BOSTON (August 7, 2025) – Many young people in foster care enter new schools with few resources, making it difficult to keep pace with their peers. Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is seeking community support to fill back-to-school wishlists for children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect. The organization's greatest need is for clothing gift cards from Old Navy, Kohl’s, DSW, and other retailers. Gift cards from Target, Marshalls, and Walmart are also needed for youth in college or entering independent living.
Boston CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to serve as CASAs in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties for children removed from their homes, most of whom end up in foster care.
The challenges foster youth face are reflected in the statistics: only about half graduate from high school, and fewer than 4% go on to earn a four-year college degree. Steady support and access to basic necessities can help change these outcomes—building a stronger, more secure foundation for the children and youth who need it most.
Last year, the nonprofit gave more than $1,200 of gift cards and supplies to youth in need of back-to-school support. Boston CASA’s Back-To-School Drive runs through September 8.
In addition to school supplies, Boston CASA works year-round to help every child they serve celebrate their birthday. Community members can help by purchasing items from the organization’s Amazon “activities” wishlist, ensuring each child has a special gift to open on their big day.
To donate or learn more, visit linktr.ee/bostoncasa or email Charly Snellings at charly@bostoncasa.org.
About Boston CASA
Boston CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties for children removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect, most of whom end up in foster care. Unlike mentors, CASAs work within the child welfare system, advocating directly in court and alongside DCF to ensure children in foster care receive the support, stability, and services they need. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory—help us be that difference. Volunteer, donate, or support our mission at www.bostoncasa.org . #ChangeAChildsStory

"The Friends of the Hudson Public Library are pleased to present its 8th Lobster and Meat Shoot fundraiser. This promises to be an entertaining and exciting evening. The game of “shoot” uses playing cards. It is similar to Keno or bingo and you have the opportunity to win prizes of fresh lobster and steak!
The Lobster and Meat Shoot will take place at the VFW Hall, 3 Palmieri Drive, Hudson, on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar, basket drawings, and a 50/50 cash raffle. If you are new to the game of shoot, we welcome you to join us and see what the fun is about! So, gather friends and family and enjoy the night while supporting a great cause – the Hudson Public Library. Funds raised from this event will be used to augment the work of the Friends which support passes to farms, museums, and other venues. The Friends also support the summer reading programs.
Admission to the VFW Hall is free, and card sets for the games will be sold at the door. The lobster and meat prizes are “top shelf.” Remember – you can’t win if you don’t play. See you on September 27th."

ATTENTION Stow residents and business owners! The Town will be hosting STOWcase 2025, on October 23, 2025 from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Center School. STOWcase is an evening open house to showcase some of what Stow has to offer its residents. Stow businesses and/or residents who own a business will have the opportunity to participate. Participating business will be provided with an 8x8 area to set up their table or display area. A chair will be provided. There is no fee to participate, however participants must donate an item to be included as part of the STOWcase raffles. Applications are due no later than September 1, 2025. Space is limited. The STOWcase team will review all complete applications. Applications will be approved or denied based on several factors including preference for Stow residents and to those that best meet the objective of this event. If you wish to participate, please contact Gigi at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov to receive the on-line application link.

Shakespeare, music, movies, and art workshops bring Hudson together

HUDSON, MA – July, 31 2025 – The Armory on the Assabet is excited to continue its "Arts Around theArmory—Summer 2025" series this August, offering a dynamic lineup of events that celebrate the arts and foster community connection. From live theater and classical music to outdoor movies and hands-on art workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The month begins with Shakespeare at the Armory: Much Ado About Nothing, an outdoor performance of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. From August 8–10, audiences can gather on the Armory Lawn along the Assabet River, under the Armory Canopy, to enjoy the Bard’s wit and romance under the stars. Bring a picnic, blanket, or chair, and prepare for an evening of laughter, love, and sharp dialogue. While the event is free, a suggested donation of $10 per person is encouraged to support the Arts Around the Armory series.

On August 21, the Symphony Pro Musica Concert will fill the air with the enchanting sounds of classical music. Featuring performances by Symphony Pro Musica’s Woodwinds, Strings, and Brass Sections, this open-air concert under the Armory Canopy promises an unforgettable evening of music and community. This event is proudly sponsored by D. Francis Murphy Insurance Agency, whose support helps bring world-class music to Hudson.

Families and film lovers can look forward to the rescheduled Movie on the Lawn: The Goonies on August 29 sponsored by Main Street Bank in partnership with the Hudson Public Library. This free, family-friendly screening invites attendees to bring their blankets, lawn chairs, and favorite people for a nostalgic night of outdoor cinema under the stars.

For those looking to explore their creative side, the Summer Watercolor Workshops on August 9 and
August 16 offer a chance to learn watercolor techniques and create nature-inspired masterpieces. Led by instructor Katherine Vanase, these beginner-friendly workshops are perfect for adults eager to try
something new. “These events highlight the Armory’s role as a space for creativity, connection, and inspiration,” said Tom Desmond, president of the Hudson Cultural Alliance. "We’re excited to see the community come together to celebrate the arts and envision the Armory’s future as a centerpiece for culture in the region."

To learn more about the Arts Around the Armory series or explore the full schedule of events, visit
www.ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org or contact Leah Leahy at Leah@lioralanemarketing.com.

About The Armory on the Assabet
The Armory on the Assabet is a leading arts and cultural organization dedicated to enriching the Hudson, and Metrowest communities through diverse artistic expressions and cultural experiences. Serving as a hub for creativity and collaboration, the Armory hosts a wide range of events, performances, and educational programs aimed at fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation. Committed to inspiring and uniting people through the power of the arts, the Armory on the Assabet is steadfast in its mission to be a cornerstone of cultural life in the Hudson area. For more information, please visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org.

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

A support group for mothers in the loss of a child..........

Saturday August 16, 2025
10:30am-12:30pm

Hudson Public Library
Tavare Room
3 Washington St
Hudson, MA

www.mylesabove.org

Today (7/29) was hotter than hot but client families showed up to “shop” and donors came in a steady stream. We are very low on a lot of items; if you can help us by bringing your used (or new!) items, it would be so appreciated.

We need:
Couches, dish sets, small appliances (toasters, blenders, microwave ovens), and air fryers, book cases, storage cabinets, table lamps and vacuum cleaners.
Kitchen items: Large skillets, large pots, cereal bowls, drinking gasses, pot holders, cooking & baking pans.
Linens: Throw blankets, twin & full bed blankets, crib sheets, towels, queen & full sheet sets.

Finally - we have no shower hooks and liners in inventory at present.

Help if you can!
Check our website for location and hours to donate. www.freshstartfurniturebank.org
Thank you!

 

Leominster, MA – [July 31, 2025] – Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is thrilled to invite community members, businesses, and supporters to the Annual Building Dreams Golf Tournament on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the stunning Red Tail Golf Club in Devens, MA.
This exciting event brings together golf lovers and community champions for a day of fun, networking, and philanthropy — all in support of Habitat NCM’s mission to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
Event Details:
Red Tail Golf Club – Devens, MA
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Schedule:

• 7:00 AM – Registration
• 8:15 AM – Shotgun Start
• Lunch immediately following play

Whether you're swinging for the green or cheering from the sidelines, your participation helps fund three new affordable homes and over 35 critical home repairs each year for families in our local communities.
Golfer spots and sponsorships are available now – but selling fast!
Register today: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/8gfsyam
A special thank you to our generous sponsors, whose support makes this event possible:
All One Credit Union, The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C., Rollstone Bank & Trust, McCarty Companies, Package Steel Systems, Inc., Main Street Bank, Doors Unlimited Inc., J Ferrera Associates, Inc., Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, James Monroe Wire & Cable, GFA Federal Credit Union, Fidelity Bank MA, The Majestic Group, Powell Stone & Gravel, DMH Electric, Inc., Middlesex Savings Bank, Country Bank, Darcangelo Realty Group, and New England Sheets.

About Habitat NCM 
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (NCM) offers a hand up, not a hand out, to hard-working, low-income families in central Massachusetts seeking affordable homeownership. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat NCM builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses alongside our homeowner partner families. Habitat NCM also operates the Leominster ReStore, which raises funds through the sale of discounted or recycled materials and furniture to support Habitat’s mission of providing affordable housing.

Congratulations to Debra's 2nd generation owner, Adam Stark. Adam received the 2025 INFRA Cheryl Hughes Brix Award for leadership in the natural products industry. After 9 years on the board of directors in Minneapolis and 30 years in Concord, Adam has made the Deb's Natural Gourmet team proud. The Brix award is because the store is "bricks and mortar". In addition to honoring Adam, his Mother was recognized with the naming of the Debra Stark Award.
If you haven't been to the Concord store, make it a field trip. The store has two locations next door to each other. You will love them both!

Acton:  Acton-Boxborough Farmer's Market
Runs Sundays June 15 – October 12 10AM – 1PM
Location: Elm Street Playground, Acton
Features live music and a variety of vendors including local produce and artisanal goods.

Maynard: Maynard Farmer's Market
Runs Saturdays 9AM – 1PM from the last Saturday in June to the last Saturday in September
Location: Mill Pond Parking Lot, Main Street in Maynard
Features local produce and products, live music, kids' activities, and information about local nonprofits.

Carlisle: Carlisle Farmer's Market
Runs Saturdays 8AM-12PM until September 27th
Location:  Kimball Farm Carlisle, 343 Bedford Road, Carlisle
Features local produce, baked goods, and arts and crafts.

Westford: Roudenbush Community Market
Runs Tuesdays from 3PM – 7PM until August 26
Location: The Abbot School, 25 Depot St, Westford
Features an assortment of local vendors including fresh local produce and local art.

Chelmsford: Market on the Common
Runs most Saturdays 11AM – 2PM
from May 31 – October 11
Location: 1 North Road, Chelmsford
Features local produce, artisans, food vendors, and more.

Hudson: Hudson Farmer's Market
Runs every Tuesday 3:30PM – 6PM through September 23 (except 9/2)
Location: Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street, Hudson
Features live music, local produce, baked goods, and local artisans.

Marlborough: Marlborough Farmer's Market
Runs Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
from June 14 – October 4
Location: Behind City Hall, 140 Main St, Marlborough
Features local produce, live music, kids' activities, artisans, and food vendors.

Nashoba Valley Technical High School Foundation 12th Annual Craft Fair will be held Saturday, November 22, 2025 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).
Vendors can now register now for the 2025 NVTHS Foundation craft fair via the following link.
http://weblink.donorperfect.com/nvths_foundation_craft_fair
Any questions, email NVTHSFoundation@nashobatech.net

 

Music & More!
Ongoing 3rd Friday Bluegrass Jam
A community event open to the public. All are welcome, 7-10pm. You can bring your banjo, fiddle, voice, or just come to watch every 3rd Friday in a month from September-June! Everyone has a great time. Future Dates: 8/15, 9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19, 1/16/26, 2/20, (No March), 4/17, 5/15, 6/19, 7/17, 8/21...

Ongoing Thursday Night Sing & Jam
A community event open to the public weekly on Thursdays from 7-10pm (year-round). Bring your instrument &/or voice and join the Sing & Jam fun! $5 suggested cover. Future Dates:  8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 …

Current Volunteer Opportunities!
Concerts & Events
For every concert and event during a season, the PCA has to be set up accordingly with chairs and/or tables for the audience (and taken down after the fact). We need greeters and box office support, and the sprucing up of the Hall post show. Many hands make light work & you get to see a show free! Training, if needed, is provided. Ongoing opportunities will be posted in this newsletter, but if you’d like to be emailed directly when needs arise, email Volunteer Coordinator Carol Wing to get on the “Volunteer” list.
Arts in the Loft
The PCA’s Arts-in-the-Loft program is growing and we’re in need of after-school youth and evening adult art instructors.  If you are interested, or know someone who might be interested, reach out to PCA’s Business Manager JulieAnn Govang!  Classes to resume in October’2025.

Board Members Welcome
The PCA Board is the governing force behind all you see, and it takes committed volunteers to keep things running smoothly.  Would you like more information about getting more involved in all things PCA? Contact PCA’s President Raj Puranik!

CONCORD, Mass. – Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the country’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers with 50 locations in nine states, is once again rallying communities to support children in need with Ace’s annual “Fill the Bucket” fundraiser benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
From Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3, customers who visit participating Rocky’s Ace Hardware stores can donate $5 to receive a limited-edition five-gallon bucket. As a thank you, shoppers will receive 20% off nearly everything they can fit inside the bucket*.
One hundred percent of the $5 donation goes directly to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which provide critical care, life-saving treatments and essential medical services to children in local communities across the country.
“This fundraiser is a fun, tangible way for customers to support local children’s hospitals and families facing some of life’s toughest challenges,” said Rocco Falcone, president of Rocky’s Ace Hardware. “Every dollar makes a difference, and this event is a great example of neighbors helping neighbors.”
Rocky’s Ace Hardware has a longstanding tradition of community giving, and the “Fill the Bucket” event is one of the most popular ways the company helps raise funds for vital causes.
*Some exclusions apply; see store for details.
About Rocky’s Ace Hardware
Rocky’s Ace Hardware, your neighborhood store for paint, hardware, lawn and garden, and grilling, has been in continuous operation, under the same family ownership, since opening its first location in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1926. From one modest store to now 50 convenient locations throughout Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, Rocky's has become one of the country's largest Ace Hardware dealers, noted for its exceptional customer service and vast product selection. For more information, visit rockys.com.

   The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday August 10.  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.

Join us on Tuesday, August 26th from 2:00PM – 7:00PM at the Maynard-Clinton Lodge of Elks #1568 located at 34 Powdermill Road, Maynard, MA.
Please call 781-461-2052 to schedule an appointment.

Give August 1-28th for $15 e-gift card & successful donations get A1C testing. Terms: rcblood.org/Test.

Several seniors are looking to play Bingo with fellow residents, and the COA wants to help!  If you are interested, please email COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov to indicate your interest, availability (day and time during our business hours of M-F, 8-3:30), frequency (weekly, etc.), and anything else related you’d like to share. 

Stow, Mass., Aug. 17 – Join us on August 17 at 10 AM with your animal(s) or representations of them (photos, etc.) as we explore the power they have to lift our spirit and bring us joy. We’ll celebrate by collectively blessing each of them. We will also acknowledge our pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

The service this week will take place outside on the grounds at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). Feel free to bring a blanket or chair. There will not be a virtual service available this week. Childcare is available. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. The facilities are wheelchair accessible with accessible parking. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

 

WHAT: The New England Aquarium is hosting a book signing for Charlesbridge Publishing’s recently published Turtles Heading Home! by Liza Ketchum, Phyllis Root, and Jacqueline Briggs Martin. The new book follows the efforts of Massachusetts conservationists as they rescue critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, provide rehabilitation, and release them back to their ocean home. The Aquarium’s year-round Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation work to save and protect cold-stunned sea turtles is featured throughout the book, along with imagery captured by the Aquarium’s photographer, Vanessa Kahn. The book is geared towards 6–9 year olds, and  readers will walk away from the book knowing more about the rescue efforts necessary to save the species from the impacts of changing ocean temperatures.
The authors will hold a brief talk at the start of the event to welcome attendees and provide an overview of the book. Books will be available for purchase on-site.
WHEN: Wednesday, August 6 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: In person at the New England Aquarium’s Simons Theatre lobby, 1 Central Wharf, Boston.
HOW: No registration or tickets are needed—attendees are welcome to arrive and enter the theater lobby freely.
WHO: 

• Liza Ketchum is the author of seventeen books for young people, including The Life Fantastic and The Last Garden. Her books have appeared on the ALA’s Best Book lists and the New York Public Library’s 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing. She and her husband divide their time between Vermont and Massachusetts. Www.lizketchum.org
• Jacqueline Briggs Martin is the author of over twenty picture books for children, including award-winners Snowflake Bentley, a Caldecott medal winner, and Creekfinding: A True Story, recipient of the Green Earth Award for Environmental Writing for Children and a Riverby Award. Jacqueline lives in Iowa with her husband. www.jacquelinebriggsmartin.com
• Phyllis Root is the author of fifty books for children, including Big Belching Bog; Plant a Pocket of Prairie; One North Star; Big Momma Makes the World, a Boston Globe-Horn Book Award winner; and The Lost Forest, a National Outdoor Book Award winner. Phyllis resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota. www.phyllisiroot.com

ABOUT THE NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM: The New England Aquarium  is a nonprofit research and conservation organization that has protected and cared for our ocean and marine animals for more than 50 years. We provide science-based solutions and help shape policies that create measurable change to address threats the ocean faces. We inspire action through discovery and help create engaged, resilient communities.

ABOUT CHARLESBRIDGE: Charlesbridge publishes high-quality books for children, with a goal of creating lifelong readers and lifelong learners. Our books encourage reading and discovery in the classroom, library, and home. We believe that books for children should offer accurate information, promote a positive worldview, and embrace a child's innate sense of wonder and fun. To this end, we continually strive to seek new voices, new visions, and new directions in children's literature.

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

“Moments in Time and Place” a collection of oil paintings by Judith-Grace Miller will be on display for the month of August at the Munroe Gallery, located on the 2nd floor of the Concord Free Public Library. Opening reception will be Thursday, August 7 from 5-8pm. These colorful paintings will take you back to magical summers at the beach, fresh lobster rolls, and basking in the sun with family and friends. The paintings will range from seascapes, figurative works, and architecture to local scenes painted en plein air. The event is free and open to the public. The Concord Free Public Library is located at 129 Main St, Concord, MA. Learn more at www.judymillerartist.com

 

Wayland, MA – Native Plant Trust, the nation’s first plant conservation organization dedicated exclusively to native plants, proudly announces the celebration of its 125th anniversary. As part of this milestone, the organization will honor acclaimed climate scientist Dr.Jonathan Foley, executive director of Project Drawdown,with its prestigious Founders’ Medal at a gala in Boston this fall. This 125th anniversary marks both a historic legacy and a bold vision for the future—one grounded in the belief that native plants are essential to solving the climate and biodiversity crises.
The 125th Anniversary Gala will take place on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Artists for Humanity Epicenter in Boston, Massachusetts. In addition to honoring Dr. Foley, Native Plant Trust will recognize longtime supporters Abby and Peter Coffin for their extraordinary contributions to the organization’s mission. The Coffins embrace the principles of Native Plant Trust with inspiration, sincerity, and generosity of spirit. Together, they are tireless advocates for protecting and conserving the land and waterways of our nation. The evening’s theme, “Sowing the Seeds for Our Future,” reflects Native Plant Trust’s enduring commitment to ecological resilience through native plant conservation. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase at: www.NativePlantTrust.org/gala
“As we mark 125 years of conservation, the stakes have never been higher: One in five native plant species in New England is now rare or endangered,” notes Tim Johnson, CEO of Native Plant Trust. “Our response must match the scale of this ecological emergency. Let this milestone serve as a rallying cry for urgent, science-based action. In just the past 50 years, we’ve lost over 30 percent of plant biodiversity globally. Native Plant Trust has shown that coordinated, data-driven efforts can reverse that trend. But we need more hands, more support, and more resolve to meet the next century’s challenges. The next 125 years will depend on our collective will to protect land, invest in science, and restore balance to the natural world.”
ABOUT NATIVE PLANT TRUST
For over a century, Native Plant Trust has been leading the movement to conserve native plants in the wild and use them in designed spaces. We do this to increase the beauty and resilience of New England and the planet. From our base in Massachusetts, staff and trained volunteers work throughout New England each year to monitor and protect rare and endangered plants, collect and preserve seeds to ensure biological diversity, detect and control invasive species, conduct research, and offer a range of educational programs. We welcome visitors from all over the world to Garden in the Woods, our renowned native plant botanic garden in Framingham, MA. We also operate a nursery at Nasami Farm in western Massachusetts and manage six sanctuaries in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont that are open to the public. Please visit NativePlantTrust.org.

CONCORD,MA – The Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is pleased to announce a FREE Volunteer Advocate Training program for interested community members.  DVSN provides emotional support, risk assessment and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in our 13 member communities.
The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, DVSN’s volunteer Advocates provide direct service over the phone, at the Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.
The September 2025 training will be held at the Lexington Police department starting on September 8 to September 26; Monday and Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Fridays from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM.  for those who decide to activate as Advocates, there is an additional 10 to 12 hours of supervised field training at the completion of the classroom segment. 
The training is provided at no cost to attendees. All necessary materials will be provided.  For more information about the training or to request an application, call (978) 318-3421 or send an e-mail to training@dvsn.org . Applications are due no later than Friday, August 29, 2025.
To learn more about DVSN and its programs, services, and events, visit DVSN.org.
DVSN member communities: Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Maynard, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, Weston and Hanscom Security Forces.

 

The Silver Club of the Uxbridge Senior Center is planning some trips that anyone is welcome to join. Upcoming is a trip to Washington,DC from July 25-28. Three nights lodging, 3 dinners and 3 breakfasts as well as a comprehensive tour of the city and time at the Smithsonian museums are included.
There will be a 3 day trip to New York City from August 16-18. It includes 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and 2 nights lodging as well as a harbor cruise and lots of touring with a step-on guide to see all the sights of this exciting city.
From Sept. 14-20 there is a trip to Charleston, SC planned including 10 meals, a guided tour of the city, a tour of a historic plantation, a harbor cruise, a visit to Middleton Place, a visit to the Charleston Tea Garden along with a trolley tour, a tour of an historic home, and more.

Please call Sue at 508-341-0797 for more information. The bus will leave from the Millbury Park and Ride in Millbury.

Please join the Acton Commission on Disabilities in celebrating the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Sunday, July 27th (11 am to 2 pm ... rain or shine)

NARA Park 25 Ledge Rock Way (Lower pavilion) (wheelchair accessible)

We will provide sandwiches and flavored seltzer water

Acton residents can reserve a free, accessible ride there and back by calling 978-844-6809

OPEN  TO  ALL

 

BOXBOROUGH, MA – Open Door Theater of Acton and Think Outside the Vox (Vox) are proud to present the fourth annual Ask Me Fair - a living library experience designed for families and open to all. This is a free event on Saturday, July 19th from 2:30-4:30PM at Sargent Memorial Library in Boxborough, MA, with support from the Mass Cultural Council and the Acton-Boxborough Community Compass (formerly AB United Way).

Ask Me Fair was founded by President of Open Door Theater and Vox co-founder Sam Gould after her daughter was the target of anti-semitism by a classmate in 2019. Now in high school, she still witnesses racist, ableist and anti-semitic displays in the hallways. “We conceived this open forum of curiosity and exchange of ideas together, because once you meet someone, it is more difficult to dehumanize them,” says Gould. “The feedback from the participants is overwhelmingly positive and has inspired some children to explore other cultures, such as taking a class in ASL or joining a club or affinity group.”

This year’s presenters are a diverse group of adults who have different disabilities, cultural backgrounds and professional experiences as artists, musicians, activists, advocates and scientists. Together, presenters and attendees will engage in small group discussions to explore intersectionality and foster curiosity and community.

Accessibility features of this free event includes ASL Interpreters, closed captions, audio description, sighted guides, and braille materials. The venue has wheelchair-accessible entrances and bathrooms. FREE to attend with refreshments and prizes provided. Pre-registration requested at tinyURL.com/AskMeFair2025.

About Open Door Theater:
Open Door Theater has provided accessible opportunities for all including underserved audiences and participants to enjoy live theater for over 45 years. They’ve produced high-quality productions that feature crew and actors who are Deaf, disabled, Autistic, neurodiverse, Blind and/or have mobility and cognitive challenges. OpenDoorTheater.org. IG: @AccessibleTheater
About Think Outside the Vox:
Think Outside the Vox (VOX) is an arts accessibility nonprofit that trains and facilitates Deaf, Blind and disabled professionals to develop and diversify the voices of accessibility in the arts. Vox collaborates with theaters, museums, cultural institutions and arts organizations to improve their accessibility practices, remove barriers and amplify Disability Justice & Joy in these spaces. Visit ThinkOutsideTheVox.org. IG: @Think_Outside_The_Vox

 

Do you have pictures of the former Beef & Ale? If so, the owners of Dunkin would love to see them. They are looking for pictures of the former restaurant to showcase in the new Dunkin space.
If you have pictures, please send them to feedback@stow-ma.gov and we will forward them along to Megan and Mark.

 

Looking to add a canine member to your family?

Join Save A Dog on Saturday, July 19, from 10 am to 12 pm at our “Meet and Greet” adoption event at Wag N’ Wash, 1173 Main Street in West Concord. Meet the adorable dogs and puppies looking for their forever homes and speak directly with staff who can introduce you and tell you more!

Information about Save A Dog’s adoptable dogs (and cats!) can be found on the website: www.saveadog.org. Potential adopters are encouraged to fill out an online adoption application beforehand which helps streamline the adoption process and find the best match for you and your household.

Now in its 27th year of rescue, Save A Dog has found loving, forever homes for nearly 9,000 homeless pets through its Sudbury shelter and network of dedicated foster homes,

See you Saturday!

Crossroads Community Church is a brand-new church in Boxborough, MA, located at 60 Codman Hill Road. We’re passionate about building meaningful connections—not just within our church, but throughout the community.
In that spirit, we’re excited to invite adults ages 55 and up to our Seniors Breakfast on Saturday, July 12 at 9 AM. This free event is a great opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet new friends, and help strengthen the fabric of our local community.
We hold regular worship services every Sunday at 10 AM and Wednesday at 7 PM, and we love creating spaces for connection and encouragement throughout the year.
Registration is free but required. You can sign up by scanning the QR code or calling our office at (978) 844-1646.
We can’t wait to welcome you!

The Stow COA is always looking for volunteers. Complete a volunteer application (available as a pdf on our website https://www.stow-ma.gov/council-aging/pages/volunteer or hard copy at the Pompo Community Center), and return it to the Volunteer Coordinator (in person, by mail, or email to COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov).
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY AT MINUTEMAN WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE COA –
Minuteman Senior Services is looking for Meals on Wheels Drivers and Dining Coordinators & Assistants The COA works closely with Minuteman as they provide congregate meals at and deliver meals-on-wheels (MOW) from Pompo every Tuesday and Thursday. Minuteman is looking to increase its volunteer pool of MOWs Drivers and Dining Coordinators & Assistants,  More information can be found on the Minuteman website: https://minutemansenior.org/join-our-team/volunteer-opportunities/.
COA JOB OPPORTUNITY –
The Stow COA is seeking a full-time van driver.  The full job description can be found here: https://www.stow-ma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif11851/f/uploads/senior_van_driver_06_27_2025.pdf. 

The Stow Council on Aging (COA), is continuously sharing information of interest to our senior residents.  As part of this effort, we want to let you know how you can receive such information. Let us know what other ways we can share information. Send an email to COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov.

We publish a monthly newsletter, The Stow Senior Scoop.  The Stow Senior Scoop is delivered to every household in Stow as an insert in the Action Unlimited on the last Saturday of the month. An electronic copy is available on our website and additional paper copies are available at the COA and around town.

We post information on the town website https://www.stow-ma.gov/council-aging.

We issue “News and Announcements” periodically via the website.  If you subscribe to e-alerts, you will receive an email alerting you.

We maintain a confidential database including emails for residents that we have interacted with or attended one of our activities.  We use that information to send targeted emails.

We utilize electronic mediums such as Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor.

We submit information to “The Independent of Stow and Bolton” (formerly the Stow Independent) and “The Action Unlimited.”

 

HUDSON, MA – June 26, 2025 – The Armory on the Assabet is delighted to announce the upcoming Jane Austen Garden Party, an enchanting celebration of literature, history, and recreation, as part of the "Arts Around the Armory" summer series. Taking place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 3 PM under the Armory canopy and along the Assabet River, this event offers a unique opportunity to step back into the Regency era.
Adding to the ambiance, guests will be welcomed by “Lady Maria Chaffington,” Jane Austen’s dear friend, portrayed in a lively reenactment by Donna Chaff. Chaff, a talented pianist, will incorporate music into her performance, playing songs from the Jane Austen family songbook. Her reenactment will be interwoven with engaging talk and musical interludes, offering attendees an unforgettable glimpse into the wit and charm of Austen’s worldGuests will also enjoy a variety of engaging period activities, including Regency-era lawn games such as croquet, skittles (lawn bowling), and The Graces, a game designed to refine coordination and comportment for women of the time. Archery, a favored sport for women during the Regency era, will be a featured highlight. A professional archer will give a brief demonstration before inviting attendees to try their hand at the sport themselves, alongside the other delightful games.
“The Jane Austen Garden Party is an opportunity to bring the elegance and culture of Austen’s world to life,” said Tom Desmond, President and Founder of the Armory on the Assabet. “It’s a chance for our community to gather, celebrate history, and enjoy a unique and immersive experience that connects us to the arts in meaningful ways.”

Event Details
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
Time: 3 PM to 5 PM
Location: Under the Armory Canopy and along the Assabet River, 35 Washington Street, Hudson, MA
Tickets: $25 for adults, $15 for children aged 13 and under
Tickets are on sale now, and space is limited. Proceeds from the event will support future programming and community enrichment at the Armory on the Assabet.
Sponsored by Trisha and Tom Desmond, this event continues the "Arts Around the Armory" mission of celebrating creativity and fostering cultural appreciation in the Hudson community.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org or contact Leah Leahy at Leah@lioralanemarketing.com.
About The Armory on the Assabet
The Armory on the Assabet is a leading arts and cultural organization dedicated to enriching the Hudson, and Metrowest communities through diverse artistic expressions and cultural experiences. Serving as a hub for creativity and collaboration, the Armory hosts a wide range of events, performances, and educational programs aimed at fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation. Committed to inspiring and uniting people through the power of the arts, the Armory on the Assabet is steadfast in its mission to be a cornerstone of cultural life in the Hudson area. For more information, please visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org.

The Stow Council on Aging (COA) is seeking advertisers for its monthly newsletter. The Stow Senior Scoop is the Stow COA monthly newsletter. The Stow Senior Scoop is often the first place our senior residents turn to when looking for services related to their needs.  Further, staff encourage our residents to support our advertisers.

The Stow Senior Scoop is mailed as a monthly insert in the Action Unlimited to every household which includes our seniors.  Copies are also available at other local establishments in Stow (e.g. the Town Building and the Post Office).  Advertising in the Senior Scoop allows your ad to be read by all those recipients!

Becoming an advertiser is easy but don’t delay as space is limited! Contact the COA Office Manager at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov for more details.

Open artist reception is Wednesday July 9th, 5:30 to 8:00 pm, at the Pompo Community Center, 509 Great Road, Stow. Beside meeting the Stow Area Guild of Artists, enjoy the exhibit of their art.  The exhibit will be on display through September 2025.  Light refreshments will be served.  Featured this week is 'Tribute to Donald', Acrylic on canvas, by Charlie Streff.