First Connections invites parents and caregivers to a free live webinar about talking to young children about race and racism in age-appropriate ways. We teach children to recognize colors and to categorize objects by similarities and differences, but when a child remarks on someone's skin color, eye shape, or other physical characteristics, many caregivers feel embarrassed and don't know what to say, because we were taught not to talk about race. We now know that talking explicitly with children about skin color, race, ethnicity and discrimination is the best way to prevent them from absorbing the racist ideas prevalent in our culture and media. But it's hard to know where to start and what to say. If you're wondering how to have these conversations with your children, join Ellie Springer, M.Ed., for a discussion with tips about how to talk about race and racism with young children, receive information on quality children's books on this topic, and recommended websites for further adult learning. This program is appropriate for parents of babies through elementary school. Please join us on Thursday, August 22, 7-8:30 p.m., and bring your questions. First Connections is the local CFCE through the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care, providing free playgroups, new parent support, parenting topics and resources to families with children age 0-6. To receive the link for this program, email lmatthews@jri.org.

First Connections invites parents and caregivers to a free live webinar about talking to young children about race and racism in age-appropriate ways. We teach children to recognize colors and to categorize objects by similarities and differences, but when a child remarks on someone's skin color, eye shape, or other physical characteristics, many caregivers feel embarrassed and don't know what to say, because we were taught not to talk about race. We now know that talking explicitly with children about skin color, race, ethnicity and discrimination is the best way to prevent them from absorbing the racist ideas prevalent in our culture and media. But it's hard to know where to start and what to say. If you're wondering how to have these conversations with your children, join Ellie Springer, M.Ed., for a discussion with tips about how to talk about race and racism with young children, receive information on quality children's books on this topic, and recommended websites for further adult learning. This program is appropriate for parents of babies through elementary school. Please join us on Thursday, August 22, 7-8:30 p.m., and bring your questions. First Connections is the local CFCE through the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care, providing free playgroups, new parent support, parenting topics and resources to families with children age 0-6. To receive the link for this program, email lmatthews@jri.org.

Saturday, September 14th (Rain date: Sunday, September 15th) | 10 AM to 2 PM | Bradford Mill Back Parking Lot at The Bradford Mill, 8A Bradford Street, Concord, MA 01742
Join us for our first-ever OARS’ outdoor paddle gear exchange! Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade paddle-related items, this event is perfect for you. Find new and used kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and all kinds of gear to wrap up the summer season and prepare for the next.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

• Buy, sell, and trade paddle- and outdoor-related items
• New and used kayaks, canoes, SUPs, and outdoor gear
• Food trucks, games, and family-friendly activities
• Free fly fishing demo lessons (12 PM–2 PM)

SELLER INFORMATION

• Individual Sellers: $40 registration (includes OARS membership)
• Corporate Sellers & Sponsors: Various sponsorship levels available

MORE INFORMATION
For up-to-date event information & seller or sponsor registration please go to:
oars3river.org/events/event/oars-car-top-swap-meet

The Family to Family course from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) could prove helpful to you. This is a free, evidence-based, eight-session, weekly course for family members and friends of individuals living with mental health conditions. Topics include understanding the symptoms of mental health conditions, learning about treatments and therapies, practicing communication and problem-solving skills, creating a positive team approach, and self-care. Importantly, the course offers family members the invaluable opportunity of open conversation and mutual support in a stigma-free environment. The class is taught by NAMI trained family members. The NAMI Central Middlesex local affiliate will host two sessions of the course this fall. The first will meet in person in Winchester on Saturdays from 9:00-11:30 am, starting September 14th. The second course will be available via Zoom, meeting on Tuesdays from 6:30-9:00 pm, starting September 24th. Learn more and register at: namicentralmiddlesex.org/educational-courses.

Rayla Baldwin-Mattson, Director of Religious Education for First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), tries to live as openly and honestly as possible. Rayla does this through storytelling and humor, often tagging things with #realtalkwithrayla! Come join Rayla on a fun journey through Rayla’s learning of some of life’s lessons! The service will take place both in person and virtually on Aug. 18 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for all in-person summer services. 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.

Volunteering is a great way to stay active and engaged. A few specific opportunities are highlighted below. Simply return a completed volunteer application (available on our website) to Gigi Lengieza (in person, by mail or email to COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov.) Once approved, volunteers will receive emails with specific opportunities outlined.  Those emails can be responded to when you can or may be quietly ignored if you can’t accept the opportunity.
SFCOA Board Members
Want to support Stow’s senior residents? Join the SFCOA Board! The SFCOA is a 501(c) (3) all volunteer public charity dedicated to helping Stow’s senior residents through the Council on Aging (COA).  Their mission is to support the COA by raising funds and helping make the community and its leaders aware of the valuable work of the COA.
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).
Armchair Travel Presenters
Do you travel?  Like to share your adventures with others?  The Stow COA offers an Armchair Travel Program on the third Tuesday of the month at 1 pm.  Volunteers show pictures and share information about a place they have visited. Armchair Travel typically has between 12 and 20 attendees.
Creativity Class Instructors
Are you creative? Do you have a few hours to volunteer for the Stow COA?  We are looking for instructors to host a creativity class or classes. This can be a one-time opportunity or a series. If you are interested in learning more, please let me know! Some ideas include but are not limited to; charcuterie board making, homemade hummus/guacamole making, art classes or more! Contact Jayne Nowokunski with your ideas!
Please contact Gigi at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov or 978-897-1880 for more information

Experience the Magic of Choral Music at the Summer Sing with Assabet Valley Mastersingers
Westborough, MA –  The Assabet Valley Mastersingers are thrilled to invite music lovers of all ages to join them for their annual Summer Sing on August 19, 2024, at Congregation B’nai Shalom in Westborough, Massachusetts. This special event, beginning at 7:30 PM, offers a unique opportunity for vocalists of varied abilities to join in the performance of Johannes Brahms’ sublime “A German Requiem.”
Under the direction of Artistic Director Dr. Robert Eaton, participants will experience the beauty and emotional depth of this exquisite choral masterpiece, sung in English. Scores will be provided to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all who join in.
“This Summer Sing is more than just a performance; it’s a chance for people to connect with music in a deeply personal way,” said Dr. Eaton. “We welcome everyone to come and experience the transformational power of choral music in a supportive and inspiring environment.”
Event Details:
Date: Monday, August 19, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 E Main St, Westborough, MA 01581
Admission: $10 at the door
The Assabet Valley Mastersingers, known for their exceptional performances and commitment to musical excellence, are dedicated to bringing the joy of choral music to the Assabet Valley region. This event is an opportunity to experience the collective power of music and to engage with a community of passionate music enthusiasts.
For more information, please visit www.avmsingers.org or contact Tricia Campero at tcampero@avmsingers.org or 508-344-1858.

Do you have a small business where you build, bake, create beautiful items from scratch?
Here's a place to be seen and sell your creations!  St. Nicholas' Annual Craft Fair (formerly St. Anthony's) will take place at Derosier Hall at 33 Chapel Street in Shirley, across from St. Anthony Church on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 9am-4pm.
This is the 19th year of this well-loved craft fair and we'd love to have you participate.
Deadline for applications is October 6.  A registration form to apply for one or more spots and other information can be found at www.nashobacatholic.org/annual-craft-fair .  For more information, email Marianne Cooper at faithformation@nashobacatholic.org or call 978-772-0727.

Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is looking for interested community members to participate in their FREE September 2024 Volunteer Advocate Training program at the Lexington Police Department.
The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize the 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 the Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.
The September 2024 training will be held over three weeks from September 9th to September 27th on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 PM to 9:15 PM and Friday days 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. For those who wish to activate as Advocates, an additional 10 to 12 hours of individual field training will take place after successful completion of the classroom segment.
The training is provided at no cost to attendees. All necessary materials will be provided. To learn more about DVSN and its programs, services, and events, visit DVSN.org.
Those interested in more information about the training or who want to request an application should call (978) 318-3421 or send an e-mail to training@dvsn.org. Applications are due no later than Monday, August 26, 2024.

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 Aug. 9. 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.
This month’s menu is chili. There will be salad, watermelon, and corn bread, with ice cream for dessert. Options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients will be available. All meals are nut-free.
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.

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 Aug. 9. 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.
This month’s menu is chili. There will be salad, watermelon, and corn bread, with ice cream for dessert. Options made with vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients will be available. All meals are nut-free.
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.

A new tradition is being inaugurated at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) of the Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum repeating an earlier popular sermon for a summer service! This service from Nov. 2018, “Starstuff,” explores the theology of Carl Sagan, who explained that we are all made of starstuff.
The service will take place both in person and virtually on Aug. 11 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for all in-person summer services. 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.

Nashoba Valley Technical High School Foundation 12th Annual Craft Fair will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 10 AM - 3PM (Set up 8AM - 9:30AM)
Nashoba Valley Technical High School, 100 Littleton Road (Rt. 110), Westford, MA
Register now for this well-attended event - only 100 spots available!
Vendor fee is $75 (includes an 8 foot spot, and 2 chairs bring your own table or display).
For more information and to complete the online registration/payment please visit  https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjA5MTYz
Any questions, email NVTHSFoundation@nashobatech.net

First Connections is offering a free infant massage class for pre-crawling babies which will take place on Tuesdays, August 6, 13, 20, and 27, from 2-3:00 at our office in Acton. Mary Beilman is a Certified Educator of Infant Massage through Infant Massage USA. New strokes will be taught each week that combine Swedish and Indian Massage in addition to reflexology. Massage can help babies with sleep, gas, and fussiness. It also enhances the connection between caregiver and baby. Each class will include discussion, demonstration of strokes, and time for questions and answers. To register for this class, please email Linda at lmatthews@jri.org. First Connections is the local CFCE grant program through the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care providing free playgroups, parenting topics, resources and new parent support to families in 11 towns.

First Connections invites parents and caregivers to a free live webinar about talking to young children about race and racism in age-appropriate ways. We teach children to recognize colors and to categorize objects by similarities and differences, but when a child remarks on someone's skin color, eye shape, or other physical characteristics, many caregivers feel embarrassed and don't know what to say, because we were taught not to talk about race. We now know that talking explicitly with children about skin color, race, ethnicity and discrimination is the best way to prevent them from absorbing the racist ideas prevalent in our culture and media. But it's hard to know where to start and what to say. If you're wondering how to have these conversations with your children, join Ellie Springer, M.Ed., for a discussion with tips about how to talk about race and racism with young children, receive information on quality children's books on this topic, and recommended websites for further adult learning. This program is appropriate for parents of babies through elementary school. Please join us on Thursday, August 22, 7-8:30 p.m., and bring your questions. First Connections is the local CFCE through the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care, providing free playgroups, new parent support, parenting topics and resources to families with children age 0-6. To receive the link for this program, email lmatthews@jri.org.

 

Chief Michael Sallese and the Stow Police Department invite community members to attend the Department’s inaugural National Night Out event next week.
WHEN:
Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Town Center Park, 323 Great Road, Stow
WHAT:
National Night Out is held annually on the first Tuesday in August. It is a nationwide campaign designed to strengthen the relationship between public safety officials and residents to foster community partnerships and improve neighborhood safety.
This year marks the 41st anniversary of National Night Out, and Stow's first time participating.
"We have great relationships throughout the community, and National Night Out is one more way we can connect with each other in a casual setting," said Chief Sallese. "We look forward to seeing everyone there."
Activities are free, and include potato sack races, kickball games, water balloon tosses and egg races. Attendees also will have the chance to dunk a member of the Police Department in the dunk tank. The Stow Fire Department will be on hand as well.

(An intimate support group for Mothers in the loss of a child)
Saturday August 17th
10:30am-12:30pm
Community Room at the Avidia Financial Center
17 Pope Street, Hudson, MA

Saturday August 24th
10:30am-12:30pm
Duffy Properties
135 Beaver Street, Waltham, MA

Chief Richard P. DiPersio and the Community Action Team of the Hudson Police Department invite community members to attend the Department’s free National Night Out event next week.
WHEN:
Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 5-8 p.m.
WHERE:
Hudson High School (Guidotti Field). 69 Brigham St, Hudson, MA
WHAT:
National Night Out is held annually on the first Tuesday in August. It is a nationwide campaign designed to strengthen the relationship between public safety officials and residents to foster community partnerships and improve safety in neighborhoods.
This year marks the 41st anniversary of National Night Out.
This family-friendly event will give residents the opportunity to come together as a community and interact with local law enforcement. The event will feature food, games, cruiser rides, equipment and vehicle displays, and other forms of entertainment.
"National Night Out is a terrific way for every Hudson resident to get to know their local police officers," Chief DiPersio said. "We may wear a uniform and drive around in specialized vehicles, but we're just like you: so, come down, and say hello."

The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday August 11.  Come see Boxborough’s historic treasures including the 1850’s scale which is sensitive enough to weigh a penny and strong enough to calibrate a 50 pound weight, the “new” hearse built in 1881, and the “old” hearse (come and see how old is old).  Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information or if anyone wishes to arrange a private tour for a small group at a different time please call John Fallon at 978-264-0069.

August 4 – 10 has been designated 2024 National and Massachusetts Farmers Market Week. This celebration of Farmers' Markets recognizes how they increase access to fresh food, support local farmers and food producers and build community.
Summer produce is reaching its peak with corn, tomatoes, eggplant and peaches all available. During the week, there are many opportunities for area residents to visit one or more farmers markets. On Sunday, the Acton-Boxborough Farmers’ Market is held at 19 Elm Street in Acton from 10am – 1pm, www.abfarmersmarket.org/. On Tuesday, visit the Hudson Farmers Market from 3:30-6:30 pm at 76 Main St in front of Town Hall. www.facebook.com/hudsonsfarmersmarket Saturday, there are two local options: visit , the Maynard Farmers’ Market from 9am-1pm in the Mill Pond parking lot on Main St,  www.MaynardFarmersMarket.com or or the Marlborough Farmers Market at 19 Weed st behind city hall from 9am--1pm, www.facebook.com/Marlborough-Farmers-Market-306000149747102 . The Hudson, Marlborough and Maynard markets can all be easily accessed from the Assabet River Rail Trail https://www.facebook.com/AssabetRiverRailTrail/.
In addition to offerings such as local fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods, meats, dairy, eggs, coffee, pasta, cider, wine and other specialty items, most farmers' markets are gathering places that often feature artisans, musical performances, community information, kids’ activities and special events such as and cooking demonstrations. Many MA Farmers' Markets also accept Senior / WIC Farmers' Market coupons and SNAP benefits. Check the individual market websites for details.  Let's make this the week everyone visits a farmers' market to find out what all the excitement is about!

First Parish Church of Stow & Acton will join several Unitarian Universalist (UU) churches at the 21st annual Joint UU Summer Service.
First Church Unitarian of Littleton will host the service on Aug. 4 at 10 a.m., led by Rev. Lara Hoke. There will be a pick-up choir, with all singers welcome and rehearsal beginning at 8:30 a.m.
The annual service includes the UU churches serving Bolton, Fitchburg, Harvard, Lancaster, Leominster, Littleton, Marlborough/Hudson, and Stow/Acton.
First Church Unitarian of Littleton is located at 19 Foster St, Littleton. A link will be posted at fculittle.org for those who wish to attend virtually.

Join us for evening performances on Friday and Saturday, August 2nd and 3rd, at 7pm. Plus, a special Sunday afternoon show on August 4th at 2pm. This event is a fundraiser for the Armory, with all performers, director, and producer volunteering their time and talent. Suggested donation is $10 per person. With a suggested donation of $10.00, all proceeds will support the preservation efforts of the Hudson Armory. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs due to limited seating. Rain dates: August 9th, 10th, and 11th if needed.
Location: The Hudson Armory, 35 Washington Street. For more details, visit https://www.hudsonarmoryproject.org/events/shakespeare-in-the-park

Stow, Mass., July 28 – The annual Blessing of the Animals will be held on the grounds of First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) on July 28 at 10 a.m. Join FPC member Susan Avery with your animal(s) or representations of them (photos, drawings, etc.) as this service explores the power they have to lift our spirits. We’ll celebrate by collectively blessing each of them.
Because this service will be held outdoors, it will not be streamed. Child care is available for all in-person summer services.
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

 

The third annual Assabet Craft Beer & Food Truck Festival will include local craft beer brewers, food trucks, music from Becky & the Swingin’ Bards, and a separate, dedicated children’s area with games and crafts.
General admission is $5-10 donation per person, with those 12 and under admitted free. Drink tickets are $5, and soft drinks and bottled water will be available at food trucks. The event will proceed rain or shine.
The festival will take place on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 12 to 4 p.m., at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow, MA. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact craftbeerfest@fpc-stow-acton.org or visit facebook.com/AssabetCraftBeer.

The Chelmsford Historical Society, in collaboration with Goonz Car Club Massachusetts, will be holding a classic car show on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 1-4pm.
All pre-1970 cars and trucks are welcome at the event. The show will feature the 1959 Raven, a custom car designed and built by Arthur Bentas in Chelmsford from 1950-1959. It has won numerous awards and was bought by Joe Germann in 2007 and restored in time to celebrate its 50th anniversary of winning the 1959 NHRA National Championship Custom Car Show Trophy.
The car show will be held rain or shine at the Barrett-Byam Homestead, located at 40 Byam Road, Chelmsford, MA. There will be food for purchase, music, games, a 50/50 raffle, and tours of the house.

The SRTC will be holding our July meeting at Pompositticut Community Center on Monday July 29th at 7pm.
Topics will include the Trump Force 47 campaign ongoings in Massachusetts, as well as the upcoming September primaries. We will also discuss opportunities to help out here in the town of Stow and continue to push the town in the right affordable direction, so we stop getting priced out of our homes. A review of openings for board member positions in town will be included for anyone looking to get more involved in the grind of the political machine.
Look forward to seeing you all on the 29th.

Thursdays at Pompo Community Center from 10 until noon.  The Creators Club is a group of people who like to create things, share ideas, and have fun! Doesn’t matter if you’re a knitter, sewer, or just love making crafty things. There are soooo many craft supplies donated to us, and we want to make things to sell in the Gift Shop. Everyone is welcome . . . seniors, non-seniors, men, women . . . only requirement is that you enjoy working as a team! Proceeds benefit the COA and Stow’s senior residents. Visit https://stowfriendsofthecoa.org/ to view our video.

Hawkins is the first African American to build, own, and operate a golf course in Massachusetts. Originally named Mapledale Country Club in 1926 when Robert H. Hawkins purchased the Randall Estate, Mapledale hosted the first three UGA “Negro National” Open Championship golf tournaments in 1926, 1927, and 1928 before closing in 1929 under the weight of the Great Depression.
Join us for the 1st Annual Robert H. Hawkins Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, August 26th 2024 at the Stow Acres in Stow, MA. Following a fun round of golf, we’ll host a luncheon for both golfers and non-golfers to finish off the day. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the United Golfers Association (UGA).
Register online at this eventbrite link. Please visit our website www.rediscovermapledale.org to sign up and play in this great event or partner with us as a sponsor. If you’re unable to attend and would still like to support our cause, you can donate directly on our website.

Stow town officials break ground on an $11.9 million renovation and expansion of the Randall Library on Wednesday afternoon. From left are Randall Library Friends President Lisa Lavina, Library Trustee Chair Maureen Busch, Library Director Tina McAndrew, Town Administrator Denise Dembkoski, state Sen. James Eldridge, and Building Committee Member Kat Copeland. (Courtesy Town of Stow)
STOW — The Town of Stow is delighted to share that ground has been broken on an approximately $11.9 million renovation and expansion of the Randall Library.
Major planned improvements include making the entire building compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, restoring the historic entrance, creating a dedicated children’s space, a dedicated teen space, staff space, outdoor space, and updating the HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems.
Construction is expected to conclude in July of 2025.
“It may not have happened on the first try, or even the second, but we are here now, and your hard work and love for free services for all, a community gathering space, and a healthy and accessible building have brought us to this day,” said Library Director Tina McAndrew.
The renovation and expansion were first approved in spring of 2022, when voters approved an $8.85 million Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion to fund the project. Due to increasing costs, at Special Town Meeting in September, voters authorized the Town Administrator to spend an additional $2.5 million on the project, but that funding will come from the general fund operating budget and will not be raised through taxation. The project also received a $500,000 grant from the state Department of Energy Resources Green Communities Division.
Additionally, $1 million in Community Preservation Act funds are being used for the project, which received donations of $500,000 from the Library Trustees, and $400,000 from the Hale High School Trust Fund.
The General Contractor for the project is SMI (Southern Middlesex Industries Inc.) of Norwood. SMI will be working alongside the architects, designLAB, and the Owner’s Project Manager, Colliers Project Leaders.
“Libraries have long been the heartbeats of society, fostering knowledge, connection and growth,” said Town Administrator Denise Dembkoski. “Our vision for this renovation goes beyond bricks and mortar. It is about embracing technology, nurturing creativity, fostering connections, and making lifelong patrons.”
Library Trustees Chair Maureen Busch thanked all those who contributed to the project, and said the project was made possible by the generosity of many within the community.
“This is going to be a fantastic space,” said Lisa Lavina, President of the Randall Library Friends.
“The library is not just a building that houses books, but rather a place where community is built,” said Building Committee Member Kat Copeland. “The library provides program for adults and children, museum passes, a collection of fun and practical things to check out, meeting spaces for groups and friends, and free access to the internet to name a few things in addition to the collection of books and media.”
Those in attendance at the groundbreaking included: Senator Jamie Eldridge, Select Board Members Chairman JT Toole, Megan Birch McMichael, Hector Constantzos, and Cortni Frecha; Randall Library Trustees Chair Maureen Busch, Marcy Eckel, Morgan Hillman, Rachael Flaherty, Sunny Richardson, and Barbie Wolfenden. 
The Town would like to recognize the members of the two Building Committees who have worked tirelessly to get to this groundbreaking. On the Library Building Committee 2.0 is Chair Tina McAndrew, Town Administrator Denise Dembkoski, Building Commissioner Frank Ramsbottom, Aisha Anderson, Kat Copeland, Marcy Eckel, Morgan Hillman, Lisa Lavina, and Sunny Richardson. Members of the Exterior Building Committee are: Chair Tina McAndrew, Town Administrator Denise Dembkoski, Building Commissioner Frank Ramsbottom, Kat Copeland, Richard Fishman, Andrew Grote, and Melissa Rollins.

The SRTC will be holding our July meeting at Pompositticut Community Center on Monday July 29th at 7pm.
Topics will include the Trump Force 47 campaign ongoings in Massachusetts, as well as the upcoming September primaries. We will also discuss opportunities to help out here in the town of Stow and continue to push the town in the right affordable direction, so we stop getting priced out of our homes. A review of opening for board member positions in town will be included for anyone looking to get more involved in the grind of the political machine.
Look forward to seeing you all on the 29th.

The First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton Street, will be offering a FREE B-B-Q Friendship Dinner, rain or shine, on Saturday, July 20th served at 5:00 pm on our back lawn.   Come and enjoy classic summer favorites; Chicken and salads, dessert and watermelon.
Put this in your calendars and plan on enjoying some delicious summer eats.  Invite your friends and neighbors.   Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on.   Inside if it rains.
Friendship Dinners are served the fourth Saturday of every month and are free 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.org

Stow, Mass., July 19 – All are welcome to a multigenerational game night that takes place on the third Friday of the month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Enjoy free parking, free snacks, and free fun!

There will be a focus on card games in July, including Mille Bornes, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, Munchkin, and a unique deck of cards called “One Deck: multi game cards” that can also be used to play dominoes, chess, checkers, and backgammon.

The next Game Night will take place on Friday, July 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. FPC is a nut-free location. It’s located at 353 Great Rd, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Stow, Mass., July 21 – From his early years to the present, Springsteen’s songs and concerts have been a collaboration with fans to form a community in search of everyday salvation. At First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), FPC member Dave Sansone will connect those ideas with what is done at FPC to engage folks who are in search of a home.

The service will take place both in person and virtually on July 21 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for all in-person summer services. 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.

 

Once again, The World’s A Stage Players, Concord Players’ Shakespeare Troupe, will stage a free production on the lawn of the Concord Free Public Library. The Merry Wives of Windsor will be presented on consecutive Saturdays and Sundays, July 20-27 at 5 PM.
One of Shakespeare’s funniest and most accessible comedies, The Merry Wives of Windsor is, in many ways, a thoroughly modern production. “I think of Merry Wives as a contemporary soap opera,” says Director Jim Porter. “Everything is just pitched a little higher, everything is a bit more over the top, it’s all very dramatic … which, of course, makes for great comedy.”
The two Merry Wives, played by Hannah Clifford (Mistress Ford) and Jacey Lynn Rutledge (Mistress Page) are simultaneously wooed by the arrogant yet oblivious Falstaff (played by Mike Haddad). Once they discover his brazen pursuit, they decide to have a little fun at his expense and go to extensive lengths to make him look like a fool.
“Hannah and I have several scenes where we team up to undermine Falstaff’s egotism and self-importance,” says Jacey. “Our characters know what’s going on. The audience knows what’s going on. But Falstaff has no idea, which is a lot of fun.”
Mike Haddad, a frequent performer and director with The World’s A Stage Players, turns Falstaff’s foibles into comic gold. “His cluelessness is what makes him fun,” says Mike. “He thinks he’s God’s gift to humanity, and assumes everyone else thinks so too. It’s a great role to play and a funny one to watch.”
The show features some of Shakespeare’s best wordplay. Shakespeare creates several hilarious characters with non-traditional and/or non-English accents – the French Doctor Caius (played by Andrew Harrington) struggles mightily with his English, while the Welsh parson Sir Hugh Evans’ (played by John Small, making his World’s A Stage Players’ debut) malapropisms add to the humor. Andrew’s real-life wife, Jasmine Yong Hall, plays the inn-keeper Mistress Quickly with a full-on cockney accent.
Merry Wives also features strong women characters, which creates a sense of female empowerment that feels distinctly feminist.
“One of the best things about the show is that the women are firmly in charge,” notes Director Jim Porter. “The men range from jovial to profoundly jealous to utterly moronic, but the women are smart, clever and very funny.”
As always, The World’s A Stage Players draws on a cast of both regulars, occasional returnees and newcomers. Returnees from last summer include Ava Enoch, Michael Jay, Darin Kimball and AJ Gaudreau, along with newcomer Cherry Lynn Zinger and Rutledge. Other familiar faces include Katie Speed, Mike Lague, Julian Willard, Kathleen O’Connor (who is also producing the show) and Ed Bernard. Ed and Andrew Harrington are the only two performers who have
appeared in every World’s A Stage Players’ production. “This is the first time in several years where my character is both alive and married at the end of the show,” says Ed, a Concord resident. “Usually, I’m either dead or alone or both.”
Performances are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, July 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 5 PM on the lawn of the Concord Free Public Library, with a rain venue at 51 Walden Street. There is also an indoor air-conditioned performance on Friday, July 26 at 7 PM.
Patrons are invited to bring blankets or chairs and sit on the lawn; a limited number of chairs will be provided. For more information, visit www.concordplayers.org.

Fourteen members of the Stow Garden Club enjoyed lunch al fresco at the home of Ruth Delmonico recently. Gifts were given to Diane Pellietier ( Past President), Jennifer Mandlebaum (Treasurer), and Eva Barstow (Secretary) for serving as officers of the club. Newly elected officers for the ensuing year include: Mary Staley and Gladys Beaudette, Co-Presidents; Ruth Delmonico, Vice President; Nancy Buck, Secretary. Committee Chairs are Susan Choyce and Ruth Delmonico, Civic Projects & Fundraising, which includes the Daffodil Sale in October. Publicity is handled by Susan Pauley, the Yearbook is created by Kirsten Berg-Sonne, the Garden Tour is arranged by Jai Gluckman-Thomas, Hospitality & the Annual Luncheon, Marge Alessio. Louise Peacock is the Scholarship Chair, which is given to a graduating senior in Stow, who is interested in furthering their education in horticulture, agriculture, or related subjects. Members discussed program plans and will finalize the calendar during the summer months. Meetings can consist of garden educational speakers, floral arrangements to take home, or trips to nearby gardens and arboretums. A local garden tour may be planned. The club recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion and is open to anyone in Stow or nearby towns. For membership details see the website www.stowgardenclub.org or contact Louise Peacock, Membership Chair.