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Hudson/Stow

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Current Edition - 1/30/26
Hudson/Stow
Just click below on the paper you want to read. You can read life-size by clicking on the four corner box bottom right, then turn pages with mouse at corners just like you would if paper!

Current Edition - 1/23/26

HEADLINES

YOUTH PROGRAM CONTINUES TO GROW – “HELP WANTED”

Minute Man Air Field’s Youth Aviation Leadership Program currently has over a dozen youth involved running ground and safety operations for Young Eagles rallies, cultivating leadership skills, and progressing their aviation journeys. This program has a continued need for adult volunteers to help with event coordination and communications. No aviation experience necessary! If you’re interested, please email youngeagles@eaa196.org, or better yet, drop into ‘Hangar Talk’ on the first Saturday at 9am in the Chapter Pilot Lounge for a snack and conversation.
Hudson high school drama2

Hudson High School Drama Society Presents Mamma Mia January 30-31

"Honey, Honey," you do NOT want to say this weekend's show is "Slipping Through My Fingers!" HHS students perform Mamma Mia, a fun ABBA song-filled romp about Sophie, a young woman getting married in the Greek village where her single mom raised her, who has invited her 3 possible dads!
Whether you are a "Dancing Queen" or a "Super Trouper" - you will laugh, cheer, and enjoy each widely recognized tune. You know the "Winner Takes It All" so don't miss out on music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus (with some songs by Stig Anderson) of the famous band ABBA.
Hudson High's actors will dazzle in this light-hearted and sweet production. The show is led by Director KG Spungen, Musical Director Parker Eastman, and Choreographer Rachel Shaw .

Shows are scheduled for Friday January 30 at 7pm, Saturday January 31 at 2pm and 7pm. All shows will be in the Paul "Skip" Johnson auditorium at Hudson High School, 69 Brigham Street in Hudson.

Tickets are not a lot of "Money, Money, Money" - only $15 (adults)/$10 (students & seniors) cash at the door or purchased ahead of time at //our.show/MammaMia2026. "Take A Chance On Me" and we will see you there! 
First parish church2

EVENTS and SERVICES AT FIRST PARISH CHURCH

Our building at 353 Great Road, Stow is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. There is free parking.
Services every Sunday at 10AM
For more information about these services, or to download the Order of Service, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org/services.
  • “What’s in a Name?” January 25: - Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum and Intern Minister Yaakov Trek Reef - In Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare writes, “What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” As our congregation considers a name change, and in a culture that is persecuting people who choose name change, we’ll look at the power of naming and being able to choose a name. 


New Revival Coffee House, Saturday, Jan. 31, 7:30PM
Fiddler, Singer and Songwriter Kathleen Parks
Kathleen is a founding member of Twisted Pine, an ensemble that exists “somewhere in the ether between bluegrass and jazz.” Kathleen’s own songwriting leans toward Pop, Folk, and classic Jazz, while her virtuosic fiddle reflects countless hours of festival jams with a blend of traditional and modern musical styles.

Her deep grounding in Celtic and American roots music blends with her love for pop songwriting, funk rhythms, soulful vocals, and groove-based improvisation, making every performance unexpected yet familiar: a musical journey from beginning to end.
Tickets are $20 in advance at eventbrite.com and $25 at the door. For ticket links see the New Revival Coffeehouse web page.  For more info about Kathleen, see kathleenparksmusic.com.

The New Revival Coffeehouse is located at the First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow MA 01775.  Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30.
Guest Table Community Dinner, Friday, Feb 13, 5:30PM
Please join us Friday, February 13 for our next dinner. We offer options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients. All meals are nut-free. Doors open at 5 PM, dinner is served at 5:30 PM.
Our dinners, in the past and present, are sponsored by the generous donations from the Stow Community Chest. We are also grateful for the consistent support we receive from the Stow Council on Aging and The Stow Food Pantry.
Meals take place in Fellowship Hall at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd in Stow. Our building is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. There is plenty of free parking.
If you have questions or would like to volunteer to help with a meal, please email fpcguesttable@fpc-stow-acton.org.

Game Night, Friday February 13, 7-9PM
All are welcome to FPC’s Multigenerational Game Night. Games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own game to share. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun! Email Chip with any questions at flyingsheep2010@gmail.com.

Carnival Games - Winter Games Fest, Saturday, February 28, Noon to 4PM
Stow, MA, Saturday February 28th – An afternoon of indoor fun for the whole family will take place in Stow on Saturday February 28th from noon to 4 p.m. First Parish Church of Stow & Acton will offer carnival games, face painting, and snacks and beverages. The carnival games take place from noon to 4pm.
Admission is free, carnival game tickets are $1 each, and the cost to play a game is 1 ticket.

We have over three dozen carnival games. including a life-size "whack-a-mole", pop bottle standup, plinko, life size tetris, and an "impossible" giant slidey puzzle. Many of the games are life size wooden games built by FPC members and youth. There are games with different levels of difficulty for kids from age 2 to adults young at heart. We will have stuffed animal prizes (every child goes home with at least 1 prize). Popcorn, cookies, lemonade and more will be available for purchase.
Parent/guardian supervision is required during the carnival games. Email dre@fpc-stow-acton.org with any questions about the event. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Myles Above in Heaven Time Change

Time change for mother’s grief support group, Myles Above in Heaven, that is held at the Hudson library on the 3rd Saturday of each month.  Meetings will now begin at 11am and go to 1 pm.  The meetings previously started at 10:30am.
Threenagers2

"Threenagers" Live Webinar February 12

Ellie Springer, M.Ed., will present a live webinar through First Connections in Acton about "Threenagers." Around age 2 1/2-3, children's behavior becomes newly challenging and parents may wonder, "Who is this child?" Three year olds begin to fiercely assert their independence, while at other times cling to adults and want help with tasks they have been able to do on their own for months. They can have BIG emotions that change all the time, shifting from gleeful to devastated to furious within minutes. If you have a child in this stage, or about to enter it, join us to learn what is typical at this stage, how to support your child through it, and how to make life a little smoother for your family. To receive the Zoom link for this program being held on Thursday, February 12, 7-8:00 p.m., email Linda at lmatthews@jri.org.   This is a free program funded by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care.
Assabet valley mastersingers2

Please Join the Assabet Valley Mastersingers for Our Second Formal Concert of Our 2025-2026 Season: “Lest We Forget”


Shrewsbury, MA — The Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) is thrilled to announce its March
2026 concert in Shrewsbury, which features James Whitbourn’s “Annelies”, a composition
based on Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. This performance will stand as a tribute to
Holocaust survivors honoring voices of resilience, memory, and hope.

Event Date: March 8th, 2026
Time: 3:30pm
Location: Robert R. Jay Performing Arts Center (378 Main Street), Shrewsbury, MA
Artistic Director: Dr. Robert Eaton
Soprano: Jess Huetteman

About the Event
“Annelies” is a 75-minute choral work for soprano soloist, choir and instrumentalists that was composed by British composer James Whitbourn. The libretto is compiled and translated by Melanie Challenger from The Diary of Anne Frank. Movements from Annelies were first performed at the National UK Holocaust Memorial Day in Westminster Hall in London in January of 2005 and the world premiere of “Annelies” was given on April 5th, 2005 at the Cadogan Hall,
London.
The piece is divided into fourteen movements and there will be no intermission during this performance. In addition to choral and soprano soloist scoring, the instrumental portion is scored for both larger full symphony orchestra and a smaller chamber version. AVM will perform the version scored for a full orchestra which is rare. The last time the work was publicly performed was in 2022 by Princeton Pro Musica.
James Whitbourn passed away in early 2024 and “Annelies” remains one of his most renowned compositions. In fact, a recording by the Westminster Williamson Voices in 2014 was nominated for a Grammy award under the Best Choral Performance category, which was one of four Grammy nominations for Whitbourn during his lifetime. This performance of “Annelies” is enriched by remarks from Holocaust survivors, honoring their voices and enduring resilience.

Ticket Information:
● General Admission: $25.00
● Senior/Student Price: $20.00
● Children under 12 are free with an accompanying adult.

Tickets can be purchased online at .https://www.avmsingers.org/events/lest-we-forget.
AVM is part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Card to Culture program, which grants EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders access to steeply discounted tickets from a variety of arts, humanities, and science organizations across the Commonwealth. Cardholders may order up to four tickets online by applying the promo code MASSCTOC and selecting manual payment type. The same discounted costs, $5.00 for general or $4.00 for senior/student admission, are payable at the concert for preordered, or onsite-requested CTOC tickets
Annual free family concert

Worcester Chamber Music Society
Presents Annual Free Family Concert March 8


January 15, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society (WCMS) is thrilled to present its Annual Free Family Concert on March 8, 2026, with a performance at 3:00pm at Mechanics Hall in Worcester.  Neighborhood Strings students will perform at the beginning of the concert. Admission is free, but tickets are required.
This year’s Family Concert is brought to you by the letter F. An afternoon of fairy tales, fables, family, friends, and fun is sure to delight the children in your lives (as well as your inner child). Four hands on one piano provide the musical setting for Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite. Navok’s Beauty and the Beast is the world premiere of a fantastic musical retelling of the classic fairy tale. Be sure to reserve your seats early because this one-time-only concert will reach capacity soon.
Sunday, March 8 @3PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester
Generously sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank, Cornerstone Bank, Fidelity Bank, Unibank, and Country Bank. This concert is also funded in part by grants from the Shrewsbury Arts Council and the Worcester Arts Council, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Program
A special performance by Neighborhood Strings Maurice Ravel | Mother Goose Suite
Lior Navok | Beauty and the Beast  – world premiere performance

Featuring WCMS musicians:
Peter Sulski, violin
Mark Berger, viola
Ariana Falk, cello
Randall Hodgkinson, piano

With guests:
Lilit Hartunian, violin / Leslie Amper, piano
Venue is handicapped accessible.
Admission is free, but tickets are required. Reserve early, since this event typically sells out quickly.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/fairy-tales-and-fables/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

Boston CASA Seeks Volunteers to Advocate for Foster Youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties

Virtual information session to take place on January 27 for those interested in joining the spring training cohort
BOSTON, Mass. (January 22, 2026) – Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is issuing an urgent call for volunteers to advocate on behalf of children in the foster care system. Currently, only 15% of eligible foster youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties have access to a CASA — a trained, court-appointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions.
“Imagine facing judges, rotating caseworkers, and endless transitions as a child, without one adult focused solely on what's best for you," said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. "That's what foster youth experience. A CASA changes that equation. We're looking for volunteers prepared to show up consistently, advocate fiercely, and be the person a child can count on."
With virtual information sessions beginning January 27, Boston CASA encourages compassionate adults across the region to attend an upcoming session to learn how they can make a life-changing difference for a child.

What CASAs Do
Unlike mentors or service providers, CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case.
CASAs collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met, advocating for essential services, educational support, healthcare access, and permanent housing. They often become the one consistent adult in a child’s life, helping navigate a complex and ever-changing system.
CASAs are asked to commit at least 18 months to the role. Initial training requires 30 hours, with 12 hours of ongoing education each year. Once assigned to a case, volunteers typically dedicate 10 to 15 hours per month to their CASA work.

Why It Matters
The need is urgent:


According to a national study, 92% of judges say CASAs improve outcomes for children, and 83% say CASAs help ensure children receive essential services. But when a youth has a CASA, they are more likely to succeed in school, access vital services, and secure a stable, permanent home.
Eligibility Requirements
  • Have a deep desire to make a difference in a child’s life
  • Be 21 years or older
  • Commit to at least 18 months of service
  • Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community
  • Approach difficult situations with compassion and diplomacy
  • Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role


Children in foster care come from all backgrounds, and Boston CASA is committed to building a volunteer community that reflects that diversity. While all are welcome to apply, we’re especially seeking volunteers who speak additional languages, identify as people of color, are men, or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Your lived experience can make a powerful difference in a child’s life.

Upcoming Info Sessions
Attending an information session is required to apply for the organization’s next volunteer training cycle, which begins in the spring. These sessions will give you an overview of the organization and our work, the application and interview process, as well as more details about the training required to become a CASA.

Sessions will be held virtually on Zoom:
  • Tuesday January 27 12-1:00pm (Last info session before the March training)
  • Tuesday February 10 5:30-6:30pm


Sign up for an upcoming information session HERE. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory. For more information or to register for an info session, visit: https://bostoncasa.org/
Nashoba symphonic band

NASHOBA SYMPHONIC BAND FEATURES TRUMPET RHAPSODY

The Nashoba Symphonic Band, under the direction of David Wayne Bailey continues its 10th Anniversary season on Saturday, February 7th at 2 pm in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117 in Bolton MA (GPS says Green Road). The concert is entitled “On Your Toes,” with most of its selections related to forms of dance.

The program opens with the ragtime dance, Ragged Rozey by veteran band composer Karl L. King, and continues with Warren Benson's haunting Solitary Dancer, and the captivating Italian Polka by Sergei Rachmaninov, scored by Erik Leidzen for the world-famous Goldman Band.

The featured work on the program is the Rhapsody for Trumpet and Wind Orchestra by Armenian composer, Alexander Arutiunian, performed by the NSB first chair trumpet player, Joseph Cosgrove.

The second half of the program opens with Choreography by Robert Sheldon. Sheldon's Wolves of Nashoba, commissioned by NSB, was premiered in May of 2025.
The program concludes with a rousing set of Symphonic Dances from Jerry Bock's timeless “Fiddler on the Roof.”

For further information, contact David Bailey (baileydavidwayne@gmail.com),
Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School. It is supported in part by grants from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.

All Nashoba Symphonic Band events are free and open to the public.  
Hudson cultural council qr

Hudson Cultural Council Seeks New Members


HUDSON: The Hudson Cultural Council, appointed by the town’s Select Board, is looking for new members to help support the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences in our community. The Council’s Mission is to promote Hudson’s diverse heritage and to enhance cultural opportunities by supporting activities that enrich the lives of Hudson residents of all ages. The function of the board is to review grant applications and to award funds for projects that take place in Hudson and the surrounding area.
Following local and state guidelines the HCC recently awarded 17 grants totaling $23,247 to area organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of MetroWest, Symphony Pro Musica, the Hudson Cultural Alliance/Armory on the Assabet as well as to municipal agencies that include the Library, Division of Recreation, Public Schools and Health Department. Visit www.hudsonculturalcouncil.org or scan the QR code for details.
The Council meets five or six times a year during the evening with its next meeting scheduled for March 16, 2026 at 7:00 PM via Zoom. All are welcome to attend the meeting which will be posted on the town website.
Ready to join the Council? Please fill out an interest form  via this link or pick one up at the Town Clerk’s office.  As a voting member, you will share your ideas and knowledge to help shape and enrich Hudson’s vibrant cultural scene.
Email the council at hudsonculturalcouncil@gmail.com with any questions about becoming a member.
Maynard winter celebration!

Maynard Cultural Council and Maynard Business Alliance Sponsor the 
Third Annual Maynard Winter Celebration!
Ice Carving Demonstration, Free Kids’ Movie, Crafts, Food, and Fun!


Maynard, MA…Residents of Maynard and neighboring towns are invited to a celebration of all things winter on Saturday, January 31, 2026 in Veterans Memorial Park in Maynard with a movie beginning at 12:30 PM and outdoor activities beginning at 2:00 PM.

Families will enjoy a free, special showing of Happy Feet at Maynard Fine Arts Theatre sponsored by Smith & Finley Homes.  After that, the afternoon is full of crafts, events and refreshments for people of all ages to enjoy.   The featured event of the afternoon will be an ice sculpting demonstration in Memorial Park.  Previous years have revealed some friendly penguins and polar bears breaking through the ice; what visitors will this year’s sculpture bring?  Come and find out!

Bens’ Raclette will be on hand to please the palate, along with El Huipil who’ll be there with churros and hot chocolate.  Hearty chili from Maynard Village Pizza will warm the chill, while Amory’s Tomb will pour you a cold one or offer cozy comfort with mulled cider. (Food and drink will be available for purchase.)

A winter-themed craft at Felixology will also include hot chocolate in the snug, comforting atmosphere that comes with being surrounded by books, books, books. And who can get enough books? Nobody! That’s why the Maynard Public Library will be holding a storytime with Casey.

The afternoon is free for everyone, so come enjoy the brisk January air, warmed by the company of friends and neighbors.

For more information and a full schedule of events visit: DiscoverMaynard.com

Free Pasta Friendship Dinner at
Hudson First United Methodist Church

 
The First United Methodist Church of Hudson will be offering its FREE Pasta Friendship Dinner, prepared and served by our local Boy Scouts, Troop 2, on Saturday, January 24th, at 5:00 pm.  We are so pleased to have the Boy Scouts, who meet at this church, wishing to serve the Hudson community in this way.  This is one of our most asked for meals and everyone loves the spaghetti, meatballs and sausage served with salad, drinks and desserts!

Invite family, friends and neighbors for an evening of great tasting food, laughter and fellowship.

Friendship Dinners are served the fourth Saturday of every month and are free and open to everyone.

First United Methodist Church is located over the hill off the Hudson Rotary at 34 Felton Street.
More information is available at 978-562-2932 or at our website http://www.hudsonfumc@gmail.com
Lwv acton margaret kennedy

LWV Acton Area launches ‘Margaret Kennedy Social Justice Initiative’ Fund


League of Women Voters - Acton Area (includes Hudson & Stow) announces the establishment of the Margaret Kennedy Social Justice Initiative Fund in honor of Marge’s passionate commitment to social justice. This multi-year initiative, funded by a generous bequest at her death in December 2022, will continue her commitment to social justice via annual events, public forums, speaker series, and other community building programs.
Margaret (Marge) Kennedy was a long-time League member who served in almost every leadership position, although her greatest satisfaction came from her commitment to educate about the needs of the oppressed and build a sense of belonging in our community.
In addition to her commitment to the League, she actively supported other organizations that promoted affordable housing, meeting basic needs, combating domestic violence and intolerance, and ensuring rights for everyone in our communities.
The League will launch this important initiative by hosting a forum entitled “Restoring the Promise, A Discussion About Immigration Policy and the Path Forward.” It will be led by immigration attorney Antonio Massa Viana who writes, “‘Restoring the Promise’ is a nonpartisan, community-based discussion . . . that invites participants to reflect on the impact of current immigration policies, the ways immigration has shaped our nation, and the constitutional questions that affect both non-citizens and U.S. citizens alike.” It will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 2 to 3:30 PM EST at the Acton Town Hall, Rm 204.  The event is free and open to the public.  It will be televised on Acton TV or you can participate interactively via Zoom. The link and more information about Atty Viana and the forum’s agenda will be shared closer to the date, so keep watching this space!
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state and national government. The League develops positions on issues, but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. In addition to our long tradition of providing important voter information services, we strive to raise awareness and provide accurate information on social issues such as Immigration Reform to equip voters to make informed choices when voting.
Please visit our website (lwv-actonarea.org) for more information about the League and how to become a member.

STOW VETERANS GRAVES COMMITTEE - NOTICE OF VACANCY (Two Members)

The Town of Stow is seeking applications to fill two vacancies on the Veterans Grave Committee.
Duties: Support Memorial Day Parade planning as required, including attending planning meetings, usually two (2) per year. Coordinate support from Stow Fire Department (Color Guard) and Police Department (traffic control) and Boy and Girl Scouts and consult with Veterans Agent.
Qualifications: Registered voter, with preference given to honorably discharged veterans.
Term: Appointment by Select Board, each for one-year term ending June 30, 2026.
Application: The Select Board will accept applications until the positions are filled.

If you are interested, please use the application form on the Town of Stow website (https://www.stow-ma.gov/897/Volunteer-Openings-and-Committee-Vacanci), found on the Board and Committee Vacancies page. Questions may be directed to the Select Board office at selectboard@stow-ma.gov or by calling 978-897-4515.
Worcester chamber music society 2

Worcester Chamber Music Society Presents February 1 Concert in Worcester

January 20, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 20th Season with a concert titled “Shadow & Light” at Assumption University’s Jeanne Y. Curtis Hall on February 1, which features distinguished guest artist Edwin Barker, former longtime principal bass of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. A reception will follow the concert. Two talented female composers shine brilliantly on this concert, having emerged from the shadows of obscurity. Sofia Gubaidulina defied the Soviet authorities’ artistic demands and was virtually unknown in the West until the 1980s. Despite favorable comparisons to Ravel, Bloch, and Debussy, Rebecca Clarke languished in obscurity until only recently. Wildly popular in its time, Beethoven’s septet in some ways stole the spotlight, overshadowing in his lifetime what he considered some of his greatest works.
Sunday, February 1 @4PM
Jeanne Y. Curtis Hall, Assumption University
500 Salisbury Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @3:30 PM
Program
Sofia Gubaidulina | Sonata for Double Bass and Piano
Rebecca Clarke | Piano Trio
Ludwig van Beethoven | Septet
Venues are handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/shadow-and-light/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

Upcoming Events at 19 Carter - A Nonprofit and Unique Gathering Place in Berlin, MA
19 Carter Street, Berlin

Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5

Monday: A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Turn off your TV and stop by for 2 hours of pleasant tea and pleasantries, pastries with good company, and no politics!
Tuesday: Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday: Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday: Office Hours with Melissa (Director of the Berlin COA) 10 – 11am (Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday)
Wednesday: Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday: Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Thursday: Afternoon Games 2 - 4pm
Friday: Open Art Studio & Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday: Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday: Social 10am - 1pm
Office Hours w Senator Kennedy’s team Every second Wednesday of the month at 11am – 12pm

Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!
We frequently add new upcoming events :)

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2026

Sunday, February 1, 2pm | Music and Stories from Little House on the Prairie
Come enjoy the tunes Laura Ingalls Wilder loved and find out more about the music that was so popular with the pioneers. Cost: Free!

Monday, February 2, 4:30pm | Social Singing with Music Includes
Music Includes brings people of all abilities and identities together for inclusive, high-quality musical experiences. Join us in a safe, joyful space to share songs of all kinds. Select Mondays from Jan 19 - April 27.  Register at nacc.net. Learn more at ldfamusic.com/music-includes.
Monday, February 2, 7:30pm | Open Mic for Comics
Join us for our monthly, laid-back night of comedy brought to you by OMP Productions and the Carnival Personnel Podcast. Comics can sign up for a stand-up slot in advance by emailing openmicpain@gmail.com. Audience welcome! Ages 18+ Suggested donation: $5

Tuesday, February 3, 6pm | Book Launch: When Did We See You? A Lenten Reflection on Poverty and Wealth
Berlin resident Reverend Dr. Elizabeth Mae Magill invites us into an honest conversation about faith, money, and community, posing hard questions about poverty, wealth, and what it means to follow Jesus in an economically divided world. Cost: Free!

Saturday, February 7, 11:30am | Veg Group: Cooking with Plants!
This month guest speaker Tracy Zook will talk about plant foods and recipes especially delicious in February! Suggested donation: $5
Ucc boxborough folk coffeehouse

17th Annual UCC Boxborough Folk Coffeehouse

Saturday, January 31, 7 – 9 p.m.
723 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough

Save the date! Nothing could be better than shaking off the dark winter chills and enjoying warm, gentle music in the Gathering Room at the United Church of Christ, Boxborough, with friends on a Saturday evening (7 - 9 p.m.).
The UCCB Music Committee invites you to enjoy the many talents of our community and perhaps offer some talents of your own in a traditional folk “coffeehouse” setting. This event is intended to slow us down, warm us up, and bring us together as appreciators of music.
Please contact Peter Senghas (pwsenghas@gmail.com) or Steve Griffin (sgri617@comcast.net) if you would like to participate or if you have a question about this event.
Mac kid summer camp fair 1

Summer Camp & Kids Activities Fair in Westford on February 7

Local parents looking for information on summer camps and kids’ activities will find over 25 programs at the Summer Camp & Kids Activities Fair in Westford on Saturday, February 7. The Fair will take place at Orchard Church, 130 Littleton Rd (Rt. 110), Westford MA from 11 am to 1:30 pm.

Coordinated by Macaroni KID Lowell, the Summer Camp Fair is free to attend.  Families can gather information and talk with representatives from local and overnight camps, summer programs, and local schools offering year-round activities such as sports, STEM, coding, art and more. There will also be kids' activities and giveaways.

Camps exhibiting at the Summer Camp Fair include local favorites such as Good Pickin' Farm, Camp Massapoag, and Teamworks Adventure Camp as well as specialty and overnight camps such as Grotonwood, The Story School, Third Space Kitchen, and Camp Stonewall.  Macaroni KID Lowell also has an online Summer Camp Guide on its website (Lowell.MacaroniKid.com) as a resource for parents who cannot attend the Camp Fair.
For a list of camps attending the Fair, please visit Macaroni KID Lowell at https://lowell.macaronikid.com.  Exhibitor requests and other requests for information can be directed to barbarae@macaronikid.com or (978) 239-3038.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meetings

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

Free Help Filing Your Taxes

 
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax assistance, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don't need to be an AARP member to use the service. Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped over 82 million taxpayers receive all the credits and deductions they're entitled to. Our volunteers are IRS-certified every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.  We can prepare and e-file both Federal and state tax returns.

Every year, from early February to mid-April, our volunteers take appointments at host sites around the country. Check with your local senior center or use the AARP Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool at aarp.org/money/taxes to find a site near you. 

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

Happy New Year!
     Fresh Start Furniture Bank in Hudson served 596 families in 2025!  That’s almost 600 families who had been homeless and not only found housing through agencies but were given everything they needed to make those homes warm and welcoming.  Everything from bed and bath linens to silverware, dish sets, and small appliances to rugs, couches, dressers, dining tables and chairs - all at no cost to them and through the generosity of donors like you!  A lot of donors showed up today and a Girl Scout troop assembled and donated dozens of kitchen starter sets for our clients.
     We are always looking for more volunteers; Fresh Start Furniture Bank is a warm and welcoming and rewarding place to work.  Take a look at our website (above)and join the family!  You’ll be happy that you did!
     Donations of household items (linens, small appliances, kitchenware, lamps, etc.)can be brought to us at 16 Brent Drive, Hudson, MA on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30-noon.  Furniture can be accepted on Thursday mornings from 8:30-10:30 and household items until noon.  Donated items do not need to be new but they need to be in good shape.  If you wouldn’t give it to a good friend, don’t give it to our clients!
     You will find lists of most needed items on our website, and links to Amazon and Target Wishlists under Other Ways to Donate.
     Let’s make it a happy new year for more families!  Thank you!
Sudbury savoyards gondoliers logo

The Gondoliers Melts Boston’s Winter Chill
With Songs and Scenes of Venice
The Sudbury Savoyards present The Gondoliers; or, The King of Barataria by Gilbert & Sullivan


SUDBURY, MA- JANUARY 2026- This February, The Sudbury Savoyards present Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers in their 65th year of bringing high-quality, grand-scale productions to the Boston area. The Sudbury Savoyards are “one of Sudbury’s most valuable cultural assets” with community theatrical portrayals lauded for their “top-notch vocal performances, fine music” and “great stage magic.” The Gondoliers boasts a principal cast of some of Boston’s top operatic talents working in tandem with a considerable community chorus, all accompanied by a full orchestra led by award-winning musical director Aldo Fabrizi.

The Gondoliers is a boisterous, musical comedy that combines the spectacle of Broadway with the grandeur of opera. Take a trip to 1750s Venice, brought to life with striking custom-built sets, historical costumes, and lively choreography. The wedding day of two handsome young gondoliers is thrown into chaos by the revelation that one of them is not a humble oarsman at all, but rather the heir of the immeasurably wealthy King of Barataria! The couples’ celebration is short-lived when it is revealed that the prince was wed in infancy to the beautiful daughter of the bumbling Duke of Plaza-Toro. This enduring satire of social class, political idealism, and romance is sure to delight seasoned Gilbert and Sullivan aficionados and newcomers alike.

Attendees to each matinee (February 21, 22, and 28) are invited to explore the stage after the performance. During these educational tours, visitors will meet actors and orchestra members while getting close-up views of the set and costumes. They will learn how The Sudbury Savoyards present "Gilbert & Sullivan on a Grand Scale."

Tickets to The Gondoliers range from $18 to $45 for general seating in the spacious, ADA-accessible Kirshner Auditorium Theatre at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School. With just one large-scale production each season, audiences will not want to miss this yearly treat from The Sudbury Savoyards. Tickets are available at the door or online at www.SudburySavoyards.org.

Location:Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, Kirshner Auditorium Theater390 Lincoln RD, Sudbury MA

Performances:
Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday, February 22, 2026, 1:30 PM
Friday, February 27, 2026, 7:30 PM
Saturday, February 28, 2026, 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
New revival coffee house kathleen parks

New Revival Coffee House, First Parish Church Saturday, Jan. 31, 7:30PM
Fiddler, Singer and Songwriter Kathleen Parks

Kathleen is a founding member of Twisted Pine, an ensemble that exists “somewhere in the ether between bluegrass and jazz.” Kathleen’s own songwriting leans toward Pop, Folk, and classic Jazz, while her virtuosic fiddle reflects countless hours of festival jams with a blend of traditional and modern musical styles.

Her deep grounding in Celtic and American roots music blends with her love for pop songwriting, funk rhythms, soulful vocals, and groove-based improvisation, making every performance unexpected yet familiar: a musical journey from beginning to end.
Tickets are $20 in advance at eventbrite.com and $25 at the door. For ticket links see the New Revival Coffeehouse web page.  For more info about Kathleen, see kathleenparksmusic.com.

The New Revival Coffeehouse is located at the First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow MA 01775.  Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30.
Doors open at 7 PM. Concert starts at 7:30.
Tickets are $20 in advance at Eventbrite.com and $25 on the day of the concert.  Doors open at 7:00 and the show begins at 7:30.
Ass. vall. camera club birds3

Penguin Adventure
Falkland Islands
Assabet Valley Camera Club Program


HUDSON: On Wednesday, February 4, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to host Shawn Carey, wildlife photographer and teacher for Mass Audubon Society. His presentation will take you on a virtual field trip to the Falkland Islands off the southern coast of Argentina where you will find some of the islands’ amazing wildlife. The Falklands are home to at least five different species of penguins, other endemic birds, as well as various aquatic animals. Bird watchers and wildlife photographers are sure to enjoy this program!

As a member of several bird clubs, Shawn has gained extensive avian knowledge and serves on the Advisory Board of the Mass Audubon Society and its Bird Art Museum. He has been the chair of  the Mass Camera Naturalists and co-founded Migration Productions where he provides almost all of the digital photographs in their productions. Carey's work can be viewed at https://migrationproductions.com/ .
Currently, AVCC meetings are using a hybrid approach where members can come together either in person or via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the program, contact AVCC at avcc.digital@hotmail.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event or to let us know you will be attending in person. Guests are welcome to attend up to two consecutive club meetings prior to becoming a member. For membership information, go to https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/Club/MembershipInfo.aspx .The club’s Zoom room opens at 7:00 PM with a brief business meeting at 7:15 followed by Shawn’s presentation at 7:30.

AVCC in-person meetings are held at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street, Hudson and are open to the public. The first meeting of the month generally features a program designed to instruct and/or to entertain camera enthusiasts. During the second monthly meeting, a competition of members’ digital images is judged and critiqued by qualified individuals. Assabet Valley Camera Club, affiliated with both the New England Camera Club Council (NECCC) and the Photographic Society of America (PSA), participates in inter-club competitions on regional, national and international levels.

AVCC welcomes anyone interested in learning more about photography as a visual art and its practical application as a science.  Members benefit from the hands-on experiences, from the knowledge presented in programs, and from having their work critiqued. For more information, check out AVCC's website https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com//

SFCOA FUNDRAISER - SHOP LOCAL

Resale Shop on 2/10/26 from 9 am - 1 pm at the Pompo Community Center
Who doesn't love a bargain!  Shop local and support Stow’s senior residents.  Household goods, home decor and MUCH more! Too many items to list something for everyone at bargain prices. The Thrift Shop & Gift Shop will also be open. Visit https://stowfriendsofthecoa.org/ for more information.

Bid for a Cause: Hudson Art & Framing Hosts Online Auction to Benefit The Armory on the Assabet

 
HUDSON, MA –  January 8, 2026 – The Armory on the Assabet is pleased to announce the launch of the The Armory Online Art Auction, a benefit event organized by Hudson Art & Framing to support The Armory’s mission of preserving and growing its programming, events, and restoration efforts.
The auction is now live and will run through January 31, 2026, offering the community an opportunity to bid on an impressive collection of artwork donated by local and regional artists. Featured pieces include paintings, photographs, prints, and mixed media, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to The Armory on the Assabet.
In-Person Viewing and Special Reception
Art enthusiasts are invited to view the auction pieces in person throughout the month of January at Hudson Art & Framing, located at 18 Main Street, Hudson, MA. To celebrate the success of the auction and the artists’ contributions, a special reception will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 4–6 PM at Hudson Art & Framing.
How to Participate
Participants can view the artwork and register to bid online by visiting https://givebutter.com/c/UaVHkm/auction.
“This auction is a great example of what can happen when a community comes together to support something they care about,” said Tom Desmond, President and Founder of The Armory on the Assabet. “Hudson Art & Framing has gone above and beyond to make this happen, and the generosity of the artists donating their work is truly inspiring. Every bid helps us continue to grow and serve the community.”
Karen Nunley, a local artist and member of The Armory’s leadership team, added, “This auction is a chance to showcase the incredible talent in our region while supporting a space that means so much to so many. As an artist, it’s rewarding to know that my work—and the work of my peers—can contribute to something bigger. I hope people will come out, bid, and celebrate the arts with us.”
The Armory on the Assabet will serve as a vibrant hub for creativity, connection, and cultural enrichment. Proceeds from this auction will directly support restoration efforts, bringing us one step closer to transforming the vision of the Armory on the Assabet into a thriving community reality.
About The Armory on the Assabet
The Armory on the Assabet is a leading arts and cultural organization dedicated to enriching the Hudson, and Metrowest communities through diverse artistic expressions and cultural experiences. Serving as a hub for creativity and collaboration, the Armory hosts a wide range of events, performances, and educational programs aimed at fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation. Committed to inspiring and uniting people through the power of the arts, the Armory on the Assabet is steadfast in its mission to be a cornerstone of cultural life in the Hudson area. For more information, please visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org.
Light and shadow2

Light and Shadow
Winter Art Show
January 6–February 27, 2026
Pompositticut Community Center, 509 Great Rd, Stow

The Stow Area Guild of Artists (SAGA) presents Light and Shadow, a winter exhibition exploring contrast, illumination, and atmosphere through a variety of artistic styles and media.
Free reception: Friday, January 23, 5–7 PM.
Featured artists include Sondra Albano, Shirley Beltz, Mary Coombs, Richard Fishman, Helen Rolfe Ham, Anne McKeag, Karen Roop, Kathy Sferra, Charlie Streff, and Anna Vanesyan.
Info: stow-artists.org
Free walk

Free Walk: Tree ID in Winter

Many of us can identify common trees by their leaves, but what about when the leaves fall off for the winter? On January 25, 1-3 pm, join the Westborough Community Land Trust to learn what other clues we can look for to tell our native trees apart. We'll look for clues like the tree’s shape, the color and texture of the bark, and the appearance of the buds that are forming for next spring. A walk in the wintry woods becomes more interesting when you can recognize the trees you see around you! Our walk leader will be Kyle Grendell, Westborough’s Tree Warden.
About 1-2 miles on uneven woodland terrain. Traction devices attached to boots are highly recommended.

The walk is free, open to the public, no reservation needed.
The location will be the Libbey-Wile Forest. Park at the end of Carroll Drive in Westborough, on one side of the street only. Trail map: https://westboroughlandtrust.org/maps/LW
Before leaving check https://westboroughlandtrust.org/ for cancellations.
For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org
Andrew campanella

What Families in Massachusetts Should Know About Their School Options


By Andrew Campanella

All parents in Massachusetts and across America want their children to thrive in learning environments that reflect their diverse interests, talents, and individual challenges.

That’s why one in five parents last year enrolled at least one of their children in a new K–12 school. In fact, the process of moms and dads actively choosing how and where their children learn—often referred to as school choice—reached a five-year high in 2025.

Meanwhile, more than 60% of parents say they are likely to consider a new school for at least one of their children in 2026—suggesting another active year for families making enrollment decisions. What that means for your family depends, in large part, on where you live.

In Massachusetts, parents have more education options than they may realize. In addition to assigned traditional public schools, the Bay State has taken steps in recent years to give families more flexibility in choosing schools.

Within the public education system, tuition-free schooling options include charter schools (available in some areas), theme-based magnet schools (available in select communities), and full-time online schools with district approval. In some districts, parents may also be able to send their children to traditional public schools outside of their zones, if seats are available.

Parents can also consider private schools, which charge tuition and sometimes offer scholarships to help make private education more affordable. Finally, Massachusetts moms and dads have the freedom to educate their children at home, and some families pair homeschooling with learning pods or Montessori-style microschools.

If you want to explore these education options in advance of the 2026–27 school year, the time to begin that process is now. National School Choice Week begins January 25, with 265 school events across Massachusetts, including school fairs, open houses, parent nights, and information sessions.

Before starting your search, it can help to pause and write down your goals for your child and what you want in an ideal learning environment. Doing so helps center the process on what—and who—really matters: your daughter or your son. When possible, visit schools and schedule tours or meetings with staff. Research shows that parents who visit schools in person are twice as likely to enroll their children in a new school as parents who search without touring or visiting.

During those visits, ask questions. One of the most common mistakes parents make is accepting education jargon—of which there is plenty—at face value. If you do not understand a term, a reference to curriculum or instructional methods, or a school policy, ask for clarification until you do. You may also want to talk with other parents about their experiences, while keeping in mind that their perspectives are shaped by their own child’s unique needs.

And remember: you know your child better than anyone else. When it comes to your child’s well-being, you are the expert. Finding the right school is not about choosing what works for everyone—it’s about choosing what fits your daughter or son best.

To access a free guide to K–12 school choice options in Massachusetts, visit https://myschoolchoice.com/massachusetts.

Andrew Campanella is the CEO of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the nonprofit organization that coordinates National School Choice Week, Navigate School Choice, and Conoce tus Opciones Escolares. He is also the author of The School Choice Roadmap: 7 Steps to Choosing the Right School for Your Child.
Tom denney nature camp2

Tom Denney Nature Camp Register Now!

The camp in Bolton is for students entering Kindergarten through High School.
Activities include swimming, games in the fields and woods, arts & crafts, songs, tracking, hiking, campfires to roast hot dogs and marshmallows, building shelters, Animal Adventures, Predator and Prey, Amazon Adventure & more.
Campers entering grades 6th-9th in the Eco Adventures program will play kayaking games on the pond, nighttime activities on Thursday and dinner and s'mores, water guns, an adventure hike, team building activities & more.
Counselors-in-Training must be entering 9th grade or above and attend Orientation June 23-25 and then choose two weeks or more to be at camp.
There are 6 weekly sessions that run June 29 – August 7, Monday - Friday, 9am - 3pm.
After Care is available until 4:30pm.
Campers from all towns are welcome!
See the website for more details and to register: tomdenneynaturecamp.org
Questions: bcttdnc@gmail.com (best means of communication) or 978-245-6929 (voice mail)

Groton Grange Contra Dance February 7, 2026

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

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Event on January 24

Looking for a fun evening?

Join the Nashoba Valley Neighbors for a wine tasting and warm winter meal, with lots of fun people interested in an evening out and a nice dinner at a local restaurant.  The NVN are joining a wine tasting at The Westford Wine & Spirits in Westford at 5 pm Saturday, January 24, and dinner at the nearby Evviva Trattoria at 6:30.  Please feel free to join us for either or both, but we ask that you respond by Thursday, January 22 at noon.

If you would like more information, or to join us, please RSVP to info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from such town as Acton, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Groton, Littleton, Westford, Maynard, and Harvard, but we welcome any residents in the surrounding communities that are looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends.

Find us on Facebook or visit the Club’s website at http://www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more
Information.  We hope to see you!
Habitat for humanity

Habitat for Humanity NCM Celebrates Home Dedication in Leominster

Leominster, MA – Thursday, January 8, 2026 — Due to inclement weather, Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts rescheduled the Home Dedication Ceremony at 75 Tenth Street in Leominster for Thursday, January 8. During the ceremony, Habitat for Humanity NCM proudly presented the keys to Gwen and her family, officially welcoming them into their new home.
This home is the result of strong community partnerships and generous support. Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts expresses sincere appreciation to the many supporters who helped make this home a reality, including:
City of Leominster; North Central Massachusetts Housing Authorities; Amica; Law Office of Attorney David Rocheford; McCarty Companies; Brideau Energy; EXIT Assurance Realty; Architect Luke McKneally; Wells Fargo; City of Leominster Housing Department; City of Fitchburg Housing and Development; Adobe; Charlesbank Homes; MMBA; Whirlpool; North Central Massachusetts Community Foundation; IC Credit Union; and Granite City Electric.
A special thank you is extended to the students and instructors at Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation for their hard work and dedication, as well as Hannaford and AllTown Fresh for generously providing delicious treats for the celebration.
“Today is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Carolyn Read, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts. “This home represents stability, hope, and opportunity for Gwen and her family, and we are deeply grateful to our partners, volunteers, and supporters who made this moment possible.”
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts offers a hand up, not a hand out to hard-working, low-income families seeking affordable homeownership. Affordable homes are built in partnership with families, donors, and volunteers who share our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
We wish Gwen and her family a lifetime of happiness and cherished memories in their new home.
Looking ahead, Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts will begin construction on a multifamily home in Acton very soon. For more information or to learn how to get involved, please contact our office.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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

Help Support People Affected by Domestic Violence in Our Communities

CONCORD, MA – Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is pleased to announce a FREE Volunteer Advocate Training program for interested community members. DVSN advocates provide emotional support, risk assessment and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in our 13 partner communities.

The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, DVSN’s volunteer Advocates provide direct service over the phone, at Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.

The March 2026 training will be held at the Lexington Police department starting on March 2 through
March 20: Monday and Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 7:15 PM and Fridays from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. For those who decide to activate as volunteer advocates, there is an additional 10 to 12 hours of supervised field training at the completion of the classroom segment.

The training is provided at no cost to attendees. All necessary materials will be provided. For more
information about the training or to request an application, call (978) 318-3421 or send an e-mail to
training@dvsn.org. Applications are due no later than Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
To learn more about DVSN and its programs, services, and events, visit DVSN.org.

DVSN member communities: Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Maynard, Stow,Sudbury, Wayland, Weston and Hanscom Security Forces.
Sounds of stow calls for singers

Sounds of Stow Call for Singers!

Join the Sounds of Stow as we continue our fabulous 47th season! Our Spring Concert will
be Christopher Tin's 2020 "To Shiver The Sky," performed with a full orchestra, in
Littleton on Sunday April 19th, 2026.

Sounds of Stow Chorus welcomes all area singers to our Open Rehearsals on Mondays
December 1st and December 8th, 2025, starting at 7:00 pm, and resume on Monday
January 5th, and January 12th, 2026 from 7-9:15. We rehearse at the First Parish
Church in Stow Center (353 Great Road), and encourage all new singers to visit and
explore this special program!

Our April 19th, 2026 Spring concert, "Celestial Celebrations," will be the area premier of
Christopher Tin's "To Shiver the Sky," a magnificent and inspirational piece from 2020
which draws on the words and stories of 11 historical figures to tell the story of
humanity's dream of flight from the earliest myths to modern space exploration. Photos
and videos from the International Space Station and NASA's extensive library will
enhance the performance. The chorus and orchestra, under the direction of Barbara
Jones, will perform at the Littleton High School on Sunday April 19, 2026, where Tin's
"The Lost Birds" was performed in 2024.

The Sounds of Stow Chorus is a friendly and welcoming group whose singers hail from 20+
towns in the Metrowest area and beyond. Membership is open to anyone who can
match pitch, learn the music, and blend with the other voices. We particularly need
some strong Tenor voices to join our group for the upcoming concert. Artistic Director
Barbara Jones and Assistant Artistic Director Christina Kennedy promote serious
musicianship at weekly rehearsals that are lively, challenging, educational, and always
fun! We hope to see you!

For further information, please visit www.soundsofstow.org or email
soundsofstow@gmail.com

Stow COA Volunteer Drivers Needed

The Stow Council on Aging provides seniors (60+) and people with disabilities support by being a source of information on elder affairs, providing social activities, outreach services, and helping the senior population of Stow remain in their homes as long as safely possible.  We have tested a loosely termed “mobile” friendly program at the end of 2025.   Volunteer drivers are paired with an eligible senior resident to take them shopping or deliver groceries.  Although the COA van can provide this service, there are situations where the one-to-one support works best.  Volunteer drivers are also needed as many seniors have medical appointments outside of our service area or hours and often do not have a financially viable transportation option.      If you are interested in volunteering, complete the application available on our website.  Email the Office Manager at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov with any questions.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE STOW COUNCIL ON AGING

Are you looking for something rewarding to do? Consider volunteering with the Stow COA and the SFCOA to make a difference in the lives of Stow’s senior residents.  Interested volunteers should submit a completed application (https://www.stow-ma.gov/328/Volunteer), including a CORI form. Once approved, you’ll receive emails with volunteer opportunities that you may choose to accept at your availability.

Stow COA is Here to Provide Support to its Senior Residents

Attention Stow Senior Residents!  The Stow Council on Aging is here to provide support to you by being a resource of information on elder affairs, providing social activities and outreach services.  In support of our mission, we want to let you know how you can receive such information. 
  • Subscribe to e-alerts for the COA via the town website.
  • Read our monthly newsletter, The Stow Senior Scoop, which is delivered the last Saturday of every month as an insert in the Action Unlimited.
  • Visit our page at https://www.stow-ma.gov/292/Council-on-Aging.
  • Call 978-897-1880, to make an appointment with an Outreach staff member.
  • Email COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov to be added to our confidential database.
  • Follow-us on Facebook and Instagram.

EVENTS AT FIRST PARISH CHURCH,
353 Great Road, Stow

 
Sunday Services: Sundays at 10 am: For more information about these services, or to
download the Order of Service, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org/services.

January 11: “The War on Empathy” - Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum - Rev. Cindy’s been planning this service since before the death of Charlie Kirk, who said, “I can't stand the word empathy, actually. I think empathy is a made-up New Age term that – it does a lot of damage."  Since then, the war on empathy has gotten stronger. What is empathy, and what is our faith’s relationship to this concept?

January 18: "Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday" - Intern Minister Yaakov Trek Reef - On this MLK Jr. Sunday, we'll explore the prophetic voices of the civil rights movement and what they can teach us about how to center love as we create an ever-widening circle of concern for our neighbors and our world.

January 25: “What’s in a Name?” - Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum and Intern Minister Yaakov Trek Reef - In Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare writes, “What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” As our congregation considers a name change, and in a culture that is persecuting people who choose name change, we’ll look at the power of naming and being able to choose a name.

Friday, 1/9: Guest Table Community Dinner
Please join us Friday, January 9 for our next dinner. We offer options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients. All meals are nut-free. Doors open at 5 PM, dinner is served at 5:30 PM.
Our dinners, in the past and present, are sponsored by the generous donations from the Stow Community Chest. We are also grateful for the consistent support we receive from the Stow Council on Aging and The Stow Food Pantry.
Meals take place in Fellowship Hall at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd in Stow. Our building is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. There is plenty of free parking.
If you have questions or would like to volunteer to help with a meal, please email fpcguesttable@fpc-stow-acton.org.

Friday 1/9: Game Night, 7-9PM
All are welcome to FPC’s Multigenerational Game Night. Games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own game to share. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun! Email Chip with any questions at flyingsheep2010@gmail.com.

Saturday 1/31: New Revival Coffee House
Fiddler, Singer and Songwriter Kathleen Parks
Doors open at 7 PM. Concert starts at 7:30.
Tickets are $20 in advance at Eventbrite.com and $25 on the day of the concert.  Doors open at 7:00 and the show begins at 7:30.

The Acton Community Chorus Presents Our Winter Concert, I Hear The Stars Still Singing

The Acton Community Chorus presents our winter concert,  I Hear The Stars Still Singing, a constellation of contemporary choral music contemplating the stars and the ways they guide our lives, featuring a multi movement work by Kenneth Riggs called "Starlight Songs", plus written works by other living composers such as J. Michael Saunders, Jacob Narverud, Susan LaBarr, and Victor C. Johnson. The concert will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 4pm at the Acton Congregational Church with an inclement weather date of Sunday, January 11th at 4pm. Tickets are available through the link on our website or at the door. There will be a reception following the concert.  Every year we seek out a community partner to support, and this season we are partnering with NAMI of Central Middlesex County. They will have volunteers in attendance to share the resources they have for individuals and families living with mental health conditions. The Acton Community Chorus is a nonprofit organization supported in part by grants from the Acton Boxborough, Concord, Littleton and Stow cultural councils which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a State agency.

The Acton Community Chorus invites all area singers to attend our Open Sing for our Spring 2026 Concert Movie Night. We will be featuring iconic songs from iconic movies including My Heart Will Go On, Both Sides Now, Danger Zone, Bohemian Rhapsody, (I've Had) The Time of My Life, and so many more! We will meet on January 26, 2026 at 7:30pm at the Faith Free Evangelical Church 54 Hosmer Street in Acton, MA. Please see our website www.actoncommunitychorus.org for more information about our vibrant choral group that has been bringing choral music and friendship to the Assabet Valley area since 1984!

Psychosis Program

"Psychosis Unveiled" is an in-person presentation for people living with symptoms of psychosis and those who love them. Join the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and speakers from the MA Psychosis Access & Triage Hub (M-PATH). Join us on Monday, January 26th, at the Edinburg Center, 205 Burlington Road, Bedford MA, rear entrance. The event kicks off at 6:30 PM with dessert & social time. At 7:00 PM the presentations begin. Learn more about the program and please RSVP here: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/psychosis.
Motor development babies3

Motor Development in Babies 0-18 Months

A free live webinar presented by pediatric physical therapist Christina Marinelli from Emerson Health, will be held via Zoom on Thursday, January 29, 1-2:00. Babies begin progressing both gross and fine motor skills from birth. They are the building blocks to your baby's ability to explore their environment as they grow. In this webinar, you will learn 1) what typical development looks like, 2) general tips and strategies to support baby's skill acquisition, and 3) helpful resources for continued learning. Time for questions will be allowed. To receive the link, email lmatthews@jri.org at First Connections.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote video conference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net
Holiday services at first parish

NASHOBA VALLEY CHORALE 50TH ANNIVERSARY WINTER CONCERT

Program Highlights:
  • “Hallelujah!” The Nashoba Valley Chorale is celebrating its 50th Anniversary Season with a concert on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The performance will include music by Bach and Britten and will close with Beethoven’s magnificent Mass in C, featuring four professional vocal soloists and full orchestra. The concert’s repertoire “reflects the different aspects of our history and showcases where we are now,” says Anne Watson Born, the group’s musical director. 
Event Details:
  • January 18, 2026, 3pm at the Groton-Dunstable Performing Arts Center (344 Main St., Groton, MA) 

Ticket Information:The Nashoba Valley Chorale is well known throughout Central Massachusetts and draws singers from towns in the heart of Nashoba Valley, as well as from all over the metro-west Boston area and southern New Hampshire. For more information about the Nashoba Valley Chorale and our season concerts, visit https://nvcsings.org/