Beford Library Hosts Fall Book Sale

BEDFORD: The Friends of the Bedford Library are delighted to hold their Fall book sale this year inside the library on the following dates:

September 15 from 6:30-8:30pm (Special Members Preview)
September 16 from 1-5pm
September 17 from 10am-4pm
September 18 from 1-4pm ($10 Bag Sale)

There are thousands of fiction and non-fiction books, DVDs, CDs and more for adults, teens and children. Don’t miss out on wonderful books, puzzles, games, and other merchandise at great prices. And remember, 100% of all proceeds go directly to support Bedford Public Library
programs and acquisitions.

All visitors to the sale, please wear masks to keep Volunteers safe!

Sample the Concord Open Bluegrass Jam
Free Jam Session September 10

CONCORD: Discover the joys of making music with others in a special bluegrass jam session during the Concord Conservatory of Music’s Discovery Day Open House on September 10, from 3-4pm. Join the area’s roots music community for a jam session in the beautiful Sanctuary of the West Concord Union Church. CCM faculty member and mandolinist Maxfield Anderson will lead the group through vocal songs and instrumental tunes from a variety of musical traditions, including bluegrass, old time, classic country and western, blues, swing, and beyond. This session is open to acoustic musicians, including voice, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, banjo, dobro, bass, cello, harmonica, etc. — at all levels — and community members who wish to listen and enjoy the sanctuary.

The Concord Open Bluegrass Jam runs weekly on Thursdays from 7:30-9pm. For more information, visit concordconservatory.org/news-events/jams.

Discovery Day Open House at CCM
Instrument Exploration for Kids & Adults

CONCORD: Start your Fall off with a free, fun and interactive afternoon event for kids and adults! Try out instruments you’ve never even held before at the Concord Conservatory of Music’s Discovery Day Open House on September 10 from 1–3 pm.

Experience hands-on Instrument Exploration, which allows you to play various instruments in a safe environment. You'll be guided to determine which instrument and group class is right for you and your kids. Develop your talent and skills with exceptional and innovative instructors, who are trained in the best practices for today’s techniques and technologies. Not limited to beginners, students already playing an instrument will also have the opportunity to meet instructors to find the right match. For ages newborn through age 11, choose demo classes appropriate for your child’s age and interests. Sign-up in advance online at www.ConcordConservatory.org.

Introduce your kids to the world of music through singing, dancing, and games! CCM Early Childhood and Music & Movement group classes help kids develop social, cognitive, and emotional skills while having fun with music. Young musicians explore all the qualities of music through movement—learning about pitch, phrasing, accent, and all of the richness of music. Experience free 30-minute Music & Movement and Group Keyboard classes, too!Group Keyboard allows students to learn to read music and play the piano through songs, games, movement, and educational activities. The small classes of students move together as a group, covering note reading, rhythm skills, and ear training by singing with solfège.

You can also enter a raffle at Discovery Day to win a free CCM Group Class for the 2022 Fall semester! Additionally, anyone registering for a group class at the Open House will receive a 10% discount. Discount valid only at the Open House.

For new students seeking private lessons, visit www.ConcordConservatory.org and submit a Student Interest Form or call (978) 369-0010. Concord Conservatory of Music is located at 1317 Main Street in the West Concord Union Church. Financial assistance is available.

Ukulele group class at concord conservatory of music

Free Trial Group Classes at CCM

CONCORD: Did you know that you can sample a Concord Conservatory of Music (CCM) Group Class to see if it’s a fit for you? Have fun connecting with other musicians and learning in a social and supportive shared experience. The CCM Free Trial Group Class week runs from September 12-17.

CCM group classes provide excellence in music education, balancing rigor with the joy and fun of creating music for any age. Group classes are available for the true beginner and the more advanced student. Small classes give each student individual attention, yet learning in a social experience. Register as soon as possible due to maximum enrollments per group class. Sign-up for your free trial group classes at www.ConcordConservatory.org

Kids gain a strong foundation of playing technique, music theory, and musicality, which inspires a lifetime of continued music appreciation and enjoyment. Now even babies and toddlers can attend Concord Conservatory of Music! For adults, CCM offers many ways to help you develop and continue your lifelong love of music. Try out one of our banjo, ukulele, or guitar classes. Maybe you want to learn how to jam in a bluegrass group! For information on the complete list of CCM offerings, visit www.ConcordConservatory.org, email info@concordconservatory.org or call (978) 369-0010.

River Clean-up Volunteers Needed!

ACTON: OARS needs volunteers to help spread out across the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord river watershed to clean up rivers, streams, ponds and trails! This year marks the 36th Annual River Clean-up which will be hybrid and take place September 16 thru 18. Every year OARS relies on the support of volunteers and local businesses to keep our rivers clean. Local business owners are also encouraged to reach out and find out how company teams can get involved in this year’s clean-up. Visit www.oars3rivers.org to find out how to join in!

OARS is a nonprofit, science-based organization whose mission is to protect, improve and preserve the Assabet, Sudbury and Concord River watersheds for all people and wildlife. The watershed includes: Acton, Ashland, Bedford, Berlin, Boxboro, Billerica, Carlisle, Concord, Framingham, Hopkinton, Hudson, Lincoln, Maynard, Marlboro, Northborough, Lowell, Saxonville, Stow, Southborough, Sudbury, Tewksbury, Wayland and Westborough.

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Prepare Yourself for a Long Retirement

August 29, 2022

We all want to live long lives. We all expect to live long lives. But are we financially prepared for this longevity? Before we get to the issue of preparation, let’s look at a couple of interesting findings from a 2022 survey by Age Wave and Edward Jones:

The surveyed retirees said, on average, they expect to live to 89, and they said the ideal length of retirement is 29 years.
When asked if they want to live to 100, nearly 70% of the respondents said “yes.” The main reason for this desire for long life? To spend more years with their family and friends.

Of course, none of us can see into the future and know how long we’ll be around. But with advances in medical care and a greater awareness of healthy lifestyles, these aspirations have a real basis in reality.

However, if you’re going to enjoy a longer lifespan, and the extra years with your loved ones, you need to ensure your finances are also in good shape. How can you make this happen? Here are some basic steps to follow:

Save and invest early and often. This may be the oldest piece of financial advice, but it’s still valid. The earlier you start saving and investing for your retirement, the greater your potential accumulation. Consider this: If you began saving just $5,000 per year at age 25, and earned a hypothetical 6.5% annual rate of return, and didn’t take any early withdrawals, you’d end up with $935,000 by the time you reached 65. But if you waited until 35 to start saving and investing, and you earned the same hypothetical 6.5% return – again with no early withdrawals – you’d only end up with $460,000. And if you didn’t start saving until 45, you’d end up with just over $200,000, again given the same 6.5% return.
Be mindful of debt. You may not want to be burdened with certain debts when you enter retirement. So, while you’re still working, try to reduce unwanted debts, particularly those that don’t offer the financial benefits of tax-deductible interest payments. The lower your debt load, the more you can save and invest for the future.
Keep reviewing your progress. It’s important to monitor the progress you need to make toward achieving your goal of a comfortable retirement. Over the short term, your investment balances may fluctuate, especially in volatile financial markets such as we’ve seen in the early part of this year. But you’ll get a clearer picture of your situation if you look at long-term results. For example, have your accounts grown over the past 10 years as much as you had planned? And going forward, do you think you’re in good shape, or will you need to make some changes to your investment strategy? Keep in mind that, if you’re 50 or older, you can make “catch-up” contributions to your IRA and 401(k) that allow you to exceed the regular limits. You may also want to adjust your investment mix as you near retirement to potentially lower your risk exposure.

Hopefully, you will enjoy many years of a healthy, happy retirement. And you can help support this vision by carefully considering your financial moves and making the ones that are right for you.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor, Mandy Calouro, Chelmsford, MA
Edwardjones.com/Mandy-Calouro, Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Concord Park Transforms into Tropical Island for Hawaiian Luau

CONCORD: Residents at Concord Park Senior Living were in a tropical state of mind for the most recent stop on their Grab Your Passport Road Trip Around America! Staff organized a day of Hawaiian music, snacks and decorations to transport residents to the islands.

Grab Your Passport! is an innovation from Senior Living Residences, management company for Concord Park. It is an educational program that gives residents the opportunity to connect to the world around them, interact with new cultures, and explore new places. Each month, the entire community virtually travels to a new destination through decorations, music, cuisine and educational programming. Highlights of the day include hands-on activities and sharing artifacts, family recipes, photos, and stories of past travels.

Concord Park hosted a Hawaiian luau to celebrate the beautiful state. Residents and staff looked snazzy in their shades, which were decorated with flamingos, palm trees and seashells to add to the oceanside atmosphere. They also posed with lei necklaces and a tropical backdrop. Residents cooled down with piña colada popsicles while Concord Park’s Director of Dining Experience, Misty Heldermon, demonstrated how to crack open a coconut. The addition of live singing and guitar made this an experience to remember.

Located in the heart of historic West Concord Village, Concord Park is a Volunteers of America Massachusetts community offering independent and assisted living options as well as a state-of-the-art Compass Memory Support Neighborhood® featuring innovative, research-based programming for those with memory loss. The community recently unveiled new and renovated spaces for residents to enjoy including a new theater, fitness center and cafe, and an expanded and updated dining room, salon, and living room. Those interested in learning more can visit www.ConcordPark.org or can contact Maryellen King at mking@slr-usa.com or (978) 369-4728.

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Concord Conservatory's Singing With Parkinson's Chorus Challenges Progression

CONCORD: Concord Conservatory of Music’s Singing with Parkinson’s Chorus brings together Parkinson’s patients, their families, and caregivers to provide enjoyment, strength and comradery. This is an ongoing program, and participants are welcome to come at any time during the semester to try out the chorus. Meetings are on Tuesdays, 10:30am-Noon and will resume on September 6.

A chorus-based opportunity to participate in voice therapy through song, Singing with Parkinson’s focuses on vocal fitness while offering people coping with the disease a chance to sing together, perform in the community and build new friendships. Breathing, stretching, posture, and vocal exercises are taught in a supportive, congenial environment. The chorus sings songs from a variety of genres, with input from the group helps guide the repertoire. The cost for participants is $50 for the fall semester, which is 10 sessions, and there’s no cost for caregivers and family members to attend.

Concord Conservatory of Music is located at 1317 Main Street in the West Concord Union Church. Financial assistance is available. Visit www.concordconservatory.org for information.

Concord Museum Names New Executive Director

Lisa Krassner Returns to MA & Brings 20+ Years of Museum Leadership Experience

CONCORD: The Concord Museum Board of Governors is pleased to announce it has named Lisa Krassner as the Museum’s new Edward W. Kane Executive Director. Krassner will begin her new position on September 1, 2022, which follows Thomas Putnam’s recent retirement after four years of leadership.

Krassner is an experienced and innovative museum leader who has expanded audience engagement at museums in Boston and New York City for more than 20 years. The Museum’s Board of Governors unanimously approved Krassner’s candidacy after a national search.

“I believe Lisa’s enthusiasm and impressive museum experience will be a wonderful asset to the Concord Museum. I am looking forward to working with Lisa as she takes this vibrant organization to the next level,” said Holly Salemy, President of the Board of Governors at Concord Museum.

In Krassner’s new role, she will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, management, and direction for the Concord Museum. In reporting to the Board of Governors, she will lead the organization to harness key strategic opportunities to drive future growth and will have a significant impact on its mission.

“It is an honor to join the Concord Museum as its next Executive Director at such an important moment in the Museum’s history,” said Krassner. “The 2021 re-envisioning of the galleries sheds new light on the history of Concord and how its community influenced American political, literary, and cultural life in unparalleled ways. I look forward to welcoming more visitors to our dynamic programs, ever-changing exhibits, and treasured collections of American material culture and decorative arts.”

Krassner most recently served as the Chief of Visitor Services, Security, and Floor Operations for the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City, one of the largest, and highest attended, natural history museums in the world. Prior to joining AMNH, Krassner was the Chief of Member and Visitor Services at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) where she directed service excellence for more than seven million visitors annually and grew the membership base to be the largest art museum membership program in the world. Krassner was also the Senior Director of the Visitor Experience at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA), Boston from 1999-2012 where she led the Visitor Services, Security, and Membership teams and grew audience engagement strategies to bolster the MFA’s mission.

Krassner holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College and Graduate Certificate Degree in Museum Studies from Tufts University. She received a Master of Business Administration with Honors from Simmons University.

The Concord Museum educates visitors of all ages about the history of Concord and its continuing influence on American political, literary, and cultural life. The Museum’s nationally significant collection serves as a catalyst for changing exhibitions, extended classroom learning, dynamic programs, and publications relevant to an ever-changing world. Founded in 1886, the Museum is a center of cultural enjoyment for the region and a gateway to the town of Concord, Massachusetts for visitors from around the world. In 2021, the Museum completed a New Museum Experience initiative that funded the complete redesign and fabrication of all new dynamic and multi-media installations of the permanent galleries. www.concordmuseum.org

Open Table Partners with Nonprofits to Bring Prepared Meals to Minority and Immigrant Communities

CONCORD/MAYNARD: Open Table, the Concord and Maynard charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, announced that it is working with four separate programs to get 1000 prepared meals per week to elders and 300 fresh lunches per week to children in need through a variety of programs this summer. The participating programs include: The Food Project, IINE in Lowell, Mill City Grows, and the Kids Summer Lunch and Snack Program.

These four partnerships are in keeping with Open Table’s goal to significantly grow the number of individuals it serves through its mobile programs. Working with partners helps Open Table identify and serve unmet need, especially within minority and immigrant communities. For many people, lack of transportation, lack of information, shame, and stigma, along with limited access to food pantry locations and hours are obstacles. Innovative partner-based programming, focused on increasing information, access and choice allows Open Table to begin meeting critical food needs for “the invisible two-thirds” of food insecure households not currently accessing food pantry services.

Participants in the Open Table mobile food partnerships receive either pre-cooked and frozen meals made fresh in Open Table’s professional kitchen or kid’s packs, which contain meals and snacks for enjoying at summer camp or at home.

Food Project – Every Thursday, the Food Project picks up 75 frozen meals prepared at Open Table and labeled in Spanish. The Food Project then distributes the meals to seniors at La Alianza Hispana, a community-based organization providing culturally and linguistically appropriate health and education programs to the Latino Community of Greater Boston.
IINE, Lowell - Building on its success in providing prepared meals for Afghani refugees, Open Tables is now providing IINE with up to 70 monthly meals for all the refugees and immigrants who come through its doors.
Mill City Grows – Beginning the week of August 13, Open Table will deliver 85 all-vegetarian meals to Lowell-based non-profit Mill City Grows (MCG), which includes them in their CSA farm shares to people in need. Meals are labeled in Spanish, Portuguese and Khmer.
Kids Summer Lunch and Snack Program – Open Table is preparing 300 lunches a week for area children to eat at home or to take to summer camp programs. The kids’ packs must be reserved in advance and are distributed through the Acton Food Pantry and at the Open Table pantry in Maynard.

“The funds provided by a Massachusetts Food Infrastructure grant have allowed Open Table to upgrade both our kitchen equipment and transportation capabilities so that we can make and deliver more prepared meals to those in need,” said Jeanine Calabria, executive director, Open Table. “Partnerships with groups like the Food Project, IINE, and Mill City Grows are a friction-less way to extend our reach further into communities where food insecurity is real and where Open Table can make a big impact.”

Open Table is a 501(c)(3) established in 1989. Their mission is to address hunger in their local community by providing healthy food in a welcoming environment while respecting the dignity and diversity of those served. For more information, visit www.opentable.org.

Concord Women’s Chorus to Host New Singer Auditions

CONCORD: Concord Women’s Chorus (CWC), fostering the power of women’s voices in song, invites new singers to join its ensemble at “New Singer Auditions” on September 6, 8:45am, and October 25, 8:45am, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm Street. Artistic Director and Conductor Jane Ring Frank welcomes newcomers to audition, join rehearsal and learn more about the fall season. Rehearsals continue Tuesday mornings, 9:30am to 12pm, also at Trinity Episcopal Church throughout the 2022-23 season.

CWC welcomes singers with prior choral experience including good sight-reading skills, solid intonation and vocal quality, responsiveness to direction and the ability to blend within an ensemble. For auditions, prospective members may be asked to sight-read a short passage and/or sing a familiar tune, arriving with a prepared solo is not necessary. An information form is available to be printed in advance and brought to the audition at concordwomenschorus.org/wp/sing-with-us. Chorus members are expected to attend rehearsals and to participate in performing scheduled concerts. Since CWC values opportunities to collaborate and perform with other musical and cultural groups, additional commitments may become available during the season.

The ensemble continues weekly rehearsals in preparation for upcoming concerts, including “Grown Wild: A Special Commission Concert,” performing Sunday, October 23, 4 pm. The performance features a commissioned work by composer Melissa Dunphy based on the poem by CWC member singer and poet Melissa Apperson, and soloist Beth Welty, violin. Scored for women's voices, violin and piano, the new work is written specifically for CWC's distinctive sound. The program also features works of women composers from the nineteenth century to today.

The season continues with “Songs of Peace and Promise,” performing Saturday, December 17, 4 pm, offering a celebration of the wintry season of light in song, through familiar holiday tunes, poignant Chanukah pieces and a mash-up of mass movements. For the spring, the ensemble rehearses for the concert “Come Day, Come Night,” performing on Saturday, May 13, 2023, 4 pm, featuring a program of love songs to boat songs, exploring the joys of a life well-lived.

CWC is committed to the safety of all and requires that all singers present proof of full Covid-19 vaccination, leadership will request a copy of vaccination cards upon arrival. All participants are required to wear masks during rehearsals.

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

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Concord’s Assabet River Bluff is Permanently Conserved

CONCORD: The Assabet River Bluff, a seven-acre parcel off Upland Road and Old Marlboro Road in West Concord, has been purchased by the Town of Concord and the Concord Housing Development Corporation. One acre will be set aside for up to five units of affordable housing, while the remaining six acres along the Assabet River are being permanently conserved as open space for public use. The successful project is the result of a year-long collaboration of municipal boards, conservation groups, a nonprofit housing entity, and local residents.

When the seven-acre parcel came on the market in June 2021, neighbors contacted Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT) and the Concord Land Conservation Trust (CLCT) to see if anything could be done to save the property from development. A working group was established between the two land trusts, the Town’s Planning and Natural Resources Divisions (NRD), and the Concord Housing Development Corporation. The landowner, Digi, LLC, agreed to take the property off the market for a year to allow the conservation and housing groups to develop a plan.

With approval from town voters at Annual Town Meeting in May 2022, the Town contributed $1 million of Community Preservation Act funds toward the $2.8 million purchase price of the property, with $700,000 allocated for the open space and $300,000 for the affordable housing land. Concord’s recently established Affordable Housing Trust contributed $650,000, and the Concord Housing Foundation provided $50,000 which includes transaction costs.
Generous donors from Concord and beyond contributed more than $700,000 toward the purchase through a campaign led jointly by CLCT and SVT, and in May 2022, the Town learned it had been awarded a $500,000 federal Land & Water Conservation Fund grant in support of the effort.

Thanks to the outpouring of support, CLCT and NRD will be able to provide additional funds to the NRD for improvements to the site, including the construction of an all-persons trail, and set aside a permanent stewardship fund for the property. The CHDC will embark on a public process to design the proposed housing over the next year, and looks forward to continued support from the community.

“The Assabet River Bluff project is an example of what strong partnerships between Concord’s housing interests, land preservation interests, and the town leadership can do.” said Lee Smith, CHDC’s President. “The CHDC looks forward to creating affordable homes on this property so close to public transportation and West Concord Village center.”

“We are thrilled to have helped protect this important community asset,” said Christa Collins, SVT’s Director of Land Protection. “Though small, the Assabet River Bluff’s location on the Wild & Scenic river, adjacency to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, and proximity to the West Concord MBTA station makes it a regional conservation priority.”

“This lovely riverfront woodland has been among the Land Trust’s highest priorities for preservation for years,” said Polly Reeve, chair of CLCT. “We are proud to have been part of this collaboration and the creative solution including both land conservation and affordable housing that resulted.”

Delia Kaye, Concord Natural Resources Director, added, “It has been an honor and a privilege to partner with dedicated professionals from housing and land protection groups towards two important community goals, and inspiring to see such strong support from the community for this project.”

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition's Annual State-wide Against the Tide Multisport Virtual & In-person Events

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) is hosting its annual, statewide Against the Tide athletic fundraising events as both virtual and in-person events this summer.

MBCC will hold its in-person Cape Cod Against the Tide event on August 13 at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster for the 23rd year. This event will feature a 1-mile recreational and competitive swim, a ½-mile recreational swim, 5K and 10K runs, a 3-mile walk, and a 1-mile USMS sanctioned swim.

Additionally, MBCC is offering participants the option to participate remotely in the Against the Tide August virtual event from August 6–13. The virtual event components include 1-mile recreational or competitive swims, a ½-mile recreational swim, 5K and 10K runs, and a 3-mile walk.

Registration for both the virtual and in-person options is $40 for an individual participant, and $100 for a family registration (up to 5 family members). Participants may register as an individual or as part of a team. Participants are encouraged to raise funds beyond the registration fees, as all proceeds support MBCC’s unique goal of breast cancer prevention. All participants will receive an event t-shirt. Prizes will be awarded for the top swim and run finishers of the in-person events. To learn more about all of the registration options or to make a pledge, please visit the MBCC website at www.mbcc.org/swim or call 508-246-3047.

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Market decline offers buying opportunities

July 27, 2022

The financial markets have gotten off to a rocky start this year. What’s caused this volatility? And does it present opportunities for patient investors?

First of all, several factors are behind the market volatility, including the war in Ukraine, higher inflation, rising interest rates and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, while these factors may be specific to the recent market decline, volatility itself is a common feature of the investment environment. In fact, history shows that corrections of 10% or more happen about every year, and declines of 15% or more have happened every other year, on average. Furthermore, while 2022 has thus far been challenging for investors, it was preceded by a long period of strong markets, with the S&P 500 averaging more than a 20% return over the past three years.

Knowing the typical frequency of market volatility and reviewing the results of the past few years may make the current situation seem less shocking. But you don’t have to simply “ride out” the downturn – because a down market may give you the opportunity to buy more investment shares at good prices. Specifically, you can expand your holdings in companies that have good growth prospects due to strong management and products or services that provide sustainable competitive advantages. And this type of opportunity is important, because one of the keys to building wealth is to increase the number of shares you own in your various investments and hold them for the long term. While the market will always fluctuate, the long-term trend has been positive, particularly for well-diversified portfolios built with quality investments.

Of course, while it is a good idea to boost your share ownership at favorable prices, you still want to be strategic about it, rather than just buying whatever seems to be the biggest bargain. In reviewing your existing portfolio, can you identify any gaps that could be filled with new investments? Are there opportunities to further diversify your holdings? By owning different types of stocks, bonds, government securities and other investments, you can help reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee profits or prevent losses in declining markets.) Or, if your portfolio has become “unbalanced” in some way, you could also use this time to rebalance it back to its original long-term targets. You might also consider setting up a systematic investing program in which you invest the same amounts in the same investments on a regular basis, such as monthly. When prices go down, you’ll automatically buy more shares, and when prices rise, you’ll buy fewer shares. (However, systematic investing does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss and you’ll need to be willing to keep investing when share prices are declining.)
Before this year, average annual returns have been solid for about a decade, which makes it somewhat easy to forget about normal market volatility and may have led to overly optimistic performance expectations. So, it would not be surprising if your initial reaction to the current downturn is one of concern. But by viewing the current investment environment as a chance to add quality investments at attractive prices, you can help yourself develop a behavior that can serve you well throughout your life as an investor.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Music Education Program for Kids with Special Needs at Concord Conservatory

CONCORD: Concord Conservatory of Music (CCM) uses the language of music to help children with special needs flourish. Parents often seek extracurricular activities for their children to help expand their horizons. It’s not an easy task, and it becomes even more complicated when a child has special needs.

Deeply committed to providing educational opportunities for all learners, CCM has contracted with the Berklee Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs to bring Tones of Fun Developmental Music Class to the community. Starting on September 21,
the 45-minute class will meet on Wednesdays at 4pm for ages 3-6 and at 5pm for ages 7-10 for a 10-week semester.

Music and its creative interactions make Tones of Fun the perfect teaching tool for children with special needs. Physical, language, social, cognitive, and musical development are stimulated through musical play in a celebratory social group of all ages and skill levels. Each class will incorporate simple percussion instruments, creative movement, improvisation, and playful props. A highly trained instructor from the Berklee Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs will lead the class and ensure that each student receives the attention they need in a safe and welcoming environment.

No previous musical experience is necessary to participate. However, students must be accompanied by an adult to every class, participate effectively in classes, and maintain an environment that is safe for themselves and others. Parents/Caregivers can register through CCM at https://concordconservatory.org/programs/tones-of-fun-developmental-music-class. Visit www.ConcordConservatory.org for more information.

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Strengthen Your ‘Three-legged Stool’ for Retirement

July 18, 2022

For many years, Americans provided for their retirement needs through three sources: employer-sponsored pension plans, Social Security income, and savings and investments accumulated through employer plans or individual accounts – the so-called “three-legged stool.” But today, that stool is shakier than it used to be. What can you do to strengthen it?

To begin with, all three legs of the stool are facing challenges. Let’s consider them:

• Employer pensions – A generation ago, workers employed in many companies could count on a set monthly pension income to help them through their retirement years. Today, pensions – also known as defined benefit plans – are mostly found in public sector employment, as most private-sector employers have replaced their pensions with 401(k) and similar plans. These plans can be quite effective at helping build resources for retirement, but they do place most of the responsibility for saving on the employee.

• Social Security – Social Security has come under financial pressure because the workers-to-retirees ratio has declined significantly, according to the Social Security Administration’s 2021 Board of Trustees Report. A number of proposals have been brought forward on how to improve the long-term financial security of the Social Security system.

• Personal savings and investments – In terms of building savings and investments for retirement, the picture is somewhat mixed. The national savings rate has increased in recent years, but more than half of American workers still say their retirement savings are not where they should be, according to a 2021 survey from Bankrate, a personal finance website. And the same survey found that just over half of investors with a 401(k) or IRA have taken early withdrawals – that is, they withdrew money before they retired. Furthermore, we may be waiting too long even to begin saving/investing for retirement. A survey from Age Wave and Edward Jones found that respondents began saving for retirement at an average age of 38, but the majority said they should have started saving a decade earlier.

You have options for improving some parts of your own three-legged stool. For example, no matter what happens to Social Security, you can still decide when to start taking payments. You can begin collecting benefits as early as 62, but your monthly checks will be larger if you wait until your “full” retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67. You can even delay taking benefits until they “max out” at age 70.

As for a pension, you can’t control what’s available to you through your employer, but you can create your own retirement income stream by contributing as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan and by increasing your contributions whenever your salary goes up. And you can also contribute to an IRA or other investment vehicle to further boost your retirement funds. Try to leave these accounts intact until you need them for retirement. This will be easier if you’ve built an emergency fund, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account, to pay for unexpected costs, such as those resulting from a major car or home repair.

The three-legged stool may not be as universal as it once was – but you can still construct a sturdy structure to support your retirement needs in the future.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

The Nature Connection Ice Cream Fundraiser

ACTON: Looking to chill out on a hot day and for a way to support a meaningful cause? Visit West Side Creamery in Acton (Villageworks Plaza, 537 Mass. Ave.) between the hours of noon-9:30pm on Wednesday, July 27 and mention that you’re supporting The Nature Connection when placing your order. 20% of the sale will be donated to the organization, which makes nature accessible to all. At the event there'll be an information table set up outside. Your support makes a big difference in the lives of those impacted by our programs. If you have any questions, visit nature-connection.org or email info@nature-connection.org.

Rotary Club of Concord Awards Eight Scholarships

CONCORD: The Rotary Club of Concord congratulates eight winners of 2022 Rotary Scholarships, administered by The Scholarship Fund of Concord and Carlisle to:

Alicia Kearney, the William L. Eaton Scholarship: Alicia Kearney is excited to broaden her robotics expertise at the Stevens Institute of Technology where she plans to study mechanical engineering. While at CCHS, her participation in (and ultimate election as captain of) the Robotics Club was her greatest joy. This summer, Alicia is hoping to start a week-long Robotics camp for local middle school children. Alicia was awarded the Rotary Class Act Award for community service and an award from the Rotary Club for her leadership of the Robotics Club.
Alicia was selected for this scholarship because of her commitment to community services her work with middle school students and her previous awards from the Rotary Club.

Max Hamel, the Thomas R. Huckins Scholarship: Max took his love of the outdoors into consideration with his selection of the University of Vermont where he plans to pursue studies in Marketing or Environmental Science with an underlying focus in business. He is proud that he co-owns a successful landscaping business that he founded with several friends six years ago. Max organized a community service organization called High St. Helping Hands that gives CCHS students the opportunity to volunteer for projects that his company has donated to beautify the CCHS campus. While at CCHS, Max was a member of the baseball and football teams, the leadership counsel for the football team, and the Tai Chi Club. Max was selected for this scholarship because of his commitment to the environment and his commitment to community service.

Jasper Clarkson, the Richard L. Hale Scholarship. Jasper Clarkson is enrolling at the University of Puget Sound. Jasper originally hailed from the West Coast and has always aspired to return. Jasper serves his community through work at OpenTable, as a TA in the library as well as assisting elder neighbors with household maintenance and upkeep. Jasper was motivated to participate in the CCHS chapter of Innocence Project to investigate and defend those who are wrongly convicted and on Death Row. He was able to communicate directly with a man he was advocating for, and it shaped his view of the criminal justice system and social justice. Jasper was selected because of his commitment to community service and his advocacy of changes to the criminal justice system and his pursuit of social justice.

Elicia Benavides, the Captain Thomas J. Hudner Jr. Scholarship: Elicia plans to attend Suffolk University in the fall, majoring in environmental studies and global law. She hopes to continue into Law School and study immigration law. She chose Suffolk because her mother, who trained as a lawyer in Peru, got in but was unable to attend. Elicia started a non-profit in 5th grade, Read to Lead, and continues it to this day. She collects books and donations during the year and in the summer brings them to the village where her mother was raised in Peru and acts as a small lending library. She wanted to give back to the community that raised her mother. She believes that education is the only way out of poverty, and she is very passionate about studying indigenous cultures. Elicia was invited to the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards convention in the summer of 2021. Elicia was selected for this award because of her commitment to community service, her initiative in providing longstanding service to her mother’s village in Peru and her previous recognition by the Rotary Club.

The following Interact Scholarships were administered by the Scholarship Committee of the Rotary Club of Concord. Interact is a Rotary club for young people who want to connect with others in their community and school. The CCHS Interact club carries out service projects and learns about the world. While CCHS’s Interact Club receives guidance from the Rotary Club of Concord, it governs and supports itself. Four CCHS Seniors won Interact Scholarships:

Zachary Hooven: Zachary will be attending William and Mary and aspires to work internationally in a finance role in investment banking and asset management. He plans to further his philanthropic interests, particularly in strengthening educational systems. Zach has spent the last two years training and recruiting tutors for ESL students.

Alexandra Newman: Alexandra (Allie) intends to build on her volunteer and educational experiences to pursue a career in law or international relations. At CCHS she participated in many community service projects and beyond school, traveled on two mission trips to Puerto Rico to rebuild following Hurricane Maria.

Kiley Pietropaolo: Kiley will be attending Georgia Tech. She has enjoyed her relationship with Rotary from Early Act in Middle School through Interact in High School, and credits this with her appreciation of the importance of serving her community.

Kaitlyn Nigborowicz

This year the Rotary Club of Concord will hold its 34th Annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday August 29 at the Concord Country Club. As in the past, the event will benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund and Rotary charitable projects. Rotary thanks “Platinum Sponsors” Emerson Hospital, Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty (the Maurer/Widell Team) and Deaconess Abundant Life Services along with “Friends Sponsors” The Salute Military Golf Association-Boston and Spaulding Management for their support. To register to play in or learn more about the event, visit www.rotaryclubofconcord.org and click on Golf in the banner at the top of the page.

PHOTO: (From left) Rotarian Hilary Taylor, Interact Scholar Kiley Pietropaolo and Rotarian Sharon Spaulding at Interact Awards Ceremony.

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Concord on Full Display at the Summer Sidewalk Celebration

CONCORD: Concord will be on full display at the Summer Sidewalk Celebration this year! The Concord Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Concord invite residents and visitors alike to enjoy sales, dinning, shopping, and live entertainment throughout Concord Center, the Thoreau District, and West Concord on Saturday, August 6 from 10am to 3pm. At the Celebration, local businesses will both offer new products in-shop and host sales outdoors at merchandise tables. Local blues band “Becky and The Swinging Bards” will jam-out, while non-profit theatre group “The Concord Players” will karaoke the day away!

To ensure easy event access, Walden Street will be closed to traffic from 10am to 4pm with its parking lot open for visitors.

In addition to the Sidewalk Celebration, the Chamber and Town is sponsoring a Enjoy Local Passport program that rewards customers who dine or shop at ten or more Concord Businesses between July 1 and August 10 with free entry to both raffled weekly prizes and a sweeping grand prize.

“Both programs are great ways to have fun while supporting local companies,” says Marie Foley, Chamber President and owner of Revolutionary Concord, Alright Art Supply and The Concord Toy Box. “Be sure to drop by the Chamber of Commerce’s table during the Celebration for surprise giveaways and more information.”

To learn more about Concord’s Summer Sidewalk Celebration and Enjoy Local Passport, visit https://concordchamberofcommerce.org.

Chocolate at the Job Lane Farm Museum

BEDFORD: Job Lane Farm Museum will present chocolate demonstrator, Linda Greene on July 24 from 2-4pm, featuring a colonial period chocolate and talk about how chocolate first came to the area. Greene is the Director of the Westford Museum and is passionate for Chocolate. As an 18th Century Chocolate Interpreter, she was a versatile educator and interpreter at the Captain Jackson’s Historic Chocolate Shop on the Olde North Church campus. For information, visit https://joblanefarmmuseum.org.

Become a Weed Warrior!

CONCORD: Become a Weed Warrior and help remove invasive water chestnut from the Sudbury, Concord and Assabet Rivers! Only by consistent removal can we prevent our rivers from becoming choked with these weeds. OARS is recruiting volunteers to join OARS staff this July. Volunteers will be trained to identify water chestnut and how to pull it, working from a boat or on the land. Volunteers will need to provide their own kayak, canoe, or small watercraft, paddles, and lifejacket/ personal floatation device. To learn more and volunteer, please contact Russell Forester at outreach@oars3rivers.org.

OARS is a nonprofit, science-based organization that works to protect and restore the health and resiliency of the Assabet, Sudbury, and Concord Rivers and their watersheds. Visit www.oars3rivers.org for information.

Concord Chamber of Commerce Relaunches Passport Program

CONCORD: Concord’s Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Concord are once again bringing back the popular Enjoy Local Passport program through August 6, 2022. It’s easy to play! Participants in the Enjoy Local Passport program are encouraged to shop and dine in ten or more of their favorite Concord and West Concord businesses. To enter the contest, shoppers just need to get their Concord Passport stamped or initialed at each of the locations. Online sales are also included. Every week during the promotion, a winner will be selected and awarded a gift check– or shopping bucks - that may be used at any local store or restaurant. On August 6, 2022 a grand prize winner will be picked too!

Beth Williams, Town of Concord’s Economic Vitality and Tourism Manager,
explained, “Last year we had 500 entries and nearly 100 Concord businesses were
represented – and this year promises to be even more successful. Really everyone
wins with the Local Passport.”

“We are always looking for ways to help local businesses be more successful and
the Passport program is the perfect tool to incentivize people to shop locally,” said
Marie Foley, President of the Concord Chamber of Commerce. “We really hope people have fun with it and we encourage everyone to try a couple of new stores or
restaurants that they’ve never been to before.”

Passports may be picked up and turned in at the Concord Visitor Center, 58 Main
Street, or the Concord Flower Shop, 135 Commonwealth Avenue in West Concord. You can also email your completed passport to visitors@concordma.gov.

Bedford Garden Club Hosts Meeting at Job Lane Farm Museum

BEDFORD: The Bedford Garden Club will hold a meeting on July 12, at the Job Lane Farm Museum located at 295 North Road. Social time is at 11am, followed by a meeting given on the history of the Lillian Dutton Memorial Herb garden and about Lillian Dutton who had a mail order herb business while living there. There will also be talk about the herbs that are planted there, how they were originally used, and if they are used today. Due to the pandemic, please bring your own lunch, your drink, and a chair. The public is invited, and it is free. For more information, visit https://bedfordgardenclub.org.

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Animal Clinic to Open on Minuteman High School Campus in Partnership with Boston Veterinary Clinic
Students and Professional Staff will Offer Public Services

LEXINGTON: An animal health and wellness center that will be operated in collaboration with Minuteman High School students and professional staff from Boston Veterinary Clinic (BVC) will tentatively open on the Minuteman campus in Lexington in the fall of 2023, Minuteman Superintendent-Director Edward A. Bouquillon and BVC CEO Paul Mataras announced today.

The partnership and opening of the animal clinic mark a milestone for Minuteman’s Animal Science career major, which launched last fall. The clinic will be in the East Campus Building, which is separate from the main school building, with its own parking area and easy access for patients and pet parents.

“Many young people are passionate about animal welfare and there is a clear need for skilled professionals in this growing field,” Bouquillon said. “Thanks to this wonderful partnership with Boston Veterinary Clinic, our students will get valuable hands-on learning experience, provide an important public service, contribute to the local economy, and help countless dogs, cats, and other animals with their health and wellness needs.”

There is a large demand for skilled workers in the animal science field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of veterinarians is projected to grow 16 percent by 2029, which is much faster than the 4 percent growth rate for all occupations combined.

“We are excited to work with the Minuteman team of educators in this first-of-its-kind partnership,” Mataras said. “It allows us to continue our expansion in Greater Boston, adding BVC Lexington to our network, while also bringing our high-level training program, focused on fear-free primary care, to the future leaders of veterinary medicine.”

In 2018, Minuteman was granted special legislation to allow the school district to enter into long-term leases with mission-compatible business partners. By doing so, Minuteman can provide a lease to a business partner that will incorporate a career technical education program into its business model, thus increasing opportunities for students and expanding the school’s enrollment. Reflecting a statewide trend in career technical education schools, Minuteman is experiencing an enrollment waitlist for the first time in recent memory.

There are currently multiple bills pending in the Massachusetts State House that would allow career technical education schools to expand their ability to provide long-term leases to business partners from five to 25 years, including House Bills 4542 and 4864.

The pending opening of the Minuteman/ BVC animal clinic remains subject to local and state licensing approvals. Representatives from BVC and the Minuteman signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) this month. The Minuteman School Committee voted unanimously in favor of proceeding with the MOU in a public meeting on May 17, following a presentation from Mataras and BVC’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Brian Bourquin.

Minuteman is an award-winning regional career and technical high school and continuing education institution that integrates robust academic and technical learning. As an accredited member of the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC), Minuteman challenges all students to aspire to their full potential, accelerate their learning, and achieve success in the 21st-century global community.

The Bedford FBCoA Fix-It-Shop is Ready for Your Business

BEDFORD: What if you had a repair person at your fingertips? What if that repair person promised high quality service at ridiculously low costs? What if that repair person was trustworthy and skilled at their craft? Would you take advantage of it? Well, you actually have this service right town!

The FBCOA Fix-It Shop (The Friends of the Bedford Council on Aging) can fix almost everything (except electronics). It's a group of capable volunteers who take pride in their work. The shop is open to all - from Bedford and any other town, and people of any age, and the prices cannot be beat!

The folks at the Shop have repaired a microwave, a fax machine, a sewing machine, and a Roomba, as well as some of the other mechanical things they routinely fix, such as:

watch batteries for only $5
clocks: wall, mantel, anniversary
lamps, vacuum cleaners, remote controls, radio/CD players etc.
small appliances such as coffee makers, blenders, toasters, fans, and humidifiers.
stubborn switches, such as on a microwave door
sharpen knives, scissors, and garden tools
re-glue tables and chairs, and broken ceramic items
Return sound and lights to children's toys

If you're not sure - bring it in!

The minimum charge is $3. The shop stocks many standard parts. Anything requiring extensive labor or special-order parts will be done only after prior customer approval.

All proceeds benefit the FBCOA (Friends of the Bedford Council on Aging).

Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9am to noon, upstairs in the Town Center (yellow building behind Town Hall), 12 Mudge Way. Call (781) 275-6825 for more information.

Jane Goodall at CCHS
Goodall to Receive the Thoreau Prize at the Concord-Carlisle High School

CONCORD: The Thoreau Society recently announced that conservationist and best-selling author Dr. Jane Goodall will receive the 2022 Thoreau Prize for Literary Excellence in Nature Writing. The prize will be awarded during the Annual Gathering on the afternoon of July 10 at 2:30pm at the Concord-Carlisle High School. Join in person or virtually via our live-stream. Tickets are available at www.thoreausociety.org.

When Goodall was 26 years old, she was dispatched to Tanzania by famed anthropologist Louis Leakey, who had obtained a small grant from the National Geographic Society to fund a study of chimpanzees at Gombe Stream on the edge of Lake Tanganyika. She had been working for Leakey as a secretary. In 1960, with no formal scientific education, she arrived at the research outpost where her work would take place. She was accompanied by her mother, Margaret.

Goodall is a keen observer and careful to document her daily observations. One day, near the end of the six months afforded by the grant, she happened to be observing a chimpanzee she had named “David Greybeard” for his distinctive appearance. (At the time, the scientific community frowned on assigning human names to primate subjects in the field, supposing identification numbers more objective.) She observed the chimpanzee fashioning a stick into a kind of rod that he then used to capture termites as they swarmed around the opening of their mound.

As the story goes, when she informed Leakey of her discovery, he replied with a telegram that read, “Now we must redefine tool, redefine man, or accept chimpanzees as human.” Previously, it had been thought that only humans make tools. But since Goodall’s watershed research with chimpanzees, we have learned that many other animal species also fashion objects into tools.

Given the momentous discovery, the National Geographic Society naturally extended the research grant for continued work at Gombe. Goodall’s first husband, Baron Hugo van Lawick, began photographing and filming chimpanzees in 1962, helping to document her research at Gombe Stream. The work introduced the world to the Kasekela chimpanzee community, and its now famous members, Flo, Fifi, and Flint.

According to their website, the Jane Goodall Institute, founded in 1977, “continues Dr. Goodall’s pioneering research on chimpanzee behavior—research that transformed scientific perceptions of the relationship between humans and animals.” Today, the Institute remains at the forefront of global advocacy for chimpanzee communities.

Goodall is not only an astute scientific observer, she is also a gifted communicator. The Thoreau Prize Committee, under the auspices of the Thoreau Society, is pleased to recognize Dr. Goodall’s extraordinary literary accomplishments in nature writing. Bestsellers written by Dr. Goodall have included In the Shadow of Man (1971), My Life with the Chimpanzees (1988), Through a Window (1990), and most recently The Book of Hope (Celadon, 2021). She has published books for children as well as adults, and in 1991 she founded Roots and Shoots, an organization that promotes student engagement, from preschool to college age, with environmental, conservation, and humanitarian issues.

The Henry David Thoreau Prize for Literary Excellence in Nature Writing was established as an annual award in 2010 by Dale Peterson to honor a writer of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry whose work embodies Thoreau’s legacy as a gifted stylist, keen naturalist, and social thinker. The Thoreau Society has helped to steward the prize and events since 2017. The prize is given both as a lifetime achievement award and to honor mid-career nature writers of exceptional promise. Previous winners of the Thoreau Prize have included the poets Mary Oliver and Gary Snyder, the author-naturalists Sy Montgomery, Peter Matthiessen, Diane Ackerman and Gretel Ehrlich, the poet, novelist, and essayist Linda Hogan, and field biologists Robin Waller Kimmerer, George Schaller, Bernd Heinrich, and E.O. Wilson.

Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, is the Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace. To learn more about the work of the Jane Goodall Institute, visit www.janegoodall.org.

PHOTO: Jane Goodall Institute / by Bill Wallauer Jane Goodall at Gombe Stream National Park.

Local Residents Earn Dean's List Honors from MassBay Community College

WELLESLEY: The following local students have been named to the MassBay Community College Dean's List, achieving this outstanding academic honor for the spring 2022 semester.

To be eligible for the MassBay Dean's List, students must complete at least six credits of college-level courses, be in good standing with the College, and earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.

Frank Abbott of Acton (01720), who studies Biotechnology
Holly Lascko of Acton (01720), who studies General Studies
Hailey Martinez of Acton (01720), who studies Liberal Arts - Early Childhood Education
Walid Alsharafi of Concord (01742), who studies Electrical & Computer Engineering
Nell Larkin of Concord (01742), who studies International Business

MassBay Community College is the most affordable higher education option in MetroWest Boston, offering a robust portfolio of courses and more than 70 associate degree and certificate programs with flexible day, evening, and weekend classes in Ashland, Framingham, Wellesley Hills, and online. MassBay students receive an unmatched educational value by earning stackable credits that transfer to bachelor's degree programs, and workforce-ready skills necessary to advance careers in high-demand fields such as health and life sciences, automotive technology, engineering, business, cybersecurity, and the humanities. MassBay's Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) and Practical Nursing (LPN) programs were both ranked as the #1 Nursing Program in Massachusetts in 2020-2021 by national nursing advocacy organizations RegisteredNursing.org, and PracticalNursing.org. Since its founding in 1961, MassBay has been accredited by several governing bodies and remains firmly committed to its mission of meeting the needs of the diverse local communities it serves. We value the intrinsic worth of all individuals, collectively in pursuit of inclusiveness and prioritize our work towards achieving equity within our community and beyond. To learn more about MassBay, visit massbay.edu.

Songs & Stories with Alan Goodrich
at the Concord Free Public Library

CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library invites children and their caregivers to enjoy songs and stories with Alan Goodrich in the Children’s Garden at the Main Library on Thursday, June 23 at 10:30am. No registration is required for this event.

Alan is a guitarist and singer-songwriter/ solo performer who presents live music
concerts "for kids of all ages" including classic and current children's songs and original songs. In addition to his solo performances, Alan is the lead singer and drummer for Alan and The Alligators (a rock group based out of Concord) and has also performed with Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members The Platters, T Lavitz (of The Dixie Dregs, and Jefferson Starship fame), The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Greg Hawkes (of The Cars), Dave Mattacks (of Paul McCartney, and Elton John fame), and others.

Alan's original music CDs have been added at over 75 radio stations across the US and
Canada and charted in the Top Ten in college radio. He resides in Concord where he is a music teacher in addition to being a live music performer. For more information, you can visit him online at www.alligatorsband.com.

For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.

Summer School Registration Now Open at Minuteman

High School Academic Recovery, Preschool Fun, Middle School Enrichment

LEXINGTON: Registration is now open for Minuteman High School's summer programs: high school academic recovery, preschool fun, and middle school enrichment.Courses will be held in one- or two-week sessions between July 11 and August 12. Minuteman High School is located at 758 Marrett Road (Rt. 2A) in Lexington, and is close to I-95 and Route 2.

A high school academic recovery program (grades 9-12) with numerous courses will be available July 11-August 5. Open to any high school student, even if they do not attend Minuteman.

A middle school enrichment program (grades 6-8), with numerous courses in career technical education areas such as auto mechanics, plant science, multimedia, animal science, cosmetology, and early education, will be available July 11-29.

A preschool program (ages 3-6) at Minuteman’s Colonial Children’s Academy will be available from July 11-August 5.

High School Academic Recovery

The high school summer program is open to any student in grades 9-12; they do not need to be current Minuteman students. The academic recovery classes are for students who did not pass their course(s) for the year and/or need additional support in the following academic subjects: Algebra I, Algebra II, Biochemistry, Chemistry/Physics, English, Geometry, History. A Public Speaking/Debate class is open for high school students as well. Courses are offered in 1- or 2-week sessions between July 11 and August 5 in either the morning or afternoon. Details and register online.

Middle School Enrichment

The middle school enrichment program is open to any student in grades 6-8 who has an interest in hands-on learning. One-week courses are held from July 11-29 and include veterinary science, auto mechanics, cosmetology, early education, environmental science, multimedia, and public speaking/debate. Free school bus transportation is provided to students living in Minuteman’s nine member towns of Acton, Arlington, Bolton, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lexington, Needham, and Stow. Details and register online.

Preschool Summer Fun at Minuteman!

Colonial Children’s Academy, the childcare center at Minuteman High School, is offering a summer program for children ages 3-6. Weekly programs run between July 11 and August 5. Hours are 8:30-11:30 AM with an optional lunch until 12:30 PM. The cost is $160 per week or $200 per week with the extra lunch hour. For more information, visit minuteman.org/ccasummer

If you have any questions, please email Cindy DeMaio, summer school coordinator and cosmetology instructor, or Kim Quinones, administrative assistant.

Bike for Books at the Concord Free Public Library

CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library is encouraging children, teens, and adults to bike to the Library! Every time you bike to the Main Library or Fowler Branch Library, show your helmet and they’ll stamp your bike card. After 10 stamps, you earn a free $5 gift certificate to Bedford Farms! For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.

June 2022 StoryWalk at the Concord Free Public Library

CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library invites everyone to visit our StoryWalk, newly installed for the season on Main Street, leading to the new Children’s Library entrance. The June StoryWalk features Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona Judge by Ray Anthony Shepard and illustrated by Keith Mallett. The story is a picture book biography of Ona Judge, a young enslaved woman who escaped the family of George Washington. In honor of Juneteenth, meet the acclaimed author of Runaway and historian Mr. Shepard on Tuesday, June 21 at 10:30am at the Main Library. No registration required. Visit www.concordlibrary.org for more Library programs.

Open Table Receives Cummings Foundation Grant
Metro West nonprofit receives two years of funding from Cummings Foundation

CONCORD/MAYNARD: Open Table, the Concord and Maynard charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, announced that it is one of 140 local nonprofits to receive grants of $100,000 to $500,000 each through Cummings Foundation’s $25 Million Grant Program. The Concord and Maynard-based organization was chosen from a total of 580 applicants during a competitive review process.

Currently Open Table distributes bags of groceries, which include fresh produce, proteins, dairy, baked goods, and shelf-stable produces, to over 300 households each week and provides over 800 prepared meals to clients that hail from the Metro West suburbs. Open Table has received incredible support from the communities it serves through donations of food and funds, making it possible for us to continue to address food insecurity in our region.

“The Cummings Foundation grant will help Open Table expand its services as a community food hub and support the increased number of individuals and families facing food insecurity during these challenging times,” said Jeanine Calabria, executive director of Open Table. “In addition, the grant will be used to help Open Table grow its mobile food program.”

The Cummings $25 Million Grant Program supports Massachusetts nonprofits that are based in and primarily serve Middlesex, Essex, and Suffolk counties.
Through this place-based initiative, Cummings Foundation aims to give back in the areas where it owns commercial property. Its buildings are all managed, at no cost to the Foundation, by its affiliate, Cummings Properties. This Woburn-based commercial real estate firm leases and manages 11 million square feet of debt-free space, the majority of which exclusively benefits the Foundation.

“We are so fortunate in greater Boston to have such effective nonprofits, plus a wealth of talented, dedicated professionals and volunteers to run them,” said Cummings Foundation executive director Joyce Vyriotes. “We are indebted to them for the work they do each day to provide for basic needs, break down barriers to education and health resources, and work toward a more equitable society.”

With the help of about 90 volunteers, the Foundation first identified 140 organizations to receive grants of at least $100,000 each. Among the winners were first-time recipients as well as nonprofits that had previously received Cummings Foundation grants. Forty of this latter group of repeat recipients were then selected to have their grants elevated to 10-year awards ranging from $200,000 to $500,000 each.

“Our volunteers bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives, which is so critical to our grant selection process,” said Vyriotes. “Through this democratized approach to philanthropy, they decide more than half the grants every year.”

This year’s grant recipients represent a wide variety of causes, including food insecurity, immigrant and refugee services, social justice, education, and mental health services. The nonprofits are spread across 45 different cities and towns.

The complete list of 140 grant winners, plus more than 900 previous recipients, is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org. Cummings Foundation has now awarded more than $375 million to greater Boston nonprofits.

Open Table is a 501(c)(3) established in 1989. Their mission is to address hunger in their local community by providing healthy food in a welcoming environment while respecting the dignity and diversity of those served. For more information, visit: www.opentable.org

Woburn-based Cummings Foundation, Inc. was established in 1986 by Joyce and Bill Cummings and has grown to be one of the largest private foundations in New England. The Foundation directly operates its own charitable subsidiaries, including New Horizons retirement communities, in Marlborough and Woburn, and Cummings Health Sciences, LLC. Additional information is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org.

Make Your Own Videogame with Coderdojo

CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library is excited to invite videogame designer and master coder Matthew Mackowski for the first installment of a monthly program, Make Your Own Videogame with Coderdojo, on June 4 from 2-4 pm in the CFPL Main Teen Lounge. Teen participants will have the opportunity to learn the basics of coding and get an inside look at the videogame industry and what it takes to become a designer. Or if you already have projects you are working on, bring them in for consultation. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops. Future session dates are TBA. No registration required.

This is not only a great opportunity for young coders to receive feedback on their projects, but to practice team-building, taking and receiving criticism, and solving problems collaboratively.

CoderDojo is a global movement of free, volunteer-led, community-based programming clubs for young people. Anyone aged seven to seventeen can visit a Dojo where they can learn to code, build a website, create an app or a game, and explore technology in an informal, creative, and social environment.

Matt Mackowski is a professional video game developer and software engineer with over 15 years of experience. He has worked on games for the PC, mobile and console markets. Including working games for VR/AR. His notable shipped titles include the Fieldrunner series for mobile gaming, NBA 2k22 and Gears of War 3 port for the Playstation 5.

Renewable Energy with Ted Barten

CONCORD: On Sunday, June 5 at 10:30am, Kerem Shalom member Ted Barten will share his work over the past five years in the rapidly emerging offshore wind sector—including industry pioneer, Vineyard Wind. Barten will present an online “case study” of Vineyard Wind 1, America’s first successful utility-scale offshore wind project.

Barten is an environmental engineer by training (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute), is a Registered Professional Engineer in Massachusetts and several other states, and earned his MBA at Northeastern University. Ted has devoted his 48-year environmental engineering career to siting, environmental analysis, licensing, and permitting of energy generation and energy infrastructure projects throughout the Northeast.

Please see keremshalom.org for additional information and registration for all events. Contact the office at 978-369-1223 or ksadmin@keremshalom.org with any questions.

Storytime Workshop with Acclaimed Children’s Author Wafa’ Tarnowksa at the CFPL

CONCORD: Meet award-winning children's author, Wafa’ Tarnowksa on Tuesday, June 14 at 10:30am at the Concord Free Public Library, Main Library! Wafa’ will read aloud from her new, critically acclaimed picture book, Nour’s Secret Library. Please note that this Summer Reading Program event has changed from the previously announced date of June 21 to June 14.

Nour’s Secret Library is about the power of books to heal, transport and create safe spaces during difficult times — specifically times of war. It’s based on actual events in Syria, as well as Wafa’s personal experience as a child during the Civil War in Lebanon. The book has received recent praise in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, School Library Journal, and more. This program is recommended for ages 6 and up. Afterwards, participants will be able to have their books signed by the author. No registration required.

For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.

Celebrate Juneteenth with Acclaimed Children’s Author Ray Anthony Shepard

CONCORD: In honor of Juneteenth, come meet acclaimed children's author and historian Ray Anthony Shepard on Tuesday, June 21 at 10:30am at the Concord Free Public Library, Main Library. Shepard will read from his newest book, Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona Judge, a picture book biography of Ona Judge, a young enslaved woman who escaped the family of George Washington.

The book is written in verse, and focuses on the risks Ona faced escaping enslavement to the unknown life as a fugitive in New Hampshire. Kirkus Reviews says “with a distinctive, haunting voice, powerful images, and thought-provoking story structure, this unique look at a remarkable young woman’s life choices and decisions offers an utterly necessary but seldom highlighted perspective on the contradictions within our society’s foundations.” The book has received a host of awards, including the Jane Addams Children’s Honor Book, a Notable Book by the Association for Library Services to Children, Bank Street’s Best Books of the Year list, and a Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People.

Ray Anthony Shepard is a former middle school history teacher. As a child he was mesmerized by the historical stories his mother told, especially stories about his grandfather, who was enslaved until age six. From his mother, he learned the story of slavery not taught in school. He now strives to write “black biographies that matter to all young readers.” In addition to Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona Judge, he is also the author of Now or Never!: Fifty-Fourth Massachusetts Infantry's War to End Slavery.

This event is generously sponsored by The Friends of the Concord Free Public Library. No registration is required.

For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.

Musical Mondays in June at the Concord Free Public Library

CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library hosts free musical concerts on Mondays at 10:30am for children ages 0-6 years and their caregivers at the Main Library. No registration is required for these performances.

On Monday, June 6 Alan Goodrich (pictured) - a guitarist and singer-songwriter solo performer - will entertain for all ages, including classic and current children's songs and original songs. In addition to his solo performances, Alan is the lead singer and drummer for the band Alan and the Alligators (a rock group based out of Concord, MA) and has also performed with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members The Platters, T Lavitz (of The Dixie Dregs and Jefferson Starship fame), The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Greg Hawkes (of The Cars), Dave Mattacks (of Paul McCartney and Elton John fame), and others. Alan resides in Concord where he is a music teacher in addition to being a live music performer. For more information, you can visit his website: www.alligatorsband.com.

On Monday, June 13 join Hugh Hanley , a nationally– known early childhood educator and musical entertainer who specializes in programs for young children and their teachers and families. Hugh accompanies his singing with guitar and banjo and draws on a wide repertoire of songs, finger plays, and music activities that are engaging and accessible to young children; they’re so much fun that the grown-ups will love to join in too!

On Monday, June 27 Concord favorite Rockabye Beats joins us again! They are a fun, family group whose music is reminiscent of founder Marcos Valles’s Puerto Rico. Their songs offer a range of styles from rock n’ roll to calypso to funk and even blues. Enjoy movement, dancing, counting, singing, and a little bit of Spanish vocabulary. Their music will have you bopping and moving along in no time!

For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.

Minuteman Superintendent Ed Bouquillon Surprised With Retirement Parade on Athletic Track
Students and Staff Celebrated Retiring District Leader

LEXINGTON: It was an occasion filled with high spirits, expressions of sincere gratitude and fond farewells at Minuteman High School as students, teachers and administrators recently showed their appreciation to the district’s longtime superintendent, Dr. Edward A. Bouquillon. He plans to retire in June after 15 achievement-filled years.

Under summery blue skies with a balmy feel in the air, hundreds of students grouped by their career technical programs headed for the school’s football field. Many were carrying signs bearing messages thanking Dr. Bouquillon for his dedication and leadership.

As they wound their way around the perimeter of the new athletic field, bagpiper Seth Fagans of Acton stood in the center playing, adding a lilting musical nod to Dr. Bouquillon’s Irish heritage.

The next phase of the event took place inside the building in Minuteman’s theater. Principal George Clement spoke first, praising Dr. Bouquillon for doing so much to enhance students’ education and for preparing them for productive careers.

“His mission [was] to help kids discover what they love to do and what they do well, and to help kids gain an individual economic opportunity,” Clement said. “The question: Did he get the job done? The answer: Hell yes!”

He then read a checklist of Dr. Bouquillon’s most significant personal and professional accomplishments – “hire and foster top talent, get the school budget in order, rewrite the district charter, watch the school win multiple awards for excellence, be a proud husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and son, as well as a dynamic, generous, and strong servant-leader.”

Perhaps Dr. Bouquillon’s biggest success involved his steadfast advocacy for a new, badly-needed, state-of-the-art Minuteman school facility. It opened its doors in the fall of 2019.

Another notable triumph of his tenure came a year earlier, when Minuteman earned the prestigious designation of National Blue Ribbon School in 2018, an honor conferred by the U.S. Department of Education. That same year, Dr. Bouquillon was named a semi-finalist for National Superintendent of the Year by the National Association of School Superintendents.

In his remarks, Dr. Bouquillon struck a thoughtful tone. He said he has been conferring often with his successor, Dr. Kathleen Dawson, as she transitions into the role of Minuteman’s superintendent. She will begin on July 1. The school is “in very good hands,” Dr. Bouquillon said.

He took time to thank his family, including his wife, Diana, recognizing that people sometimes have to make tough choices between their family and the rigorous, unavoidable demands of a job such as a school superintendent.

Continuing on the theme of making choices, Dr. Bouquillon said that the staff’s mission is to help kids “make good choices” for their career pathway and future. “Helping kids find their passion – that’s what we do, and we do it well.”

Rounding out the tribute were two presentations to Dr. Bouquillon. The first was from Assistant Superintendent Amy Perreault, who gave him a pin to wear on his kilt. The other was from students in Carpentry, who made Adirondack chairs for him.

Bedford's 2022 Memorial Day Ceremonies

BEDFORD: On May 30, honor our veterans, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom. Bedford's Memorial Day events begin at:

- 8:30am American Legion/VFW Memorial & Shawsheen Cemetery: Ceremonies begin at the American Legion Post on Great Road

- 10am Old Burying Ground Ceremony

- 10:45am BHS Fallen Veterans Memorial Tribute by Bedford HS JROTC cadets

- 11am Town Parade - Starts from Mudge Way with brief stop at WWI memorial on Town Common

- 11:15am Veterans Memorial Park (next to Bedford Funeral Home): Town Ceremonies

For more information, contact Paul Purchia at 781-275-2464 or 781-789-8974.

Note: In case of heavy rains, outside activities will be canceled. Veterans Memorial Park ceremonies will be moved to Bedford High School Auditorium starting at 11am.

Minuteman High School's Students of the Term Announced for Term 3

LEXINGTON: Minuteman High School recently recognized four students from Stow, Arlington, Lexington, and Needham with the Student of the Term Award. The award is based on nominations from teachers and celebrates both academic achievement and good citizenship. One student is awarded per grade. Assistant Principal Brian Tildsley surprised the students, presenting them their awards in class. Later in the week the winners received a certificate and a free lunch with the staff members who nominated them in The District Restaurant at Minuteman.

The Students of the Term for Term 3 are:

Danieliz Calderon of Needham, a senior in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program. “Danieliz prevailed against many obstacles she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and has demonstrated exceptional progress,” said Anita Currier, culinary arts teacher. “We admire her fortitude and courage. We are immensely proud of her accomplishments and commitment to success.” During her participation in the student Top Chef competition, Calderon received The Superintendent’s Special Award for her shrimp taco dish.

Jamie Lehoux of Lexington, a junior in the Metal Fabrication and Welding program. “I have seen tremendous growth from Jamie in welding and academics,” said Denise D’Ambrosia, teacher’s aide. “She is always pushing herself to be a better welder, including by working with more difficult metals such as aluminum. She is constantly involved with new projects and is always willing to learn and take feedback.” Lehoux participated in the SkillsUSA Districts competition in February.

Nick Krain of Arlington, a sophomore in the Automotive Technology program. “Nick has excellent attendance, is very conscientious, and is always prepared for shop,” said Don Melanson, automotive teacher. “I consider him one of the top students. He’s an excellent example for others.”

Robert Emken of Stow, a freshman in the Programming and Web Development program. “Robert is very conscientious, always having his homework done and coming [in] for extra help when need be,” said Connie Maynard, Spanish teacher. “He always works hard… It’s great to see.”

Minuteman is an award-winning regional career and technical high school and continuing education institution that integrates robust academic and technical learning. As an accredited member of the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC), Minuteman challenges all students to aspire to their full potential, accelerate their learning, and achieve success in the 21st-century global community. Located in Lexington in a new state-of-the-art facility, Minuteman’s member towns are Acton, Arlington Bolton, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lexington, Needham, and Stow.

PHOTO: The students (from left, front row) are Robert Emken of Stow, Jamie Lehoux of Lexington, Danieliz Calderon of Needham, and Nick Krain of Arlington. Back row: English as a Second Language teacher Daniela Das, Spanish teacher Connie Maynard, Principal George Clement, Culinary Arts teacher Martin McElhinney, and Automotive teacher Don Melanson.

Where Jazz Meets Classical Concert

CONCORD: Enjoy an evening of jazz inspired by classical music when The Concord Conservatory of Music will present Where Jazz Meets Classical Concert on Friday, May 20 at 7:30pm. Guest musicians will include saxophonist Kenneth Radnofsky and pianist Yoshiko Hiramatsu Kline to perform with CCM faculty members Tsuyoshi Honjo on saxophone and Peter Evans on live electronics and bass clarinet.

Jazz and classical music might seem to live on opposite sides of the musical world.
Surprisingly, at times, these genres intersect and share with one another. Get ready for an innovative, one-of-a-kind jazz experience. You’ll hear fresh improvisational music and discover
jazz interpretations that borrowed and were inspired by contemporary classical music. In addition to jazz music, you’ll learn the background stories of the music and its composers—about their philosophies and performance practices.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance at www.concordconservatory.org or at the door: $25 for adults and free for students 18 and under. Visit www.ConcordConservatory.org, email info@concordconservatory.org, or call (978) 369-0010 to learn more.

Annual West Virginia Mission Festival Returns to First Church Bedford

BEDFORD: Following a two-year pandemic-enforced hiatus, Bedford’s First Church of Christ, 25 Great Road, is bringing back its annual West Virginia Mission Festival, to be held from 5-8:30pm, Saturday, May 21. In addition to live Appalachian folk music by the popular duo Tim & Maggie, and a Southern-style pulled-pork supper, the festival will also feature free children’s activities, plus a variety of arts & crafts and baked goods for sale. Supper – featuring smoked pulled pork, sides and dessert - will be served from 5-8pm. Cost is $15 per person or $40 per family. First Church will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from this event to fund its ongoing humanitarian mission work in West Virginia.

The highlight of this year’s Mission Festival is the music of Tim & Maggie. This popular duo from Athens, West Virginia has spent decades studying and performing early American/ Appalachian music, including tunes from England, France, Ireland and Scotland. They play various instruments, including banjo, guitar, flutes, spoons and bones. Tim & Maggie will perform three musical sets: 5:30-6pm; 6:30-7pm; and 7:30-8pm.

For almost 10 years, the church’s West Virginia Mission Project has helped fight poverty in Appalachia by supporting nonprofit organizations in and around Princeton, a town located in one of the poorest counties in southeast West Virginia. These community groups are dedicated to making home repairs for local residents, supporting after-school and summer children’s programs, and hosting arts activities for at-risk youth. The entire community is invited to the 2022 West Virginia Mission Fest to sample the fine cooking of First Church chefs and enjoy some lively Appalachian folk music.

This benefit will also help bring hope and optimism to a naturally beautiful part of the United States with deep and distinctive cultural roots. Free parking is available behind the church. For further information, visit firstchurchbedford.wordpress.com or call 781-275-7951.

PHOTO: Douglas Dussault of Bedford, helped repair homes in West Virginia recently as part of Bedford’s First Church of Christ West Virginia Mission Team.

Concord Orchestra presents “American Voices”

CONCORD: Concord Orchestra presents “American Voices” at 8pm on Saturday, May 21 and Sunday, May 22 at 2pm. The orchestra, directed by Jeffrey Rink, performs Jan Swafford’s Adirondack Interlude, Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Major, Charles Griffes’ The Pleasure Dome of Kubla Khan, and Aaron Copland’s Billy the Kid Suite. Performances take place at the Performing Arts Center at 51 Walden. A pre-concert talk by the conductor is scheduled for Saturday at 7:15pm. All concerts of the 2021-2022 Concord Orchestra season are planned and directed by finalists auditioning for the position of Music Director.

In 2001, Jeffrey Rink made his conducting debuts with The New Japan Philharmonic, the Tokyo Philharmonic and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and conducted a sold-out performance of Chinese and Western music in Carnegie Hall. During his 20 years in Boston, Rink served as Music Director of Chorus pro Musica, the Newton Symphony Orchestra, the New England Philharmonic, Concert Opera Boston and Assistant Conductor to Sir Christopher Hogwood with the Handel and Haydn Society. Rink served from 2007-2018 as Music Director of the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. He is a recipient of the Jacopo Peri Award for outstanding contributions to the art of opera in New England.

This season, the Concord Orchestra features several young performers who participated in the annual young artist competition. The competition is open to musicians of high school age or younger who live in eastern Massachusetts. This season the winners were chosen by a panel of orchestra members and Eric Culver, consulting conductor. Winners of this season’s competition perform at the March and May concerts.

Ayaan Ahmad (pictured), winner of the young artist competition, performs Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Major. Ahmad, a resident of Sharon, Massachusetts, began studying the violin at the age of four with Daniela Rubenstein. Since 2015, he has been studying with Jan Mark Sloman at the Cleveland Institute of Music as well as Ryan Meehan of the Calidore String Quartet. In 2015, Ahmad won first prize at MMTA’s Bay State Competition. In November of 2020, he won the Massachusetts round of the MTNA junior strings competition as well as the eastern division round, advancing to the final national round. In the summer of 2021, Ahmad was accepted into
and attended the Perlman Music Program where he worked with esteemed teachers such as Li Lin and Catherine Cho, and performed and worked with world renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman.

Tickets for adults and seniors are $25. Admission for youth under 18 is free. For tickets and information, call 978-369-4967 or visit www.concordorchestra.com.

A Baroque Extravaganza May 21

BEDFORD: On Saturday, May 21 at 7pm at First Parish in Bedford, 75 The Great Road, the Music Committee is sponsoring a fantastic concert, “A Baroque Extravaganza”. It will feature a chamber orchestra playing Vivaldi’s “Spring” from “The Four Seasons”, a Concerto Grosso by Handel and J.S. Bach’s spectacular cantata, “Wir müssen durch viel Trüsal”, BWV 146. For the “Spring” concerto, the violin soloist will be First Parish’s own, Carlough Faulkner-Carroll; the opening movement will also feature Dorothy Anderson-Perales, recreating a heartfelt dance she choreographed for First Parish for Easter 2021. The Bach cantata has an excellent line-up of soloists including Cynthia Mork, Benjamin Sears and two wonderful guest soloists as well as a semi-chorus drawn from the First Parish adult choir.

One of the most thrilling movements of the cantata is the opening “Sinfonia” which features a virtuosic organ solo which will be played on their historic Hook & Hastings instrument by returning First Parish favorite, Heinrich Christensen, Music Director and Organist of King’s Chapel in Boston. Heinrich was the featured organ soloist in the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Benjamin Britten’s “War Requiem” at the beginning of this month and got rave reviews.

The orchestra is made up of some incredible players, including regular members of the Lexington and Portland Symphony orchestras, the Handel and Haydn Society and subs for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. I have high expectations for the quality of this event.
The program will be broadcast on Zoom for those who won’t be able to attend in-person. Visit www.uubedford.org for more information.

Teen Volunteering at the Concord Free Public Library Information Session

CONCORD: Are you a teen or caregiver of a teen in need of community service hours? Look no further than the Concord Free Public Library! Join Teen Librarian Cary Stough Monday, May 23 from 6:30-7pm for a short informational session on the many opportunities available to teens, from craft preparation to creating and facilitating their own programs. This session will also serve as an abbreviated tour for those who have not had the pleasure of visiting the newly renovated building.

Teen volunteers have been the source of much of what makes the Concord Free Public Library such a vibrant, unique community space. It has been our honor to assist students from CCHS and elsewhere achieve their required community service hours. Given the library’s new expansion, the need for extra help has never been greater or more welcome. If you cannot make the session, or would like more information about the teen volunteering opportunities beforehand, please visit the Library website.

No registration required. Event will begin in the Teen Lounge and end in the Children’s Room.

Russell Robb to Give Career & Finance Talk at Concord Library

CONCORD: On May 25 at 6:30pm in the Main Library, join Russell Robb for a presentation and discussion of his new book Your Money Mentors: Expert Advice for Millennials. Please register for the talk at www.concordlibrary.org.

Your Money Mentors offers advice for millennials and their parents on how to succeed in the years post college graduation. Co-written by a millennial, and based on the author’s sixty-plus years of experience in finance, the collective advice is full of data, current research, anecdotes, and suggestions regarding mentors, continuing education, internships, careers, starter jobs, setting financial goals, budgeting, and money matters concerning marriage. The book is presented in three parts: Foundations for Success, Careers, and Making Your Money Work.

Robb's presentation will focus on the following:

Why Focus On Millennials ?
High School and College Internships= Jobs
A paradigm shift from lifetime employment
Handling Money is a Life Skill
Use of financial formulas
Opportunities And Serendipity
Avoiding Underemployment

Russell Robb is the author of Buying Your Own Business, 2nd ed. (Adams Media), M&A TODAY, a monthly newsletter, Selling your Business (Adams Media), and Your Money Mentors: Expert Advice For Millennials (Rowan/Littlefield). He is a graduate of Trinity College School, Port Hope, Ontario, Canada and the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton (Undergraduate), and he served 2 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. Robb has worked for American Express and Colonial Management, and he is involved with Lincoln Canoe and Kayak Company and Tully and Holland Investment Bank.

Iris Show in West Concord

WEST CONCORD: Enjoy the sight and smells of spring! The Iris Society of Massachusetts (ISM) is holding an iris show with over 200 iris blooms on display. The show is being held on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30 from 1-4pm at the Harvey Wheeler Community Center, 1276
Main Street. Admission is free, the building accessible, with ample parking.

In addition to the array of beautiful, scented irises, companion plants will be on view as well as floral arrangements that use irises to reflect the show’s theme of “Moving forward, looking back.’ Potted iris plants and rhizomes will be on sale. Everyone is welcome to enter identified irises as well as floral arrangements that reflect this year’s theme. Both iris entries and arrangements must be received at the show between 8 and 10am.

Members of the society will be on hand to answer general questions about irises as well as more specific horticultural queries. For more information, visit www.massirises.org.

Six Spectacular Concord Gardens: 33rd Annual Concord Museum Garden Tour

CONCORD: Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “When I go into a garden, I think, if it were mine, I should never go out of it.” After two years of watching spring’s beauty through windows and screens, the time has come to experience the great outdoors! The Concord Museum Guild of Volunteers are pleased to present the 33rd annual Garden Tour in an in-person format. Garden lovers like Emerson will be able to tour six glorious private gardens, many on historic and spectacular properties, on Friday, June 3 and Saturday, June 4 (rain or shine) from 9am to 4pm.

Each of the private gardens reflect the individual interests and passions of the owners and their families and will inspire both new and accomplished gardeners. For example, one of the unique and completely owner designed gardens, has a multitude of variegated foliage. It includes a wide range of plants, including cranesbill, Clematis, Hosta, and unusual grasses and ferns. The front terrace is modeled after a garden in Provence with mounds of boxwood complementing the stone structure. Moving from France to Italy, another garden features a somewhat formal Palladian setting with a long rectangle of lawn and plantings.

Still another property was carefully designed to transition the formal perennial garden surrounding the swimming pool to a practical vegetable garden and fruit trees. These give way via a scenic gate to a semi-wild area that features birch trees amongst naturalized grasses. The terrace near the house provides an expansive view over the open field below.

The river figures prominently in another owner’s garden design, with a table, benches, and hammocks for river viewing. Care has been taken to incorporate native plantings in the garden design to benefit birds, animals, and pollinating insects while also providing eye-catching blooms. A meadow with fruit trees, grasses, and wildflowers provides a serene landscape, with the cultivation of grapes and blueberries evokes Concord’s agricultural heritage.

The Garden Tour is self-guided and self-paced. Tickets are good for either or both days, however each garden may only be visited once. Garden goers should arrive at 9am to pick-up maps and programs prior to starting out at the Concord Museum. Tickets may be purchased online at www.concordmuseum.org or the day of the tour. Advance tickets may be purchased through May 29 and save $5. Become a member of the Museum and save $10! Member tickets Early bird: $30; Regular $35. Non-member Tickets: Early-Bird $40; Regular $45.

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100 Domino Drive
Concord, MA 01742

Phone: (978) 371-2442

Monday - Wednesday: 7:30am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 7:30am - 3:00pm
Friday - Sunday: Closed