance,” says Jacey. “Our characters know what’s going on. The audience knows what’s going on. But Falstaff has no idea, which is a lot of fun.”
Mike Haddad, a frequent performer and director with The World’s A Stage Players, turns Falstaff’s foibles into comic gold. “His cluelessness is what makes him fun,” says Mike. “He thinks he’s God’s gift to humanity, and assumes everyone else thinks so too. It’s a great role to play and a funny one to watch.”
The show features some of Shakespeare’s best wordplay. Shakespeare creates several hilarious characters with non-traditional and/or non-English accents – the French Doctor Caius (played by Andrew Harrington) struggles mightily with his English, while the Welsh parson Sir Hugh Evans’ (played by John Small, making his World’s A Stage Players’ debut) malapropisms add to the humor. Andrew’s real-life wife, Jasmine Yong Hall, plays the inn-keeper Mistress Quickly with a full-on cockney accent.
Merry Wives also features strong women characters, which creates a sense of female empowerment that feels distinctly feminist.
“One of the best things about the show is that the women are firmly in charge,” notes Director Jim Porter. “The men range from jovial to profoundly jealous to utterly moronic, but the women are smart, clever and very funny.”
As always, The World’s A Stage Players draws on a cast of both regulars, occasional returnees and newcomers. Returnees from last summer include Ava Enoch, Michael Jay, Darin Kimball and AJ Gaudreau, along with newcomer Cherry Lynn Zinger and Rutledge. Other familiar faces include Katie Speed, Mike Lague, Julian Willard, Kathleen O’Connor (who is also producing the show) and Ed Bernard. Ed and Andrew Harrington are the only two performers who have
appeared in every World’s A Stage Players’ production. “This is the first time in several years where my character is both alive and married at the end of the show,” says Ed, a Concord resident. “Usually, I’m either dead or alone or both.”
Performances are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, July 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 5 PM on the lawn of the Concord Free Public Library, with a rain venue at 51 Walden Street. There is also an indoor air-conditioned performance on Friday, July 26 at 7 PM.
Patrons are invited to bring blankets or chairs and sit on the lawn; a limited number of chairs will be provided. For more information, visit www.concordplayers.org.
William ansley and thomas rivier

Youth Led ‘Sunrise Classic’ Running Race Kicks Off at Concord’s Emerson Field

All race proceeds to benefit Open Table in its mission to fight food insecurity in Metrowest area
Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, is thrilled to partner with local youth for the first Sunrise Classic, a dual 5K and one-mile track event to take place at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 3, at Emerson Field, 90 Stow Street in Concord. All proceeds from the race will support Open Table’s mission to address food insecurity in the Metrowest area.
The Sunrise Classic is co-organized by two recent Concord Carlisle High School graduates, Thomas Rivier of Carlisle and William Anstey of Concord. Both ran a full season of track, cross country and indoor track as students and wanted to create a fun summer event for local runners that would also give back to the community.
“We already knew about Open Table because of the food drives conducted by the CCHS cross country team. We needed an official 501(c)(3) organization to partner with in order to get sponsors and insurance for The Sunrise Classic. Open Table was the perfect fit,” said William Anstey.
“Both the 5K and mile races will be run on Emerson Field Track so that all runners record official times that will help them set their goals and training programs for the fall track season,” said Thomas Rivier. William and Thomas chose the early morning start time to steer clear of the summer heat and are unphased by questions about the “Sunrise” aspect of the event.  Thomas remarked, “The local running community is always up for something unique and crazy. You’d be surprised how many people will wake up in the dark to take part in a race that starts at dawn.”
Thanks to race sponsors Middlesex Bank, ASICS, Carlisle Cutters, and Run House, the Sunrise Classic will offer medals across multiple age groups for each event. In addition, all participants will receive a free Sunrise Classic T-shirt.
Registration is $35 for each event and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, August 2. To register, go to: https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Concord/TheSunriseClassic2024

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our meetings had been every Thursday evening at 7 pm at the South Acton Congregational Church. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact  paulbaker01@verizon.net

Summer Crafts Fair in Concord

The Summer Crafts Fair 2024 will take place on Saturday, August 3rd from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Road, Concord, MA. In case of rain, the fair will be brought indoors on the same date. This juried fair will offer a wide variety of handmade works by fine artists, photographers, jewelers, fiber artists, woodworkers, florists, specialty food providers and other artisans. Great browsing and shopping for people of all ages. Food will be served all day on site. A few vendor spaces are available to rent. Call 978-369-9602 to rent a space.

Acton COA Upcoming Events

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

Monday Movie Matinee
Dial M for Murder
July 15th, 1:00-2:45 pm
(1954, PG) Alfred Hitchcock thriller tells the story of a former te ...read more
Acton boxboro family network

Join the Acton-Boxborough Family Network!

Did you know that the Acton-Boxborough Family Network (ABFN) puts on nearly 100 events each year, thanks to the dedicated efforts of our parent volunteers? We bring families with young children together and connect them with local resources. As a non-profit organization, all membership and donation dollars go back to our community in the form of holiday events, parents nights out, outdoor activities and more! To learn more about becoming a member or parent volunteer, visit www.abfamily.org
Acton police re accreditation

Acton Police Earn Re-Accreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission

Chief James Cogan is pleased to report that the Acton Police Department earned re-accreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission (MPAC)
The Acton Police Department earned re-accreditation on Wednesday, June 26. The department was first accredited in 2021. Re-accreditation lasts for three years, meaning the department will now remain accredited until 2027.
"Accreditation is the best standard by which we can judge our policies and practices," said Chief Cogan. "I am pleased that the Acton Police Department has once again earned accreditation, which ensures to our community that we are meeting and exceeding the highest standards of law enforcement."
Accreditation is a self-initiated, lengthy and comprehensive evaluation process. Participating departments complete an internal self-review and an external assessment by MPAC experts. The process is a voluntary evaluation by which police departments strive to meet and maintain the top standards of law enforcement. It is considered the best measure for a police department to compare itself against the established best practices around the country and region.
The Massachusetts Police Accreditation Program consists of 257 mandatory standards as well as 125 optional standards. To achieve accreditation status, the department was required to meet all applicable mandatory standards as well as 55% of the optional standards.
These carefully selected standards reflect critical areas of police management, operations and technical support activities. They cover areas such as policy development, emergency response planning, training, communications, property and evidence handling, use of force, vehicular pursuit, detainee transportation and holding facilities.
Chief Cogan wishes to recognize the Acton Police Accreditation Team, Deputy Chief Douglas Sturniolo, Lt. Scott Krug, Detective Douglas Mahoney and Officer Monica Ricci.

A Celebration of Plant-Based Food

Wed., July 17, 6-8pm, NARA Park Pavilion
We all share one thing that can have a significant impact on climate change: the food we eat. Making changes to your eating habits can be done at your own pace and with little financial investment — but it can have a big climate impact! This topic will be explored by EnergizeActon.org at its annual potluck picnic, A Celebration of Plant-Based Food, on Wednesday, July 17th, 6-8pm, at NARA Park Pavilion. The aim of the potluck is to share delicious options in plant-based meals and to highlight the carbon savings when we eat lower on the food chain.  Community members are invited to participate by bringing a plant-based dish, plus the recipe, to the event. Energize Acton will also display vegetarian/vegan cookbooks and food/climate titles at the potluck. Feel free to contribute your favorite "foodie book" for the evening. This will be a low-waste event. For more information, please visit energizeacton.org.

Electronics Recycling Event at Trinitarian Congregational Church

Trinitarian Congregational Church is hosting an Electronics Recycling Event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday July 20. The collection event will be held in the church parking lot at 54 Walden Street, Concord.
All electronics, appliances, items with a plug and/or batteries, as well as bicycles in any condition will be accepted and recycled for a small cost as follows:
Cost to You:
• $5 each for Computers, Laptops, Video Game Consoles, DVD Players, VCR’s, Small Printers, Radios, Alarm Clocks, Speakers, Table Lamps, Fans, Hair Dryers, Curling Irons, Projectors, Power Tools, Drills, Cameras, Clocks, Trophies, Frying Pans and Cookware, Holiday Lights, Other Small Electronics.
• $10 each for Vacuum Cleaners/Roomba, Toaster Ovens, Ceiling Fans, Floor Lamps, Air Fryers, Electric Grills, Hot Plates, Small Radiators, Keyboard Pianos, Coffee Makers, Ice Makers, Small Household Appliances
• $20 each for Flat Screen Computer Monitors, Microwaves, Dorm Sized Refrigerators, Dehumidifiers, Air Conditioners, Artificial Christmas Trees, Water Coolers, Large Printers/Copiers, Leaf Blowers, Chainsaws, Heat Lamps, Heaters, Fire Extinguishers, Propane Tanks (Empty)
• $25 each for TVs up to 26,” CRT Monitors, Outdoor Grills, Snow Blowers, Lawn Mowers, Rototillers, Power Washers, Large Yard Equipment, Large Generators, Motors, Water Tanks.
• $30 each for TVs between 26” and 35,” Washing Machines, Dryers, Stoves, Dishwashers, Other Large Appliances, Treadmills, Exercise Equipment
• $35 each for TVs over 36,” Large Refrigerators, Ride-On Lawn Mowers.
• $40 each for Projection TVs
• NO CHARGE (Cash Donation Appreciated): Cell Phones, Bicycles in any condition, Video Game Media and Accessories, Wires, Cables, Chargers, Car Batteries, Household Batteries, VHS/DVD’s, Keyboards, Tablets.
When you arrive, please follow the cones and directions from the workers. Bring your vehicle as close to the truck or dumpster as possible. Feel free to remain in your vehicle, our workers will unload your items for you.
Residents from all towns and communities are welcome to recycle. The event will be rain or shine. Computer hard drives will be destroyed during the recycling process, but can be removed on-site at the event for an additional charge. Cash payment is preferred, but checks will be an acceptable form for payments over $30.
For more information or if you have additional questions, email GreenDayRecyclingMA@Gmail.com

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 July 14.  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.

Free Playgroups for Babies

First Connections is offering free playgroups this summer for babies and their caregivers, beginning the week of July 15. The groups will be facilitated by an early childhood educator, include free play and circle time, and take place at the following times:
Fridays at 10:30 at Maynard Library for 12-23 months
Thursdays at 10:00 at First Connections in Acton for 6-11 months
To register for either group, email Linda at lmatthews@jri.org. First Connections is the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care CFCE grant program serving all families with children age 0-6 in 11 towns. www.firstconnections.org
Riverfest 1

RiverFest Summer 2024 – Explore our Local Rivers
Now through July 28

Celebrate our federally protected Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild & Scenic Rivers at RiverFest Summer 2024. Come to the riverbank by foot, or paddle, bring a picnic, and enjoy a day at the historic Old Manse (269 Monument Street, Concord, MA), Saturday, July 20 from 10am – 3pm.  Begin the day with outdoor yoga. Join local artists for plein air painting. Children will enjoy RiverFest Storytime. Have fun with arts and crafts by the river and play old fashioned yard games. Learn about who lives in our rivers through Mass Audubon’s hands-on explorations and how and why to protect our rivers. Also discover the history of our rivers. And become a Junior River Ranger. End the day with a guided walk through the pollinator gardens at the Buttrick House. There is something for everyone!
RiverFest is also offering walks, paddles, and talks in 9 communities from Lowell to Framingham this week through July 28!  Topics include history, nature, birds, wetlands wildlife and more.
For details and to see a full listing of Riverfest Summer 2024 events, visit www.sudbury-assabet-concord.org. These events are courtesy of the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord River Wild & Scenic River Stewardship Council and our partners working to protect our rivers. All events are free and open to the public.

Cornerstone Shop Closed for the Summer

The Cornerstone Thrift Shop is now closed for the summer. Please do NOT leave donations while we are closed as there are no volunteers there to accept them. The shop will reopen in mid-September. Please hold your donations until then. Once we have decided on a date to reopen, that information will be posted here in Action Unlimited, on our Facebook page, on Instagram, and also on the website for Acton Congregational Church. Go to www.acton.org and click on the Cornerstone Thrift Shop button. We are so grateful for our wonderful customers and donors, and we look forward to seeing you again in September.

3rd Annual Evviva Car Show

 
June 30th,  2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Evviva Trattoria Maynard
5 Digital Way, Maynard
We have teamed up with Maynard Boys & Girls Club for the 3rd Annual Evviva Car Show!
Enjoy an acoustic guitar performance by Jae Mannion.
50/50 Raffle - proceeds benefit Maynard Boys & Girls Club.
There will be giveaways, cornhole, vendor samples and free slices of cheese pizza!
Rain Date: 7/7/2024

Letters to Publisher: Happy 4th Of July

 
It's independence day
And we'll all sing and dance
Today and we'll remember our
Loved ones who fought for

Our freedom and it
Came with
A heavy price
War is not pretty
nor is it nice

So let's take a minute
To remember our
Brave men and women
Who sadly passed away
Fighting for our freedom

And the fireworks
Has just begun and
The kids are having so
Much fun waving American flags
And while the adults have a few
Beers and
Hug and kiss each other
And everyone is full of love
So raise your glass or your can
Of beer and
Toast for the 4th of July
And it's a beautiful
And perfect day to
Celebrate our independence day
Fourth of July
Fourth of July

And this special day is
Forever inside our hearts
Our freedom
And liberty we won so let's
Get this party started
And we'll have so much fun and
We'll never forget our true hero's who
Died for this day so scream out loud
Happy 4th of July and
God bless you all and peace and love
To every American on our independence day.

David P Carroll

Myles Above in Heaven - An intimate support group in the loss of a child

 
Feeling strength and love for grieving mothers.
Saturday, July 20th from 10:30am-12:30pm
Avidia Financial Center
The Community Room
17 Pope St
Hudson, MA
www.mylesabove.org, mylesaboveheaven@gmail.com

THANK YOU from the Maynard Jazz Fest Committee

 
On Saturday, June 15th, under a clear blue sky, over 600 people gathered throughout the day for the third annual Maynard Jazz Fest.  For 6 hours, the audience was entertained  by non-stop performances of over 70 musicians of all ages at Veterans Memorial Park in Maynard's Cultural District.  Maynard's own Amory's Tomb Brewing Co. was on site, and friendly cornehole competitions sprung up while the sidewalks were being adorned with chalk art. Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the music and activities!
Listeners were entertained by a wide variety of talent and styles on the main stage featuring four professional jazz bands: Portrait in Jazz, The Gravel Project, Ayn Inserto Jazz Orchestra, and Latin Logic, and student musicians with the MHS Jazz Band, JazzHers, Interlude Music and the Marlborough High School Jazz Ensemble.
The MJF Committee would like to extend our gratitude to the Maynard Select Board, the staff at Town Hall, DPW and Joe Foster and Mark Currier, the Maynard Police Dept. and Officer Eric Davoll and Officer Leon Muraguri, the Maynard Fire Dept., and the Fowler School for their support in planning this event.  We are very grateful to our sponsors who made this FREE event possible: MA Cultural Council, Maynard Cultural District, Middlesex Savings Bank, Summer Street Properties, The Pesce Network Dunkin', Rise, Enterprise Bank, Smoothie King, Amory's Tomb, David French Music, Look Optical, Raspberry Beret, and Snazzy Signs.

Acton’s 2023 Water Quality Report Available

 
The Acton Water District’s latest Water Quality Report is available online at www.actonwater.com/ccr. This report details Acton’s drinking water supply and treatment methods and summarizes the results of water quality samples collected in our system in 2023. If you would like a hard copy of the report or have questions on the information contained within it, please contact Alexandra Wahlstrom, Environmental Manager at 978-263-9107.

Memory Lane Café at the Acton Senior Center

 
July 30, 2024, 12:00-1:30 pm at the Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road, Rear, Acton.
A Memory Café is a welcoming place for people with memory impairment and their care partners /caregivers. Cafés are a place to talk with others, enjoy lunch and an activity or entertainment together. We do ask attendees to bring their care partners. Sponsored by the Acton Council on Aging, Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community and Cooperative Elder Services, Inc. An RSVP is not required but appreciated. There is no cost to attend. For more information or to RSVP, please call Sharon Mercurio, Acton Council on Aging director, at 978-929-6652. Groups will be held on the last Tuesday of each month.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.
Clothing donations

The West Acton Baptist Church Seeks Clothing Donations

Cleaning out your closets? You can now bring used clothing donations to 592 Massachusetts Ave., Acton MA where the West Acton Baptist Church has partnered with St. Pauly Textile Inc. to provide a wood-frame clothing drop-off shed for community use.
This shed is designed to give community members a uniquely clean, convenient, and well-cared-for option to donate their used clothing to. St. Pauly Textile Inc. partners with businesses and various organizations to distribute donated items both here in the U.S. and worldwide, where they’re ultimately re-worn by people who need them. The West Acton Baptist Church receives funding for donated clothing, and additionally has the option to use donations to serve community needs.
With over 1,400 clothing drop-off sheds in place, St. Pauly Textile Inc. collects over 150,000 pounds of clothing every day and estimates that this clothing ends up in 44 different countries (including the U.S.) yearly. In 2023, the company was able to help keep over 68 million articles of clothing out of landfills, which clothed an estimated 8.3 million people worldwide. The company was founded in 1996 and is an A+ rated member of the Better Business Bureau.
Accepted items: clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases, and stuffed animals.

Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A Virtual Alzheimer’s Support Group Offered by Concord Park

 
July 11, 2024, 12:00 pm, hosted by Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 68 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord.
Dealing with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia isn't easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you're going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family members. Please contact Maryellen King at 978-369-4728 or mking@concordpark.org for the details and a Zoom invite.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.

Mt. Calvary Community Supper-July Menu

 
“The only active Community Supper serving in Acton”
Join us at our All Sit-Down Supper! We are welcoming all our guests inside to join neighbors and friends at the tables in Fellowship Hall. Welcome Summer! We look forward to sharing a meal and friendship with you.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton, 472 Massachusetts Ave., Acton, MA
Time: Dinner is served 4:30pm – 5:45pm. Doors will open at 4:15pm. Please, do not enter prior so our volunteers can prepare your Supper.
Parking: Park your car in the back parking lot and enter from the walkway to the church door.
July 2024 Menu
7/3 Hamburger and Hot Dogs
REMEMBER TO BRING A FRIEND!!! YOU BOTH WILL RECEIVE A GIFT.
Sponsored by Friends of Mt. Calvary Community Supper
7/10 Cajun Pork Chop
Sponsored by Thrivent Financial
7/17 Pepper Steak Subs
Sponsored by Friends of Mike Tobia
7/24 Southwest Salad with Chicken
Sponsored by West Acton Baptist Church
7/31 Lemon Pepper Pasta with Chicken
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Elohim
** Please note that the meals we serve may contain gluten, nuts, seeds, or dairy.
We are so grateful for the support and dedication of so many individuals, community organizations, church members and the team of our Supper volunteers. Together we hope that each meal we share will bring us closer together.

Summer Friday Nights Free program at Discovery Museum

 
Discovery Museum announced their popular Summer Friday Nights Free program has returned. Visitors can enjoy the Museum and Discovery Woods outdoor nature playscape with free admission from 4:30pm to 8:00pm every Friday night through August 30.
Advanced reservations are recommended and can be made 10 days in advance for a 4:30, 5:30, or 6:30 admission block. All visitors may stay until 8:00pm. Please visit  our website to make a reservation at www.discoveryacton.org.
Discovery Museum will gratefully accept non-perishable food items for Open Table and Acton Food Pantry in lieu of admission, though a food donation is not required for admission.
Thank you to the following local businesses that have made this summer’s free admission possible:
June 28 & July 5: Enterprise Bank
July 12: McGovern Subaru of Acton
July 19: McWalter Volunteer Insurance
July 26: TransAction Associates & Corporate Shuttles
August 2: Reliant Medical Group
August 9: Atrius Health        
August 30: Sutherland Realty Group/Keller Williams Realty Boston NW  
Free admission on Friday nights—every Friday during the summer, and the first Friday night of each month October through June—is part of the Discovery Museum’s Open Door Connections program to provide opportunities for those who face a variety of barriers to experience the Museum.

Multigenerational Game Night at FPC

 
All are welcome to a multigenerational game night that takes place on the third Friday of the month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun!
The next Game Night will take place on Friday, July 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. FPC is a nut-free location. It’s located at 353 Great Rd, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Guest Table Community Dinner at FPC on July 12

 
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 July 12. 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.

The Interfaith Partnership for Refugee Resettlement - FPC Summer Service

 
For almost 3 years First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) has been in partnership with the seven local area churches known as the Interfaith Partnership for Refugee Resettlement (IPRR). The IPRR helps resettle refugees. Members of FPC’s Asylum Seekers Task Force will describe their success with two Afghan families, allowing them to gain full independence. They are now assisting a large extended family from Rohingya (formerly Burma) who had been living in exile in Bangladesh for many years before their recent move to Lowell.
The service will take place both in person and virtually on June 30 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for all in-person summer services. 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.
First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow, MA 01775, 978-897-8149
Janet Beatrice, Publicist pr@fpc-stow-acton.org or 978-727-2762
Linda vieira portuguese heritage award

Rep. Sena Congratulates Linda Vieira of Acton on earning Portuguese Heritage Award


BOSTON – Representative Dan Sena (37th Middlesex) presented Linda Vieira of Acton with a Portuguese Heritage Award at the Heritage Day of Portugal celebration, hosted on June 11 by the Massachusetts Portuguese American Legislative Caucus in the House of Representatives Chamber.
Vieira, a resident of Acton and dedicated advocate for her community, earned this award through her efforts to better her community. As a member of the Acton Democratic Town Committee and coordinator of voter activism, member of the Indivisible Acton Area Serving Committee, trustee for West Acton Citizens’ Library, and countless roles on campaigns, Linda Vieira’s work impacts many. Much of Linda Vieira’s activism focuses on the right to choose, and she plans events, manages campaigns, and advocates tirelessly to battle anti-abortion efforts across the country.
Rep. Dan Sena nominated Linda Vieira because of her strong legacy in the community and her Portuguese heritage. Linda Vieira’s paternal grandparents immigrated from the Azores, and she grew up in New Bedford attending the annual Portuguese Feast.
“I am proud of the work that Linda has done for our community, and I felt honored to present her with this award,” Rep. Dan Sena said. “Linda is a shining example of how individuals in our community can impact our policies.
"Growing up in a Portuguese community taught me the value of hard work and education.  Hearing about the contributions of the other nominees was inspiring and we were treated to Portuguese food and music after the ceremony,” said Linda Vieira. “I am grateful to Representative Sena for acknowledging my contributions to Acton and Massachusetts."  
Heritage Day of Portugal is a statewide event recognizes individuals in Portuguese-speaking communities who help to preserve their cultural traditions while giving back to their communities and encouraging future generations to appreciate and love their heritage. For the 40th annual celebration, the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus Guest of Honor and keynote speaker was Mayor Pedro Nascimento Cabral, Mayor of the City of Ponta Delgada, Azores.
"Heritage Day of Portugal is an opportunity to celebrate our heritage and the contributions of the Portuguese-speaking community in Massachusetts," said Representative Antonio Cabral, House Chair of the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus. “It’s incredible to think that we have been able to honor Portuguese-speaking leaders for 40 years. It is an honor to celebrate our heritage by recognizing the contributions of each awardee and to welcome Mayor Pedro Nascimento Cabral, Mayor of Ponta Delgada, Azores.”
“Heritage Day of Portugal is an incredible opportunity to celebrate the Portugese Diaspora and the special place that Portuguese-speaking communities have here in Massachusetts,” said Rep. Sena. “I look forward to this event every year as a way to share my Brazilian culture!”
For more information about Heritage Day of Portugal or Linda Vieira, contact Rep. Sena’s office at 774-277-5489.
Paddling on the sudbury river riverfest 2023

Celebrate our Local Rivers at RiverFest
July 6 – July 28

RiverFest Summer 2024 is your opportunity to explore our federally protected Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild & Scenic Rivers. In the MetroWest area, from Lowell to Framingham, three weeks of free events in 9 communities will be hosted on and along the rivers, highlighting what makes them unique and special.
This year’s events include family festivities at the Old Manse in Concord (July 20) and Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury (July 27), guided canoe & kayak trips, nature walks, history talks, bird watching, outdoor yoga, plein air painting, and even a walking book group stroll. Kids may especially enjoy events allowing them to explore the riverbanks or get an up-close look at some wildlife. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether young or old, adventuresome or more interest in a leisurely picnic along a river!
Please go to www.sudbury-assabet-concord.org to view a complete listing of RiverFest Summer 2024 events taking place from July 6-28.
Ruta beggars

Audiences are Beggin’ for More when The Ruta Beggars Come to Town

WESTFORD: 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. The Beggars will be playing the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, on June 28 at 7:30pm.  Tickets range from $12 (Card-to-Culture pricing) to $25, and are available by calling (978) 692-6333, or online at pcawestford.org.  BYOB and snacks for a full evening of entertainment!
The Ruta Beggars have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances. Since 2018 they have brought the joy of their live show to audiences across the US and Canada from festival stages to storied folk listening rooms and as support for legacy acts Lyle Lovett and Ricky Skaggs. The Ruta Beggars are 2019 Thomas Point band competition winners, 2023 IBMA official showcasing artists, Freshgrass Foundation commissioned composers, Freshgrass Award finalists, and Skyline Records artists. Best-of-friends since their inception, The Ruta Beggars are Micah Nicol (guitar), Trevin Nelson (banjo), Noah Harrington (bass), Sam Stage (fiddle), and Jean-Baptiste Cardineau (mandolin), who met through studying in Berklee College of Music's American Roots Program.
This event is honoring the Massachusetts Cultural Council "Card-to-Culture" program (https://massculturalcouncil.org/organizations/card-to-culture) with a special discounted ticket price available to card-holding members. C2C cards will be requested when you pick up your tickets at the box office.
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-28-24-the-ruta-beggars/178
Though this is the last concert of the Parish Center’s 2023-24 formal season, don’t miss upcoming summer Concerts-on-the 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
For more information, visit www.pcawestford.org, or call (978) 692-6333.

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club, Celebrating 59 Years – Summer Picnic

 
Acton, Ayer, Boxborough, Concord, Chelmsford, Littleton, Maynard, Groton, Harvard, Stow, Westford and Surrounding Towns – Celebrating more than 50 years of community building, the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club will host its’ summer picnic to welcome interested community members in learning more about the club as well as those looking to reconnect with established members. The picnic is being held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, at the NARA PARK PATIO TENT - 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720. Enjoy a potluck picnic, music, lawn games and other summer-time delights with the Neighbors - rain or shine under the Nara Park Patio Tent! Club members and guests interested in learning more about the Club are invited to this affair for neighborly conversation and enjoyment of summer picnic activities.
The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is excited to invite community members to join us in a variety of activities including Adventure Group, Game Night, Men’s Night Out, Ladies’ Night Out, Book Group, Wine Tasting, Lunch Bunch, dining in and out events, and special events.
Join our Facebook Page and visit the Club’s website at http://www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more information on this and other events, as well as information on how to become a member of the Nashoba Valley Neighbors. We look forward to seeing you!
The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from our communities. Celebrating our 50th Anniversary in 2015, we were originally known as the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club of Acton. More recently, we have been known as the Acton-Boxborough Newcomers & Neighbors Club. Discovering that established residents in our surrounding communities are also looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends, we became the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club in 2014.
Smile summer

SMILE Mass Continues Building Happy Memories One Summer at a Time Non-profit brings accessible vacation opportunities throughout the season.


June 12, 2024 (SUDBURY, Massachusetts) – As a young mother to a child with severe disabilities, SMILE Mass founder Lotte Diomede quickly realized the world wasn’t built for children like her son, Nicholas. One day, Lotte tried to take Nicholas and his sister to their neighborhood park in Sudbury, MA, only to find that it didn’t have a swing that both kids were able to use. Her daughter Annabelle could enjoy the freedom of swinging high into the sky, while Nicholas had to watch from outside the fence of the playground. This life-changing moment sparked a determination in her and she approached the Parks and Recreation Department to see what could be done. Driven by a profound love for her children and a vision of inclusivity, she spearheaded an accessible playground project along with hundreds of other volunteers in the community and the first playground in MetroWest with a universal design, opening the door to simple joys and unforgettable moments for countless families.
Since that time, SMILE Mass (Small Miracles in Life Exist) “swung” into becoming a 501C3 non-profit organization that helps families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through education, vacation, and recreation experiences.  Though every season is vibrant and energetic for the MetroWest-based non-profit, the organization is at its most active during the late spring and summer seasons, when many of its programs are in full swing.
“Life memories are often made as the weather gets warmer and families vacation together,” explained Lotte.  “For those with a physically disabled family member, such a day can be far from relaxing, often filled with struggles and unexpected challenges due to the lack of accessibility to the beach and a consistent schedule. It was an extension of our playground project when we brought accessibility to the beach.”
Since its inception, SMILE Mass has donated more than 180 floating beach wheelchairs to public ponds and beaches throughout New England to make them more accessible to the disabled. The colorful chairs allow beachgoers with mobility disabilities to travel over the hot surface of the parking lot, roll seamlessly over the thick beach sand, and plunge right into the water like their typical friends and family. The chairs recline into three different positions and have two large wheels at the back and a smaller wheel in front allowing them to be pushed through the sand with relative ease. As a floating device, the chair can be immersed in the water and float gently with the tide. There isn’t a more relaxing way to enjoy a summer day than spending it on the beach.
Due to the overwhelming demand for the program, the organization launched the SMILE Mass Floating Beach Wheelchair Awards Program, which allows towns and cities to apply for their floating beach wheelchair. Officials associated with the city or town, or residents could apply for the award to make their beach location more accessible.
SMILE Mass recently presented new chairs to the towns of Newburyport, Amesbury, Manchester by the Sea, and the Massachusetts Audubon Society in Barnstable with additional chairs to be gifted to Easton, MA, Nahant, and Standish ME in the coming weeks.  Due to the success of the program, the town of Dennis added 20 new chairs to their beaches.
“We are grateful to beach and recreation director Dustin Pineau for being such an active proponent of accessibility. To say we have had success is an understatement – with the support of SMILE Mass, it is clear that the town of Dennis understands the importance of the program as they retire older chairs and consistently strive to make their fleet better.”
“We present the chairs surrounded by some excitement. It’s a big event when accessibility is introduced or expanded in an area, and the decision of the town or municipality to promote accessibility should be celebrated. People with disabilities have the same rights as others, and enjoying a day at the beach is not just a luxury but a right that anyone should be able to experience. We recently had wonderful events in Newburyport and Amesbury where a large contingent of townspeople with and without disabilities came to cheer on the town’s commitment to accessibility.” 
You can find a list of other participating beaches where the SMILE Mass chairs are located at https://smilemass.org/initiative/beach-wheelchairs/.
SMILE Mass also operates a free equipment loaner program for families with disabled family members who may be going on a day, week, or extended vacation. 
“The loaner program was started as an extension of the beach wheelchair program, explained Lotte. “Once word got out about the beach wheelchairs we were donating to public beaches, people started calling because they vacationed in an area that did not yet have one of the donated chairs.”
To help alleviate that issue, SMILE Mass started a loaner program out of Sudbury, Massachusetts. Families can borrow adapted equipment to take anywhere. The inventory includes floating beach wheelchairs, a bath chair with a back, a blue Freedom running stroller, a Hoyer lift, portable ramps and so much more. Any of these items can be borrowed to help families enjoy a day of recreation or a vacation away from home with the right amenities.
SMILE Mass also owns a fully accessible vacation home on the beautiful Truro beach in Massachusetts, providing families with disabled loved ones a much-needed break and an inclusive environment to create lasting memories. The handicap-accessible beachfront condo sits just 75 feet from the ocean and allows accessibility for any family traveling with loved ones with disabilities. The condo sleeps six, with a private beach, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a roll-in shower, adapted equipment with a universal design flair and all exterior doors have ramps to allow easy access for those
Club SMILE Mass, the organization’s fastest-growing program to date, consists of hybrid classes to stimulate clients with disabilities both mentally and physically. Classes include access to one-on-one gym and swim or small group classes, swimming classes at Atkinson Swimming Pool in Sudbury, and seven-day-per-week access to any LA Fitness in Massachusetts. The program also includes in-person social groups, including music therapy, book club, storytime, bingo, small group workout classes, bike evaluations via Zoom, and more. A physical therapist performs the bike evaluations. All trainers of Club SMILE Mass are specially trained to work with people with disabilities.
“We have received dozens of inquiries from families and organizations struggling with the lack of available services due to the labor shortage in the healthcare sector. These services were previously available to this vulnerable population but dried up during Covid,” continued Diomede. “Through Club SMILE Mass, we provide much-needed daily activities with a focus on movement. There are currently no existing clubs for someone with disabilities, which is a huge problem, and this is why Club SMILE Mass has become so popular.”
SMILE Mass plans to purchase land, which will be the home of “Club SMILE Mass, Community within a Community,” to help bring a sense of equity and inclusion to the severely disabled population in MetroWest.   “Our goal is to create a hub that becomes the leading source of a well-rounded program that takes clients after school age and well into adulthood. Our clients never age out of the program.”
“We have been working to reach an agreement with the owners of a property in MetroWest to complete the acquisition of the property. The property will allow us to bring our Club SMILE Mass program in-house and provide immediate relief to thousands of families in Massachusetts currently without services. This is why fundraising is especially critical,” explained Ms. Diomede.  Every dollar raised is something we didn’t have prior. Each donation will make a profound difference directly into the community
“This is our biggest undertaking yet,” continued Lotte. It is an opportunity for those who believe in equity and equality to resolve a national crisis following the pandemic. We are a grass-roots organization that receives no state funding. All our programs are made possible through grants, fundraising, annual sponsorships, and donations by those who know of all the good SMILE Mass does for the population of the disabled and their families.”
We rely on our existing donors, new donors, and sponsors to take us through each phase of the three-phase Capital Campaign. There is a donation level for everyone, regardless of your financial means.” To donate to the Capital Campaign or any of our programs, visit the SMILE Mass website at smilemass.org or call Lotte at 617-967-7755. 
About SMILE Mass: Small Miracles in Life Exist (SMILE Mass) is a 501 C3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through vacation and recreation experiences. For more information, visit www.smilemass.org
Open table kids summer lunch

Sponsor A Child for Open Table Summer Lunch Program

Fuel Up for Summer Program Provides Weekly Lunch/Snack for Children
Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, is bringing back its Fuel Up for Summer program, which provides daily nutritious lunch and snacks for children over the summer months. This year, Open Table is offering community members the opportunity to support a child through the summer with a $100 gift.
To sponsor a child, go to https://www.opentable.org/give4kids
According to the Greater Boston Food Bank 2024 Food Equity and Access in Massachusetts Report, one in three households with children in Massachusetts experienced child-level food insecurity over the past year. While Universal School Meals are now funded permanently in Massachusetts, the children enrolled do not always have access to lunches over the summer months. The Open Table Fuel Up for Summer Program meets this need.
Parents can sign up online or by phone to participate in the summer program, then pick up as many as three lunch packs a week for each child along with the rest of their groceries. Summer lunch packs are healthy and convenient and include both a sandwich or wrap in both meat and vegetarian options as well as vegetable sticks or side salad. The lunches can be supplemented with the traditional Open Table Kids’ Bags, which include salty and sweet snacks, easy to prepare light meals, and drink boxes. All options are peanut-free.
Kids packs are available starting June 17th for pick up at:
Open Table 33 Main Street, Maynard
Tuesdays: 3:00 to 6:30 pm
Thursdays: 1:00 to 4:30 pm
To guarantee availability, kids lunch packs must be reserved in advance by Monday at noon for the week of pick up. No photo ID or proof of financial need required.
Online form: https://www.opentable.org/order-form/
Call: (978) 369-2275
Email: orders@opentable.org
“While great strides have been made so that school lunch programs are free in Massachusetts, the summer months continue to be a challenge for many families. We are so happy to offer nutritious lunch and snack options for hundreds of kids during summer vacation,” said Alexandra DePalo, executive director, Open Table. “Fuel Up for Summer is a free program that helps fill the meal gaps with fresh and healthy lunches for children in our local community.”
New acton firefighter

Fire Chief Anita Arnum is pleased to report that the Acton Fire Department is welcoming a new firefighter from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.

Firefighter Justin Curran was among 31 graduates from 14 fire departments to graduate from the Academy’s Career Recruit Firefighter Training Program Class #321. The graduates completed the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program at the Stow campus.
Firefighter Curran is a certified paramedic who served four years of active duty service with the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychological Science from Fitchburg State University and previously worked as a mental health counselor at Walden Behavioral Care.
The Career Recruit Firefighter Training Program teaches the essentials of fire and non-fire conditions, life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation and fire attack. The graduates are now certified at the level of Firefighter I and II and in hazardous material operation.
"We are very excited to have Justin on board," said Chief Arnum. "His completion of  the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Recruit Program provides him with an excellent base of skills to utilize and expand upon in his role as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Town of Acton."
About The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy:
At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, firefighter recruits learn a wide range of skills in an intensive 10-week program. Certified and more experienced firefighters lead classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training and firefighting practice. Students are given training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, confined space rescue techniques and rappelling. Upon successful completion of the Recruit Program, all students have met national standards of National Fire Protection Association 1001.