Open table volunteers

Open Table Honors Concord Residents Eric Schoen and Jean Husson as Volunteers of the Year


Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, has named Concord residents Eric Schoen and Jean Husson as its 2024 Volunteers of the Year. Schoen and Husson were recognized September 23 at Open Table’s annual meeting and volunteer appreciation event, which took place at Sanctuary in Maynard.
Volunteers and Concord residents Jean Husson, left, and Eric Schoen, right, were honored as Volunteers of the Year by Open Table executive director Alexandra DePalo, center, at the recent Open Table annual meeting and volunteer appreciation event.
Eric Schoen volunteers as one of Open Table’s Pick and Pack Shift leaders where he leads a team of volunteers processing incoming produce and refrigerated items from the farms and grocery stores, and packing approximately 250 produce bags per week for clients. Eric oversees the setup of the pantry for the drive-thru client hours, organizing frozen proteins, breads and treats and managing last minute deliveries. Eric has also been instrumental in the success of the Chopped for Charity fundraisers.
Eric has been volunteering with Open Table since early 2022 after his retirement from a career at Fidelity Investments. Eric has been living in Concord for four years with his wife having raised two kids in Sudbury. When asked why he chooses to volunteer his time with Open Table, Eric responded “I first became aware of Open Table when our daughter volunteered here during high school. After retiring I wanted to give back and get involved locally by doing what I can to help address food insecurity and hunger in our local communities. Open Table’s mission really resonated with me, and I feel fortunate to be a small part of that mission. Knowing that all the produce and grocery bags we create each week are providing families, seniors, and others in need with healthy meals is what keeps me coming back each week… that and having the opportunity to meet and work with the amazing Open Table staff and other volunteers.”
Eric additionally shares his time and talents with one of Open Table’s partners as Chair of the Greater Boston Food Bank’s Board of Directors. Describing his work he reports, “Seeing the need and volunteering at both of these amazing organizations gives me a good perspective on GBFB’s broad focuses across Eastern Massachusetts and Open Table’s more local focus of ending hunger. One in three families struggle with food insecurity in Massachusetts… running out of food or not having enough money to get more food each month. We can continue to do more to address that need.”
Eric is also an avid hiker, travels extensively including two service trips to Poland to support Ukrainian refugees and plays early morning ice hockey.
Jean Husson volunteers at Open Table largely behind the scenes as the transportation coordinator for all incoming and outgoing foods at Open Table. This important and demanding position includes overseeing a small army of volunteers who drive their personal vehicles or the Open Table van to pick up donations from grocery stores and farms and bring them to the pantry and also those who deliver groceries and meals to our Mobile Pantries, COA sites, food relief partners and home delivery clients. These jobs are essential and must be staffed every week and Jean keeps them running smoothly. Often Jean is not so “behind the scenes” as she acts as “pinch hitter” for her drivers and hits the road nearly every week to pick up food or make a delivery when substitutes are needed.
Transportation coordinator is just the most recent of many volunteer roles that Jean has filled over a long history of volunteering with Open Table. Jean started with Open Table in 2014, volunteering at the First Parish Church in Concord when it was an all-volunteer operation serving community dinners. Some of her major roles have been serving as volunteer manager, working on the client administration team, cooking, leading orientations and volunteering wherever needed as a pinch-hitting specialist.
Jean has been involved in many of the Leadership groups and advisory committees that have steered Open Table to becoming the regional food pantry we are today. These include but are not limited to the development of the organizational structure and the transition from an all-volunteer to staff-based organization, the acquisition of and move to our current pantry site in Maynard, the restructuring of services during COVID, and the installation of the volunteer software system.
In her spare time, Jean cooks with the Fowler library cookbook club, writes postcards for Concord Indivisible, follows professional tennis and does the NYT crossword puzzle. She has enjoyed traveling the world and reading Agatha Christie.
When asked why she has dedicated so much of her time to Open Table, she replied, “because I’m appalled that anyone should go hungry in the country.” Nearly every client has been directly impacted by Jean’s contribution. Open Table has been able to grow and address food insecurity in our community due the hard work and dedication of volunteers like Jean.
Country fair

Littleton Country Fair Saturday, October 5th


The Littleton Country Fair offers something for everyone on Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 am to 2 pm, at 19 Foster St. in Littleton. Come early for the best selection of famous homemade jams, jewelry and crafts; and recycled treasures at the massive yard sale. Families will enjoy free crafts, face painting and can touch a real fire truck. Spend a day not a fortune.
The Country Cafe serves homemade food starting with scones and coffee at 10 am. New this year is a full BBQ menu of chicken, pork and beef with all the sides. Gluten free cornbread and baked goods, and vegan Tuscan Bean soup are on the menu. Free admission and parking. For information, contact fair@fculittle.org. Hosted by First Church Unitarian of Littleton.
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43rd Annual Conant Artisan and Craft Fair

Looking for unique, handmade treasures? Don't miss the 43rd annual Conant Artisan and Craft Fair! This popular event will take place on Sunday, October 20th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Luther Conant Elementary School grounds at 80 Taylor Road in Acton.
Discover a wide variety of handcrafted items from talented local artisans and crafters. From jewelry and pottery to paintings and textiles, there's something for everyone. Enjoy delicious homemade baked goods while you shop and support a great cause.
Proceeds from the fair will benefit the Acton Conant Elementary PTO, helping to fund important programs and school support initiatives.
Mark your calendars and join us for this wonderful community event!

Beer in the Barn Pop-up Party!

Celebrate the fall season at this pop-up party to support SVT on Saturday, October 5, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at The Barn at Wolbach Farm (18 Wolbach Road, Sudbury).
Enjoy good local beer from Amory’s Tomb Brewing Company paired with generous appetizers made by The Hyve using locally sourced ingredients and including gluten-free and dairy-free options.
Cash bar with an additional selection of wine, beer, gluten-free beers, and soft drinks are also available. (One complimentary beer or tasting trio is included with price of a ticket.)
Lively music by the Red Horse Old-time Duo will add to an atmosphere of fun and festivity.
Purchase your tickets today! $50 per person. http://svtweb.org/beer-barn-2024.

Date set for Acton-Boxborough United Way’s Casino Royale

Casino Royale, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Acton-Boxborough United Way (ABUW), will be held on Saturday evening on November 16 at the beautiful Wedgewood Pines Country Club, Stow.
Last year’s Casino Royale fundraiser and silent auction raised over $40,000, which helped to underwrite the vital community support A-B United Way and its grantees provide to residents throughout the A/B community. Organizers anticipate this year’s event will be even bigger and better. For more information and tickets, go to abuw.org/casino.
Fpc pie sale

Fresh Baked Apple Pies at FPC Through Oct. 13

The annual apple pie sale at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) continues on Saturdays and Sundays through Sunday, Oct. 13. 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 homemade 3 lb. pies are $20 each. 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.

Apple Pie Baking Contest

Bakers of all ages are invited to submit an apple pie.  Prizes for winner of best under-15 baker, and best adult baker. Pies must be delivered to the library on SATURDAY Oct 26th by 2pm for judging. Contestants should pre-register online here https://forms.gle/ASuKbFaFmNfsE7798  There are 20 places only.
So that the judges can compare apples to apples (so to speak) there are a few guidelines. BUT there are 20 places only... so read the guidelines then register your name as interested.
Guidelines: Pies are to be homemade including crust. Filling is to be just apples and spices (no other fruits). Your recipe should be submitted, including the type of apple(s) used. Pies should be in a 9-inch pie plate/pan. Non-edible materials/decoration not permitted.  Judging to be conducted by library staff, last year's competition winners, and a volunteer from the Acton Woman’s Club.  Sponsor:  Friends of the Acton Libraries.
The public  is welcome and invited on Sunday Oct 27th at 2pm for the prize giving, and to enjoy the pies with cheese, cider and more.

Crafts & Play for Kids in Grades K-5

Children in grades K to 5 are invited to First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) in Stow for a night of crafts, snacks and fun on Friday, Oct. 11, from 6:30 to 8:30p.m. Friday Friends (formerly known as Club UU) is FPC’s monthly, nonreligious drop-off kid's club. It's led by a minimum of three adults, and typically between 7 and 9 kids attend. We focus on building social connections between children through creative crafts, fun games and group decision making. Newcomers from the community are always welcome, and are invited to bring a friend. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Please drop children off and pick them up in the church Vestry. To get to the Vestry, go through the main entrance (not the sanctuary entrance), take a left, and go to the end of the hallway. FPC’s facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Guest Table Community Dinner

Guest Table is a community dinner that takes place on the second Friday of each month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). The next dinner will take place on Oct. 11. It will begin at 5:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. All are welcome! There’s no charge for dinner, but donations are gratefully accepted. FPC is a nut-free location. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. When parking, please keep a clear path for emergency vehicles; do not block the driveway around the front oft the sanctuary; park only on the 117 side of Commons Rd.; and do not block access to the back of the building. Thank you! This program is supported in part by grants from the Stow Community Chest, Nashoba Valley Rotary, and the Acton-Boxborough United Way. Guest Table is also grateful for the consistent support it receives from the Stow Council on Aging and the Stow Food Pantry, as well as the support from so many individuals who donate and volunteer.

Restorative Justice with Sam Williams
FPC Sunday Service

 
First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist,welcomes Executive Director of the Concord Prison Outreach Sam Williams as its guest for a special service on restorative justice. Mr. Williams has been instrumental in various initiatives across the city of Boston, including prison rehabilitation and re-entry, impact of racial profiling,community economic development, urban planning, youth development and public safety. He is currently the chair of the Community Advisory Board for Northeastern University’s Institute of Race and Justice.The service will take place both in person and virtually on Oct. 6 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional.Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc. FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

Stow Area Artists Host First Open House at Stow Town Hall

Newly formed SAGA (Stow Areas Guild of Artist) is having its first open house Friday, October 4th from 3:00-7:00 and Saturday, October 5th from 10:00-4:00 at Stow Town Hall.  The recently created group was envisioned  to bring together talented local artists and enrich Stow's cultural community. SAGA members showing at this event are:
Susan Chormann, Richard Fishman, Cordula Schwarz, Cortni Frecha, Aimee Ledwell,  Charlie Streff, Shirley Beltz, and Brenda Cirioni. Come meet these talented members of our community.
Artists included in SAGA work in varied media from painting to pottery, sculpture to upcycled garments.   Interested in finding out more or joining? Contact Susan Chormann Wholeheartedpottery@gmail.com

Join us for an Open House - Pickleball Style

Come play on the brand new pickleball courts at MLTC West (102 Nonset Path, Acton). This is a completely FREE event for all!
Monday Oct. 14th 3pm - 7pm
Drop by for free food, games & giveaways
Beat the coach & win a prize
See the Shot Dr. - get a free lesson and fix what ails you
Open Play all event
Bring the kids! Visit our junior pickleball station
RSVP here: https://forms.gle/GwP9F7xxba96bxrV9

Learn to Communicate

The Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club invites you to attend an open house meeting on Monday, October 28, from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Acton Public Safety Facility EOC, 371 Main Street Acton, MA. Members will host a meeting to show you Toastmasters in action. Isaac Davis Toastmasters has been serving Acton and the surrounding towns for 52 years. Member enrollment is open to our community. Toastmasters participation will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a tenured manager, student, young professional, someone who is looking to advance your career or preparing to make an impact in your community, Toastmasters is the most efficient, supportive, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll improve your interpersonal communication and be more persuasive and confident when giving speeches. What’s in it for you? Toastmasters is a proven way to become a better communicator:• Improve public speaking skills• Practice writing speeches and presenting in a group setting• Build leadership skills• Provide positive and constructive feedback to others.Attendance virtually will be available if you pre-register your name and email address with Daniel Livingston, VP Membership, at vpm-2193@toastmastersclubs.org

Official Fundraiser for the
58th Maynard Holiday Parade

Come one, come all to the Maynard Fall Ball!!!
COSTUMES WELCOMED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO ATTEND
Join us for an unforgettable event. We're planning on a fabulous evening with friends, dancing and lots of laughs.
Live band!!!,  Free memory maker, Free appetizers and desserts from local restaurants, Prizes ~ raffles ~silent auction, Cash bar
Have any questions about this year's Maynard Fall Ball or 58th annual holiday parade?
Contact Jen Picorelli ​Phone: 978-290-6373 Email:  picorelli50@comcast.net
Maynard Elks, 34 Powder Mill Rd, Maynard, MA 01754, USA
October 26, 2024
Doors open 7:00 PM
Band starts at 8:00 PM

Concord Festival of Authors Features Books, Speakers and Stories for all Ages in October 2024

The 32nd annual Concord Festival of Authors (CFA), managed by the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library, celebrates the written and spoken word this fall with literary events throughout town on October 17 – October 30.
The 2024 CFA kicks off with Keynote Speaker Rajani LaRocca, the Newbery Honor-winning author of Red, White and Whole, on October 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Concord Free Public Library (CFPL). The Friends of CFPL will present this year’s Ruth Ratner Miller Award (ticketed event) for Excellence in American History to award-winning author Jacqueline Jones on Saturday, October 19 at 7:00 p.m. at CFPL. Jones is the author of No Right to an Honest Living, winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for History. The Concord Free Public Library will also feature the Leslie Riedel Memorial Lecture for Young People, presented to Big Nate author Lincoln Peirce, as well as local author Richard Higgins, the popular Mystery Night Panel, and author Natalie Dykstra.
The Thoreau Society will present the 2024 Henry David Thoreau Prize for Literary Excellence in Nature Writing to J. Drew Lanham on Friday, October 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Trinitarian Congregational Church. Other local organizations offering programs for CFA 2024 include Barefoot Books, The Barrow Bookstore, the Concord Museum, The Transcendentalism Council of First Parish, Walden Woods Project and Robbins House.
The popular Breakfast with the Authors, moderated by local author and physician Dr. Suzanne Koven, will take place on Saturday, October 26 at 8:30 a.m. at the Colonial Inn. This event features renowned authors Steve Almond (Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow), Crystal King (In the Garden of Monsters) and Margot Livesey (The Road from Belhaven). Ticket information will be available on the CFA website in early September.
This year’s CFA will include the second Joel Myerson Annual Lecture. After Professor Joel Myerson, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of English Language and Literature at the University of South Carolina, died in 2021, the William Munroe Special Collections at CFPL, along with representatives from the Louisa May Alcott Society, Margaret Fuller Society, The Ralph Waldo Emerson Society, and The Thoreau Society launched the Joel Myerson Annual Lecture Series. This capstone event of the CFA takes place on October 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the Concord Free Public Library. Scholars Brigitte Bailey, Leslie Eckel, and Megan Marshall discuss their work editing Margaret Fuller’s writings.
Most events are free with registration, unless noted on the website. For more information on this year's CFA, please visit www.concordfestivalofauthors.org

A Toast to Hope to Benefit Local Projects by Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts

 
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (Habitat NCM) announces a lineup of area restaurants, wine, craft beer, and spirits experts at its ninth A Toast to Hope to be held at the Devens Commons Center, October 17, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm.
Numerous wine, beer, spirit and food purveyors will be putting their best “tastes” forward, including Jack O’Lantern Liquor Store, Boston Harbor Distillery, Heaven Hill Distillery, Berkshire Brewing, Happy Dad Seltzers, Gardner Ale House/Moon Hill Brewing, Stateside Spirits, Wachusett Brewery, JJP Party Planning & Catering, Kith & Kin, KJ’s Caffe, Evviva Trattoria, The Paupers Pantry, Marty’s Corner Café, Alltown Fresh, Texas Roadhouse, Grizzley Ventures, Texas Roadhouse, Devens Common Center…...and more.
$30 per ticket if you register before October 16th, $35 at the door. Tickets for the event are available on our website www.ncmhabitat.org
For more information about A Toast to Hope or to become a sponsor, please call Community Outreach Coordinator, Diana Sinkus, 978-348-2749, or email diana@ncmhabitat.org.
Habitat NCM is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing decent and affordable homes for those who cannot qualify for conventional mortgages, as well as doing Critical Home Repairs throughout the 30-town region. Habitat NCM relies on volunteers to accomplish its mission and is supported only by local funding and donations.
Journey home road race

Journey Home 5k/10k Road Race

Devens, MA
November 10, 2024
Join us this Veterans Day weekend as we run or walk to honor our Veterans and First Responders! Whether you're taking on the 5k or the 10k, you'll be supporting those who have given so much for our freedom.
Event Highlights:
Beautiful 5k/10k course
Post-race celebration at Columbia Tavern featuring Yuengling
Special thanks to our premier sponsor, Tito's Handmade Vodka.100% of net proceeds benefit Clear Path for Veterans New England, a wellness-based community for Veterans and their families. Sign up today and make a difference!  https://www.journeyhomerace.com/

Event by Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue

Get ready to Fall for Goldens! Join us at our Hudson, Massachusetts, facility for our 2nd annual golden retriever-filled fall festival starring the lovable, adoptable dogs from Yankee Golden.
Fan favorite activities like the Howling Contest, Dance Like a Dog, Tennis Ball Toss, and more are returning, as well as the Kith & Kin food truck!
100% of proceeds from this event will go right back into the goldens and golden-hearted dogs you love! Bring any donations of blankets, towels, dog toys, dog treats, and canned dog food too! Located at 110 Chapin Road, Hudson, MA.
***Please note that this is a human-only event, and we ask that all furry family members stay home.

The Stow Friends of the COA (SFCOA) is Looking for Volunteers.

The SFCOA is the main fundraising organization for the Stow Council on Aging (COA).  They are a 501 (c) (3) all volunteer public charity, dedicated to helping our senior citizens lead an active life and stay independent as long as possible by supporting the COA. Visit our website at https://stowfriendsofthecoa.org/ If you are interested in volunteering for any of the opportunities listed below, please contact Gigi at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov.
Some of the current volunteer opportunities are:
·        Help on Friday 11/1 (morning) to set up for November Fair
·        Help on Saturday 11/2 during November Fair (9-12) and breakdown (12-1)
·        Help on Dec 6 to set-up for Second Chance Holiday Decoration Sale
·        Help on Dec 7 during the Second Chance Holiday Decoration including Cashiers (10-12)      or (12-2)
·        Oversee the Gift Shop (at your convenience during business hours)
·        Join the board (the first Tuesday of the month at 10 am)

Stow Republican Town Committee Meeting

SRTC is meeting Monday September 30th at 7pm in room 122 at Pompositticut Community Center 509 Great Rd. Agenda items include November Elections, Town Events, Updates on MAGOP, Recruitment Opportunities. We look forward to meeting all town Republican and Conservative minded residents. Any questions please email StowMAGOP@Outlook.com or checkout our Facebook page www.facebook.com/StowMARepublicans

Judaism: Music & Prayer with Molly Bajgot – FPC Sunday Service

World religions are the theme of the new church year at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), with an emphasis on the many connections between different faiths and Unitarian Universalism. Guest presenter Molly Bajgot loves to inspire adults and young people alike in the innate magic that is Judaism. She is a singer, songwriter and prayer leader who writes songs to call us back to ourselves, including original melodies that enliven Jewish liturgy. Molly currently leads regular musical Shabbat services for Congregation B'nai Israel in Northampton, MA.
The service will take place both in person and virtually on Sept. 29 at 10 a.m. Masking is optional. Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.
FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

Shir Joy Chorus Open Rehearsals

Shir Joy Chorus is resuming its season with two open rehearsals in October:
Monday, October 14 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
Sunday, October 19 from 6:30pm-8:30pm
Singers 14 years old and up of all faiths and vocal ranges are welcome.
We are asking interested singers to RSVP so we can plan for space.
Congregation B’nai Shalom – 117 East Main St, Westborough
Please RSVP: ShirJoyMA@gmail.co

Save the date! New date & location!

 
The Friends of the Hudson Public Library will hold their Annual Fall Book Sale at the Hudson Armory garage, 35 Washington Street. On Saturday, October 19, the hours will be from 10 AM - 3 PM with a preview hour from 9 AM - 10 AM for Friends members. On Sunday, October 20, the hours will be from 12 PM - 3 PM and there will be a special sale where shoppers can fill up a brown bag for $15.

Annual Shofar & Tashlich Ceremony

The Chabad Center of Sudbury invites you to join us for the annual Shofar & Tashlich Ceremony at the historic Grist Mill at the Wayside Inn in Sudbury.
The popular annual ceremony which draws a beautiful and diverse crowd, will include the traditional Shofar Blasts, the Tashlich Ceremony, Rosh Hashanah Refreshments and a little more inspiration!
RSVP Helpful for Planning but not required.
The event is open to anyone from the community and no affiliation is required.
Thursday, Oct 3rd 5:00pm
72 Wayside Inn Road, Sudbury, MA 01776
For info on the rest of our High Holiday Programs & Services please visit www.chabadsudbury.com/hh24
The Tashlich Ceremony is a beautiful Rosh Hashanah ceremony that is done by a body of water at which we "spiritually" cast off our negative actions and reflect on making a new start for the new year.

Jewish New Year Fair & Family Fun Day

You are invited to join us for an amazing Family Fun Day in honor of the upcoming holiday of Rosh Hashanah & the Jewish New Year!
Enjoy Challah Baking, Arts & Crafts, a Petting Zoo, Fun with Honey, a Bounce House, Shofar Making, Face Painting & More!
Sunday Sep 29th 3pm - 5pm in our huge outdoor tent at the Chabad Center of Sudbury, 100 Horse Pond Road, Sudbury, MA 01776
RSVP at www.chabadsudbury.com
Apple pie sign

Community Yard Sale (with Apple Pies!) at FPC on Sept. 21

Looking for new treasures? On Saturday, Sept. 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., a community yard sale will be held at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). With multiple sellers and tables, you’ll find a wider variety and number of items in one place than you’d find at a typical household yard sale. Items are likely to include household wares, artwork, ceramics, toys, sports equipment, and one-of-a-kind items. You’ll also find apple pies, since it happens to also be the first day of FPC’s annual homemade apple pie sale – the pie sale starts at 10 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m. or until all the day’s pies are sold. The yard sale will be held in the church parking lot, unless it rains, in which case it will be held indoors. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow.
Cornerstone congregational blood drive

Cornerstone Congregational Church Blood Drive-Please Donate

October 11th, 9a.m. to 2p.m., 32 Graniteville Rd., Westford, MA 01886
Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: Westford to schedule an appointment. Streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation reading and health history questions on the day of your appointment.

Crafters Wanted

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

Friends of the Bolton Public Library to hold Book Sale

The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semiannual book sale on Saturday, October 26th from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM. There will be no Rain Date. Location is the Houghton Building, 697 Main St. There are over 5,000 books sorted and “not picked over.” Puzzles, CDs and DVDs. The book sale is the Friends' largest fundraiser. Proceeds from the sale support programs, events, museum passes, and our online newsletter, “ Wowbrary.”
Acton coa fundraiser

Friends of Acton COA Fundraiser: Save the Date!

Jewelry Sale. October 16, 2024
Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Time: 9:00am- 2:00pm
Where: Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Rd Rear, Acton, MA 01720
Event Details: found here https://friendsofactoncoa.com                    
The proceeds from the jewelry sale will be used to fund programs and events at the Acton Senior Center.  See you there!
Littleton country fair

Littleton Country Fair

The Littleton Country Fair offers something for everyone on Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 am to 2 pm, at 19 Foster St. in Littleton. Come early for the best selection of famous homemade jams, jewelry and crafts; and recycled treasures at the massive yard sale. Families will enjoy free crafts, face painting and can touch a real fire truck. Spend a day not a fortune.
The Country Cafe serves homemade food starting with scones and coffee at 10 am. New this year is a full BBQ menu of chicken, pork and beef with all the sides. Gluten free cornbread and baked goods, and vegan Tuscan Bean soup are on the menu. Free admission and parking For information, contact fair@fculittle.org. Hosted by First Church Unitarian of Littleton.
Donations from the community for the yard sale will be accepted Friday, Oct.4, 4-6 pm, and 8-10 am before the sale on Oct. 5. NO TVs, car seats or computer monitors  accepted. All contributions are tax-deductible, to benefit First Church Unitarian of Littleton, which awards 10 percent of income to a Littleton non-profit. Email questions to fair@fculittle.org. Hope to see you there, to continue a tradition that dates to the 1890s.

7th Annual Lobster and Meat Shoot Fundraiser

The Friends of the Hudson Public Library is pleased to present its 7th Lobster and Meat Shoot fundraiser. It 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 28, 2024 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. Each year, new faces who have heard about the good times from others show up for the fun and excitement. 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, zoos, and other venues. The Friends also purchase equipment and 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 28th!

Stow Republican Town Committee Meeting

SRTC is meeting Monday September 30th at 7pm in room 122 at Pompositticut Community Center 509 Great Rd. Agenda items include November Elections, Town Events, Updates on MAGOP, Recruitment Opportunities. We look forward to meeting all town Republican and Conservative minded residents. Any questions please email StowMAGOP@Outlook.com or checkout our Facebook page www.facebook.com/StowMARepublicans
Westborough walk

Free Walk: Wildlife of the Meadows

On Sunday, October 6, 1-3 pm, come spend some time with the Westborough Community Land Trust, appreciating and identifying the wildflowers and insects in the meadows at Westborough’s Zwicker Farm open space area. If we are lucky, we will see dragonflies gathering to migrate. Walk leader Garry Kessler is an experienced naturalist and nature photographer.
Walk length less than one mile on mostly level meadow and woodland terrain.
Free, open to the public, no reservation needed.
Location: Zwicker Farm Conservation Area. The entrance is across the street from 27 Belknap Street, Westborough. Park in a row along the left side of the open field.
Check www.WestboroughLandTrust.org for weather cancellations.
For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org

Change is Coming: A Musical Equinox Celebration

"Change is Coming: An Equinox Celebration," a service of peace with readings and music, takes place in the sanctuary at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) on Sunday, Sept. 22, at 5 p.m. The theme will be a prayer for peace and justice in the world. This vesper service will feature the bass clarinet ensemble Improbable Beasts and the FPC Choir. All are welcome! FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Autumn Poetry – FPC Sunday Service

The Autumnal Equinox takes place on Sept. 22 at 8:44 a.m. Just an hour and a quarter later, you can enjoy some autumn poetry at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist. The Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum will draw on her past study of literature to express the beauty and glory of fall through poetry. All are welcome to this relaxing service, which takes place both in person and virtually on Sept. 22 at 10 a.m.
Masking is optional. Child care is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcome to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc.
FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.
Apple pie sign

Community Yard Sale (with Apple Pies!) at FPC on Sept. 21

Looking for new treasures? On Saturday, Sept. 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., a community yard sale will be held at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). With multiple sellers and tables, you’ll find a wider variety and number of items in one place than you’d find at a typical household yard sale. Items are likely to include household wares, artwork, ceramics, toys, sports equipment, and one-of-a-kind items. You’ll also find apple pies, since it happens to also be the first day of FPC’s annual homemade apple pie sale – the pie sale starts at 10 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m. or until all the day’s pies are sold. The yard sale will be held in the church parking lot, unless it rains, in which case it will be held indoors. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow.

Crafts & Play for Kids in Grades K-5

Children in grades K to 5 are invited to First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) in Stow for a night of crafts, snacks and fun on Friday, Sept. 20, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday Friends (formerly known as Club UU) is FPC’s monthly, nonreligious drop-off kid's club. It's led by a minimum of three adults, and typically between 7 and 9 kids attend. We focus on building social connections between children through creative crafts, fun games and group decision making. Newcomers from the community are always welcome, and are invited to bring a friend.
This month is our first session for the 2024-2025 season, and we will be meeting monthly through May 2025. On September 20, we'll be focusing on welcoming new members with a variety of fun group games. We'll have time for active play in Fellowship Hall after our snacks. We'll finish with flashlight hide-and-seek in our slightly spooky sanctuary.
FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Please drop children off and pick them up in the church Vestry. To get to the Vestry, go through the main entrance (not the sanctuary entrance), take a left, and go to the end of the hallway. For more information, call 978-897-8149. FPC’s facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest Celebrates 80 Years of Empowering Youth at Annual Gala & Auction

 
This year marks a monumental milestone for the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest as they celebrate their 80th anniversary of serving and empowering youth in the MetroWest community through quality afterschool programming that is accessible to all. To commemorate this incredible achievement, the organization will host its annual Gala & Auction on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, at The Verve Hotel in Natick. Presented by the TJX Companies, Inc., the Annual Gala & Auction is more than just a fundraiser; it's a vibrant celebration of the positive impact BGCMW has had on countless children and families of Marlborough, Hudson & Framingham over the past eight decades. This signature event serves as a crucial fundraising cornerstone, allowing BGCMW to continue providing over 6,200 local youth aged 6 to 18 with safe spaces and transformative opportunities each year. Guests will have the chance to actively participate in BGCMW's legacy by bidding on an array of silent and live auction items including luxury getaways, unique home goods, and exciting family experiences. For the third year in a row, a jewelry pull raffle will feature a stunning piece, graciously donated by Wright Jeweler & Design. Even if you can't attend in person, you can still bid on incredible items from the comfort of your home. The proceeds from the auction will help fund vital programs at BGCMW like Money Matters, Friday Fun Nights for teens and support the cost of buses that make sure the youth can safely get from their school to the Club every day of the week. Tickets for the Gala & Auction are now available for $150 per person and include dinner. Secure your spot and be part of a night that promises to be both memorable and impactful! You can register for free to participate virtually in the auction or you can buy tickets and contribute to the success of this vital fundraiser by visiting www.bgcmetrowest.org/gala or call the Resource Development office at (508) 485-4912. The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest relies on events like the Annual Gala & Auction to sustain their afterschool and summer programs, fostering character development, health & fitness, technology skills, artistic expression, and athletic achievements in our community's youth. This event represents our unwavering commitment to shaping responsible, caring, and productive citizens – the leaders of tomorrow.

Attention Stow residents!

 
The Stow Council on Aging offers bridge (not duplicate bridge) on Mondays at 1 PM.
Currently there are 4 regulars who play every Monday, but we would like to expand this group.
We play a friendly game with NO criticism about your play.  Advice or input is available upon your request.
If you want to play, we’d love to have you so consider adding bridge to your social activities.
If you are new to bridge or used to play (you would be surprised at how fast the game comes back to you), please email Gigi at COAAdminAsst@Stow-MA.gov as we have some wonderful teachers available.
There are several ways to register:
Mike ring

Assabet Valley Mastersingers Welcomes Mike Ring as New General Manager

Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mike Ring as its new General Manager, effective September 1, 2024.
Mike Ring joins AVM with a distinguished background as both a pianist and a composer, with experience spanning classical and electronic music. His impressive track record includes notable achievements in music and a strong reputation for his organizational, collaborative, and interpersonal skills.
As the new General Manager, Mike will bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the AVM Administrative Team. His strong oral and written communication abilities, combined with his deep passion and curiosity for the arts, will be instrumental in furthering the mission and vision of Assabet Valley Mastersingers.
“We are excited to welcome Mike Ring to our team,” said Pat Keefe, Executive Board Chair of Assabet Valley Mastersingers. “His diverse musical background and exceptional skill set will be invaluable as we continue to grow and engage with our community.”
Mike Ring’s appointment represents a significant step forward for Assabet Valley Mastersingers, and the organization looks forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly make in his new role.
For more information about Assabet Valley Mastersingers and upcoming events, please visit www.avmsingers.org or contact Tricia Campero at tcampero@avmsingers.org.
Pie sale

Acton Woman's Club October 19 Pie Sale!

It's time again! The ovens will be baking soon for The Acton Woman's Club's Autumn Bake Sale! Saturday, October 19, starting at 9 am outside the Clubhouse at 504 Main St, until noon or when we are sold out.
Fresh pies are often snatched up to go into the freezer for Thanksgiving, so pies sell out quickly.  Don't miss out.  Proceeds support high school scholarships.
During the sale, you might like a tour of the antique Clubhouse [ask for Marge or Brenda]. Not only can you experience a gracious living room furnished with antiques, you may want to consider using the house for your next party or private event. And coming by for a visit on a
fine fall day during our bake sale would be a wonderful time for you to also go inside the building and find out how lovely it is...So come along, check out the beautiful space, and buy something scrumptious for your upcoming party or just for you! The Acton Woman' Club has room for more members, especially if you like to bake or organize events! The Acton Woman's Club is a great way to make new friends! More information: www.theactonwomansclub.org

Acton and Boxborough Democrats to Hold 37th Annual Picnic and Food Drive on September 15th

 
Boxborough, MA: On Sunday, September 15, the Boxborough and Acton Democratic Town Committees will host their 37th annual picnic and food drive. Local elected officials as well as candidates for elected office are expected to attend.
The event will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Boxborough Community Center at 30 Middle Road, Boxborough. The committees invite everyone interested in local politics, good food, and meeting their neighbors to join them. The suggested contribution is $10 per person or $20 per family. Guests are also invited to help support the Acton-Boxborough Food Pantry by bringing a non-perishable food donation to the picnic.
Local activists, elected officials, and candidates for state and local office often attend this event – don’t miss your chance to talk to them! For questions or to RSVP, please contact the Boxborough Democratic Town Committee Chair Abby Reip at boxborough.dtc@gmail.com.

Silent Movie – The Mark of Zorro

This 1920 silent Western film starring Douglas Fairbanks will be shown on Sunday, September 22 at the Shanklin Music Hall, 130 Sandy Pond Road, Groton MA starting at 2:30 PM. Musical accompaniment will be provided by a Wurlitzer Pipe Organ that was originally installed in Boston’s Metropolitan Theatre (presently the Wang Theater at the Boch Center) in 1930. The Shanklin Music Hall was designed and built specifically for the Wurlitzer to give the audience an unparalleled concert experience. Chris Eliot, awarded 2009 Organist of the Year by the American Theatre Organ Society, will perform. This event is sponsored by the Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the American Theatre Society, a non-profit established to preserve and encourage appreciation of the great American Theatre Organs from the days of the silent movies. Tickets are available online at www.WurlitzerPops.org. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for those 18 and under.

Myles Above in Heaven Support Group Meeting

(Intimate support group in the loss of a child)
Saturday, September 21st, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Avidia Financial Center
The Community Room
17 Pope Street, Hudson, MA

Applications Open for Hudson Cultural Council Grants

The Hudson Cultural Council is now accepting online applications from organizations, schools and individuals for grants which support community-oriented arts, humanities and science programs.The council is made up of volunteers, appointed by the Hudson Select Board,whose mission is to “support Hudson’s diverse heritage and enhance cultural opportunities by supporting activities that enrich the lives of Hudson residents of all ages.”The Hudson Cultural Council strives to achieve this mission through the funding of local programs with grants subsidized by the Mass Cultural Council and the Town of Hudson. Preference is given to grants serving Hudson residents and to programming by Hudson-based organizations and institutions. The online application window is open from September 1 through October16 with grant decisions made in late fall. The HCC considers funding grants that meet their guidelines https://www.hudsonculturalcouncil.org/guidelines and are submitted through the Mass Cultural Council website https://massculturalcouncil.org/communities/local-cultural-council-program/application-process/
Nrwa new staff

NRWA New Staff Announcement

The Nashua River Watershed Association welcomes new staff members advancing water protection, climate resilience, environmental education, and engagement programs. Seen here left to right: Ryan Hennrikus, Sara Singh, Chris Fournier, Paulina Torres, and Utkir Adkhamov. The NRWA thanks the Organizational Fund for Non-Profits at the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts for supporting the technology needs of this new staff.
Leonard sax

The challenges facing today’s kids: Free sessions offer solutions


Research shows that American kids today are more likely to be anxious or depressed than American kids from a couple of decades ago. It also shows an alarmingly widening gender gap in academic achievement: the boys are getting left in the dust. This is not because girls are doing better (although they are), but primarily because boys are doing worse. Yet girls have their own challenges. While alcohol and drug use among boys has remained stable or even dropped over the last 40 years, use among girls has soared. As if these challenges weren’t enough, any parent today knows that guiding kids safely through the obstacles of social media and video games is an exhausting and uphill climb.
Dr. Leonard Sax will share evidence-based insights and research-backed solutions related to these topics and more in a series of informational sessions titled Improving the Odds for Our Kids and hosted by Mt. Calvary Church in Acton, MA, in September. A physician, psychologist, and author of the New York Times bestseller The Collapse of Parenting, Dr. Sax has spoken about topics relevant to raising and working with today’s youth at more than 500 schools, juvenile correctional facilities, communities of faith, and other venues around the world.
“I’m really excited to be bringing Dr. Sax and his message to the greater Acton community,” says Kerry Evans, one of the event organizers and a Harvard resident. “I first read his book Boys Adrift when my teenage sons were little, and it left a huge impression on me. It changed the way I raised my kids.”
“As a grandmother raising two grandchildren with ADHD, I’m excited to hear Dr. Sax’s evidence-based advice for guiding our kids to become capable, confident adults,” adds co-organizer Dawn Phelan, who is planning to attend all sessions.
But the sessions aren’t just for parents and grandparents. Educators, medical professionals, and anyone interested in supporting kids will find them relevant.
“I first heard Dr. Sax interviewed as a guest on a podcast, and I was really interested in what he had to say about the importance of ‘rites of passage’ for girls and boys on their journey to becoming healthy women and men,” says Acton resident Naomi Veeder. “Even though I don't have children of my own, I have nieces, nephews and friends' children that are in my life and that I care deeply about, and so I'm looking forward to hearing more from him on how I can support them on their journey to adulthood.”
The sessions take place Friday and Saturday, September 27 and 28 and are free and open to the public. However, because space is limited, the organizers suggest that people register ahead of time to reserve their spot. For more information and to register, visit www.mtcalvaryacton.org/improvingtheodds. If you have questions, email workshops@mtcalvaryacton.org or call (978) 263-5156. Mt. Calvary is located at 472 Massachusetts Avenue, Acton, MA. Parking (including handicap) is available behind the church, off Prospect Street. Parking attendants will direct attendees to overflow parking options.

Skylight Astronomical Society, Inc. Presents:

A Star Watch at the Stow Minute Man Airfield. Friday, September 13th from 7:00 PM until 9:30 PM. SAS members will set up their telescopes for guest viewing. Last chance to see the jewels of summer! This Star Watch has a wonderful show, featuring the Milky Way in all its glory! See M13 - the Great Globular Cluster in Hercules, M57 - the Ring Nebula in Lyra, as well as the famous Dumbbell Planetary nebula, M27. See a host of beautiful double stars and, of course, the original Terminator on the Moon! If you come early, you will get a peek at Venus, and if you stay late, you may get a peek at Saturn! In conjunction with visual scopes, we will also have a digital imaging system showing some of the fainter deep sky objects. There will also be a bright overhead pass of the International Space Station (brighter than Venus!) at 7:20PM. Don’t miss it! Masks are not required but will be available. If you have COVID-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone ill, we ask that you refrain from attending. The weather caused us to cancel our last event, so be sure to check before you come. A cancellation notice will be posted on our website www.sasobservatory.org by 3:00 PM the day of our event. If we do cancel on Friday, we will try again the next night (Saturday), so stay tuned to our website for updates.