Action Unlimited

DVSN’s Candlelight Vigil

Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) will host its annual Light in the Darkness Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Lexington Community Center, 39 Marret Road, Lexington. Held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month each October, the Vigil commemorates the lives lost in Massachusetts to domestic violence in the past year.
Community members will read each victim's story as their lives are represented by the reader, a rose, and a candle that is lit in their memory. In this year's keynote address, Chief Michael McLean of the Lexington Police Department will speak on the importance of community partnerships in supporting those who experience domestic violence.
"While the Vigil is a solemn occasion," says DVSN Executive Director Jacquelin Apsler, "It is also a night of hope. By publicly standing together to witness and commemorate, we build awareness and show the survivors in our communities that we believe their stories and support their journeys."
The public is invited to attend this free event. A light supper will be served following the ceremony. For more information regarding DVSN’s Candlelight Vigil, visit DVSN.org/Vigil or call 978-318-3421.

Classic Plastic Model Club
31st Annual Model Car Exhibition

Sunday, October 5, 2025, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Elks Hall, Lawrence, MA

See the best scale model vehicles in New England at the Classic Plastic Model Club’s 31st Annual Model Car Exhibition on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Enjoy 29 classes of competition, 3 awards per class, 8 major awards, 15 member’s favorite awards. Military modelers are welcome to enter our military class. The 2025 theme class is 70 years of Tri-Five Chevies:’55, ’56, or ’57 Chevrolets. The 2025 Sub-Theme Class is “Stolen cars from Gone in 60 Seconds” movie (2000 remake). One huge hall with breakfast and lunch available, vendor tables with kits and aftermarket parts, model kits raffled all day. Admission: $5 plus $3 per entry; age 17 and under free. 652 Andover Street, Lawrence. Directions: Rt. 93, exit 42 (River Rd.), turn east toward Lawrence. Elks Hall is 1.5 miles on left. Visit http://www.classicplastic.org for show flyer and model entry form, or contact Paul Anagnostopoulos, 978-852-4240.
Freshstart furniture bank

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

We are a 501C3 non-profit furniture bank, located in Hudson.  We provide furniture and furnishings to people in need at no charge.  Almost all of our inventory has been donated; some things, like new bed pillows, are purchased with grant money or monetary donations.  Check our website for more information.
  On Saturday (9/20)our volunteers arrived early and set up the parking lot to welcome donors.  We accept donations of furniture (and all other housewares and linens)on Saturdays.  We were short-handed but we started to work.  As we were bringing carts from the warehouse to the lot, we lost power.  It was on and off for awhile; the inside lights were on but the scissor lift did not work, and that is critical for our operation; we use the lift to bring the loaded carts from the parking lot into the storage area.  What to do??  We quickly repositioned the orange cones which define the traffic pattern in the lot.  We unloaded the items from the donors’ cars and the full carts were taken uphill through the front door.
     It was a seamless transition; some of our frequent donors wondered about the change but it all worked well.
     By the end of the day it was found that the problem was a tripped circuit breaker for the scissor lift, not the lift motor as we had feared!
     This week we are in need of silverware and butter knives, kitchen utensils, measuring cups, cutting boards and strainers, serving and mixing bowls and sauce pans. We need rugs!  All sizes!  Clean and in good shape, please!  Also throw blankets for kids and shower curtains.  We are very low on queen size sheet sets.
     Thank you for helping us to help others!

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

Princeton, MA:  Something for Everyone! - Small Works & Holiday Marketplace

Come make your holiday shopping more meaningful by supporting local artists! Members of the Princeton Arts Society invite you to come browse, shop, and enjoy hundreds of their fine, artisan-made items. Peruse creative, unique, yet affordable small wall art in many media, as well as tables overflowing with jewelry, cards, prints, ornaments, fabric items, original books, bags, ceramics, woodworking, and so much more! Don’t miss out on this amazing holiday art extravaganza!

Fridays, November 14 & 21,  6-8:00 PM
Saturdays and Sundays, November 15 & 16 and 22 & 23,  10 AM-4 PM

Location:  206 Worcester Road, Princeton Senior & Community Center, Princeton MA

The Princeton Arts Society is a nonprofit organization promoting the arts in Central Massachusetts through programs, events, and shows. 
Iron work farm open houses

Iron Work Farm Open Houses and Living History Program

Sunday, September 28, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
128 Main Street and 5 High Street, Acton

The Iron Work Farm continues our series of combined “4th Sunday” events with museum open houses at Jones Tavern (128 Main Street, 1 to 3 p.m.) and at the Faulkner Homestead (5 High Street, 3 to 5 p.m.), as well as the latest program in our year-long living history activities for children and families with “Crown Resistance and other Matters of State.”
At 1 p.m. at Jones Tavern (a hot-bed of political discussions in the 1770s), in commemoration of what came to be known as Acton’s “Crown Resistance Day,” former Acton Minuteman Captain Steve Crosby will read Acton’s pivotal declaration of the town’s resistance to the severe restrictions imposed on the colonies by the British government.
That brave action changed local life in a variety of ways, including refusals to buy British goods such as cloth. Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers Guild will be at the Faulkner House to demonstrate the surge in “home-spun” textiles that took place during that time.
No charge.
Parking on site or nearby.     Check www.ironworkfarm.org for details.

Join the Pack on October 4
at Save A Dog’s “Miles for Mutts”  5K Run/Walk!

Want to make a difference in the lives of homeless dogs and cats with your morning dose of exercise?
Sign up to walk or run a scenic 5K course at Save A Dog's 6th Annual “Miles for Mutts” run/walk on October 4!
The race starts and ends at the Marlborough Moose Lodge, 67 Fitchburg St., Marlborough, and winds through the beautiful Assabet River Valley Rail Trail. Take in the sights and sounds of nature in fall splendor and enjoy the festive atmosphere with fellow runners, walkers and their furry friends!
The fun includes medals for the top three finishers overall and by age category, and a goody bag and commemorative t-shirt for the first 100 entrants. Dogs are welcome to walk the route, too, and enjoy a yummy pup cup at the finish line!
Check-in and bib pick-up starts at 8:30 a.m., and the race begins promptly at 10 a.m.

To register, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marlborough/MilesForMutts5KRunWalk.
A registration discount of $40 for Adults ($30 ages 18 and under) is available to those who register by October 3.
Day of race registration on October 4 is $45 for Adults ($35 ages 18 and under).

So lace up those sneakers and join us for a fun-filled morning of fitness and fundraising… every step you'll take helps support Save A Dog's vital life-saving work!

Can’t join us? Make a “Cheer from Home” donation at https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marlborough/MilesForMutts5KRunWalk.

Now in its 27th year, Save A Dog has found loving, forever homes for nearly 9,000 homeless pets through its Sudbury shelter and network of dedicated foster homes. More information about Save A Dog and the rescue’s adoptable dogs and cats can be found at www.saveadog.org.
See you October 4th!

Bridges Together

Bridges Together
ATTENTION STOW SENIOR RESIDENTS! Change the way 4th graders think about seniors! The Stow COA is looking for volunteers to participate in the Bridges Together Program on Wednesdays from 1:40-2:20 pm at Center School beginning on 10/8 and ending on 11/19. Bridges Together is an intergenerational program that empowers older adults to influence young minds and dispel myths, by sharing their experiences and wisdom.  It is great fun and a valuable lesson to young people. Volunteers must be Stow residents 60 or older. This is always a well received program so you won't want to miss out! If interested and available, please email COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov to reserve your spot.

Hudson Historical Meeting

The Hudson Historical Society will be holding its first meeting of the new season on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. The meeting will be at the Federated Church Hall 200 Central Street, Hudson, Mass.
The Hudson Historical Society will proudly honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of our brave service members and their families at the Medal of Liberty and Medal of Fidelity Ceremony. This solemn event recognizes Massachusetts military heroes who have given their lives in service to our country – as well as those who passed after honorably serving. Past Society presenter Matt Sargent will preside over the ceremony.

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.
A cuba benefit concert with sol y canto

A Cuba Benefit Concert with Sol Y Canto
A fundraiser for desperately needed aid for the Cuban people

The United Church of Christ in Boxborough will be hosting a Cuba Benefit Concert featuring Boston-based Pan-Latin Band, Sol y Canto, on Saturday, October 25th, at 7:30 PM at the United Church of Christ in Boxborough, 723 Massachusetts Avenue, Boxborough, MA.
Tickets are $25 per person, ($30 at the door), $15 for students To make a donation or to purchase tickets, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-cuba-benefit-concert-with-sol-y-canto-tickets-1611092764829?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

The COVID Pandemic forced Cuba to close its doors to tourism for several years, which severely impacted the economy. In addition, the main power plant broke down last fall, resulting in widespread power outages across the island for several weeks. Since then, electricity has been rationed, and families can expect to have power for only a few hours each day. Food and water are also rationed. The people are struggling to survive.

In an effort to support to the Cuban people, the United Church of Christ in Boxborough, MA will host a benefit concert at UCCB on October 25th, featuring the Boston-based band Sol Y Canto, an award-winning, Pan-Latin ensemble known for their vibrant concerts and critically acclaimed music that blends diverse Latin American styles. The Boston Globe and WBUR describe their performances as “exhilarating and moving,”  highlighting the duo's poetic lyrics, intricate guitar work, and engaging stage presence. Their music is often described as a "journey" through different rhythms and cultures, making it accessible to both Spanish- and non-Spanish-speaking audiences.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the congregation of the Second Baptist Church in Santiago de Cuba and neighboring communities.

The event organizer is Cuban-born Maricel Lucero. Her father, Oscar Lucero, played a significant role in the Cuban Revolution of 1959.  Unfortunately, he was captured and killed by Batista’s officers, only months before the triumph of the Revolution.  Today, he is known as “The Martyr of Silence” because he refused to reveal the names of other rebels when he was captured.

Maricel immigrated to the U.S. as a child, leaving behind a significant part of her extended family.  She has journeyed back to Cuba many times to learn about her father's legacy and to reunite with loved ones. Over the years, she has guided groups from the U.S. to Cuba, bringing not only visitors but also vital humanitarian aid.

If you are interested in interviewing Maricel or writing a feature about the event, please contact Maricel Lucero at 802-376-4717 or email her at: maricellucero50@gmail.com
Tales from the rail trail1

Tales from the Rail Trail


The Friends of the Goodnow Library will launch their 2025-2026 Program Series with a presentation by Len Simon entitled Tales from the Rail Trail. This program will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 3 PM in the Community Meeting Room of the Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road, Sudbury. This program is free and open to the public.

Please join the Friends for a slide presentation, stories, and commentary about the history and development of the trail, future plans for the trail, and how best to use and enjoy one of Sudbury’s newest recreational resources. Following the presentation, there will be a question and answer period.

Len Simon has lived in Sudbury for 43 years. He is a former pharmacist, Navy veteran, and trial lawyer. He retired from the practice of law in 2012 and in 2013 decided to get involved in local politics, He served two terms on the Sudbury Select Board. Before becoming a Select Board member, Len was a member of the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. As a member of the Select Board, one of Len’s priorities was to work to bring the Rail Trail to Sudbury.

The Friends of the Goodnow Library is a 501(c)3 organization. To learn more about the Friends, please visit our website www.friendsofgoodnow.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and contact us at friendsofgoodnow@gmail.com.

WCMS Celebrates & Performs 9/27 in Worcester

Who: Worcester Chamber Music Society
What: “Serenade & Souvenir: Our Twentieth-Year Celebration”

Program
Heinrich Hofmann | Serenade for flute and strings, Op. 65
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Piano Trio in G Major, K.564
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky | Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70


When & Where: Saturday, September 27 at 7:30 PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester

Pre-concert talk ½ hour prior to the performance
Intermission dessert reception for all


How: Gold $55, Silver $45, Bronze $25, Community $10
EBT/WIC/ConnectorCare $5, Youth 17 and under free

Information and tickets for these concerts are available on the ensemble’s website, www.worcesterchambermusic.org, or by calling the office at (508) 926-8624.
Free parenting webinar october 9

Free Parenting Webinar October 9
Nervous System Care for Parents, Caregivers and Educators
Presented by Chrissy Dagostino, M.Ed.

This workshop is an invitation to re-define "self-care" so we can stop putting it off and start integrating practices that support our nervous systems into the thousands of tiny moments we spend with our children each day. This reflective workshop will take participants through a process of identifying and normalizing the ways our children challenge our ability to remain regulated, and exploring how we can rewire our brains toward new responses that better support connection and emotional intelligence in our homes and classrooms. Our presenter has an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Special Education, and is Certified in Applied Educational Neuroscience and in The Powerfully You Self-Regulation Curriculum. To attend this free live webinar on Thursday, October 9, 8-9:00 pm, email your name and town to First Connections: lmatthews@jri.org. This program is funded by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care. 

First Friday Nights Free return to Discovery Museum

Free admission on the first Friday night of each month kicks off on Friday, October 3
ACTON - Discovery Museum announced today that their popular First Friday Nights Free will return beginning Friday, October 3. Visitors can enjoy the Museum with free admission from 4:30pm to 8:00pm on the first Friday night of each month, October through June.
Though not required for admission, visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation to be distributed to the Acton Food Pantry and Open Table.
First Friday Nights Free are made possible by MathWorks.

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

Bike Safety Is Important!

 
240% More Noticeable
Riders using a flashing taillight during the day are 2.4 times more noticeable than riders using no lights at all (and up to 1.4 times more noticeable than riders using a light in steady mode).

33% Fewer Collisions
Research shows a 33% decrease in accidents for bicycles outfitted with daytime running lights. There's a similar trend in both automobiles and motorcycles that use DRLs, with 25% and 13% drops in collisions respectively.

80% of Accidents Happen During the Day
Eight out of ten cycling accidents occur during daylight hours, when most people are riding and driving. Daytime running lights are the single most effective product to help increase noticeability during these peak hours.

700% Less Visible Than You Think
Studies show riders overestimate their visibility by 700%.
Toastmasters open house on october 6

Toastmasters Open House on October 6

There are many facets of Toastmasters, who have been in existence for over 100 years. 
The latest improvement is Pathways. The Pathways learning experience is an interactive and flexible education program like no other.
It provides the  opportunity to build more than 300 unique skill set competencies on 6 specialized learning paths:  Dynamic Leadership,  Engaging Humor,  Visionary Communication,   Motivational Strategies,  Persuasive Influence, and Presentation Mastery.  Online content, which allows you to learn anytime, anywhere, real-world, transferable skills.  Come to learn & experience more at the Open House Meeting on October 6 at 7 PM at the Acton Public Safety Building.    For more information, contact us at https://2193.toastmastersclubs.org/
Candid portraits with simple lighting techniques1

Candid Portraits with Simple Lighting Techniques
Assabet Valley Camera Club Program


HUDSON: On Wednesday, October 1st, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to host professional studio photographer Jim DeLuco. Although he is now retired, Jim continues to shoot portraits for friends and family. You can check out his images on Instagram at jamesfdeluco.

This will be a live presentation on how to use your camera flash, on and off-camera, to create candid portraits. Jim will discuss how flash can be used to control the light and to create desired lighting patterns. Considerations will be given to ambient room light and backgrounds. Posing and expressions will also be discussed.

Currently, AVCC meetings are using a hybrid approach where members can come together either in person or via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the program, contact AVCC at avcc.digital@hotmail.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event or to let us know you will be attending in person. Guests are welcome to attend up to two consecutive club meetings prior to becoming a member. For membership information, go to https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/Club/MembershipInfo.aspx .The club’s Zoom room opens at 7:00 PM with a brief business meeting at 7:15 followed by Jim’s presentation at 7:30.

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

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

STOWcase 2025 Performer Application

STOWcase is looking for performers!
Do you have a special talent or skill you would like to share? We are looking for magicians, jugglers, comedians, musicians (singers or bands), face painters, balloon artists, etc.  Come volunteer to entertain STOWcase attendees on 10/23/25 between 5:30 and 8:30. Each performance can be between 8-10 minutes (the schedule and length will be determined based on the number of performers participating.) Show the town what you have to offer! 
Below is the link and some other information.
STOWcase 2025, to be held on October 23, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Center School, is an evening open house to showcase some of what Stow has to offer its resident
If you wish to participate, please complete the application found at https://forms.office.com/g/S8qKdfi0Lj?origin=lprLinkno later than September 22, 2025. The on-line application requires the information below to be provided. 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.

ATTENTION STOW SENIOR RESIDENTS!

Change the way 4th graders think about seniors! The Stow COA is looking for volunteers to participate in the Bridges Together Program on Wednesdays from 1:40-2:20 pm at Center School beginning on 10/8 and ending on 11/19. Bridges Together is an intergenerational program that empowers older adults to influence young minds and dispel myths, by sharing their experiences and wisdom.  It is great fun and a valuable lesson to young people. Volunteers must be Stow residents 60 or older. This is always a well received program so you won't want to miss out! If interested and available, please email COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov to reserve your spot. 
Saga open studios

SAGA Open Studios

On Saturday October 4th and Sunday October 5th from 11-4 13 members of the Stow Area Guild of Artists will hold open studios.  This is a free event where you can visit the artists in their work studios.  There are 5 locations across Stow - 447 Taylor Road, 353 Taylor Road, 32 Arbor Glen Drive, 76 Edson Street, and 21 Cross Street.  Some of the disciplines represented are pottery (mugs, etc), paintings (oil, cold wax, acrylic, pastel), drawings, jewelry (earrings), photography, hand-made cards and Indigenous Art. Learn more about the artists that live near you.

Free Pasta Friendship Dinner at
Hudson First United Methodist Church

The First United Methodist Church of Hudson will be offering its FREE Pasta Friendship Dinner on Saturday, September 27th, to be served at 5:00 pm.  This is one of our most asked for meals and everyone loves the spaghetti, meatballs and sausage served with salad, drinks and desserts!
Invite family, friends and neighbors for an evening of great tasting food, laughter and fellowship.
Friendship Dinners are served the fourth Saturday of every month and are free and open to everyone.

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

DAFFODIL BULB SALE 

Saturday, October 18, 2025 1pm - 4pm
Join the Stow Garden Club for their annual Daffodil Bulb Sale at Shaw’s Plaza - 155 Great Rd., Stow.  Six Unusual and Beautiful Varieties: 5 bulbs $10; 10 for $15; 15 for $25; 20 for $30. 
Come early - bulbs sell out fast!

The Stow Garden Club was formed in 1937 by a small group of dedicated gardeners. The club exists today as a non-profit organization committed to a variety of horticultural endeavors, with emphasis on education and community beautification.  
The Club planted and maintains the Head Memorial Garden at the Randall Library, the planters at the Community Center, Fire Station, Veterans' Memorial, and other locations in town.
We host monthly educational presentations, workshops, and demonstrations.  See our website at https://www.stowgardenclub.org for upcoming programs and join us to explore the many aspects of gardening! 

A New Reason to Smile: Stow Acres Family Dental has opened in Stow, MA

There’s something new to smile about in Stow.  Stow Acres Family Dental officially opened in June 2025. The office is in the Stow Shopping Center at 117 Great Road. The entire team is excited to welcome families and neighbors into their brand-new space.
Led by Dr. Kate McPherson, who has been practicing dentistry for over 5 years, the office offers everything from regular cleanings and check-ups to cosmetic and restorative treatments. Patients can also take advantage of the latest technology, like digital X-rays, same-day crowns, and dental emergencies, all in a comfortable, modern setting.
“We are excited to be part of this wonderful community,” said Dr. McPherson.  “Our goal is to make dental care comfortable, convenient, and personalized for every patient. Whether someone needs routine cleanings or advanced treatment, we’re here to help them achieve a healthy, confident smile.  We really wanted to create a place where people feel at ease,” said Dr. McPherson. “Dental visits can sometimes feel stressful, so we designed our office to be warm, welcoming, and family-friendly.”
The office features a cozy waiting area, TVs in treatment rooms, Digital Technology, Cerec Technology (same day crowns), kid-friendly touches, and a very talented team, making it easier for patients of all ages to feel comfortable.
 
Stow Acres Family Dental is now accepting new patients. Appointments can be made by calling 978-209-0825 or visiting stowacresfamilydental.com.
Fitchburgnativeresident

Fitchburg Native Resident Celebrates 100th Birthday and Lifetime Achievements

AYER, MA - On August 11th, Pauline Sala celebrated her 100th birthday at Nashoba Park Assisted Living with cake, champagne, and some very special surprises. Pauline was overjoyed to receive over 100 birthday cards from her friends, neighbors, and others across the country. Ernie Guertin, a local Ayer resident who displays a prominent sign in his yard in honor of local birthdays, also surprised her with a “Happy Birthday Pauline” sign in his front yard.

The Town of Ayer issued a certificate of recognition in honor of Pauline’s milestone birthday. She was thrilled to receive so much love and appreciation from family, friends, the Nashoba Park team, and the greater Nashoba Valley community. Pauline was born in Fitchburg and lived there for most of her life. She worked at her husband’s grocery store, Sala’s Market, helping out wherever she was needed. 

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

Become a Tutor of English

Have you ever thought about tutoring someone in English? Most people who decide to become tutors are thinking of the good it can do, helping others become more proficient in English and better able to cope with employment, landlords, schools or the medical profession. But then they discover the rewards, the satisfaction that comes as progress is made and a relationship develops that enriches both learner and tutor. Tutors often speak of their pleasure in learning about another culture and their greater appreciation of the challenges facing those who are adapting to ours.

Because of the constant demand for tutoring, all available tutors are now working with students, and the next tutor-training course has been scheduled. ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program directors Ginny Steel and Jane Albert are currently enrolling prospective tutors for the five-session course that starts on October 22. The class will meet on five consecutive Wednesday evenings, 6-9, Oct. 22 – Nov. 19. The first four classes will meet virtually, using Zoom, and the last one will be in person, in the Wayland library.
No prior knowledge of a foreign language is needed, just an openness to other cultures and the
desire to share your knowledge of English. The training is free, although it is necessary to purchase a textbook for about $40.

Tutors will be prepared to work with their learners either remotely, as we often do now, or in person, as is sometimes possible. Tutors now are using Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, telephone and email as they “meet” with their learners and enjoy both success and personal connection.
For more information or to enroll in the tutor training course, you can phone Ginny Steel at 508-
358-7517 or email her at virginia@thesteels.com.
Worcester chamber music society

Worcester Chamber Music Society Celebrates 20 Years on September 27 at Mechanics Hall With a Special Concert Event


September 11, 2025   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society kicks off its 20th Season with a concert titled “Serenade and Souvenir: Our Twentieth-Year Celebration” at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on September 27. All of the core members of the ensemble get their chance to shine as they take the stage in a joyous performance. Souvenir de Florence is at the heart of this concert. Written for the city Tchaikovsky adored, it is offered here as a tribute to Worcester, the city WCMS adores, whose people welcomed them twenty years ago and continue to support them today. Free dessert will be served at intermission as a thank you to their loyal and wonderful patrons. It will be quite the occasion, designed to be the highlight of this momentous season!
Saturday, September 27 @7:30PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @7 PM
Intermission dessert reception for all

Program
Heinrich Hofmann | Serenade for flute and strings, Op. 65
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Piano Trio in G Major, K.564
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky | Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70
Venues are handicapped accessible.
Several levels of admission are available, including Community seats for $10. Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/serenade-and-souvenir/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.
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About Worcester Chamber Music Society
Hailed as a group with imagination, style and chops, the Worcester Chamber Music Society took the Worcester, MA scene by storm with its initial concert in 2006. It has become a recognized cultural presence within the Greater Worcester area by presenting sold-out concerts to captivated audiences, receiving consistent critical acclaim, building new young audiences, and training rising musicians through both its Neighborhood Strings and Summer ChamberFest programs. WCMS brings world-class chamber music to intimate, beautiful, and uniquely New England venues. WCMS nurtures the community through a unique combination of affordable concerts, education and community engagement.
Charm bracelet 25th anniversary hike

Charm Bracelet 25th Anniversary Hike
Sunday, October 5, 2025, 1:00-3:00 pm

Join the Westborough Community Land Trust on a free walk commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Charm Bracelet trail loop network, on Sunday October 5, 2025, from 1-3 pm.  The Charm Bracelet was introduced at WCLT’s inaugural hike at the Bowman West property on October 9, 2000. We will re-create much of that walk, with commentary about the history of Bowman West, the early days of WCLT, and the work that has been done at that property and our other trails in the past 25 years. The “Father of the Charm Bracelet” Don Burn will be the walk leader. Meet at Minuteman Park on Upton Road, Westborough. About 2.5 miles of walking on woodland trails.
Free, open to the public, no reservation needed.

Before leaving check https://westboroughlandtrust.org/ for cancellations.
For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org
Trail Map: https://westboroughlandtrust.org/maps/HM

The Boxborough Minutemen Company Wants You!

  The Boxborough Company of Minutemen will hold a Company meeting on Sunday September 21 at the Boxborough Community Center at 30 Middle Road starting at 8 p.m. For information please contact Captain Chad Childers at captain@boxboroughminutemen.org.
  The Boxborough Minutemen Company is open to anyone of least 18 years of age, regardless of gender or town of residence, who is interested in service to the Town and/or perpetuating the memory of the Minutemen of 1775.  You do not need to be a marcher or revolutionary war re-enactor to join the Company.
  Our members may participate in any number of the Company's activities including marching in parades and town celebrations, organizing the annual Fifer's Day town festival, performing seasonal clean-ups on Route 111, sponsoring the Boy and Cub Scouts, providing volunteers to the FreeBee Market, community supper, and other service organizations, and participating in our various social functions. The Company also provides financial support to a variety of service organizations and sponsors a number of annual scholarships to Boxborough students who are continuing their education after high school.
  All are welcome to come and make new connections with others.
  For more information visit www.boxboroughminutemen.org.
Scarecrow contest in acton

SCARECROW CONTEST
IN ACTON

Enter the annual “Stand Up to Stigma” Scarecrow Contest to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Central Middlesex. Bring your $25 donation to Cucurbit Farm at 32 Parker St. in Acton and pick up your scarecrow starter frame. Then drop off your family friendly scarecrow at the farm stand. Individuals, organizations, and businesses are invited to participate. The scarecrows will be on display for the month of October, and the public is invited to cast their vote for the winning entry. Our goal is 100 scarecrows along the fence and many conversations about mental health! It’s the 10th anniversary of the event! Additional info a namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/scarecrow-contest2025.
An invitation to share high holy days 5786

An Invitation to Share High Holy Days 5786

Kerem Shalom—Vineyard of Peace—of Concord, warmly invites the community to join us for the High Holy Days 5786, led by Rabbi Darby Leigh and Molly Bajot, Interim Cantorial Soloist. Services will all be held in-person and online with live captioning.

We welcome non-members and friends to join us in uplifting and spiritual prayer and song as we welcome the new year together.

Erev Rosh Hashanah - Monday, Sep. 22
6:30 pm - Community Service*

Rosh Hashanah - Tuesday, Sep. 23
8:30 am - Early Childhood Family Service
10 am - Community Service*
4 pm - Tashlich at Old North Bridge (at Monument St. entrance)

Rosh Hashanah Day 2 - Wednesday, Sep. 24
10 am - Community Service (Lay-led)

Erev Yom Kippur (Kol Nidre) - Wednesday, Oct. 1
6:30 pm - Community Service*

Yom Kippur - Thursday, Oct. 2
8:30 am - Early Childhood Family Service
10 am - Community Service*
12:30 pm - Yizkor Memorial Service*
2 pm - Torah Study, Contemplative Chanting Circle, Musical Musaf (Tiferet
Ensemble)
5 pm - Mincha*
6 pm - Neilah*
7 pm - Havdalah*

*Childcare available, registration required


See keremshalom.org for the full schedule as well as registration and further details.

Kerem Shalom is a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming Jewish community where tradition and innovation are celebrated.  For questions, contact the Kerem Shalom Office at ksadmin@keremshalom.org or 978-369-1223.

STOWcase 2025

ATTENTION Stow residents and Stow business owners! STOWcase 2025, to be held on October 23, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Center School, is an evening open house to showcase some of what Stow has to offer its residents.  Participant applications are now being accepted.  Like last year’s, 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 displays.  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.  Space is limited.  If you wish to participate, please complete the application found at https://forms.office.com/g/vBrJhavMav no later than September 1, 2025. The on-line application requires the information below be provided.    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.

VOTING OPENS FOR 
MASSACHUSETTS TEEN CHOICE 
BOOK AWARD, SEPT. 15 - OCT. 5, 2025

 
MASSACHUSETTS (September 9, 2025) - Hey MA Teens! Voting will open for the MA Teen Choice Book Award (MTCBA) on September 15!  Young people from across Massachusetts are invited to vote for their top teen book from a list of nominees until Oct. 5. This is the only award in the Bay State that invites students in grades 7-12 to vote for their top new books.
The list of nominees has been curated by a committee of public librarians, school library media specialists and educators. The top teen choices will be announced in late October..

“There are two ways for teens to cast their votes - they can vote directly using our digital ballot (available at https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home) or they can cast a paper ballot at any participating library,” said Suzanne Larson, committee chair and high school library media specialist at Seekonk High School in Seekonk, MA.  “We encourage school and public libraries interested in participating to create displays and ballot boxes by using MTCBA resources, also available on the award website.” (https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home)

The twenty-one 2025 Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award Nominees are:
  • Aisle Nine - Cho, Ian X.
  • America Redux: Visual Stories from Our Dynamic History - Aberg-Riger, Ariel
  • The Bletchley Riddle - Sepetys, Ruta & Sheinkin, Steve
  • Call Me Iggy - Aguirre, Jorge & Rosado, Rafael (Illustrator)
  • The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky - Galarza, Josh
  • Gwen & Art Are Not in Love - Croucher, Lex
  • HappyHead - Silver, Josh
  • I Kick and I Fly - Gupta, Ruchira
  • I Will Never Leave You - Kennedy, Kara
  • The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge - Hubbard, Matthew
  • Looking for Smoke - Cobell, K. A.
  • Navigating With You - Whitley, Jeremy & Ribeiro, Cassio (Illustrator)
  • The No-Girlfriend Rule - Randall, Christen 
  • The Reappearance of Rachel Price - Jackson, Holly
  • Red - Cardi, Annie
  • Spirit Sleuths: How Magicians and Detectives Exposed the Ghost Hoaxes - Jarrow, Gail
  • Star Splitter - Kirby, Matthew J.
  • Twenty-four Seconds From Now… - Reynolds, Jason
  • Where Sleeping Girls Lie - Àbíké-Íyímídé, Faridah
  • The Wilderness of Girls - Franklin, Madeline Claire
  • Wish You Weren’t Here - Baldwin, Erin


The Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is a cooperative project between the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) and the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) with support from Salem State University. For more information on the selected titles and how to participate and vote, please visit www.mateenchoicebook.org.

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

Mental Health Support Groups

One in five people across the country live with a mental health condition including children, adolescents and adults. Family members, in the role as "care supporter" for their loved one often need support as well. NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a non-profit organization founded in 1979, is dedicated to improving the lives of those with mental illness and their families through support, education and advocacy at state and national levels. Volunteers trained by NAMI now offer many support groups and educational programs in communities across Massachusetts for those with illness and separately supportive family members. Programs are offered in person and digitally via the Zoom format and are completely free to the public. You can find details at the NAMI Massachusetts website www.NAMIMASS.org .
If you have a family member with mental health challenges you can also connect to a support-group I facilitate with my co-facilitator at fsgroup25@aol.com.  Our NAMI group meets once a month, every 2nd Thursday of the month, from 6:15 pm – 8:45 pm on Zoom and has been meeting for four years. The group usually has around 6-8 participants and creates time enough for all to share and feel much better at meetings end. If you would like to speak with someone ahead about our NAMI support-group feel free to call me. My name is Dee and my cell number is 978.697.3441.

Never Forget: The Legacy of September 11

Written By Deb Paul
“We’re not about what happened on 9/11. We’re about what happened on 9/12.” Jeff Parness, founder of New York Says Thank You, captured the essence of American resilience in just thirteen words.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of a day that changed our nation forever. September 11, 2001, is etched into our collective memory—not just for the horror we witnessed, but for the unity that followed. Most Americans remember exactly where they were when the news broke. The images of the Twin Towers collapsing, the chaos, the courage—they remain vivid, unshakable.

We lost thousands of innocent lives—on planes, in offices, on the streets. First responders ran toward danger, not away from it. Families were shattered. The American spirit was tested. And yet, as Rudy Giuliani said, “The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead, we have emerged stronger and more unified.”

In the days that followed, something extraordinary happened. Strangers became neighbors. Political differences faded. Compassion surged. We remembered what it meant to be one nation, indivisible—not just in theory, but in practice. Flags flew from every porch. Blood banks overflowed with volunteers. People prayed together, cried together, and stood together.

We saw firefighters and police officers risk everything without hesitation. They didn’t ask who someone voted for or what religion they practiced. They saw fellow human beings in need—and they responded with courage and compassion. That spirit of selflessness defined the days after 9/11. It reminded us of who we are at our best.

But today, that unity feels distant. We are a nation divided—by politics, by ideology, by mistrust. The spirit of 9/12, once so palpable, now flickers faintly. The sense of shared purpose that once bound us has been replaced by suspicion and polarization.

Let this anniversary be more than a moment of mourning. Let it be a call to remember—not only the lives lost, but the values we rediscovered. Patriotism is not a relic. Unity is not naïve. These are the foundations of a resilient democracy.

We must reflect not only on what we lost, but on what we found: courage, compassion, and a renewed sense of community. These qualities are still within us. They are not confined to history—they are waiting to be revived.

So this September 11, pause. Reflect. Recommit. Not just to memory, but to meaning. To kindness. To courage. To each other.

Because the legacy of 9/11 isn’t just about what happened. It’s about who we became—and who we still have the power to be.
Jeanne d'amico pinched star stoneware art exhibit

ART EXHIBIT: “Elemental” by Jeanne D’Amico, Julie L’Heureux and Natalie MacKnight  “Elemental” Art Exhibit opens at 6 Bridges Gallery on September 10, 2025


6 Bridges Gallery presents “Elemental,” an exhibit of ceramics by Jeanne D’Amico, photographs by Julie L’Heureux, and artworks by Natalie MacKnight.

The exhibit will be on view at 6 Bridges Gallery, 77 Main Street, Maynard, from September 10 to October 11, 2025.  It will also be hosted online at 6Bridges.gallery. A reception will be held on September 13, 2025, 5:00–7:00 PM.
Jeanne D’Amico is a ceramic artist who makes functional pieces: tea bowls, mugs, bowls, vases and plates for everyday use.
Julie L’Heureux is a digital photographer who specializes in still life, landscapes and food.
Natalie MacKnight is known for her energetic black and white gouache paintings of boulders and stone walls. In this exhibit, she also includes a series of small works in graphite.
These three artists, MacKnight, L’Heureux and D’Amico, explore the subject of elemental through their respective mediums. MacKnight presents work with white graphite on black paper and black gouache on white paper. L’Heureux works with the medium of photography and D’Amico creates ceramics using earth/clay displayed as functional ware. Through drawing and painting, photography, and ceramics, the artists seek to capture the tension and harmony between these elements; air, fire, water and earth and how they shape both the external world and our internal landscapes. Each medium allows a unique dialogue with nature: ceramics are grounded in earth and fire, photography is shaped by light and air, and drawing and painting flow like water—fluid, intuitive, and ever-shifting.
Through their mediums, the artists approach each element not only as a subject but as an active participant in the creative process. Clay connects directly to the earth; fire transforms it into durable form. Air and water are present in the movement of brushstrokes, in the surface of a photograph, and in the unpredictable interactions of materials.
Working across these mediums allows the artists to examine the physical and sensory qualities of each element. In ceramics, there is a focus on texture, form, and the effects of heat and glaze. In photography, the photographer observes how light, shadow, atmosphere, and time record subtle changes in air and water. In painting and drawing MacKnight experiments with layering and fluidity to echo natural rhythms and shifts. Together, these works reflect a dialogue between control and unpredictability, permanence and change—qualities that mirror the elemental forces they represent.
For more information, please visit 6 Bridges.Gallery, Facebook, and Instagram.
6 Bridges Gallery was established in 2014 by a group of artists to create a retail and display gallery in the heart of downtown Maynard, Massachusetts. The ever-changing work in our gallery includes a diverse range of media and artistic styles. All of our artisans are local. Our gallery is owned and operated by our artists, so there is a unique opportunity to meet one or more of them on any given day.
Cod mbta training 2025

Acton Commission on Disabilities Travel Training Webinar

Ever wondered how accessible the commuter rail was? Don’t want to make that first trip alone? The Acton Commission on disabilities is hosting a webinar on   travel training given by the MBTA’s mobility training department

September 18th, 2025
From 10 to noon
Registration is required please click the link below:
http://bit.ly/3JwugCa
For further information please email the commission on disabilities cod@actonma.gov

The 8th Annual Acton Children’s Business Fair, One of the Largest Youth Entrepreneurial Events in the Nation, is Returning to Nara Park on Saturday, September 20th, 2025.

This year promises to be our biggest fair yet, with hundreds of young entrepreneurs from across New England launching their own businesses for the day. These young people have worked hard to prepare detailed business plans, create products, and design marketing strategies. Their dedication and creativity are inspiring, and the fair gives them an incredible platform to showcase their talents.
Visitors will discover a remarkable variety of businesses: food stands, handmade crafts, art booths, tech ventures, and innovative services. There will also be live demonstrations, interactive displays, and special recognition ceremonies throughout the afternoon. The event runs from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM and is free for the public, thanks to the generous support of our community sponsors.
The Acton Children’s Business Fair is more than just a marketplace — it’s a celebration of the next generation of leaders. These young entrepreneurs are already making a difference in their communities with their creativity, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. The overwhelming support from local businesses and organizations shows just how deeply our region values investing in its youth.

STOW LIONS FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Saturday & Sunday, September 27 & 28 from 11 to 6: Come join the fun on Stow Lions Field at the corner of Route 117/Great Road and Hudson Road, There will be 6 food trucks, 2 dessert trucks, 2 caterer tents and a beer tent. Enjoy Tacos & Burritos, Smokehouse BBQ, Sauced & Tossed Chicken, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Waffles, Cannoli’s, and Erickson’s Ice cream. Rapscallions will provide Craft Beer. Enjoy relaxing with live musical entertainment. There will be a children’s area led by professional staff providing games, crafts and face painting, plus a sheep petting area. Free parking is at Lion’s Field or adjacent field south on Hudson Road. Entrance donation: $5 adults (18-59), $4 seniors (60+) and $3 children (5-17). Support Lions Club Community Service and have a great time!
Applications hudson cultural

Applications Open for Hudson Cultural Council Grants


HUDSON: The Hudson Cultural Council is now accepting online applications from organizations, schools and individuals for grants which support the arts, humanities and science programs.  The Council encourages the submission of grant applications that would promote community-wide events that take place in the Town of Hudson – the number one request from residents who took this year's HCC survey.

The council is made up of volunteers, appointed by the Hudson Select Board, whose mission is “to promote Hudson’s diverse heritage and to enhance cultural opportunities by supporting activities that enrich the lives of Hudson residents of all ages.”

The Hudson Cultural Council strives to achieve this task through the funding of local programs by awarding grants subsidized by the Mass Cultural Council and the Town of Hudson.  Preference is given to grant applications which serve Hudson residents and to programming by Hudson-based organizations and institutions.

The online application window is open from September 2 through October16 with grant decisions made in late fall. The HCC considers funding grants that meet their guidelines Hudson Cultural Council - Guidelines and are submitted through the Mass Cultural Council. Directions on how to apply are found at
https://massculturalcouncil.org/communities/local-cultural-council-program/application-process/

The Hudson Cultural Council is looking for more volunteers to join the Council. Contact us at HudsonCulturalCouncil@gmail.com to find out how you can help support the arts in Hudson!

FRESH BAKED APPLE PIES AT FPC

It’s time again for First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) to sell its homemade apple pies on Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday, Sept. 20, to Sunday, Oct. 12. Sales will begin at 10 a.m. and will close when the day’s pies are sold, or at 1 p.m., whichever comes first. FPC’s 3 lb. pies are $20 each and 1 lb. tarts are $10, cash or check preferred. The apple pie stand is located at the front of the church grounds, at 353 Great Road, Stow. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org. Apples for the pies have been generously donated by Shelburne Farm of Stow.
Open table welcomes reesa morabito as first chief development officer

Open Table Welcomes Reesa Morabito as First Chief Development Officer 


Concord and Maynard, MA (September 2, 2025) – Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, today announced that Reesa Morabito has joined the organization as chief development officer. In this new position, Reesa will be responsible for developing multi-channel fundraising campaigns, stewarding major gifts, and creating thoughtful donor experiences that deepen engagement and inspire giving.
“Reesa is a strategic and relationship-driven fundraising leader with over a decade of experience helping nonprofit organizations grow through philanthropy,” said Alexandra DePalo, executive director, Open Table. “She is compassionate and genuine and will be a terrific addition to our team as we work together to meet the needs of our clients.”
Prior to Open Table, Reesa served as chief development officer at SMILE Mass, where she secured the largest gift in the organization’s 16-year history, launched its first Annual Golf Tournament, and cultivated meaningful relationships across all areas of the community -- including donors, board members, and program participants. Before SMILE Mass, Reesa worked at MGB Spaulding Rehabilitation, where she led high-impact initiatives like the Race for Rehab Boston Marathon program and developed long-term engagement opportunities for major donors, physicians, and hospital leadership.
“Open Table is fortunate to have a community that supports it in so many ways,” said Reesa Morabito, chief development officer, Open Table. “I look forward to getting to know the staff, volunteers, and donors so that we can work together to help fight food insecurity among our neighbors.”
Reesa Morabito lives in Framingham with her husband and children. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors, riding bikes, cooking, reading, and sharing time with family and friends.

New England Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society to Host Annual Seedling Sale and Discussion on Seed Saving in Sudbury

On Saturday, September 20, all gardeners are welcome to join the New England Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society (NARGS) for their fall kick-off meeting. The topic of the day is seed saving, processing, and growing. The event will take place at the Goodnow Library in Sudbury from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm.
Attendees are asked to bring their own bag lunch, with beverages and snacks provided. At 11 am, Jan Sacks and Marty Schafer of Carlisle lead the panel discussion on Seeds - Collecting and Cleaning Techniques. These expert growers will share tips they’ve found valuable. After the lunch break, our Annual Seedling Sale begins at 1 pm. Members bring their extra seedlings of clearly labelled rock garden plants, including some natives, to share. The first-round price is $2 per pot until buying slows down, after which the price is $1 per pot. Very special, higher-value plants may be raffled off.
Come to buy, even if you can’t bring seedlings of your own!
Household goods in urgent need

Household Goods in Urgent Need of Essential Household Items Please Donate or Host a Collection Drive


Acton, MA  Household Goods, a local non-profit organization that provides a full range of donated furniture and household items, free of charge, to help people in need make a home, is experiencing a surge in demand and is in need of more essential items. The organization is urgently requesting donations of the following:
  • Blankets and comforters in all sizes (no rips or stains)
  • Towels in all sizes (bath/hand/washcloths; no rips or stains)
  • Sheet sets (all sizes, but especially King, Queen and Full)
  • Sets of drinking glasses (no stemware)
  • Sets of Flatware/silverware
  • Pots and pans (especially larger frying pans)
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking dishes (especially size 13 x 9)
"We are seeing a significant increase in the number of clients referred to us because they cannot afford to buy the furniture they need to fill their empty homes," said Sharon Martens, Executive Director of Household Goods. "Many of our clients are starting over after experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or overcoming other challenges. These items are essential for creating a comfortable and functional home environment."
Household Goods is open for donation drop-offs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon at 530 Main Street in Acton. Volunteers are on hand to assist donors with unloading their vehicles.
Individuals or groups interested in hosting a collection drive can find guidance here: https://www.householdgoods.org/volunteering/host-a-drive/
"We are grateful for the community's support in helping us meet the needs of our clients," said Martens. "Every donation, big and small, makes a difference in the lives of people who are working hard to make a home."
For a complete list of items that Household Goods can accept, please visit their website at https://householdgoods.org/guidelines.
About Household Goods
Household Goods, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Acton, MA that provides donated furniture and household items to individuals and families in need. The organization has been serving the community for over 30 years and has helped thousands of people make a home. Learn more at householdgoods.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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
Shelves bare at fresh start!

Shelves Bare at Fresh Start!

This is how our appliance and lamp shelves looked this morning!  My job today was entering inventory and I only entered 2 lamps and 1 steam iron for appliances.  We are very low on dish sets (I counted 7) and cookware & bakeware.
    In the linens department we need queen and full size sheet sets, comforters and blankets and “throw” blankets for couches.  Also potholders, shower curtains, liners and rings.  And bath towels!
     We are low on end tables & bedside tables, storage cabinets & bookcases.
If you can help by donating these much-needed items, please see our website at www.freshstartfurniturebank.org for our location and hours for donations.
     Thank you!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT THE COA

The Stow Council on Aging (COA) is looking to expand its volunteer pool.  A few of the broad categories of volunteers needed are drivers (including shopping companions), bakers, event hostesses/hosts, ambassadors just to name a few.  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 (the) 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/.

The Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) has spent the last couple of months reworking the application for Community Preservation Funding. The Committee has made the application more streamline and it is  now fillable.

It is now a two-part application. There is a Notice of Interest for Funding that is due October 15th. It is a one page form and should be easy to fill in. It will help the CPC  to know how many applications may be filed in a year. The Final Application is still due December 1st, but hopefully, it is less cumbersome than our previous application. Filling out the Notice of Interest for Funding is really a planning tool for the CPC. If you think you may have a project that would qualify for funding fill out the Notice of Interest for Funding. It in no way obligates you to then fill out a Final Applications if circumstances change.

The new application can be found on the CPC page at https://www.stow-ma.gov/community-preservation-committee