Chelmsford

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Current Edition - 05/02/25
Chelmsford
Just click below on the paper you want to read. You can read life-size by clicking on the four corner box bottom right, then turn pages with mouse at corners just like you would if paper!

Previous Edition - 4/25/25

HEADLINES

17 animal rescues

17 Animal Rescues Join PAWS IN THE PARK
this Sunday, May 4, 10 am - 3 pm
Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, Sudbury


Have you been thinking of adopting a pet?
Join Save A Dog this Sunday, May 4, from 10 am to 3 pm on the grounds of historic Longfellow’s Wayside Inn in Sudbury as we celebrate the 25th Annual PAWS IN THE PARK – one of the largest gatherings of people and pups in New England!
Rain or shine, this is the place to be for canine and family fun!
This year, PAWS IN THE PARK also offers a great opportunity to visit with representatives of 17 animal rescues from Massachusetts and beyond, and meet some of their amazing, adoptable pets.
Joining in the day-long festivities are:
• Baypath Humane Society (Hopkinton)
• B.O.N.E.S. (Beagles of New England States - NH)
• Brown Dog Coalition and Rescue (Hopkinton)
• Buddy Dog (Sudbury)
• Collie Rescue League of New England (VT)
• Commonwealth Cats (Peabody)
• Crops and Flops Rescue (Westminster)
• Greyhound Friends (Hopkinton)
• Long Island Bulldog Rescue (NY)
• Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society (Salisbury)
• National Great Pyrenees Rescue (NY)
• Northeast Coonhound Rescue (Lexington)
• Paw-Affection Dachshund Rescue (Taunton)
• PittieLove Rescue (Framingham)
• Save A Dog (Sudbury)
• Stray Pets in Need (Natick)
• Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue (Hudson)
Don’t miss this celebration filled with music, food vendors, kids games and face painting, dog games and contests, a dog agility course with try-outs, alumni and littermate reunions, raffles and a silent auction... plus 67 vendors and exhibitors.
Special highlights include a Group Dog Walk at 11 am led by Anna Meiler, WBZ News Anchor and host of WBZ’s Sunday morning “Pet Parade.”
The Adoptable Dogs Parade at noon will feature dogs from our participating rescue organizations.
And TRAX, the Worcester Railers Hockey Club mascot, will make a special appearance right after the parade from at 12:30 pm.
Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children 5-12.
Kids under 5 are free, and strollers are welcome.
(Admission is waived for those who set up a personal online pledge page and raise $15 or more. Go to www.saveadog.org/paws2025-pledges.asp)
And of course bring your dog—if they enjoy being around people and other dogs—on a 6 foot or shorter leash (no retractable leashes, please).
All proceeds from PAWS IN THE PARK benefit the life-saving rescue and adoption work of Save A Dog, a 501c3 tax exempt humane society.
Now entering its 27th year, Save a Dog has found loving forever homes for more than 8,500 pets through its Sudbury shelter and dedicated network of foster homes.
See you Sunday!

Grieving Mother’s Support Group”

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

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

“Shop for Free at Trinity:  The Free Sale”

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

Tom Denney Nature Camp Register Now!

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

Fresh Start Furniture Bank report

www.freshstartfurniturebank.org
I THINK we have seen the last of snow this season!  My wise Dad told us that spring snow is nature’s fertilizer; it pulls nitrogen out of the atmosphere for the lawns.
At Fresh Start we still need couches and loveseats, upholstered chairs, dressers and dining tables.  In the kitchen area we are short on saucepans, food storage containers, and bowls (cereal, mixing and serving). We are running out of microwaves and slow cookers and we can always use silverware.  Our supply of lamps goes up and down; right now it is down so bring them!   For bedrooms we need throws and comforters.  We just partnered with a woman who works for an organization that rescues and rehabs owls and she needs fleece for them.
Please look at our website if you don’t know our location or hours.  We take donations of housewares on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30-noon and furniture AND housewares on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30.  The website also spells out what we DO and DO not take and there is a place to sign up for a pickup by our truck if you have several large items.
Thank you for helping us to help others!
Mcc wom student recitals s25

MCC to Hold Two Student Recitals as Part of Spring 2025 “A World of Music” Concert Series

In a celebration of their hard work throughout the semester, Middlesex Community College is excited to host two Student Recitals as part of the Spring 2025 “A World of Music” concert series. The performances will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22 in MCC’s Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell and 12:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28 in MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.
“Both performances are perfect for me to express how far I have come in pursuing my passion,” said Lucas Guerrero, an MCC Performing Arts Music student from Bedford. “During practice, I realized what eras of music I liked and loved. Preparation has pushed me into new boundaries. I slowly developed proper fingering techniques, vowel pronunciation modifications, and the consistency and feeling of 3/8 and 4/4 time. Without Professor Peralta, Dr. Fridley, and Professor Cela’s commitment to educate me, I would be unknowledgeable in reading, practicing and writing music.”
Guerrero will play a piano solo, as well as sing a few songs. The line-up will feature MCC student guitarists, singers, pianists, the MCC Guitar Ensemble and the MCC Music Club showcasing their talents on stage in front of a live audience. A few electronic works by Music Technology students will also be featured on April 22, while the MCC World Drumming Ensemble and student dancers will perform on April 28.
“We are excited to be presenting two student recitals this year,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, MCC’s Chair of Music. “It is so important for students in our music classes to be able to perform pieces they have been preparing during the semester. Some students are completing their first music class, while others have been performing for years, and these recitals are a way of celebrating their musical journeys.”
MCC will also host the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO) for a second time this semester at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26.
Previous concerts this season include the LCO on Saturday, February 1; an Online Saturday Arts Concert featuring MCC faculty, alumni and students on Saturday, March 8; Know Orchestra on Sunday, March 23; a Piano Recital by Anastasia Seifetdinova on Friday, April 4; Guqin and Viola in Musical Dialogue on Friday, April 11; and the LCO again on Saturday, April 26.
All concerts are free and open to the public.
MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St. MCC’s Concert Hall is located in the North Academic Building at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus.
Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.
Learn More

THE CANNON THEATRE Proudly Presents “Enchanted April”

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

In-Person New Parent Group in Concord

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

Rummage Sale at Aldersgate UMC

Aldersgate United Methodist Church will host its popular rummage sale on Friday, May 2, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 3, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Clothes, books, toys, household goods, and more will be available for purchase. (Computers, TVs, and other electronics, large furniture, and exercise equipment will not be sold.) All proceeds from the sale go toward Aldersgate’s outreach ministries.
Aldersgate UMC is located at 242 Boston Road (Rt. 4) in Chelmsford. For more information, contact the church office at (978)256-9400 or aldersgatechelmsford@verizon.net, or visit us online at www.aldersgatechelmsford.com or www.facebook.com/aldersgateumc.chelms.
Logo eac white circle

Taking Climate Action, Together and Now!

All are invited to an interactive discussion at the First Religious Society (FRS) on the Carlisle Common at 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, May 4. The focus is on climate action that we can take now-–as individuals, as a community, and as engaged citizens who want to protect our democracy and support effective climate policy that benefits all. Dr.Juliette Rooney-Varga, Professor of Environmental Science, Director of the Climate Change Initiative and Co-director of the Rist Institute for Sustainability and Energy at UMass Lowell will lead the discussion. Her research focuses on the nexus of climate change and sustainability science and decision support. She welcomes our questions and our voices. Please join us.
The event is hosted in person by the FRS Environmental Action Committee and will also be available live and recorded on YouTube at:  https://youtube.com/live/uATC2L0vI8c?feature=share  .  Virtual participants can participate via the chat box. Refreshments served.

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 group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

MCC to Welcome Lowell Chamber Orchestra for Second Concert of Spring 2025 “A World of Music”

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

The CCA is the Place to Play!

The Chelmsford Center for the Arts is located at 1A North Road, Chelmsford, MA.

Free Sahaja Yoga Meditation Workshop every Sunday at 10:00 am
in the seminar room (there will be no Meditation Workshop on 4/20).
Knitting with Marion: Tuesdays and every other Saturday!

UPCOMING EVENTS
April 25th Janelle’s Dirty Basement Comedy Show at 8:00 pm. Janelle Draper & Friends are back by popular demand after multiple sold out shows at the CCA! Join us for a one night stand of raunchy hilarity and nonstop laughs in the Cabaret Cafe Along Janelle Draper, you’ll enjoy the comedic stylings of nationally touring comedians who have been featured on NBC, SiriusXM, HBO & Comedy Central! Grab your ticket now so you don’t miss out on all the fun! Tickets $20 online and $20 at the door.

April 26th NPC: New Play Reading at 6:30 pm. Join us in the Cabaret Cafe for a reading of NPC, an original play by AJ, directed by Megan Lummus!

April 26th Sugar Kings: Afro-Cuban Experience Concert at 7:30 pm and Salsa/Clave Workshop at 5:30 pm.  Join us in the auditorium for a high-energy performance by the genre-bending Boston quartet, The Sugar Kings! Experience a unique mix of Afro-Cuban roots, R&B, rock, and reggae that you won’t want to miss. Before the show, at 5:30 PM, dive into an interactive workshop led by the band, exploring clave rhythms and their role in Latin music and dance. Learn essential rhythms, discover each instrument’s function, and get a taste of salsa, son, merengue, and Cumbia dance! Tickets: $25 for the concert, $35 for the workshop + concert. Students and Chelmsford Friends of Music members get in free!

April 28th Folk Music Open Mic at 7:00 pm. Join us in the Cabaret Cafe for an evening of acoustic fun! This monthly event, hosted by Doug Kwartler, is perfect for folk performers and listeners alike. FREE ENTRY! Full bar and snacks available. Donations accepted.

Chelmsford Food Pantry

Serving everyone because financial difficulties and hunger have no boundary lines.

Please consider donating the following items to the Chelmsford Food Pantry.
Cooking Oil
Ramen Noodles
Soup
Spaghetti Sauce
Mac’n cheese
Canned fruit or vegetables
Boxed Cereal and Oatmeal
Shelf Stable Milk
Condiments
Donations can be dropped off at the pantry located at:
50 Rear Billerica Road
Chelmsford, MA
(beige trailer behind town hall)
Thursdays: 10:30-1:00pm and 6:30-7:45pm
As well as donation boxes located inside Market Basket, Stop & Shop and the Chelmsford Public Library

For more ways to help the pantry and your community visit: chelmsfordfoodpantry.org
Final gettinghere onepage

Conocrd250 info

Final mapandscheduleapril13

Concord Parade Map

World Amateur Radio Day

The Westford Police Amateur Radio Team (http://www.wb1gof.org/) will be conducting an open house in celebration of World Amateur Radio Day (https://www.arrl.org/world-amateur-radio-day).
During this event, we will be communicating with other amateur radio operators from across North America and around the world. We will be showcasing multiple live amateur radio stations each using a different radio communication technique. Most of all, one of the stations will permit you to get on the air.
Come join us at the Great Brook Farm State Park (https://www.mass.gov/locations/great-brook-farm-state-park) at 165 North Road, Carlisle, MA on Saturday, April 26 (rain date May 3) from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
See you there!
Yad sale

HUGE Yard Sale

April 26, 8 am to 2 pm, King and Rogers streets at the Historical Society of Littleton. Come early for the best selection of everything but the kitchen sink. You will find gently used household and sporting goods, linens, small appliances and furniture, bikes, tools, toys, books , some baby equipment and vintage goodies, maybe a few CDs and DVDs. Come shopping and be surprised at the bargains to support education in Ghana and Honduras.
Donations from the community will be accepted Friday night, 4-6 pm. No car seats, clothing, shoes, TVs/computer equipment, or just plain junk. Clean out your closets and garage and promote education abroad for people who have many fewer resources than Americans.
For information, email c s j at f c u littleton dot org. Remove the spaces for the right email. Thanks in advance for your support.
Dog

25th Annual Paws in the Park!
Sunday, May 4, 10 am - 3 pm

Are you a dog lover looking for a day filled with canine and family fun?
Join Save A Dog on Sunday, May 4, rain or shine on the grounds of historic Wayside Inn in Sudbury as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Paws in the Park, one of the largest gatherings of pups and people in New England!
This year’s event features day-long food and music, dog games and contests, an agility course with try-outs, main ring demonstrations, raffles and a silent auction, and 67 vendors and exhibitors including many animal rescue groups. Special highlights include a group dog walk at 11 am led by Anna Meiler, WBZ News Anchor and host of the station’s Sunday morning “Pet Parade,” and Save A Dog’s “Adoptable Dogs Parade” at 12 pm. TRAX, the Worcester Railers mascot pup, will also make a special appearance right after the parade from 12:30-1:30 pm.
Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children 5-12. Kids under 5 are free, and strollers are welcome.
Bring your dog—if they enjoy being around people and other dogs—on a 6 foot or shorter leash (no retractable leashes, please).
All proceeds benefit the life-saving rescue and adoption work of Save A Dog, a 501c3 tax exempt humane society. Now entering its 27th year, Save a Dog has found loving forever homes for more than 8,500 pets through its Sudbury shelter and dedicated network of foster homes.
See you on May 4th!

Helping Parents Understand and Manage Challenging Behaviors in Young Children

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

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 group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net
Top dog calendar

Top Dog Calendar Contest Event!

Saturday, April 19 & 26,
10 am - 1 pm
Could your dog be a picture perfect calendar star?
Here’s your chance to find out when Wag N’ Wash at 444 Great Road in Acton hosts the Top Dog Calendar Contest event Saturday, April 19 and 26, from 10am to 1pm.
Enter a photo of your dog to win a spot (or the cover!) in Acton Community Dog Park’s 2026 Top Dog Calendar, and enjoy the store festivities featuring a photo booth, raffle basket and free samples. Joining in the fun will be dog park mascot Parker, Acton police dog K9 Zane with Officer Stackhouse, and adoptable pups from Save a Dog. A $10 contest entrance fee benefits the Acton Community Dog Park.
More information can be found at https://www.gogophotocontest.com/actoncommunitydogpark
See you Saturday!

Quilt Show

The Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild is pleased to announce that it’s biennial quilt show will be held on Saturday and Sunday, March 14th and 15th, 2026 at Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical Show in Upton, Massachusetts. The Guild has selected “Creating Comfort’ as their show theme. This theme reflects not only the members’ love of quilting but also reflects the guild’s mission and fundraising efforts. Over 200 member quilts as well as guild challenges and round robins will be on display. Also included at the show will be a special raffle quilt, the quilters’ boutique, raffle baskets, and local area vendors. Any local area vendor wishing to participate in the Guild’s show should contact Deb Hudgins through the website at thimblepleasures.org  or  by contacting her by mail at TPQG, P.O. Box 447, Mendon, MA 01756.
The guild has chosen Home Base as the show’s special fundraiser. All funds raised through the sale of items at the special fundraiser table will be donated directly to Home Base. Home Base is a Red Sox Foundation dedicated to healing the invisible wounds of veterans, service members, and their families through clinical care, wellness, education and research. The 2026 show is being chaired by Gina Brooks, Donna Hopkins, and Val Ogilvie.

Special Events and Programs:
Fitchburg Art Museum

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

Ride the Yacht Rock Waves with Mike Payette’s Three-Hour Tour

WESTFORD, MA: Rock out and ride the yacht rock waves when Mike Payette brings his Three-Hour Tour to the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street on  Friday, April 25 at 7:30pm (Doors open 7pm).  Advanced ticketing guarantees you a seat - $18 for PCA Members & Seniors; $20 Non-Members; $25 at the door (if available; $15 EBT/Card-to-Culture (ID required at the door) - and you can bring your own food and drink for a complete evening of entertainment. For tickets and more information, call (978) 692-6333, visit pcawestford.org or visit them on Facebook.
On this tour, the band will entertain you with soft yacht rock music with 70s-80s smooth vibes, great songs, and tight harmonies - think Michael McDonald, Doobie Brothers, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Toto, Steely Dan, Ambrosia and more. This new music project came to life when Mike Payette was subbing for a musician in the band No Static (a Steely Dan tribute band). During the break, he told the drummer Barry Lit that he’d like to put together a yacht rock show, to which Barry replied “I’m IN!” Mike gathered friends of kindred spirits to be part of this new band that includes keyboards, sax and trumpet, and background singers, and so began the Three-Hour Tour!
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/3-2-24-mike-payette-s-three-hour-tour-soft-yacht-rock-of-70-s-80-s-/169
For more information, visit the PCA online at pcawestford.org, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Photo: Mike_`1_-_Susan_Wilson

Chelmsford Food Pantry

Serving everyone because financial difficulties and hunger have no boundary lines.

Please consider donating the following items to the Chelmsford Food Pantry.
Cooking Oil
Ramen Noodles
Soup
Spaghetti Sauce
Mac’n cheese
Canned fruit or vegetables
Boxed Cereal and Oatmeal
Shelf Stable Milk
Condiments
Donations can be dropped off at the pantry located at:
50 Rear Billerica Road
Chelmsford, MA
(beige trailer behind town hall)
Thursdays: 10:30-1:00pm and 6:30-7:45pm
As well as donation boxes located inside Market Basket, Stop & Shop and the Chelmsford Public Library

For more ways to help the pantry and your community visit:
chelmsfordfoodpantry.org

56th Annual Ham & Turkey Raffle
At Stony Brook Fish & Gam

(128 Lowell Road – Westford)
Sunday April 13th – 1PM
20 Easter Hams and 20 Turkeys raffled on a spin wheel
*Sirloin Strips, Prime Ribs and others are also being raffled off.
Raffle tickets on sale at the event!
$1500 Cash drawing as well!
(Drawing tickets on sale now – see any Stony Brook member)
Open to the public
Food and beverages will also be available.
Steinbeck duo

Get to Know Author John Steinbeck in Live Performance April 19 at PCA

WESTFORD, MA: Award-winning actor and playwright J.T. Turner returns to the Parish Center for the Arts as Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winner John Steinbeck Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street on April 19 at 2pm (doors open at 1:30pm). Turner will discuss Steinbeck’s life, from his time as a young Salinas farm worker to a renowned war correspondent in Europe, and his controversial California novels, including “Grapes of Wrath,” “Of Mice and Men” and “East of Eden.” Tickets are $10 students & EBT Cardholders; $15 PCA Members & Seniors; $18 Non-members in advance; $20 at the door. There will be no intermission. Bring your own food & drinks. Cabaret seating. Click HERE to reserve your seats!
J.T. Turner is a professional actor on stage, film,TV and audio. He’s a director of plays and musicals, writer, touring historical re-enactor, expert storyteller and public speaker. In addition, J.T. is a choreographer of stage combat. His company (The Actors Company) offers shows on historical/literary characters, including Robert Frost, Will Shakespeare, Ben Franklin, Charles Dickens, John Steinbeck and F. Scott Fitzgerald. J.T. also teaches internal arts such as Tai Chi, Qigong and Meditation for all ages.
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/4-19-25-j-t-turner-s-steinbeck-/217
Bringing bluegrass

Bringing Bluegrass from a Time Gone By, The Hosmer Boys Visit the PCA April 19

WESTFORD, MA: The Hosmer Mountain Boys are a Bluegrass band born out of Windham County, Connecticut devoted to bringing alive a bluegrass music style from a time gone by, and they’ll be doing so live at Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street on April 19 at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm). Tickets range from $18-$25. Bring your own food & drinks. Cabaret seating. Click HERE to reserve your seats!
The two band boys in front have always had an affinity for all things old and nostalgic and that includes music. Simon Brogie (banjo) and Keegan Day (guitar), two 20-somethings, front this traditional bluegrass band that has a strong sense of how bluegrass music was played before the 1960s. Cathy Bumgarner Day (fiddle) brings a lifetime of skill to the band and keeps everyone in line, which as Keegan’s mom, she is free to do. Tom Bowman (bass) is a wonderful player and baritone singer who has been a staple in the New England Bluegrass Music scene for decades. The Hosmer Boys’ music comes across as genuine and true to the traditional bluegrass music style. Cabaret Seating. BYOB & Snacks.
This event is sponsored by The Cooper Family.
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/4-19-25-hosmer-mountain-boys/218
For more information, visit the PCA online at pcawestford.org, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Fresh Start Furniture Bank

Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org
We had another good day at Fresh Start on Tuesday with nice weather for clients to arrive as well as several donors.  One donor, our regular angelic Judy was there with donations when I arrived for my shift at 9AM.  Another donor brought two big boxes containing 8(?) towels sets, brand new from the store - Kohl’s I think.  The details were lost in the excitement!
Our volunteers put together kitchen sets for our clients.  At present we really need measuring cups and measuring spoons, spatulas, and both slotted and non-slotted spoons.  Also pot holders, placemats and kitchen towels.  We are also low on baking pans, platters, serving bowls and both small and medium pans.
In our furniture department we need couches, couches, and couches!  Also dressers and kitchen tables & chairs.
Our linen department needs more comforters, blankets and throws.  It’s getting warmer outside but we need them for our clients.
Finally, to make a home cozy we need lamps and artwork for our clients to choose.
We are open to accept housewares on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9-noon and furniture on Saturday from 8:30-10:30.  We are located at 16 Brent Drive in Hudson, just past Sauta Farms condos on Lower Main St.  Check our website (above) for other information and thank you for helping us to help others!

Event for Chelmsford Historical Society

Please join us at the Chelmsford Historical Society’s Annual Meeting and Dinner on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 5:30-8:00pm.
The highlight of the evening will include the presentation of the Guardian Award, an award given each year by the Society to a person or organization best exemplifying Chelmsford’s motto “Let the Children Guard What the Sires Have Won.” This year the award will be presented to Ali Reza Zosherafatain for his restoration of Odd Fellows Hall in Chelmsford center.
To begin this special night, we will enjoy dinner catered by Mr. Jack’s Catering in the Ralph Parlee Agricultural Center at the Barrett-Byam Homestead, 40 Byam Road, Chelmsford. The menu will be salad, a selection of Italian entrees, and dessert. Non-alcoholic beverages are included. If you would like an alcoholic beverage, like a favorite bottle of wine, please bring it with you.
Seating is limited so please send your name, phone number, number of people attending, and check payable at $25/person to the Chelmsford Historical Society by Monday, April 28, 2025. (Reservation request and annual membership information on separate form.) Tickets can be picked up at the door of the event.
Mail to:
Chelmsford Historical Society
c/o Jerry Sullivan
14 McIntosh Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
Email chelmhist@gmail.com for questions or to make a reservation to pay at the event. If no email, leave a voicemail at 978-256-2311

MCC’s Theatre Department to Put on Award-Winning Musical for Spring 2025 Production

Middlesex Community College’s theatre department is proud to present Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s award-winning “Into the Woods” for the Spring 2025 production. The musical will run for five performances from Thursday, April 10 to Sunday, April 13 at the college’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.
“I auditioned for ‘Into the Woods’ because I was interested in exploring musical theater, and because I hoped to make connections with and learn from the talented members of MCC’s theater program,” said Ellery Martin-Gleason, an MCC Liberal Arts and Sciences student from Concord. “Since I began acting at MCC, I have found more confidence in my abilities to communicate with others, and greater ease embracing my personality. It is important for students to have opportunities to follow our passions in order for us to grow as people, create our paths as individuals, and figure out the roles we want to play in our communities.”
“Into the Woods” includes characters from popular Brothers Grimm fairytales. Focusing on after the original plots come to an end, familiar stories include “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Rapunzel” and “Cinderella.” Opening in November of 1987, the original Broadway production was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, winning three.
“Opportunities like this serve as reminders as to why we either started working in or fell in love with theatre in the first place,” said Abby McIsaac, an MCC alumna from Tyngsborough. “Returning to MCC to perform there again feels like coming home after being away for so long. I couldn’t be prouder of the work that we’ve put into this, and I’m so very excited for people to see what we’ve created together.”
“When the ‘Into the Woods’ auditions came along, I knew that I wanted to participate,” said Connor Lee, an MCC Performing Arts student from Chelmsford. “Theatre is so important because it is a place where people can go to make friends and build their community. It allows students to feel like they belong to something important. On top of all that theatre is just so much fun and I’d recommend it to anyone who gets the chance.”
The MCC theatre department partnered with UMass Lowell’s theatre arts on the Spring 2025 production. Auditions for students and alumni of both schools were held in January with the goal of bringing together talents, perspectives and resources from both institutions, according to Karen Oster, MCC’s Chair of Performing Arts.
“By collaborating with partners in our community and drawing on the expertise of dedicated faculty and staff from both institutions, we create enriching experiences that allow our students to develop their skills – both on stage and behind the scenes – gaining invaluable experience that prepares them for future success,” Oster said. “Audiences can expect the high-quality, dynamic productions MCC is known for, brought to life by the incredible talent and dedication of our students.”
Curtain times for MCC’s productions are 7 p.m. on Thursday April 10 and Friday, April 11; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 12; and 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 13. Tickets are $5 for Middlesex students with ID, $15 for MCC faculty and staff, and $20 for general admission.
MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St. For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://www.middlesex.edu/events/theatre.html
Eggs

Free Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday April 12th at 1pm

A small, volunteer group of neighbors, in collaboration with the town of Chelmsford, Chelmsford Conservation Commission, native plant expert Giancarla Kalpas, and Chelmsford Open Space Stewardship, are busy working on a new pollinator garden at the Janet Rd entrance to Thanksgiving Forest. Our goal is to create a vibrant, native “Garden for a Purpose”, designed to attract two native bee species back to the area. We marked the plot and laid manure last fall, and Chelmsford DPW helped drop several invasive trees this spring. We are eagerly awaiting planting day! Come check out the plot, join our Facebook group for updates, and help restore native habitat with us. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1314447839571329
Mcc tyreke harris s25

MCC Hires New Coordinator of Athletics

Middlesex Community College is excited to announce Tyreke Harris as the new Coordinator of Athletics. Most recently the Athletic Coordinator at Manchester Community College, Harris understands the importance of maintaining students’ wellness through sports and recreation programming. In his role at Middlesex, he looks forward to continuing this work to serve students at the community college level.
“Colleges who offer sports and recreation programs greatly enhance the mental, emotional and physical health of their students,” Harris said. “These initiatives promote social connections, personal development, and a healthy lifestyle – all of which contribute to a more well-rounded and satisfying college experience. Promoting student involvement in these kinds of activities is crucial to creating well-rounded people who are not just successful academically but also emotionally stable, resilient and healthy.”
After graduating with a bachelor’s in Sport and Movement Science with a concentration in Sport Management from Salem State University, Harris continued his education at Northeastern University to earn a master’s in Sports Leadership. He is currently working toward a doctorate in Higher Education at Northeastern, focusing on providing mentorship and opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
During his time as a student, Harris enjoyed connecting with faculty and staff who had similar experiences to him. Their influences helped him feel more comfortable while at college. Based on his experiences, Harris emphasizes the importance of students being able to ask for help, being active members of the campus community, and advocating for their academic, professional and personal success.
“This connection generates a trusting environment in which students are more inclined to seek assistance, participate in academic and extracurricular activities, and achieve personal and academic success,” Harris said. “These interactions help students gain confidence, create a stronger sense of self, and handle the challenges of maturity and higher education.”
As a former student athlete, Harris believes involvement in sports and recreation builds cooperation, leadership, time management and resilience. At Manchester Community College, he built the athletic program from scratch, launching a men’s basketball team, women’s volleyball team, and an esports team within nine months. He also worked to establish a competitive club levels sports program for teams to compete with other colleges.
Harris chose to come to MCC to continue working in higher education and the community college environment. In addition to extracurricular activities, he appreciates the college offering strong student support services and creative instructional strategies for all students to help guide them to success.
“It is truly a rewarding experience to see students grow,” Harris said. “I sincerely value the chance to contribute to an atmosphere that fosters career growth and lifetime learning, as community colleges are essential in empowering individuals.”
In his new role, he plans to increase intramural and club sports, start esports and dance clubs, and enhance MCC’s on-campus offerings with a fitness center and walking trail in the next few semesters. To get to know the community, Harris will host a step challenge for students, as well as a meet and greet opportunity.
“Not only am I here to oversee the athletics program, but I am here to be a shoulder to lean on and a resource for whatever is needed throughout students’ college journey,” he said. “I want to establish long-lasting connections with the students and do everything in my power to support their success.”

Easter Concert

The Central Congregational Church of Chelmsford invites you to our Annual Easter Concert on April 13 at 3:00 PM.  Tudor Bota, the music director, has planned a wonderful concert with a variety of music from the classical music of Mozart and Mendelssohn to more contemporary pieces like “Throw Open the Gates.”  Choirs will be singing, bells will be ringing, SonLight will be playing, and we will be joined by soloists Katrina Holden-Buckley and Philip Lima. This is an inspirational way to begin Easter Week.
A free-will offering will be received, and a reception in Fellowship Hall will follow the concert.  Invite friends and relatives to this lovely event.  The church is fully handicapped accessible. The church is located at 1 Worthen St. (parking lot entrance from either North Road or Worthen Street.  We hope to see you on Palm Sunday, April 13 at 3PM.
Mcc celebrity

MCC’s Spring 2025 Celebrity Forum to Welcome Award-winning, Hall of Fame Rock Band

The Middlesex Community College Foundation is proud to announce the Spring 2025 Celebrity Forum, featuring the award-winning, Hall of Fame rock band The Beach Boys. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 10 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.
“Middlesex is excited to bring the legendary Beach Boys to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium stage this spring,” said Phil Sisson, MCC’s President. “Thank you to the MCC Foundation for their continued work in offering our community inspiring culture and entertainment, as well as our students with the support they need to be successful. We are also grateful to our generous sponsors for donating their time, effort and money to provide our students with experiences and opportunities to help them reach their goals and pursue their dreams. I look forward to another incredible evening of music and celebration while listening to the iconic Beach Boys!”
“Both MCC and the Foundation are honored to welcome The Beach Boys at this year’s Celebrity Forum,” said Judy Burke, MCC’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Workforce Development. “The Beach Boys music is interwoven into the culture of America. They are great role models for our students, for they consistently display surreal creativity, hard work, resilience and unification. For over 25 years, the event has recognized the work the college does for students, raised important funds to provide students with educational opportunities, and offered cultural enrichment to the community. Thank you to the Beach Boys for joining us and to Spectacle Live, our partners, and sponsors for helping make this event possible.”
As The Beach Boys mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled in America’s musical history. The Beach Boys – who have become synonymous with the California lifestyle and an American icon to fans around the world – are bringing “The Sounds of Summer” tour to cities around the globe.
Since the band’s co-founder, lead-singer and chief lyricist Mike Love penned the lyrics to The Beach Boys’ first hit, “Surfin’” (1961), dozens of the bands chart toppers have become eternal anthems of American youth: “Surfin’ USA,” “Surfer Girl,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,” “California Girls,” “Helps Me Rhonda,” “Barbara Ann,” “Good Vibrations,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Rock and Roll Music” and “Kokomo.”
The Beach Boys have sold over 100 million records worldwide and have received more than 33 RIAA Platinum and Gold record awards. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers were also honored at the 2001 Grammy Awards with the Lifetime Achievement Award. With more than five decades of touring under their belts, The Beach Boys have performed more concerts than any major rock band in history.
The Beach Boys are led by legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy® winner, New York Times best-selling author, cofounder, lead singer, chief lyricist of The Beach Boys, and 2025 Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Mike Love, who, along with longtime member Bruce Johnston, musical director Brian Eichenberger, Christian Love, Tim Bonhomme, Jon Bolton, Keith Hubacher, Randy Leago and John Wedemeyer continue the legacy of the iconic band.
For over 25 years, MCC has brought well-known personalities to Greater Lowell for the educational and cultural enrichment of area residents, including the 2024 event with Dionne Warwick. The TJX Companies, Inc., proud Presenting Sponsor of MCC’s spring fundraisers since 1999, has returned to support this year’s Celebrity Forum. A donor reception for sponsors will start off the event followed by dinner the performance. Proceeds from the event provide support for MCC students.
Visit https://www.middlesex.edu/celebrityforum/spring_fundraiser.html for more information, including sponsorship opportunities or contact Sherri McCormack, MCC’s Dean of Advancement, at McCormackS@middlesex.edu or call 978-656-3034. To purchase tickets, contact the Lowell Memorial Auditorium Box Office at 800-657-8774.
Connie diamond singing

Connie Diamond Offers Repertoire of Familiar Classics for PCA Fundraiser April 12

WESTFORD, MA: Enjoy a journey through the Great American Songbook with Connie Diamond singing and explaining “Why the Music Matters!” at the Parish Center for the Arts (PCA), 10Lincoln Street on April 12 at 6:30pm (doors open 6pm). General admission tickets are $15. Click to reserve your seats!
Diamond has created a show where she talks and sings through history, using the Songbook as her tool; starting with the 1920s all the way into the 1950s. You will be transported into a “time machine” and experience American History through the composers and their music; see how they were influenced by the times and in turn, created tunes that reflected the strength of a nation and its people, during the best and worst of these times. Connie will be accompanied by pianist Frank Wilkins and guest saxophonist Jason Macres. Proceeds from this show will be donated to the PCA, in memory of Connie’s granddaughter, Anna Aslanian.
For more information, visit the PCA online at pcawestford.org, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/4-12-25-connie-diamond-s-journey-through-the-great-american-songbook-jazz-/147

Spring Pops! Program
Concord Band Performs Revolutionary Music

 
The Concord Band will present its spirited Spring Pops! concert on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 7:00pm, at 51 Walden Performing Arts Center. The program commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord as part of Concord250 festivities this year throughout the town of Concord. The concert features two compositions specially commissioned to honor the historic events of April 19, 1775.
North Bridge Portrait by noted composer and arranger Stephen Bulla was commissioned by the Concord Band. The composition builds on foreboding melodies leading to martial themes, culminating in the fateful “shot heard ’round the world” at Concord’s North Bridge. The program also features Seeds of Revolution, recently commissioned by the Lexington Bicentennial Band and composed by Daniel Lutz, Director of University Bands at UMass Lowell. Seeds of Revolution depicts unfolding events and growing sentiments in Massachusetts leading up to April 19, 1775. The performance continues with a march representing both historic towns, aptly titled Concord and Lexington, written by George Briggs, former band director at Harvard University.
The Concord250 program concludes with Concord, composed for the U.S. Marine Band by Clare Grundman, incorporating traditional tunes from colonial New England, “The White Cockade,” William Billings’ “America,” and “Yankee Doodle.” Grundman noted that “Yankee Doodle” was a very popular tune for jigs and country dances, but for his composition he used 7/8 time for an exuberant and clever ending.
Music Director James O’Dell has also selected twenty-first century music representing the digital revolution, drawn from video games and superhero movies. Epic Gaming Themes by Paul Murtha elevates classic video game soundtracks to the stature of film scores. Video Games Live, by Marty O’Donnell, includes excerpts from a Hollywood concert phenomenon celebrating music from video games that toured around the world from 2005 through 2015. This composition will be conducted by Concord Band clarinetist Jim Dorney, who studied conducting at SUNY Geneseo. The Concord Band will perform Soundtrack Highlights from Guardians of the Galaxy, arranged for band by Michael Brown. The powerful soundtrack is based on popular hits of the 1960s and 1970s, which the film’s protagonist plays to remind him of his childhood on Earth.
Tickets to the Spring Pops concert are $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Admission includes open seating and complimentary refreshments. Tickets are available at ticketstage.com/concordband. Additional information about the Concord Band is available at www.concordband.org and on Facebook.

Experience Unique Sounds and Instruments
with Providence Mandolin Orchestra

WESTFORD, MA: Directed by Mark Davis, The Providence Mandolin Orchestra (PMO) is a group of amateur and professional musicians united by the love of performing a unique style of music. Experience their unique sounds and instruments at the Parish Center for the Arts, 10Lincoln Street on April 13 at 3pm (doors open at 2:30pm). Tickets range from $5-$20for this family-friendly event. Recital seating.
The PMO are committed to carrying on the rich tradition of the American mandolin orchestra while actively promoting original, new pieces. They take pride in introducing audiences to unique sounds and instruments, and strive to enrich the community with their cultural presence. Suffice it to say, they have become a major contributor in the international field of plucked string music.
This event is supported in part by the Westford Cultural Council.
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/4-13-25-providence-mandolin-orchestra/219
For more information, visit the PCA online at pcawestford.org, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Fnd 25 golf tourn action unlimited ad

Nashoba Valley Technical High School Foundation 2nd Annual Golf Tournament

On July 7, 2025 register by June 30.
Cost: $150/Golfer (individuals to foursomes) Includes registration and lunch
At: Northern Spy Country Club, Townsend, MA
Sponsorships Available Green: $50 / Tee: $100
Register at www.nashobatech.net/page/nshoba-valley-technical-high
Mcc wom

MCC’s “A World of Music” to Feature Revered Chinese Instrument

aMiddlesex Community College will put on Guqin and Viola in Musical Dialogue as part of the Spring 2025 “A World of Music” concert series. The performance will take place at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 11 at MCC’s Concert Hall in Bedford.
“We are looking forward to hearing Simon Debierre and Ruixin Niu introduce us to a variety of repertoire played by the ancient Chinese Guqin, a plucked seven-string instrument, with the modern viola,” said Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, MCC’s Chair of Music. “It should be a fascinating evening of music.”
Debierre, who plays the Guqin, and Niu, violist, will bring together a revered Chinese instrument with over two thousand years of history, and the viola, known for its warm, expressive tone and versatility. This program will feature traditional Chinese music, modern compositions, and French works influenced by Chinese pentatonic scales, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that bridge ancient traditions and contemporary creativity.
The concert will open with a demonstration of Niu’s 3-D printed hybrid violin/viola with LED lights, which helps to illustrate these special Chinese scales.
“Simon Debierre and I are excited to perform at Middlesex Community College, blending the voices of an ancient Chinese instrument and a Western European instrument to bridge the ancient and contemporary musical landscapes of China and France,” Niu said.
A final “A World of Music” performance in Bedford will be a Student Recital at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28. MCC will also host the Lowell Chamber Orchestra (LCO) for a second time this semester at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26.
Previous concerts this season include the LCO on Saturday, February 1; an Online Saturday Arts Concert featuring MCC faculty, alumni and students on Saturday, March 8; Know Orchestra on Sunday, March 23; and a Piano Recital by Anastasia Seifetdinova on Friday, April 4.
All concerts are free and open to the public.
MCC’s Concert Hall is located in the North Academic Building at 591 Springs Road in Bedford. Parking is available on-campus.
Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/worldofmusic/ for more information.

The Brush Art Gallery & Studios

Come join us for an evening full of fun, food, and entertainment at “Dinner and a Show - Act 3” to benefit The Brush Art Gallery & Studios of Lowell, MA on Saturday, April 26.  The event will be held at Lenzi’s, 810 Merrimack Avenue, Dracut, MA, beginning at 6:00PM with cocktails, followed by dinner at 7:00PM, and a program of Broadway classics featuring Michael Lally, Matt Descoteaux at the piano, Erin Noonan-Descoteaux, Greg Descoteaux, Jerry Bisantz, Camille Bedard, Alison Burns, and Lura Smith.   There will also be a wine pull, silent auction, and raffles.
Tickets may be purchased online at:  https://thebrush.org/dinner.  For more information, please contact Jim Dyment at 978-459-7819.
The Brush Art Gallery & Studios was originally founded by the Lowell Historic Preservation Commission, U.S. Department of the Interior.  The Brush presents museum quality exhibitions, educational programs, and has collaborated with many other non-profit groups.  Artists occupy studio spaces to interact with and educate the public on a daily basis.  Studio Artists produce paintings, illustration, photograph, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, quilts, and handwoven items.  Associate artists also display work in the common areas.  The Brush Art Gallery & Studios is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.
New england folk frestival

New England Folk Festival

The New England Folk Festival Association (NEFFA) is a non-profit educational and cultural organization promoting folk arts and traditions in New England and elsewhere. Every April, for 8 decades,  NEFFA runs the New England Folk Festival which blends dance, music, crafts, family activities, and food. The 2025 Festival is on April 25-27 at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Road West, Marlborough, MA 01752
The Festival is unique because of the participatory nature of the events. Not only are there concerts and performances, but there are also opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with music, dance, and folk arts culture. There is music everywhere!  You will find jam sessions, instrument workshops, group singing, and  traditional music throughout the Festival. The Festival is also known for its varied social dance program, which includes: Contra and Traditional Square Dance, International Folk Dance, Waltz, English Country, Scandinavian, and more. There are plenty of introductory workshops, as well as sessions geared towards intermediate and advanced dancers.  It attracts more than 2000 attendees from all over the world and features close to 1000 performers.
This year, NEFFA is offering special reduced rate  “Festival Sampler Tickets” to introduce the festival to a wider audience.
Please spread the word!  The NEFFA Sampler ticket ($10; kids under 8 are free) is a great way to explore some of what the New England Folk Festival has to offer. Shop at the Festival Marketplace, watch traditional dances from around the world, and experience folk music, storytelling and exhibits at the Ramblin’ Road Show and Homemade Hootenanny. Take the kids to the Family Activities Area, then enjoy a snack at the food trucks while watching traditional Morris dance performances outside. Sampler tickets admission will only be available on Saturday April 26th from 11AM-4PM  More information at  https://www.neffa.org/festival-sampler/

Fresh Start Furniture Bank

WWW.FRESHSTARTFURNITUREBANK.ORG
It was another great Saturday at Fresh Start in Hudson!  Clients showed up on time and with trucks.  Our translators arrived in time to help with a Portuguese-speaking client.  Several new volunteers began their shifts.
   Fifteen minutes after our furniture donation time had ended at 10:30, a couple arrived from Uxbridge with a car and trailer full of furniture, including two couches!  They are cleaning out a parent’s home.  At the time, we had three couches available for clients (we typically have more than 10).  After checking with the folks who were loading the trucks for clients we said we would take all the furniture.   There was no way that we were going to turn the donors and their two couches away, even if I had to muscle the couches through the front door by myself (unlikely!!)
     Please take a look at our website to see what we do and do not accept, where we send our truck for pick-ups and the requirements for that.  Keep us in mind when you’re doing spring cleaning or updating your home.   We need more couches and loveseats, chairs and recliners, dining tables & chairs and housewares and linens. And remember - if you wouldn’t give it to a good friend, please don’t give it to us!

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

April 10, 2025, 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 member. Please contact Amanda Spinale, Compass Memory Care Director, at 978-369-4728 or aspinale@concordpark.org for more information and the Zoom link. This group is free and open to the public.
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.