(Concord, MA) Starting May 1, Defense of Democracy, a non-profit dedicated to protecting public education and the right to read, is proud to announce the launch of its 2nd Annual Teacher Thank-A-Thon. This month-long national campaign encourages community members to attend local school board meetings for one simple purpose: to publicly thank educators for their dedication to students and their commitment to inclusive education.
This year’s event is hosted in partnership with prominent education advocate and social media influencer Reads with Rachel, whose platform reaches hundreds of thousands of viewers across TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
“Our educators are on the front lines every day, defending our children’s right to read and ensuring that every student — regardless of their background — feels seen and valued,” said Karen Svoboda, Executive Director of Defense of Democracy. “The Thank-A-Thon is about changing the temperature in the room. We are replacing conflict with radical gratitude and showing our teachers that the 'silent majority' truly has their backs.”
Now in its second year, the Teacher Thank-A-Thon has grown into a powerful national movement. In 2025, the event saw participation in more than 20 states, resulting in hundreds of messages of support.
For more information on the Teacher Thank-A-Thon or to register for the event, please visit www.DefenseofDemocracy.org.

The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semiannual book sale on Saturday, May 2nd, from 8:30am - 3pm. No rain date. Location is the Houghton Building, 697 Main Street, Bolton, MA. There will be over 5,000 books, sorted before and after each sale, and not picked over. The sale also includes puzzles, CDs, and DVDs.
The book sales are the Friends’ largest fundraisers. Proceeds from the sales support programming, events, museum passes, and Wowbrary for the Bolton Public Library.

 

Los Angeles, CA - As the landscape of higher education shifts toward skill-based outcomes, Middlesex Community College joins “Empowered hosted by Meg Ryan” to explore how community colleges serve as essential hubs for regional workforce development and equitable career access.
The upcoming segment, scheduled to film on April 22, 2026, focuses on the structural role of community colleges within the American educational system. Production will take place at the Middlesex Community College campuses in Bedford and Lowell, Massachusetts, documenting the institutional frameworks designed to align student learning with the immediate needs of the regional economy. The program investigates the transition toward integrated career pathways, including dual enrollment for high school students and specialized career embedded options like "Learn & Earn" and Apprenticeships. By documenting the coordination between academic instruction and local industry requirements, the series provides Public Television viewers with a comprehensive look at how accessible education serves as a primary driver for professional advancement and financial stability.
“Now more than ever, community colleges are in a unique position to prepare the workforce with highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced professionals,” said Phil Sisson, Middlesex Community College’s President. “Understanding the importance of career-integrated learning, Middlesex Community College leverages our leadership within our communities by forming valuable partnerships with organizations and companies throughout our service area and the broader Commonwealth. To respond directly to their needs, MCC implements relevant internship, apprenticeship and hands-on opportunities to train our students for these in-demand roles. Combined with industry-driven curriculum and immersive clinical and laboratory experiences, MCC integrates career-focused learning into all our programs, ensuring students become productive and successful members of their communities and workplaces.”
Maintaining a robust local economy requires an adaptable educational infrastructure that can respond to the evolving demands of modern industry. Middlesex Community College has addressed these needs by implementing corporate training partnerships that provide students with practical, hands-on experience while they complete their studies. The segment examines how these programs reduce traditional barriers to entry for underrepresented groups and provide a flexible alternative to high-cost four-year institutions. Furthermore, the documentary explores the impact of free community college initiatives and how they contribute to a more equitable distribution of opportunity across the Commonwealth.
This educational approach focuses on meeting students at their current stage of life, whether they are recent high school graduates or adult learners seeking to pivot into new sectors such as biotechnology or advanced manufacturing. Beyond technical proficiency, the documentary emphasizes the mentorship and holistic support services that ensure students can navigate their academic journey while balancing external responsibilities. By focusing on these functional solutions, the segment aims to inform the public about the strategic importance of community-based learning in fostering a resilient and skilled workforce. The project provides an educational overview of how modern institutions are effectively bridging the gap between education and the workforce to ensure long-term regional prosperity.

 

In honor of Community College Month, Middlesex Community College is highlighting an outstanding student’s MCC experience in his own words. Business student Heet Shah, from India and now living in Lowell, is an active member of the college community who is taking advantage of the many opportunities and experiences Middlesex offers that he believes will make a positive impact on his future.
I chose to start my education at Middlesex Community College during a major transition in my life. I had just moved to the United States from India and was adjusting to a completely new environment, academic system, and way of life. MCC made that transition manageable. It was close to home, and at the time, I did not have a car, so even walking a few miles to campus never felt like a barrier.
Financially and logistically, it was also the right decision. The availability of free tuition and the MassTransfer pathway gave me a clear starting point while keeping long-term opportunities open. From the beginning, I approached MCC as a place where I would fully take advantage of every opportunity available.
That mindset quickly turned into action. One of the biggest impacts MCC has had on me is the opportunities it opened beyond the classroom. Through MCC, I traveled and gained exposure to environments I had never experienced before. I visited New York City and explored the financial district, attended the Two-Year Bridge Symposium where I engaged with firms like EY and KPMG, and participated in the MIT PATH fintech conference in Atlanta.
I also competed at DECA conferences, including traveling to Kentucky, where I applied my knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences gave me exposure and confidence beyond a traditional classroom.
Alongside these experiences, I focused on building academic and professional skills. I worked as a bank teller at a local bank, developing attention to detail and customer service skills, while also working late-night shifts at Bowlero during my early transition period.
On campus, I served as an Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) tutor and contributed to the CircleIn platform, supporting students while engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based learning tools. This led to my involvement in AI initiatives through the MIT PATH collaboration, where I worked with MCC Assistant Dean Peter Shea and Professor Vikram Sharma on projects exploring the intersection of AI and education. I also completed certifications in fintech, machine learning, and financial systems, and will continue this learning through the Massachusetts Municipal Finance Fellowship in Summer 2026.
My involvement in student organizations has been a major part of my journey. As Treasurer of the Business and Economics Club, I helped grow the organization into one of the most active clubs on campus. While my role focused on financial management, I also contributed to organizing events and supporting operations.
Through DECA, I took on a coordinator role, managing budgets, mentoring students, and organizing preparation sessions and competitions. I also co-founded the AI Club to create opportunities for students to explore emerging technologies. In addition, I organized professional development workshops, invited guest speakers, and collaborated with faculty and external professionals to create opportunities for students.
These efforts have been recognized through several accomplishments. I earned a gold award in Corporate Finance at the DECA regional competition and was selected as a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA, been on the Dean’s List every semester, and am part of the Commonwealth Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa. I was also a part of the “I Am MCC” campaign, highlighting student experiences and impact. I have also been nominated for multiple commencement-related awards and advanced to the final stages of selection for the Celebrations Speaker.
After graduating from MCC, I plan to transfer to a four-year university to continue my education in finance, potentially combining it with data science. I have already been accepted into University of Massachusetts Amherst and University of California Irvine, and I am awaiting additional decisions.
My long-term goal is to begin in investment banking, pursue graduate studies, and eventually work in quantitative finance and fintech. At the same time, I want my success to go beyond personal growth and contribute back to the communities that supported me.
More than anything, MCC has given me a strong foundation, a support system, and a sense of direction. I am especially grateful for mentors like Professor Vikram Sharma, along with many others who believed in me and pushed me to grow. MCC has given me exposure, confidence, and opportunities that would have taken me much longer to find on my own.
As I move forward, I will always carry this experience with me. MCC is not just where I started, it is what made everything that comes next possible.

Volunteers are sought to mentors a public speaking program in a prison in Shirley. Volunteers must be comfortable speaking in front of a group, willing to enter a prison with a team, and able to commit to two to four visits a month on a weeknight.
To explore prison volunteering, you can make one visit to a prison Toastmasters program, following a brief background check. You will know immediately if prison volunteering is for you, no obligation. This profound, memorable volunteer opportunity provides a connection beyond class, race and education.
Have a look at https://tinyurl.com/MAprisonvolunteer. For more information, email susan dot tordella at g mail dot c o m to set up a brief phone call.

Editor- the gmail address is purposefully scrambled to prevent fishing.  TYVM

There are many ways to feed your baby; breast feeding, chestfeeding, pumping, bottles, formula or a combination of these.  Do you have questions about feeding or want to check in with Certified Lactation Counselor Mary Beilman about your current feeding routine?  Mary has been supporting families with babies for over 20 years, and is now collaborating with First Connections to offer monthly Feeding Groups which are free and open to all. Sign up for one of our Feeding Groups where you can meet in a safe judgement-free space to get support and connect, share and learn by emailing the date(s) you would like to attend (May 4, June 1): lmatthews@jri.org. Groups are held at First Connections, 179 Great Road, Acton, from 12:30-1:30. 

 

Wednesday, April 22, from 2-6PM on MACPHERSON ROAD, DEVENS
Whether you run, bike, hike, roll, scoot, or stroll this is your dedicated, safe space for Earth Day play in a beautiful natural area!
Ayer, Devens, and the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge will again host the Open Street and Greenway Earth Day Event on Wednesday, April 22nd, from 2pm-6pm on MacPherson Road. This will be the 5th annual open streets event, celebrating Earth Day by opening the streets to people for recreational activities and the opportunity to experience the beautiful Wild and Scenic Nashua River and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge in a safe and peaceful manner.
The event will be on MacPherson Road in Devens, accessible from Bishop Road in Ayer, MA. There will be no access from West Main Street. Feel free to bring any manner of non-motorized wheels—bicycles, scooters, skateboards, etc. Picnics are also welcome; however, no food or drinks will be sold at the event. Please carry in and carry out all trash.
Displays will be set up and tours will start from the intersection where Bishop and MacPherson Roads meet. There will be guided walks featuring local trails, birds, and a pollinator meadow, as well as nearly 20 environmental organizations offering information and activities for visitors of all ages. A hands on activities such as bird box making, mural painting, and a nature-based scavenger hunt will also be offered.
This year as part of the Devens Climate Resiliency Project (MVP 2.0), team members will be conducting outreach at the festival to learn about community concerns in preparation of utilizing a state grant to address community issues and increase community resiliency. To participate in the survey, visit https://tinyurl.com/DevensMVPSurvey.
You can choose your level of activity, you may come get active and count your steps or sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the Nashua River and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. Either way, this is an opportunity to take a break, unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. See this natural local treasure from a new vantage point and demonstrate how nice it is to leave the car behind and get around the city on foot or bike.
See https://www.devensec.com/news.html for information and updates or contact bethsuedmeyer@devensec.com. See also our partner websites: Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge https://www.fws.gov/refuge/oxbow and Nashua Rivers Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council https://www.wildandscenicnashuarivers.org/.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 7:30 - 10:00 PM , at Historic Groton Grange Hall, 80 Champney Street. This will be an evening of live music and dancing with Groton's own Contra  Banditos, along with caller Dudley Laufman  who  will teach traditional New England style contra, square, and line dances to the beat of old time fiddle tunes. Beginners are welcome, no experience or partner is necessary.  Suggested donation at the door is $5.00  per person, children under  3  years old are free, and family maximum is $20.  Made possible by a  grant from the Town of Groton lecture Funds .Refreshments are provided. Bring your soft soled dancing shoes. Parking allowed only on the Grange side of Champney St. 

 

BOSTON, April 10, 2026 — In April, the American Red Cross asks people to keep patients top of mind by making an appointment to give blood or platelets. The need for blood doesn’t take a spring break, and acting now can ensure blood is available in the coming weeks at medical centers. Regular donors of all blood types and those looking to give for the first time are encouraged to make days brighter this spring for those in need.

April is National Volunteer Month, and the Red Cross celebrates the kindness of blood donors and those who volunteer their time. There is no substitute for blood — volunteer donors are essential to patient care. Blood Program Leaders and Blood Donor Ambassadors are the heartbeat of our work at blood donation centers and community blood drives.

Join the celebration of saving lives! Book a time to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities: Chelmsford
4/18/2026: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Aldersgate United Methodist, 242 Boston Rd.
4/21/2026: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Chelmsford Town Hall Gym, 50 Billerica Road

North Chelmsford
4/22/2026: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Chelmsford American Legion, 90 Groton Road

 

Scout Troop 437’s annual Bike & Sporting Goods Sale is back in 2026!  The sale will be held on the Westford Common, at the corner of Main and Lincoln Streets, on Saturday May 2 from 9 AM to 1 PM, rain or shine. 

Shop gently-used bikes and spring/summer sporting goods, including bikes of all sizes, camping gear, accessories for baseball, lacrosse, tennis, soccer and other sports, exercise equipment, boating gear, canoes, kayaks and much more!  Cash payments are preferred; Venmo is also accepted.  Proceeds will help our Scouts attend summer camp and high adventure trips.

The Troop accepts donations and consignments for the sale. Donate your gently-used bikes and spring/summer sports goods or consign them and earn 75% of the selling price.  Donations/consignments accepted Friday May 1 from 5:30-7:30 PM at the American Legion Post 437, 114 Dunstable Rd, Westford MA 01886 or Saturday May 2 from 7-9 AM on the Westford Common. There is a consignment fee of $1 per item, with a $5 maximum per household.  Unsold consigned items should be picked up on May 2 from 1-2 PM; any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.  We are also accepting donations throughout April -- email bikesale@westfordtroop437.us to coordinate a dropoff or pickup of your items. More information available at https://www.westfordtroop437.us/bikesale

About Troop 437
Troop 437 is a medium-sized, Scout-led troop with 55 boys and girls age 11 to 18 from Westford, Chelmsford and surrounding towns.  We meet weekly on Thursday evenings in Westford during the school year and have monthly outings, including camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, sailing, zip-lining and more.  Crews from Troop 437 have completed Scouting High Adventure trips to Seabase and Philmont.  Learn more about Scouting and Troop 437 at https://www.WestfordTroop437.us 

 

Please join us at the Chelmsford Historical Society’s Annual Meeting and Dinner on Saturday, May 2, 2026 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 Andy Wilson for his preservation of 3 Chelmsford Street in Chelmsford center (previously known as 6 Billerica Road). The house was built circa 1765 and moved to its present site in 1810. Andy’s father purchased the house in 1975, and his family has been responsible for its upkeep since then.
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 $30/person to the Chelmsford Historical Society by Monday, April 27, 2026. (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 info@chelmhist.org for questions or to make a reservation to pay at the event. If no email, leave a voicemail at 978-256-2311.

Country Lane Garden Club in Chelmsford will hold the 2026 Plant Sale on Saturday June 6 at the Unitarian Church in Chelmsford Center. Doors open at 8:30. As usual the Sale will feature plants grown and dug by Club members. Perennials, vegetables, herbs, and shrubs will be available at bargain prices.
Usually the sale is held in early May. The Club decided to postpone the event because of the extreme cold weather to insure that the plants are at their prime condition. For further information contact us at Countrylane824@gmail.com.

Location:  Chelmsford Town Offices' Gym, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford
The book sale will be Friday, May 1 from 9:00 AM -8:00 PM and Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 AM -2:00 PM
We'll have plenty of fiction, children's books, biography, history, cookbooks, sciences, social sciences, DVDs and CDs.  All proceeds help support library programs and services.

 

Join the Chelmsford Historical Society and the Tsongas Industrial History Center for a special April vacation event that brings the past to life! “From Sheep to Shop: A Hands-On History Adventure” is a family-friendly program that explores the fascinating journey of fiber, tracing the path from raw wool to finished fabric.

This event will take place on Tuesday, April 21 at the Barrett-Byam Homestead, 40 Byam Road, Chelmsford. Drop in anytime between 12-3pm. It is free and open to families and children ages 6 and up, but please RSVP to info@chelmhist.org in advance so we have an approximate count of attendees.

Step back in time as you rotate through interactive stations led by museum teachers:

• The Prep Work: Get hands-on with wool carding and see how raw fleece becomes soft, workable fiber.
• The Spin & Weave: Watch live demonstrations of traditional drop spinning and weaving techniques.
• Be the Maker: Children can "try their hand" at the craft by practicing on table looms.
• Shop: Imagine what the past was like as you visit the Chelmsford Historical Society’s spinning and weaving artifacts and General Store exhibit.

Every young historian will also receive a take-home cardboard loom and materials to continue their weaving journey at home. It’s a perfect blend of local heritage, industrial ingenuity, and creative fun!

https://chelmhist.org/

 

Leominster, MA – Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is proud to highlight its ReStore location in Leominster and announce an expansion of its donation pickup services to include Concord and Westford.
The Habitat ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used items to the public at affordable prices. Proceeds from every purchase directly support Habitat’s mission to build and repair homes for local families in need of safe, affordable housing.
Shoppers at the ReStore can find a wide variety of items, including furniture, appliances, home décor, building materials, tools, cabinetry, lighting, and more. Inventory is constantly changing, making each visit a unique opportunity to discover high-quality items at a fraction of retail cost.
The ReStore also welcomes donations from individuals, businesses, and contractors. Accepted items include:

• Gently used furniture (sofas, tables, dressers, bed frames)
• Appliances in good working condition
• Cabinets, countertops, and building materials
• Tools and hardware
• Home décor and household items

Donation pickups are available for larger items, making it easy for community members to give back while decluttering their homes. With the recent expansion into Concord and Westford, more residents can now conveniently schedule donation pickups and support Habitat’s work in North Central Massachusetts.
“Our ReStore is more than just a store—it’s a way for the community to come together to support affordable housing,” said a representative from Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts. “Every donation and every purchase helps us build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.”
The ReStore is located at:
650 North Main Street
Leominster, MA
To schedule a donation pickup or learn more:
📞 Call: 978-227-5556
🌐 Visit: www.restorencm.org
📧 Email: donations@restorencm.org
Store hours and additional information are available on the website.

 

• A vibrant live concert showcasing Nashoba Valley Chorale’s legacy
• Food and beverages, including a cash bar
• A fun, interactive sing-along featuring music by Handel and Queen
• A chance to reconnect with friends, alumni, and former conductors
• Silent Auction

• Recognition and gratitude to our Founders
•  
• A Celebration of Anne Watson Born, our beloved Music Director’s 20 years with us
•  

• An Honor to Shawn McCann, collaborative pianist for 20 years of amazing work

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 in the evening for decades. Now we are continuing weekly by remote videoconference, and our meeting has recently changed to Monday . For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

 It feels like spring!  Time for some spring cleaning?  Fresh Start can use what you don’t need and we are always grateful to receive new items from donors.  Several of our donors use their Kohls Cash or Target coupons to purchase items for our clients from the wish list on our website.
     At present we have an extreme need for pristine mattresses (no stains or rips),  kitchen tables with removable legs (not pedestal tables), queen fitted sheets, all sizes of comforters, pot holders and dish towels.
     Please help us to give our clients what they need to make their new housing into a comfortable home.  We are always grateful for gift cards (Target, Amazon, JobLot, etc.)to give to our clients for any extras they need.
     See our website above for more information about us and for our location and hours when we accept donations.
     Thank you for helping us to help others!  

 

Wayland, MA – April is National Native Plant Month, following a bipartisan resolution first passed by the U.S. Senate in 2021 and repeated annually, including this year. The designation encourages all Americans to understand, plant, and preserve native flora, which are essential to maintaining biodiversity, supporting pollinators, and preserving ecosystem health.
On Saturday, May 2, Native Plant Trust will offer a special evening at Garden in the Woods, beginning with a walk through the gardens, followed by a performance of Unfurling, an original work by Boston Dance Theater. Following the performance, visitors will be invited to join Unfurling’s creative team for a discussion about the intersection of artistry, creation, and the natural world featuring BDT Founder and Co-Artistic Director Jessie Stinnett, Choreographer Kim Rachochia, sound artist Skooby Laposky, and Native Plant Trust Senior Horticulturist David Falk.
According to its creators, Unfurling is a site-responsive performance created by the artists of the Boston Dance Theater in collaboration with visual artist Kim Radochia. Drawing inspiration from the quiet resilience of plant life and the writings of indigenous botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer, the work invites audiences into a shared sensory experience of movement, sound, and sculptural installation. Dancers will move through the space like tendrils of growth, attuning to one another, the land, and the invisible networks that sustain life. Unfurling asks us to notice what is overlooked and to sense our place within a living, interdependent world.
Trillium Week takes place May 3–9 at Garden in the Woods. This vibrant seasonal event, now in its eleventh year, features guided tours (free with Garden admission) and educational opportunities such as “The Native Plant Trust Trillium Collection: An Inside Look,” which highlights the ecological significance and beauty of spring ephemerals—especially the iconic trillium. “Trilliums are arguably the most distinctive flowers in the forests and wetlands of New England,” notes Johnson. “Add to that their natural rarity and status as a harbinger of spring, and it is hard to imagine a better ambassador for New England's plants. Trillium Week offers a rare opportunity to see the many color forms of all three New England species—Trillium erectum, Trillium grandiflorum, and Trillium cernuum—in a single location tucked under the canopy of towering hardwoods at Garden in the Woods.” Tour times and event details can be found on our website.
Native Plant Trust named Skooby Laposky its 2025 Visiting Artist, and he returns for a live performance during Twilight Trilliums, the signature event of Trillium Week. Laposky is a multidisciplinary artist and sound designer whose work—featured in Fast Company and The Boston Globe—translates natural systems into immersive sonic landscapes. Twilight Trilliums, a one-night-only event, takes place on Friday, May 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Garden in the Woods. Guests will experience a world-premiere sound installation,created by Laposky specifically for the occasion and inspired by the spring bloom and surrounding forest. Tickets to Twilight Trilliums are $50 and include Garden admission and refreshments.
Native Plant Trust's newly released spring/summer course catalog offers a robust lineup of in-person and online offerings, from hands-on workshops to special events and lectures. For tickets, registration, and additional information, visit www.NativePlantTrust.org.

 

The first face the Artemis II crew will see upon their return to Earth will be the face of a U.S. Navy sailor.
Chief Hospital Corpsman Vlad Link, from Chelsea, Massachusetts, is a member of the dive medical team that will open the Orion capsule upon its return to Earth, make initial medical assessments of the Artemis II crew, and assist them out of the capsule safely and efficiently.
Link has 18 years of experience in dive medicine.

“I have been exposed to the Navy since I was a young teenager, and I’m proud to represent both my family and hometown,” Link said. “Contributing our efforts to NASA and the Artemis II mission is something we take great pride in as part of that legacy.”

Scout Troop 437’s annual Bike & Sporting Goods Sale is back in 2026!  The sale will be held on the Westford Common, at the corner of Main and Lincoln Streets, on Saturday May 2 from 9 AM to 1 PM, rain or shine. 

Shop gently-used bikes and spring/summer sporting goods, including bikes of all sizes, camping gear, accessories for baseball, lacrosse, tennis, soccer and other sports, exercise equipment, boating gear, canoes, kayaks and much more!  Cash payments are preferred; Venmo is also accepted.  Proceeds will help our Scouts attend summer camp and high adventure trips.

The Troop accepts donations and consignments for the sale. Donate your gently-used bikes and spring/summer sports goods or consign them and earn 75% of the selling price.  Donations/consignments accepted Friday May 1 from 5:30-7:30 PM at the American Legion Post 437, 114 Dunstable Rd, Westford MA 01886 or Saturday May 2 from 7-9 AM on the Westford Common. There is a consignment fee of $1 per item, with a $5 maximum per household.  Unsold consigned items should be picked up on May 2 from 1-2 PM; any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.  We are also accepting donations throughout April -- email bikesale@westfordtroop437.us to coordinate a dropoff or pickup of your items. More information available at https://www.westfordtroop437.us/bikesale

About Troop 437
Troop 437 is a medium-sized, Scout-led troop with 55 boys and girls age 11 to 18 from Westford, Chelmsford and surrounding towns.  We meet weekly on Thursday evenings in Westford during the school year and have monthly outings, including camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, sailing, zip-lining and more.  Crews from Troop 437 have completed Scouting High Adventure trips to Seabase and Philmont.  Learn more about Scouting and Troop 437 at https://www.WestfordTroop437.us 

Please join us at the Chelmsford Historical Society’s Annual Meeting and Dinner on Saturday, May 2, 2026 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 Andy Wilson for his preservation of 3 Chelmsford Street in Chelmsford center (previously known as 6 Billerica Road). The house was built circa 1765 and moved to its present site in 1810. Andy’s father purchased the house in 1975, and his family has been responsible for its upkeep since then.
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 $30/person to the Chelmsford Historical Society by Monday, April 27, 2026. (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 info@chelmhist.org for questions or to make a reservation to pay at the event. If no email, leave a voicemail at 978-256-2311.

Country Lane Garden Club in Chelmsford will hold the 2026 Plant Sale on Saturday June 6 at the Unitarian Church in Chelmsford Center. Doors open at 8:30. As usual the Sale will feature plants grown and dug by Club members. Perennials, vegetables, herbs, and shrubs will be available at bargain prices.
Usually the sale is held in early May. The Club decided to postpone the event because of the extreme cold weather to insure that the plants are at their prime condition. For further information contact us at Countrylane824@gmail.com.

On Tuesday we had a steady stream of donors bringing everything except for furniture (which we accept on Saturdays).  One woman arrived with her car packed with bags of linens in her front and back seats and in the trunk.  I think she is the woman who said she saves her Target cards to buy things for Fresh Start.  I had just started to help bring in her donations when the skies opened and there was a downpour!!  We got wet but the donations did not!  All morning we were dodging raindrops and the donors kept arriving.

     We are low on queen sheets, towels and all sizes of comforters.  We have a wish list on our website that you can check to see what we need.  And we are always glad to receive gift cards from Target, Amazon, JobLot, etc. to give to our clients so they can pick out some nice things for their new homes.
      Thank you for helping us to help others!  And keep up the good work!

Bolton, MA – May 5, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts invites community members, local businesses, and supporters to attend its Annual Spring Breakfast on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 7:30 to 8:30 AM at First Parish of Bolton.
This annual gathering brings together community leaders, partners, and advocates for a morning of connection, inspiration, and shared commitment to building safe, affordable housing across North Central Massachusetts.
Guests will enjoy a complimentary breakfast prepared by the talented students of Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School, highlighting the importance of community partnerships and workforce development.
The event will feature keynote speaker Stacey Phillips-Vear, whose life reflects a deep and enduring commitment to service. Raised as part of an Air Force family and later becoming an Air Force spouse, service has been a defining thread throughout her life. Today, that legacy continues through her family—as the proud mother of a Marine and a daughter who secures major grant funding to support nonprofit missions.
Phillips-Vear’s journey with Team Rubicon began with a simple question from her son: “Will you join?” Without hesitation, she said yes—a decision that would profoundly shape her path.
Since November 2023, she has deployed on nine disaster relief operations across five states, supporting communities in times of crisis. She has built partnerships with organizations including Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts and veteran groups, led teams in the field, and expanded opportunities for others to serve.
Now serving as Planning Lead for the Worcester, Massachusetts metro area, Phillips-Vear brings people, purpose, and planning together to turn compassion into action—and action into impact. Her message is simple yet powerful: say yes first, figure it out later, and never underestimate what happens next.
The Spring Breakfast also offers an opportunity to learn more about Habitat NCM’s work, including new home construction and critical home repairs that help local families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations looking to demonstrate their commitment to affordable housing while gaining meaningful visibility within the community. Sponsors receive recognition through event materials, social media, and program acknowledgments, along with reserved seating for guests.
Admission is free, but registration is required due to limited seating.
To register or learn more, visit:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/annual-spring-breakfast

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 in the evening for decades. Now we are continuing weekly by remote videoconference, and our meeting has recently changed to Monday . For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

 

When: May 23-30, 2026
Show Floor Hours: 10AM to 6PM (Sat-Fri) & 10AM to 3PM (Sat 5/30)
Where: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer
Street, Boston, MA 02210 in the Seaport District
Price: Free

Explore global and US history, one tiny painting at a time! Boston 2026 World Expo brings the global stamp community to Boston for eight days from May 23-30th, 2026. Held once every ten years, the event showcases world-class exhibits, dealers, presentations, and first day of issue ceremonies, all part of America’s 250th anniversary in the heart of one of America's most historic cities.

Spanning 352,000 contiguous square feet and sponsored by the US Postal Service, the exhibition will feature a comprehensive international experience, including a large dealer marketplace, an extensive array of foreign post offices, and a chance to talk with philatelic societies from around the world. At the heart of the expo will be a prestigious competitive exhibition with approximately 4,000 frames of exhibits sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP), complemented by a special Court of Honor exhibition and a major literature competition.

Beyond exhibits, Boston 2026 will host hundreds of meetings, roundtable discussions, and presentations across 40 meeting rooms supporting education, collaboration, and international exchange. Signature events, including a large opening ceremony and a closing awards dinner, will create a unique and memorable experience for exhibitors, delegates, and visitors. History buffs, art lovers, ephemera and mail artists, scout troops, and youth groups are all welcome free of charge.

See Boston2026.org website for information on attending dealers and post offices, exhibit and event listings, volunteer opportunities, scout merit badge workshops, and much more.

 

Who: Worcester Chamber Music Society
What: “La Fête Française”

Program
Maurice Ravel | Introduction and Allegro
Camille Saint-Saëns | Fantaisie for Violin and Harp, Op. 124
Ernest Chausson | Piano Quartet in A major, Op. 30

With guests Tracy Kraus, flute; Amy Advocat, clarinet; Franziska Huhn, harp

When & Where: Friday, April 10 at 7:30 PM
Fitchburg Art Museum
185 Elm Street, Fitchburg

Sunday, April 12 at 4:00 PM
Shapiro Hall - Joy of Music
1 Gorham Street, Worcester

Pre-concert talk ½ hour prior to each performance
Post-concert reception for all on Sunday


How: Adults $35-42, Seniors $30-38, College Students $10 w/ID
EBT/WIC/ConnectorCare $5, Youth 17 and under free

Information and tickets for these concerts are available on the ensemble’s website, www.worcesterchambermusic.org, or by calling the office at (508) 926-8624.

Skate4Charity founded by two friends James Pijewski and Steve Molloy is hosting its 4th annual charity Ice Hockey tournament April 11th at 11am at the The Edge Sports Center in Bedford, 191 Hartwell Rd. Over three years the charity has raised over $137k and last year alone the charity raised over $60k to benefit the Greater Boston Food Bank. This year they have decided to support the Greater Boston Food Bank again, who are the largest hunger-relief organization in New England and among the largest food banks in the country. Last year, they distributed 117 million pounds of nutritious food to people who struggle to have enough to eat in the Eastern Massachusetts area and surrounding communities. Every $1 donated helps to provide 2 healthy meals to neighbors in need.

Event will be held 11am-3pm and there will be food, games, raffles and prizes. Beverages provided by Idle Hands Craft Ales. Watch 4 co-ed teams face off, and help support a great cause, all spectators welcome. Donations are accepted day of and at this link: https://my.gbfb.org/Skate4Charity2026
If you donate after seeing this article please put “action unlimited” in your donation comment.

Shout out to our sponsors for this year's event: Torii Homes, Law Office of Susan E. Zak, Maynard Motors, A&M Roofing, Dynamik Sports and Idle Hands Brewery. If you would like more information follow us on instagram or Facebook @skate.4.charity

Assabet Valley Chambersingers Present: “Sing Into Spring: Songs for all Creation”
Marlborough, MA — The Assabet Valley Chambersingers proudly presents Sing Into Spring: Songs of all Creation, a captivating choral concert to be held on Sunday, April 12th, 2026, at 3:30 PM at First Church in Marlborough Congregational, 37 High St., Marlborough, MA. This uplifting and diverse program is offered as a “Pay What You Wish” event, made possible in part by a generous grant from the Marlborough Cultural Council, supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Under the artistic direction of Dr. Robert Eaton, the program will feature an eclectic selection of choral works designed to entertain, inspire, and provoke reflection. The program will include 17th century madrigals, Frank Tichelli’s Earth Songs, as well as Bob Chilcott’s We Are and Harry Belafonte’s Turn the World Around!

The Assabet Valley Chambersingers is a 20-voice ensemble drawn from the Assabet Valley Mastersingers that specializes in performing a diverse repertoire such as unaccompanied and accompanied madrigals, motets, Broadway show tunes, and vocal Jazz standards from various eras. Founded in 1989 as a civic outreach initiative, the Chambersingers have frequently performed at notable venues like Tower Hill Botanic Gardens, Notre Dame Du Lac, Friends of the Marlborough Library, and First Night Worcester. Additionally, they have participated in charitable events in Shrewsbury, Northborough, Westborough, Marlborough, and have brought their music to Assisted Living Communities throughout the region.

For more information, visit https://www.avmsingers.org/chambersingers or email manager@avmsingers.org. Join us as we “Sing Into Spring”—a concert to uplift the spirit and celebrate the season!

 

Usher in springtime with celebrated choral music

CONCORD, MA Issued March 26, 2026... Concord Women’s Chorus (CWC), fostering the power of women’s voices in song, presents its spring concert “A Light Exists in Spring,” on Saturday, May 9, 4 pm, Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm St., Concord. The performance is conducted by CWC Artistic Director Jane Ring Frank, accompanied by Simon Andrews, piano, together with guest instrumentalists Jennifer Slowik, oboe, Sandi-Jo Malmon, cello, and Beth Welty, violin.

CWC celebrates the return of the light with Beth Denisch’s “The Tree House,” commissioned in 2017 and set for chorus, oboe, cello, and piano. A work of nuance and utter beauty, Denisch has set three of poet Kathleen Jamie’s works – where landscape meets musical language. This wholehearted program is sure to delight, and honors works by women, including Melissa Dunphy’s “Grown Wild,” Emma Lou Diemer’s “Hope is the Thing,” Tara Traxler’s “Birds of Passage” and more.


Concord Women’s Chorus is a 45-singer ensemble fostering the power of women’s voices through song, hailing from Concord and the greater Boston area. Artistic Director Jane Ring Frank conducts the chorus performing a wide variety of choral music, ranging from early music to contemporary repertoire, with an emphasis on works written for women’s voices.
CWC’s commitment to the mastery and performance of a dynamic repertoire for women transforms the act of choral singing into an instrument for collaboration, education, and connection. The ensemble features confident singers who care deeply about creating, through women’s voices, a source of strength and inspiration for themselves, the audience, and the world around us. CWC’s Artistic Director Jane Ring Frank is the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award winner presented by Choral Arts New England.
Concord Women’s Chorus participates in Mass Cultural Council's Card to Culture program in collaboration with the Department of Transitional Assistance and hundreds of organizations by making cultural programming accessible to those for whom cost is a barrier.  CWC offers two discounted $10 tickets per EBT Cardholder.
Tickets to “A Light Exists in Spring” are $30 adults, free for children age 12 and under, available at simpletix.com/e/a-light-exists-in-spring-tickets-256987. Seating is limited; early purchase is recommended. This concert is supported in part by grants from the Concord and Carlisle Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

For more information, or to join Concord Women’s Chorus, email manager@concordwomenschorus.org, visit concordwomenschorus.org, and follow Concord Women’s Chorus on Facebook and Instagram.
 

The fifth annual HUGE spring yard sale for education is Saturday, April 11, 8 am to 2 pm. Donations are welcome. Drop off your good stuff 4-6 pm on Friday, April 10, at the Littleton Historical Society at Rogers and King Streets in Littleton.

Come early on Saturday for the best selection of household goods, small appliances, vintage items, collectibles, tools, small furniture, toys, sporting equipment, games, kitchen equipment, dishes, silverware, artwork, linens, bikes, kid stuff and anything in good shape that can be reused. NO clothing, artificial Christmas trees, car seats, TVs or electronics. All donations are tax deductible. Clearance starts at 1 pm with $2/bag. Everything must go!
Proceeds from the sale will benefit a remote school in Ghana to give children access to education they would not other wise have. Visit www.learningupnow.wordpress.com for more information. Email memberreach@fculittle.org for more information. The sale is supported in part by the Littleton Historical Society and First Church Unitarian of Littleton.

March 28th: Elvis: One Night With You at 7:00 pm. In the auditorium. Witness national award-winning tribute artist Dan Fontaine as he performs highlights of the King's musical legacy – including his greatest hits, movie tunes, gospel, deep-cuts, and even your requests! Tickets $25.

March 29th: Transgender Day of Visibility from 2:00 – 5:00 pm In the auditorium. Sponsored by the Chelmsford Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.

March 30th: 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.

April 2nd: Floral Design Class at 6:00 pm. Back by popular demand, Judy Carven is teaching another floral design class in the Cabaret Cafe! Bring home your very own hand-made floral arrangement. Full bar available. $50.00 per student. Contact Judy, jkcarven@comcast.net, to reserve a spot. Payments can be sent to the instructor via Venmo.

April 3rd: Karaoke Night In the Cabaret Cafe. $5 entry. Doors open at 6:30, full bar available!

April 10th: Sober Karaoke 7:00 – 10:00 pm. Presented by the Chelmsford Health Department. Snacks and soft drinks provided.  

April 12th & 13th: Auditions for the fourth annual Ten-Minute Play Festival from 6:30 - 9:30 pm. Presented by the Playground Theatre Co. Performances to take place June 5th - 7th. Stay tuned for audition signups!

April 27th: 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.

May 8th & 9th: An Evening of Nonsense The Playground Theatre Co. presents An Evening of Nonsense – A Side-Splitting Showcase of Original Comedies! May 8th at 7:30 pm, and May 9th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm in the auditorium. Regular tickets $20, $15 for students and seniors.


Visit https://www.chelmsfordarts.org/ for tickets or more information.

Location:  Chelmsford Town Offices' Gym, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford
The book sale will be Friday, May 1 from 9:00 AM -8:00 PM and Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 AM -2:00 PM
We'll have plenty of fiction, children's books, biography, history, cookbooks, sciences, social sciences, DVDs and CDs.  All proceeds help support library programs and services.