Chelmsford High School Class of 2027 is holding a Fall Craft and Vendor Fair. Close to 100 crafters will be at McCarthy Middle School, 250 North Road,  Chelmsford, on Sunday, November 15th from 10am-4pm. Admission is $5 and comes with one 50/50 ticket. Raffle, bake sale, Heavnl’y Dogs food truck and more!
Any questions, email chelmsford2027@yahoo.com.

Northboro Junior Woman’s Club, Boros Cares 4 Troops and the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 will host Wreaths Across America on December 19, 2026 at12:00 noon.

The Northboro Junior Woman’s Club, Boros Cares 4 Troops and The Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 are beginning fundraising to support the Wreaths Across America being held in Northborough for the third time this year. We are hosting an event at the Howard Street Cemetery to bring awareness to the yearlong mission of the organization, which is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.

Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, which was begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s yearlong mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

The wreaths are $17 each! If you would like to order one or more wreaths please go to: www/wreathsacrossamerica.org/MA0219

The Harvard Lions are offering mail order gift boxes that can be ordered online and shipped anywhere in the continental United States. There are a number of different gift box options with fruit, nuts, candy, cake and soup mixes. This offers an option to send a gift for the Thanksgiving or December holidays while supporting our local charities.
Place your order by November 4 for Thanksgiving delivery and between November 5 and December 11 for Christmas delivery.
The direct link to purchase gift boxes is here: https://ifundraise.com/616524
More details on the citrus sale can be found at www.harvardlions.org.

Since 2010, October has been dedicated as National Bullying Prevention Month. According to PACER Center, one out of five students report they’ve been bullied. Bullying can happen to anyone at any time, and it can be recurring or a one off. There are multiple ways people can be bullied. Verbal, physical, and cyberbullying (online) tend to be the most common forms.
      Cyberbullying has increased, in part, because of the perceived anonymity that can accompany harassment, threats, humiliation, or torment directed at a peer. Some of these accounts are anonymous, but not all. Sometimes, private messages, comments, and posts are made by someone who isn't afraid to share their identity.
      The CDC recognizes bullying as an Adverse Childhood Experience, commonly referred to as ACEs. It also recognizes that bullying has a broader impact than solely the victim but also the perpetrators and bystanders are negatively affected. In its report “The Relationship Between Bullying and Suicide: What We Know and What it Means for Schools,” the CDC states that while bullying does not cause suicide, it is closely linked to suicidal behaviors. The report found that youth who report any connections to bullying are more likely to report suicidal behavior than their peers who do not claim to be impacted by bullying.
       If you know someone who is or has been bullied and want to learn more about suicide prevention and awareness, The Jason Foundation, Inc. is a valuable resource. The Jason Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide through education. Its website, www.jasonfoundation.com, offers resources, trainings, materials, a list of warning signs and risk factors, as well as a tool to find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office to you. It is important to be educated so that you can recognize when someone may be struggling and help them get the support they need

Join us at the Gov. George S. Boutwell House on Sunday October 25th at 2 PM for the Groton Historical Society's Annual Meeting and Program.

We talk a lot about who lived in the Boutwell House and about what artifacts and papers are stored there. But how often do we think of the house itself? Its present-day architecture is well-documented. But why was it built that way? How was it used? How did it fit into the community?

Brian Bixby will start to try to answer some of those question, or at least raise more detailed questions. As the Boutwell House turns 175 years old, it is time we looked into the house that plays such an important role in our activities.

Brian grew up in Groton and holds a Ph.D. in history from the University of Massachusetts. Now living in Cambridge, he’s been supporting the Groton History Center’s work on Boutwell ever since helping to catalogue some rediscovered Boutwell papers back in 2001. He teaches a variety of history courses at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education.

This program will follow the Groton Historical Society’s brief annual business meeting where members may vote on the slate of Officers & Directors. Free and open to the public.

Cake and sparkling cider will be served.

This mono printing method is exciting and intuitive, sometimes with surprising results. The surface
is a Gelli printing plate (18”x24”) and I use acrylics to paint directly on the silicone, making several
strokes with each pull/print, and sometimes creating layers. There are many ways to use this process—
I will share some that I have done.

The public is invited to attend this free program. Northborough Historical Society, 52 Main Street
parking available on School St.

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.

The public is invited to an exciting Harvest Fair on Oct. 28 from 10-3 at the Cameron Senior Center on Pleasant Street in Westford. Over 20 outside vendors will be displaying their handcrafted items, services, knitted pieces and holiday decorations. Music, coffee and cider refreshments will be available, as well as some delicious homemade bake sale products to take home.  Take a chance on one of our many Raffle Baskets and get lucky!  Do your holiday shopping early with gift cards to major retailers available for purchase. All money made from this festival helps to support Westford Seniors and is sponsored by the Friends of the Cameron Senior Center.

A Junk in the Trunk event will take place on October 24 from 10-11 a.m. at a new location, Stony Brook School, 9 Farmer Way, Westford, MA.

People bring their cars, open their trunks, set out unwanted household items, and freely give away goods, and choose items gifted from others. This is not a drop off event as you must remain on site until items are gifted or donated.

Setup time is no earlier than 9:30 a.m. Gifting and Receiving is 10 a.m. Donation time is 11 a.m.
Supported by Sustainable Westford and the Westford Recycling Commission.
More information: email LauraGranato15@gmail.com

The Officer Sean Collier Memorial Fund is hosting a Music Bingo fundraiser on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Princeton Station in Chelmsford.  Doors open at 7:00pm.  Music Bingo begins at 8:00pm.  Tickets are $25 per person. Attendees are welcome to bring their own snacks.  A cash bar and raffle tickets will be available to purchase. The Fund provides charitable services that recognize and honor law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty, while supporting their surviving family members. It sponsors events that foster goodwill and perpetuate respect and appreciation for law enforcement and first responders, and it promotes better understanding between officers/first responders and young people.  For tickets or more information contact Rich Sullivan at (978) 804-2341 or Blkhonda99@gmail.com. 

The Chelmsford Recycling Committee will hold its annual Zero Waste Day (Rain or Shine) on Saturday, October 24 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at McCarthy Middle School, 250 North Road. This event is an opportunity to keep usable goods out of the waste stream, saving tax dollars on trash incineration fees and reducing greenhouse gases that result from burning household items. This is a “one-stop drop”, free event that allows homeowners to donate items to multiple nonprofits at the same time and at the same place.
We have partnered with the following local organizations to collect donated items: CMRK (clothing, dishware, sports equipment, books, textbooks, CDs, DVDs), Lions Club (eyeglasses, hearing aids), Household Goods Inc. (furniture), Shred-it (paper shredding), DPW (tires), Gate City Bike Co-op (bicycles and parts), Recycling Committee (batteries and fluorescent bulbs), UTEC (mattresses and box springs) and the Chelmsford Food Pantry (non-perishable food and cash donations).
For more details on accepted items: https://www.chelmsfordrecycles.com/upcoming-events.
Shred-it, Tires, and Mattresses/Box Springs will be limited to Chelmsford residents with proof of residency. All other stations will be open to non-residents.
Contact Chris Haley, Sustainability Manager at chaley@chelmsfordma.gov or 978-250-5203 with any questions.

 

Looking for friendship and good conversation?  The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club would like to invite you to connect with our members on Saturday November 7th at our Fall Potluck Dinner and Game Night in Acton.  We will meet at the Village of Nagog Woods Clubhouse, 102 Nonset Path, Acton from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM to enjoy friends, games, food, and beverages.  Everyone is bringing a favorite appetizer, meal, or dessert to share. If you would like more information, or to join us, please RSVP to info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org.

Our ongoing public events are Lunch Bunch, Movie Night, Book Club, Dinner Group, Trivia Nights, Summer Picnic, Wine Tastings, as well as Men's and Ladies Night events.

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from Acton, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Groton, Littleton, Westford, Maynard, and Harvard.  Originally called the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club of Acton, and then the Acton-Boxborough Newcomers & Neighbors Club, in 2014, we became the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club to reflect our current members and their interests.  Our club welcomes any residents in the surrounding communities that are looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends.

Find us on Facebook or visit the Club’s website at http://www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more information, as well as information on how to become a member of the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club.  We look forward to seeing you!

 

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

October 16th and 17th at 7:30 pm, October 18th at 2:00 pm: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee – Presented by the Playground Theatre Co. In the auditorium.

October 23rd at 7:00 pm: Ellsworth & Hicks Concert. Musical partners for more than four decades, Ellsworth & Hicks will bring their distinctive blend of original songs, vocal harmonies, guitar, clarinet, and harmonica to the CCA.

October 29th at 7:30 pm: Janelle's Scary Basement Comedy Show. Janelle Draper and friends return to the Cabaret Cafe for a special Halloweekend show! Along with Janelle herself, enjoy the comedic stylings of nationally recognized comedians – lineup to be announced.

November 6th from 5:30-7:30 pm: The Artist's Gala: Created Live. Captured Forever. Watch as talented local artists transform blank garments, such as gowns and jackets, into one-of-a-kind, wearable art pieces to be auctioned off at the end of the night. Featuring a full bar and hors d'oeuvres available throughout the evening, this unforgettable event is perfect for any fashion or art lover. All proceeds from the night go to support future CCA programming. Tickets $20.

NEW! November 15th at 7:30 pm: The Nightflies: An Evening of Steely Dan. What began as an informal get-together of 10 talented musicians for the love and challenge of playing the intricate arrangements of Donald Fagen, Walter Becker, of Steely Dan, became a high energy, danceable party of music by Steely Dan. They perform an ambitious medley of those recognizable, danceable, foot tapping, 70’s-80’s radio hits, plus a few of Becker/Fagen’s deep cuts. Tickets $25 online, $30 at the door.

NEW! November 20th at 7:30 pm: An evening with Suzanne Buell and the Gospel Connection Join Suzanne and her extraordinary group of singers and musicians in this most recent evolution of her journey through traditional spirituals and stirring gospel music. Not only does this concert explore the roots of the traditional spiritual and historic gospel that defined the Civil Rights movement, but also the musical connections that inspire contemporary artists.

As I continue settling into my role as Town Manager, I have been staying busy getting to know our community, meeting residents, working with our dedicated staff, and learning more about the many qualities that make Chelmsford such a special place. As the days grow shorter and the colors of autumn begin to emerge, fall is also an important season for local government.

On October 19, Town Meeting Members will gather for Chelmsford's Annual Fall Town Meeting, one of the most important traditions in our community. This year's warrant includes 26 articles covering a wide range of topics, including roadway and sidewalk improvements, ADA accessibility projects, Town Office restroom renovations, improvements to the Town Common walkway, community and senior housing initiatives, financial stabilization measures, environmental sustainability proposals, and several zoning and planning articles, among other things. Over the coming weeks, the Select Board and Finance Committee will conduct their reviews of the warrant and vote recommendations on the various articles. Residents can follow these discussions and review agendas, meeting materials, and committee recommendations through the Town's public meeting postings before Town Meeting. I encourage everyone to stay informed and participate in this uniquely New England form of local democracy.

Alex Magee
Town Manager

The Concord Band will perform its Fall Concert on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 7pm, at the Performing Arts Center, 51 Walden Street in Concord. MA. Music Director James O’Dell will lead the Concord Band in its program presentation of “Scenes”, named after the suite, Scenes from "The Louvre", written for band by composer Norman Dello Joio. Dello Joio adapted his original score from a television documentary, depicting five classic artworks from the museum's famous collection. In keeping with this theme, the Concord Band will also perform composer Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Additional featured pieces include Of Sailors and Whales by W. Francis McBeth, inspired by Herman Melville's iconic novel, Moby Dick; Iditarod by Robert Buckley, which evokes the epic adventure of the Alaskan dog sled race; and Ireland: Of Legend and Lore by Robert W. Smith. A multimedia presentation will accompany the music.  The Concord Band invites concert-goers of all ages to hear the music inspired by the art, and to see the art that inspired the music.
Admission is free and open to the public.  A $20 per person donation is requested.  Complimentary light refreshments will be served at a reception following the concert.  To learn more about the Concord Band, visit www.concordband.org and on Facebook.
Concord Band’s 2026-2027 Concert Season dates, 51 Walden Performing Arts Center:
§  Saturday, November 7, 1pm – Bandemonium!  Children’s Concert
§  Saturday, December 12, 7pm – Holiday Pops
§  Saturday, March 6, 7pm – Winter Concert
§  Friday and Saturday, April 9 and 10, 7pm – Two evenings of Swing Dance
§  Wednesdays, June and July, 7:15pm – Summer Concerts at 51 Walden and outdoors at the Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, MA

Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) will host its annual Light in the Darkness Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Fairbank Community Center, 40 Fairbank Rd., Sudbury. Held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month each October, the Vigil commemorates the lives lost in Massachusetts to domestic violence in the past year.

Community members will read each victim's story as their lives are represented by the reader, a rose, and a candle that is lit in their memory. This year's keynote speaker will be District Attorney Marian
Ryan, who has created multiple best-in-class crime prevention programs and is a leader in domestic violence prevention and prosecution.

"While the Vigil is a solemn occasion," says DVSN Executive Director Jacquelin Apsler, "It is also a night of hope. By publicly standing together to witness and commemorate, we build awareness and show the survivors in our communities that we believe their stories and support their journeys."

The public is invited to attend this free event. A light supper will be served following the ceremony. For more information regarding DVSN’s Candlelight Vigil, visit DVSN.org/Vigil or call 978-318-3421.

 

The third annual Boston MetroWest Mid-Autumn Festival brought together approximately 700 attendees for an afternoon cultural fair and evening performances celebrating Chinese culture and community connections across MetroWest.
The festival was founded in 2024 by Yvette Fang, Chair of the Concord Carlisle Chinese Club Board of Directors. What began with more than 300 attendees has grown into a regional collaboration among six community organizations: Acton Chinese American Civic Society, Concord Carlisle Chinese Club, Chinese American Association of Sudbury, Weston Westar, Jasmine Cultural Arts Foundation, and Wayland Chinese American Association.
This year’s celebration featured food, crafts, family activities and more than 100 performers presenting music, dance and other cultural programs.
State and local leaders also participated, including Massachusetts State Senator Jamie Eldridge, State Representative Simon Cataldo, Massachusetts AAPI Commissioner Gary Yu, Acton Select Board Chair Alissa Nicol and Vice Chair David Martin, Qian Ge, Co-President of the New England Chinese American Alliance, Lu Lai, Producer at EATV, and Shaw Yang, a board member of the Concord Carlisle Chinese Club.
Several guests, including Jamie Eldridge, Simon Cataldo, Gary Yu, Alissa Nicol, David Martin, Qian Ge and Shaw Yang, joined a traditional Chinese dragon dance.
One lighthearted cultural quiz also connected Chinese legend with American history. Guests were asked whether the Apollo 11 astronauts had actually been told to look for Chang’e and the Jade Rabbit when humans first landed on the moon in 1969. Most guessed false. The answer was true.
The festival continues to grow as a shared MetroWest tradition, bringing together families, community organizations and local leaders through culture, music and celebration.
Looking ahead, four additional community organizations have already expressed interest in joining next year’s celebration. The 2027 festival is expected to take place around the Mid-Autumn Festival, in September or October, with details to be announced. Community members are invited to stay tuned and join the celebration. Opportunities will also be available for sponsors, performers and volunteers.

A fundraiser for desperately needed aid for the Cuban people.

The United Church of Christ of Boxborough, 723 Massachusetts Ave., is sponsoring a benefit concert for the people of Cuba, featuring the Pan-Latin ensemble, Sol y Canto. The concert will take place on Sunday, October 25th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, with doors opening at 3:30 PM. Proceeds from the event will benefit the congregations of the Second Baptist Church in Santiago de Cuba, the Baptist Church of Mariana in Baracoa, and neighboring communities. Tickets are $30 per person, $10 for youth/students, plus a small ticketing fee ($35 at the door).

To make a donation or to purchase tickets, go to: 2026 Cuba Benefit Concert: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-cuba-benefit-concert-with-sol-y-canto-tickets-1991776395817

What's happening in Cuba?
Cuba is facing the worst economic and humanitarian crisis in its modern history. Longstanding U.S. sanctions, compounded by recent restrictions on fuel imports, have severely strained the country's economy. Across the island, residents endure power outages lasting up to 20–22 hours a day, disrupting nearly every aspect of daily life. The prolonged blackouts have paralyzed public transportation, suspended garbage collection, and forced the closure of schools and businesses, while inflation and chronic shortages have left many families struggling to obtain basic necessities, including food, medicine, and other essential household goods.

Sol y Canto, an award-winning Pan-Latin ensemble known for its vibrant concerts and critically acclaimed music that blends diverse Latin American styles. Come and enjoy the sounds of this exhilarating band while helping the people of Cuba.

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.

 

Boston- State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg announced today that the Massachusetts Unclaimed Property Division (UCP) team returned $975,554 in unclaimed property to Massachusetts residents while at The Big E in Springfield. Throughout the 17-day event, UCP connected with attendees, helped people search for unclaimed funds, and assisted individuals in taking the steps needed to claim money that belongs to them. The $975,554 returned at The Big E is almost double what was returned last year at the same event, highlighting the Treasurer’s ongoing commitment to making sure unclaimed property is reunited with its rightful owners.

“We use every avenue possible to help Massachusetts residents find the money that belongs to them,” said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg. “Returning almost a million dollars at the Big E is a perfect example, and it was great to see so many people connect with our team to help them claim what is rightfully theirs.”

The Treasurer and the UCP team are constantly working across Massachusetts to return unclaimed money to residents. Through outreach events like The Big E and the team’s year-round efforts, the program continues to help people discover and recover funds they may not have known were waiting for them. In FY 2026, Treasury processed over 118,000 claims and returned over $226 million in property to its rightful owners, the most ever returned.

Treasurer Goldberg urges all citizens to check www.findmassmoney.gov for a complete list of over 10 million properties or call the live call center at 1-888-344-MASS (6277). There is no time limit for a person to claim this property and, in many cases, claimants will receive interest.

Unclaimed property includes forgotten savings and checking accounts, un-cashed checks, insurance policy proceeds, stocks, dividends, and the contents of unattended safe deposit boxes. Most accounts are considered abandoned and are turned over to the state after three years of inactivity.

 

October 7, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 21st Season with a concert titled “Exuberant Voices” at Assumption University in Worcester on November 8.  A reception will follow the concert.

Martinů’s Three Madrigals are a complex blend of the English madrigals and energetic Bohemian and Moravian folk music that he loved. Notable 20th century Czech composer Martinů fled the German invasion of France in 1941 by moving to the United States, eventually spending influential time in Massachusetts and teaching at the Berkshire Music School. Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 5, written after a three-year hiatus from composition, marked a radical stylistic departure from his earlier works and ushered in his late style. Marking the beginning of his late creative period, this piece was written in a most challenging time for Beethoven, largely characterized by profound deafness. Saint- Saëns’ Quartet No. 2 is rhythmically dynamic, jaunty in tone, energetic, and exuberant; the composer wrote this during a particularly banner year of personal highs, which included his marriage and the birth of his son, André.

Sunday, November 8 @4:00PM
Jeanne Y. Curtis Hall, Assumption University
500 Salisbury Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @3:30PM
Program

Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/exuberant-voices/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

This concert will also be presented by the Icon Museum and Study Center in Clinton at 7:00PM on November 6. Tickets and information are available at iconmuseum.org.
All venues are handicapped accessible.

 

• Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Keep kids away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of three feet around the stove.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire ─ pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains ─ away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.

• Never leave a fire burning in the fireplace unattended. Make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home. Use a glass or metal fire screen to keep embers in the fireplace.
• Space heaters: It's critical to keep at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, and never leave space heaters unattended. 
• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor. Don’t place it on rugs and carpets, or near bedding and drapes. And keep children and pets away from the heater.
• Plug space heater power cords directly into outlets — never an extension cord. Turn it off every time you leave the room or go to sleep.

 

DEVENS, MA — October 7, 2026 — Get ready to sip, savor, socialize, and support a great cause! Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts will host its annual A Toast to Hope fundraising event on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Devens Common Center, 31 Andrews Parkway, Devens, Massachusetts.
A Toast to Hope is one of Habitat NCM’s most anticipated fundraising events of the year, bringing together local restaurants, breweries, distilleries, beverage companies, businesses, community supporters, and Habitat friends for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, fun, and fundraising.
“A Toast to Hope is about so much more than food and beverages,” said Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts Community Outreach Coordinator Diana Sinkus. “It’s about bringing our community together to celebrate the difference we can make when we all raise a glass—and raise some hope—for local families.”
Guests will have the opportunity to sample an exciting variety of food and beverages from local restaurants, caterers, breweries, distilleries, wineries, beverage companies, and specialty vendors, while enjoying an evening of networking, laughter, and community spirit. From savory bites and sweet treats to craft beverages and cocktails, there will be something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
More Than an Evening Out - Proceeds from A Toast to Hope directly support Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts’ mission to provide affordable homeownership opportunities and Critical Home Repairs for local families and homeowners.
Habitat NCM serves 30 communities from Acton to Athol, working alongside families and volunteers to build affordable homes and complete critical repairs that help homeowners remain safe, secure, and able to stay in their homes.
The organization’s work is made possible through a combination of volunteers, donors, community partners, corporate sponsors, and fundraising events like A Toast to Hope.
“Every ticket, every sponsorship, every donated product, and every volunteer hour helps us continue building homes and repairing homes right here in our own communities,” said Sinkus. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helps make this event—and our mission—possible.”
EVENT DETAILS
A Toast to Hope 2026
📅 Thursday, October 22, 2026
🕖 7:00 p.m. –9:00 p.m.
📍 Devens Common Center
31 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA
🎟️Tickets: $35 advance / $40 at the door
Guests must be 21 or older to attend.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, contact:
Diana Sinkus, Community Outreach Coordinator, Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts
978-348-2749           diana@ncmhabitat.org

A fundraiser for desperately needed aid for the Cuban people.

The United Church of Christ of Boxborough, 723 Massachusetts Ave., is sponsoring a benefit concert for the people of Cuba, featuring the Pan-Latin ensemble, Sol y Canto. The concert will take place on Sunday, October 25th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, with doors opening at 3:30 PM. Proceeds from the event will benefit the congregations of the Second Baptist Church in Santiago de Cuba, the Baptist Church of Mariana in Baracoa, and neighboring communities. Tickets are $30 per person, $10 for youth/students, plus a small ticketing fee ($35 at the door).

To make a donation or to purchase tickets, go to: 2026 Cuba Benefit Concert: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-cuba-benefit-concert-with-sol-y-canto-tickets-1991776395817

What's happening in Cuba?
Cuba is facing the worst economic and humanitarian crisis in its modern history. Longstanding U.S. sanctions, compounded by recent restrictions on fuel imports, have severely strained the country's economy. Across the island, residents endure power outages lasting up to 20–22 hours a day, disrupting nearly every aspect of daily life. The prolonged blackouts have paralyzed public transportation, suspended garbage collection, and forced the closure of schools and businesses, while inflation and chronic shortages have left many families struggling to obtain basic necessities, including food, medicine, and other essential household goods.

Sol y Canto, an award-winning Pan-Latin ensemble known for its vibrant concerts and critically acclaimed music that blends diverse Latin American styles. Come and enjoy the sounds of this exhilarating band while helping the people of Cuba.

Join us for the inaugural Furnishing Hope Walk presented in partnership with Avidia Bank! A community celebration of hope, generosity, and the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
Since 2013, Fresh Start Furniture Bank has been proud to serve as the longest-running furniture bank in the Hudson and Marlborough area, helping thousands of individuals and families transform empty spaces into homes. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, volunteers, donors, and partners, we've been able to provide beds for children, tables for family meals, dressers, couches, kitchen essentials, and so much more, all at no cost to our neighbors facing difficult circumstances.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, October 18. Rain or shine.
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Hudson Rail Trail: 157 Washington Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Route: Enjoy a scenic 5K out-and-back walk along the Hudson Rail Trail. All ages and abilities are welcome!
Refreshments: Water and light snacks will be available following the walk.
T-Shirt Deadline: Raise $100 or more by September 20 to earn your Furnishing Hope Walk T-shirt.
Fundraising Prizes: Awards will be presented to the top three individual fundraisers and the top team.
Here is a link to the event page for online registration: https://givebutter.com/furnishinghopewalk2026

 

CARLISLE, MA — The Gleason Public Library Endowment Trustees and a dedicated team of community volunteers are excited to announce the upcoming Gleason Public Library Endowment Treasures Auction.
This event features a spectacular array of items, including original paintings, prints, professional photography, unique textile art, sports items, and exclusive service offerings. Whether you are shopping for a unique holiday, wedding, shower, anniversary, or birthday gift—or looking to discover a new treasure for your own home—there is truly something for everyone.
Bidding opens online on Sunday, October 11th and runs through Sunday, October 18th.
To complement the online bidding, the community is invited to a free, festive in-person event on Sunday, October 18th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The celebration will take place at the white building at Clark Farm, 185 Concord Street, Carlisle.
Attendees will have the opportunity to view the auction items live while enjoying a performance by a live jazz band, complimentary refreshments (while they last), and fun family activities (weather permitting).
All proceeds support the Gleason Public Library Endowment, helping ensure the library remains a vibrant, well-resourced hub for the community.
Help support our beloved library by sharing this event with family, friends, and neighbors! For more information, to preview items, or to register to bid, please visit www.gleasonlibrary.org.

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.

 

BOSTON, Oct. 5, 2026 — During Fire Prevention Week ─ October 4-10 ─ the American Red Cross of Massachusetts offers steps you can take to help prevent a fire in your home and keep your loved ones safe.

“Across the country, the Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters a year and most of these are home fires. Here in Massachusetts, our disaster teams have responded to 567 fires since the beginning of 2026,” said Holly Grant, regional executive for the Red Cross of Massachusetts. “These fires are devastating for the people involved. But there are steps everyone can take which will help not only help prevent a fire from starting but also help keep everyone safe should an emergency occur.”

FIRST: STEPS TO HELP KEEP YOU SAFE ─ check out the 10 steps below to learn what you should do:
HAVE A PLAN You may have less than two minutes to escape from a burning home. Draw up a household fire escape plan and practice it twice a year. Everyone in your household should know two ways to escape from each room in your home. Decide where to meet once you get outside. Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as a neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows to meet. Get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people, pets or things. Time your fire drill and find out how long it took everyone to get out. If a fire starts in your home, get out safely, then dial 911.
SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES Smoke alarms can cut your risk of dying in a fire nearly in half.  Place smoke alarms on each level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. In addition to testing your alarms once a month, change the batteries at least once a year, if your model requires it. Check the manufacturer’s date of your smoke alarms. If they’re 10 years or older, they need to be replaced because the sensor becomes less sensitive over time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Identify two exits from every room. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 

Learning has always been part of Lowell’s story.

From its roots in the American Industrial Revolution to generations of newcomers who have shaped the city, Lowell has continually evolved as a place where knowledge, opportunity, and community come together. Necessitated by change, Lowell progressed from its textile manufacturing heritage into a diverse center of higher education, technology and the arts. Its vibrant immigrant communities shape its cultural identity, while the college, university, libraries, national park, civic and cultural institutions drove innovation and community renewal.

Today, the Lowell City of Learning https://www.lowellcityoflearning.org/ partnership is building on that legacy by strengthening lifelong learning opportunities and connecting the people and organizations that make them possible. Developing Lowell as a City of Learning promotes community engagement, long-term sustainability, economic development, resiliency, and the city’s national and global reputation as a place where education, in all its forms, is the key to a vibrant, and equitable community. Today, this development is more important than ever as we live in a complex, fast-changing world where social, economic and political norms are constantly changing.

In December 2025, this work was internationally recognized as the City’s application was accepted thereby becoming the first United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO https://www.uil.unesco.org/en) designated Learning City in the United States. This designation is an amazing milestone affirming Lowell as a city of lifelong learning. Moreover, Lowell is now a partner in a global network with some 425 other such cities striving to facilitate the tenets of lifelong learning for a more connected, resilient, and equitable future.

This is a proud achievement for the City and the region as such accomplishments lift us all up. The work of lifelong learning, by definition, never stops because neither does the need for continuous improvement and growth. Together we make this happen.

On October 10th at 10:30 the City will recognize this proud achievement with a flag-raising at City Hall. Come join in the celebration.

 

MASSACHUSETTS (September 30, 2026) - Hey MA Teens! Voting will open for the MA Teen Choice Book Award (MTCBA) on October 1!  Young people from across Massachusetts are invited to vote for their top teen book from a list of nominees until Oct. 16. This is the only award in the Bay State that invites students in grades 7-12 to vote for their top new books.
The list of nominees has been curated by a committee of public librarians, school library media specialists and educators. The top teen choices will be announced at the end of October.

“There are two ways for teens to cast their votes - they can vote directly using our digital ballot (available at https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home) or they can cast a paper ballot at any participating library or bookstore,” said Suzanne Larson, committee chair and high school library media specialist at Seekonk High School in Seekonk, MA.  “We encourage school and public libraries interested in participating to create displays and ballot boxes by using MTCBA resources, also available on the award website.” (https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home)

The Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is a cooperative project between the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) and the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) with support from Salem State University. For more information on the selected titles and how to participate and vote, please visit www.mateenchoicebook.org.

The Officer Sean Collier Memorial Fund is hosting a Music Bingo fundraiser on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Princeton Station in Chelmsford.  Doors open at 7:00pm.  Music Bingo begins at 8:00pm.  Tickets are $25 per person. Attendees are welcome to bring their own snacks.  A cash bar and raffle tickets will be available to purchase. The Fund provides charitable services that recognize and honor law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty, while supporting their surviving family members. It sponsors events that foster goodwill and perpetuate respect and appreciation for law enforcement and first responders, and it promotes better understanding between officers/first responders and young people.  For tickets or more information contact Rich Sullivan at (978) 804-2341 or Blkhonda99@gmail.com. 

 

BOSTON — Today, the U.S. Postal Service announced the recommended mailing and shipping dates for the 2026 holiday season.

For expected delivery before Dec. 25, the Postal Service advises customers to send mail and packages by the following dates:

2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States)

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 17
First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
Priority Mail: Dec. 18
Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

For a complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses, the Postal Service recommends visiting the USPS holiday shipping page beginning mid-Oct.

During the holiday season, customers should always plan to mail and ship packages early to ensure arrival by Dec. 25.

For tips on mailing and shipping preparation, ordering free shipping supplies, packaging guidelines (including restricted and prohibited item information), and Post Office location hours, visit usps.com or the USPS YouTube channel.

Information to help customers prepare for the busy holiday season can be found on the USPS Holiday Newsroom at usps.com/holidaynews.

September 24, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 21st Season with a revival of their “Café Concert” series at Nuovo Restaurant in Worcester on October 22.  Dinner will be served first followed by the hour-long concert.

Take this opportunity to experience a full chamber music performance in an intimate setting over a convivial meal at Worcester’s Nuovo Restaurant. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a WCMS concert in a relaxed atmosphere, whether you’re a dedicated chamber music enthusiast or discovering chamber music for the first time.

The program begins with the opening movement of J.S. Bach’s Trio Sonata No. 4, built on the “royal theme” given to the composer by King Frederick II of Prussia in a sort of musical gauntlet challenge. W.A. Mozart’s Flute Quartet was a lively commissioned work for an amateur flutist who, despite his apparent wealth, failed to pay the writer appropriately. Beethoven’s Serenade is atypical not only in that it persists in feeling happy and bright, but that it also was specifically written to feature both flute and violin, rather than one or the other.

Thursday, October 22 @8:00PM
Nuovo Restaurant
92 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester
Dinner @6:30 PM
Program
Johann Sebastian Bach | Largo from The Musical Offering, BWV 1079
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Flute Quartet in D major, K.285
Ludwig van Beethoven | Serenade for flute, violin, and viola, Op. 25

Worcester Chamber Music Society Musicians:
Krista Buckland Reisner, violin
Peter Sulski, viola
Joshua Gordon, cello
With guest Tracy Kraus, flute
All venues are handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/cafe-concerts/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624

September 24, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 21st Season with a revival of their “Café Concert” series at Nuovo Restaurant in Worcester on October 22.  Dinner will be served first followed by the hour-long concert.

Take this opportunity to experience a full chamber music performance in an intimate setting over a convivial meal at Worcester’s Nuovo Restaurant. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a WCMS concert in a relaxed atmosphere, whether you’re a dedicated chamber music enthusiast or discovering chamber music for the first time.

The program begins with the opening movement of J.S. Bach’s Trio Sonata No. 4, built on the “royal theme” given to the composer by King Frederick II of Prussia in a sort of musical gauntlet challenge. W.A. Mozart’s Flute Quartet was a lively commissioned work for an amateur flutist who, despite his apparent wealth, failed to pay the writer appropriately. Beethoven’s Serenade is atypical not only in that it persists in feeling happy and bright, but that it also was specifically written to feature both flute and violin, rather than one or the other.

Thursday, October 22 @8:00PM
Nuovo Restaurant
92 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester
Dinner @6:30 PM
Program
Johann Sebastian Bach | Largo from The Musical Offering, BWV 1079
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Flute Quartet in D major, K.285
Ludwig van Beethoven | Serenade for flute, violin, and viola, Op. 25

Worcester Chamber Music Society Musicians:
Krista Buckland Reisner, violin
Peter Sulski, viola
Joshua Gordon, cello
With guest Tracy Kraus, flute
All venues are handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/cafe-concerts/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624

BOSTON — Today, the U.S. Postal Service announced the recommended mailing and shipping dates for the 2026 holiday season.

For expected delivery before Dec. 25, the Postal Service advises customers to send mail and packages by the following dates:

2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States)

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 17
First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
Priority Mail: Dec. 18
Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

For a complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses, the Postal Service recommends visiting the USPS holiday shipping page beginning mid-Oct.

During the holiday season, customers should always plan to mail and ship packages early to ensure arrival by Dec. 25.

For tips on mailing and shipping preparation, ordering free shipping supplies, packaging guidelines (including restricted and prohibited item information), and Post Office location hours, visit usps.com or the USPS YouTube channel.

Information to help customers prepare for the busy holiday season can be found on the USPS Holiday Newsroom at usps.com/holidaynews.

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.