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 - 06/13/25
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 - 06/06/25

HEADLINES

Attention Stow Residents!  The Stow Council on Aging (COA) is here for you.

The COA provides support to its senior residents by:
  • being a resource of information on elder affairs
  • offering social activities
  • assisting with outreach services
There are several ways residents can stay informed about what the COA has to offer:
  • Visit our website https://www.stow-ma.gov/council-aging and be sure to sign-up for e-alerts
  • Read our monthly newsletter, the Stow Senior Scoop. A paper copy is included as an insert in the Action Unlimited on the last Friday (sometimes Saturday) of the month. An electronic copy is posted on our website.
  • Follow-us on Facebook and Instagram (Stow Council on Aging)

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

Free Concert at Hudson First United Methodist Church

On Wednesday, June 18th at 7:00pm you are cordially invited to a wonderful evening Concert by the Lancaster Thayer Academy of New England Youth Ensemble.

This ensemble performs at near professional level of playing and all are
welcomed to enjoy this entertaining evening.  Please come to listen and support these talented young musicians.
The concert will be held on the upper level church sanctuary.  We have a huge parking lot with Handicapped parking at the upper level. A good will offering will be taken and light refreshments will be served in Wesley Hall following the performance. Please put this in your calendars. We look forward to greeting you!

First United Methodist Church of Hudson
Over the Hill, off the Hudson Rotary at 34 Felton Street
(978) 562-2932
Rev. Chris Jones, Pastor

Installing a New Kitchen in Time for Thanksgiving 2025

 
To have a new kitchen installed and ready for Thanksgiving 2025, you'll need to start planning and executing the project well in advance. Here's a general timeline and steps to consider:
1. Initial Planning & Budgeting (Now - June 2025):
  • Define Your Needs & Wants: Consider your cooking style, storage needs, and preferred aesthetic. Do you entertain frequently? How much counter space do you require? What appliances are essential?
  • Set a Realistic Budget: Kitchen remodels can range widely in price depending on the scope of the project, materials chosen, and whether you DIY or hire professionals. Establish a budget early and stick to it as much as possible.
  • Research & Inspiration: Gather ideas from magazines, websites like Houzz, and showrooms. Save photos of kitchens you love to communicate your style to designers or contractors.
  • Timeline Considerations: Factor in the time needed for design, material selection, ordering, demolition, construction, and installation. Major renovations (moving walls, altering layouts) take longer than simple replacements. 
2. Design & Material Selection (June - July 2025):
  • Consult with a Kitchen Designer: A professional can help you create a functional and beautiful design that meets your needs and budget.
  • Choose Cabinets, Countertops, Appliances, and Fixtures: Select materials that fit your style, budget, and durability requirements. Consider lead times for ordering these items.
  • Finalize the Design and Obtain Quotes: Get detailed quotes from contractors for the demolition, construction, and installation work based on your finalized design. 
3. Hiring Contractors & Permitting (August 2025):
  • Select a Reputable Contractor: Check reviews, ask for references, and ensure they are licensed and insured.
  • Obtain Necessary Permits: Your contractor should handle this process, but ensure all permits are in place before work begins. 
4. Demolition & Construction (September - October 2025):
  • Demolition: This can be disruptive, so plan accordingly. Ensure proper disposal of old materials.
  • Construction: This phase includes plumbing, electrical work, framing, and drywall installation. Ensure these are completed according to code and specifications. 
5. Installation & Finishing (October - November 2025):
  • Cabinet Installation: This is a crucial step. Check for proper leveling and alignment.
  • Countertop Installation: Ensure the countertops are installed correctly and sealed properly.
  • Appliance Installation: Verify that all appliances are installed and functioning correctly.
  • Backsplash, Flooring, and Painting: Install these finishing touches to complete the kitchen remodel. 
6. Final Walk-Through & Clean Up (Mid-November 2025):
  • Thorough Inspection: Do a final walk-through with your contractor to address any remaining issues.
  • Deep Cleaning: Clean the entire kitchen thoroughly to prepare for Thanksgiving cooking. 
7. Enjoy Your New Kitchen for Thanksgiving! (Late November 2025)
Tips for a Successful Project:
  • Communicate Regularly: Maintain clear communication with your contractor and designer throughout the project.
  • Be Flexible: Expect some unexpected delays or issues. Be prepared to make adjustments as needed.
  • Document Everything: Keep records of contracts, permits, invoices, and design plans. 
By starting early, planning diligently, and communicating effectively, you can increase the likelihood of having a beautiful and functional new kitchen ready for your Thanksgiving celebrations in 2025. 

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum Announces Nature Sanctuary Exhibition Opening June 5

LINCOLN, Mass. – A new outdoor exhibition that explores relationships between the natural world and ideas of home will open Thursday, June 5, at The Trustees’ deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln. Nature Sanctuarywill feature new site-responsive commissions and loans by six contemporary women artists.
The featured artists in Nature Sanctuary are Venetia Dale, Kapwani Kiwanga, Joiri Minaya, Zohra Opoku, Kathy Ruttenberg, and Evelyn Rydz. Dale and Rydz are both Massachusetts-based artists, continuing deCordova’s support of artists from the region.
“Nature Sanctuary offers our public a way to experience deCordova’s art and landscape as deeply interconnected. The artworks respond to and emphasize their ecological surroundings and make us more aware of the ways humans shape and protect the natural environment,” shares Sarah Montross, Museum Director and Chief Curator of deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum.
The exhibition is framed by deCordova’s past as a family home as well as its present-day integration within The Trustees, Massachusetts’ largest and the nation’s first conservation and preservation nonprofit.
Spanning the Sculpture Park’s front lawns and beyond, the new installations express refuge, care, and the shared protective relationships between humans and the natural world. The artists respond to past, present, and future ramifications of ecological change, as well as histories of land use and the movement of people, plants, and animals across homelands. Their projects reveal contradictions inherent to a “nature sanctuary” and expose how protecting the natural world has been used, at times, to justify the exclusion or displacement of living beings.
The exhibition will also broaden ecological awareness of deCordova’s landscape, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including nesting hawks, snapping turtles, and monarch butterflies. Public programming and interpretation will focus on connections between art and place. Nature Sanctuary will be on view through Fall 2026.

Summertime" Art Exhibit by SAGA

'Summertime' is the theme of the summer art exhibit by Stow Area Guild of Artists (SAGA). The show will be hung July 8th and run through September.  An open reception to meet the artists is on Wednesday July 9th from 5:30 to 8:00 pm at the Stow Community Center/ Fire Station (Pompo School) on Rt 117 in Stow.  Light refreshments will be served. Come see the talent of the SAGA artists.  Featured this week is 'Strawberries and Sugar', oil on wood by Magdalene Teigen Story.

Fruitlands Opens for 2025 with New Shaker Exhibition, Refreshed Native American Exhibition

HARVARD, Mass. – Fruitlands Museum in Harvard has reopened for the 2025 with a new exhibition focusing on the 250th anniversary of the arrival of the Shakers in America, drawing from one of the oldest and largest repositories of Shaker archival material which is maintained by The Trustees of Reservations.
“a good many hands” Shaker Communities Woven through Word, Image & Object is now open to the public in the Seasonal Gallery at Fruitlands. Fruitlands sits just four miles from the site of the Harvard Shaker Village, first settled in 1781 and closed in 1918. Fruitlands Museum’s founder Clara Endicott Sears acquired many Shaker objects from the village, opening the first Shaker museum at Fruitlands in 1922. Those objects were entrusted to The Trustees when it acquired Fruitlands in 2016.
Fruitlands Museum is open May 1-Nov. 2 on Thursdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally, the museum is open holiday Mondays – Memorial Day, Labor Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day – from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance to the museum buildings is included in the admission to Fruitlands.

GUESS WHO’S COMING TO STOW MASSACHUSETTS ON JUNE 14

Stow will receive a visit from one of our Massachusetts literary greats on June 14, 2025.  Emily Dickinson, THE BELLE OF AMHERST, will appear in a one-woman show and talk about her life and times in Amherst, Massachusetts.  The one-act play will be performed in the Great Hall at the First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow, Massachusetts.
This Emily is Stow’s own Kathleen Mary Mulligan who grew up in Stow and graduated from Nashoba Regional High School in 1978. Kathleen created the production after she was invited to bring it to The American University in Beirut (Lebanon).  “My director Norm Johnson and I traveled there in October 2019.  It was the most unusual opening night I have ever had: a revolution started on that night—and sadly, the remaining three performances had to be canceled!”
This writer had the opportunity to attend the show recently and gives it a four-star rating.  Due to the logistics of offering this production, tickets will only be sold at the door.  Ticket price is $15.00, cash or check only. The doors open at 7 o’clock and the show starts at 7:30. There is limited seating.

Calling All Artisans!  Vendor Applications Now Being Accepted

  The Missions & Outreach Ministry at ACC is thrilled to announce a new tradition at Acton Congregational Church — our First Annual Handmade Harvest Market @ ACC! Located in the heart of Acton, MA, this event brings together a variety of talented artisans and enthusiastic shoppers for a wonderful day of creativity and community.
What: A juried handmade craft fair celebrating creativity, community, and craftsmanship
Where: Acton Congregational Church, Acton, MA
When: November 1, 2025 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Vendor Application Deadline: June 15, 2025
  We're seeking artisans and crafters with high-quality, original handmade goods to apply for a spot at this juried market. The Handmade Harvest Market Committee will thoughtfully review all applications to ensure a vibrant and diverse selection of vendors.
  All proceeds from this market will benefit the outreach programs of Acton Congregational Church. Join us in making the Handmade Harvest Market at ACC a creative, meaningful, and memorable event!
  Applications can be submitted by using the button below or the following URL::
https://tinyurl.com/HHMVendor42025

The British Soldiers of April 19, 1775

 
June 23, 2025: 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Acton Memorial Library
     486 Main Street, Acton, MA
 
Please join the Acton 250 Committee for its next speaking event featuring historian and author Don N. Hagist on Monday, June 23 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM in The Acton Memorial Library’s Meeting Room, 486 Main Street, Acton, MA. Don will share lesser-known narratives from the Revolutionary Era, including the lives of British soldiers who engaged the colonials on April 19, 1775 and maintained the Siege of Boston for the following year.

Don is managing editor of Journal of the American Revolution (allthingsliberty.com). His historical studies focus on presenting an accurate picture of individual soldiers and their families, especially those of the British army who served in America. This research is done using exclusively primary sources, mostly from archives in North America and Europe. He is a consultant for the PBS documentary The American Revolution produced by Ken Burns, and has written several recent books including Noble Volunteers: the British Soldiers who fought the American Revolution (Westholme, 2020), The Revolution’s Last Men: The Soldiers behind the Photographs (Westholme, 2015) and These Distinguished Corps: British Grenadier and Light Infantry Battalions in the American Revolution (Helion, 2022). Don is an engineering consultant and technical editor, and also writes for several well-known syndicated cartoonists.
Remote Participation: A recording will be available at Acton TV https://actontv.org/ and on our website https://www.actonma.gov/250

Armory on the Assabet Brings the Community Together with Arts Around the Armory Summer Series

 
A summer-long celebration of artistic expression and community engagement
  HUDSON, MA – May 29, 2025 – The Armory on the Assabet is excited to announce its "Arts Around the Armory—Summer 2025" series, a vibrant showcase of creativity designed to bring the Hudson community together while providing a glimpse into the future of this historic landmark as a regional center for arts and culture.
  Throughout the summer, attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of engaging activities that celebrate the arts. Highlights include the Battle of the Bands on June 7 under the Armory canopy, where talented local student musicians will perform, and a Movie on the Lawn family night on June 19, sponsored by Main Street Bank and presented in partnership with the Hudson Public Library.
  June also features the Acoustic Sunday Brunch on the Assabet on June 22, where community members can enjoy live music performed by talented local artists while enjoying a delicious brunch by the river. July offers the enchanting Jane Austen Garden Party on July 12, complete with reenactments, high tea refreshments, and lawn games. August brings captivating performances of Much Ado About Nothing and the magical sounds of the Symphony Pro Musica open-air concert on August 21. The series will conclude in September with the Celebrate Hudson Festival, showcasing dance performances by InFlyte Entertainment and a Tanglewood Marionettes production.
  "These events highlight the potential of the Armory as a space for creativity, connection, and inspiration," said Tom Desmond, president of the Hudson Cultural Alliance. "We envision a future where the Armory becomes a centerpiece for arts and culture in the region."
  The Armory on the Assabet continues to work toward this vision, with plans to include artist studios, classrooms, and an artist-in-residence program within the renovated historic building. The space is also set to support musical and theatrical performances, including its status as the future home of the Symphony Pro Musica. These community-centered programs aim to provide increased access to the arts for Metrowest residents.
Generous sponsorships have made this series possible, with support from Main Street Bank, Rail Trail Flatbread Co., Hudson Business Association, the Jeffrey Chertoff Family, Murphy Insurance Agency, Hudson Cultural Council, and the Mass Cultural Council.
  To purchase tickets, learn about sponsorship opportunities, or explore the full schedule of events, visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org or contact Leah Leahy at Leah@lioralanemarketing.com.

Myles Above in Heaven

An intimate support group for grieving mothers ...

Saturday June 21st
10:30am-12:30pm

The Hudson Public Library
Tavares Room
3 Washington St
Hudson, Ma

www.mylesabove.org 
Concord band at fruitlands

The Concord Band Returns to Fruitlands Outdoor Stage for Its 40th Summer Season!

On Wednesdays, starting with June 11th, the Concord Band returns to the Fruitlands Outdoor Stage in Harvard, MA, for its 40th season of live music under the stars. Concerts begin at 7:15pm; Gates open at 5:00pm. Bring a picnic, enjoy stunning sunset views, and settle in for an evening of timeless tunes performed by a 65-member ensemble representing 40 area towns.
With a wide-ranging program that includes historic tributes, Broadway classics, holiday favorites, and more, the Concord Band continues a tradition that has delighted audiences since 1959.

Tom Denney Nature Camp - Spots Added to All Weeks!

Kindergarten – 5th graders: Games in the fields and woods! Swimming, Arts & Crafts, Tracking, Hiking, Shelter Building, Animal Adventures, Predator and Prey, Campfires & more!
6th -9th graders – Eco Adventures program with Kayaking, Laser Tag, Water Guns, Thursday Nighttime Games & S'mores.
9th grade or above – Counselor-in-Training program.
Campers welcome from all towns.
Before/After care available.
Mondays–Fridays in July & August from 9–3.
More info or to Register: tomdenneynaturecamp.org

Crafts & Play for Kids in Grades K-5

Stow, Mass., Jun. 13 – Children in grades K to 5 are invited to First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) in Stow for a night of crafts, snacks and fun on Friday, Jun. 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday Friends (formerly known as Club UU) is FPC’s monthly, nonreligious drop-off kid's club. It's led by a minimum of three adults, and typically between 7 and 9 kids attend. We focus on building social connections between children through creative crafts, fun games and group decision making. Newcomers from the community are always welcome and are invited to bring a friend.

FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Please drop children off and pick them up in the church Vestry. To get to the Vestry, go through the main entrance (not the sanctuary entrance), take a left, and go to the end of the hallway. FPC’s facilities are wheelchair accessible.

A Vision Unfolding – FPC Sunday Service

Stow, Mass., June 8 – On June 8 at 10 a.m., First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a special music service featuring the work, A Vision Unfolding, by composer Kyle Pederson and poet/singer Shanelle Gabriel. Join the FPC Choir and guest instrumentalists for this work that invites us to reach out to build bridges of care and connection, standing in solidarity with those whose voices are too often dismissed, regardless of their skin color, sexual orientation, faith background, or other characteristic. It explores what our country has stood for in its best moments, drawing on the powerful declarations of a nation rooted in equality, freedom, justice, and inclusion. The choir has been rehearsing the music for the past two months and is excited to share it with you!

The service takes place both in person in the Sanctuary and virtually. Masking is optional. Child care for the service only is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.

FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.


Vegetable Lasagna and Salad at Guest Table in Stow

Stow, Mass., Jun. 13 - Guest Table is a community dinner that takes place on the second Friday of each month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). The next dinner will take place on Jun. 13. It will begin at 5:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. All are welcome! There’s no charge for dinner, but donations are gratefully accepted. FPC is an “Allergen Aware” location.

This month’s menu is salad, veggie lasagna, cornbread, and desserts. Options made with vegetarian and gluten-free ingredients will be available. All meals are “Allergen Aware.”

FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. When parking, please keep a clear path for emergency vehicles; do not block the driveway around the front of the sanctuary; park only on the 117 side of Commons Rd.; and do not block access to the back of the building. Thank you!

This program is supported in part by grants from the Stow Community Chest, Nashoba Valley Rotary, and the Acton-Boxborough United Way. Guest Table is also grateful for the consistent support it receives from the Stow Council on Aging and the Stow Food Pantry, as well as the support from so many individuals who donate and volunteer

The Friends of the Hudson Public Library's YART/Yard Sale 2025

The Friends of the Hudson Public Library are hosting their 3nd annual YART and Yard Sale on Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (rain date will be Sunday, June 22 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm). This event is a fundraiser to raise money for programs and museum passes for the Hudson Public Library, while providing a shopping experience for the community and supporting our local artists and crafters.

Artists and craftspeople can sell their handmade arts and crafts in their yard or driveway. Townspeople can sell their secondhand goods in their driveway or yard. Sellers keep 100% of their sales.

For more details and registration information, go to huds.pl/YART25 or ask at the Hudson library. 

Myles Above in Heaven

An intimate support group for grieving mothers ...
Saturday June 21st
10:30am-12:30pm

The Hudson Public Library
Tavares Room
3 Washington St
Hudson, Ma

Trusting Jesus in a WILD World… Join us for VBS this Summer!

Let’s explore how to trust Jesus together during True North Vacation Bible School! Mt. Calvary Church, Acton, MA is offering a fun one-week Vacation Bible School (VBS) program August 4–8, 9 AM–12 Noon daily. Children age 3 through entering Grade 5 in the fall of 2025 are invited to participate. We will play games, make crafts, laugh together, have fun singing and dancing, and more! VBS gives kids the unique opportunity to encounter Jesus’ love for everyone alongside friends and adult mentors in an exciting setting. This free program is especially for kids to discover who God is, grow their own Christian faith, and experience Christ’s love with friends and neighbors. Sign up with a friend and get ready to learn to trust Jesus in a wild world!

Sign up soon, space is limited! Registration details along with more information can be found at www.mtcalvaryacton.org/vbs. Questions – call the church at 978-263-5156 or email our VBS Director, Virginia Vestigo at vbs@mtcalvaryacton.org. Mt. Calvary Church is located at 472 Massachusetts Avenue, Acton. Parking (including handicap) is available behind the church, off Prospect Street.

COA/Minuteman Senior Services looking for congregate meal site team volunteers

The Stow Council on Aging is working with Minuteman Senior Services to recruit several volunteers to be part of our congregate meal site team.  The congregate meal site typically hosts around a dozen seniors on Tuesday and Thursdays at the Pompo Community Center. The congregate meal site provides an opportunity for Stow senior residents to socialize while enjoying a catered lunch. Training is provided.  Please consider volunteering for this crucial and rewarding role.

Introducing Solid Foods for Infants

Julia Hurd, a Speech & Language Pathologist at Clough Family Center for Rehab and Sports Therapies, will present a free, live webinar on Introducing Solid Foods for Infants on Thursday, June 12, 10-11:00 a.m. through First Connections. Starting solids can be such an exciting step as your baby is learning and growing But it can also be stressful when you may not be sure how to begin. The Starting Solid's presentation will be geared towards those with questions on how and when to begin solids to decrease that stress! We will go over the various readiness signs for solids which typically begin to appear around 6 months, but this may differ from baby to baby. We will also dive into which method may be best for you and your baby: baby-led weening or the traditional path. Tips, tricks and tools will be integrated at each part of the conversation to try and make this process as smooth as possible. Each baby and family will be different, but the information given by a licensed speech and language pathologist who works with babies and will help you determine what your baby will need and what you can expect on this new journey with your child! To receive the link to join this program, please email First Connections: lmatthews@jri.org. We are a free parent support and education program funded by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care, serving all families with children under age 7 in 11 towns.

Navigating the 4th Trimester

Navigating the 4th Trimester is a free in-person workshop that offers a supportive place for expecting parents to explore the physical, emotional, and relational challenges that accompany the first 3 months after birth. In this program you will learn evidence-based strategies to support a personal postpartum plan that includes practical strategies for adjusting to life with a newborn, coping with challenges related to sleep and feeding, managing changes in your relationships, and nurturing your own wellbeing during this transformative time. Join First Connections for this interactive session facilitated by lactation counselor and infant sleep consultant, Mary Beilman, who draws from over 20 years supporting new parents; and mental health counselor Emily Fiorini, who specializes in infant and parent mental health and is First Connections' program director. Helpful postpartum community resources are included. Birthing person and a support person are welcome to attend free of charge. This program will take place in Concord on Wednesday, June 4, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Register through Steinberg Wellness Center for Mind and Body by calling 978-287-3777 or going to the http://emersonhealth.org website. 

Student Ambassador Exchange Hosting

 
Hello - Student Ambassador Exchange Hosting is seeking caring families in the US to host foreign exchange high school students for the coming school year. Our exceptional students come from Spain, Asia, Germany, Italy, and many other countries. If you have a spare bed, can provide meals when the student is home, and can offer a nurturing and supportive environment, you have what it takes to help these students achieve their dreams while creating a unique, enriching experience for your family.

Sofia is active and friendly. She plays tennis and the oboe in her local orchestra. Sofia brings passion, creativity, and a genuine excitement for connecting with others.
Marco is a sociable boy who likes basketball, swimming & soccer. He is excited to share his cultural traditions while embracing new experiences with his host family!
We can help host families select a student whose personality and interests match what you feel your family and community have to offer.
Check out:  Student Ambassador Exchange and Meet Our Students  Email:
info@saeglobal.org. Call 512-323-9595 ext 3040

2025 MFSG Schedule of Events

 
June 10, 2025-Book Club Event at the Concord Free Public Library, Trustees Room,  Main Library , 129 Main St., Concord, MA. 10 AM. A book discussion about "The Things They Carried"  by Tim O'Brien is a collection of short stories about a platoon of American soldiers fighting on the ground in the Vietnam War.  Copies of the book are available at the Main Library.

July 20,2025- Worcester Woo Sox Game-1:05PM-"Indebt to a Vet " event.. Tickets are $25/pp Contact 978-618-8525 for ticket info.

November 7, 2025-Lincoln Council on Aging,  Bemis Hall, 15 Bedford Rd. Lincoln, MA. 1:00PM.  "Trench Art and Trinkets: What Did They Bring Home>"  A presentation by Lincoln, MA               Veteran's Services Officer Peter Harvell.  Bring your trench art or militaria piece to be appraised at the event.

November 11, 2025-Vetaran's Day Flag Retirement Ceremony, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Concord, MA.  8:00AM. The ceremony will include a prayer, a cannon salute, Taps being played ,  and the National Anthem followed by the flag retirement ceremony. Meet at 7:45 AM at Prichards's Gate at 34 Bedford Street, Concord, MA to join the MFSG march procession.

For more information about these events or becoming a MFSG member, please contact 978-618-8525. Look for additional military related events in the Boston/Metro West area on our Facebook page.

Food Is Medicine—And It Starts in the Cafeteria: Littleton Schools Host Regional Roundtable to Showcase School Meals as a Health and Climate Solution

 
LITTLETON, MA – June 5, 2025 – As rates of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes, and early puberty continue to rise at alarming rates—driven by ultra-processed foods and environmental exposures—Littleton Public Schools is leading a bold, evidence-based shift in how school lunch is served.
On Wednesday, June 5, Littleton will host The School Nutrition Exchange: Northeast Regional Roundtable, in partnership with Action for Healthy Kids, welcoming over 20 school districts, state and federal legislators, pediatricians, chefs, nonprofits, and USDA leaders to explore how scratch-cooked, locally sourced, and waste-free school meals can reverse chronic disease trends, support local economies, and protect the environment.
  • Location: Littleton Middle School (55 Russell Street, Littleton, MA)
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Farm tour to follow)
The Four Pillars: A Recipe for Change
Littleton's nationally recognized nutrition program is built on four foundational pillars: Scratch Cooking – Meals are made fresh daily using real ingredients. Staff are trained annually at the John Stalker Institute to introduce culturally inclusive recipes and prepare nutrient-dense meals kids love. Sourcing – A strong commitment to local purchasing: 57.87% of produce, 100% of seafood, and 2.58% of meat are sourced from local farms and food hubs, supporting regional agriculture. Sustainability – A complete transition to stainless steel trays and utensils has diverted 182,000 trays and 364,000 plastic utensils from the landfill and on average resulted in an 89% reduction in carbon emissions in just one year. All schools compost food scraps, closing the food waste loop. Nutrition Education – Through "Friday Try Days," students sample new fruits, vegetables, and plant-based alternatives. Informational "trading cards" from Massachusetts Farm to School help students and families learn about the foods they eat.
"When we embrace food as medicine and cafeterias as classrooms, we're no longer just serving lunch—we're shaping health," said Leah Botko, Director of Nutrition Services at Littleton Public Schools.
Where Pediatricians, Chefs & Policymakers Converge
The roundtable represents a united front from across sectors—pediatrics, culinary arts, environmental health, education, and government—working together to replace ultra-processed, heat-and-serve meals with whole foods, scratch cooking, and zero-waste practices.
Featured participants include:
  • Action for Healthy Kids Leadership – advancing equity and policy for better school meals
  • Chef John C. White – John Stalker Institute, leading a scratch-cooking demo
  • Dr. Manasa Mantravadi – Pediatrician and culinary medicine expert
  • Local farmers and vendors – providing insight on regional food sourcing
  • State and federal legislators – engaging with scalable models for reform
"When pediatricians, chefs, schools, nonprofits, and policymakers come together, we can rebuild a system that supports children's health," said Dr. Mantravadi. "This is how we reverse the epidemic of preventable disease in kids—starting with what's on their plate."
Real Impact, Real Stories
  • "The food in Littleton's cafeterias is the best I've experienced in 27+ years," said Lyn Snow, Director of Student Services. "Even students with food selectivity and medical diets are participating with enthusiasm and confidence."
  • "My son asked for school pizza for his birthday," a parent shared. "That's how much he loves it."
  • "It's like a restaurant—chefs even ask if you'd like more!" said one student.
Event Agenda – Wednesday, June 5, 2025
  • 7:45 AM – Registration & Breakfast
  • 8:05 AM – Welcome & Roundtable Overview (AFHK)
  • 8:10 AM – Remarks from Superintendent Dr. Kelly Clenchy
  • 8:15 AM – Guest Introductions & AFHK Mission
  • 8:30 AM – "Small Changes, Big Impacts" – Leah Botko, SN Director
  • 8:45 AM – Scratch-Cooking Demo – Chef John C. White
  • 9:30 AM – Group Discussion: School Nutrition Challenges & Solutions
  • 10:45 AM – Break
  • 11:00 AM – Workshop: Recognition Award Application Process
  • 11:30 AM – Vendor Showcase: Local Food Suppliers & Partners
  • 12:00 PM – School Lunch Experience: Build-Your-Own Chipotle Bowl with 8th Grade Class
  • 12:30 PM – Depart for Farm Tour
  • 12:45 PM – Local Farm Tour -Spring Brook Farm- 591 Great Rd, Littleton, MA 01460
  • 1:30 PM – Closing Remarks – Leah Botko & Rob Bisceglie (AFHK)
Media Invitation
Members of the media are encouraged to attend all or part of the day. Interviews and visuals available throughout.
To RSVP or schedule interviews, please contact:
Leah Botko at lbotko@littletonps.org or 978-751-4565.
About Littleton Public Schools
Littleton is leading a national model for sustainable, inclusive, and health-driven school food systems—where every tray tells a story of wellness, equity, and environmental care.
About Action for Healthy Kids
Action for Healthy Kids mobilizes school communities to improve child health through real food, physical activity, and family engagement, with a focus on the most underserved children.

Native Plant Trust welcomes Dr. Lea Johnson as Director of Conservation

Native Plant Trust is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Lea Johnson as Director of Conservation. Dr. Johnson brings extensive experience in community ecology, ecological restoration, and urban ecosystems, blending foundational scientific research with practical applications for sustainable land management and ecological design. Bringing Dr. Johnson on board marks an important step forward as the organization celebrates its 125th anniversary, prepares to accelerate the rate of rare plant monitoring, and expands native plant seed banking and plant production activities.
Free event

Free Event: Spring Tree and Plant Walk

On Sunday, June 1, 1:30-3:30 pm, join the Westborough Community Land Trust’s Sam Plummer at Bowman Conservation Area for a springtime walk exploring the trails and observing the woodland plants, trees, and wildlife. This area surrounding Sandra Pond was originally purchased by the Town of Westborough in the 1960s. Today, the land is a beautiful mix of hardwood trees and planted red pines bordering the pond, and home to a variety of flowering plants and wildlife. Approximately 2 miles on woodland trails with some small hills. Free, open to the public, no reservation needed. Meet at the Bowman Conservation Area parking lot, 72 Bowman St. Westborough.
Trail Map: https://westboroughlandtrust.org/maps/BCA
Check WestboroughLandTrust.org for cancellations.
For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org

The Hudson Historical Society Annual Meeting

The Hudson Historical Society will be holding its Annual Meeting and end of year Dinner
On Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 6:30 P.M. preceded by a Social gathering at 6:00 P.M.
The meeting will be at the Federated Church Hall 200 Central Street, Hudson, Mass.
All Society members are welcome to attend. The election of Officers for the upcoming year will be selected. The cost for the dinner is $20.00 and can be paid at the door. Please contact Rene Elliott at 978-293-3595 if you plan on attending.
Society Meetings are held on the last Tuesday in the months of September, October, November, February, March, April and May. All members and general public are welcome to attend.

LUK, Inc. Continues Thrive Ambassador Program Despite Funding Cuts

Fitchburg — Late on Friday, April 25th, 2025, LUK, Inc. learned that their AmeriCorps program would no longer be funded by the federal government effective immediately. LUK’s program was among nearly 1,000 programs across the country that were affected by this unexpected loss of federal funds. LUK will continue to self-sustain this program through the end of the service term to support the AmeriCorps members, host sites, communities, and the youth involved.
The organization’s members, LUK Thrive Ambassadors, make a direct impact on the community by bringing positive youth development to local schools and after-school programs. They help to strengthen the social and educational skills of youth in Worcester County who have experienced troubling childhood experiences, live in poverty, and/or have academic challenges.
The organization plans to support the members to continue their work through the rest of the planned service term ending in June. “LUK is committed to supporting our members and the programs they are in, and is working with members to keep them on in various capacities working with our Youth Development program,” says Elizabeth Benard, Career Development Coordinator. “They are passionate about youth and the community and provide excellent support to the programs and the youth they serve.”
LUK recognizes the importance of these services to the community. LUK was founded by two VISTA volunteers in 1970. From that moment forward, LUK has honored their commitment to providing quality services to meet community needs, and will continue to do so.
LUK started receiving AmeriCorps funding through the Massachusetts Service Alliance (MSA) in the spring of 2024. About half of MSA’s federally-funded AmeriCorps programs were impacted.
LUK is incredibly grateful for the Thrive Ambassadors and our community partners as host sites that are instrumental in shaping the positive development of youth in the Central Massachusetts community.
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
For more information about LUK, Inc., visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find us on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC). Join us in building stronger communities, family by family!

The Stow Council on Aging (COA) is looking for COA Ambassadors

The Stow Council on Aging (COA) is looking for COA Ambassadors. The COA is a busy place and sometimes a second set of hands is just what we need.   COA Ambassadors can be expected to welcome residents, assist with our sign-in kiosk, and provide general information regarding COA activities. Depending on the day, COA Ambassadors may be asked to help with events including set-up and breakdown.  Each COA Ambassador will be assigned a regular recurring weekly shift either in the morning (9:30-12:30) or afternoon (12:30-3:30). Fill-in shifts are also an option. Volunteering is a great way to stay active and engaged. If you would like more information about this fun and rewarding volunteer opportunity email COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov.

The Armory Events

 
The Armory on the Assabet is excited to share an incredible lineup of events happening this June. From live music and an outdoor movie night to a relaxing Sunday brunch, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to join your community at the Armory. All events will be held at The Armory on the Assabet, 35 Washington Street, Hudson.

Battle of the Bands
• Friday, June 7th at 4:00 pm
• Location: Under the Armory Canopy
• This event is FREE!
• Featuring student musicians from Guitars & Grooves, Bach to Rock, and The Rock Institute.
• Sponsored by The Rail Trail Flatbread Company and the Hudson Business Association.
• Be part of the excitement as local high school bands showcase their talent in this spirited music competition. Come cheer them on and enjoy the energy of live music. Be sure to bring a chair and a blanket!

Movie on the Lawn (Families Welcome)
• Thursday, June 19th (Rain date: June 20)
• Doors open at 8:00 pm, movie starts at 8:30 pm
• Suggested donation: $20 per family
• Location: Under the Armory Canopy
• Partnering with the Hudson Public Library and sponsored by Main Street Bank.
• Bring your favorite blanket and settle in for a fun outdoor movie night the whole family will love. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the warmer evenings together.

Acoustic Sunday Brunch on the Assabet
• Sunday, June 22nd 11:00 am to 1:30 pm
• Location: Under the Armory Canopy
• Price $10 per person
• Includes brunch of quiche, salad, pastries, and drinks
• Sponsored by the Chertoff family
• Featured performers include:
• Jeff Caglarcan
• Matt McCullen and Zach MacDonald
• Barry Sullivan, Steve Straight and Martin Luttrell
• Tom Hanlon and Leslie Bryant
• Reserve tickets: https://givebutter.com/AcousticBrunch
• Enjoy live acoustic performances while savoring a delicious brunch by the Assabet River. This is the perfect way to unwind and connect with your community.

Celebrate the Joys of Spring with
“A Garden of Song”

Join the Sounds of Stow Chorus as we present our final concert of the season, “A Garden of Song,” on Sunday June 1, 4 p.m., at the First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353  Great Road, Stow.
Directed by Christina Kennedy and accompanied by Pauline Oliver, the performance will feature a variety of folk songs plus rich and rewarding works by contemporary composers that call to mind the beauty, wonder, and solace to be found in gardens.  Guest musicians include The Artemis Circle Choral Project, Miriam Smith (violin), Jade Rose Jones (violin), and Linda Harrison (cello).  The concert will support The Healing Garden, a Cancer Support Center in Harvard, MA, that offers a range of programs for adults affected by cancer and their caregivers.
Please join us for this lovely concert for a good cause! Tickets are available on our website (https://soundsofstow.org) or at the door. Sounds of Stow is a non-profit 501c3 organization, supported in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council as administered by the local cultural councils of Stow, Acton-Boxborough, Littleton, Bolton, and Hudson.

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

June 12, 2025, 12:00 pm, hosted by Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 68 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. Please contact Amanda Spinale, Compass Memory Care Director, at 978-369-4728 or aspinale@concordpark.org for more information and the Zoom link. This group is free and open to the public.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.

Green Hudson

A group of residents of Hudson, MA who seek to help the town become more environmentally friendly and conscious through outreach, education, and direct action. We meet on the third Sundays of the month at 6:00pm in the Unitarian Church.
Bird meadow

SMAHT Seeks Developer for Six Units of Affordable Housing on Bird Meadow Lane

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust (SMAHT) has completed the Request for Proposal or RFP, the document that announces and describes six new units of affordable housing to be built on Bird Meadow Lane, a new lane off Red Acre Road. Massachusetts generally defines housing as affordable when it costs no more than 30% of a household’s income.
The purpose of the RFP process is to solicit proposals and bids from potential developers and to help SMAHT identify qualified developers who have the experience and expertise needed to successfully complete the Bird Meadow project. The RFP process is competitive, designed to find the best solution for the best price. The RFP also leaves some details open, so that developers are free to generate innovative designs.
The Bird Meadow project began as far back as May 2018, when Town Meeting approved using $240 thousand of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to purchase forty-nine acres of land located south of Tuttle Lane and west of Red Acre Road. SMAHT matched the CPA funding with another $240 thousand for the purchase of the land.
Of the forty-nine acres, forty-one consist mostly of wetlands and are permanently set aside for conservation. The Stow Conservation Trust paid for the conservation restriction on this land. The remaining eight acres are residential. Of these, three acres are buildable. This is where the affordable units will be sited.
The forty-one acres of new conservation land connects the existing Red Acre Woodlands and Captain Sargent conservation areas. Since 2018, the Stow Conservation Trust, the Stow Conservation Commission, and Kathy Sferra, Stow Conservation Director, have worked together to create connecting trails. One trail, which includes a boardwalk 365 feet long, connects the Community Gardens on Tuttle Lane to Red Acre Woodlands. Another trail returns to Tuttle Lane by a different way, creating a loop.
Since the 2018 purchase, SMAHT has overseen the demolition of the buildings in the area where the housing will be located, including a barn, a stable, and an indoor riding arena. Pre-engineering studies include soil and perc tests, a topographic analysis, and a wetland analysis. Other preliminary work includes a marketing study.
In June 2021, SMAHT held a virtual community forum, presenting plans and seeking feedback. Participants understood the need for more affordable housing in Stow and supported a development like Bird Meadow. SMAHT also set up a Permit Team meeting, attended by representatives of the Conservation Commission and the Fire, Police, Planning, and Health Departments, to present plans and explore issues that might come up during the permitting process.
In 2022, Town Meeting approved using $1.1 million of CPA funds, previously set aside for affordable housing, for the Bird Meadow Lane project. In 2024, Town Meeting approved an additional $200 thousand of CPA funds, bringing the total CPA contribution to $1.3 million. This money will provide the subsidy that makes the units affordable.
Here are the steps of the RFP process:
1) Prospective developers submit proposals in response to the RFP.
2) A team of reviewers appointed by SMAHT evaluate and score the proposals against the guidelines and criteria in the RFP. After the team selects a proposal, SMAHT members approve it.
3) The successful proposer and the town enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement, transferring the residential parcel of land to the proposer.
For more information about the Bird Meadow project, contact Mike Kopczynski at kop01775@gmail.com or visit:
https://www.stow-ma.gov/stow-municipal-affordable-housing-trust
SMAHT would like to thank everyone who has generously contributed time and expertise to the Bird Meadow project, especially the staff and boards of the town of Stow.
Cathy Leonard for SMAHT
Women of note

Women of Note Gala Cabaret
35th Anniversary Celebration!

Women of Note, award-winning a cappella chorus, is celebrating 35 years of harmony with a gala anniversary cabaret featuring the chorus and quartets, Sunday, May 18, at 3 p.m., at the Tackle Box Brewing Co, 416 Boston Post Rd. E., Marlborough, MA.
Founded in Hudson, MA in 1990, Women of Note is a 10-time international medalist chorus with Harmony, Inc., international non-profit and educational organization for women barbershop singers. In April, Women of Note won 2nd place at the area convention and contests, in Framingham, MA, competing against choruses from all New England states plus Montreal, qualifying the chorus to compete in November at Harmony, Inc.’s international convention in Hershey, PA.
Women of Note members hail from towns throughout Eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The chorus welcomes women and girls of all ages. The ability to read music is not required. Weekly rehearsals are Monday evenings at 7 p.m., at the Baptist Churches of New England headquarters (the chorus is not affiliated with the church), 87 Lincoln St., Northborough.
Although admission to the cabaret is free, suggested donations of $15 are gratefully welcomed. Raffles and refreshments will also be available. All proceeds will be used to further the chorus’ education in the art and performance of four-part, a cappella harmony.
For more information, visit: https://www.womenofnote.org or https://www.facebook.com/WomenofNoteChorus
Meet your match!

Meet Your Match!
Save A Dog Adoption Event

Saturday, May 17 • 10 am – 12 pm
Save A Dog is hosting a “Meet & Greet” adoption event on Saturday, May 17, from 10 am to 12 pm at its Sudbury shelter located at 604 Boston Post Road (Rte. 20). Come meet and get to know the adorable dogs and puppies looking for their forever homes!
“This is a great opportunity to have our amazing, deserving pups meet their potential forever person or family in an open, welcoming setting,” says Julie Bolio, Save A Dog’s Shelter Manager. “Adoptions all over the country have slowed, leading to longer stays in the shelter, so we especially appreciate the opportunity to give our dogs this extra exposure.”
While Save A Dog adopters hail from all over New England and Massachusetts, the “Meet & Greet” events are particularly popular with residents from surrounding communities including Acton, Boxborough, Concord, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Marlborough, Stow, Sudbury, Harvard, Westford and Littleton.
For more information about Save A Dog’s adoptable dogs (and cats!), visit our website: www.saveadog.org. Potential adopters are encouraged to complete an online adoption application before the event.
Now entering its 27th year of rescuing and rehoming abandoned dogs and cats, Save A Dog has found loving families for nearly 9,000 companion animals through its Sudbury shelter and network of dedicated foster homes.
See you Saturday!

Mass Save: Friend of Our Future

When: Wednesday, May 28, 7:00-8:15pm
Where: Zoom
ACTON: Was Mass Save the main driver behind last winter’s high utility bills? Energy efficiency expert Mark Dyen argues that, rather than being the culprit, Mass Save is actually our path away from high energy bills and fuels that endanger the biosphere. Join us as he explores the mission of Mass Save, its funding, and the actual dynamics behind the winter’s steep bills. Sponsored by EnergizeActon.org. Info and registration at https://community.massenergize.org/ActonMA/events/1971.

Air Source Heat Pump Webinar

When: Tuesday, May 20, 7:00-8:00pm
Where: Zoom
ACTON: Bob Zogg, co-founder of the HeatSmart Alliance, will give the audience a clear and comprehensive overview of recent advances in heat pump technology, with time for homeowner experiences and questions. How we use energy matters! Sponsored by MassEnergize, with support from EnergizeActon.org. Info/Sign-Up at https://community.massenergize.org/ActonMA/events/1825.
A cuppa tea

A Cuppa Tea with Miss Jean:
Her Life and Legacy.

Hudson resident, Linda LeSage, announces the release date for her first publication, A Cuppa Tea with Miss Jean:  Her Life and Legacy, on May 27, 2025.  This biography captures the inspiring story of Hudson resident, Jean Beddow-Arnth over almost one hundred years and across two continents.  It is a compelling account that will resonate with those who have a keen interest in the history of WW II, the glamour of 1940’s London theatre, the artistry of dance and the evolution of women’s gymnastics on the Olympic level.
Jean’s life was not only about teaching dance and gymnastics.  She was deeply passionate about nature and had an unquenchable thirst for world travel.  This book is a touching tribute to a remarkable woman and her enduring legacy.
The author, Linda LeSage co-founded Jean’s School of Gymnastics, Inc., with her mentor and life-long friend and together they taught over 11,000 students.
The first event introducing the book will be a “book party” hosted by Hudson Art and Framing, 18 Main Street, Hudson, on June 26th from 5:30 P.M-6:30 P.M. The author will be available for a meet and greet, book sale and signing.  For information about the book and upcoming events, visit the authors website   lindalesage.com

   May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Fewer rainy days, flowers starting to bloom, and warmer weather are all signs that May is here. It’s a time to stop and look at your surroundings, appreciate the beauty of nature. Take time this month to also check in on yourself and others. May is Mental Health Awareness Month. While progress has been made over the years in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, there is still more work to be done.
It is important to take care of your mental health as it can affect everything you do. If you’re constantly stressed with no outlet to release it, you may find yourself consistently on edge, where even minor issues have major impacts. If all you do is care for others and neglect yourself, you could burnout. You can’t pour your energy into others without also taking time to replenish your own. These are just a few examples of how neglecting our mental health can affect our well-being.
There are multiple things you can do to take care of your mental health. It can be small, like getting 10-15 minutes of sunlight daily to help boost your mood, decreasing your social media consumption, or giving yourself a few minutes to relax instead of going from one task to another whenever possible. Just how the mind affects the body, the body also impacts your mind. Drinking more water, getting the necessary vitamins and nutrients from your food, and moving your body — whether it’s a walk down the street or time at the gym — all help your brain function. There are also bigger things you can do, like planning a getaway, trying something new, or talking to a friend or a mental health professional when needed.
Mental health is often a silent battle; however, the signs that someone is struggling can be loud once you know what to look for. It’s important to look out for others who may be struggling but don’t know how to express what they’re experiencing. We can never know exactly what is going on inside someone else’s mind, so take the time to be prepared for any situation. For instance, someone experiencing suicidal ideation may not openly share the depth of their thoughts. However, there are warning signs for suicide. These may include sudden changes in appearance and eating habits, a loss of interest in things normally loved, increased anger and irritability, giving away prized possessions, and more. For a more extensive list of suicide warning signs, visit www.jasonfoundation.com. There you will find risk factors, additional warning signs, resources, and a list of their locations across the country to find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office to help you or someone you know. The Jason Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to the education and prevention of youth suicide. They offer free trainings and materials to educate the public on youth suicide.
This month, check in on those around you, and on yourself. Everyone can benefit from someone asking how they’re really doing. Give someone the opportunity to recognize the struggle they’re facing, so it can be overcome.

Military Family Support Group Seeking New Members

The Military Family Support Group (MFSG) is a volunteer organization whose mission is to provide support to anyone with an active duty service member serving in the military.  Our goal is to help educate members on military life, customs, and traditions as well as provide outreach, benefit awareness, and social networking opportunities.  In addition, MFSG offers support to family members with a active duty service member transitioning to veteran status.  MFSG hosts events throughout the year and is open to individuals, families,  and friends in the Concord/Carlisle and surrounding communities with an active duty member serving in all branches of the military.  Follow us on Facebook or at  milfamilysg@gmail.com

2025 MFSG Schedule of Events
June 10, 2025-Book Club Event at the Concord Free Public Library, Trustees Room,  Main Library , 129 Main St., Concord, MA. 10 AM. A book discussion about “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien is a collection of short stories about a platoon of American soldiers fighting on the ground in the Vietnam War.  Copies of the book are available at the Main Library.

July 20,2025- Worcester Woo Sox Game-1:05PM-”Indebt to a Vet “ event.. Tickets are $25/pp Contact 978-618-8525 for ticket info.
November 7, 2025-Lincoln Council on Aging,  Bemis Hall, 15 Bedford Rd. Lincoln, MA. 1:00PM.  “Trench Art and Trinkets: What Did They Bring Home>”  A presentation by Lincoln, MA               Veteran’s Services Officer Peter Harvell.  Bring your trench art or militaria piece to be appraised at the event.

November 11, 2025-Vetaran’s Day Flag Retirement Ceremony, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Concord, MA.  8:00AM. The ceremony will include a prayer, a cannon salute, Taps being played ,          and the National Anthem followed by the flag retirement ceremony. Meet at 7:45 AM at Prichards’s Gate at 34 Bedford Street, Concord, MA to join the MFSG march procession.

For more information about these events or becoming a MFSG member, please contact 978-618-8525. Look for additional military related events in the Boston/Metro West area on our Facebook page.

T-Shirt Design Contest

Design a nature-themed T-shirt and send in your entry by Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 5:00pm. Entries will be voted on by the staff, and if yours is chosen then it will be printed on the T-shirts.
Rules/Notes:
Entries must be sent via regular mail to PO Box 14, Bolton, MA 01740 and be in the post office box by Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 5:00pm So please either mail it to get there in time or put a stamp on it/pay when you get there and give it to the people at the counter to put in the box. Do not put in the mailbox outside or the slot inside since all mail gets sent out to the distribution center before coming back to Bolton. The Post Office counter closes from 11:00am-12:00pm on weekdays, so don’t go during those times.
Entries must be on a regular 8.5″x11″ white piece of paper that has not been folded.
Entries must be drawn in black pen ink or Sharpie.
Entries must be signed by the artist (write clearly so we can read your name).
Do not write anything else on the design (the printer adds the name of the camp and the year).
Think about the printing and do not make any lines that are too close together and will turn into blobs (e.g. feathers on a bird need to be distinct).
Please review the below list of past designs so there is no recent duplication.
Feel free to scan and email us a sketch of your idea and we will give you feedback (technical only) before you draw your final submission.
DO NOT TRACE. ORIGINAL ARTWORK ONLY.
Ask us if you have any questions.
https://www.tomdenneynaturecamp.org/tee-shirt-design-contes

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS RESCHEDULED
TO JUNE 8, 2025

HUDSON—Due to a scheduling conflict, the annual Blessing of the Animals at The Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson (UCMH) has been rescheduled from May 18 to Sunday, June 8 at 10:30 a.m. This multigenerational worship service will take place IN PERSON in our beautiful, historic sanctuary at 80 Main Street in Downtown Hudson, led by Rev. Bruce Taylor.
“Animals have much to teach us about compassion, humility and the inherent goodness of creation,” said Rev. Bruce. “This service will honor our animal companions and their significance in our lives”.
Well behaved animals of all varieties are welcome to join us on leashes or in appropriate enclosures. There will be a slide show presentation of pets who prefer to be left at home, so they can be included in a distance blessing. Please contact the church office via email at administrator@ucmh.org for information on how to send your picture for inclusion. Additionally, all are invited to bring pictures or other mementos to honor pets on our Altar of Memory.
                Everyone is welcome to participate regardless of faith, religion, or spiritual affiliation, including atheists. Additional information, including links to services, is available at www.ucmh.org